#like yeah you can ship her with Hugo or anyone you want

[zoueriemandzijnopmars]

My Sofia the First ships related headcanon is that Sofia is asexual so none of it matters

[rendellstreet]

i think there's not enough mlm eugene content because almost all eugene fans are new dream fans and they're very vocally anti cassunzel etc. i don't want to accuse anyone because i don't think they think this intentionally but sometimes it feels like eugene's (and rapunzel's tbh) bisexuality is just a quirky fandom trait

there's so many mlm varian content because he has that white twink energy 😪 i don't want to say that he's not an interesting character beyond that, as much as i hate fanon varian i think he's one of the most complex characters the show introduced. but like you know fandoms latch onto that archetype :/

but i always thought it was weird that none of the usual mlm fan crowd got into eugene/lance. they have so much chemistry and moments?? they literally get high and sing how much they love each other?? go on dates?? adopt children?? dance together?? childhood friends to lovers?? people open ur eyes!! wake up

Yeah that's a good way to describe it and it's kind of 🙃 you can meme about Rapunzel having two hands and everyone laughs until you're actually serious about it. Maybe because I'm older and not really invested into shipping like others but I wish more folks accept that Cassunzel / ND can like, co-exist, like Cassunzel isn't taking away the fact that ND is still the official couple, it's just alternate relationship to explore and stuff.

Varian also has the benefit of Hugo from that proposed sequel comic, so multiply that white twink energy by 2. From my outside observation, they kind of eclipsed the whole concept of V&7K itself? I can't remember the last time I've seen Nuru or that older woman with the scar (?) on her face? Dontella? Was that her name?

My beef with a particular batch of fanon Varian where he's just a perpetually angsty character who 1) either gets put through the wringer for the sake of... being put through the wringer 2) every other character gets vilified, especially Frederic / Quirin / Rapunzel / Cassandra 3) it's like what happened in "Queen For a Day" never ended so Varian's just stuck in this characterization despite the fact that he got so much better like wouldn't you want to see your fave get emotionally / physically better? 💀

I'm not going to even sugar coat it Eugene/Lance would be a very popular ship but the problem is the fact that Lance is a black character and fandom (not just tts in general) for the most part won't interact with a black character unless they really have to

Also I distinctly remember a kind of spillover effect of the whole "Cassunzel is incest" happing with Eugene and Lance too. I think that also happened with The Brotherhood too to a lesser extent, because Hector refer to Adira as "sister" at one point therefore they're actually siblings? 😶

[clairelsonao3]

Top 10 Character Essence

It's tag game time again!

@tabswrites and @hollyannewrites challenged (and I do mean challenged) me to name my top ten characters "decided by their essence or meaning to you."

  A challenge to give your Top 10 favourite characters, based on their ESSENCE. They have to be favourite characters that also have a deeper literary value, where you enjoy their specific role in the story, and this means that the list also should exclude characters that would normally count as favourites if for purely nostalgic reasons. They can be from film, tv, or written media, anything.

Thank you! I hope I fulfilled the challenge the way it was meant to be fulfilled!

Although TBH, I can't believe I'm even attempting to tackle this. I have to choose only 10? I think it goes without saying this list is not exhaustive, nor does it represent all of my favorite books/movies/media. I really did try to capture the question by focusing on "essence and meaning" (including how they've influenced my own writing and not just "random characters I like." I also have to attempt not to write an essay for each because we don't want to be here all night.

Charlotte Doyle (The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle by Avi) Rich girl in the early 1800s gets on a ship with a mutinous crew and an evil captain, joins the crew, defeats the captain using only her wits, miraculously makes it home, AND THEN DECIDES TO GO BACK TO SEA AND BECOME A SAILOR. I read this all in one sitting one night when I was about 15 (after avoiding it because I thought it looked boring) and then literally decided to reshape my entire life based on it (I'm not kidding). Yes, I actually took up sailing. Also, there's a hot sailor that she obviously has chemistry with but it's left unresolved, and no one has ever written a future fic about it to my knowledge, and that's a CRIME. So yeah, step right up.

John Bender (The Breakfast Club) He's not just the original '80s bad boy with a Dark and Troubled Past, but what most people forget about him is that he's also hilarious. It's a rare combination. Honorary mention to his love interest, Claire, and not just because of her name.

Fantine (Les Miserables by Victor Hugo) - Mostly the book version of her, though she obviously has a showstopping number in the musical as well. She was the sad, angsty character I needed during the most sad, angsty period of my life. She was a poor, lonely urchin who found fleeting love and happiness in the spring, got abandoned and pregnant in the winter -- and it only got worse from there. Also, apropos of nothing, at one point, I wrote a short story featuring a dog by the same name -- who, um, died.

The Artful Dodger/Dodger (Oliver Twist by Charles Dickens/Oliver & Company) - I'm including both the human version and the dog version of this character because I love them both (though I actually prefer the Disney movie, lol). They're both thieves with devil-may-care attitudes, with soft spots for those more vulnerable than themselves. Plus, the dog version is Billy Joel, wears sunglasses, and plays piano with his tail, which -- I don't care what anyone says -- will never not be cool.

Satine (Moulin Rouge) - She was the beautiful, sparkling, singing, dancing tragic sex goddess I so badly wanted to be. So much so that as recently as five years ago when I reluctantly dressed up for a Halloween party, I chose her silver-dress-and-top-hat ensemble.

Rick Blaine (Casablanca) The most endlessly quotable character from one of the most endlessly quotable and romantic movies of all time. He sticks his neck out for no one. Except, oops, wait, he does. The OG Hollywood antihero with a Dark and Troubled -- whatever, you know the drill. Plus, he's also my dad's favorite character in his favorite movie (and I discovered it because of him), and so this pick has sentimental meaning for me.

Leah Price (The Poisonwood Bible by Barbara Kingsolver) - When we read this book in high school, she was the least popular character, probably due to her unwavering love and support for her dad, even though he was a singular-focused religious zealot who destroyed his entire family by dragging them into the African jungle in an ill-thought-out missionary trip. And then she married a guy with some of the same qualities (but he was better, thankfully). But for whatever weird reason, I related to her most. Anyway, for class, I wrote and tried to perform a monologue where I played her but forgot 90 percent of my lines. Oh well.

Mary Lennox (The Secret Garden by France Hodgson Burnett, I found the movie version fairly meh) There were a lot of spunky, iconic childhood book heroines to choose from, but she was Mary, Mary Quite Contrary, and so I choose her. (I got told to "smile" a lot as a kid). Also, as I mentioned in a previous post, I was a Mary/Dickon shipper before I even knew what shipping meant.

Neal Caffrey (White Collar) - Does anyone remember this show? I have no attention span for TV, and this is probably the last scripted show I remember watching every episode of during its original run, which is saying something. Everything I know about being a con artist (in fiction, lol) I learned from this charming, charismatic art-forger-turned-FBI-consultant. I think he also has the honor of being the subject of the first actual fanfic I ever wrote.

Iris Chase Griffin (The Blind Assassin by Margaret Atwood) I also had to pick one character of my favorite author, so Iris gets the crown. She starts off the story as an old lady looking back to when she was forced to marry some rich asshole instead of the science fiction writer (with a past that was -- wait for it -- Dark and Troubled) who BOTH she and her sister loved, and meanwhile, her sister became a writer and when she died it was discovered that -- oh, just read the goddamn book, I won't spoil it for you here.

Honorable mentions, in no particular order:

Violet Westing (The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin)

Jack Kelly (Newsies the movie, NOT the stage musical)

Turonga Leela (Futurama)

Vicky Austin (The Austins by Madeleine L'Engle)

Jack Dawson and Rose Dewitt-Bukater (Titanic) I can't decide between them, so they're getting an HM.

Palaestrio and Milphidippa (Miles Gloriosus by Plautus) Same as above.

Michael Furey (The Dead by James Joyce) Who is, in fact, dead throughout the story -- but being alive wasn't one of the requirements.

I wish I could include a Star Wars character, but could never decide, so let's say, oh, all of them, except that one you hate.

In case the following people want to do what I did and spend several WEEKS on this fascinating but life-ruining (in a good way) tag game: @mysticstarlightduck @enne-uni @kixngiggles @obviousknife + OPEN TAG because you don't even have to be a writer for this one, so I'd be interested in hearing from anybody who wants to chime in!

[vickyshinoa12]

So I’ve gotten back to playing GE3 and I beat the game and even did the side quests and stuff, I wish older versions of the game will be on switch probably one day in the future, but yeah! Ima copy and paste info about me below so you can get a gest on everything.

But yeah here’s a little about me! I’m mostly to myself, but once I get to know someone I’ll be annoying to the point that I know I’m annoying. I get along with customers and again, it’ll take me a while… but I will be that one cashier who knows what you get and ask if you want more lmao.

I really love snacking, napping, and writing as well as a bit of art to the side. I don’t draw as I use to tho and I need to keep up. I’m pretty much the goody two shoes as well, I follow rules to the T and will always have an ear out for anyone.

I dislike conflict and would rather let things chill then to fester it up. Good example is when someone is upset with me, I say sorry so it won’t get worse. YET. If I do feel like fairness isn’t in play and someone pulls some bs out their ass to one up me, I will be mean. Lots of my EXs say I don’t really care, it’s because I’m not just a “here I am!” and leave. I want to have a bond with the one I love and so far I haven’t found it, yeah deep stuff is kinda apart of a relationship but I don’t feel like it needs to be a thing all the time. But I will have my moments sometimes and will ask. (Even tho my ex says I never ask to hug which f him) anyway-

Hm… oh yeah I’m an animals lover and I feel like I’m Sleeping Beauty or Snow White when walking outside with all the birds and stuff. Also I’m a cat whisperer lol. I forgot- I also daydream like a mofo. Like… when I walk to dump my trash in the dumpster I daydream of me in different universes or some shit, sometimes I daydream so hard that I forget what I was saying or doing at times. I could think of other stuff but that’s about it.

Also here’s a pic of me in the GE world, I posted about her a few times in the past as well so some might remember her.

[bunbeeplays]

The Lemon Legacy: Generation 1, Chapter 48 - Love At First Strike

Ophelia and Xander figure the Roll With It Bowling Alley is a fun, casual first date spot. It's not like they can go to Taste of Tartosa without raising questions. I forgot to get an establishing shot of the building because I was too busy making them pose for cute pictures.

Ophelia: Get ready, Pappas. I'm a lot stronger than I was last time! Those bowling pins won't know what's coming.

Xander: Ooooh, I'm so scared! Bring it, Lemon.

Part of them can't believe this is actually happening. Ophelia hasn't been on a date in a hot second, and it's been even longer for Xander. Thankfully, they've gotten comfortable with each other so it doesn't feel awkward.

Xander: Ladies first.

Ophelia: What a gentleman.

Ophelia's on first! She's feeling confident and-

Oh wow, that happened fast. I couldn't even get screenshots of her falling in time.

Xander: Need help, champ?

Ophelia: No! That's just how I warm up. Us creatives are dramatic, you know how it is.

Ophelia winces as she gets up before walking back over to her… whatever Xander is to her now.

Ophelia: I still have another turn. Don't get cocky, mister.

Xander: Me? Never.

Ophelia: Sure.

Well, her form's definitely better this time. She only manages to get a split though.

Ophelia: Aw, fanoo.

Xander: We need to get a forbidden words jar for you.

Xander: Let me show you how it's done, Lemon Cake.

Ophelia: Yes, please enlighten me, babe.

Xander's going to blame him fumbling on being called babe. Yeah, that's it. He only knocked 6 pins down.

Ophelia: Is this the part where I'm supposed to feel enlightened?

Xander's initial reaction is frustration, but when he turns back around and sees her face, he remembers, oh yeah, she's just being playful. Xander's not used to dating someone that isn't constantly reminding him they think they're better than him.

It's refreshing.

Xander: It's still anyone's game. I'd be doing better if I didn't have such a distracting opponent.

Ophelia: Oh, is that so? I'm assuming you mean distracting in a good way.

Xander: Definitely.

Ophelia's feeling pretty confident now. She even attempts a trick shot through her legs.

Xander: Nice one!

I guess Hugo Villareal's game isn't going so well and that's why he's got an attitude over there. Either that or maybe he shipped Ophelibby.

Ophelia knocks down all the remaining pins but one!

Ophelia: I'd love to see you beat that!

Xander: I think I can manage.

Ophelia: You okay, sweetie?

Xander: Yeah. Just wanted to try some of your theatrics.

Ophelia: Don't worry, if you're still sore later, I can give you a massage when we get back to my place.

Xander: Oh yeah? I'm sure we can negotiate me giving you one too.

Ophelia: It's your last turn. Blow me away!

Xander does not, in fact, blow Ophelia away. Gutterball!

His self-assured trait is being awfully quiet, and a rare moment of self-doubt creeps in. He knows it's silly but he feels like he made himself look stupid in front of Ophelia.

Ophelia notices the face he made before coming back over to her. She can tell teasing him, even in a friendly, flirty way might sting right now.

Ophelia: This lane must be really old. I think the floor is warped. There's no way you would have missed that shot otherwise!

Of course Ophelia would be too sweet to kick him while he's down. She's always looking out for other people before herself.

Xander finally realizes that he hit a certain milestone in his life and couldn't care less that he definitely lost this game.

Xander: Okay, fine. You're the bowling queen. Maybe next time we can play in a lane that isn't warped so I can kick your butt. How about we keep this going and check out the Desert Bloom Park? I heard they installed a new splash pad.

Ophelia: I'm in.

[intothewickedwood]

oooh Curious Archer for 002? And Alice Jones for 003?

Thank you so much! <3

002 Curious Archer

When I started shipping them: As soon as we saw their first kiss in 7x10! I instantly became obsessed with them!

My thoughts: I love them both with all my heart and their relationship means so much to me. They’re just so perfect for each other. Their relationship does things to my heart! And I get so excited when I see them on my dash. I just freaking love them D,: and they deserve to be happy together.

What makes me happy about them: Everything! That Robin is so supportive of Alice and loves every part of her and just wants to make her days better and will do anything for her. That Robin was there for Alice when she felt desperately lonely like she had been for most of her life. The way they look at each other and they blend so perfectly together no matter how different they are.

