#it was popping up on my dash and i just had a mighty need

[brettesims]

The Stag Sighting

Some nights I go on spontaneous walks. Walking is an ancient healing ritual. It cleanses the aura and the mind.

The other night my dog and I popped out around midnight to go on a walk to the 711. Crisp fall air danced around us. No one was on the street but us. The night was still and a blanket of soft silence fell over the park we passed.

We traveled by a grove of redwood trees... and then I saw it! Through the stillness stood a Stag deer in all its mighty glory. I looked at him and he looked at me frozen like a statue. I've seen many Stags in my life, so I don't know why this sighting in particular appeared so magical... but it just was.

"Magical!" I proclaimed out loud to myself (and my dog lol)

I love synchronistic, symbolic, and serendipitous moments in life like these. A melodic breeze flew through the trees and then he was off in a dash; through the park and bounded across the street up into the forrest.

Symbolically Stags are messengers. Which is interesting because astrologically speaking, being a Gemini; I am a messenger as well. The stag is a messenger or gateway between the physical and spirit worlds, the symbolic leader of the forest, and can represent the need to take the lead and be confident.

The stag protects itself and the herd from predators, and can represent the need to protect friends and family. He can also represent authenticity and integrity.

So I stood in the stillness, as did my dog, and received the message. What a sign! How some humans can walk through life ignoring every and any blatant spiritual sign I will never know. Signs serve as guidance along the path way of life.

As I continued my simple quest to 711, suddenly I had more clarity, direction and support on the broader journey of life ahead.

Dear universe, Dear Stag, I am thankful.

~ B

[onlymorelove]

Fic authors self rec! When you get this, reply with your favorite five fics that you've written, then pass on to at least five other writers. Let’s spread the self-love 💖

Thank you so much for sending me this ask, Stella! <3<3<3 Did you do a self-rec thing of your own? Pls link me if you did; I'd love to read it. I can't pick favorites of anything, so I'll just mention five fics I wrote that I like.

Unwell (Fandom: Bones (tv show))

Yup, the mighty Temperance Brennan was sick. Takes place after Season 3, Episode 4.

I love banter-y ships. I wrote this fic 15 (!!!) years ago, but I remember getting a kick out of mixing banter and silliness with deeper conversations. Booth even reads Brennan a short section from a romance novel. :D It's been a while since I wrote Unwell, but I think I wanted to follow some loose threads in Bones and explore the emotional ramifications; fic is such a great place to do that. He's a candle (burning in my room) (Fandom: MCU)

It's just sex, isn't it? (Some talking + a lot of feelings + a smidgen of smut = this fic.)

This is a Steve/Tony fic, and it means a lot to me; I think it always will. There's a splash of body image issues, a dash of pining while fucking, and a ton of emotional vulnerability that's tied up in the sex, the build-up, and the afterglow.

My only sibling killed himself in February 2018; my dad died less than five months later; I started writing this story around three months after my dad's death. Life was a huge struggle, and so was writing, but I tried really hard to get down words, and I pushed myself with the imagery and the feelings. some words build houses in your throat (Fandom: MCU)

The night before they travel back in time, Tony says what he needs to say.

Someone anonymously sent me a "stevetony + confession" prompt in response to a three-sentence fic meme here on tumblr. This fic was my attempt to fill their prompt. It's a sort of missing scenes fic for Endgame. I was hungry for a little bit of team feels. I wanted Steve and Tony to both use their words AND try to behave like adults. Adulthood is complicated. We don't always get everything we want. Not all of our dreams and wishes come true. I wanted to play with honesty/revelation but also with restraint. And I really, really wanted Steve and Tony to quote parts of Walt Whitman's Leaves of Grass to each other. So I wrote it. ;) I Barely Knew I Had Skin Before I Met You (Fandom: Timeless (tv show)

Sometimes love is found in unexpected combinations. Lucy wakes in the middle of the night to find one less man than there should be in her bed. [Set sometime in the future. Lucy, Garcia, and Wyatt are in a polyfidelitous relationship. Translation: the three of them are romantically involved and are faithful to each other. They also live together.]

As mentioned above, I have a weakness for banter. I wanted to write a story with a poly ship—Garcia Flynn/Lucy Preston/Wyatt Logan. I wanted banter, flirting, and domestic fluff, and I wanted discussions of grief and loss because I thought they made sense in the context of the show's canon. A few small scenes popped into my head, and I wrote toward and around them.

my life is for you (and no one other than you) (Fandom: Teen Wolf (tv show)

It’s a journey they began years before, but one they have to take again and again. Together. (Post-coital, slice-of-life fic. AKA sass and fluff.)

Courtesy of my Thiam phase in 2017, here we have Liam Dunbar and Theo Raeken as adults, being established-relationship ridiculous and sweet. Thanks again for the ask! *hugs*

[into-the-voyd]

THE CLAWTHORNE TOURNAMENT: OBSTACLE COURSE

So the question was not: could Karen win the obstacle course? 

The question was: how could Karen make this the most fun? 

Because, honestly– no clue moving forward, but no obstacle course had ever been able to best Karen the Spectacular! Karen, Prince/ss of Pop-n-Dash! Here they be, there they go, where are they now, oh– near, far, wherever you are, there there there, it’s Karen at the finish line in record speed!

But that’d be too easy, eh, to just… void their way around/through the obstacles? Karen wasn’t here to win anyway. Karen was here to spy. And so as the bell ring-a-ding-dinged, Karen put their own arms up in a cat-like stretch while the rest of the opponents darted forward, deeper into the obstacle course. “Wait for me!” Karen called jokingly. Then jogged lightly inward, taking a random turn and then another and another until– 

Obstacle 1:  Sisyphus’s Day Off

Whoa! A boulder. Karen smirked. They cast a glance around, observing the others tackling their boulders with force and vigor. They saluted their comrade's efforts. “There’s an easier way to do this though, mates,” Karen said. (No one even turned back– someone grunted.) “Think smarter, not harder!” 

They cracked their knuckles and then tackled the boulder. They were tall and sinewy, plenty of lean muscle, but not made for boulder-rolling-up-a-hill, y’know? Good thing that wasn’t Karen’s plan. They gave a mighty shove and the boulder rolled up a few more inches. Just enough for Karen to summon the void that it rolled right into. 

Pop! The new void opened at the top of the hill and the boulder careened out. Karen jogged up to stop what little momentum it had gathered. “Nice and steady, Boulder boy,” Karen said, patting the boulder affectionately. They glanced down at their teammates still struggling. “Like I said– smarter, not harder.” With another salute, Karen skipped around the boulder and headed out.

Obstacle 2: Weight For Me! 

A long track stretched in front of Karen, recalling ye good ol days at gym class. Cept there was to be no running or hurdling by the looks of it. Those who had gotten to the obstacle before them were dragging a couple of weights along the course. Interesting. More strength tests, which wouldn’t be Karen’s strong suit (hardy har har, +5 for maximum puntimes), except that they could see clear-eyed to the finish line ahead. 

In the next blink of the eye, Karen had stepped through a void to the other end of the track and blinked back at the starting line. Several people gawked at them.

“Oi, that’s cheating!”

“Bit of a harsh term there. We are allowed to use magic,” said Karen. “But– you’re right, you’re right. We want it to be fun, eh? It’s my arm day anyway.” 

Zwppp. 

Karen appeared back at the start line. They picked up a weight in one hand and gave it a small toss. Not too too heavy, but would need a good-sized heave-ho. They stuck out their tongue and with their free hand threw up a void into the air. It hovered in place, crackling with teal-blue static. The loveliest little tear in the universe you ever did see. 

“Annnnd a heave!” Karen declared and then hurtled it through the portal. It dropped onto the finish line at the other end.

“Annnnnnd a ho!” Karen tossed the other. Clunk! It rattled as it hit the first weight at the other end. Karen laughed. “Oi, now this is fun, eh? Heave! Ho!”

Clunk! Clatter! Clonk! Clop! 

When all their weights were thrown, Karen stretched out their arms in front of them again, then took a few steps back. They darted into a sprint, pushing as much power as they could into their long, limber, swimmer’s legs. Then they leapt into the air, diving headfirst for their own void, which swallowed them whole, and dumped them onto the other side. They tucked their head and rolled, then popped up and threw their arms straight out by the side of their ears as if finishing a gymnastic move. “Tens all around! The crowd goes wild!” 

Karen kept whooping and cheering for themselves as they rounded the corner.

Obstacle 3: Don’t Be A Pansy

“Well now that’s just anti-climatic,” Karen commented as they looked out at the field of lovely pretty little flowers. Too pretty. Everyone knew that it was a mistake to stop and smell the roses. Clearly, a trap. 

Karen wasn’t sure about how to make fun out of this one. They glanced around, letting a few people go first just to see what the surprise might be. No lurking man-eating worms….disappointing. No hidden venus fly traps…. Sad. But what was making people freeze in place, eh? A spell? 

Not worth the risk, Karen decided. They unzipped another wonderful, weird door for themselves and stepped through the other side. Less than a second– less than a blink! Karen cleared the death daisies and they could see the finish line in front of them. 

No reason to wait any more! It was– Karen, the Spectacular! Prince/ss of the Pop-n-dash, here they be, there they go, where are they now– oh!! They zipzapzopped their way right across the finish line before you can say wham bam thank ya ma’am and come again! 

“Well then!” Karen grinned up at the judges. “Is there time to run it again?” 

[samstree]

Jaskier lies on his side and lets the sweat cool on his bare skin. The post-sex haze refuses to fade so he leans into it, revels in it. Behind him, the sound of Geralt’s fumbling is so distant even though Jaskier knows they are only a few feet apart.

The mattress dips. Soft lips are pressed to Jaskier’s biceps, slow and lazy. Tiny kisses pepper across his shoulder but Geralt doesn’t seem to be eager to move up. Instead, his attention stays there on the thickness of Jaskier’s arm and moans into his skin contently.

“Most people don’t spend that much time there, you know?” Jaskier turns to look at his witcher with heavy-lidded eyes. The curtain of silver hair blocks his view.

“I like it here.” Geralt presses another open-mouthed kiss with a pop. “It’s my third favorite part of you.”

Surprise replaces the fog in Jaskier’s mind very quickly.

“Wait,” he says, “there’s a list?”

“Hmm.”

Amber gold meets cornflower blue, warm and indulgent. Geralt is in no rush to explain, which only serves to stoke Jaskier’s impatience.

“Why arm? And why third? What else is on the list? Geralt of Rivia, I demand answers, and don’t you think you can grunt your way out of this one!”

Geralt’s hand wraps around Jaskier’s biceps and squeezes gently. His palm is so hot it feels like a scorching brand.

“Because you are strong here, Jask.” Despite the teasing, Geralt’s reply is unexpectedly serious and his tone contemplative. “You are stronger than I ever imagined.”

Jaskier snorts. “That’s the effect of wearing puffy sleeves all the time. Hides all the assets.”

“Maybe you shouldn’t hide.” Another kiss right above the elbow. Oh, Geralt is in a spoiling mood tonight.

“And stand next to the mighty White Wolf? I don’t think so, darling. I may be strong, but it’s nothing compared to you.”

Geralt’s brows furrow. He almost looks offended.

“Allow me to disagree, poet.”

With those words, Geralt’s hand trails down on Jaskier’s arm, leaving behind goosebumps along the way. He nudges Jaskier’s hand so their fingers thread together.

“Your hands. Second.”

The kisses on the back of Jaskier’s hand are featherlight and so careful. He watches with fascination as Geralt gives each knuckle equal attention before moving to his wrist. Beneath the thin skin are the once-broken bones that used to keep him up at night—not anymore, not when he’s all healed with Geralt at his side every step of the way.

Jaskier smiles. He realizes that, at this moment, he loves Geralt even more than the last. It should be an impossible endeavor, but somehow, he manages.

“The things you overcame, Jaskier, showed me how strong you are. Never doubt it.”

His witcher is being too sweet. Jaskier needs to kiss him senseless for it later. As for now, curiosity is getting the better of him.

“And what’s your first? What is your favorite feature of mine, my love?” The adoration overflows in Jaskier’s voice but he pays no mind.

Geralt takes his time soothing the non-existent aches of Jaskier’s wrist before putting it down. His palm cups the cheek of Jaskier’s ass, massaging at the sore spot he left earlier that will definitely bruise the next day. Jaskier is giddy with excitement.

“Should have known it’s my ass, you brute. Here I am, thinking you are a man of class—” His tirade is interrupted by the gentle shake of Geralt’s head. “No? Then what is it? My dashing haircut? My piercing eyes? Answers, please. Have mercy on me!”

Jaskier must look a ridiculous sight, pouting and whining like this, but Geralt only lets out a low, rumbling laugh. He loosens his grip and guides the bard to lie on his back. The next thing Jaskier knows, Geralt has plopped down on top of him and buried into his neck.

The position is so familiar that Jaskier settles into it without another thought. He makes sure Geralt’s head is pillowed comfortably and cards his fingers through those silver locks. Hmm, if Jaskier had a list, the long hair will certainly be on it. As for the placement…

“It’s—” Geralt’s fingers are tracing absent patterns over Jaskier’s chest. It tickles a bit. “It’s your heart, Jask. My favorite part of you. The best part of you. Your love, your songs. It’s all…you.”

“Oh,” Jaskier breathes, all his bardic eloquence stumbling. “I—thank you.”

Suddenly, it is also his heart that’s currently growing three sizes. Is it a terrible time to cry? As if sensing Jaskier’s turmoil, Geralt nuzzles into his neck a little to offer silent support, but it only makes it worse.

Jaskier sniffles as a grin breaks out on his face.

“Your heart is my favorite too. Just in case you were wondering.”

[melancholymetropolis]

Ring

Summary: Aizawa and reader have been too busy to tend to each other's needs lately. So, when they get the time, they jump at the opportunity

A/N: The reader is a chubby black woman and Aizawa is a massive simp for her. If you want to commission me, or simply get to know me click here! 

Warning: None really. Angst, if you squint. Slightly unedited. Oh, and this is pure filth. A sprinkle of fluff, a dash of praising, maybe some  BDE.

When I had finally reached my apartment, I wasted no time kicking off my heels and slipping out of my work clothes. I made a beeline to the bathroom and shut on the shower. Securing the shower cap on my head, I stepped into the steaming water and released a sigh. I thanked the heavens every day that I invested in such a therapeutic showerhead. The tensions in my muscles just seemed to evaporate with the steam and the day’s problems melted into the drain. I lathered up with Bonner’s peppermint soap and smiled at the relief that it had given me. Midway through the shower, I wiped out the razor and started touching up the hairy bits of my body. I rubbed some exfoliant on my legs and pretended that I was in some make-shift spa. By the time I  stepped out of the shower, my hands were practically raisins. I grabbed the robe from behind the bathroom door and swiftly changed my shower cap to a bonnet. 

“That was a mighty long shower,” a voice sounded as I stepped out of the bathroom.

Swiftly turning my head to the far end of my room, I spot a familiar, large figure leaning against my door frame. His long, black hair was pulled into a messy bun at the base of his neck. He had abandoned his grey, carbon wraps and oversized black assemble for a simple t-shirt and jeans. The top hugged every one of his upper muscles, especially his protruding pecs. The outfit had been so mundane, yet it made my womanhood gradually increase in heat. I gently bit my lip and, slowly, taking in his every feature.

“You phone better be off, Shota,” I said as I met his eyes. “I don’t want any interruptions.”

“I left it at the dorms,” he replied nonchalantly.

I hummed lowly and walked across the room to my bed. Gracefully, I took a seat on the plush duvet and undid the tie of my robe. “Come here.”

Before I could even blink, his lips were on mine and his hands were separating my thighs. I hooked my legs upon his midsection and tangled my fingers within his hair. Shota moaned against my lips softly as his hands slipped up my body. He gently caressed my skin on the very small of my back, before palming my breast. It had been my time to moan, as I tenderly rolled my hips against his. Desperately trying to create friction. Shota sloppily kissed the side of my face, down my neck, and gently nibbled my collarbones before taking my brown bud into his mouth. 

“Fuck,” I hissed as my grip tightened on his scalp.

Shota’s eyes flickered open as he tenderly sucked the area.

Heat rushed from my face straight to my womanhood. Moans dripped from my lips as I locked eyes with the painfully patient man. After a short while, he moved to the second bud. Eyes still on mine, I felt his hand inch down my legs and find the sticky mess in between them. Shota’s long fingers caressed the warm folds with a relaxed calm that many tried to replicate but never perfect. He toyed with the soft hair on the outer lips, causing shivers down my spine and another moan to fall from my lips.

“Shota. . . please,” I begged as I bucked my hips against his hand. 

The black-haired man released my nipple with a silent ‘pop’ and looked in my eyes deeply. “Tell me what you want me to do, baby doll,” Shota said as he continued to play with the curls between my legs. “I’ll do whatever you ask.”

“I want your head between my thighs,” I responded slowly.

“That’s my favorite place to be,” Shota smirked. “Doing what, sweetie?”

“Making me cum,” I told him, a little too quickly.

“My favorite thing to do.” My boyfriend swiftly pressed his lips to mine before sinking back to his knees. “Sit back, doll, and let me take care of you.”

Shrugging the robe off my shoulders, I lifted my hips from the mattress to allow Shota to retrieve it from underneath me and toss it to the side. His wide hands gently pushed my legs apart and he scooted my rear closer to the edge. 

In the low light of the room, I could see the subtle excitement rush through him as he eyed my womanhood. The look on his face made the smooth walls within me clench gently and a blush wash over my face. 

Aizawa Shota had the nerve to crack a smile at the small notion. 

“Oh, honey,” the black-haired man tore his eyesight from the drooling area and looked straight at me. Dead in the eyes. “You’re gonna be the death of me.”

His soft lips kissed the soft skin at the center of my thighs, before separating my outer lips and dragging his tongue from the oozing entrance to the throbbing bud. The notion was slow and painstaking, but it felt oh-so-great. My legs shook slightly from the initial contact, while my walls clenched again. Shota circled the throbbing bud several times before inching his way back down the folds to the slick entrance. Using his thumbs, he separated the lips wider and stretched the hole. He dipped his tongue inside and I swore I saw stars.

Shota continued to complete the action tenderly. After a while, he switched the positions of his hands. While the thumb and index finger spread the lower lips, his right thumb padded the throbbing bud graciously. The small whimpers from my lips gradually increased into pants when he suddenly increased his pace.

“Oh fuck. . .” I groaned as I looked down at him. 

His eyes had already been on me. Taking in my body and its language as the seconds passed.

Shota removed his tongue from the messy hole and slowly inserted a finger. Followed by another. He curled his digits sinfully against my g-spot as his lips latched onto my bundle of nerves. 

My arms reached above my head and grabbed the end of the duvet tightly. Arching my back, I further pushed my pelvis against his hot mouth and bucked lightly. Tingles gently rose from my toes to my legs, and then, finally, finding their place in my abdomen. As my nasty pants grew louder and louder, the tingles grew brighter. Almost blinding me. 

“Please. . . please. . .” I murmured as I squeezed my eyes shut. “I’m gonna . . .”

Shota gently shook his head, whilst sucking the bud, creating an unspeakable sensation that practically caused me to drool. His fingers had been knuckle deep into my cunt and destroying the spongy area without any remorse. Suddenly,  I plopped my body onto one side and leaned onto my left arm. With my right hand, I gripped his ebony locks and looked down. His unwavering eyes stared right back into mine, as I ground my hips against his face. Shota broke eye contact and began to bob his head quickly, bud still in his mouth. 

“Just like that!” I gripped his scalp tighter as my mouth hung open and my eyes rolled back. For several seconds I had forgotten to breathe. I took a deep breath and squeezed my eyes shut as I felt my legs shake. “Shit! Shit! Shit!” The dam broke and the climax hit my body like a sledgehammer. My arms felt like rubber as my fingers slid from Shota’s hair and fell flat on my bed. As I laid flat on my back, I felt my boyfriend hook his arms around my thick thighs as he continued to suckle on the throbbing bud. Shota hoisted them to his shoulders, before reaching a hand upward to clench my own. A silent scream fell from my lips as my thighs pressed against his face. Shota growled in response and sped up his fingers. Another wave of pleasure washed over me and I was pretty sure I was shaking hands with god at that moment. 

My body relaxed into the bed, shortly after that, and my legs slipped from Shota’s shoulders. The larger man crawled up the bed until his face was directly over mine. The smirk on his face was so wide, it practically passed as a smile. 

Reaching a shaky hand to his face, I gripped his chin and pulled his lips to mine. I moaned against his mouth and widened my legs enough for him to be seated between them. His throbbing member was poking my inner thigh and I couldn’t stop my hands from undoing his belt to set it free. 

“Condoms?” Shota asked against my lips, as he unzipped his pants.

“Nightstand,” I replied as I tugged on his shirt. “Bottom drawer left side.”

Shota broke from the kiss and lifted the soft cotton tee from his abdomen before pulling it over his head. He leaned towards the nightstand and pulled the drawer open. Shota’s hand reached inside the drawer, but instead of pulling out a condom, he pulled out a cordless, white, Hitachi wand. My boyfriend raised an eyebrow, before looking back at me.

“You’re the one who missed date-night for the past three weeks,” I said with a shrug. “I needed something to get me by.”

“Next time,” Shota gripped the gold, foil packet from the drawer and slammed the compartment shut. “You’re gonna show me how it works.”

“Only if fuck me with your fingers, while I use it,” I shot back with a smirk. 

“Bold, are we?” Shota questioned while opening the packet and sliding its contents onto his length. Before climbing back on the bed.

“I just missed you.” My words slipped from my lips before my brain could stop them. 

“Don’t look so scared,” Shota said quickly. “I missed you, too.”

I gripped his face with both hands and captured his lips with mine. Shota lifted one leg from his waist, followed by the other, before reaching between our bodies and grasping his shaft. Briefly breaking away from the kiss, Shota sunk himself, slowly, into me. We both took a sharp inhale at the added friction and watched as the member disappeared within my smooth canal. 

“Shit, baby doll,” Shota hissed as my walls clenched and unclenched themselves. “You’re gonna be the death of me.”

The dark-haired man gently rocked his hips, careful not to add unwanted pain to the ordeal. Resting my head against the pillow, I took in every detail of my lover’s face. From the scar under his eye to the baby hairs slicked down by his sweat. The pupils of his deep brown eyes were dilated and his cheeks were slightly flushed. Shota’s lips had been slightly swollen, due to the intense labor I ushered him to do. The messy bun he had entered the room had gradually gotten messier as the night went on; flyaways stuck out from every angle and the small knot was seconds away from becoming undone. As I took in his disheveled state, I realized that I probably didn’t look any better. My bonnet felt lopsided and I knew my pupils were just as dilated as his. But it hadn’t mattered to me, and I knew Shota could give a fuck less about our appearance. 

The older man eased himself in and out of the slick canal, while doing this, he searched my face. Checking to see if I had been the least bit uncomfortable or in pain. When the coast was clear, he moved his hips just a little bit faster. A jolt of pleasure ripped through my body, causing me to squeeze him. I bit my bottom lip and looked up at him with wide, doe-like eyes. In the dim light of my room, it looked like he was glowing. Maybe it was the dopamine pumping through me, but there was something so sexy about the way he looked while above me. Bringing me closer to my wet and sticky demise. Each thrust was calculated, the grip he had on my hips was firm, but never enough to bruise. He was so focused, yet relaxed. Attentive, yet carefree. 

“Can I try something?” I asked as a flush washed over my cheeks.

“Sure,” Shota replied with no hesitation. “What is it?”

“I wanted to. . . ride you,” I said while averting eye contact.

The older man stopped his strokes and gently grabbed my chin. He turned my face to his and pressed his lips to mine. “I’m so proud of you, baby doll.”

