#lake rejuvenation

[angelmush]

went to the state fair yesterday and tried so so much good food !!! my favorite things were the pickle lemonade (literally my favorite drink ever since i first tried it a couple weeks ago) and the fried pickles and the roasted corn. feeling like a true midwesterner after that :-)

[artemisthesag]

She is one with nature. 🖤❤️🐾

[jmflowers]

[jumping-jackalope]

hmmhmhmh did you know. sometimes what the tide turns up is anger!

[lilislegacy]

something i feel like we don’t talk about nearly enough is the fact that percy is healed by water.

it’s so normal to us because it’s one of the first abilities we discovered he has. and it makes complete sense. but like… he’s the only demigod with that ability. jason doesn’t get healed by a gust of wind. hazel doesn’t get healed if she touches a diamond. nico doesn’t get healed if a skeleton gives him a hug. annabeth doesn’t get healed if she walks into a library.

like percy could be stabbed in the chest multiple times, he could break every bone in his body, he could be slammed in the head resulting in a crushed skull and hemorrhaging, but get him to some water fast enough and not only is he good as new in no time, but he’s stronger and freshly rejuvenated.

it’s insane when you think about it. no one else can do that. do you know how hard it is to kill percy? even if he’s not near the ocean, he can be healed by rivers and lakes and streams and ponds and all sorts of water sources. water recharges him. it makes him immediately stronger.

that’s a huge reason why i argue percy is the most powerful demigod. yes, he’s shown he has incredible super strength and super speed. yes, he’s a legendary sword fighter - arguably the best one alive. yes, he has control over air, land, and sea. (deadly hurricanes with heavy winds and thunder and lightning, huge volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, tsunamis, floods, etc.) yes, he’s capable of mass destruction. yes he can single handedly cause natural disasters and mass casualties. and yes, he’s capable of controlling people’s bodily fluids, including their blood and saliva. he is terrifying

but even if someone manages to beat him, he dips one toe in some water and he’s immediately healed and even stronger than before. whether the injury is internal and external. he’s healed all on his own. no ambrosia or nectar or external remedies necessary.

guys. percy is insane. he’s way overpowered.

and i love it.

[soaplakere01]

Rejuvenation Oasis Exploring the Wonders of Soap Lake Natural Spa and Resort

Nestled amidst the scenic landscape of Washington state lies a hidden gem renowned for its therapeutic waters and tranquil ambiance—the Soap Lake Natural Spa and Resort. This unique destination isn't just a getaway; it's a rejuvenating experience that harmonizes nature's gifts with modern comforts.

The Legacy of Soap Lake

Centuries ago, Native American tribes discovered the healing properties of this mineral-rich lake. The high mineral content—magnesium, sulfate, calcium, and more—makes the water dense and buoyant, offering visitors a natural spa experience unlike any other. The lake's legend as a healing hub has persisted through generations, drawing people seeking relief from various ailments.

The Resort's Immersive Offerings:

The resort harmonizes with its natural surroundings, offering guests an array of accommodation options. From cozy cabins to luxurious suites overlooking the serene lake, every stay promises comfort and tranquility. The architecture seamlessly blends modern amenities with the rustic charm of the locale.

Therapeutic Treatments:

The star attraction remains the therapeutic treatments derived from the lake's unique mineral makeup. Guests indulge in mineral mud baths, renowned for their skin-nourishing properties, and mineral-rich soaks that promote relaxation and rejuvenation. The resort's skilled therapists offer specialized massages and therapies, catering to individual needs.

Connecting with Nature:

Beyond its healing waters, Soap Lake offers a bounty of natural wonders. Adventurers can explore nearby trails, immersing themselves in the lush forests and captivating wildlife. The region's breathtaking sunsets paint the sky in hues that rival any artist's palette, offering moments of serenity and awe.

Cultural Enrichment:

The resort doesn't just focus on physical rejuvenation but also on cultural enrichment. Visitors can delve into the history of the area through guided tours, discovering the rich heritage and traditions of the native tribes that once thrived here. Art exhibits and workshops provide a platform for local artists, fostering a deep connection with the community.

Culinary Delights:

The resort's culinary offerings celebrate local flavors and ingredients. Fresh produce sourced from nearby farms finds its way onto the menu, offering a delightful culinary journey. Guests can savor gourmet meals while enjoying panoramic views of the lake, creating a sensory experience that complements the overall rejuvenation process.

A Sanctuary for Wellness:

Soap Lake Natural Spa and Resort transcends the ordinary to become a sanctuary for holistic wellness. Yoga and meditation sessions held in nature's embrace amplify the healing effects of the surroundings, promoting mental and emotional well-being alongside physical revitalization.

A Sustainable Haven:

Committed to preserving the natural beauty that surrounds it, the resort emphasizes sustainability. Practices like water conservation, renewable energy utilization, and eco-friendly initiatives are ingrained in its ethos, ensuring that future generations can continue to benefit from this oasis of tranquility.

A Journey to Remember:

A visit to Soap Lake Natural Spa and Resort isn't just a vacation; it's an unforgettable journey of self-care and rejuvenation. Whether seeking healing, relaxation, or simply a connection with nature, this haven offers an experience that nourishes the mind, body, and soul.

Soap Lake Natural Spa and Resort stands as a testament to the harmonious blend of nature's bounty and human innovation. Its therapeutic waters and immersive offerings create an escape where guests not only unwind but also discover the profound healing power of the natural world. It remains an oasis of serenity—a place where one can immerse themselves in the embrace of nature and emerge rejuvenated, ready to embrace life's adventures anew.

[simplytravelprashant]

Viral#Shorts 😇😂🤪#Delhi City of Lakes #Travel guide

[delusionalbubble]

top 10 reasons to visit Lake Tanganyika

Are you visiting it but yet don’t know what are the best reasons to visit Lake Tanganyika? Lake Tanganyika is a large and beautiful lake located in East Africa, bordered by four countries: Tanzania, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi, and Zambia. It is the longest and second-deepest lake in Africa, and the second-largest freshwater lake in the world by volume. The lake is known for its…

[theholmwoodfoundation]

Welcome to the Holmwood Foundation

Sanguis Vita Est

The Holmwood Foundation is a Found Footage Horror-Fiction Podcast created by Fio Trethewey @fiotrethewey (Big Finish: Gallifrey War Room, 18th Wall Productions) and Georgia Cook @georgiacooked (Big Finish: The Eleventh Doctor Chronicles, Gallifrey War Room, BBC Books, The Dracula Daily Sketch Collection). It is a modern day sequel to the gothic novel Dracula. 

What is the Holmwood Foundation about?

