#like seeing them rool around and curl up

[bucket-of-amethyst]

My opinions on the mob vote! ✨

- All the uses the new mobs seem to have looks very niche and quite tame actually, so I don't feel like there's a clear winner just by looking like how it was with the allay and sniffer

- Tho it does look like the crab claw is the most useful item, I feel it will become the next spyglass: u'll make one bc it's a fun concept, but soon it will become clutter in ur hotbar and ull leave it be. I feel most builders would prefer scaffolding a couple blocks than have one slot taken

- If the way the penguin makes the boat faster is similar to how dolphin gives it's grace, then idk... But if it somehow provides a way to upgrade ur boat then yEA I feel like that's a good start to boat upgrades!

- eoughhhh doggy armor... safe ouppyyyyyy... Dillo so friend shaped omggg eoughh <333333333333 I lvoe them eouhdjdkkrkfkdjdkf

- I feel Mangrove Swamps already have a lot of characteristic mobs (tropical fish, bees, slimes) and they already have frogs as their iconic animal. Meanwhile Stony Shores are a quite barren place, and everything u get in a Savannah u can basically get in a plains biome. They both would benefit so much with the addition of a new form of life!

[quietplace26]

A Ghost Doctor au where Seung-tak is still a doctor, but he's from our world and Ghost Doctor is his favorite show~

Seung-tak wasn't having a good day.

One momenthe was working his new dream job as a doctor, the next he's fired and kicked out the medical field permantely!

And it wasn't even his fault! He was framed!

Someone, probably one of the rich bastards who thought they ruled the hosiptal, made up something about Seung-tak, and given the fact he came frm a poorer background, the higher ups didn't hestiate to fire him!

Seung-tak felt like crying. What was he going to do now...

With shaky hands, he grabs his tv remote and switches the tv on, flipping through the channel till he got to the show he wanted to see.

To his relief, it was on!

'Ghost Doctor' Seung-tak's comfort show.

It was about an arrogant but handsome doctor who becomes a ghost and goes through many challenges to return back to the living! These challenges changes Cha Young-min, the doctor, into a better person and an a even better doctor! He even gets his dream girl in the end!

Seung-tak wished he could've been half the doctor Cha Young-min was...

With a sad sigh, Seung-tak curls up on his ratty couch and falls asleep.

He never notices the golden dust that came out his tv. It envelops the sleeping Seung tak and makes him disappear.

Seung tak wakes up the next day feeling strange. He was on a bed that was definitely not his but for some odd reason, it felt familar.

The room he was in felt the same! The room wasn't his but felt familar!

Slowly he explored the place he was in. It was fancy! Too fancy for the likes of Seung-tak to ever dream of having! So why then did everything feel so familar?

A phone rings, and the caller id says mom on it.

Seung-tak's parents have been dead for years.

The woman, his... mother, was reminding him not to be late for his new job at the hospital.

The hospital she mention was the same one Cha Young-min works in on 'Ghost Doctor'.

But what caught Seung-tak's attention the most was the fact she called Seung-tak... Seung-tak.

Being a true fanboy of the show he knew that there was a background character that shared his name, but he never did anything for the plot.

Seung-tak drops his phone as he finally realizes where he truly was.

Somehow, he was in 'Ghost Doctor'! And he's taken the Seung-tak of this world's place!

One intense fanboy session later, he gets ready to go to work. This made him giddy, as he technically got his dream job back!

Oh! And this meant he could see or meet the real Cha Young-min!

After looking up some directions, Seung-tak happily makes his way over to the hospital where 'Ghost Doctor' was set in.

He was prime and ready for a wonderful first day on the job!

It was only when he was walking up to the building that he had a thought.

Where exacty was he in the plot? Was this before or after Young-min got into his accident?

He gets his answer when someone brushes past him, heading straight for the hospital as well.

It was Cha Young-min, alive and still in his body!

This was the begining of the show!

Seung tak whips his head around to see a car speeding down the road... and heading straight for Young-min!

Seung-tak knew he could just ignore it. Let the plot happen like it did on the show, but...

Seung-tak drops his things and runs toward Young-min.

This was real life right now! He couldn't just stand there and do nothing while Young min gets hit by a freaking car!

Young-min turns to Seung-tak, having heard his panicked shouts, a look of disgust was on his face as Seung-tak rushes up to him and slams into the other man.

Seung-tak felt his knees scrape on the gravel as both he and Young-min went tumbling to the ground.

When they finally stopped rooling, Young-min grabs Seung-tak's shirt, snarling out, "What the hell-!" He gets cut off by the car whizzing by them at break neck speeds and slams into a pole.

The same pole Young-min was standing next to mere seconds ago.

The older doctor slowly lets Seung tak go. A look of shock was on his features as he stared at the flaming wreckage.

"You-you saved me..." Young-min sounded shaken and rightfully so!

Seung-tak gives him a weak smile, asking the other doctor if he was alright.

The older doctor opens his mouth to answer but lets out a cry when he sees Seung-taks blood covered knees.

Young-min shoots up to his feet, and with surprising strength, plucks Seung-tak off the ground and hauls him into the hospital.

Later on as Seung-tak had his knees checked out and bandaged up, he glances out a nearby window and sees how a large crowd of people have gathered around the still buring wreckage.

The young doctor sighs tiredly, knowing he changed the show's plot for good now.

The big question now was it a good or a bad change?

But as Seung-tak witnesses a rather adorably flustered Cha Young-min walk into his room with a cup of coffee and some sweets, he felt he made the right choice.

[crypticpaw]

Table For Four - chapter 1

Entrapta X Hordak fic! (with Netossa and Spinerrella’s participation)

Author’s note: Guess who’s back with more puppy/kitty fics nobody asked for?! That’s right, it’s me! Really wanted to make a double date involving our beloved mad scientists, and with fanart this time! I really hope you guys enjoy this one and tell me what you think! I love hearing you guy’s criticism!

Read it on Ao3!

-Pink-ish, or purple-ish? Pink-ish... Or purple-ish...? Hummm...