What makes me sad about them: That we didn’t get more of them! I wish Robin had been introduced earlier in the season. Heck, I wish they were introduced much earlier. But I guess that wouldn’t have worked given that Robin and likely Alice were babies at the time of s6.

Things done in fanfic that annoys me: Fanfic could never annoy me! I just tend to avoid any fanfic where either of them are in relationships with guys cause I see them both as gay.

Things I look for in fanfic: Yeah just lots of angst. My favourite aspect of their relationship is when they were cursed, which seems to be an unusual preference in the fandom. But I’ve never been usual so it makes sense! I guess I can connect more to them in the modern world. So many great CA fics out there that I need to get back to reading.

My wishlist: I’m not sure I understand this question but if it’s for fics then I want to see all the angst! Give me pain! Alice having a mental illness means so much to me and I’d love to see it explored more in regards to their relationship. I need to know how to navigate my own in a potential relationship. I need tips, darn it!

But if this question is for general wishes then please can we have a spin off?

Who I’d be comfortable them ending up with, if not each other: I don’t mind Alice x Drizella as a temporary relationship that inevitably ends in disaster (because I love pain) but I wouldn’t really want them to end up together. I can definitely see Alice x Princess Anna. They would make a delightful couple. Can you imagine?! I can’t think of anyone else for Robin and I can’t do that to myself because she’s just perfect for Alice.

My happily ever after for them: They’d get married and mostly live in Storybrooke after going back to their own time with the rest of the s7 characters. They’d go on adventures together and sometimes invite Wish Hook and Zelena. And they’d have 2 daughters called Maddy and Ocean and a younger son called Hugo.

003 Alice Jones

How I feel about this character: Love of my life. Precious cinnamon roll. Brings me unbelievable amounts of joy.

Any/all the people I ship romantically with this character: Robin Mills, Drizella Tremaine (but, like, as a really messy ship)

My favorite non-romantic relationship for this character: Knightrook forever! Such a beautiful and tragic father-daughter relationship that has made me laugh and cry more times than anyone can possibly imagine.

My unpopular opinion about this character: Hmm. Probably that she untransfigures Gothel sometime after the series finale. God knows Gothel doesn’t deserve it but I feel like it would weigh on Alice if she didn’t give her another chance. Goodness knows what Gothel would do with that chance but I just can’t see Alice feeling completely content having left her like that.

One thing I wish would happen / had happened with this character in canon: I wish we’d gotten more of her and I wish we got to see more dates with Margot before the curse broke. I’d also have loved to have seen her adventures in Wonderland and other places!

Favorite friendship for this character: Hmm. I guess Henry is the only non-romantic and unrelated friend we see her interact with in the show and I love their relationship. It’s such a chaotic!little sister/ tired but loving!big brother dynamic.

My crossover ship: Hmm. I’ve never thought about this before. But Alice x Tabatha/the Cheshire cat from Alice By Heart would be cool! They both like to speak in riddles.

[chudleycanonficfest]

Hide and Seek

Day 6, Story #1 is by @adenei

Title: Hide and Seek

Author: adenei

Pairing: Teddy Lupin/Victoire Weasley

Prompt: Babysitting

Rating: PG

TW: Mild Language

**********

“Don’t let them stay up too late,” Ginny reminds him as she opens the front door.

“And send us a Patronus if anything goes wrong. We’ll be here in an instant,” Hermione adds fretfully.

“Oi, ‘Mione, really? They’re not babies anymore!”

“Let’s go, or we’re going to miss our Portkey.”

Teddy laughs at the interaction. Of all the adults, it’s Harry who’s pressing them about tardiness. The foursome are headed on a weekend getaway, staying at the Delacours’ beachside cottage for three nights. James was shipped off to George and Angelina’s, while Rose opted to go to Percy and Audrey’s, so Teddy’s charges only include Albus, Hugo, and Lily.

“Everything’s going to be fine. I’ve got this! And if I don’t, I can think of at least five other Weasleys to call. Maybe even a Malfoy if I’m desperate.”

“That’s not funny, Lupin,” Ron warns as Ginny swats him upside the head.

“But if Scorpius does ask for Albus to go over for an afternoon, it’s fine!”

“Noted. Go enjoy your weekend!” 

Teddy half shoves them out the door this time as he shuts and locks it behind them. The kids are out back playing in the garden, so Teddy goes out to join them. He’s chuffed that Harry and Ginny trust him enough to watch Al and Lily for the weekend. Plus, Ron and Hermione added Hugo to the mix. Normally, they’d be shipped off to the Burrow to stay with Molly and Arthur, but since it’s only a long weekend, and the kids are ten and twelve now, Teddy Lupin, a recent Hogwarts graduate, has been bestowed the responsibility. 

He’s always been the mature older ‘sibling’—well, he counts himself as a sibling or cousin to all the Weasleys, but he’s not blood-related. Harry and Ginny half raised him, though, so he’s just as much a part of the family as any of the kids. Heck, maybe someday he’d officially be part of the family. 

No, it’s too early to be having those thoughts.

But there’s one person who makes him happier than anything to know he’s not related to the Weasleys by blood. Victoire, his best friend and girlfriend. As Teddy sits back and gets comfortable on a patio chair, he lets his mind wander to spring afternoons spent by the lake as he observes the kids playing on the muggle swingset Harry insisted on putting together years ago.

“Who knew a giant Muggle toy would get so much use?”

Teddy jumps at the sound of a voice he’s not expecting.

“Vic! What are you doing here? I mean, not that I’m complaining, but…”

She laughs as Teddy backtracks. The sound is music to his ears, soft and lyrical, and something he’ll never tire of. Making her laugh is something he’s striven to do ever since they were young. When she fell off her toy broom, he made his hair change colors at a rapid pace in an attempt to make her giggle, and then there was the time she broke up with her first boyfriend during her fourth year, when he’d used the Jelly Legs Jinx on the bloke’s legs while he walked over a patch of ice. Victoire’s laugh has always been the fuel that set his heart on fire.

“Well, you said you had to babysit this weekend, and I thought I might come over and help entertain my cousins,” she explains as she pulls up a chair next to him.

“Yeah, but the adults have only just left! You don’t think I can keep the kids alive on my own for more than an hour?”

“Of course, I do!” She slides her hand in his while waiting for a beat, “especially since James isn’t here.”

“Oh, I see how it is! James isn’t that bad.”

“No, he’s not. He just likes mischief. It’s a common Weasley trait.”

“And a Potter one, too, if I’m not mistaken. Harry and Ginny never stood a chance, especially after naming him after Harry’s dad and godfather.”

“True. When I have kids, they won’t be named after anyone. They deserve to have their own unique names.”

Teddy offers a sad smile at Victoire’s words. He’s named after his dad and granddad and doesn’t mind all that much, but he sees where Victoire is coming from, what with being named after a bloody war for Merlin’s sake.

“Maybe you shouldn’t have insisted on entering this world on the second of May, then. I mean, come on, Vic, of all the days!”

“Oh, sod off, Lupin,” she feigns seriousness while her eyes shine with mirth.

“I do agree with you, though. There’s enough people in this family who’re named after somebody else. I don’t mind it, but I do like the concept of original names. Though, I do think we’re a ways off from baby name talk, don’t you?”

He can’t help but lighten the mood. Teddy’s sure she means nothing by the comment and is just thinking out loud, but something still possesses him to weave it into their future. Perhaps it’s to gauge her thoughts in a casual manner?

“Probably, but it’s fun to talk about, isn’t it? I mean, it’s not like we’re actually picking names or anything.”

“Or determining how many kids we’re going to have…”

“Which would absolutely be—”

“Two!” they both say at the same time.

It’s really more of an inside joke, with Teddy witnessing firsthand the chaos that is the Potter household with three kids, and Victoire being the oldest of three. And yet, there’s some truth laced into their lighthearted conversation.

“See?” Victoire says as she leans in close, “This is why we’re good together.”

She plants a kiss on his cheek at the exact wrong moment because that’s when Hugo shouts,

“Victoire! Look, guys! Vic’s here!”

“Oops,” she whispers bashfully in his ears.

So far, they’ve managed to keep their relationship a secret from the family, but it looks like that’s about to end sooner rather than later. Of course, Harry and Ginny know, and Vic told Bill and Fleur when she came home at the end of term, but the cousins were still blissfully unaware… until now.

The three kids run over to Vic and Teddy, and Lily eyes them with curiosity. “Teddy, why did Vic just kiss you on the cheek?”

There are a multitude of different answers Teddy could choose from. ‘No reason’, ‘don’t worry about it’, ‘it’s nothing’, but instead he opts for, “Why do you think, Lils?”

Her eyes grow wider than her small face allows, and a wide O forms on her lips. “Are you two… together?” she whispers.

Teddy and Vic share a look. They both know the secret’s out now.

“Yeah, Lils, we are,” Teddy admits as he holds up the hand that’s still intertwined with Vic’s.

If there weren’t wards in place, Teddy’s sure that Lily’s shriek of delight could have been heard for miles. Albus and Hugo, on the other hand, seemed disinterested in the whole ordeal.

“Can we play hide and seek or something?” Albus asked once Lily was done reacting to the news.

Point in case.

“Wait, who else knows?” Hugo interrupts Albus’s question and bringing the focus back on Teddy and Vic.

“Of all the cousins? Only you three,” Vic answers.

“Only us?” Lily gasps.

“Not even James?” Albus eyes Teddy curiously.

“Not even James,” Teddy confirms. “Tell you what, we can go play hide and seek now, but what about an even better game?”

All three look on expectantly, waiting for Teddy’s proposition.

“What if we play, ‘let’s see how long it takes James to figure out Vic and I are dating’? We can all place bets, and I’ll take whoever guesses the closest date out for ice cream.”

Vic flashes him a knowing smile as the kids contemplate his offer.

“I’m in,” Lily says without thinking it through.

“Me too,” Hugo agrees.

“But that means we’ll have to keep it a secret,” Albus realizes.

He’s much more intuitive at eleven than Teddy ever dreamed of being.

“Yeah. Everyone else has to find out on their own, which means you can’t tell anyone.”

Lily and Hugo both nod in agreement, and after a bit more pondering, Albus agrees.

“Okay, but can we pick dates later? I want to play!”

Ted and Vic both laugh as Teddy offers to count to twenty. He closes his eyes and makes a big show of counting while Vic remains at his side.

“Nice one.”

“Thanks,” he responds in between shouting numbers. “I figure James is thick enough that we’ll get at least a couple more weeks out of him. He is Harry’s son, after all...”

Not only did they get a couple of weeks out of the deal, but the rest of the summer. It wasn’t until September first when James caught them snogging behind a pillar on Platform Nine and Three-Quarters and ran to announce it to the world that the couple knew the jig was up. 

“Looks like I owe Al a trip to Fortescue’s next time I see him.”

[concealeddarkness13]

WHG 15 Post-Games Imposter Syndrome Part 23

The day after part 22! Tagging: @sparkles-and-hens, @knmartinshouldbewriting, @maple-writes, @pen-of-roses, @thoughts-of-nora, and @ratracechronicler (also thanks for Hugo!)!

The next day, I snuck out after Hugo and the dumb Peacekeepers taking him. I didn’t show myself until the Peacekeepers had already dropped him off. I just slid in next to him and grinned and winked.

He stared at me for a few seconds before he just looked away, as if he was completely unsurprised. When we walked up to the captain, she frowned at us. “Another one?”

I nodded. “Yes, ma’am! They wanted to see how well I was, working on a ship.”

She just beckoned for us to follow her, and I followed with a grin. I already loved her. Hopefully, I wouldn’t have to punch her. The crew had gathered for a meal, and we went there. She looked back at me. “You got a name, swab?”

It couldn’t hurt to say my full name. I smiled. “Triel Reeves.”

She paused for a second with a frown, but then she just shrugged. Perfect! “Fresh blood, everyone.” I grinned wider. I hadn’t been just a crew member on a ship for a year. She lowered her voice and turned back to me, pointing out the cook and the quartermaster. “And that over there’s the other greenhorn we can’t get a name out of. You two’ll be working together tarring the ratlines.” Oh boy! “Hope you like heights. First things first, though.” She walked over to the quartermaster and talked with him for a second.

He yelled for everyone to get ready to set sail. And called for us to haul lines to help unfurl the sails. Perfect! I grinned as we climbed and got started. This was so familiar!

“Fancy meeting you here,” Hugo said quietly. Oh yeah. There was a reason I was here.

I shrugged and kept my voice too lighthearted. “Well, I guess the Capitol decided this would be good for me.” I paused and grinned again. “Anyway, I haven’t done this kind of work for a while. I love heights.”

He rolled his eyes at my first comment. Good. He got the lie. As we switched new lines to haul, he spoke up. “And how do you feel about tar?”

“Hey, I love everything to do with ships. And I’m not afraid to get my hands dirty.”

He didn’t respond. We finished up with our task and started with tarring the lines shortly after. We climbed up with brushes as the bosun hauled the tar bucket up with a pulley.

I just kept grinning. This was amazing! But the air felt hard to breathe. It wasn’t affecting my memory, like it did with Hugo, but something was going on. I felt a little more peaceful. Less willing to fight. As I started working, I nodded. “I can see what you mean about the air. It’s affecting my thoughts a little.”

“I try to breathe through my shirt sometimes, although I can’t say the smell is preferable.” He smirked, but it didn’t last. “Yeah. Just…try and remind yourself of things. Y’know, in the past. Hold onto memories you don’t want to lose. You shouldn’t’ve come out here and risked…I don’t know why you did this.”

Because you’re my friend, and I won’t let you be alone. I tried for humor first. “Like I could ever forget you.” But then I became serious again. “And I wasn’t going to leave you to suffer alone. I probably won’t be able to come every day, and the Capitol might realize what I did and not let me come at all after this. But I’m not going to leave you alone. It’s just an added bonus that I might be able to punch some bastards today.”

He perked up at the last sentence. “Well, I’m obligated to admit some of these salts’re okay, but the bastards’re fair game for punching. I will emphatically do nothing to stop you should you feel punchy.”

“Noted.” I looked around as I kept tarring. The question was: who were the salts and who were the bastards? “I must admit, they’ve done their homework. This is remarkably like the real thing.”