Our story follows Jeremy Larkin (Played by Sean Carlsen) and Maddie Townsend (Played by Rebecca Root), two co-workers at the mysterious Holmwood Foundation, as they are possessed by the ghosts of Jonathan and Mina Harker, and embark on a road trip across the country in an effort to achieve their ghost's wishes: to stop Dracula once and for all. This is a story about identity and self discovery, family loyalty and devotion, all wrapped around a nightmare of a road trip with a rejuvenating severed head, incredibly sincere Victorian ghosts, and an analogue recorder. (Content Warnings for blood, horror themes and possession)

Where can we listen to The Holmwood Foundation?

Find our pilot episode on Acast, here:

Following a successful Kickstarter campaign, we are currently working hard on season one, which we hope to drop bi-weekly in Spring/early Summer 2025. Follow along for further updates as production progresses!

Who are the Cast and Crew?

In our pilot episode: Across the Moors, we have:

Rebecca Root as Maddie Townsend and Mina Harker, and Sean Carlsen as Jeremy Larkin and Jonathan Harker.

Other voice talents include:

Samuel Clemens as Arthur Jones Becky Wright as Thrall & Phone Voice Jessica Carroll as Newsreader Luke Kondor as Robert Swales and featuring Attila Puskas as Dracula

Joining our crew we have Samuel Clemens as Director, Katharine Armitage as our Script Editor and Benji Clifford as our Sound Engineer and Designer

In Season one, we will also be joined by:

Basil Waite as Tom Van Helsing Michelle Kelly as Henri Martin Andrew Biss as Jonathan Harker 3rd Jackie Calistaah as Elena David Ault as Dr Timothy Lake Candace Marie as Magdalena Swift Robyn Holdaway as Cam Karim Kronfli as Dave

Extra Content:

Between now and season one's release, we will slowly be sharing small pieces of related content related to the Holmwood Foundation. These might be emails, or obituaries, maybe even interviews. Follow the links below to find all of that content together:

Extract List - Updated as of 15/11/24

Tags: Frequently Asked Questions Production Updates OOC Answered Asks Extracts Foundation Emails Holmwood Foundation Art

Social Media Links here: https://linktr.ee/theholmwoodfoundation

[yuoimia]

DAY 3: IT’S JUST THE TWO OF US ❅⋆⍋

summary: a cozy vacation spent in another nation

characters: neuvillette, xiao, baizhu, wanderer, ayato, kaeya, childe, lyney, albedo, zhongli, wriothesley, venti, diluc, alhaitham, kazuha.

notes: locations handpicked by me!! these are general days in another nation, you’re not really doing anything too exhilarating, total wc: 1.8k.

⋆⁺₊❅⋆ dreamy december event masterlist

mondstadt, starfell lake - neuvillette, xiao, baizhu

Breezy and wide plains on the tops of jagged mountains, carrying a sweet breeze of berries and dandelions. Mondstadt, the nation of freedom, stole the hearts of numerous travelers, with its homely and cozy atmosphere, frolicking the winds all around Teyvat and coaxing the interest of many.

It was Mondstadt’s virtue that first drew him in. Freedom, peace, and comfort, the only things he has ever hoped, wished, yearned with every fibre of his being. Mondstadt sounded like a long-awaited exhalation of air, to finally breathe in a new breath of fresh opportunities and beginnings.

The earliest beams of sunshine crept through the sheer curtains.

If it were any other day, you’d let out a vexed groan before rolling to the other side. But today, today was another day in Mondstadt, and you’d be stupid to let any of the time go to waste.

Shoving the curtains aside, you observe in awe as Starfell Lakes glimmers like a pool of sapphire diamonds or like a flutter of fairies, their pixiedust sprinkling a bit of happiness into your day.

“It really is so beautiful here.”

The abrupt voice startles you for a split second. “Don’t creep up on me like that,” faux disappointment lacing your voice. He mutters a quiet apology before letting out a faint smile, interchangeably switching his gaze from you to the lake.

“Should we go outside?”

You nod in agreement, the excitement rejuvenating you even further. “If it’s this spectacular from afar, can you imagine how majestic it must be up close?”

“Very majestic,” he repeats, leading you both out the door.

liyue, jueyun karst - wanderer, ayato, kaeya

Dizzying peaks and swirling mists convey an atmosphere of grandeur and mystique, alluring visitors and their fascination towards the beauty of Jueyun Karst, rumoured to be the abode of the adepti, typically unreachable by mortals. Yet, there was always an abundance of people willing to test their luck and willpower, returning to tell dramatic tales of exaggerated perils and glory. Even so, there were still facts that none could deny about the quiet abode, namely, the distinctive tranquility fusing within its clouds.

It’s truly hard to believe that you weren’t a figure in a watercolor painting. Soft brushes of orange, yellow, and green leaves dance in the chilly breeze. The sound of approaching footsteps quickly snaps you out of your afternoon reverie as you turn your head towards a familiar face.

He greets you with an unsually innocent, lighthearted wave, accompanied with an intriguing wrapped basket. It doesn’t take much to piece together the pieces and present an overall message, not that he tried very hard to conceal it. Perhaps this vacation has muddled up parts of his cognitive functions.

“How are you feeling?” he inquires, the question evoking some sort of suspicion within you. “Hungry? Bored?” he continues, appearing oblivious to your raised eyebrows.

“…both?” you reply, a little confused and hesitant. “I won’t say no to some lunch.”

“Perfect, I found just the place.”

inazuma, chinju forest & grand narukami shrine - childe, lyney, albedo

Luminous flowers hidden deep in the forests, fragrant cherry blossoms lining the streets of Inazuma—the diverse variation of natural features that Inazuma beholds captivates the interest of those seeking something different, a thirst for something that simply cannot be found anywhere else.

Chinju forest, a secluded area of glowing streams and blooms, far enough from the attention of the city, and close enough to the allure of the grand shrines, a more than ideal option.

In the space of Chinju Forest, day was like night, and night was like day. There was really no hourglass here, where time ambled, the grains of sand dripping one at a time. It unlocked a rare sense of bliss, where no-one was obliged to be anything or do anything.

Despite the strong desire to explore the all-imposing Grand Narukami Shrine, the sheer amount of the flight of stairs that you needed to overcome was already giving you second thoughts.

“…Please don’t tell me…there’s more,” he groans, almost succumbing to his knees and screaming up at the sky. “How many stairs do you think we’ve walked up so far? I’ll say at least two hundred, maybe even two fifty.”

No words leave your mouth; there’s none in your head either; all you feel is a growing agonising pain in your calves and thighs. Short, tired pants take turns exiting your body, and you glance up at the new set of stairs—hopefully the last.

“Yeah, me too,” he replies, nodding understandingly as he recovers and hands you a bottle of chilled water. “Take your time, this is going to be a long one.”