Since our relationship started to become sexual, I had always been quite hesitant about being on top. Because of my size, I had an inherent fear of possibly crushing him. Even though the thought was ridiculous. I had watched Aizawa lift objects, and people, twice my size, many times. The time we spent apart made me reevaluate a lot of things in our relationship, and most importantly, how I fit into it. 

Shota demounted from on top of me and gave me enough room to take his place in the center of the bed. He situated himself in my abandoned spot. Before pressing his head against the pillows, he undid the low bun in the back of his head, allowing his hair to spill across the satin pillowcase. Swing my leg over his lap, I lined his thick shaft with my slick center. Slowly, I sunk myself on my lap and threw my head back.

“Dear God,” I moaned under my breath. 

The newfound position placed Shota’s throbbing member right against the roof of my heat. If I learned just a tad bit forward, it would be pressing right against my g-spot. From that moment on, I knew I wasn’t going to last long.

Leaning forward, I pressed my palms to Shota’s chest and began to bounce. Curses fell from my lips as his thick, heavy member continued to stretch me as I moved. My walls clenched from the friction and my nails dug into his chest. The slick from my heat began to spill directly onto his lap and mine, creating a wet slapping sound as I moved. Since my eyes were squeezed shut, I hadn’t noticed Shota moving his hands to rest them on my hips. He pressed his fingertips onto the soft flesh of my hips and groaned lowly. 

“Open your eyes, princess,” his voice was soft, yet dominant. 

I took a deep breath and relaxed my facial muscles. Opening my eyes slowly, I immediately noticed Shota's cocky little smirk. “Hmm?”

“You’re doing a fantastic job, baby doll,” his tone remained the same. Gentle. Soft. Dominating.

“Okay,” was all I could say at that moment.

“No need to be embarrassed or nervous,” he continued. “You look so beautiful on top of me. Using me as your little sex toy, working yourself to sweet release.” 

My dripping heat tightened at his words and Shota’s little smirk turned into a shit-eating grin.

“You’re making a delicious little mess. Your sweet cum is dripping everywhere: my lap, yours, and even the sheets. What a messy cunt you have, baby doll.”

One of his hands slid from my waist and pressed itself upon my lower abdomen. A thumb slid further down the area until it hit my throbbing bud. I cursed against it and felt my leg jolt slightly. My bunny hops on his lap, turned into me full-on grinding against him. I leaned my body just a little bit forward, into his thumb, and continued to buck against him. My legs shook at the new source of stimulation. A warm pool started to form in my stomach and I knew I was about to come undone.

Shota cursed quietly and gripped my hip a little tighter. “I’m so close, baby doll,” he hissed. “So fucking close.”

I gripped his wrist and moved it from my sensitive bud. Before he could do or say anything else, I pressed my plush stomach against his abs and hovered my chest over his. With my hand gripping the headboard, I bucked my hips against his at a sharp, quick pace. My hard bud tenderly kissed his hard abdomen with each thrust, as his thick shaft pressed against my g-spot indefinitely. 

“Shit!” Shota said through clenched teeth. “Just like that, princess, don’t stop.”

“I’m not,” I reassured as my grip tightened against the headboard. 

Without warning, my legs began to shake and my whines increased to drooly pants. A cord within me snapped, and suddenly I saw white. Tingles exploded throughout my body, as my nails dug deeper into the bed below me. My mouth hung open to a comfortable “o” as my eyes squeezed shut. After those few blissful seconds, my muscles relaxed and I, further, pressed my body against Shota. With my head against his chest, I nuzzled against his body and tucked my hands around his neck.

“Are you okay?” He sounded breathless, still recovering from his climax.

“Perfect,” I replied in the same tone. “Just perfect.”

I lifted my face from his chest and looked down at him. His long, black hair was all frizzy and tangled against the sheets. A pink hue dusted his cheeks, making it seem like he was glowing all over again. A sweet smile fell on his lips, satisfied and happy.

“Don’t ever feel insecure about being on top, ever again,” he said tiredly. “You were, as you just said, perfect.”

“Please, don’t—  ow!”

His hand collided with my rear end, causing me to cut myself off. “I don’t want to hear you talk down about yourself. Not anymore. You were gorgeous while riding me. I enjoyed every second of it. I don’t think I ever came so hard before in that position, and, no, I am not exaggerating.” Shota pressed his hands on either side of my face and looked me dead in the eye. “You don’t need to worry about feeling insecure or embarrassed about anything. I am always here to support you. I love you, Y/N.”

Shota wasn’t the type to lie for someone else’s convenience, so I knew every word he said was true. And that he meant it. Including him saying that he loved me, for the first time. 

A sole tear fell from my eye as a small smile fell on my lips. “Who knew you were such a big softie, Aizawa?”

“Not everyone, just to you,” he said while chuckling.

“Mhm, sure,” I climbed from on top of him and stretched my limbs.

“Oh? So, you’re not going to say it back?” he asked as he rose from the bed.

I giggled lowly and walked to the bathroom. “Come meet me in the shower, and find out.”

I turned on the water and swapped my bonnet for a shower cap before stepping in. The warmth from the water graced my muscles like a gentle hug before strong arms snaked around my waist. Leaning against his chest, I took his hand in and brought it to my lips. I gave him several kisses along its veins before gently nipping at his knuckle.

“I love you too, Aizawa Shota.”

Spinning me around, he pressed his lips to mine and gave me a slow, sensual kiss. I wrapped my arms around his waist and pressed my plush body closer. 

“Don’t scare me like that again,” he asserted after pulling away from the embrace. “You almost gave me a heart attack.”

“Aww. . . you are such a simp for me, ‘Zawa.”

“Damn right.”

[sinnaminsuga]

(GIF was sent to me by a friend so i'm not sure of the owner! if it's you let me know so i can credit you!)

Title: Be Gentle With Him

Summary: just some soft geralt. he deserves the world.

Word Count: 1,130

A/N: hello! this idea just popped up in my head and the lovely @wendimydarling encouraged me to write it out! wendi i cant thank you enough for being so sweet to me and always being there for whatever dumb questions i have 😂💕

Tags: @killjoy-assbutt-1112 @infinite-shite @inlovewithhisblueeyes @october505 @hope-to-hell @littlefreya @viking-raider @the-soot-sprite @raspberrydreamclouds @thelastsock @connieisland @nuggsmum @wolvesandhoundshowltogether @foodieforthoughts @geek-eat-repeat @oddsnendsfanfics @oddduckthatgirl @feralrunaway @its--fandom--darling @madbaddic7ed

(if i missed you let me know or if you want to be removed also let me know! ☺️💛)

This hunt had been particularly grueling. I knew by the way Geralt had come limping to my front door in much worse shape than when he’d left. Seeing him in such a state threw me into nurture mode and I pulled the large man through the door of my cottage just as I had many times before. Silently Geralt slumped into a chair at my kitchen table as I began to fix him a proper meal while also collecting the things I’d need to soothe whatever ailments he most likely had brought home with him.

After he was fed and mended, I drew a bath. There was no doubt that his muscles were sore and tired, the man was a monster hunter for god's sake. Swinging a sword around and dancing with death every day took a toll on his body no matter how much Geralt wouldn't admit it. I searched through my cabinets of herbs, potions, and elixirs to find the right combination. I began adding my collection of items to a bowl, under the watchful gaze of the witcher. Almond, chamomile, and lavender oils joined dried calendula and rose petals in the bowl. After adding a dash of red clover blossoms, I made my way back to the tub to turn off the faucet. I retrieved the bowl and scattered its contents into the water, the inviting scent eventually taking over the room.

Geralt sat in the corner, still silent, but observing. Once the bath preparation was finished I made my way to him and slowly started ridding him of his clothing, and he just let me. When he was fully undressed, I removed my own clothing and stepped into the tub, motioning for him to join me. I sat with him between my legs, and began gently washing his broad body. He hummed every now and then as the cloth travelled over his skin and I found myself smiling a little, happy that he was finally letting me take care of him. I scrubbed his scalp and hair with a mixture I’d concocted, effectively stripping the dirt and grime from him.

When I'd finished cleaning Geralt I tugged him back to lay against my chest. He needed to rest and I was determined to help him. We layed there in the steaming water, my hands tracing his shoulders and digging into the muscles of his strong neck every so often, peppering soft kisses over his exposed skin and now clean hair. Suddenly his breathing became uneven and his shoulders slumped against me. I softly tilted his head so I could see his face and that's when I saw. He was crying. Geralt of Rivia, the mighty White Wolf, the Butcher of Blaviken, was crying in my arms. The offending briny liquid slipped down his cheeks in what seemed to be a constant flow and he attempted to tear his amber gaze away from my face, but I wasn't having it. “Geralt, sweetheart, speak to me.” I said landing a kiss to his forehead.

“It seems to be becoming increasingly more difficult to leave you, little dove.” He spoke quietly. “And I know I must go. I have to provide for you somehow. But my heart longs to be here, with you. And it's making me clumsy. I’m so wrapped up in thoughts of you and my desire to return home, that I miss things. I never miss things, little dove. Never. I let a monster get the drop on me because I was too busy planning my route home. I don't think I can keep doing it. But then I think “what use would she have for me if I was around all the time?”. You’ll grow tired of me dove, I know you will. And then what? What's this old witcher to do then hmm?” He finished speaking and sniffed a few times before attempting to turn away again.

Bracing my hands on both sides of his face, I forced Geralt to look at me again. “Now you listen here good sir. I will never grow tired of you. Never. Do you know how many nights I've spent laying awake, wishing you weren't out there in harm's way? How much I wished you would return home days early?” I said, fingertips brushing over his cheek. “You don't have to do this Geralt. I’d take you as a monster hunter or a farmer or a stableman. It doesn't matter to me. We’ll find a way to get by no matter what you choose to do. Your mother stole that choice from you long ago and I won't be involved in doing that to you for a second time. You can be whatever you want. As long as you're mine.” I whispered into his hair. “Come now. The water is getting cold.” I said, moving to extract us both from the now tepid water.

The conversation in the bath seemed to be cathartic for Geralt and he was in a much better mood, teasing me as I dressed and tickling me whenever I passed by him. “Would you mind doing something about this, little dove?” He asked shyly, a small smile gracing his beautiful face as he gestured to his fresh clean hair. I nodded emphatically and grabbed a brush and some small thin leather strips from my drawer, then made myself comfortable on the bed while directing Geralt to sit on the bench at the foot of the bed. He grabbed a book from my shelf and made himself comfortable. “Read to me Geralt.”

I started slowly and gently detangling his long hair. Parting it down the middle, I listened as his voice rumbled out the words from the book in his big hands. I couldn't help but marvel at his hair, it truly was beautiful. Soft and silky, it slipped through my fingers like rays of moonlight. The more I toyed with the strands, the more I could feel him leaning into my touch, happy and comfortable. I continued to part and weave his hair into two wide braids, tying off the ends with the leather strips. A few wispy pieces too short to stay anchored within the braids, framed his face and curled around his ears. I slid out from behind him and knelt between his open legs, my hands holding his cheeks. “So beautiful. Truly.” I whispered as my eyes roamed his face, meticulously committing the sight of his blushing cheeks and wide smile to my memory. Before I could do anything else, Geralt pulled me up from my kneeling position and cradled me in his lap.

“You make me want to be a softer man little dove. A kinder man. I think that is what I shall become. A better man. For you.”

THE END

[gale-gentlepenguin]

ML Fic: Soulmate Survey Part 32

Happy Halloween to everyone! I hope that you enjoy this treat. Sorry this took so long to write out. This one took a few rewrites to get it where I wanted it to be.

Plus, Real life stuff got in the way So hopefully this will be a nice little treat for you all.

(Master Post)

__________________________________________________________________

Marinette watched in horror as she watched her best friend struggle on the floor.

She dashed to her side, and tried to help Alya get that weird mask off her face.

“By all means go right ahead. Its already too late.” Masquerade laughed as she watched Marinette struggle. “Soon enough she will be helping me take you down.”

The designer pushed the words of the psychotic akuma out of her mind. She refused to let her friend get turned into a mindless drone like before.

“It wont come off!” Marinette grunted as she tried so hard to remove it.

Masquerade watched her bracelet, waiting for a change to occur.

Alya’s muffled screams and frantic movements stopped.

“Alya?”

Marinette jumped up as she watched her friend transform, her casual clothes transformed into a familiar black and white costume. The Wi-Fi symbol on her chest. Lady Wifi has returned.

Masquerade’s bracelet gained a new charm, one looking reminiscent of a cell phone.

“And now she is my friend.” The villain stated as she watched Marinette start stepping away from the enslaved akuma.

“Alya… you need to fight it. You can’t let her control you.”

“Sorry Marinette, but Alya is unable to answer.” Masquerade mocked. “But I can take a message for you.”

Lady wifi stood silent, like an inactive robot, awaiting orders from its master. The inner machinations of the mind are not shown with the emotionless white mask covering her face.

Marinette turned her eyes toward the mask themed akuma, anger burning in her pupils.

“Let her go Lila. Let them all go before things get serious. Your plan will fail, Ladybug and Chat noir will arrive and beat the akuma out of you. Then you will have to answer for this too.”

Masquerade’s smile faded when she saw the fierce look. Marinette was not a sniveling mess, she actually looked even more defiant then before!

“Acting all high and mighty. I think I will enjoy turning you into my helpless puppet next.”

Masquerade lifted her hand towards Marinette, waiting to unmask her deepest secrets, and break her down.

“When I get a peek at what is hiding behind all of that fake courage, it will all come crashing down. Now let’s see your greatest secrets.”

Marinette looked around, trying to think of something. If Lila figured out her big secret, it was over. Ladybug would be exposed. She needed a way out, until she noticed something. Masquerade wasn’t doing anything.

“Huh?”

Marinette was perplexed by the akuma simply standing there.

“Ummm... are you going to do it now or...”

“Why can’t I see your secrets? My powers should allow me to see what you’re hiding and allow me to exploit it. It worked on everyone else I used it on, why not you?”

“Maybe I just don’t have any secrets to hide.” Marinette commented, watching with a bit of satisfaction as the akuma’s smug look shift.

Masquerade felt her frustration and anger boil at the comment. Something wasn’t adding up.

“Hawkmoth!” She cried out in rage.

A purple butterfly outline popped out.

“What is it?” The dark voice connected in her head.

“Why can’t I read Marinette’s secrets?” Masquerade angrily questioned.

“What?”

“Her secrets! I was able to zero in on everyone else I’ve used the ability on. Why does it not work on her!? Of all people I want this power to work on!”

Marinette felt both concerned and a bit flattered that she was the one Lila wanted to defeat the most. It was sort of mutual.

“Your power works on anyone I’ve akumatized, regardless of who it is.” The butterfly villain communicated. 

“So… your saying you didn’t akumatize her before? How is that possible?”

“I haven’t gotten to every single person in Paris.”

“You’ve akumatized that stupid pigeon man 26 times! How have you not gotten everyone!?”

“Paris is a big city, even if I akumatized someone every day, I doubt I would have hit 1/10th of the population. Besides, it takes strong negative emotions for me to send out an akuma. And that man seems to just be the easiest target for it. “ Hawkmoth defended himself. “Its not like I WANT to akumatize him every other day.”

“Unbelievable!”

“Just get the miraculous. That is your focus, the girl can wait for later.”

Masquerade’s butterfly outline dispelled as hawkmoth was finished with that conversation.

“Well that sucks. I guess I can just go back to plan A. Having you watch as I turn everyone against you... aren't here. What!”

Masquerade frantically looked around for the teen she had been antagonizing and found that she was no longer in the same spot. In fact, she was no longer in the office!

Marinette had decided to slip away from the akuma while she was having her little tantrum to the evil butterfly man.

“Why didn't you do something!” She shouted at Lady Wifi.

“You did not give me an order.” Lady Wifi answered robotically. 

Masquerade glared at the akuma servant. She would almost think it was rebelling against her.

“Even as a mindless servant you still find a way to ruin things.”

She looked around and noticed the other akuma in the room that was still on the floor.

“Dark Owl get up!”

The owl themed akuma got up from the floor. Removing parts of the broken pot from his costume.

Masquerade snapped her fingers. Catching the attention of Dark Owl and Lady Wifi. 

“Both of you, I want Marinette brought back to me right now! I want to make sure she stays quiet and sees everything we have set up. I don’t need her causing trouble.”

______________________________________________________________________

“…and that is everything.” A young woman said with a mixture of relief and excitement. She had finally finished setting everything up in the school infirmary. She had organized the files, restocked the bandages, changed the sheets on the resting cots, and put her personal decals on the desk. She was starting her first day as the school nurse, and things have been going up.

She put herself back out there and started dating Curtis, the sweet guy she met last week despite what would’ve normally been a deal breaking misunderstanding, she got into the med school program she wanted to get into and will be attending part time, and she managed to get a job at the school she went to when she went to Lycee.

She heard a ding from the front of the nurse’s office just as she was about to sit down.

“First student of the day. I better see what they need.”

She exited the small office area in the infirmary to see a blonde student who was clearly impatient

“What is taking so long!?” The teen shouted.

“Hello there. How can I help you?”

The blonde looked up a bit to see the nurses smile, she rolled her eyes.

“Who the hell are you? Isnt there supposed to be a different woman here?”

“If you are referring to the previous school nurse, she retired officially last week. I am the new school nurse. You can call me Nurse Angela.”

Angela never really liked using her last name, it made her sound old. So, she would be fine with the kids calling by her first name. It also helps with psychology, allowing more for a social dynamic based on mutual respect rather than authority.

“Whatever.”

Angela felt a twinge of frustration at the girl’s dismissal. But she kept her smile.

“And you are?”

The teen smirked.

“Chloé Bourgeous. And before you ask, yes, the daughter of the mayor.”

Angela felt a shiver go down her spine. She remembered from what the previous nurse told her. That Chloé was the mayor’s bratty daughter who would use her father’s influence to get anyone fired if she got angry enough.

‘That at least explains her rude attitude. She is a spoiled Brat.’

Angela was not going to let this bother her. She was going to take it in stride. She would be kind and courteous as she planned to be with any student at the Dupont.

“So, Chloé. What brings you here?”

Chloé walks in.

“My chair broke because someone sabotaged my chair. I ended up bruising my… anyway I need some ice, and anything to numb the pain.”

“My goodness! That sounds terrible. Who would do such a thing?”

“It was probably Marinette, that nasty little rat. Adding insult to injury now that she is dating Adrien.”

Nurse Angela moved to get some ice from the freezer for the bruised bottom of the Mayor’s daughter, listening to the girl vent. She was sure that whoever this Marinette girl was, probably didn’t do it. And if somehow, she did, it was likely because the annoying blonde deserved it. But that was not something Angela felt was worth mentioning. She kept that bit to herself.

“She is probably blackmailing my adrikins with something. There is no way he would be dating her without some sort of reason.”

“Is it possible that maybe he just likes her?” Angela inquired as she presented the bag of ice to Chloé.

Chloé looked at the nurse as if she had just told her that she had 3 eyes and a scorpion tail.

“Adrien liking Marinette?! That is ridiculous, Utterly ridiculous! There is no way that Adrien would…”

Chloé felt her mind flash through moments. Adrien and Marinette about to kiss for that movie, Adrien and Marinette dancing at her party? The photos she found of them running from fans, that kiss at the picnic during heroes’ day. Adrien taking Marinette to that interview instead of her… The stubborn blonde felt as if everything clicked into place.

“Chloé? Is everything okay?” The nurse called out, trying to get the spaced-out teen’s attention.

“He might actually LIKE her!”

Chloé felt her own skin crawl as she made her realization.

Angela didn’t know how to respond to this situation.

“I am going to straighten Adrien out right now! I am not going to let him make such a foolish mistake!”

The nurse could tell this could be bad if the mayor’s daughter was so heated, what if she got this innocent girl expelled? If she stood by and did nothing then her time at the school would be internally marked with the regret of not stopping such a potential disaster.

“Wait, Miss Bourgeois.”

Chloé stopped.

“What is it?”

“I… I just noticed that you’re limping. The injury might be more serious than you think. Let me have a look at it closer before you leave.”

The mayor’s daughter would simply have left without a second thought. But having a limp would make her walk much less dignified and lacking the power she needs to intimidate, but mainly that she would look lame with a limp.

“Alright, just make it quick.”

______________________________________________________________________________

“I don’t get why you felt the need to leave.” The cat kwami rolled his eyes. “If you want to be rebellious Adrien, we could leave the school and head to the movies. Though if we do, you should invite your girlfriend.”

“Plagg, this isn’t about rebellion or future date ideas. Something isn’t right with this whole situation. I just want to sneak a peek in the office, make sure Marinette and Alya get their story out, and then I am headed right back to class. No problem.” Adrien summarized as they kept walking.

Plagg noticed someone headed their way and went to hide in Adrien’s pocket.

Adrien took notice that it was his homeroom teacher. Perhaps he could ask her.

“Hey Ms.Bustier. Can I ask you a quick question?”

The red headed teacher walked past the teen without acknowledging his question. Her eyes focused on what was ahead.

“That’s weird… She would always stop to help a student.”

Adrien could feel that his favorite teacher may have been affected by something sinister.

“Ms.Bustier, can you hear me out for a second?” He asked as he touched her shoulder to try and get her attention.

The mirage of her appearance shifted from the homeroom teacher to the stylized patchwork costume of a familiar akuma enemy.

Adrien was surprised to see the true form of the imposter. The kiss zombie maker, Zombizou.

The akuma turned to show the face mask that hid her face. Her attention was now firmly on the boy, whether he wanted it or not.

Adrien backed away, nervously keeping his eyes on the teacher as he carefully backed up.

“You know, I think I will just ask someone else.”

Adrien took down the next hall running.

______________________________________________________________________

Masquerade reclined in her chair, her frustration was growing as she wondered what was taking those two minions she sent out to capture Marinette so long.

“They shouldn’t be having that much difficulty. She is just one person!”

She heard a ring, and knew her sentimonster was trying to contact her.

“What is it Simulare?”

“The illusion I had on Zombizou was broken. Someone is on to us, and the minion is in pursuit.”

Masquerade felt a headache forming. She didn’t have time for a wild goose chase. She needed to move on to phase two of her plan, making her army of akuma.

“Track down Marinette and this other  person that found out about Zombizou, keep them busy as long as possible. I am going to move on to phase two. Make sure no one is on to us.”

“Understood. I’ll get them back in the office and make sure neither of them escape.”

“Good”

Masquerade ended the call and felt her head ease a bit. The sentimonster she was given was obedient and competent. It was based on her mindset, so it would make sense that it would be capable of handling this problem.

“Now, let’s get that army.”

______________________________________________________________________________

“Give me a break.” Marinette muttered to herself.

She thought she would have time to transform once she escaped the office, but the two akuma were right out of the office before she had time to make sure everything was clear.

In her rush she cut a corner down a hallway and ended up colliding with another person.

“Ouch.” They cry out in unison, both looking to realize who they bumped into. Their faces turned to relief.

“Marinette!” “Adrien!”

The two called out in unison.

“Why are you running?” “Why are you running?”

“An akuma!” “An akuma!”

“An akuma?” “An akuma?”

They both look behind the other to notice the incoming akumas approaching them.

“As cute as this is, we need to go.”

Adrien Grabs Marinette’s Hand and they both head to the open area and try to get to the main entrance.

‘I need to get Adrien somewhere safe, then I can go transform into Ladybug.’ Marinette thought to herself, unaware that Adrien was thinking the same thing.

They make quick movements down hallway, moving up and down staircases to confuse their pursuers. They managed to give them the slip as the controlled akuma seemed to not be able of basic reasoning and quick fake outs and movements.

