#like C'MON his psychic's just needed better...well...PSYCHIC'S TO WORK

[slymanner]

Look all I'm saying is if that a shadow game can work THAT well and be so well designed story wise and gameplay wise

HE can work

[lonely-writer]

From the right in the gut list: “I just don’t feel anything anymore.” 🥺😘

Thank you so much for the ask!

TW: Mentions of death, alcohol mention, unwanted flirting/harassment, swearing, alcohol as a coping mechanism

Pairing: Eddie Diaz x Female!Reader

Tags: Swearing, drinking, angst, lots of angst, harassment, caring!eddie, mentions of death, nurse!reader, guilt, depression, alcohol as a coping mechanism, talk about therapy

You had a hard day. You had a very hard day and you couldn't handle it anymore. You had lost a patient- no not a patient, you had lost a child and you had to comfort their parents while they sobbed over their child's lifeless body that you had failed to save. So you were drinking away the pain and suffering you had put a family through, the pain and suffering that that poor child had gone through, the pain and suffering that you were currently going through.

You were drinking alone at a bar at a place you didn't know, with a stranger you didn't like very obviously trying to flirt with you. Slamming back another shot of vodka...or was it tequila? Who knew at that point. You turned your attention to the man that was flirting with you and you gave him a disgusted look- or whatever you could muster up at this point without becoming a sobbing mess, "I'm nah interested." You slur drunkenly towards the man, though he doesn't seem deterred by your rejection.

"Aw c'mon princess, you're lookin a little down. I could make you feel a whole lot better." The man offers with a suggestive wink as he nudges your arm, had you been the least bit sober you might've slapped his hand away or called him a bastard to his face but at this point you've had at least two bottles full of shots and maybe your judgement isn't what it usually is but you honestly don't want to argue with him.

"Nah thanks...got a boyfriend." You answer flagging down the bartender for another shot, you should've been cut off a long time ago but tonight the bar is filled and the bartender isn't paying nearly enough attention to you and other patrons of the bar that have been drinking way past their limit. The stranger beside you doesn't seem to care that you have a boyfriend- which you don't, it's just the lie that you automatically go with to shake off anyone who tries to flirt with you. You're about to yell at the other patron but rescue arrives in the form of a very handsome looking, very buff looking man. You're not sure who he is but you're not opposed to the way he wraps an arm around your waist,

"Hey babe, is this guy bothering you?" The newcomer asks with a pointed look at the other man that has been grossly flirting with you, the man in question puts his hands up at the sudden appearance of your "boyfriend", once he's certain that the offending stranger has left he removes his arm from your waist and gives you a quick look over before taking the shot glass full of...whatever you were drinking...away from you.

"Hey! Meanie." You pout and the handsome stranger chuckles,

"Not mean, you are incredibly wasted and need to be cut off. Since the bartender's busy I'll be doing that." He informs with a sweet smile, you try to match his smile but end up bursting into a fit of laughter. He joins in your laughter shaking his head with a smile, "You're very, very drunk whoever you are. Mind telling me your name?" The man asks as he orders a water to sober you up,

"'M Y/N." You answer and arch an eyebrow up at the stranger who has decided to take care of you waiting for him to introduce himself, he finally figures out what you're waiting for and he holds his hand out to you,

"Eddie. Eddie Diaz." You shake his hand and squint at him slightly because you're almost certain that you've met him before though you're not certain where from. He watches as you stare at him and can't help but grin slightly in amusement as you struggle to figure out where you know him from,

"I know you, jus don't know where from." You state after a few more moments of squinting at him. He laughs slightly and you find it infectious in your drunken state,

"You might have seen me around town, I work as a firefighter for the 118." He explains- that's when it hits you, he's one of the medics that dropped off the kid. The kid who died today. The kid that you had been drinking to forget about. Just like that you're upset all over again and want nothing more than to go back to drinking away your sorrows. Eddie the handsome firefighter seems to immediately notice the sudden dip in your mood and a concerned look crosses his face, "Hey, what's wrong?" He asks frowning slightly, internally you curse the fact that even when he's frowning he's obnoxiously attractive. You sigh and shrug hoping to brush off the melancholy subject, you don't want to relieve the day and you definitely don't want to explain to Eddie that one of the patients they brought in today had died, he doesn't accept that answer and pries again. "Come on Y/N, I can tell that you're upset. You're drunk, you're frowning, and that tells me you're upset." He explains when you open your mouth to argue with him- how the hell did he know all these things?

"You're good. Too good. Ya sure you're not some psychic?" You ask tilting your head to the side as if silently sizing him up. The firefighter, medic, psychic, whatever he is laughs in response and shakes his head.

"No, no. I'm not a psychic. Just really good at reading people, so tell me, what's wrong? Bad day?" He coaxes you to answer. Normally you would burst out into hysteric sobbing as you recalled the tale of today's past events but...you just feel numb inside now and want nothing more than to get this over with. With a heavy sigh you begin to tell Eddie everything, from the moment that the 118 had dropped the kid and his parents off to each time he coded on your table to the moment that his parents had to say goodbye to their only child. He's silent as he sits next to you and listens to this, taking in the information, processing it, and getting used to the fact that you have just dumped a massive mound of trauma on to him. Immediately you feel guilty and begin to apologize- you shouldn't have bothered him with all this. It wasn't his fault that the boy had died- it was yours, you didn't do enough, you could have done more, you should have done...something...anything to keep him alive so that he could still be with his parents and the image of them crying and mourning over their sons body wouldn't be embedded into your mind.

What he asks you next genuinely surprises you, "How are you holding up?" Gently he squeezes your shoulder, it's such a small yet genuine gesture that it causes your hardened resolve to finally break. Tears start to spring to your vision as you finally break,

"I just don't feel anything anymore." You admit which is hard, usually you're strong for yourself and your patients but there's just something about Eddie that makes you feel vulnerable. It's almost comforting. Lightly he wraps an arm around you and lets you cry into his shoulder. You and Eddie talk for what seems like an eternity, he helps you sober up and talks with you about getting a therapist. By the time the bar closes you're feeling just a tad bit better about yourself, you hadn't realized how late- or well how early?- it had become so you apologize to him for taking up so much of his time but he silences you with a small smile and wave of his hand.

"It's no problem, but maybe you could thank me over a cup of coffee later?" He suggests, you might just take him up on that offer.

[ordinaryschmuck]

What I Thought About "What If...T'Challa Became a Star-Lord?" from Marvel Studios' What If...

Salutations, random people on the internet who already scrolled past this! I am an Ordinary Schmuck. I write stories and reviews and draw comics and cartoons!

You know, a lot of people lost so much when Chadwick Boseman died. His family has lost a husband and a father, his fans lost an inspiration, and to fans of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, we lost both a hero and a king. His performance as T'Challa/Black Panther is by far the best the character has ever had, nailing the essence of the character while delivering so much more. So with the second episode of Marvel Studios' What If... one has to ask: Was Chadwick Boseman's final performance his best, or did the series failed to honor his legacy? Only spoilers can answer that question, so be wary as we analyze the second entry into Marvel's most ambitious series.

Now, let's review, shall we?

WHAT I LIKED

T’Challa himself: I enjoy that because his story has changed, so did T'Challa's personality. There's this sly cockiness that we've never seen from the character before, showing how much influence Yondu and his Ravagers had on him. And it's actually pretty fun seeing a character who was so calm and collected now act so...not that. With that said, just T'Challa is now Star-Lord, that doesn't mean he's a copy of Peter Quill.

The major differences lie in the impact that T'Challa left on the galaxy. Instead of stealing for himself, he chose to steal for planets in need as his own version of Robin Hood. And that, in turn, is a way more intriguing and compelling character to me than Peter Quill ever could be. There's just something about the nobleness of choosing to be a heroic outlaw instead of being strictly an outlaw. It proves that despite having his history altered drastically, there is no erasing that perfect and intelligent King that we all know and dearly miss. It sucks that we'll probably never see him again, but at least the last time we did it was to leave one epic impression for the fans.

Korath is T’Challa’s #1 Fan: Not what I would have expected, primarily since the character never acted so goofy, but I appreciate this change nonetheless. Because it's oddly wholesome seeing how much Korath admires T'Challa, to the point where he honestly believes that they're best friends. Also, it's funny. Like, really funny. In fact, I'd go so far as to say that this version of Korath is the funniest character in this episode. He's just too good.

It’s All Funny: Hey, we're on the Guardians of the Galaxy side of the universe. I'd personally be offended if it didn't have a sense of humor.

Yondu: Yondu seems to be the only one who hasn't changed that much through T'Challa's presence. Sure, he went straight because of it, but personality-wise, he's still the same. He still gives off the energy as this king of the idiots when dealing with his Ravagers, and you how he's this thief with a heart of gold. It's just that only T'Challa brought it out more than Peter did. Other than that, I personally don't mind that not much has changed. Yondu was already a fun character, to begin with, so I'm more than alright seeing him unaltered if it means we get to witness more of him.

The Galaxy is Better Because of T’Challa’s Influence: No, really, it is. Drax still has his family, Thanos renounced his genocidal ways, and Nebula not only remained in one piece but even has hair...somehow. It's impressive to see just how better everything turned out, and, in a way, it's also kind of funny when you think about it. Like, I wouldn't go so far as to say that the universe was in shambles because of Peter's existence...but it wasn't really better either, and I can't help my chuckles when witnessing how better off things were because he stayed on Earth.

Thanos: Not much to say here. It's fun seeing how chilled out Thanos is when he's not hellbent on wiping out half the universe. And I definitely chuckled a couple times when people called him out on his genocidal bulls**t. It's pretty enjoyable and made me glad we got to see his very surprising return.

Nebula: But this shocked me more. Korath becoming a T'Challa stan? Sure. Thanos acting as a respectful ally? Whatever. But Nebula becoming T'Challa's sexy thieve-in-arms girlfriend?! I don't think anybody in their right mind would have predicted that!

But putting aside the shock, this version of Nebula was surprisingly entertaining. It's nice seeing what she would've acted like without the tragedy as she acts like she's free as a bird but still a little devious. Although, despite having a much better life, that doesn't mean there isn't animosity between her and Thanos. He may not have torn Nebula apart as much as he did in the universe we know, but take notice of how she still has cybernetics in her left eye. That shows that T'Challa didn't get to fix everything, and I appreciate that the writers hadn't glossed over how much of a bad father the Mad Titan is, just because he's all sunshine and rainbows now. It allows a chance for Thanos to prove he really did change and gives Nebula an arc to forgive him. And while the pacing for that could have been better, it's still somewhat believable for me to get behind it. Thus surprising me even more with how not only did Nebula make a phenomenal appearance, but one that left quite the impact on the story.

The Collector: It's not just better heroes that T'Challa created. The Collector, for example, somehow became a genuine threat in this timeline instead of that pathetic dweeb in Guardians of the Galaxy and Avengers: Infinity War. This again amazes me with how T'Challa miraculously created a buff-supervillain in his universe, where Peter did jack all. Maybe the galaxy really would have been better off without him...

Howard the Duck: This is the best way to utilize Howard the Duck if you ask me. He's a character that doesn't really scream "leading character" to me (unless given the correct type of writers), so it's better to let him stick to brief cameos and occasional supporting roles. It allows a goofy type of character to shine without causing audiences to roll their eyes over the idea of a talking duck saving the day.

Wakanda Theme Playing when T’Challa Found the Ship: It's just a cool callback. That's all.

Yondu Lying About Wakanda’s Destruction: A pretty solid reveal that shows how even though Yondu loves the kids he steals, he doesn't have the best intentions. What more can I add?

The Collector’s Wall of Weapons: The callbacks are nice, but I like implications from seeing Captain America's shield and Thor's hammer on that wall. It could mean that while the universe is a better place from T'Challa's influence, not everybody made it out alright.

Yondu’s Speech to T’Challa: I'm sure these beautiful and sentimental words have some implications toward Chadwick Boseman as an actor, but I was too busy being emotional to notice them. Well done.

What Happened to Peter Quill: Ok...I think we can just stop beating Peter down for dooming half the universe. Because how much lower can you get when finding out that this other guy practically saved everything with very little effort, only for you to end up as a worker at Dairy Queen? I'd honestly feel bad if I kept doing it at this point. The poor bastard…

(Sidenote: Love the implications that the world is still in danger because Ego still gets to Peter. It shows that despite the more interesting changes, not everything turns out all hunky-dory.)

The Tribute to Chadwick Boseman: A well-appreciated sentiment to cap off a perfect episode...or what would've been a perfect episode. 'Cause ya boy's got some nitpicks!

WHAT I DISLIKED

T’Challa Being Called Star-Lord: A small thing, but the reason why Peter called himself Star-Lord was because it was a nickname his mom called him. What's even the reasoning here? Because it makes no sense when you sit down and think.

The Black Order are still Boring: Out of all the improvements we've seen, it is still disappointing that these four remain as nothing more than cannon fodder for our heroes to go through before fighting the main boss. And pathetic. Immensely pathetic. I mean, for f**ks sake, THE MAW GOT KILLED BY THE PINK GIRL FROM GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY! Psychic powers and he still goes out like a b**ch!

Thanos Got Nerfed: The guy nearly killed the Avengers, with and without Infinity Stones, yet he can barely hold his own against these people who worked for him. C'MON NOW!

IN CONCLUSION

But those were just nitpicks. Despite them, I'd still consider this episode a solid A with 9.5/10. It was fun getting to see the changes T'Challa made to the galaxy, added with some pretty entertaining moments with other iconic characters. You couldn't have asked for a better final performance from Chadwick Boseman, and here's hoping that wherever he is, he knows that he shined brighter than any star in the galaxy.

[owl-with-a-pen]

Nia getting hurt and brainy turning to team-flash for help because he feels hopeless. Ty <3

- I've never written for The Flash characters before, so I hope this is okay! Seeing as Cisco recently left the show, I thought it'd be nice to focus on him. Thank you for the prompt! x

From day one, Cisco had learned that being a part of Team Flash meant staying on your toes, always keeping vigilant for the next attack and always being prepared for the subsequent counterattack Star Labs’ resident tech genius – aka him - could provide. It also meant, expect the weirdest thing imaginable and, then? Oh man, you gotta triple that.

Still, even with all of that in mind, Cisco was in no way prepared for an alien super genius to swoop in from God-knows-where and systematically dismantle his lab, not to mention steal his thunder in the process.

All in the space of under twenty minutes.

"Hey, so I’m flattered you came to us for help,” Cisco finally called out from the lab’s doorway. “But, this might be easier if you actually, I don't know? Talk to us."

Cisco had been watching in bewilderment as Brainy ran around his lab, muttering under his breath as he picked up various pieces of experimental tech with both parts appraisal and derision before throwing them each none-too-gently aside. Cisco flinched when Brainy threw one of his most recent experiments – an advanced interdimensional extrapolator designed in theory to breach the new universes that had been created by Crisis – onto the countertop. And it’d stay totally theoretical if Brainy continued to pay the same amount of care to Cisco’s handiwork as one might a discarded candy wrapper. God, he really needed to start marking these things as fragile - especially when company was over. Then again, he hadn't expected a visit from the fourth kind today.

"Hey, dude, talk to us, c'mon, we won't bite," Cisco prompted, holding up his hands placatingly. When Brainy continued without so much as a word thrown in their direction, Cisco turned to Caitlin desperately, nudging her arm. "Tell him we don't bite," he whispered loudly.

"We don't bite," Caitlin repeated exasperatedly. She’d been watching Brainy with care since he’d barged through Star Lab’s front doors. Because, seriously, could anyone just walk into this place? "Brainy - I understand you're worried for your girlfriend, but we can help you. Just tell us what you need."

Cisco knew that something big was going down in National City, enough that Kara had called ahead last minute to inform Team Flash that they’d be getting a surprise visit from one of the Super Friends. Surprise really had been the understatement of the day. Nearly the second Caitlin had been off the phone with Kara, Brainy had decided to make his grand entrance.

"I don't need anything from you," Brainy said through his teeth, quite possibly the first coherent sentence he’d directed to anyone since his arrival. He continued to move restlessly, shuffling through another pile of technology. "I require your equipment,” he elaborated stiffly. “Since the DEO's destruction, we are rather limited on supplies."

Cisco cringed. "Ooh yeah, I heard about that. Some alien god, right?"

Bad call, Cisco realised immediately. The second the words had come out of his mouth, Brainy tensed, hunching his shoulders.

"His name was Rama Khan,” Brainy said, his voice strained. “He came from a race of ancient beings."

“So, not a god?" Cisco said quickly, glancing to Caitlin for support. When she only shrugged, he fumbled for something, anything, to lighten the mood. “I mean, figures, right? Out of every form of media out there, it had to be Ancient Aliens that was on the right track.”

Brainy made a disgruntled sound at that, dangling another piece of tech out into his line of sight before making to throw it over his shoulder.

“My tachyon filtrator!” Cisco lurched forward, eyes wide. “Hey, hey, stop that!” He snatched his experimental baby from Brainy’s hands seconds before disaster, pointing an accusing finger at him. “No more throwing my stuff, got it?”

"Cisco," Caitlin murmured in warning. "Don't."

"Easy for you to say,” Cisco shot back. “He's not throwing your stuff." Cisco strode over to his workbench, collecting as many of his unfinished designs as he could carry into his arms and very deliberately placing them as far away from prying Coluan fingers as was humanly possible.

Cisco could feel Brainy’s eyes watching his every move, though he wasn’t sure if there was even a hint of an apology in his expression. From the short time they’d worked together in the past, he remembered Brainy as being pretty unfiltered when it came to conversation, if not a little socially inept. Still, he got his nickname for a reason. Dude was literally a walking talking supercomputer, capable of calculating probability to such a high degree of accuracy, he might as well have been psychic. In any other circumstance, Cisco would’ve been eager to pick his brain, maybe even get his input on some of his more complex designs.

Right now, though? Maybe that wasn’t such a good idea, especially when he was so clearly distraught with what was happening over in National City.

Cisco had never formally met Dreamer before, but he’d seen her on the news enough to know that she was incredibly powerful. If something had taken her down, he knew it had to be bad.

And so, when Cisco was certain his tech was safe, he turned back to Brainy, eyeing him expectantly.

Finally, Brainy rolled his shoulders, closing his eyes. "Dreamer was affected by a meta," he explained carefully, lowering his chin. "The DEO had stockpiled technology, archived files on known meta attacks and their countermeasures. We- no, I lost that."

Well, Cisco didn’t need to be a twelfth-level whatever to know what Brainy was going through there. The guilt in his voice was practically tangible. Cisco seemed to remember that the DEO had had a sudden change in management during Lex Luthor’s reign, and if the files he’d been able to hack during that handover were true, then it’d been Brainy who’d been heading operations before the organisation’s literal collapse.

And now, Brainy’s girlfriend was in danger, caught in the crosshairs of a situation that couldn’t be fixed because of his mistake. Cisco swallowed around the sudden lump in his throat; he knew he wouldn’t have fared any better if Kamilla had been in that kind of danger.

"We've all done stuff we've regretted," Caitlin said carefully, stepping into the room. She folded her arms over her chest loosely, her brow furrowed with concern. "Look, maybe we don’t know each other very well, and maybe we can't even help advise you, but you clearly came here looking for something in particular so, we can at least supply you, right?” When Brainy turned towards her, eyes glimmering, Caitlin offered a gentle smile. “No one knows this lab's layout like Cisco, and if you need medical supplies, I've got you covered." Brainy held very still as Caitlin crossed the room and, when she was close enough, she reached out, hesitantly patting him on the shoulder. For all the confidence she was boasting right now, Cisco was far too aware that this was the closest alien encounter she'd had since meeting Kara, and for a lot of that time she'd been fronting as Frost.

"It's an extensive list," Brainy said warily. He didn’t shrug away from Caitlin’s touch, at least, which Cisco took as a small victory.

"Hey,” Cisco said, puffing out his chest, “you’re talking to Team Flash, here. I think we can handle it.”

Brainy’s eyes darted away from them both for a long moment, scanning empty air. When he blinked back into reality, he nodded, bowing his head. "Very well," Brainy relented.

With that, he made a vague gesture towards his head, pointing underhandedly with two fingers towards Cisco's pocket. In the same instant, his phone buzzed twice against his leg, indicating a text notification. Cisco fished it out of his pocket in confusion.

