#mmm a wonderful collection of specimen.. mmm

[thebekashow]

squishm and roumd.

feat. bebe goat @lunaglitchercc (because i miss drawing bebe goat) and bebe character @immagoholdup :3

[starr-fall-knight-rise]

Humans are Space Orcs “Snow”

Another suggestion you guys gave me :) Hope you like it! 

Maroz 324’s sky was cold and blue overhead. It’s distant binary stars hung high in the sky over the flat, cold alien landscape painted in shades of blue and white. No footprints, or tracks of any kind crossed it’s surface, and remained that way until the shuttle roared down from the bright morning sky and towards the chilled surface.

The GA (Galactic Assembly’s( scientific landing crew felt the weight of the ship as it settled onto the ice, and unbuckled themselves from their seats turning towards the wall to grab their gear. The crew consisted of two Vrul, one Tesraki and a Rundi as it usually was…. That was all accept for the humans, who ducked through the door and into the room, tall and menacing with their forward facing eyes and glittering white teeth.

The human pilot, wearing an eyepatch, and accompanied by a Vrul and Drev of his own paused in the doorway, “We ran some diagnostics on the planet surface. The ice is made mostly of well…. Water which is obviously a good thing for us. As for temperature and atmospheric readings, we have mostly nitrogen, bu at least 21% oxygen. Not a whole lot of carbon. Outside reading on the ship shows that there seems to be no liquid water present on the surface, and as such indicates no bacterial presence, though that may mean nothing at this point. Temperature is a balmy -20 degrees Fahrenheit or -28 degrees celsius.

“Balmy, is this your humor, human?” one of the scientists wondered pulling on a contained environment suit with respirator, temperature control, and a crap-load of other life support equipment, “Subzero temperatures make this planet a deathtrap, unlivable. An extremely hostile environment.”

The human just smiles a calm smile,“Balmy at this point means, wow my face isn’t going to freeze off and shatter upon contact with the air.”

“But ... that's exactly what -20 means.” 

Behind him, the other humans were falling into the room pulling on multiple layers of clothing. The human before them did the same. Two pairs of pants, and boots, and then another strange fibrous layer, and then a large fluffy jacket above that. There seemed to be no room for life support aboard their uniforms. In fact, the scientists were skeptical whether the suits were airtight enough not to lose air rather than contain it. The human pulled on a cap over his head and delicate ears, which were sure to freeze in the cold. There was no question that humans weren't meant for low temperatures, seeing as they lost heat quickly, and had no hair to keep them warm.

That might be why it seemed as if their gear was so primitive…. Perhaps because they had to develop subzero life support systems early on. The original human pulled on two pairs of gloves flexing his fingers inside the suit before donning a strange set of eyewear which he perched atop his head.

As far as they could tell ,he wore no respirator, and there was nothing protecting his eyes from freezing inside his head. The rest of the scientific group had donned their gear…. The same gear they would have worn in the vacuum of space, and then motioned towards the airlock. The humans shuffled forward with a sort of swishing squeaking noise, and the scientists followed behind them. The lead human carried a specimen tube on his back with another vrul encased on the inside looking surprisingly bored as if he was used to the human’s atics by this point. 

They were growing rather nervous watching them, “Aren't you going to put on your helmets?” one of them wondered through the intercom.

The humans looked down at him. Through their noses and mouths were covered by strange fibrous material, the way their eyes scrunched hinted at amusement.

Behind them, the airlock hissed shut, “Why would we do something like that.”

The human hit the button and the cabin depressurized. The scientists looked on in horror expecting humans to fall to the ground dead, but they seemed more than ok. One of them walked towards the door as a decontamination spray bathed them in a fine layer of mist. The door lurched open with a clunk, and a wave of what must have been freezing cold air flooded into the cabin.

Together, the scientists looked up in shock expecting the human’s eyes to immediately freeze and shatter inside their skulls, or at least to see their skin turn blue. No such thing happen, together, the humans walked out into the snow with a soft crunch crunch. To their shock, the main human pulled the material down from his mouth, and then breathed deeply. Hot air plumed from his mouth in smoke like rings.

“Ah…. nothing like a little cold to invigorate the self.” he took another deep breath. For a moment they stared on in surprise, shock and awe, that was before the man began to cough violently doubling over for a moment, probably ready to keel over and die.

The other humans began to laugh at him.

HE pulled the material up over his face, still coughing, “Note to self, air very dry, lungs on fire,.”

The scientists stared on in wonder as the human quickly recovered.

“What…. But…. how/”

The human turned to look at him with a raised eyebrow, “Are you kidding. Where I come from it can get -40 degrees towards the beginning of the year. So cold you can turn boiling water into water vapor in seconds.”

“But ... but how…. You have no fur.”

“What do you think the jacket is for.”

“But your lungs.”