The two make their way down to what appeared to be the front of the school.

“The entrance!” Marinette called out. “Okay, we split up at the entrance and try to get help. They can’t catch us both.”

The run to the entrance only for them to stop short, colliding with some invisible wall.

It was only after making contact did the front entrance of the school shift back into a wall. The layout of the entire school seemed to shift instantly. The school had been put under an illusion to trick them into thinking they were escaping.

“It’s an illusion. Which means Lila must be involved with that group of akumas.” Adrien exclaimed.

“More like she is the cause. She is the one controlling the akumatized mask wearers. She got the Principal and Alya.”

“Wait, does this mean that Lila’s power is to make akuma!?”

“From what I saw, she can only akumatize people that have been akumatized before using her face masks. You haven’t been akumatized right?” Marinette questioned.

“No, and since she didn't get you, you haven't either right?”

“Yea, though I have had a few close calls.”

“So, if Lila’s power is akumatizing people, what akuma made this illusion on the school?”

“That would be me.” A third voice calls out.

The two turned to look and see a familiar fox themed villain smiling confidently.

“Volpina!”

“Not exactly.”

The Volpina impersonator looked around to see if the other akumatized servents were going to arrive.

“Seems you both are quite clever when it comes to annoying Mistress Masquerade.”

“Masquerade?”

“That’s what Lila’s calling herself.”

“Oh... cause of the masks.”

The villain rolls her eyes, encapsulating the personality of the arrogant volpina that it was pretending to be.

“Masquerade realizes that you two are both quite difficult to snag with mindless servants, so she requested I handle this.”

“No, you won’t.” Marinette grabs Adrien’s Hand and tries to run away only for the Faux Fox to flip in front of them

“Yea, I am not letting you out of my sight. Now be good and come along peacefully.”

Adrien moves in front of Marinette.

“Go, I’ll hold her off.”

“But…”

“Go. I trust you.” Adrien smiles as he looks to her for a moment.

Marinette wanted to stay and fight with him, but she knew that she needed to go and transform. Ladybug will be needed before this blows up.

“I’ll get help.”

Marinette runs away from the two as fast as she can. Adrien making sure to block the way should their foe get any ideas.

“She won’t get far, she will get captured before she even gets a chance.”

Adrien shook his head.

“You would be surprised with how just how amazing Marinette is.”

Marinette rushed out of sight and into the closest bathroom, quickly making sure it was a safe place to transform.

“Coast is clear. Time for Ladybug to step in.”

“Let’s hope we can get to Adrien in time before things get worse.” Tikki commented.

“Don't worry, I trust he’ll be okay. Tikki! Spots on!”

______________________________________________________________________________

“Can you believe it Juleka?” The peppy perfume enthusiast squealed. “Marinette and Adrien are finally an item.”

“Yes, I was there rose.” Juleka commented with an eye roll and a smile.

“I know! I am just so happy for them both.” Rose calms herself a bit. “Though… how will your brother take it?”

The purple haired teen reflected on the comment.

“It will be an adjustment, but I am sure Lulu will be fine once he gets a couple songs out of it.”

“I’ll be sure to be supportive.”

Juleka patted Rose’s head, smiling sweetly at the blonde’s caring attitude. She decided now would be a good time to spring that surprise on her. She was planning on showing her during lunch, but since Ms.Bustier wasn’t in class. Now would be the perfect time to show Rose the earrings she got her.

She casually reached into her bag, sliding her hand into her lunch bag, trying to find the earring box, only to notice it not there. Her hand moved frantically searching.

“Is something wrong?” Rose inquired, a bit of concern on her face.

“No, nothing. Nothing is wrong, just…” Juleka dismissed as she kept searching only to know for certain that her gift was not in there.

“Are you sure?”

“I just need do something really quick.”

She quickly grabbed her phone and calmly while hoping that her brother would see her text.

In her quick movement, she failed to notice the door of the classroom opening.

_______________________________________________________________________

“Psst, Luka. Luka!” A dark-haired teen whispered, trying to get the attention of the teal-tipped hair guitarist that was hiding his sleeping face with an open science book.”

“Hmm?” The tired teen responded with his eyes still closed. He was barely awake. He had been up all night working on that new song that was stuck in his head. He could still hear it playing in his thoughts as he tried to shake himself awake.

“Your phone vibrated, seemed important.”

“Oh, thanks Theo.” He moved his hand to take a look at his phone.

The science teacher was rambling on about molecules or something, clearly unaware of how disinterested everyone in the class was with his boring lecture.

Luka looked through to see a few text messages from his sister.

‘Hey, can you check your lunch to see if there is a jewelry box in there? Rose’s gift is in there.’

‘If you find it, can you swing by around your free period to bring it to me?’

Luka quickly snuck his hand into his backpack and sure enough he felt the small box. He was about to text a response. But stopped when he read the last two texts.

‘Sh*t there is an akuma in the class!’

Luka’s eyes shot open, his sister was in danger. Which also meant his band was also in danger. He needed to get there.

He shot up from his chair. And started making his way to the door.

“Mr.Couffaine, where do you think you’re going?”

“Family emergency.”

The science teacher was about to tell the young boy to wait until his parent calls, but he remembered who is mother was and what she did the last time he held up her kid when Anarke wanted to pick him up early. The teacher proceeded to held back his response.

“Proceed. Just be sure to get the notes from today’s lesson.”

Luka was out the door before the teacher could finish.

______________________________________________________________________

A car speeds down the road, the driver cursing to herself as she tries to move faster.

‘Get in, get Adrien, and get out before everything hits the fan.’

Nathalie mentally repeated to herself. She knows that pushing herself too hard was also dangerous. She couldn't risk feeling weak right now.

The driver slammed the break as she arrived at the school. She needed to hurry. She parked the car and opened the door.

“Lets hope that this akuma hasn't gotten to Adrien yet.”

_______________________________________________________________________

Ms. Bustier’s class had diverted all their attention to the costumed individual in the front of the classroom. The eerie masks that adorned her costume seemed to unsettle everyone.

Juleka put her phone away and joined in on what everyone was staring at

Alix was the one to say what was on everyone’s mind.

“Who the f*** are you?”

The akuma smirked.

“Excellent, a volunteer.”

Raising her hand and pointing towards Alix, her charm bracelet began to glow.

“Interesting, seems that you have quite a soft spot for cute things.”

The class turned to look at Alix with confusion.

Alix kept her cool.

“And? Is there a point?” Alix rolled her eyes, ignoring the akuma’s attempt to get under her skin. It would take more than that to actually do anything to her.

“You pretend you have this ‘Devil may care’ attitude, that you are too cool to care about what people think, but really you are more obsessed with how people perceive you than anyone else in here.”

Alix felt her smirk falter for a second.

“You are really sensitive about your height and anytime someone brings it up you are in a bad mood for the rest of the day. But what really gets to you is your ‘Family’. You hate how your brother is a laughing stock because of his crackpot theories and your greatest fear is that no matter how much you try to be this punk rebel, you will always be cast as ‘The Conspiracy nut’s sister’.”

“Shut up! You don’t know my life!” Alix yelled.

“Not so fun getting exposed, is it?”

The class realized immediately who this mysterious akuma was.

Masquerade smiled as she flung a mask right at the pink haired teen. Causing her to fall down. And struggle to get the mask off, but before anyone could help her. It was too late.

The class could only watch in horror as their classmate transformed into their Akuma persona. Before standing up.

The class tried to make a break for it. They knew full well the dangers of this new akuma.

“Timebreaker, guard the door.”

The akuma skated to the door and everyone jumped back. They knew that touching Timebreaker was not a good idea.

“Lila, this isn’t cool. Let Alix go.” Nino called out.

The Mask akuma shook her head.

“Lila is not a thing anymore. She was unmasked and dismissed. But now I have a new mask, I’m Masquerade. Soon enough, you will all be unmasked and given a new mask that better suits you. Alya knows that very well.”

Nino’s his eyes flared at the statement.

“What did you do to my girl?”

Masquerade pointed her hand at him just as her charm bracelet glowed, now with a rollerblade charm added to it.

“The same thing I am about to do to all of you.”

______________________________________________________________________

Will the rest of the class fall victim to Masquerade’s evil plan? Will Ladybug be able to save Adrien from the Sentimonster? Will Nathalie get to Adrien before its too late? Will I ever update consistently?

Fine out all these questions and more in the next part.

Thank you all for reading the most recent addition to Soulmate Survey.

Please let me know your thoughts on this chapter and if you really liked it. Reblog it. (Sharing is the only way my story actually gets out.) Plus, tagging has been kind of glitchy for me, so until that gets straightened out, I can't tag people for the story at the moment.

[nancypullen]

What’s Up, Buttercup?

There is absolutely NOTHING happening here on the Pullen patch.  Mickey is stressed from work and I’m his emotional support animal. I have a feeling I’m not as supportive as I used to be.  I listen, I decide whether he’s just venting or actually asking for input, then I give him food. Rinse and repeat.  A couple of nights ago I canceled the salad I had planned for dinner and made him pancakes and bacon.  He almost cried with joy.  I’m really awful about using food for love and/or comfort.  When I was young there was rarely a heartbreak that couldn’t be eased with Ruffles and dip.  I never had much of a sweet tooth, salty and crunchy was my poison. Still is.  That’s why I can’t have chips or chip relatives in the house.  Air-popped popcorn with a shake of seasoning is now my salty, crunchy friend and I have it every day.  I’d rather skip dinner than skip my popcorn. For Christmas my sister and I exchange gifts and we always choose something identical that we both desire.  This year we chose little air fryers.  Not the large, family-sized units that take up an acre of counter space - but this Dash model.

It comes in black, white, gray, red, and this adorable aqua. The basket is plenty big for a household of two.  I love my other Dash products (the egg cooker and the single waffle maker) so I knew I’d like this too. And I do!  I haven’t used it a ton yet, but what I’ve made so far has been DELICIOUS.  No oil, still crunchy! 

Yesterday I made zucchini fries for my lunch.  SO good. 

The coating was panko with a little grated parmesan.  A little marinara sauce for dunking and it makes a mighty fine lunch (salty and crunchy too).   I’ve also done cauliflower, green beans - those weren’t breaded, just crisped. I even made some homemade pizza bites for the mister that received two thumbs up.  I need to expand my repertoire, and I will, but right now I love making quick, crispy veggies in it.  My sister has mastered the art of sweet potato fries.  I love that there’s no preheating and cooking only takes a few minutes.  I didn’t intend to talk about food today, but it’s almost 10am and I haven’t eaten yet.  I‘m half-heartedly attempting intermittent fasting - waiting until noon to eat.  I’m finding that when I do that, then at noon I feast.  Nothing is safe. I may start with a healthy, small portion of something...then I might take just another small portion.   Then I have a cup of yogurt.  Then I grab a handful of walnuts.  Then I think a slice of toast would be nice....  if I’d just eaten some protein at breakfast I wouldn’t be grazing so much at lunch!  I think the key is that I can’t let myself get too hungry or I become Godzilla destroying Tokyo, except the pantry is Tokyo.

Some mornings I opt for a quick smoothie. That actually does the trick as long as there’s a little scoop of protein powder (or some yogurt).  Mine are not elaborate, just simple and healthy.  This is a favorite - Scoop of vanilla protein powder, a serving of kale, frozen raspberries, and a cup of almond milk.   YUM!

I looooooove my little smoothie blender. LOVE it.  You can find it on Amazon for less than $20.  It’s a little workhorse.  You can make a smoothie, grab the cup and go.  The lid slides open for sipping.  Not that I have anywhere to go. I don’t.  I’ve never taken my portable smoothie cup further than the couch.  But I can vouch that it made the trip from the kitchen to the living room with ease. If you want to dip a toe into smoothie making but don’t want to invest in a pricey appliance that may end up collecting dust, I recommend this little blender.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00QNUCV0I/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&th=1 So, it looks like this post about nothing turned into a post about food and gadgets.  And I’m still hungry.  It’s now three minutes past ten and I’m going to go make a veggie scramble.  We’ll call it brunch.    It’s a gray, wet day here, so I’m sending out sunshiney vibes to you with the reminder that we’re gaining daylight every day.  There are signs that the earth is waking up - daffodil shoots are up in our garden!  Looking at the Farmer’s Almanac I can see that in just sixty days, sunset will be at 7:10pm.  Yippee!

We’ll be picking flowers and soaking up Vitamin D in no time!  I know that folks are getting buried in snow and ice while I type this-  I’m not being insensitive, I’m pointing at the light at the end of the tunnel. 

We’ve had blizzards in March before, so I’m not getting out my sandals yet.  Just saying that we’re on the downhill side and hurtling toward spring.  Hang in there! Stay safe, stay well, have a snack. XOXO,

Nancy

[static-fanatic-1]

(Reincarnated Goddess Reader)

Shinnok has always looked down on them, not just the Elder Gods, but the weaker Gods as well, not just the Gods, but the Earthrealmers too. No one was safe from his undying hatred against all that opposed him. Though there was someone in particular that the mighty fallen Elder God hadn't looked down upon, even after he became a fallen Elder God. She was the graceful goddess of souls and light, also known as the guidance of souls.

~~~

A female with (s/c) skin, silky (h/c) hair, and vibrant (e/c) eyes walked through a grocery store with a mission in her head. To get the frosted lemon bread before someone else took it.

As the cart rumbled it's way through the isles filled with more important groceries, the female made her way to the bakery area of the small store.

There it was, right in her grasp, right in front of her face. A pearly smile graced (y/n)'s lips as her fingers grazed the surface of the plastic container filled with the last of the sweet lemon bread.

Though the little joy was quickly taken by a dirty blonde man standing at about six foot with darkened sun shades. "Hey! That was literally in my hands!"

The guy paused and looked at the girl, dipping his shades and taking them off. "Sorry sugar cakes, but I'm not giving these away."

(Y/n) huffed and whipped her hand to the man, taking back her sweet treat. "Who are you anyway?" She puffed her cheeks, put her treats in her small buggy, and crossed her arms at the man in front of her. "And what the hell does sugar cakes mean?"

"The name's Johnny Cage, world class actor and Special Force agent." He looked at her with an injured look inside his steel colored eyes. "As for sugar cakes, look at what you took from me."

"Excuse me, but YOU took this from ME." She moved in front of him so he couldn't even dare to take it from her cart.

The guy huffed in irritation. "Come on, I'll pay you back, I just REALLY want those lemon cakes!" Johnny pleaded, placing his sunglasses on his shirt making it drag down and show a small amount of a larger tattoo.

"No! These are mine! Why are you even here if you could go somewhere more fancy or something. Special Forces discounts or something?" (Y/n) complained.

"Seriously?"

"Yes, seriously." The girl took her small cart and walked her way to the check out. The man followed behind her and still followed her to her car even after she paid for it, begging for the sweet treat. "No, no, and no! Sorry but these are mine, go to another grocery store."

"But it's out of the way." He whined.

"Nope, sorry."

He watched her get in her car, for some odd reason helping her with her groceries. "Next time they are mine. Right?"

The girl sighed and rummaged around in a bag, getting out the plastic container with the lemon cakes. "Get in the passengers side."

"You aren't gonna kidnap me right?" He smirked at her.

"God no, I'm too lazy for that." She popped open the plastic, taking one and motioning to sit with her. "Want one or not?"

Johnny, finding the girl to be no threat, joined her in her car, leaving the doors wide open, and took a piece of the lemon bread.

"Okay, you're Johnny Cage right? Why would you join the military if you are an actor?" (Y/n) turned her head to the man, his amused look making the girl smile.

"Well I met the love of my life there."

"Geez, that's sappy." She replied back.

"Haha, yeah. Best choice of my life too. Had a sweet little girl too, much older now, but she's still my baby girl."

"Your an open book." (Y/n) sarcastically said, knowing it was the truth.

~~~

Time passed and it wasn't too difficult to become friends with the famous actor, and he truly was an open book. He didn't seem to mind though, about his relationship with his family and even the fact he started to ramble on about another world and a tournament to save Earth.

It was even more strange to know he didn't seem like he was lying or joking, but who was to judge? I mean, it sounded familiar for some reason, but a reason one couldn't point out.

"Your strange, you know that right?"

"Yup, Sony said that too." Johnny laughed to himself, the girl joining him for the heck of it. "Hell, I should get going, thanks for not being too much of an asshole."

"Hahaha, you too you piece of shit. It'd be nice to see you again, think I made a new friend."

Johnny nodded and left, waving before getting in his own car and driving off. "Oh shit my ice cream!" (Y/n) quickly took her leave, driving in front of the man she had just become friends with, and speeding none the less.

~~~

Johnny finally made his way to the Special Forces base, with time to spare before the sun drifted into the clutches of the stars.

"What took you so long Dad?" Johnny gave his attention to his daughter, a beauty made from two of the hottest people alive.

"Met a fan, nice person too."

"Yeah right," she shoved his shoulder as the two laughed at each other. "Anyway, Raidens' here and mom wants you to listen, it's something bad."

"Again? Geez, alright alright let's go."

The two Cages walked into a meeting room, Raiden, Sonya, and the others in Cassie's crew standing at a table. "Johnny Cage." Raiden stated.

"What's up Raidenny's." Raiden grumbled under his breath, something clearly wrong. "What's wrong?"

Sony placed her hands on the electronic map table and rested herself there while staring at her husband. "Raiden has found out something, well, more like somethings." She nodded to Raiden, allowing him to speak.

"Shinnok's amulet has been taken, replaced with an impressive decoy. We need to find it as fast as possible no matter the costs." Raiden paused, his brows furrowing.

Johnny noticed this and held his hand upon the thunder gods shoulder. "What's the other thing."

Raiden sighed and looked at everyone at the table, each person waiting intently. "If Shinnok is to be revived, then I know his targets. The Jin-Sei and another Goddess, one that has been dead for thousands of years."

"Why would a fallen Elder God Look for a dead God?" Johnny asked, his voice serious.

This time Cassie spoke up. "Apparently Raiden's Dad is Shinnok, and he thinks that Shinnok will try to reincarnate the Goddess. He said if she is reincarnated then Shinnok can do much more than kill people, he can control their souls and body. You know, like Quan Chi but in full control, and Quan Chi is an Elder God."

Johnny but his lip nervously. "How do you know this Goddess, Raiden? What does she even look like?"

Sony pushes herself off the table, though it was Kung Jin that replied. "We should worry more about the amulet Mr. Ca- Raiden?"

All eyes looked at Raiden, his shoulders and hands upon the table while they lightly burst with lightning. "The Goddess had (h/c) hair, (s/c) skin and bright (e/c) eyes. I remember she had a sweet tooth to Earthrealmer sweets."

"Who is she, Raiden?" Johnny pressed on, earning a mixed expression from the others in the room.

"My mother!" Raiden slammed his hands against the table, breaking it and shooting lightning through its now fried circuits. He heavily breathed in for a moment. "She is my mother, and Shinnok will not rest until she is revived."

Everything paused, the whole room going dead silent. Something hit Johnny though, something he needed to tell the God. "Listen, Raiden, I saw someone of the discription."

The thunder God looked up in a deepened sadness. "What?"

Everyone looked at Johnny as he continued. "Met her at the store, same description, even seemed to have a sweet tooth."

There was a deep sigh, but his body was still rigid. "We need to find her. Where does she live? Did she have her abilities as before?" So many questions were running through the God's head, like is she even okay?

"No and no, seemed to be normal. I'll send Cassie's team to find her, you guys have to look everywhere." Johnny pointed to his daughter, she was baffled by the sudden information, as everyone else was.

Sonya stood up straight and crossed her arms. "The rest of us will find the amulet." Everyone in the room nodded, understanding the mission at hand. "Johnny, go with Cassie. Raiden, what's her name?"

Johnny didn't allow the God to answer, trying to see if who he found was the right person. "(Y/n)."

Raiden nodded once at Johnny, probing his point that the girl he found was who was going to be hunted by the mighty fallen Elder God.

~~~

(Y/n) sighed and pulled out a small chocolate bar from her small stash of snacks. She pouted due to her ice cream melting to the point it became inedible, sitting on her small couch to continue to sulk.

From the time she had dashed from the store to get to her house, it had been about five hours, and those were a long five hours of sitting in front of the TV doin nothing.

(Y/n) sighed and grumbled, getting up from the couch once more to wonder around because the show had become a little too boring. The second she walked past the couch her door bell rang through out the house.

She paused, getting a strange feeling as she walked to her door. "Who is it?"

"I was wondering if you would like to see my product? It's is cheap and one hundred percent guaranteed to work."

(Y/n) cocked her head to the side in a confused motion, opening the door to see who was behind it.

Though she didn't have enough time to see who it was as a large hand wrapped around her face and tightly grip her neck. She gagged and thrashed in the persons grip, the sound of her front door closing behind them. Was there more than one person? If so then how many?

"Lord Shinnok will be pleased in your capture." A deep voice echoed through the apartment. A multitude of footsteps followed the voice, something that felt like hair wrapped around (y/n)'s waist and arms and dragged her closer to another person, their hands replacing the larger ones. Whoever was holding her now was clearly a female of sorts, a strong one at that, she could resist (y/n)'s struggles with ease.

"What the hell are you talking about?!" (Y/n) thrashed even more in an attempt to escape, but the female was stronger than that, and the new set of arms holding her legs together didn't help her. "Who-Who are you guys?!"

"Where are my manners? I am Quan Chi, faithful servant to Lord Shinnok." The deepest voice rang.

"I am Queen Sindel." The female voiced from behind (y/n).

The third voice followed, possibly the one that held her legs together. "My name is Lui Kang, Emperor of Netherrealm."

Listening to these foreign titles the fearful female struggled harder, especially when her limbs started to be tied behind her back and such. "Why are you doing this?!"

The deep voice, Quan Chi, replied to (y/n)'s fearful pleads. "Lord Shinnok is in need of your presence, and when D'Vorah gives me the amulet, he will return." (Y/n) could sense the smile upon Quan Chi's face, and it made the now bounded female shiver.

Another knock on the door sounded through the apartment, all heads moving in the direction of the wooden surface. "Hello? Yeah is this (y/n)'s residence? My name is Takeda Takahashi and I'm a friend of Johnny Cage."

Again there was a comical pause, but it quickly ended when (y/n) muffled up a scream and thrashed harder than ever, making her crash off her couch she was placed upon.

Dainty hands scooped (y/n) up and held her close, making her screaming and thrashing come to another halt. Though it was too late for the kidnappers, for the Takeda person had already heard what was behind the doors.

"Guys! Over here!" The once locked door was easily opened by a young man with black hair and cocky aura about him. "Don't make another move egg head."

"Your insults do not matter, it is the plan that must be rearranged." He looked at his captive, then at his slaves. He nodded in Liu Kang's direction, giving him the signal to take action as Quan Chi made a portal to Neatherrealm.

Takeda whipped out his weapon and allowed it to reveal its blades. Liu Kang rushed to meet his challenger. "You will meet your end young one."

"You'll meet your end, again."

"Your humor is dry."

"Geez, thanks." Takeda lashed his whip at Liu Kang, making the revenant jump out of the way as more challengers approached the two. A blonde female and a black female, each armed and ready to fight.

Sindel whipped her hair at the blonde, taking her gun away before she could even begin to use it. The black female grabbed Sindel's hair and tugged with all her might, making Sindel grunt and fall to the ground from the force.

Liu Kang eyed his new enemies, rushing up to the blonde female by jumping over Takeda. The revenant bicycle kicked the blonde until she was shoved off the railing of the second story apartment building.

The black female still kept a tight hold on the hair, and so to keep both revenants on their toes she took the white and black hair and wrapped it on Liu Kang's leg. Not knowing her hair was connected to her teammate, she retracted her hair and accidentally pulled Liu Kang back in the building, his head smashing hard against the railing.

