#miri marvel

[jewishcissiekj]

DC Comics JewShowdown round 1B part 4

Both of those characters are not known as Jewish/known at all, but I put Miri here because I love her (most biased poll ever) and because her Jewishness is such an integral factor and trait in her character and I love that for her. Moyshe is here as the only representative of Hayoth, the Israeli superhero team because I didn't want any of them here (once again, rigged; I hated a group of Jewish characters so they're simply not an option) but he has a name that's incredibly similar to a relative of mine so I let him be. If you really want to vote for Hayoth, just vote for him lol.

[ladysansalannister]

Thinking about how Wanda knew all along her babies were still alive. She knew they were still out there somewhere. She was right.

[himebushou]

The dynamic between Miri, Kazuki and Rei shifts dramatically in Episode 3. After a bit of back and forth, Rei asserts that he's Miri's 'Papa' after all.

Prior to that, though:

This is the first time that Miri refers to Kazuki as 'Kazuki Papa'; up until this point, she'd just called him Papa. However, earlier in the episode, the idea of Rei also being her papa had been raised (and smacked down), so it's interesting that the distinction sticks in the back of Miri's mind.

Of course, towards the end of the episode, we have this adorable exchange:

Kazuki laughs at Rei's giving in to Miri's wishes. Rei shoots back:

Presumably, he's implying that Kazuki was happy the first time Miri called him 'Papa' . Kazuki denies it.

Though if we go back to Episode 1:

He was definitely happy to be addressed that way.

[mrs-barnes-library]

What about a hc of Deidara with s/o who has similar powers like Danny Rand/Iron Fist?

Having The Same Powers As Iron Fist || Deidara x reader

A/n : I'm a real Marvel fan but I had to make some researches in the comics and the series lmao because I didn't know anything about his powers. It was really fun though :3c

THANK YOU so much for the ask ! It was a real pleasure to write 😍🔥

OUTFIT REFERENCES : You can either imagine you're wearing THIS inside the Akatsuki robe OR that you have your own type of robe like THIS

Masterlist ⚜

Warning : Mention of fight and injuries but it's soft

I don’t give permission to repost my work, if you want to share it just reblogue it

Words count : 1161

First of all for me it's logical to think that you are part of the fearsome fighters of the Akatsuki. Proudly wearing your black outfit with a red cloud pattern so recognizable everywhere you went. It's your boyfriend, the explosive artist Deidara who designated it, as it was a bit too long for you and was getting in the way when you were fighting

Even though it looked great on you, he liked it better when you took it off, revealing your yellow and green outfit, matching the color of his hair and ring. With a black tattooed dragon resting proudly on your chest, which he was trying to replicate with his clay

He sees you as a real masterpiece, his masterpiece

On the other hand you prefer to think of yourself as a Swiss Army knife and you have good reason. You have already mastered a great number of martial arts. In fact all the most important ones. Jujustu, easy, taekwondo, a piece of cake and not only that. You proudly add kung-fu, boxing, judo, karate, muay thai, savate… you have enough to say for an hour

That's the reason why you were able to join Akatsuki, they realized that your fighting skills were beyond comprehension. You were very grateful, because you were surrounded by ninja deserters, nukenin, like you and especially because you met your soul mate, the beautiful Deidara, the artist who gave back its colors to your life

At that time, however, no one suspected that your fighting abilities were not at all due to a particular power but only to your training and that you were saving your true potential for an

emergency case. Only if the fight became really out of hands

If your allies didn't know the extent of your powers, how would the enemies know ?

So for a long time your comrades only saw you fighting hand to hand with nunchakus or a stick

Deidara was amazed every time he attended your fights when you were paired together. One day you caught a kunai thrown at full speed towards your eye with only two fingers. He felt that sometimes it was almost too easy for you. It's true that with your stamina, your speed, your agility and your 5 fives multiplied like that no enemy could compete with you

That is, until the Konoha ninjas got involved

The problem is that this is the village you deserted and they, at least the older ones, already know your secret power and your level of fighting

That is to say that somersaults and baton twirling were useless against opponents like Guy Maito or Kakashi Hatake who once trained with you

Using your secret weapon was your only way to get the upper hand in the fight, as you had never used it on them for fear of hurting them. However times had changed and now you were part of the Akatsuki

For the first time you revealed to your fellow Akatsuki your true power as you clenched your

fist to concentrate your chakra - or chi as you liked to call it - lighting it up before punching the ground. This created a mini earthquake, as the shockwave blew your enemies backwards, giving you time to recover

The fight had ended very badly. Deidara had lost his arms and he was waiting for the enemies to leave to recover them. But in the meantime he was suffering the martyrdom. So you hid behind a tree and put your shining hand on the place where his arm should be and eased his pain. To his surprise he relaxed immediately and gave you a loving and affectionate toothy grin. Until he realized that it was you that was taking the pain for him

"Sunshine please don't hurt for me" he said to you while moving back slightly to cancel the effect of your power but you came closer and resumed what you were doing brushing one of his gold strand behind his ear. He looked at you with hearts in his eyes before kissing your cheek

After the fiasco of this mission you decided to train even harder to make sure to never see him hurt like that

You managed to master the Iron Fist with your second hand. Being able to concentrate your vital energy to strike without taking a momentum with that one too

You took a cue from Guy and Rock Lee's kicking style attacks for the rest of your training. Trying to concentrate your chakra in your foot so that it can blow through walls and metal doors

Deidara loves to call you "The queen of the grand entrance"

The last step of your training was the most difficult. This is the mental side of your power

You realized that in a moment of stress you could communicate mentally with your boyfriend

The first time it happened you were 500 meters ( 0.007 miles ) away from him and he heard you yell a mentally directed insult at your opponent but he could have sworn you were screaming next to him, turning around to make sure you weren't there but of course you weren't. In the evening he had asked you about it and that's when you realized your potential

After weeks of training you were able to establish a psychic link with your allies enough for them to respond to you in battle

In everyday life it was quite practical to exchange sweet words with Deidara without the others hearing or just when you wanted to see the pink rise on his cheeks and his eyes turn to the other side as the pink turned red

It's in the extension of this ability that Itachi came to talk to you. Indeed, he was wondering if your pshychic ability could be close to his hypnotic Sharingan. Two hypnotists in the ranks of the Akatsuki was better than one

So you started to train with him and after much effort you were able to master light effects that had the ability to hypnotize your enemies

Deidara was a bit jealous during the time you were training. He felt that you were spending all your time with the Uchiwa. But the truth was that he wasn't going easy on you and the training was more torture than fun as Deidara feared

At least, thanks to Itachi, you were able to improve your kunai throwing and your psychic abilities

All the members of the Akatsuki were pleased to have a member as powerful as you

Soon you would be able to rule the world with the help of you and your powers

And Deidara couldn't be prouder of you. He never stopped reminding people that you were his muse, his sorcery of inspiration and above all the love of his life

"On your knees all of you ! The muse of destruction is going to take over your lives on behalf of the Akatsuki !"

~

~

A/n : I hope you guys liked it ! 👅🍭 Again my requests are open 🥝🍯

Taglist : @malfoyscamander, @cl0vr, @ilovemanypeople, @glossy1pearl, @jane57sstuff

[starrxl]

EVERYONE WHO FIND THIS

I am going to Hawaii and the plain ride there from where I live is LOOOOOONNNGGG so I need some fanfics guys, please I will beg, I’m planing to copy and paste them in my notes app so I have something to read while we fly so anyone who has good fanfics from the tags PLEASE PLEASE COMMENT THEM OR DM ME THANK YOU SO MUCH 🫶🏽🫶🏽🫶🏽

[bsd-elle]

I know that Buddy Daddies is a dumb show with cute moments, and I totally agree.

But I just can't help but marvel at their writing choices.

They could've very easily continued with the sxf narrative, two hitmen adopt a kid for some reason, and hijinks ensues.

But rather, they opted to create a genuinely authentic found family trope, where two adults, both traumatised and not equipped to be parents, have taken it upon themselves to raise a child, to the best of their abilities.

Rei, who's father can't even be addressed with that title, who never had the chance to live his childhood.

And kazuki who never had any parental figures, who's chance at family was ripped away from him, for which he blames himself constantly.

These two people, who come together, to adopt and take care of a sunshine child like Miri, not only do they give her a loving, caring family dynamic, something she wasn't privy to earlier, but the two of them heal through her.

Rei is able to live his childhood, and enjoy his life, has a space where he can show his emotions, without being a stoic figure.

Kazuki, my poor boy, who feels like he doesn't have the right to have a family because he couldn't 'protect' them, now have a chance to raise a child.

And what I love about it is, not once does kazuki project his trauma onto Miri, not once does it seem like he's trying to 'redo history'.

He's very self aware of himself, the trauma he carries, and the mistakes he's made.

Yet, he constantly tries to better himself, and be the best parent to Miri.

Their love for each other is so palpable, obviously with his over protection and physical touch, but beyond that, the small things he does.

'our Miri', 'my girl', 'our genes'.

He fully has accepted Miri into his life, and considers Rei as his co parent, and I... I just love that so much.

Because I imagine this airing in a conservative country like Japan, and even if it wasn't gay parents, this could also be used for adoptions, where some people believe that it's not that same thing as having a blood relationship.

Buddy daddies simultaneously breaks down so many gender roles, and this ideal family notion, by having two male parents.

