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keep-the-wolves-close · 8 months ago

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Steady Heart

Chapter 31: Hunting Grounds

* Pairing: Slow-burn Kayce Dutton x OFC Stella Daniels

* Rating: M

* Warnings: language, stalking with intent to maim or kill, death, violence

* Word count: 3,958ish

I would love to give credits to @dameronscopilot and @deanscroissant for being sounding boards for me during this whole process, giving outsider insight, being cheerleaders, and allowing me to screech at them about things that have happened during the writing process. I seriously couldn't have gotten this far without y'all!

Author's note: Things are ramping up y’all! Hold on to your hats. We’re coming towards the finale. I hope everyone is enjoying so far! I hope you love this chapter as much as I do!

Another fun fact, wait do you guys like these?

But fun fact this was the second chapter I wrote lol.

Stella finished washing her hands in the big sink Olivia had in the wash bay. She watched as the slight gore from the difficult birth slid away. At least her hands and arms were clean now. Her hoodie on the other hand needed some serious tlc. She couldn’t throw it away because it was the first hard birth she had experienced, just Olivia and she at the helm, without the help of parents or anyone there. Olivia’s parents had gone away on a short vacation, and no one else was around. They called the vet, and he walked them through as much as he could. The point was to keep mama and baby stable long enough for him to get there and handle the rest.

There were muffled voices from off to the side of the wash bay. The foaling stalls were the first three along this wall, along with the wash pad. It was Olivia finishing up with the vet. They wanted to be sure they marked everything off the foaling list, and the extras that came along with the tough delivery. Trinity and the tiny colt were going to be just fine. They had been in some deep water, but with the help of the vet and their own knowledge paired together, they made it through to the other side.

“You ladies did a fine job. Both of them will be just fine. We’ll keep an eye on his front legs to see if they straighten out over the next few 24 to 48 hours.”

Stella nodded and the vet finished giving them instructions, “If they don’t stretch out on their own, then we’ll reconvene about wrapping or antibiotics.”

Stella was the cheerleader for the little colt. “Once he gets to moving a bit more, those tendons should relax and not contract as hard anymore. I have faith in the little guy.” She looked at Olivia, “So do you need me anymore this evening,” she looked at her phone for the time, “just kidding. This morning.” She laughed.

“No babe, I think we’re all good here. I’ll see you in a couple days to check up on him. Thank you for coming as fast as you did.”

“Always, lovely. I’ll see you later on.”

She walked out to her car and opened the door to toss in her bag onto the passenger seat. Before she got in, she heard footsteps approaching her from the barn. Stella looked at the person and found that it was Olivia. She smiled at her and she sat sideways in the driver’s seat.

“Are you sure you’re okay to drive home this late Stellar?” She looked unsure at Stella’s condition.

“Yeah girl, I should be fine. Ryan will also birth a bull calf if he doesn’t see me in a bunk before he leaves for the day.” They shared a chuckle.

“Okay, but you turn around if you feel like you can’t make it. I’ll fight your brother in the morning for you.” Stella turned and shut the door. Olivia gave it a tap and she was on her way. If only she had taken her up on the offer.

It was extremely dark in the wilderness of Montana. Stella knew this, but she needed to head home to the ranch. Ryan hadn’t been thrilled with the idea of her running out that late, but ranch emergencies didn’t wait. It was part of her job. She helped at Grand Springs occasionally. She helped with mostly all of the horses, but specialized with the broodmares. That was Stella and Olivia’s favorite part. The two points were about an hour away from each other. That’s why she had specifically bought a house that was the halfway point between the two ranches.

She squinted as headlights behind her blasted brightly in her rearview. Yes, it was advanced darkness out here in the middle of the forest, but the high beams were a bit dramatic in her opinion. She rolled her eyes, but kept moving forward at the set speed limit. The larger SUV behind her inched closer.

“There’s plenty of room to go around me, my guy.” She gripped the wheel and tried to ignore the sinking feeling in her gut the closer the big SUV got. She hoped she had service as she asked Siri to call her brother. She must have had at least a bar of service because her speakers started to ring out to her. It rang one time and went to voicemail. She looked in the rearview again, gauging just how close the Suburban looking vehicle had gotten.

She cursed, and asked Siri to call her brother again. ‘There is no actual way this shit is happening.’ She hadn’t been to her own house since everyone had made her come back to the ranch. Stella couldn’t even think of where they would have picked up her trail, if these were even the same people. If they were even following her. Maybe they were just in a hurry. She grimaced thinking about the Beck brothers and sped up to 70. She really had to stop being naively optimistic.

Stella reached across the front of the car to her glove box. Feeling the leather holster, she said a prayer as she brought it to her lap. She thought she was being jumpy, but she would rather have it on standby and not need it, than it being out of reach if the need arose. The words her brother and Rip had said to her the day they told her she was coming back to the ranch still ran through her head. ‘You brushing it off this way? Will get you kidnapped or killed. Or both.’

She looked at the clock and realized it was nearly four in the morning. There was one other person she knew that would pick up immediately at this hour. Kayce. She really didn’t want to bother him, but her brother wasn’t picking up. She would call Rip next if she needed to. The big vehicle kept a steady pace of being closer almost every time she looked at it.

She had no idea that a ring could be so loud. It rang two times, then four, and she felt more and more desperate with each ring.

“Oh come on. Pick up, Kayce John. Pick up.” She bounced in her seat. About the sixth time she bounced he picked up. “Oh thank god.”

“Stella? What’s wrong?” She could hear the gravel of confusion in his voice. He was only asking what was wrong because in no normal situation would she call this late. Especially since they had been at a distance from each other. He’d just finished taking care of leaving a message to Malcolm on his porch and was headed home when the call came through.

“Kayce I’m sorry, but someone is following me and Ryan won’t answer the phone.” She could hear him rustling around.

“Where are you?” He demanded.

“Somewhere off of 89 and 191, between Grand Springs and my house. I’m like 45 minutes out from your dad’s.”

“Shit! I’ll meet you at your house. Just hold on. I’m coming. Stay on the phone with me.” She could hear more rustling.

Stella looked around to find an escape option. ‘There should be a farm road,’ the voice in her head continued out loud, “here!” She tapped her brakes briefly and cranked her wheel to the left. She watched in the mirror as the big SUV flew by the road.

“Here what Stella?! What’s going on? Talk to me!”

She stomped on the gas because it was only a matter of time before they stopped and turned around. This road led back behind her three acres. The last acre, acre and a half, of her property remained wooded. She just needed to get there before that SUV came back.

“Kace, I’m going in through the back. I hit the farm road, but they’re not far behind me.”

“Keep going, don’t stop moving.”

She saw the little unmarked spot she had cleared out for the little tractor she had and jumped for joy. She checked her mirrors and could just barely make out their headlights. They definitely saw she had turned. They just had to figure out where. That would work in her favor. She cranked her wheel again and bounced around the turn into her property. She pulled off to the side behind the one dilapidated shed she had never bothered with.

Stella turned off her car. Everything went dark, “Kayce,” she whispered, “I’m about to get out of the car. They haven’t pulled in. Yet.”

“I’m almost there. 10 minutes out.” He sounded like he was praying under his breath, “Stella?”

“Yeah?”

“Get. Them. Lost.”

She swallowed hard as realization hit her. She heard her brother’s voice, ‘Stop, don’t think, just move. Hesitation gets you dead.’ She shook her head to bring herself back to the very serious reality at hand. She hopped out of the car and placed her phone in her bra wanting it close so Kayce could hear her. Popping the button on her holster, she flicked the safety off and heard the distinct snip of the deadly change. She peeked around the old shed. The Suburban was just passing by, but this time it had a partner. The silver car from before, which had stopped at the entrance she had turned in.

“Shit, that silver car is with them! It’s the same fucking people.” Stella looked around for something to get their attention with. She wanted to lure them into the wooded area to make herself harder to find, but also have it be like fishing in a barrel. She remembered that she had a flashlight in the pocket of her driver side door.

“ETA?” She opened the car door as quietly as she could.

“I’m almost to your driveway.”

“Okay cool. I’ll be somewhere near that trashy shed. I’m about to do something stupid.” Stella ended the call and put her phone in her back pocket.

“Stella?! Stella?!!” Kayce punched the steering wheel and screamed, “Fuck,” and floored it.

His tires crunched and threw gravel all the way up the driveway and back to the wooded part. The truck was barely in park before he hopped out. He heard the distinct pops of gun fire and started running. He broke through the line of trees and stopped behind a large tree. There were all sorts of sounds coming from every direction. He heard a lot of heavy footsteps to his front and right, but there off to his left there was a clear pattern of lighter foot falls weaving and bobbing. He breathed a sigh of relief because that meant Stella was still upright. Ducking down he headed to the left to get the drop on the men from behind.

Giving a wide berth, he wrapped around the back where the guy bringing up the rear looked for the woman of the hour. Kayce rushed up on him while he was still distracted and gripped his neck tightly. The man dropped to the ground with an unceremonious thud and he moved forward.

He quickly gained traction with one more of them. After the second man hit the ground, he heard Stella scream and his heart stopped. His feet started to move before he had realized it. Gunshots rang out followed by another scream that got cut off abruptly.

“Stella!” Kayce screamed out as he found the small clearing where she had gotten pinned. He hoped to see her there standing, or at least conscious because he couldn’t even fathom not having her around. She leaned against a tree, huffing wildly. She had scooted herself back against the trunk in the scramble for her life. She looked like she wanted to pass out. The men that screamed were down on the ground. They laid in an odd position and Kayce could tell they was dead. He ran over to Stella and took her gun in the process.

“I got ‘em, Kayce,” she tried to catch her breath, “before they got me.” He grabbed her hand and started to lead her away toward his truck.

“Yes you did sweetheart.” He winced at the thought of how she was going to come to terms with taking a life. If she even realized she killed someone.

“Holy shit. I think I’m —,” she stumbled and bent at the waist away from him. She stabilized herself on a tree, and retched until her voice went hoarse.

“Let it out baby. Let it out.” He rubbed her back in between her shoulder blades to give any sort of comfort he could. She started to shake with the effort. Kayce placed an arm around her waist to keep her from falling.

“I’ve gotcha Stell.” Her body relaxed as the heaving stopped. She groaned and wiped her mouth off. Her phone started to ring in her back pocket as she made herself upright. Immediately, she handed it to Kayce, not wanting to deal with whoever it was.

“Ryan,” he greeted quietly.

“Uh, excuse me? Kayce?”

“Ask me all the questions you want later. Get yourself and Lloyd out to Stella’s. Now.”

“What the fuck, is she okay?”

“Yes, just get here now.”

Colby looked over at Ryan when he heard his confusion at calling his sister, but having someone else pick up. That someone else being their current foreman. His eyebrows raised at that thought. He would have to talk to Stella about that when he saw her next.

“Colby, you and Jake are in charge for the day! I need Lloyd to go to Stella’s!” He ran as if the devil himself was on his heels and left a confused Colby in the bunkhouse.

He ran in and immediately ran into Lloyd. “Jesus Christ Ryan watch where you’re goin’.”

“Lloyd.” He gulped air. “Kayce said there was an emergency at Stella’s and we need to get there now.” He ran off to find any truck keys he could.

“Oh hell!”

The two men saw the slight destruction Kayce’s truck had caused to the driveway. They each let out their own expletives, not sure what they had just pulled into. Ryan threw the truck in park and looked for Kayce. The man in question got up from the porch steps next to Stella. Ryan hopped out and ran for his little sister.

She looked like she was trying to make herself small and disappear. Her normal tan from being in the sun was pallid. Her eyes had dark half circles around the bottom. There were minor scrapes and bruises that lined her arms.

“Stella!” She looked up at him and slowly stood. He grabbed her in a bear hug.

“Oh Stella, I'm so sorry I didn’t pick up. I’m so sorry.” He put his hand on the back of her head and held her as close as possible. She hadn’t known he was busy making sure Rip didn’t die. She sniffled. Stella knew it wasn’t his fault.

In a small, scratchy voice, Stella reassured her brother, “it’s okay. Kayce got me.” Ryan nodded and scoffed quickly. Even in her time of trouble, she was still worried about everyone else. He squeezed her tightly. He knew he shouldn’t have let her go by herself. He was grateful for Kayce being protective of his sister and his fast action. He had come in where Ryan had failed.

“Don’t blame yourself, Ry.”

“Don’t worry about me right now. What the hell happened?”

“I was on my way home from Olivia’s. A big ass SUV started following me. I tried to call you, then I called Kayce. He said he would meet me here. He was pulling in and I got their attention and brought them into the woods.”

“I’m almost to your driveway.”

“Okay cool. I’ll be somewhere near that trashy shed. I’m about to do something stupid.” Stella ended the call and put her phone in her back pocket. She slammed her car door and ran around the shed. She could still see the silver car. Now out in the open, she waved the flashlight wildly in the air.

“Hey fuck face! You want me so bad, come and get me!” She took off running to the right. She ducked and dodged around trees and stumps. She saw the one big fir she loved and ran for cover there. At least to catch her breath for a second.

She could hear the men as they yelled through the trees. It sounded like some came closer to her, and some went further. It didn’t sound like a lot of people. She heard the underbrush crackling to her left. She listened to her right and took off back toward the little rundown shed. One of them must have heard her.

“She's over here!”

She looked off in the wrong direction and yelled in a singsong voice, “No I’m not asshat,” she hoped her voice would bounce back and keep them confused. She continued to run and thread herself through the trees. She thought she heard the rumble of a truck and prayed to god or anyone who would listen that it was Kayce.

“You did what??”

Stella shook her head. She didn’t want to remember what happened after she heard Kayce’s engine.

“I needed to buy time until Kayce got to me. So I got them lost in the trees.” She shrugged and knew she wasn’t going to hear the end of it but she needed to sit. Stella directed him wearily. “You should go talk to him. I’m gonna sit down.” Ryan helped make sure she actually sat and didn’t fall.

“Ryan,” Kayce called him over. “You said you wanted to be all in, right?”

“Now's not the time, Kayce.” Lloyd scolded.

Ryan defended himself to the man he considered a father. “I'm already in this place so deep.”

“He wants you clean. You carry a badge.”

“The badge hasn't kept me clean.”

“If you want in, it's all the way in.” Kayce didn’t want him to think there was a way to half ass it.

“I know.”

“He doesn't wear the brand.” Lloyd argued.

“He will. There’s four bodies in the wooded area of her property we’ve gotta take care of.” Kayce explained.

“I’m, what?” Ryan was confused. From the story Stella had told him, to the announcement that there were four dead bodies that needed dealing with, he felt like he had whiplash.

Kayce hushed his voice so Stella wouldn’t hear, “She also,” he didn’t want to finish the sentence, “killed two of them. I don’t know if she’s realized it yet.”

“No.” His shoulders dropped, devastated. “Tell me you’re lying, Kayce.” Ryan felt like he was going to be sick. He never wanted something like that for his sister to bear on her conscience.

“I wish I could, Ryan.”

“Fuck!” He exclaimed quietly. He peered over at his baby sister and now registered why she looked the way she did.

“Oh, she knows.” Lloyd told them. He knew that look well. He had seen it on himself.

“She can also hear you.” She fixed her gaze on the three men. She moved her glasses back up her nose. Her face hardened.

“It was them or me and they didn’t stop coming. So I protected myself.” Stella stood on shaky legs and tried to fight off nausea, “Now, what are we gonna do to fix the problem?”

She walked over, stood in front of the three men she knew wore the brand, and made herself vulnerable. “I’m all in gentleman.” She put her hands out to the side then her eyes finally landed on Kayce’s, and she let her hands drop against her thighs. He knew exactly the role she’d just accepted for not only herself, but for him.

Lloyd sighed and glanced at the ground to hide his face as he felt his heart bleed for her. He never imagined something like this playing out, or her having backed herself into a corner like she did.

“No Stella. You don’t know what you’re asking.” Lloyd left no room for argument. There were several noises of agreement. Lloyd was like a father to Ryan and her, but after the bullshit that she just went through, she didn’t care if he was the Pope. Stella decided now was the perfect time to place a disagreement on the table.

“Are you sure I don’t know, Lloyd?” She paused to look each man in the eye, daring them to object. “I've lived on that ranch 365 days of every year from the time I was 14 years old until I was 24 when I bought this house.” She pointed aggressively at the building. “And those of you who are in the shit, didn’t exactly have quiet mouths when you thought no one was around.“

“I’m neither blind, nor deaf, gentleman.” She placed her hands on her hips. “Like, for example, what happened to Fred?” She fixed her glasses and paused for them to answer. When they failed to do so, she kept going. “Did he just get “bored” and “move on” like you told everyone else? Or did you just so happen to take him to a “train station” that somehow magically exists just beyond the welcome sign for Wyoming?” Stella knew her luck was pushed to the max, but she was tired of caring today.

“I’ve seen and heard what goes on behind the scenes at that ranch, guys. I know exactly what I’m saying.”

“Let’s have this little heart to heart later after this is dealt with, yeah?” Kayce tried to get everyone to get moving because the sun was close to coming up. No, Stella didn’t have close neighbors, but today would be the one time someone chose to stop by.

Stella groaned to herself as she got out of the car. They were finally back at the Yellowstone. She was going to keep it that way for a few days. At least until she had to go back to Olivia’s and check on that little colt. That was a conversation with Ryan for later when she had more energy. She had been up way past 24 hours at this point. She was starting to see double. She was just happy she had made the drive back to the ranch.

She decided everything in the car could be left. She just wanted to go fall on a bunk and pass out for several hours, if not for a full day. After the hell of this morning, she deserved that and dared anyone to try and tell her differently. If they tried, she would most likely sock them square in the jaw.

She went toward the bunkhouse, hearing the bed call her name. She was so close to the freedom she could taste it. At least she would have been if a heavy hand hadn’t grabbed her around the arm. She turned in a swinging motion with the momentum from being stopped.

“What could you possibly want that can’t wait until later?” Kayce stared back at her. He looked unamused. She had thought it was her brother.

“Sorry, I thought you were Ryan.”

“The bunkhouse is gonna be loud. Go to the foreman’s cabin.”

“But that’s your place.”

“And?”

“And I don’t want to put you out of your own place just because I need a fat nap, Kayce.”

“I told you to go there. It’s got a couch that works just fine.”

Stella rolled her eyes in true Stella fashion. “Okay, Kayce. I’m too tired to argue. I’m taking the bed though.” She walked away before he could argue back. She had laid on that couch many times before, and it was trash on the back. He had made that proverbial bed, so he could lie in it.

#yellowstone #kayce dutton #yellowstonetv #luke grimes #ian bohen #ryan #kayce dutton fan fiction #yellowstone fanfic #yellowstone fanfiction #kayce dutton fanfic

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b4b3tte · 1 year ago

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BEGGING FOR A KEN X TALL!BUFF! GN! READER AND HE COMPLETELY HEAD OVER HEELS IN LOVE WHEN HE SEES READER LIFT A WEIGHT AND BE LIKE... "Woah..." IN SUCH A IMPRESSED AND INLOVE WAY AND IS JUST GRATEFUL THAT THEYRE TOGETHER

꒰ ⊹ ˚ Summary — here are some bonding experiences that you and Ken have had, that include fitness!