Entrapta compared both bow ties, one in each paw, trying to decide which one best matched with her new tuxedo. In other cases, she would ask Double Trouble, who by far had a better knowledge of clothes and "style" than her. But they were busy today. And in other, other cases, she would ask Hordak, who was also busy at the moment, putting on his own dress. -Entrapta? Is something wrong? -Hordak asked from behind the fitting room's door. -No, nothing's wrong, I just don't know which bow tie would look good with my tux! -She said, frustrated. -Could you help me? -In a moment, dear! Entrapta growled. She didn't have a moment! Emily, noticing her frustration, looked up at her from beneath the large bed and beeped worryingly. -Oh! Emily! -The princess jumped down from her comber. -Which one? The dog raised the bow ties for the robot to see. She looked between both for a moment before settling on the one at her left paw. -Purple-ish it is! -Entrapta declared, tossing the pink-ish bow tie over her shoulder. She hummed a tune while going back to her comber's mirror to tie it to her tuxedo. Her ears raised as she heard rustling behind her and steps. Probably just Hordak getting out of the dressing room. -Did you need something? -He asked. -Uh, no, I solved that problem, but now I have another one! -She said. -Can help me tie my- Uuuhhh...! He was absolutely dashing. His dress wrapped perfectly around his hips and loosened around his legs, leaving them in clear sight. A long cape on his back dragging on the ground with his tail. He had black lipstick and nailpolish on, and a rogue lock of fur fell on his eyes in a curl. What a lucky dog she was! She whistled at him in a teasing tone as he walked up to her. -Oh, stop it! You've seen me in this dress a thousand times before! -I've seen the sunset a thousand times before, doesn't make it less beautiful! -She said, her tail wagging. A low purr escaped him as he helped her with her bow tie and adjusted the plastic flower on her pocket. The last time she tried with a real flower, she wouldn't stop sneezing. Emily beeped at them sadly as she handed Entrapta her very small top hat. Hordak pat her in a gesture of comfort. -Oh, I'm sorry, Emily. I know you wanted to come. But this is a date! Meaning "only couples allowed"! -The Princess said. -But Kadroh will stay with you! And you can watch movies with Imp! Emily beeped excitedly again, rolling around the room, knocking things off shelves and tables. Entrapta laughed at her companion, and Hordak raised a paw for Emily to stop when she approached them again. -If Double Trouble shows up unnannounced again -He told her. -Shoot at will! The robot beeped an understanding sound, ready to follow his orders. She ran out off the room when Entrapta opened the door into the corredor. -Are you ready for our first "fancy date", lab partner? -I am. -He said, his tail held high. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- -I'll show you a thing or two about romance! -Netossa said in an awfully confident voice. Spinnerella rooled her eyes and chuckled. She loved her wife's overconfidence on herself, and this date had been her idea after all. She rested her tail on Netossa's hip and they kissed. Her wife's gaze changing from confident to love-struck, and she couldn't help but smile. -Good afternoon, my ladies! -The receptionist exclaimed. He, just as the rest of the staff, wore a tux and had his fur straightened with gel. -Good afternoon! We have a booking under the name "Netossa"! -Hmmm... I'm sorry, my lady, but I don't believe we have a booking under that name. -What?! Oh, no, did I call the wrong restaurant?! -Real smooth, "Juliet"! -Spinnerella laughed. -D-do you have any tables for two available? The receptionist checked on a list in his table. -Not at the moment, I'm afraid, but the waiting time is 20 minutes, if my ladies don't mind waiting. -He said, apologetic. -Of course it is... -She sighed, her ears dropped in defeat. -I'm sorry, Nella. Do you wanna go somewhere else? Spinnerella smiled wide, her tail wagging, as she hugged her wife in comfort. -I don't mind waiting! We did want to try a new place! Netossa smiled a little, her tail wagging as well. -We'll wait! -I'm glad! Just wait in the reception, please! I will call you when the table is available! They sat on a little red bench with large cushions, others sat with them, waiting for their tables as well, talking. A large window on the opposite wall gave a beautiful view of the outside, a large garden and the sun setting behind it, giving place for the stars. -I have a good feeling about this! -Spinnerella held her wife's paw on her own. Netossa raised their paws and kissed Spinnerella's. -I have too! They stare into each other's eyes, stuck in their own little world, until they hear a very familiar shrill laugh. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- -So fancy! -Entrapta exclaimed. She raised her paws to look at the large red carpet underneath them. Her tail wagged madly with excitement, making her whole backside wiggle, and while Hordak found it most endearing, it earned some strange stares. Either that, or his own presence. He couldn't tell. Hordak knew better then to judge others for their appearance, but he couldn't help but make assumptions. Some in the line behind them whispered and pointed, some in the front tried looking at them without being noticed. Entrapta was distracted, touching everything she could. It was all very velvety and she enjoyed the feel of it. Hordak had to nudge her gently to get her attention back when their turn came. -Hello! -She approached the receptionist. -Oh! Princess Entrapta! What an honour! What brings you here toda-AAaayyy... -The receptionist's expression fell from welcoming to absolutely terrified for his life when he saw Hordak. -Do you have a table for two? -Entrapta asked. -Oh! W-well... We have a waiting list of about 20 minutes, if you don't have any bookings, my lady... -He said, trying to recompose himself. -Which, of course, I completely understand if you don't want to wait that long! Hehe... M-maybe choose another restaurant... -No, we can wait! Right, Hordikins? -She turned to Hordak. -You don't mind waiting? -I don't mind at all. In fact, waiting may be better. It'll help my appetite. Hordak tried to keep his voice calm, but he couldn't help but pin his ears back. He had his eyes fixated on the receptionist, and opened his mouth to lick his lips, purposefully showing as much of his sharp fangs as he could. The receptionist's ears dropped and his face was turning pale. -R-right... Just wait at the reception, I'll call you when there's a table available... Entrapta smiled as she walked past him, Hordak followed after her, but shot the receptionist the nastiest side-eye he could manage. The princess chose a nice little red bench to sit on, right underneath a large window. The sun had just set and the night sky was filled with stars. Entrapta rested her paws on the window stop to admire them, her tail still going. Hordak smiled and sat beside her, her ear wrapping around his tail. -I'm still not used to them! They're so beautiful...! -They are. A moment of silence, and Hordaks smile fell. His worries starting to aggravate him, and feeling other's stare wasn't helping at all. Entrapta noticed his anxiety and took his paw in hers for him to look at her. -Hordikins? Is something wrong? -I'm not sure... -He sighed. -I suppose... I'm just not very confident. We are incredibly out of our element, and I don't know what to do with myself... -I understand. It wasn't easy for me when I first starting hanging out with the other princesses too. -She wrapped her ear around him and pulled them closer together. -But you don't gotta do anything! We're here for us! We'll have a nice dinner and it'll be super fun! You'll see! -Correct, as always, my dear. -He smiled at her and nuzzled her cheek, purring. He wrapped his tail around her as they held each other and Hordak felt his anxiety start to calm. -Entrapta?! Their ears raised and they turned to look at the awfully familiar voice calling the princesses' name. -Hi! -Entrapta wagged her tail. Hordak recognized the dogs sitting behind them, though they were wearing much more expensive clothing. They were princesses, married to each other. He had seen them before in previous Princess Meetings, but he couldn't remember their names. But Entrapta seemed to recognize them, and they seemed to recognize Entrapta. -What are you guys doing here? -What are YOU guys doing here?! -The taller dog asked. -We're out on a fancy date! -Entrapta said, proudly, pulling Hordak closer as to show him off. -Really? -The smaller said. -We didn't know you liked this kind of place! I mean... We know you have trouble with food sometimes... -Yeah, I do! But I really, really wanted to try a fancy date! And Double Trouble said this place was good! -Entrapta turned to the cat. -You guys remember Hordak? -How could we ever forget...? -Netossa! -What?! -Hordikins, do you remember Netossa and Spinnerella? -I do. -Ah. So that was their names. -Pfft! "Hordikins"? -The one they called Netossa laughed. -Only Entrapta calls me that! -He growled. They stared at each other aggressively. -Netossa! Quit it! -Spinnerella barked at her wife. -S-so, you came here on a date, right? What a coincidence! We're here on a date, too! -Are you?! That's awesome! -Entrapta gasped, an idea forming on her head. -You know what we should do?! We should do a DOUBLE fancy date! -Oh, yes! -What?! -Hordak and Netossa asked at the same time. -It's been so long since we've had a double date, Net! -Spinnerella said. -And we for sure never spent enough time with Entrapta! Or Hordak! -Uhhh... You sure about this, honey...? -I have to agree with... Netossa, beloved. I don't believe this to be a wise idea. -Hordak hesitated, the princess' name unfamiliar to him. In a strange place, with strangers, in such an intimate occasion. Hordak knew it wasn't as serious as he was making it, but the fear of something going completely wrong clawed at him. Entrapta raised herself to his eye level and put a paw on his shoulder. -Don't worry, it's gonna be fun! I promise! -Entrapta reassured him. Spinnerella left Netossa's side only to approach the receptionist once again. -Excuse me, could we maybe move to wait for a table for four? We found our friends here, and we would like to sit together! -She asked him politely. -Oh, of course, my lady! -He looked over her shoulder at Hordak, and the cat glared at him again. The receptionist gulped. -W-well, if you choose to move to a table for four, we have one available right now. If you still wish to dine here, o-of course! But I'm sure you don't- -Oh, yes, please! That would be wonderful! -Ah. Follow me... Defeated, the receptionist guided them through the tables to a nice sofa at the end of one of the corners. He tried to ignore Hordak for the most part, though he could feel the cat's gaze burning on the back of his neck. Though it was somewhat far from the other tables, Netossa couldn't help but feel others' gaze on them. It wasn't unusual. They always earned a few stares when they went out, after all, they were princesses, everyone knew who they were, but she noticed an awful lot more of stares than usual. -Here are your menus. -The receptionist said hastly. -I'll have a waiter come and take your orders in a moment! Before Spinnerella had the chance to thank him, he ran to the kitchens followed by two other waiters. Confused, she turned to the others. -So, what are we eating tonight? -There's no pictures on this menu! And all the names sound weird! -Entrapta said. -But I'll eat anything if it's tiny! How about you, Hordak? -Red meat. -He answered, still looking at the menu. -I really want some pasta! -Spinerrella said, sharing her menu with Netossa. -Darling, do you mind sharing it with me? -As long as it got a bunch of cheese, I'm good with it! -Netossa licked her lips. -Are we ready to order, then? Before anyone would answer, Netossa had already called a waitress who was passing nearby. She approached them with a smile, but her expression fell when she noticed the large red-eyed cat. She gulped. -Good afternoon, my ladies! What would you like to eat today? -she asked with a notepad on her paws. -Do you have any pasta? -With cheese? -Yes, we do have our "Gnocchi Alla Bava", it's our special for today! -the waitress pointed at the name on the menu. -Then one of those for us both, please! -Netossa held Spinnerella's paw. -How about you guys? -Do you have anything tiny? -Entrapta asked the waitress. -Well... We have the "Mozzarelline Fritte"... But tha- -Great! I want one of those! -Entrapta interrupted. -Alright... And what for the main course, my lady? Entrapta didn't respond until Hordak whispered in her ear the waitress was still talking to her. -Huh? What main course? -"Mozzarelline Fritte" are appetizers, my lady. You are suppose to order an actual dish for dinner after the appetizers... -Oh. Uhhh... What else is tiny other than that? -Entrapta read the menu again. -Nothing, my lady... -Then I'm just gonna want that! -You sure, Traps? -Netossa asked. -What if you're still hungry afterwards? -Then I can order more! Netossa and Spinerrella exchanged looks. -Well, alright... -the waitress said, turning away from the table. -I'll take your orders to the chef, if that is all- -That is not all! -Hordak growled. -You haven't taken my order! The waitress gulped and turned back. Instead of asking she just gestured for Hordak to speak and refused to look him in the eyes. -Do you have red meat? -he asked. -"Brasato al Barolo". -the waitress answered coldly. -I'll have that. Well done. She turned to the kitchens without another word. Which they all found quite rude. Entrapta on the other hand, had her tail wagging madly and clung to Hordak's paw like her life depended on it. -This is so exciting! I've never been to a fancy restaurant before! -Never before? Never, ever? -Netossa asked. -You don't know what you're missing, Traps! We love coming to "fancy restaurants"! -Oh, yes! The food is good, the waiters are very polite- -To you, maybe. -Hordak growled. Netossa shot him a side-eye and wrapped her tail around Spinerrella's hips, bringing her wife closer to her. Spinerrella, noticing her wife's worries, rested a paw on her shoulder as to calm her down. -Maybe she was just in a rush! -Entrapta told him. -Maybe she didn't want to look at your fa- OW! Netossa had whispered to herself, but Spinerrella had over-heard her and given her a pinch to stay quiet. Hordak pretended he didn't her the dog's almost offense and turned to Entrapta, who fidgeted with her paws while looking around. She noticed a table full of older dogs, also wearing expensive dresses and jewelry. They looked over their shoulder, pointed and whispered. Entrapta smiled and waved at them, thinking they were trying to start a conversation, but they turned back around when they realized they were noticed. Hordak pinned his ears back. Intimidating the waitress had taken his attention from the rest of his surroundings, full of whispering and strange looks. He told himself it was because of him, but a voice inside his head made him question if it wasn't because of Entrapta. For all they knew, she was secluded, had an unstable political relationship with the other Princesses, and worked for the Horde. For him. With him. And she made it very known and clear to all that she enjoyed every second of it. The thought disgusted him, but as he looked at her again, she noticed his eyes on her and gave him a smile. The cat couldn't help but smile back. In a small moment of relief, he bent down and kissed her cheek. So let them stare. -So... you both! -Spinerrella said awkwardly. -How are things for the two of you? Back in Dryl, I mean? -It's great! - Entrapta exclaimed. -The Brothers are having an easier time adjusting and I finally got Hordak to take an actual bath! -Entrapta! -he hissed. -That is personal information! -I understand it completely! -Spinerrella pointed at Netossa. -This one still has a fit over eating her veggies! -Veggies are disgusting! How very dare you! -Netossa barked. Entrapta cackled at the other couple's squabble. Hordak was still suspicious. Of what or who, he wasn't sure, but he wasn't as at ease as his lab partner. -You both are Princesses, are you not? -he implied to them. -But I do not seem to remember your kingdom from any map. I heard it's quite small... -And what if it is?! -Netossa growled. -Netossa! Shut! Your! Mouth! -Spinerrella turned to Hordak. -Yes, it is! It actually wasn't recognized as a kingdom of it's own until very recently, with Netossa's grandmother! -Really? How come? -Entrapta tilted her head, confused. -It basically works like a fief! -Netossa puffed out her chest. -There are rulers who the subjects give their services to, and in return, the rulers let the subjects stay and live on their land! Nana was pissed at Bright Moon at the time because they refused to count us as a kingdom or part of the Princess Alliance, even if our fief was enormous and we were the main source of sugar, cattle and wheat! They wanted us to keep paying taxes! -Fuck taxes! -Entrapta interrupted in an unfamiliar angry tone. -That's right, Traps! Fuck taxes! -Netossa cheered, her tail waging, while Spinerrella shook her head. -Nana stopped exporting resources and Bright Moon had to swallow their pride and let her in the Princess Alliance, or else they would have starved! -That's clever! I'm just glad Glimmer gave up on trying to make me pay my taxes! -Entrapta said. -I hated doing them! -I am glad too! -Hordak said, wrapping his tail around her. ---------------------------------------------------------------------- -So we're not going to do nothing about it?! -the waitress whispered, indignant. -What are we supposed to do? -the receptionist whispered back. -It's Hordak! Those claws cut through flesh like a hot knife cuts through butter! We can't just tell him to leave! -You're both right! -the chef said through the kitchen window. -Nobody wants him here, but if we tell him to go home, he'll rip our tails off and shove them down our throats! -He's bothering the other customers! I've had multiple complaints about him! -He's just sitting there! As long as he doesn't do anything, let's not turn his attention to us! -Hi! They all jumped. Expecting a claw to his face, the receptionist raised his paws to shield himself, only to realize it was not Hordak, just Princess Entrapta. -O-oh! My lady! Apologies, are you in need of something? -he recomposed himself quickly. -Yeah, where's the bathroom? I really gotta go! -she said. The receptionist pointed at a small corridor next to a bookshelf, near the kitchen. Entrapta turned from them. -Thanks! By the way, when is our food coming? We're really hungry! -In a few more minutes, my lady! -the chef said. -Apologies for the wait, but we have a full house tonight! -Oh, okay! Thanks anyways! -and she ran off. They all sighed in relief after the Princess was gone. -She doesn't look hurt, does she? -the chef asked, worried. -Even if she doesn't, I wouldn't be surprised if he hits her! -the waitress said. -We're getting too ahead of ourselves here! -the receptionist barked! -Just act normally and DON'T do anything stupid! The waitress huffed. -Watch me!

