#mag 04

[nikkodikko]

"I had expected Gerard to leave immediately, but instead he walked over to my metal waste paper basket and placed the book inside. He reached into his jacket pocket, and pulled out a bottle of lighter fluid-

[ID: A Magnus Archives comic. Gerry's tattooed hands can be seen opening a bottle labeled as "Leitner Fluid". Then Gerry is shown in full as he pours the bottle into a trash can containing Ex Altiora. He tosses a match in, then smiles as the book is set alight. End ID]

Oh sorry Leitner fluid and a box of matches."

[thornsword]

look at me and tell me what you see

[goofymanlol2]

SIGHHHHH here’s a line up

Cough @apathetic-arsonist cough cough

[i-am-not-a-who-i-am-a-what]

i've seen plenty of people bring up grifter's bone comparisons with this episode, and i agree with them wholeheartedly, but even before that part of the letter a line popped out at me as very similar to another slaughter statement...

I watched with growing unease as shadows danced upon the walls of his thoughts, their forms and nature hidden to me, save for what I overheard him utter beneath his breath, barely perceptible to the ear. At moments, it seemed almost as if he were listening to some far away music, though my instrument lay quiet beside me.

from TMAGP 04, Taking Notes

Were I prone to flights of fancy, I daresay I would call his words portentous. When he talked like that, he had an odd habit of trailing off in the middle of the conversation with a tilt of his head, as though his attention had been taken by a far-off sound.

from MAG 007, The Piper

[annabelle--cane]

oh, had another tma conversation with my mother and she said we have a quilt that she got from the same charity shop as ex altiora was bought from in mag 04. small world innit.

[lynderman]

Accusations (Finnick Odair)

TW: Mentions of prostitution

⊱ ────── ✯ ────── ⊰

Of course being a victor wasn't easy for Finnick and you took knowledge of that. He'd started having to mentor kids for the games when they happened so he'd leave you alone at the home while he took a train to the capitol for the duration of them. And he'd always come back looking exhausted. Eyes sunken, body trembling, the lack of sleep and basic self care evident in just about every part of him. The first 2 years he mentored neither of his tributes won and that struck something in him. Late at night when he couldn't sleep, you'd ask if he wanted to talk but he wouldn't respond. Just roll onto his side and look out the window. Times like these, you'd comfort him. Running your hands through his hair and tracing shapes onto his back until you heard his soft breaths as he drifted off to sleep; his chest rising and falling instead of shaking as usual.

Although at some point in time, things changed. Finnick was getting called to the capitol more often. He'd always kiss you goodbye when you left him at the train station. When asking him why he left, he'd say: "Victors meeting with Snow. He needs input on new areas, training-" blah blah blah. Whatever. And you believed him. Of course you would. Finnick Odair in the 10+ years you've known him and the 4+ years of dating him, has never once given you any reason to doubt him. He'd never been deceitful or a liar. Quite the opposite. And you know he'd never cheat on you. Anyone from district 4 could tell how starstruck the boy was with you, the same going for your feelings about him. You often laughed with him and indulged in the treats and gifts he'd be sent from the capitol by his 'secret admirers'.

On the day of his 18th birthday, he was brought to the capitol again by Snow. But today would be different. You and his own mentor from his games, Mags, a sweet elderly lady who was sadly mute, decided to surprise him in the capitol. She had pulled some strings, telling you it was about time you got to go with him and experience their lavish lifestyle even if it was just for a day. Yet the train ride took so long, you and Mags had arrived at the station late in the evening. You both found your way to the hotel Finnick was staying at; reassuring her that you'd find her in the morning when you saw him. So you snuck into his room and took the gift you'd kept in your pocket from out and set it on his nightstand. And you waited. And waited and waited patiently for your boyfriend to come back. It seemed like an eternity. It was 2:04 A.M when you checked the clock last. Just as you were about to give up and get your own room, you heard the door click and the lock unlatch. The smile on your face was huge. Finnick had always done so much for you despite being busy and caught up with the world of being a victor and you wanted nothing more than to do the same for him!

Jumping off the bed, you came around the corner as you heard the door shut and lock from the inside. "Happy birthday Fin-" All the excitement and glee left you as you took in the sight before you. Instead of your usual prim and proper boyfriend in his suit and tie he'd wear here or nice dress shirt, he practically naked. His buttoned up shirt was wrinkled and undone. Tie was no where to be found and his hair disheveled. His chest was covered in scratches and cuts. Eyes bloodshot and lips- His lips. They had purple Stains around them. Marks and shapes of another persons lips on them. You knew wore lipstick, let alone if you did it would not be that ugly shade. Arms falling to your side, you felt your stomach drop. "Fin-"

"What the hell are you doing here?" You were taken aback by his voice. His tone was cold and demanding, even rude. Not responding due to confusion, get got closer and asked again; louder and more aggressive. "I asked you what the hell you were doing here." With a gulp you looked at his eyes which were glaring at you with furrowed brows. "Mags and I- We took a train here. We wanted to surprise you for your-" "Yeah? Well you should've asked me first." You scoffed at him. "That wouldn't make it a surprise, Finny." His head snapped back to you at your sarcastic comment. Mumbling something under his breath he bumped into you as he walked past. "I love the surprise. So good to see you here. Happy birthday Finnick! I love you so much that I came up here and crossed a huge boundary with you out of my own self interest!" He said, mimicking you in a way he'd never used before. You didn't like it at all. He was being rude and dismissive after you put in so much effort to-

"Get your stuff and go to home." You paused and glanced at him. "I'm sorry?" "Thanks for the apology. Now go home. Get your shit and leave. Train station. I'll call and make an arrangement for-" "No." That one word made him turn around to face you fully, irritation written all over his face. "What'd you say?" "I said no." You snapped back standing your ground. He came from the bed and stood in front of you. "You don't get to be a dick to me after I came all the way up here to see you on your birthday. Especially not when you come back to the hotel room looking like this." Motioning your hands up and down you referred to his state. "It's not like I asked you to come here and do that." He said back. His words stung a bit. Finnick never was rude or dismissive like he is now. Clearly he was angry but you didn't know why. "I don't know why you're mad at me. If anything I should be mad at you. For fucks' sake it looks like you just went to a strip club or something!" Pausing, you eyed him up and down. "Is that why you're mad? Because I've caught you cheating on me? The Finnick Odair is mad because he's been put in his place as a lousy, cheating, lying, pathetic excuse of a boyfriend who-"

Your words were cut short when his fist went flying past you and into the wall beside you, barely missed your face by a mere inch. There was no point in looking at the damage he caused, knowing there was a hole set in place. His body was close against yours, pure and utter rage written all over his face and radiating off of him. "I have done everything to protect you. All of it. For you." You laughed. A loud and obnoxious laugh in his face. "For me? You've been coming up to the capitol for months, no- years, just to find some other girl to fuck cause you're done with me? C'mon Finny. If you wanted to break up with me this badly you could've just told me-" "Tell you what, huh? Tell you over dinner: 'Hey sweetheart! I've been going to the capitol on orders of President Snow every weekend 'cause if I don't he's going to kill you when I'm not home.'?" Your lips thinned, eyebrow raising in confusion. "Or maybe I should've waited till date night next week. Yeah, sounds like a better option. While we're walking down the street just tell you that I come up here to do his bidding and whatever he asks of me!"

"Finn-"

"Oh, no. no. Perhaps I wait till our anniversary next month. Y'know. While we're in bed, doing the do, I lean in real close, kiss you, and tell you that I've been fucking other people in the capitol because I have to. Because to them, I'm desirable." By now Finnick had left his position of cornering you in the wall. He was pacing in circles, hands in his hair as he tugged at the golden strands. "Finnick, what're you-" Out of no where, he grabs a nearby lamp and throws it against the window, glass shattering and getting everywhere making you shout. Grabbing things left and right, he begins to toss them around, breaking everything in sight. The remotes, the tables, the glasses. Any and everything in his way is gone and destroyed with a matter of seconds. He punches the walls, he punches the mirrors to the point where glass cuts his knuckles and blood seeps out and onto the white carpet beneath his feet. And you do nothing. You stand there in complete shock. Shock of seeing your boyfriend; The sweet, loving boyfriend who breaks and tears everything apart. The same boyfriend who has never been violent outside of the 65th hunger games. The boyfriend who has never once rose his voice at you or done anything even remotely disgraceful or disrespectful towards you. His eyes lock on yours and he slowly walks over, towering over you as sweat drips down his forehead.

"How do I go about telling you, huh? HUH?!" He draws closer to you again, his words long and dragged out until the last word. That last 'huh' he shouts. At you. Directly at you; making you flinch at the volume. "HOW THE HELL DO I TELL YOU? WHAT AM I SUPPOSED TO SAY TO YOU?!" As he shouts, you see the anger leave his posture, his body, his face, all at the first tear that falls down your cheek. As much as you hate to admit it, you're scared. You've never seen Finnick act so hostile nor yell at anyone. Especially you. All of the anger is replaced by guilt and regret as he sighs. "I-I'm sorry. I'm sorry, I didn't mean to. I just-" He stops talking midway and gives a shaky exhale, a signal that he himself is holding back tears. His body slumps and he sinks to the floor out of pure exhaustion, you following suit and crawling in between his legs. His hands grip his dress pants so tightly his bloodied knuckles turn white. "Finnick.." Your hand come up to hold his cheek and for the first time in years, you see your boyfriend cry. Hot tears flow out of his eyes and flood his face as they coat your hand. His body trembles and you feel it shake against your own. Breath ragged, all he can do is let out choked and incoherent sobs. Broken sobs that make you want to cry for him.

Your heart aches as you see your once confident and put-together boyfriend break down beneath you. His cries echo throughout the room and you swear you've never felt this much pain in your life as you can do nothing more but hold him. Cradle him in your arms like a baby on the bloodied carpet as his tears stain your neck. Shushing him, you try and get his breathing back on track; and after a few minuets he isn't borderline hyperventilating anymore. When you feel his heart beat slow down you raise his head from yours and hold it in both your hands. "You don't have to tell me but at least-"

"Snow sells me for my-body." He pauses. "He has since I turned 16. That's why I come up here so often. I've b-been considered 'desirable' by the capitol citizens. The f-first time he asked I said no and he let me go home. But-" He has to pause to stop himself from choking on sobs again; contrary as your own tears began to fall at his words. "A month later he brought me back and told me if I said no again, he'd-" Another pause. Yet this time he looked at you. His sad and swollen eyes seemed to look at you with such adoration it made your hear sink more. "He'd kill you." He pulled you closer to his chest as he ran his hands up and down your arms. "And I c-can't lose you. You're the only one- The only person I-" "Finnick, stop." You couldn't bear to hear him go one. Hearing why he was here so often broke your heart. The thought of him coming up here to spare your life made you feel bad. Even worse when you'd just accused him of cheating minuets earlier. With a sigh you placed a small and gentle kiss on his lips.