He nodded, and he sounded spiteful. “Yeah. But I bet it’s just like an old arena or—I think I already said that. Never mind. So, uh, you…but you have been with the real thing, though. The real ocean and everything. It’s…what’s different? Does the ship still pitch like this? And the jobs—do you…Do you think maybe I’d do good out there, with the real thing?” He sounded more hopeful now.

I watched him with a smile before I said anything. He was doing very well. He seemed to be at home here. “It pitches worse, sometimes. I’ve been through a couple of storms, and it’s an adventure. The air is saltier than this, and the wind blows a lot more most of the time. There are times when it’s completely still, and we have to row to move the ship. And you’re certainly promising. I’ll make sure you get your sea legs yet.”

He looked so excited, but before he could say anything else, the bosun yelled up at us. “HEY! WHICH ONE OF YOU IDIOTS JUST GOT TAR ON MY FUCKING UNIFORM?! These things don’t grow on trees, you know! Do I look like a ratline to you?”

I rolled my eyes. “Like hell we did,” I muttered. While Hugo mimed dumping the rest of the bucket on the bosun’s head.

We climbed down, and the stupid bosun was stomping around, muttering under his breath. But of course he made his words loud enough for us to hear when we got down. “Arena-saboteurs like that good-fer-nothing Carolee.”

Oh boy. So, he was certainly one of the bastards. He glanced over at us and threw the tar bucket at Hugo, who caught it, but the tar still got all over him. Shit. I whirled on the bosun and punched him straight in the face.

He fell down way too easily. Weak. I spit at his feet and stood over him crossing my arms. “You piece of shit. You’d already have been thrown overboard if you were on my ship.”

He lunged for me, but it was so weak, he just brushed past me. But Hugo lunged for the bosun and punched him in the gut. “Not to my friend, you don’t!”

I felt a twinge of happiness, and I grinned as bastards jumped from the quarterdeck or burst through a door. Perfect. I started grinning. This was going to be fun!

Okay, most of it was a blur, but I totally punched the woman with the bucket so that the bucket flew and hit one of the two people trying to corner Hugo. Someone decided to bring a mop, but I just ripped it out of his hands and snapped it, but I lost it when someone got a punch in. There were too many, and I kept getting hit, but when I stumbled Hugo was there, and he helped me out of the way of the bosun trying to get a good kick in. Loser.

When the quartermaster finally broke it up, Hugo was on the ground, and I helped him up with a grin. I bowed my head at the quartermaster. “I’m sorry about that fuss. I just had to defend my friend’s honor.” I gestured at Hugo, and he still had tar on him. And now blood. Nice.

“I don’t care about anyone’s honor—I care about who’s starting stupid fights on this ship. You’re lucky I saw it wasn’t you two.” He hauled the bosun to his feet and pointed at one of the others who had been part of the fight. “Help that one to the infirmary, and you don’t get to see the galley until tomorrow. I’ll see you all get double duty for this, and you’ll thank me to not break out the cat o’ nine.” He hesitated. “We don’t…actually have one, but still. Behave your damn selves. We’re not pirates, for heaven’s sake.” I made a face at him after he pointed us to a new task. Cleaning the toilets, of course.

Hugo smirked over at me at the pirates comment, and I shot him a middle finger back. I was still angry over the stupid bosun. I couldn’t believe he actually did that. “No, you are worse than pirates. We would never turn on one of our own like that. And if someone did, I would have gotten rid of them immediately.”

We started working, and Hugo glanced over at me. “So, are you not allowed to mess with each other? Well, I know that guy wasn’t just messing around…I think he knows something about what we did. I don’t think anyone else does. And now we pissed him off…” He frowned but shrugged. “Heh. He knows what’s coming to him if he tries crossing us, eh, hat lady?” He grinned.

I grinned back. “Yeah, if he even looks at us funny, I’m going to deck him again.” I paused. “And we do a lot of stupid shit to each other. One time, Tess put two-sided stickers on the way up to the crow’s nest, and it took ages for Lily to even notice she had stickers that said ‘fuck you’ on her palms. And Shine—” Shit. Not again. I forced myself to continue. “They always threw machine parts at everyone. I think they secretly had a stash of parts just for throwing.” I paused, swallowing hard and pushing the thoughts away. “And Nesri likes sparring, so we have fight nights, especially between her and Tauren.”

“Secret stash.” Hugo snickered to himself. But he didn’t say anything else.

I just kept working, trying to figure out what the air was doing. It wasn’t affecting my memory, so what else? Either way, it was starting to feel suffocating. I snarled. “I can’t believe you have to deal with this shit every day. This air is suffocating.”

“You shouldn’t have to deal with it too. You shouldn’t have come here.” He bristled, but then he calmed down again. “…But I’m kinda glad you did. But don’t come back.”

I scoffed. “I’ll decide if I come back or not.” I paused. It would be good to distract him. “So, you’ve heard all about my friends. Would you like to talk about yours?”

He nodded wearily to my first sentence, and then he coughed. “What? Why?” A little defensive, but understandable. “Uh. Well, I guess if we’re ever gonna be all on a ship together…”He mouthed something to himself before he started. ���There’s Alex. He’s the popular one. Our resident hero.” He snickered. “Wants to be the guy with the sword, taking on demon pirates robbing us, i.e. normal pirates. Good guy. Mean cook too, though—galley’s probably where he’s headed, to be honest. And there’s Luc, stands for Lucifer, but they’ve got him cleaning up at the church! Met him out thieving, which should tell you how much of a saint he is. You’d like him. Always spoiling for a fight. He’ll be a gunner for sure. Wonder if he’s caught the guy he’s trying to reap vengeance on by now…Anyway, then there’s Tally. Do not pick on him. I will kick your ass. He’s a quiet kid, but he’s alright. Shy around people, but he can play a sharp guitar and spin a tale that’ll singe the hair off your brow. Big on animals and nature and stuff, good at building…okay, traps for hunters, so maybe he’ll be okay as a carpenter? I dunno what good’s a carpenter gonna do on a ship like yours. But we’ll be useful.”

I nodded. They sounded wonderful. “They’ll do very well on my ship. As will you.” I smiled over at him. “They sound like wonderful people. I’ll be happy to meet them. And what job would you like to do on my ship?” I cocked an eyebrow at him.

“Oh, I’ll be happy just to be there.” But it looked like he had something in mind.

I grinned. “Well, then I’ll make a new job: The Person Who’s Just Happy To Be Here. And you can walk around grinning the whole time.”

“We all know that’s exactly what sullen teenagers are for.” He gave me his best scowl.

I grinned back at him. And we kept working, until the ship landed back at the harbor. The Peacekeepers came and took Hugo, and I followed. They finally noticed me a little bit later and stopped and stared at me for a few seconds.

One of them pointed at me. “You! You’re not supposed—”

And I punched her too. Enough to make her fall unconscious, and then I whirled on the other Peacekeeper and did the same. I called for Hugo to run, and we both ran together.

When we got to the entrance, Hugo copied my bow with a grin, and he ran off. I grinned after him and ran off, back toward my prison.

[disneymiraculousefandomsblog]

Hey guys!! So I know I was taking a break from writing stories but I just couldn’t help myself so I wrote a story and I was really wanting to write a story with angst. This is not a Hugo/Varian ship story. Also thanks to @dangara2610 for helping me find a title for my story:)

Summary : Hugo is staring to get attached to Varian and the gang so he is wanting to get out of the mission Donella gave him but it does not end well for our boy.

TW: Donella, Cutting, Electrocution

AO3: link is here

Switching Loyalties

Donella had sent Hugo on an assignment to infiltrate the group and remain on good terms with Varian so he can lead him to the totems she needed. Hugo and Varian were always arguing and teasing each other like they were brothers. It had been about a week since Hugo had been undercover with the group. Varian and the gang had found the first totem and were on their way to get the second totem. Hugo was trying his best not to get attached to Varian or anyone for that matter he was on a mission to find the totems and give them to Donella that’s it. He was not there to make friends.

They stopped in the forest to camp for the night they were close to the kingdom with the second totem. They would go and get it in the morning.

Varian was the first to set up camp, “Alright guys, this looks like a good place to camp for the night” Varian stated.

“Really Hairstripe! You want us to camp out and sleep here where there can be bears or wolfs that could attack us!” Hugo said with a doubtful tone.

“For your information Hugo, there are no bears in this part of the woods. And wolfs don’t attack you unless they feel threatened so we should be fine.” Varian said sarcastically to Hugo.

“If you say so Hairstripe whatever” Hugo answered crossing his arms.

Varian rolled his eyes, “I’m going to go and get some wood to make a bomb fire to keep us warm” Varian stated.

“Maybe Young should go with you just to be safe” Nuru said with concern.

“I’ll be fine Nuru, I’ve been camping before” Varian answered.

“I know but still, and besides you can’t carry all that wood by yourself.” Nuru answered.

“Young would you like to go with Varian and help him gather wood for the fire?” Nuru asked Young.

“Sure i would like that” Young said with a smile.

“Alright If you insist” Varian said giving up.

Varian and young went to gather the wood while Hugo and Nuru stayed with the caravan. Nuru and Hugo never really talked much with each other because she felt a bit sketchy with Hugo she didn’t trust him, he never said why he was even helping Varian and he surely wouldn’t gain anything from helping him.

Nuru saw her chance to try and get to know Hugo and why he wanted to help Varian find the totems.

Nuru walked over to Hugo, “Hey Hugo, Are you ok?” Nuru asked him.

“Yeah I’m fine thanks” Hugo answered with a chuckle.

“So I know we don’t really talk much and that we don’t know each other that well, but in would like to change that. May I ask how you found Varian? and why you want to help him find the totems?” Nuru asked Hugo.

Hugo could not tell her the truth of why he really wanted the totems he had to come up with a believable story. “Well..I met Varian when he was trying to get the first totem, I the fire kingdom, I took it before they could, I mostly wanted it because I thought it would be worth something and maybe to use it for my alchemy potions. Anyway I wanted to know why Varian wanted the totems so badly. It was kinda funny to see him get upset when I took it. Once he told me why he wanted the totems and what he is going to do with them i knew he would needed my expertise to get him passed the other challenges even if he doesn’t admit it.” Hugo said with a chuckle to Nuru.

Nuru didn’t know if his story was true or not and he didn’t answer her question of what he would gain helping Varian. Hugo saw that Nuru was hesitant, “Look Nuru I know you don’t trust me, and I don’t expect you too but I’m not here to hurt Varian, I can tell you that truthfully” Hugo said with a half smile.

Nuru still didn’t trust him, but he seemed to be telling the truth. “Ok Hugo, it may take me awhile to try and trust you but I can see that you really do care for Varian so I will do my best. Thank you for being truthful” Nuru answered with a slight smile.

Varian and Yong came back with the fire wood,

“Were back! And we brought the wood for the fire” yong said with a smile.

Varian looks at Nuru and Hugo, “what happened? Did I miss something?” Varian asked.

Nuru and Hugo exchanged glances, “No we were just having a little chat” Nuru answered nervously.

“Oh what was is about?” Varian asked placing the firewood on the ground in a bundle.

“Eh, it’s nothing Hairstripe” Hugo answered.

“Oh-Ok” Varian answered hesitantly.

Varian grabbed two rocks and clicked them until sparks came out and lit up the wood. “There that should last us till morning” Varian said proudly.

“Heh thanks Hairstripe” Hugo said with a smile.

They sat around the fire and Varian made them some s’mores as a light snack and they went around telling different types of scary stories they have heard. They laughed and Hugo teased Varian with his puns and nicknames. The sun had finally set and the moon came out by the time they finished their s’mores and telling their story’s. Nuru was the first one to go to bed, “Alight guys I’m calling it a night, see you in the morning” Nuru said heading inside the caravan.

“Yeah me too I’m kinda tired, see you guys in the morning” Yong said walking behind Nuru.

“Goodnight” Varian answered.

Hugo never had fun before this was the first time experiencing fun, he enjoyed it, he never had any friends or thought he would even have any with Donella. Hugo had this weird feeling inside his stomach like he was actually starting to care for them and he could feel himself getting attached to Varian and the gang he didn’t like it. Hugo was lost in his thoughts when Varian snapped him out of it . “Hugo?” Varian asked.

Hugo snapped himself out and turned to looked at Varian, “yes Hairstripe” Hugo answered.

“I think I’m going it call it a night you coming?” Varian asked him.

Hugo wasn’t really tired and he really wanted to take a walk and clear his head.

“That’s fine Hairstripe, I’m gonna take a walk, I’ll be back later” Hugo answered nervously.

Varian knew something was up with Hugo but he went along with it. “Besides if he does not come back after awhile he could go check up on him. Ok” Varian answered with half smile.

“I’ll be back soon” Hugo said with a smile. He got up and walked into the forest, Varian stood at the door watching Hugo leave and he turned to go inside the caravan. Meanwhile someone is lurking in the darkness watching from afar. Hugo walked around pacing telling himself, “get it together Hugo!, what are you doing?, you can’t start having feelings, your on a mission!. You know what would happen if Donella found out your becoming soft...” All these thoughts flooding his mind. He saw a nearby tree and sat down under it. It had been 15min since Hugo left and Varian was getting worried but also because he couldn’t sleep either a walk would probably do him good, Varian left the caravan to look for Hugo. Hugo sat under the tree looking into the distance looked around when he heard a noise, “Hello, is someone there?” Hugo said getting up looking around seeing where the noise was coming from. He sat his eyes on a bush that was moving he got closer to get a better look and fell backwards with a small yelp.

Varian popped out from the bush, “Hugo! Oh I’m sorry I didn’t mean to startle you heh” Varian said embarrassed. Varian put out his hand to help Hugo up, Hugo Gabe him his hand and Varian pulled him up. “It’s ok Hairstripe” Hugo answered dusting himself off. “So what are you doing out here? I thought you were sleeping?” Hugo asked Varian.

“Heh well I couldn’t really sleep and I saw you weren’t in bed so I thought I come check up on you and see if you were ok” Varian answered with a half smile.

“Oh I-I’m fine...just lost in thought I guess” Hugo answered with a half smile.

“Do you want to talk about it?” Varian asked.