That’s it for this chapter! I’m nit sure how long this will be, but I will try my best to update it soon! Reblog if you liked it and I wish you the happiest pride month!

[neerasrealm]

POV: Jeff the killer kidnapped you and is venting to you about his internalized homophobia

I COULDN’T THINK OF AN ACTUAL TITLE SO I WENT WITH THAT

Anyway hi this is a jeffxben fic told from jeff’s POV. a little bit angsty but mostly just cuddles and comfort. and one-liners. lots of one-liners. The ending is a lil messy and idk man I didn’t know how to finish the fic so- ignore that

Based on one of these story starters.

Word count: 1907

There are three things you need to know before you read this.

One; hi, I'm Jeff. Nice to meet ya.

Two; I killed my parents three and a half years ago. I know that's a lot to dump on you immediately but it'll be important later.

And three….I'm...gay. There. I said it. I like guys. I'm attracted to men. I want to kiss guys. Or specifically- one guy. 

He has blonde hair, dark skin and bright blue eyes. And also pointed ears. He's a ghost, specifically one that's latched onto a Nintendo 3DS and a cartridge of Majora's Mask 3D. He looks like Link- but I'm not attracted to Link. Link is a twink and that's not my style. 

His name is Ben and Ben? Ben is a bro. He's my bro. He's everyone's bro- he has that natural charisma that makes everyone like him. He's friendly, polite, funny and laid-back. He's always down to hang out with you or invite you into his room to play videogames. Everyone likes Ben. But me? I love Ben. As in- love love him. I want to kiss his goofy face. His lips probably taste like cheetos and beef jerky. Gross. I hate how much I think about how his lips would taste. 

So now you're probably thinking "hey Jeff, why are you just vomiting your gay thoughts on me? Go tell him you love him."

But There's A Problem.

My parents- the dead ones- were really homophobic. Being gay just wasn't something you did. And it still feels wrong to me- which is weird considering the fact that my new adoptive parents are two gay men and my foster siblings are mostly homosexuals. But it still feels wrong. No matter how much I'm exposed to it I still feel that slight guilt whenever I catch myself admiring Ben while he trash talks someone, and I want to punch myself whenever I wake up from a dream about cuddling him. 

So that brings me to this situation. 

Picture this, okay? I'm sitting on his bed with a controller in my hand. We're playing smash bros and having a great time. I'm having...not a good day. You remember the dead parents thing? The trauma I mentioned? Yeah that's been haunting me all fucking day and I'm not feeling good. At all. And of course I'm not gonna tell anybody about it, because that means I have to address the problem. And I never, ever, address problems. Ever. They'll fester in me till the day I die. Like maggots.

That's gross I apologise.

But- yeah. I'm not feeling good and I'm hiding this fact from Ben because he cheers me up way better when he doesn't know I'm sad. 

"Hah! Gotcha!" 

"Shit-!" I swear as my character (king k rool, in case you wondering) flies off the stage. Ben laughs and woops beside me in victory. I shoot him a glare.

"Man you suck at this game." He laughs.

"I don't suck." I spit back. "You're just really good."