The human reached up and prodded at his nose with a hand, “That’s what this puppy is for keeps the air humid and warm for the lungs. I advise breathing through the nose in cold situations rather than the mouth.

“Your eyes….”

“Tons of blood flow, and there are nice and cozy inside my sull, stop worrying so much.”

He turned towards the planet hands on his hips, “I don’t know about you boys and girls, but I would consider this planet habitable, at least worth harvesting water from. So maybe some sort of base here.”

The scientists just stared as the (life support-less) humans marched into the snow.

“Think about it, one of the humans muttered watching as the scientists took their readings, “No one has ever set foot here…. Ever.” 

The lead human tapped his chin with a musing expression, “Mmm ... good point.” It was then that he left off a strange animal bugle and ran straight onto the tundra hopping and dancing and running around in circles on the white plane of ice and snow almost slipping and falling on more than one occasion. It didn’t take long before the other humans were running after him engaging in primitive and aggressive play with each other. 

A human took a running start and then dug his heels into the icy snow going skidding past another human who had flopped down on her back to open and close her arms and legs while laughing. 

A human leaped over her and then went rolling into the snow sending an explosion of white powder up after him rolling to a stop only to copy the woman before. The scientists, who should have been collecting samples, just stared on in wonder and confusion as the humans happily played in the snow and ice.

Two humans tackled another one and forced his face into the snow before scampering away only to be chased by their snowy counterpart whose warm skin was melting the snow on his face only to have it freeze against his skin. 

“What are they doing.” One of the scientists asked in wonder.

The Vrul inside his test tube sighed, “They are frolicking I believe is the term. Humans love snow, or at least some humans love sow. That one there is making a snow angel, those ones there just performed what is called a ‘whitewash’.”

The scientists turned to the Vrul hunkered down inside his specimen tube, “how do you know all of this?”

He sighed “The first time I visited earth, it was during a blizzard.”

“You’ve been to earth!” They exclaimed in unison.

“More than once unfortunately.” He droned watching as one human snuck up on another with a handful of snow shoving it in their face when they weren’t expecting it. He came over sputtering and spitting snow out of his mouth, “Ok, Ok, this means war.” The aliens looked on with worried expressions as the human trudged over to the ship where the heat of the engines, still cooling had melted a plot of snow in a wide circle around the craft. He dug his hand in towards the edge scooping up a handful of snow and began packing it together.

Together the scientists came forward with curiosity, “How did you do that.”

The human looked u in puzzlement, holding out his ball of snow, “What…. You didn’t know that it sticks together.” he tossed the ball of snow up and down in a single hand, “Well my friends, you are about to be introduced to a human game that has been near and dear to our hearts from times of great antiquity.”

He turned towards where the other humans were still ‘frolicking in the snow’ and violently snapped his arm around in an overhand circle. 

There was an explosion of snow on the back of one of the human’s jackets and he stumbled nearly falling flat on his face. He turned eyes narrowed, and then came barreling towards the human who had thrown it.

“SNOWBALL FIGHT!”  

The entire tundra broke into chaos around the ship, and the scientists ducked for cover as balls of frozen liquid began flying through the air at incredible speed. The first human was nailed in the face ending up on his back in the snow holding a hand to his nose.

The other humans only stopped to see if he was ok before continuing on in their mission. Two took up position behind one of the struts holding the ship up, one of them throwing the snowballs, while the other made them and handed them off with unwavering accuracy. 

Eventually someone was smashed over the head with a snowball the size of his own head and the two ended up tumbling to the snow rolling end over end as they tried to stick each other’s faces in the cold, wet ground.

The scientists were making no headway and were forced to yell at the humans to knock it off hoping beyond hope that this was not some sort of primitive mutiny by the humans. It was so violent and aggressive.

“ALL OF YOU KNOCK IT OFF!” The humans stopped, and everyone turned to find the Vrul in the test tube with both of his arms crossed, just like the humans, “can’t you see you are ruining the  scientific field and contaminating it., “Either you play nice with each other, or you are all going back inside.” 

To their surprise, the humans slumped and muttered to each other giving the scientists time to go out and begin sampling away from the ship where the chaos had taken place. Behind them, two humans had begun rolling a massive ball of snow, which didn’t seem like it should have stuck together, but totally did. Another one sat in the snow and absently crunched on a snoball.

“Get that out of your mouth!” The vrul in the test tube demanded, “You don’t know what could possibly be in it.”

The human looked up at him licking his lips, “Don’t eat yellow snow.” He held out the snowball, “This snow is white.”

“It is from another planet.”

“What is yellow snow.” A returning scientist wondered, “I did not know that snow came in different colors.”

The human grinned malevolently, “Oh yes yellow snow. I know how to make it too. A serious process.” the other humans began giggling. The vrul inside his specimen tube did not seem pleased.

Behind them two of the humans had managed to stack three snowballs one on top of the other.

“What are you doing.

The humans turned to look, “Do you like it? This is our snowman.”