"I'm sorry I accused you of cheating. I was upset and- I don't even have a reason to be upset at you, mines' stupid. But I'm sorry that you've done this for so long. You don't deserve to be treated like this, you're not their property. You deserve so much better, love." If it was possible he pulled you closer, his hands holding onto you for dear life. "No one's ever gonna touch you again, I promise. We're gonna find a way out of this. I won't let anything happen to you, ok?" He said nothing; you squeeze his hands over your hips before helping him off the floor and into the bathroom. As he sat on the toilet you poured water onto a towel and began to dab at his wounds. Leaning down ever so slightly, Finnick gives you a peck with a small smile. "I love you." He whispers. "I love you too, Finn."

[veinsfullofstars]

Give it up, Mags - it’s like asking a fish to stop swimming.

(ID: Kirby series fanart comic of Magolor and Marx having a typically heated conversation inside the Lor Starcutter. Top panel - Magolor hovers on our left, squinting in frustration with anger lines zigzagging from his head, one hand clenched in a fist at his side, the other pointing forward towards our right. He says, “Marx, if you keep making outdated meme references, I’m kicking you off my ship.” Bottom panel - Marx stands on our right, unbothered by the wizard’s threat, wearing a pair of sunglasses held in place with tape, sparkles flickering by his head. In alternating red and blue letters, he says, “That’s not very cash money of you.” END ID.)

Started 04/20/24, finished 05/13/24, updated for color correction 11/02/24.

[niightegoblingtyime]

“Elias, it doesn’t have to be like-[EXTENDED SOUNDS OF BRUTAL PIPE MURDER]”

Vs.

“Please. Please, you don’t have to do this!”

“We both know I do.”

I THINK LENA DID A [BRUTAL PIPE MURDER]

[meowmeow-motherfucker]

Covenant- Chapter 14

Summary: With the five year anniversary of the attack on New York approaching, Odin and Fury come to the agreement that an arranged marriage between Asgard and Earth would show good faith toward all future interactions. When Odin refuses Jane’s candidacy, Agent Coulson is tasked with finding a suitable wife for the prince of Asgard.

Pairing: Loki x OFC Claire Fisher

Word count: 10k (prepare drinks and snackies as always)

Chapter warnings: idiots in love being idiots, violence, discussion of women being abused and treated like property, things in Asgard are not what they seem

Taglist: @lokisgoodgirl @gigglingtiggerv2 @icytrickster17 @mysteriouslyfriedjellyfish @lokislilkitten @justjoanne242 @amlocked @ddmariegirl @mags-04-blog @sharris8 @meepycheep @iamlokisgloriouspurpose @the-fantasy-loving-angel @jaidenhawke @smolvenger @ladymischief11 @huntress-artemiss

Please let me know if you'd like to be added to the taglist! Thanks for coming along on this journey with me! Buckle up gang :D

Read it on AO3 here: https://archiveofourown.org/works/51197938/chapters/129363727

Loki stared at the note he'd received with disdain.

Come over? I need to talk to you.

His wife was persistent, he would grant her that. She’d sent him yet another missive, this one more desperate than the last. In the two weeks since they’d returned from the coast he’d seen neither hide nor tail of his wife, and instead of knowing a moment of peace like he’d hoped, he’d been kept up to date on her goings-on by his meddling mother. Not that Claire needed the help; she’d found a way to occupy his mind on her own. He glanced down at the note once more.

What drivel. Loki tossed the note into the fire and watched the flames turn her words to ash.

“Shall I tell the princess not to expect you, Your Majesty?” Astrid asked from the doorway.

“If it pleases you.” Loki replied, turning back to his work. He had a stack of reports to sift through before the next council meeting in two days and he did not have the time to coddle annoying Midgardians.

“I shall inform her on my way to collect your supper,” Astrid replied, curtsying before she left the room and made her way across the palace. “A message for Her Majesty.” She announced at the door. Before Gunnar could so much as turn to knock, Claire ripped the door open eagerly.

“I heard footsteps and-” her face fell as she realized it was Astrid at her door. “He's not coming, is he?”

“I'm afraid not, Your Majesty.” Astrid said apologetically. Claire swallowed, her eyes downcast.

“Oh. Okay. Cool. Thanks Astrid,” She said dejectedly. “Gunnar, will you send for Ragna, please?”

“Right away, Your Majesty.”

Ragna arrived less than ten minutes later to find the princess pacing angrily in front of the fireplace.

“Fucking asshole-too good to even tell me to fuck off himself-I’ll show him!” she muttered as she turned, her stormy expression brightening as she noticed Ragna. “Ragna! Hi!”

“You asked for me, Your Majesty?”

“Yes! I’ve had an idea- I wanna have a party.”

“A party?”

“Yeah! Nothing fancy, just a couple friends, lots of snacks and drinks, games...you know, fun.”

“Would this be related to His Majesty the prince rebuffing your invitation?” Claire burst out laughing, the joy a welcome change from her crushing loneliness.

“Way to read me for filth, Ragna, jesus.” she chortled. Ragna’s face transformed into a mask of horror, her eyes welling with fearful tears as her eyes cast about for a lifeline.

“Oh no-I didn’t- you’re not filth, Your Majesty I would never-!”

“Ragna, it’s okay,” Claire soothed her. “I promise. You’re right. But let’s not think about that asshat-” Ragna whimpered as she dropped her gaze to the floor. “What do you do for fun here? Anything, anything!”

“Me?”

“Yeah! Sky’s the limit.”

“I...well- I like to dance.”

“Excellent!” Claire cried excitedly. “How about I teach you some Midgardian dancing?”

“I am invited?” Ragna asked in surprise.

“Of course; you’re my closest friend in this place.” Claire laughed. “C’mon, it’ll be fun.”

“Well…” Ragna worried her lower lip between her teeth before a sheepish smile stole across her delicate features. “If you insist.”

~~~~

In Loki’s office, silence reigned apart from the scratching of Loki’s quill. Intently focused, Loki wrote diligently until the sound of the heavy doors to his chambers opening announced Astrid’s return. A few moments later, her footsteps arrived in the doorway to his office.

“Supper is on the table, Your Majesty.” she announced, curtsying when he glanced up at her.

“Thank you,” Loki murmured as he finished writing his sentence. “Something else you’d like to say?”

“Just that Her Majesty seemed rather disappointed,” Astrid replied, eyes darting up to meet Loki’s. “Perhaps His Majesty was too hasty in his decision?”

“No,” Loki shook his head. “She is playing a game, nothing more.”

“As His Majesty wishes,” Astrid deflected, dropping her gaze to the floor. She looked up at Loki sharply with a short huff. “You didn’t see her face. Her disappointment was genuine.”

“Her Majesty is a self-described excellent actress; of course it seemed genuine,” Loki said dismissively. He strode past Astrid, leaving the office in favor of sitting to eat his supper. “You may go.”

“I suppose even princes can be wrong,” Astrid curtsied, ignoring Loki’s icy glare as she walked toward the door. “Good night, Your Majesty.” Loki huffed as the door closed behind her, the vein in his temple pulsing as he flexed his jaw angrily.

~~~~

Claire glanced around the room with satisfaction, a feeling resembling happiness welling in her chest. She’d had an extra lounge brought in for additional seating, and plush cushions to allow for more seating around the room if desired. The low table in the middle of the room was adorned with a small selection of games and Claire’s portable speaker- ready to be pushed to the side to create an intimate dance floor when they were ready. The desk, freshly burdened with an array of delicious looking snacks, gleamed in the candlelight from the tall candlesticks standing sentry behind the heaping platters of food. A sweating pitcher of delicate glass stood alone on the desk corner, the sweet red wine inside coloring the translucent glass a ruddy brown. Freshly cut flowers dotted the room with color, their sweet scent filling the air.

It was nowhere near what Claire would have done back home, but it was nice. She wasn’t sure how many ladies were going to show up, but she was determined to enjoy tonight regardless. She looked down, hands smoothing her soft cotton tee. The shirt was a favorite, the S.H.I.E.L.D. logo emblazoned on the chest long since faded and balding in patches. A black halter top sat snug against her skin underneath, tucked inside a pair of black leggings.

So definitely not princess levels of sophistication, but it was comfortable and something she would wear to a party back home. Claire wanted to feel normal tonight, and anyone who took issue with it could kick rocks.

Gunnar’s soft knock announced the first guests arrival, the golden doors swinging inward to let whoever it was inside.

To Claire’s surprise, it was all of her ladies. They’d changed their clothes- their servants uniforms long gone and replaced with comfortable looking tunics and loose bottoms resembling yoga pants. All seemed apprehensive, uncomfortable outside of their uniforms perhaps, but stepped inside when Claire welcomed them.

“Please, help yourself to snacks and wine,” Claire said, taking the time to greet each woman personally as they passed. “I know tonight is a little different than what we’ve been doing, but I really do hope you all enjoy yourselves and that we can have a good time together.”

“It looks lovely, Your Majesty,” Kari praised, squeezing Claire’s hand when the princess clasped them together. “Whoever helped you did a lovely job.”

“Oh I did it,” Claire said. “The spare lounge and cushions were delivered, as were the flowers and the snacks, but I arranged it,” she explained. “It’s not quite like home, but it’s nice.”

“I’m most excited for my first Midgardian style party.” Kari said eagerly before moving on to the snacks. Another knock on the door announced another wave of guests, and Claire was excited to see another cluster of serving women. She welcomed them all and urged them to help themselves to snacks. The women seemed somewhat hesitant, but fell into rank behind Claire’s ladies at the snack table. Gunnar knocked yet again, and Clairelooked over to see far more of the ladies of the court than expected standing at the threshold.

“Ladies! Welcome!” she crowed, a genuine smile lighting up her face as they crossed the threshold. “I wasn’t expecting so many of you!” The serving ladies at the table had all paused, their training forcing them to abstain from selecting snacks before the noblewomen.