After about ten minutes, you both set off again. To your utter confusion, he seems so energised, sprouting encouraging comments in the midst of silence. You’re thankful for the cheers of reassurance, but all that’s needed is a good night's rest under those glowing flowers and twinkling fireflies.

You don’t even realise for a good minute that you’ve reached the top. The sweat pooling along your clothes is an indicator of your mood—exhausted and sore all over.

Your name rings over the few other people gathered at the shrine as he eagerly hands you a fortune slip.

“Read it out loud; apparently it’s quite accurate.”

Modest Fortune: Clouds cover half the moon and the fog is thick.

Above you is the mood shrouded by cloud. Ahead of you, everything is engulfed by fog.

Though the way ahead seems unclear at the moment, all will become clear when the time comes.

Take this opportunity to improve yourself while waiting for the clouds to clear.

You’re not sure how to feel.

sumeru, port ormos - zhongli, wriothesley, venti

Port Ormos holds everything.

Marketing secrets, priceless treasures, and an aromatic scent of homemade dishes crafted with exotic spices and herbs, carrying through the refreshing winds of nearby seawater. It’s enticing—everything from the cultural architecture to the species of trees. Despite its prominence throughout Teyvat, it’s not as overcrowded as you originally thought it to be. Of course, it’s still busy, but everyone mostly keeps to themselves as they go on with their usual lives. At every new turn, you find yourself enamoured by the great variety of stores, keen to explore every inch of them, no matter how unrealistic that goal may appear.

Someone who’s probably more excited about being in the Port Ormos was probably the person trailing by your side. Out of the blue, he’d point and mutter an interesting fact, or occasionally go up to the store owner with a handful of questions, as you stood awkwardly behind him. It’s quite fine by you, though; the several friendships he’s established with owners have brought in handy discounts and bonuses.

“We should try out that new waterside restaurant,” he says one evening as you walk hand-in-hand by the docks, admiring the warm tones of a summer sunset blending together over the borders of clouds. “One of the vendors told me they have a special on Sundays.”

“Ah, a special,” you hum, amused. “Is that what caught your eye?”

“Special things always catch my eye,” he replies, a mischievous smile spreading on his face. “Would you like an example before we enter?”

You arrive at the entrance of the restaurant, and like mentioned, it boasts a stunning view of the clear and pristine waters, lapping at the edge.

There are floral garlands with small lights slithering across the corners of the ceilings, lit with blazing lamps, soft crackles of the flame add to the intimate atmosphere.

“If you insist, then sure,” you answer to his previous question. Your attention is more focused on searching the restaurant for a waiter to call.

“I think they might be standing right beside me.”

fontaine, elynas - diluc, alhaitham, kazuha

The cosmos present themselves in the elegant fashion of being subtle yet imperial, with millions of sparkling stars sprinkling all across Fontaine’s heavens, effortlessly illuminating the world underneath.

The pale streaks of moonlight gleam down onto the cascading waters and the array of flowers and shrubs, casting a magical afterglow that creates a bewitching sense of enchantment, like you were an illustration in an ancient storybook lost as the ages gone by.

Have you ever tried to paint at night? To become a midnight muse?

Cutting through the stillness were the delicate strokes of brushes on a canvas. It’s a smooth and soft sound, as the colours glide and complement each other.

You’re sitting opposite each other, one the muse of another.

With an air of finality, he looks up at you with a satisfied expression on his face as he begins to pack away the paintbrushes and palettes. Whether he’s content with his product is unknown. Nothing about his face or mannerisms convey an emotion, unless if you count the usual peaceful visage.

“Are you close to finishing?” he asks politely as he packs away the last of his equipment. “It’s alright if you haven't; those mountains aren’t exactly easy to get in the right shape.”

He’s right; the intricacies of Fontaine’s environment are undeniably striking and tedious to replicate, from the very details of the petals to the shade of grass.

You add the last few finishing touches before giving it one last, fleeting look.

“I’m finished.”

As you mutter those two words, something stirs in the air. The world suddenly feels so vastly beautiful, and this particular point in time feels so perfectly sacred that it couldn’t have been a mere coincidence, and you know it’s not.

You know that this very moment, this very vacation, this very night—you know that he must’ve planned this all along.

It was so sweet.

“Show me yours,” you suggest, crossing one leg over the other. Everything feels a thousand times more divine; everything feels so much more meaningful that it's imbedded into your head, in your guts; there's a doubt on whether it will ever leave.

“What’s got you so happy all of a sudden?” he asks lightheartedly. “Don’t raise your expectations too high; I can’t be an exception for everything.”

You’re just smiling, beaming up at the glittering stars, forever grateful for all the light they’ve bestowed upon you, because it’s been a while since you’ve last told them thank you.

Their splendour radiates down to your face; iridescent shimmers twinkle in the tears unknowingly sliding down your face.

[loveshotzz]

12 -mutual masturbation while camping in a tent. 

maybe tough girl finally gets to go on the annual camping trip :)

A/N:Thank you for your request angel, the way I had to write this immediately. I love this, I love you and I love them. 💗 this request comes from my completed series All I Really Want Is You but can be read as a stand alone. All you need to know is he calls you Tough Girl, you’ve been dating a year and he’s got a dog named Bandit.

wc: 2k

warnings: 18+, established relationship, age gap (reader is 30 and Steve is 42) slight somno I guess? reader is touching herself but not him, mutual masturbation, dirty talk, semi public.

AIRWIY!older!steve x fem! reader

The birds chirping stirs you first, the sunlight leaking through the half opened flap at the front of the tent, second. Eyes shifting behind closed lids that aren’t ready to open yet, the soft sound of Steve’s slumbered breathing next to you brings the beginning of a smile tugging up at the corners of your lips. The clinking of metal from Bandit’s leash outside is what finally gets you to open your eyes. You’d heard Steve in a daze take him out to pee before letting him bring in the sunrise outside the tent, quickly realizing this was the dog’s favorite part of these getaways.

The air mattress makes a noise that has you cringing when you roll over on the spread out sleeping bags to get a better look at him, the fresh humidity making your skin stick to it. You can’t stop that sigh that slips past your lips at the sight as he takes up room on his back. His permanent bed head is even messier than normal from a night under the stars with your hands in his hair and the stubble that lines his jaw rubbing the inside of your thighs raw. Rejuvenated after a shower that washed off the first two days of the trip.

The streaks of gray that sprinkle through his honey locks stand out even more in the daylight. The crows feet and laugh lines that you’d like to think got deeper in his first year with you are smoothed out in his sleep. You can’t help but wonder what he’s dreaming about, secretly hoping it’s you and not just the morning that has the blood rushing south.