"I have transferred everything I need to your phone,” Brainy said by means of explanation.

“Huh. So you have,” Cisco said, eyes wide as he stared at the list of tech, trying very hard to keep his cool instead of grinning like an idiot at that awesome display of alien superpower. Maybe once he’d finished locating this stuff for Brainy, putting together the right machine to help his girlfriend, he’d have a chance to actually ask him some questions.

For now though, finding all this stuff took priority.

Cisco bit his cheek, nodding firmly. “Alright then,” he said, cracking his neck. “Looks like we should get started.”

Even though Brainy’s returning smile was pained, it was still a smile, which was definitely progress.

And hey, maybe Cisco would see a genuine one once Dreamer was safe and sound. Because he was gonna make sure that happened.

After all, that was what Team Flash was all about.

[spidernerdsblog]

Love Is The Biggest Spell : Chapter Five

A/N : Chapter five is here. This chapter should have been posted on Halloween lol but never mind. Hope you like this chapter. Feedbacks and suggestions are always welcome.

Pairing : Warlock Tom Holland x half mortal reader

Summary : Witches are forbidden to fall in love with mortals. But what if your long lost love returns to you as a mortal, can you defy your heart? Any spell any magic seems useless in front of the magic of love. Let’s join our lovers in their magical conquest beyond life and death as they fight for their love unravelling dark mysteries of the past along their way.

Warnings : mild language, witchy stuff.

Mini Playlist : Can't help falling in love with you

After you had your breakfast Tom drove you to college. You were walking to your classroom. 

"Y/N!" You heard the voice you despise the most right now call out to you. You didn't look back and quickened your pace. 

"Y/N, Y/N, Y/N hey wait please." Cole ran to you grasping your wrist. 

"Leave my hand, Cole!" You yanked your hand away from him. 

"Y/N just listen to me for once I can explain." he pleaded. 

"What more do you have to explain, Cole? That you were making out with me but magically it turned out to be someone else."

"Yeah exactly." 

"Cole can you just stop now. I'm not going to judge your life choices but I hope you enjoyed sucking her mouth." 

"Y/N please you can't do this to me."

"Umm mate I think Y/N made it quite clear that she doesn't want to talk to you." Tom intervened. 

"Listen dude let's just not pretend that this isn't the best day of your life. So please stay out of this"

"Cole! You can’t talk to him like that.” 

"A guy showed you a little affection for one night and now he is the good guy. So typical of you Y/N." you were literally hurt by his words.

"You know what Cole? I was actually thinking of forgiving your not so sorry ass but now I'm so over that thought, we are done for good Cole!"

"C'mon Tom let's go." You stormed off dragging Tom with you by his wrist to the library. 

You slumped down on the seat as Tom took the opposite seat to you 

"I can't believe Cole would say that! I'm an attention seeker? Seriously?!" You seethed. 

"How did you guys even fall in love?" Tom asked out of courtesy though he had no interest in knowing that. 

"You know childhood best friends it was like we owed to date each other." you shrugged.

"Maybe we can do something to divert your attention?" 

"And what is that?" 

"Finish our assignment I guess that's still pending." 

"Seriously?" you gave a disinterested look. 

"What? That is much better than talking about your douchebag boyfriend, ex boyfriend" 

"Yeah maybe some witchy stuff can help keep me distracted." you walked to the shelves and pulled out some books and placed them on the desk with a loud thud. You picked up a book and were turning over some pages in a book and stumbled upon something as you frowned. 

"What’s Dark Baptism?" 

"Huh oh it's a sort of ceremony. The Dark Baptism is the most sacred, unholy sacrament the witches practiced for centuries. The oldest of their rites. A novice witch signs his or her name in the Book of the Beast, and gives the Dark Lord dominion over their soul and in exchange he gives them unlimited power and eternal youth." Tom explained. 

"Huh what’s the use of such powers if I have to give up my freedom of will?" you scoffed. 

"It’s the only one of several possible interpretations, see like all religions have symbolic gestures and demand sacrifices right?" 

"Signing the Book of the Beast is more like a pledge to abide by the devil's commandments." 

"But the Dark Lord aka Satan is the embodiment of evil." You state. Tom corrects you immediately. 

"As per texts he is the embodiment of free will and that he goes beyond the mere concepts of good and evil and the infernal punishment of the "False God"."

"So what about Hell?" you ask.

"If you accept the Dark Lord's gifts, then you won't die for a long time and Hell is for mortals. In exchange for their service and devotion, witches are exempt from the eternal flames of damnation." Tom explains. 

"That's some crazy ass bullshit." You laugh it off. 

"But you seem to have quite in-depth knowledge about these things. Do you happen to practice witchcraft in secret?" you narrowed your eyes. 

"Maybe, who knows" he shrugs." Why are you so invested in knowing all this?" he counter questioned you. 

"Nothing just general curiosity that's it." You shrug. 

"General curiosity or is it about the visions or nightmares whatever you have." Tom smirked.

"Who-who told you.." You stutter. 

"Jane told Harrison and he told me."

"Those are just some stupid dreams that's all."

"Or may be not, maybe you are a psychic or a witch "

“Ha ha very funny.”

"Okay leave all that." Tom cleared his throat. 

"Hey I know it would be really inappropriate for me to ask you. You know you can totally say no."

''Hey it's okay we are friends now c'mon spill it out." you held his hand reassuringly.

"Umm my mother seems to have liked you a lot the day you stopped by our house and wants me to invite you to our Halloween party. It's kind of a spooky themed business gala. "

"Your mother likes me or you?" you narrowed your eyes with a sly smirk.

"No I swear my mom told me to invite you." Tom flustered.

"Okay then tell your mom that I would love to go."

"Oh thanks." Tom’s eyes lit up like a child.

"And by the way if you want me to be your date just ask." You winked. 

"It's - it's nothing like that." he stuttered. 

"Relax anyways I'm single now." you giggled.

"So what are you divs doing?" Harrison dropped in between your conversation.

"Nothing just getting ready for my dark baptism." You chuckled though Harrison gave a mortified look as he exchanged glances with Tom. Who shook his head dismissively to let him know he hasn't said anything. 

“Uh okay..have you seen Jane anywhere?" 

"Why do you also need some attention?" You joked lazily placing a hand on Harrison's shoulder and instantly backed off with a light gasp. 

"You okay?" Harrison asked looking at your horrified expression.

"Yeah, yeah I'm-I’m  fine." you stammered blinking your eyes.

"I'll go and find Jane." You walked away huskily. 

…….........

Agatha and Zendaya visited a farm to purchase a black goat to be used for sacrifice during your dark baptism in the woods. 

"What is on your mind mother? A few days ago you wanted that half breed dead but now you are here arranging for her dark baptism. I don't understand any of this."

"Well you three failed in your task and I'm grateful to Satan for that this time because I recently found out she is the key to perform the spell by which our coven will gain infinite powers."

"What spell?"

"For now you don't need to know more than this. Just remember that girl needs to be protected."

…………..

It's 31st of October and you are officially 25. You were at the cafe as Jane came in all bubbly and chirpy.

“Happy Birthday babe!!!” Jane exclaimed, giving you a tight hug.

“Thank you babe.” Tom and Harrison dropped in after sometime.

“Isn’t it your birthday day? Why the hell are you working today?”. 

“Because it’s my birthday.”

"Well somebody has got the whole concept of birthday wrong." tom quipped.

“Here we brought something for you.” He placed a cake box on the table.

“Jane dear can you arrange this for us please.” Harrison asked her sweetly.

“Of Course will.”

“Seriously guys you didn’t have to do this.” Jane was quick to arrange the cake on a tray with some candles and placed it in front of you. You blow out the candles as they sing for you.

“Thank you so much guys.” your heart swelled in happiness.

“We would have loved to stay but we have another party to arrange so see you girls in the evening.” Harrison said.

“I'll pick you up at seven.” Tom informed you softly.

“Will be waiting.” You smiled. After they left you turned to Jane. 

"Can I ask you something?" 

"Yeah what?" 

"What do you know about Harrison? Apart from he's a sex God. His family and life." you snickered.

"Umm they are rich, business partners with the Hollands. Loves his mom and sister a lot. Why?" 

"Nothing, you are my best friend just don't want you to fall for the wrong guy. I finally learnt my lesson. Heh." You chuckled slowly. 

“Don’t worry babe if he does something bad I’ll give you the privilege of kicking his ass.” She laughed and went to the back of the shop. 

Now how will you tell her that when you touched him you had one of your stupid visions. You saw blood, pentacles, human skulls, it felt so inauspicious the darkness engulfing you. Your eyes went to the blown out birthday candles and you suddenly remembered about the night where the candle caught fire on it’s own. Then you recalled Tom saying that you may be psychic and you suddenly got the idea of testing the fact.

"This is all a hoax, I'm not psychic nor a witch. I was drunk and was seeing things." you said to yourself and took a deep breath.

"Well here goes to nothing." You focused on them but nothing happened. 

"Huh, definitely a hoax" you blew out your cheeks and turned to do your work. But when you turned around again to your surprise each and every candle was lit up magically. You exhaled deeply, frowning.

……………

Reaching home you went to your room and saw a big gift box kept on your bed. You took the lid off the box to find an expensive black dress with a note. 

Happy Birthday Y/N. Will be really happy if you wear this tonight.  Love T. H

You smiled and held out the dress in front of you admiring it in the full length mirror in your room, it was the most exquisite thing you have ever seen. The soft silky fabric with intricate lace work was literal work of art. You changed into the dress and decided to let your hair down for tonight with minimal jewelry and makeup. 

Meanwhile Tom and Harrison were getting ready in their finest tux for the gala and your baptism. 

"You really gifted her the wedding dress." 

"Well it's an important night for her she will be turning into a complete witch and hopefully her memories will come back after that." Tom said, fixing his cufflinks. 

"You ready son?" Nikki walked into his room. 

"Yes mother." Nikki could see in his eyes that something was bothering him. 

"Don't worry I talked to your father and I will be presenting your dear Y/N for her baptism." Tom's eyes lit up hearing the news. It's usually the mother who presents her child for the baptism but your mother will not be able to attend it so the whole thing of who will be presenting you was bugging him for a while. And hearing that his mother is going to do that relieved him. 

"Really mother! Thank you so much." 

"I’m really happy that you’re finally going to be happy in your life son." 

Tom was there to pick you up sharp at 7. You stepped out of your house as you saw him waiting for you leaning against his car. He couldn't take his eyes off you. You literally looked like an angel he thought.

"You look gorgeous, love."

"Thank you, you look surprisingly dapper too." 

"Thank you." 

"But you didn't have to buy me such an expensive dress. The whole night now I will be so self conscious of not ruining the dress."

"I will buy you a new one don't worry."

"Ha ha not happening again. Now let’s go"

He opened the door of the car for you as you sat inside the car. You reached his place in an hour and stepped out of the car holding his hand as he led you inside. 

You walked into the ballroom and your breath was caught at the grandeur. You’d never been in a space that made you feel so small–or so plain. Crystal chandeliers spiraled down from the arching sky-blue ceiling, illuminating the glimmering golden walls and a floor so polished it looked like an iced-over lake. And it wasn’t just the ballroom–the women sparkled like a box of jewels, shades of emerald and ruby and amethyst swirling before you, their low chatter accompanying wafts of rose and hyacinth and jasmine.

"Whoa dude am I supposed to be a part of this gala? I mean just look at all the people around." you gave out a nervous laugh.

"You were always supposed to be here Y/N."

You are immediately greeted by Jane and Harrison.

“Hey you made it!” Jane hugged you and your dress caught her eyes.

“Damn girl now that’s a one of a kind ball gown.” She giggled as you blushed.

“Only for the one of a kind girl.” Tom snickered.

You, Tom, Harrison and Jane then hit the dance floor, slow music playing.

Wise men say Only fools rush in But I can't help falling in love with you

You clasped on to his hand placing another hand on his shoulder blade as he did the same. You began moving back and forth waltzing around the ballroom. Spinning and circles and shuffling your feet to the slow, rhythmic music. It was paradise, but even more so when your eyes met.

Shall I stay? Would it be a sin? If I can't help falling in love with you

His eyes were chocolate brown, which made your knees buckle and your lips quiver. He narrowed his eyes slightly and let out a small chuckle. Your dress was getting in the way and your heels were making you clumsy or you were actually clumsy around him. He noticed your discomfort and changed his stance making it easier for you to follow. His grip tightened on your hand giving it a comforting squeeze making your heart skip a beat.

Like a river flows Surely to the sea Darling, so it goes

You swayed to the music, bodies so close, his hand still grasping yours. This was perfect as if time stood still, your gaze filled with burning desires as he looked down to your slightly parted lips. Tom was trying to get a read on you as you looked at you longingly. You could feel your cheeks burning and you knew you're blushing on the outside which only made his smile grow wider.

Some things are meant to be So take my hand Take my whole life, too For I can't help falling in love with you For I can't help falling in love with you

He dropped your hand but before you could frown he wrapped his arms around your waist and pulled your body even more closer. His kind, smiling face met yours as you felt his sweet, warm breath fanning your face. Your breath hitched all that brooding, pining and longing stares just for this magical moment. Out of instinct you tilted your face a little, closing your eyes. But instead Tom knelt down to your ear  and whispered.

“Parere mandatis meis.” You opened your eyes with a vacant gaze as if someone robbed you of your emotions and reasoning. You stood there like a living statue. 

"Y/N now listen to me carefully you are going to do whatever I say okay?" 

"Yes." You nodded in a mechanical fashion. Agatha walked towards you.

"Is she ready?" 

"Yes Lady Layman”

"Good then bring her to the altar." 

“Was the hypnosis necessary?”

“You got a better idea to make your non believer half witch willingly go through her baptism?” Agatha quipped.

“No” He answered lowly.

“Then bring her outside fast midnight is approaching, the blood moon will appear soon.” She ordered.

The party moves outside, where the moon is at its fullest and begins to turn red. With midnight approaching, everyone rushes off into the woods. Tom took you to a gate burning with blue flames, you pass through the blue flames unharmed and arrive at your baptism, where the Holland's, Osterfield's, Layman's, and many other important delegates are in attendance. 

"All this grandeur for a half breed's baptism, how pathetic is that?" Zendaya quipped, rolling her eyes. 

The priest assigned for your baptism arrived at the altar.

"Welcome daughter of Night" 

"Who presents this girl for unholy baptism?" He reckons.

"I do." Nikki states. 

"We are gathered here in these woods in the presence of our dark lord, with all the souls, the living and the dead, of our coven

the most unholy church of dark." He addresses. 

"Kneel child." You kneel in front of him in your trance. 

The priest smears blood over your forehead and read you your rights and demands your loyalty.

"There is no law beyond. Do what thou wilt." He states. 

"Our dark lord asks - 

" Would you like to be happy child, to be free?" 

"Free to love and to hate? To be what nature meant you to be, true to her laws and yourself only?" you stay numb Tom takes the initiation. 

"Say yes Y/N." 

"Yes, father." You say as you were told. 

"Do you believe in Lucifer, the archangel, who preferred the loss of Heaven to that of his pride?" 

"Yes, father." 

"In exchange for this belief, you shall be granted powers that will enable you to be of service to the dark lord." 

"Y/N Warren are you willing to forsake the path  of light and follow the path of night wherever it may lead you?" 

"I am" 

"And are you willing to place our dark lord above all others in your life, be it your loved ones, friends, family." you pause for a moment but under the hypnosis spell even if you wanted to but you couldn't make your own decisions. 

"I ...am" 

"Then it's time to sign his book." The weather started to deteriorate as strong winds started to blow and thunder rumbling at a distance could be heard. 

Meanwhile at your home your mother was turning restless with the sudden change in the weather she ran to your Aunt Rose's room. 

"Rose what's happening?"

"It's about time Martha." Rose says coldly. 

"What do you mean? Where is Y/N?" Martha panicked. 

"Don't worry she will be fine but for some people this is the beginning of their end"

"Mom what's happening?" Erica came running too. 

"Oh Erica you are here can you fetch me the ancestral calcified bowl." Erica did as she was told. 

"Martha give me the ashes of Amber." She handed over a bottle of ash as Rose poured it in the bowl. She lit the candles around the bowl with her magic and chanted. 

"Here and now 

I evoke the elemental force of Fire

the flames of creativity and passion

dancing source of heat, light and life. 

I seek the flowing forge within

I call you forth to burn away

All that impedes my highest vision

And to enact change in the world

Lightning and hearth

Hearth and forge

Fire, I call thee hence" 

Rose focused on the ashes in the bowl as flames erupted in it. 

"Y/N wake up, recognize your true self" 

“Phasmatos Incendia Ignis absumet Ignarious. Ignarious! Ignarious Ignalusa”

Meanwhile you were standing at the altar and an ancient book was kept open on the flat stone in front of you. The priest took a knife and made an incision on your hand as a drop of blood flowed down from the cut on the page. Tom was behind you as the priest signalled him to proceed; he took your hand with the pen to sign your name in the book. Just when you were about to sign the Dark Lord’s Book of the Beast with your blood, Rose's invocation ritual broke the hypnosis spell on you and you were snapped out of your trance. The fog that clouded your mind got lifted as you felt light headed. It took awhile for you to process what was happening around you. 

"You swear to obey without any question any order you may receive from tHe dark lord, or from any figure He placed in authority over you." 

"In signing you swear to give your mind, body, and soul unreservedly to the furtherance of the designs of our lord satan." The priest went on.

"No!!" You yanked your hand away from Tom's grasp. 

"What do you mean no child?" the priest frowned. 

"Who are you? Where the hell am I?!" You looked around in confusion. 

"Tom what's going on? Where's Jane?!" you look at him with panic stricken eyes. 

"Y/N,love, listen to me this is for your own good just complete the ritual" 

"Is this some kind of Halloween prank because it's not funny."

"You think you are sick with some neural disease that is why you can't feel warmth. Y/N don't you understand that you are not human." Tom tried to make you understand.

“Tom why are you so up to prove that I’m some sort of psychic?”

''You are a smart girl Y/N don't tell me the visions you get doesn't seem real? That you didn't light up a candle just by focusing your mind on it." agatha quipped.

"You are a half witch Y/N magic runs in your blood and to reach your full potential you have to submit to our Dark Lord" 

"Whatever I maybe there is another path for me. A third way. And even if there isn't, my name is Y/N Warren, and I will not sign it away!" you stated. 

"If you don't complete the ritual then you have to face the wrath of the dark lord." Agatha warned. 

"The only thing I'm gonna do is to get away from you jackass people."

The coven tries to stop you from escaping as everyone chanted in unison. 

“Crescere arbor” 

While you attempt to escape you become entangled in magical possessed vines which held you to your place.

"Why can't I move?" you struggled to free yourself. 

"You're not leaving unless and until you complete the ritual."

Suddenly the stone of your antique necklace starts glowing, emitting a reddish orange aura which just grew in intensity as time passed blinding your eyes. A sudden rage started to grow inside trying to burst out. 

Your body was shaking imminently as the blazing inferno coursing inside you was becoming too much for your body to handle. You forced your eyes open and a chill ran down the spines of everyone present for the ceremony. You irises appeared like burning coals of fire. 

They flashed with anger, a burning animosity growing in your amber orbs. Tom couldn't recognize you anymore you appeared to be a totally different person. 

Flares started erupting from your hands soon turning into flames ready to engulf anyone that came in your way. The flames spread to the magical vines holding you as they were burned into ashes setting you free. You gasped as you looked at your hands on fire. 

"What's happening?! What did you guys do to me?!" You panicked. 

"Y/N, love calm down. Just try to control it"

"I can't!!'' You growled 

"I can help, just let me help you Y/N" 

"No! Don't come near me." You warned with a hoarse voice. A ring of fire formed around you.

"Tom do something or she will burn down the whole forest." Harrison said in panic. 

''You've nothing to fear no one will do you any harm."

"Just calm down and everything will be fine. Close your eyes and focus, love"

You closed your eyes taking in measured breaths trying to calm yourself. It worked as the raging inside you dissipated. Your hands were no more on fire. 

"Suctus Incendia" everyone chanted in unison and the fire died down. 

You on the other hand felt weak and drained out as you collapsed on the ground unconscious. 

…………………………………………………………………..