Pairing — Ryan!Gosling!Ken x Gender!NeutralReader

Contains of — just pure fluff and moments of fitness and awe!

Babettes note — hopefully you enjoy this!! Sorry this took so long, I decided to take your request and turn it into head canons and make it fitness based if that’s okay!

Ken like to think he has background as a certified personal trainer so he will occasionally help design customized workout programs for his partner. This is a way to add guidance and support to your workout and add a bit fun into your guys relationship

For working out and going out to the gym, he would want to wear matching gear for sure, he thinks it’s a cute way to look good at the gym but also lets people know that someone as impressive as you is with someone like him, not that he doesn’t mind his physique but he fully believes yours is more toned, healthier and better than his but your reassurance would make any negative thoughts go away

Considering your buff I’d guess you’d be passionate about nutrition. Well so is Ken! You guys would experiment with balanced meal plans, incorporating superfoods and a variety of cuisines to keep your diet exciting and healthy and set monthly fitness challenges for each other, ranging from mastering a new yoga pose to running a certain distance These challenges can bring a sense of adventure to both of your guys routine.

Whenever he sees you on equipment or lifting anything remotely Heavy he is like jaw dropped and impressed by the slightest, he would be like “ oh wow that’s cool! “ in general but knowing that it’s you and someone he deeply loves and someone he is dating he is off the charts impressed and wants you to do it again and again like its something he can watch you do for hours and as if its some type of entertainment

Definitely have organized your workout playlists by tempo, matching songs to different types of exercises for maximum motivation. High-energy tracks to help each other up for intense sets, while soothing melodies accompany yoga and stretching.

Some exercises you guys do are considered dates to him sometimes your short vacations like that often revolve around adventure and physical activity he will view as spending time together and on a date you guys have explored hiking trails in national parks, surfed in tropical destinations, and even tried bungee jumping.

During those moments he really takes in your physical appearance, he really is fond of your beauty and the best state of your body and how healthy it is and shows your dedication towards fitness and On tough mornings you’d guys would stay in bed until 11:30 just to talk about whatever is on your guys mind and just use this as a reset and motivational moment

He wants you to be happy and your body to be healthy as possible so he believes staying hydrated is essential which is but he takes it to the extreme sometimes ,he would challenge you daily to met a water intake amount. And will always make sure your taking water breaks within workouts and in general

Since he is new to the real life word which includes social media I feel like he would be in awe with Pinterest, and how there are pictures for everything so he has definitely created a visualization board with quotes, images, and mementos that motivate him and you to strive for your goals. This is something I think he does unintentionally but I think he would like to start each day with affirmations that boost your confidence and set positive intentions for the day.

Ken is definitely active participants in body positivity workshops and seminars, advocating for acceptance and self-love and especially helping you to keep knowing or making you know that your body is the best and despite what condition it is in, it will always be the best one in his eyes

On the social media topic again he would love experimenting with fitness technology, using apps and wearables to track progress and optimize his workouts and seeing the different ways that technology could help improve muscle, I feel like at night when you guys are bored you’d guys research workshops and seminars on fitness, health, and nutrition, and be constantly seeking to expand your guys knowledge and expertise.

These detailed headcanons illustrate a dynamic,fun, fitness and passionate, and active lifestyle shared by Ken and you! Hope you enjoy! Thanks for reading besitos 💋

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drewyao · 2 years ago

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[ chase sui wonders, genderqueer, she/they ] - was that DREW YAO i saw by the lighthouse today? i heard that the TWENTY-EIGHT year old who has been in nightrest for FIVE YEARS and works as a WOODWORKER has a reputation of being SUPPORTIVE, but also WITHDRAWN. they reside in FOG GATE & people in town usually associate them with LAUGHTER LIKE SODAPOP, THE FLUTTER OF A BUTTERFLY'S WINGS, & A WILTED FLOWER THAT'S FORGOTTEN IT'S A PERENNIAL. let’s hope the killer doesn’t go after them next. ╱ pinterest.

tw: parental death, drugs, accident resulting in injury.

basic background

first i should preface that, taking lily tomlin's sexuality into consideration, drew's mother was adopted by ida wistner as a child. however, due to her mother's preferred lifestyle ( drugs & partying ), it caused a lot of friction between the two, with drew's mother dropping out of high school and running away, soon landing in chicago where she eventually met drew's father.

anyway, i'm gonna make this as short and sweet as possible so if it doesn't make sense.......... yes it does.

--- drew's dad died from an overdose when they were three, their mother lost herself even further in her drug habit. drew's only saving grace was her skateboard and, through various competitions, eventually started making a splash as an up and coming pro; an opportunity they jumped on simply to get away from the mess that was her home life and terrible gang-riddled neighborhood.

--- sadly, after an argument with her mother over money won from a competition when drew was 22, she took off on her board and was involved in an accident with a car that resulted in various injuries, including a torn ACL, thus ending her skateboarding career.

--- whilst in the hospital recovering, drew was informed of the death of her mother via yet another overdose and the existence of her grandmother, ida. after going through the major part of recovery, ida convinced drew to come to nightrest, which is where she's been ever since.

extra bits

--- still skates, even though she probably shouldn't because it forces them to deal with knee pain on the regular.

--- really into music, the saxophone being her favourite, but she can play just about anything you put in front of her if given a bit to mess with it.

--- piggybacking off that, drew has no idea how to read music. she's one of those annoying people that can just play shit nearly perfect by ear.

--- was introduced to woodworking as a child by their neighbor and quickly fell in love with it. though they only ever calls herself a "woodworker" nowadays, drew also makes pottery.

--- doesn't partake in any hard drugs, given the history with their parents, but she's a big stoner and tends to have that kinda energy.

--- confrontation who???? drew don't know them. truthfully, drew doesn't even really know how to get upset. she's very much ~jellyfish just riding the waves~

--- hail satan maybe 🤷 depends the day

--- big lover of exploring abandoned places, both for photography purposes and ghost hunting purposes. seriously, where's the ryan to their shane?

--- really good at being a handyman? if you ever need something fixed around the house, drew is a good person to call for help.

--- has a black schipperke puppy named hades.

--- is a walking encyclopedia of a stupid amount of useless fun facts. collecting them is a hobby 😌

--- they're kinda a chameleon of sorts so this is all i'm gonna give you bc their personality changes on the fly and i'm tired bye.

#nightrest:intro #this is the worst intro ive ever done #but take it anyway

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thebowynntradition · 4 months ago

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Bowynn Gods: Mask

Mask (Mahsk) Mask is the Bowynn god of wisdom, gambling and music and he is also the patron of travelers, games, puzzles, and gambling houses. He is the god of various forms of entertainment but not a patron of these arts. Instead, being more of a participant. Games of chance are his favorites. His name is derived from the word “mask,” which in Bowynn and English means the same thing. However, he is not a god of mystery, nor a malicious god, though he does have trickster tendencies at times. But most of these tricks are harmless, unless they are used as a punishment to sinners. Mask is also the god of safe travels and protection, making sure all are safe from harm and divergence, He is the god that keeps one on the right path and staying healthy along the way. In short, when you combine all his attributes, Mask could be considered the god of "road trips." Mask is also the god of discovery, treasure and scavenger hunter and a patron of Archaeologists and Paleontologists. But he is a punisher of those that are out to destroy such treasures.

Mask is the son of Ahnur and Rhya and is said to have been playing games of chance and riddles since the day of his birth. As a child he would hide divine gifts given to his brothers and sisters and then make wagers if they could find them or not. But despite his nature, he is not a malicious god and has no intent to hurt. His participation in games of chance is often more to teach people about the etiquette of gambling and shun those that abuse it. Aside from his love of games, Mask is a god of literature, writing and collector of knowledge. His love of writing comes to no end, and it was he that formed the Bowynn alphabet and gave it to mankind. He is also the god of inspiration when it comes to writers. As a god patron of travelers Mask is a protector, making sure that travelers get to their destination quickly and safely. As this side of Mask's attribute comes forth, he is often seen on a sled carved from a rock or a wooden board, which he aptly named “Shauld” or [Speed.] In some cases its shaped more like a shield. Sacred stories tell of his "sled's" ability to float off the ground and travel as fast as the fastest bird and animal on earth. One sacred tale speaks of the time Mask challenged the fastest animal known to race him. This was the eagle. The eagle agreed and just as Mask took off he went so fast Mask crashed into a tree, thus leaving the eagle to win and taught Mask the lessons of bragging and “slow and steady.” On his sled, Mask had held many contests with the other gods as well. This included against the West and East wind gods Ryan and Lyan. Here as well, Mask lost the race but learns a variety of lessons.

Mask is seen by many as a young agile man with long curly hair, a mask of his face and a traveler’s robe of purple with golden trims. In his hand is seen a staff or his sled, tied to his belt is a scroll case, writer’s kit and coin purse. Often seen with him is a dog, particularly a spotted Greyhound which is his totem animal, thus his animal form that he takes when he wants to mingle amongst mortals. Sacred gifts to Mask come in the form of small bundles of coins and grain, votive mice and dogs, strips of gold cloth, books, scrolls, masks, runes and of course incense.

#bowynn #pagan #paganism #paganlife #pagan witch #faith #gods #goddess #virtues #element

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infinite-wanders · 2 years ago

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What do you think will happen with just Paxton and Devi in S3 either by going by the title names or some made up theories? In my opinion I don't think they'll be together for that long give it till ep 8 or 9 they'll break up..

Also it's a bit confusing that we don't have titles names yet for 9&10 huh.

Hey anons, I don't bite. Ask any of my mutuals. But it's okay, I get it.

I assume you've already read my post and are just want my views purely on Devi and Paxton's journey in s3.

While those were very much in favour of Ben x Devi x Paxton journey in s3, I'm going to give some Daxton heavy theories since you asked. Should I take it as you feel I'm a Daxton expert, as I'm really not.

Prior to the titles being leaked, I was very prepared for a very Devi x Ben season, with Devi and Paxton possibly not together by the end of s3 but still hopeful for Daxton endgame in s4.

The titles now lead me to believe they are together for majority of s3 as they explore their monogamous relationship.

In short, s1 was the foundation building of Daxton and s2 was the awkward "friendship vs romanceship" exploration. I'll elaborate in a future post I've got drafted as I started answering this ask.

Never Have I Ever ...

Written theories on leaked episode titles (Daxton Edition)

3x02 ... had My Own Troll

The episode opens to Devi waking up to more messages from instanon.

It's a photo of Paxton and Zoe making out.

Devi wakes up sweating from this nightmare.

She goes to see Dr Ryan who tries to be the voice of reason and tells her to just ask Paxton what it could mean.

Devi argues how it would upset Paxton and make him insecure.

Devi recruits her 2 besties to find out this anon.

Fabiola needs a distraction and Eleanor always loves a good drama.

They try Jonah and Ben to find dead ends. They try Eric who is revealed as Lady Whistleboy.

Eventually, Trent comes across their path, and is like, "Oh yeah. I totally forgot I sent that."

Trent: "Devi, my boy Maxi Pax has a heart of gold behind those chiselled abs. Don't go breaking it, or else."

Devi: That's not where the heart is... never mind.

Maybe Paxton finds out. Maybe he doesn't.

3x03 ... had a Valentine

Okay... so s2 never gave us a first proper Daxton date.

Let's see some growth from dates that involve the boys, Pizza and call of duty.

S3 ep 1 gives us a snippet of a pizza date but I'm sure they can do better for valentines day.

The pressure will be there and our boy may crumble, or he's going to recruit the help of Rebecca and pull something beautiful.

That is, until Trent hijacks his plans and turns it to a double date. Paxton doesn't know how to say no since Trent is no longer giving the icy shoulder.

If the writers feel like drama it up, let's get Aneesa and Ben on this date too.

I'm not going to suggest any date ideas yet as I'm currently writing some for my fic Grata as Hell.

But hey, if our long awaited Daxton pool scene happens in this ep, I may or may not cry.

If Paxton gets her a donut for Devi (with a card that reads, You look cool in that outfit), I legit will bawl. She's been wanting the damn donut since Ganesh Puja.

3x04 ... made someone jealous

Ben Gross goes to private school and it's all Nalini can talk about to Devi.

He overhears after climbing into her room (still yet to be caught, lol)

The insecurities flood him and oh Paxton, Paxton, Paxton ... green looks good on you.

While I personally don't like jealousy in my own relationship, God I do enjoy this drama on TV.

He's about to retreat back and ice Devi out, but they end up having a deep and meaningful.

She reassures him and all is well again.

UNTIL ... Paxton finds the pro/con board.

Dear lord, jealously ensues... then onto ep 5

3x05 ... been Ghosted.

I just believe this is more referring to Ben ghosting Devi rather than Paxton ghosting.

There is a different between ghosting and being iced out. When Paxton has iced her, we usually knew why. For him to ghost it could be from my unlikely theory for ep4. Also, negative to Paxtons growth with Devi.

The only thing I could think why Paxton would ghost of if tragedy strikes Paxtons family and he doesn't want to burden Devi with it. Very unlikely as he'd want her there.

3x06... had a breakdown

If it's not Andy Samberg narrated episode, and is more referring to Devi having a breakdown (compared to her losing her shit).

Paxton gets offered a scholarship to Stanford University, keeping him here in California. While Devi works towards Princeton and Ben towards Colombia.

The realisation that Devi may have to choose between Paxton, or her future, triggers a breakdown.

Devi gets waitlisted and Ben gets early acceptance (is this a thing when you're not a senior? I'm not from USA so our school system is different).

3x07 ... cheated

[404 error]

I'll elaborate another time on Devi or Paxton possibly cheating in school, as it better not be referring to relationships. I'll be hello pissed.

3x08 ... hooked up with my boyfriend

Devi and Paxton have sex for the first time.

I'm still hoping for Paxton to reveal Devi is his first because everyone assumes Paxton has had alot of sex. Maybe he has. But Daxton heart if here for extra special moments.

Beyond this I'm not ready to elaborate further.

To conclude, ep 3x09 and ep 3x10 episode titles have not been leaked as I feel they would be major spoilers. Maybe someone dies in ep 9, maybe ep 10 reveals this Daxton endgame or breakup of Daxton as he graduates.

I'm like this as all my OTP are never endgame

#never have i ever #paxton hall yoshida #devi vishwakumar #never have i ever netflix #daxton #devi x paxton #paxton x devi #anonymous asks #anon submission #answered asks

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yikesharringrove · 3 years ago

Text

We’re Us

A little commishy for my bxtch @thinger-strang.

Read on Ao3

This shit is SOFT

“Dustin, we all saw that fireball hit you,” Will said accusatorily, gesturing to the red bean bag on the ground at Dustin’s feet.

“Okay, first of all, you’re supposed to call a pause of play before using my real name,” Dustin said, all in one breath. “And second of all, the fireball only hit my lute, therefore I sustained no physical damage.” Dustin gestured to the cereal box that was taped to a jump rope, slung over his shoulder like it was a prized instrument.

“No, it didn’t. We all saw it hit your shoulder. You’d lose that arm at least, and take probably, like, fifty damage points.” Lucas pretended to aim a bow and arrow at Dustin while he spoke.

Dustin was getting dangerously close to huffy territory.

“Fine. Whatever. I’ll take the stupid damage points. Can we resume play yet?”

Everyone nodded, and they fell right back into battle.

It wasn’t often they took the game off the DnD board, but the weather was perfect, summer beginning to make itself known a little earlier than usual, giving them April days that were clear and perfect and made for the best LARP sessions known to Indiana.

Will aimed a fireball at Max, and launched it right as she darted out of the way. It sailed past her, missing her left hand by less than an inch, and she laughed wildly, raising her pool noodle sword and aiming blow after blow at him.

The bean bag hit the fence and went spiraling awkwardly into the small alley between the house and the old wooden fence

It was Will’s last fireball, and he hurried to retrieve any he could reach, dodging as best as he could around Max’s wild sword-wielding.

She tended to wallop them as hard as she could, somehow knocking the wind out of them with her soft excuse for a sword.

Will scrambled to pick up his bean bag from the overgrown grass and curling weeds, catching his breath quickly in the alley where he couldn’t be seen.

And then a sound drew his attention away from the battle.

It was a soft sound. He wouldn’t have heard it if the rest of the party had been so quietly focused on battling one another less than twenty feet away.

But he did hear it, and his head whipped around to find the source of it.

Steve and Billy.

Against the house.

Kissing.

It was like time stood still.

Like Will had been hit by one of Mage El’s freezing bombs.

Steve had Billy pushed up against the side of the house, their bodies pressed flush together.

Steve was clearly propping up Billy with his body, Billy’s mobility cane, the one he had let them cover in stickers, was laying forgotten on the ground.

Billy’s arms were wrapped around Steve’s shoulders, his hands curled in the fabric of Steve’s t-shirt. Steve had his arms wrapped around Billy’s waist, half holding him close, half not letting him fall without his cane.

They were kissing like they were trying to devour one another, and Will realized that the sound he had heard was a moan.

It wasn’t like seeing Lucas and Max kiss, or Mike or El, or even Nancy and Jonathan.

Seeing Billy and Steve,

Will knew he shouldn’t be seeing them.

He knew this was wrong, and people said two boys kissing was foul and bad.

But this didn’t look anything but, well, loving.

The way Steve was making sure Billy didn’t fall while they kissed, the way sometimes they would pull back and smile, their faces never moving more than a few inches away from one another.

One of Billy’s rough hands left its place clawed in Steve’s t-shirt, reaching forward to brush one thumb clumsily down his cheek.

They pulled back from one another, smiling stupidly, still staring into each other’s eyes.

Billy brushed his thumb down Steve’s cheek again, and Steve moved like he was nuzzling into the touch, turning his head to the right, pressing a kiss to Billy’s rough, scarred palm.

It made Will feel like he was floating in space with nothing keeping him down.

Steve pressed a kiss to Billy’s cheek, then his nose, then his other cheek, and Billy’s cheeks flushed and he giggled, a sound that was so foreign to Billy Hargrove it almost made Will rub his eyes to make sure he was seeing the right person.

And Billy smiled, so calmly and easily.

It made his whole face change. He looked like a completely different person.

And Will realized, he’s never actually seen Billy smile like this.

The only times he’d come close, we tight tiny things that never reached his eyes and were dropped within a second or two.

This was a genuine smile, full of genuine happiness, and god -

They’re in love.

They’re two boys, and they’re standing right in front of Will and they’re in love.

They went back to kissing, moving their heads slowly side to side, their mouths opening and closing and Will was so aware of having never kissed anyone before.

“Will, seriously! I’ve been yelling for you-”

Mike stopped talking the second he rounded the house.

He was stalk still, his mouth hanging open like a dead fish at what he saw.

Will’s heart was thundering against his ribcage, and he tried to push Mike back towards the game, pleading quietly at him to move.

And then the rest of the group was joining them. Faces mirroring Mike’s dead fish expression as they stared, open-mouthed, at Steve and Billy.

Will had his back to them, but in the quiet, he could hear. He could hear the soft sounds and the moans, and even the giggles that made his face go hot and his stomach do a whole gymnastics routine inside of him.

Will was staring at each of his friends in turn, pleading with them to just turn right around, and continue on with play as nothing had ever interrupted their battle.