His chest is bare, the dark thatch of hair in the middle looking soft in the warm light, the moles and freckles that dot his tan skin beg to be kissed, just like the sun had the pleasure of doing all weekend. One leg is kicked out of the covers, revealing a low hanging pair of black mesh shorts giving you a peek at the faint hint of a tan line from your days hiking down to the lake. A big hand lays spread across his stomach while the other looks like it got halfway across the small space between you on the search for yours before he fell back asleep.   

Your thighs press together in your small sleep shorts, searching for some kind of friction that you know won’t be enough for the low simmer that’s already started deep in your gut. Why did he always have to look so good? 

Steve licks his full lips, and you can’t help the way your hand starts to wander towards the ache between your legs that’s begging for attention. Fighting with your self control, your nerves ring in your ears and you swear the birds outside get louder when the tips of your fingers start to play with your waist band. 

You freeze when he grunts, blunt nails scratching his stomach making the muscles in his pecs flex. The slight pinch of his brows when something happens in his dream is enough for you to push past the elastic, your fingertips meeting your already dripping folds with a shaky breath through your nose.

Your hips roll, your pointer and index finger spreading your lips apart before the pads of them catch your bundle of nerves when you drag them back up with enough pressure to make you whimper. They don’t feel as good as his, and your heavy lidded gaze focuses on his hand spread across his stomach as you add a third finger to try and mimic the feeling. It’s almost enough and it makes you have to bite your lip to keep quiet, the sound of how wet you already are is almost enough to compete with the growing sounds of the woods coming alive.

“Fuck - honey,” Steve’s voice startles you, thick with sleep and the unmistakable gravel of want, “Why didn’t you wake me up if you needed me so bad huh?”

Your eyes meet his, and all you can do is whine in response when you see all the colors usually inside of them first thing in the morning are gone. The bright greens and gold specks are replaced with something dark and hungry, jaw a little slack while his own hand reaches down, squeezing his now fully hard length over his shorts to relieve some of the throb.  

“You know I’d never say no to you,” He whispers, his own hips rocking into his palm. You start to push two fingers in, your greedy walls fluttering despite the embarrassment of being caught making heat rise to your cheeks.  “What’s got you so worked up baby?”

He pushes his shorts half way down his hairy thighs, the full thickness of his cock smacking against the dark trail on his stomach. Already leaking, the fat tip of him looks angry as he wraps his fingers around the base, the pad of his thumb swiping over the top making him shudder. He pumps once, twice before rolling over on his side, kicking his shorts all the way off along with the blanket exposing you both to the morning air.

“Come on, don’t be shy now.” He’s closer like this, your noses almost touching and you can smell last night's bonfire still lingering. His eyes roam your body while his wrist sets a slow pace watching your nipples pebble under the thin fabric of your tank when a light breeze ruffles the walls of your tent. 

“Y-you - you just looked so good.” Your confession sounds pathetic, but it makes his eyes squeeze shut and a deep breath exhale through his nose, cock twitching in his big hand before he opens them again. 

He leans in so his lips ghost against yours, the tip of his tongue tracing the curve of your bottom one before licking into your mouth to steal your breath with the kind of kiss that was usually reserved for late nights after a couple of bottles of wine. 

“Take your shorts off, be good for me and let me see honey.” He pants, already wrecked, pressing another soft kiss to your lips before shifting to sit up, the air mattress making you bounce with the redistribution of his weight giving him the perfect view down every curve and dip of your body. 

Listening to him, you feel more exposed than ever with your legs spread wide despite no one being around. Steve groans at the visual of you like this, the motions of his wrist getting quicker while his free hand reaches down to pull up your tank by the hem, the soft fat of your breasts spilling out for his hungry eyes. It feels dirty and new, touching yourself like this for him and it only adds to the growing slick between your thighs.

“God, I’m so lucky - can’t believe you're mine. Wakin’ up to you like this? So damn pretty, baby - shit.” He groans, already babbling, squeezing hard at the base of his cock when he sees your arousal gleam in the sunlight every time you pull your fingers out, drunk off watching them disappear again.

“I want you all the fucking time, Steve.” You whine hips pushing up when you add a third one, back arching when he tweaks one of your nipples.

“Yeah?” He asks before spitting into his hand, the slick sounds of his palm working his length even harder blending in with the messy way your walls suck you in. “Tell me about it.”

You nod, completely gone by hearing him talk to you like this, curving your fingers just right to hit the spot that makes you keen. A strangled noise leaving his throat when he clocks the way your thighs start to shake, your mind racing with thoughts of him. He needs you to come soon, and when he sees the pad of your thumb start to rub messy circles on your puffy clit he knows he doesn’t have to hold off for very long.

“You’re just so sexy all the time,” it’s your turn to babble and the breathy laugh that leaves him makes you clamp around your fingers even tighter despite wishing you could roll your eyes, “Those fucking running shorts, your suits, god I want you to bend me over your desk so bad. I think about it all the - ohhhh- a lot.” 

“Jesus - baby, m’gonna have you meet me for lunch when we get back, god wear that short little dress, yeah? I’ll give you what you want, shit - anything you want.” He stutters feeling himself start to get close, your confessions bringing him to the edge. 

“I - mmm- I won’t wear any underwear.” You giggle before your mouth falls open, the band inside of you dangerously close to snapping at the thought of him behind his desk and the predatory way he’d watch the sway of your hips knowing you’re bare and already soaked for him underneath. 

“Dirty girl,” He moans and you hear the back of his head slide against the tent, “my dirty girl.”

Looking up, your eyes roam the way his chest heaves the closer he gets to his climax, sweat beading and starting to drip down his neck where the veins protrude. His gaze is heavy and hot, and it doesn’t leave you, it begs you to fall apart for him. He watches how your eyes glaze over, completely wrecked at the sight of him and the corner of his mouth turns up.

“Gonna be good and come for me now?” It’s soft when he asks despite how filthy the sounds echoing in the tent are, and when you nod with your bottom lip tucked between your teeth, his grin widens. “Of course you are, always so good, so sweet.”

The last part comes out strained, his cock twitching catching the way your thighs start to shut when the drag of your fingers in your cunt becomes deliberate. You were close. The hand that he’s kept on the dough of your breast reaches down to pull your knees apart tutting under his breath.

“I wanna see it, let me have it, come on baby.”

His words are enough for you to push your head back into the pillow, your leg fighting against his firm grip to shut as the rubber band finally snaps. His name falls from lips long and drawn out, a high pitch whine that turns into a gasp and a shuddered loud moan when he pushes your hand away to replace it with his. Thick fingers collect everything you give him, pulling even more from you when he dips inside to hit the spot you could barely reach, praising you as you come even harder.

The feeling of your velvet walls squeezing tight around him brings Steve over the edge, gasping your name with a guttural groan that vibrates from his chest as he spills across his thighs and stomach. Chest heaving from the force of it, the visual of you spread out and falling apart for him makes him see white with his release.