“Snowman?” They wondered in confusion. Another human walked up from behind with two snowballs and stuck them onto the middle snowball.

“Now it is a snow woman.” 

He received a face full of snow for his trouble.” 

Another human inched by on his back pushing himself through the snow on his back like some kind of strange arctic inch worm. The other humans, and aliens alike turned to watch him go, the humans with amusement and the aliens with confusion.

Apparently, despite being spawned in the dessert, or savanna, humans greatly enjoy the cold, when snow is involved, they will eat it, play with it, throw it at each other, bury themselves in it burrowing around like snow worms. No one understands why this is, by all rights it should kill them, but humans are adaptable basterds, and I suppose that the ability to live in a cold climate would give them no end to the water that they might need.

Still it is very strange, there is something about snow that brings out the primitive human, which will then display a strange sort of ritualistic play .

There will have to be more research done about this in the future, but for now it will have to remain a mystery. 

[inmyownlittlecorner5]

libera nos a malo chapter 10: suspension d’incrédulité

A fanfic Novel by la-topolina   Rated for Mature Audiences   Warnings: Language, Violence, Sexual Content   Chapter 9/21

<< Chapter 9+

libera nos a malo masterpost+

Octavius Pepper lived in a tumbledown brick house a few miles outside of Hogsmeade that had long since lost its first bloom of youth. Miranda’s boots squelched over the muddy path leading to its front door, knapsack slung over one shoulder and an umbrella in her opposite hand in deference to the early spring downpour. The house was guarded by a thicket of thorny bushes, and as she approached, a branch lashed out at her like a snake striking. She hexed it neatly back into place, but it came around for another go. This time she hexed it with more force and less panache. The bush quivered indignantly, but allowed her to pass without further molestation.

“Nice to meet you too,” she said as she climbed the crumbling steps to rap on the sagging front door.

She slid her wand back into her sleeve while she waited for her client to let her in out of the rain, warily eyeing the twitching thorn bushes. The door squeaked open, revealing Mr Pepper in his shirt sleeves, his wiry hair still unkempt, and a quill tucked behind one ear. He peered at her through his spectacles, studying her like a potions specimen.

“It’s awfully wet out here, Mr Pepper,” she prompted when he continued to stare. “I don’t suppose I might come in.”

He blinked and his fingers twitched nervously. “Yes. Do.”

Although he did step out of her way, he refused to open the door any wider, and she had to close her umbrella while still standing in the rain. She was quite drenched by the time she squeezed past him into the bare entry hall, and she was more than a little surprised to find the roof watertight. Octavius was still eyeing her as though she were a three-eyed newt, which sparked her temper.

“Will it bother you if I dry off, Mr Pepper?” she asked, doing her best to keep her voice mild.

“What was that?” he said distractedly. “Do as you must.”

She waved her wand and muttered an incantation to remove the mud from her boots and wring the water from her clothes. Before she was finished, Octavius had curtly ordered her to follow him, and was leading her through the dimly lit hall to a room at the back of the house. The interior walls were cracked and hung at erratic intervals with strange paraphernalia. A unicorn’s skull covered in cobwebs over a broken mirror, a tarnished tangle of serpents beneath a window, and a taxidermic Augurey with coins where its eyes ought to have been above a darkened doorway stood out to her from the collection of curiosities.

After the grim disrepair of the rest of the house, the room they entered was a welcome surprise. A warm fire crackled in the fireplace and a well-loved, but sturdy, armchair  sat before it. There was a large desk covered with parchments, quills, ink bottles, and other sundries. Several windows of sparkling glass would have let in the afternoon sunlight had the day been fine. Every wall that was not covered by a window bore a bookshelf with a tempting array of tomes. Gleaming metal automata floated just below a ceiling that displayed a slowly rotating celestial map. It was the perfect room to while away a gloomy day.

Octavius waved his wand nervously over a small table near the fire, sending books and papers flying back to their places around the room. Miranda had to duck as one book skidded perilously close to her head.

“You have them?” he asked, his fingers plucking at a stray thread on the back of the armchair.

She schooled her features, wondering what had happened to the long-winded but benevolent wizard she’d met with before. Octavius had seemed rather odd to her from the start, but his jumpy behavior was making the hair on the back of her neck stand on end.

“Yes. And happily for your pocketbook it was no more trouble than I’d anticipated,” she said as she hauled the heavy, rusted chains out of her bag and coiled them on the table, letting the three heavy balls attached to the end rest on top.

His eyes dilated behind his thick glasses, and he stared at the chains for so long that she thought he’d forgotten she was there. She cleared her throat with deliberate politeness in the hopes of prompting him to complete the transaction without any unpleasant bickering.

“Hmmm? Of course, your payment.” He pulled a pouch off the mantelpiece and handed it to her, never taking his eyes off the chains.