Like they haven’t just stumbled on a huge and dangerous secret.

He went as far as to push Lucas, gently shoving him backward saying go! Go! Under his breath.

The last thing he needed was for Steve and Billy to notice them here. To realize what they had seen. What they know.

And then-

“What the fuck?”

Billy and Steve broke apart, looking towards the entrance of the alley, and seeing all six of the party, staring at them.

Max had been the one to speak, and she was looking at Billy oddly, almost like she didn’t know who he was.

“Why didn’t you tell me?” She asked, her voice quavering slightly.

Billy looked like he wanted to ground to swallow him right up.

Steve scrambled for the forgotten cane, keeping one hand on Billy’s elbow as he crouched down.

The movement made Will’s stomach flop over.

It was practiced.

Once Billy was standing on his own with the cane, Steve approached the kids calmly, his hands raised up like they were all wild animals that might attack at any moment.

“Look, I know how this looks, and you guys can’t-”

“It looks like, you guys were making out .” Dustin’s tone was hollow, and he looked as struck dumb as the rest of them.

“I know, and I mean, yeah. We were, but you need to listen -”

“Steve.”

Steve whipped right around when he heard the murmur.

Billy was standing slumped over against the house, one scarred, shaking hand covering his face, the other clutched so tightly to his cane his knuckles were white.

“Bill, I’m here, okay? I’m not going anywhere. You’re okay.” Steve rushed to Billy’s side, holding onto his elbow again, brushing his fingers softly through Billy’s short hair, winding his fingers through the wild curls that were just long enough to form. “I’ll deal with this. It’s okay. They’re not going to tell.” Steve glared at the kids when he said that, as if daring them to argue.

Billy kinda, fell forward, leaning against Steve once again, his face going into Steve’s neck.

Steve didn’t react, still brushing his fingers through sandy blond curls.

“You all know what could happen to us if people found out?”

Nobody answered him.

Truth is, they did know.

They knew the stories about young men being beaten nearly to death. Being run out of town or put in the hospital over nothing but a rumor.

Being gay wasn’t something that was tolerated in Hawkins.

Hell, Will himself has been pushed around and called queer as long as he could remember.

Even by his own father.

“We won’t tell anyone.” Will felt like how Billy looked. Like he was shaking apart right in front of them. “I promise. We won’t. Not anyone.” He could barely get the words out. It was like his jaw had locked up with the rest of his bones.

He thinks it would kill him if anything happened to Billy and Steve over this. They needed to keep them safe.

He needed to keep them safe.

“Yeah. I promise,” El parroted. Steve beamed at them.

Will knew El had been very confused the first time she heard about Ryan Anderson, the high school sophomore that had been humiliated and beaten so badly his family had to leave town six years ago.

She didn’t understand how a boy that liked to kiss other boys was something that merited violence.

Hopper had surprised them all by saying that it didn’t, but some people felt like it did.

Who you kiss doesn’t matter as much as who you are. If you’re a good person, it’s all just extra fodder. But some people like to they’re better than anyone that’s different than they are.

El had called those people bad and that was the end of it.

“Billy, I won’t tell.” Max didn’t take her eyes off Billy while she spoke. “I swear. I’ll never tell anyone. Not even mom.”

Billy’s hand flexed on the handle of the cane, and his knees gave a wobble. Steve kept him upright, leaning over to murmur into his ear.

Will could just barely make out the words I’ve got you.

“I promise, too.” Dustin’s cereal box/lute was forgotten on the grass at his feet. “The party protects each other. It’s one of our laws.”

“Yeah, we stick together. This isn’t different.” Max gave Lucas a watery smile when he spoke up in turn.

Mike was quiet.

It was well-known how much he disliked both Steve and Billy.

All of the kids had some trouble trusting Billy after everything that had happened last summer. Billy didn’t seem to blame them. He kept to himself, even when he moved from his cold room in the military hospital into the Byers’ spare bedroom seven months ago, he was like a ghost moving through the house.

Only Steve could make him come out of his shell in those early days. Only Steve could make Billy join them for dinner and movie nights, take slow walks around the yard with his walker, and later with his cane. Only Steve could make Billy’s shoulders relax from their defensive position up around his ears, and now, it was finally dawning on everyone why.

The kids mostly left him alone, only Max and El bridging the gap and actually speaking to him. Max had been determined to see Billy through his recovery, glaring at him and watching like a ginger hawk while he did his physical therapy, practicing his grip and moving buttons from one bowl to another.

El would sometimes talk to Billy in a hushed voice. She would get him on his own and hush words like Papa and Mama and bad and Billy would have to retreat to his bedroom for slowly decreasing amounts of time.

Nobody but Joyce and Hopper knew what she saw in Billy’s head. They were just informed that he wouldn't be returning home after his two-month stint in the military hospital. Max hard clenched her jaw and nodded jerkily and nobody dared ask any further questions.

He and Will traded a lot of good mornings and tended to generally avoid eye contact when they came across one another in the house.

But none of them hated him, they were just a little weary.

Mike, on the other hand, had some unexplained vendetta against both Billy and Steve and Will found himself willing Mike to be kind in this moment. To not see this as some power over them, or something.

“Okay,” he said slowly. “Dustin’s right. We protect each other.”

Steve gave them a smile that was so dazzling and bright, it almost gave off its own light.

His eyes were shining and he gave a watery laugh.

“They really meant it when they said children are the future.”

“Who said?” El asked him.

“I don’t know, actually. Just people, I guess.” Steve shrugged, jostling Billy who was still nestled in his shoulder. “Look, seriously guys, thank you. I can’t even imagine how I would’ve felt if-nevermind.” He cut himself off quickly, shaking his head. “It just means a lot. To both of us.” Steve smiled at them one last time, this time much softer and thoughtful. “You’re good kids.”

Nobody said anything else. They didn’t know what to say to Steve.

“I came back here to get my fireballs. I, uh, I got ‘em.”

Everyone looked back at Will, and, almost like they were coming out of a trance, began picking their makeshift weapons back off the grass, and chattering idly as they went back to the yard in order to continue their battle.

Will lingered for a second, looking over his shoulder at Steve and Billy, who were still wound together.

They were talking softly, and Will was pleased to see Billy lift his head back up, still looking pale and nervous, but smiling at Steve.

He leaned back down and planted a kiss on Steve’s neck, right above the edge of his t-shirt.

Will felt his face go hot, and tugged himself away, going back to the game.

It wasn’t until well after dinner, when everyone else had gone home, that they spoke about it again.

Will. Will! Do you copy? Over.

The static rasping of Mike’s voice through the walkie-talkie was coming from under Will’s bed where he had stashed it.

He quickly turned down the volume dial on the side before answering.

“Yeah, Mike. I copy. Over.”

“We need to talk about today,” Mike said through the walkie. “I mean, did you have any idea? Over.”

“No. I didn’t,” Will said, truthfully. Finding out had made a lot of things clunk into place, but that doesn’t mean Will knew. “Over.”

“It’s just, neither of them seem the type. You know? Over.”

Something about that statement didn’t sit too right with Will.

Before he could respond another voice crackled through the channel.

“This is gold leader joining the conversation to let Mike know he’s being a dick. Over.”

Will laughed. Trust Dustin to listen in on the conversation and come forward to defend Steve.

“Lucas, do you copy, too? Over.” Will waited a moment after he asked.

“Yeah, I copy. I wanted to hear what you all were saying first. I don’t really know what to think about all this. Over.”

“I don’t think there’s much to think about. Steve seems happy. Billy too, I guess. Over,” said Dustin.

Will’s heart swelled with a pride he didn’t quite understand at Dustin’s words.

Outside in the hall, the phone rang.

Will heard his mom scramble to pick it up, calling softly down the hall for Billy, and the unmistakable thumping of Billy and his cane coming to take the call.

He heard his mom scrape a chair over for him and retreat to her room, giving him some privacy.

“It’s just scary, you know? Like, something really bad could happen to them if anyone else found out.” Will thought for a second. “You think anyone else knows? Over.”

“Robin. She was making comments to Steve a few days ago about his secret relationship and I kept asking him about it until he punched me in the arm. She knows. Over.”

“I’m just confused,” Mike sighed down the line. “Steve dated my sister for like, a year. And Billy is always disgusting and flirting with my mom. Or at least, he would do that. You know, before. Over.”

“Yeah, that’s just Billy being Billy,” Max chimed in.

“You have to say over when you’re finished. Over.”

“ Fine, dickheads. Over.”

“That makes sense, but Steve and Nancy doesn’t. Over.”

“Lucas, it doesn’t have to make sense. David Bowie says he likes guys and girls. Billy has, like, three different magazines where he says that. Over.”

“Max is right. We don’t have to understand any of this. They seem happy, and good together, and that doesn’t really concern us. Over.” Will was hoping he could speed through the rest of this conversation. He could hear Billy in the hall, shifting and murmuring something Will couldn’t make out but was dying to overhear.

He had a feeling he knew who was calling.

“But, now it does concern us. We know. And as we’ve previously established, the more people that know, the more danger they could be in. Over .” Dustin almost sounded as though he might cry.

“Then, we can’t talk about it. Not unless we know for a fact that we aren’t going to be overheard. And maybe we should give them codenames. Only call them something like Han and Leia when there’s a chance of someone listening in. Over.”

“I like Lucas’s codename idea, but I’d rather die than call them Han and Leia. Over.”

“Okay, Mike, it was the first thing that came into my head! What, you think you have a better idea? Over.”

“I don’t know. Harold and Maude? Over.”

“That’s stupid, Mike. Clearly, they’re Bert and Ernie. Over.”

Will snorted at Max’s suggestion. He heard Billy coughing wildly in the hall. He listened carefully to him until it died down and he knew it wasn’t a bad one.

“I think we’ve come to an agreement. If we need further discussion, codenames: Bert and Ernie. Okay, my mom wants me to spend time with her tonight. So this is gold leader, signing off. Over and out.”

“I’m going too. Over and out,” Mike said.

“Over and out,” said El, not surprising any of them that she was listening in. She did that a lot. Simply listen to her own walkie, and when asked why she didn’t say anything would shrug and go nothing to add. They only asked that she sign off so that they knew she got whatever information they had discussed.

Everyone followed with their own sign-offs, and Will twisted the top knob on his walkie, shutting it off.

There was a moment of silence out in the hall, and then three beats on Will’s door.

He found Billy on the other side, slumped in the chair under the phone, his cheeks going red.

“Can’t get up,” he grunted. “Can’t reach the hook.”

Will didn’t say anything, nodding quickly and avoiding eye contact as he took the phone, placing it carefully back on the hook.

Billy got stuck in chairs fairly often.

His core muscles had been slashed up worse than anything else, and sometimes he just needed a good pull up.

Will took hold of his wrist, leaning his body weight backward to yank Billy to standing.

Billy kept his weight heavily on his cane, patting Will once on the upper arm in thanks.

“You guys know Steve has one of your little walkie-talkies, right?”

“ What ?”

Will genuinely didn’t know that.

“Dustin gave him one. I don’t know when, but he’s got it.”

“So, uh, so he heard. Everything.”

“And relayed it all to me through an embarrassing amount of tears, by the sounds of it.”

But Will could see that Billy’s eyes were brighter than usual in the dark, and suddenly Will remembered that there had been a wet spot on Billy’s sleeve.

“Sorry.”

“It’s fine. I mean, well, you’re good kids. All of you.” Billy patted him on the shoulder again. “I was shitting myself out there when you found us. Thought for sure one a’ yous would go squealing.”

“Maybe we would’ve. Before.”

“Never thought I’d be grateful for nearly being turned inside-out.”

“And I never thought I’d be grateful for being found dead in the water, but here we are.”

“Yeah, shit’s pretty weird if you stop and think about it for a few minutes. Near-death experiences really put your sexuality in perspective.”

“Is that why you two started dating? Perspective?”

Billy huffed a breath, looking up towards the ceiling. He coughed twice, and Will could pretty much hear his lungs rattle and crackle.

“Yeah. ‘S why we started dating. Both of us kinda realized there’s no sense in feeling like shit about the things that can actually make you feel not like shit.”

“So, you’re in love? Both of you?”

Billy’s cheeks were flooded with color, the deep red spreading all the way back to the tips of his ears.

“I think so. We’re both a little too fucked in the head to say it, but,” he shrugged lamely, not bothering to finish his thought, and looking anywhere but at Will.

He gets it, though.

Fucked up parents make for fucked up kids.

Will considered himself the luckiest person on Earth, and any kinda parallel universe, that he had his mom to stop, and later heal, all the damage his dad had caused.

“Well, I’m glad that you have it. Both of you. I mean, we saw you guys. And after everything, it's good that you’re happy.” And Will meant it.

Even before last summer, he had never seen Billy look the way he did when he was kissing Steve. Look that calm, and relaxed, and that goddamn happy. It really meant something.

Especially to Will.

Because he had never thought of someone looking that happy when they kissed someone else.

He had never thought of a boy looking that happy when he kissed another boy.

Billy surveyed Will for a moment, still leaning heavily on his cane in the hallway.

Will had the suspicion that Billy could see right through him.

“He came to visit me a lot when I was in the hospital. Steve, I mean. I don’t know why he did. It’s not like we were friends or anything. But one of those days, when I was barely awake he started talking about everything that happened those couple days.” Billy shifted closer to the wall, bracing himself with one hand as he lowered himself back into the chair. “The Russians. I don’t know what he’s told you kids, but it wasn’t pretty.”

“He hasn’t said anything. I mean, we all saw how he looked after, so we figured maybe he got in a fight.”

Billy chewed on his bottom lip.

“Look, you gotta swear not to tell any of the others this, but, uh, it was a bit more than a fight.”

Billy was giving him a meaningful look and something churned around in Will’s stomach.

“Torture?”

Billy gave a tiny, shaky nod.

“He started talking about it. Said after that, he started thinkin’ about shit different. Said he thought he was gonna die down there and that nothing would change without him. It was heavy, and I was mostly feeling the same way, and I think that’s why he told me. Knew that I could get it. After that he kept visiting, and I noticed that I didn’t hurt as much when he was there. Or maybe I did, but having him there, squinting at the t.v. ‘cause he can’t see worth a’ shit, or making some stupid comment about a nurse on the floor just made it easier. He makes a lotta shit easier.”

“I think that’s what it should be like. I don’t think love should make things harder.” Will thought of his mom and dad, and how different she acted with Hopper.

Like she didn’t hurt as much when he was there.

“It was hard in the beginning. I mean, before we got together. I thought that he didn’t feel the same way, you know? That I was just being an idiot, feeling like that for my best friend. But then he told me. He’s always been a lot braver than people give him credit for. Anyway, he told me, and it should’ve been fucking terrifying. And I was scared of people finding out. Still am, but it’s like, even if we get run outta town, and everyone we care about turns against us, it’ll be fine because we’re not just me an’ him, we’re us .”

Billy blinked quickly, almost as if he was surprised by his own words.

They clanged around in Will’s head.

We’re not just me an’ him, we’re us.

“You don’t have to be scared, though. I mean, of people finding out. Of turning against you both. We won’t let that happen. Not about something like this.”

Billy gave him a weak smile.

“I guess it makes sense. I mean, you all took me in after killing half the town. Tracks that you wouldn’t throw me out for. Being gay.”

“There are worse things to be than gay.”

“Psycho killer not one of them?”

Will gave Billy as unimpressed of a stare as he could muster.

“That wasn’t you. You forget, I know what it was like to have him controlling me. I know what it’s like to not do anything to stop him, even when you are fighting with everything you’ve got. I nearly killed my mom. I even might have, if I’d been stronger. You fought against him, and in the end, you won. I never could’ve done that.”

Billy just stared at the wall slightly above Will’s left shoulder.

“I killed people, too. When he had me. Led a whole group of people right into a trap. And it still scares me what he did. But I know that it wasn’t me that did it. It wasn’t you that did any of that, Billy.”

“I tell myself that. Hell, Steve tells me that about every five minutes. Just hard to watch yourself doing that awful shit and not be able to tell your body to knock it off.”

Will didn’t know how to respond, so he didn’t.

Billy was right. It was a nightmare watching yourself hurt people around you, feeling like you were in the backseat, screaming at yourself to stop.

But Billy had done what Will couldn’t’ve.

Right at that last moment, he stood up to the thing controlling his every move.

Stood up to that horrific flesh monster, adn died rather than let it kill El.

El, who he didn’t even know.

And then Billy’s bedroom door down the hall opened slowly, and Steve poked his head into the hall, swearing under his breath when he saw someone in the hall with Billy and trying to duck out of sight, knocking the back of his head into the doorframe and swearing again.

Billy laughed, a low wheezy laugh that ended in a short coughing fit.

“Real fuckin’ subtle, Harrington,” he choked out.

The door opened once more and Steve stepped out into the hallway, trying to look casual.

“I didn’t realize it was you there, Will. How’s it goin’?”

Billy laughed again, and gestured for Steve to come and help him stand up.

Steve did so quickly, smiling warmly at Billy when he had righted him on his feet, and keeping hold of Billy’s arm.

“Why are you sneakin’ in my window like some kinda perv?”

“Because I wanted to talk. I have a lot of emotions today.” Steve turned to address Will. “You kids are gonna be the death of me. And I mean that in the nicest way I possibly can.”

“Yeah, well. You guys are family.” Will shrugged, feeling very awkward when both Steve and Billy. Looked as though their eyes were overbright. Will panicked, trying to think of an exit strategy before he saw either of them cry.

He had seen them both in too many intimate moments today.

“Um, I’m pretty tired, so I think I’m gonna go to bed. Let me know if you need, uh, help tomorrow. You know, heading of my mom or anything.”

Will turned on his heel and slipped back into his own bedroom.

“Alright, Bert. It’s been a long day and I’m gonna need some help getting into bed. My legs have gone totally stiff.”

“Oh, in no way am I Bert! I’m totally Ernie. You’re Bert. Think about it: you’re surly, and rude, and-”

“Gonna dump you if you don’t shut up and help me go to bed.”

“Spoken like a true Bert.”

#the big schmoop #yikes writes #steve harrington #billy hargrove #harringrove #i thinkg this was for #harringrove for palestine #but i really can't remember #idk merlin donated some money somehweere and i wrote this 💕

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lydiaalin · 3 years ago

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hello please consider this an invitation 2 share info abt ur ocs... if u have one you're currently rotating in your brain i am all ears!! if not i am also curious about erika's whole deal...