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[markszone]

Don’t Need a Lucky Charm

GIF from nakamotens

Summary: Supporting Mark's first boxing match

Pairing: boxer!Mark x female reader

Genre: fluff, fluff, fluff

Warnings: none

Word Count: 1.8K

( A/n: couldn’t get this boxer Mark out of my head... enjoy!!❤️)

You and Mark were laying on the couch watching a show to pass time. 

“I’m so excited for tonight,” you said, turning around to face your lover. 

“I’m nervous,” Mark admitted.

You ran a hand through his smooth brown hair, your hand parting through the soft strands. He was going to his first boxing match after months of training, he has every right to be nervous. 

"Win or lose. You'll always be a winner in my eyes," you comforted him.

His arms tightened around your waist. "There's no bigger catch than you, baby." he said with a wink after.

You smiled, feeling all the butterflies erupt, and kissed him. 

You turn to look at the clock. "Aren't you supposed to be training?" 

"Nah, I don't want to wear myself out," he explained.

He stood up letting go of you and straightened his clothes, he held a hand out to you and you looked at him puzzled. 

"I thought you weren't gonna train?" you asked.

"I'm not," he replied "C'mon, let's go to the nearest beach while we still have time."

"Okay," you replied, taking his hand and straightening your clothes as well. 

He grabbed the keys while you grabbed a bunch of chips to munch on the way. 

"Ready?" he asked.

"Yep, c'mon," you replied.

-----

It wasn't a long drive to the beach, you reached there within a few minutes, you stepped outside the salty breeze clouding the air. You loved the beach even though you drove by it plenty of times.

Mark walked around the car and grabbed your hand making a smile light up your face. His fingers laced through yours holding you tightly. He brought your hand to his mouth, his lips brushing your knuckles.

"Can we switch hands?" you asked, you still wanted to eat the potato chips while you walked. He released your hand, and you walked around quickly grabbing his other hand.

He was holding the chips packet with his spare hand while you fed him and yourself with your other hand.

"Summer is coming around, you have any plans?" he asked.

"Maybe just lounge around and just spend time reading," you said, which was exactly what you did every summer.

"I think we should go on a road trip," he suggested.

"I thought we were gonna do that during spring?" you question him.

"I thought about it but I think it's better if I work during spring, save up, and then we go on a road trip for two months," he explained "That means we get to spend more time with each other." 

"I like the sound of that," you said.

Mark sat down on the sand and pulled you down on his lap, his arms embracing your torso,  resting his chin on your shoulder while you rested your head on the side of his. Watching the waves crash the shore feeling utterly at peace in his arms and near the beach. 

"Wouldn't it be cool if a shark washed up on shore?" he asked enthusiastically. 

"More terrifying than cool, bub," you muttered.

"You could watch me kill it in order to protect you," he said his arms tightening around you "Would you be impressed, my lady?" 

"Considering it would already be dead due to lack of water. I'm pretty sure I could kill it too." you chuckled.

"I suppose this is the downfall of dating someone ten times smarter than you," he sighed. 

You faced him and gave him a peck on the cheek. Mark blushing immediately as soon as your lips left his cheek. You smiled at your boyfriend, admiring his boyish smile and red cheeks.

You traced your hand on his jaw wondering just how lucky you were to be with the single most amazing person in the world. You lost track of how long both of you sat there in silence, comfortable silence. The kind that you could only share with certain people and yours was Mark.

"It's so beautiful," you breathe, staring at the sun setting in the distance. The flickers of orange, pink and red mixed in a beautiful swirl illuminating the sky. It was breathtaking.

"You know what's beautiful? Watching you admire something which seems so dull in comparison to your beauty," he whispered softly.

You blushed hard, thinking you were hardly prettier than the sunset, but it was kind of him to say so. You looked down hiding your reddened cheeks.

"I wish you believed me," he said.

He looked at his watch before slowly bringing the both of you up. 

"My match will start soon," he informed.

You could already feel the nerves kicking in at the statements so you wondered just how nervous he must feel. 

-----

Mark paced around the locker room, his hair put up neatly to avoid the bangs on his face while fighting, and his strong chest on display. You could hear the sound of his name loudly echoing through the room.

"I have to go home. I forgot the dishes," he said suddenly.

He reached for his shirt just as you grabbed it. He looked up at you and just beneath his firm expression you could see the glints of fear.

"Mark you are going to do fine," you whispered, placing your hands on his shoulder.

"How do you know that?" You're not a psychic."

"I don't have to be. You are the strongest and most hardworking person I know and tonight you'll prove tha-"

Your words were cut off by his lips, his lips moved against yours hungrily as though he were saving a piece of you for the match. He pulled back his breath ragged. His forehead pressed against yours.

"I don't need a lucky charm. You are my strength Y/N," he said.

"Then go prove me right, Lee." 

He pulled on a pair of blue gloves, and pounded his fists together. He gave you one last kiss on the forehead before he headed to the entrance.

"Next up is Lee," the announcer yelled.

He gave you a small wink before walking out into the crowded room, and stepping into the ring. The other boxer stood on the other side of the ring, he must have already entered before Mark's moment of doubt.

You moved to join the full crowd, elbows dug into painfully, shoulders pressed against yours. The more you tried to get to the front the more you were pushed back. You couldn't see anything mainly due to your height but also because you were too far back. How were you supposed to cheer for Mark if you couldn't even see him?

"Lee wants the girl in the blue shirt to be brought to the front," the announcer demanded. 

"I'm over here," a girl wearing blue called.

"No he means me."

"Bring me front."

"My bra is blue. I can prove it."

"Mark baby I'm coming."

The room erupted in chaos with everyone claiming to be you. You halted in your spot feeling your protective instincts for Mark kick in, because every girl was struggling to move front towards him and every guy seemed to be irritated by this.

"Shut up," Mark said in an annoyed tone, through the announcer's microphone. 

The room slowly grew silent.

"Much better," he murmured.

His voice softened. "Y/N, babe, where are you? Raise your hand please."

"I'm here," you said raising your hand.

"Good," he said "Now all of you please part like the Red Sea and let her come through."

They slowly moved aside providing you enough space to navigate to the front. You gave the people you were passing a small smile to show your gratitude, but they all seemed to be sporting matching expressions of irritation. You finally made it to the front of the ring glad to be closer to him.

"Let's begin," the announcer yelled.

The crowd resumed in their cheering, yelling 'Lee' repetitively and occasionally the name Jaehyun who must have been the opponent. You eyed this Jaehyun he was built, very built, Mark was almost as tall as him. It kinda scared you, but you believed in Mark.

The announcer went over the rules, explaining what determined a win and a loss. You listened intently paying attention to the rules much of which the crowd wanted to drown out in their cheers. 

"Round One" 

They circled each other like predators. It was Jaehyun who threw the first punch which Mark effectively dodged, retailing with a swift punch to the stomach. They did this a few times exchanging positions of defense and offense. At times it seemed like Mark had a third eye because of the way he dodged a majority of his hits. 

The rounds came and went each time Mark got hurt it felt like a blow to your own chest, and each time he had the upper hand you felt like a proud soccer mom at one of her kid's games.

You couldn't help but notice that Mark was very talented, his punches were well aimed, his steps seemed measured, and just looking at the constant flicker of his eyes you could tell that he was aware of his surroundings. His behavior seemed to imitate that of an animal fighting for survival. 

The last round of the match was nearing and Mark's face and chest was a burning red coated by sweat. Exhaustion didn't begin to cover the state of him at the moment.

"You can do this Mark!" you yelled "Take it home, baby!"

The round felt like a century with them both seemingly worn out.

"Mark, baby, put him down!"

Mark suddenly charged at Jaehyun, forgetting about holding his position, and continuing firing a punch after punch. I watched wide eyed as Jaehyun dropped to his knees and finally rested on his back. The referee blew his whistle, and soon after raised Mark's hand declaring him the winner. 

His chest rose and fell as the crowd roared in delight and victory. He spit out his mouth guard grinning widely. Your heart clenched with joy as you watched him bask in his glory and heard the growing chant of his name begin. This was his moment. 

In his moment Mark proudly smiled and when your eyes met, you swore you saw the galaxies in his eyes and you felt as if you're the luckiest person to have ever crossed paths with him. He made you so proud.

------

You waited for Mark to enter the locker room and once he did, you tackled him with a big hug not minding his sweaty body. Mark pulled away to cup your face, seeing you smile proudly at him made his heart burst into happiness. He leaned in to give you a kiss. Your lips moving against each other. 

You slowly pulled away just enough that your lips were still brushing against each other. "I love you," you said "Win or lose, I'm proud of you for doing your best."

"I love you too," he replied.

Kissing you once more. Happiness and pride lighting up his face. 

[f4liveblogarchives]

Fantastic Four Vol 1 #227

Thurs Apr 30 2020 [06:34 PM] Wack'd: Another story catalyzed by space objects falling to Earth [06:35 PM] Wack'd: This time a meteor lands in a lake in Pennsylvania [06:36 PM] Wack'd: One of Reed's science friends calls Reed and is like "hey, I know you're big into meteors, wanna come do science and hang out" [06:37 PM] Bocaj: Space needs to stop dumping its junk in our yard [06:37 PM] Wack'd: I mean hey, we do it too. It's reciprocal pollution [06:37 PM] Umbramatic: The Great Space Junk Exchange [06:38 PM] Bocaj: When has a thing earth sent v'gering into space ever caused a problem [06:38 PM] Umbramatic: ...what the fuck were the dinosaurs polluting space with to get what they did [06:38 PM] Bocaj: Its not like we send a hulk of stuff and crash it into gladiator planets [06:38 PM] maxwellelvis: @Umbramatic Tobacco [06:38 PM] Wack'd: @Umbramatic : *Land Before Time* videocassettes [06:38 PM] Umbramatic: dbtgfrh ojgifmhk  hjnl;.'; [06:38 PM] Bocaj: Ha [06:39 PM] maxwellelvis: The real reason the dinosaurs went extinct. [06:39 PM] Wack'd: So anyway the team is going on vacation! Johnny wants to get a tan and Sue is like "let's bring the grill" and I'm like "you're. You're going to Pennsylvania" [06:39 PM] Wack'd: Like yes the caption specifies it landed at a resort but like, c'mon [06:39 PM] Bocaj: CAN Johnny tan? [06:39 PM] Bocaj: He's exposed to heat and light every day of his life [06:40 PM] Bocaj: Can Johnny Storm get a sunburn? [06:40 PM] Bocaj: Also: why isn't his name Blaze? [06:40 PM] Wack'd: Maybe he can choose to but it's unpleasant to use his powers for it and he prefers the old-fashion way [06:40 PM] Bocaj: Hm, acceptable handwave [06:40 PM] Wack'd: Like there's a difference between being exposed to solar radiation from billions of miles off and setting yourself on fire [06:41 PM] Wack'd: Ben is grumpy because Alicia is bogged down with work and can't make it, and his only other friend will be busy with science [06:41 PM] Wack'd: (You'd think he could hang out with Sue and Johnny and Franklin but whatever) [06:42 PM] maxwellelvis: Sandman stopped taking his calls? [06:42 PM] Wack'd: Sandman tries to beat him up on the regular, what're you talking about [06:42 PM] maxwellelvis: Ahh, right, you're not reading Two-In-One. [06:42 PM] maxwellelvis: Okay, there's ONE thing in Marvel Two-In-One that causes an actual change to the status-quo in Marvel; there's an issue where Ben goes to a bar and finds Sandman is also there. So he sits down with him and they talk. [06:43 PM] Wack'd: "Yer off yer meds again, aren'tcha, Flint" [06:43 PM] Bocaj: One of my favorite scenes in the DCAU [06:44 PM] Bocaj: Get rekt that scene of Batman talking to Ace, psychic meltdown [06:44 PM] maxwellelvis: By the end of the issue, Sandman has gone legit, and for like a decade, he stayed so, until eventually some Spider-Man story needed him back on the Sinister Six. [06:44 PM] Bocaj: (Because it implies that Only Batman can human at people is why) [06:44 PM] Wack'd: Decade does seem to be where Marvel status quo changes top out sadly [06:44 PM] Bocaj: I think it was after the clone saga [06:45 PM] Bocaj: During the panic mode 'shit roll it back roll everything back fuck fuck fuck' kneejerk [06:45 PM] Wack'd: Gotta remind people of the good ol days after that stinker, yeah [06:45 PM] maxwellelvis: Then it was close to like, two decades or something. [06:45 PM] maxwellelvis: That's an astonishingly long time in comics. [06:45 PM] Wack'd: Oh wow [06:45 PM] Bocaj: Funfact: Sandman was an Avenger [06:45 PM] Wack'd: Huh! [06:45 PM] Bocaj: Reserve, but still. [06:45 PM] Bocaj: Nice [06:46 PM] Wack'd: If nothing else the idea of him as a sympathetic crook seems to have stuck [06:46 PM] Wack'd: Which is not nothing [06:46 PM] Bocaj: Sam Raimi intensifies [06:46 PM] maxwellelvis: Marvel Two-In-One Vol 1 #86 is the relevant issue. [06:46 PM] maxwellelvis: So it hasn't happened yet at the time you're reading, is the other reason you hadn't heard about it. That issue was in 1982, so about a decade and a half, give or take. [06:47 PM] maxwellelvis: And you weren't far-off with that JLU joke, @Wack'd, says here that a big thing in the issue is Sandman dealing with the trauma of having been merged with Hydro-Man. Which is probably why he's receptive to the idea of going legit. [06:48 PM] Wack'd: Alright then [06:48 PM] Wack'd: ...anyway Sandman isn't. In this one. So [06:49 PM] maxwellelvis: Yeah, this was a lot more explaining for a dumb joke than I anticipated. [06:49 PM] Wack'd: Back to the story at hand [06:50 PM] Wack'd: Ben decides he's gonna go fishing. He's got a floppy hat and a vest and everything. Also: more womanly stereotypes!

[06:51 PM] Umbramatic: i love ben's fishing outfit [06:52 PM] Bocaj: He looks so happy [06:52 PM] maxwellelvis: Fishing hats like that always make me flash back to that M*A*S*H episode where Col. Blake salutes while wearing his hat and hooks his finger on it. [06:52 PM] maxwellelvis: "What are you trying to DO to me?!" [06:52 PM] Bocaj: Oooow [06:52 PM] Wack'd: They fly into Pennsylvania and things have. Escalated.

[06:52 PM] Bocaj: "I don't want to hoard gold, I want to turn people into dinosaurs" "HE KEEPS SAYING THAT" [06:53 PM] Wack'd: For the record earlier cutaway panels show this is a bird that got mutated by the meteor but I got distracted and forgot to post it [06:53 PM] Umbramatic: that pterosaur's wings make me viscerally angr--AND THAT MAKES IT EVEN WORSE [06:53 PM] maxwellelvis: Somewhere a paleontologist is weeping [06:53 PM] maxwellelvis: OR [06:53 PM] maxwellelvis: Oh cool, I didn't know the writers of *Dino Squad* ghostwrote this issue [06:53 PM] Umbramatic: that's me, i'm the weeping palentologist [06:54 PM] Mousa The 14: The bird didn’t mutate, it simply regressed to an earlier form [06:54 PM] Bocaj: HROINK! [06:54 PM] Umbramatic: if it did that it'd be more like a velociraptor [06:54 PM] Mousa The 14: Hroink indeed. Hroink indeed. [06:55 PM] maxwellelvis: Pterosaurs and birds are completely different groups of archosaurs, that's a mutation, Mousa. [06:55 PM] Umbramatic: YES [06:55 PM] Wack'd: Not really sure why this merited a silent panel

[06:55 PM] Bocaj: Just put up an invisible force slide [06:55 PM] Mousa The 14: Artist showing off [06:56 PM] Wack'd: How bad he can draw children? [06:56 PM] Umbramatic: i dunno which makes a better reaction image, franklin's face or the pterosaur's [06:56 PM] Mousa The 14: Or to show Franklin is about to use. THE POWER [06:56 PM] Bocaj: Its not the worst tiny adult i've seen in comics [06:56 PM] maxwellelvis: Unless it leads to another god-child moment, it's a rather pointless reaction image. [06:56 PM] Bocaj: I'm not saying that its all Franklin's fault but I blame Cable on him [06:56 PM] Bocaj: God-child arms race [06:57 PM] Wack'd: So the monster explodes, and Reed collects its gem--EUGH

[06:57 PM] Bocaj: I don't like this. [06:58 PM] Wack'd: Ftr Gideon Carruthers is Reed's science friend. We already have a Gideon so I'll call him Carruthers [06:58 PM] Umbramatic: -screaming- [06:58 PM] Wack'd: To disambiguate him from the rich doofus [06:58 PM] Bocaj: I'd laugh my ass off if he looked just like gideon from gravity falls [06:58 PM] Bocaj: or even gideon from Scotts Pilgrim [06:59 PM] maxwellelvis: I know there's some sci-fi parasite this reminds me of, but I can't think what. [06:59 PM] Bocaj: Captain N mother brain? [06:59 PM] maxwellelvis: Parasite [06:59 PM] Bocaj: She was a parasite on my peace of mind [07:02 PM] Wack'd: Sue takes a moment to check that Franklin isn't traumatized but he's like "we fought and won, just like in the comics!" And then uh

[07:02 PM] Wack'd: Were comics caught up in the Satanic Panic or whatever? Like [07:02 PM] Umbramatic: -screams- [07:02 PM] Wack'd: Seems more like a 50s thing [07:02 PM] Wack'd: Also yeah that sure is a Franklin [07:02 PM] Bocaj: I think Wertham argued that kids couldn't distinguish comics from reality and yeah that was way before this I think [07:03 PM] Bocaj: I think in his book he cited an incident that I don't know if legit or not where a kid tied a blanket around their neck like a cape and jumped off a roof [07:03 PM] Wack'd: Eesh [07:04 PM] Bocaj: Not sure that could be laid at Superman's feet. He very clearly says 'I have alien powers from being an alien' [07:04 PM] Wack'd: Can't wait to see this kid's mutt mutate into MCGRUFF, THE CRIME DOG

[07:04 PM] Bocaj: Duff Dog Oh Yeah [07:04 PM] Bocaj: Suds McDuffie [07:04 PM] Wack'd: This is cool too I guess

[07:05 PM] maxwellelvis: I was going to say, I think a dire wolf is more likely. [07:07 PM] Umbramatic: awoooo [07:07 PM] Bocaj: Werewolves of Slyvania [07:07 PM] maxwellelvis: I really wish the LOTR movies had modeled the Wargs more on dire wolves than hyenas. [07:08 PM] Wack'd: Okay I think we can safely dismiss the idea of these mutations having some kind of basis in scientific reality

[07:08 PM] Wack'd: Paleontologists rest easy [07:08 PM] Umbramatic: FOREHEAD BEAM [07:08 PM] Bocaj: You've never seen a dog shoot a laser? [07:09 PM] Umbramatic: pidge shoots lasers all the time [07:09 PM] Wack'd: Anyway this time instead of the monster exploding Reed spots the parasite on the back of its neck and grabs it before self-destruct is triggered [07:09 PM] Wack'd: Kid gets his dog back and dog stops being a fiend [07:09 PM] Umbramatic: we have to prevent her from doing it to the neighbors [07:09 PM] Bocaj: Duffer... will live [07:10 PM] Wack'd: Reed I, uh, think the forehead laser puts a serious hole in your theory!