She flipped the pouch open and gave it a cursory glance. Pleased to find her actual fee enclosed, she slid it into her knapsack, and swung the whole thing over her shoulder again. Octavius held his hand over the chains, like one mesmerized, but did not touch them. Then his brow creased and his eyes narrowed with suspicion.

“What have you done to them?” he demanded.

“I didn’t do anything to them,” she replied.

“They’ve been touched. By the Undead.”

How did he know that? “I had help. But I’ve already paid my associate. It needn’t concern you.”

“It concerns me deeply. Was it a vampire touched them?”

She let the tip of her wind slide out of her sleeve, but kept her voice light and easy. “I don’t see how that’s relevant, but yes.”

His lips curved into a haughty smile. “Foolish girl, why would you?”

“I beg your pardon?”

“We shall have to deal with this problem.” His eyes were darting back and forth and he was obviously speaking to himself rather than to his guest. “It is a bad business, but there is nothing else to be done.”

“What are you talking…ah!”

In the space of time it took Miranda to blink, Octavius grabbed her hand and hauled her bodily over to the table holding the chains. As she swung her wand around and jammed the tip of it under his chin, he ran a sharp thumbnail over her wrist. Several drops of her blood fell onto the chains, which took on a greenish glow before fading back to dull rust.

“What the fuck did you just do?” she demanded as Octavius released her hand.

“I cleansed the chains that you allowed to be tarnished.” he replied, apparently unconcerned that she was ready to blow him to kingdom come. “Name your fee for the extra work this morning.”

“I don’t generally sell my blood,” she snapped, furious with Octavius’s actions and with the fact that she couldn’t get a read on how much of a threat he was. Outwardly he seemed almost frail, but there was a coldness emanating from him that she usually only felt from hardened killers.

“You’re unwell, aren’t you Miss Rose,” he said.

“I’m well enough to take care of myself.”

“I’ve no intention of disproving that at the moment. But perhaps I might be of some assistance to you.”

He grasped the chain with one hand, and laid his other over the hand she was using to hold her wand to his throat. A deep, dizzying magic washed through her insides, rolling through her like a thunderous wave. She gasped involuntarily, riding the high with a feeling of giddiness. It seeped out of her slowly, and when it was gone Octavius released her. She paced away from him, her wand dangling from one hand, forgotten, and her other hand on her flushed cheek. Her own magic was pricking her from head to toe, and she knew without casting a spell that it was whole and complete in a way it hadn’t been since her journey to the land of the Iele months before.

“I trust you find that satisfactory,” Octavius said, his back already turned to her as he examined his prize.

She knew better than to look a gift horse in the mouth. “That’ll do just fine. Pleasure doing business with you, Mr Pepper.”

“Likewise, Miss Rose. Do see yourself out.”

She kept her pace unhurried as she retreated from his library, trusting that his obsession with the chains and his studies would keep him from troubling her further. The thorn bushes attacked her again on her way past them, and she swatted them none too gently with her umbrella. They hissed at her, but withdrew, and she very nearly skipped down the path as her magic pulsed through her.

“Impervious,” she murmured.

She felt her magic pricking through her skin, forming a water-tight shield around her that the raindrops bounced off. Laughing, she twirled her umbrella around her finger, shrank it to the size of a candy-cane, and stuffed it into her bag. As she fairly floated to the edge of Mr Pepper’s oppressive wards, his strange behavior slipped from her mind, and she spun like a gleeful child as she passed through them before apparating away.

*****

The lamps lining the cobblestone streets of Diagon Alley were flickering to life as the sun set on a day that could not claim to have truly seen its face. The rain had dwindled into a gloomy fog that blurred the people and the storefronts into an impressionistic haze as the Alley sluggishly switched from day to night. Miranda, still flushed with the unexpected bonus from her work for Mr Pepper, emerged from Dosas restaurant with a packet of piping hot samosas and cup of steaming chai. With the food warming her stomach, and her magic thrumming through her veins, she was as eager to share her good fortune with Aaron as she was to tangle with any sort of trouble they might meet on patrol tonight. She found the lanky American loitering at the corner of Diagon and Knockturn Alley, leaning against a lamppost and smoking a cigarette.

“Thoughtful of you to bring dinner,” he said as he plucked one of the samosas from her packet.

“I know how you feel about working on an empty stomach,” she replied, glad that she’d remembered to order the larger version of the dish.

Aaron’s eyes closed with pleasure as he tasted the savory delicacy. “Mmm. Perfection. I oughta bring Rachel and the baby down here on Sunday.”

“Yes, you should. Have I missed anything?”

“Nah. It’ll be a dull night. I can feel it in my bones.”

They started down Knockturn Alley as they worked their way through the samosas. The decaying Edwardian edifices loomed overhead, their windows watching the intruders like so many wary eyes. The fog was thicker here, as though the dark magic that held the place in thrall had forced it from the nooks and crannies between the buildings to huddle in the narrow street. There was a faint whispering in the wind that stirred the soupy haze, sharing secrets that Miranda could not quite make out. Though her skin pricked her with the warning that she was being watched, she shrugged off the feeling. She and Aaron were there to be seen.