The only sounds are your labored breathing, and a forest that’s come alive in the daylight.  You hear Bandit shuffle around to move to another spot following the moving sun as it gets higher in the sky, warming the tent more. Steve is gentle when he pulls out of you, bending down to kiss your sweaty forehead before grabbing his basketball shorts. He chuckles, wiping himself down feeling like a teenager again with nothing else around to clean himself up, your breathy giggle making his teeth shine in a wide grin before he lays himself back down. 

There’s zero hesitation to pull you to his chest despite the growing stickiness with the heat, peppering kisses across your face before collecting your lips in something a little sweeter.

“Morning, tough girl.” 

[nhlclover]

𝐒𝐎 𝐀𝐌𝐄𝐑𝐈𝐂𝐀𝐍 | 𝐑𝐔𝐓𝐆𝐄𝐑 𝐌𝐂𝐆𝐑𝐎𝐀𝐑𝐓𝐘

word count: 1.35k

summary: on your way to the spend a weekend at the lake house with his teammates, you think about your future with rutger

warnings: british reader!, mentions of some other umich players (nick, duke brothers), brief sad thoughts

notes: based on 'so american' by olivia rodrigo. who am i if not writing fics based on songs.

The morning sun was beginning to rise, casting a golden hue on Rutger’s jeep that rumbled down the highway, its tires humming against the asphalt. Rutger sat in the driver's seat, his left hand holding a loose grip on the wheel, while you sat comfortably in the passenger seat, your feet were propped up on the dashboard. Rutger insisted you hit the road early to get to Jacob’s lake house around mid-morning. You felt that was a little too early, but he was excited to spend some spare time at the end of the semester with his friends and girlfriend, relaxing on the water. To make up for the early start time, Rutger bought you an iced coffee and promised that you could sleep in the car on the way over.

However, you couldn’t find yourself able to fall back asleep, instead taking over aux, the early morning air that flowed through the cracked windows helping to rejuvenate you. You tapped your fingers against the door handle, matching the beat of the song you’d selected. Dirt On My Boots by Jon Pardi filled the space, a contented smile gracing your lips.

“You’ve turned so American.” Rutger says, pulling your brain out of its brief daze.

“What?” You ask, your brows furrowing.

“I mean… look at you,” Rutger says with a chuckle. “You’re sitting there with your feet on the dash, you’re listening to country music, and you’re repping USA merch.”

Rutger motions to one of his hoodies that you’d thrown on as you were leaving. It was one given to him by the world juniors team he’d just played on, the letters U-S-A largely displayed on the chest.

You turned to him, adjusting your position in the seat. "Oh, please, don't say that. I'm still very much British, thank you very much." You retort, rejecting the idea that you’d become American in any way.

When you applied for an exchange to the University of Michigan, nothing could’ve prepared you for what would’ve come. On your first day of classes in the new country, you met Rutger. When a pretty girl sat next to him in one of his classes, he knew he had to talk to her. It didn’t take long for the two of you to develop feelings, Rutger soon being the ‘dreamy American’ that your friends had jokingly told you you’d fall for. And fall for him you did.

It was unfair of Rutger to make you feel this much when you both knew your future was uncertain.

“Hey, there is nothing wrong with being American.” Rutger points out.

“Yeah says the American.” You tease, rolling your eyes. “Thank god I’m going home soon. I need to reconnect with my roots if you think I’ve become American.”

Despite that being a joke, you couldn't shake the underlying sadness that gnawed at you. In just one week, you were leaving Michigan and returning to the UK. The thought of leaving Rutger and the life you’d established in Michigan weighed heavily on your heart. You knew that the bond you’d established with Rutger would withstand the miles and borders, however the prospect of being separated from him felt like tearing away a piece of you.

Rutger, sensing the shift in your demeanour as well as knowing that the inevitable move was weighing on you, reached over, taking your hand in his. His cold fingers lacing between yours quickly drew you back to reality.

“Hey,” He said softly. “Try not to think about it for now. Enjoy this weekend. We’ve got ages to figure it all out.”

You squeezed Rutger’s hand drawing comfort from his touch. With a gentle smile, you met his gaze, gratitude shining in your eyes. “Thank you, Rut.” You said softly.

Rutger returned your smile, turning his attention back to the road while keeping your hand in his. You continued the drive, doing your best to expel the thoughts of leaving from your mind.

Three hours later, Rutger pulled down a laneway that ultimately led to a large house on the water. Rutger’s teammates were already outside, eagerly awaiting your arrival.

“Hey guys!” Rutger called out as they stepped out of the car. Rutger’s teammates come over, greeting the two of them.

“This place is beautiful.” You comment, admiring the glimpse of the water you could see past the house.

“God, I will never get over the accent.” Nick said. Rutger shoved his shoulder while you playfully rolled your eyes.

You considered yourself lucky that you’d become friends with Rutger’s teammates. From the moment Rutger introduced you to them, they’d welcomed you with open arms. And as you spent more time with them, they weren’t just Rutger’s teammates, they were your friends as well.

“Alright, now go get changed, we’re hitting the water.” Luca said, ushering the two of you inside.

You headed up to your room, changed into the swimsuits you’d brought, and then headed downstairs to meet the rest of the group. The rest of the afternoon, you guys remained on the water. You all took turns on the tube, as well as some of the boys deciding to test their water skiing skills. When the sun began to descend towards the horizon, a golden hue being cast on the water, you headed back to the house to start dinner, which was a full team activity in which everyone was put to work doing something. You and Rutger were put in charge of the barbecue on the back patio, teaming up with Dylan and Tyler to grill the burgers and corn.

After dinner was demolished, you headed down to the fire pit, relaxing in the Adirondack chairs, talking about whatever came to mind. The flames cast flickering glows on everyone's faces as you discussed sports, your exams, and random childhood anecdotes whether relevant or not. After a while of drinking and chatting, both you and Rutger hit your limits and decide to call it a night.

The second that Rutger’s head hits the pillow, he’s out like a light, the day’s activities catching up with him. After a full day of tubing and waterskiing, combined with the drinks they’d consumed throughout the day, everyone was wiped. You, however, lay awake, the moonlight reflecting off the water and into the open window.

You traced your fingers through Rutger's hair, watching his bare chest rise and fall with steady breaths. With the tranquillity of the room enveloping you, you find yourself lost in a maze of thoughts, your mind swirling with visions of Rutger and the future they could share.

England was home. England was where you grew up, where your family and friends still resided. The thought of leaving them to be in North America made your heart tense. However, lying in the sheets and staring up at the ceiling, you couldn’t help but imagine moving to North America to be with Rutger. As you look over at him, still peacefully asleep, you imagine the prospect of uprooting your life for the American boy you fell in love with, of bridging the distance to be with Rutger.