“One does not simply ignore an invitation to a Midgardian style party,” one lady piped up, stepping through the group eagerly. Claire did not recognize her right away- she’d not seen many women with red hair in Asgard. “I deeply appreciate the invitation, Your Majesty. One doesn’t often get party invitations from a stranger. I am Lady Ingrid, from the northern province.”

“Pleasure to meet you,” Claire stuck out her hand on instinct, smiling when Lady Ingrid shook her hand. She was dressed in a deep blue dress, not overtly fancy, but classy and understated. Her deep red hair was pinned in plaits at the back of her head, but otherwise floated loosely about in a cascade of fire. “I was right then; we haven’t met before.”

“Not until this moment,” Lady Ingrid laughed warmly. “My husband, Lord Bjorn, and I arrived just earlier today to announce the impending arrival of our firstborn.” Claire’s eyes were drawn to the small but noticeable bump on Ingrid’s lower belly.

“Congratulations!”

“Thank you!” Ingrid beamed. “We are most excited. My husband wants a boy, of course, but I am so hoping for a little girl,” she swooned, her hair floating gracefully around her shoulders. “I am also most excited for tonight’s party, and a chance to become friends with Asgard’s first princess in an age.”

“Oh, please,” Claire cringed. “No titles tonight- just fun. I desperately need friends,” she stage whispered to Ingrid, who smiled brightly. Ingrid squeezed her hands, and left to join the other ladies at the snack table so she could greet the other ladies. Claire overheard her encouraging them to grab what they wanted- they were there first, after all. Claire turned to face the waiting highborn ladies, clapping her hands together. “That applies to everyone. There are no ranks or titles tonight, simply a group of women enjoying good food and good conversation. In this room, we are all equals and we will treat each other as such. If this bothers anyone, you are free to leave.”

Claire wasn’t sure if it was curiosity, or actual acceptance of what she offered, but no one left. The highborn ladies greeted her one by one, thankfully reminding Claire of their names. The seats on the lounges began to fill up, and cushions were put on the floor to give more seating. It was kind of amusing to see the highborn ladies sitting on cushions on the floor while serving ladies sat on the lounges, but Claire kept that to herself. Grabbing her own plate of snacks and a goblet of wine, Claire found a perch on a comfy cushion on the floor by the games.

“So what does one do at a Midgardian party?” Lady Ingrid asked, breaking the ice.

“I have an assortment of games we can play as a group. This one asks a question and everyone answers. I thought we could start with this one, and get familiar with each other. I have other games that smaller groups can play too.”

“Yes! Ask away!” Kari said eagerly, practically bouncing in her seat. Ragna cast her a dubious glance, her more reserved nature making her feel embarrassed to be near the center of attention. Claire opened the small box and flipped over the first card inside.

“Who is your celebrity crush?” she asked the group.

“PRINCE THOR!” Kari shouted, her eager response earning a chorus of shrieking laughter. More names were called, names that Claire didn’t recognize. Someone shouted the Gothi, which made Claire chortle to think about the Asgardian flavor of a priest kink.

“I think Hogun is very handsome.” Lady Agatha announced demurely. She was seated very primly, thin fingers holding her goblet delicately. Her blonde hair shone in the candlelight, giving her an ethereal glow.

“I think so too.” Claire agreed. “Especially when he puts his hair up in a bun-” she sighed wistfully. “He’s adorable.”

“Your Majesty-” Ingrid clucked from Claire’s left, shooting her playful side eye as she sipped from her goblet. “Lusting after a man who is not your husband?” she teased.

“Oh please, like I’m the only woman who’s ever done that,” Claire chortled. “I’m not saying I want to sleep with him, I just think he’s easy on the eyes. Agatha, want me to introduce you?” she offered the blonde, waggling her eyebrows suggestively. Agatha’s cheeks blazed pink with embarrassment as she shook her head.

“At least Hogun has a sense of honor, and dignity,” Holga offered from her seat. “Unlike a certain member of the warriors three.” she mumbled into her goblet.

“Oh Norns above, yes,” clucked an older serving woman. “That Fandral has not a lick of decency- he spends far too much time thinking with the head below his belt if you know what I mean.”

“Which by all accounts is not that impressive.” Ragna offered scathingly.

“It isn’t.” Kari confirmed quietly.

“Neither are!” the women erupted into laughter once more at Fandral’s expense.

“I feel pity for whoever’s had the misfortune of being under that lout,” the older serving woman sighed. “Prince Loki however…” she grinned at Claire conspiratorily. “Stories abound about that one.”

“Oh no,” Claire shook her head, already sensing where the conversation was headed. “No no no, I am not discussing-”

“Oooh, but whatever happened?!” Agatha asked. “You were both so enamored with each other!”

“Like smitten younglings!” Ingrid cackled beside Claire, giggling like an unrepentant toddler when Claire glared at her.

“How would you even know?!” Claire squawked.

“Palace gossip, of course,” Ingrid winked. “Sooo...what happened?”

“It doesn’t matter,” Claire insisted. “I mean yes, things used to be different, and now they are the way they are now,” she said somberly, shaking her head to clear her darkening thoughts. “Anyway, who’s ready for some music?” An excited air filled the room as Claire turned on her portable speaker. A chorus of eager chatter was drowned out by the table scraping as it was moved aside to clear space for the women to dance.

~~~~

Loki stabbed at his meal with defeat. The half-eaten venison inched across the charger, metal tines squeaking. The offensive sound made Loki grumble with anger, discontent bubbling in his belly the longer he sulked. Astrid’s words ate at him, turning his voracious appetite into acid.

Was he being too harsh?

Perhaps Astrid was right. He should at least check on his wife. Chair scraping against the floor, Loki abandoned his dinner and made his way across the palace.

Instead of a morose wife, Loki turned down her hallway to hear the echoes of music and merrymaking. The tune was an unfamiliar one, with a low beat and frenetic pace.

As he came to a stop outside the door, he heard the unmistakable sound of his wife laughing.

“Who needs husbands?!” she shouted gleefully, a cacophony of feminine laughter joining hers.

Disappointed, indeed.

“Shall I announce you, Your Majesty?” Gunnar asked tentatively.

“Absolutely not. I’ve heard enough.” Loki made a swift departure, his stomach sinking with each step he took.

~~~~

The party finally died down well past the midnight hour. The snacks were all eaten, the drinks all consumed. The women had danced until their feet ached, and laughed until their faces hurt. It was a very welcome change, in Claire’s opinion, as her herd of new friends said their goodbyes. As she waved the last guests off, Claire breathed a sigh of relief as Gunnar closed the door. Only she and Ragna remained, and Claire was ready to collapse.

“Is there anything else I can assist you with, Your Highness?” Ragna asked politely. Claire looked up to see the servant standing by the door, waiting to be dismissed. Though she did her best to appear calm, Claire could see that something was bothering her. Ragna was acting strange tonight, and Claire could tell she was unsettled about something. It was later than Claire would usually dismiss her, maybe that was it? Claire had had the feeling in the weeks since Kari’s murder, if she was honest. Whatever it was, Claire hoped Ragna took her up on her offer.

“Um…” Claire looked about the room, trying to think if she needed anything else. She had the feeling that Ragna didn’t really want to leave, but could think of nothing to ask for. Ragna had already cleaned her chambers top to bottom so well that they were practically sparkling. “I think I’m all settled for the evening, Ragna. Thank you.”

“As you wish, ma’am.” Ragna curtsied, obediently turning to leave her chambers even though she felt numb inside.

“Actually- Ragna?” Claire called after the woman.

“Yes ma’am?”

“Would you like to stay for a bit?” Claire asked. “Maybe hang out?”

“Hang out?” Ragna gave a soft laugh of disbelief, blocking the doorway as she stared at Claire in open confusion.

“You work really hard and I thought you might like to stick around and enjoy yourself for a little while.” Claire had been trying (and failing) to convince Ragna to tell her who’d been abusing her. Her bruises had long since faded, but Claire remembered them vividly, and she had no doubt Ragna did too.

“Enjoy myself?” Ragna murmured the words as if they were a revelation.

“You know, relax,” Claire said. “I’m sorry if I’m overstepping, it’s just that…you never seem to want to go wherever it is you go when you leave me for the night.”

“I sincerely apologize, Your Majesty,” Ragna gave a deep sweeping curtsy. “I never meant to impose upon you.”

“No, no, it’s fine; I’m just trying to make sure you’re okay. I know someone is abusing you. Whoever it is, I want to help.”

Ragna was panicked. She desperately wished to stay with the princess, but she’d said she didn’t need anything else, and she wasn’t supposed to linger. She was supposed to do whatever was asked of her and leave.

“Is there anything else you require?” she asked meekly. Please. Ragna begged silently. Please need something.

“Oh, um...I was just offering. I don’t need anything, but you’re welcome to stay as long as you like, that’s all.”

“I couldn’t, Your Majesty, I- I have to rise early to prepare your breakfast and-”

“Okay, that’s fine. Really, it’s okay,” Claire said soothingly, offering the nervous woman a smile. “I truly was just offering. Enjoy the rest of your night; I’ll see you tomorrow.”

No! Ragna screamed internally. She didn’t want to leave. But she had to. Her master was waiting.

“Ragna?” Claire’s voice broke Ragna out of her thoughts. “Are you okay?” Ragna nodded shakily. “You know you can talk to me right?”

Could she? Could the princess actually help her? As long as her needs were met, would she even care what odious things happened to her? No one had ever cared.

“I am fine,” Ragna lied, every word tasting bitter and wrong. “If you’ve no further need of me, I shall retire.”

“Okay then. Good night.” Claire smiled again, not a trace of ire on her face. Perhaps Ragna could trust her after all. But not yet. Not until she was sure.

“Good night, Your Majesty.” Ragna left, hating her cowardly behavior more and more with each step.

Claire let her go, even though every instinct in her told her not to. She couldn’t force Ragna to talk to her; it had to be her choice. But if she let Ragna leave, she could be hurt again.

Claire jumped up from the lounge and flung open the door, catching Gunnar by surprise.

“RAGNA!” Claire shouted down the empty hallway, eyes scanning for her friend. There wasn’t a soul in sight except for Gunnar. She was about to have Gunnar send for Ragna when she heard footsteps racing back toward her door. Ragna appeared from inside a hidden door along the hallway, looking flustered and (dare Claire hope) relieved.

“Your Majesty,” Ragna greeted her, her curtsy seamless as she came to a stop in front of Claire’s doorway. “You called?”

“Yes, I…” Claire trailed off. “Did you come out of a secret passage?”