But more on the writing, Rei's care towards both Kazuki and Miri was so clear.

It's through subtle words, he tags along for everything Kazuki does, he reassures him even though he has no idea what to do either.

And with Miri, my sweet angels, that episode where he refers to himself as her papa, I scream everytime.

At the end of the day, yes, buddy daddies is a dumb show with cute moments, that shouldn't be taken seriously, but it's also a show that tells you that family is definitely something you can have, but it is also something you can choose, the people you choose to have in your life, the people who choose to be in your life, the people who love you regardless of who you are, the people who love you will be there for you, no matter what.

[lady-charinette]

Forever obsessed with the fact that Kyu-chan had most likely taken care of the medical aspect of Rei's recovery after he shot himself in the arm and Kazuki and Miri being there for him every step of the way.

Kazuki explaining to Miri that Papa Rei had a bad accident at work and wouldn't really be able to use his arm the way he used to.

Miri being sad at first bc that meant Papa Rei won't be able to play video games with her anymore or hold her. Miri brightening herself up by saying Papa Rei is still Papa Rei, with two functional arms or just one, so she would do everything she could to help him recover.

Kazuki tearing up and hugging his girl and whispering what a good and sweet child she is, that both he and Rei are lucky to be able to call her their daughter. Miri hugging her papa & kissing his cheek.

Rei eavesdropping overhearing from his room, his jaw clenching in an effort to try and keep the tears at bay. They still roll down his cheeks and he quietly wipes them away.

Months of occupational therapy, Kazuki trying to find honest work, Miri going to daycare and trying to cheer up Rei and help him in the house. They're staying at another safe house of Kyu-chan's until they're able to rent their own place.

Miri sometimes rubbing and poking Rei's arm to see if he has any reaction, she grows sad when he doesn't but he just smiles and ruffles her hair, telling her he was fine as long as they all stayed together.

The quiet, tender moments in the evening when Miri is already sound asleep, safe in her bed from any threats. Where Rei is trying to change for bed but his shirt gets stuck on his head with only one arm pulling at it in one direction. Feeling two helping hands pull his shirt off the rest of the way.

Kazuki is holding out his Rei's PJ's to him, at first he refuses to accept help to get dressed, it was embarrassing, he was a grown man.

Kazuki just swats his hands away, all the while snarling what a stubborn bastard he was, but his touch was gentle and careful as he guided Rei's arms into the shirt sleeves and helped him pull up sleeping pants. Rei vehemently insisted on being able to go to the toilet ALONE, but Kazuki still hovered over the closed door from the other side just in case "Rei fell over, hit his head on the tile floor and someone had to fucking call the ambulance".

Kazuki changing for bed himself before he brushes teeth together with Rei. They grow comfortably silent, marveling at how they managed to escape with their lives, how peaceful things were (for now).

They still tense at the slightest sound, Rei reflexively tries to reach for the knife at his night desk, but he forgets he can't use his left arm and makes a mental note to move his knife to the other side for easier access.

Kazuki has multiple weapons; a short knife in the top drawer, a baseball bat under the bed and a small handgun tucked in his underwear drawer (he knew that was the safest place where Miri wouldn't look and couldn't reach). Since Rei was no longer a human weapon, he had to step up and protect both him and Miri in case Rei's father changes his mind and goes after them.

They still need time to fall asleep, Rei feels the phantom pain of the gun wound on his arm, the spot grows tense and spasms randomly throughout the day.

As if sensing his discomfort, Kazuki would reach over and gently massage Rei's arm.

"You don't have to-"

"I want to."

They fall silent again, Rei exhaling at the way his muscles relax again thanks to Kazuki's ministrations. He sinks further into the soft bed, no longer sleeping in the cold hard bathtub. "Thank you."

"Don't mention it. You want an ice-pack?"

"No."

Kazuki had argued the mini fridge in their bedroom was purchased for the sole purpose of storing ice packs for Rei, but it looked suspiciously full of pudding and other sweets for Kazuki to munch on at random intervals during the night.

They fall into a comfortable silence again, until Rei quietly whispers into the darkness. "How is job hunting going?"

Kazuki snorted. "They ask all sorts of questions. What does it matter if can't handle accounting stuff when I work as a waiter? Someone else should count the money after work! Sheesh, they drive me crazy with all those extra questions too! 'What do you like to do in your free time?', 'Why did you leave your previous workplace?', 'Why would you like to work for us?'. Duh, to make money. Besides, it's not like I can just say my previous line of work got a little too dangerous and we almost got killed infiltrating my partner's mafia family mansion."

Rei chuckled quietly. "I don't think that would be a good answer."

Kazuki mirrored his chuckle. "Yeah, neither do I. But...I should find work soon. I will find work soon. So that I can support you and Miri properly and you can rest up well."

Rei tensed again beside him and Kazuki's hand shot out to caress his arm. "Tense, again?"

Rei didn't answer. "Rei?"

A muffled sob filled the silence and Kazuki's lips stretched into a small smile in understanding.

Rei tried to silence any sounds that might escape him, but the overwhelming emotion crushing his chest like a vice had him struggling to keep his composure.

This time, Kazuki's hand touched him again but instead of massaging his arm, he moved to tenderly grab Rei's head and pull him into a hug.

Rei tried to struggle at first, but just sunk into his embrace without much fight after a few seconds.

Kazuki held him close, fingers tenderly running through his messy black hair. He knew what Rei wanted to convey without him uttering any words.

Thank you, Kazuki.

They were safe and together and that was all that mattered.

[dr-demi-bee]

We're at War: the Wizard and the Commander

Chapter 5

Chapter 5 is here at last! Thanks for everyone's encouragement - hopefully you love this chapter just as much. :) (I think it'll be stretching past 7 chaps, but we'll see - it does have an ending at least 😂)

Frenemies -> Lovers ~ Royal Court AU ~ Knight x Noble

Pairing: Gale x f!Tav - NSFW Word Count: 8.7k (chap 5; total 34k) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------Summary:

The gala is off to a tense start. Gortash is clearly scheming, and Gale and Miri are determined to find out what. But can they really put their differences aside to work together on this? What about the ever growing tension between them? Emotions run high.

----------------------Read on AO3-------------------------

"I have an idea," he says, his voice barely above a whisper.

Her eyes slide to him with an arched brow, equal parts curious and skeptical. Gale can feel his heart beginning to race with excitement as his mind works out the details. He leans in close to her, speaking in a hushed tone.

"We could dance," he suggests, a smile tugging at the corner of his lips. “That could get us close enough you can overhear whatever he and the marchioness are discussing.”

"What?" Miri scowls at him. "I can't dance, I already told you this."

"I know," Gale replies, his voice still low and enticing, "But I can."

He can feel his pulse quickening at the thought - of holding her close in his arms and slowly spinning her about the ballroom floor. His mind is already imagining the feel of her body pressed closely to his, the soft scent of her hair, the warmth of her hands - her body- in his.

Miri doesn't dislike the idea of Gale holding her close. And it would be an ideal way to get close without raising any suspicion. But she was quite confident she'd make a fool of herself. Likely him as well in the process. Her eyes turn back to the dancefloor watching couples move about.

Gale can sense her hesitation, sees the flicker of uncertainty in her eyes. But he is determined to take this chance, to hold her in his arms and feel her warmth against him. To move past their spats and be.

“Just trust me, Miri.” He moves closer still, his voice soft and soothing. His eyes hold hers, silently pleading with her to accept his offer. “I’ll guide you every step of the way.”

"Gods damnit," she grits. "Fine."

A broad grin spreads across his face at her agreement.

"Excellent," he says, his voice filled with excitement.

He takes her hand in his, brown eyes alight with thinly veiled desire. Gale raises her hand to his lips for another soft kiss and a softer wink. Miri rolls her eyes back at him, but she can’t hide the way her lips tip up with a soft smile.

"Now come here."

Gale gently tugs her by the hand to bring her close and tucks her hand into the crook of his arm. With casual ease belying his excitement, he leads her to the ballroom floor below, the music swelling around them. At the edge of the dancefloor, he guides them into the proper position.

He takes the hand at his elbow back into his own, marveling once more at the warmth of her skin and the contrast of her slender, calloused fingers against his hand. Gale clasps her fingers in a firm, but pleasant grip. In this delicate hold, the sharp points of her nails seem almost out of place.

He slides his other hand down and across the silk of her dress into place at her hip, his fingers curling around to the small of her back. With gentle pressure he urges her to move closer to him - perhaps a bit closer than courtly propriety demands. But he can’t help but be greedy.

If he could he would crush her against him outright to feel the expanse of her soft yet firm body against his. With that low v in her dress, if he dipped her right he could place a kiss just between-

Gods he needs to stop or he won’t be able to focus on them dancing at all.

Miri hesitantly puts her free hand on his shoulder, mirroring what she’s seen plenty of times before. She can do this. She’s fought in dozens of battles. Led and slain countless soldiers. One dance shouldn’t be that bad.

But the feel of his shoulder - strong and broad beneath the layers he’s wearing - is surprisingly distracting. And for some gods forsaken reason, Miri can’t bear to look at his face. The heat in his gaze is all too similar to the way he looked up at her last night as he -

Stop it.

Gale tugs her gently onto the dance floor, and her gaze immediately moves to his feet. He can feel the tension in her body, but he's determined to make this dance as smooth and pleasant as possible.