Takeda whipped Quan Chi on his back, making his progress pause, but it was too late, the portal has already opened. The revenants seemed to be taken back into reality, the both of them rushing to Quan Chi.

The blonde had finally made her way back up to the apartment, now being joined by two others, a bowman and Johnny Cage.

By seeing her new friend the bounded female wiggled around once again. Quan Chi grabbed (y/n) and lifted her over her shoulder quickly, the two revenants rushing through the portal.

"We will have to meet another time, Mr. Cage."

"I don't think so, shit face." Johnny spat, clearly having some sort of vendetta against the spell caster. Just as the jokester said, Quan Chi wasn't going anywhere, for the blonde and the bowman shot the sorcerer in the same shoulder. Johnny then tore the female off his shoulder and punched Quan Chi unconscious.

The group of young adults assisted in freeing (y/n), a burst of questions coming from the girl. "Who the hell is that? Who the hell were the other two? Who are you all?"

Takeda grimaced at the bombardment of questions, though Johnny was the one to quickly fill it all in. "They are the bad guys, we are the good guys, anyway, we will explain it on the way."

"On the way where?"

The black girl sighed. "We're going to base, Special Forces base."

"How did I get into this? Johnny what did you tell them?!"

Johnny lifted his hands from tying up Quan Chi. "I didn't do anything, why would you expect that it was my fault?!"

Everyone took a sweet moment to look at the actor, and then at (y/n), the blonde stepping up to say something. "Yeah, what did you tell mom, dad?"

"Cassie, c'mon, let's just go."

~~~

(Y/n) walked around the base, it was just like how a military base would look like, if it was a bit more high tech. Either way it was fun to look around, seeing all the weapons, all the people, especially the ones with more of a strange look.

"(Y/n)."

(Y/n) turned her head in the direction of a blonde woman, older than the one that helped save her. "Um, yes?" She revealed her hand, wishing to shake the newcomers hand, which she did.

"My name is Sonya Blade, I'm the one in charge around here."

"Oh, uh, hello Mrs. Blade. I'm (y/n)."

"I know, if I could ask you to kindly stay in a close vicinity, that would be appreciated." Sonya has a bossy speech to her tone, and (y/n) didn't know if it was just because she was the boss or if it was because she had a bitter attitude.

"Um, sure. Yeah, of course."

"Thanks, there is also someone I want you to meet. Follow me."

(Y/n) nodded and followed without much of a question, all other than the one stuffed in the back of her mind. 'Who was she about to meet?'

She passed a metal case, one large enough for a male to be encased within its hard walls, she knew this is where that Quan Chi guy was, and by passing it she was given chills.

"Sorry," Sonya started. "But he won't be here for a while, he's looking for something important."

"That's fine, I don't mind waiting." (Y/n) bit her lip, wanting to ask something that has yet to be explained in all of this strange mess. She was already told about how there are more than one world, realms as they call it, and how some of the people had different abilities. Not to mention that Earthrealm was at war with another realm called Outworld, and even Neatherrealm if you look at the tension between the realms. But one question remained, why was she here in the first place? Okay, she had way more questions than one, but still, when were they going to be answered?

Sonya paused, as if hearing something that was off. She pulled out her gun and looked around. Then a sudden flash of lightning splashed in the middle of the clearing in the base. "There he is." She voiced, watching as the lightning disappeared as fast as it came, revealing a man with blinding white eyes under a bamboo hat and a, almost, martial artist outfit. It had accents of blue and small amounts of gold, counting the thick belt tightly around his waist.

(Y/n) leaned near the General and whispered one of the million questions in her mind. "How the hell did he do that?"

"Lady (y/n)," The seemingly godly man beamed. "It is a pleasure to finally meet you again. Earthrealm is in a state of panic, we need to get you to the Jin Sei to unlock your abilities, and your past memories."

"Wait-wait, memories? Abilities? I-I don't even know who you are, less of what you are talking about." (Y/n) interrupted.

"My manners," The man shook his head and bowed, which seemed to be an odd thing to Sonya, for her face became slightly surprised by his actions. "My name is Raiden, I am the protector of Earthrealm and the God of Thunder. As for the rest, I will only be able to show you."

"Just go, we don't have much time, and your help could mean the end of the war." (Y/n) turned to Sonya with a surprised look upon her face. "Trust him and go." She ordered once more.

Raiden extended his hand once he rose from his bow. "You will answer some of my questions, right?" The God nodded, earning a hesitant hand from the questioning female. Lightning engulfed her being, but it didn't hurt, instead it tingled through her skin and tickled. Sparks danced across her skin, giving off a comfortable warmth as her surrounding could not be seen anymore. The sparks died down, revealing a Chinese inspired temple surrounded by lamps in the darkness the surrounded the building. Rain started to drizzle from the thick clouds above.

"Lady (y/n), if you would follow me please." (Y/n) followed what he wanted, trailing behind him as he walked through a stone courtyard.

"Where are we going?" The female kindly asked.

"The Jin Sei, it is a force I am connected to, it gives me power as well as keeps Earthrealm protected."

"What would it do to me? You said it would give me powers that I already had, memories too? How would that even work?"

Raiden softly smiled to himself from her many questions and her clueless demeanor. "You are a reincarnate of a Goddess, your past life could, in theory, be unlocked by the Jin Sei."

(Y/n) didn't believe the God, then again, she had just learned there were Gods and other worlds, so heard this just added to the other crazy stuff she had been told. "What type of Goddess was I? How could I, even as a Goddess, stop a multi-realm war? It seems like an impossible fight."

"It seems like it would be, but being the Goddess of souls, you can do far more than fight. You are the most powerful Gods ever created, and you were one of the original Gods at that. I have no doubt you can do more than you think."

The two beings walked up the stairs to the temple, the rain falling faster and harder than before. "Wait, if I was so powerful, how did I die in the first place?"

Raiden's eyes were covered under his bamboo hat. "An Elder God by the name of Shinnok killed you. You had learned of a power you possessed and you planned to use it against him, once he found out he killed you." The God gritted his teeth, his brows furrowing. "The Elder Gods took care of him after your death, he swore vengeance."

"I'm a threat, to someone more powerful than you. I can't imagine that." (Y/n) lightly laughed as she entered the temple, waking deeper as she still followed Raiden. "Did I know you, in my past life? I guess you sound and look familiar, like deja vu."

"Yes, yes you knew me. We-we were close." He bit his lip as light began to illuminate their surroundings, a beautiful swirl of light showing itself.

"Wow." (Y/n) mumbled to herself. "Is this the, uh-?"

"Jin-Sei, yes. All you should have to do is step in it, and all should be revealed." Raiden looked down at the female, giving her a sympathetic look. "You must hurry, Shinnok's amulet has yet to be found and I fear the worst is yet to come. We need you."

(Y/n) nodded and took a long look at the Jin-Sei before slowly walking to the glowing swirl. "I just step in?" She asked, looking at Raiden to see if she was correct, he nodded in return to her question. Biting her lip once more she walking into the swirling mass of magic, a sudden feeling of being in antigravity lifting her body further into the tornado of energy. (Y/n)'s mind went blank for a moment as the energy took hold of her being, cleansing her of all of her filth, she felt pure and refreshed when stepping in.

Raiden watched as her body relaxed from its once tense stature, making her look exactly as he remembered. Raiden hoped Shinnok would not return and take her again, this time he was going to stop him.

~~~

Heavy steps resonated through the temple, an obsessive aura seething through the already thick atmosphere. A hand tightly gripped the amulet while a bug creature dragged Johnny Cage's body to the temple.

Shinnok could feel Raiden, he could feel the Jin-Sei, and he could tell someone he desired was here as well. The former Elder God gripped the amulet even harder, storming his way into the sacred room, the faint smell of alcohol and blood behind him.

Shinnok's white eyes scanned the room, finding the God assisting his mother from the Jin-Sei. "Raiden." The Elder God growled, placing his amulet upon his belt. "Your blood will paint the floors."

"Stop this, Shinnok! You have no reason to be here!" Raiden snapped back, spitting venom within his words.

Shinnok stepped forward, D'Vorah taking care of Johnny. "I have every reason to come here, you know that." He summoned his weapon as Raiden placed the Goddess down on the chilled steps of the inside of the temple walls and prepared himself for a fight. Lighting flashed over his arms and bit at his skin in a comforting feeling, though this was everything but a comforting time.

Raiden and Shinnok rushed at each other, both with the intention to kill each other. Raiden summoned lightning through his hands and shot at Shinnok, the Elder God dodging and summoning skeletal hands from the ground. Raiden flew above to dodge the hands, but they easily kept up with him, almost catching him every time.

The former Elder God grinned at Raiden's useless struggles, a hand being able to grab the God's leg and drag him back to the stone floor.

Raiden, before more bone hands could take a hold of him, electrified his whole body in a sudden burst. The lightning fluttered through the whole room, pausing D'Vorah's work and Shinnok's focus on the boney hand.

Raiden backed up, his back facing (y/n)'s unconscious body, his lungs burning from his weak attempt to stop Shinnok. "Your attempts are useless, Raiden! Fighting will get you nowhere." The former Elder God snapped, throwing his weapon into Raiden's shoulder. The force knocked Raiden back into a wall and with a struggle he pulled out the bladed staff.

"I will not stop, never." Raiden coughed out, a mumble and shuffling being heard behind him, though he didn't dare take his eyes off his enemy.

Shinnok on the other hand looked at the movement, a gleam of lust hitting his vision. He watched as the Goddess rose from her small slumber, her gaze hazy and mind fuzzy. It took a moment for her eyes to focus, and when her eyes locked with Shinnok, her mind rushed into a frenzy of treacherous memories. "Y-you!" She staggered up from the ground and pointed at the former Elder God, he had come back to collect her.

All her memories have been restored, keeping the ones she created in her short mortal lifetime as well, meaning she still knew what was going on. "Leave my son alone you fiend!" She stood beside Raiden, placing her hand upon his chest and slightly stepped in front of him as if to protect him, a motherly instinct.

"He isn't just-" Shinnok had started, but was being rudely interrupted by the Goddess.

"You never cared for either of my sons, you have no right to call them so." Her hand reaches for where a belt buckle would be, but what she wanted to feel wasn't there. Her own amulet has gone missing. In a fearful panic, (y/n) swiftly let her eyes travel around her waist to see if her golden and green amulet was anywhere to be found, but to no avail.

"Are you looking for this?" The Elder God cocked his head to the side, lifting up the amulet he had grown to call his own, as he listed over its power and its original user.

"By the Gods." (Y/n) cursed under her breath, stepping back and pushing Raiden with her. "That is mine."

"Not anymore." Shinnok summoned his bone hands and weapon one more time, clasping Raiden within the hand as he twirled his weapon around. (Y/n) just barely managed to jump away from the hands, needing to keep on her toes so she wouldn't get caught.

The Goddess huffed and summoned her own weapon, hoping fear wouldn't take over her like it had done before she was killed. Her weapon was that of a war hammer, similar to the one her other son had taken as his own, but instead of silver hers was gold with green gem stones. It held no specific power, but that was for another object, her stollen amulet.

The two beings looked at each other's souls through their whitened eyes, one glaring immensely, the other with amusement. They ran at each other, their weapons clashing producing sparks that danced across in the air until they fell dead onto the ground.

Shinnok was physically stronger, thankfully not as strong as Shao Kahn, but still strong none the less. The fallen Elder God uses his strength to push down the Goddess, (y/n) allowing her hammer to push his weapon to the side instead of her falling. She recoiled her hammer and slammed it against Shinnok's head, making him stagger back with blood dripping from his nose. "I forgot how skilled you were, darling."

"Your sweet words hit deaf ears!" She slammed her hammer down on his shoulder, then his back up under his jaw. Shinnok's bones cracked loudly, but he still stood tall. (Y/n) didn't stop though because she was getting the upper hand, just a little more beating up and then she could snatch her amulet back and trap him once again.

(Y/n) hit him harder and harder every time the war hammer collided with his body, she could feel the adrenaline and Raiden's aura cheering her on. Finally, after a long and hard beating, Shinnok had fallen, and with a quick throw of her hammer she allowed it to collide with D' Vorah and nock her out cold.

"It is over Shinnok, after all these years you have been taken down by what you loved the most. Serves you right." He seemed to be limp on the ground, so she grabbed him by his collar and lifted him to his knees, she moved her hand to take her amulet back, but it was nowhere to be seen.