“It is not secret, simply used only by staff,” Ragna replied perfunctorily. “Did you have need of me?”

“Yes.”

“Forgive me, I...thought you dismissed me for the evening.” Ragna looked at Claire questioningly.

“Yes, well...I changed my mind,” Ragna’s expression brightened, and her lips curled into a smile. “Come in.”

“What can I do for you?” Ragna asked.

“Absolutely nothing,” Claire replied. “You work too hard. I insist you take some time and relax.”

“I can relax in my own chambers-”

“Are you sure about that?” Claire offered. “Because that’s not the vibe I’m getting. Look-” she held up her hands to stay Ragna when the other woman looked ready to bolt. “If you don’t want to talk, that’s okay. I just want to make sure you know I am a safe person to talk to.”

“If it pleases you.” Ragna said softly as she bowed her head.

“It pleases me to know you are safe, that you feel safe,” Claire insisted. “I’d like you to stay here tonight.”

“What?!”

“I’m sure you have a long walk back, right?” Ragna said nothing. “C’mon, I’m dead on my feet and so are you.”

“I couldn’t-”

“Yes you can. The bed is huge and it’ll be easier on your back than the lounge,” Ragna shuffled after Claire without further protest, her silence testament to her exhaustion. Claire stepped behind the teak partition, stripping off her clothes and stepping into her waiting pajamas. “Do you want some pajamas to sleep in?” she asked, but Ragna didn’t answer. Claire peeked around the partition to see Ragna sprawled face down across one side of the bed. She hadn’t even bothered to get under the covers. Claire snorted quietly, padding across the floor to drop her weary frame into the bed beside her friend.

“Sorry I laid down first,” Ragna murmured. “I could barely stand.”

“It’s okay,” Claire replied. “Did you have a good time tonight?” she asked softly.

“This was the best day...I have had in many years,” Ragna smiled, the slow curl of her lips lighting up her face despite the tired slant of her eyes. “Thank you.”

“I’m glad you had fun,” Claire sighed as she turned onto her back. “You deserve it,” Ragna gave a soft noise of assent, and Claire grinned as she glanced over at her friend. It was far later than Claire usually released Ragna for the night, and her pleasant face was usually scrunched with anxiety by now. It was a nice change to see her happy and relaxed. “Ragna, you know you can tell me what’s going on, right?” Ragna looked at her like a deer in headlights for a moment, seeming to come to her senses as her eyes darted away.

“I cannot.” she said, her voice tight. Claire turned on her side to face Ragna.

“Whatever it is, I’ll do anything I can to protect you.” Ragna sniffled as tears welled in her eyes, and she avoided Claire’s eyes as she used the pillow to wipe her face.

“You will think less of me.” she murmured, her voice soft and warbled as she fought not to cry.

“I promise you, I won’t,” Claire swore. “You are my friend, and I want to help you. There is nothing you can say that will change that.”

“I...I can’t,” Ragna cried. “You don’t understand, I...I cannot...I have no rights. I am nothing.”

“You are not nothing,” Claire said vehemently. “You are a living, breathing person, and you have rights. You are kind, and funny and good, and you have value just because you exist.”

“Your Majesty-”

“Claire,” the soft-spoken word corrected Ragna gently. “When it’s just us, you can call me by name. You’re my closest friend, Ragna.”

“Perhaps you need better friends.”

“Please, I’d be lost without you,” Claire snorted, rolling onto her back. “I meant what I said Ragna. It doesn’t make any difference to me what it is.”

“Why are you so desperate to help me?!” Ragna hissed, her anger finally boiling over. “Why do you need to know?! Just...enjoy your privilege and leave me be.”

“Because I can tell that something is wrong and you’re lying through your teeth about it!” Claire snapped back. “Whoever it is, whatever it is, stop deflecting and just tell me!”

“No!”

“Why not?!”

“Because what if you can’t help? What if I let myself hope, and nothing changes?” Ragna asked shakily.

“Ragna…” Claire reached out to grab her friends hand in the dark. “I can’t help unless I know what the problem is.”

“Please don’t be angry with me, I- I could not bear it,” Ragna pleaded, squeezing Claire’s hand like a sailor lost at sea clutches a life raft. “I want to tell you, I do, but I simply cannot.”

“Whoever is doing this conditioned you to think no one will help.” Claire realized.

“No one does,” Ragna said bitterly. “Instead of helping, they are like bilgeshnipe, taking and taking until there is nothing left.”

“I’m not like them, Ragna, please-”

“You are not-” Ragna began to sob. “You are the only person who is kind to me, I would never-”

“Come here, honey,” Claire got up from the bed, offering Ragna a hand up in the dark. “It’s okay, come on,” she steered Ragna into the large bathroom, helping her sit at the edge of the tub. Claire started running the water, making it warm enough to soothe their feet. As the tub filled, Ragna continued to cry, her pitiful cries muffled somewhat by the running water. Once she was satisfied, Claire shut off the water before sitting on the ledge beside Ragna. “Are you okay?” Ragna nodded weakly.

“Why are we sitting in the bath?” she asked softly. Claire smiled kindly.

“My mom used to do this for me when I was upset. Something about it is just soothing, and you clearly need it.”

“Thank you.” Ragna allowed herself to be hugged, her tired frame sagging against Claire’s.

“You’re welcome,” Claire took Ragna’s weight, letting her friend cry as she finger brushed her hair. “I’m not going to push you to talk anymore. Just know I’m here when you’re ready.”

“I don’t like keeping secrets,” Ragna said piteously against Claire’s shoulder, fresh tears falling as she squeezed her eyes shut. “I want to, but I’m afraid.” Claire rubbed her back soothingly, wishing she could choke the life out of whoever hurt Ragna.

“When you’re ready to talk, I will listen,” she promised. “I would like for us to agree to always be honest with each other. To be true friends. I realize there is a power imbalance at play and if you don’t feel comfortable, I understand, but I want you to always feel safe and welcome with me. You have been kind and helpful ever since I arrived and I would like to repay that as best I can.”

“It is my job, Your Majesty.”

“I know, but I think we’ve become closer than our respective titles, don’t you agree?” Claire asked. Ragna nodded, a sheepish smile gracing her delicate features. “You’re not a servant to me, Ragna. You’re my friend. And friends call each other out, like you did earlier.”

“When you said I read you for filth?” Ragna asked, pulling back to look at Claire with confusion. “I don’t even know what that means. Are you...upset?” she cringed.

“To read someone for filth just means that you’re being brutally honest with them. I was upset about Loki and you saw right through me,” Claire laughed. “I’m not mad at all. I’m honestly glad someone saw what I was going through. I need that, because I have a terrible habit of ignoring my feelings and it helps to have a friend remind me when I’m being a dumb ass.”

“I am still your servant, Your-” Ragna stopped herself. “Ma’am.”

“Claire,” Claire nodded suggestively when Ragna looked at her with wide eyes. “It’s okay, you can call me by name.”

“I couldn’t.”

“You have my permission,” Claire promised. “Not that you need it, but it’s there.”

“I remember, from your lessons earlier tonight. You are giving me consent.”

“Exactly. I know you won’t always be able to because of rules, but I want you to feel free to call me by name when it’s just us.”

“Free,” Ragna said wistfully, kicking her feet in the warm water. “I haven’t been free in...I’ve lost track of the years. Decades, perhaps?”

“Decades?” Claire ogled the young woman beside her. “But...you look so young.”

“Bless you,” Ragna smiled. “My people have long lifespans. Not as long as the Aesir, of course, but longer than your people. I am not quite middle-aged, but I shall be soon.”

“Can I ask- what does middle-aged mean for your people?”

“I am just under two hundred years. My people tend to live close to five.”

“Wow,” Claire gasped. “That’s amazing. And you’ve been in Asgard for- you said decades?”

“Yes,” Ragna said sadly. “I have forgotten precisely when my master brought me here. I imagine it is written within the records.”

“What records?” Claire asked.

“My master was required by law to declare what property he brought back from the war,” Ragna explained softly. “All of the soldiers are required to do so.”

“All of them?” Claire felt like the air had been punched from her lungs. Military service was mandatory- Loki had said every man served at his majority. Faces flashed behind Claire’s eyes- Fandral, Hogun, Volstagg, Thor, Loki-

“More do than don’t.” Ragna said softly.

“And- what does that even mean- they can’t just take people-”

“But they can,” Ragna replied brokenly. “They can and they do.”

“And what- they just force you to work in their houses or palaces like-” Claire stopped, horrified eyes darting to Ragna’s face. “Like slaves,” Ragna’s gaze dropped in shame. “No...” Tears clouded Claire’s vision as the rug was swept out from under her. It all made perfect sense now- the extravagance, the finery- all of it was to cover the massive pile of shit they’d carved their home out of. And she’d walked right in. “Oh god, I think I’m gonna be sick-”

“I thought you knew.”

“No,” Claire lamented. “Ragna, I swear I didn’t know. I thought- I don’t know what I thought. I assumed you were getting paid.”

“Paid?!” Ragna laughed. “What use does a slave have for wages?”

“I’m so sorry,” Claire sobbed. “I didn’t know. I didn’t know! This is fucked up! How can I fix it? Tell me what to do and I’ll do it.”

“I appreciate the offer, but it is such a widespread problem...I do not know that it can be fixed.”

“How do I help you then?” Claire asked. “Please. Let me help.”

“You...truly wish to help me?” Ragna asked hesitantly.

“Absolutely. What can I do? I’m stuck in this miserable place; let me use my position for something good.”

“I am afraid,” Ragna admitted tearfully. “My master...he is a powerful man, and I fear that no matter what you do-” she sobbed. “It will not be enough. I hate him so much.”

“Is he cruel to you?”

“Always. He-” Ragna burst into fresh tears, dropping her face into her hands. “I cannot speak of it- you shall hate me. I hate myself! I-”

“Ragna, listen to me,” Claire said gently, pulling the weeping woman into her arms. “Remember what I said- there is nothing you can say that would make me hate you. You’ve done nothing wrong. Please let me help you.”

“My master-” Ragna sniffled. “You already know him.” Dread settled in Claire’s stomach like a stone.

“Who is it?” she asked quietly. “Please tell me it’s not-”

“I cannot say, I...you don’t know what he is capable of,” Ragna’s chin quivered as fingers blotted the corners of her eyes. “I’ve given up all hope of escaping him. Sometimes it feels like the only escape will be death.”

“I can teach you how to defend yourself, but let’s focus on getting you safe. What do you need?”