I'm currently rotating my beloved Ryan in my head but I'm gonna save that for another ask I got as to not clutter this one - thank you <3

As for Erika, she's part of a friend's project where mythical creatures and the majority and humans are the minority - she was originally going to be a Toreador in vtmb so she retains some of those characteristics, like the typical clubbing and bumping with humans. She's a practicing doctor for like ~167 years aaand I'll just copy paste what I got in her doc here

also got a lil pinterest board (cw blood) and playlist

cis female | she/her | 1.75m | bi

vampire (unclear what kind exactly, possibly closest to a strigoi)

~231 years old

typical vampire powers:

enhanced strength, stamina, speed & agility

self-healing factor

very minor hypnosis

very minor “shapeshifting”, cannot turn into a bat or anything, but eyes, ears and fangs might change appearance in the rare case of bloodlust

originally from Germany, her family settled on the German Coast of the Mississippi, a human settlement upriver of New Orleans, around 1785. Erika was turned into a vampire some time in ~1815 at the age of 23 after she was crushed under a building and her vampire companion turned her to save her life.

the youngest of 6 sister, her father got sick of waiting for a son and raised as though she was one, teaching her to fight and march - even after being turned into a vampire she sought to keep fit and while not a specialist in combat, she can definitely fight

she has no supernatural healing powers past herself, but she’s gotten a medical degree 3 separate times, in 1855, 1920 and 2000. She was on and off working as a trauma doctor for the first couple of decades, switching to a paramedic sometimes in the 00s, seemingly out of boredom.

generally just a lot of clubbing, bar hopping, live concerts and one-night stands in her free time

naturally traveled around a lot in her time, but mostly resided in South America and Central Europe.

Fluent in English, German, Dutch and French, with some smattering of Spanish (though she gets rusty and mixes up words of course)

has a doberman named Charlie, she got him as a puppy from a friend. Charlie has a short tail from birth and is deaf in his right ear. He’s somewhat scaredy and very sensitive about what he’s walking on, often needing to be carried - until he gets the zoomies and forgets all about it, knocking into anything and everything. Otherwise he’s very cuddly as well as very well trained, zoomies might get cut short if called to.

despite her wearing all black in her art she actually loves to wear bright colors like red and orange - hates for colors to clash with her hair though

you touch her modded 1968 Chevrolet Corvette, you die

#if you got any specific questions about her still feel free to ask 💃#thank you for the ask 💋

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awee-struck · 3 years ago

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ok ok ok i am aware it's a bit late for buzzfeed au ideas B U T....what if the reason Tim believes in ghosts and stuff and starts buzzfeed unsolved supernatural is BECAUSE when jason was a ghost and dead would mess around with Tim as the new robin kinda non-chalantly. like with Bruce in Gotham knights awhile back. (i am aware those mightve been hallucinations i dont remeber well.) but the vibe of that. only problem is he doesnt rlly appear for tim so its just a ghost things happen situation and now hes believer etc. (he doesnt know its jason) so now, present tim and jason todd are hilariously hunting for.....jason todd. AND THEY DINT EVEN KNOW LOL . meanwhile jason the entire time in very much shane fashion is like "that didnt happen. i dont believe in ghosts" when in fact, he was the ghost. sorry if this doesnt make sense

the comic panel i referenced

for you my guy, it's never too late (i'm also extremely honored my crack videos have helped to inspire a whole ass au for you 0.0)

ok ok so i haven't actually read that far into the gotham knights issues eek BUT i think i can get a grip on this wonderful idea......

now i'm imagining ghost jason trying so hard to freak tim out (maybe enough to get the poser to fuck off) but at first it just. doesn't phase him at all. mostly because all jason can manage pulling off are stupid things like blowing tim's cape into his face on a windless night ten times over, or making his computer bug out and crash in the middle of case work (or perhaps cracking tim's door open before he gets back home from patrol, fully geared up,,, you know, just in case a certain dad wants to walk in and check on his "totally not a vigilante" son) BUT all tim has to say about this stuff for a while is "meh should probably sleep more" until jason, purely out of annoyance, starts doing the most stereotypical paranormal activity shit possible like flipping lights on and off or knocking shit over, not even expecting tim to notice because really how can you notice that but not someone rearranging your utility belt everyday? tim goes apeshit, like full on it's always sunny moment with the conspiracy board, the rest of the fam is thinking of staging an intervention. jason eats this up.

and i'm also gonna operate under the assumption that when jason comes back, much like in his death, he's just looking to fuck with tim saying he doesn't believe which,, LOL i love it. in this au i am electing to ignore that jason tried to kill tim because ghost jason had too much fun messing with him (and if he's being honest, being a ghost was scary as shit so the outlet was appreciated) cue a team up for a case or something and tim eventually starts talking about his ghost experience and how it's been oddly absent. and what is jason if not an opportunist, amiright?? long story short jason totally signs himself up for brother bonding time by way of hunting ghosts and riling tim up by saying it's all bs. do u know how many new gadgets they've gotten bruce to reluctantly agree too "because it'll help on patrol" or how many visits to one john constantine (who totally knows what's up btw) they've arranged?? going to supposedly haunted areas in gotham, jason absolutely disregarding any and all advice they've been given and giving tim a fucking heart attack. (not to mention how many of these "investigations" have been interrupted by an actual fucking crime, resulting in a few rumors that robin screams like a girl — he does NOT, thanks so much) meanwhile every actual paranormal case ends up in the lap of literally any other batfam member

wow ok so this got out of hand sorry bout that mfaoooo but in my defense the idea just grabbed me and ran but THANK YOU this is absolutely hysterical and shane and ryan radiate jason and tim energy 100% thank u for coming to my tedtalk

#also bonus points if we're going with the whole 'shane (jason) is a totally a demon' thing #this is endlessly hilarious to think about #if i could draw or write decently this would be a full blown au #batfam buzzfeed unsolved au #batfam #jason todd #tim drake #txt post #hc #asks #she speaks for once

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keep-the-wolves-close · 8 months ago

Text

Steady Heart

Chapter 28: Achilles Heel

* Pairing: Slow-burn Kayce Dutton x OFC Stella Daniels

* Rating: M? (Still figuring out the rating system) (might eventually be M anyhow)

* Warnings: language, angst

* Word count: 1,867ish

Author's note: Okay, I lied. One more because I have an uneven number queued. Then I’ll follow the rules. Scouts honor lol. 🤓 Things are starting to ramp up, Kayce and Stella are finally coming back to some kind of normalcy. It’s been rough, but we’ll get there. Also, this is shorter than normal, but it worked well for splitting these events up. I hope y’all don’t mind, I hope everyone is enjoying so far! I hope you love this chapter as well!

“What! You told me you ran into him!” Ryan cried out.

“Okay I bent the truth! I’m sorry. I knew if I told you that 30 minutes ago, you would have burnt the whole state of Montana to the ground!” She defended herself.

All the men moved closer to her instinctually. Rip started in on her hard. “Why the fuck didn’t you tell me when I picked you up?!”

“Because I wanted to tell everyone all at once, Rip!” Was he even listening?

He came back at her even angrier. “Bullshit! Were you gonna say anything at all?!”

“Yes! My god! I’m here aren’t I?”

Kayce targeted her next. “You’re only here because your brother and I made sure you’d come talk to my dad.”

John interrupted. “All of you quit!” He locked in on Stella. “What did he want?”

“I asked him and he said something about liking my property, yadda yadda, and got insulted when I asked who he was again and told me I work for a ranch that has started to annoy people. Then read me like an open book almost to every little detail about my life.” Stella crossed her arms and shook her leg. The memory of Malcolm’s unnaturally blue eyes staring into hers as he recited her information sent a chill up her spine.

“I told him I wasn’t interested in anything he had to offer. He said I was a soft spot for people here, which I beg to differ,” she focused on the floor, “but whatever. Then he said he would be seein’ me real soon. Whatever that means.” She looked back up at John and shrugged.

“So long story short, what I wanted to say was, I’m not sure Jenkins is our culprit for those cows being dead. Somethin’ about Malcolm and his brother doesn’t sit straight with me. He was fishin’ for somethin’, but I don’t know what.” Her cheeks were flushed by the time she was finished. Stella felt like she was on trial. Especially with the way everyone just looked at her angrily and didn’t say anything. “You can choose to believe me, or not, but I’m tellin’ you right now somethin’ ain’t right.”

“Damn it.” John looked to his son. “Kayce, what did you find out from Jenkins?”

Kayce watched Stella, who focused on John. She turned her body to face the patriarch, trying to pretend she was anywhere but in the room with them. He announced. “Wasn’t Jenkins.”

Rip mumbled a cuss to himself. That meant they were dealing with a different player; and that player was bigger, and seemingly interested in Stella.

“How do we know it wasn’t him?” John asked.

“I looked him in the eye and it wasn’t him.” Kayce made direct eye contact with his dad.

“I can also attest that he wouldn’t know the first thing about cows or how to kill them.” Stella added.

She finally locked eyes with Kayce. He looked tired. “You okay?” Everyone could tell there was something deeper behind her question. Even though it seemed like she wanted to be out of any room Kayce was in.

“It went fine.”

Stella scowled at him for ignoring her actual question.

“Let me talk to my son please.” John excused the three of them. Stella wasn’t sure what was going on, but if it meant she could escape, she’d take it.

Kayce stayed behind to talk to his father. At first they talked about something Kayce had done in war that had changed him forever. His heart raced just reliving the memory. If he could go back and have it happen differently, he would in a heartbeat. Kayce wanted to leave, but John stopped him.

“What’s going on with you and Stella?”

Kayce sighed. “Nothing dad.”

“Her looking like she was about to claw her way out of the window to get away when you went in on her says otherwise.” John leaned back against his desk smugly. He was almost certain he knew what was coming.

“There is nothing going on between Stella and I. Nothing.” He tried to be stern in his answer to get his dad to stop asking. He was confused as to what was going on himself. He had fucked up. Simple as that.

John stayed quiet and examined his son. Kayce’s face was flushed, and his voice let John know he was confused. If he didn’t know any better, he would say Kayce looked like he was going to panic. He looked like he was in love. That’s how he had looked when he found Evelyn.

Kayce couldn’t take the silence any longer. “Okay fine! We slept together. So what?”

‘Ah. There it was.’ John thought to himself as he breathed out a chuckle. This wasn’t when or how he thought this conversation would come up, but he knew it would cross him one day. “And when was that?”

Kayce looked down. “A few days ago.” He refused to tell his father that it was more than once.

“And you just got back from visiting with Monica? Now I understand why she wanted to leave so badly.” John worked out. He watched as his son squirmed. “How did things go with Monica, by the way? Especially with this new,” there was no real way for him to say this delicately, “development.”

“I don’t wanna talk about it dad.”

“But you’re gonna have to sooner or later.”

“She wants a divorce.”

“What for?”

“A lot of things.”

John crossed his arms. “What are you gonna do, son? Because that woman out there has stood behind you through thick and thin. Even after you broke her, she still made sure you were okay. Didn’t like that you ignored her actual question, but she still did it.”

Kayce got frustrated and slammed his hand against the door. “I don’t know! On one hand Monica is my wife, the mother of my son, the lov—,” he stopped himself. He didn’t know if he was choked up, or if he couldn’t actually bring himself to say it.

“— But?” John interrupted.

“I don’t know, dad. I just — I don’t know.”

Making it to the door, Stella started to pick up her pace. She thought she was home free when her feet hit the porch. She would have been if Rip’s rough hand didn’t grab her elbow. Her shoulders sagged. “Listen I know you’re both angry I didn’t tell you right away, but can one more person not be mad at me today?” She looked down at the floor of the porch. “I have Ryan double mad at me, you, probably Mr. Dutton. Kayce and I are weird right now…,” she trailed off. The list could go if she thought about it hard enough.

“Yeah we noticed.” Ryan informed her crossing his arms.

Stella pulled her lips in. She hoped she had hidden it better than that. ‘Great.’

“Was it really that noticeable?”

Ryan scoffed. “You looked like you wanted to be anywhere but where Kayce was.”

“You didn’t wanna be around him the other night. You were upset about somethin’.” Rip started to put two and two together out loud for Ryan. He didn’t want to be the one to spill the beans. “Somethin’ about you broke your own heart.”

“I was really hoping that you wouldn’t have remembered that.”

“What happened between you two?” Ryan asked. Stella remained quiet with her lips pulled in. “C’mon Stell. You gotta lay it out there at some point.”

She looked out along the dark horizon line and wished she could shrink herself. It was embarrassing enough to have the thoughts run through her own head, let alone say them out loud. Especially to her brother and a man she considered a brother.

“I thought something might have changed between us, but it didn’t. I was just a hopelessly hopeless romantic caught up in my own delusion.” She moved her hands in a ‘giving up’ motion. Her voice came out more quietly than before. “It doesn’t matter.” She stepped toward the stairs. “Can we be done here? Please?”

Kayce came out of the house looking flustered. His gaze landed on Stella and both of them seemed to stop breathing. “Can I talk to you?”

Stella breathed in. “I mean, no,” she blew the breath out, “but you’re gonna keep tryin’ until I let you. So I guess.” She crossed her arms and looked at the other two men. “Can you guys give us a minute? I’ll be right behind you.”

Ryan stepped forward and Rip reached out to stop him from getting too close. He threatened the man responsible for hurting his sister. “You hurt her even more, and everything else you’re going through will be the least of your worries.” Rip grabbed his shoulder to direct him to the horses.

Stella watched them trot off. Ryan gave her one last look and she nodded to him. It was quiet behind her, and she was half expecting Kayce to be gone when she turned around. Holding her head as high as she could, she pivoted around to face him. She fixed her glasses and sniffed. “Well, let’s have it.”

Kayce got a good look at her face. She looked humiliated. He had hurt her badly. He was afraid it was past the point of repair. “I’m sorry.”

“Yeah, me too Kayce.” She looked down, sullen.

“I shouldn’t have come onto you like that. We shouldn’t have done it at all. I ruined a perfectly good friendship.”

“Yeah I know it was a mistake. Is that all you wanted to say? Because I could live without the embarrassment of hearing, let's just pretend this never happened.”

“No. I wanted to tell you Monica and I decided to co-parent, but we can’t go back to each other.”

“Okay that’s great, but now I feel dirty. Like I was just a distraction, which I mean I was. A distraction for you at my expense. I just don’t know if I can get past that.”

Unbeknownst to the two of them, John had snuck out onto his porch to hear how this would play out.

Kayce started, “I understand, but—,” and Stella interrupted him.

“— Do you really have any grounds to stand on to place a ‘but’ in there? I was blinded by the feelings I’ve had for you since we were kids and somehow, whether you realized it or not, you used it to your advantage.” Her eyes stung. “I thought I was always safe with you.” She said in a small voice. “And to find out I wasn’t, hurts. I let you past everything I had put up.” John tilted his head to the side. She had a point. “So I’m gonna go. I just wanna be left alone.” She spun around to make her way down to the bunkhouse.

Kayce stood there defeated. He knew he’d fucked up big time. If she ever talked to him again, he would be surprised. He heard footsteps on the porch. He turned and saw his dad.

“So how are you gonna make this right, son?”

“I’m gonna respect her and leave her be. I’ve already done enough damage.” He walked off and hopped in his truck.

#yellowstone #kayce dutton #yellowstonetv #luke grimes #ian bohen #ryan #kayce dutton fan fiction #yellowstone fanfic #yellowstone fanfiction #kayce dutton fanfic

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mmikmmik2 · 3 years ago

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If you were to sort the Infinity Train cast(s) into the Major Arcana a la the Persona games, which Arcana would you give everyone?

anon I had SOOOOO much fun thinking about this, thank you so much for sending me this. I sorted all the major characters, plus a few other entries, based on a mix of Arcana symbolism, Persona series character archetypes, and general vibes. I came up with answers I feel pretty good about for all but four of the Arcana. (Was really tempted to say Strength is every human character who doesn't board the train because they can handle their problems on their own lol.) This is going to be a long-winded post, so I thought I’d post just the list as an image (which hopefully won’t be too blurry!) rather than wrestle with Tumblr formatting trying to make a short list, and put a big text wall under the readmore talking more about my picks.

If this list does end up illegible, the same info is under the readmore as text! Plus some characters for Magician, Strength, Justice, and Death that I didn’t want to add to the “official” list because they’re more based on headcanon. (Although my reasoning for some of the “official” picks is pretty weak lol.)

One-One as 0. The Fool

Oh my gosh, what am I?

IT is great at fleshing out character backstories and families, so One-One at the beginning of S1 is one of the few characters who really feels like a blank slate. He's got a lot of his baggage back by the end of the season, and I think One and One-One are more similar than they seem at first glance, but S1 does seem to have been very formative for One-One and how he thinks about what he's supposed to be doing and how he relates to other people. So it does kind of feel like his fool's journey.

Alrick Timmens as I. The Magician

The magician begins the journey... by beefing it on a dirt bike, dying, and sending his wife flying off the deep end. Rip.

Alrick was an engineer like Amelia, so I could see him suiting some of the themes of the Magician, like conscious thought and manifesting ideas. His apparent playfulness and insecurity are similar to the Magician characters in Persona.

Kez as II. The High Priestess

“We can’t make this decision for you, Kez.” “You know what to do.”

I thought really hard about making Kez the Magician because just like every Magician since Persona 3, she's dumb, horny, and insecure dlkjasfdkl

(and also her showing up at the start of the story arc and being helpful but also super needy is very Magician)

But the idea of "intuition" really does suit Kez. Sometimes her intuition is as bad as her conscious reasoning, but I think that's a lot because she's so confused about what happened with Jeremy, and Morgan making Kez feel like she did a bad thing by helping him.

Tuba as III. The Empress

She made me feel like I was warm all the time.

Tuba's a mom. Sorry, this one's not that deep, haha.

Simon Laurent as IV. The Emperor

Highest number! I'm the leader now.

Simon has a lot of issues, but the one that felt the most prominent to me was his unhealthy relationship with power, authority, dominance, and rules. Another quote I considered using here was what he said in Grace's memory of meeting Amelia: "I never thought I'd get to see the Conductor with my own eyes. He's perfect! Everything finally makes sense again." In his emotional crisis, he thought everything could be fixed just by the existence of a huge, scary, powerful, male authority figure, even if they weren't doing anything helpful or informative.

Atticus as V. The Hierophant

I like to think that our stones are sturdy and handsome, like the Corgis that crafted them.

Atticus is a figure of traditional authority who deeply loves the history, society, and culture of his people. He often provides spiritual wisdom and encourages Tulip to get out of her own head and engage with the world around her. Also in Persona, Hiero is the Dad Arcana so it's very funny to me (a) to make the little dog be Hiero and (b) that the little dog really does have the strongest Wholesome Dad Energy of the whole cast.

Jesse Cosay as VI. The Lovers

Don't tell me what to do. I'm not going to be a part of anything like this, on or off the train.

This was my first and easiest pick lol, Jesse is sooooo Lovers. Like, the focus on choice and personal values and relationships? Yep, that's Jesse. It works on an "actual meaning of the Arcana" level and a "vibes with the Persona characters" level lol... popular, upbeat, and having such an identity crisis.

Lake as VII. The Chariot

I'm my own person, who is getting off this train!

I don't know if Chariot captures all the ways Lake grew over the course of S2, but I feel like they had the most externally focused conflict of all the IT characters, which suits Chariot. They've been fighting to stake out their personhood from start to finish, and they took action and used their willpower to achieve that goal. Also they have at least a little jock energy which is a prereq for Chariot tbh.

Frank as VIII. Strength

I dunno, I kinda imagine him as a simple man and easily underestimated, but with a lot of heart. The Cat may say they're keeping things casual but I don't think she'd take him with her on her private vacation unless he had some kind of inner toughness that would let him stand toe-to-toe with her.

Morgan as IX. The Hermit

I need to be alone right now. Kez... maybe... we can talk later.