"Relax. Look at me," he says gently, his voice drawing her gaze. Her expression is nothing but tension as those green eyes meet his. Gale keeps his voice low and gentle, soft enough for only her to hear, "Keep your eyes on mine, and follow my lead."

"How am I supposed to follow if I don't see what you're doing?"

Gale smiles reassuringly, his warm brown eyes locking with hers.

"Just trust in me," he murmurs softly, "Feel the music, feel the rhythm in my movements. I'll guide you. I won't let you stumble or make a fool of yourself."

"Good, because that would be the end of both our careers in court." she whispers back sharply.

He begins to lead her through the dance, his movements practiced and confident as he seamlessly moves them into the throng of dancers. Her grip on his hand and his shoulder is tight as iron.

Miri worries her feet will misstep or stutter, that these heinous shoes will snag or falter. She’s so confident in boots - hells, even barefoot- if she falls now she will never hear the end of it. From her men or from the nobility.

Yet, his guiding hand on her hip keeps her moving in step with him. Close to him. His fingers cupped around hers so easily lead her in one direction, then the next. Following is something she hasn’t done in ages, but with Gale it feels seamless.

As they continue to dance, he can feel her tension begin to melt away, her body relaxing slightly as she lets herself be guided by his skilled movements. Gale nearly breathes a sigh of relief that she’s allowing him to lead her. He’s not shocked she can follow the movements - no, she’s graceful and dexterous, more than able even off balance to master even the most complex dances he knows.

Gods, what he wouldn’t do to be able to spend the whole evening just like this. Well, maybe not the whole evening...

"You're doing great," he whispers, dipping his head closer to her ear.

Miri eases into the rhythm with him - treating as flows of a combat routine. Stepping back as the attacker moves forward, pressing the advantage... It starts to feel natural. Natural enough she can focus on the other dancers on the floor without her eyes leaving Gale’s.

His heart swells with a warm sense of satisfaction, an almost smug smile on his lips, as Miri relaxes in his grip and starts to fall seamlessly into the rhythm of the dance. Her long ears tilt upward slightly as she strains to hear Gortash's grating tones among the crowd.

"Can you move us closer?" Miri asks softly. A murmur so sweet and close - innocent words, yet spoken only for him - it almost feels intimate.

Gale smiles at her request, glancing across the dance floor to the target in question, spotting an opening.

His head dip closer to hers and he replies smoothly, smile never wavering, “Gladly.”

Gale leads her expertly around the room through a series of turns and steps, his hand on her hip guiding her gracefully across the dance floor. As they weave in amongst the other dancers, he continues a running commentary in her ear.

"That's it, focus on the rhythm. Feel the music in your limbs, in your movements. Almost there..."

He carefully maneuvers them closer to Gortash, their steps timed to look natural and effortless. As they draw near, he can faintly hear Gortash's distinctive voice, the gruff, arrogant tone almost carrying over the music. And if he can almost hear, then Miri most certainly can. She makes a subtle face of displeasure as soon as they're close enough for her to overhear.

"That's close enough," she murmurs to Gale. His stomach does another little flip at that soft voice so close.

Gale nods in confirmation, his own expression darkening as he glances over at Gortash. With her sensitive ears, Miri can make out enough of Gortash's words to pick up on the gist. It's also far enough that they won't seem suspect.

No one around them on the floor seems to pay them any mind. Save the soldiers stationed nearby looking on in awe at the way the commander is behaving. Miri tries very pointedly to ignore their attention, and their whispers, but it's grating all the same. Bad enough to be forced to parade about like this, let alone dance.

She can hear the marchioness mention something about money - and Gortash assuring her it's for a good cause. That could be nothing out of the ordinary...

He can feel the tension in Miri's form, the slight tightening of her fingers as she listens to the Grand Duke's grating voice. He gives her hand a gentle, reassuring squeeze.

He tips his head in close to murmur, “Keep calm, Miri. We should look natural - look like you’re having a good time, at least.”

She feels something race down her spine at the way his breath dances over her ear. Whatever it is she tamps it down.

"Oh, yes, because this is so delightful," Miri returns, fighting the urge to roll her eyes. “I don’t think anyone will be suspicious if I look less than thrilled.”

Gale notices the slight shiver that runs through her at his words, the way her pulse quickens at his breath on her ear - despite her words. As they continue to move together across the floor, following the curling movements of the crowd, he leans in just a bit closer - his hand on the small of her back pulling her hips nearly against his own.

This dance mirrors the way they’ve danced around each other for months. Years. Only further stoking the growing tension between them - the undercurrent of desire that seems to burn just beneath the surface whenever they are close.

"You know I'd rather be enjoying myself in much more delightful ways with you," he murmurs low and silky. Words just for her ears.

"I'm sure you would, sweetheart," Miri returns, tone heavy with gravitas, but smiling as if he had said something clever. "No need to be so convincing."

Gale's smirk widens at her response, his eyes gleaming with a mixture of amusement and desire. His whole body seems to come alive when that word leaves her lips - the way it immediately draw him back to those fleeting moments together in the dark and the moonlight.

"Oh, my dear, can you blame me?" Gale murmurs back, wearing a charming grin, "I spend all day listening to old men drone on about taxes and trade agreements. I crave a little excitement - a chance to let loose and forget the dreary details of court life."

"Well. You're welcome to come spend some time in the training yard," she teases back with a lopsided smile, “If you need a break so badly.”

"And watch you thrash your soldiers in the sparring ring?" Gale asks, his voice dripping with mock horror and genuine amusement. "I'd rather avoid the ignominy of being thrown onto my back by the formidable knight commander."

Miri huffs a soft laugh, actually flashing a genuine smile. His eyes twinkle with playfulness as he gazes intently into hers.

Gale wants to press it a step further. See if he can’t seize the opening and get just a bit closer to his ever-elusive knight commander. He knows she wants him too.

"Although,” he purrs lowly, “If you promise a more private show of strength later, I might consider it."

"Come now, physical exercise is much more exciting than administrative work," Miri returns with a soft smile. Her hand tightens slightly against his shoulder - a kind of possessive claim against the heat he stokes in her belly. There's something that glitters under her expression that suggests she's considering his suggestion.

"Oh, I have no doubt," Gale replies, returning her smile with a wicked grin of his own.

A turn takes them closer to the Grand Duke and the Marchioness. Gortash is regaling the marchioness with some details about a mechanical something he is in the process of inventing. 'Critical to the success of the war'... but for who?

They share a frown briefly - minds racing to decipher the implications of Gortash’s cryptic remarks. But they return smoothly to the task at hand - Gale a bit faster. It’s easy to put the danger from his mind with such a breathtaking woman in his arms.

"There are few things more tantalizing than watching someone beautiful work up a sweat as they battle against a worthy opponent,” he muses after a beat, “And I can only imagine the other benefits of such... physical exercise."

"They’re plentiful. Strength, stamina, endurance, flexibility..." Miri's smirk turns decidedly coy, before Gale turns her about in a spin. His hands guide her smoothly, her feet keeping the rhythm as they move elegantly together.

Gale's eyes light up with amusement and excitement as he pulls her back in, drawing her close, his hand on her hip pulling her body against his as they continue to move across the dance floor.

"That is quite the list," he says, a slow smile spreading across his face as he gazes into her eyes. "You know, I've always been quite partial to a woman with a strong will and an even stronger physique. It allows for some... exquisite possibilities."

Miri quirks a curious brow at him - quite an interesting revelation on his part. She does her best to maintain the smooth rhythm when he brings her even closer. And she tries not to show how strongly his hand against her lower back and his chest against hers has her pulse picking up.

"Is that so?" She queries, now they stood closer together. "Were your preferences perhaps... influenced in your formative years?"

"Why, Commander, are you suggesting that perhaps my tastes were shaped by a certain knight captain I used to moon over when I was a young apprentice?" Gale chuckles softly, his warm eyes gleaming with amusement and affection. After a beat, he dares to be honest. "I cannot deny that your strength and grace were the very seeds of my own... preferences."

"And now?" Miri murmurs, unable to suppress her curiosity about how time may have changed his feelings. She knows he’s attracted to her, sure. But she’s not sure where his feelings really lie. Nor where her own do, if she’s honest.

The music continues to play around them, a soaring melody that matches the tumultuous emotions swirling inside of Gale's heart. With her so close in his arms, he can feel the heat of her skin, the faint hint of her perfume, the firmness of her athletic form. Firm, and soft, and warm...

"Now..." he whispers, his voice low and seductive. "My preferences have grown more sophisticated with time. I find myself drawn to strength, yes - but also to kindness, intelligence, and a sharp wit. And it seems I am drawn especially to a certain commanding presence."

"I see," Miri smiles softly, feeling some warmth flicker in her chest at his words. They seem not only a clear invitation, as he was wont to do, but also some semblance of genuine praise and affection. "It sounds like you have matured quite a bit."

Gale smiles half-heartedly, a soft chuckle escaping his lips. Can she really not resist poking at him like this? He’s been back at court for a decade and she still treats him like an apprentice.

"Has anyone ever told you that you have a wonderful knack for pointing out the obvious, Commander?" he murmurs, his voice laced with a wry amusement. "Truly, I don't know what I would do without you to point out every flaw, shortcoming, and weakness I possess."