Hugo stayed quiet he could tell Varian the truth and then once Donella Finds out that he betrayed her they would all probably get killed or he could just lie like he has been this entire time. “Uh, it’s just stupid stuff from my past it’s not really important heh” Hugo answered with a small chuckle. Varian didn’t know Hugo we’ll but he knew how it felt to not want to talk about personal stuff or your past for that matter. “Oh ok” Varian answered. There was silence for awhile then Varian broke the silence. “Hugo, I just want to say... Thank you, for helping me get the totems it means a lot to me, I know we don’t always get along and we tend to fight a lot heh, but thank you for coming along with me to find the totems.” Varian said sheepishly rubbing his hand behind his head.

“This mission really means a lot to you huh” Hugo said with a half smile.

“Hehe, yeah it does I mean I may have never met her and I don’t even know If she is alive...but I’ll at least complete her mission and find out what this secret library is and why it’s so important. And make my Mom and dad proud” Varian answered with a smile.

“Hmm, it must be nice to have parents that love you” Hugo said with a bit of sadness in his voice.

“What do you mean?” Varian asked.

“Well, I Don’t have parents like you have your dad, My Mother died giving birth to me..my dad was so angry he blamed me for killing her he said it was my fault that I should have been the one to die instead of my mom. My dad hated me so much and wanted nothing to do with me so he put me in an orphanage when I was born. At least that’s what he told the orphanage. The orphanage closed down when I was 6 and I was left alone to fend for myself. I know you don’t know what it’s like to be by yourself for so long without anyone to help you. Hugo said with a heavy sigh.

Varian sat there quietly, he knew exactly what Hugo went through because he went through the same thing when his dad was encased. Varian didn’t like talking about his past he wasn’t proud of it, but he knew Hugo needed to hear it.

“No Hugo, I know exactly how it feels to be alone for a long time. I wasn’t always a Royal Engineer I had to really work for it, I’m not as innocent as I seem I’ve done some pretty bad things that I’m not proud of” Varian said with a sigh.

Hugo looked at Varian, “pff you no! You couldn’t have done anything bad” Hugo said with disbelief.

Hugo saw Varian’s face was serious, “oh you really mean it, what could you have done that was so bad?” Hugo asked Varian.

Varian shut his eyes and remembered, “Corona was being attacked by these magical black rocks that were unbreakable no one knew where they came from or why they were sprouting for the ground, I was 14 at that time and I really wanted to get to the bottom of these black rocks so I used my alchemy and did experiments on them with different type of compounds. Anyway one day my dad came Into my lab and he didn’t really like me studying the rocks and experimenting with them because he said they were dangerous, I didn’t listen he startled me and I tossed this yellow compound all over the black rock. This yellow rock started sprouting from the rock I was so upset at my dad that he didn’t understand that I just wanted to help the people and find a way to stop the rocks, before I could tell my dad he pushed me out the way of the yellow amber and he saved me. It ended up trapping my dads arm, I told my dad that I would be back and bring help, so I went to go get the princess and she refused to help me because of the snow storm she couldn’t leave her kingdom. I was so desperate I guess grabbed her by the arms pleading to help me but I guess it looked like I was attacking her so they tossed me out into the snow...when I went back to Telly dad he was....already encased completely in the amber..” Varian said tears starting to form in his eyes.

“After that I had to fend for myself for a whole year. I was so focused in finding a way to free my dad that some days I didn’t even eat or sleep. In my fit of anger I tried taking over corona and making the royal family pay for not helping me save my dad, so I ended committing treason, kidnapping, almost killing the princess, and...just some other stuff I’m not proud of. In the end the princess managed to find a way to free my dad and I was pardoned thanks to her.” Varian said wiping away the tears.

Hugo couldn’t believe what Varian just told him, how could a young kid like Varian even be able to do that. “I’m sorry Varian, I didn’t know” Hugo answered with guilt.

“It’s ok it’s not your fault, I’m over it anyway hehe” Varian answered nervously. Varian was lying he still had nightmares about his past and what happened but he didn’t want to tell Hugo that.

Hugo looked at Varian and smiled, “Well I guess we are kinda alike in a way” Hugo said with a chuckle.

“Hehe yeah who knew right” Varian answered with a smile.

Hugo gave a half smile he started to feel guilty for what he was doing to Varian, He had already been through so much. “Ugh Hugo! Your getting soft again!Maybe if I start being mean to him he’ll stop trying to be my friend.” Hugo though you himself.

Varian saw Hugo lost in thought again and pretty quiet, “Hugo, I just want you know your not alone anymore, you have friends now, we care for each other and we help each other.” Varian said with a smile.

Hugo didn’t know what to say he never had any friends or anyone who cared for him like Varian did. “You really think we’re friends? But you don’t even know me that well, how do you know I’m not just trying to use you to get to the totems, how can you trust me?! Hugo said with aggravation. Hoping this outburst would turn down Varian from wanting to be his friend.

Varian was stunned at the sudden outburst, but Hugo was right he didn’t know him very well yet and he didn’t why Hugo was really helping him. For all he knew Hugo could be working for Someone else that wants to get to the secret Library too. “Well are you just using me to get to the totems?” Varian asked with a sigh.

Hugo stayed quiet for awhile, he probably just blew his cover, he has to think of something fast. “No.. I’m not.. but how can you call us friends if we don’t even know each other that well? You don’t know what I’ve done in my past, how can you want to be friends with someone you don’t even know? Hugo asked confused.

“Because I can see that your a good person, if the princess taught me anything it’s that every person has a good side, your a good person Hugo. I know you have had a rough past, your right I don’t know what you did in the past, But the past does not define who you are you are who you choose to be right now. I’m still learning that lesson myself hehe.”Varian answered with a chuckle.

Hugo tried his best to not ponder the words Varian just told him but he have o successes. “Maybe he’s right, maybe I can change this, I’ll just tell Donella that I don’t want to do this mission anymore and to send someone else. Maybe if I tell Varian the truth he’ll forgive me.” Hugo thought to himself. He needed to know if Varian would forgive him if he told him the truth.

“Hairstripe what if I did do something to you that seems really hard to forgive, would you forgive me anyway?” Hugo asked waiting for his response.

Varian was surprised at that Hugo would ask a question like that. He really must be going through something that he obviously does not want to talk about. Varian understood thought. He put his hand on Hugo’s shoulder, “Well it depends really... but of course I would forgive you, that’s what friends do, we all make mistakes because no one is perfect. If I have learned anything though is that everyone deserves a second chance no matter how great the mistake is. Varian answered with a smile.

Hugo was surprised how could Varian after everything he been through be so nice and forgiving he just couldn’t understand it.

“Thanks Hairstripe, I appreciate it” Hugo said with a smile.

“Heh your welcome,”Varian said with a chuckle.

“You know you are starting talking like the princess, I’ve never met her but from the stories you have told me it seems that’s something she would have said” Hugo said with small laugh.

“Haha, yeah your right, you can tell that I hang around with her to much, but that’s a good thing, if anything I need to learn more from her” Varian said with a smile.

“Hey, uhh..Thanks for...you know listing, I don’t really like to talk about my feelings heh but thanks” Hugo said trying not to make it awkward.

“Hehe it’s ok I’m the same way, I don’t like recounting my past, but sometimes it’s good to talk to someone about it. I’m glad we talked your like a brother to me Hugo and It makes you feel so much better after you know?” Varian said with a half smile.

"Heh...T-Thanks Hairstripe... I’ve never had a brother before but I do consider you as a brother too”Hugo answered with a chuckle.

Varian smiled and bumped his arm. “Well I’m going back to the caravan, you coming?” Varian asked him.

“Yeah I’ll be right behind you” Hugo answered with a arm bump.

“Ok” Varian answered walking away.

Hugo got up and dusted himself off to follow Varian when a familiar person came out from the shadows. “Hello Darling!” The women said sarcastically.

Hugo felt a chill run down his spine as he turned around to look at the women. “H-Hello Donella! What are you doing here?” Hugo asked nervously.

“Well you know I just wanted to see how the mission was going and to make sure that your doing your job. From what I just saw It seems like you have that boy wrapped around your finger he trusts you good job.” Donella said with a grin on her face.

Hugo wanted to tell Donella that he wanted to back out from the mission but he couldn’t seem to find the right words. “A-Actually that’s what I wanted to talk to you about.” Hugo said trying not to sound nervous. “I don’t want to do this mission anymore I want out, I can’t do this to Varian! he’s already been through a lot he deserves those totems!. Hugo said with aggravation.

Donella wasn’t surprised at Hugo’s aggression, she knew this would happen, Hugo was becoming soft and to attached with Varian. “Hugo are you becoming soft?” Donella asked walking around him.

“No! It’s just that...we’ll...” Hugo was having trouble figuring out what to say. He was getting soft and getting attached to Varian and the gang he knew it.

“Tsk.Tsk.Tsk. You are becoming soft you actually care for him don’t you?. Hmm, you see him more of like a brother than a friend right...someone you can trust and tell all your problems too.” Donella said shaking her head.

Hugo remained quiet, but he knew Donella was right he saw Varian as a brother he never had.

Donella walked around Hugo, “isn’t that true Hugo?” Donella asked. Hugo still remained quiet. Donella was not a very patient women you did what she asked you or she would make you pay for being disobedient.

Donella turned around and grabbed Hugo but he arm and sent electricity through his arm, Hugo whence in pain, “I said isn’t that right Hugo, you think of Varian as a brother?” Donella said bitterly sending another shock through his arm.

Hugo yelped In more pain and answered, “yes I do!” Hugo answered in pain while the shocks were still gonna through his body.

Donella let go on Hugo’s arm, “that’s what I thought” She said with a grin. “Now Hugo you are going to finish this mission whether you like it or not. You really don’t have a choice. I need those totems and your the only one that can get them for me because Varian trust’s you” Donella said rolling her eyes.

Hugo grabbed his arm trying to stop the pain still going through his body. “Your wrong Donella! I do have a choice. I can tell Varian the truth.. he would believe me, once he knows the truth we would get to the totems first. You wouldn’t have anyone to get those totems for you, you would have lost!” Hugo said angrily.

Donella cringed, she hated people who talked back and were rebellious against her. She grabbed her dagger and swiftly cut Hugo on the cheek. Hugo groaned in pain putting his hand on his cheek blood filled his fingers. “That was just a warning darling, don’t ever talk back to me or I will do stuff so much worst and more painful.” Donella said angrily.

Hugo face was I shock Donella did torture him but never with a dagger this was a first. She usually sends electricity in his body, or put him in the water room, Hugo thought that was the worst.

“You May think you have a choice but you don’t Hugo, I am the one that rescued you, I gave you a place to stay, I taught you everything you know, you owe me.” Donella said with a grin.

“And just in case you forget your place.” Donella grabbed Hugo by his arms and used both her hands to send electric shocks all over his body.

Hugo tried his best to break free from her grip but the electric shocks going through his body were making his nerves weak. He started yelling In Pain, the cut on his cheek didn’t seem to hurt anymore with all the electric shocks running through his body. Donella kept doing this till she felt satisfied. After a few minutes she finally let him go. Hugo fell to the ground he couldn’t feel anything his body was completely numb, he could still feel the electricity running through his body.

“Now I hope you learned your lesson. I quiet enjoyed it but know that was just a warning remember darling I can do so much worst.” Donella said with an evil grin on her face.

Hugo was trying to pull his body up, he managed to move it up an inch when Donella came over and pushed him back down to the ground with her foot.

Hugo grunted, “Listen Darling I don’t care if you tell your little friend the truth, just know that you are putting him in danger as well, because I will the same thing to him what I have done to you maybe even worst. So I say it’s best if you keep doing your job or your little friend will be in worst pain than you are now.” Donella said with a evil chuckle.

Hugo knew Donella meant it she would go after Varian just to get back at him, if he wanted Varian and his friends to be safe he had to do what she said. He would have to find another way to stop Donella without hurting his friends.

Donella saw Hugo on the ground still groaning in pain, “Before I go I need you to answer one more question, Are you going to finish the job? Or should I go after your little friend.” Donella asked him with a grin.

Hugo grunted in pain while pulling himself up, “N-No I’ll do it...I’ll finish the job.” Hugo answered in between grunts.

“Good Darling that’s what I like to hear, Remember thought that I’m watching your every move so don’t try and do anything stupid because I will find out” Donella said with a chuckle walking away back into the shadows.

Once Hugo couldn’t see Donella he tired to stand up, it took him a minute but he finally picked himself up and stood to his feet. Hugo didn’t know how he was going to explain his injury’s to Varian but he would have to come up with an explanation. He couldn’t tell Varian the truth it would put him and everyone in danger he had to continue his mission until he can find a way to stop Donella some how. He walked back to the caravan hoping Varian and the others would be asleep. Unfortunately that’s wasn’t the case Varian was awake he barely made it to the caravan as well.

Varian heard movement and turned and saw Hugo badly hurt. “Hugo! W-What happened?!” Varian rushes to his side and puts his arm around his shoulder helping him to get to the caravan to sit down on a chair.

“Nothing Hairstripe I just fell” Hugo answered trying to make it sound believable.

Varian analyzes Hugo, he had bruises on his arms and he had a cut on his cheek he know a fall could not have done that. “Hugo you have a bunch of bruises all over your arms and you have a cut on your cheek a fall does not do that... what really happened?..” Varian said with concern.

“Ugh! it’s nothing ok! I’m fine!” Hugo answered with aggravation.

“No Hugo it’s not! Your hurt and I need to know why! Did someone do this to you?.” Varian snapped back.

“It’s none of your business If someone did do it! I’m Now just leave me alone!” Hugo snapped back.

“I’m tired and I’m going to bed” Hugo said with a sigh.

Hugo got up and went to bed. Varian didn’t know what happened that had a very nice conversation while ago and now they were fighting something was up and Varian was going to get to the bottom of it somehow. Varian went into the caravan and got on his bed too. He would have to figure it out tomorrow.

The End

I really hope you guys enjoyed reading this:) I’m not really good at writing angsty stories this is like my second time writing a Fic with angst so it won’t be that great 😐. Your Feedback and Reblogs are much appreciated I love to read your comments 😊

[theballadear]

Over the Garden Wall AU Alchemy Bros!!!