“I’m so sorry. You’ve been nothing but kind to me.”

“That’s not going to change, I promise. I’m gonna do everything in my power to get you away from him.”

“But how?” Ragna hiccupped. “I belong to him.”

“You belong to no one but yourself,” Claire replied sincerely, clasping Ragna’s trembling hands in her own. “I swear to you, on my life, Ragna. He will never touch you again.” Ragna burst into fresh tears, collapsing into Claire’s chest and allowing herself to be cradled. Claire rubbed her back soothingly, letting her cry herself out. Inside, she burned with rage and resolve. Tears streamed down her face as she glared up at the golden ceiling. She didn’t know how she would fix this. She and Ragna were two birds trapped in a gilded cage, relentlessly poked with sticks by shady masters, but she’d be damned before anyone ever put their slimy hands on her friend again.

~~~~

Claire waited until Ragna’s breathing evened out before she tiptoed out of her bedroom. In the near darkness of the dying fire, she penned a short note and handed it off to Gunnar to be delivered.

“This goes directly to the prince royal- no one else is to look at it.” she commanded.

“Right away, Your Majesty.” Gunnar said as he accepted the note. Claire breathed a sigh of relief as she stepped back inside to go to bed. She’d sent her plea for help. All she could do now was hope Loki would answer it.

~~~~

At this time of night, very few people were awake. Gunnar was able to find a page wandering by and command the boy to deliver the message. From there, the note was brought to Loki’s chambers by the page and handed to the guard at the door. The guard, much older and wiser than the boy, leveled a deadened stare at the nervous boy.

“Please,” the page murmured. “Her Majesty’s guard said it was urgent.” The guard heaved a sigh, knowing full well the tongue lashing he was about to get. His meaty fist banged upon the gilt door, causing an almighty noise. From within the chambers, the prince’s thundering steps approached, growing louder and louder until the door opened and his murderous face came into view.

“ARE YOU MAD?!” he shouted. “What could possibly be so important in the dead of night?!”

“My deepest apologies, Your Majesty,” the guard said, holding out the folded note to Loki. “You received an urgent message from Her Majesty the princess royal.”

“Oh for Bor’s sake,” Loki growled. “It’s not enough that she must plague my waking hours; now she must plague the night as well?” He ripped the parchment open, brows furrowed deeply as he read the scrawled words. “What am I meant to do with this?”

“I-I-do-don’t know-”

“Speak up, boy.” Loki snapped.

“I don’t know, sire! Her Majesty directed it be brought straight to you; that is all I know!” Loki ticked an angry brow at the frightened boy before crumpling the missive into a ball.

“Well, all I know is that I am going back to bed. Her Majesty is a grown woman and is perfectly capable of handling her ‘urgent matter’ on her own.” A glimmer of green slammed the gilt door, making the page flinch.

“I did warn you.” The page collected the discarded parchment from where Loki had thrown it and returned to his duties.

The next day

When Kari and the other ladies arrived in the morning, Claire and Ragna were still fast asleep.

“My lady!” Kari’s harsh whisper brought Claire out of her slumber, her mumbled “Whua?” lost in the harried murmurs of her ladies. Surrounded by a gaggle of women and their owl-eyed expressions, Claire could only think of one question.

“Whattimeisit?”

“It’s past breakfast, my lady. I’ve brought you a tray since...well, since none of us had seen Ragna.”

“Thank you.”

“Is...is everything alright?” Kari asked, eyes darting to Ragna’s sleeping form.

“Everything is fine. Ragna was exhausted and I offered her a place to sleep, that’s all,” Claire rubbed the sleep from her eyes as she sat up. “She’s not in trouble, is she?”

“Her absence has been noted,” Holga said solemnly. “But if she has been with you, all is forgiven.”

“Great! Hey, since we’re all here- I want to talk all of you. Let’s go in the other room so Ragna can sleep.”

“Is something wrong?” Koza asked as Claire padded into the sitting room.

“I was hoping you could tell me,” Fingers raked through Claire’s hair as she sat cross-legged on the lounge. “I know we had a good time goofing off last night and telling jokes about Fandral and all that. But I want to make sure that you’re all safe.”

“Of course we are safe,” Kari scoffed. “This is Asgard, not Muspelheim.”

“All the same,” Claire insisted. “It’s important to me that no one is taking advantage of you, especially Fandral or anyone like him.”

“Fandral is a rake, everyone knows this,” Holga said. “But he is not a predator.”

“But like it or not, he does rate higher on the social ladder than each of you,” Claire argued. “And that means the playing field is uneven. So, just to be sure, he’s never pressured you into doing something you didn’t want to do?” The three women shook their heads. “He never made you feel like you couldn’t say no, or that something bad might happen to you if you did?”

“Men always make passes at pretty women; it has been that way since the dawn of time, Your Majesty,” Holga looked annoyed by Claire’s questions as she crossed her arms over her chest. “If they offer and we are not interested, that is the end of it. We are free to lie or not lie with whom we choose. Besides, there are always the pleasure houses!”

“Pleasure houses?” Claire balked. “I guess I shouldn’t be surprised; brothels exist all over Earth too.”

“The pleasure houses of Asgard are quite popular, as they house people from across the realms.”

“Oh?” Claire glanced up skeptically. “People travel to Asgard to work in the pleasure houses?” She shouldn’t judge; people did the same thing on Earth. It just seemed at odds with the purity culture Asgard seemed to cultivate.

“I suppose some might,” Holga replied. “But more likely they were brought here as trophies of war and their masters sold them off.”

“WHAT?!”

“It is perfectly legal.” Holga’s defensive shrug made Claire’s blood boil. How could she be so blasé?

“It’s disgusting,” Claire spat. “And you should be upset about it.”

“What is the point in my being upset, Your Majesty? Who would care for the opinion of one such as myself?”

“I care, and so should you,” Claire sank onto the lounge with an angry huff. “What do you know about them?”

“Not much, beyond the fact that being sold to one is a fate worse than death.”

“I can imagine. So you’re telling me that men who go into conflict have the right to bring back whatever or whoever they want?”

“Yes, Your Majesty.”

“And they have the right to do whatever they want with their...stolen property?” Claire asked. “I’m only asking for clarification. I in no way think of people as property.”

“Yes, Your Majesty. But every action must be documented,” Kari explained. “If a man chooses for example to bring home a woman-” a collective cringe colored the women’s faces. “He is entitled to keep her or sell her, but whichever he chooses must be documented so that proper taxes can be collected.”

“So if he keeps her, he pays the taxes, but if he sells her-”

“Whoever purchases her pays, Your Majesty.”

“And there’s no restrictions on this?” Claire asked.

“None. A man is entitled to claim what he wants after battle.” Koza said quietly.

“It is how Ragna came to be here.” Kari muttered. Holga gave her a shove, clicking her tongue in anger.

“It is not our place-”

“It’s okay, I already know,” Claire held up her hand to stop the women from fighting. “Ragna told me herself. What I would like to know, if you’re comfortable telling me, is how each of you came to work in the palace.”

~~~~

Later in the afternoon, with fury still boiling in her veins, Claire took to the training field. Thankfully, Sif was there and the two were able to train together.

“Can I ask you a question?” Claire asked as they took a water break. The afternoon sun was unrelenting, scorching everything in its path, and Claire’s lungs felt like she’d swallowed fire. The soreness in her hands and ache in her bones felt good after such a long period of inactivity.

“Of course. Does something trouble you?”

“Yes, actually. What do you know about this trophy business?” Sif lowered her tankard, her brows high with surprise.

“Who told you about this?” she asked. “It is ugly business, and not something anyone with honor would take part in.”

“It turns out that several of my staff are victims of it,” Claire said darkly. “I want to help them, but I don’t know how.”

“I’m sorry to say that you likely cannot,” Sif replied. “The staff in the palace belongs to the crown.”

“To Odin.”

“Yes,” Sif nodded. “Take heart, Your Majesty. The crown does not actively abuse its staff; they are vital in order for it to survive.”

“I don’t care how nice they are- they could just as easily hire staff, instead of stealing them,” Claire hissed. “I’m sure the soldiers who brought them to Asgard got nice bonuses?”

“They were paid handsomely, if that is what you mean.”

“And where would I find records of this?” Sif’s brows furrowed, her jaw tightened as she shook her head.

“Your Majesty-”

“Don’t tell me not to look into this Sif. I need to know. Where?” Sif sighed quietly as she relented.

“Property records are kept in the library,” she said softly. “Just...I am very old, Claire. This practice has been going on since well before my birth. It is very upsetting.”

“Yes, it is,” Claire stilled, frowning as a familiar figure came into view across the field. “Son of a bitch.” Sif followed her gaze, a matching frown crossing her features as she laid eyes on Loki talking with Hogun.

“What irks you today, Your Majesty? New grievance or old?” Sif asked playfully, eyeing Claire warily as she reached for the knife on her belt.

“Both.” Claire said, letting the knife fly. It zipped through the air, pearl handle glistening as it spun end over end. A satisfying thwunk echoed across the field as the blade jabbed the wooden boards mere inches from Loki’s face. Both Hogun and Loki flinched back, startled by the sudden intrusion. The pearl handle caught Loki’s attention right away, and he reached for the knife with an angry sneer.

“Are you mad?!” Loki hissed as he wrenched the knife free. “You could have struck me.”

“Or me.” Hogun added.

“If I wanted to, I would have,” Claire said breezily as she joined the two. Sif lingered behind, warning Hogun not to get involved with a shake of her head. “I’d like my knife back.”

“Why, so you can actually strike me with it this time?” Loki scowled.

“You’re such a baby.”

“Am I meant to be grateful?”

“It would be nice if you simply remembered I exist. Not being ignored all the time would be great.”

“I’m terribly sorry you feel slighted. Shall I fall to my knees in penitence?”

“You could at least be grateful. I am the only reason you're here and not six stories under,” Claire glanced at the ground, and Loki glared at her angrily. “Why didn’t you answer the note I sent you?”

“Which one?” Loki asked flatly. “They were all so very annoying, you will need to be more specific.”

“Wow,” Claire whistled. “You are such an asshole, of like...epic proportions. Monuments should be erected to your dickishness.”

“If they were, would you be happy?”

“You think I’m happy?” Claire scoffed. “Loki, in what universe could I possibly be happy?”

“Is it truly so terrible here?” Loki asked.

“Um, obviously?” Claire rose to the bait. “I have maybe a handful of friends here, everyone I know is millions of miles away, and the one person I should be able to rely on for companionship ignores me. That’s you, by the way, in case you didn’t know.”

“I gathered that. I apologize for not coddling you; it was my understanding you were an adult. Perhaps I should furnish you with some children’s toys since you wish to act like one.”

“I’m a child because I have the audacity to hold you accountable?! To promises you made?!” Claire shrieked. “I’m not asking for much, you know. Just that you put in some kind of effort to make this work!”

“We are still married, are we not? Therefore it works,” Loki flipped the knife, holding it out to her with a guarded expression. “I’d thought you would be smarter not to attempt assassination around witnesses.”

“I was making a point, jackass.” Loki glanced sideways to the new hole in the wooden boards.

“I’d say you succeeded.” He pulled the knife back when she reached for it, delighting in the fury in her gaze when she looked up at him.

“Why are you ignoring me?” she asked. “I really need your help.”

“With what? Planning your next party?” Loki asked scathingly. “Astrid told me you were upset and I came to...apologize,” he sneered. “You didn’t seem upset at all.”

“I’m very good at ignoring my feelings; something we have in common,” Claire replied. “But I sent you another note later. I really do need-”

“I’m afraid I’m unavailable,” Loki replied. “Speak with Astrid, perhaps we can schedule something in the next...six to eight weeks?” he suggested as Fandral joined their little group. Sif wisely kept to the fringes of their bubble, scaring away anyone who strayed too close.

“You’re joking.” Loki’s arms crossed over his chest, his shoulders squaring as he closed himself off.

“We could book something further down the line, perhaps in a decade? Why not two?”

“You’re unbelievable,” Claire shoved at him, fury welling in her chest when he barely moved. “Something stinks here, and I’m going to get to the bottom of it whether you help me or not.”

“It’s not me,” Hogun offered from Loki’s side. “Maybe Fandral fell into a latrine again.”

“THAT WAS ONE TIME!” Fandral screeched. Hogun shook his head at Claire as Fandral launched his body at Hogun’s middle. The two rolled in the dirt, trading blows like overstimulated children. Claire and Loki both took exaggerated steps aside to escape the brawl as Sif waded in to break the two apart.

“I went to see it, you know.” Claire muttered as Fandral screamed about Hogun ‘embarrassing him’.

“My cell?”

“No, the bifrost. Yes, your cell.” Claire rolled her eyes, watching Sif haul Fandral up by his collar.

“Why?” Claire shrugged. A thin trickle of blood trailed down Hogun’s face as he got to his feet.

“I thought maybe it would help me understand you better,” she replied. “Whatever you think of me, that's all I've ever wanted.”

“I do not want your pity.” Loki sneered.

“You don't have it.” Loki grunted angrily and walked away, scowling when Claire followed after him with a shout.

“Leave me be, you miserable woman!”

“No! Why are you acting like this? I can't make sense of it- you promised to help me do this shit and then you just dropped me- you lied to get me to stay!”

“No, you lied!” Loki shouted. “How many times must I explain it? I am the god of lies; I sense lies, I don't tell them.”

“What the fuck are you talking about?”

“You are a talented liar, madam. I almost respect you for it,” Loki let a sarcastic laugh escape him. “You managed to fool me longer than anyone else ever has. Perhaps your government will give you a medal. You certainly deserve it after all your heroic efforts.” He threw the knife at her feet, a cloud of dirt licking at her shoes. He stalked off, leaving Claire behind speechless and furious.