Miri sighs roughly as he manages to spoil it. Her lips press into a thin line, unamused by his prodding. It’s as if he can’t fathom of the possibility! Perhaps he doesn’t see her as more than the mantle she wears after all.

"Have you perhaps considered that not everything I say is meant as an insult?"

"Oh, my apologies," Gale replies, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "Here I thought your entire role in my life was to constantly poke and prod at my shortcomings. I must have misunderstood your intention. Surely, you must simply be offering your valuable advice because you care about my well-being, right?"

She scowls at that.

"I'm sure that's hard for you to fathom at such a tender age," she snipes back. She’s grateful at least that now they can finally stop this charade of a dance.

"A tender age?" Gale repeats incredulously, dark brow furrowing at her remark. "I'm not some fresh-faced youth! And you know full well that I'm not some insecure whelp either. So if you're going to insult me, Commander, perhaps you ought to choose better. Something a little more cutting."

Her eyes move from his buffoonery to trail Gortash's back as he leaves the dance floor. Talks of 'infernal iron' and steep price tags nag at the back of her mind. But somehow the irritation with Gale presses to the forefront.

She’s not even listening. Gale lets out a low rumble of frustration, his fingers tightening slightly on her hip. That godsdamn muscle in her jaw is feathering- he knows she’s holding back a growl.

"Is it really so hard for you to just...be kind to me? For once?"

Her eyes snap back to his. Her grip on his shoulder and hand tighten, bordering on painful.

"Sometimes it seems that way," Miri returns with a calm that belies irritation simmering beneath, "As you seem dead set of perceiving my words and actions as anything but."

Gale's eyes narrow, his frustration mounting. She can’t twist this back onto him. He only barely maintains the rhythm of the steps. It falls from fluid to stilted.

He struggles to maintain his composure, to keep himself from lashing out in anger. But the tension between them is palpable, and it seems like one wrong word could ignite the already smoldering embers of their argument.

"And why, pray tell, would I perceive your actions as anything but deliberately cruel?" Gale hisses back, only just keeping his voice down. "Have you ever tried... oh, I don't know... being nice? Showing some semblance of empathy, or gods forbid, affection?"

Miri bristles as he so easily dismisses her kindnesses and the rather copious amount of affection she has given him over the last two days in particular. She’s been protecting his ass for years. Aiding him in council and out. Clearly it's not good enough for him. Greedy little shit.

"Maybe I will. Once I manage to find someone who appreciates it." She masks the hurt in her voice with frustration. Her voice is threaded with a growl rather than the pain that threatens to spill free.

She opens her mouth to say more, but the music swells to a crescendo and then a finale - and the other dancers on the floor all stop to applaud. They almost stumble as the dance ends before either of them has time to process.

The applause around them pulls them back to the present, and he lets out a sharp exhale as he looks to Miri. She steps coolly out of his hold, a cold gulf forming between them as she to steps aside and join the other guests in showing gratitude to the musicians. He feels a flicker of disappointment mingling with his frustration.

Gale draws in a slow, deep breath, his mind swirling with a mix of emotions. On the one hand, he's frustrated with her apparent unwillingness to acknowledge their complicated relationship, but on the other, he can't help but notice the hurt in her voice.

Their frustration heightens the ever complex web tangled between them, each too stubborn to admit their true feelings. Both sharing furtive glances - thinking how the other is so wrong. Yet both feeling the same impulse to drag the other away and kiss them senseless - show them how they feel.

Their attention is drawn up to the top of the grand staircase, where King Ravenguard clears his throat to begin his welcome speech. Gale and Miri watch as King Ravenguard steps forward, addressing the gathered guests. He speaks of peace, prosperity, and the future. Baldur’s Gate pushing through the war, coming out for the better.

But Gale and Miri's minds are elsewhere.

Gale’s thoughts swim with their unspoken words and unresolved feelings. He glances back at Miri, a mixture of irritation and longing stirring within him as he watches her stern gaze moving. Despite their disagreements, he can't deny the profound effect their relationship has had on him.

Miri is only half listening to the king. Her eyes are trained on Gortash, who continues to whisper in the ear of the marchioness towards the front of the ballroom. She cannot let Gale distract her from her duty to the kingdom.

Above them, King Ravenguard invites Gortash up to speak. They watch the greaseball in question ascend the stairs to join the king on the dais, his eyes gleaming and his every step exuding confidence. Time for his usual gala pontificating about money and supporting the city of Baldur's Gate. Miri's eyes flit about the crowd to take note of observers. Her gaze flickers up to Captain Cliffgate - Miri still needs to discuss her concerns with her. No good opportunities for now. It could wait. Even Gortash isn't foolish enough to attempt something now. Half a platoon in the room, even ignoring her, Cliffgate, and Gale.

Gale's notices Miri's eyes flitting around the room, taking in the other guests. He can see the wheels turning in her mind, a mixture of concern and thoughtfulness etched on her features.

She sighs, not bothering to muffle the irritation in her tone. Miri doesn't have the patience to listen to his inane prattling. Laced with self-glorification and an unhealthy dose of arrogance. She turns on her heel, not caring about subtlety, and exits the dance floor - nobles all too eager to make way for her when the recognize the steel gaze of the knight commander approaching.

Gale shifts his gaze between Miri and Gortash as she slips across the room. She’s so brazen about flagrantly disrespecting the Grand Duke - part of him is thrilled to see her do it, but the other part knows it’s not doing her any favors.

He huffs a deep sigh of his own, fighting the urge to follow. It’s not as though he wants to listen to Gortash prattle on any more than she does. But he also knows how it would look if he were to trail after her immediately.

So he stays and listens for a few minutes more.

Five minutes pass.

Ten.

Fifteen.

And Gortash shows no sign of slowing.

Although he’s still annoyed with Miri, he can't help but be a bity antsy - eager to discuss what she might have overheard. Now would be a good time, considering the weasel isn’t in a position to do any more plotting while he’s orating till he’s blue in the face. Perhaps it's time to put aside their differences for now and see what the Grand Duke is up to.

He checks over his shoulder for the striking combination of deep red hair and blak and emerald silk. She’s easy to spot - leaning in an alcove against the far wall, wine glass in hand.

Subtle as he can manage, Gale extricates himself from the crowd a few steps at a time. Once’s he’s free of the throng he gravitates toward her as if pulled by some undeniable magnetic force.

He approaches Miri with a hint of apology in his eyes. Miri sighs, her own expression slightly rueful. An unspoken apology - and far from the first.

"Bored already, are we?" Gale says, a hint of teasing in his voice.

"Not like he ever says anything remotely interesting," Miri grumbles back, their voices hushed despite the distance form the dais and the bulk of the crowd.

Gale chuckles, his eyes shifting back to Gortash up on the platform, delivering his usual grandiose speech. He nods in agreement with Miri's grumble.

"You're right. It's always the same empty boasts and empty promises. I don't know why the king keeps letting him up there every year." He glances back at Miri, his eyes sparkling with amusement. "But then again, I suppose it gives us something to complain about."

Miri gives him a wry half-smile. "As if we couldn't find something otherwise."

Gale returns her smile, his own expression now mirroring hers. A silent easing of tension for the moment.

“What did you make of what you overheard?” he asks, his voice lowered to keep their conversation discrete.

"I'm not sure. He's building something with expensive parts. And he's convinced she would be willing to contribute as a 'loyal follower'. But everything is rather vague, of course..." Miri huffs a sigh of frustration. She captures her lower lip between her teeth and chews on it briefly. "The mention of infernal iron, the vague nature of his project... it could be nothing, but it could be something more sinister."

Gale nods in understanding, his sharp mind already working to piece together the information she's given and trying desperately to ignore the way his eyes want to fixate on those sharp teeth or the lip between them. Gale frowns slightly, fixing his gaze on Gortash instead. His brow furrows in thought.

"And from their conversation, it seems the marchioness is all too willing to contribute...” Miri adds, “Perhaps her loyalty is to him, instead of to King Ravenguard."

"That is my suspicion, as well,” Gale replies, his eyes flitting to the Marchioness at the foot of the grand staircase. Watching Gortash with doe eyes. “And were whatever this is for the good of the kingdom, I imagine he would have brought his clever idea to council by now."

A flicker of concern flashes in his eyes as Gale turns his attention back to Miri, his expression growing serious.

"I've been tracking some rumors in the lower city,” Gale returns softly. “Whispers of a cult that's been gaining more followers as of late. Could be nothing, but with the Banite’s knocking on our door I don't trust Gortash's motives at all."

Her brows furrow at the possibility of cult movement in the lower wards. As if they don’t have enough trouble on their hands. Insurgents would add a few hundred more headaches they don’t need - and if Gortash isn’t loyal...

She finishes her goblet of wine before she responds.

"We should discuss that more. For now we should keep an eye on him and see if he does much more 'fundraising' for this project tonight."

"Agreed," Gale nods, his gaze fixed on Gortash's form. His mind is a whirlwind of thought and speculation, but he tries to remain focused on the present. "We’ll keep a close watch on him. No doubt he’ll continue to speak of his project to anyone with deep pockets who will listen. For now, we should keep our ears open and our eyes vigilant."

His gaze flicks back to Miri, noticing a subtle shift in her expression. "Is there something else on your mind?"