I like that Morgan embodies toxic self-isolation and stonewalling and rejection, but that she seems to be moving towards the positive aspects of Hermit and taking some time to calm down and process and think. I like it when characters can embody the best and worst of their Arcana.

Tulip Olsen as X. The Wheel of Fortune

We have to adapt to the changes in our lives. It's the only way things can get better.

Tulip has a lot of themes and conflicts, but this one is a clear standout as the most important. I also like it for Tulip because, while she has to handle a lot of difficult and even traumatic situations, some of the change that challenges her isn't as unambiguously bad as e.g. the death of a loved one. It really is just change itself she's struggling with, and that's Fortune babey. Also, from the perspective of the train itself and lots of other characters, by reversing Amelia and One-One's positions again and changing how One-One administrates the train, Tulip is the one giving the wheel a spin. That's fun.

Lucy as XI. Justice

One of my friends once described the Justice characters in Persona as "the ones the player character is ultimately accountable towards", and I like to think of Lucy as kind of being that for Grace (...since Hazel has excused herself). Lucy is the Apex kid we see Grace interact with the most, the first Apex kid Grace admitted to herself that she had harmed (see Grace very briefly showing distress and then regret when Jesse points the harpoons at his face and she stops him), and the first person to confront Grace when she came home in The New Apex.

Min-Gi Park as XII. The Hanged Man

I don't know if we'll sell a single album, but we'll figure that out as we go.

Min-Gi sacrifices his "realistic", "sensible" goals for a more personally (spiritually, even?) enriching life that's beyond his control and outside of the expected norm. Like the Hanged Man, who dangles foolishly upside-down, but as a deliberate choice and in a state of serenity and enlightenment. I also think this arcana suits a reading of Min-Gi's character development as starting off going slower as a way to stall and live in denial, but then going slower with deliberation. Compare his arrogant insistence on refusing to act in The Astro Queue Car to his patience and care in The Castle Car and The Train to Nowhere.

Jeremy as XIII. Death

This isn't about the death of his family - I'm thinking of his reluctance to admit his number was going down. He cared about Morgan and Kez, and it's possible both that he may have really wanted to stay with them despite his exit and that that might even have been a healthy choice - they're real ass people with feelings and everything, not holodeck characters. But I also think Jeremy was using his life with them to avoid moving on out of that fog (because it was hard and it hurt and he didn't want to think about what that would mean for him and Morgan) and Morgan was enabling him.

Ryan Akagi as XIV. Temperance

Maybe the experience is the point. I wasn't just rushing you. I was rushing myself.

I think this one speaks for itself. Also, the other quote I considered putting here, from The Art Gallery Car: "You told me I can't appreciate the song without taking in the rest of the album. I need the whole package."

The Cat as XV. The Devil

I always do the right thing.

Honestly, this is one I really wasn't sure about. The Cat isn't a great pick for a lot of the meanings of Devil. She is definitely consumed by material comforts, and the short-term rewards of ignoring her issues at a long-term cost, though. This is more of a "vibes with Persona characters with this arcana" pick... Devil characters tend to start off being somewhat exploitative or even antagonistic towards the player character, and gradually showing a more conflicted and genuine side.

Amelia Hughes as XVI. The Tower

There's a hole in the universe where Alrick used to be.

Amelia's life is defined by catastrophe and upheaval - both those she's suffered and those she's inflicted on others.

Hazel as XVII. The Star

I'm going to keep loving you like you're still here.

When I think of "The Star" as a small but inextinguishable light in the darkness, Hazel seems like the obvious choice. Although we left her deeply wounded, I think she still has a flicker of her hope, faith, and purpose.

Grace Monroe as XVIII. The Moon

But it's unfair for me to tell you how to understand yourself. I mean, I don't even fully understand me.

Grace is probably the most complex and dynamic character on the show and hence one of the most difficult to place. I considered Empress, Strength, Devil, and Judgement for her... I think ultimately, lies and illusions are the most unifying theme of her character arc. Also, from a Persona angle, her pursuit of status out of a lack of true self-worth reminds me of Ai and Mishima.

Alan Dracula as XIX. The Sun

Brought together by the majesty of a superpowered deer!

I'm sorry dkjasfklads this is largely because I thought it was funny to have this completely inexpressive dead-eyed deer as Sun akfk but also... like... it kind of works okay!!! Think about the genuine joy and comfort and positivity he brings to Lake and Jesse (and me)!

The New Apex as XX. Judgement

"Then what are we gonna be?" "Guess we'll have to figure it out?"

This is kind of a Persona mythology gag again because of Judgement being a group social link near the end of the narratives of P3 and P4, when the protagonists have pierced through the lies and actually figured out who the villain of their game is and are ready to really start making progress.

0 as XI. The World

Ah, train does it again!

It's an ending and the completion of a journey, but also the beginning of a new one. And the world is literally what the passengers receive at the end of their train journey. Welcome home.

#infinity train #infinity train spoilers #protagonists of IT #Anonymous

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melancholydreadfuldream · 4 years ago

Text

tell me some things last

Pairing: 13th Doctor x Reader

Summary: There are always someone who dare to use the Doctor's companion against him/her, most of the times the Doctor is able to rescue them but we know better, don't we? The Doctor can't save everyone.

(yn) (ln) traveled with Twelfth Doctor and Clara Oswald in the tardis after a chance meeting that involved another alien. Clara welcomed you with open arms, claiming the two of you will be a great friend.

You were not as close with the Doctor as Clara is. You understand they have a longer time together. You love travelling with him despite him being kind of intimidating. Clara is the only one who can seem to manage him. You were shy around the Doctor, often not knowing what to say when you two are alone. You can tell the both of you are relieved whenever Clara is on the room as she never fails to lighten up the room.

The topic regeneration come up when the Doctor and Clara accidentally mentioned his previous incarnation and his perchant for fish finger and custard. With the Doctor's permission, Clara told you bit about regeneration. She even showed you a picture of Eleventh Doctor. You could hardly believe they are the same person.

Clara is reminiscing about her past adventure with Eleventh Doctor. You thought that version of the Doctor sounded like a fun person but you accidentaly spoke that thought out loud.

The Doctor is offended and exclaimed he is fun too, proceed to show off how fun he is much to Clara and your amusement. Three of you have fun together. You dare say that you and the Doctor grew closer just a tiny bit than before.

And then things went downhill when Clara died on trap street. He is gone leaving you to deal with Clara's body.

The Doctor is gone. You don't know what happened to him. You couldn't begin to even ask someone for help. You waited for him but he never come back. You fell into depression as you couldn't handle the loss of Clara and the Doctor. You meet a kind nurse named grace who help you deal with your depression.

You missed Clara and the Doctor so much. You wish he would come back for you. Of course, he didn't. He didn't owe you anything, so, why would he come back for you?

Grace thought you were experiencing a broken heart, that a lover has left you behind. You couldn't exactly tell her it was an alien that broke your heart and not even a lover. You would feel silly. But also you are grieving the loss of a very good friend.

A year later, you accidentally stumbled upon incident that is alien in nature and that is when you met Bill and Nardole. You overheard them mentioned the doctor and demanded to see him.

You finally see him again. You were at loss of words. He was surprised to see you but he smiled kindly. You slapped him hard without thinking.

"Okay. I deserve that." He begrudgingly said as he rubbed his cheek.

"I'm glad you think so." You coldly replied.

The Doctor glanced at your state and his eyes softened considerably. "How have you..."

You throw your arms around him as you pulled him into a hug much to his surprise and protest. You discreetly smelled him, you missed him so badly, you were so grateful to be able to find him again.

The Doctor introduced you to Nardole and Bill and invited you back on board of the tardis.

You were hesitant, a year ago, you would agree in a heartbeat. But were you ready to jump back into the disarray life that is the Doctor?

Bill is very friendly and she start animatedly chatted with you, wanting to know more about your past with the Doctor once she figured out that you were his past companion.

From Bill, you found out that the Doctor is a teacher in the university where she worked at. You were surprised and very curious, wanting to know how he handle being a teacher for a bunch of students. Bill, laughingly, told you the Doctor's teaching method is weird.

At the end of the day, you decided you wanted to stay with him again if he will have you. And it helped that Bill latched herself on you almost immediately. But Nardole seemed not too keen of having you around but Bill said not to mind him.

The Doctor and Nardole are guarding a mysterious vault. Although curious, you know better than to pry or asking the Doctor directly. You believed you haven't yet earned his trust.

Eventually, you meet the sarcastic, mary poppin-style Time Lady who, according the doctor, is currently undergoing a rehabilitation.

You don't like Missy for her sharp tongue and she seemed to look down upon you, Bill and Nardole.

The Doctor wanted to have a test run with Missy having to answer a distress call and solved the crisis with the help of Bill and Nardole. You opted to stay behind with the Doctor and you were lucky you did so.

When Bill got shot by some random blue alien and then later converted into the cyberman, you were traumatized by the whole thing. When the strange mechanical men come in to take Bill away, you volunteered to go with them so you could better watch over her much to the Doctor's dismay. You weren't sure where you get the courage to step forward from but you did it, albeit it is a very stupid move on your part.

But those years with Bill, taking care of each other, gossiping about the Doctor's angry eyebrow from the supposedly live monitor, you couldn't regret it. Bill is your friend and you care about her. You dont want to lose her like you did Clara.

When the old man, Razor, betrayed yours and Bill's trust by letting the doctors on that ship to operate on the both of you, you were in despair. You watched as they ripped you and Bill away from each other and you were made to watch as they operates on Bill.

Her pleading voice and screams of pain forever seared in your mind. You never hated someone as much as you hated Razor and all the people in that stupid ship.

You were about to undergoes the converting surgery when the Doctor and Nardole burst in and rescued you. You were hysterical when they finally freed you from the straps.

You cried as you told them that Bill has been converted. The agonized look on the Doctor's face is too painful to watch. He hugged you, kissed your forehead as he soothed you. You were surprised by his sudden affectionate attitude but you were too distracted by what is being done to Bill and the fate you nearly shared.

In the face of Bill's misery of having been turned as cyberman, you felt guilty. When the Master revealed himself as Razor and mocked you and Bill about it, you very nearly lost your marble as you wanted to attack the miserable bastard but the Doctor pulled you back and away from him.

Everything spiralled out of control and next thing you know you woke up on the tardis floor with the Doctor yelling that he refused to regenerate.

You and the Doctor were able to says goodbye to Bill, Nardole and Clara through the testimony project.

The Doctor finally regenerated as you saw him glowing yellow and then exploded into a blonde woman. But before you could say anything, the tardis shook violently and ejected the Doctor out. You were lucky you weren't ejected as you were not sure you could survive the fall.

The next few days, you worried sick about where the Doctor is. You couldn't talk to anyone but the tardis and frankly you felt silly talking to the box.

You nearly got a heart attack though when tardis voice interface got activated at the word 'help' you uttered. It showed a hologram of Twelfth Doctor asking you what you need of help for.

You felt grief suddenly at the sight of him. You knew the Doctor survived but he had changed into a new person now, a woman at that. You wondered if she would even still want you around now.

When a woman you presumed to be the new Doctor dressed in a new clothing stepped in with three other people, you were so glad and a bit wary.

The Doctor seemed happy to see you as she pulled you into her arms before introducing you to her new friends.

That is when you found out about Grace, a kind nurse who used to help you with your depression. She met the Doctor and she died. You felt like you got slapped in the face as you are starting to worry that it will be a matter of time before it was your turn to die next if you continue to stay with the doctor. But your heart hurts at the thought of leaving the doctor behind. You were not ready to let her go. And so you cling to her for as long as you can.

You were initially worry that the Doctor would ask you to leave as despite the ship is bigger on the inside, it might be a tad crowded with 5 people on board. And frankly you weren't sure you are ready for adventure so soon. You don't want to leave her or the tardis but you declined on some adventures with the fam, preferring to stay on the safety inside of the tardis.

The Doctor is concerned but understanding and didn't pressure you.

The fam are nice enough and love to chat with you, asking about your past with the Doctor. It hurts to talk about the past which included losing two best friends so you remained mostly vagues.

Eventually, you started to go on adventures again but you were mostly wary believing trouble is a foot everytime you stepped out of the tardis and let face it, with the Doctor, the magnet for trouble, you should expect it.

Maybe it was just your feeling but you felt the Doctor is a tad bit protective of you. And yet, she also keep her distant from you which make you anxious that your time with her might be over soon.

At new years, when a dalek took control over Ryan's dad body, you refused to let him go as you fight to keep him safe along with Ryan. In your mind, at the times, you refused another loss.

When everything is safe and sound, the Doctor is looking at you with a look you can't decipher.

It hit you suddenly that you might have a strong feeling for the Doctor. You decided to take a short break away from the Doctor and tardis to sort out your feeling but you made her swear up and down that she will come back for you again when you are ready. She promised.

Of course, when you finally returned to the tardis, you found out from the fam that they had meet an enemy of the Doctor, the Master. You felt like you were being kicked in the gut. You hated that person for his part with Bill's miserable fate and nearly yours. It was a different incarnation but still he already in your blacklist.

You noticed the Doctor look gloomy, sad and just distant and you hated it. She seemed so far from you eventhough she is just a few steps away from you.

You wanted to ask her what is going on with her but you dont think she would ever open up to you. But you still have to try, right? So you approached her and as you predicted, she shut you down.

It kind of hurt that she still doesn't trust you but you tried not to take it personally. You tried to be good and less annoying for fear if you ask too much from her, she would turn you away for good.

And then you and the fam meet Jack. Your heart nearly jumped at his warning of cyberman. The fam has yet to encounter cybermen but you did. The word alone enough to send you back to that flashback of being strapped down on the operating table as the doctors are ready to convert you.

Jack and the fam look concerned at seeing your pale face and rapid shallow breathing.

Yaz and Graham are able to calm you down when you finally told them about Bill.

When you and the fam returned to the tardis, they delivered Jack's warning for the Doctor.

You noticed the Doctor is staring at you at the mention of cyberman but she didn't say anything to you.

The Doctor found you alone as you sort of barricated yourself inside a random room in hope to calm yourself down. She sat beside you without words. It was a somewhat comfortable silence despite at the beginning you felt like you have to say something to her but you found yourself speechless.

You were glad she didn't ask you if you want to go home for in your moment of weakness you might say yes and you have feeling you will lose her for good if you did that. She would want to keep you safe and she might actually do that by leaving you behind on earth.

It wasn't that long before Jack's warning of the lone cyberman coming true. It looked somewhat defective but still lethal and, of course, the shape of it alone is enough to make a mess of your mind.

You have a panic attack again and the Doctor calmed you down with her soothing words and a gentle kiss on your forehead which reminded you a lot of her previous incarnation.

Somehow you felt like you are having a moment with the Doctor and yet for some reason you cant quite grasp it. You just feel at lost.

The Doctor left to deal with the lone cyberman and at the end of it all she has to surrender cyberium back to him. But, she planned to travel into the distant future to deal with Ashad and his armies.

The fam eagerly wanted to help despite the danger. You felt like if you didnt follow through with the rest, you were not good enough to be her companion. So, you forced yourself to overcome your fear.

Of course, the moment you stepped out of the tardis, the dread filled every spore of your body and mind. You were paralyzed by it that you nearly collapsed.

The Doctor has that look again on her face as she stared at you with sorrow. She told you to stay behind on the tardis and this time you didn't fight her on it. You recognized you are a liability currently.

As you waited for the Doctor and the fam to return, you summoned the tardis voice interface again and tell it your fears. The hologram just stood there listening to your rants.

You beginning to regret not going with the Doctor as hours passed by and no news from them. Your heart is clenched by the worry of losing the Doctor and the fam.

"They will return soon. They have to be. This is the tardis. The Doctor always return here...eventually. They will be okay." You repeated that to yourself like a mantra.

And you could finally be relieved of your stress when the door of the tardis opened up to reveal the Doctor. But, she was alone.

Your face filled with pain as you thought of the worst. But, she quickly reassured you that Yaz, Ryan and Graham are okay. They were back on earth with another tardis. You were puzzled and asked her what has happened.

The Doctor smiled brightly at you. It has been a while since last she smile so freely. She was about to explain when an alarm sounded loudly inside the tardis. Next thing you know, a bunch of Judoon were inside the ship and they were talking about how the Doctor is a fugitive to justice.

Without thinking you stepped into the oncoming laser beam one of the Judoon shot the Doctor with. You and the Doctor materialized somewhere else, a prison in some galaxy. The Doctor is quick to catch you as you lost your balance as you are feeling disoriented.

She reprimanded you for your reckless thinking. "That laser beam could have been anything. You could have died or worst splintered in pieces." She sounded angry.

You didn't bother to defend yourself as you tried to compose yourself as you took on the new surrounding. "Where are we?"

The Doctor is displeased for the change of topic but answered your question. She yelled at the ceiling, wanting to talk to whoever in charge of the prison.

There is no answer.

"At least we are together." You replied.

She glared at you, making you flinch.

For the next few hours, the Doctor is busy observing the prison she was in and sometimes yelling at the ceiling but she was ignored.

When someone come in to give a tray of food for one person, the Doctor is quick to demand a meeting but that person ignored her too. She told you to eat the food for you both are going to here for a long while it seemed. You ate a little, leaving a generous amount for the Doctor.

The Doctor is busy talking to herself and generally giving you a silent treatment much to your dismay.

It was the next day someone come in and gave a prison suit for the Doctor to change into. The Doctor is quick to point at you, telling them they made a mistake in regard of you. The person seemed surprised to see you as the room supposedly a solitary prison made for one person and agreed to talk to their superior.

It was another day before the door suddenly opened and two Judoon come in to read the Doctor's sentence. The Doctor interrupted them, wanting to negotiate your release.

You were uneasy that she keep demanding your release and made no mention of defending herself.

The Judoon glanced at you and nodded at each other before one of them stepped forward to grab your arm.

The Doctor stepped in front of you demanding to know what action they will take in regard of you. She wanted to be sure that you would be return safe and sound back on earth or at least on her tardis.

The Judoon pushed the Doctor away from its path and made a grab at you.

You were scared, not wanting to be apart from the Doctor. She warned you not to fight them so you followed the Judoon out of the room while the Doctor continued talking with the other one.

That was the last you saw of the Doctor.

7777

You were pushed into a room and was left there for hours. It was a smaller room and looked like some interrogation room. You tried to talk to anyone you see there but they mostly ignored you. You paced back and forth as you bite your lips nervously.

You can't keep track how long you were there but suddenly the door opened and entered an eye-patch lady with a twisted smile on her face. She wasn't alone. There is a military man with her and someone dressed like a doctor.

"Hello, (yn) (ln)." The lady greeted you with a grin. "It has been a while."

You were confused as you never see the lady before in your entire life. "How did you..."

"...know your name? My dear, I made you." She answered with a creepy smile.

You frowned in confusion.

"You have done well in regard of the Doctor."

You have a bad feeling toward this lady and the way she mentioned the Doctor with contempt made you realized she must be an enemy of the Doctor. You took a step back away from her.

The lady nodded at the man dressed as a doctor and he walked toward you.

You stared at him warily.

"Ceres, would you like your treatment now?" he said gently at you.

The reaction is immediate. All tension left your body as you mechanically answered, "Yes, please."