[07:11 PM] Wack'd: Also the fuck is the "evolutionary agent"? Is he claiming we have, like, an evolution gland that pumps evolution juice into our bodies that makes us not be weird history monsters? [07:12 PM] Wack'd: Okay so Reed elaborates that the forehead laser is because the parasite gives its hosts psychic powers to make them more powerful so they can steal gasoline to eat [07:12 PM] maxwellelvis: Well, sure, I can see how that- huh? [07:13 PM] Wack'd: "It makes a bizarre kind of sense," says Carruthers, who is also identified as a geologist and so I guess is just rolling with this [07:13 PM] Bocaj: Carruthers: "Its not a rock so i don't fuckin know" [07:14 PM] Wack'd: Sue is upset that Franklin is in danger and weird shit keeps finding them and Reed is like "we do have some quiet times, they just happen off-panel" and Sue is like "you're right, I'm sorry I snapped" [07:14 PM] Wack'd: And she wants a normal life and yadda yadda [07:14 PM] Bocaj: Like that time she played horsey [07:15 PM] Bocaj: REMEMBER THE HORSEY TIMES SUE [07:15 PM] Wack'd: Sue, hold on to your memories of like the first two pages of each recent arc [07:15 PM] Bocaj: Yeah! [07:16 PM] Umbramatic: thbijgthp oknjlph;[m'n [07:16 PM] Wack'd: So they send Ben down in scuba gear to get the meteor which does actually kinda look like it could be a Steven Universe corrupted gem. Unfortunately he brings something back with him

[07:17 PM] Wack'd: Remember: if a character says they want to go fishing in act one they need to catch a giant sea monster by act three [07:17 PM] maxwellelvis: Shai-hulud [07:17 PM] Umbramatic: poor ben [07:17 PM] Umbramatic: he just wanted to turn fish in to blathers [07:18 PM] Wack'd: Reed, being the smart intelligent thing he is, puts this round item down on the floor of a rocking boat [07:19 PM] Wack'd: It cracks open and [07:19 PM] Wack'd: And then Sue was the reverted evolution thingy

[07:19 PM] Bocaj: So whats the 'reverted evolution' of Sue [07:20 PM] Bocaj: Issue 1 Sue where she didn't ever contribute anything? [07:20 PM] Wack'd: Uh. Angry, I guess?

[07:20 PM] Bocaj: My idea was funnier and plausibly unfair [07:20 PM] Wack'd: True [07:21 PM] Bocaj: Hope this isn't another situation where Reed is justified in belting her [07:21 PM] Wack'd: Also Reed opens the cracked egg and finds five grooves for parasites to be in like seeds [07:21 PM] Wack'd: So after Sue there's one unaccounted for [07:21 PM] Bocaj: Dun dun dun [07:22 PM] Wack'd: Immediately resolved by it dropping out of a tree and on to Carruthers' neck [07:22 PM] Umbramatic: oh [07:22 PM] Bocaj: Whats tension anyway [07:23 PM] Wack'd: Hm. Reverting made his skin darker. Don't like that

[07:24 PM] Bocaj: I do like the resigned "Yep -- I wuz right" from Ben [07:24 PM] Bocaj: Don't like "uglier than the hulk" paired with the thing you said [07:25 PM] Wack'd: Anyway Carruthers goes after some oil because these things eat oil remember, so Johnny blows up the oil and Carruthers goes flying like in an action movie or a Looney Tune [07:25 PM] Wack'd: Thus knocking him out so Ben can get the parasite off him before he explodes [07:26 PM] Bocaj: Yaa~aaay [07:26 PM] Wack'd: Oh. Oh fuck [07:27 PM] Wack'd: I've been sitting here thinking "but why are the monsters blowing up anyway? How does that benefit the parasites? Surely they'd want to keep the host alive to keep collecting oil" [07:27 PM] Wack'd: Adding to that, Reed postulates time is a factor as to why some explode and some don't [07:28 PM] Wack'd: But, uh. I thiiiiiiink it might be a lot simpler than that

[07:29 PM] Wack'd: If I'm right, Franklin blew up the dragon and the sea monster. He wasn't around for the dog and Carruthers [07:29 PM] Bocaj: Dun dun DUUUUN [07:29 PM] Wack'd: (And probably wouldn't have blown them up if he had!) [07:29 PM] Bocaj: Geez Franklin, geez [07:30 PM] Wack'd: And now he's like "do I...blow up mommy? No, right? I feel like that's probably a no" [07:32 PM] Wack'd: Anyway Sue is not entirely mutated, just got some weird facial deformities and is a little out of it. Reed says its maybe her cosmic ray blood [07:32 PM] Umbramatic: *screams* [07:32 PM] Umbramatic: @ the franklin face [07:32 PM] Wack'd: Haha! VINDICATED

[07:33 PM] Wack'd: Honestly kudos to Moench here for successfully constructing a mystery I didn't know was a mystery until the reveal happened [07:33 PM] Wack'd: That's some good writing right there [07:34 PM] Wack'd: Less good writing: this

[07:34 PM] Umbramatic: so nice work [07:35 PM] Wack'd: Anyway Franklin blows up the parasite without hurting Reed or Sue and is very proud of himself [07:36 PM] Wack'd: And Reed concludes "uh maybe we should figure out exactly hat Franklin's deal is" before the whole team hightails it back to New York [07:36 PM] Wack'd: A happy ending maybe

[07:37 PM] Bocaj: OR IS IT? [07:37 PM] Wack'd: Nope, turns out they have another son [07:38 PM] Bocaj: Benjamin Jonathan Richards you were named after the two bravest men I know [07:39 PM] Wack'd: LETTERS! Everybody loves some letters [07:39 PM] Wack'd: Eric L Watts wants Johnny to fall in love with another superhero and Ben and Alicia to get married. I like one of those ideas [07:39 PM] Bocaj: Is that the one what did happen eventualy? [07:40 PM] Wack'd: I mean both of those happen eventually [07:40 PM] Bocaj: Or is it the one, due to the vagaries of gendered language, that has Johnny come out as queer? [07:40 PM] Wack'd: Ha [07:41 PM] maxwellelvis: Lyja isn't a superhero when she and Johnny meet, though. [07:41 PM] Wack'd: Someone wants to know how Sienkiewicz is pronounced! It's sinKEVitch [07:41 PM] Wack'd: @maxwellelvis He does also date Medusa, so [07:41 PM] Bocaj: He's dated Crystal and Medusa [07:41 PM] maxwellelvis: Good golly [07:41 PM] Bocaj: He dates Nova, not that one, who probably counts if Silver Surfer do [07:42 PM] Bocaj: Huh. This list of romantic partners I've found for him is shorter than you'd expect [07:42 PM] Wack'd: People are kind of tetchy at how much Reed stretches now. Two different letter writers are like "He's not Plastic Man!" [07:42 PM] Bocaj: Hah. [07:43 PM] Wack'd: And people really like the more domestic stuff, specifically how Sue is written [07:43 PM] Wack'd: I'm sure the fact that all the letter writers are dudes is a coincidence [07:44 PM] Bocaj: I'm kind of but not really but a little surprised that Carol and Johnny haven't gone on at least one date. They have a venn diagram social circle and Carol dated Spider-Man briefly which is a similar kind of energy [07:44 PM] Wack'd: Oh hey, look who's making her *Fantastic Four* debut

[ephemeral-afterlight]

What happens when the others find Virgil in the superhero au?

part one

"what the hell is going on?"

virgil's voice comes out scratchy, low and alert despite the weariness set deep in his bones. the electricity crackling upon his fingertips only serves to make him look more intimidating, like he could bolt (or fight) any second, at the slightest provocation. he isn't doing it on purpose. 

"is this some kind of trick, you fiend?" the prince asks, booming voice grating on virgil's sensitive ears. the ringleader's wariness shines in his odd, multicoloured eyes, and it doesn't let up as he steps forward to the prince's side with a whip outstretched and ready to attack. virgil finds himself stumbling to take a step back to get away from the danger causing the mild-set panic. 

"a trick? what does that even mean? why am i here? why am i wearing this— this shit? why are you trying to kill me?" virgil spits, rapid-fire and scathing to hide his fear. for some reason, every part of him is saying to appear powerful, to show no trepidation in the face of those who have supposedly devoted themselves to protecting people like him. citizens, civilians. not… not villains. he can't be a villain. this has to be some kind of mistake, or prank, or something.

"why? you are the storm. you have created disaster everywhere you go. we cannot allow this kind of terrorization to go unchecked," the codebreaker speaks, staring unerringly down at virgil from where he floats effortlessly nearly ten feet off the ground. his voice is weird, has a second layer to it, a buzz that feels less than human. 

"i'm not this— this 'storm' guy! i didn't do anything! i just live at home and work at a shitty fast food place and live off of coffee! i didn't… i didn't do any of that stuff. i saw it on the news, but i didn't do it," virgil exclaims helplessly, urgency in the way his hands shake and legs itch to run and hide. he doesn't know what to do, how he's gonna get himself out of this situation. what, is he supposed to google "how to escape crazy powerful superheroes who are trying to kill you because they think you committed a bunch of crimes you didn't commit"? 

"oh ho, really? sure you didn't. and how exactly are we supposed to know that this isn't just you trying to get us to let our guard down?" the prince asks, a perfectly shaped eyebrow raising in incredulity, like he can't believe virgil would ever have the nerve to try such a transparent ploy. and even though virgil's annoyed beyond belief and he just wants to go home and sleep, he gets it. he'd probably think the same thing, if he were in their situation. 

"you don't," virgil breathes, ignoring the way the prince scoffs and codebreaker floats closer in curiosity. "shit, i know what this looks like, but i'm just as confused as you are! i don't remember anything from today, i don't remember how i got here, or why i'm wearing these stupid clothes, and i sure as hell don't know why there's fucking lightning coming out of my goddamn hands! but i– i'm not going to go to jail for something i didn't do. please. please believe me. just– just give me a chance to prove it, somehow. i don't care."

the other four watch virgil after his rant, observe the way his eyes get wet and his hands tremble violently and his breathing picks up speed. he feels like a specimen under their eyes, a rat in a cage, an animal waiting to be experimented on by an unethical scientist. he just wants to leave, just wants to curl up underneath his blanket and cry, to sleep for sixteen hours straight. he can't deal with the attention, the confusion, the memory loss, the not-knowing. 

"he's scared and confused, but… he's not angry, not like the blackened rage i always feel from him," the medic says, voice soft and hesitant. his hand lifts as if to reach for virgil, but the cloaked figure proves more skittish than expected, and he darts backwards and crouches again as if to prepare for a fight. medic's sadness extends outward past his body, envelops the area in a misty blue gloom, and it takes the ringleader laying a comforting hand on his shoulder for the unconscious bubble to retract itself. "i don't think he's lying, guys."

"you never think anyone is lying, medic," the prince remarks, not unkindly, and he pats the medic on the back when his shoulders droop. the codebreaker shifts in front of the other three, comes closer and closer with feet hanging uselessly below, and then he touches down right in front of virgil. all of his instincts say to run, and a terrifying part of him wants to reach forward and send fatal electric shocks coursing through the leader's veins. but he stays, holds his ground, and tries to prove his innocence the only way he knows how. 

"okay. i will treat your claim as the truth," the codebreaker says, and immediately holds a finger up to silence the protests that come from both the prince and the ringleader, as if he was expecting it. "however. if i begin to believe even for a second that you are lying or have malicious intent towards us or the city, i will not hesitate to throw you in lockdown. i want to figure out what's going on here, if you truly did not commit the crimes of the storm, but i will not put my own curiosity over the lives of my team and the lives of every single person in this city. do you understand?"

and virgil simply nods his head, frantic and wide-eyed. although he knows that codebreaker is on the side of the city, that he's a hero, he's still intimidating. virgil has the feeling that his moral compass, while steely, is not aimed the same way as perhaps the prince or the medic, and he would probably have no qualms with taking him out if not for the laws of the city and collective moral and societal obligation. "yeah, yeah. just. please. please help me."

the prince sighs loudly at the words, raising a hand to rub tiredly at the side of his face. "i still don't trust you, but… i made a promise to help those who need it. you better be telling the truth, because if you're lying, i'll punch you so hard your face concaves."

the medic's face twists fearfully at that, and he delivers a gentle but assertive slap to the prince's shoulder. the prince yelps, dramatically turning with a swish of his cape to confront the other hero, of whom has on the most "disappointed dad"-like expression virgil's ever seen. the ringleader only rolls his eyes, gesturing at codebreaker, who turns and steps off the ground into the air once more. his movements are calculated yet graceful, like a mesmerizing dance, and virgil finds himself studying the psychic with rapt attention as he goes. 

"well, c'mon, mr. storm! if we wanna get to the bottom of this, we should probably go somewhere more private, don't'cha think?" the medic calls, a buoyant accent slipping out, and virgil's head whips up in surprise. private? are they gonna take him to some lair? or bunker? are they gonna torture information out of him or something? do heroes do that? 

but he doesn't really have any other choice but to follow, so he does. 

he's ushered into the middle of them, with prince watching his back like a hawk. the eyes boring into him are uncomfortable, but it's not like virgil can necessarily ask him to stop, so he just clutches his cloak tighter and trudges on. rocks and dirt embed themselves into his tender soles, but he doesn't dare comment. he knows that if he actually is this storm guy, then he should be able to fly, but he doesn't know how to control his powers (his powers!) and he certainly isn't going to ask one of them.

"hey, code-y, you sure about this?" the ringleader asks, voice no more than a murmur from where he strides beside a floating codebreaker. the latter turns to glance at him only for a second and then returns to looking forward neutrally. 

"yes. if he does end up being dangerous, he is still outnumbered and outmatched by our experience and skill. if anything, this will give us a chance to study his powers and possibly gain a new ally," the codebreaker tells him, lashes fluttering as the illegible words and images on his hologram visor shift into something else that virgil can't make out. the ringleader hums noncommittally as he twirls his cane, one that seemingly appeared from nowhere. virgil stares until he's side-eyed by the odd, mysterious character, and he immediately turns his gaze downward to trace the lines of the sidewalk as they traverse the outskirts of the city.

this is going to be interesting.

small taglist: @illogical-anxieties @sharp-as-hyalus @bookwyrminspiration

[lyfrassirrrrrrrr]

Trying Times

Chapter 1: Gone.

Read it here on A03: not up yet

━━━━━━━━━━━━━━

Work is dull. It’s something that ‘The General’ thought he would never say until 7 years ago. You see, General George Washington of Hero Corp loved his job. He saved people, ran the most successful hero agency, and kept people safe. Though, it wasn’t always easy for him. Especially on a day like today.

Seven years ago he lost his foster son. Reporters claimed it was a freak accident, a villain attack, but Washington knew better. Something had changed that day. In his son’s eyes. Those chocolate brown eyes became dead, and cold. He was gone the moment those eyes changed.

“Sir, are you okay?”

Ah. Right, he was in a meeting.

“I’m quite alright, sorry I, became distracted” he averted his gaze downward, not wanting painful eyes of a mourning father to be shown to his employees.

“Sir, It’s okay to take the day off, we know it is the anniversary of defeating true chaos-“

“Don’t call him that.” Washington snapped. He refused to call him that, even after all this time. The fact refuses to this day to implant in his mind. His mind denied that his son was some storybook character. He wasn’t the beast his family had fought for generations.

“Sir” his employee spoke up. “I know it’s hard but we have to remember this beast has evolved more and more, true chaos is no longer some mere beast told in fairytales anymore.. you know you must destroy him, containing him may fail soon enough, we don’t know the true extent to his powers”

There it was. Every year this conversation was had. Every year he refused to uncrystalize True chao- his son. He would always be his son. Deep down he wanted to believe that he was his son, and not some beast that evolved to take this form to trick him.

“I’m going to attend to training the junior heroes. Meeting adjourned.” The general said coldly as he stood up and walked out of his seat. When he was finally alone, he let himself sulk in the silence, the loss of his first son.

━━━━━━━━━━━━━━

The ‘Revolutionary Set’ was comprised of four junior heroes. Aaron Burr, or Mysterium. The brains of the group, literally. His ability was telekinesis and other psychic powers. Next up was Hercules Mulligan, or ‘The Pants.” He could create and manipulate fabric from his hands. He got his name by losing a bet. Then there was Lancelot, or the madam Marquis de Lafayette. He was Washington’s adopted son and had the ability of enhanced vision and agility. Lastly was John Laurens. He wasn’t exactly a junior hero, rather he was part of the rehabilitation for young villains program. Despite this, he fit in well with the rag tag group of heroes and had a new home with Hero Corp.

Their ‘base’ was a hidden room at the bottom of the main campus. It looked like any other cell but contained a crystalized boy that looked about 16 in the center. This boy had long raven hair and bright neon eyes. He wore a green scarf and a black outfit with a brown utility belt and brown boots. He held a dagger and looked in a fighting stance.

They couldn’t tell you why they chose it, but they chose this place to hang out and eat lunch. They joked around, talked, laughed, and cried. This was like their home.

But sometimes there were days when all they could think about was the crystallized boy. This was one of those days.

“How could someone so young have gotten this punishment..” Laurens had leaned on the wall and curled up slightly into himself. These days were often the hardest for the makeshift family.

“mon petit, there must be a reason. Washington only crystallizes the worst of the worst.” Lafayette held an arm around Laurens as he hugged him.

“Yeah but he's so young, he deserves a second chance, doesn’t he?” He pushed Lafayette off and stared back at the crystal, his eyes were cold.

Burr gave a frown “Sometimes we just gotta trust him. I agree that second chances should be in order but-“

“Sometimes some people are just not fixable. Sometimes some people are too twisted. The general knows what he’s doing, I’m sure there was no other way” Hercules went on as he leaned on the crystal. Staring back at Laurens.

While Laurens began to retort a crack was heard. The four boys stared as Hercules moved to reveal the giant crack.

“What the fuck?”

“Merde!”

“Washington’s crystals aren’t meant to break like that-“

“Ooooh~ you guys are in trouble”

The three boys stared over at laurens and gave him a glare. “What? Okay fine, oh noooo”

“Merde, papa va nous tuer!” Lafayette began to panic as he paced around. Hercules quickly grabbed him by the shoulders and relaxed him.

”Relax Laf, let's just out some duct tape on it.”

Burr rolled his eyes “That’s the stupidest idea I’ve ever-“

“THAT'S PERFECT HERCULES!” Lafayette hugged him, as Laurens gave a thumbs up.

Hercules pulled out some duct tape, sticking it on the crack.

“See? Good as new. Now c'mon, lunch is almost over” Hercules said as he grabbed the group and quickly walked out, shuttling the door.

What they didn’t know was the moment they left, the crack had expanded.

━━━━━━━━━━━━━━

Ṫ̸̠̞͒͘h̷̨̘̽ę̶̛̬͇͔̮͊̈͝ ̷͎͇̞͗͌̀͘ť̵͚í̵̲͉͓͌̋̚͝m̶̨̡̙͎̞̈́̔̑e̴̮͒̚ ̷̛͔̂̀̚ī̶̙͙̬̋̈́͌s̵̝̙͙̄͑̓͐̄ͅ ̸͕̗̹̪͛̈́̀͋̕ç̸͓̟̺̠͌̂͠ơ̷̢̛͉̣͎͑̈̍m̴̧̼̻͓̋̍̐͜i̶̹̊͋͠n̷̙̈́͊̌g̴̤̼͖̦͓̓͛̕.̵̧̼̳̝̈́̚ ̶͎̣͇̀̽̓ ̸͉̤̈̀ ̴͍͖̖̐̆̍̏̽ ̵̰̀̅̔͝A̸̧̛̟̻̔̌̔r̵̛͇̻̰͂̐ȩ̵͈̒͗̒͛ ̴̯̮̆̀̈́͝ỹ̸̦̄̇͑͊o̵̢̖̣̗͍̎̄̐͘ư̶̫̪͚͈͛̈ͅ ̵̮̙̔̇͘g̶̹̩̒͒̚ó̵̬i̷̛̛̳͙̭̳̐̓͝ͅn̵̡̢̛͐̚g̷̦̖̿̔͂ ��̻̩̐t̴̢̥͛̀̈o̸͙͇͔̪͗́̌ ̴̼͇̲̈́̾s̸̬̻̏̄̐̕͝t̵̰̭͌̽̿͛͝a̴̱͓̒̊̓n̸̨͎̝̪̫͗̾̂d̴̛̘͈͚ ̸̝̿̄́ḯ̷̳̳ͅḋ̸͈͎̗̕l̸͕̀̆͊͂͝ḙ̴̇̎͂͛ͅ?̵̫̜͈̎̑͊̍ ̶̡̟̻̜̘̈͋͂͝O̸̧͉̥̠͛͜r̸̨̝̹͈̻͛̐͂́ ̶̆͋͆ͅs̸̢̨͆h̶̘̫̬̳͙̉͂̑a̵̺͇͆̊̉̒l̸̛̗̅̈́̿͐l̴̢͔̓͑ ̶̲͒ẃ̸̧̹e̸͖͔͠ ̶̨̖͚̓̒̓̉̊f̶̢̩̘̐̋̆i̷̗̟̘̿̂n̵̝̠̊̀̈́̕ȋ̶̡͍̦͊̓s̶̢̬̗̱̊h̴̥͝ ̶͙͈̻̜̎͌́͛̕t̷̯̿̎̏h̴͎͕͊̒ḯ̸̼͋s̸͖̼̖͔͎͌.̴̧̡̗̙̤̾̍̓͑̑ ̶̧̫̥͒̔̽

━━━━━━━━━━━━━━

“Someone’s late again, huh?” Jefferson taunted the group coming in, who responded by rolling his eyes. Well besides Laf who hugged His cousin tightly.