"No," she returns softly, her ears shift from a high raised position to something slightly lower. "Just listening to whispers."

"Ah, there you go again.” Gale smirks and his eyes sparkle with a mix of amusement and affection as he gazes at Miri, his frustration with her fading slightly. “Being vague and cryptic. It's almost cute."

"I'm being quite literal," she whispers, shooting him a wry glance.

Gale chuckles softly, his brown eyes twinkling with humor.

"Ah, of course. My mistake." His smile softens, a hint of fondness in his voice as he regards her. "So what whispers have you been listening to? Anything we should be concerned about?"

Miri shakes her head softly.

"Just the idle chatter of nobles," she returns.

More than a few within her hearing range are whispering to one another under their breath - poorly veiled criticisms of the young king, of the state of the war, of her leadership. And even less subtle commentary about her as a person. Or less than, typically...

Nothing she hasn't heard before.

Gale's eyes narrow slightly, his ears trained on the whispers surrounding them. He can hear the subtle jabs at Miri's leadership and her person. His thoughts swirl with a mix of frustration and admiration. He admires her strength in the face of such constant scrutiny, her ability to keep her composure in the midst of it all. Despite their differences, he can't help but feel protective of her.

He turns to her with a supportive smile. "Pay them no mind. Anyone who can't see your talent is a fool."

Miri manages a soft smile back. It's tempered by the uncomfortable way her feelings push and pull around Gale. He seems to pull her in only to push her back again. When it comes to anyone else, he's quick to defend her - assume the best in her. But between them....

There’s a smattering of applause that escalates to a full round when Gortash finally shuts his trap.

King Ravenguard resumes the control to commence the gala dinner. The king gestures towards the elaborate feast laid out in the adjoining hall and invites all the guests to dine and drink, and to make merry in celebration of the coming prosperity of the summer season.

Gale glances around at the gathered guests, all of them nodding and murmuring their approval at the King's words. Gortash is amongst them, his false smile stretched across his face as he stands behind the king. Gale can't stand the sight of him, can't stand to see him pretending to be a pillar of the community when they both know the truth.

"Let's go find something to eat," he says to Miri, his eyes still trained on Gortash. "Before I lose my appetite completely."

Miri nods, her eyes watching the King and his guard. "At minimum I find myself in need of a strong drink."

"Right there with you," Gale mutters, his eyes still scanning the room for any signs of danger. He feels on edge, like a coiled spring ready to snap at the slightest provocation. As they make their way towards the banquet hall, he whispers to Miri.

"Keep an eye out for anything suspicious. And don't get too drunk."

"I assure you they have nothing in the larder capable of getting me drunk," she retorts with a huff.

Gale chuckles at her response, feeling some of the tension ease out of his body.

"Well then," he says with a grin, "You know what they say - a challenge only makes the reward all the sweeter when you succeed."

He glances around at the extravagant feast laid out on the table, his eyes lighting up as he sees the array of dishes. And the spread of fine drink.

"Oh, perhaps they may have some things that could get you drunk after all," he teases with a smirk.

"You're incorrigible." Miri returns with a sour look.

Doing her best to look poised and not pissed, she finds a seat at the end of one of the long dining tables. Gale chuckles as he follow suit, sitting across from her. As they sit down, he glances at her with an amused expression.

"You know you love it. What fun would a court dinner be without me?"

"'Fun' is perhaps the wrong choice of words," she returns with a shake of her head and a roll of her eyes.

Gale starts to dig into the food, sampling a bit of everything as he goes. His eyes dart around the room, constantly scanning for any signs of trouble - but a bit more relaxed now that he’s got food in hand.

Miri is more selective - almost exclusively meat and occasional vegetables. She eats with a hand over her mouth to keep her teeth concealed. She's more conspicuous about her attending to Gortash - keen ears listening to his blithering conversations.

Gale eyes her plate, amused at her choice of food.

"You know, it's a royal feast, not a hunting trip," he teases. "Perhaps something a bit more refined? A cheese pastry, perhaps?"

He sees the way Miri’s ears shift subtly, and his eyes dart to Gortash seated a few tables over. He leans in close and whispers, "What's he saying? Anything of interest?"

"No. About as inane as your dietary advice," she replies, shooting him a look. "And you don't need to get close to whisper to me."

"Just taking the chance to flirt with a beautiful woman," he replies with a wink. His eyes flicker towards Gortash, his expression darkening and his grip on his silverware tightening. "I'd take a plate full of snails and worms over hearing that fool's voice.”

“Be grateful for your limited hearing, then," Miri returns darkly. The makes a face at him, clearly unamused. The man has absolutely no guile. Thank the gods he’s not usually necessary on a covert operation. As is he’s making this one neigh on impossible and it’s hardly started. His gaze doesn’t even stray from the direction of Gortash’s table.

"Do try to be a bit more subtle, Lord Dekarios." She kicks him under the table, causing him to wince and snap his gaze back to her.

"Ow! Bloody hells!" he hisses, rubbing at his sore leg. Gale grits his teeth and shifts his leg out of kick range as he retorts, "Subtle? You're one to talk, Commander.”

She gives him a look that just says ‘really?’

"I'm doing my best," he mutters. "I just can't stand the sight of that worm. He's up to something, I can feel it in my bones. But what...?"

He pauses for a moment, his eyes narrowing as he tries to catch any snippets of Gortash's conversation. "I can't make out anything from here."

"Stop trying," she pleads in a low hiss. She intentionally taps her fork against his plate to draw his attention back to her. "You are atrocious at subterfuge."

Gale scowls at the jab to his ability to stay unnoticed.

"I am not! I just have better things to focus on," he mutters in protest. He turns his attention back to his food, picking at it with a petulant expression on his face.

"And for the record, your skills aren't that great, either," he jabs back. "That foot under the table was rather obvious, Commander."

"There's dozens of acceptable reasons I might kick you. Significantly fewer for the court mage to look like he's taking notes on the Duke's every breath and planning an assassination."

Gale bristles at her words, his eyes narrowing. He stabs at his food with his fork, clearly annoyed.

"Taking notes?" He repeats, the indignity clearly evident in his voice. "I am not taking notes."

He shakes his head, his frustration growing. "I am... paying attention. That is the job of any good court mage, after all."

Miri rolls her eyes. She takes another serving of roast pork.

Gale lets out a huff of frustration.

"Fine," he mutters, his mood becoming increasingly sour. "You want me to stay out of it? I will. But don't come crying to me when that snake sticks a dagger in our back."

He takes his glass of wine and downs it in a single gulp, the liquid flowing down his throat like a waterfall.

"I'll sit here, silent and complacent. Like a good court mage."

"Don't be petulant," Miri returns, eyeing the way he drinks his wine warily. "I'm asking you to leave the listening to me. If he breathes a word of interest I will tell you."

Gale rolls his eyes, setting his empty glass aside.

"And what exactly do you want me to do then? Eat? Drink? Flirt with anyone in a short skirt?" He frowns, his mood soured further.

"Gods above." Miri pinches the bridge of her nose as the tension escalates. Bad enough to have to listen to the most annoying worm on the continent, but now she has to deal with Gale acting like an overgrown child. Again.

Gale lets out a bitter chuckle at her reaction, his frustration clearly building.

"Oh, I'm so sorry Commander," he mocks, "Am I not entertaining enough for you? Should I put on a show? Maybe juggle some fireballs?"

He leans in closer, a dangerous gleam in his eye. "Or perhaps you'd rather I turn all that energy towards more destructive purposes? I have a lovely spell that turns men into toast."

"Please," he huffs, sitting back again. His tone drips with sarcasm as he goes on, "I'm sure your ears are just bleeding from the sound of his voice. How have you managed to keep from throwing your knife at his smirking face?"

He picks up a piece of cheese and plops it into his mouth, his expression dark. Miri ignores the majority of his dramatics as she drains a goblet of wine. She chooses to seize on the less incendiary of his comments to reply to, arching a fine brow.

"What makes you think I have a knife on me?"

"Oh, please," he replies, his lip twitching slightly. Gale rolls his eyes, a hint of amusement in his expression. "You're never without a blade, even when you're dressed for court. No doubt you have at least three hidden on your person. A knife in your right boot, perhaps?"

She intentionally crosses her legs so that her foot sticks out from beneath the end of the table, reminding him of her high heels.

"Not one on me, I'm afraid."

Gale's eyes narrow at the revelation, his expression turning thoughtful as he stares at the expanse of her leg. Gods, she’s practically taunting him with that long expanse of coppery skin. His eyes trail up the criss-crossing straps of her shoes until it disappears beneath the table. He has to physically resist the urge to dip beneath the table to see more.

"No knife on your person?" Gale muses, "That's a first. Or maybe it’s somewhere more conspicuous. Maybe I should start asking to frisk you before we have our little encounters."

His tone turns suggestive as he leans in closer, his eyes full of mischief. "Of course, I'd have to be quite thorough."

Miri snorts.

"I'm never defenseless," she returns. She picks up her refilled goblet and intentionally taps her sharp nails against it. "Even without a blade."

Gale eyes her nails with a raised eyebrow, his expression a mix of amusement and doubiousness.

"Oh? And what exactly are those supposed to do? Scratch me to death?"

"They've been known to do that," she returns without amusement.

Gale gives Miri a withering look, his eyes filled with skepticism.