~~~~

With her husband exhausted, Claire made her way to see the queen bee.

Frigga greeted her happily, offering her tea and a seat at her table. As Claire sat, Frigga set aside her needlework.

“What brings you to see me today, my dear?” she asked kindly. “Is my son still being a buffoon?”

“That’s putting it mildly,” Claire huffed. “I wanted to ask you some questions.”

“Of course, dear, what about?”

“I recently learned that Asgardian soldiers are allowed to claim trophies after battle, and that several of my staff were brought to Asgard against their will.”

“Sadly, it is still a widespread practice,” Frigga acknowledged with a sigh. “I have tried to persuade Odin to outlaw it, but he insists it is necessary.”

“Why does he think that?”

“He is of the mind that Asgard would cease to function without the practice,” Frigga shrugged. “I’ve told him that there are plenty who would jump at the chance to serve, but he is adamant this is the best way.”

“He doesn’t think Asgard can function without stealing slaves?” Claire scoffed. “If that is true, then Asgard shouldn’t exist.”

“Don’t say that, dear girl-”

“I will, because it’s true,” Claire said firmly. “If a kingdom cannot function without slave labor, then that kingdom should not exist.”

“None of us can get by without assistance,” Frigga said. “Can you honestly say you can function without your ladies to clean your chambers, to help you bathe and dress?”

“Yes, of course I can, because I’m an adult and I was taught how to care for myself and my home,” Claire replied heatedly. “Becoming a princess doesn’t change that.”

“Claire-”

“I need to leave. Excuse me.” Claire beat a hasty retreat from Frigga’s chambers with a sour taste in her mouth. What had she been thinking? Sif had said all the staff belonged to the crown; of course Frigga would be in support of it. Even if she found the practice distasteful, she still benefited from it. She wouldn’t be any help.

It was time to regroup and plan her next steps.

~~~~

Frigga found Loki in his chambers, fresh from the bath and frowning at the heap of papers on his desk.

“Mother,” he shot to his feet when she stepped inside the study. “I wasn’t expecting you.”

“I wasn’t expecting to be here myself, but I have concerns I wished to discuss with you.”

“If it’s about what just happened on the training field-”

“What happened?”

“Nothing,” Loki said quickly, smiling nervously when Frigga gave him The Look™. “What concerns do you have?” he gestured for her to have a seat, waiting until she’d sat down before he took up his spot behind the desk.

“I fear that Claire is going to do something drastic,” she began. “She just came to see me and was most upset about the practice of war trophies.”

“Any sane person would be; it’s barbaric,” Loki shrugged. “What of it?”

“The girl is isolated, in a foreign place with very little support in what she no doubt feels is a hostile environment,” Frigga scalded her son with a heated look. “I do not know Claire as well as I know you, but you are similar enough that I’m beginning to worry that she will attempt to take on the problem by herself.”

“That is a bit dramatic, don’t you think?” Loki scoffed. “What could she possibly do if she is, as you say, isolated?”

“I would prefer not to find out. Loki…” Frigga sighed heavily. “I simply do not understand why you are so determined to treat the poor girl so heinously.”

“Me?!”

“Yes, you!” Frigga said tersely. “Whether it be childish impudence or stubbornness, I care not. I am beyond weary of this. The entire palace speaks of little else except how you and your wife are all but at each other’s throats; even the most respectable ladies are full of gossip! You must do something!”

“Why should I care what empty-headed dolts have to say? Let them talk themselves to death; we should all be the better for it.”

“I thought you wanted to improve the public’s opinion of you. Is this the way you think to do it?” Frigga challenged, clucking her tongue in disappointment. “Like it or not, Claire is your wife. She will be your partner for the next several thousand years!”

“Then you will forgive me if I don’t hasten to make amends,” Loki rolled his eyes. “And why should I be the one to do so when she is the entire reason for it?”

“What in Bor’s name could that girl have done that is so odious-”

“She is nothing but a spy! She has no genuine affection for me at all; everything she has done since arriving in Asgard is a falsehood.”

“If she did, your loutish behavior has certainly squashed it by now!” Frigga chided him harshly. “I have eyes, Loki, as done everyone in the palace. No one would ever assume that girl was faking anything. If she didn’t like you, Claire would not suffer you at all. For Bor’s sake, Loki, you are far too intelligent to genuinely believe she was lying to you,” she chuckled breathlessly. “How could she possibly hope to fool you?”

“Well…” Loki floundered in the face of his mother’s laughter, a surge of embarrassment drawing his shoulders up to his ears. “What of this then? Anyone would make the same assumption!” he produced Claire’s folder from his pocket dimension, handing it over for Frigga to read. Frigga’s eyes darted to his as she turned a page, her eyebrows growing higher and higher as she read the remarks Claire had written.

“The girl is astute, I will credit her that,” she remarked. “I’ve also long held the suspicion that you did not act alone on Midgard.”

“Mother!”

“I know, I am old, but I am your mother and I know you better than you think!” Frigga argued. “The son I raised would never do what you have done. To the Midgardians you are still a threat; of course the girl would gather what little information she could! Did you bring this to her? Give her a chance to defend herself?”

“So she could lie even more?” Frigga got up from her seat and crossed to his side of the desk.

“Did she lie, or is it easier for you to believe she did?” Her arm snaked around his shoulders as she leaned down to hug him. “I know how your mind works, my darling. You don’t believe anyone could truly care for you, but they do. And if you truly think that girl lied to you, you are a bigger fool than you believe your brother to be.” She pressed a kiss to his temple, set the folder on his desk, and breezed out of the room.

Loki sat motionless, dazed as he stared down at the folder in front of him. Was he a fool? Had he let his insecurities ruin something before it truly began?

He’d never sensed a lie from Claire, not once. He could admit that. He’d been panicked when he first found the folder; he could admit that too. Loki cringed as he recalled how he’d behaved.

Norns help him. He owed Claire so many apologies.

But would she accept them?

~~~~

Across the palace, Claire was ready to make a move. She’d managed to procure the chambers next door to hers, claiming she ‘needed space’. She was waiting for Ragna to arrive with dinner, pacing back and forth in the sitting room.

Thankfully her wait was short, as Ragna arrived only moments later.

“Hi Ragna!”

“Good evening...Claire,” Ragna gave her a small smile, as if they were sharing a secret. “How was your day today?”

“Oh, can’t complain. Ruffled some feathers, threw a knife at my husband-” Ragna’s grip on the cloche covering Claire’s plate faltered, and it clattered to the floor noisily. “All in all, it’s been a good day. I have exciting news.”

“Oh?” Ragna asked as she plucked the cloche from where it landed. “More exciting that threatening the prince royal?”

“What’s the big deal?” Claire scoffed, shrugging as she made her way to the table. “If I wanted to hit him, I would have.”

“The prince is well, then?”

“The prince has no new holes in his annoyingly handsome face,” Claire sighed. “Would you like to hear the news?”

“I’m uncertain my heart can handle more news,” Ragna replied flatly as she dropped into the seat opposite Claire. “But I’d like to hear it anyway.”

“I put in a request for the apartment next door. It now belongs to me, and I learned it has a secret door that leads right into this room!”