Hey!!! So this is high key long. I got pretty carried away but like ENJOY!!!

So clearly Varian is Wirt and Hugo is Greg

Hugo was adopted by Ulla and Quirin

Also like this is taking place in the same time as OTGW cause the 80s slap and I’d kill to see 1980s Alchemy Bros

So like Varian and Hugo were having a cute Halloween

Hugo was like “Let’s trick or treat!” but Varian was like, “Nah, I wanna ask this girl out.”

Hugo has a rock pun rock instead of facts

Sara is Vex cause I MAKE THE RULES

So like they go to a freaking cemetery cause Vex would-

Hugo is like spooked like “woAh bro bro, this is most non triumphant-”

And Varian is all “Cool it. I wanna ask her out.”

I’m keeping Jason Thunderburger cause I really can’t think of anyone who can live up to the man of legend

But like the group Vex is with clowns Varian cause they’re all “Oh he needs his big brother to chaperone him lol”

But OOP! The police show up cause like it’s high key concerning when a group of teens are at the cemetery

So like run time but like Varian and Hugo jump the freaking cemetery wall

They land on train tracks

Hugo finds a mouse in the bushes he landed in and tries to make a joke out of everything that happened

Bad idea-

Varian screams about how he feels neglected ever since Hugo came and how Ulla and Quirin are HIS parents not Hugo’s

Hugo: Oh, I’m sorry I’m such an inconvenience….

Hugo: I’ll leave…

Then they hear a train coming and Hugo pushed he and Varian into the water and they just-

Fall

Into the water

Unconscious

NOW HERE’S WHERE THE FUN BEGINS

They enter ‘The Unknown’

And Varian starts panicking and Hugo’s like “hehe I haz mouse”

Hugo does the whole thing of “Idk what to name it?”

So like then they see this woodsman but the woodsman is just Alec thinking he has the soul of his wife in there

So Alec’s all “BEWARE OF DONELLA!”

The Beast is Donella cause she totally would

So then the mill thing happens yada yada.

Then like the meet a talking blue bird, who’s just Belle cause the vibes

And Belle’s all “Hey I can take you guys to Cyrus the Good Man of the Woods”

And Varian and Hugo are like “Seems legit”

Then the pumpkin thing happens yada yada

So they find this school of animals

And Rapunzel is Ms. Langtree cause THE VIBES

Also they both had cruddy fathers, OOOP! Except the OTGW Dad is way better OOOOOP!

Jimmy Brown is Eugene cause it’s cute

Same thing happens yada yada

Okay but the Highwayman is that guard dude that apparently guards everywhere

Random Tavern Dude: Marriage?

Varian: nO-

Hugo: Lol, Varian’s in loooovvveeeeee.

Then like they steal a horse but it’s a talking horse and it’s just Jackie cause V I B E S

So then like they come across this mansion but it’s Hector-

Then like the blue lady is just some random person cause I don’t ship Hector with anyone tbh

ANYWAYS

All that plot happens yada yada

B O N D I N G

Yes, I am going fast to get to the angst

So like they’re on this ferry and like they sneak on to get to Cryus cause Cryus can send them back where they came from

Instead of Frog’s they’re mice

So like they bout to get caught

So they hide with the band

But OH NO!

The organist was flung over board

Belle: Can’t you play piano???

Varian: Uhhhhh

So like Varian play’s piano for a bunch of mouse 

Then Hugo’s mouse just starts singing 

AT NIGHT WHEN THE LAKE IS A MIRROR!

So then they make it to their destination

Hugo is pretty bummed because his mouse is being convinced to sign a record label with the other mece 

Hugo: Ya done good Mr. President, ya done good.

Then like Belle is laying awake cause she knows she’s sending Varian and Hugo to their doom cause like she wanted the scissors to save her and her family from being birds

She flies to Cyrus and is all “The deal is off”

And Cyrus is like “mhm, yeah right.”

Then like Varian and Hugo follow her and

Varian: We trusted you-

Varian: We-we TRUSTED YOU!

Hugo: Belle…?

Belle kills Cyrus to save them because she got attached

Varian: Come on, Hugo we’re leaving-

Hugo: But didn’t Belle help us?

Varian: Can you please just listen to me for once?!?!

So Belle’s alone and Varian took the scissors out of spite

Then like, they run into Alec again 

Then they run AWAY from Alec again

Then they find this cottage

And there’s this girl who we’re gonna say is Catalina 

And like Lance is taking the role of Auntie Whispers

LIKE SHIPS IS NOT SUNG HERE HON

They kinda just become buds

Then like Catalina transforms into a wolf and tries to eat them

But Hugo’s mouse ate the bell

Hugo: THE RINGING OF THE BELL COMPELS YOU TO GET OUT OF POOR CATALINA!!!!

So then the evil spirit leaves Catalina and happy times!

Varian and Hugo sail down a lake

Varian is losing hope while Hugo is still trying to have optimism 

They reach land and sleep for the night

Hugo has this dream of a cloud city and fights an evil wind cloud

The Queen of the Clouds rewards him with a wish and Hugo is like “I just want to go home with my little brother, ma’am.”

But the queen tells him that Varian has already been claimed by Donella

So Hugo asks to take his place instead

So Hugo is taken by Donella and Varian wakes up to find Hugo following Donella

Varian runs after then but falls through ice and almost drowns until Belle saves him

Varian wakes up to find himself in a nest with Belle’s bird family he thanks them then leaves to find Hugo

But Belle was already on the job

She sees him perform meaningless tasks for Donella 

Then a strong wind gushes her away and knocks her into Varian

Alec uses up what little Edelwood he had left then comes across Hugo being turned into an Edelwood Tree

Alec tries to free him (long shot I know but p l o t) and fights off Donella

Varian and Belle arrive as Alec disappears

Hugo hands Varian his rock pun rock and asks him to put it back in Mrs. Arianna’s garden cause he stole it

Varian: No no no! You can give it back to her yourself. I’m going to get you out of this. I promise.

Varian: Look! I have your mouse, cheese. Just please stay with me, Hugo. Please.

Suddenly Donella appears offering to keep Hugo's soul alive inside the lantern in exchange for Varian taking over the duties in keeping it lit

Varian considers this then refuses saying that it was stupid cause the lanter held Donella’s soul

Varian free’s Hugo and asks Belle to come with them but Belle refuses and says she’s going to just stay with her family as a bird but Varian hands her the scissors

Then Alec, outraged that Donella had lied to him extinguishes the lantern and kills Donella

Varian and Belle say goodbye

Then boom

Varian wakes up sinking in the lake he see’s Hugo and swims them both to safety passing out when everyone and the police show up

Then they wake up at the hospital and alls well ends well

FIN

@alchemy-bros-appreciation-week

[the-truest-sentence-i-know]

Chapter Twenty-Three | Four Years Later

Fandom: Disney’s Descendants

Summary: Quinn Little, raised in Auradon by Little John, finds out that her heritage is not what she thought it was. When Little John tells her that her real father was a villain, she must go on a journey of self-discovery that will bring her to all the forbidden places in the United States of Auradon.

Pre-canon & canon compliant to the first Descendants film.

Word Count: 2.8k  |  23/23

The TV was on in the background as Quinn prepared lunch. It had been four years since the campaign had ended. Not much had changed. There had not even been an official statement from the king on the matter.

“Prince Ben made a ground-breaking announcement today,” Snow White said from the TV.

“Is he going to wear something other than blue and yellow for once in his life?” she muttered, digging through the fridge for the jam.

“I have decided that as my first decision,” The prince’s voice was a little nervous, but firm. “to allow four children from the Isle” Quinn’s head snapped up and she rushed to the couch. “to come to Auradon for a trial period.”

Quinn stared at the screen as reporters bombarded the young man with questions.

“Dad!” she called, eyes riveted to the screen. “You won’t believe this!”

Dad stepped inside as Prince Ben continued. “I have decided on four children who need our help the most: the children of Maleficent, the Evil Queen, Jafar, and Cruella de Vil.”

There were audible gasps for the reporters. Maleficent was widely considered the worst of all the villains.

“That kid has guts,” said Dad, sitting on the couch beside her.

“What does this mean for the other children of villains on the Isle?” one reporter asked.

“As I said, this is a trial period,” said Prince Ben. “But if it goes well, I am open to allowing more to come to Auradon. Not all at the same time, of course. I know that this is going to make things different around here, but I hope that we can all give these kids a second chance.” He bade the reporters a good day and the screen went back to Snow White, who looked a little paler than usual.

Dad and Quinn stared at each other, a hopeful smile spreading over Quinn’s face.

“This is unbelievable!” Quinn exclaimed. “Do you think the campaign had something to do with this?”

“Absolutely,” Dad said. “Where else would he have gotten the idea?”

Quinn looked back at the television, where they were now displaying the mug shots of the four villains whose children would soon be in Auradon.

“Let’s just hope those kids behave themselves,” she said.

•••

In the years since the fateful press conference and the fallout from it, Quinn had tried to retreat from the public eye. She spent nearly all of her time either in Sherwood or the Underground, passing through Auradon City with eyes on the cobbled streets, avoiding the gaze of anyone around her. People still recognized her, but fortunately mostly avoided her.

She had shut down all of her social media and lived reasonably contentedly with her old friends from Sherwood – many of whom had moved to the Underground – and new friends from the Underground. She helped Chloe run the shop and helped behind the scenes with Undergrounder campaigns, knowing that her association with any cause would harm it.

Occasionally she still watched the footage from the Isle, but less and less. It began to just make her sad, seeing them all living their lives in a harmful environment that she was unable to save them from.

•••

There had been quite a lot of drama at the coronation, but in the end, the VKs had behaved admirably, defeating Maleficent and saving everybody. While everyone had been frozen during the confrontation, the cameras kept rolling. Quinn watched it back many times and could help but tear up every time at their bravery. And, true to his word, the newly coronated King Ben had announced that he was working on a plan for the other children of the Isle. Quinn hoped he knew what he was doing and that his advisors would have their best interests at heart.

One afternoon, after she had closed the shop early, Quinn decided to request an audience with the king. She knew probably would not get to speak with him, but she had to try. She at least had more chance with him than she had with his father.

To her surprise, an hour later Quinn found herself standing at the door of a conference room in the palace. A guard opened the door and she stepped into the room.

King Ben and Mal, his girlfriend, stood at the far end of the room, speaking in low tones. They looked up when they head the door. Mal had grown up since Quinn last saw her, but she still had the look of a VK – on guard, vigilant.

King Ben strode over. “It is so good to meet you, Miss Little,” he said, holding out his hand.

“Thank you so much for hearing me, Your Majesty,” Quinn said, shaking his hand.

“Please call me Ben,” he said and then turned to the purple-haired teenage girl beside him. “And this is Mal.”

Quinn smiled. “Oh, yes, I’ve heard of you.” She shook Mal’s hand. “You are a brave young woman.”

“Thank you,” she said, looking at Quinn curiously.

They sat down and Mal said, “I’m sorry, do I know you from somewhere?”

Quinn froze for a moment but quickly recovered. “I headed up a campaign for villain kids a few years ago.”

Her eyebrows rose. “Really?”

“It did not have the greatest reception.”

“I can imagine,” said Mal.

“And I apologize for my parents’ lack of response to your campaign,” King Ben said quickly. “While I respect them, they are old-fashioned.”

“Thank you,” Quinn said. “That means a lot.”

“So, what did you want to discuss with me?” he asked.

Taking a breath, Quinn went over the points in her head. “So, I realize that you are focusing on the younger children of villains, which I understand. They are in the most need of help. However, I would like to suggest a program for the adult children of villains, like me.”

Mal’s eyes widened. “You’re a VK?”

Quinn nodded. “My biological father was Captain Hook’s first mate, Mr. Starkey, but I was raised here in Auradon.”

“A lot of the news coverage of you and your campaign was blocked on the Isle,” Ben added as an explanation.

“Anyway,” Quinn said, getting back to her main point. “I realize that the program will look very different, but I am happy to offer any assistance. I still have some resources and outlets and people who supported my cause.”

Ben nodded and turned to Mal. They exchanged a few micro-expressions and the turned back to Quinn.

“I’ll have to discuss it with my council,” he said. “But I think you can start reaching out to contacts and supporters now. I want you to be one of the people heading up the committee.”

•••

With the support of the crown, starting up the campaign was easier. Since the four VKs’ defeat of Maleficent and subsequent saving of Ben had been less than six months ago, the public was much more amicable to the idea of letting VKs come to Auradon.

Quinn worked in the background for the first while, agreeing that Mal, Evie, Jay, and Carlos should be the faces of the revitalized organization. So, she worked logistics, drafting plans on how they would actually get the kids to Auradon – how they could sign up, how they could prevent their parents’ interference, etc. All of the original members of Think of the Children showed up to help, plus so many more. They also drafted proposals to be sent to government ministries – especially the Ministry of Education – so that more of Auradon could change as well.

The first day she worked closely with the four VKs, Carlos pulled her aside. “Thank you for helping me and Jay that one time,” he said earnestly. He had grown up from that little blond kid she had met on the Isle – for one he was taller than her – but he had kept his sweet earnestness.

Quinn smiled. “I think you more than paid me back for that.”

“So this is why you came back?” he asked, gesturing around at the room full of people working hard. “To get all of us to Auradon.”

She nodded. “Yeah.”

He smiled. “Thanks.

 Mal had also spoken to her briefly, after realizing who she was. “The Crew really changed after the whooping cough died down – after you left, I guess. They still had to fight, obviously, but they opened their doors to any kid who didn’t want to stay at home. They helped with schoolwork and taught first aid and everything.”

Quinn smiled. “I know that’s what Jax wanted the Crew to be. I’m glad he could make it happen.” She had wanted to ask about him, about all of them. How they were doing, what they were like. She wanted to hear everything about Jukes, how tall Jade was now, how Hugo was doing, what Blake was like. She had not quite realized how much she had missed everybody until she spoke with VKs who had known them. Instead, she said, “I’m sorry for trying to kidnap you.”

She shrugged. “We all did what we had to do over there. Don’t worry about it.” Mal was about to turn away but then looked back. “People still wonder what happened to you. A lot of people think you died and that’s why Jax changed the Crew.” She looked at her curiously. “You two were a fling, weren’t you?”