(Y/n)'s eyes widened as she was head butted by the fallen Elder God. The Goddess staggered back and held her nose in pain, the God in front of her revealing the amulet. "I will never die, especially by your hands." A gorgeous but venomous light emerged from the amulet, dragging the Goddess into its clutches. Darkness engulfed the Goddess, making her feel as if she was floating in nothing, this was the end for her she thought.

~~~

Light emerged from the amulet, and (y/n) fell out of it in a daze. Quickly realizing she must have escaped somehow, and hoping desperately it was Raiden or her new friend Johnny Cage, she whipped her head around desperately. Though who looked back wasn't who she desired to see, the two figures proving they had absolute power over the situation, and she was the weak lamb to the hungry wolves.

The first figure, Shinnok, tightly held her so she wouldn't fall into the blue oblivion below. He floated, smiling down at her with a crazed look in his eyes.

The other figure though, was the worst thing imaginable. It consumed the realms and the Elder Gods as the two away from him watched in awe or horror. This being was the One Being, and the sights of him proved that Shinnok had won, and that he and her would be stuck together forever, never to be apart.

[tyrantisterror]

I did a four part series of trivia posts when ATOM Volume 1: Tyrantis Walks Among Us! came out, and that was pretty fun!  You can see that set of trivia posts here if you’d like.  I thought it’d be fun to do another now that ATOM Volume 2: Tyrantis Roams the Earth! is out - just one this time, because a lot of the trivia I talked about with Volume 1 still applies.

I’m gonna divide this into two sections: non-spoiler trivia, for things that really don’t give a lot of plot points away, and spoiler trivia, for things that DO give away major plot points.  I recommend not reading the spoiler trivia until after you’ve read Tyrantis Roams the Earth!, for obvious reasons, and will put the spoiler trivia under a cut.

Ok, let’s go!

- So if you read ATOM Volume 1, you probably noticed that the book is split not only into chapters, but “episodes,” which consist of four chapters a piece.  It’s kind of a nod to how the series owes a great deal of its DNA to various monster of the week shows, with Godzilla: the Series and The Godzilla Power Hour being obvious influences.  It also allowed me to pepper in some illustrations and cheesy b-movie style titles into each volume.

- The first “episode” of Volume 2, Tyrantis in Tokyo, pays explicit homage to the giant monster movies of Japan, perhaps even moreso than the chapters that came before it.  Given how much Japanese media influenced ATOM - from tokusatsu like the Godzilla, Gamera, and Ultraman franchises to anime like Digimon and Evangelion (hell, the title of this episode itself is a tip of the hat to Tenchi Muyo by way of one of its spinoffs) - it kind of felt obligatory that Tyrantis visit Japan and pay his respects.

- Tyrantis in Tokyo also fits in a tribute to another staple of Atomic Age pop culture: Rock and Roll.

- Kutulusca, the giant cephalopod that appears in Tyrantis in Tokyo, is one of the oldest kaiju in this series, dating back to the first iteration of Tyrantis’s story that I put to paper back in 2001 or so.  It’s changed a lot since then, but its fight with Tyrantis goes more or less the way it originally did.

- Old Meg, the giant placoderm/shark, and Nastadyne, the bipedal beetle, both owe their existence directly to Deviantart’s Godzilla fandom.  Old Meg originated as a dunkleosteus monster I submitted to a “create a Godzilla kaiju” contest held by Matt Frank, while Nastadyne is based on a Megalon redesign I made during the “redesign all the Godzilla kaiju” phase of DA’s kaiju fandom.

- The second episode, Tyrantis vs. the Red Menace, gets dark as we visit the USSR, which had enough REAL horror with atomic power in its history to make creature features seem a bit defanged by comparison.  It’s probably the episode with the strongest horror elements - ATOM’s always been influenced by Resident Evil, and this is probably where that influence shows the most strongly.

- It also features the first fully robotic mecha in the series, the mighty Herakoschei!  Its name is a combination of “Heracles” and “Koschei the Deathless,” with the former part being added by its Russian creators to make it seem a bit more international as they offer it to the U.N. in hopes of gaining aid for a very extreme kaiju problem they’ve developed.

- Most of Tyrantis vs. the Red Menace takes place in the Siberian Monster Zone.  Its name is a reference to the Lawless Monster Zone in Ultraman, which is such a cool fucking name I wish that I wish I could go back in time and steal it.

- The next episode, Tyrantis’s Revenge, is... full of spoilers, so we’ll move on for now.

- The penultimate episode, Tyrantis vs. the Martian Monsters, is a love letter to MANY different sci-fi stories that involve life on Mars, though the most prominent of them is of course The War of The Worlds (one of my top 3 favorite books) and its various adaptations.  From its tentacles sapient martians, the tripodal leader of the titular monsters whose name includes the word “ulla” which is uttered by said sapient martians, the plant monster made of red vines, the cylinder-shaped spacecraft the Martian monsters are sent to earth on, the copper-skinned stingray-esque flying martian who shoots lasers from its tail, and the fact that every chapter title in this episode is a quote from the book, the H.G. Wells influence is STRONG.

- The final episode, Invasion from Beyond!, is shamelessly inspired by Destroy All Monsters, although there’s a dash of “To Serve Men,” Godzilla vs. Monster Zero, and The Day the Earth Stood Still mixed in as well.  It’s also sort of a tribute to my first “published” bit of a kaiju fiction - a rewrite of Destroy All Monsters that included EVERY Godzilla monster that had appeared at the time, which my middle school self wrote back in 2002 or so for Kaiju Headquarters, a kaiju fansite I’m not sure exists anymore.  Invasion from Beyond! is just as ambitious (but hopefully better executed) as my DAM Remake, with dozens upon dozens of different kaiju duking it out, earthlings vs. aliens.

- There were three different documents I made to outline the final battle of Invasion from Beyond!  It’s the largest episode of the series so far and more than half of it is that fucking fight.  My inner child is pleased, though, so hopefully you will be too.

Ok, that’s all I can share without spoilers.  READER BEWARE WHAT FOLLOWS BELOW THE CUT!

JUST MAKING SURE you know that SPOILERS will follow from here on out.  Read at your own peril!  YOU WERE WARNED!

(I’m gonna start with lighter ones just in case you scrolled too far and want to turn back)

- There’s a number of explicit Spielberg homages in ATOM Volume 2, from a “we need a bigger boat” joke during a chase with a giant shark to the fact that Invasion from Beyond! opens with a group of people flying to an island of monsters to review whether or not it should get more funding.

- When Tyrantis appears in the first chapter, I snuck in modified lyrics of The Godzilla Power Hour’s theme song.  “Up from the depths”... “several stories high”... “breathing fire”... “its head in the sky”... Tyrantis!  Tyrantis!  Tyrantis!

- The two rock bands in Tyrantis in Tokyo have real life inspirations ala Gwen Valentine, albeit a bit more muddled than hers.  The Cashews are inspired by The Peanuts (see what I did there), while The Thunder Lizards are a mix of The Rolling Stones, the Beatles, Buddy Holly, and the Big Bopper.  I wanted The Thunder Lizards to be more akin to the myth of a famous rock and roll band than the reality - less the real Beatles and more the Yellow Submarine cartoon version of them.

- The song The Thunder Lizards write for Tyrantis was written to fit the tune of “The Godzilla March” from Godzilla vs. Gigan, though ideally if someone made an actual song of it it would be its own song.  I got the idea from Over the Garden Wall, which used the Christmas song “O Holy Night” as a a starting point for “Come Wayward Souls.”

- Perry Martin, UNNO reporter and peer of Henry Robertson, is a nod to Raymond Burr, with his name being a combination of two of Burr’s most famous roles: Perry Mason, and Steve Martin from Godzilla King of the Monsters (1956).

- Dr. Rinko Tsuburaya is a few homages in one.  Her name comes from Rinko Kikuchi (who played Mako Mori in Pacific Rim), while her last name is obviously in homage of Eiji Tsuburaya.  Her being the daughter of an esteemed scientist is inspired by Emiko Yamane from the original Gojira.

- Nastadyne’s Burning Justice mode is named after a similar super mode from various Transformers cartoons, though it’s more directly inspired by the Shining/Burning Finger super move from G Gundam.

- Martians sending kaiju to different planets via shooting them out of cannons (with or without cylinder spaceships around them) is another War of the Worlds shoutout.  So is martians living on Venus after their homeworld was made uninhabitable, actually.

- Kurokame’s vocalizations are described as wails in explicit homage to Gamera.  His name can be translated as either “black tortoise” (a reference to the mythical guardian beast Genbu, which can also be construed as a Gamera reference thanks to Gamera: Advent of Irys implying Gamera and Genbu are one and the same) or a portmanteau of the Japanese words for crocodile and turtle - “crocturtle.”

- Burodon’s name is just a mangling of “burrow down.”  It also sounds vaguely like Baragon, who Burodon is loosely inspired by.  AND, since Burodon is sort of a knockoff/modified Baragon, that kinda makes him a reference to various monsters in Ultraman!

- The final battle of Tyrantis in Tokyo is sort of a hybrid of the finales of Ghidorah the 3 Headed Monster and Destroy All Monsters.  

- The Japanese kaiju teaching Tyrantis the art of throwing rocks at your enemies is both a joke on the prominence of rock throwing in Japanese kaiju fights AND the tired trope of an American hero learning secret martial arts from a Japanese mentor ala Batman, Iron Fist, etc.  In this case, the secret martial art is throwing rocks at people.

- When introduced to Herakoschei and its pilot, we are told that the strain of piloting this early mecha is so intense that many pilots have died in the process, with the current one passing out on more than few occasions.  This is of course a Pacific Rim homage - sadly, no one invents drifting.

- Herakoschei’s design is a loose homage to Robby the Robot and Cherno Alpha, because big boxy robots are cool.

- The Writhing Flesh and ESPECIALLY Pathogen are both hugely influenced by Resident Evil and The Thing.  Giant body horror piles of raw flesh, tendrils, mismatched mouths and limbs may be a bit outside the main era of monster design ATOM homages, but they fit the themes and bring a nice contrast.

- I came up with Pathogen long before Corona but MAN it definitely feels different in 2021 to have a giant monster whose name is a synonym for disease driving other creatures crazy in a quarantine zone than it did when I plotted out the story in 2016.

- The chapter title “Hello, Old Foes” is a riff on “Goodbye, Old Friend”

- Minerva, the kaiju-fied clone of Dr. Lerna, is meant to be an homage to Attack of the 50 Foot Woman, which is a genuinely good giant monster flick.  I am sure many of you will also believe I included her because I’m a pervert whose into tall women, but you’d be wrong!  I included the seven foot tall Russian mecha pilot Ludmilla Portnova because I’m a pervert whose into tall women.  Minerva’s inclusion was just coincidental, I swear!

- Since Promythigor is a play on the archetypal ape kaiju to contrast Tyrantis as a play on the archetypal fire-breathing reptile kaiju, their fight has a lot of nods to King Kong movies.  Promythigor attempts the famous jaw-snap maneuver of Kong (with less success), J.C. Clark paraphrases the “brute force vs. a thinking animal” line from the King Kong vs. Godzilla American cut, and Tyrantis slides down a mountain to knock Promythigor off his feet in a reversal of Kong doing the same in King Kong vs. Godzilla.

- Tyrantis sliding down a mountain on his tail doubles as a Godzilla vs. Megalon homage.

- Though Promythigor is the archetypal Ape and Tyrantis the archetypal Fire-Breathing Reptile, I think it’s fun to note that in some ways, Promythigor is the Godzilla equivalent in their matchup, and Tyrantis the Kong.  Promythigor has a slight size advantage, was scarred by humans performing unethical weapons technology, and is associated with violent explosions.  Tyrantis is a good-at-heart prehistoric beast who humanized in part by his unlikely friendship with a human woman.

- Of course, in the context of the famous quote from the American cut of King Kong vs. Godzilla, they remain in their archetypal lanes.  Promythigor is the more intelligent of the two (though not necessarily wiser), and Tyrantis is in many ways a brute reptile.  Their battle is a rebuttal of sorts to the assertion that Kong is the “better” animal because he is closer to human.  Promythigor’s near human creativity and emotions don’t make him the kinder/more benevolent monster, but instead fuel a very self-centered and destructive attitude that makes him the far more dangerous threat.  On the other hand, Tyrantis, who is less intelligent, limited in communication with others by his reptilian mindset and instincts, and simple in his thoughts and desires, is nonetheless a sweet creature that is easily dealt with when others consider his animal needs and mindset.  There’s a quote from Hellboy I love that probably sums up all of my writing thus far: “To be other than human does not mean the same as being less,” and that’s what the matchup between these two in particular tries to illustrate: the “less” human Tyrantis is nonetheless more benign than the “more” human Promythigor.

- Kraydi the psychic lizard began life as a soft sculpture I made of the Canyon Krayt Dragon from The Wildlife of Star Wars.  The sculpture didn’t look much like the illustration, but I liked how it came out, and so I made it an original monster named Kraydi (see what I did there).  Figuring out an explanation for that name in ATOM’s world was possibly the most difficult kaiju naming task in the series, but it worked out in the end.

- Kraydi and Promythigor having psychic powers is a result of my time on Godzilla fan forums in my middle school years.  Most of the forums had OC kaiju battle tournaments, and SO many of those kaiju had a wide array of beam weapons and psychic powers just to win the tournaments by beam-spamming and mind controlling their foes into oblivion.  There’s a special kind of rage you get when your original creation is beaten by “Fire Godzilla” because he has a genius level intellect and the power of unstoppable telekinesis.  Kraydi began as (and still is I suppose) my attempt to do a psychic kaiju well, while Promythigor’s villainy being tied to psychic powers being forced on him is sort of my passive aggressive commentary on people foisting powers on a monster without any real thematic reason for them.

- Henry Robertson and Dr. Praetorius chewing out the laziness of people giving kaiju completely unaltered names of mythic beasts will probably be seen as a jab at the Monsterverse and/or the numerous writers in the kaiju OC scene who do the same, but it’s ACTUALLY a jab at my past self, who had DOZENS of kaiju whose names were just Greek mythological figures verbatim.  There are dozens of kaiju named Hydra, Scylla, Charybdis, Chimera, etc., past me, try to make the names stand out!  Oh wait you did.  I mean, don’t pat yourself on the back too much, you still went with “Mothmanud” as a canon name and never came up with something better, but, like, good on ya for trying I guess.

- Dr. Praetorius takes his name from the evil mad scientis in Bride of Frankenstein, who basically has all the wicked traits that Universal’s Frankenstein downplayed in their take on Dr. Frankenstein.  Ironically, ATOM’s Dr. Praetorius is a bit less evil than his fellow mad scientists in ATOM.  I really like how his character turned out, he surprised me.

- Isaac Rossum, the pilot of the USA mecha Atomoton, is named for Isaac Aasimov, whose robot stories are to robot fiction what Lord of the Rings is to high fantasy.  His last name is a reference to Rossum’s Universal Robots, which is where the word “robot” came from.

- The unfortunate pilots of MechaTyrantis in ATOM Volumes 1 and 2 are all nods to Jurassic Park.  John Ludlow = John Hammond and Peter Ludlow, Ian Grant = Ian Malcolm and Alan Grant, Dennis Dodgson = Dennis Nedry and Lewis Dodgson.

- A good way to pitch Invasion from Beyond! would be “what if the staff and monsters were able to fight back when the Kilaaks tried to take over Monsterland?”

- Ok, here’s a fun joke that no one will get but me because it requires a very specific chain of logic based on some obscure and loosely connected nerd bullshit.  There’s a rocker in ATOM’s universe named Sebastian Haff, right?  One of his songs, “Darling Let’s Shimmy,” is referenced right before a mothmanud larva emerges from the ground in both ATOM Vol. 1 and 2.  Ok, so, in the Bubba Hotep, an aging Elvis impersonator named Sebastian Haff claims he is actually the real Elvis Presley, having changed places with the real Sebastian Haff as a sort of Prince and the Pauper deal that went wrong.  Got that?  Ok, so, in UFO folklore, a common joke is the theory that Elvis didn’t die, but was rather abducted by aliens (or he actually WAS an alien the whole time - the whole “Elvis didn’t die, he just went home” joke in Men in Black is a good example of this).  Ok?  Ok.  So, in ATOM’s universe, we can surmise that their equivalent of Elvis, whose name is Sebastian Haff, WAS abducted by aliens, and that his song “Darling Let’s Shimmy” is subconsciously influenced by his repressed memories from his time aboard the Beyonder spaceships, which is why it accidentally awoke a Mothmanud larva in Volume 1.  There’s a lot of bullshit jokes I put into ATOM, but this is perhaps the bullshittiest of them all.

- One of the most common bits of feedback on ATOM Volume 1 I got was “I kept waiting for something to eat Brick Rockwell, he’s such an asshole.”  And I had to smile and go, “Oh, yeah, guess he never got his, huh?” the whole time without letting on that he was going to die here all along!

- Dr. Lerna and Brick Rockwell’s nature as foils to each other is probably most apparent in Invasion from Beyond!, where both are given fairly similar situations - a nonhuman approaches them with a solution to a global crisis - and react to it very differently.  I worry that some people may think they both made the same choice and got different results, and that that’s hypocrisy on my part, but I hope I wrote it so you can see how their choices and situations actually differ in key ways, and why their decisions, while similar on the surface, are ultimately very different, and thus result in almost opposite outcomes.

- So, when I planned out this book in 2016, I swear I didn’t know about the Orca from 2019′s Godzilla King of the Monsters.  Having the plot hang around Dr. Lerna deciding whether or not to use a sonic device to rouse all the kaiju to save the earth was not INTENDED to be a Monsterverse reference - it came about from me looking at Pathfinder’s take on kaiju, who are all explicitly influenceable by music, and thinking, “Oh, wow, music and songs DO have a major connection with kaiju in a lot of media, I should do something with that.”  Whem KOTM came out a few days after Volume 1 came out I realized I was kinda fucked here, because the comparison was definitely going to be made, but I’d also set this all up already and you can’t just change suddenly to avoid looking like a copy cat and make a good story, so... I dunno, I leaned into it a bit, but it is what it is.

- While most people will probably think they’re a reference to the Reptoids of UFO folklore, the Reptodites are more inspired by the Dinosapien of speculative evolution fame and, even morso, by the Reptites from Chrono Trigger.  Me wanting to avoid the “lizard people control the government” conspiracy theory trope is one of the main reasons why Reptodites have this non-interference clause with humanity.

- Lieutenant Gray is a bunch of different humanoid aliens rolled into one - a little Hopskinville goblin, a little classic gray, a little this one weird alien with five-fingered zygodactyl hands, etc.

- There’s some Beyonder Mecha in this volume that are basically kaiju-fied versions of the Flatwoods Monster.  The species that built them ALSO engineered the Mothmanuds, because connecting Mothman and the Flatwoods Monster is fun!

- Pleprah is, obviously, a one-eyed one-horned flying purple people eater.

- Tyrantis’s brush with death, in addition to being so very anime, was inspired by my dad outlining how mythic heroes often have to travel to the underworld/land of the dead before they can finish their journey.  It’s one of the plot points that I’ve had planned for this series since middle school.

- I’m sure some will view it as hackneyed and corny, but as a person who’s battled with depression for decades, having Tyrantis’s choice to live be the big heroic turn of the finale was very important to me.  Tyrantis incorporates elements of a lot of imaginary friends I made as a kid, and in many ways he’s kind of the face of my more positive side in my head.  He’s been telling me to choose to live for a while, and while maybe to an outsider it may seem hackneyed, it’s just... very Tyrantis.  He chooses life and kindness in the face of pain and struggle.  That’s Tyrantis.

- Tyrantis’s powered up form is called “Hyper Mode,” which is another Gundam reference.  Originally it was a lot gaudier and involved him turning gold like a fuckin’ Super Saiyan.  I opted for something a little more toned down here.  

- Also, speaking of KOTM references, I decided to make Hyper Mode Tyrantis’s final duel with Pathogen be a sort of foil to Burning Godzilla’s final bout with Ghidorah in KOTM.  Instead of ravaging the city, Hyper Tyrantis’s pulse of energy rejuvenates his fallen allies, and as a result he is “crowned” not out of fear for his supremacy in the wake of killing a powerful enemy, but in gratitude for his kindness.  See?  Leaning into it!

- And now I can finally reveal that Yamaneon is ATOM’s equivalent of The Monolith Monsters - that is, a kaiju that is also a mineral.  I took the “strange continuously growing rock” thing in a very different direction, though, as unlike The Monolith Monsters, Yamaneon is actually alive.

- At various points in the pre-writing process, either Promythigor, MechaTyrantis, or both were going to die fighting Pathogen.  I ultimately decided to let them both live, with MechaTyrantis even getting his flesh and blood body back, because I think it’s more interesting and thematically consistent that way.  They get a chance to heal their wounds by changing their ways.

- The Great Beyonder and Dorazor both almost didn’t make the cut, as I felt they didn’t have the same pull as villains that Pathogen, Promythigor, and MechaTyrantis did.  But then I thought that could actually be the gag - build them up as the final boss, only to have Pathogen take their crown.  I want to explore post-face turn Dorazor a bit more, though.  We’ll have to see about that in a later volume.

- Volumes 1 and 2 make up what I call “The Ballad of Tyrantis Arc” for ATOM.  I call it that because Tyrantis’s storyline in these two volumes was patterend after Chivalric ballads like Yvain the Knight of the Lion.  Tyrantis, a heroic warrior who is kind but dumb of ass, learns of strange goings on outside his home and investigates.  During his journey into the unknown he falls in love with a powerful woman, whose favor he tries to win.  Through happenstance he is separated from his love and, distraught, wanders around fighting various foes to prove his worth, before finally returning to his love a better hero.  Invasion from Beyond! could even be seen as a sort of Morte d’Artur, with Tyrantis and a bunch of other kaiju heroes (including Nastadyne and Kemlasulla, who are built up as Hero Kaiju of Another Story) take part in a huge battle that threatens their idealic kingdom (of monsters).

- Volume 2 isn’t the end of ATOM, but it’s designed to work as an ending if you want to tap out here.  As a reader I feel a definitive ending is important, but as a writer I’m always tempted to revisit my beloved characters, so I feel giving closure while leaving a few doors open for possible future adventures is a good compromise between these positions.  There will be more ATOM stories, some (but not all!) following Tyrantis and Dr. Lerna, but if you want to know that Tyrantis and Dr. Lerna get an ending and the resolution to their arcs such a thing promises, here you go.  An ending, if not THE END.

[flutteringdreams-matw]

Out of Time (7)

First/Last

Read on AO3

Word Count: 6357

Previously: Danny and Dan clash in the Ghost Zone

Now: What everyone else was doing during the fight, some exposition, angst and answers. Did I mention some angst?

Bonus chapter since I'm feeling generous! Link to the next chapter will be in the replies once posted. As always - please let me know what you think!

---

"Danny!" Maddie yelled as she saw her son's transformation. Sam and Jazz turned around quickly at her outburst. "Wait!" It was too late; Danny dove into the portal, completely unaware of her pleas.

Sam gaped at the almost empty side of the lab; Clockwork – who apparently arrived in the commotion –hovered on the ground, red eyes watching the swirling portal with apprehension. "Why didn't you stop him!" the Goth yelled.

Clockwork turned to her, eyes narrowing at her tone. "It is not my place to alter his decisions. Danny made his choice."

Sam opened her mouth to argue, but Ethelwulf stepped forward, putting a large claw on her shoulder. "He's right – let's do what we can to help him hmm?" Ethelwulf walked past her, yellow eyes filled with burning questions for the Time Master. Clockwork said nothing more. Ethelwulf sighed, but stood ready to fight whatever would come through the portal.

Maddie, observing the interaction, finally snapped out of her disbelief as she determinedly went back to the control panel. Jack and Tucker were bantering back and forth about various codes and systems about the Fento-drones as her violet eyes glanced up at the tracker. She could see Danny flying toward the threat, stopping only once as he interacted with the first ghost he saw. The exchange only lasted two minutes before he took off again, flying deeper into the Ghost Zone. "Jazz – you and Sam get the containment field ready," Maddie told her daughter, a plan quickly coming to mind. "Jack- release those Fento-drones as soon as they're ready okay? We need eyes on what Danny's facing."

"Oh, we'll have more than eyes Mrs. F," Tucker said smugly. He connected the control pad onto the main system, finishing the connection before switching it on. Bright lights flickered as two robots flew from the walls, zooming through the air before dashing into the portal. The screens lit up in green as both robots turned their cameras on, giving two different viewpoints of the action. As the robots flew deeper into the zone, Maddie gasped, pointing toward the screen.

"Damn – we've got incoming!" she yelled, grabbing an ecto-gun from her belt and turned to face the first ghost out of the portal.

She nearly dropped the gun when the blue skinned Box Ghost popped into her lab. He looked around widely, desperately looking for something before his red eyes found Maddie. He turned back toward the portal. "This way! Head for the town!" he yelled into the portal, before flying directly toward Maddie. "Ghost Child's parents!" he exclaimed, moving his hands widely. "I have a message for you!"

Maddie's eyes narrowed as Sam yelled from around of the containment chamber. "Is it from Danny?"

"Yes! It is from the Ghost Child!" he yelled. Maddie winced at the volume but gestured for him to continue. Ghosts started to flood the portal, flying up out of the lab in one fluid movement. "He said to close the portal when we get through. Head to the town just like the Ghost King!" He said nothing more, turning intangible and up through the ceiling of the lab.

Jack grunted in confirmation from his position at the console. "Danny must have a plan," he said, monitoring the Fento-drone's path through the Zone. In the distance, he saw a black and white blur racing away from where they were currently. "There! I've got eyes on him."

Tucker frowned, looking over from his screen to Jack's. "I'm switching mine to manual," he said, typing into the computer before manoeuvring the controls. The Fento-Drone he piloted jerked slightly, but steadied itself as it changed its path to follow the half-ghost. His frown deepened as he realized that it was going top speed, but was hardly moving quickly at all. "Mr. Fenton – these are still super slow."

Jack cringed, rubbing the back of his neck slightly. "I didn't have a chance to test drive these puppies after I added the weapons system," he admitted, also changing his Fento-Drone to manual. "But they pack quite a punch!"

Tucker groaned in frustration, but continued to try following Danny past the multitude of ghosts.

Sam frowned, watching her friend pilot the Fenton's machine almost like he was in a RPG game. "Any sign of Dan?" she asked worriedly, holding one panel of the containment chamber open. Jazz's head shot up at the mention of the name but said nothing.

Tucker sighed, sagging slightly. "No, and we lost Danny too," he replied glumly.

As the last of the big wave of ghosts came through and into the town, Frostbite came through the portal, landing on the metal floor with a loud thud. "Mighty Fentons!" he greeted quickly, before turning his attention to Ethelwulf and Clockwork with a frown. "The Great One told me to seek you out. He's gone after Skulker and Ember."

"Skulker!?" Jazz asked, confused. "Why would he go after him?"

Frostbite looked at the red head. "Skulker and Ember volunteered to stay behind when our ice blockade fell. The Great One wanted to help." He turned his large furry head to Ethelwulf, locking eyes with the friend. "It's started, hasn't it."