“Thomas! You are back from France!” he said brightly as he began to chatter with him.

“He’s still as cocky as ever.” Burr said blandly as he stood next to James Madison, who simply nodded.

Madison had the ability to manipulate water, and freeze it. He was known as ’Waterfall’ in the hero community. His best friend, Thomas Jefferson, was known as ‘Thorned Rose’ who had the ability to grow plants and make them do what he wanted.

The two had been inseparable as children, and had become a duo that no hero or villain could forget.

“Let me guess mon ami, you are still hung up on not having a nemesis?” Lafayette lightly teased, nudging him. Before he could respond the lights went down, and 5 seconds later the lockdown alarms went on.

“This is a lockdown, I repeat, a lockdown. I need all staff on deck!”

━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ ̷̖̹̳͖͝ ̷̢͓̬̱̄̍̈̑̂ ̷̘̿̾̒̋T̴̡͎̹̮̙̀̀͗ḥ̴͎̦̳̓̌̈́̾͘a̴̩̼̿͂ț̵̡̜̔̾͘͠͠ ̴̧̛̙̲͈̳̃̍̊p̵͚̐͗ả̸̬͛͠t̷͎͍̰̍̓́̄̚ḧ̸͎̞́e̴̝̫̟̕ṫ̵̚͜i̷̢͈͋̑̔c̶̝͙͔̕ ̷̛̖͔̯̹̯̾̕ĕ̵̙̳̻͙̠̈́͑ẋ̷̧̜͉̪̣͊c̷͈͎̓ừ̵̙͝s̷͇̩͑ê̶͈͓̭͈̳̔̊͠ ̴̤̃̿͘o̵̧̯̓͘f̵̪́͊͘͝ ̸̡͍͉̑a̸͓͔̒͊͒͠ ̶̡̖̗̥͌h̷̡̥̼̖̯̎͛̕e̴͓̗̓̿̃r̷̛̙͎̓̆͂͜͝ö̵̥͉͉́̀̌ ̴̧̱̝̐w̷̥͍͕̏̈ȋ̷̮̔l̷͍̮̥̱̅͛̃ͅl̵̻̱͚̫̓͜ ̵̡̻̞̐̚k̴͉͗̒̃n̷̟̥̄ǫ̷͐̎̆̉͝w̵͇͋͑ ̵̺͋̿y̷̧̢̪͋ơ̸͚̅̀ù̴̪̜͍̜͙͐̇̆͗ŕ̴̼ ̸͙̗̞̤́͜ṙ̷͇a̵͍̥͗̈͊̏ͅg̴̢̳̳̏e̷̝̱͚̽,̶̢̀̅́ ̸͓̝̻̍ỳ̴̢̪͉̈̊͋o̶͍̥͖̱̕u̵̠͉͂̑n̵͗̋̇̈͜g̸̭͇̭̅͜͝ ̷̖̒͆̈́̀͘ò̸̙͈̰́͂̋n̵̥̘̜͝ͅe̸͎͌̈́̈́͠.̷̺͕̓͐̿͜͠ ̶̗̩̹͍͑̄̔́

━━━━━━━━━━━━━━

The General was walking down the hallway, intending to visit Alexander. He often went there to talk to him, despite him not being there for real. What he saw surprised him.

The door was blasted open.

Broken crystals were on the floor.

And Alexander was gone.

He pressed the emergency lockdown button as he ran upstairs, preparing to search the building. this was bad. If Alexander gets out, the junior heroes could be hurt, headquarters was at stake. How did he even get out? He thought to himself as he raced the halls and got onto the loud speakers

“This is a lockdown, I repeat, a lockdown. I need all staff on deck!”

━━━━━━━━━━━━━━

̶̺͙̌̑͠C̵͔̜̦̽̽̈̀ǒ̶̧͚͓̰̫m̶͓̂͐͋̂ę̶͖̖͗̃̔ ̷͓̲̪́n̵͉͌͜o̶̧̻̭̙͍͒̾͋w̷̫̥̃̅,̶͕̣̻̿͗̀͜ͅ ̶̽̂̄͜w̶̙̫̖͂̓̌ȇ̵̪͚͍̟̅̓̿̉ ̵̧͇̣͚͆͆̿h̸̨́̾a̵̢̹̫̽̀v̵̨̟̠͖̥̔͒̌e̶̺̞͈̭̔̏̅͑ ̴̜̟͈́ͅw̴̤̎̓̕o̶̡̼̘̳͆͠r̷̛̫͚ķ̴̲̞̳͠ͅ ̸̳̘̭̠́͛t̵̢̮̰̮͇͊̑o̷̡̓̏̃̅͠ ̸̢̟̼̺̭̅̓͆͠f̸͉͖̫̌͜i̴̫̱̎͝n̸͖̿i̴̧̟̱͔͕͂̏́̕s̶̪̹̊̍͐̕h̵̢̼̼̠̝͌.̵̡͕̅ ̶̯̪̭̲͚̈̒

━━━━━━━━━━━━━━

[nationalhoranleague]

Sixteen | Doubt

Chapter Song: Us (Acoustic) - James Bay

≫ Everly - Monday, February 1, 2016 ≪

It was blistering cold out, but it was welcomed this morning. There was something about the cold air that brought along a certain kind of clarity to my thinking. It was early still, the sun wasn't to come up for another hour and a half. I have never been, am not, and will never be a morning person. I love sleep more than anything or anyone on this earth, Sidney included. But since my injury, a full night's rest has been harder and harder to come by.

The glisten of the holiday season has long been faded, my family has returned to work from their holiday breaks, and Sidney was knee-deep in the playoff run, leaving little time for himself, let alone me. I was left to my own devices and there were next to none to be left to. I had read every book that both Sidney and I had in our possession, watched what felt like all of the makeup tutorials on Youtube, and even attempted to remake some of Julia Child's classic recipes. Not being able to skate was driving me to the brink of insanity and boredom.

Behind me, I could hear the back door creak open and then quickly shut. I listened as Sidney's sleepy body shuffled across his back yard over to where I was sitting with my back to him. He leaned over the back of the pool lounge I had wandered over to this morning and pressed a warm kiss to the side of my face.

He shoved a warm mug into my chilled hands before sitting down into the chair next to me. He sighed, took a sip from his mug, and then closed his eyes as he settled himself into the metal chair.

For a long time, we were quiet, the only sounds being of the cold wind blowing around us and the pool cover in front of us rustling in the wind.

"Why are you awake?" I asked quietly, causing him to open his eyes and look at me.

He sighed. "I rolled over and you weren't there," I turned back to watching the trees swaying in front of me.

We sat quietly for another bout, in fact, we were quiet for so long that I was nearly halfway done with my coffee by the time Sidney broke the silence. "So, are you ready to fess up?"

"To what?" I asked, playing dumb with him.

He scoffed. "Don't play coy with me, Everly Grace," Clearly, Sidney is not a morning person either. "I know when something is bothering you. You're tossing and turning all night, you've been up before 6 pretty much every morning since your injury, you're not eating normally, and you've been in a mood since I've been back from my road trip." I exhaled heavily. "I'm worried about you. Did I-" He sighed. "Did I do something wrong?" He asked, his voice soft.

"No! Sid, no! I-I'm fine."

He laughed sadly, shaking his head at me. "You didn't even believe that yourself. Now, what is bothering you?"

I sighed. "Sid, not being able to skate has driven me to the brink of insanity."

"Oh, honey,"

"I have been skating since I was three, Sidney. I know nothing but figure skating. I have never, until this past year, not been able to skate whenever I wanted. Two injuries within a year is a lot to deal with, mentally and physically." I sighed. "Maybe it's too much?"

Sidney was quiet for a minute, letting the realization of what I had just said set in. It was a lot to take in and if he had said the same to me, I would have been just as stunned. Even I was shocked. Sure, I had been tossing the idea of quitting skating around in my head for weeks now, but saying it out loud made it feel like a plausible idea. "How long have you been thinking about this?" He asked incredulously.  

"Since Christmas," I confessed. "Is my body going to let me do this anymore, Sid? I mean for God's sake, I've had two knee injuries in a year! A year! I'm falling apart at the seams!" I paused, briefly. "But how could I quit? I have nothing better to do. I have absolutely no backup plan. I bet my whole life on a career that could be over in the blink of an eye." I looked over at him. "Did I mess up, Sidney?"

Sidney shook his head. "You didn't mess up, you followed your dream and have made an amazing career out of it. An amazing career. You still have so much to do, I know it in my gut."

I half smiled at him. "I don't know, bubba."

Sidney stood up, practically unfolding himself from the pool chair, he reached a hand out to me, pulling me up from the chair. "C'mon, let's go in. It's freezing out here." I followed him across the backyard.

"I thought you were Canadian?" I asked, teasing him.

He faked a soft laugh, clearly not amused with my chirp. "Why did you sound like that one vine?" I tossed my head back in true laughter. I was sure that if it wasn't for my obsession with vine references, Sidney would have no idea what a vine even is. "I thought you were American?" He mocked.

Once inside, Sidney made a beeline for the coffee pot, desperately needing a warm-up for his mug. I found a comfy spot in the window seat of the breakfast nook. He refilled his mug before making his way over to me, sliding in behind me, pressing his back to the wall. I settled comfortably in between his thick legs and dropped my head back against his chest.

"Oh, my love," I sighed. "I don't know what to do. Tell me what to do, Sid."

"No," He said, confidently. I tilted my head up to look at him, confused.

"No?"

"No, I'm never going to tell you what to do with your life, Ev." I smiled softly at him, before returning my eyes to the window which now painted a portrait of the sun rising over the trees in Sidney's backyard. "I can, however, offer some advice, if you'd like."

"Okay, shoot, Crosby,"

"I've been doing some reading since I don't know anything about figure skating," I grinned. Sidney is, by a mile, the sweetest, most caring man I had ever met. It only made sense to me that he would research and learn more about the sport that made me the person I am today. "The first qualification event for PyeongChang is the 2017 World Championships, so you're technically in the position right now to be able to take an entire year off from skating. And, for what it's worth, I think you should. Give yourself the time to heal up both psychically and mentally. "

"Yeah, I mean, I agree with you," I began slowly. "But, I don't know what I would do with myself for a year, Sid."

"Well," He began hesitantly. "I don't know if you would be interested, and I don't want you to think this is a handout, because it's not. You just-" He sighed, clearly struggling to find the right words. I turned around to face him now. "You just know me so well, and we have the same passions and work ethic and I can't think of anyone else I would want to do it."

"Okay, what is it?" I asked, now a little on edge because I was completely unsure of where he was about to take this conversation.

"I have a spot open on the foundation board."

I gasped. The foundation was Sidney's pride and joy. Even while in the middle of trying to clinch a playoff berth, he was still heavily involved in the planning of his upcoming hockey school and charity events in both Nova Scotia and Pittsburgh.

"Sid, are you sure?"

"I'm 100 percent sure, I just want to make sure that this is something you want to be involved in too."

I nodded eagerly. "Oh! I would love to,"

"Yeah? Thank God! When can you start?"

I laughed, before launching myself into his arms. I wrapped my arms around his neck and pulled his lips to mine.

Liked by jeffskinner, taylorcrosby29, smellymelly, and 36,998 others.

everlygcassius: In December I sprained my ACL and as many of you have probably noticed, I have been off of the ice since. Tomorrow, I will be cleared to make my return to the ice. However, I have decided that two injuries in a year have been too much for my knee, my heart, and my mental health. I will be taking a step back from skating until 2017. I am looking forward to healing myself and returning to the international stage as a powerhouse in Helsinki for the World Championships!

≫ Everly - Sunday, February 7, 2016 ≪

For once, since my injury, Sidney was awake long before I was. In the past week, I had been able to calm down tremendously, thus allowing me to sleep in longer than the sun. I had officially accepted the position with Sidney's foundation and had informed my agent, Eva, family, and the rest of the world that I would be taking a break from skating. Most everyone was supportive, except for a few rude trolls here and there. However, I was happy and that was all that mattered to me.

I was missing skating already. But, I'm so looking forward to getting to know myself outside of the world of figure skating. I'm looking forward to finding something I was passionate about, something I enjoyed doing. I'm looking forward to having a short, busy summer with Sidney, who had recently collected his 900th point and a playoff berth in one fell swoop. I'm looking forward to working closely with Trina and the other foundation board members. I'm looking forward to so many things and amazingly, none of them pertained to skating, making me feel oddly at ease.

"Good morning, sleeping beauty," I perked up, seeing Sidney sliding himself between his bedroom door and the door frame. "Want to come down? I'm making breakfast, I thought we could have an 'us' day since we haven't had a lot of time together recently."

He was right. He had been traveling just about every other game recently and was typically only home late at night or early in the morning, all but forcing me to stay at his house if I wanted to spend more than 15 minutes with him. "Yeah, are pants required?"

Sidney titled his head in thought. Suddenly, he stepped into his bedroom, where I was still buried away underneath his heavy blankets, and dropped his sweatpants on the floor, leaving him clad only in his boxer briefs. "No,"

"Good," I proclaimed, standing up on his bed now, showing him that I only had on one of his t-shirts and a pair of black lacy boyshorts.

He cackled, before coming over to my side and lending a hand up to help me down from the bed. I placed my feet on the cream carpet and began to reach for my cell phone on the charger. Sidney swatted at my hand, making me eye him curiously.

"No cell phones," He pointed over to his nightstand where his phone was still plugged in and resting on the wood.

"Okay, yeah, I like that."

It was late. Neither Sidney nor I had bothered to replace our pants, check our phones, or brush our teeth for the entire day. We had eaten our weight in junk food, had a dance party, taken two naps each, switching between little spoon to big spoon, and watched countless Disney movies. The day was both greatly needed and appreciated by us.

Sidney held onto me tightly, keeping me from rolling off the side of the couch. Our legs were tangled together, probably as equally as hairy. His face was pressed into my hair, allowing his vanilla ice cream scented breath to fan over my neck. My face was tucked into the crook of his strong arm, serving as a surprisingly comfortable pillow.

"Ev," He whispered. "Are you awake?"

"Yes," I responded giggling.

"You know I'm proud of you, right?" I froze, not knowing how to respond. "I would give anything for you not to be having to go through this right now, but I'm so proud of how you're handling yourself with grace and looking at the situation optimistically. You make me want to be a better athlete and person." He paused to let out a long yawn. "I can't wait to spend the rest of my life admiring the hell out of you, Everly Grace."

Read Change on the Fly here!

Let me hear your thoughts!

Do you prefer to read on Wattpad?

[valsworldofcreativity]

Requests are open !

So i am taking request! You all can request for Eisuke, Soryu, Baba, Mamoru from “Kissed By The Baddest Bidder (KBTBB) & Sam & Dean Winchester from “Supernatural” & guys from "Lovestruck" from GIL, AFK,L&L, Castway & HIFL. Give me number & name of the guy!

Here are some of the prompts you can request from:

“You’re hair is really soft after you wash it.”

“Ssh. Stop fussing. I’m just braiding your hair.”

“You smell really nice.”

“Would it be all right if I borrowed your sweater? It smells like you.”

“I might have slept with your robe when you were gone.”

“If you steal the blankets, I am going to put my cold feet on you.”

“Here, let’s share the blanket.”

“You’re comfy.”

“You are my new pillow.”

“You are very endearing when you are half-asleep.”

“But I want to hear you sing.”

“We can talk over dinner.”

“Don’t be stubborn. Try it!”

“Don’t get up - I’ll do it.”

“Will you let me rub your back?”

“Care to give me a back scratch?”

“Star-gazing was a good idea.”

“You look beautiful/handsome in the moonlight.”

“I’ll always be here for you.”

“I’ll be here to protect you.”

“I think I love you.”

“You are my love.”

“How about something warm? It will will help you sleep.”

“It’s okay. I couldn’t sleep anyway.”

“Don’t be silly. I want to stay up with you.”

“It is not morning yet.”

“Shush and go back to bed.”

“I heard you talking in your sleep.”

“Your bed head is really cute.”

“We’ll do dishes together.”

“How about a kiss?”

“I love your hugs.”

Here, I saved some for you. Try it?”

“I just really need a hug right now…”

“You. Me. Movie marathon. Get all the snacks you can carry.”

“Join me in the blanket fort. We play until dawn.”

“It’s cake, how difficult can it be?”

“Sure, it *looks* safe, but watch what happens when I do this.”

“I had a nightmare… can you stay up with me?”

“We’re going to have to raid the neighbors if you want more pillows to turn this into a Pillow Fortress Castle.”

“This would look so cute on you!”

“Okay, but if you turn the lights off for this playthrough, I’m not being held accountable for anything I do when spooked.”

“I said we could share a blanket, but if you put your cold feet on me *one more time*…”

“You’ve been working too hard and I’m calling a Netflix intervention. Not taking no for an answer.”

“I’ve got a gallon of ice cream and if you don’t get a spoon my tummyache will be all your fault.”

“Fight me. Pillow fight. And by fight I mean cuddle.”

“My hand is cold. Unless we find somewhere to stop soon, it’s going up your back.”

“Oh my god, just pet my hair already.”

“After that movie you’re staying for a sleepover. I know you don’t want to go home and sleep alone anyway.”

“Is there a reason you’re gnawing on me?”

“C'mon, I need a Player 2.”

“I bet you can’t make it all the way through the movie without screaming at it.”

“If you put that in the microwave uncovered I swear I will beat you to death with a plastic spoon.”

“What was that flavor of cake you liked? I need to know because reasons.”

“When we get that house you’re handling the spiders.”

“Going to the mall alone is boring. Besides, I need someone to tell me how great I look in all the clothes I try on.”

“It’s not MY fault you scream like a schoolgirl on a rollercoaster.”

“It’s an arcade, do you need more reasons to go?”

“Please tell me why you were napping in my freshly dried blankets *while they’re still in the dryer*.”

“Can we please take cheesy best friend pictures in that photo booth? I promise to keep silly faces to a minimum.”

“I’m singing along to this song and you can’t stop me, so either deal with it or join me.”

“C'mon, with anyone else this would be too weird.”

“I hate this game so much. Here’s a link, you should totally play it.”

“I take no responsibility for any smells you may or may not encounter from this point forward.”

“HELP I HAVE A SPLINTER”

“Okay, but consider that if you don’t watch this show with me, I’ll still rant to you just as much about the feels it gives me.”

“If anyone turns that fan off again I swear someone’s going to bleed.”

“Help me, the computer’s making sad beeps again. Make it happy, please.”

“THIS MOVIE MAKES ME CRY EVERY TIME WHY DID YOU LET ME CHOOSE IT?!”

“I have in front of me: One DVD, seven remote controls, and an entertainment center. This will be a voyage of discovery.”

“If I die, you get my cat. So make sure I live through this.”

“I need someone to cling to in the haunted house, and you’re it.”

“Yeah, but you’re *my* nerd.”

“The remote is two feet thataway and I don’t feel like moving. We’re stuck with this.”

“You are aware this was the worst idea ever and you’re lucky you’re my best friend, or else I’d leave you alone to deal with this.”

“I’d say sorry my mom tried to adopt you again, but it was kind of my idea.”

“There is a perfectly good reason I’m eating these mini marshmallows right out of the package, I’m certain of it. Probably.”

“Okay but hear me out: Fluffy. Sharks.”

“Please keep your sick away from me and get better soon. I made you soup.”

“That sounds like a bad idea. I’m in.”

“If you don’t come up and sing with me, I will sing and point at you. The entire. Time.

Well, what can I say? I’m a badass.”

“Define normal.”

“Do I get bonus points if I act like I care?”

“Just remember if we get caught, you’re deaf and I don’t speak English.”

“Don’t look for any redeeming qualities. I don’t have any.”

“It’s amazing how fast the world can go from bad to total shit storm.”

“I love you. You enormously stubborn pain in the ass.”

“And you wonder why you’re still single.”

“Remind me to kill you. Please.”

“I’m listening to you. I’m just not paying attention.”

“That’s a little melodramatic, don’t you think?”