"Suuure you are." The smug look he gives me makes me wanna punch him. My hand curls into a fist in my lap. I grunt at him in response. He laughs and nudges me. "Hey it's alright Jeffy," I hate that nickname with the burning passion of a thousand suns. "You'll learn how to play soon enough."

"Lay off, man." I mutter back. I drop the controller and he snickers.

"Aww c'mon don't tell me you're rage quitting on me."

"Shut up dude just-" I shoot him an agitated look. "Just shut your stupid mouth okay?"

His smile drops. "Hey, you okay man?" Shit. He sounds worried.

"I'm fine." I grunt back. He puts his hand on my shoulder and squeezes it. "Get off."

The hand withdraws. I hear him shift on the bed next to me. "Hey, dude-" he frowns. "Are you feeling alright today? Do you- need to talk or chill or…?"

I glare at Ben. He's being nothing but supportive and kind and what am I doing? Being an ass. "No I don't need to fucking chill." I growl at him. "I'm fine, alright? Just fine."

"Alright…" it's quiet for a bit while Ben turns off the game. Eventually he speaks again. "You wanna watch a movie or something? I'm tired so…"

This is a trick. He's tricking me into taking care of my mental health. Fuck you Ben, I'll be as mentally ill as I want. 

‘’I’m gonna go to my room.’’ I stand up and immediately get YANKED back onto the bed by my hood. Ben’s noodle arms wrap around my waist and hold me tight. ‘’Dude-!’’ this is getting a little tOO HOMO-EROTIC, BENNY BOY.

‘’Stay.’’ he murmurs. ‘’I wanna keep an eye on you.’’

‘’Why?’’ I snarl. ‘’Because I’m a stupid kid that can’t look after himself?! Huh?!’’

Ben flinches. ‘’Jeff-’’ he murmurs. ‘’It’s not that I don’t trust you it’s because I know that you need the company right now.’’ he frowns. ‘’Just- lemme keep an eye on you, alright…?’’

Fuck.

Fuck.

fuuuuUUUUUCK.

Why does he CARE SO MUCH. I HATE IT. I’m gonna slam my head into a wall. Gimme a minute.

…

Okay wall slamming accomplished. Back to my predicament. 

‘’Fine.’’ I grunt. He (unfortunately) lets go of me. It’s silent. And uncomfortable. I pick at my fingers. He tilts his head at me.

‘’So- anything you wanna do?’’

I wanna hug you and kiss you and tell you I love you please Ben I’m gay and homophobic at the same time. ‘’Not really.’’

Ben puts a hand on my shoulder and scoots closer. He rests his hand on my other shoulder and...oh god I can fucking smell his hair from here- that’s creepy. Why am I creepy. Actually don’t answer that one. He looks up at me, bright blue eyes shining with kindness. ‘’You wanna talk about it…?’’ he asks gently. Normally I wouldn’t talk about my problems. Ever. But Ben is giving me puppy dog eyes.

‘’...I’m just thinking about mom and dad.’’ I mumble. He nods. ‘’They- treated me like shit. And I keep thinking about the shit they’d say to me-’’ I look down at him. He nods encouragingly. ‘’It’s like...they fucking hated me for all the shit I did- and now I’m here and people are understanding? And Slender- is actually trying to learn why I’m like this? Like- diagnosing me and shit to try and help…’’ I frown. ‘’And I’m just thinking like- if they’d sent me to a therapist would it be different? If I’d just gotten diagnosed or something-’’ I shake my head. ‘’I dunno man…’’

He sits up a bit. He hugs me, pulling me against him. My face goes fucking red. ‘’Maybe things would’ve…’’ he murmurs. ‘’But we can’t change the past...there’s no magic ocarina to take us back in time unfortunately.’’ of course he made a zelda reference. Of course. ‘’We just gotta accept what we got now,’’ he smiles. ‘’And we got each other, right? That’s something to be happy about, isn’t it?’’

Oh god Jeff don’t cry, don’t cry, don’t cry. Not here. Not in front of the man you love. 

…

And you’re crying. Good job Jeff.

I’m not a loud crier. But I am a gross crier. I get all snotty and stuttery and can’t get my voice out properly. Tears prick at the corners of my eyes and silently roll down my gross scarred face. Ben reaches over and brushes them off with cold fingers. He feels cold as he hugs me but I don’t care. I wrap an arm around him and tug him closer. I can feel his breath on my neck as he gently shushes me. He sounds so caring, so...loving. Like a parent should treat their mentally ill kid. 

‘’B-ben-’’ I stammer out. He’s rubbing circles in my back. ‘’I lo-’’ wait what am I saying. ‘’I l-love-’’ WAIT HOLD ON- ‘’I love you…’’

SHIT

FUCK

NO

WAIT-

He hugs me tight and I shiver in the coldness of his body. ‘’I love you too…’’ his voice is soft and gentle. I believe him. I believe that he loves me. Genuinely- like I actually matter to him. He’d miss me if I was gone. And that- that’s a lot. I’ve spent my whole life feeling like it wouldn’t matter if I disappeared off the face of the earth. You wouldn’t care, my parents wouldn’t have cared. But Ben? Ben cares…

Which is why I proceed to squeeze the life (or lack thereof) out of him and sob into his shoulder. He holds me tight until I’ve (kinda) calmed down. He pulls away and tilts my head up to look at him. As gentle and as loving as I’d dreamed him, he wipes tears out of my eyes. I sob horsley and stare at him. He cups my face in his cold hands and smiles down at me.

‘’There you go…’’ he murmurs. ‘’See? I knew you just needed to get it out.’’ he smiles at me. I just- told him I love him. And he’s not making a big deal of it. That’s good, right?? That means he accepts me- right?

Right...yeah. Yeah, Ben accepts me. Ben doesn’t judge. 

‘’Yeah…’’ I gulp and look away from him awkwardly. ‘’Hey uh- do you wanna-’’ I fiddle with my hands again. ‘’Do you wanna...watch a movie or something? Together.’’

He nods and smiles. ‘’I’d love to.’’

And so- we end up watching not one, not two, but three movies, late into the night. And the entire time he’s curled up in my lap, comfy as can be. As the credits on our last movie roll, he looks up at me.

‘’Hey Jeff?’’

‘’Yeah?’’

‘’I love you.’’

My face goes bright fucking red. I don’t need to see it, I can feel it. I bury my face in my hands out of embarrassment. I hear him laugh at me like the bastard he is. I shoot him a glare from in between my fingers. I want to say it. I really do. I want to tell him I love him back but- it’s- it’s hard. He reaches up and pulls one of my hands away, letting him see me.

‘’You don’t have to say it back. It’s okay. I know.’’ He hugs my waist and rests his head against my chest. ‘’I can wait...until you’re ready.’’

It’s at this point I start crying. Again. 

Ben shushes me gently and runs his hand through my hair. And...as I looked down at him- it finally clicked. I don’t have to put the shield up- not around him. Ben is different. Ben...Ben is good.

Yeah.

Ben is good.

I guess...the reason why I’m telling you this- well...not telling, I guess- writing. The reason why I’m writing this is because...I feel like it’s something important. I need to remember it because...it’s a step. A step in me learning to accept myself. It sounds corny yeah but- fuck off okay? I’m full of trauma and insecurities. I’m allowed be a little sappy.

I don’t know who’ll end up reading this- I mean I’m literally scribbling it into a notebook I found in his drawer. There’s only two people who I really want this to be seen by. Ben, because he deserves to know how much he’s affected and helped me, and two...my brother. Though I doubt he’d ever find this- heh- 

I...love Ben. And that’s okay. At least- to me, I think it is.

[jacscorner]

Fox McCloud of Kongo Bongo Part 3

Part two can be read here.

The rocking of the Kremling Slave ship was enough to lull any kritter to sleep. Under the blanket of the night, with the soft light of moon and stars, Kremlings could rest easy. Especially with their Kong prisoners secure in their cells. For the Kremling Krew aboard, the night was peaceful. By the morning, they'd arrive on Krokodile Island and would be rewarded handsomely by King ; both for delivering to him a competent combatant for the Fight Pit, but also cause they were escorting the freshly captured, and very beautiful Tiny Kong, who'll be yet another jewel for the king of crocodiles.

Save for Captain Kutlass.

He was a Blue Kremling; Kutlass gave a low groan as he sharpened his namesake against the whetstone as he sat at the table of his room. The Captain's Chambers had much more furnishing than the bunkers and rooms that crewmen used, and much better than the prisons the prisoners endured. The Blue Kremline were a rare subspecies of Kremling, larger than most naturally and Kutlass was a large Kremling. Muscles bulged from his body as he sat there in candlelight. Besides his candle was a small device, similar to that of a tablet that was lying beside it.