“How lovely,” Ragna smiled. “Why did you feel the need for more space? Are you planning to relocate so the prince cannot find you?” she chortled at her little joke.

“Actually, no,” Claire shook her head. “The rooms are under my name, but I got them for you.”

“For me?”

“Yes. You can move in whenever you like.”

“I...You…” Ragna slouched back in her seat, disbelief written clearly upon her face. “You obtained...housing...for me.”

“Yep,” Claire chirped. “I also took the liberty of sourcing a number of guards for your door, of which you will have final choice. We can meet them first thing in the morning.”

“Your Majesty, I-” Ragna swallowed thickly. “I cannot live in rooms such as these.”

“Of course you can. I’m updating your job description. From now on, you go where I go, at all times. Which means I need you close by, day or night. No more having Gunnar find a page to find a messenger to blah, blah, blah. I want you-” Claire pointed at the secret door in the wall. “Twenty feet away.”

“But…”

“Would you like to hear the second piece of good news?”

“Is it better than the first piece?”

“I am equally excited about both.” Claire grinned.

“Somehow that concerns me,” Ragna muttered. “What is it?”

“I had a meeting today with the palace accountant. He’s helping me set up accounts for each member of Loki’s staff and mine, so that you can all be paid wages for your work.”

“You’re going to pay us?!” Ragna asked incredulously.

“It’s about time; don’t you think?” Claire smiled. “It’s going to take some time; I wasn’t sure what counts as a living wage here so the accountant is supposed to draw up estimates for me.”

“Can you do that?”

“No one said I couldn’t,” Claire shrugged as she polished off her wine. “I took charge of the household accounts when Loki and I married, so I figured it was time to put them to good use. You deserve to be paid for your labor.”

“When-” Ragna cut herself off, trying to contain the eagerness on her face. “When can I move my things?”

“Let’s go get them right now,” Claire offered. “You can crash with me again tonight if you don’t want to be alone.”

“I’d like that,” Ragna beamed. “But...my master will be waiting for me.”

“We could always wait until he’s distracted and get your things when he’s not there.”

“We would have far better chances of succeeding if we go during the day- he is always busy with meetings.”

“Great, we’ll go tomorrow after you pick out your guard,” Claire smiled. “Which leads me to phase two of my plan: exposing your ‘master’ for the cunt muffin he is.”

[yuzu-all-the-way]

RE_PRAY Ice Story 2nd MasterPost

Schedule

Saitama Day 1

Megalovania VTR

Megalovania full program

A Fleeting Dream - piano version (2nd half of the show)

Behind the scenes still shots

Photos - Floor Edition

Sportiva photos

Saitama Day 2

Gate of Living

Ashura-chan

The Darkness of Eternity

One Summer's Day

Photobook photos

Saga Day 1

Photos

Goliath moment

Closing speech based on on-site notes / based on recording

Saga Day 2

Gate of Living

Megalovania (new light effects & slight choreo changes)

Haru Yo, Koi

Rondo

RE_PRAY Saga Day 2 full show - TV Asahi

Closing speech

Yokohama Day 1

Closing speech based on on-site notes

Yokohama Day 2

6-minute warm-up

The Darkness of Eternity - CLEAN skate

Closing speech

Photos Part 1, Photos Part 2, Photos Part 3

Miyagi

3 photos promo, S-Style mag photos

6/04 photo

Miyagi Day 1

The Darkness of Eternity - PERFECT

Post-show interview with Hochi

Photos Day 1

Post-show comment / Post-show interview Telemasa

Closing speech

Miyagi Day 2

Megalovania - powered up!

LMEY

Finale speech

Special Behind the Scenes

Gym training cut

Other

Photos PB

[dailytennis]

Holger Rune for W Mag China's Sport Night (Oct. 04)

[whooolaanmo]

sinakop ng kdrama

Nabusy ako buong araw kakanood ng kdrama kanina ko lang sinimulan yung nirecommend sa akin ni @heliosmagneto NO GAIN, NO LOVE episode 1-10 so mamaya baka keri ko pa mag episode 11 at 12 😁😅.

kakain muna dinner.

Oct. 04, 2024 07:51 pm

[wonyela]

꒰◌ ˚₊ ˴ (⠀ MASTERLIST ) : welcome mayuri. ͟͟͞♡

✦.˚ about enhypen's barbie doll! ๑ﾟ˛𓍊𓋼

her profile. 🝮 background. 🝮 personal facts. dislikes — likes. • the lookbook. • inside phone. most iconic yuri things. • inside her barbie purse.

relationship with enha. • relationship with others. mayuri's love status. • inside the family tree. ♡︎ yungwon. ⁂ yeeseung. ⁂ yurjay. ⁂ yurake. yughoon. ⁂ yunoo. ⁂ yuiki. 🝮 i-land relations.

✦.˚ all i—land episodes! ๑ﾟ˛𓍊𓋼

looking for all the i—land episodes? click here please.

✦.˚ all scenarios! ๑ﾟ˛𓍊𓋼

looking for all the scenarios? click here please.

✦.˚ look through her eras! ๑ﾟ˛𓍊𓋼

looking for all her eras? click here please.

✦.˚ social media post! ๑ﾟ˛𓍊𓋼

yuri stan accounts. • yuri on instagram. • stan twitter. yuri on twitter. • yuri on weverse. • yuri on tiktok.

✦.˚ youtube videos! ๑ﾟ˛𓍊𓋼

enhypen being whipped for yuri. • idols caring for yuri. yuri in a nutshell with nct's jisung. • 04 liners moments. yungwon being in love. • maknae funny moments.

✦.˚ en—clock & en—log! ๑ﾟ˛𓍊𓋼

looking for all en—clock and en—log videos? click here.

✦.˚ additional information! ๑ﾟ˛𓍊𓋼

yuri's aesthetic. • alphabet with yuri. • incorrect quotes. music covers she did. • the 04 liner friend group.

special stages: [ 2023 MAMA ] YOONxYURI I JUST + AROUND ( hitchhiker remix ver. ) [ 2024 SBS ] ANTONx YURI INTRO SOLO STAGE GAYO DAEJEON.

magazines: cosmopolitan magazine. • allure may 2023. bazaar korea magazine 2023. • korea vogue. • elle mag azine. • marie claire magazine. • noblesse magazine.

articles: 12th, december, 2021. • 5th, march, 2021. • 25th, december, 2023. • 14th, february, 2024.

credits to @skzinka for the layout ! < 3

[musicforants]

Summer is here and so is my annual mixtape full of effervescent, sunny new jams to blast loud while your making all your summer memories! So whether you're a Charly, Carly or Charli, click here to listen to this mix in its entirety via Spotify or Apple Music. Enjoy!

SUMMER (OR WHAT IT SOUNDS LIKE) VOL. 15

01. Vampire Weekend - Mary Boone 02. DJ Sabrina The Teenage DJ - Honey 03. Sea Lemon - Vaporized 04. Carly Rae Jepsen - Psychedelic Switch 05. Middle Kids - Dramamine 06. Sabrina Carpenter - Espresso (Working Late Remix) 07. Maribou State - Blackoak 08. Joe Goddard & Barrie - Moments Die 09. Teliz - Type of Girl 10. Charly Bliss - Nineteen 11. NewJeans - Bubble Gum 12. Purple Disco Machine & Benjamin Ingrosso - Honey Boy 13. Erika de Casier - Lucky 14. R. Missing - Maryhead 15. Jamie xx - Baddy On the Floor (feat. Honey Dijon) 16. Charli XCX - The 360 remix with robyn and yung lean 17. Magdalena Bay - Death & Romance 18. Good Looks - If It's Gone 19. Clairo - Sexy to Someone 20. Empress Of - What's Love (feat. MUNA) 21. Camera Obscura - Big Love 22. Hannah Diamond - Affirmations 23. Dayglow - Every Little Thing I Say I Do 24. The Japanese House - Touching Yourself 25. Everything Everything - Cold Reactor 26. Dagny - Strawberry Dream 27. George Clanton - I Been Young 28. Sheer Mag - Playing Favorites 29. Chromeo - Personal Effects 30. Romy - Always Forever

SPOTIFY PLAYLIST:

APPLE MUSIC PLAYLIST:

[ziggyevenstar]

04-13-24 — took him to my oath taking (ibp pamp chapter). kaming tatlong friends may mga dalang plus one tapos friends sila lahat kanina hehehe. super fun and peaceful 💜 kapag happy ka wala kang masyadong masabe pala, hindi katulad kapag gusto mo mag-rant, yung flow ng words endless tapos ang artistic or makata ng mga sabe sabe mo. wala, happy ako. no words na. byeeee

[saltyyuuri]

Phoenix x GNreader

don't worry 'bout a thing 😘

no warnings

song (don't worry, macdon rae dalton): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I6kQgVKiAYg

For context; reader is a radiant- their power is to control their own time reality.

🧡🧡🧡🧡🧡🧡🧡🧡🧡🧡🧡🧡🧡🧡🧡🧡🧡🧡🧡🧡🧡🧡

You were a bit too hyper today, lord knows you become an absolute ball of energy when you have a tad too much caffeine for the day; but also when you learn you get a mission with your favorite agent, Phoenix. And just like you, he also gets a bit too hyper when he sees you both are assigned as a duo on a mission. You two were like two peas in a pod at times- or as many other protocol agents would describe it; sharing the last braincell.

It was just your type of mission too- something fast paced that needed to be timed perfectly. And who better to work on a mission like that than the agent who can slow her own time reality to perfection? It only made things better you could have fun with Jamie- Phoenix while doing so.

''(Y-N), you ready to burn the place to the ground?'' Jamie asked with a huge grin, his usual cocky demeanor on display once again. ''Oh you bet I am- just try to not burn me too!'' You replied with a chuckle, pacing slightly in the aircraft that would bring you to the mission sights. ''Aye, you can dodge it-'' He said teasingly, knowing very well your power would allow you to dodge even bullets if you wanted to.

''Jamie if you burn me, I will make it a you problem afterwards-'' You retorted, rolling your eyes at his remark, shaking your head slightly. Surprisingly he didn't respond, instead, pulling out his phone too play some music. It was upbeat and high energy- and with both of you running on a caffein rush, the two started to bob their heads to the music; phoenix even slightly dancing in his seat as the music played; snapping his fingers and swaying his shoulders as he hummed along to the music.

Brimstone's voice broke the ambiance, ringing into both your earpieces as you paused the music. ''okay you two- enough with the music. You'll be landing on Ascent in a minute, I need you two focused and ideally with more than a braincell each. copy?''