And Quinn had to stop herself from asking if he was seeing anyone. “Yeah.”

 With every day that crept closer to a final draft of a plan, Quinn imagined seeing everyone again. She hoped they would all sign up, and not just the Crew; every VK needed a safe place, from the stifled kids from the Innocents and the Socialites to the girls from the Queens, angry at their bigoted parents and taking it out on the world, to every other kid who just needed to be away from the destructive presence of their parents.

•••

Finally, a plan was approved and the four VKs were dispatched to the Isle to spread the word. Quinn had wanted desperately to join them, but no one was supposed to know she had gone to the Isle, so she stayed behind.

And soon it was the night before the ship carrying all the VKs from the first wave of signups to Auradon would arrive, and Mark had invited her over to his apartment since she would not be getting any sleep anyway. They made tea and sat on the balcony overlooking the street.

“How likely do you think it is that Jax and I will still, you know, click?” Quinn asked finally, voicing the question that had been plaguing her. She was not worried about seeing Jukes or Nia or Nabil or Hugo or Sheela or any of the others.

“You guys went through a lot together,” Mark said. “There’ll probably still be some kind of affinity there, whether or not you pick up where you left off.” He looked over at her. “Is that all you’re worried about?”

“I know it’s super cheesy or whatever,” Quinn said. “But everything else has been handled and discussed. There wasn’t exactly a ‘Jax and Quinn’s relationship’ subcategory in the official plan.” She leaned back on the couch. “It’s been five years since we last saw each other. I was eighteen; we were kids.” When she looked over at him, she saw he was smiling. “What?”

“I never thought I’d see you, Quinn Little, who rolled her eyes and pretended to gag at me during the romantic parts of school plays, moping on the couch, wondering if a boy likes her.”

Quinn groaned and hit him with a pillow. “I am not moping. I just… I’ve missed him and…”

His smile widened. “You’ve missed him,” he said in an exaggerated tone. “Your high school sweetheart, your first time, your soul–”

“You’re not being very helpful or supportive.”

“Okay, sorry, sorry,” he said holding up his hands and trying to stifle his smile. “I think you should try to stop thinking about it since that won’t make a difference either way. I’m sure when you see him tomorrow, you’ll just... know, you know?”

•••

The day finally came. They had decided to do it in the summer, right after school let out, so the dorms at Auradon Prep would be empty. After a month or so of medical checkups and some much-needed counselling, the underage VKs would be sent to host families. A lot of VKs would be going to Sherwood and the Underground, the latter of which had nearly entirely opened up with the new high approval of the Think of the Children organization.

An empty apartment complex in the Underground had been put forward – by a unanimous vote of the Underground Council – to house the adult VKs. Quinn already knew Jax’s future address: apartment 5D.

 Everything was ready. Quinn donned her old leather jacket and took a breath in the front of the mirror. She did not feel quite as giddy as she had expected, but that owed mostly to her not being able to entirely believe this was happening.

Chloe drove her, Mark, and a few others down to the shipyard. As they pulled up, Quinn saw that a crowd had gathered and for a moment her heart sank. But then she saw the ‘Welcome Home’ signs and realized that maybe things had really begun to change for the better in Auradon.

She had avoided crowds since restarted the campaign and although she knew their approval rating, numbers did not quite do what seeing the crowd of happy, welcoming Auradonians did to her.

 Kids began to pour off the ship, chattering excitedly. Quinn searched the faces, recognizing some, but hardly any of the younger ones, reminding her once again of how long it had been.

In the back of her mind, she knew it would look odd to greet anyone with familiarity, but when Sheela came out of nowhere for a hug, she could hardly refuse her. Most of the Crew came through together and Quinn greeted them all, promising to catch up after they had settled in.

Jukes grinned at her after they had hugged. “Gotta say, I was doubtful, but you pulled it off.” They were nearly pulled along by the crowd. “Let’s get a drink later, and you can tell me all about it.”

Jade came by, taller than Quinn now, and grasped her hand tightly. “Thank you,” she said earnestly.

And there he was: confident swagger, red leather jacket, and all. Jade followed her gaze and grinned. “He was uncharacteristically quiet on the way. I think he was nervous.”

Jax looked at Quinn, eyes filled with so much happiness and love and pride, she thought that if she kicked the bucket right now, she would die a happy woman.

“I wasn’t nervous,” he said, with exaggerated cockiness. “I was rehearsing a very long, very romantic speech.”

Quinn smiled and rushed at him, jumping into a hug that nearly knocked him over. Jax held her tight as Quinn inhaled deeply, smiling as Jax did the same, and they relaxed into each other’s arms. He smelled like leather, sea spray, and him, like before.

“You did it,” he whispered into her hair, with a tone that said he never doubted her for a second.

“I missed you,” Quinn breathed.

He pulled back, looking in her eyes like they were the most important things in the world. “Of course, you did, who wouldn’t?”

Quinn laughed, eyes filling a little with happy tears. “You haven’t changed a bit.”

“I hope I did change a bit,” he said earnestly. “We tried to do etiquette and politeness lessons to prepare.” He grinned. “I missed you too.”

And Quinn did not think about whether anyone could see them, or what they would think, she just leaned in and kissed him. Jax pulled her close and Quinn looped her arms around his neck. Quinn kissed him with all the love she realized she had for him after leaving, and all the love that had flooded in when she saw his face again. Jax held her like he never wanted to let go, and Quinn loved him all the more for it.

For a moment, time stood still, a snapshot that Quinn wanted to remember. Kissing like the end of a movie in a crowd of friends and acquaintances who now had a shot at a better life. After years of hard work and disappointments, here they were, together again.

Perhaps that was the one thing fairytales got right, Quinn mused absently; if you work hard enough for the right thing, you will eventually succeed.

• • • • •

A/N 🤩🤩🤩 I'm so happy that I finally finished this fic! I've been working on it on and off for the last 4-ish years and it's the longest story I've ever written.

Thanks for reading, & I'll see you around! 💜

[theenjoninecollective]

Hey, I'm just asking this out of interest because I want to understand other people's thoughts. So I don't mean to be rude or anything, ship whatever you want. But why did you choose to ship enjonine over enjoltaire, as the later is such a popular one?

Mod @viridescentlights 

Is this your way of flirting, hmm? If it was, it’s not working the way you want it. That aside, you say you want to understand and that it’s out of interest, but if it was, why the question at the end? That’s downright condescending. Simply put, your ask never meant to respect our opinions, in the end. In what way does this benefit you at all, hmm? I ask this because the timing of this ask, though given in January, is suspect. Fandom activity in Les Mis has been quite low, but it always has been given the fluctuating interest of people towards it. Furthermore, there are different factions in the group, and I’ve observed that your group is very active. So why bother us, when your group has enough fan art, fanfic, and whatnot? We’re busy enjoying on our own. It does not matter if it’s popular because that is our interest. Unless you want another fic war because you’re bored? Pfft. You could’ve asked in a better way, you know? We could’ve organized a sort of fic exchange and whatnot! Instead you go ride on your high horse and be demeaning. It’s annoying already. 

So, if you want an exchange, just let us know, mate. It’s not that hard to do. Plus, it’s fun. I’ve been able to do one with a good friend who ships enjoltaire. Why destroy when we can make art, mate? Let this be our enemies-to-friends-to-maybe-partners story, yeah? Haha. But seriously. Do not do this rude ask again. 

Anyway, I’ll let my friend do the nuanced discussion. Ta. 

Mod @decembersiris: 

Just because a ship is popular that does not mean I’m going to ship it. Often times now most of my ships are not the popular ones because in the fandoms I am in, the more popular ones end up being really toxic, I have found. And this includes Les Miserables and the enjoltaire ship as well.

Why I don’t ship enjoltaire: the ship itself

I have watched the musical and read the book. I have also watched multiple films and TV series such as the 2012 movie and the French 2000 miniseries. Of course there are more out there and more that I have watched but I’m not going to go into detail, because the point is that I am well reversed in the mediums of the story itself. And in all that I have watched and the book that I have read, the ship does not appeal to me. In the book, it is explicitly said that Enjolras hates Grantaire. And that immediately puts me off against the ship because why would I ship a couple where one of them completely hates the partner. That does not tickle my fancy, regardless if Grantaire loves him. I understand that there are multiple Greek references to homosexual couples to represent Enjolras and Grantaire, but frankly, I don’t care. And I’m allowed to not care. For me, just because there is symbolism, that does not mean the ship is without a doubt canon.  Because as Hugo wrote, regardless of the symbolism, Enjolras hates him.

As some enjoltaire shippers throw at enjonine shippers, that we are homophobic because it is written in the book Enjolras has not interest in women. Yep, I understand that that is there. However the way Hugo shapes this information leaves a lot to be interpreted. Enjolras may not be interested in women RIGHT NOW because he’s so focused on his revolution. That is very possible and very real, that he may not want to establish a relationship because he knows what is at risk, that pursuing a relationship will only lead to further tragedy because he knows what he is doing is putting his life at risk. The way I interpret this sentence though is that he is not interested right now because of the revolution and also because Enjolras, to me, is asexual. Just because he isn’t interested in women DOES NOT MEAN (and many enjoltaire shippers willfully ignore this point) he is interested in men. Enjolras could very well be asexual and not interested in anyone at all.

As for the musical, I appreciate the friends dynamic and I enjoy the interactions they have. But for me, that is not enough for me to ship them. Often times friendships and especially male friendships are default labeled as homosexual which to me is erasure of genuine male friendships which isn’t right. So I appreciate the friendship between them, but that isn’t enough for me to ship them.

Why I don’t ship enjoltaire: the shippers

A huge reason I do not ship enjoltaire has to do with the shippers. At first I could tolerate the shippers but as they became more and more harassing of pretty much the smallest ship in the Les Mis fandom, I began to get pretty frustrated with them. Which resulted in my hatred of the ship as well. Granted, not all enjoltaire shippers are intolerant fucks, but a lot love to overstep their boundaries. They, for some reason, cannot stay in their lane, and continuously harass enjonine shippers and infiltrate the enjonine tag with their bullshit. It’s almost as if they’re so insecure because not everyone ride or dies with their ship that they have to go and ridicule the enjonine shippers. And they frame in the guise of “enjonine shippers are homophobes!” and cry about it in our tag. Calling us homophobes just because we don’t ship their ship is incredibly ludicrous because shipping is FUN and HARMLESS. I don’t care what you ship as long as you stay in your lane and don’t try to force your ship onto others! Those who can’t differentiate between real life and fiction and real life and shipping need to take a step back and reevaluate their lives.

I think it’s funny because many enjoltaire shippers call us queer erasure in an attempt to come off as “woke” which is quite hypocritical on their part because they know that many of us enjonine shippers either view Enjolras as bisexual or asexual. For them to call us that, to me, shows just how ignorant and pigheaded they are; they are fake woke, bashing us for not believing what they do when people are allowed to have different opinions. They’re the ones blatantly ignoring the possibility that Enjolras is asexual or bisexual or even both which, I could turn onto them and call them acephobes and biphobes. But I don’t go to their tag and post a plethora of reason as to why I hate enjoltaire and call them acephobes and biphobes.

Regardless of whether or not enjoltaire is implied in the text, that does not mean I have to ship it either! The ship does not appeal to me. Even if they frickin kissed in canon, the ship would not appeal to me. Victor Hugo could rise from the grave and scream that Enjolras and Grantaire fucked and I would not care. I would not ship them because I don’t like them! For some reason, enjoltaire shippers have their heads so far up their asses, demanding we ship their ship because it’s “canon” through symbolism. They critique us for “not have comprehension skills of the book” but guess what, there are so many people who don’t ship canon! There is nothing wrong with that! And enjoltaire isn’t even confirmed as canon! As far as I’m concerned, it’s all headcanon because nothing confirms a solid relationship. Symbolism can be interpreted. The great thing about literature is that everything is up for interpretation and not everyone has to believe the same thing. There are so many ships out there that go against canon but for some reason enjoltaire shippers think they should get a free pass and everyone needs to ship their ship because their ship is homosexual. But that’s not how fandoms work. Enjoltaire shippers do not have the  right to ridicule enjonine or any other ship just because they think they’re more woke than others for shipping a gay couple.

There was a point where I came close to multishipping Enjolras with Grantaire as well as with Éponine but that concept sank so quick. It’s because of intolerable enjoltaire shippers that I refuse to ship Enjolras with Grantaire and ship him with Éponine even harder.

Why I ship enjonine

In all the different mediums of consuming Les Miserables, I always found myself absolutely adoring Éponine and that’s because I found myself relating to her more than any other character in Les Mis. She is an endearing character with many flaws, feelings, and complexities about her. When I actively found myself liking a character, I’m most likely going to find a ship for that character because I want my characters to be happy and paired. I was also drawn to Enjolras for the very reasons his friends are drawn to him. He’s inspiring, charismatic, and someone who has his flaws as well, who has done wrong for what he believes is right. Both characters are complex because of their beliefs and who they are and I adore them for that. Because of this I want them both to be happy and why not let them be happy together? Éponine could not be happy with Marius because Marius loved Cosette. She could find that happiness with Enjolras! Yep he might not be interested in women because he is focused on his revolution, but the beauty of fanfiction allows authors to tweak canon to suit their fantasies. And there is nothing wrong with that. That’s the whole purpose of fanfiction. The idea of having my two favorite characters get together makes me happy and anyone who thinks they can police my happiness can fuck right off. This ship has gotten me through some of the toughest times of my life and I’ll be damned if I let other peoples’ shitty and harmful opinions devalue that.

The fact that both of these characters have not interacted makes things even more interesting because of the potential they have! I also believe that if they had interacted, their dynamics would be very interesting to see unfold. Because they are both so headstrong and firm in their beliefs, it would make for such engaging fics and it has. I’ve read many enjonine fics and they are so well written and so fun to read because they feel so genuine and sincere to the characters that it makes me ship them even harder. While sparse, there is beautiful enjonine art out there and as a shipper, it makes me giddy.