[NO TRANSMISSION]

Captain Kutlass tried to be calm, but he was anxious. He did his best to just sharpen his sword and not notice the time passing, but he felt he could hear the ticking of a clock that wasn't there. His teeth started to grind against themselves, but he lifted his sword up to examine the blade. If he sharpened it anymore, the blade would be too frail to use. He felt sweat trickle down his neck, waiting for the call to finally come.

BEEP BEEP BEEP!

Kutass nearly jumped out of his chair. His heart skipped a beat as his sword dropped to the floor. His blue scales were starting to turn pale, but the sea captain grabbed the tablet and pressed a button. The screen flashed, a green scaled crocodile was staring him in the eye, one eye bloodshot and twitchy. Kutlass could make out the golden crown and crimson cape hanging off his shoulders, but the sole, red eye was all he needed to know who he was talking to.

The leader of the Kremlings; King K. Rool.

"My liege." Kutlass managed to say, giving a bow to the crocodile on the screen. "Captain Kutlass at your service."

King K. Rool's scales were a murky green color. A wide grin began to curl onto his lips. "Good evening, Captain~" He sounded so jovial, but Kutlass knew that the mood of his king could change at the drop of a hat. "Sorry to be calling you so late. It's just that your afternoon report had me so curious. Naturally, I thought I'd like to hear about it personally."

"Naturally, my liege. Of course." Kutlass hated to grovel like this. It was beneath him; even beneath that of an Orange Kremling. But he was smart enough to swallow his pride, as opposed to swallowing his tongue. "Is this about the fox I had mentioned in my message."

"Yes, yes, that exactly." K. Rool chuckled, "you're quite the lucky Kremling, Kutlass. You capture one of the four Kong Apostles that was under my greatest enemy. You smoke out Tiny Kong and her little Kong gang rebellion. And now you're hauling to me more trinkets from the sky and captured the pilot inside. You'll retire a very rich Kremling, my friend."

"Thank you, thank you. Your praise is too much for me." Kutlass said, smiling warmly at his king. It took all of his willpower not to snap his jaws at the screen, but he endured the humiliation. "This 'gift' from the sky, however, the fox. He's a wily one. I do not think this one will be as cooperative as the last one."

"Oh, that matters very little to me." King K. Rool rolled his eyes, "whether he wants to cooperate with me or not matters so little that it's laughable. But your report, the condition of ship looked." A picture of the Arwing appeared on the screen, battered and bruised and within the haul of Kutlass' ship. "Its parts look salvageable."

"That was a ship...?" Kutlass grumbled under his breath, but K. Rool heard him.

"Never mind that!" His sudden snapping made Kutlass snap back at attention. "I don't care what happens to the fox. Feed him to Kritters! Sell him to a Fight Pit! Eat him if you want. But that flying ship; if it's not delivered to my castle personally along with Tiny Kong and Dread Kong, you'll be working in a factory with the Kongs!"

Kutlass dryly swallowed the lump in his throat. The King of Kremlings was still knots away, but he felt as though he was right in front of him, with a clawed hand around his neck.

"Am I clear?"

"W-what?"

"I said 'am I clear', Kutlass?!"

His scales were turning white like a sheet, but the Kremling managed to nod his head. "C-crystal clear, sir!"

"That's good, that's good." K. Rool grew a new smirk on his face, a low chuckle flying from the back of his throat.

"Will...will that be all?" Kutlass asked. He waited anxiously for K. Rool to answer when the ship violently started to shake.

BOOM! BOOM! BANG!

"What was that?!" K. Rool demanded as Kutlass felt his heart bang against his ribs.

"Uh, let me get back to you, sir!" Kutlass hurried to say as he picked his sword up off of the ground. "Y-you know how it is. Duty calls!"

"Kutlass! Answer-"

Against his better judgement, Kutlass had shut off the tablet. King K. Rool was going to chew him out, but that was nothing when compared to the current crisis that was apparently happening right under his nose! Kutlass stormed to the door and forced it open, just in time to see his seamen dashing down the hall past his quarters. Once he saw an Orange Kremling darting by, the large Kremling grabbed him by the throat and lifted the scrawny croc up to his snout.

"What's the meaning of this?!"

"Th-the prisoners." The Kremling managed to choke out as he was literally being choked out.

"Tell me something I don't know!"

"N-no, Captain! Th-they've escaped! I-it's a mutiny!"

Kutlass stared blankly at the Orange Kremling, stunned into silence when he heard that final word. 'Mutiny'. It echoed in his head again and again. He dropped the Kremling onto the wooden floor before giving a loud shriek, piercing the heavens above the ship's roof. "Mutiny?! MUTINY?!"

With cutlass in hand, the sea captain darted through the halls of the lower deck. This couldn't be happening; he told himself that this was just some kind of prank being pulled by his crew. He was swearing to every form of creation that when he reached the top deck, someone was getting the nine-tails! But as he got closer to the deck, he could definitely here that something was happening. Raygun firing and sword clashing was echoing through the ship. Now Kutlass was horrified; was it really a prison revolt?! He was so close to Krokodile Island; K. Rool would have his scales if he sailed up to shore and told him that his prizes had escaped!

Giving a loud kick, he forced his way onto the top deck. His eyes were wide, stunned in silence as he watched the carnage. The Kongs truly did escape their cages! Large Apes were barreling into their Kong oppressors, snatching the rayguns and swords off their downed enemies and promptly using them now that they were armed! Monkeys climbed the ropes and mast, a raygun in each of their hand-like feet as they rained laser fire from above. Swordfights between startled Kremlings and readied Kongs ended when the Kongs disarmed their reptile opponent and ran their razor through their torso.

His eyes were flashing with crimson as he looked at the display. He growled, taking his sword and racing into the fray. The captain made an executive decision as he took his blade and ran it through the spine of a Kong as his scream broke through the crowd like thunder. The first thing on his mind; find Tiny Kong or Dread Kong. He was sure that one of them had sparked this rebellion! The Kremling was sure that if they were dead, then the Kongs would lose their morale! K. Rool would be aggravated at him for not bringing such trophies alive, but at least them being dead would be better than them escaping!

A Kong noticed Kutlass, pointing a raygun at him, but the Kremling captain was quick and able to cut the Kong's hand right off by the wrist. Crimson flashed against his eyes as the hand went flying into the air. Kutlass watched it rise and fall as the crocodile swordsman looked and saw it fall along with the ape that owned it.

Then, he saw her.

Tiny Kong had just cut down a Kremling with her own sword, panting heavily under the red moonlight, blocking another attempt at her life from a Kremling's sword. Sparks were flashing in front of her, but Kutlass couldn't see anything else but her. The noise around him had turned silent. His grimace had turned more sour as he bared fangs, containing his roar and keeping it down to a muffled growl.

He moved swiftly and without hesitation. Dashing for Tiny Kong with his sword ready, prepared to swing it from on high and cut her head right off. He was seeing visions of seeing Tiny's head drop onto the floor boards and roll away like a coconut, but his dreams of grandeur were stopped when a loud 'BANG' cut through the silence of his little world.

A raygun shot! It was fired right at his feet and forced him to back away to evade. Recovering his breath, he looked to where he was sure the shot came from, but didn't see anyone even look at him. Did he imagine it among the chaos? The thought crossed his mind, but then, he looked up. Kutlass watched as he saw the fox from this morning begin to swing down from the mast, raygun in one hand as he continued to fire shots at the Kremling.

Kutlass roared as he backed away, bringing up his namesake and deflected another shot. But then, another blast of hot energy hit his hand. He shouted as he felt his scales boil and he dropped his burning sword. It landed and clanged into the floor boards before the fox dropped from above and landed the sole of his metal foot right in the captain's chest. He lost the air from his lungs as he was knocked onto the floor of the deck.

Landing on the deck of the ship, the fox pointed his raygun at the downed Kremling. He looked at the smirk on the tod's face, which made the Kremling's blood boil. He was starting to see red as this stranger from the sky casually walked over to the downed captain.

"Allow me to introduce myself properly." He spoke, tightening his grip on his raygun. It was hard to hold it; clearly, it was made for hands much bigger than his own. It was bulky, looking like a flintlock pistol that modified and had a tesla tube on its side. For a Kremling, this was a handgun that one would quickly pull out of a holster, similar to his blaster. But for Fox, it was a hand-cannon that was had to get used to carrying around.

"My name is Fox McCloud. And now, you have two options." Fox kept his finger on the trigger as he stared Kutlass down. "Call off your men and surrender your ship. I'm sure you can see that you're losing, so give up now and I'll see to it your life is spared."

"Never!"