Your thoughts continue to wander, picturing what could come of life in America with Rutger. Your mind entertains the notion of marriage, a distant yet possible milestone. That might be a little presumptuous of you, with your relationship still being in its infancy, but you practically couldn’t help it. The way he’d made you feel in the past 8 months was unlike anything you’d ever experienced before. Every moment with him felt like a moment torn from a romance book. Every moment with him was filled with laughter and stolen glances, creating an undeniable intimacy and connection.

You had to eventually force those thoughts out of your mind or else they would’ve kept you up all night. You rolled over, curling into Rutger’s side, and placing a delicate hand on his abs. Rutger stirred momentarily, instinctively wrapping his arm around you, drawing you closer. For now, you were content to simply be in this moment with him, cherishing the time you had left before you had to return home.

[novlr]

How to write the heat?

Quick Tips on How to Write Heat

Heat can have many connotations in your stories beyond just temperature. It can be a sensation, an event, or even a metaphor for something else. The way a character internalises or experiences heat will also be unique to them, so here are some quick tips on how to use imagery to convey heat in a variety of ways.

In Nature

Use colours like red, yellow, or orange

Parched scenery, like cracked earth and dry leaves

Bright sunlight

Mirages

Blistering winds

Heat waves radiating from hot asphalt

Animals huddling in the shade

Wide and barren landscapes

Hot sand to contrast with cool water

Wilting vegetation and a change in colour

The sound of cicadas

Foods and Objects

Hot peppers with bright colours

Spicy dishes (and how characters handle them)

Melting ice cream and frozen drinks

The sizzling sound of food in a hot pan

The smell of a barbeque

Cold drinks that provide relief

Flip flops, shorts, and tank tops

Sunscreen and hats

Metal and leather that is too hot to touch

Salt or minerals left on surfaces after liquid evaporates

Faded colours on objects left in the sun

Peeling paint

The hiss of steam from a kettle

Character Moods

Short-tempered

Lazy

Discomfort

Easily frustrated

Disinterested

Relaxed

Energised

Joyful

Exhausted

Adventurous

Anxious

Fearful

Irritable

Lethargic

Contemplative

Restless

Overwhelmed

Rejuvenated

Impatient

Distracted

Apprehensive

Isolated

Embarrassed

Motivated

Character Body Language

Wiping sweat from their faces

Fanning themselves

Shifting uncomfortable

Sluggish movements

Licking lips and swallowing due to dehydration

Shedding layers of clothing

Unconsciously moving toward the shade

Constantly drinking

Breathing heavily

Squinting or shielding eyes

Flushed skin

Panting or shallow breathing

Avoiding physical contact

Actions and Events

Seeking shelter during a heatwave

Roadtrips in a hot car with the windows open

Swimming at a pool, lake, or a beach

Sharing drinks with friends at a cafe, bar, or beer garden

Planning holidays to cooler climates

Staying indoors to read to watch TV where it’s cool

Watching the sunset or sunrise when it’s cooler

Going out at night to avoid the heat of the day

Beach parties and barbeques

Wildfire warnings

Outdoor markets and garage sales

Camping trips

Positive Aspects

Heat can be a time of joy, where families and friends can enjoy time together doing outdoor activities not available to them the rest of the year. Food becomes lighter, the days are longer, and people tend to get more exercise. There are also positive ways to describe the juxtaposition of something hot after immediately experiencing the cold, like a hot drink on a cold day.

Negative Aspects

Not every association with heat is positive. Hot weather brings environmental damage like droughts and wildfires that affect agriculture and wildlife. It can also lead to physical discomfort, like heat rash, dehydration, sunburn, sleep disruption, or being forced to work or exercise in uncomfortable environments.

Helpful Synonyms

Scorching

Blistering

Temperate

Boiling

Fiery

Burning

Inferno

Glowing

Simmering

Sweltering

Torrid

Steaming

Tropical

Flaming

Feverish

Stifling

Roasting

Searing

Tropical

Radiant

Common metaphors

Passion or desire

Anger and conflict

Pressure or stress

Excitement and energy

Change or transformation

Danger or warning

Life and vitality

[tldrthor]

The Princess (ATCSBWH): Part III

Summary: A training session with the Captain, Bucky and Sam goes wrong for the princess. She grows more tired by the day. Unwelcome guests arrive, and mess up Tony's lawn.

Part 3 // Attention. The perimeter has been breached. // word count: 2.5k

part one | part two | my masterlist

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

"It's been way too long since we've had a job." Bucky stated matter-of-factly. Sam hummed in response, taking a sip from his coffee. Cap wasn’t entirely sure why they were sitting in the office while he had work to do, considering the two of them very rarely did any of the paperwork they were supposed to. He didn’t mind picking up the slack, but they were very distracting. He was already working double time to try and make it through the ever-growing stack before it got completely unmanageable. 

He didn't look up from the desk, rolling his eyes. "It's been too long since you've had a job, Buck. I've had plenty to do."

Bucky huffed and exchanged a look with Sam. "You're behind because you've been spending a lot of time with you-know-who."

“Man’s got a point,” chimed Sam. “You’ve not been doing your paperwork, and you’ve been neglecting us. We haven’t trained all together since before (y/n)’s arrival.” His tone was joking, but Steve could tell there was a hint hidden within the joke. The captain’s eyes snapped up in a playful warning glance to his friend. "I've been helping to get the Princess settled in and nothing more, if that's what you're implying. That is part of my job."

Sam and Bucky both scoffed. "Yeah, like wandering around the lake and chatting for hours at a time is a chore. Tell it to Peter, who you ‘settled in’ by making him train every day.”

“You’ve gone soft, Stevie.” Bucky teased.

Steve smirked and shook his head. “Fine, let’s train later today. I’ll invite the princess, see if she wants to join.”

Both men seemed happy at the compromise. 

“Now, guys. I’ve got so much to do, please go and bother someone else. I think I saw Parker coming back from school, why don’t you go hassle him?”

The two guys exchanged a glance, shrugged, and nodded at each other. “Sounds good.” And they were gone.

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

The dark water of the lake was rejuvenating. If she closed her eyes, it was almost like she was back on Alfheim, in the crystal waters of the palace pools. The biting cold helped rest her racing mind.

As she floated, eyes closed, delicate raindrops tickled her legs and arms. The wind whipped around her, it’s cold embrace wholly welcomed. She thought of home. Of her family. Of the fact that she was now back alongside the lost love of nearly a century ago.