As they came to the end of the Alley, they crossed the cracked stone street to loop back up the other side of the block. Anticipation hung over the shadowy shops as thick as the weather outside, and Miranda had the distinct impression that more than one patron was lingering just inside the doorways, waiting for the Aurors to depart. She stuffed the empty samosa packet into her chai cup and threw it into an overflowing dustbin as they passed the infamous oracle, Delphi’s Doom. When her hands were free, she let her wand slide part way out of her sleeve.

The door to Borgin and Burkes scraped open ahead of them, its bell sending a mournful clang through the Alley. Mr Borgin appeared, escorting a witch dressed in smartly tailored robes. Aaron straightened as the woman’s white-blond hair came into focus through the fog, and strode ahead of Miranda to meet her.

“Good evenin’ Narcissa. Evenin’ Orestes,” Aaron called as he approached. “Heck of a stretch of weather we’ve had.”

Mr Borgin quickly smoothed his frown into a more neutral expression, though Miranda thought he looked terribly worn out. Narcissa was polished as always, but the dark circles under her eyes cast a haunted pallor over her patrician features.

“Auror Lee, a pleasure to see you,” Orestes said stiffly.

“Aaron, how are Rachel and Maggie?” asked Narcissa with a pinched smile.

“They’re fine. Maggie’s been sleeping longer most nights, so Rachel and I feel like actual human beings again,” Aaron replied. “How’s business, Orestes?”

Orestes looked like he was trying to swallow a lemon. “Booming.”

“Glad to hear it,” Aaron said with a lazy smirk.

“I must ask you to excuse me,” Orestes said, casting a suspicious glance in Miranda’s direction. “Good night, Mrs Malfoy.”

“Good night, Mr Borgin,” Narcissa replied. “And thank you.”

Mr Borgin disappeared into his shop, and the heavy curtains came down after him, obscuring the interior from view. Narcissa started back towards Diagon Alley, and though her lips were pursed, she did not object when Aaron and Miranda fell in beside her.

“Miss Rose, it’s been so long since I’ve seen you,” Narcissa said. “I trust you are enjoying your stay in England?”

“It’s been educational,” Miranda replied, deciding now was not the time to needle the other witch about her family’s misfortunes. “Thank you for asking.”

“How’s that Draco?” Aaron asked smoothly. “I know I was a handful at that age.”

“He is a...handful as you say,” Narcissa said.

“Well I hope he doesn’t put you through half the nonsense I put my Mother through.”

Narcissa let out a hollow laugh. “No. I don’t think he will. Would you be so good as to tell Rachel that I am thinking of coming for tea in the next week or two?”

“I will. She’ll be happy to see you,” Aaron said.

“I’m sorry I can’t be more specific with the date, but I will send an owl before I come.”

“Don’t you worry, I know how it goes. You just come on over whenever you get the time.”

She gave Aaron the ghost of a real smile. “Thank you. Good night, Aaron. Miss Rose.”

“Good night, Mrs Malfoy,” Miranda said.

“Night, Narcissa. Keep your chin up,” Aaron added.

Narcissa took a few steps away from them before disappearing with a demure pop. Miranda started back across the street to make a final loop of Knockturn Alley before noticing that Aaron hadn’t followed her.

“Are you coming?” she asked, raising her eyebrows in question.

Aaron was staring thoughtfully at the empty space where Narcissa had disappeared. “What? Yeah, I’m comin’.”

He trotted to catch up to his partner. If anything, Knockturn Alley seemed even less hospitable as the full dark of night descended on it.

“Things are tense with the Malfoys I take it,” Miranda commented as they headed back down the Alley.

“That’s an understatement. It’s a cryin’ shame a lady like Narcissa got tangled up with the likes of Lucius Malfoy,” Aaron replied, shoving his hands in his pockets as his eyes scanned the street as though eager for trouble.

Miranda shrugged. “I can’t say I don’t feel sorry for her. But I wouldn’t go so far as to assume she’s completely innocent. Don’t let those wide eyes and that angelic face go to your head, Aaron. Or have you forgotten Lavinia Starling?”

“Ouch! You sure know how to cut a fella to the quick,” he said with a sheepish grin.

Knockturn Alley seemed to sigh with relief as the Americans finally left it to its own devices and turned onto the gentrifying splendor of Phyne Alley. Metal and glass sculpted into the shapes of creatures both legendary and cryptid had been soldered onto the tired Victorian townhouses. The doors to the shops selling niche fashion, No-Maj music, and the latest magical innovations were open wide to the night as a steady stream of young witches and wizards flowed in and out of them. There was an air of apocalyptic celebration clinging to the place, as of a people grimly determined to enjoy the moment, knowing that tomorrow was unlikely to arrive with the consequences.