"Right, and I suppose you've personally tested this theory, have you? Tell me, how many men have you scratched to death with those pretty little talons? A handful? A dozen?"

"Let's not ask questions we don't actually want answered, hm?"

She looks at him over the rim of her goblet. The solemnity of her gaze suggests he should drop the line of inquiry. Gale chuckles at her response, his humor returning.

"Touché." He leans back in his chair again and studies her for a moment, his eyes taking in the glint of her nails in the candlelight.

"Remind me not to get on your bad side, eh?" Gale smirks as he raises his own goblet, freshly refilled.

"Far too late for that, I'm afraid," she returns playfully with a smirk of her own.

Gale doesn’t take it so playfully. Instead, it feels like a jab, another wall put up between them. He rolls his eyes, his expression turning slightly sour.

"Oh, I'm well aware of that," he grumbles. He shakes his head, sighing. How can he bridge this damnable gap? He contemplates it for a few moments, watching Miri enjoying another serving of pork. His annoyance dissipates slightly, replaced by a hint of amusement.

"So, how exactly do you plan to do this? Are you going to lurk in the shadows like a thief behind tapestries? Or perhaps you'll sit in my lap, feigning interest in my oh-so-enthralling conversation?"

Miri nearly chokes on her wine. She coughs a couple times. "I'm sorry, what?"

Gale chuckles at her reaction, his mood brightening slightly.

"Oh, I was just contemplating how you might continue to eavesdrop on Gortash's conversations in a discreet manner. Obviously," he adds with a smirk. "But I do love that reaction. I must file that one away for future reference."

"I can hear him just fine from here," Miri grits back.

Gale chuckles in amusement.

"You and your exceptional hearing," he mocks, shaking his head in mock disappointment. "It's not fair you get all the fun. But I suppose I will indulge you. Let us continue to eat in silence, and pretend that Gortash doesn't exist until you have exhausted all the food and drink in the hall."

Miri scoffs indignantly at the last comment, her disinterested look melting into a scowl.

"And what is that supposed to mean?"

Gale chuckles at her reaction, his amusement growing.

"Oh nothing, Commander. Just commenting on your impressive appetite." He leans in closer, a devious glint in his eye as he lowers his voice to a whisper. "Tell me, how do you manage to fit so much food in such a small body? Are you secretly part-Tarasque, perhaps?"

Oh, so now instead of pouting he’s going to resort to petty insults? How mature. Her scowl deepens and she rumbles a low growl.

"Mind your tongue."

Gale chuckles at her warning, his expression turning mischievous.

"What's wrong, Commander? Not used to being teased? Don't like being reminded that you don't quite measure up?" he mocks with a smirk. He leans in closer, his voice dropping to sultry murmur. "And as for minding my tongue, well... a bit late for that, isn't it?"

"Don't quite measure up?" Miri repeats with an incredulous brow raise.

Gale shrugs, his expression filled with mockery. Miri stops eating

"Well, you are a bit on the short side, aren't you?" Gale goads, a hint of amusement in his voice. "I mean, I could practically fit you in my pocket. Not exactly the ideal size for a Commander, is it."

"I see," she returns venomously. "That's rather amusing coming from a snack."

Gale bristles at her comment, his eyes narrowing slightly.

"A snack, am I?" he retorts, his tone sharpening. "Well, I'll have you know that I am not a snack to be trifled with. I am a scholar and a wizard of considerable talent."

He sits up suddenly, his expression filled with a mixture of anger and hurt. "And you’re just a barbarian from the woods with animalistic abilities. We are not the same."

That’s a step - or twenty- two far. And she’s had enough. Enough. Enough of these games and enough of these self-righteous humans.

Miri lets her fork clatter to her plate and pushes it back suddenly. She downs her goblet of wine, then stands and immediately starts striding from the feast hall and back out into the larger ballroom.

Gale watches her leave with a mixture of confusion and annoyance on his face.

"Excuse me," he mutters, standing abruptly and quickly following her.

He catches up to her in the ballroom, now sparsely populated, his face flushed with a combination of anger and humiliation.

"What in the blazes was that about? Are you really that riled up because of some petty insults?"

"Am I?" Miri huffs, not stopping for a moment as she storms across the hall. "What do you care?"

Gale scoffs, his frustration mounting as he tries to keep up with her. "Oh I don't know, maybe because we have a job to do here?"

When she doesn’t reply he groans loudly, jogging to keep pace with her. How is she so bloody fast in those shoes?

"We are supposed to be observing Gortash! Learning his secrets, not tearing each other apart. But oh no, the oh-so-mighty Miri can't handle some words."

"I've listened to more than enough for one evening. Not a single person in this gods damned gala has an interesting thing to say," she hisses.

Gale rolls his eyes, his annoyance written all over his face.

"Oh, excuse me for assuming that you had a modicum of patience like a reasonable person." He shakes his head, his tone growing more impatient. "We have a job to do. You might have spent years living in the woods like a savage, but the rest of us have had to learn to be civil in order to advance. And that means engaging in conversation, even with people who aren't necessarily the most interesting."

Miri rounds on him with an outright snarl, sharp teeth bared.

"I have lived in the Gate and served the crown for a century. Do not think to lecture me about how to be civil or patient."

Gale scoffs, his own patience wearing thin.

"A century? Congratulations, you've managed to survive a hundred years while avoiding intelligent conversation." His tone is laced with irritation, his eyes narrowing as he looks at her. "I'm not trying to lecture you, I'm trying to get you to focus on the task at hand. But instead you're storming off like a child throwing a tantrum because some pompous noble hurt your feelings."

"You're right, he did," Miri bites back, "And I was foolish enough to believe he was different. That he had a shred of respect for me."

Her voice drops soft and low, full of acid and anger and hurt, "But I will not make the same mistake twice."

She whirls on her heel and continues hurriedly striding from the hall. As fast as her stupid short legs will take her in these gods damned shoes.

Gale watches in disbelief as Miri storms off, his frustration and confusion mounting. He starts following after her again, his brow furrowed with confusion.

"What in the hells are you talking about, Miri?" he calls after her. "Who hurt you? And why do you even care about their opinion? You're a Commander, for Mystra's sake!"

The moment they step outside the ballroom she stops, practically ripping her shoes off - the cords around her leg snapping as she yanks them off. Miri turns to him, face flush with anger and some other emotion. Her heart is pounding in her ears. And the fact that this hurts so gods damned much is infuriating.

"You're right! Why the hells should I care!" She growls. "I should stop expecting things to be different. They won't be. They never are."

Gale's irritation melts into bewilderment as he watches Miri's outburst. Her anger and frustration are palpable, and he feels a twinge of guilt for his earlier insults.

He hesitates for a moment, conflicted between his need to focus on their mission and his growing concern for Miri's well-being. Finally, he speaks.

"Miri...what's going on? You're acting like someone's deeply hurt you. What happened?"

Her growl escalates. And she bares her teeth even as tears start to threaten her vision.

"For the most brilliant man I've ever known, you are truly an insufferable idiot."

"Insufferable idiot?" Gale repeats, his eyes widening in disbelief. "You're the one throwing a tantrum like a child, and I'm the insufferable idiot?"

He throws his hands up in frustration. "You're supposed to be a soldier, Commander! You're supposed to keep your emotions in check. You can't just fly off the handle every time someone says something you don't like. It's unprofessional."

"You're right! Gods forbid I also be a fucking person," Miri returns softly, tone cold as ice.

"A person?" Gale echoes with a scoff. "A person wouldn't behave this way, Commander. You're acting like a rabid beast, ready to bite anyone who comes near."

Miri’s eyes go wide, and he can see the tears glimmering in her usually iron strong gaze. He looks at her with a mixture of frustration and worry, his tone softening slightly.

"Miri...tell me what happened. Something must have provoked this. We can figure it out together, but you have to talk to me."

"No. You've said enough for one day."

She doesn't stay to hear his retorts, immediately storming down the stairs. Gale watches her go with a mixture of bewilderment and frustration. He knows he should just let her go, focus on their mission, but something about her reaction bothers him.

He hesitates for a moment then with a muttered curse, he follows her down the stairs. He starts hurrying after her, his expression a mixture of irritation and concern.

"Miri! Wait!" Gale calls after her, trying to catch up.

Gods damn it all. Fucking impossible stubborn clueless idiot! She hikes up her skirt in her hands and starts to run. Her bare feet slapping against stone and tile as she takes those long graceful strides.

Gale curses under his breath as he sees Miri start to run. He can't believe she's running from him.

"Damn it all to hells-" he mutters, his frustration mounting. He breaks into a run after her, his robes swirling around him.

"Come back here, you insufferable woman!" Gale shouts, his breath coming in gasps.

Miri sprints to her chambers, throwing open the doors and slamming them shut behind her. Gale reaches her chambers just moments too late. He hammers his fist against the door, his expression livid.

"Miri, open this door right now!" he shouts, his anger rising. "You can't just shut me out like this!"

"No!" She shouts back. "Leave me be!"

"Leave you be?" Gale repeats, his irritation reaching a boiling point. He bangs his fist against the door again, his voice rising. "I'm not going anywhere until you tell me what in the nine Hells is happening. We have a job to do, and you're acting like a petulant child! I will not let you jeopardize the safety of the kingdom just because your feelings got hurt!"