Ethelwulf moved to answer, but Clockwork responded instead. "Yes," the Time Master replied, reaching inside his cloak. "And we must act quickly." He pulled out six of his time medallions, gesturing to Frostbite. "Here – one for all of you. Ethelwulf – keep yours close. " Clockwork held a tighter grip on his time staff as he moved toward the humans slowly. "I cannot control Time anymore. With these, you'll be able to move freely."

Frostbite took a medallion, throwing it over his head as he observed the lab around him. "I see," he said solemnly, taking the remaining medallions from Clockwork, passing them out to the humans. His eyes found Ethelwulf's, nodding in an unspoken agreement. As he came to Jack and Maddie, Frostibite gave them a toothy grin. "You will need to shut the portal as soon as the Great One returns –there'll be little time before the Monster follows."

Jack and Maddie looked at each other, concerned, but nodded nonetheless.

Tucker made a noise at the console, making everyone turn their attention to the boy. "There's something coming toward us!" he cried, zooming the camera in to try and get a better image. Maddie moved over her husband's shoulder, looking at both her husband's screen and Tucker's. "It looks like…. Ember?"

Maddie frowned as she recognized the fiery blue hair from her takeover of Amity a few months ago. She was being carried by a robotic ghost, recognizing him from Danny's ghost files. Both looked a little worse for wear. "Danny's not with them," she noted, watching the two ghosts zip past the two Fento-drones toward the portal.

"I think he's up ahead," Tucker said, moving closer to the screen. "I see a few explosions in the distance."

Jack's face paled slightly as he watched a particularly large explosion occur across the screen. "Let's head toward it then," he replied, flying directly in the line of fire.

Both drones moved further into the Ghost Zone, noticing the destruction around them.

"Whoa," Sam said from somewhere over Tucker's shoulder. Somewhere in the commotion, both girls had moved back toward the console.

"Dan did all this?" Maddie whispered. Her mouth grew dry as she noticed the flying debris. "Aren't those all realms?"

"What's left of them," Frostbite confirmed grimly, turning back to the portal.

There was a bit of movement before Skulker flew out of the portal, clutching an unconscious Ember in his arms. He looked at Frostbite helplessly, before he collapsed out of the air onto the floor. "Help her," he said, shaking her gently. Frostbite moved toward the newcomers quickly, trying to assess what he could do to help.

Ethelwulf growled at the scene. "I'm going after him," the black wolf said, running toward the portal. "I'm not leaving him in there."

"Stop," Clockwork commanded. His voice made Ethelwulf pause. "He needs to do this without your help."

"Are you blind Clockwork?" Ethelwulf asked viciously. He gestured to Skulker and Ember being helped by Frostbite in the corner. "We cannot let him fend for himself – he's already compromised."

Clockwork sighed, red eyes scanning the room. "He made his decision," Clockwork repeated. "I'm inclined to trust his judgement."

"There!" Jack yelled, pointing along the screen. Two blurs of black and white gained speed, the smaller of the two disappearing and reappearing closer to the Fento-drones. "He's headed back."

"Not alone!" Jazz exclaimed, watching the bigger ghost speed up slightly. "Mom, the portal!"

Maddie nodded, getting to her place at the main console. "Standing by – as soon as Danny gets through, we'll close it."

The humans and ghosts watched closely, waiting with baited breath as the half-ghost kept teleporting away. As Danny teleported again, Dan also disappeared, reappearing in the same spot as the younger ghost. Dan slammed Danny against the rock, a white glove reaching around the boy's neck. They all gasped, watching Danny's legs thrash as he tried to break free.

"Tucker – do something!" Sam yelled desperately.

The techno-geek's hands moved quickly, steering his drone toward the fight. Danny started to slow down, legs relaxing as he gasped for air. "Eat this!" Tucker cried, pressing a small red button on the controller. The Fento-Drone opened a hatch on the bottom side, releasing an ecto-gun. It charged green energy for a few seconds before launching a powerful stream of energy at the evil ghost. It hit its target, freeing Danny from his grip. The young half ghost coughed, regaining himself before the floated up to the two drones.

"Thank you, Fento-Drones!"

A collective sigh of relief made its way through the lab as Danny froze Dan and made his way back. The Fento-drones hovered in place, watching the young ghost speed off toward the portal before they floated back to the frozen Phantom left behind. Dan rattled under the ice, steam coming through the barrier.

Maddie and Jack looked between the images from the drones and the radar showing Danny's status to the portal anxiously. As the evil ghost melted his prison, Jack stared at the blue skinned ghost. Danny had told them about Dan – but they weren't prepared for how much the spectre truly looked like their son. He found Maddie's unsure expression, the shock getting to her also. He turned back to the screen, suddenly very angry at the ghost in front of him. His large hands curled around his controller, pressing his weapons system also. "Bonzaii!" He yelled, flying straight for Dan. Tucker followed suit, both Fento-drones attacking Dan with various Ghost Rays.

"Really?" Dan sneered into the camera of a drone. "My parents' dumb inventions?" He dodged them skilfully. "I wonder who's behind this little plan?" Dan roared in anger, releasing a series of ecto-energy toward both attacking robots. The attack hit Tucker's Fento-drone, sending it tumbling into one of the rocks. Tucker tried manoeuvring it out of the stone or attack, but the small robot was unresponsive.

"I've been hit!" Tucker cried out.

Dan grabbed the drone piloted by Jack from the air. His snarling face filled the screen as he laughed, ripping the robot into two pieces. The camera went dark on the one screen. All eyes turned to the radar, eying that Danny was so close to the portal, but had also stopped. The figure behind him barrelled through the zone, heading right for him.

"I still have eyes!" Tucker told the onlookers, trying to zoom in from his trapped bot. People crowded around him, seeing large flickers of light flash across it. "What the-" he started to mutter as the lab was once again illuminated with white light. Humans and ghosts whirled around; Danny was on his hands and knees in front of the portal, panting as large blue and white sparks flowed through his small frame.

"Danny!" his friends and family called out.

The white haired ghost shook his head. "The portal!" he barked, biting his lip as his body contorted in agony. Ethelwulf attempted to move toward the injured teen, concerned, but Clockwork grabbed his paw.

Maddie hit the button, closing the portal. Danny relaxed slightly as the portal doors closed in front of him, sparks still moving through him. He managed to sit on his legs, breathing heavily as he glanced around the lab. Finally, his gaze rested on Skulker, Frostbite and Ember. Skulker's green eyes were wide at the young ghost in front of him. "Hide here," he told the surprised hunter tiredly. "Blend in, don't cause trouble. Should be safe." He grimaced as the sparks increased moving his hands outward to grip onto the ground.

Frostbite stood up, moving away from Skulker and Ember; the latter had just seemed to start to come to. "Great One – those sparks are attacking your core!" He exclaimed worriedly, moving toward Danny. The yeti ghost stopped as a set of large blue energy sparked outward from the teen. Frostbite's eyes widened with disbelief. "Wait… that's not raw energy."

Ethelwulf stopped pulling against Clcokwork at Frostbite's words, turning his gaze quickly to the young boy. The sparks were increasing now, more blue than white. Danny's green eyes were shut tightly, trying to regain any composure he could. "It's not core energy either," Ethelwulf said soflty, yellow eyes widening as he also realized it.

"What are you two talking about?!" Sam yelled worriedly. Danny's eyes flew open, pupils rapidly changing colours between green and blue. The sparks started to form a dome around Danny as he started to stare into space. "Danny!"

"It's time energy," Clockwork confirmed. His red eyes looked pitifully at the young ghost in front of him, who had gotten eerily quiet. Ethelwulf moved to Danny, dodging the sparks that seemed to want to protect the boy. "Time has stopped."

All the humans looked at each other, slightly confused. Clockwork gestured to the corner of the lab and they were startled to find Skulker and Ember, frozen in place. Danny's body tensed as Ethelwulf got towards him, seemingly unaware of the sparks of energy attacking his body.

"Hello Danny."

Everyone jumped as the heart stopping voice came through the main console. As Tucker turned around, he gasped; Dan was staring right into the camera, smiling smugly.

"Let me guess, Tucker and Sam are probably there too." Tucker, Sam and Jazz all looked at each other worriedly. "Maybe even my meddling older sister." He moved closer to the screen. "You probably think you've won with that little trick of yours." Dan split himself in two, not breaking eye contact with the camera. "But I have tricks of my own." The duplicate's hand lit up green, creating a portal before it flew into it and disappeared. The Phantom on the screen then turned around, and released a large ecto-blast toward the portal. It hit Danny's second shield, making his body twitch as he sank deeper to the ground. "You don't think these shields will hold me for long? I wanted to divide your attention." A shrill beep sounded, causing Maddie to pull up the scanner around the town. A large mass of ecto-energy was blasted across the shield. Maddie and Jack paled as they locked eyes at severity of the attack. "One of them will break eventually." Danny's body twitched again, back arching as he continued to stare off into space.

The Phantom outside of the town suddenly disappeared as the Phantom on screen stopped his attack. "I will break you Danny," Dan sneered. "You and your promises won't save your world." His body glowed dark green, before various shadows started to appear behind him. "I can create a shadow army to attack day and night – but where's the fun in that?" He paused, floating backward as shadows continued to appear behind him. "I'll give you a sporting chance. You have thirty-six hours." Dan's hand lit up in green ecto-energy before the screen went dark.

As the screen went black, Danny's body contorted strangely one last time before it fell limply to the ground. Ethelwulf knelt beside the boy, concerned as he transformed back in his human half. The lab was silent as blue sparks continued to move through the fallen boy.

:-=-:

When Danny woke up, he was dismayed to learn that he had passed out and landed him in the infirmary again. He sat up slowly, groaning at the massive headache throbbing through his brain.

His heart felt like it was ripped out of his chest multiple times. How could they just be gone?

Danny gasped, groaning as images flew across his mind. Sparks started to flow up and down his core. "You know," he muttered, doubling over in pain, "I'm really getting tired of this."

Vlad was saying something. He definitely paid someone off – but he couldn't seem to care anymore. They were gone and he couldn't save them. He deserved to live with Vlad.

Danny gasped again, feeling slightly sick as he realized what he was seeing. He buried his eyes in the palms of his hands, stifling a cry of pain as sparks continued to wrack his frame.

"Come now Daniel, this is for the best," Vlad told him. He felt cold icy rage fill his entire body as the man came closer. The jerk at least had the decency to look sympathetic. "I don't want you to have to hide anymore. Going with your aunt would only hurt you more." Danny felt himself nodding.

"Stop," Danny whimpered, pressing his hands into his face a little harder. "I don't want to see this." He heard the door to the infirmary open, soft footsteps turned frantic as someone called his name. He groaned in response, causing the newcomer to rub his back soothingly.

"You're alright sweetie," his Mom whispered from above him. "They're just Time Visions. They'll pass."

He was angry. Everything was wrong – if they weren't alive then he didn't deserve to be either. If he was a ghost all the time, he would've saved them. His memory of that day drifted back as bile rose in his throat. Never again.

Danny bit back an angry sob as frustration washed over him. "Make it stop," he pleaded, hands moving to his head as he gripped his hair harshly.

Maddie stopped rubbing his back and instead hugged her son closer. "You can get through them Danny," she encouraged quietly. "Clockwork said these are just residual visions from your clash with Dan. Whatever you're seeing is part of an alternate timeline. It's not real."

He hadn't spoken to Vlad since arriving. It's been a week since he had to live with him. Three weeks since the Nasty Burger. All the condolences, people who insist they'll be there for him. They need to feel what he felt; The rage, the helplessness, the grief. If his loved ones were dead – then the world will feel his wrath. Green eyes burned as he looked Vlad in the face.

Danny gasped as the final vision left him. He sat up slowly, vaguely aware that he was shaking and clammy before he managed to look at his mother. Maddie watched him, slowly brushing his hair back with her hand. "You're alright now," she said lovingly as he stared at her with wide eyes, not quite believing she was in front of him. "Yesterday was rough for all of us."

Danny swallowed, nodding in confirmation. He looked down, suddenly feeling self-conscious and ashamed as his memory came back to him. Maddie frowned, but didn't comment at his movement. Instead, she patted his leg affectionately and leaned toward the bedside table.

"You must be hungry – you haven't eaten since you woke up yesterday," she said, grabbing a couple sandwiches. Danny realized that she must have brought them with her. "Sam and Tucker will be here soon. After your second battle with Dan, time energy moved through you continuously and then you just collapsed. The shield you put up to protect the portal was apparently interacting with the time energy, so Ethelwulf put one up. He said you should take yours down so you can focus on the one around the town. Frostbite and his people are here to help – and even Skulker's agreed to help keep the ghosts in line!" She handed him the plate. "Here."

Danny took it from her, staring at it absently as it sat in front of him. Maddie came back beside him, staring at him worriedly. After a few moments of silence, she sighed, settling in closer to her son.

"Danny," she said gently. "You can't bottle these visions up. Clockwork said you were being attacked by time energy – left from the time medallion being fused inside you. Those sparks aren't from your raw energy; it's time attacking your core. These visions are all from moments in time that you aren't supposed to see."

"They can keep them," Danny said bitterly, still not looking at his mother. "I don't want them."

Maddie gave him a sympathetic smile as she continued. "Don't you trust us?" she asked.

Danny looked up quickly. "Of course I trust you!" he exclaimed. His mother raised her eyebrow at him. "Mom," he said earnestly, "I wouldn't have made it through this without you and Dad. I trust you guys completely."

"Then why did you neglect to tell us that Dan was made up of Plasmius' ghost too?" she asked him pointedly. Danny looked away again. Maddie sighed, softening her tone slightly. "Why are you shutting everyone out?"

Danny sighed. "I don't mean to," he said quietly. "I just… I'm afraid I guess."

Maddie looked at her fifteen year old son, looking tired and defeated with a frown. "Of turning into him?" she asked.

Danny shook his head. "Not anymore," he told her. "I promised that I would never turn into him. It's all the other stuff I'm afraid of. I don't want to lose you guys." He clenched his fist in frustration.

Maddie nodded, putting a hand over his. "It must be scary, having to relive it."

Danny looked at her desperately. "Do you have any idea Mom? Any idea how hard it is looking at that ghost and thinking that was me? How one stupid mistake keeps coming back to haunt you and can make the world just crumble around you?" A tear fell onto their joined hands. "Reliving it for months on end and now actually seeing how much it took to get to that point? Everything… it was all my fault."

Silence descended on the pair as quiet tears continued to fall, mother and son looking at each other. Eventually, Maddie reached over and wiped a tear away from his face. "You are not Dan," she told him fiercely. "There may have been a point where you would become him, but you beat him. With Clockwork's help you saved us. You may see these images from time to time Danny, but you are stronger than him."

"You don't understand," he mumbled, looking away again.

"Oh really?" Maddie asked him. "Because I definitely know what it feels like to look one of your mistakes in the face every time there's a ghost attack on this town. How one faulty blueprint caused my fourteen year old son to become a half-ghost hybrid and lie to me for almost a year. To watch him carry such heavy burdens on his shoulders like the world would end if he messed up – and that it was my fault."

Danny cringed heavily. "Mom – I didn't mean," he sputtered. "I never-"

Maddie held up her hand. "I know sweetie," she told him gently. "I know you don't blame me -or your father. And regardless of how it happened, your ghost powers are not a mistake. How can I argue with anything you've done?" She smiled at him. "You're a hero Danny but that doesn't mean you have to deal with this on your own. Regardless of the battles you've faced, any horrors you've seen – you're still my fifteen year old space loving teenager. We're here for you sweetheart."

"You're mother's right kiddo," Jack boomed from the door. Danny and Maddie both turned, seeing the orange jumpsuit wearing man smiling kindly at his wife and son. He walked over to the pair; sitting on Danny's other side. "Now that we've seen what we're up against, it's time to put these fears behind you. You won't be alone. Everyone here is going to fight with you Danny. We'll be ready for him."

Danny beamed at his parents, forgetting everything about time visions and prophecies. They were right – he wasn't alone. They were going to figure out a way to beat Dan, together. "Then let's get to work."

:-=-:

Skulker paced in the air, frowning. Ember was recovering slowly, resting from the battle -The battle that the ghost child saved them from. The ghost hunter growled at that. Who did Phantom think he was? Flying in like that, rescuing them from that…other Phantom. Skulker stopped his pacing, lost in thought.

Even Skulker had to admit it; if any ghost stood a chance against that abomination, it'd be Danny Phantom. The halfa took down Pariah Dark! But this foe… he said he was the Ghost child. After Danny Phantom passed out – almost out of the blue- Skulker watched the human hunters gather close to the boy, talking about time energy and visions.

It wasn't until he saw Clockwork that he realized how important this battle must be. No one ever goes up against the Master of Time – let alone cross him. If the abomination went against the Time Master, and Clockwork has aligned himself with the boy, this ghost must be a force to be reckoned with. Skulker left quickly after that – his priority being Ember and the rest of the ghosts hiding throughout the town. Let Clockwork and the whelp deal with this ghost. He was perfectly content to avoid the next battle while hiding out at his human hunting store.

"Skulker."

The robotic ghost stopped pacing, turning to face Plasmius' crossed arm glare. Plasmius floated a little higher from the ground, glaring down at Skulker with his beady red eyes.

"Plasmius," Skulker greeted.

Plasmius grinned, flying down to Skulker's level. "I heard there were ghosts hiding in my town," he told his employee.

"The Zone was threatened," Skulker said simply.

"Ah yes," Plasmius replied, waving a hand. "I heard from the Fentons. They want me to secure the town and grant you all sanctuary. I had a different proposition for you."

"No."

Plasmius' eyes widened. "No?" he repeated incredulously. "Come now Skulker, this is a perfect opportunity to strike. While Daniel is busy with whatever threat he believe is out there, we can use this as-"

"No," Skulker repeated firmly. "Plasmius – this ghost is not to be trifled with."

Plasmius scoffed. "Please, the only ghost that can get me rattled is the Ghost King, and no one has made that mistake again. Not after last time."

Skulker shook his head. "Whoever attacked us had no remorse, no reason. He was cold, calculating and precise in any movement he did," Skulker explained. Plasmius started to pace, Skulker watching him anxiously before he continued. "He destroyed multiple realms with this… wailing cry." Plasmius stopped pacing, looking at Skulker with wide eyes.

"A wail?" Plasmius asked slowly. "Skulker, please don't tell me whoever you're afraid of doesn't have the same attack as Daniel?"

"Worse," Skulker replied bitterly, shuddering slightly. "If it wasn't for the whelp, Ember and I wouldn't have escaped. Even he could not stop him. The boy's allies said they had over a day to prepare for an attack – less now."

Plasmius looked at him for a moment, thoughts racing through his brain. Skulker waited as his occasional employer seemingly came to a decision and schooled his face with a smile. "Very well," he said smartly, taking flight again. "Hide away here Skulker – I won't stop you."

Skulker watched as Plasmius disappeared, letting out a breath he didn't realize he was holding. He stared down toward the attic of the hunting store. "If Clockwork has aligned himself with the Ghost Child, then we must too," Skulker said out loud. He grimaced slightly. "Why can't I just hunt easy prey?"

:-=-:

Danny closed the door of his bedroom, leaning his forehead against the door with a sigh. After a bit of training earlier in the day, a small planning session with friends and multiple interruptions by the Box Ghost, he had wanted to clear his head a bit. He could hear the mumble of voices from the various ghosts in the house, but up here seemed like a dead zone. Deciding to join the party, he walked down the hall towards the steps before he stopped, surprised; Sam was standing at the bottom of the stairs, lost in thought and frowning at… old family photos?

Danny frowned, curious as he started to go down the stairs. "Hey," he greeted from halfway down the stairs. Sam jumped slightly, before smiling back at him. She hadn't even noticed.

"Hey yourself," she replied. Forgoing the rest of the stairs, Danny jumped the rail and landed beside her. "Show off," she said, rolling her eyes.

"We're in the middle of a paradox here, there's no time to waste," Danny told her, a goofy smile on his face.

"I'm sure the world wouldn't end if you walked down the remaining five stairs."

"On the contrary, we don't know if could. Thought I'd take my chances."

Sam scoffed, crossing her arms, but a playful smile danced across her lips as he came up beside her. She was back in her regular clothes now, he noticed; hair pulled back slightly but fell gracefully at her shoulders. A time medallion hung around her neck, shining eerily under the florescent lights. He watched as her violet eyes scanned one of the photos from a few years ago. Her hand brushed against one where she, Tucker and himself were in the back of Fentonworks, looking carefree and lighter than they all must feel now.

"Seems like a lifetime ago, huh?" he said quietly, a twinge of sadness in his voice.

"Do you miss it?" Sam asked him softly. Her eyes were still glued to that photo, fingers gently moving over the three friends.

"Miss what?" Danny asked in response.

"Being normal."

Danny looked at Sam curiously, realizing that it wasn't just worry or nostalgia that brought her here; it was guilt. He frowned slightly, the question looping in his mind as he turned back to the photograph on the wall. Of course he missed being normal – that was all he ever wanted for high school. A nice, normal high school life to just… blend in. Normal kids didn't have to worry that one wrong move might destroy all of reality. Normal kids didn't have to stay up late trying to protect the city. Normal kids could date without worrying that their girl -friends would get possessed by evil plant ghosts. Yeah – he'd love to be just a regular fifteen year old kid… and yet…

He glanced over at her from the corner of his eye before shrugging. "Nah – who needs normal anyway? He replied wistfully. "My family were never normal. Tucker's not normal and he's one of my best friends. Besides, you hate normal – we wouldn't be friends if you thought I was normal before all this."

Sam smiled, a small chuckle of agreement escaped her lips and Danny's heart leapt into his throat. He watched her shuffle sideways, looking for another photo to look at. He watched her smile as she found another one, finding a small smile gracing his lips too.

"Where is everyone?" he asked, feigning interest in one of the photos.

"Tucker's downstairs at the main console," Sam said, not looking away from the photo on the wall. "He and your parents are working on separating your ecto-signature from Dan's." Danny frowned, reality slamming his happiness down in full force. "Jazz, Frostbite and Ethelwulf are prepping the lab and weapons for a planning session later. No idea about Clockwork."

"Ah," he said softly. Sam looked at him suddenly, and he inwardly cringed.

"I wanted to get away for a bit," she replied. "Everyone's working hard to help you Danny. You're not alone."

Danny sighed, berating himself for ruining the moment. "I know," he told her. She raised an eyebrow at him. "I do! I just…"

Sam turned back to the wall of photos, smiling sadly as she looked at family photo with a baby Danny hiding under a table while Jazz sat on top of it with a broom. "Wanted to get away from it all?" she supplied.

"Well, yeah."

Sam nodded. They fell into a comfortable silence after that, looking at the wall of photos and lost in thought. It was just the two of them – no battles, no plans, no fear. Danny felt lighter again, content at this small moment of time.

Tell. Her. Danny jumped as he felt the presence of his ghost half awaken in his mind. He glanced at Sam briefly, his heart bursting with emotion. They were in the middle of the biggest threat they've ever faced… was this really the right time? It could be the only time.

"Sam?" Her name escaped before he could stop himself.

"Hmm?"

Suddenly, his mouth went dry and words were very difficult to think of. "I… um.." he sputtered, cringing at the high pitch that came out of his mouth. She turned to him, amusement sparkling in her eyes. His stomach flipped with nerves. "Do you remember when we faced Nocturn?" he blurted out, panicked that he was pushed into a corner.

Sam's brow furrowed, eyes darkening with embarrassment and confusion. "Uh-huh…"

"And how I had to go into other people's dreams to wake them up?"

Sam blushed and turned away. "I think I hear-" she started, before Danny cut her off.

"I had the same one." The words came out of Danny's mouth before he could stop himself.

Violet eyes met blue, both slightly shocked at the admission. Danny's hand went to the back of his head, rubbing it nervously. There was no turning back now. "Sam, I –"

"Stop" Sam cut across, breaking their eye contact. Her arm grabbed the other, gripping it tightly as she seemed to fight with herself. Confused and hurt, Danny stopped talking, looking at her. "You don't get to do this."

Now thoroughly confused, Danny asked the first question that popped in his head. "What?"

Sam met his eyes again and he saw anger and hurt reflected back at him. "You don't get to say what you want to say and just run off into battle. This isn't some cliché movie scene Danny – this is real life. You had plenty of time this year to say what I think you're about to say. Why now?"

Danny stood there, wide eyed as he watched Sam seethe in anger. "I-" he started, but his voice cracked. What could he say to that? She whirled around suddenly, making an attempt to head back to the kitchen before he broke out of his stupor. "Sam wait!" he reached out and grabbed her hand, squeezing it slightly. Sam didn't turn back towards him, but did stop. "Sam…" he whispered sadly. "I didn't –" he sighed heavily, staring at her tense back in concern. "You're right. This is real life." She stiffened slightly in his grip, but said nothing. "I didn't know how to tell you – to change things. I guess I was afraid before," he breathed. "I'm not now."

Sam relaxed in his grip and turned around, watching him curiously. "Why?" she repeated, her voice full of gentle curiosity. She moved closer to him, staring up into his face.

He struggled slightly, trying to find exactly what he wanted to say. Sam, to her credit, waited, giving him all the time he might need. "I'm not afraid anymore."

"Right now you're not afraid," Sam told him, frowning at him. "What happens after this Danny? After you say what you want to say and go off to face Dan… would you regret it?"

"No," he said simply. They were inches apart now, staring at each other. Something was shifting in their friendship; it was terrifying for them both, yet it seemed so natural. This was his moment. "Sam –"

A cough from behind them made both teens jump apart, blushing furiously. They both turned, looking at the intruder darkly, before their expressions turned ones of surprise.

"Clockwork!" Danny exclaimed, his voice going higher than intended. "How… how long have you been there?"

Clockwork ignored the question. "We need to talk," he said. Danny's brow furrowed at his tone.

Sam sighed, bringing the boy's attention back to her. "I should be heading back down anyway," she replied with a small smile.

Danny frowned. "Sam wait," he started, but she shook her head.

"It's fine," she told him, her smile was bittersweet. "This can wait."

No it can't he thought bitterly. His frustration must have shown on his face because Sam gave him a look of bemusement.

"It can," she said again. She turned, giving him a small wave. "Let's talk later."