With a sudden scream that caught Fox a bit off guard, Kutlass grabbed the sword out of a dead Kremling's hand and threw it at Fox. Taken aback, Fox barely had the time to dodge as his heavy raygun was knocked right out of his hand. It went flying across the ship's deck. Fox wanted to run for it, but Kutlass had already grabbed another sword from his fallen comrade and decided to take out his anger on the vulpine pilot; hopping to his feet, he made another mad dash, but now had his sword prepared to cut Fox to ribbons. K. Rool be damned, he'd be getting this fox in pieces!

Fox, however, was quick and nimble. Kutlass' wide swing cut nothing but air as Fox ducked under the blade. He swiftly did a backflip to avoid another cut of the blade's edge. He landed next town a downed Kong, bleeding profusely as he gave a weak grunt.

"Take...please..." The Kong said weakly, holding up his arm and handing Fox his sword. Fox glanced at the dying Kong, nodding before he took the sword from his limp grip, all while Kutlass was racing after him like an angry bull.

CLANG!

With his knowledge of swordfighting being nonexistent, Fox was forced to imitate what he had been seeing for the last few hours. And with the flurry of sparks and blood, it wasn't much, but he managed to parry the incoming swings of the relentless Captain Kutlass, evading any other swift swings but whiskers on his face. Heart racing, Fox managed to steal the air for him to breath as he continued to evade the best he could. He'd feel himself lose his breath as he watched his jacket get cut up by the cutlass. Every step had to be precise or he'd be losing more than just a piece of cloth, but each swing got closer and closer to turning his green suit red; or, at least, what was left as Kutlass continued to tear it to ribbons.

"Hold still, damn you!" Kutlass shouted as Fox continued to back away. With each swing missed, Fox began to get used to the weight of the sword. As Fox stopped another blow from running scarlet, Fox was starting to tighten his wide arm swings. Learning how to fight with a sword on the spot was something Fox never thought he'd have to do, but he was always a quick study.

Nimbly hopping away from another swing, Fox landed on the railing of the ship. He was short of breath, but so was Kutlass. He was snarling and growling as he pulled his arm back for another wide swing. He roared as he swung again.

CLING!

Instead of meeting Fox's blade, he used his metallic leg to block the incoming attack. Kutlass tried to bring back his arm, but Fox was already swinging his arm down. Blood flew from the Kremling's shoulder blade as he gave a painful howl. He stumbled back, choking on his own screams as Fox jumped right for the crocodile and swung himself, delivering a heavy roundhouse kick to Kutlass' neck. Fox landed on his feet as he watched the Kremling's eyes roll behind his skull as he started to fall onto the floor of the deck.

THUD!

Fox panted, his ears ringing. He was sure Kutlass had him dead to rights, but he survived. He got ready to get back into the fray of the battlefield, but noticed that the fighting had turned silent. The vulpine looked around and saw that all eyes were on him. Kremling and Kong alike seemed astonished by the act of Fox having successfully bested Kutlass in a swordfight. The tension was so thick that Fox could cut it with a sword.

Taking advantage of the silence, Tiny Kong's voice erupted through the night. "If you Kremlings don't wanna end up like your captain, then drop your weapons!" Fox was left to watch as the various Kremlings began to follow Tiny Kong's demands. Fox couldn't help but feel a bit awkward; a feeling he hadn't felt for such a long time. He was being used as a threat; something that, admittedly, should've been something he was used to. General Pepper had no qualms stopping terrorist attempts with the hanging threat of calling the Star Fox Team.

There was just something about how he alien he felt. On Corneria, there were all sorts of people. Fox might not see, well, another fox for days or weeks at a time, but he knew they existed. And when your team consists of a robot and various representatives of the animal kingdom, it didn't matter if he was the lone fox of the group when Peppy was the lone hare or Fay the lone dog. But among these cheering simians and crestfallen crocodiles, he felt more like an outside, more like a merc, than he ever did in space.

But, at least for now, he could rest easy in knowing that the battle was over. The ship was there's and the Kremlings were now taken hostage. Fox was sure that the 'mission' wasn't finished, but the Pilot-Turned-Commando was just happy that he survived through the night in one piece.

[scaredofheroin]

Captain N - Chapter 8:  Castle-Mania

The journey across the land took all day. Over hills and through valleys, Simon led the group on. Convinced he's the only one who could be trusted with the map, he diligently guided Captain N, Pit, Zelda and Falco closer and closer towards Dracula's castle. Out of everyone in the group, Captain N struggled with the hike the most. His exhausted state of mind did not mesh well with his less-than-peak physique. Of course, the other three didn't show nearly as much struggle in following Simon. Even Zelda, despite her title as Princess, still exuded grace and elegance in her every step. At least the others didn't have to carry the fruit basket that was so kindly gifted to the team like Captain N. He could feel his lungs start to protest such exertion more and more as the trek continued, barely managing to keep his feet under him and putting one foot in front of the other to walk. At least his exhaustion distracted from the pressure to perform. Little conversation was shared between team members as they continued on, primarily due to Simon remaining completely solemn and determined to get to Castlevania. Simon refused to take a break for lunch, so the contents of the fruit basket were eaten by the five while walking. It took all day, but after slashing their way through a thick, dark forest, the group found themselves at a massive clearing, with a large ominous lake before them. Beyond the lake, silhouetted against the bright moon in the night sky was an imposing, intimidating, Gothic castle. Captain N hasn't met the Dracula of this universe, or any universe for that matter, but this would be a place his universe's Dracula wouldn't look out of place in.

"Castlevania..." Simon muttered, indicating they've arrived. Falco stepped forward, closely examining the castle. "Sure seems like a humble guy." He joked. "So what's the plan?" Pit asked, turning to the group. "Well, since all we're here to do is get the weapon, I think we should try sneaking in from the back." Captain N suggested. Simon turned to him semi-aggressively. "Are you suggesting we allow Dracula to live?" Simon demanded. Captain N shrunk back slightly, crumbling under the pressure. "Well, I mean, I guess so..?" He meekly answered. "There are more present forces threatening Yamajiro. We cannot afford to be slowed by anything else. Defeating Bowser, King Dedede and King K. Rool is out biggest priority." Zelda stepped in, defending Captain N. "I'm afraid you don't understand the threat Dracula could pose. The longer he's alive, the stronger his army grows." Simon warns, standing firm in his claim. Captain N shifted slightly, knowing Simon has a point. "Okay, well, both can be done! Simon can take on Dracula while the rest of us search the castle!" Pit interjected, breaking up the argument. "Plus, the longer we spend arguing, the more likely it is that Dracula finds us." Falco added. "Unless you want one of us to join you?" Pit suggested, where Simon paced in place, thinking to himself. Eventually, Simon nodded in agreement, turning back to the group. "Alright, leave Dracula to me." He declared. "Are you sure? I could help you take him on." Pit offered. "No, Dracula is my battle. You have yours." Simon insisted. "Very well then, you draw attention from the front while we invade from the rear." Zelda declared, Captain N and Falco joining her. "I wish you all luck on your quest. I hope you grow to become the hero we need you to be." Simon bid farewell. "Thank you for your help, Simon. It's been an honor to fight with you." Captain N thanked. Simon gave a respectful nod to the group, and took off across the shore of the lake, headed for Castlevania.

Captain N stood for a moment, watching Simon march off with such bravery and confidence. Traits that he needs to have. Simon would have been a better hero than him. But he can't have these thoughts now. Not when action is needed. Turning back to the three, he straightened his posture. "Well, what are we waiting for? Let's get to breaking and entering." He joked. Pit was the only one to respond with some laughter. Zelda faced towards Castlevania with Falco beside her. "Yes, let's." Zelda responded, beginning to walk in the other direction to the castle. Falco, Captain N and Pit followed her carefully, almost tracing her exact steps. Zelda led them back into the forest surrounding the lake, staying out of any possible line of sight from the castle. Her steps were light and deliberate, stepping around any stray branches or anything that could alert someone nearby to their position. This proved to be the most difficult for Falco, whose metal legs don't help him remain quiet. Captain N could almost sense Falco's frustration in the air, silently cursing to himself with every snapped branch. As they drew closer, Captain N spotted Simon storming through the front entrance of Castlevania, boldly invading Dracula's home. Zelda carefully led the group further around the castle, still obscured by the trees. Pit was careful to fly beneath the trees, his wings occasionally getting caught in a stray branch. Fortunately, this didn't cause enough noise to give away their position. Eventually, the four found themselves directly behind the front entrance of Castlevania, facing three tall windows. "I'll go scope out the situation." Pit said, flying up to peek through the window after looking around to ensure there wasn't anyone who could see him. Peering through the window, Pit then swooped back down to the group and reported "There's no one in there. I'll try to open the window and I'll carry you guys inside!" He whispered, just to be certain. Captain N felt a chill run down his spine at the thought of being carried through the air again, but decided to go along with that plan. "Only if that's the only way." Falco said, his displeasure with the thought of being carried noticeable. "Fine, let's just make it quick." Zelda replied. Pit nodded, flying back up to carefully inspect the windows. Eventually he found a way to open it up, and almost surgically slid the grand window open. Getting back to the group, Pit lifted Captain N into the air first. Danging his legs helplessly, Captain N felt more brave being in the air compared to his first flight. Mostly because the flight was mercifully shorter, as he was soon dropped inside the grand castle. He scurried away from the light pouring from outside, sneaking off to the side and drawing his Zapper, prepared for anything. Falco was the next to be carried inside, and was much more careful to not cause too much noise. Zelda's entrance was much more graceful in comparison, and Pit touched down inside.