“Robert won’t shut up about getting his hands on Severus,” Aaron said as they threaded through the crowded sidewalk.

“I’m not setting anything up for him, and if you value your hide, you’d better do the same,” Miranda replied, doing her best to ignore the way the mention of Severus’s name made her guilty heart sink.

“You think I don’t know that? Trouble is, Robert’s stubborn as a mule when he gets some fancy in his head. It’d be a helluva lot more comfortable for everyone if you’d just sweet talk your professor into one piddly dinner. Iffen you ever make up with him, that is.”

Miranda turned a glare on Aaron, who raised his eyebrows back at her in mock innocence.

“Rachel told you?” she demanded.

He held up his hands in surrender. “Well, we are married, last I checked. She’s worried about you. Did you ever talk to the fella?”

“Not yet.”

“You do whatever you gotta do, but for fuck’s sake, put him out of his misery. He ain’t a mind reader.”

“Actually, he is.”

“You know what I meant.”

She shouldered through the crowd congregating in front of The Mortal Coil (a neighborhood joint that refused to gussy up to fit in with the rest of the innovations on the street, although the owners took care to hire the hottest bands) with Aaron dogging her heels.

“I just got back from Ireland yesterday, and I haven’t seen Severus yet. I know it’s shitty of me, and I don’t need a lecture,” she snapped.

“Wasn’t gonna give you one,” Aaron protested.

“You could’ve fooled me.”

Aaron put a hand on her arm. “Listen, if you want me to hex him or help you hide a body, I’m here.”

Her anger started to cool. “Thanks. I think I can handle it.”

“I know you can. But you don’t have to do everything by your lonesome.”

She could feel the tension between them begin to evaporate as they continued up Phyne Alley towards Coffin, Candle, and Cross Alchemical.

“I think I’ve gotten better at asking for help,” she observed. “I even brought Dante Sanguini with me on the Ireland gig.”

Aaron’s eyes sparked with mirth. “Did you, now? That must’ve been a sight to see. You always did have a knack for twisting folks ‘round your little finger.”  

“And it comes in handy, I must say...Whoa there!”

A skinny boy came barreling out of the Alchemical shop and crashed straight into Miranda. She caught his arms as he started to dart away, lifting him easily off his feet. He repaid her by drumming her shins with his heels as he struggled to bite her, which she absorbed without a flinch. An enraged rag-doll of a clerk came rushing out after him, and the boy’s struggles to free himself ceased as his attention was engrossed with attempting to shove an enameled, rectangular box into his coat pocket before anyone else noticed.

“Thief! Give that back,” shouted the clerk, a vein in her forehead threatening to burst like a seam.

“It’s mine!” the boy spit back.

“Hold on now,” said Aaron placidly, “What’s all this about thieving? Our friend here just made a little mistake, didn’t you?”

“I did not!” the boy growled.

“How much does he owe you?” Miranda asked.

The clerk eyed them speculatively. “Eight galleons.”

“I think we can handle that. Aaron?”

He whistled through his teeth, but dug the eight golden coins from his pocket and dropped them into the clerk’s hands. “Will that do?”

“Thank you, sir,” the clerk said, counting them swiftly before glancing up to give the boy an icy stare. “But I’d better not catch you in here again without your grandparents. You hear me Isahak Lal?”

The boy muttered darkly as the clerk retreated to her shop. Miranda set Isahak down on the sidewalk and released one of his arms. He tried to break her hold again, but gave up after a brief struggle, preferring to glare at her with his dark brown eyes. His fierceness was somewhat undermined by his fine features, which rendered his anger adorable rather than threatening. His brown skin was complemented by raven black hair that hung over a pair of ears just slightly too large for the rest of him; and his light frame bespoke his youth. Miranda guessed he was around her nephew Brendan’s age, and this, along with his apparent penchant for troublemaking, drew her to him immediately.

“Nice night for a walk, don’t you think?” Miranda asked as she and Aaron began strolling with their new charge.

“No,” Isahak said. “Who are you anyway?”

“I’m Miranda Rose, and this is my friend Aaron Lee. We’re Aurors of a sort.”

Isahak eyed them dubiously. “You aren’t from here, are you?”

“No,” Aaron replied. “We’re from the United States of America.”

Isahak snorted.

“Now that you know where we’re from, would you mind telling us where you live?” Miranda asked patiently.

“I’m not going home,” Isahak insisted.

“Nobody’s talking about that. We’re just getting to know each other.”

“I live in Diagon Alley. But Amma and Achen came from Thrissur,” Isahak said proudly.

“Amma and Achen?” Miranda asked.

The boy rolled his eyes. “It means Mother and Father. Are Americans all stupid?”

Miranda took this in stride. “Some people say we are.”

“Do you think Amma and Achen might be missing you right about now?” Aaron asked.

“No. They’re dead,” the boy replied.