''10-04 sir!'' you responded, grinning from ear to ear- as the song got stuck in your head, still humming it as you continued to sway a bit in your seat to the beat of the music. And that humming and swaying was contagious, Jamie was already doing the same; bobbing his head before slightly singing along to the song.

''I said focus you two- ugh.... why do I even try?'' Brimstone's voice rang through again, a heavy sigh could be heard on the comms. ''Aye, don't worry bout a thing, old man. We got this!'' Jamie followed up, grinning widely as he did finger guns your way. You chuckled- the song you both had stuck in your head was indeed ''Don't worry'' by Macdon and Rae Dalton- and the reference only made Brimstone sigh harder. You fist bumped Jamie, standing up.

The aircraft had landed on the mission sights- both of you getting down on the attacker side of the zone. ''So- we doin the usual, J?'' You asked Phoenix as you loaded a mag into your phantom, the heavier gun's weight resting onto your shoulder. ''I entry, you cover? Bet-'' He responded, his grin still wide while he loaded a fresh mag into his vandal.

''a or B site?'' You asked him, waiting for his answer as you stood nearby, head still bobbing slightly as the damn song was still stuck in your mind- the catchy tune just playing on repeat as you waited for an answer. ''I'm feelin it for B site, you good with that?'' ''J I'd be good with your last name if you asked-'' You retorted, grinning widely as you already started to step in direction of B site. ''Ayo- You can't just say that and leave- (Y-N)!''

Jamie followed behind you- looking a little flustered at the sudden remark, breaking his cocky persona just slightly. ''Seriously- (Y-N), are you being for real-?!'' He asked again, a bit flustered but grinning widely as he caught up, looking right at you as if searching for an answer on your expression. ''Am I? Good question-'' You responded, looking mischievous as you continued to walk- but avoiding eye contact.

As you knew damn well- if you made eye contact now- he would definitely know you were being serious. You two often play flirted; so it wasn't that hard to play off anyways, but sometimes, just sometimes, there seemed to be some seriousness to your flirting. It wasn't that you were scared to confess- more like you were waiting to see if Jamie would make a move. It was almost a game at this point- Who would crack first?

''Oh (Y-N) that's a low blow- c'mon-'' Phoenix whined, lowering his gun slightly as he spoke. you two were about to start entering the hallway to B site- and you gave him a slight look to not lose composure now. It wasn't the time or place to lower a weapon. ''You started it by saying you might burn me-'' ''I didn't say that! I said you could dodge-'' ''still kind insinuates-''

''Enough you two, jeez!'' Brimstone's voice rang through the comms, bringing you both back to focus a bit on the mission. It was obvious the protocol's leader was starting to lose patience on the two of you, so you both quieted down a bit. ''10-04 sir-'' You responded again, this time trying to be a bit more serious as you responded. ''(Y-N) cut it with the radio codes- be a normal person and just say 'ok'.'' Brimstone replied in a deadpan tone- and as much as you wanted to argue it; saying that it was out of habit from an old job- you couldn't as Jamie was already preparing top move in the site.

You followed behind Jamie closely, watching him closely as you waited for your sign to follow up. When he was on the ledge of the entrance to B site, he prepared his flash, looking back at you to make sure you were okay and ready. With a small nod- your mission truly began. Phoenix threw his flash, then rushed into the sight, clearing corners rapidly. You followed up, clearing what he didn't as you followed behind him- jumping onto the sight as you quickly scouted for any omega agents.

The site seemed clear- getting to work on setting up some security stuff as you were tasked. You worked fast, incase omega agents would show up. Jamie held guard, making sure nothing would happen. You were done fast- and surprisingly nothing happeened. ''onto A site I guess-'' You said as you were already starting to prepare to move out, taking the inactivity for a good thing. no gunning meant a faster done job- which meant more free time.

''Aight, follow me then-'' Phoenix said as he took the lead. He decided to cut through market- heading to the middle of the area. his plan was to pass through tree; if the area was truly threat free is was going to be fast. He chose to walk in mid without flashing this time, assuming it was empty- which was a mistaken.

Gun fire erupted, snapping you to focus- already ready to intervein. Jamie was surprisingly rapid to gun back- taking down the target with only a bullet graze. It was minor, nothing to worry about- but the incident made you understand that setting up security on A site would be a bit harder than hoped.

''I'll head through tree, I'll take low, you go high.'' He instructed, already starting to move in on the catwalk, which you were quick to follow. You both took your own paths, and you quietly snuck through to head to A high. The only thing you didn't expect was for phoenix to swing the sight without waiting for you- ''J wait-'' You said on the comms, but you could already hear gunfire.

You ran up the stairs, preparing to activate your own radiant powers- ''All eyes on me'' you said, swinging the corner to try to spot enemies fast. You saw 3 on the sight from your vantage point- shooting one down that was currently aiming at phoenix. When the enemy attention was starting to shift your way, you activated your power, time slowing for yourself.

In your point of view, everything was very slow. but in enemy point of view- you were moving very fast- faster than Neon, the agent known for her speed. You jumped down from A heaven to take cover in A hell, and Phoenix took it as his chance to attack. '' Let me show you how the boss does it-'' He activated his own power, rushing in the sight to take down anyone without a care if he got shot.

You two were very well coordinated even though there was essentially no communication on a plan- you came out of your hiding spot ready to assist Phoenix. You scoped onto the enemy who was aiming at him- and he scoped onto the enemy aiming to you- shots being taken almost simultaneously. You could've sworn you heard Phoenix still singing to that damn song he got stuck in both your heads- inevitably bringing it back to your consciousness as you hummed it.

Phoenix ran it back- respawning where his ultimate was initially activated. He was grinning widely, his vandal raised upward and resting on his shoulder, looking triumphant. ''Aye- we got that chemistry-'' He said, a sly smirk on his face as he turned to you. You still had your own power active- Your eyes giving off a faint glow to show you were still ready to react if necessary. '' You just realized? Also damn you, you got the song stuck in my head again-'' You retorted with a chuckle.

He laughed, his signature grin gracing his lips. ''Don't worry bout a thing, I got this-'' He said teasingly, this time gesturing you to start setting up the security systems. ''you're a paiiiin. I'll have that stuck in my head for hours now- thanks.'' You said, chuckling slightly. Your power was still active, moving fast to set everything up to make up for the last few minutes spent taking down enemies. ''Haha- hey at least it's a good song!'' Phoenix said teasingly.

"Though there is something bugging me-'' He continued, glancing over at you as you worked, moving at inhumane speed as you profited of your powers that were still active. You came back to reality- nearly done with the setup. You didn't face phoenix immediately, still busy with finishing up some wiring. ''what's up J'' You asked him, finishing up the wiring- just quickly twisting the wires together.

''Isn't there usually like.. 5 omega agents on cases like these? We only crossed 4-'' Phoenix said, his vandal now resting along his side, looking your way. You raised your head, now done with the wiring. you picked up your phantom, finally turning towards Jamie. ''Guess we got lucky, J-'' You started to say- immediately cutting yourself off as you saw an omega agent swing the corner to A main- the final omega agent to stand.

You reacted at inhumane speed, launching yourself Phoenix's way to kick him behind the knees; just barely making it on time as he toppled forward- watching the bullet meant for his head now just fly through the air, nearly brushing his dreads. you instantly scoped onto the enemy- taking the shot and watching the body drop with a thud.

And there was a second, less graceful thud that came from Phoenix, now faceplanted onto the ground. ''oOw- CaN'T You just say 'DUCK' like a normal person?!'' he asked with a slight voice crack, sitting up and rubbing his scraped cheek. ''Where's the fun with that? plus- 'Don't worry bout a thing', I got your back-'' You cackled out softly, grinning as you threw a wink his way, finding his pouty demeanor adorable.

''Gosh, so rude! Scratching my perfect face-'' Phoenix whined a bit, finally standing back up- though now making a beat puppy face as he held his scrapped cheek. ''Gods your whiny. Want a kiss for your booboo?'' You asked him mockingly, rolling your eyes but still smiling at his demeanor. ''I mean- if you're offering-... I won't pass it up-'' he replied, a cheeky smile making its way to his face, the whiny voice now replaced with a more giddy one.

You chuckled, walking up to Phoenix, grabbing his collar firmly to tug him down a bit. He had let go of his cheek, giving you a clear view at the scrape. He didn't seem to expect the tug- looking slightly surprised. But his expression changed to a more flustered one as you gently planted your lips to the minor wound- no hesitation on your end. You had never been as far as to kissing him before, which took him by surprise.

When you pulled away- he looked like he was trying to find something to retort, but had to take a few extra seconds to come up with something worthy of a retort. ''I-... uh...'' He started- clearing his throat before speaking up. ''So about earlier and wanting my last name-'' He blubbered out, face flushed as he spoke- looking like he was desperately trying to bring on the conversation back to that relationship talk.

''Jamie, are you trying to confess here-'' You asked him teasingly- wanting to see if he was finally going top make a move after all this time- hopeful the answer was yes. He took a second to process your words- then his expression shifting to a smile. He seemed to have suddenly recomposed himself, his confidence coming back in a go.

''Maybe I am-'' He started, a hand sneaking around your waist. He leaned in closer, pausing a few inches away from your face as he spoke. This time, it was your turn to be slightly flustered, but grinning nevertheless. ''No balls-'' You retorted- the words escaping you faster than you could think. ''Bet-'' He replied, leaning in. You could almost feel his lips on your-

''Agent Phoenix, Agent (Y-N) can you cut the goddamn flirting and get back to the aircraft already???'' Brimstone's voice cut through the comms, annoyed and getting impatient. The two of you froze- but Jamie still took a second to plant a soft kiss onto your lips before replying to brimstone. ''10-04 sir!'' He said with a wide grin- already hearing the annoyed groan coming from Brimstone's end as phoenix replied with a radio code, the same way you did. ''Not you too- damn lovesick bird. Just get on the damn aircraft.'' Brimstone grumbled out.

''10-04, on our way-'' You giggled out, grabbing Phoenix's hand to drag him back to the aircraft- heading through A main. The flight back was done with the comms shut off- no more interruptions from the grumpy protocol leader as you could pick up where you left off from the mission- and a bit more-... ;)

🧡🧡🧡🧡🧡🧡🧡🧡🧡🧡🧡🧡🧡🧡🧡🧡🧡🧡🧡🧡🧡🧡