Taking in the surrounding area, Captain N deduced they were currently in Castlevania's mess hall. He was quickly joined by the three, huddling together and facing different directions. Falco drew his blaster and Pit produced his bow, Zelda peering around the grand mess hall. The room was as immense as it was oppressive, with dark, immaculate chairs surrounding the long, onyx dining table, which was decorated with candles and other table decorations. "It'd be really stupid to split up, so we're all gonna have to search for this weapon together." Falco noted. "We're gonna have to find a way to get to the underground levels. That's where the weapon will be stored." Captain N added. "Then we must hurry. Simon can distract Dracula but we can still get caught." Zelda informed the group. "Over there!" Pit whispered to the group, pointing to a pair of doors off to the side. The group shared a knowing look, and carefully moved over as a group. Captain N had his Zapper ready as he slowly pushed the door open, to find no one else present. Signaling to the three he continued sneaking down the halls. Captain N was incredibly impressed by how regal and luxurious the castle interior was, taking in every sight as he led the group. Polished, marble floors, incredibly detailed paintings, regal, red rugs, grand arches curling far above his head, he was partially awestruck. Zelda searched across the halls, tapping the shoulders of the other three to get their attention and motion them down another hallway. But this time there were two white skeletons standing down the hall, keeping watch for intruders. As soon as he spotted them, Captain N zipped back into cover, turning back to the group. "What do we do about them?" He whispered. "Well, how loud is the Zapper?" Pit asked. Captain N shrugged nervously before answering. "Uh... It's not too loud... I think." was Captain N's response. Falco searched around the hall they were in, seeing no one else present. "...It's worth a shot." Falco stated, aiming his blaster at one of the skeletons. Zelda quickly stopped him. "Are you out of your mind? You'll give away our position!" She scolded him. "Guys, leave it to me." Pit interrupted. Splitting his bow into two blades, he swooped over to the two skeletons and cut them down before the two could react. Pit quickly searched around the hall, and gave a thumbs-up to the three. "Perhaps we should let Pit lead the combative charge." Zelda suggested, making Falco roll his eyes. "Sounds like a good idea." Captain N replied. Making their way over to Pit, Zelda moved to the front of the group.

"I believe this is the way to the lower levels." She informed the group, making Falco step forward. "You BELIEVE that's the way?" He asked, wanting a clarification. "This castle's surrounded by a dark and mysterious magic, it's clouding my senses." Zelda answered defensively. "Unless you've got a better of where we should be going, we're following her." Captain N stepped in, shutting Falco down. "Fine, fine, let's just grab your tool and get out of here." Falco relented. Pit joined Zelda at the front, with Falco and Captain N keeping watch in the back. Soon enough, the group came across an animated set of black knight armor, who was quickly taken down with a single quick shot from Pit's bow. Captain N could feel his heart race faster than it ever has before in his life as his eyes scanned the massive corridors. If they're caught by Dracula now, it's over. A small group of zombies blocked their way, but before Pit could attack them, they got word from another zombie, and the small group shuffled towards the entrance of the castle. Simon must be hard at work, Captain N thought. "Come on, this way." Zelda led, motioning down a semi-hidden staircase leading down. Captain N carefully tip-toed down the stairs, aiming his Zapper downstairs while Falco pointed his blaster up the stairs. Descending the stairs, Zelda found that they've entered some sort of coliseum. The stands were empty, but the blood stains inside the sand pit were still fairly fresh. Captain N noticed this as well, and led the group around the edge of the stands. Zelda and Falco walked behind him as Pit quickly zipped through the air to get to the staircase on the other side of the coliseum. But as soon as the four reached the staircase, they heard footsteps above them descending. A flash of panic in Captain N's mind, he quickly scurried out of sight, freezing just beneath the doorway to not make any noise. Zelda went ahead a bit, trying to get a sense of where to go. Pit and Falco crouched behind Captain N. Two voices could be heard echoing through the halls to accompany the approaching footsteps.

"I understand Simon Belmont is here, I've deployed my forces to confront him." Rang a cold, authoritative voice. "But you don't understand, he's only a diversion!" Another, more high-pitched voiced responded. Peering around the corner, Captain N saw a tall, older man with white hair wearing a dark cloak and a small, turtle-like creature wearing a blue hat and robe with glasses, wearing glasses and riding on a broomstick. The tall man turned to the turtle creature, his eyebrow raised. "Is that so?" He asked.

"My superiors believe the prophesied hero has invaded your castle."

"Well Kamek, tell your superiors that I can handle managing my own estate." The tall man sneered, turning away.

"Dracula!" thought Captain N.

Kamek floated across Dracula's path, determined to get through to him. "But your excellency, it would be extremely unwise to take on this threat alone! The prophecy-" Kamek boldly declared, but was cut off by Dracula.

"SILENCE! I care not for some bedtime story told a century ago, tell your Koopa king that I reject his idea of 'assistance'." Dracula shouted, making Kamek back up. "Fine, we'll leave you to your domain." Kamek bid him farewell, waving his wand to open a portal he quickly vanished through. Once he believed he had privacy, Dracula groaned in annoyance, snapping his fingers. Another living suit of knight armor quickly ran to Dracula, hastily stopping just before impacting his master. "You know where Belmont currently is, correct?" Dracula asked, to which the armor responded with a hasty nod. "Good, rally two-thirds of your forces and strike him down. As for the other third... I want a search conducted for this so called 'prophesied hero', as well as any allies he may have come here with." Dracula instructed. The armor then bowed respectfully before running off to the other doorway in the coliseum. Dracula departed as well, heading back upstairs. Once he was certain he was out of earshot, Captain N let out the breath of air he's been holding. "We gotta move." Falco whispered to the three. Zelda quickly nodded, leading the way deeper down into Castlevania.

[incorrectsmashbrosquotes]

Wrong Pokémon (Part FINAL): Awaken

“Well…we’re back.”

Popo nearly whispered to the fighters outside as they gathered on the yard spotted with tents of Lumas. He couldn’t bear to look out at the scene, keeping his head down because of shame he couldn’t pinpoint.

Master Hand was next to speak. “You left without a word, the lot of you. Dangerous move, I must say.”

Silence from the arriving fighters.

A sigh escaped the right hand as he continued. “The Darkrai…did you defeat it?”

The group turned to R.O.B., who promptly nodded. “We killed it.”

Silence still.

“Shouldn’t we get this over with?” Eight broke the silence with an edge in his voice, though it wasn’t as sharp as he intended it to be.

R.O.B. nodded, turning to Cresselia. “We request of you to awaken those of us who have fallen due to the Darkrai’s actions. Can you do this?”

A nod was the only response from the Pokémon before crying out, a glow emitting from her body.

A light glowed from within the tents and within the Infirmary.

————————————–

Yoshi made a beeline to his friends, embracing them for a long time. Not that any of them complained; they were just as happy to see him well.

But he quickly left the Mansion for a time to head over to his island, worried about something he wouldn’t speak of.

When he came back, he asked for another hug. Which his friends gave without question.

And as they cried together, Mario swore right then and there we would never let this happen ever again.

Never again.

——————————-

Eleven wasn’t okay.

He wasn’t okay at all.

When he woke up, he was frantic and…horrified. He bolted out of the Mansion and went to Yggdrasil’s Altar without a word.

When he got there, he looked around slowly.

And fell to the ground as tears flowed down his face.

Eight and his fellow Heroes went after him, finding the Luminary in his sorry seated state. Somehow, they all knew that he wasn’t going to say a word as to what was wrong.

They could only be there for him by his side, sitting there as the boy in purple curled-in on himself, Solo putting an arm around him and rubbing his shoulder. Eight sat down next to Arusu, who was on Eleven’s opposite side from where Solo sat.

No words were spoken.

Nothing anyone could say would help anyways.

—————————–

King K. Rool had screamed “MUTINY!” as soon as his eyes opened, but was otherwise fine. At least, that’s what he said.

But Bowser knew the truth.

He noticed how oddly wary he was around those he trusted, including Bowser himself. He was jumpy, almost paranoid, like at any moment someone was going to stab him in the back.

It didn’t take a genius to figure out what his nightmare was about.