“Were you dropped on your head?”

“She’s crazy. And just when you think you’ve reached the bottom of her craziness, there’s a crazy underground garage.”

“She may seem like lollipops and rainbows but I bet behind close doors she’s latex and whips.”

“If my day gets any worse, I’m asking hell if they’re having an exchange program.”

“Sorry. I don’t speak skank.”

“If I survive, can I go home?”

“My middle finger salutes you.”

“This is a whole new level of moronic, even for you.”

“I don’t think I could ever stab someone. I mean, let’s be honest. I can barely get the straw in the Capri Sun.”

“I don’t have enough middle fingers to let you know how I feel.”

“Insanity run in my family. It practically gallops.”

“Oh darling. Go buy a brain.”

“Somebody’s cranky.” “Somebody needs to shut up.”

“Frankly my dear, I don’t give a damn.”

“All due respect, but that’s a bunch of crap.”

“I am one of the few people in the world who can murder you and leave no forensic evidence behind.”

“Excuse me. I have to go make a scene.”

“What did I tell you about calling her/him the devil?” “That it’s offensive to the devil?”

“I heard that!” “You were supposed to!”

“I need therapy after this.”

“You didn’t get in trouble for lying. You got in trouble for lying badly.”

“I’m not weird. I am limited edition.”

“I turned out liking you a lot more that I originally planned.”

“I think you’re weird.” “I think you’re boring.”

“If history repeats itself, I am so getting a dinosaur.”

“You seem somewhat familiar. Have I threatened you before?”

“I’m afraid I’ve been thinking…” “A dangerous pastime.”

“I’d explain it to you, but you’re brain would explode.”

“Wow, there’s a big surprise. I think I’m going to have a heart attack and die from surprise.”

“I’m gonna hit you so hard, it’ll make you ancestors dizzy.”

“Even when we were kids, I always kicked your ass!”

“Sarcasm is the body’s natural reaction to stupidity.”

“You’re good. A monster pain in the ass… but you’re good.”

“Well, excuse me, psychic wonder!”

“The female of the species is more deadly than the male.”

“Don’t look in her eyes, she might steal your soul.”

“She’s hot, but she’s evil.”

“Do I regret it? Yes. Would I do it again? Probably.”

“I already know that I’m going to hell. At this point it’s really go big or go home.”

“Go on, knock his teeth down his throat.”

“You’re going to burn in a very special level of hell. A level they reserve for child molesters, animal abusers and people who talk at the theater.”

“What’s the point in screaming? No one’s listening anyway.”

“I’m not a damsel in distress. I’m a damsel doing damage.”

“So stick that in your juice box and suck it.”

“Never take life seriously. No one ever comes out alive anyway.”

“This place hold a lot of memories for me. Some bad, some… No. No, no, all bad.”

“A little gasoline… blowtorch… no problem.”

“Good, bad, I’m the one with the gun.”

“I know you can’t kill anybody, ‘cause I can’t kill anybody.”

“You’re insane, but you might also be brilliant.”

“What you call insanity, I call inspiration.”

“Sometimes I question my sanity. Occasionally it replies.”

“Why should we date?” “Because we are attracted to each other.” “I am attracted to pie, but I do not feel the need to date pie.”

“Why does everyone assume the worst of me.” “It saves time.”

“I like you. You’re different.”

“You successfully cured him/her of anything interesting about his/her personality.”

“Neither one us is drunk enough for this conversation.”

“You’re questioning my methods.” “I’m not questioning it, I’m saying it’s stupid.”

“Wow, somebody needs a Happy Meal.”

“I didn’t do it!” “Then why are you laughing?” “Because whoever did it is a freaking genius.”

“Idiots. I’m surrounded by idiots.”

“You couldn’t handle me even if I came with instructions.”

“I care so little, I almost passed out.”

“Well behaved woman rarely make history.”

“You’re so weird.” “You have no idea.”

“The universe may not always play fair, but at least it’s got a hell of a sense of humor.”

“You haven’t even seen my bad side yet.”

“Obviously you have mistaken me for somebody who gives a shit.”

“How’s life treating you?” “Like I ran over it’s dog.”

“Rule number one: don’t bother sucking up. I already hate you, that’s not going to change.”

“Oh God, we’re not gonna have to hug or anything, are we.”

“I’m so glad you could come.” “Cut the crap. Give me a drink.”

“You make no sense to me.” “Welcome to my life.”

“Have fun being deal.” “I will.”

“Damn, you’re strong for a little thing.”

“It’s called thinking. Go with it.”

“I made a new friend today.” “Real or imaginary?” “Imaginary.”

“Where have you been all my life?” “Hiding from you.”

“I’m getting real bored and impatient. I don’t do bored and impatient.”

“The girl is strange no question.”

“Do us a favor… I know it’s difficult for you… but please, stay here, and try no to do anything… stupid.”

“I know most people don’t like me; I don’t care, I don’t like most people.”

“You are a very strange person.” “Well, thanks for noticing.”

“I can tell that you think what you’re saying is funny, but… no.”

“I didn’t steal it. I permanently borrowed it.”

“I’m not shy. I’m just examining my prey.”

“If you pull out my earphones, I will pull out your lungs.”

“I don’t dislike you, I nothing you.”

“Are you crying? No, I’m impersonating a fountain.”

“Ah, he’s playing hard-to-get. That’s cute.”

“You’re kinda anti-social, you know that?”

“I feel like a freakin’ soccer mom.”

“My advice is much more subtle. Stop being an ass.”

“I’m just gonna pack up and go straight to hell now.”

“My ex? Yeah, I’d still hit that. Except this time it would be with a car or baseball bat.”

“She’s complicated like the DaVinci code, you know but harder to crack.”

“And just like everything else we do around here, it’s about to get weirder.”

“Such big evil in such a little thing.”

“Why do I still like you, knowing you’re a total asshole?”

“What does not kill you will likely try again.”

“Oh honey, I would but… I don’t want to.”

“And hello to you too… little homewrecker.”

“I’m gonna make you wish you were dead.”

“I don’t need anger management. I need people to stop pissing me off.”

“What doesn’t kill me might make me kill you.”

“In another life, I think I was in a mental institution.”

“I’m not crazy. I’m just interesting.”

“Don’t make me pop your ten grand sand bags honey.”

“This is fun.” “Seriously, we’re trying to hide a body.”

“You have something in your hair - let me get it for you.”

“Hm? Oh, sorry. I couldn’t help but stare at you.”

  “Um, would it be okay if I held your hand?” 

“Shut up and kiss me already.” 

“You’re the most important person in my life.” 

“Are you tired? Here, I’ll carry you the rest of the way.” 

“I’m not much of a chef, but… I really hope you like this.” 

  “Sorry for calling so late - I couldn’t stop thinking about you.” 

“I need you more than you need me.”

“I want to kiss you and hold your hand any time I want.”

“I can’t stop thinking about you… I can’t.”

“The truth is… I love you.”

“You like me more than you like them, right? Right?”

“Be mine. Please.”

“I am who I am because of you.”

“It’s been a long day… let’s take a bath together.”

“Wait, don’t pull away - I want to hug you for awhile longer.”“Ah- I adore your laugh.”

“Stop that, it tickles!”

“Ouch, I bit my lip… kiss it better?”

“I don’t want to get up… I’m so warm beside you.”

“You’re so intoxicating to me.”

“Your eyes are amazing… do you know that?”

“You’re just so wonderful.”“S-Stop looking at me like that! You’re making me blush…”

“Are you tired? Rest in your head in my lap.”

“You, Me, Order In, Netflix… waddya say?”

“I want to be more than just friends with you.”

“Fuck it - do you wanna get married?”

“Your smile is beyond gorgeous… please, keep doing it.”

“Whenever we’re together, I feel at home.”

“Will you say you love me? Pleeease?”

“Wait, don’t go! Can’t you stay the night?”

“Wow - you look… amazing.”

“*Puts hands over eyes from behind* Guess whooo?”

“I’m not jealous! It’s just… you’re mine!”

“I want to go on a date! I demand it!”

“We just met, this is crazy, I’m referencing a song… but call me maybe?”

“What? No! I wasn’t staring… I-I was looking at something behind you!”

“Do you want some? Here, open your mouth… I’ll feed you some!”

“It’s been a long day… here, let me give you a massage.”

“Is it alright if I call you princess?”

“It’s not like I like you or anything! … Okay, well- maybe I do.”

“I think your perfect. Even with your flaws, you’re nothing but perfect.

NO NSFW!

[feroluce]

TatST - Ch 1: Secrets

For Day 1: Secrets of Ritshou Summer Week by @shouritshou! Please enjoy the first chapter of Together at the Same Time!

Warnings: Major character death, violence, injuries, blood, concussions

Shou is acting weird. Like, weird even for Shou.

Ritsu wakes up to the smell of meat cooking in his nose. 

He fumbles for his phone, something that's become the first part of his daily routine since he convinced his parents to get it for him last year. A quiet chime plays as it unlocks, Ritsu sleepily rubbing at his eyes until his ceiling looks less blurred. He can already see out his glass door that it's going to storm later...maybe he'll just stay in bed for a while longer. He can still smell breakfast cooking and it's making his stomach growl, but he doesn't want to leave his warm bed yet. Ritsu pulls the blankets up to his ears as he rolls onto his stomach and tries to ignore the little pang in his heart when there are no new messages from Shou. Because really, it shouldn't be that much of a let down. He's probably not even awake yet. Shou tends to stay up late and sleep in late, doubly so on weekends. So it's completely normal to not have a new message and he shouldn't be so disappointed. Ritsu's phone signals a new text message and he snatches it up to check his notifications in record time. Dammit. Damn Shou and his handsome face and his cute freckles and the new pang in Ritsu's heart that is the exact opposite of disappointment but just as unwelcome and painful. Shou: We're going somewhere today! I'll come pick you up! Shou: And don't skip bfast it's bad for you The first one isn't unusual. Shou is restless and he is always finding something to do. The second text, though, is...oddly specific. Ritsu widens out his psychic senses just to make sure Shou isn't hiding somewhere with his invisibility (which also isn't unusual). He can't Feel Shou sneaking around anywhere, although that doesn't always mean anything. His ability to hide his presence rivals Shigeo's and supposedly Reigen's.

Reinvigorated with the promise of an adventure, Ritsu rolls himself out of bed and drags his feet across the carpet. He wonders if he should bother to bring an umbrella or not. It might just be in the way.

Shou: Don't bring your umbrella btw you'll just lose it

Shou: And wear shoes without laces

Ritsu sticks his head into Shigeo's room on his way by, just to make sure Momozou hadn't come by to visit without him knowing. There's only one futon on the floor, though, with one head of black hair poking out. Telepathy and invisibility make for a horrifying stealth combo.

Me: Why are you being so specific.

Shou: Just a feeling

Shou: Don't worry about it

Ritsu is torn between not worrying about it and knowing better until he walks in on Shou in the middle of picking his outside door’s lock.

“Ricchan! Lemme in, we're going somewhere today and we need to get going!” Shou looks up at him from where he's kneeling and his stupid grin is so bright that Ritsu wonders for a moment if the storm clouds cleared up. And he considers it, he really does…

“Why should I?” But sometimes Ritsu feels like being difficult.

“C'mon, I came all the way out here! Don't be a dick.”

“Impossible. I'm always a dick.”

Shou snorts at him. The sound doesn't carry through the glass, but Ritsu knows the face he makes when he does it. “Yeah, well, y’are whatcha eat, I guess.”

Ritsu pulls the curtain shut.

The indignant “Awww, c’mon, it was funny,” is muffled by the thick fabric. Ritsu had just recently reset that lock, he reasons he has at least a couple minutes before Shou gets it figured out. He's just barely finished stepping into his shoes, though, when the door slides open and Shou breezes in, bringing in the smell of rain. He's getting too good at that.

"So where exactly are we going?" Ritsu always asks when Shou just shows up to whisk him away like this, but he had stopped caring about an actual answer over a year ago. Shou can make even mundane, boring things exciting. He could say they were just going to the corner store and it would still be fun. So it doesn't matter what the answer is, because Ritsu will follow along regardless.

"Places." Ritsu side steps to make room for the eventual circuit that Shou will make through his room. Even though they see each other almost every day now, Shou always walks by his bookshelf to look at the framed pictures sitting there. Or maybe he just scans the book spines, trying to figure out which one might be Ritsu's journal. "I found some pretty cool abandoned stuff past Mud Boat Mountain. Like they just half bulldozed some tourist places and then left them!" Shou stops in front of Ritsu's desk, leaning back against it with his hands stuffed in his jacket pockets. He doesn't pace, doesn’t play with any of the pens on Ritsu's desk, doesn’t even look at the shelves.

The sudden break in routine is more than enough to remind Ritsu of the strange text messages from that morning. 

Shou is acting weird. Like, weird even for Shou.

And he only realizes it more and more as Shou babbles about whatever he's found out in the mountain ranges. There's something off about his rhythm, about the way the words roll off his tongue. And Ritsu isn't sure of exactly what it is, but he can pick out that it's wrong. It maybe wouldn't be wrong coming from anyone else, but it's wrong for Shou and at least to Ritsu, Shou isn't just anyone else, he's Shou.

And Shou does eventually move, but it's only to steal a jacket out of the closet. The one that's changed hands so many times between the two of them that Ritsu can't even remember who it belonged to first.

Something like unease settles into Ritsu's gut, twisting up his insides.

It only gets worse from there. When they both leave the house, Shou keeps finishing Ritsu's sentences or answering questions before he's even done asking them. And this isn't unheard of, Shou can read Ritsu like an open book after so much time, but it's never been to this extent. Part of it makes Ritsu nervous simply because it's something new with no obvious explanation, but the other part worries that this means Ritsu is just that obvious. How much as Shou figured out about him recently? Does he know about Ritsu's Secret and that's why he's acting strange? Does Shou know that he likes him? "Yo, Earth to Ritsu!" Right. The convenience store. Snacks for on the way. It's not until they're back on the route to Mud Boat that Ritsu realizes he hadn't grabbed the salt water taffy he always brings home with him. He really is preoccupied. "Hey...Shou, hold on, I forgot Nii-san's candy." "Eh? Isn't he gone for the weekend, anyway?" Ritsu has just opened his mouth to answer that no, where did Shou even get that idea, when his phone trills in his pocket. Shige: I'll be gone when you get home. Shishou needed help and Serizawa is still out of town. Be back Monday. Ritsu's blood chills, bits of it clogging up his brain and trapping his thoughts in a clotted-off loop. Something is wrong. Something is really, really, wrong.

"Shou... Shou, how did you-?" "Peach ring?" When he looks up from his phone, Shou is suddenly a lot closer, holding a piece of candy up to his face. His eyes have gone from warm to overbearing, something that burns so hot and bright the flame has gone blue. Ritsu knows when he's being told not to ask. He opens his mouth again only to bite the peach ring out of Shou's fingers. ○●●○●●○ Now that he knows Shou is keeping Secrets, too, Ritsu goes on high alert, his feeling of everything being off-kilter only multiplied from before. "And so then- Then I told this guy that if he didn't speak- If he didn't start talking, I was really gonna light a fire under him-" "Shou, oh my god." It's a little hard to concentrate on that, though, when Shou is holding his hand because touching makes it easier to keep them both invisible. This didn't used to rile him up nearly as much as it does now. His only comfort is the fact that Shou can't see him, either. When the bus finally pulls up to the last stop at the base of the mountain, they both drop down to the ground without breaking hold, Shou kicking against the window and cackling when the people inside startle. Ritsu wonders if Reigen is going to get a call on Monday about evil spirits riding on top of public transport and messing with the passengers. The bus pulls away and Shou drops the invisibility and Ritsu drops their hands and turns before Shou can notice if his face is as unbearably red as it feels.

"...C'mon, it's not too much farther now." Ritsu is pretty sure he's just imagining the disappointed tone in his voice. Shou guides him up the mountain side, occasionally grabbing his sleeve to stop him from taking specific paths because trust me, Ritsu, you'll just give yourself a concussion like a dumbass. Ritsu bites his tongue and doesn't argue against it. When they float up the last bit of cliffside, they're greeted by a few run down old buildings, sides caved in and toppled by time and creeping vines. Their walls spill out like entrails, littering the ground with wood and glittering broken glass. "Pretty cool, eh?" Ritsu has to admit, it is pretty cool. They both walk forwards and it takes Ritsu a moment to place why the act itself is so weird. He's grown familiar with the sight of Shou's back, he could redraw the freckles on the nape of his neck almost as well as he could the ones on his face. Because Shou is always leading and Ritsu is always content to follow wherever Shou might lead him. But now Shou is all but glued to his side, shorter legs working to keep pace. He's keeping him close, keeping an eye on him, and Ritsu doesn't know what to think about that. And the longer they go on exploring their new discovery, the more antsy Shou seems to get. He's always energetic, always doing something, but it's never with this uncharacteristically nervous or paranoid feel to it. Shou keeps checking the time on his phone, he turns towards any sound that he can't immediately see the source of. His nerves are fraying like old rope. "Ritsu." He startles, because Shou hadn't said anything in a while and his jumpiness is starting to rub off on him. "Be quiet a sec. Don't move." They both go perfectly still until Shou's head whips towards the ceiling. Ritsu's eyes follow and then he can hear it, too, creaking along the old rubble. Footsteps. "Ok..." Shou's voice drops to a whisper. "Ritsu, put up a barrier. Thick as you can. On my mark. Three..." Ritsu tenses up, aura manifesting around them both in refractile bluepurplepink. "Two..." Shou drops his stance, reaching out and grabbing Ritsu to pull him closer until his concentration nearly stutters. "One!!" Ritsu's barrier balloons around them and too many things happen all at once for him to keep track of them all. Something drops in from the ceiling and something else swings in from the window and- Shou suddenly has Ritsu behind him backed in a corner and the desk near them flies open and stuff comes pouring out the drawers- And the entire desk goes hurtling across the room and someone screams and glass shatters and wood splinters- Something collides with his barrier and it pops like a bubble and then- And then Shou is being ripped screaming out of his hands- And suddenly there's a fist in his face and it isn't Shou’s because Ritsu knows what Shou’s fists look like, especially when they're right in his face, and this one isn't Shou's- Ritsu is dragged out and away through a hole in the wall and halfway through the woods all at once before he can get his bearings, but he lashes out as soon as he does. Practiced weak spots, eyes, nose, throat, solar plexus, hands wreathed with aura and one fist shoved up under the ribs before both hammer down onto the back of the person's bowed head. Ritsu sends them flying, maybe into a tree, maybe over a fucking cliff, he doesn't care, it doesn't matter as long as they're not in the way because he needs to get back to Shou. He races back to the old building and Shou is standing close to where they'd been before, visible through a massive hole blown in the wall of the second floor, Ritsu isn't even sure it was there before, but oh thank god he's still standing and he's alright. Shou pulls the hood of their jacket up one-handed right before he sways backwards and plummets. It's such a short fall that Ritsu only barely manages to grab him with telekinesis right before he crashes into all the debris below and that in itself scares him even more, because Shou doesn't even try to catch himself, he just falls and he's completely limp as he dangles in the air. Ritsu eases him down as gently as he can, but he can feel his heartbeat in his ears and it's making his control shaky. It isn't until he has him laying flat on the ground that Shou's eyes peer open again. "Shou! What happened, did you get hit? Are you bleeding? Where does it hurt? Is your head alright?" And Shou just blinks up at him like he's trying to recalibrate, turquoise irises rolling like compass needles until they realign with their true north and settle on Ritsu's face. "Ritsu...you did it. I knew you'd pull through on your end." When he smiles, his teeth are stained pink. "They have a bad habit of...of underestimating you." Shou's arm comes up and pats his cheek, but it's only the left one. His right stays crooked on the ground. Ritsu's eyes catch on the red starting to pool under his back, under his head, and the sight tangles in the spokes of his brain until the wheels grind. "Don't." Shou's hand, the only good one left, grabs Ritsu's wrist before he can reach the zipper to get a look at where the jacket is soaked to his skin. "Ritsu, just...just trust me. Don't." He doesn't stop Ritsu from calling an ambulance at least, even though he's starting to fear there's no point in it. Shou's teeth are starting to chatter and Ritsu's heart and lungs are starting to spasm and he's bleeding out all over the ground and- "Listen to me. L-Listen. Ritsu." Shou stops to grit his teeth and spit blood. "Ricchan. It's all...everything's gonna be ok. I can do this. I'll do...I'll get i-it right next time. I was so close this time. Ricchan, it's gonna be ok." "...You knew." Shou had been acting weird all day long. Like he already knew everything that would happen. "Shou, you asshole, you were keeping Secrets, you knew, and you still- You still...!" "Which is why...I know that everything's gonna...gonna be ok." Ritsu finally makes himself look Shou in the eye. He still looks dazed, his pupils mismatched in size. Concussion. "C'mere. My head is...it hurts. I...pillow." Ritsu manages to get Shou's head on his lap, desperately trying to ignore the sticky wetness seeping into his jeans. He figures it's the least he can do. "Ricchan. Tell me-e-e...tell me a, uh, a story." "You seriously want...?" "Mm. Tell me...haha, tell me about the time...about when Kamuro and, and Tokugawa tried to...catch Momozou ditching." "I...Shou, you already know that story. You were there for some of it." "I know... It's, uh...a good memory. I love...like the way you, you tell it." Shou settles in while Ritsu recites something from back in middle school, Kamuro and Tokugawa deciding tardiness was their new target and Momozou was the worst in Salt Mid. "So Shinji is still hanging halfway out the window and... Shou. Sh-Shou, stay awake." "Mm." He doesn't open his eyes again. "Keep...going. Still listening..." Ritsu closes his eyes, too, because that way he can almost pretend this is just another night where one of them had a nightmare and went crawling into the other's bed and he doesn't have to watch his vision swim. "And...and Hikaru is trying to, to pull them both back in, but Momozou is so d-damn big and heavy that...th-that..." Ritsu squeezes his eyes shut tighter. He's not sure he wants to see.