As she felt the sadness creep into her mind, she realised that she was sore. Her body ached and the bags under her eyes grew by the day. She found as she sat with the others watching films or listening to music, she drifted into a deeper and deeper sleep each time. She feared the Alfsleep was coming for her… It made sense. The last few months had been nothing short of nightmarish. Her hand unconsciously moved to the stab wound on her collarbone as she recounted the attack of that night, and her escape to Asgard.

Steve watched her from the side, not wanting to disturb her peace but wanting to invite her to train with them. From what Thor had said, she had fought in battles with her people's military, and was a prolific warrior. Thor had also called her a magician, and Steve almost didn't want to know what that meant.

"Princess!" He called. 

She didn't hear him, continuing to float. He splashed his hand into the water, hoping that her enhanced hearing would pick up the disturbance in the water.

It worked. She startled, her head lifting from the water. Her features softened as her eyes landed on him. 

He smiled, softly, his eyes crinkling. She loved that smile – a boyish charm that greatly reminded her of her Steve, from before. The boy who went into the ice. 

The memory of that day burned across her memory like a hot poker. She pushed it down.

She moved through the water towards him like something akin to a nymph, a spirit of the water. It was almost as if the water parted for her, she barely made any ripples at all as she moved.

"Good morning, Captain." She greeted him, as he held a hand out to help her onto the dock. She shivered slightly upon leaving the water, quickly covering herself with her towel.

"Good swim?" He asked.

She pulled her coverup over her head, slipping on her sandals to walk back to the living quarters. "It was lovely, thank you." There was a sadness to the kind smile she offered him, that Steve found himself frowning at. He didn't pry.

"Good, good.” He examined her features, finding no answers in them. He continued; “Buck and Sam want to do some training today since it's been a while since we've had a job, I was wondering if you would like to join?" They walked together step by step. 

"I would love to join." She smiled. To be honest, she was so tired. She wasn't sure she would perform her best, or even really had the energy for it, but she would never be so rude as to deny an invitation made in earnest.

They wandered back to the facility, mostly small talking about the weather, and how their mornings had been. Steve commented on the fact she had gone to bed very early the night previous, and asked if she was feeling any better. She nodded politely. It was a lie.

"Well, I'll let you get ready. Join us in gym two when you're done?"

She bowed her head politely, and turned to get changed.

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

The sight she saw upon entering the gym was quizzical. Sam opened and closed his hand, shaking it as if injured. Bucky held his top up, in order to show his abs. Steve stood with an incredulous look, clearly disapproving of the two’s activities. 

(Y/n) tilted her head in confusion.

“I told you, that’s abs of steel.” Bucky laughed as Sam cursed and continued to inspect his hand, as if broken. As soon as they noticed the princess in the doorway, Sam straightened his back and stopped waving his hand in the air. Bucky dropped his t-shirt, but laughed at Sam’s sudden change in demeanour.

“Oh, hey Princess. I didn’t see you there.” Sam smiled sweetly. 

Bucky laughed, “Yeah, obviously.” He turned to her; “You ready to train?”

Steve stepped up upon the princess nodding to Bucky’s question; “I’ll spar with (y/n) first.” 

The princess noted that he was using her real name, rather than just ‘princess’ more and more now. It made her happy, more settled here. Plus, she wasn’t sure if there was even a planet for her to rule over now. She couldn’t think that way.

She stepped into the ring, the ropes kindly held open by Sam. 

“We’ll go easy first, okay?” The captain kindly offered. 

The princess smiled, a radiant smile that made Steve’s face blush almost imperceptibly. Almost. “I don’t need you to go easy on me, Captain.” They laughed together.

“Okay, go.” Bucky and Sam watched on as neither of them wanted to make the first move. They both held their hands in defensive positions, circling. Each had their eyes narrowed on their opponent, observing every change in musculature, every breath the other made. 

Sam hadn’t fully believed the stories Steve and Bucky had told him about this young woman taking down entire squadrons on her own, but in the way she moved, she resembled a viper.

She struck. A blur towards him, going for his mostly unguarded torso. He blocked her, barely. Both Sam and Bucky suddenly realised this was not going to be as straightforward as they thought.

“Okay…” Steve muttered. He made his first offensive move, a slower-than-normal right hook towards her shoulder. She not only blocked, but used the momentum from blocking to flow into her opposite shoulder, and land a pretty heavy hit on his side.

“Woah.” Commentary from the sidelines was unheard by either of the sparring pair.

A blow from the princess, blocked. A retaliation from the Captain, dodged. It went on like this for a while, neither having enough fire to really finish the fight. 

Attack. Dodge. Kick. Punch. Block. Hit. Dodge. Move.

The princess faked to the right, blocked an incoming right-hook, sank to the floor and swept his leg out from under him. He hit the deck with a hearty oof, lying on his back. The princess stood over him, her chest rising quickly up and down, her face glowing. 

She spoke quietly: “If we were truly fighting, my dagger would be at your throat.”

Steve wouldn’t admit out loud that the way she said it gave him goosebumps. 

“Damn, that’s cold.” Sam uttered quietly. Both men giggled at Steve’s perplexed look. 

(Y/n) held out her hand, and helped her partner up.  “You got me.” Steve smiled politely. 

“Come on now, Captain. I know you pulled your punches. Fight me seriously.”

He tentatively agreed, readying himself again.

Sam called the start of the fight. They began quicker this time, Cap trying to do as he was told, and fight seriously. He swung for her side, landing the blow. It was a little harder than he had meant to.

“Oh god, I’m sorry –” before he could finish his sentence, she landed a rough kick to his side and sent him off kilter.

“Do you apologise on the battlefield, Captain?” She teased as she moved around him. Everything was happening so fast.

They were landing more hits this time, blocking less efficiently in a more offensive fight than the last. She hit hard, and moved in such an unpredictable manner that Cap found it rather difficult to tell where she was going next. It was a fighting style that reminded Steve of his training sessions with the Asgardians.

He landed a blow to her hip, going low to try and gain more ground and block her onslaught of well-timed and executed hits and kicks. It worked, she gasped and took a step back. He saw an opening.

As his fist met her collarbone, she cried out. 

Fuck. Shit. Fuck. He thought. He had completely forgotten about her stab-wound right where he had landed that blow. You idiot. You've hurt her.

The princess’ knees buckled from the pain as he rushed forward to catch her. Bucky and Sam moved inside the ring as well as soon as they registered what was happening.

“Princess, I am so sorry. I forgot about your wound.” Cap sat her on a stool passed to him by Bucky. The princess was much more pallid than before, resembling nearly a shade of green.

“It’s alright, Captain. Please don’t worry about it.” She said through gritted teeth, her hand not leaving her wound. Blood red soaked her flowy shirt like ink. 

“(Y/n), you’re bleeding quite a lot. I think we should get you to medical.” Sam, snapping into responsible mode, picked up one of the clean towels and pressed it firmly to her wound. Steve took her other arm, and they gently led her to the medical wing. 