The man gently pulled you to him.

"I want to see everything she collected so far from her times with the Doctor." Madam Kovarian instructed the man.

The man obeyed.

The colonel glanced at you and then at Madam Kovarian. "What about the Doctor? She would have try to find out about her whereabout."

The unforgiving, evil smirk on her face nearly tore her lips apart. "Fabricate something. Let's just say that little (yn) here is mistakenly executed after a case of misidentify. Leave a vague trail with the cover up for our dear Doctor to find. Let her suffer for the death of a friend." She said with disdain. "Get her someone to blame, a scapegoat. The oncoming storm would want revenge, let her get it."

The colonel nodded his head and made the preparation needed.

7777

You blinked your eyes as awareness finally returned.

A young man smiled down at you.

"Did I fall asleep?"

"For a little a while."

"Can I go now?"

"Go ahead."

You nodded as you slowly left the room.

"Oh, Ceres." The young man suddenly called out.

You turned around to face him in a very serene manner.

He smiled genuinely and said, "Welcome back."

You smiled before leaving him without any care in the world. You greeted a few other people on your way out with a kind smile.

As you left, Topher turned to the other occupants in the another room. Adelle and Madam Kovarian stepped into the room. Topher gave the intimidating lady what she wanted, a black box containing your memory and feeling, everything you see and heard as (yn) (ln).

Madam Kovarian look pleased with herself. She has yet to determine whether the information she gathered on the Doctor will be useful but one thing she knew, she could use (yn) as a weapon against the Doctor for she knew the Doctor's weakness has always been his/her companion.

"It is a pleasure doing business with you, Madam." Adelle replied with a smile but it was uneasy. She doesn't trust the woman but she seemed to have friends in high place for she was able to locate the dollhouse and even borrowed one of her active dolls for a long term of period. She tolerated her only because she donated a generous large amount of money for the corporation.

"I might have the need to use that girl once again in the future." Madam Kovarian said.

"Of course."

7777

After Jack broke her out of prison, the Doctor is filled with dread upon meeting the fam and realized you were gone. Before she could investigate on your disappearance, the fam has warned her of Daleks invasion on earth. Despite worrying about you, the Doctor had to focus on solving the current crisis.

At the end of the day, against Jack's protest, the Doctor actually planned to break in back into the prison, wanting to find out the prison record on you. As Kovarian predicted, she did find the trail of a cover up for prisoner 1423588. She froze after she uncovered the details and the fact there is nothing left of you to find.

Jack, Yaz, Ryan and Graham froze at the fury emanating from the Doctor. They couldn't even properly grief for their fallen friends as they scrambled around trying to calm the oncoming storm.

She was frightening. Her friends are all afraid of her, save for Jack who understood the kind of loss she is feeling.

Yaz has begged her not to leave her behind again. Ten month has been an agony to her. However, to Ryan, what happened to (yn) is the last push he needed to actually left behind the world of the Doctor and Tardis. Graham, not wanting to left Ryan alone, also left with him. But they are all worried for the Doctor.

For their sake, the Doctor lies that she will be okay, that she understood that (yn) wouldn't want her to do anything reckless. She was heartbroken by yet another loss of friends.

Jack also stayed with Yaz on board of the tardis. Unlike the others, Jack knew the Doctor lies, she always lies. After Yaz is asleep, he volunteered to help her in her quest for revenge so he could watch over her and maybe pull her back if she went too far.

7777

You were imprinted with the identity of someone called Adalind. You were supposed to attend a party in a hotel with your pretend fiance. But thing get out of control when alien crashed the party.

The Doctor, Yaz and Jack were there to answer some distress signal from said alien.

"(yn)?" The Doctor called out in almost awe. She felt like she was being punched in the gut when she saw you.

"Sorry? I think you mistaken me with someone else." You replied in polite manner. You were different, you have different hair colors and eyes. You were dressed elegantly. You looked confident and comfortable with yourself.

"(yn)..." The Doctor clutched your arm insistently.

You forced a smile at her. "I'm sorry, I'm not (yn), my name is Adalind."

"You...really are not (yn)?" Yaz asked hesitantly. She was shocked with your appearance.

You shook your head as you pulled the Doctor's hand off you.

The Doctor pulled her sonic screwdriver to scan you but to her surprise, the conclusion is inconsistent. A more thorough scan revealed that Adalind is definitely not (yn), different brainwave pattern and all. Her hearts broke at the result. But, of course, she should have known there is no way (yn) could be alive. But, she still suspect Adalind. Could she be an echo of (yn) like what happened to Clara? But the brainwave pattern...

Jack and Yaz are quick to distract the Doctor with the distress signal they have come for in the first place and it worked, for the duration of the mystery, the Doctor is able to push the thought of Adalind out of her mind.

Adalind and the rest of the guests were interrogated by the Doctor when someone suddenly dropped dead.

Yaz had talked to Adalind's fiance and she thought he was suspicious for his reluctant to talk about how she met Adalind. She told Jack about it and he agreed he seemed fishy.

Jack had flirted with Adalind but was quickly stopped with a mean glare from the Doctor.

After a series of events, the Doctor finally is able to solve the crisis and save most of everyone in the hotel included the alien in question.

The Doctor, Yaz and Jack had spoken with Adalind and they like you enough to warrant invitation onto the Tardis. Of course, the truth is, the Doctor is wanting to investigate more on Adalind's similarity with (yn).

However, Adalind, despite your friendliness with them, has refused the offer 'opportunity of a lifetime' as you had deduced their ulterior motive regarding a certain (yn). Yaz had gave you her number in case you changed your mind.

Adalind bid the three of them goodbye and left the hotel alone without the fiance.

Unbeknownst to you, you were followed. You walked alone for a long while before a black van suddenly stopped near you. A man got out of the van. "Ceres, would you like your treatment now?"

"Yes, please." You answered immediately and the man led you inside the van.

The Doctor, Yaz and Jack is quick to use the Tardis to follow the van. Thankfully, Jack apparently has put a tracker on Adalind when he is flirting with her. The Doctor is impressed with him.

7777

Topher has just finished the usual procedures of erasing the Adalind imprint and returning you to default Ceres personality. Your caretaker has also informed him on the unexpected variable during your current engagement and he had called Adelle on it when he found elaborate tracker on your person.

When Adelle is informed that the unknown variable has called you with the name (yn), she cursed. She would have to call on that unpleasant woman again regarding the imprint (yn) (ln).

You were oblivious to the tension above as you serenely making an origami paper much like a child.

Somewhere within the building, the tardis materialized inside as the Doctor and companion got out to inspect the surrounding curiously.

The room screamed zen mood all over the place. There are people who were doing stuff like meditating, drawing, making flower arrangement, etc. But, they didn't seem concerned or alarmed at the appearance of the tardis or the three strangers.

"What is this place?" Yaz asked out loud.

Jack noticed on the railing above, a young woman dressed as a dominatrix walked to a room but not before winking at him. "I like it."

The Doctor, however, laser-focused on locating you and she finally spotted you, seated on the floor in front of a small table, smiling as you made origami. She quickly approached you and called you Adalind but you weren't responsive to that name.

You finally noticed the three strangers that are staring at you. The blonde woman looked sad as if someone shot her puppy so you offered her your finished origami.

She smiled at you but you think her smile still sad. She asked your name as she bend her knees before you.

"I am Ceres." You replied.

"Ceres..." She repeated.

An alarm sounded loudly. A set of man and woman dressed in black suit immediately surrounded the room, pointing their gun on the strangers. The other caretakers herded the rest of the people inside the room to evacuate to another room.

The Doctor noted these people are almost childlike, not showing any fear or anxiety at all, as they were led away from there. She had prevented you from leaving when you are about to make your move too like the rest of the dolls.

Adelle stepped into the room and stared hard at the intruders.

The Doctor pulled her psychic papers and as Adelle read into it, she groaned and instructed the guard to back off.

"They have VIP invitation from Rossum." Adelle said in annoyance. "I really wish they warned me before letting VIP guest into the building." She led the Doctor, Yaz and Jack into her office.

The Doctor wanted you to stay with her but she has to find out more about this place from Adelle and it wouldn't do to alert them of her intention with you.

7777

Adelle offered the guests a bourbon for a drink but they refused. The blonde woman seemed to be in charge and is very eager to find out what the Dollhouse has to offer.

The Doctor introduced herself and her companion.

Adelle has revealed that she knew that they made use of a psychic paper, she was warned of it but she saw no harm in telling them about the Dollhouse. After all, in a short a while, they would no longer be her problem.

"Who warned you of it?" The Doctor asked her but she only smiled.

The Doctor and Yaz look horrified after her explanation of the purpose of the Dollhouse.

"I know some people have reservation about our Actives. Robot. Slaves. Mosty, people think they are very good liars. They are, of course, the opposite." Adelle started her speech. "An Active is the truest soul among us."

"The only way to imprint a human being with a new personality is to remove their own. Completely." The Doctor said in horror.

"But they are not gone. We made a backup of all their original personality. The Actives here are under five-years contract with us. After five years, we will return them to their original personality with a few tweak as they wanted on our contract. They left here a rich person and no longer have to deal with whatever issues they have before they entered a contract with us." Adelle said. "We eased their suffering."

The Doctor demanded to see the technology they used on these people.

They met Topher who animatedly explained with a smug look on his face about the machine. He was surprised when the Doctor is able to keep up and talk technology babble on par with him. He was impressed with the Doctor and her with him.

"Is that what happened to (yn)?" Yaz asked. "Did she entered a contract with you?"

Adelle looked almost sorry to tell them the truth.

"She is not real, is she?" The Doctor said. "She is an imprint."

"The real (yn) (ln) has died a long time ago. But we were requested to copy her brainwave pattern, apparently, she fits some criteria that our client wanted." Topher revealed.

"Some criteria...funny, kind and brave...exactly my type..." The Doctor snorted in derisive. "The exact companion I can't resist..."

Both Yaz and Jack stared at the Doctor in confusion and dread as they realized someone ordered one of these Actives, imprinted with a personality of some dead woman that they think will catch the Doctor's interest...as a spy?

"Who is the client?" Yaz demanded.

"That is classified." Adelle has said.

The Doctor snorted. "You already blabber your mouth about all of these, why keep that one a secret?"

"This is not personal to me, Doctor, I don't know or care who you are. You are our esteemed client problem and she is on the way here to see you. You will soon find out who it is." Adelle said.

Yaz and Jack look nervous at the mention of the said client coming for them.

The Doctor glared at her firmly. "I want to talk to (yn). Imprint her back to...Ceres."

"We can't. The imprint on (yn) (ln) is no longer in our hands. We handed it over to the client per her request."

"Well, that is not entirely true."

Adelle turned to glare at Topher. "You didn't."

"I made a backup, backup of the imprint." Topher sheepishly grinned, sorry-not-sorry.

Adelle rolled her eyes in fondness at the young man as he grabbed something from the vault of black boxes of imprints and located the imprint he wanted.

You were led back into the room and into the machine where the Doctor and companion witnessed for the first time how the machine worked.

7777

You woke up to the concerned face of the Doctor and Yaz.

"Doctor? Yaz?" You blinked in confusion. "Where am I?"

Jack stared at you in pity.

"What was the last thing you remembered?" The Doctor asked.

"I was with you and then I was in the interrogation room. There was a woman." You tried to recalled your last memories.

"Tell me about the woman. What does she look like?" The Doctor requested.

You described the woman and blanched at the fury on the Doctor's face as she, in disdain, uttered a name.

"Kovarian."

The Doctor explained in brief that Kovarian has a grudge on her and if she is coming to the building, they would have to expect a fight on their hands.

Jack brought gun and ready for a fight.

You were confused by the whole thing and demanded explanation.

The way the Doctor glanced at you, like she was disgusted or sad, you didn't understand what to warrant you that expression. She can't still be mad at you for jumping in front of the stupid laser beam, can she?

Eventually, they told you the truth.

You were having a hard time believing them. "I am real! Not an imprint!" You yelled at them in denial.

You saw that the Doctor truly believe that you are not real, that everything you experienced together are all lies. You were angry and sad. You left the room, unable to face the Doctor any longer. You cried on the stairs away from everyone.

If it was all fake, a fabricated everything, why does it feel so real? Your feeling is real and valid and you realized right now you are hurt by the Doctor and it hurts so bad it has to be real. How can they say that?

You couldn't believe the true you, the original personality, has given up on your body and mind, to be a plaything of people for five years. Given that you are on loan for some enemy of the Doctor that probably has time travel on their hands meant that for you it might already be longer than five years.

"Why woud I do that?" You asked yourself out loud.

"You could no longer live with the consequence of your own action." Adelle answered for you. "And you no longer have to."

"What could be so bad that I, that she would do that?" You asked her.

She didn't answer at first. "Do you really want to know?"

You glanced at her, at her serious expression on her face and realized you are afraid to find out about the original you because that would be like admitting that you are not real and you are not ready.

Suddenly a bunch of men dressed like an army entered the building, quick to block the all possible way out.

Adelle sighed in exasperation.

7777

Jack was able to escape the resulting chaos as the Doctor and Yaz surrender to face the client they have been waiting for.

"You really have a perchance to ruin my plan, don't you, Doctor?" Kovarian look annoyed at the fact the Doctor found out about (yn) before she could use you against her and that she doesn't even surprised to see her again.

You and the Doctor glared at the woman.

"Hello, Kovarian, colonel run-away." The Doctor coldly greeted them.

The colonel twitched at the cursed nickname the oncoming storm has bestowed upon him for his part in kidnapping Amy and Melody Pond.

Kovarian glanced at the Doctor and then at you. "I see you get (yn) back after all." She glanced at Adelle and Topher in disapproval. "What do you think of my gift to you, Doctor?"

The Doctor glared at the woman. "What do you hope to accomplish from using her?"

Kovarian smiled menacingly at the Doctor. "I suppose it is no longer matter since you already found out that (yn) here is a fake."

You bristled at that. You were angry and ready to snap back at the stupid eye-patch lady but to your surprise, the Doctor pulled you away from the woman.

"You got me now. What are you gonna do about it?" The Doctor taunted her instead.

Kovarian smirked. "Oh you will find out." She suddenly recite something in that flat tone of her, a twisted version of the tick tock goes the clock that the Doctor recognized but instead of using River's name, this time, it was yours.

The reaction is immediate as you clenched your head in pain.

"Oh shit." Topher recognized it as a sleeper mode within an Active, probably a combat-ready personality one.

Yaz grabbed onto you, worrying about your state but Topher warned her to step away from you.

You stared blankly ahead.

"What have you done, Kovarian?" The Doctor demanded even though she already guess what happened to you.

You walked toward the colonel who gave you a gun and you proceed to point the gun at the Doctor.

The Doctor was able to duck thankfully. She was correct, after all. Of course, she is going to use you as a weapon like she did with River.

Yaz, Adelle and Topher also duck on the floor.

You stride in confident as you commanded the Doctor to kneel.

Having a gun pointed at her, the Doctor has no choice but to obey.

Suddenly a different sound of alarm ringing through the building and it made you groaned in pain and you were knocked out cold.

Topher realized it was emergency alarm that will immediately wiped every imprints in the building and since you are currently an imprint, you were effected too.

Before anyone can do anything, there is a blackout and the shooting started causing chaos.

The Doctor crawled near Yaz and covered her with her body.

When the blackout is over, the Doctor looked up and froze when she saw River and Jack together with guns, incapacitating Kovarian men.

"Hello, sweetie." River greeted the Doctor with her usual flirty tone. "Loving the new look."

Jack has somehow get into the tardis and asked it for help in getting more people to rescue the Doctor and the machine has led him to the Doctor's wife.

The Doctor is momentarily distracted by the appearance of her wife. She is happy to see her again despite knowing the heartaches she would later feel again, having to say goodbye and return her beloved wife to the correct timeline and erased River's memory of her current incarnation.

Kovarian has lost once more to the Doctor and River. She is pissed but there is not much she can do except apparently destroy the imprint (yn) she has on her person, essentially killing the chance for (yn) to return or so she hopes. She was petty and she wish to hurt the Doctor anyway she can.

The Doctor glanced forlornly at the destroyed piece of tech that carried (yn) within. To tell the truth, she has no idea if she would want to bring (yn) back again.

You slowly woke up to Yaz's concerned face. "Did I fall asleep?" You asked her.

Yaz's face fell at that. She recognized Ceres for her childlike look.

"For a little a while." Topher answered.

You smiled at him as he helped you up.

The Doctor glanced at you sadly.

River glanced at the Doctor curiously and then at you. Jack has filled her in about you before.

The Doctor's hearts nearly tear apart when Topher had said the backup imprint of (yn) he made also got damaged during the shooting. Was (yn) gone for real now? She didn't even get to say goodbye.

She wasn't the only one who is in grief. Yaz is sad as you were her friend too.

7777

The Doctor would have like to shut down the Dollhouse but settled on the demand for the release of the original personality of you be returned and released from the Dollhouse service. She didn't want to see you used by anyone ever again.

Adelle agreed and being generous enough to release you with more money than the contract stated.

The Doctor warned her that the tech they used is dangerous and someday some people are going to want to use it, abuse it, for their personal gain.

Adelle reassured her that she won't let that happen. She care for the Dollhouse and the Actives.

The Doctor watched as you, the real you, talked to Adelle. You looked very beautiful at that moment but she noticed the underlying pain on your eyes. She had read your file and watch your recruitment video. She knew the reasoning behind your acceptance of the Dollhouse contract.

You bumped into her and apologized politely. There is no recognition on your eyes upon seeing her.

The Doctor's hearts ached as she forced a smile at you.

You walked away without turning back, passing Yaz and Jack without so much a look.

Yaz watched you go with a look of grief on her face.

7777

River comforted the Doctor the only way she could as she suspected that (yn) is someone dear to the Doctor. River has the damaged tech from Topher unbeknownst of the Doctor. She is hoping she could fix it and maybe lessen the pain in her wife's eyes. But she knew it was a long shot so she didn't dare to alert the Doctor of her intention.

After saying goodbye to River once more, the Doctor keep her mask in place for her companion's benefit.

Yaz wanted to check on your well being and she obliged because she has a duty of care.

They didn't approach you, only watched you from far away.

You didn't look happy but you make do. You live well with the generous amount of money on your bank account.

The Doctor and Yaz left the sight of you and back into the tardis.

The wheezing sound of the tardis caught your attention as you glanced around in curiosity before shrugging and resumed your walking.

A/N: So, yeah, finally a sort of crossover fusion of doctor who and dollhouse. It has been a while since I last watch dollhouse so I might get some fact wrong but plot holes whatever, right? November and Whiskey are my favorite characters on Dollhouse. Guess the reader's situation is similar to that of November but without the sad ending. Also, what am I even writing? I knew the plot fell flat in regard of how Kovarian going to use the reader against the Doctor. I don't feel so good now but as usual I'm just gonna post it and run away.

I hope this is entertaining enough for a good read. Thank you for reading. Hope you have a good day. Stay safe, everyone.

Where do we go from here?