"Shou...?" Nothing answers him but his own hiccuping breaths. "Shou, c'mon, you shouldn't...you're not supposed to sleep with a concussion. You can't..." He can't do this to him is what he wants to say, but he already knows it's pointless because there's no one there to hear it, because Shou is a fucking liar and he had said that everything was gonna be ok and Ritsu didn't even get to tell him his own Secret and nothing about this is even remotely ok. One hand clenches in the sleeve of their shared jacket and the other clamps over his eyes until it makes kaleidoscope patterns on the inside of his eyelids. He and Shou weren't supposed to be separated, they did everything together, they were a pair, he doesn’t want to imagine having to look forward and not seeing Shou's back like always because Ritsu is the only one he trusts to watch his back. They weren't ever supposed to be apart. Something bright burns beyond his eyelids and it's the only reason Ritsu peeks out between his fingers. Orange, yellow, and pink, an aura he knows almost as well as his own, but now in the shape of a person. Two wide white eyes slowly open across its face, meeting his gaze head on. Shou's ghost is sitting in front of him, staring at him. Ritsu watches, partly mesmerized and partly horrified, as he cups his hands together and something builds there, crackling with energy. Shou's eyes crinkle up like they do when he smiles and suddenly everything starts to pull. Nothing looks like it's moving, but Ritsu can feel it, like he's being sucked in, like his very soul is being forced out of him through a straw. Everything is compressed, crushed, crumbled down to crumbs as it's drawn into the tiny black hole held carefully in Shou's cupped hands. He can feel the world condensing into a single point, the preparation for a new universe because the best thing about this one was dead and gone. And Ritsu swears, just at the last possible second before the big bang, that he feels Shou's heart jolt beneath his fingertips.

[gosecretscribbles]

Brothers

This is a Mob Psycho 100 fanfic.  It’s part of Attic AU, an AU of phantomrose96's AU "A Breach of Trust". (Go read it, it's awesome.) In the Attic AU, Mob was kidnapped by the spirit Mogami. Reigen tried to stop Mogami but was captured, too. After a year, Reigen finally exorcised him and rescued Mob.

This part happens after Mob and Reigen have escaped, and they're still adjusting to normalcy. Ritsu feels a bit jealous that Reigen's spending time with his brother. He tries to spend time with Mob and struggles with feeling selfish and jealous. Mob finally gets him to talk about it.

Ritsu heard something break, followed by a small cry.  He jumped up from the couch and hurried down the hall.

Mob was standing in the middle of his old – no, his real bedroom, slightly crouched and panicked-looking.  Weird light fizzed and glittered sharply in the air around him.  Reigen was standing in front of Mob, talking with his usual dry assurance.

“– could've gone better,” Reigen said, not even glancing at the shattered cup at their feet.  “Just breathe, kid.  You got this.”

Ritsu watched from the doorway.  He'd never actually seen Mob's barrier, but he could guess that that was what made the bubble of nasty light around his brother.  Reigen couched Mob through controlling his breathing and focusing on using his powers for something small, like putting the cup back together.  After a minute, the barrier sizzled away.

Mob picked up the cup.  “I've never broken anything with the barrier,” he said shakily.  “Is it – getting stronger?”

“Probably.” Reigen shrugged.  “But so're you.  You've already broken the hypnosis.  You've kept your barrier shut off for, what, like ten hours now?”

Mob nodded, still looking at the cup.

“Aw, c'mon.”  Reigen planted a hand on Mob's head and ruffled his hair. “I keep tellin' you, kid, focus on the positive.  You're way stronger than you think you are.”

Ritsu's gut tightened, and before he knew it he was stepping into the room. “Hi, Nii-san.”

Mob looked up and smiled.  “Ritsu.  Sorry, did we disturb you?”

“No, no...”  Ritsu noticed Reigen had taken his hand from Mob's head, but he was still standing pretty close.  Like they were family or something.  “Let's go to the corner store,” he said suddenly.

Mob tensed.  “I – but just now, the barrier –”

“Just go already.”  Reigen gave Mob a gentle push.  “We've been practicing forever.  You could use the break.  And I could use the time to satisfy some customers.”  Reigen had opened an online consulting service to build up his savings again.  It saved travel and office expenses, and it was much safer than working in person, especially while his health still wasn't back to normal.  “Hurry up already, I've got a clientele base to build.”

Mob still looked anxious.  “I don't –”

“Just for a few minutes?” Ritsu asked, stepping forward.  “Look – there's no barrier around you at all.  Plus, we could even get milk...”

Five minutes later, Ritsu and Mob were walking out the door.  Mob had on a heavy sweater – he was still pretty thin from his diet of soup, and he got chills easily.  

“They sell flavored milk at the store now,” Ritsu said, as they started to walk.  “I know you like regular milk, but they have strawberry and chocolate milk now, too.  I guess Yamada-san finally caved to peer pressure.  I mean the vending machines at school have had flavored milk for ages.  I've never actually tried it, though.  I always bring a lunch from home...”

Mob looked around as Ritsu talked.  Anything that moved, anything that was brightly colored, the people, the cars, even a plane overhead – Mob acted like he was seeing it for the first time.  No, more like he was reunited with them, like a family he was greeting with his eyes. He glanced at Ritsu, too, but never for very long.  

Ritsu kept talking, but his stomach was hurting a little.  First Reigen. Now everything else.  After five years it was like he still didn't have his brother back.

No, no, that's stupid.  And it's not fair to Nii-san.  Focus on what Nii-san needs, don't be selfish.

They reached the store.  Mob, predictably, asked for a quart of regular milk.  Ritsu didn't feel much like drinking, but for the sake of politeness he got a soda.  A popular brand – he didn't actually look at the name.  He paid for their purchases, grateful that Yamada-san was so engrossed in her novels that she didn't ask Mob awkward questions.

On the way back, Ritsu noticed that Mob was starting to look a bit flushed.  His eyes were still bright, like he was trying to drink it all in, but he was getting overwhelmed with stimulation.  

“Maybe we could sit for a minute,” Ritsu suggested.  

Mob made a small noise of agreement.

So Ritsu guided them to a small grassy lawn that bordered a local business building.  It was supposed to be a lunch space, he guessed, because there were a few concrete tables and a bench at the edge of the lawn, and a fancy-looking fountain in the middle.  

They took the bench and opened their drinks, watching the passers-by. Ritsu noticed his brother sat a little away from him.  He knew Mob was probably just worried about the barrier, but it stung a little. He tried to ignore it.  

“Nice day for it,” Ritsu said instead, glancing at Mob.  

Mob was looking up into the branches of a nearby tree, his quart of milk resting forgotten on his knee.

“Nii-san?”

“Yes.”  Mob turned.

The look in his eyes made Ritsu flinch.  “What's wrong?” he asked.  “If something's bothering you, you can talk to me.”

Mob smiled slightly.  “I know, Otouto.  You always tell me that.”

“Well, it's still true.  You can talk to me about anything.”

Mob stayed quiet, still looking at Ritsu.  

“What?” he gave a chuckle.  “Do I have something on my face?”

“No.  I'm just happy that I get to look at you.”

Ritsu's eyes stung.  He swallowed.  

“I admire you,” Mob continued.  “You're so smart, Ritsu.  Mom and Dad told me.  Are you going to run for President of the Student Council next year?  I think you could do it, Ritsu.”

“I-I don't know.”  He'd lied to his parents about joining so he could search for Mob after school.  “I might just run for a lower office.  Work up to it.”

Mob nodded.  “You're always confident and self-controlled.  I think you'd be amazing at whatever office you chose.  If I get to go back to school, I'd support you.”

“'If'?” Ritsu repeated.  He realized they'd never actually talked about Mob going to back to school.  It seemed ludicrous, somehow, to think that after five years of loss things could just – snap back to normal.  

Mob was still looking at him, his dark eyes meeting Ritsu's. “Otouto...do you think you could help me with my studies?  I was only average at school, and I have a lot of catching up to do.”

“Teach me, too,” Ritsu blurted.

Mob blinked.  “Eh?”

Ritsu thrust out his hand.  Nine perfect spheres of water rose out of the fountain, clear and smooth as glass.  They began to spin, first in place, then orbiting the fountain, until finally they burst apart into a mist so fine that a rainbow appeared in the air, shimmering like a silk scarf.

Mob leaned forward in awe.  “Ritsu!  That was you?”

“My powers awakened a while ago,” Ritsu said, lightly rubbing his wrist.  “I met this guy from another school – he's psychic, too. He was sort of teaching me, but mostly I think he just hung around to mess with me.  Anyway, Nii-san, could you teach me how to use them like you?”

Mob was smiling – a small smile, but the biggest one Ritsu had seen yet.  “Ritsu, you're incredible!  Do you mean you learned the water trick on your own?”

Ritsu grinned.  “Sort of.”

Mob stood up.  “Let's ask Reigen if he'll teach you, too!”

The mention of Reigen made him stiffen.  Ritsu opened his mouth to protest – then caught himself.  Reigen was the one who had rescued Mob, and the only one who had helped him with the barrier.  Ritsu was being selfish wanting to keep him away from Mob.  If it meant spending time with his brother, Ritsu could handle sharing him with Reigen.  

He stood up.  “Alright, let's go back.”  

“Ritsu...?”

He'd had already gone a few steps.  When he turned back, Mob hadn't followed.  “C'mon, don't you want to ask Reigen for lessons?”

Mob looked concerned.  “Ritsu, what's wrong?”

Aside from the fact that I'm being completely selfish, jealous, and unreasonable?

He hesitated too long.  Mob reached out very slowly and took the corner of Ritsu's sleeve between two fingers.  Ritsu looked down in shock.  Mob didn't touching because he was always afraid the barrier would hurt them.  

“You can talk to me,” Mob said.

“I just really missed you,” Ritsu said quietly.  His throat was tight.  “I don't really know you anymore.  Reigen does.  But I don't.”

Mob was silent for a moment.  “Ritsu...do you remember how to play Ichi?”

“What?”

“Ichi,” Mob repeated, smiling.  “The card game.  From when you were little.  Sometimes, when I won several games in a row, you teased me and said I was using my powers to cheat.”

Ritsu half-smiled.  “I remember.”

“Let's play it again.  Just us.”

“Really?”

Agh, I sound like a little kid, he thought.  But at the moment he didn't much care.

Mob nodded.  “ I forgot most of the rules, though.”

“I can teach you,” Ritsu said, smiling.

Mob smiled back.  “I know, Ritsu.  Let's go home.”

[the-a-distant-soil-fanfic-s-blog]

Interlude

Title -- Interlude Author-- ANONYMOUS series -- A Distant Soil Disclaimer -- Colleen Doran owns all Rating -- NC-17 Characters/Pairing -- Corrine/Minetti Summary -- A quickee "C'mon, Italian Stallion. NOW!" "Now?" "Yes, right now!" Corrine pulled Tony Minetti into the alcove, planted her lips on his, then his neck, his jaw. "C'mon, we don't have much time!'

Minetti murmured, "Someone will hear us," without enthusiasm, because his hands were busy enthusiastically making his way up Corrine's skirts. Corrine smirked. "They'll be jealous. Who cares? They're all grownups. They know what fucking is." Minetti pulled back a little, but his hand was still exploring. "Well, not Liana..." Corinne's hand matched Minetti's in its eagerness for exploration. "She can grab Galahad and find out. Tony, I am so wet, I need you now!" She could feel his hands fumbling over the catch on his trousers. He'd never quite figured out how the alien clothes worked, but soon his cock sprang free and he was placing it at her wet nether lips without further preamble. "Oh, baby, you are wet!" "Always for you. No prep necessary, just give it to me! C'mon, honey!" She groaned as he slipped into her, his thickness just the way she liked it, and so strong. He pushed home quickly with a moan, and put it to her, pumping hard and fast, with the desperate need that both of them always felt for each other. Tender and desperate passion that made them helpless as teenagers, running off to grab stolen moments, unable to resist the pull of one another's bodies. He pushed into her, both of them still standing, propped against a wall, her skirts up and her leg hooked around his waist, encouraging him to push her harder, with her hand down his trousers on his ass, fingering the cleft. "OH, God! Oh, God, Corrine!" "Baby, honey, JESUS, I love the way you fuck! You're like a god damned piston!" Minetti laughed, still pumping into her, nearing his peak quickly. She let out a little squeal. "And you give me multiples. God bless you!" He laughed again. God, he is gorgeous, she thought. That face, that chest, that thick black hair... "You're beautiful. Michelangelo carved you..." He faltered a little in his rhythm, taken aback by the compliment. "You don't think of yourself as beautiful? I do. Gorgeous. My gorgeous man..." "Corrine...Jesus...I..I think I love you." "You think?" "Jesus...!" She squeaked again. "Another one! Oh, my God!" "I"m going to come!" "Do it to me, baby..." He cried out and went for it, going at her with all his strength. She loved the feel of him, the thick hard cock, the length of it. Everything about him felt so right for her. He spasmed and groaned his pleasure into her with a final shudder, his head thrown back, the great column of his neck exposed and beautiful and exactly like the sculpture Corrine was thinking of. Michelangelo's David, spilling into her hot thick cum. She smiled and laughed, "Oh, yes..." He sighed and collapsed against her, barely able to stay on his feet. Suddenly he looked so young, so vulnerable, the great thick black lashes of his eyes resting on his flushed cheek. Enormous, deep brown eyes. Beautiful eyes. He had no idea how beautiful. "That's it. That's my baby," Corrine murmured, brushing the sweaty curls from his forehead, talking him into calm. She kissed his face, the ridge of his brow, that strong jaw, just now showing the growth of beard again. Slightly rough, but incredibly soft skin beneath. Beautiful. "I love you," he said, those big brown eyes fixed on her green eyes. She smiled. "I love you too, baby...mmmm...Tony, do you think we have time for another fuck?" "No, actually, you don't." "Brent! You asshole!" Minetti didn't have enough energy to rage with anything more than his voice. And he was still deep inside Corrine. She wiggled a little, just to torture him, and he groaned again. Her leg was still around his waist affording them a measure of modesty from Brent's eye, but it was obvious what their body parts were doing to one another. "Kovar says we gotta suit up and get going. Don't be pissed at me, just giving the message." "You don't have to stand and watch!" Brent snorted. "Like I care! You're not doing anything I haven't done before." Corrine laughed. "Not with us, sweetie. A little privacy, please." Brent shrugged. "Hey, because you asked." He sauntered off. "JESUS!" Minetti added some choice swears in a murmur, which delighted her, and she wriggled her hips to taunt him again. "Oh, please Corrine, I need some time to..." "I know my sweet baby. I know. I'll be waiting. I am going to be very, very hot for you when you get back. Very hot and wet and ready. So you come back in one piece now, and you be ready to stick it to me with my favorite piece. And I will give you the suck and fuck and ride of your life!" He groaned and let his cock slide out of her, trembling, bracing his arm against the wall. Then he kissed her, long and slow. He let that kiss roam across her face, her eyes, her hair. She backed away from him, pulling down her skirts while he awkwardly fastened his trousers with trembling fingers. Then he looked at her again with those stunning dark eyes, and left her to watch him walk away. Soon Minetii joined the others at the shuttle, Kovar, Galahad, and Brent. He felt a pang of guilt even thinking of fornicating near the virginal Galahad, who was oblivious to Brent's knowing smirk. Kovar's face, always stoic, seemed to have a slightly elevated eyebrow as decoration. "This shouldn't take long," Kovar said, helpfully. Minetti feigned innocence. "Oh, well whatever it takes. We're going to pick up some contraband weapons, right?" "Yes." Kovar's hands flew across the ship's control board and the men took their seats. There was silence and then, "Don't be concerned. I'm able to block you," said Kovar. "Block me?" "Your arousal. You're broadcasting desire." "What?" Kovar blinked. Then took in a deep breath. "Your strong emotions are escaping you." "They sure were escaping him in the hallway," Brent offered, unhelpfully. Minetti sat back in his chair and closed his eyes, flushed with embarrassment. Galahad, ever the gentleman, looked pointedly out the window and pretended not to know what was going on. "You can tell...?" "Yes," said Kovar quietly. "It's nothing to be ashamed of. You enjoy your woman. This is a good thing." Minetti tried Galahad's tactic of looking pointedly out the window. "It's a good thing I'd like to keep to myself." "That's what I'm doing for you," said Kovar. Minetti's embarrassment deepened. It was bad enough that he was broadcasting to everyone in psychic mojo range that he was horny, but feeling churlish toward the man who was protecting him from making a mental porn movie of his recent act was thorny emotional prairie. "Sorry. Didn't mean to be an ass about it." "No matter." Minetti sighed and studied condensation on the window. "Is this normal?" Kovar thought for a moment. And then, "Pleasure and pain bring down barriers. It happens to us all. But, of course, for you, with no power, it is more difficult. This is why we have wards. Psychic boundaries. The wards of Teramis specialize in this. Protecting others from invasion of privacy from stronger minds, or from vulnerable moments. That is our purpose. That is my duty to the Avatar." Brent snorted. "I bet you spend a lot of time dealing with Avatar sex. Dude is so hot for D'mer, but he's fucking Bast. What is up with that?" Minetti rerouted. "And do you get vulnerable moments?" "That is a polite way of asking if I lose control when I have sex." Minetti heard Brent shuffle his body forward, the better to eavesdrop. "I'm a ward by training. My job is to ward the Avatar. But yes, it happens. Sometimes." "That must be some fuck then, to break your down your walls, man," said Brent. Kovar rewarded him with a rare laugh. "Yes! Yes, indeed." Then Kovar hesitated again. "We're making Galahad uncomfortable." Brent patted Galahad's leg. "Sorry, dude." Galahad smiled wanly. "No matter," he said, unconvincingly. Kovar glanced back at the knight, who looked withdrawn and pale. "There's no shame in being a virgin, Galahad. Many of my wards are celibate. They take vows to preserve their shields." "Ah," was Galahad's unenthusiastic response. "I think we should let the matter drop," offered Minetti. "I'd like to know who it is can get into Kovar's shorts and make him lose it," said Brent. "TMI," Minetti groaned. Kovar smiled. "I've had a few." Brent snorted. "I bet you have." "Yes. I have..." Kovar steered the ship over for a landing. "Let's get this over with," he said. "And get you back to your lover. For by the God, man, your passion for that woman is a distraction to me." Brent burst into laughter. "Jesus!" Minetti sighed. Kovar laughed again. Galahad pinched his brow and said a little prayer.