Steve didn’t think he had ever hated himself more than he did now.

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

“So you’re all restitched and ready to go.” Dr. Cho smiled, rapidly pressing the keyboard on her tablet. “But no more training, okay?”

The princess nodded in promise, and the captain winced shamefully.

Turning to him, the princess spoke; “I’m sorry I ruined your training session, Captain.”

“No! No, it was me. I completely forgot you were stabbed a couple of weeks ago. I got too caught up in the fight. I’m sorry.”

“Then I suppose we are both sorry.” She smiled at him. He smiled back. “Would you mind escorting me back to my chambers? The beeping from the machines is incredibly loud.”

He hadn’t even noticed the gentle noise coming from the various pieces of equipment around them, but he nodded and obliged, helping her up. He stabilised her with the  arm that hadn’t been put in a sling. Dr. Cho had taken to completely immobilising even the smaller wounds as she had discovered that it helped remind the Avengers that they were not to move.

It would be indecent of him to admit that, actually, the feeling of her skin on his skin sent electricity running through his veins. A memory flashed across his mind.

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

His heart fluttered as they entered the bar. He watched, entranced, as she appeared from behind Agent Carter.

Her hair was pinned perfectly, her otherworldly glow radiating from her wonderful smile. She wore a gorgeous, flowy dress that on anyone else would be unstylish. But on her, it was perfect.

"God, you're smitten!" Bucky watched the way Steve's face never moved from the girl who had just walked in. Steve had had crushes before, sure, but this was something else.

"Yeah, I am." He smiled.

And what's worse is he could see it in the dame's face too.

"Hi." She breathed, a nervous aura surrounding her shining smile. He, ever the gentleman, offered to take her coat, and gently hung it up at the door.

"Bucky, this is Agent (y/l/n)." Bucky smiled and said hi politely, turning on his usual charm. "And this is Agent Carter." Steve introduced both of them.

"Call me (y/n)." The first woman shook his hand. The other said hello, and quickly ordered a drink and left to sit down with the commandos.

"Nice to meet you, (y/n)." He raised a glass to her, and then left the lovebirds to their business.

The band struck up in a wonderfully jazzy song. The bar cheered, the howling commandos joining in with the lyrics. They clinked their drinks together, and shared a drink, before setting them back down on the bar.

Steve leaned over and whispered in her ear.

"Would you like to dance?"

"Yes, please." She replied.

When she wrapped her arms around his neck, and he wrapped his around her waist, he thought it would feel awkward. He thought it would require getting used to. But it was the most natural feeling in the world. Like this, this moment, was where he was always supposed to be. If the string of fate existed, he had reached it's origin. Her.

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

“Are you sure you want to go to your room? I would rather you be somewhere we can keep an eye on you.” Steve spoke more assertively than he had with her since her arrival. 

“I am very tired, Captain. I promise I will be more than okay, Dr. Cho has fixed the stitches that were ruptured. I will report to you first thing tomorrow, you have my word.” 

He tensed his jaw in deliberation, but eventually agreed. “Okay, but please tell FRIDAY to fetch one of us if you need anything.”

“Of course, Captain. Good night.” She bowed her head in curtsy, entering her bedroom and closing the door behind her. After a few, long seconds, she heard his footsteps echo down the hall. 

She breathed out a long, shaky breath. The darkness on the edges of her vision started to creep inwards, the all-too-familiar feeling taking over her every muscle. Although she had only done this once, she knew exactly what was happening.

The Alfsleep.

“No…” She whispered to nobody, landing on the floor. Her vision faded and her breathing slowed, knowing it was futile to resist.

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

“How is she?” Bucky asked as Steve entered the kitchen, a forlorn and guilty look on his face. He walked over to the fridge, took out some milk, and drank it straight from the bottle. He ignored Tony and Natasha’s exclaims of gross!

He placed the milk back in the fridge, and perched himself on one of the bar stools. “She’s okay, I think. Hurt. She seemed really tired, and I’m a little concerned, but when I tried to get her to be somewhere we could watch her, but she just wanted to go to bed.”

Buck and Sam nodded sympathetically to their friend.

“She’s been through a lot. Maybe she just needs space.” Sam offered helpfully. “Come on, that show you like to watch has released a new episode. We can watch it to get your mind off of it.”

Steve shuffled to the couch, slumping on to it with a defeated posture. Guilt was tearing at him, and Buck especially could tell. He squeezed his friend's shoulder in support, knowing that words wouldn’t help the storm in his brain right now.

Their peace was quickly disrupted by a siren and red, flashing lights.. 

Attention. The perimeter has been breached. Attention. The perimeter has been breached.

Each of them jumped into action, pulling concealed weapons from around the room and sprinting towards the armoury. Tony grabbed a tablet and projected the security footage into the room.

“Bucky, come with me. We have to protect the princess.” Cap ordered, immediately assuming the role of leader, as the others headed to investigate the breach and gear up. “Sam, bring our weapons and meet us at (y/n)’s room when you can.”

Sam nodded, as Bucky and Steve took off towards the princesses bedroom.

“Oh, shit.” Tony remarked, eyes glancing back and forth across the screen.

Three, dark spaceships, landed menacingly on the lawn. And a small army of Dark Elves in front of them. All out for the Princess' blood.

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

AUTHOR'S NOTE

I'm so sorry this took so long, I've been really busy at university. Now that it's the holidays I'm going to try and get a few chapters of this story out before I go back to school in January!

As always, constructive feedback is super appreciated, I'm always trying to learn and improve. Even if you have any ideas for where the story could go, or any scenes! My anon asks are open should this be a preferred method of communication <3

Sorry for the long message!

TAGLIST

@aliciaasky @vicmc624 @jvdgement @megluv1 @moviegurl2002 @capswife @gothamlovr91 @hi172826 @hopefulbonkvoidland @silentscream2022 @rottentothecorey @jules-and-gemss @saturnhas82moons @yiiiikesmish @exposition-belongs-somewhere @disneyprincessbuffyannesummers

Thank you guys for your support! As always let me know if you want to be removed from my taglist <3 x

[sea-lanterns]

lmfao

Axolotol!Reader: frowns

Every woman in a 6 mile radius: proceeds to run at full speed and spike axolotol!reader like a footbal into the nearest lake

The moment when your smile even falters an inch below the line, every woman is immediately rushing over to hurl you into the nearest water source available and make sure their special Axolotl Gf is attentively cared for.

Expect pat downs, belly rubs, someone feeding you your favorite snacks, all simultaneously while you soak in the refreshing cold water to rejuvenate your skin.

Yes…splendid. Hydrate that skin…yes… 🫠