Danny watched her go, sighing as Sam disappeared into his kitchen. Later; he could do later. Turning to the ghost hovering at the entrance of his living room, Danny cleared his head. Clockwork, as always, betrayed nothing. "That was important," Danny said quietly.

"Not as important as this," the time ghost replied honestly. Clockwork turned, floating into the empty living room. Confused and slightly concerned, Danny followed him. Back still turned to the young half-ghost, Clockwork sighed. "Have you had anymore glimpses of the future?"

Danny crossed his arms. "You're the one who's all-knowing. Wouldn't you already know?" he asked with a raised eyebrow. When Clockwork didn't answer nor turned, Danny's stomach dropped in anticipation. "No," he answered. "Nothing else from what I've already told you. Just glimpses of the alternate timeline."

"Are you sure?"

"Yeah." Clockwork's head dropped slightly, making Danny frown in worry. "What's this about Clockwork?"

"Do you remember what I said about paradoxes?"

Not quite seeing the connection, Danny answered anyway. "That they're like dead ends. Eventually they'll go into roads where they have to go on and not have as many turns right? Eventually, they just come to the main parade road and branch out again."

"My powers are fading Danny," Clockwork reminded him. "The paradox is solidifying, meaning that once it starts, my ability to control time will disappear temporarily. As will my ability to foresee any possible futures. The paradox already can manipulate time – as it has already done during your most recent encounter with your future self."

Danny sighed tiredly. "I'm guessing this paradox solidifies when I face him, huh?"

Clockwork finally turned; his solemn face more grave in his older form. "Danny, there are three possible outcomes here. Only one of them is favourable."

Danny sighed again. "Clockwork, I appreciate you giving me the heads up, but –"

"Stop," Clockwork cut Danny off. Danny stared, mouth open slightly before closing it. Clockwork's usual demeanour was gone, replaced by something Danny only vaguely remembered from their first meeting. "The first time we met, you escaped into that possible future attempting to face Dan. Do you understand why I let you go?" Danny, wide eyed, shook his head. "Think – what happened in the future?"

"Ghostly Wail," Danny said automatically, listing it off his index finger. "Faced Valerie and Vlad, found out about the Nasty Burger Explosion, the Time-" Danny stopped, looking at Clockwork in confusion. "Dan fused the Time Medallion in my chest keeping me in the future."

"Precisely," Clockwork said. The old ghost floated closer to him, looking down at the confused teen in front of him. "Time let you see glimpses of the future due to that Time Medallion but contrary to how I describe it – time isn't just a parade. It lives continuously; pulling from wherever it feels is needed. When Dan merged the Time Medallion with your core, Time gave you access to every ghost power you could possibly develop between your time and his. That's how you developed your Ghostly Wail."

Shaken, Danny sat down on the couch, rubbing his chest absently as if to placate his core. "So the Ecto-storm? My core powers?"

Clockwork nodded. "Were all dormant until that point."

Danny swallowed. "But you saw that," he said, frowning in concentration. "You saw all that and still needed to save my family? Why would I need to gain all these powers if I wasn't powerful enough to stop him?"

Clockwork looked at Danny expectantly. "Parade, Danny," he said, a hint of annoyance directed to the boy. "And you did stop him- you just didn't stop the rest of it from happening."

Danny looked down at his hands. "But, he exists outside of time," he retorted. "I sucked him into a thermos and because I couldn't save my family fast enough, he's here and your powers are weakened."

Clockwork sighed heavily. "Danny, you have come a far way from letting your fears control you. Do not let your doubt do the same." Danny sighed, acknowledging he heard the ghost's words. "And you're still missing the point. I knew the outcome of that battle. I knew what you acquire in going to the future. I knew you would need my help, which would make Dan exist outside the time stream. So if I knew all that, why would I let a fourteen year old child create the only paradox that does not let me see past it?"

Danny looked up at Clockwork, realization slowly dawning on him. "You… you wanted this," he said astounded. "The powers, visions… All of it."

Clockwork smiled supportively. "Dan Phantom grew up to be one of the worst ghosts in the history of the Ghost Zone; he destroyed the world, and the ghost zone, multiple times over. In meeting you, he inadvertently created the one ghost powerful enough to stop him. He would have continued to raze the world if I hadn't saved your family, leaving no one left to stop him." Clockwork's smile fell, and dread started to pool in Danny's stomach again. "This paradox is the best shot of defeating him once and for all."

Danny nodded, feeling the crushing weight of his powers and responsibility. "Three outcomes?" he asked, bringing it back to Clockwork's original conversation.

"Three outcomes," Clockwork confirmed, frowning.

"One favourable," Danny finished, closing his eyes. Silence descended on the pair for a few minutes, Clockwork watching Danny's body stiffen as he slowly realized what that meant. "Clockwork," he said eventually in a small voice, looking up at the Time Master. "I'm not… I don't… survive this…. do I?" Clockwork didn't answer. A memory of the Ghost King fight fluttered through his brain. I don't have to win, I just have to make sure that you lose!

Again, silence blanketed the pair, the tension and unease of the current situation suffocating the younger more than he cared to show. "That's why you asked Ethelwulf to train me, why more of these ghosts seemed to help train me rather than fight me? You knew that it might come down to this." Danny put his head in his hands, distraught. "All this time… you knew."

"I thought we had more time," Clockwork said sombrely. "You're fifteen; I gave you this second chance so you could live more -learn more. Even I cannot deny fate for a moment of my choosing." Clockwork's face softened, genuine concern for his young charge peeking through his indifferent persona. "The observants have barred me from interfering with the events of the paradox. It's why I'm telling you this; if there's anyone I believe can defy the rules of a paradox, it is you Danny."

Danny nodded, swallowing determinedly. "One favourable…" Danny repeated, curling his hand into a fist. Determined blue eyes looked up into saddened red eyes. "Okay."

[needs-to-stop-looking-at-yigas]

I love all the smutt, really i do, but can we get some uhhhhh, TENDER fluff of the two????

Absolutely, dear anon? Let’s GO!

Sooga was a hard working man. He was not only responsible for Kohga’s welfare, but his happiness, and on occasion, his sexual satisfaction. Pair that with training of the troops, and overall making sure everything is spick and span, Sooga didn’t have much time for himself. Except for ONE day out of the year. His birthday. On his birthday, Sooga was allowed to do whatever he pleased. He was a bit stubborn about it, insisting he didn’t need it, but Kohga was relentless. Sooga hated leaving him alone, much less in the horny hands of the clan, but Kohga’s wishes were his commands. It was why he was here, right at lurelin village, and doing his favorite thing: fishing. Sooga LOVED fish, quite unlike his Master. It was nice; sitting at the end of the docks, with nothing but a fishing pole, a fishing spear, a bucket of bait, and an empty bucket for his catch.

You’d think it’d be dangerous, a yiga fishing so close to the village, but since he had been doing it for so long, the people of the village merely watched him occasionally, letting him go about his business. It was nice, and relaxing, smelling the ocean air. He already had a bucket full of porgies, and even a few crabs. They were fresh, lively. He had no idea how long he had been there, just that the sun was starting to set, and that his bait bucket was empty. Now was as good of a time as any to pack it up. He started to put his stuff away, and was about to dump them back into the ocean (he wasn’t allowed to bring them home, because Kohga HATED the smell of fish), when suddenly he felt someone tug at his leg. A little boy.

“Hey Mr! Are you gonna dump those fishes?”

“I was planning to. I cannot take them home.”

“Can we have ‘em?”

“Don’t bother the nice man, now!”

A woman, who he assumed was the child’s mother, dashed up to him, holding onto his shoulders. She gave an apologetic look, double checking the infant at her back.

“I’m so sorry sir, it’s your fish, do with them as you will.”

Sooga hesitated. The child looked longingly at the bucket.

“Do you not have food?”

“No! The meanie bokoblins just a bit offshore keep scaring the fishermen away! We haven’t had fish in forever!”

Sooga watched as a woman set up shop right next to him. No fish at her stand today. Merely arrows. Odd. Sooga nodded at her.

“Where is your house? I’ll carry it for you, it’s heavy.”

“Sir please, we don’t-”

“It wasn’t an option.”

While his voice was firm, she smiled at him. He walked behind her till he reached her doorstep, leaving the bucket right by her front door. The child dashed inside the house, yelling in joy. She looked at him, offering a sweet smile.

“Thank you so much, we can only survive so long on just palm fruit.”

Sooga nodded, before suddenly disappearing from her sight. He had things to do.

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

“Sooga! Welcome back, how was-”

Kohga covered his nose with his hand, turning away from Sooga, who had just returned from his birthday trip. And apparently, he smelled worse than usual. No one else seemed to mind, but Kohga just hated the smell of the ocean. Sooga gave a soft chuckle at the overreaction.

“I apologize, after my fishing, I had some...monsters to deal with. I’ll go ba-”

“No no no! You smell AWFUL. Like, the WORST you’ve ever smelled! Like fish and absolute ass. Follow me.”

Kohga walked him towards his own personal bathing room, shutting the doors behind them. The bath seemed to have been ready in advance, and Sooga softly smiled.

“You had the bath ready for me?”

“It was for ME. I was GOING to smell nice and fresh when you got back, but no, you had to smell like death. Strip, bath, now.”

Kohga was usually much more patient. But Sooga could understand. If HE didn’t love the smell of fish, he’d be recoiling as well. Sooga obeyed regardless, completely stripping, save for his mask. 

“Regardless, thank you, Master Kohga. You honor me with your hospitality. I can go on and swap with you when I’m done, if you’d like.”

“What- no. I’M bathing too, Sooga.”

Sooga froze a bit. The idea of Kohga being nude was a lot for him to handle, but the idea of him being nude and WET? Suffice to say, It made him gulp. Sooga suddenly felt self conscious, as if his body didn’t deserve to be in the presence of his body.

“Master Kohga, there’s no need to be indecent-”

“Sooga you’ve had my dick in your mouth, I really don’t know what you’re afraid of.”

Sooga opened his mouth to give a retort, but found himself unable. Kohga may have meant that in a funny way, but Sooga felt it made his heart ache. Why DID he continue to be so...uneasy, when Kohga had no qualms with his wants? Kohga didn’t seem to either notice, or care, about his inner turmoil, and instead stripped himself down. Not even underwear. Just a complete, and totally nude Kohga, standing right in front with him (minus his mask of course). Even worse, Kohga put his hair down. He un did his hair, revealing a mess of curly, poofy, black hair. Kohga combed his fingers through it, before noticing Sooga staring.

“That’s right, you’ve never seen me without this much clothes, huh?”

“I’ve….never seen your hair down. It’s...lovely.”

“I love how instead of staring at my dick, you pick my hair. You’re a big, gorgeous idiot, Sooga.”

Kohga patted his bare chest, before making his way into the tub. The tub was more or less a giant hot spring, but Kohga always felt like it wasn’t big enough, so he called it a tub. Kohga sighed in relief once his body hit the water, and Sooga swore he never saw his master so content. Sooga hesitated, before walking down the steps, and relaxed, just a bit away from Kohga. They sat there for a moment, absorbing the warmth, inhaling the smell of the fresh flowers (like Kohga’s favorite; the mighty thistle. It was an assertive, yet sweet smelling scent), and letting their bones nearly melt. Sooga could be this relaxed forever, had Kohga not said something.

“What are you doing, Sooga?”

Sooga tensed up, snapping out of his blissful daydream. He must’ve done something to offend him, done something to make Kohga ashamed of him. Sooga swallowed.

“I apologize, I’m not aware as to w-what-”

“You’re all the way over there.”

Kohga chuckled, and made his way right to Sooga’s side, wrapping an arm around him. Kohga’s body felt so soft and warm next to him. Sooga couldn’t believe this was all really happening. Kohga was actually sitting here, arm wrapped around him like he owned him. Sooga never recalled when he felt so important, so….worthy. Kohga grabbed a petal that floated in their tub, lightly flicking it in almost boredom. That was when Sooga suddenly grew bold.

“Do you...need help washing your hair, Master Kohga.”

Kohga looked at him in almost surprise, before shaking his head.

“I have a VERY specific way of washing it, Sooga. But,”

Kohga’s face was suddenly so close to his, with his hands planted so firmly on his chest.

“I can do yours, if you don’t mind me gettin’ a little handsy.”

Sooga could swoon right now. Master Kohga, the most incredible man ever, was offering to clean his hair. Sooga wanted to deny him, knowing he didn’t deserve his hands, but he nodded rather quickly. Kohga chuckled, before getting behind Sooga, and un doing the ribbon that kept his hair up. Sooga’s hair was long, straight, black, and it fell down gracefully across his back. Sooga didn’t like recalling the past, but Sooga always remembered how his father HATED the length of his hair. Always threatened to cut it, always tried to pull at it. He was expecting similar treatment from Kohga, when he felt his bare fingers strum through his locks.

“Bad enough you’ve got a nice body, now you have to compete with me in the hair department.”

“You...like it? You don’t think it’s too long?”

“No? What idiot would tell you that? You’ve got pretty hair, perfect for a pretty boy.”

Kohga’s lathered his hands in soap, before running through his hair. Master Kohga was so talented, scrubbing the sweet smelling soap into his hair so carefully yet efficiently. He was about to comment as such before Kohga’s fingers suddenly dug into his scalp. A light scrunch of his hair, nails strumming against his skin. It was so soothing, so tender and affectionate, for ONCE in his life, Sooga hadn’t thought what dangers could be present. Sooga was always thinking of what could hurt either him or his master. It felt odd, not having a single thought like that pop in his head.

“Sooga, wakey wakey.”

Sooga’s head snapped up, looking around widely for a second. Kohga laughed, smacking the water surrounding them.

“You fell asleep on me! You had your head bobbing up and down and everything. You never had anyone wash your hair before?”

“N...no. Never. I apologize, I shouldn’t have-”

Kohga grabbed a fistful of his hair, and gave it a light pull, getting Sooga’s attention.

“Shh. You’re fine. It’s fine. I’m VERY fine. It was cute. If I wasn’t worried about you drowning, I would’ve kept you like that.”

Kohga gave his hair a light pat, before starting on his own. Sooga held onto some of his hair, looking at it, as if he was suspicious of it.

“Master...Kohga. May I ask a question?”

“Shoot.”

Sooga watched him wash and scrub into his locks, watched as he scrubbed at his own body leisurely. 

“I wanted to ask-why are you so...kind to me?”

“Because I like you. I’ve told you.”

“You like the other Blademasters, don’t you?”

“I like all the clan. But you especially. Reason being? You’re a big, strong guy who’d do anything for me. You’re a stiff, but you got a big heart. I feel comfortable with you. You get me. And I wish you’d be comfortable with me, Sooga.”

Sooga opened his mouth to retort, before silencing himself. He was right. He loved Koga, but he didn’t feel completely comfortable with him. With ANYONE, in fact. Sooga sighed, before cupping Kohga’s face in his hands. He ignored the soap and water, and that beautiful mop of hair.

“Master Kohga. I cannot explain everything to you, for that forgive me, But what I can tell you, is that I love you with all that I am. I’m as comfortable with you as I can make myself. You are my world. My light in my darkness. I’d follow you to the ends of the earth. It’s why I constantly question if I’m good enough for you. I was brought up to believe my worth was nothing. I want you to have the opposite of that. Everything.”

There was a moment of silence between them. One that was only interrupted by the water, and soft popping of bubbles. Kohga sighed.

“Lift your mask up, a bit. Just so I can see your mouth.”

Sooga obeyed, though his hands lightly trembled. There was a punishment instored for him, he knew it. At least, he thought that up until Kohga did the very same, and pressed his lips against his. Master Kohga...was kissing him. His lips were so soft, so full, as if they were the clouds themselves. Sooga sat there, dumbstruck, even as Kohga pulled away from him.

“Look, we all got bullshit pasts and junk, Sooga. But here and now, know that you’re special to me. Whatever someone told you however long ago, doesn’t matter now. I’M telling you you’re good. You’re worth my time. You’re something to me, you big, dumb man.”

Sooga had never been told he was something. Never been told he was worthy. It made his hands shake a bit, before he suddenly found himself sweeping Kohga into his arms, and kissing him again. He wasn’t rejected. Wasn’t pushed away. He embraced him, arms thrown around his neck and hands digging into his soapy scalp. Kohga pulled away this time, and Sooga caught a glance of that smirk. Oh be still his beating heart.

“Sooga, I know it’s your birthday and all, but I got a command for you.”

“Anything, name it.”

“Sit here, and kiss me until you’re sick of it.”

“So...kiss you forever?”

Kohga laughed, before throwing himself at Sooga, lips locked onto his own as the water splashed around them. Nothing else mattered, but Kohga.

[ericsonclan]

Competition Flows Through Their Veins

Summary: AJ and Allison have a competition for who can take down the most walkers when suddenly something happens that stirs up bitter memories.

Word Count: 2035

Read on AO3:

Willy had spotted ten walkers all spread out in front of the gates. None of them seemed to be a huge threat but it was better to be safe than sorry. That’s what Clementine had always thought and it seemed that over the years people had agreed with her on that. Normally a few of them would already be out there, clearing out the walkers with Rosie in tow. But today before Clementine could send out Aasim and Omar she heard a booming voice.

“Clem!” AJ barreled forward, his knife and hatchet whacking against his hips as he moved forward. Skidding to a halt, AJ ended up kicking some dust into the air making both himself and Clementine cough.

“AJ, what’s wrong?” Clementine looked over at him with concern, giving a few sharp coughs to get the dust out of her throat.

“Nothing! I just...” AJ paused for a moment and took a deep breath. “I want to clear out the walkers by the gates with Allison. We’re gonna make it a competition.” AJ spoke proudly as he brushed a finger under his nose to stop himself from sneezing due to the dust.

“AJ…” Clementine picked up on the fact that he had heard the worry in her voice.

“We’ll be super safe! I already got Aasim and Willy to agree to give us backup if anything goes wrong,” AJ watched Clementine closely. “I’m strong.”

His words made Clementine look over at his eyes and notice the hardened determination in them.

“I know you are, kiddo. I don’t doubt that for a second,” Clementine gave a soft smile. With a deep breath she spoke once more. “Alright, but I’m taking watch with my bow just to be safe.”

“Okay,” AJ gave a short nod; he knew that if he wanted this competition he had to agree to the base rules Clementine put in place. Clementine’s smile remained and she ruffled his afro fondly. “Alright, go get set up and remember-”

“I know, I know, always aim for the head,” AJ ran off, giving a small smile back at Clementine before wandering off to find Allison and share the good news.

Soon everyone knew of this competition. Some of them were more for it like Louis and Willy who knew that AJ and Allison could handle themselves and that there were plenty of traps in the area to use if needed. Others were more cautious about the whole thing such as Prisha and Aasim who were well aware of the world’s random cruelty that it bestowed upon the living. Still, all of them knew that Allison and AJ were both too stubborn to stop the competition now. Competitiveness flowed through their veins and they were both incredibly ambitious when it came to becoming stronger.

After a couple minutes those in support roles were in position while Ruby and Omar stayed inside the dorms with the little kids. Clementine stood on the watch tower while Aasim and Willy stood outside, right by the gates.

“Good luck, Allie!” Willy leaned forward and pressed a kiss to Allison’s cheek. The romantic gesture made Allison grow flustered and she stared at her boots.

“Thanks,” Allison brushed her hand against his before giving it a small squeeze. “AJ is totally going to lose this one,”

Those words set a fire in AJ who puffed out his chest. “I’m winning and when I do, that new weapon you’re making with Willy is gonna be mine!”

“Okay,” Allison casually strolled forward, taking out her spear hammer. “But when I win and you lose you have to give Garbage a bath,”

“Ugh, why?” AJ looked over at his best friend.

“I don’t know,” Allison shrugged, “I think it would be funny.”

AJ frowned at those words and with a grumpy grumble took out his knife. “I’m winning, dummy.”

Allison laughed at that. “Keep telling yourself that,” Her eyes scanned the area and she spotted the first walker she wanted to take out. Dashing forward without warning, Allison swung her spear hammer. Using the spear end to hook into the jaw, she dragged the walker along and slammed it into a tree with a sharp lower branch. The branch burrowed into the walker’s gut, causing blood and intestines to coat it. Allison quickly spun her weapon, switching to the hammer side, and with a deadly blow caved in the walker’s head. Brain matter began to spill out of its misshapen head as its body went limp. “That’s one.”

AJ huffed and mockingly said her words under his breath before he spotted his first walker. Jogging forward, he stayed a few paces away in order to properly take this walker down. Waiting for the ideal moment, AJ kicked out the walker’s leg then proceeded to plunge his knife deep within its eye socket. The eye popped from the attack, spurting its juice onto AJ’s face.

“Bleh,” AJ spat a couple times to make sure none got in his mouth. Allison’s quiet laughter made his eyes shoot over to see her smug, competitive smile. “Whatever, stupidhead. Watch this,” AJ unclipped his hatchet and with a mighty throw sliced through the skullcap of a walker. With a thunk the hatchet embedded itself into the tree just as the walker it had sliced through fell down, lifeless.

“Not bad,” Allison swung her weapon, her aim missing the mark slightly due to the sudden swaying movement of the walker. The spear ended up hooking underneath its cheekbone too firmly and with a strong tug Allison tore off its lower jaw. Flicking it onto the ground, Allison unsheathed her knife and jabbed it into the walker’s head before it had a chance to move any closer.

Allison’s move made AJ’s eyes shine with awe. That was so cool. He definitely wanted to beat her in this competition now. Plus with her compliment on his last move he  knew he had what it took to win.

“Wooo! Go, Allie! You’ve got this!” Willy cheered on his girlfriend then proceeded to cheer for his best friend as well. “Go, AJ!”

“Yeah, go AJ! Show those stinky deadheads who's boss!” Louis called out from the gate and watched as AJ took down another walker by plunging his blade right through the back of its skull before retrieving his hatchet. AJ turned around and saw Louis who gave a big thumbs up and smile. Louis continued to watch AJ before glancing over at Violet who seemed a bit tense. “Gonna cheer too, Vi?”

“Maybe,” Violet’s eyes watched Allison from behind her glasses. Her hands were wrapped tightly around her arms as she crossed them.

“Loosen up, Vi,” Louis hooked his arm around her shoulder. “Everything will be okay. First sign of danger and the smelly patrol will have all of us to deal with.”

Violet gave a small nod. Louis studied her expression for a moment and decided to try and lighten up the mood.

“Or is it that you think Allison can’t take the heat?”

“Heh, she’s gonna win. Allison is gonna kick AJ’s ass.” Violet smirked over at her best friend who returned it in kind.

Hear, hear,” Prisha smiled as she walked forward. Immediately Violet’s tension seemed to dissipate if only a bit as she let her arms fall to her side before taking Prisha’s hand in hers. Louis could see the same concern that Violet had in Prisha’s eyes as well. He looked over at Clementine. After seeing that she was tense too, Louis slipped away just as Prisha and Violet started to cheer Allison on.

Allison was in the midst of bludgeoning a walker’s head but for some reason it was still moving. So when it opened its mouth Allison speared it through to make sure she got to the brain then tossed it to the ground. Her score was tied with AJ’s now.

“Are you doing okay?” Louis slowly climbed up the ladder to the watchtower and noticed Clementine glance back his way. Immediately her eyes softened and the two shared a quick kiss.

“What are you doing up here, Lou?” Clementine smiled as Louis’ fingers intertwined with hers for a moment.

“I thought it had to be lonely being up on this watchtower alone. So I thought I’d grace you with my company,” Louis leaned forward and stole a soft kiss. “And kisses,” The two shared a smile before Clementine remembered the competition and looked over at AJ. AJ grinned confidently as his hatchet sliced a walker’s face nearly in half.

“Look at our little man go,” Louis hugged Clementine’s shoulders for a few moments.

“Yeah, he’s really grown up,” Clementine held on to Louis’ arms for a couple of seconds, letting her bow rest by her leg. “Allison is no pushover though,” She nodded over at Allison who dodged and sliced through a walker’s fingers before spearing it through the head and tossing it onto a rock.

“Yeah, it's really close. Only two walkers left,” Louis commented and the two continued to watch on in somewhat silence.

Only two left. Allison knew she had to get both to win. One was over by that weird-looking tree that Willy had climbed in order to impress her on their first date together. A soft smile pulled on Allison’s lips at the memory before she refocused to find the other walker. Once her eyes caught sight of the walker’s location, however, she felt her heart tighten.

It was wandering over towards the old car that had crashed right outside the gates. Within the car was a small garden of pink flowers. Flowers that Allison had placed in memory of Renata. Flowers that she had kept safe ever since she planted them after Renata’s passing. Allison gritted her teeth, her anger and sorrow mixing within her gut as she sprinted forward.

“You get the fuck away from that!” Allison’s sudden shouting drew everyone’s attention as the walker mindlessly grasped at a pink flower. Allison dug her fingers into its soft, rotten back flesh and spun it around. Taking out her knife, Allison began to blindly stab the walker out of pure rage as tears stung her eyes. The walker groaned, its milky white eyes staring blankly into Allison’s as it continued to try and consume her flesh and blood. All of her attacks were in spots that wouldn’t put it down.

“Allison!” Willy notched an arrow and aimed at the walker while Prisha and Violet pulled open the gate door to go and help. The world around Allison seemed to fade away as she lived in her emotions, watching as the walker’s teeth threatened to bite her until she finally plunged her knife into its skull. The walker fell down to the ground, limp, any sign of life drained from its eyes. Allison stared at the walker before spitting onto it. She remained frozen in her spot until she felt arms wrap around her.

“Allie! You’re safe!” Willy held onto her tightly and pulled her further into the hug. Allison felt her throat burn as she glanced at the walker then at the pink flowers.

“Allison!” Prisha ran forward along with Violet. “You weren’t bitten, were you?”

“No, I wasn’t,” Allison mumbled but the others still checked her for bites.

Soon AJ jogged forward, fresh blood on his blade from the final walker he took down with a stab to the side of its head. “You okay?”

“I’m fine,” Allison whispered, still wrapped up in Willy’s arms. “It’s a tie.”

“Yeah, it is,” AJ took a deep breath then furrowed his eyebrows “What do you wanna do? Another competition?”

“No, I don’t,” Allison’s eyes focused on the flowers before she glanced over at her best friend. “Let’s just say we both won. Okay?” “Okay,” AJ gave a short nod and watched as Allison slipped out of Willy’s arms. Slowly she walked forward and picked one of the pink flowers.

“We should probably head inside,” Allison walked in and soon the others followed. Not sure what to say or do, they watched Allison as she examined the flower. Slowly she twirled it between her fingertips, a single thought soon appearing in her mind. It was time that she visited an old friend.

[wu-sisyphus-gang]

Motion Sickness chapter 74

pq pq pq pq pq pq pq pq pq pq pq pq pq pq pq pq pq pq

(Ruby PoV)

"Spar with me," I ordered Cloud when I found him in the evening. He looked up at me in surprise from where he sat at the dining hall table. "Please. Like we used to?"

He sighed. "Can I at least finish digesting first?" He asked.

"Oh. Right." I suppose that was fair. I'd ambushed him a little.