[crushing83]

Okay, guys... I’m sick with some sort of flu-like plague (working in an animation studio is worse than preschool, germs-wise, I swear!) and I want to write but I just can’t stop coughing long enough to even think about writing. I’m going to go curl up with a movie or two, and hopefully pass out in a cough-syrup-induced snooze... and in the meantime, if anyone seeing this feels like reading the little snippets I’ve pasted below and weighing in on what you feel like I should tackle first, when I’m feeling better, I would appreciate it!

(There’s SPN (slash, gen, char/ofc, char/reader) and AB/BtVS (Willow/Asher) and SPN/Criminal Minds (Spencer/Gabriel) and Tolkien/FF (Owen Shaw/Thranduil) under the cut...) 

1. “Bring it on Home,” the current MOL AU story...

"What if it *was* my fault?" Sam interrupted.  

The words were out of Sam's mouth before his brain---and all its worries---could hold them back and keep them in Sam's mental vault of secrets. He saw Dean's eyes widen and then he looked down at his feet; he didn't want to see Dean's face when the truth was between them.  

"Sammy... no, it... if you'd seen traces of sulphur or anything weird, you would've protected her."  

Sam sighed and moved away from Dean, taking a position against a couple of crates that seemed to be doubling as a table. "I'd been having dreams of how she died," he admitted, still looking down at his feet. "For weeks, before. Not after. I mean, after, too, but those were dreams. These were... they felt different. But, I shrugged them off, because we don't have psychics in our families... because if you found out and thought I was a witch or something---"  

"Hey, no," Dean said, softly but quickly. "Never. Sammy. You are my brother and nothing else matters."  

When Dean came closer, Sam wanted to move away but Dean tapped his chin and forced him to raise his eyes. He wasn't scowling, he wasn't frowning. He wasn't smiling, either, but he looked more pleasant than upset.  

"Do you really think any psychic on either side of our family would've 'fessed up?" Dean asked.  

2. “Six Months,” the current vape shop AU (Sam/Gabriel) story...

"Good boy," Gabriel murmured. Sam felt his face heating up in reaction to Gabriel's compliment. "Now. What do you need to do?"  

"Wash up. Find sweatpants? And call Donna. Oh, and text you before I leave."  

Gabriel made a soft, pleased sound before he spoke again. "Good," he said, his voice still soft. "If I don't hear from you in an hour, I am going to come looking for you."  

Before he could curb the reaction, Sam was smiling into his phone. Gabriel cared enough to worry, enough to come for him if he took too long. Maybe he and Gabriel were becoming real friends. The idea was enough to dissolve the guilt in his head. He knew he'd do the same thing for Gabriel, if he ever came to Sam for help, and... it felt *good* to let himself believe that they were more than customer-and-proprietor.  

"Thank you, Gabriel," Sam whispered.  

"You're welcome. I'm happy I can be here for you," Gabriel said. "Just... get here, okay? I'll handle the rest for a little while."  

Sam nodded, even though Gabriel couldn't see the gesture, and he ended the call with another few grateful words. When he pocketed his phone, he looked around the room and decided to wash his face and change his shirts before calling Donna. He could do the rest while they talked.  

3. “Untitled,” an ace-spec!Sam/pan-Gabriel story I’ve been messing with...

"You're kidding me, right? The whole point of this is to mingle---and probably hook-up---and you want to invite the celibate kids to put a damper on things?"  

"They're not celibate!"  

Sam sighed and closed his eyes. He liked Charlie and he knew his brother considered her practically family, but studying was pointless when she was in their apartment. Dean had come out a year ago, and Charlie had basically gotten him on every committee she could after that; he was on a Safe Spaces board, something that worked with local businesses to create a directory of services and resting places for <I>everyone</i>, and he'd also been roped into doing volunteer work with kids, giving them older role models who weren't heterosexual, and he was on the Pride committee, too. Sam was impressed with Charlie's tenacity in getting Dean to commit to so many activities, but the fact that she was in each group, too, probably helped. The only problem was when they were organizing an event they were in the apartment; that did nothing to help his academic focus.  

He was in another room and they were still interrupting him. Though, to be fair, he could usually ignore their arguments about who the hotter porn star was because he didn't care *at all* about who won.  

"Oh, c'mon," Dean groaned. "Everyone has sex. It's a neurochemical drive or imperative or whatever. Just because they haven't met the right people yet, or just because they're choosy or saving themselves for 'the one,' that doesn't give them special status. No one discriminates against them."  

"I can't believe you just said that," Charlie replied. "After everything you've been through, after everyone you've met, you can't imagine that attraction is a sliding scale just like gender or orientation? You can't imagine that it's hard for them to meet people and connect with them in a positive way?"

Dean's grunt might as well have been a punch to the gut. Sam felt... abandoned. Any shred of hope he had tucked away, after the incident with Andy, seemed to shrink inside of his heart.  

Sam couldn't tell him. He couldn't have those words directed at him---not from Dean. Hearing them directed at a nameless, faceless group was hard enough.  

4. “Falling is the Easy Part,” my Criminal Minds/SPN crossover...  

"Where is Sam, Dean?" Spencer asked.  

"Out," Dean replied. He sighed again. "Cas told me Ezekiel was an okay guy, for an angel, and at first, I thought... I thought it'd work out. Even if I had to trick Sam into it. But..."  

"It's not going the way you expected?" Spencer asked.  

"Not really, no," Dean said. "I shouldn't be telling you this."  

"I don't mind," Spencer replied. "I know you two go through a lot, and right now, things are difficult. It's Sam I have history with, sure, but you're the most important person in his life, and even if it were only for that reason, I'd be more than willing to listen to you."  

"You're not gonna confess your undying love for me, are you?" Dean asked.  

Spencer snorted. "No," he said. "Your virtue's safe."  

"Don't have much of that left, Doc," Dean said after barking out a brief laugh. "But, ah... well, thanks. For listening."  

"It's no problem," Spencer said. "We're in Virginia. I don't know what sort of trouble we might encounter on the road, but we'll do our best to get there in a couple of days."  

Dean sniffed once. It didn't sound like a crying sniff, but Spencer wasn't well-versed in Dean's sounds. He waited, trying to listen to see what Loki was doing; Loki's silence was unsettling and it pressed upon the parts of his mind that was trying to piece together the mystery Loki wouldn't share.  

"That sounds good. Gives me time to try to put Kevin somewhere safe and figure out what the fuck to do," Dean said. "Be careful. If anything looks angelic, just hightail it out of there."  

5. “Out of the Box,” a SPN fic with an OFC where I’m not sure if there will be a pairing yet...

His footsteps come closer and I inch back a bit more, trying to make myself as small as I can in the darkest part of my cage. I must have whimpered because he makes low, crooning noises so unlike anything I've ever heard before that I'm peeking out at him before I remember how wretched I am.  

"Hey there," he murmurs. "I'm Sam. The other guy's my brother, Dean. We're not here to hurt you."  

"Someone's in there?"  

"Looks like a woman," Sam says, without taking his eyes away from mine. "Dean, start looking for the keys or a way to open this."  

"Do a silver check," Dean replies.  

It makes sense. I know enough about the devil's other hobbies. If they're like him, even a little, they are aware of everything that can bite and kill.  

"Hey," Sam says. His attention is on me again. "Can you give me your hand? I have a knife. I'm not going to hurt you. I'm just going to put it on your skin. Just to make sure it won't burn you."  

I shouldn't but I know what happens when I disobey orders---even when they're disguised as suggestions. To avoid more pain, I force myself to move my hand towards Sam. He slides his through the bars and presses his palm against the back of my fingers. He's so warm.  

The devil is always cold.  

"Easy," Sam murmurs. He has the knife in his other hand. When he presses it to my hand, nothing happens. He smiles at me. "There. See? You're okay. We're gonna get you out of here."  

"If Ketch had the place rigged to explode, it could've been to keep people out, but it also could've been to keep people in," Dean says. "Might not be the only trap."  

6. “The Pitch,” the first story in a (maybe) series with an ace spec OFC and Sam, Dean, and Cas...

"Dean!" she called out.  

"Uh... no," I said, quietly. "Charlie, no."  

"Charlie, yes," Charlie countered. "Dean! Get your fuzzy butt over here!"  

Dean was the one that made me blush earlier when he threw a wink and a couple flirty questions my way. He seemed like a good person; a lot of the community seemed to turn to him and two others if there were problems or if someone needed help. But, he and his friends were too handsome to ever put me at ease around them.  

Before I could slip off of my stool, Dean appeared over Charlie's shoulder. After he kissed her temple and wrapped his arms around her shoulders from behind, he said, "I got waxed yesterday, Charlie. I am as smooth as a baby's bottom. *Everywhere.*"  

"Ugh, gross, TMI, Winchester!" Charlie hissed.  

The use of a last name surprised me. A lot of people used nicknames. If anyone used their first name, they never gave out their surnames. It wasn't like fetishes were completely taboo anymore, but some of the club-goers didn't want to be outed to their bosses or families. I was included in that group; I worked in a casual environment and I knew no one would care but I wanted to keep my private life separate from my work life for as long as I could. Sometimes, I forgot that other people didn't have that need for separation or compartmentalization.  

Dean chuckled and peeked at me before turning his attention back to Charlie. "You love it," he insisted.  

"Dude."  

He kissed her temple. "Sorry, Queen of Moons," he teased, using the name she used during The Strap's infamous Dungeons and Dragons weekend event. "How may I be of service?"  

"Are you still looking for a live-in sub?" Charlie asked.  

Not bothering to be discrete, I aimed a kick at Charlie's shins. She winced, swatted her hand against my knee, and turned her attention back to Dean.  

"Well?" she asked him.  

"Charlie, may I have a word with you *in private*?” I hissed.  

"Nope."  

Dean rolled his eyes. "Charlie, you didn't even give her a clue?"  

"Kitten takes too long to make a decision," she huffed. "And, when bad things are happening, she gets bummed out and can't see the awesome happening around her! I'm doing my toppy duty and taking over."  

7. “Untitled 2,” a Sam/Gabriel/OFC fic from nearly two years ago that I’ve never gotten very far along...

I woke up with a scream in my throat and a distant wail in my ears. That was hardly unusual, given my current predicament. Since being grabbed off of the street over a year ago, nightmares were a regular thing no matter if I were awake or asleep. I'm in Hell---though my cellmate assures me Hell is something altogether different---and there is too much horror for my mind to process.  

As I brought my left hand up to rub my eyes, I felt fingers curl around my right hand. They were gentle fingers. I knew that touch. I turned towards my cellmate and managed a small smile.  

"Hey," I whispered.  

He smiled back at me and held up a bottle of water.  

"Thanks, Lo," I whispered.  

I pushed myself into a sitting position and took the bottle from him. He stood up before sitting down on my cot, being careful to keep a little space between us. Across those inches, I could feel his energy. It was different from other people and other monsters; he said he was the real Loki, and I found that hard to believe, but I couldn't deny that he felt *different* than everyone else I'd ever encountered. That different feeling---his presence in my life---was the only good thing about where we were.  

"It's all right," I said.  

Loki sighed. "Nothing is all right," he said. "If I were up to full strength, I'd have a shot at getting us past the warding, but..."  

"Sure you could," I murmured.  

"One of these days I'll do something to convince you I'm the real deal," Loki said.  

8. “Alive at Last,” my Buffy/Anita Blake crossover...

She didn't know much about the ardeur. Any time it was talked about in her presence, it was likened to a hunger. But what she'd felt crash into her wasn't hunger. It wasn't an attack. It was... something else.  

With a bit of daring and a lot of curiosity, Willow lowered her shields. She only relaxed them a fraction, only the same amount she'd done to light candles when she practiced elemental magic, and she hoped it would be enough to give her more information.  

Something lapped at her---not at her skin, but at her magic. Asher's grip tightened on her as if he could feel it. It didn't feel... directed. If anything, Willow would have said it felt curious.  

Was the ardeur sentient? Was it possible to have a self-aware power that fed through others on sexual and emotional energy?  

Willow shuddered.  

9. “I have to run; I’ll find you when it’s safe,” the latest instalment in Bullets & Blades (Owen Shaw/Thranduil)

After slipping into the humid room, Thranduil hopped onto the countertop. Leaning against the wall and drawing up his legs, he focused his gaze on the shower, on the man underneath the stream of water and behind the glass doors. When Owen opened his eyes and saw him watching his performance, he grinned before belting out another (much more cheerful) song. Thranduil grinned and waved; Owen waved back.  

When Owen finished his song and dance routine, he emerged from the shower stall and wrapped a fluffy green towel around his hips.  

"I tried waking you," he said, bending slightly to kiss Thranduil's knee, "but you seemed to be very cross with Elrond."  

Thranduil snorted as he realised he'd been talking in his sleep. "Understatement," he muttered. "We were having quite the argument."  

"I picked up on that," Owen said. He leaned over and kissed Thranduil's cheek. "What were you two fighting about?"  

"He thinks I should gather the others like me and leave for a secret location," Thranduil replied. Seeing Owen's frown, he reached out and threaded their fingers together. "It does not matter. It was only a dream," he added, before smiling a little. "Elrond was an old friend, of sorts."  

"Of sorts?"  

"We mostly frustrated each other," Thranduil said, smiling more. "I haven't dreamed of him in a long time. It's fine."  

10. “The Winchester Gospel,” which is a ridiculous collection of ficlets I’ve been writing that span 2017-2081, approximately

"You really think I was born, and then able to help Leto birth Apollo?" Artemis asked as she sat down at the table in the war room. She smirked when Dean shrugged and Sam leaned forward in interest. "There's a reason some still consider me the goddess of the hunt---of hunters.

"The world has always needed balance. It doesn't always get it," she said, crossing one leather-clad leg over the other. "I was born in a time when Eve had all the power. It was like Purgatory. Dangerous. Vicious. Wild. I almost died again, this time protecting a family from my village. And the Light brought me back. Or, his Messenger did---on His orders."

She closed her eyes and shook her head. The mask of a confident deity slipped away to reveal a nearly-human expression. "I don't remember what the creature was. It's been a very long time," she said, smiling at them a little, no edge to her expression. "Gabriel taught me what I'd need to know. And when he was done---"

”Gabriel?" Both Sam and Dean asked at the same time.

Artemis snorted. "It's a small world, isn't it?" she asked. "But, yes. Gabriel. He didn't stay long. But he taught me enough. And after, the Light returned and asked me if I would help them spread the word. The lore. What kills what. What can be used for protection.”

”Eve," Sam said. "She... couldn't have been happy.”

”Understatement. But for... about a century, I was able to avoid her. I was able to get information to people, I was able to protect communities. I hunted," Artemis said. "When she caught up to me, I was able to put her where her creatures' souls went. It nearly killed me. But, I did it. And I thought the Light would abandon me. I was on the ground, at the foot of a great mountain, barely breathing. I thought the Light had abandoned me. But before I could die, Leto and I found each other. She was in labour, but she healed me---and then I helped her. I became her daughter that day, Apollo's sister because I helped care for him, and when Zeus arrived to see his son, he adopted me in thanks and imbued me with more power.”

Sam nodded. "You became his daughter from his decision to take you in. You were already smart. And fierce. And he liked that.”

”He really liked that," Artemis agreed. "He protected me, supported me... I thought he loved me. And maybe he did in the beginning. But, time changes everyone, as you two will learn.”  

[deepseawritings]

I wish you would write a fic where Scar gives Strelok a piggyback ride.

I was surprised to receive another ask, thanks! This one is set sometime after my last Scar/Strelok story, but if you haven’t read it don’t worry, no knowledge of it is necessary.

“I’m fine,” Strelok said between clenched teeth. He fumbled with the laces of hisboots to tighten them up, and hissed in pain at the slight compression aroundhis ankle.

“No, you’re not.” Scar’s insistence of contradicting hisopinion only irritated Strelok further.

“I said I’m fine!” Strelok’s patience was reaching its limit.If he heard anything resembling an I toldyou so, he was going to flip out.

Scar kept his mouth shut, but Strelok couldfeel the mercenary’s gaze on him, no doubt drippingwith a mix of amusement and disapproval. Ignoring him, Strelok grit his teethand tried to stand up. Unfortunately, Scar was right. Strelok’s swollen and abused ankle didn’t cope well with the pressure ofsupporting his meagre weight, and the stalker fell down again. Trying toprevent further injury, he flailed wildly, trying to grab something that wouldhelp him keep upright. The only thing at hand’s reach was the rusted ladder steps. It was the same ladder he’d fallen from. And, as the treacherous step that fell of its place whileStrelok climbed it, the one he just grabbed also came loose and tumbled down. Strelok suddenly found himself getting reacquainted with the floor, hispoor backside slamming against the hard concrete. Something that soundedsuspiciously like a barely contained chuckle came from Scar. Strelok failed tosee what was so funny.

“You know, I sort of wondered why you gotinjured so often. Then I realised you’re a reckless moron,” Scar said,squatting next to him. He unlaced the stalker’s boot and peeled the sock down.The area was swollen and reddened. “It will be a miracle if your ankleisn’t broken, no joint should ever be bent like yours was. And all for what, the possibility of finding a stash up there?”

“I’m sure I’ll be right as rain in aday,” Strelok insisted, ignoring most of Scar’s points and focusing on his twisted ankle. He’d broken bones before and this felt different.Nothing that a night’s rest and the right artifact couldn’t fix.

“And you plan to spend that day sittinghere?”

Much as it irked him, Scar did have a point.They were in the middle of the so called Wild Territory. The mercenary gangsweren’t interested in them, at least for now, and man that was a big changefrom the last time Strelok was here. However, there were still bandits androving packs of mutants to take into account. This place had become a huntingground for bloodsuckers, snorks and even controllers and the odd pseudogiant.

“C'mon, we’re going back to the bar. Maybeone of Duty’s sawbones will fix you.” Scar decided for both of them.

After a lively discussion, which involvedthreats to knee the mercenary in the stomach, Scar dropped his plan to carryStrelok over his shoulder. He wasn’t a sack of flour, thank you very much. Hewas much happier in this current position than dangling over Scar’s shoulder.Strelok was enjoying the piggyback ride, he felt taller than ever and leaning onScar’s back was nice. However, themercenary didn’t seem to be having much fun.

“Fuck, for such a skinny guy you weigh aton,” Scar grumbled, unhappy with his new human backpack. “I betyou’d be much lighter without that damned suit.”

Well, he was right, SEVA suits were heavy. Butinstead of saying so, Strelok preferred to needle him. “Is that anadmission you’re getting old, or an attempt to get me out of my clothes?”

Scar’s ensuing laughing fit was rudelyinterrupted by a Controller coming for them from the other corner of the trainyard. The mutant extended its arm forward, and Scar ducked inside an anomaly infested garage to break the line of sight with it. When it came to Controllers, out of sightmeant out of reach for they mind scrambling psychic attack. 

“Lemme get a weapon and I’ll kill that sonof a bitch.” Strelok was already trying to reach the backpack before hefinished speaking.

“If you fire a weapon next to my ear Iswear I’ll toss you into one of these anomalies,” Scar threatened him. Damn, he hadn’tthought about that. Scar’s grumpiness was justified in this case.

“Hold on tight, on the count of three I’llrun to the sniper gallery.” Scar outlined his plan. It could work. Behindthat building there always was a Duty patrol or two, guarding the access pointto the bar area. Sometimes they even took positions inside the sniper galleryand actually sniped some mutants or bandits.

“Wait!” Strelok needed a moment toput the backpack in its place, not without grabbing a grenade first.“Okay, on the count of three I’ll throw a little surprise to our friendand then you run.”

For once their plan went off without a hitch.Perhaps because it was difficult to mess up a plan so simple as throw grenadeand run. Now Strelok clung to Scar as the mercenary ran as fast as he couldwith all the extra weight he carried. No sooner they had reached the other sideof sniper gallery, Scar had to stopto catch his breath.

“Urgh… you’re strangling… me,”Scar managed to say with some difficulty.

Noticing that during their race to safety hehad tightened his arms around Scar’s neck, Strelok loosened up the pressureuntil it was more like a hug and less like a choke hold. The mercenary happily confirmed him this was much better.

Once Scar could breathe properly again, theyresumed their way to the bar. However, at Strelok’s insistence they firststopped the Duty patrol to let them know of the hopefully injured Controller ,roaming on the train yard, so it wouldn’t sneak on any of them unaware.

Afterwards they continued their way to the bar,ignoring the surprised stares of stalkers unused to seeing a mercenary carryingaround a stalker piggyback style.