"Fuck off!" She shouts back, her voice cracking. "Finish eavesdropping yourself - I've had enough for one day."

Gale stops abruptly, his anger cooling slightly at the sound of her cracking voice. He lowers his fist and leans against the door.

"Miri...please." his voice softens, the anger fading from his tone. "Talk to me. I can't help you if you won't let me in. Just...tell me what happened, and we can fix it together."

"Figure it out yourself!" Miri yells.

She can't decide what's worse. That he could say such cruel things so flippantly after claiming- or maybe pretending- to be different. Or that he can't seem to fathom that he hurt her. That it is his cruelty that stings more than any other.

She throws the stupid shoes at the door and they bang off the wood with a clatter. Gale flinches, his heart clenching at the sound. The pain in her voice is evident, and he knows he’s made a mistake.

But his pride won't let him cave so easily.

He bites his tongue, his jaw clenched tightly, resisting the urge to shout something else. He leans his forehead against the door, his voice barely above a whisper.

"Please, Miri... just talk to me. Whatever I did, I can fix it. Just let me in."

"No." Miri growls back. "Goodnight."

Gale bangs his fist against the door once more, his temper flaring again.

"Bloody hells! You can't just shut me out like this! We're supposed to be a team! You can't just-"

Gale lets out a frustrated sigh, running a hand through his hair. He's torn between respecting her wishes and his desire to fix things. With a muttered curse, he steps back from the door, his frustration mounting.

"Fine." He grumbles, his voice flat. "I'll leave you to your tantrum. But don't think this is over."

With that, he turns and strides away, his mind racing with all the unspoken words as he slams the door of his own chambers shut.

[jiminguuk]

Thoughts on Buddy Daddies

1. I work at a daycare and every time I see someone say they dislike Miri because she’s obnoxious, annoying, etc…I just think they have never been around a child that is 3-4 years old who gets attention. Kids love attention. so yeah, Miri is wild at first because she’s getting attention from people she really likes and trusts for the first time in her life. She wants to do everything they do, know everything, see everything. She’s 4, she wants to learn. Kids are annoying, cause problems, don’t listen because they are not fully aware of their surroundings or the consequences. It’s really not a hard concept. I think the creators did a fantastic job of creating a realistic child.

2. I think we, as a society, need to learn the difference between queerbaiting and queer-coding. We also need to understand people will view content from their own pov. You see Kazuki and Rei. Some might see best friends, life partners, soul mates, lovers, boyfriends, etc. It simply doesn’t matter. No one is right nor wrong. If you see them as straight, great. See them as queer? That’s also great. However it is so very important to not discredit the concept of gay people existing. Even in a conservative society, gay people exist.

3. No one should compare Buddy Daddies and Spy x Family. It’s like comparing DC and Marvel. Similar, but different in content, plot and characters. And that’s all I’ll say on that discourse.

4. I don’t want to see Boss get a redemption arc. He doesn’t deserve it and we have yet to see any of his backstory. To me, it doesn’t matter. That kind of plot is unrealistic to me. Some are just bad people in the world and they will always be bad. I think we’re more likely to see Mr. Last words have a change of heart rather than boss, simply because we have seen more of him.

5. I don’t think Kyu is going to betray the family. If he does it would be part of an elaborate plan to save them. I think we’ll see Rei come to save them for plot and character purposes. Or perhaps Miri will by some kind of random accident.

6. I am terrified that Miri’s mom will somehow take her back in the end :( I would lose my GD mind if that happens lmao.

[breakfastteatime]

Today's request is for @isaspell who requested 'Childhood' and that somehow led to...

Cal’s clan is off to the aquarium for a field trip. He’s excited to see the fish, but mostly he’s excited for lunch, because Master Entola promised everyone could have a sweet treat and he’s already chosen a milkshake because those sound amazing. They’ve all packed into the air coach, and he’s taken a window seat, Aster at his side. She’s a little bit older than him, quiet and shy around those who don’t know her, but imaginative and cheerful with Cal.

And she’s got a great idea: they’re going to sneak off and swim with the rabbit sharks.

Cal’s all for it; he’s even packed a dry set of clothes so no one finds out, except Master Entola’s apprentice, Padawan Midi, keeps staring at them like he knows they’re up to something. Aster wants to try though because she’s older than Cal – twelve already – and she’s going to begin training as a healer soon, which means she’ll be leaving the clan and they won’t have a chance to travel into the city together.

It's a long trip to the aquarium. At first, Cal looks out the window, marvelling at how big and busy Coruscant is. So many people flying around doing all kinds of things in all kinds of buildings. After ten minutes though, it all starts to get a bit repetitive. So many skyscrapers, so many vehicles, and so many tunnels into the undercity where they’ve been told they’re never, ever, to go, even though Cal found an echo on Padawan Midi’s teacup that showed he had been to the undercity with many of his friends. It all starts to blur, and even though Aster’s making plans and dishing out orders, Cal falls asleep. By the time he wakes up, the bus has docked and it’s time to go. Aster grabs his hand, chatting excitedly about her plan. Cal hushes her. Padawan Midi stares at them again, especially at Cal. Maybe he can read minds already; some Jedi are really good at that. Cal isn’t. Aster always knows what other people are feeling, which is why she’s going to be such a good healer. If Cal ever needs a healer again, he hopes Aster can be the one to help him.

The children are split into smaller groups. Cal wants to go with Master Entola, but he’s placed with Padawan Midi. At least he’s got Aster with him, and Yumi and Caster. They’ll cover for them when he and Aster make a break for it. They’re Jedi, so there’s no way they’ll fail in their mission.

As they walk through the aquarium, looking at different sea creatures from across the galaxy, bubbly, ambient music plays. The lighting is dim and tinted blue, shimmering to make it seem like they’re under the sea, and there are lots of other people around. There are other children too, probably on trips from the local Coruscant schools. Most of them stare open-mouthed as Cal and his friends go by. Cal remembers to block out other people’s thoughts and feelings, although he does catch a few stray emotions. One grown-up is amazed because they didn’t think Jedi children were allowed out of the Temple. Another swells with jealousy, wishing he too could use the Force and solve all his problems. Cal can’t imagine life without the Force, so he just feels sorry for him.

Eventually, they reach the massive tank where the rabbit-sharks of Pia VI live. Cal’s never seen such a huge tank, and it’s designed to look like the depths of an ocean, complete with a sunken ship for all the fish to swim through. There’s plenty of seating available so everyone can sit while they stare. Padawan Miri reminds them they’re all here to learn about the different life forms to be found in the galaxy and suggests everyone start filling out their worksheets on their datapads. Cal pulls his out of his backpack and pretends to write, but really he’s looking for the doorway Aster says will take them to the top of the tank so they can jump in.

“You are very distracted today, Cal.”

Padawan Miri’s voice makes Cal leap out of his skin. “S-sorry,” he says. Blushing, he looks down at his datapad. “I’ll do my work now.”

“Good boy,” says Padawan Miri, and he moves on to see what Caster’s doing, probably because she’s drawing a lot, pointy tongue sticking out of her mouth. Caster’s the best artist in their clan even though she’s the youngest. It’s how the Force expresses itself through her, and how she deals with the strange dreams she sometimes has. Cal knows, because he picked up one of her drawings once (flames and smoke, coming from a tower) and he felt her fear.

With Padawan Miri distracted, and the rabbit-shark chamber filling up with people, including lots of other children, Cal knows this is their chance. Aster nudges him, grinning, and she slides her datapad away. Cal does the same, heart pounding in his chest. He’s so excited – they’re really going to swim with a rabbit-shark! They make a careful break for it, slipping through the crowd. Aster’s in the lead, like always, and she’s found the door Cal was looking for. It’s on the left side of the tank, and there’s a big sign on it stating STAFF ONLY.

Well, if it’s STAFF ONLY, maybe they should’ve locked it, because Miri nudges the button with the Force and it slides back immediately. They dash through and follow the staircase that leads up, up, up, up. There’s no one here. Cal can hear the water lapping on the side of the tank, smell its overpowering salty scent. It’s kinda gross, actually. He puts his datapad away and then leaves his backpack off to one side. He peers down into the water, but all the fish are way down deep. He can swim, but not all the way down there.

“Help me find some food!” Aster says. “That way, we can bring them all to us.”

Nodding, Cal looks around and sees a huge bucket marked ‘CHUM’. He grabs the handle, ready to tell Aster he –

She can’t believe he proposed. Proposed! And here, in her favourite place in the whole galaxy! Now, if she can convince her boss to let them have the actual ceremony here…

Cal blinks back to the present, glowing with someone else’s happiness. Aster just laughs at him, grabs the bucket, and starts throwing the chum into the water.

It doesn’t take long for the fish, including one of the rabbit sharks, to suddenly break the surface. Aster squeals with delight, reaching out to pet as many of them as she can. She giggles. “They’re so slippery!”

Following her lead, Cal reaches for the rabbit shark. His hand lands between its big ears, the skin beneath his fingers bouncy and slippery. Cal gives scritches to as many of the fish as he can, laughing at them all. There are a lot of them, so many the water’s all churned up. He’s not entirely sure how they’ll even get in the water when there’s so many –

“Cal! Aster!”

It’s not Padawan Miri shouting at them. It’s Master Entola.

“Come here at once!”