“Fuck, I’m sorry,” Miranda said.

“What do you know about it?” Isahak spat, kicking at the ground with his trainer. “Are your Amma and Achen dead?”

“No,” Miranda said, taking a steading breath. “But my brother and my son are.”

Isahak stopped walking and looked up at her with solemn eyes. She returned his gaze evenly, and took the risk of letting go of his arm.

“I’m sorry for you,” Isahak said at last. “Thank you for buying the box. I will pay you back.”

“I’d rather you didn’t. Call it a present from one broken heart to another.”

The cobblestone streets of Phyne Alley turned into mossy paths as it met Gog Park. The music pounding out of The Mortal Coil twisted into a dark reflection of itself as they left the Alley behind. Groves of barren fruit trees sheltered the park from the outside world, as the fairy lights floating above the grounds made dancing shadows over the empty benches and sleeping flowerbeds. The swings in the play park sighed forlornly as the wind sent them swinging back and forth, and Miranda caught Isahak eyeing them with wistful interest.

“I like this park,” Aaron remarked as they strolled up the path.

“Me too,” Isahak replied. “But Ammama and Appachan never have time to take me anymore. Appachan says his joints hurt when it is cold, and Ammama does not like the park because she says it’s too loud.”

“Ammama and Appachan?” Miranda asked.

“Ammama is Grandmother and Appachan is Grandfather,” Isahak explained loftily.

“That’s a shame. Gog Park is a great place to go broom flying if you like that sort of thing. The charms go all the way up past the treeline so the No-Majs don’t see,” Miranda said.

“No-Maj?” Isahak asked.

“It’s how American’s say Muggle,” Miranda said.

“Oh.”

“I’ve got a little tyke myself,” Aaron put in. “She loves this park too, especially that singing mushroom patch over yonder. She’s only a baby, though. Probably not interesting to a big kid like yourself.”

“I like babies,” Isahak countered. “When Mrs Anita and Mr Dexter come to work at Dosas, they bring their baby Honor with them. I help Auntie Jeanette watch her after my school work is done.”

“That’s right nice of you,” Aaron said. “Iffen you don’t skip down, maybe sometime we could all meet up at the park and I’ll introduce you to my girl. Her name’s Magdalene, but most folks call her Maggie.”

Isahak folded his arms over his chest. “I don’t think Ammama would bring me.”

“I’m sorry to hear that,” Miranda said gently. “But since you’re running away, it’s a moot point.”

“Where are you headed, if you don’t mind my asking?” Aaron asked.

“I’m...not really sure,” Isahak admitted.

“Ah,” Miranda said.

Isahak glared up at her. “What I mean is, I’m going to Thrissur. Only I’m not sure how to get there yet. I’ll need a wand and a portkey and I haven’t got those things.”

“That’s not a bad plan for starters,” Aaron said. “You could let it rattle around for a while and see...what the Sam Hill!”

A snarl of tattered cloaks and gnarled fingers descended from the sky, blotting out the few stars bright enough to shine through the city lights. The air became painfully cold, as though they’d jumped into an icy river. Aaron grabbed Isahak while Miranda drew her wand as the Dementors hovered around them in a spectral ring of death. The creatures slowly tightened the circle, and Miranda blocked out Isahak’s frightened gasp as she quickly conjured up thoughts of spring.

“Expecto Patronum!” she shouted.

It had never been so easy. Her magic exploded from the core of her being, sizzling up her arm and out her wand to produce the largest and brightest bobcat she’d ever created. The cat pounced from Dementor to Dementor, tearing at their cloaks and snapping at their skeletal limbs. Before Aaron had the chance to summon his own Patronus, the creatures were retreating back into the sky, in search of easier prey. The bobcat circled the humans thrice before retreating into the darkness. It was so solid that Miranda wondered how long it would take to dissipate.

“Wow,” Isahak breathed.

“Looks like you’re back, my friend,” Aaron observed.

“I think so,” Miranda replied, giddy with triumph. “You know, Isahak, if you do decide not to run away just yet, maybe some Sunday we could go flying in the park together. If you were to come and get tired of playing with Maggie, I mean.”

Isahak’s brow furrowed. “When Achen was alive, sometimes Uncle Florian would walk with us in the park on Sundays. Maybe he would take me if I asked.”

“Sounds promising,” Aaron said.

Isahak looked up at the mist covered sky for a long moment, his little face screwed up in thought.

“I think that I will go home and work on my plan. I will run away later, when I am ready,” he said at last.

“That’s a fine idea,” Miranda replied. “Maybe Aaron and I could walk you home and see if we can help you sneak back in. What do you say?”

“I would say you’re pretty smart,” Isahak said as they started back towards the Alleys. “For a grown up.”

*****

The instant the door to Severus’s sitting room creaked open, he was wide awake and leaping up from his armchair with his wand in hand. The book he’d been reading before he’d nodded off thudded to the floor as he landed in a low, defensive stance. He extinguished the light from the embers in the fireplace and the low-burning candles with an instinctive flick of his wand, plunging himself and the intruder into total darkness.