Bowser knew he would have to talk to him, but now…now was a bad time.

The only thing that was safe to do was wait it out. Maybe then he can do something.

A king must help a fellow king, after all.

——————————

As soon as they saw each other, Popo and Nana embraced and cried.

They cried for a very, very long time.

And who can blame them? It was obvious that Nana was trapped in a nightmare where Popo was harmed–or killed–in some way, and Popo had gone bonkers just to see her wake up again.

Some of the adults tried to cheer them up, sure, but they just needed each other for a while.

They haven’t left each other’s side since.

——————————

Sometimes, it’s hard to tell what Rosalina is thinking. Or feeling, for that matter.

All that anyone really knows is that she took all her Lumas and just…left.

She didn’t return to the Mansion for a long time, didn’t even contact the others even as they tried to contact her.

Though, if he was to be honest, Mario had an idea as to why.

Yes, of course she was tending to the Lumas, that was a given. But that was only half of the issue.

The other half involved her own past.

He recalled listening in to the story she told the Lumas overtime, learning about a young girl who became the mother of the Lumas he knew today.

He also recalled how her mother died long ago.

So when she returned, all Mario could do was give her a knowing look and nod.

That’s all he can do.

————————–

Red has been silent before. Leaf knows that much.

But Red’s been quiet ever since he woke up.

Not that she can blame him, though; she had a good feeling what his nightmare was about.

Though, slowly but surely, he was recovering.

Red’s Pokémon were happy to see him when they woke up, and Red’s been comforting them just as they’ve been comforting him.

Leaf and her team are there too, always will be.

Red still gets that nightmare sometimes, though, and he has to rely on all of them to calm down.

…She hates seeing him like that. But she knows there’s not much she could do about it. All she knows is that she’ll always be there for him.

And that his father was an asshole for not being here for him.

—————————–

R.O.B. looked onwards into the starry night sky, the outdoors finally peaceful now that his creation was destroyed. The stars sparkled as he stared, each one doing so differently as if trying to tell him something.

…In his mind, they would be calling him foolish.

Why did he think his failures of Shadow Bug experimentation would just…disappear?

Why did he think they would come back to bite him–no, his friends?

Why did he think they would be spared if they did resurface?

Why didn’t he figure it out sooner?

His eyes closed slowly, his head and arms tilting downwards in shame.

From now on, he needed to be more vigilant, lest this were to happen again.

And next time, he won’t let anyone get caught in the crossfire.

And if that meant taking his sins to his grave…

So be it.

[incorrectsmashbrosquotes]

What happened to Pichu after he blew up the Halberd and betrayed Samus and the smashers? What kind of fallout happened next?

“You ignorant, inbred, unbelievable, MORON!” roared Ganondorf, backhanding Pichu across the room. Sehpiroth and Chara, both in the room with the Demon King, raised an eyebrow both.

“Damn, I’d say he just got twelve feet on that backhand.” said Sephiroth.

“I’d say fifteen uncle Sephiroth.” said Chara.

“Aww, you’re the cutest little genocidal sociopath.” said the One Winged Angel, ruffling the demon child’s hair.

Ganondorf, not paying attention to their banter stormed over to the Pokemon, purple fire burning across his form. “I gave you one simple task, AND YOU HAD TO SCREW IT UP IN THE MOST MONUMENTAL WAY POSSIBLE!”

Pichu looked up at the Demon King in fear. “B-but boss, I did what you said! I took out the Halberd!”

Ganondorf reached down and grabbed Pichu by the throat. “Oh aye, that you did. But then you went and MUCKED IT UP, by GIVING AWAY VALUABLE INFORMATION TO OUR ENEMIES!” he roared. This time he simply threw Pichu as hard as he could against the wall, forming a crater in the stone.

Ganondorf stalked forward. “Now THEY know that WE know that Dedede is a spy!” he thundered. “And WHAT do you think will be the first thing they will do with this information?!”

“T-tell Dedede?” choked out Pichu.

“Tell Dedede. Yes. And now we can no longer control what he knows about us, and therefore we cannot control what the Smash Bros know!” he snarled.

“B-boss I’m sorry.” pleaded Pichu.

“No you aren’t.” snarled Ganondorf. “Not. Yet.” He then turned to the door to his office. “DARK LINK!” he demanded.

The wraith popped his head in, looking far too amused. “What’s happening Big G?”

Ganondorf pointed to Pichu, curled up on the ground in pain. “Take this idiot to the dungeon. I’ll figure out a proper punishment later.”

“W-wait, n-n-no Boss! Boss I’m sorry! BOSS PLEASE!” Pichu’s cries trailed off as Dark Link dragged the Pokemon down to the dungeon.

“So… feeling better after committing animal cruelty?” asked Sephiroth.

Ganondorf snorted. “Not until that idiot Dedede is imprisoned and under our control. Speaking of which, Sepiroth, take a group and detain Dedede. Do not kill him. I want him to suffer first.” growled Ganondorf.

Sephiroth sighed. “And that, my old friend, is your problem. You’re never content to simply win.” said Sephiroth.

Ganondorf snorted. “And that’s what you don’t understand. It’s not enough to simply win. A hollow victory, unearned, is one that is worst than losing. Victory is to be a glorious thing, not simply a goal to seek.” said Ganondorf.

Sephiroth rolled his eyes. “As you say.” and left to gather some fellow League members to apprehend Dedede.

“Is that true father?” asked Chara, coming up to Ganondorf. “Not just win, but win with glory?”

Ganondorf chuckled and picked up the child. “Indeed little one. Tell me, what is victory if not something grand? Something mighty and powerful to be celebrated.” he asked as he began walking down the hall with his charge. “Any fool can raise an army and conquer a nation. But to turn the nation on itself, to bend it to your will through great feats and glorious acts; THAT is true victory.” said the demon king.

Chara nodded and gavea predatory grin. “I think… I understand father.”

Ganondorf grinned. “Very good little one. Very good indeed.”

Dedede was in a panic as he quickly destroyed all the evidence of his treason. Word had just come from Mario that Ganondorf knew he was a spy. How long had he known? How did he know?! Dedede did not know, but he wasn’t sticking around to find out. He had no doubt that Ganondorf had some sort of terrible plot for him in store.

Dede blasted out of the room, intent on making a break for the exit, but skidded to a halt almost immediately, a terrified moan rising in his throat.

Sephiroth was in the hall waiting for him. With him was Nightmare and Ridley, both leering at him. Dedede swung to flee the other way, but found that path blocked as well, this time blocked by K Rool and Bowser.

He was trapped.

“Well, well, well. If it ain’t King Fatass.” sneered K Rool, running his claws across the stone wall, creating sparks. “Going somewhere?”

“Got nowhere to run traitor.” leered Ridley, lashing his tail against the floor. “Nowhere to hide, nowhere to go. Your goody-two shoes heroes ain’t coming.” growled the Space Pirate.

Dedede said nothing, but drew his mallet.

Sephiroth let out a soft laugh. “It seems like he wants to go out with a bang.” said the super SOLDIER drawing his sword. “But I guarantee that all you’ll do is whimper.”

And with that the fight started.

Dedede was no fool. He knew that against all these villains he stood no chance. He couldn’t win this fight.

So the only logical solution was not to fight. 

The villains charged towards him, but Dedede wasn’t charging towards them. Instead he rammed directly into the wall. More specifically, through it.

The bewildered look on Sephiroth’s face would have made Dedede laugh had he stuck around to see it. And the sight of the villains crashing into each other into a massive pile. But he didn’t. Dedede was already fleeing the room he had just crashed through.

Sephiroth immediately extracted himself from the awkward pile of villains, a look of pure rage on his face. “That’s it. AFTER HIM!” he roared. The villains tore through the hole in the wall after the penguin, but not Sephiroth.

He went up, a single black feather falling to the floor where he had been.

Dedede ran as fast as he could, pretty fast, all things considered, but the pounding of the villains pursuing him filled his ears. he pushed himself hard, as hard as he could, faster and faster with the villains gaining speed behind him.

If he could just reach the main hall, the exit, he’d be okay. If he could just get that far!

He felt something sharp bite at his back, and he instinctively swung his mallet, feeling a satisfying SMACK as it hit the perp. He didn’t pause to see who it was, for he had to keep going.

Further and further, he was almost there! If he could just keep going a little-

He heard the cracking and crashing in the ceiling above him, felt the debris crash into him, and then the two powerful feet plow into his back, sending him to the ground. Through the pain, there was a poking pain in the back of his neck.

The point of a sword.

“You are very lucky Ganondorf wants you alive.” said Sephiroth coldly. “Otherwise, I’d kill you now. But that would be mercy at this point, wouldn’t it?”

And as the others caught up, Dedede could only feel the misery close in.