"The doctors are insisting that I get three meals a day. Keeping my brain fed the proper nutrition," he said. "It's about repair and regrowth."

"But you're not sleeping well."

His eyes flicked away. "No. I suppose not."

"Penny said that's an important time for the brain to repair itself."

"Been talking with Penny about me?"

"She's my friend," I defended.

He raised his hands in surrender. "No judgement. Just curious."

"Yeah. I was talking to her during my mission today a little."

"I see. What was the mission?"

"Parts transfer for Amity." I slid into a seat at the table next to him. "Did you have a mission today?"

"Searching and destroying Grimm out in the tundra. Some bigass Goliaths were encroaching on Mantle. They needed somebody who can hit as hard as I can."

"Did anything interesting happen?"

"Nothing me and Limit Breaker couldn't handle."

"They usually have you deploy a landing strategy out there in the tundra."

"Limit Breaker. It's my go to for all my problem solving." He smiled. "I can glide pretty well when it's active. Not unlike you." He poked my side where he knew I was ticklish and I flinched to cover my ribs with my arms and let out a giggle.

"You should see some of the things I can do with Petal Burst now," I said with a smile.

"More of your usual bullshit, I suspect. You always did cheat."

"Hey, you and your semblance are in my ballpark now," I protested.

"My semblance doesn't make me invulnerable the way yours does. I have to work hard to give that impression."

"That why you always keep it almost charged? All the time?" I wondered.

"Maybe I'm a little paranoid," he agreed. "Sue me. I've got a lot to be paranoid about." He gave me a genuine smile that warmed my heart while I looked up at him. I reached out and stroked his hair and he leaned into my touch with a tired sigh.

I giggled up at him. Then I gave him a kiss that squashed out noses together. I really had missed him so much while he was gone. It was good to have him back. So good. I looked forward to the next chance I could get some genuine alone time with him. And Weiss if she wanted to be involved in that. I think she would.

I didn't mind sharing that kind of thing with her.

"Well alright. No sense delaying any longer." He slid off the bench and ruffled the part in my hair. I glowered at him with a smile and fixed my head dressing.

"You ready for a fight?" I asked. I slid off the bench and made to keep up with him.

"Are you? I'm going to knock you flat, Rubes."

"I'd like to see you try. We'll see if you can touch me." I used to beat him handily. Now… now I wasn't sure. He'd grown so much since even before Mistral.

I held his whole arm and skipped to the arena to keep up with his long gait.

It was late on a Monday so nobody else was using the room. Cloud strode in and spun his sword from the harness on his back in the broadsword form. I once demolished him with his weapon in that stance.

He carefully checked the tip of the weapon with his fingers. Drawing it back with his right hand and stretching out his left to brush off some Grimm ash that remained on the tip.

Crescent Rose unfolded from my back and I rolled it around hand over hand in his direction. I twisted the weapon behind my back and held it there until he looked over at me and gave me a firm nod.

He activated his semblance immediately because he was a cheater like that. And he dashed forward on a pocket of air with both hands on his weapon, holding it just before his shoulder. He had one leg bent at the knee and the other straightened out as he flew.

He swung in a low horizontal cut at me. I blocked with the blade of Crescent Rose but the attack sent uncomfortable vibrations all the way up my arm. He was truly unbelievably strong. If I was going to beat him it was going to be with my speed.

He flicked his blade out the other direction. I vanished in a blur of petals and popped back a step for a moment and leveled my weapon at him. I shot him once in the stomach and he grunted. He lowered his blade to block the next shot.

He was on me in a blue haze. He tried to hit me again but I met his strike. Then I expanded the blade of Crescent Rose backwards to make it longer. It forced him back an awkward half step.

I capitalized and slashed at him three times, spinning my blade up and around my body as I did.

He came back on me but I blew apart into three red caped swirls of red and nearly teleported behind him. I made to cut at him but he kicked me in rapid succession and brought his blade around down onto me.

I blocked high and pulled the trigger on my weapon to give us some horizontal momentum. I'd been ready for it and he hadn't and it pulled him off to the side.

I slashed at him twice with the blade and he knocked both attacks to the side fairly easily like he was still warming up.

I burst forward then back and caught him in the front then in the back. He grunted under the blows twice and though he stumbled he didn't look particularly hurt.

I twirled around in a circle and tried to catch him with the fully unfolded blade. He blocked alarmingly easily and riposted. He thrust his blade forward, then upwards in a massive flying leap.

Then he came back down on me from above with all the weight of his sword and armor and him. I burst into petals rather than take the hit. I reentered the same space I exited and kicked out with one of my legs. He blocked it on the side of his own.

He very rudely made to drive his elbow into my face. It snapped my head back. Then he brought his blade forward in slashing motion with the tip buried in the ground and slammed it into the whole of my body. His blade was taller than me, even held at an angle like it was.

He tried to open me up and combo me but I burst apart once more and flowed back together behind him. "Almost," I teased. I wrapped Crescent Rose around his waist and fired to jerk the blade backward against his body.

It caught him and made him stumble back, ripping into his golden aura. Then he whipped around and went for his Cross Slash. The first hit struck me in the stomach but I vanished out of the way of the following attacks.

He danced back a step. He was now in his limited state. He immediately flexed and started to charge the next round of his semblance and I took that as my cue to attack. His semblance forced you to approach him. To play his game. I pulled Crescent Rose over my shoulder. Then across my stomach, then around behind my back and in a twirling fashion over my head.

Cloud deftly blocked each one of my attacks and rather than riposte he stuttered back a step and went for his semblance again.

I whipped the barrel of my weapon up at him and fired at him three times in rapid succession. He dived into a hovering roll but not to the side or backwards. He dived towards me. His right hand held his weapon up behind his body easily enough and his left came up and forward to grab me. He snatched me by the neck of my cape and yanked me into the air like a brute. He made to slam me into the ground but I vanished again, I left him with only a palm full of petals.

Each time I disappeared it cost me something. I wasn't sure if that was his plan, to bleed me dry but it might just work.

He flirtatiously sniffed the petals for a moment in his hand before he blew them at me. I blushed a little but resolved to not let him distract me. Or to try not to. He was distracting enough without trying as it was.

He jumped and brought his weapon down in a massive overhead strike. I vanished rather than take that one either.

He guessed where I was going to reappear and trapped me in an attack that swung upwards and knocked me into the air. When I made to dodge in mid-air he read my dodge attempt and was waiting for me with a swing at the ready.

He hit me three times in the span of a tenth of a second. I yelped as I was flung into a pillar of cubes.

"You alright Rubes?" He called over to me. I was struggling to get up for a moment. I didn't have the most aura in the world. He had spades more than I did. That last attack did something like twenty five percent of my aura in one go of the mighty triple hit.

I picked myself up and blew my hair out of my face with a pfft upwards and to the side. I pointed the business end of my weapon at him in response and shot at him four times. The first one hit him in the chest and gave him his semblance. The next three went wide as he suddenly blurred to the side. My shots missed because of it and he started to close the gap on me incredibly quickly.

He flickered into my range and caught my whole body up in a massive upwards swing. He followed it up by juggling once. Then he let me down rather than spending the remainder of our match hammering me while I was in the air above him.

I quickly moved in on him and pulled Crescent Rose across my body and at him. Then from another side. Then I spun and tried to hammer him with the blade.

He reached out and caught the long handle of my weapon and picked me up into the air with it using one hand. I kicked him in the chest but he mostly looked bemused.

"This is serious," I protested. He wasn't taking me honestly!

"You're seriously cute." He countered. He had a wide grin on his face. "You're just not strong enough yet. We should do weights together."

I blushed at the thought of Cloud in tight workout clothes and doing exercises together. It sounded good to me.

He bent in and kissed my cheek before I could react.

I let go of my weapon and punched him in the chest. It did nothing.

He kicked me and made my aura collapse inwards with a crackle of red. He inhaled deeply, like he was enjoying the smell.

I rose with a tired sigh and he came up behind me and put his arms around my waist. I jerked back like I was going to resist but then he kissed my neck and I let out a little moan. He ran his lips over to my jawline.

"Your sweat tastes delicious," he whispered right into my ear.

I shuddered. I tried weakly to push away from him. "You're cheating."

"No. This is cheating." He poked my sides with fingers while I was tight in his grasp and without aura to spend to get away and I laughed hysterically as he tickled me. He spun me around and he kissed my lips full on. I dissolved into the kiss with a little sigh. My eyes fluttered closed.

"Cloud…" I mewled against his lips. "We should stop. We're in public." I pushed against his rock hard chest weakly.

"We don't have to be." He released me, twirling me away from him like we were dancing. "You tease."

"Me?" I asked, shocked.

"In that new outfit. Absolutely. You and Weiss both." He laughed. I turned as red as my cloak.

"You're the one looking all… all like that." I pointed up at him. With his piercings and hair done up. He gave me a brilliant smile.

"Whatcha gonna do about it, little Rose?"

"I'll show you. Seriously. You look all… so hot." He kicked a leg up as he leaned against the wall with his knee out. His foot was flat against the wall and he looked like the hottest thing I'd ever seen in a man.

"Prove it," he murmured. His voice was full of an electric current. I could remember the feel of his aura smothering mine. I shuddered again. I could feel my own heartbeat between my legs.

I would prove it, damn it. Or my name wasn't Ruby Rose.

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"I'm going to Cloud's room for sex tonight," I told Weiss as I stepped out of our shower. "Well, we'll actually be leaving campus and finding a hotel room. The beds here are too small."

Her eyes ran up and down my figure in the tight towel. She flushed at me. Whether it was about my state of undress or how directly I came out with my plans I wasn't sure.

"I-I see. And…?"

"And is that something you'd be interested in?" I asked. She was already in her nightwear.

"Maybe…"

"Clear and effective communication, Weiss. We won't hold anything against you if you're not ready."

"I want to be ready. I'm just nervous I suppose."

I walked up to her, sashaying my hips as I did. I relished the way she watched me. Oh yeah. Weiss was bi as hell. Poor girl. Let me take care of you…

"You have nothing to be nervous about. Cloud and I will take such good care of you. He's a really attentive lover. He listens. He explores." I shuddered a little as memories ran me over. I got goosebumps as I recalled being pressed firmly against the cold tile of a shower wall. The chill of the tile and heat of his body and the water had been a stark contrast.

Then that time I rode him out in Anima. The way his body flexed under mine while we held hands was etched into my mind. His hands falling to my hips to control the pace even though I whined to be in charge. It was so domineering as he thrust up into me. So good.

Weiss took in my hardening breasts. I'd need to be careful. I just got out of the shower. I didn't need to let these thoughts overwhelm me. It was hard though.

"Well I suppose. He and I did get awfully close the other night."

"You said nothing happened," I pointed out.

"Some kissing happened. Some dry-grinding happened. But I wanted you to be there for my first time and I told him so," she informed me.

"You're such a sweetheart." I kissed her lips. She groaned a little as I pushed her back. My wet hair fell on both of our faces in a tight curtain. She went for my bottom lip but if she thought I'd bottom that easily again she'd be… oh…

I whined. I really was just a bottom in her hands. At least with Cloud I could pretend I was a switch. Even if it was only because he let me. I tried to soak that in. It was only because he allowed it.

She placed her hands on my back just above my butt through the cloth of the towel and pulled me deeper into the kiss. She put her tongue in my mouth and I wrapped my lips around it, small and pink, and gave it a tiny suck.

Her breath hitched when I did it. I sucked very gently on the tip of her tongue and welcomed more of it wiggling into my mouth. The tips of both our breasts were hardening now against one another and it felt good to pull her close.

"So…" I panted when we separated. "So will you be there?" I asked.

She rapidly nodded. She breathed hard and tried to calm herself down again too. Ha. Take that. I could kiss like nobody's business. "Is Cloud a top or…?" She asked.

"Yes. But don't worry. He'll take care of you. Between the two of us we'll find a nice place for you."

"Then I'm looking forward to it."

I squealed a little. I was going to be having sex with my best friends. I walked away from Weiss and began to put on matching underwear for the night. A nice surprise for Cloud to enjoy later. Not that he would care that much but it was the principle of preparation that was the thing.

"I think I might be a switch," Weiss mumbled. "I always thought I'd be a top but when he picked me up in the air on our date night it was just too much, he made me melt."

"That's what happens when you run into a real top. Cloud at least lets me pretend a little. But he's always the one in control. I'm not sure what it is my deal."

"You melt is your problem. You can't be in control when you're all gooey," Weiss said.

"It just feels so good though." I whined. She gave me a dark and thirsty look when I did and a little of her own dominance showed. She had that same hunger Cloud had. "And if he says he feels like a dog we'll just remind him how much of a man he really is. I don't know how much it'll help but it'll feel good."

"For all we know we're about to cure him. A lot of chemical activity happens in the brain during sex."

"Science!" I exclaimed pointing at her. "Take that Salem." She laughed.

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-WG

[regulusfate]

I would give you the world, if you would look at me

Salric (Godric x Salazar)

For Jules’ (ig: @/siriuspads) 2.5k writing competition

Ten years old and Godric Gryffindor met his oldest friend by accident.

He followed a wisp, a small swirl of magic just short of a whisper spreading through the parched landscape. Bare with the dry season, tufts of brown left in the wake of dying grass, bleeding their blades to the grave of dirt. The day was a warm one, with a dry heat that brushed dust against his clothes and threatened to choke his throat should he dare open his mouth.

His fæder had pulled up along the cobblestone streets, the small town so seemingly out of place, as if the empty of it all stretched far and wide and sunk the peels of laughter to nothing more than an echo lost for the wild.

It was full of muggles. The word still felt strange on his lips, it tasted of the grapes that weren’t quite sweet enough and not so sour, an imbalance like the lack the of rain that had fallen in the last moon cycle. One of the first words he’d learnt to write, scratched on thin parchment with his scrawl that jerked a little in his fingers and lost its curl half way through as the momentum of his movements drained and his fingers cramped.

The horse beneath him stirred, and Godric bit down on his lip, it’s tender edge slowly being thwarted by his teeth as he gripped the reigns harder, and waited on the edge. He was told him to wait there, and so he did, shifting restlessly with the threatening of acid to roll up his leg and into his thigh.

The muggles watched him, and so he moved his eyes away.

Something swam hazily in his vision, the air growing more stuffy, still with intention and hot with the bearing teeth of the sun, he bit his lip once more and felt it split with the shock of pain that sparked through his cheek.

He decided to climb down, before he did any more damage to his face.

His boots hit the dusty trail, and he’d hardly risen a clammy hand to dab the blood away, when he saw him.

A soft curl of hair first, pitched black like the deepest night and swept ever gentler in the low breeze that washed over his face, moving the silky head of hair to look up. Across the dying landscape, there were few patches of greenery left, even those fading with each day. But the figure was pressed flat into the ground, hiding precariously behind the few bloated strains of weed left, and limbs following the curve of the ground downwards in the small ditch that Godric was sure he had not seen.

But he should’ve done, it was right in the line of sight from which they rode up the dusty paths, he would’ve seen the boys back at least, or the head of hair that seemed to add a dash of colour to the shades of brown dripping around them.

“Who are you?” His voice faltered a little, throat wilting with the hot air but that would not outweigh the shiver of curiosity that ran through him.

The boy, for Godric was sure it was, though the edge of his gaze seemed partly shimmered by thirst that wove its way into the forefront of his mind, hesitated for a moment.

“Who are you?” Godric imported again, careful to straighten his shoulders and tug his chin a little higher, decorum decorum and dear circe he was thirsty.

“Whose asking?” The boy remarked, his skin pale even in the deep warmth of the sun, and with audacity to curl his lips into a smirk.

Audacity, he wasn’t sure what it meant but Godric thought it sounded smart in his head, so that’s what mattered as he licked his lips and clutched tighter to the reigns hanging down at his side. There was a hum of magic that followed them, all the way from the tree’s of the moors and the wetter winds, swept between the silence and through the leaves and the clouds and sticking to the leather of his boots.

And here and now, he could feel it. Later, years on, he might have describe a ghostly presence to keep all eyes entailed on his rich drip of words, but those years would wait for them to come.

The other boy stared at him, without moving, and that looked entirely too uncomfortable. Eyes of a light grey, wide and innocent but an all too striking smirk dancing with the light of mischief and one he would with time come to regard with an amused trepidation.

“Did you follow us?” Godric demanded suddenly, and even the change surprised himself, from a wary hesitance to the sharp rush of fear that almost tripped at his feet, and a crash sounded somewhere out of sight.

Even to their childlike gaiety, the world was cruel in so simpler a way.

The boy gave some sort of amused noise at the back of his throat, half caught in a daze of worry that strapped itself across his face, not quite so defined features catching the glance of the sun, beginning to tinge with a reddish blemish.

“I don’t even know you.” He remarked back with some incredulity and Godric gave what he hoped was a hard stare and if the swift succession from concern to humour on the other boys face was anything to go by - he had failed.

“I’m Godric.” He conceded bitterly, half unsure why he was telling, half dampened to the fact that now he’d accused the boy he couldn’t not tell. It wouldn’t be fair.

“Call me Zar.” Those eyes still flamed with some vibrant spark of .. fun.

“But that’s not your name?” Godric concluded quickly, eyebrows knitting together with a rise of frustration and he was sure the boy was tricking him.

“Yes and no,” came the annoyingly cheerful reply, and then the boy Zar stood up, brushing his hands of the crumbling chalk leaving a soft pattern of white on his fingers.

“What are you doing here?” Godric asked sullenly, resisting the urge to swing himself back up on the horse to place a bigger height difference, as Zar scrambled up the small incline and they found themselves with fewer inches between their heads. Resisting because he wasn’t sure could get his leg back over without help.

“Observing!” And suddenly he sounded excited, and Godric wanted to take a step back.

“Observing what?” He asked warily, and Zar grinned, something childish splitting across his face.

“I never did find out.” The soft pattering of rain drew him from his thoughts, sliding down the windows in a gentle haste, and he stretched his aching limbs with soft pops.

“Find out what?”

Deep, with the tinge of a drawl and the smothering of an accent, Salazar’s voice familiar by the smallest sound and penetrating through the darkest storm cloud that may arise in his mind.

“What you were observing that day.” Godric asked, a curious smile spreading across his lips, their shoulders almost touching as Lord Slytherin came to rest by his side where he escaped the centre of echos of the Yule celebrations and slipped to the back of the room, to take a moment of content peace.

A familiar smirk propped up on his face, one of great infuriation to all who knew him and Godric was no exception despite Salazar’s charms, rolling his eyes before the man could even talk. They didn’t need to elaborate, this had been a question tossed between them for many a year.

“Your fine specimen-“

“Salazar-!”

“Of a horse.”

Godric scowled, but it fell quickly as they jostled a little in place, shoulders bumping.

“I’ll let you know one day.”

A soft murmur, more than he’d given clue too in a long time, and smithing swelled in Godric’s chest before it halted mid rise, and something cold shivered down his spine. They were no stranger to the working of the world now, this was the third term their school had been open, the days of spring were almost upon them, but they had seen enough to last a life time even so. He hoped, one day, if he ever got the answer, it wouldn’t be something he would come to hate.

“You worry too much Ric,” Salazar clapped his shoulder, spoken in light gesture but something shadowed stirred in their eyes. They would be fools to ignore the rising tensions, they knew what hate could do. “Enjoy the festivities my friend.”

One day their roles would be reversed. Godric couldn’t see that coming, but he saw something sadder, as his friend, his partner, swept through the circle of students scattered waiting for a dance, amongst the warming glow of candles and swept Helga away in a twirl. Sadder because he could feel it, that same hum of magic from all those years ago, it pulled the, together like glue and kept them stuck. And it felt at its lightest, at its brightest when they were side by side.

His shoulder tingled for a moment, as Godric always felt with every touch Slytherin gave to him, and the goblet in his hand felt a little heavier for weight.

He gave a weary sigh and moved to join the fun, his eyes unconsciously following Salazar’s moves. He would come to lose that elegance in the war they would fight. Godric could never hope to understand what he felt towards the man, at least he never felt he would, he just followed wherever that him of magic took him, and was always lead right back there, to his waiting gaze.

“I met my soulmate when I met you !” A high laugh, hands fumbling, one of Rowena’s wards stood mighty and not so tall on the table, with a hasty attempt to dip her friend into some sort of kiss, and the boy cried out in surprise. One of his own, the red glint catching absently in his gaze as he halted.

“But you did not.” He breathed to himself, with something uncomfortable that prickled at the back of his neck, and Godric found he could not look away from the his two friends dancing across the hall. But you did not.

Not for the first time did he wonder if Salazar was ever likely to look at another the way Godric wished he would see him.

See him with love.

[spoiler1001]

Promo:

Caleb's new coat made by yours truely: Mollymauk Tealeaf.

Caleb didn't know the extent of Mollymauk's skills. He knew that Mollymauk was talented in fighting. He was talented in giving advice. He didn't give good advice a lot of the time. He gave creative advice. It was a special talent. 

Caleb had no idea Molly could sew. Caleb had no idea Molly could know Caleb's measurements by just looking at him. He should have known Molly would have unknown talents. The coat itself was silky with lace trimming. It was dyed blue with golden trims. It was complimenting his shoulders and chest. It was loose enough for slouching but Caleb stood up straight and the coat sparkled. There was a hood. It was mostly lace and Caleb could see through it. Caleb held the whole thing and he looked at it for a moment and a realization hit him. 

Molly made all of this by hand. This was Molly's gift to him. He didn't deserve this. This was precious.

Caleb gently placed it down on his bed and went to talk to Molly. He was working on tarot cards. He was in a good mood and his tail waved in the air. Caleb gently knocked on Molly's door, half ready to bolt at the slightest move. Molly seemed to know that Caleb was there. His tail twitched and Molly turned his head to face him.

"Hello, Mr. Caleb." Molly grinned. "You look dashing." 

"I don't think I can accept the coat." Caleb said in a hurry. Molly froze. 

"Oh, does it not fit?" Molly pouted. 

"It does. It's just- It's too precious and delicate. I can't take it." Caleb wrapped his arms around himself.

"You will. It's for you." Molly stood up and hugged Caleb. "Tell you what- we'll go out. You'll wear the coat. I'll dress up. It'll be a whole thing." Molly smiled.

Caleb blinked in surprise. "I-" 

"I'll do your hair and Makeup." Molly promised. Caleb froze.

"If that's what you want…" Caleb looked away.

"I would love to spend time with you." Molly placed a kiss on Caleb's cheek. Caleb nodded. 

"We never did go waltzing." Caleb said after a while. 

Molly's eyes widened. "Are you asking me to go dancing with you?" 

"I guess I am." Caleb agreed.

"Then it's a date." Molly jumped and pulled Caleb back into his own room. 

Molly took hours to prepare the two of them. Molly kept distracting himself with things that would look so good on Caleb. Molly was beaming with happiness, purring so loudly that Caleb could feel it in his chest.

Molly decided on giving Caleb a french braid. He had given him a golden tie to tie it off. He slipped on the new coat, with it covering his chest, down to his waist and the back of the coat dropping to his ankles. Molly just used black paint to trace his eyes. It made the blue pop. Molly used eye makeup and red lip stain, dressing in a nice shirt and pants. He wore the same boots though. Molly even wore his nice horn jewelry. 

The town at night was beautiful. There wasn't a festival, but there were candles and lights everywhere. Magic. 

After the war ending, people could enjoy small magic trinkets. The many lights and colors were sparkling against Caleb's coat. There was music in the air. 

Caleb took a deep breath, leading Molly to a dance hall and tavern. A familiar dance song filled the air.

"Mr. Mollymauk. You are owed a dance." Caleb smiled.

"Show me a good time Mr. Caleb." Molly laughed.

The dance went on for hours. Molly was spun and led around the room and even led Caleb around. 

Molly smiled and enjoyed himself. Caleb seemed to be years younger. The red in his hair was brighter, even with the silver and blond streaks in his hair. 

They didn't get drunk that night. They had some drinks but they were too focused on each other. Music still played even as people began to call it a night and headed home. Molly felt full of energy. Like the night could keep going forever. 

Caleb did eventually slow down. His eyes started to dull in exhaustion. Molly looped his arm around Caleb's bicep. It was the one with the eye marking. Molly blinked at the knowledge of that.

"This was nice. I enjoyed tonight." Caleb whispered.

"Fun is needed to enjoy life." Molly agreed. 

"You never know how much life you really have." Caleb whispered.

"Caleb-"

"Oh, not you. Between the experiments in my youth and my lifestyle. I do not know how long I am to be in this realm." Caleb smirked sardonically. "I should live more like you. Enjoying things day to day." 

"Don't talk like that." Molly nuzzled into Caleb's arm. "You are the rock in our group." 

"But we stayed together because of you." Caleb sighed. "The mighty nein. We- I almost left after...I might have gone back to Ikithon." 

"He would have killed you." Molly hummed. "I'm glad you stayed." 

"I would hope so." Caleb chucked. "In all seriousness, I would like to do this again." 

"You really are good at the waltz." Molly grinned. "I would love to do that again." 

"Molly?" Caleb asked, stopping in front of a lake, the full moons on full display. "Why did you give me this coat?" 

"You deserve something nice after going through hell and back for me." Molly answered. 

"I can't thank you enough." Caleb shrugged. 

"Then don't thank me at all. Just know that this is yours and now a part of me will travel with you forever." Molly wrapped his tail around Caleb's wrist. 

"Can I kiss you?" Caleb whispered. 

"Please do." 

If Molly purred so loud  that it called a herd of feral cats to them during the kiss, that was his own business, thank you very much.