Not only that, I have met some very sweet and interesting people in the fandom. While very small, most enjonine shippers are so openhearted and encouraging and because of this ship I have met beautiful people made a few friends as well. They have been nothing but kind and have helped me grow as a writer. Because of them my love for enjonine is as strong as it is. While I may not actively participate in the fandom for now, enjonine is the hill I’ll die on. They are my otp because they have helped me through such hard times and as a result made me so happy. So what if I don’t have canon to validate them? So what if other people adamantly despise the ship? If they despise me too, fine by me. I don’t need that negativity and toxicity in my life. I’ll do me and ship what I please and that’s enjonine.

[upthehillask]

i’d love to hear your cursed child opinions!

Oh boy, well now you’ve unleashed me :D lol I don’t know if you’re interested more in what I loved or in what I’d critique, so I’ll go for both I guess? And you can read whichever you like :) But tbh you won’t hear anything new from me that you haven’t heard other fans talk about. Anyways, here are my thoughts on the actual play: [Spoiler alert I guess!]

Things I loved:

- THE MAGIC!!! The effects were EVERYTHING. The time warp, the telephone booth, the floo, the underwater, the dementors, the writings on the walls, and so much more… Really cool!!! And I loved the whole vibe and aesthetic of the play too, it felt authentic and fitting! THE SWISHY CLOAKS!! I want them!!

- The scenes I especially enjoyed were Harry’s nightmares, glimpses into his past and scenes from the books in general. I think they executed those quite well, made me really soft! Especially the scenes of little Harry in his cupboard and also him in the graveyard. Gripped my heart. Oh, I also loved that they finally showed Cedric in the end, he was so perfect!!

- Draco. Yes yes yes to dad Draco. Still bitchy, pretentious, and petty, trying so hard to play cool and tough, but a pained softie deep inside—we STAN. The relationship between him and his son I CRI EVRITIEM!!! Draco in the alternative timeline letting Scorpius do what he believes in, Draco in the real timeline hugging his son, I LIVE. And oh my god that scene where Draco walked in to Harry crying.. GOD. Yes emotions, yes vulnerability, yes bonding, yes yes yes. (Though I still can’t get over the ponytail. Would’ve been more than fine if Lucius hadn’t been portrayed with long hair lol)

- I loved Albus!! He’s a good Slytherin boy! That’s all I have to say. He’s a good friend and son who tries his best. I liked him a lot, more so now after watching the play. He really did remind me of Harry in a lot of ways. (Also, unpopular opinion, but I always loved Albus Severus’ name and I always will, fight me.)

- And just all the dad-son relationships, parenthood themes, friendship between the boys, related conflicts… Loved all of them. Touching, inspiring, couldn’t get enough!

- McGonagall was fcking ON POINT. Fcking QUEEN. Get it girl. Show em how to understand and respect children 👏👏👏

- I really loved Snape too! It was nice to finally see him being his self that only Dumbledore got to see in the books. I loved his demeanor too. I know actors change, but the one I saw portrayed Snape in a way that felt more canon. As much as I love Alan Rickman, he was a bit too graceful and sophisticated for canon Snape. In the play, however, Snape was kind of more rough, more rash, less pulled together in a way that he spoke and moved. It’s subtle but I lived for that. Also he was finally short. Yes.

- I feel like I have to mention Harry too. I actually quite liked him, so I’m gonna put him under this list as well. Yeah, that one scene where he threatened McGonagall into strict surveillance of his son is a bit much, errr 😅😅😅 But overall, I like the idea of him struggling as a father, making mistakes and learning from them. He’s a good egg.

- Ron and Hermione, my babies!! I had issues with Ron’s characterization, but I did mostly enjoy the portrayal of their relationship. I liked that their roles within the play were mostly to be together or to find their ways to each other. Since so many fans are against their ship, I was really excited to see them. And I just loved Hermione in general. They got her characterization almost on-point too, I think. I just love her 🥰

- In general, I enjoyed a lot of the dialogue. I liked all those strong, emotional one-liners that make you gasp. Harry saying things, Albus saying things, Scorpius, Draco, Ginny, others… There were good examples of lines they’d say that perfectly articulated everything that they embodied or felt or were dealing with. Well done there.

Okayyy I’m sure there’s more I could think of, definitely, but I’ll stop here since this is already a lot 😁

Things I questioned:

- So the one single biggest thing that I am the most critical of has to do with the plot itself, and it’s about Cedric turning into a Death Eater. I’m sorry but I just can’t. I could write a whole essay on how this makes no canonical sense (and I probably will if you ask me lmaoo), but to sum it up, Cedric eventually turning bitter and evil because he was publicly humiliated directly contradicts his canon character development. Cedric’s humility, kindness, and fairness are the core qualities around which Cedric’s personality was developed in the books. He almost explicitly places popularity, glory, and reputation second, and that’s critical, because if failure and humiliation were to affect him so drastically, his primary core values needed to be broken down and changed beforehand, but they never weren’t. So presenting the Triwizard incident as the turning point for him does not make any sense, and as a result the rest of the narrative falls apart. This is a plot hole and hasty writing.

- Yeah, Bellatrix having a child is still kinda weird 🙃🙃 I just hate that because in the books Bellatrix played the archetype of this anti-mother, the antithesis of motherhood and motherly love. I feel like having her voluntarily bring a child into this world destroys that symbolism. It makes me unsatisfied.

- I had some issues with the very beginning and the whole “montage” of events leading up to the fourth year. I found it overwhelming and disorienting, even though I’ve already read the script and knew what’s going on. Still, I felt like I was hit by a train, watching all the fast-paced scenes, cliché chaotic small talk going on, years going by… It felt messy for some reason. I feel like I need to watch it again in order to fully catch up and process everything I saw, and that’s not a good sign. But I didn’t hate it, I just wish we were more eased into the story.

- Scorpius. Now listen. When I read the script, Scorpius was my favorite character. I LOVED him, this awkward nerd who loves his dad and best friend with all his heart. The way I grew to imagine him was quite not how he was portrayed in the play. I know the dialogue and everything’s all the same, but idk, Scorpius in the play was way more hyper, bolder than I pictured, and worst of all, he was going out of his way to be this wannabe player. He seemed so all over the place, even acting a bit arrogant sometimes, celebrating moments of over-confidence, chasing after girls, trying to be everything BUT himself. But that honestly might just be my takeaway alone. There’s nothing actually wrong with his character, I just found myself slightly disappointed with him in the play specifically. I wish I could see the play again to actually analyze things more thoroughly to explain why I feel this way, but I can’t. I still like Scorpius, but a different version of him. (tho damn did I love those skinny pants on him lmao 👌👌)

- Moaning Myrtle. Like, I laughed, it was funny, but it just wasn’t very tasteful lol and I was left feeling a bit uncomfortable from the idea of this young murdered girl writhing and thirsting over literally everyone. The play really blew that out of proportion and idk it’s kinda awkward when I think about it 😅 And in general, there was just so much thirsting… with Rose, Polly Chapman, Delphi… Not to mention Albus kissing his AUNT… Like damn chill JK please 😂 Weird cliches and teenage hormones aren’t the only source of comedy okay?? 😂😂😂 Also, speaking of Myrtle, I kinda wish there was something mentioned about Draco having had been friends with her in sixth year. Idk it would’ve been nice to see that relationship somehow reminisced since we didn’t really get to see it :) 

- Craig Bowker Jr... If he was supposed to be a parallel to Cedric, both being the spare, why did he get literally zero attention?? We don’t really know who he is, we don’t see anyone hurting because of his death, he’s killed with such apathy. We don’t even see his parent grieving, like we saw Amos (who also happen to be an integral part to the plot of CC!). The whole parallel is so incomplete. Poor Craig and his unsymbolic death..

- Ok I am obviously elaborating way too much so let me just quickly summarize the rest of things I don’t actually hate but might wanna rant about: RON IS NOT A JOKSTER—GEORGE IS. RON IS A FIGHTER. HE IS ALSO HARRY’S BEST FRIEND, NOT HERMIONE, BUT HE WAS MADE USELESS AND UNNEEDED, WHICH IS HIS ACTUAL WORST FEAR, SO WHO THE FUCK DARED. ROSE IS MORE THAN A BITCHY ROMANTIC INTEREST AND A BAD FRIEND. WHERE THE HELL IS HUGO. GINNY’S EVEN COOLER THAN SHE WAS PORTRAYED, I PROMISE. THE SURPRISE SECOND TIME TURNER ERRRR LOUSY PLOT DEVICE I’M SORRY. LACKLUSTER PLOT IN GENERAL, THE ONLY ACTUAL TWIST IS DELPHI’S REVEAL—NOT ENOUGH, JKR KNOWS BETTER THAN THIS, THE BOOKS WERE FULL OF TWISTS AND TURNS (but that’s kinda okay with me because the relationships between characters in CC really made the whole story worth it).

Alright enough :’D I’m not actually upset, just exaggerating haha Because overall, I liked the play. I wanna see it again. And I wanna analyze it more, too. I’m so excited I finally got to watch it. It’s far from flawless, but I’m still happy with it overall and want to approach it positively! Sure, I’ll rant when it’s ranting time, but I do love it (:

[concealeddarkness13]

WHG 15 Post-Games Imposter Syndrome Part 22

This is the day and night after part 21! Tagging: @sparkles-and-hens, @knmartinshouldbewriting, @maple-writes, @pen-of-roses, @thoughts-of-nora, and @ratracechronicler (also thanks for Hugo!)!

There was a knock on my door, and I groaned. It was way too early for this. Did no one in the Capitol sleep?

“I would suggest you open the door, girl.” Shit. It was Churi.

I got up, signed at Ivy to stay hidden, and opened the door to see Churi standing there, but not just him. I sucked in a breath and glared at him. My mom. She was here. At least, it looked like she was here. And she wasn’t looking me in the eyes.

“What shit are you trying to make me do now?” I kept glaring at him. I couldn’t look at my mom.

He smirked. “Oh, you’re doing wonderfully. I suppose your boyfriend is keeping you from doing anything stupid. It’s nice to see.”

I snarled. “Then what the hell are you doing here?”

He pushed inside, and my mom followed him with her head bowed. What the hell was he planning? I backed off, and he closed the door. Then he turned to me. “The Capitol has big plans for you, my dear.” Ugh. Why did he have to be creepy? “As such, we require permission from your mother.” Bullshit. “And she hasn’t been so willing to give her blessing.” He looked over at her, and she flinched. “So, I’ll be giving her some…encouragement.”

I sucked in a breath, about to snap at him, but his hand shot forward, and he wrapped it around my neck, but he didn’t cut off my air supply. But then he breathed in, and everything was just…gone.

He laughed. “Oh, your emotions are delicious, girl. So deep and rich. Except that fear. I think you deserve more.” He pulled out a knife, and I cowered. I was trapped. And he was going to hurt me. And there was nothing I could do. Helpless. Useless. Worthless…

He slashed my back, and I screamed. The pain just seemed more intense, and the fear…the fear was suffocating.

He laughed. “Now, this is more like it. I’ve been waiting to see you cower before me. Now, you show me the proper respect.” He kept slashing at my back, and I kept screaming. I couldn’t get away.

I fell to the ground, and he kept laughing as he slashed more and more into my back. There was no escape. I was trapped. Alone. I would never be free.

“Stop!” The shriek made both of us pause. My mom was glaring at Churi, and tears were streaking down her cheeks. Churi stood up and smirked at her, and she kept glaring back. “I will do as you ask. Just stop hurting her.”

Churi nodded. “Fine. Let’s go get this arranged then.” I just laid there as they left, and I barely heard Churi tell the Peacekeeper to call for the healer. I still felt mostly fear, but my other emotions were coming back. I didn’t move, wouldn’t move, until after the healer came and healed me. How could I save anyone if I couldn’t even help myself?

*

You’ll just fail and get everyone hurt. You’re trapped and alone. You’ll never be good enough for them.

My eyes shot open, and I sat up. Shit. A stupid nightmare. I had to get up. I had to get out of this room. I paced around outside, trying to clear my mind. There had to be some way to get out of this. There had to. I had to just come up with another plan, and then I would be able to fix everything. Easy, right?

A choked curse came from behind Hugo’s door, and I cracked it open. “Hugo. Are you okay?” He was sitting up on his bed, head bowed.

He froze for a few seconds before he spoke. “Uh. Could you maybe step in here real quick?”

Of course! That was what I would have done anyway. “Sure.” I walked over to the bed and sat down a little ways away from him, since he didn’t like physical contact. I didn’t say anything, waiting for him to speak first.

I could see him better, and he was hunched forward, with his arms hugging his legs. After a few seconds, he muttered something to himself, something about attacking? His grip loosened a little, and after a while more, he looked over at me with a sigh. “Remember how I said thanks for not kicking me in the face or something in the, uh, Arena? Oh. Or did I just think that and not say it?” He winced.

Shit. What had they been doing to him? And I hadn’t been paying attention. “You said it.” I tried to keep my voice calm and comforting.

He ran his hands through his hair. “It’s getting harder to remember what’s real. What was real. Look, do not throw Decartes or whatever at me right now—I don’t mean philosophy. I mean it’s just—I think you were okay. You were good. But they’re trying to make me think…Triel, Volt, Scorpio.” Sounded like a mantra. What were they doing to him? And who did I have to punch? “They’re trying to make me think you were all bad and that they’re good. I don’t know—the Peacekeepers, the Capitol, somebody. It’s something in the air where they take me that messes with memory. And I—” His voice cracked, and I clenched my fists. I was going to punch someone. He winced and hunched over again. “Fuck, it hurts. It’s just dreams, but it hurts. I, I don’t like it. I want it to stop. It’s like it’s you, but I know it’s not—hurting, I mean, hurting me—it sounds stupid. I’m sorry. I just needed to see—you know, see that you’re not. Argh…” It sounded like he was gasping for breath.

I couldn’t stop the anger from bleeding into my voice. “Don’t worry. I’m not bowing to the Capitol anywhere but on TV. And only because I have to. And I would never hurt you.”

He wiped his nose on his sleeve. “Never, huh?”

“Never.” I would never let the Capitol make me do something like that. And yes, I did have someone to punch… “Anyway, out of curiosity, no other reason, could you tell me more about where they’re taking you?”