Aster and Cal share a look. Busted. Still, Cal thinks as he stands back, grabs his backpack and turns to face Master Entola, it was definitely worth it…

…although he’s not so sure he still feels that way when he and Aster are assigned extra chores and meditation on why they mustn’t run off, and he’s definitely not happy about missing out on ‘saber practice for one whole week…

But not many people can say they got to pat a rabbit-shark…

[jewishcissiekj]

DC Comics JewShowdown round 2B part 2

Oh it's getting even more difficult (for me) Miri you did great but you aren't gonna make it through this round sorry

[ladysansalannister]

Gay witches confirmed

[doyouknowthisjewishcharacter]

Do you know this Jewish character?

[ill-try-to-do-book-reviews]

Our Wives Under The Sea

Julia Armfield

Rating: 🕯🕯🕯🕯🔥 (4.5/5)

Our Wives Under The Sea is a slow but sure dive into thallasophobia, body horror, and, surprisingly, grief. Though it is a horror novel, it deals with the grief of losing a loved one, and more strongly, with the grief of mourning someone who is not dead. This book is, in my opinion, the quintisential "came back wrong" trope, executed marvelously well.

SUMMARY: Miri thinks she has got her wife back, when Leah finally returns after a deep sea mission that ended in catastrophe. But It soon becomes clear that Leah may have come back wrong. Whatever happened in that vessel, whatever it was they were supposed to be studying before they were stranded on the ocean floor, Leah has carried part of it with her, onto dry land and into their home.

Memories of what they had before – the jokes they shared, the films they watched, all the small things that made Leah hers – only remind Miri of what she stands to lose. Living in the same space but suddenly separate, Miri comes to realize that the life that they had might be gone.

MY DETAILED REVIEW (SPOILER WARNING):

This story was difficult to get into. It was a slow start and I admit I had to dredge through the first few chapters.

However.

The slow start ends up giving the book a "frog in the pot" effect. By the time you're aware of what's really happening, you're already completely invested. By the time that Jelka starts losing her mind, the horror of Leah's and crew's situation really settles into your bones, you've already become enthralled, already curled up under the blankets at 3am soaking up every single word, and truthfully, you couldn't even pinpoint when you got so invested or what got you so hooked to begin with.

Leah and Miri's relationship is seen in two parts: flashbacks of the past and horrors of the present. Miri frequently recalls the beginning of their long-standing relationship through the duration of their current deterioration. Pamela, the time she saw Leah off and a fellow wife was surprised she didn't know Flat Stanley, the time she saw her off for the last time, meeting Jelka briefly and feelibg that nothing was wrong.

Interspersed among these flashbacks are glimpses into Leah and Miri's present, as Miri desperately tries to get in contact with the evasive corporation that had sent her wife to her doom, as Leah shifted and changed into something Miri no longer recognised, bleeding from her pores and gums, losing weight and spending increasingly more time in the bathroom.

At some point in your read-through, long after you're already neck deep in the story, you - and the characters - begin to question if their descent was actually an accident. By this point, though, Jelka is already long gone.

Jelka's death is very sudden and isn't made into a big deal during or after its reveal. The shock of someone having committed suicide via deep sea pressure never really hits our characters - which, while a little frustrating, serves the story well, in my opinion. They've been down here for months, isolated, alone, with literally no signs of any other life, despite how densely populated the ocean is known to be. Jelka had begin losing herself long before and one can only imagine how desensitised you would become in that situation. It also goes to show just how soon Leah and Matteo's transformation begins; they haven't even seen the eye yet before their humanity begins to slip.

Another thing that is never fully addressed, and honestly is kind of just dropped, is whether or not The Centre actually did intentionally drop them, leave them for 6 months, and then bring them back, or if it actually was a freak accident. It is heavily implied that this was intentional, and truthfully the fact that it is only ever implied wouldn't bother me so much were it not for The Centre just completely erasing itself from the face of the earth seemingly overnight.

To my understanding, The Centre is a megacorp of sea exploration; brand new and the first of its kind. Enigmatic, but really, all corporations are. Miri is able to contact them throughout the duration of the story, up until Leah's changes become undeniably apparent, at which point they somehow know to pack up shop and snap themselves away.

It could be argued that the therapist was involved in reporting, but unless they had kept Matteo, how would they have known something was going to go wrong to the point of asking the therapist to report back to begin with?

Also, what happened to Matteo? They resurfaced together and then were never brought up again, ever. I don't know, the Matteo thing just didn't sit right with me I guess.

My final issue is what the hell does Leah become? Obviously some sort of deep-sea creature, but what? Or does she just become a fish? Also what prompts this physical transformation? Presumably the giant Eldritch octopus they made eye contact with has something to do with it, but what exactly was never really clear to me.

I will say, though, Leah's last thought before resurfacing being Miri, and wanting to get back to her wife, was a special kind of devastating.

I hope Leah is happy out there in the ocean and I hope Miri makes a home out of her dead mother's house. I hope they visit each other often.

All in all, despite the questions I was left with, Our Wives Under The Sea turned out to be a fascinating and captivating read. I think it is 100% worth an initial read-through, but I doubt I will be reading it again.

[thatsadroleplayer]

Roleplay information

About me!

Kia Ora! My name is Roman. I am genderfluid and use any pronouns. I enjoy roleplaying, of course, writing, art, reading and a whole bunch of other new stuff. I am open to friends outside of roleplaying, if that is something you'd want. I am from New Zealand! This is just a post about information when it comes to roleplaying that I find important!

Fandoms

(This will go in order of current hyperfixations, etc, although that is subject to change and will be edited when necessary)

The last of us (will base it more around the show but I've also seen playthroughs of both games)

9-1-1

Criminal minds

Sanders sides

Stranger things

Marvel

DC

Buddy daddies

Banana fish

Sk8

Characters

(This will go in order of favourites to least favourites to play as, if the character isn't listed but is a main character in the show it means I likely won't play them)

The last of us

Ellie Williams

Joel Miller

9-1-1

Eddie Diaz

Evan Buckley

Bobby Nash-Grant

Maddie Buckley

Christopher Diaz

Athena Grant-Nash

Hen Wilson

May Grant

Chim Han

Criminal minds

Spencer Reid

Emily Prentiss

Penelope Garcia

Jennifer Jareau

Derek Morgan

Tara Lewis

David Rossi

Aaron Hotchner

Sanders sides

Roman

Patton

Virgil

Janus

Logan

Remus

Stranger things

Steve Harrington

Eddie Munson

Robin Buckley

Max Mayfield

Eleven/El/Jane

Will Byers

Lucas Sinclair

Marvel

Peter Parker

Yelena Belova

Clint Barton

Kate Bishop

Natasha Romanoff

America Chavez

Bucky Barnes

Bruce Banner

Tony Stark

Wade Wilson

Steve Rogers

DC

Jason Todd

Dick Grayson

Tim Drake

Damian Wayne

Wally West

Roy Harper

Donna Troy

Garth

Kon Kent

Jon Kent

Bruce Wayne

Clark Kent

Diana Prince

Buddy Daddies

Kazuki Kurusu

Rei Suwa

Miri Unasaka

Kyutaro Kugi

Banana fish

Yut Lung Lee

Ash Lynx

Shorter Wong

Sing Soo-Ling

Eiji Okumura

Blanca

Sk8

Tadashi Kikuchi

Kaoru Sakurayashiki (Cherry)

Kojiro Nanjo (Joe)

Reki Kyan

Langa Hasegawa

Miya Chinen

Rules

Do not spam me, I have to sleep, go to school, spend time with friends, etc. If I do not respond within twelve hours, then you are welcome to begin to send me reminders.

I will only rp NSFW if it is something the roleplay is leading up to, I will not do a lot of it and it cannot be the main point of the roleplay.

Do not take control of my characters, if you want something to happen then you can speak tome about it and we can figure it out together.

Respect my boundaries, if I tell you something makes me uncomfortable or I don't want to do it do not push me.

My dms are open! If you have ideas and want to do them with me feel free to reach out! I am open to trying other fandoms other than what I have listed, so feel free to suggest things. If I don't know the fandom/haven't finished whatever it is then I will let you know. If is your decision from there whether you wish to continue or find someone better suited.

Communicate with me! I will not know what is going on if you don't communicate. If there's a scene you want to do, if you have to be offline for a while, etc don't be afraid to talk to me! I will do the same.

I welcome any and all identity headcanons except if you make gay characters straight. I often headcanon characters as trans myself.

I am open to ship suggestions, I will tell you if it makes me uncomfortable but if you suggest an obviously problematic ship I will simply block you.

I prefer long responses, but I will try my best to match whatever length you use.

I will not play abusive characters if they are a main character. If they're a side character that is fine, but if they are a main character I won't do it.

I do not have triggers but if you're going to include something that could be triggering please warn me first, it makes me uncomfortable when those kinds of things are suddenly sprung on me.

If you do not follow these rules you will be given a max of three warnings before I will just block you and/or stop replying.

If you think any of this fits you feel free to reach out! Whether you have an idea already or would like to come up with one together!

[languagestoday]

The Latin phrase "in mari meri miri mori muri necesse est" translates to "in a sea of marvelous wine, it's necessary for a mouse to drown." This phrase is noted as a Latin tongue twister.

A mouse (mus, muris) must (necesse est) die (mori) in a sea (in mari) of delighful (miri<mirus) pure wine(meri<merum)

In vino veritas