#doctor who x reader #13th doctor x reader #thirteenth doctor x reader #doctor who fanfiction #shiefenwrites

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gaming · 5 years ago

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Indie Game Spotlight: Wintermoor Tactics Club (@wintermoortc)

Get ready to roll a D20 in this week’s Indie Game Spotlight. Wintermoor Tactics Club is a narrative-driven tactics RPG set in a private boarding school in the 1980s, inspired by classic tactics RPGs and visual novels. It’s about a misfit tabletop games club trying to survive high school as they’re forced to fight in a mysterious high-stakes snowball tournament. The game is earnest and light-hearted in tone, with a tongue-in-cheek sense of humor (they like to use the term “hygge,” if people are familiar with that).

We spoke with Kyla Fury, who works on the narrative, and Ryan Anderson, who created the combat design, about gameplay, characters, and more!

How does Wintermoor Tactics Club balance tactical combat and visual novel gameplay?

Kyla: We wanted to make sure the two types of gameplay would both support each other. You alternate between playing tabletop tactics games in your clubroom and exploring the campus, talking to other students, and helping them with their problems. Getting to know students is how you get new upgrades for your tactics team, and playing the tactics game is how you recruit new team members to progress with the story. We’re hoping there’s something for everyone: if you love story and characters, you can spend time exploring every nook and cranny on the campus. On the other hand, if you’re more about the tactics gameplay, then there are extra-challenging battles where you can really put your tactical skills to the test.

Who are some of the characters we can expect to meet?

Ryan: We tried to design each character’s abilities around something that reflects the kind of C&C character they would be most excited to play. For instance, Jacob’s character is all about repositioning enemies and allies to set up clever and unexpected plays. Alicia, on the other hand, plays a character that supports teammates from the backline while she waits for the perfect opportunity to call down a massive chain lightning attack.

Are there any specific influences that inspired the game?

Kyla: We were initially inspired by the snowball fight tutorial in Final Fantasy Tactics Advance. Our combat, however, is a little less like traditional long-form tactics games, and more similar to something like Into the Breach, where each turn can be predicted and puzzled out, so you never get taken out by an unexpected lucky dice roll. We wanted to make sure that this game would work as someone’s first tactics game if they’re not familiar with the genre, so we’ve tried not to be punishing in the way some of the more classic tactics games can be.

We were also hugely inspired by more narrative-heavy games, like Persona 4. We cared a lot about the idea of your abilities improving as you spend time with people and get to know them, and characters that really reveal their true colors over time.

Ryan: Into the Breach’s incredible combat was a great inspiration for how we approached things. Each turn presents an immediate set of choices, battles are short but decisive, and your mistakes are clear so you can try a different approach next time. In addition, the Mega Man series heavily influenced our approach to progression throughout the game. Their boss battles frequently feature abilities that you unlock by defeating them, turning the challenge itself into an exciting future reward.

Finally, as a kid I was a massive fan of Final Fantasy Tactics on Playstation. Easily my favorite part was that I could use creative combinations of abilities and characters to create unique approaches to battles. The upgrade system in Wintermoor is much more focused on giving you more options rather than directly increasing your power level, allowing you to tweak your favorite characters into new roles to fit how you want to play.

What are some of the themes in the game, and what inspired you to make a game about those themes?

Kyla: We wanted to make a game relevant to today, so we decided to make it about the internet. That may sound silly—especially for a game set in the early 80’s—but there’s a lot to say about how we communicate with each other in today’s digital world. We wanted to make a game about the sort of isolation that people can feel when they’re treated as an outsider (like being one of the only Black girls at a private boarding school, for instance), and the type of fanaticism that results from basing your entire identity on one thing. It’s really a game about trying to reach out to people. Internet culture promotes a very intense sort of tribalism that has a tendency to force everyone into viewing the world as a flawless “us” and an irredeemable “them.” We often forget that real people are more complicated than that; sometimes, we even forget that about ourselves. So the metaphor of school clubs forced to battle each other for domination felt like it resonated really well with many modern problems. We hope our players will feel that resonance with their own experiences as they go through the game.

Wintermoor Tactics Club is available for PC on Steam! The game will be releasing on Switch, Xbox, and PS4 later this year, or you can follow them here for more updates.

#Wintermoor Tactics #Indie Game Spotlight

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440mxs-wife · 4 years ago

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Shore Leave - Part 3

(Photo courtesy of IMDb)

Pairing: Pairing: Leonard “Bones” McCoy x Lt. Maggie Parker (OFC). Other Characters: Lt. Ruthie Warner (OFC, mentioned), Eleonora McCoy (Leonard’s mother), Donna (Leonard’s sister), Ryan (OMC)

Word Count: 7100-ish (sorry)

Warnings: Fluff, fluff and more fluff. Minor run-in with an ex, but sooooo much fluff.

A/N: This is a continuation of the ongoing story between Leonard and Maggie, which started with Part 1: New Recruit and Part 2: Something More. Enjoy!

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

At first, Lt. Maggie Parker couldn't believe her good luck. The Enterprise was back on Earth in spacedock for extensive repairs and regular maintenance. This meant a two-week shore leave for all personnel. The ship's corridors were abuzz with excitement and everyone sharing their plans on how they'll be spending shore leave.

As soon as Maggie found out, she called her brothers, excited to have time to spend with them and their families. She was heartbroken to find out that they had already made plans to go on a Caribbean cruise. Their trip started the same day her shore leave started and was supposed to last for a month. Not only that, but the tickets were non-refundable. Ruthie was nowhere near Earth, still somewhere in the galaxy, on assignment on the USS Pegasus. With no one around, Maggie was left wondering how she was going to spend her shore leave.

She knew that Leonard was going home to Georgia and would be gone from the ship for all of shore leave. Their relationship was still going well, after almost two years. However, Maggie didn't know how ready either of them were for her to meet his family. She also wasn't too keen on being without his company for those two weeks.

One morning, Maggie was sitting in the mess hall having breakfast. Well, sort of. She had breakfast food on her tray, but hadn't really touched any of it except her coffee. Maggie had requested a hot vanilla latte from the replicator, but by this time, it had gone cold.

"You know, darlin', breakfast works much better if you actually ingest the food, instead of leaving it on your tray," he teased. He took the seat next to Maggie and reached for her hand, covering it with his own. "Everything all right, sweetheart?" he asked.

"Everything's fine, Len," Maggie said softly as she gave him a small smile. "I guess I'm just not that hungry right now. You can help yourself to whatever is here, though," she offered.

McCoy slipped his arm around Maggie's waist. "Are you sure? You've been a little quiet ever since shortly after shore leave was announced. I thought you'd be excited, making big plans and all," he remarked.

"Yeah, well, that was until everyone decided to ditch me and now I have no plans," Maggie retorted in a rare flash of anger. "I'll probably end up staying onboard the ship and using the time to get caught up on my reports. In fact, reports are what I really should be working on right now. Excuse me," Maggie abruptly got up and left the table.

The captain had witnessed Maggie's hasty retreat and joined the table, taking the seat she had recently vacated. "What was that all about?" Kirk wondered.

McCoy shook his head in bewilderment. "You got me, Jim. I asked her what her plans were for shore leave, and she muttered something about everyone deciding to ditch her," he replied.

"Well, I'm going home to Iowa, you're headed home to Georgia," he remarked then snapped his fingers. "You know, you should take her home with you. I mean she is your girlfriend after all. I'll bet Momma McCoy would love to meet her," Kirk suggested.

"Hey, that's a great idea. I wasn't looking forward to spending those two weeks without Maggie anyway. And I'll bet you're right, especially after everything I've told Ma about her. She probably can't wait to meet Maggie," McCoy grinned. "I'm going to go message her right now and tell her there may be one extra for Sunday dinner."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Maggie tried her best to concentrate on her reports to be turned in later to Cmdr. Spock. Unfortunately, this morning's conversation over breakfast with Dr. McCoy continued to run through her mind. I was upset, but I shouldn't have taken it out on my sweet Leonard, she thought. He was only trying to be helpful, and had no idea about my plans for shore leave falling through, Maggie inwardly groaned.

Around midday, Maggie went to the mess hall and picked out some items to take to Leonard for lunch. The MedBay was relatively quiet, not many patients for once. When Nurse Chapel saw who it was, she smiled and pointed Maggie towards Dr. McCoy's office.

Maggie nodded and tentatively knocked on the office door, hoping she wasn't disturbing her boyfriend. When she heard a soft, 'come in', she slowly opened the door and poked her head inside. Dr. McCoy was sitting in his chair, sifting through some papers on his desk.

At the sound of the door opening, he looked up and smiled broadly at seeing his girlfriend. He leaned back in his chair and folded his hands across his chest. "Well, hello there, darlin'. To what do I owe the pleasure? Is everything all right?" he asked.

"I come bearing gifts, or sort of a peace offering, if you will," Maggie replied, setting the food on Leonard's desk. She walked over to his chair, eyes cast downward.

McCoy unclasped his hands and held out his arms. As soon as Maggie got close enough, he reached for her and pulled her onto his lap. He draped one arm across her thighs and with his other hand, he guided her head to rest on his shoulder. Once she was settled, he brushed his thumb up and down Maggie's arm in a soothing motion. "Now, what seems to be the trouble, Love?" he questioned.

Maggie took a deep breath before answering. "I wanted to apologize for my outburst at breakfast. I was disappointed about my situation, but I had no right to take it out on anyone, least of all you. I'm so sorry, Len," she murmured.

"Oh, darlin'," McCoy whispered, then pressed his lips to Maggie's temple. "It's okay that you feel that way. You know you can always talk to me when that happens. So, wanna give it a try? Tell me what's going on in that pretty head of yours?" he asked.

She nodded slowly. "I....have no plans for shore leave. My brothers and their families will be on a month-long cruise in the Caribbean with non-refundable tickets. Ruthie's nowhere close to Earth, still on board the USS Pegasus. Jim's going to Iowa, Spock and Uhura have plans and you're going home to Georgia. Once I added all of that up, I felt incredibly....lonely," Maggie explained, a few tears leaving her eyes.

"Hmm. I can see why that would make you a little unhappy. I have an idea, though. What if you came home to Georgia with me?" he suggested.

Maggie sat up in surprise to look McCoy directly in the eyes. "Are you serious? Wait, I-I don't want to intrude on your time with your family, Len," she replied hesitantly.

"Sugar, you would not be an intrusion whatsoever. Frankly, I've been trying to figure out a way for you and my ma to meet each other anyway. What do you say? Will you come home with me to Georgia and meet my family?" he grinned.

A huge smile broke out over Maggie's face as she threw her arms around McCoy's neck and kissed him soundly on the lips. "I would love to come home with you, Len. I love you so much," she replied, whispering the last part.

"I love you too, darlin'. Now, what say we have some of this delicious lunch you brought, and then we can tell Ma the great news?" he asked. Maggie nodded enthusiastically and started to dish out the food she brought with her to Leonard's office.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Soon, the day arrived for everyone to start their two-week shore leave. The shuttle took Maggie and Leonard to the station on Earth. McCoy's sister, Donna, had left his truck in the parking lot. He helped Maggie get up into the truck, then stowed their bags in the truck bed.

Leonard turned the key in the truck's ignition, bringing it roaring to life. He turned to Maggie and grinned, because he couldn't wait for his mother to meet his best girl. He knew that they would get along, with his ma fussing over her, wanting to make sure she felt welcome. Maggie would be as sweet as ever, making sure his ma didn't go to any extra trouble just for her.

Leonard stretched his arm across the back of the bench seat. Maggie slid over to the middle of the bench seat and snuggled up next to him. McCoy placed a sideways kiss to Maggie's temple and curled his arm around her, keeping her close to his side. Maggie placed her right hand on Leonard's chest and gave a contented sigh.

The more miles that ticked by, drawing them ever closer, the more nervous Maggie became. What if she doesn't like me? What if she doesn't think I'm good enough for her son? These were the biggest doubts screaming through Maggie's head as she thought of meeting Mrs. McCoy.

"You know, I can hear the wheels turning in your head, Sugar. Relax, please. Just be yourself, that sweet, loving woman I know you are. Within five minutes or less of meeting you, she's going to love you as much as I do. Hell, she'll love you so much, that she'll likely end up disowning me and adopting you," he chuckled.

His remarks seemed to reassure Maggie about meeting one of the most important women in Leonard's life. Before they knew it, they had reached the McCoy family homestead. Leonard put the truck in park and turned off the engine. He exited the vehicle and walked around to the passenger side, which was closest to the house.

Maggie also descended from the truck, but after she closed the door, she leaned up against it, choosing to hang back a little. She saw a woman of medium height with short, gray hair step out onto the porch, drying her hands on a towel. Upon sight of her son, Eleonora McCoy slung the towel over her shoulder and walked towards him, arms outstretched.

"As I live and breathe. Oh, Leonard, my son, it's so good to see you," she beamed.

"Hiya, Ma. It's good to be home to see you," he replied as he closed the distance and brought his mother into his embrace.

They clung to each other for a couple of minutes, then Mrs. McCoy stepped back to peer around Leonard. "Is that her?" she whispered excitedly, a gleeful smile across her face.

He chuckled and held out his hand for Maggie to draw her closer to his side. "Yes. Momma, this is my Maggie. Lt. Maggie Parker, I'd like you to meet my ma, Eleonora McCoy," he remarked.

Maggie held out her hand, which was shaking a little from nervousness. "It's a great honor to meet you, Mrs. McCoy. I've heard a lot about you," Maggie replied.

"Oh, you dear child, come here so I can give you a proper greeting," Eleonora gently chided, holding her arms out. "And please, call me 'Eleonora', 'Momma' or just 'Ma'," she added.

Maggie looked at Leonard, who grinned and nudged her towards his mother. Eleonora wrapped her arms around Maggie and gave her a little squeeze. Maggie could feel the warmth and welcome in the gesture and a few tears leaked from her tightly closed eyes.

The tears did not escape Eleonora's notice when she pulled back. "Leonard, I'm sorry, but I think I accidentally broke your girlfriend," she chuckled nervously. "Honey, is everything all right?" she asked with concern.

"Darlin', are you okay?" McCoy inquired, rubbing circles on Maggie's back.

"I'm fine, really. It's just that--your hug was so warm, it reminded me of the ones my mom used to give me. She and my dad have both been gone for six years now. I guess I didn't realize how much I missed them until right at this moment. Thank you for making me feel so welcome," Maggie finished.

"My precious girl, you are absolutely welcome here, we're happy to have you with us. Did Leonard happen to tell you how much I've been pestering him to meet you? I would've settled for at least a video message, but I'm much happier to have you here in person," Eleonora winked. "Now, follow me, and we'll introduce you to the rest of the family. Don't worry, dear, Leonard will get the bags," she grinned.

"Already on it, Ma," he called as he hoisted the bags from the truck bed to carry them upstairs to his old room.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Once inside the kitchen, a multitude of heavenly aromas assaulted Maggie's senses. "What is that divine smell?" she asked.

"That would be my secret family recipe for Chicken and Dumplings," Eleonora answered, beaming with pride. "Now that my son is home and with his beautiful girlfriend, I have been cooking up a storm since morning," she replied.

"What can I do to help?" Maggie inquired.

"You can let Leonard take you on a tour of the house, I'll be all right in here," Eleonora tried to assure the young lieutenant.

"I'm sure we can do that later, but there has to be something I can do to help. I'm pretty good in the kitchen, always used to help my mom. Please?" Maggie practically begged.

"Well....I was going to make a peach cobbler for dessert. If you'd like, you can peel and dice the peaches, then put them in this bowl right here," Eleonora suggested. She handed Maggie a bowl, while Maggie grabbed a knife and what would be the first of many peaches.

While Maggie and Momma McCoy were busy in the kitchen, Leonard was upstairs unpacking their bags. Once he was finished, he quietly came down the back stairs that led directly to the kitchen. His curiosity was piqued when he heard Maggie and his mother mention his name. By this time, Donna had joined them, so he paused on the stairs to listen in on their conversation.

"You sure seem to know your way around a kitchen, Maggie," Eleanora remarked. "I appreciate the help."

"My pleasure, Momma," Maggie replied with a smile. Leonard grinned when he heard that. To him, it meant that Maggie was feeling more comfortable around his mother.

After a bit, Eleonora wandered over to the sink to check Maggie's progress in dicing the peaches. "Once you finish that one, I think we have enough for the cobbler," she declared.

"I can't wait to taste the 'fruits of our labor'," Maggie quipped, throwing everyone into a fit of laughter, including Leonard himself, though silently.

Eleonora then laid a hand on Maggie's arm, causing Maggie to turn and lock eyes with Momma McCoy. "You know, after Leonard's divorce from Jocelyn, he threw himself into his medical studies. After that, he just concentrated on his work on the Enterprise. I'd get messages from him where he seemed happy enough, but I wasn't convinced that it was 100%. Even though he had Jim to help him through it all, I was really worried about him." Oh, Ma, Leonard thought.

"From what he's told me, the divorce was rough on him, especially since Joanna was involved. For anyone who loves Leonard, I'm sure that it couldn't have been easy to see him go through that," Maggie murmured. How right you are, my sweet darlin', Leonard silently commented.

"But now? Since he has you in his life, I see so many changes for the better. He's relaxed, he's content and he's in love, probably for the last time in his life," Eleonora remarked. "I want to thank you for seeing past his outer armor and helping to mend his heart," she added.

"That goes double for me. Len and I may not always agree on everything, as is usually the case with brothers and sisters. But I sure am grateful that he found you, Maggie," Donna chimed in.

"I appreciate the thanks, but the truth is, we've helped each other. I had an ex named Ryan that broke my heart by cheating on me with his high school sweetheart. But then I met your extraordinary son and brother, and he showed me what real love is. So please allow me to thank YOU for raising such a kind and honorable man," Maggie concluded.

As if on cue, Momma McCoy and Donna both swooped in and captured Maggie in a group hug. Gentle tears of happiness were shed between the three women as they embraced each other. Leonard recognized this as his opportunity to come out of hiding on the stairs. "I leave Maggie alone with y'all for five minutes, and look what happens. Y'all broke her again," he smirked.

The ladies giggled and stepped apart. Leonard got a playful punch to his arm from Donna and was pulled into a one-arm side hug with Eleonora. As they returned to their previous activities, Leonard took hold of Maggie's hand, then brought her into his embrace. They closed their eyes, rocking gently back and forth, lost in the feeling of being in each other's arms.

Maggie lifted her head from where it was resting on Leonard's chest. She reached up with her right hand and cupped his face, her thumb brushing gentle strokes on his cheek. "I love you, Leonard," she whispered, her lips curved into a shy smile.

"I love you too, darlin'. So very much," he whispered back. Leonard dipped his head and captured Maggie's lips in a soft, tender kiss.

"Oh, all right now, there's enough sugar in this peach cobbler without y'all dripping honey all over everywhere," Eleonora teased. She made a shooing motion with her hands as she guided them towards the door. "Go on, Leonard, show her around the place. But don't go too far, dinner's ready in about a half hour," she warned.

"Don't mind if I do, Ma," he answered. "Shall we go for a stroll, sweetheart?" he asked, holding out his hand for her to take.

Maggie captured his hand with hers, interlacing their fingers. "Lead the way, my love," she replied.

They left the kitchen through the door that led out to the porch. As they walked, Leonard began telling Maggie about his favorite memories of growing up on the family farm. After they were a fair distance from the house, Eleonora and Donna stepped out onto the porch to observe the lovebirds.