He squinted at me suspiciously, but he did speak. “Oh,” he mumbled and got more comfortable. “It’s…hard to explain. It’s…like…training.” He sounded a little embarrassed. “Uh. It’s this weird…I think it’s actually a giant room, or maybe an old arena they’re not using anymore like it’s on, you know, the ocean.” His voice softened at the last word. “It’s some sort of…indoctrination, I guess. It’s on a ship. Because ships’re important to me. It’s how they’re trying to—did I tell you? That that’s what I wanted? My big dream—before the Games—or when I got out—me and my buddies wanted to work on a boat.” He talked faster with each word and curled up against the wall when he was done.

Oh, I was gonna destroy the Capitol for trying to stomp on his dream. I nodded. “It’s a great dream. And shitty of the Capitol to exploit that.” Wait, I had an airship that doubled as a boat. Or I could get another one if the Capitol took it. “And did I ever tell you that my airship can turn into a regular ship just with machines? But there would still be plenty of tasks for you and your friends to do for as long as you’d like. Being water pirates would be fun!”

He just stared at me for a few seconds. “You don’t even know my friends…?”

“Nah. But I don’t have to. Any friend of yours is a friend of mine. They’re welcome with my crew. Lily will teach you to climb and keep watch in the crow’s nest. Raian always knows your favorite drink. Tess will give you the best, and worst, advice ever. Shine—” Shit. Don’t think about them. “We’ll treat you like family.”

He nodded. “Yeah. All right. We’ll see.” He paused. “…What’s it look like? The ship?” He said that with a quiet reverence. And I was happy for the distraction of what could happen.

I told him all about the HorizonBound. About the crew (besides Shine), and all of the different jobs available. When I was done, and he didn’t have any more questions, I stood up and smiled at him. “Hang in there, and don’t hesitate to pound on my door in the middle of the night for anything. I’ll see you tomorrow.” I winked at him. Hopefully, he’d understand my meaning.

[sushigirlali]

“I miss you, but then i remember what an asshole you are and the feeling fades.” - Dramione 😘

Prompt: “I miss you, but then I remember what an asshole you are and the feeling fades.”

Pairing: Draco Malfoy x Hermione Granger [Dramione]

Continuity: Post Epilogue AU

Rating: T+

A/N: I’m back on my Dramione bullshit thanks to my wifey, so here’s a quick drabble set after the DH Epilogue. This fic also takes Cursed Child into account, so Astoria has passed away and Rose, Scorpius, and Hugo are all at Hogwarts where my story picks up. Enjoy!

——————

For: @grlie-girl

Love: sushigirlali​

Life Goes On

——————

Reading the same paragraph for the fifth time in as many minutes, the Minister of Magic attempted to reconcile her feelings about the brief, yet life alternating, Ministry missive she’d received earlier this morning. It had taken her until lunch time to pluck up the courage to read it, and now that she had, Hermione felt conflicted.

On the one hand, she was glad to have one less thing to worry about with her reelection campaign coming up, not to mention her impending nuptials, but on the other, she knew this letter meant her life would never be the same. “But then, life goes on, I suppose.”

Giving the official looking piece of parchment a sad but relieved smile, Hermione set it aside moments before an urgent knock sounded at her office door. “Come in,” she called, composing her features in what she hoped was an authoritative air. “Parvati, do you have-oh! Draco!”

“Hey, lover,” Draco Malfoy sang as shut the door behind him. “This a good time?”

“I was just thinking about you, actually,” she beamed at the widower, springing up from her favorite wingback chair to greet him. “I’ve got a few minutes before Parvati arrives with my revised speech for Harry’s benefit next week.”

“Always working,” he tutted. “And here I was going to invite you to lunch.”

“Sorry,” she said sheepishly, “you know how it is.”

“I do,” he agreed, stopping less than a foot away from her. “Hi.”

“Hi,” she responded a little breathlessly. It had been nearly a fortnight since she’d seen him last and her Draco-starved senses were reeling. “How are you?”

“Better now,” he said, eyeing her conservative black robes and loose bun. “Did you wear those on purpose?”

“These old things?” Hermione indicated her plain outfit with an incredulous laugh.

“Those old things,” he purred, snaking an arm around her waist and pulling her flush against his chest. “Your ensemble reminds me of all the times I hid behind the library stacks and drooled over you at school.”

“You did not!”

“Believe me, love, I most certainly did.”

Hermione rolled her eyes. “I guess I’ve finally discovered your secret kink, then: bookworms who can’t dress.”

“Absolutely,” he confirmed, “but only if the bookworm is you.”

“Okay, Romeo, cool your jets,” she replied, hands fluttering a little nervously against the front of his exquisitely tailored robes. “I need to tell you something before we lose our heads.”

“And here I thought you were good at multitasking,” he teased.

“Is that a challenge?” she said playfully, looking up at him from under her lashes.

“Definitely not,” Draco chuckled. “We both know I’m no match for you.”

“No?” Hermione brushed her lips against his despite herself. “Are you sure? Feels like we’re a pretty good match to me.”

“Hermione,” Draco muttered, “you were going to tell me something…” but he trailed off when she slipped her tongue into his mouth.

She’d never really thought of herself as a sexual person before Draco. She’d slept with Ron while they were together, sure, she had two kids to show for it, but sex was never central to their relationship. “Which is probably why we didn’t work out in the end,” Hermione mused. But things were different with Draco, and she couldn’t be more grateful.

“Was I?” she said coyly when they parted. “You’re much too distracting, Mr. Malfoy. I don’t know if I can concentrate long enough to tell you anything. Maybe we should kiss some more and see if it jog my memory.”

“You’re the one who’s distracting,” he accused, pressing his forehead to hers. “I couldn’t get you out of my head the entire time I was away.”

“Yeah?” she said playfully, butting her nose against his. “Did you think about me at night when you were all alone in your hotel room? I thought about you.”

Seemingly unable to help himself, Draco turned his head to capture her lips, murmuring, “Every night, baby. Every night,” between kisses. “Merlin, I’ve missed you.”

“Mmm, good,” she moaned, looping her arms around his neck as passion exploded between them once again. They’d been together for over a year, but kissing Draco felt like the first time, every time.

After separating from Ron a few years ago, she’d been reluctant to put herself out there again. She had her children to consider, along with her position at the Ministry, so it seemed more prudent to remain independent and unattached for a while. Still, she’d be lying if she said the sudden void in her life had been easy to fill.

Despite splitting from Ron under relatively amicable circumstances, the whole ordeal had put a strain on her relationship with the Weasleys, leading to intense loneliness on her part and apparent indifference on theirs. It was a shame, really, considering how many years they’d spent together as a family, but she tried not to be bitter about it for Rose and Hugo’s sake.

And then there was Draco. Her old Hogwarts rival had come up on her blindside last summer and they’d been inseparable ever since.

“Hermione,” Draco panted after a few tumultuous minutes, drawing away to catch his breath. “Not that I’m complaining, but what’s gotten into you?”

She’d been wondering the same thing just lately. Making out with her high-profile boyfriend in the middle of a work day when anyone could walk in on them was risky, but being with Draco made her feel brazen. “Can’t I just be excited to see you?” she said, nipping at his lower lip.

“Always,” he rumbled, distracted by her smart mouth. “Maybe I should go away on business more often, though,” he added huskily, “if this is how you’re going to welcome me back.”

“Oh? Were you out of town?” she joked, tugging on the soft white-blonde hairs at the back of his neck. “I hadn’t noticed.”

“Well, that would explain your lack of owls,” he said pointedly.

Hermione had the grace to look contrite. “Sorry about that. I’ve been so distracted with work lately and, well…”

“It’s alright, I know you miss me when I’m gone,” he said earnestly. Then, smirking, “I mean, otherwise, you’d just be using me for my wealth and status, not to mention my spectacular good looks and talent in the bedroom, and that would be beyond pathetic.”

Hermione pretended to contemplate his words. “Sure, I miss you,” she said with a straight face, “but then I remember what an asshole you are and the feeling fades.”

“Prat,” Draco said affectionately, hugging her close. “Now, out with it. What did you want to tell me?”

“Oh, nothing too important,” she said innocently, summoning the roll of parchment she’d been reading earlier off her desk. “Here, read this.”

Draco took the letter and carefully unrolled it. “Nothing too important?! Hermione, is this-?!”

“It is!” she affirmed as his pale eyes raced over the scroll. “I finally asked my solicitor to start divorce proceedings a few months ago, but it took a little longer than I expected since Ron and I had to work out a schedule for joint-custody first.”

Draco seemed overwhelmed when he looked up again. “But you’re free? You’re finally free?”

“As of this morning, yes.”

“I can’t believe it,” he whispered, setting the letter aside to cup her cheeks. “Are you okay? I know this is a big step.”

“I’ll always be a little sad that things ended the way they did with Ron, but I love you and want to spend the rest of my life with you,” she assured him. “What about you? Happy?”

“Ecstatic,” he smiled, kissing her again for emphasis.

“You can name the date then,” Hermione said, wiggling her sparkling ring finger.

Draco took her hand and kissed the stunning emerald and diamond engagement ring adoring her slim digit. He’d given her his mother’s ring on their six month anniversary and she’d never taken it off.

“How about tomorrow then? We could take a portkey over to Paris in the morning and be back before anyone’s the wiser,” he proposed.

“Isn’t that a little soon?” she said bemusedly. “You know our mothers are dying to plan a huge wedding.”

“They can still plan it, but I’ve been in love with you half my life and I don’t want to wait any longer to call you my wife.”

“Okay, Draco,” she said easily. It wasn’t a difficult decision to make; she didn’t want to wait either. “Tomorrow.”

“Really?” he said excitedly. “You’re sure? What about the kids? It’ll be Saturday, so we could swing by Hogwarts too.”

“I think Hugo’s still holding out hope that Ron and I will get back together one day, but you know Rose loves you,” she said reassuringly. “Will Scorpius be okay with us making it official?”

“Since Scorpius likes you more than me already, I think we’re covered on that front.” Draco paused. “Plus, it’ll do him good to have a mother again. He puts up a brave front, but I know he misses Astoria dreadfully.”

“You’ve done such a great job raising him, Draco, I know she’d be proud,” Hermione said sympathetically.

“Thanks,” he replied thickly.

“You’re welcome,” she beamed. “I love you and I can’t wait to marry you.”

“Yeah?” he grinned, reaching up to release her unruly hair from its haphazard bun. He liked to run his fingers through it while they made love. “Care to show me how much?”

“Oh, what the hell,” she said, using a quick locking spell on the door before pressing her lips to his once again. “We’re getting married tomorrow! Work can wait.”

-FIN-

——————

A/N: I’ve really missed this ship, so working on fics for them again has been fun! I just really love stupid bad boys falling for sassy good girls, okay?!

[archive--not-completely-human]

SHIPPING INFO // Answer the following for your muse(s) so people know how shipping works on your blog.

REPOST. Don’t reblog.

What’s your OTP for your Muse(s)? Alita and chocolate .-.  Okay so a LOT of people who are also fans of Alita seem to have this undying hatred for Hugo... He may not be like the best guy and all (to be honest, I hate him in the manga/anime, but in the movie I really like him). Soooo I’m gonna say Alita and Hugo. She has another relationship in the manga with this guy named Figure Four, BUT... I dunno, I am not the biggest fan of him. Movie Hugo for the win. 

What are you willing to RP when it comes to shipping? I’m not picky and I don’t have much experience with shipping so let’s just say I’m up for anything? I mean it’s cool when Alita has the chance to experience new emotions and such. Her relationship with Hugo was kinda short lol, she didn’t really get to experience everything that comes with being in a relationship. 

How large does the age gap have to be to make it uncomfortable? Uhhh well... I know Alita is technically like 300 years old but mentally she’s pretty much 18... Sometimes acts younger but I think maybe 10 year gap is a good thing to go by?? I don’t care what other people do but I wouldn’t ever do a minor with someone who’s like 30 

Are you selective when shipping? Yeah, I mean it kinda makes sense to be selective? Not everybody is gonna fit well in a relationship with Alita. But I’m usually open to anything. If in the end it just doesn’t work out, oh well. No big deal! It doesn’t have to work out. 

How far do steamy moments have to go before they’re considered NSFW? Smut. Like, I mean one specific thing in my canon-divergence of Alita is she can’t have sex for the very reason that I can straight up avoid anything to do with sex and writing about all that sex stuff it just makes me uncomfortable lmao. Mentioning it — Alita’s desires may be different from my comfort zone but I’ll never participate in “doin’ it” 

Who are other muses you ship your muse with? Anyone. Well besides the ones that just don’t work out lol, I don’t really have any specific names. I am open to anything, males, females. Yeah I’ll do gay ships and I don’t care what people say. Alita has never experienced anything to do with gay relationships so she might be confused but she can love whoever she wants, fight me 

Does one have to ask to ship with you? Sure, I won’t bite your head off if you don’t and you try to head that way in our thread. If it works, it works, if it don’t work then don’t get mad at me. Sometimes your muse just does weird crap that you can’t control and they just fall in love and you’re like ???? So yeah 

How often do you like to ship? It’s really not what I made this account for, in the beginning I actually didn’t want to do any shipping at all. Just in past couple months ish... Few months? So I’m not focused on it but I love ships when they happen. 

Are you multiship? Yes, every ship I have, will have, have had, whatever, is completely separate from another. 

Are you ship obsessed or ship more-or-less? No, more or less? I mean if we are currently shipping I’m probably gonna be obsessed and thinking about it like every dAY but if we don’t actually have an active ship then I don’t care I’m not thinking about it. 

What is your favorite ship in your current fandom? Well let’s see... There’s like... Not much of a fandom for Alita on tumblr lol. There’s also not much ship talk between fans. All people ever talk about is Alita and Hugo or Alita and Figure Four from the manga. So of those two? Alita and Hugo. 

Finally, how does one ship with you? I dunno? Just do it?? I’ll do any ships. Romantic, family type stuff, friends, I mean that stuff counts right? I have no idea just come at me XD 

Tagged by:  @undxroos Tagging: @twdgdeadmanwalking @fearlessandchaotic @salvagedhope @formidablekind @hidewhatyouare @ellie-cure-for-mankind if you wanna do this just do it and say I tagged you :)