"She's cute, I like her," Donna remarked.

Eleonora nodded. "They're good for each other, and they make each other happy," she responded.

Donna placed a hand on her mother's arm. "I'm going to go in and check the cobbler," she said.

"Thank you, hun," she replied as she watched her daughter walk back into the house. "Oh, Leonard. She's a keeper. Hold fast to this one, my son," she whispered to herself.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Dinner was a lively affair, with each of the McCoy women sharing quite a few childhood stories about Leonard. He was a fairly good sport about it, until at one point, Eleonora threatened to show Maggie his baby pictures. His protests were enough that she ultimately decided to wait, saying she'd save that for the next time they visit.

After dinner dishes were done, everyone retreated to the front porch for some relaxation. Maggie and Leonard were snuggled up together on the swing, lazily rocking back and forth. Off in the distance, the fireflies were out, like little glowing yellow embers floating in the air.

Maggie was wearing a worn-out Starfleet Medical sweatshirt that she'd once 'borrowed' from Leonard and 'forgotten' to return. He pretended to frown, saying he'd been looking for the shirt for some time, only to find that his girlfriend stole it. Then he softly whispered that while he loves seeing Maggie in his clothes, he much prefers her out of hers. A blush crept into Maggie's cheeks at his remarks, which caused Leonard to chuckle and press his lips to her temple.

"Well, lovebirds, don't stay up too late. Oh, by the way, there's a festival going on for the next few days at the fairgrounds just outside of town. If you're looking for something to do," Eleonora mentioned before going into the house.

"Been a while since I've been to one of those," Leonard remarked. "What do you say, darlin', should we check it out tomorrow night?" he asked.

"You're the expert on the local attractions, my love," Maggie replied. "However, I think it sounds like a wonderful idea."

"If it's the one I'm remembering, it should have music and dancing. Would love to get you out on the dance floor, sweetheart," Leonard murmured in Maggie's ear.

"Mmm, slow dancing with you is something I would definitely be in favor of doing," Maggie said softly. "I think I might have even packed a dancin' dress," she added.

"Did you now? Well, that settles it, we have to go. I'll pick you up at 8:00pm. I'll be the one in the white hat," he grinned.

"It's a date, Cowboy," Maggie giggled.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

The next day, Eleonora had made a list of things that she needed from in town. Some from the Farmer's Market, a stop at the hardware store and a couple of things from the pharmacy. Leonard volunteered for him and Maggie to run her errands, which also gave them time alone together.

First stop was at the hardware store, where everyone seemed to know Leonard. They all said how proud they were that he was CMO of the fleet's flagship. He thanked them all, and took the opportunity to introduce Maggie as well.

Next, it was more of the same at the pharmacy, with all the warm greetings and well-wishes. When he introduced Maggie as his girlfriend, one woman in particular, Janice Rollins, didn't seem happy to hear the news. She fawned all over Leonard, completely ignoring Maggie and the fact that she had been introduced as his current girlfriend. It was all Leonard could do to extract himself and get done what he went there to do.

After their business in the pharmacy was concluded and they were outside, Leonard explained that Janice was a former girlfriend. He assured Maggie that she had nothing to worry about. "My heart belongs to you and you alone," he remarked as they walked to the Farmer's Market.

"Leonard, I know that, I trust you. My heart belongs to you and only you," Maggie countered. "So, what does your ma have on her list from here?" she asked.

"Tomatoes, Brussels sprouts and potatoes, for starters," Leonard answered. "I'd like to get some corn on the cob, if they have it," he said.

Maggie took the map from his hands to study it, so Leonard wrapped his arms around her from behind. He looked over her shoulder, plotting the best pathway to get what they needed in the shortest amount of time.

Thirty minutes later, they had purchased everything on Momma McCoy's list, plus some additional items. Leonard bought Maggie a bouquet of fresh flowers. She in turn found a vendor with some rare vinyl of Leonard's favorite music artist. For dinner, they bought some thick, juicy hamburgers to grill from the meat locker on site. With their mission accomplished, the couple climbed into the truck and drove back.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Back at the house, Maggie helped Eleonora once again with dinner preparations. Leonard was in charge of grilling the burgers, while Maggie made potato salad from her mom's recipe. Eleonora also made some Bourbon Baked Beans and there was also leftover peach cobbler.

After dinner, it was time to get ready for the dance at the festival. Leonard showered first, then shaved his slightly scruffy face. He was wearing his dark wash jeans, his boots and a burgundy-colored button down shirt with a bolo tie. As he promised Maggie, he put on his white cowboy hat and waited at the bottom of the stairs.

Then it was Maggie's turn to get ready. After her shower, she towel-dried her hair and left it to cascade down her back in soft waves. She pinned it up on the sides with crystal-encrusted barrettes. Her makeup and jewelry were kept simple, with hoop earrings and the bare minimum on the cosmetics.

Her dress was black with cream-colored flowers sprinkled throughout the fabric. It was nearly strapless, with only thin spaghetti straps to hold it in place on her shoulders. The dress had a high-low hem, with the shorter hem in front that hit just above her knees. A pair of black suede ankle boots completed her outfit.

Just before heading down to meet Leonard, Maggie paused at the top of the stairs. She took a deep breath, then slowly descended. She could see Leonard with his back to the railing, so he hadn't seen her yet. She cleared her throat before speaking. "Right on time, cowboy," she remarked with a soft smile.

Leonard turned to watch his girlfriend make her way down the stairs. As soon as he saw her, his mouth ran dry and all coherent thought temporarily flew out the window. To him, she looked more beautiful than ever, if that were even possible. Her dress flowed elegantly with her as she walked and the hemline gave him just a quick, teasing peek at her shapely legs.

He removed his hat and held out his hand to guide her the rest of the way down the staircase. Still holding her hand as she reached the bottom of the stairs, Leonard brushed his lips across her knuckles. "Well, bless my soul, darlin', you look absolutely gorgeous this evening. Since I have the pleasure of your company, that makes me the luckiest cowboy 'round these here parts," he drawled.

Maggie ducked her head shyly to hide the color spreading across her cheeks. She stepped back a little to give him a quick curtsy. "You may not be the only lucky one. For me, I'd say you're also the handsomest cowboy I've seen in my life," she replied.

She placed her free hand on Leonard's chest and took a step forward so there was very little space between them. She stood on her tiptoes and pressed her lips to his. Leonard, however, had other ideas, leaning towards Maggie to deepen the kiss. His decision was rewarded when he heard the tiny moan of pleasure escape from her mouth, and he smiled against her lips.

"We could just stay here, you know. Continue with what we're doing now, let the night take us wherever it leads," Leonard suggested as he started to gently sway back and forth.

"Mmm, as tempting as that sounds, you promised to take me dancing, Len," Maggie pouted.

"Ah, so I did, sweetheart. Your carriage awaits, my love," he gestured towards the door with the hand still holding his hat. "Ma, we're headed out to the festival. It'll be late when we get home, so we'll see you in the morning," he called over his shoulder.

Eleonora bustled out to the living room to see the happy couple before they left for an evening of dancing. "You both look amazing! Have fun tonight. And Leonard? Stay out of trouble, hmm?" she teased.

"I make no promises, Ma, but if anyone can keep me in line, it's Maggie," he grinned and gave his mother a wink. "Goodnight, Ma," he said as he dropped a peck on her cheek before heading out the door.

"Goodnight, my son. At long last, you've found your happiness," she murmured to herself.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

At the dance, the music was lively, with a variety of genres represented. It was mostly the vintage country music playing, which was best for the two-step, the waltz and line dancing. Maggie and Leonard danced to a few of the more upbeat songs, but got out on the floor for every slow song.

After one of the waltzes, they decided to take a break and get something to drink. Leonard found them an empty table and pulled out Maggie's chair for her to sit down and rest. He took the seat next to her, then leaned over to press a lingering kiss to her lips. He asked her for her drink order, then headed for the bar.

On his way to the bar, Leonard thought about how perfect the past couple of days have been. He'd introduced Maggie to his mom and sister, who loved her right away without question. Earlier in the day, he took her out and showed her the town where he grew up. Tonight, he had the company of the prettiest woman at the dance. Lucky cowboy indeed, he thought to himself.

At the bar, he gave out their drink order. As he waited, he noticed another man sitting on a barstool, nursing a whiskey. The men locked eyes, nodded at each other in acknowledgment, then returned to their previous activities. Every once in a while, Leonard would see him cast longing glances in Maggie's direction, which brought his guard up.

He was wondering how to bring it up without having to break the man's face, when he felt a tapping on his arm to get his attention. "Hey, buddy, do you see that woman over there? The one in the black dress?" the man asked, pointing towards Maggie.

Leonard gritted his teeth and answered that yes, he saw the woman in question. "She's a pretty hot one, no doubt," the man remarked. "She looks a lot like my....my....hey, that's my ex-girlfriend, Maggie Parker. And she's sitting there all by her lonesome," he said, waggling his eyebrows. "I should go over there and say hello," the man grinned as he placed his empty glass on the bar's countertop. He got down from his barstool and started walking towards Maggie, but Leonard stopped his progress.

The man glanced down at Leonard's hand on his upper arm. "Uh, say listen, Pal, you wanna take your hand off my arm? I'm not gonna cause trouble, I just wanna let her know that Ryan says 'hello'," Ryan glared.

"I think you'd better leave the pretty lady alone, Ryan. She's told me about you, and besides, she's way out of your league," Leonard retorted.

Ryan gave Leonard the once-over, as if trying to size up his competition. "What, do you think she's more likely to be in your league, old man?" Ryan snorted.

"For your information, Maggie's in a class by herself. But what you don't know is that she chose me, so I'm tellin' ya, it's in your best interest to back off," Leonard threatened.

With a huff, Ryan resumed his perch on the barstool, muttering under his breath. By this time, the bartender had finished making the drinks that Leonard had ordered. He picked them up, one in each hand, and headed back to the table.

Once there, he set the drinks down on the table. Leonard took both of Maggie's hands in his and pulled her up from her chair so she was standing in front of him. He moved his hands up so they were cradling Maggie's face, then he leaned in and crashed his lips to hers. She responded by sliding her hands up his chest and locking her fingers behind his head.

When the kiss was finally broken, Maggie was left nearly breathless. She smiled as she brushed her fingertips across Leonard's forehead and into his hair. "Not that I'm complaining, but what was that for?" she asked.

"To thank you. For choosing me. You could have any man in the universe, yet you chose me," he answered softly.

"Leonard McCoy, you don't have to thank me. I will always choose you. Every day of the week, and twice on Sundays. I love you," she replied.

"And I love you, Maggie. You wanna get out of here?" he asked, holding out his hand.

She nodded, taking his hand in hers. Then she heard the opening bars of "Crazy" by Patsy Cline, a song which had always been among her mother's favorites. Maggie tugged on his hand to catch his attention. "Dance with me? Please?" she asked.

"Always and forever, darlin'," he responded as he led her to the dance floor. He put his hands on Maggie's hips and she put hers around his neck. Maggie rested her head on Leonard's shoulder and closed her eyes as they swayed in time with the music.

As the last notes of the song faded away, Maggie looked up into the face of the man she loved. "Shall we head back now?" she asked. Leonard nodded and kept hold of Maggie's hand, interweaving their fingers. He lifted her hand to his lips and kissed the back of it, causing her to giggle and blush.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

The rest of shore leave seemed to pass by in a blur for Leonard and Maggie. They went on picnics by the lake, some horseback riding, and more trips into town on errands for Eleonora. There were even a couple of occasions where Eleonora spent time at Donna's house. She didn't mind, saying that Leonard and Maggie should have some time to themselves at the house.

Then there were the nights spent laying on a blanket in the bed of the pickup truck, gazing up at the stars. Which may sound silly, considering that's where they spent most of their time. But, as Maggie pointed out to Leonard, the stars look different from Earth than they do in space. All he knew and could focus on was how beautiful Maggie looked by the light of the moon.

One night, they were sitting in the front porch swing, Leonard wedged into the corner and Maggie sitting between his legs. Her back was leaning against his chest, with her head rested on his shoulder. The lazy swaying of the swing would usually be enough to put her to sleep, but she was wide awake tonight.

Leonard had his left arm curled around Maggie under her chin, with his right arm draped across her midsection. Her arms matched his in position, and her hands were atop his with fingers interlaced together. Every once in a while, they would give each other a gentle squeeze, in part for affection and also for reassurance.

"Len? In case I didn't tell you, I've had such a wonderful time these past two weeks. Thank you for inviting me to come with you for shore leave," Maggie remarked.

"Oh, darlin', it's been a real treat for me too. Before I asked you, I wasn't sure how I was going to deal with being without you for two whole weeks. Thank goodness I didn't have to go through that," he chuckled, then placed a kiss to Maggie's temple.

"And your mother and sister are amazing, I already love them. I only had brothers growing up, and being around your ma helps me to miss my mom a little less. They were a good influence on you. Except where did you get your grumpiness from?" she teased.

Leonard shifted in the swing so he could look Maggie in the eyes. "It's sass, isn't it? You're sassin' me right now, aren't ya, little lady. Well, I'll fix you," he grinned mischievously just before he started tickling Maggie on her sides and under her arms. That sent her into a fit of giggles and nearly gasping for air.

"Can't....breathe!" she managed to get out.

"Say I'm not grumpy, and I'll quit," he promised but was still randomly hitting her ticklish spots.

"Okay, okay," she wheezed. "You're not grumpy. You're adorable," she replied before capturing his lips with her own. Their mouths moved together in tandem, pressing and pulling in a delicate dance. "I love you, Len," Maggie whispered when they'd finally pulled apart.

"I love you too, Sugar," Leonard whispered back.

"I want you to know something else, and I'm just going to come out and say it. Leonard, you're 'it' for me. When I see my future, you're the only one I see it with. I realize that we've both been burned before, and….and I'm not asking you for more than you're ready to give. Just know that I'm here for you and that I love you with all my heart," Maggie declared.

Leonard was silent for what felt like an agonizingly long time to Maggie, before he spoke again. "You know, after what happened with Jocelyn, I'd pretty much sworn off of women. I was afraid of making the same mistakes again if I got into a relationship. And I didn't want to put anyone else through that, let alone myself."

"Oh, Len," Maggie whispered, but then Leonard put a finger to her lips. "Hey there, shh. It's my turn now, Love," he playfully scolded. Maggie nodded and gave him a small smile.

"Then I met you, my little spitfire, and all of that changed. I'm not afraid to fall in love anymore, because I already have. Maggie, you're 'it' for me, too. I know that my future isn't complete without anyone but you in it as my leading lady. If you can be patient with me on the 'more' part, I know we'll get there eventually. I love you with all my heart, Maggie," he concluded.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

All too soon, shore leave came to an end. With heavy hearts, Leonard and Maggie packed their belongings and put their bags in the trunk of Donna's vehicle. Her car was big enough so that Eleonora could accompany them to the station. She wanted to be there to see her son and his girlfriend off before they had to catch the shuttle back to the Enterprise.

At the station, everyone hesitated for a little bit before finally climbing out of the car. Leonard retrieved their bags from the trunk and set them on the curb. He turned to his mother with his arms wide open. "Bye, Momma. It was great seeing you, and I wish we could’ve stayed longer. Thank you for having us," he murmured, holding her tightly in his embrace.

Eleonora rubbed her hands in circles on his back. "You know you're welcome at home anytime, Leonard. Just don't make it so long between visits, bring your lovely girlfriend with you, and everything will be fine," she remarked.

"I'll try and visit more often, and I'll definitely bring Maggie with me. Love you, Ma," he whispered, then gave Eleonora one last squeeze. Before he let her go, she whispered in his ear about the surprise she had tucked into his bag.

Maggie had finished saying her goodbyes to Donna, then moved to hug Eleonora. "I had a wonderful time, and I loved meeting and spending time with you all. Thank you so much for having us, and I hope we can visit again soon," she said, giving Eleonora a fond embrace.

"You take care of yourself, sweet girl, and keep watch after my Leonard. He's my son, but Lord knows that man needs someone to keep him in line," she chuckled, as did Maggie. "You come visit anytime, we'd love to have you. By the way, I slipped something into your bag. Just a small gift, from me to you. A little reminder of your trip here," Eleonora mentioned.

A soft look crossed Maggie's face as tears prickled behind her eyes. "Thank you, Momma. You know, I think you and my mom would've been good friends," she remarked as she moved in to hug Eleonora once more.

Overhead, they heard the announcement for Leonard and Maggie's shuttle flight back to the Enterprise. One last round of hugs for everyone, then the couple picked up their bags and headed for the platform.

Eleonora and Donna watched as Leonard and Maggie walked away, each with an arm slung around the other's waist. Donna moved to stand beside her mother, and sighed deeply in contentment. "They're so good together. I'm glad they found each other," Donna stated.

"Yes, I am too. Wouldn't be surprised, though, if we were to hear some news from them in the near future," Eleonora replied with a mischievous grin.

Donna looked at her mother with narrowed eyes. "You know something, don't you? What is it? Tell me!" she demanded, but Eleonora refused, just kept the grin on her face. "Fine. Don't tell me," she grumbled as they climbed back into the car and headed home.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Back in their respective quarters, Leonard and Maggie set about the task of unpacking. As Maggie separated her clean clothes from ones to be laundered, a piece of paper fluttered to the floor. She picked it up and started reading it, her hand flying to cover her mouth. She almost didn't hear the door chime, signaling a visitor. On the second chime, she murmured 'come in' and the doors slid open to reveal her boyfriend on the other side.

"Hey, darlin', whatcha got there?" Leonard asked before wrapping his arms around Maggie from behind. He peered over her shoulder to see that she was reading a recipe in his ma's handwriting for her Chicken and Dumplings. "Whoa. Where did you get this?" he whispered.

"Your ma said she slipped something in my bag, as a reminder of our trip there. I don't understand, Len," Maggie replied, a confused look on her face.

Leonard took the piece of paper and held it up to Maggie. "This....has never left my ma's kitchen, not to my knowledge...." he trailed off. He placed the paper on Maggie's desk, then taking both of her hands in each of his.

"I still don't understand, Len," Maggie stated.

"Giving you this recipe means she loves you, sweetheart. And she knows you love me, but more than that, she trusts you. I know you were worried about meeting her, if she was going to like you. Darlin', after meeting you just this once, she already considers you part of the family," he finished with a smile. Someday, I hope that we can make that a little more permanent, he said to himself, as he thought of what his ma put in his bag.

Maggie tucked the paper into a drawer with her other valuable paperwork, then wound her arms around Leonard. Her hands clasped behind his head, she gently tugged downward until her lips met his. Just before things could get too heated, she pulled back to gaze into his perfect hazel eyes. "Shall we head to the mess hall, see who's back and do some catching up?" she asked.

Leonard pressed a lingering kiss to Maggie's forehead. "Sounds good to me, Love," he replied. With their arms curled around each other, they walked down to the mess area to catch up with their friends.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Tags: @marvelouslytrekking @spacedancer1701 @anna-phora

#leonard mccoy x reader #leonard bones mccoy x reader #bones x reader #bones mccoy x reader #star trek aos

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