“It’s only me,” said Miranda’s voice. “I’m sorry I startled you. I should have been louder about coming in.”

His racing heart stumbled at the sound of her voice, then resumed its pounding as his mouth went suddenly dry. “Indeed.”

“I sent you a message, when I got off shift, but I guess you missed it.”

“I was asleep.” Not that it mattered. He’d shoved the cigarette case in the back of his desk drawer in a fit of frustration at the way he’d constantly checked it for a message that never came.

“Sorry about that. I can go if you like.”

“No. Stay.” Breathe, Severus. Control yourself.

He left them in darkness for the space of a few measured breaths, attempting to bring at least his features under his command. When he felt his impassive mask was in place, he waved his wand to relight the fire and the candles. Miranda’s face was rosy with the full bloom of health that he’d not seen there since her return from Romania months ago. The sight crushed his heart with a tangle of conflicting emotions, and he swallowed hard to bury them.

“You look very well,” he said flatly.

“I feel well,” she replied. “Better than I have since the Iele.”

“I trust your Ireland excursion went as you had hoped.”

Her cheeks flushed a deeper shade of red. “It did.”

Her blush raised his curiosity, but he refrained from interrogating her. “My felicitations.”

The awkward silence discomposed her enough that she began pacing in front of his fireplace, tracing patterns of sparkling light in the air with her nervous fingers. The countless hours he’d spent standing in the Dark Lord’s antechamber served him well now. He slid his wand back into his sleeve and adopted the formal, indifferent posture he’d been perfecting since his adolescence. The miniature astronomical clock Miranda had given him on his birthday ticked by the agonizing seconds as he waited for her to speak. Excruciating as the anticipation was, he could not bring himself to hasten the coup de grâce by asking the fatal question.

“Severus, do you love me?” she blurted suddenly, flushing to the roots of her hair as she turned to face him.

He blinked. “You expect me to answer that question now?”

“Honestly, no.” She let out a bitter laugh and resumed her agitated pacing. “But this is what I’m talking about.”

“I’m afraid I fail to follow your oblique reasoning.”

“We don’t talk about anything.”

He arched an eyebrow at her. “I disagree. I talk more to you than I do to any other person of my acquaintance.”

“I believe that. What I’m trying to say is that we don’t discuss anything important.”

“Blake’s place in the literary canon is extremely important.”

Her hands flexed in frustration. “Stop playing stupid. We’ve both got a bunch of shit buried fathoms deep--our feelings, our pasts--and we don’t talk about any of it.”

“I had thought shit, as you phrase it, was better left buried.”

“I don’t blame you,” she continued with a sad smile. “I don’t want to talk about it either. But I feel like we’re tearing each other to pieces trying to keep everything hidden, and it’s just not going to work anymore.”

His fingers ached to touch her. Though it felt like the march to receive the Dementor’s kiss, he intercepted her pacing and put his hands on her shoulders. He turned her to look at him, prepared to meet his doom with his eyes open.

“Yes,” he said solemnly.

Her brow furrowed. “I’m sorry?”

He could feel himself glaring at her, but there was nothing to be done about it. “Yes. I love you.”

“Oh. Well. I had thought that was the case.”

Brilliant. “Then I don’t see why you required me to confirm it.”

“Suspecting a thing and hearing it spoken are two different experiences.”

His patience spent, he was unable to balance on the blade of her indecision for another instant.

“Would you kindly complete the task of ending our relationship that I might go to bed? I have apparition lessons to oversee in the morning."

“I could do that,” she said, looking up at him with laughing eyes. “But I love you, too.”

The world tilted. “You what?”

She actually did laugh then. “I said, I love you, too.”

He let go of her shoulders and backed away, as though the distance would help him regain his balance. “I...was not aware of that.”

“I’m not surprised. I’ve done a pretty good job of hiding it.”

This confession did not amuse him. “Naturally. Why bother telling me now?”

“If for nothing else, to see the expression on your face. You look like you’ve been punched in the gut.”

He rather felt that way too. “This has all been a grand joke to you, hasn’t it?” he snarled.

She clapped her hand over her mouth, a guilty expression on her face, and she turned away from him to stare into the tongues of fire leaping in the fireplace.

“You’ve never been a joke to me, and I’m sorry for making you feel like one. I know I’ve been keeping you at arm’s length, metaphorically speaking, almost since the beginning.”

“While I am aware that most people prefer to keep me at arm’s length, literally speaking, is there a particular grievance that has caused you to do so?”

She hesitantly crossed the room to him, and took his hands in hers, raising one to her lips to kiss. The warmth from her hands and her lips crept slowly up his arms, like a poison, to his bitter heart.

“I thought if I refused to admit what I felt, it might protect me from the pain of losing you,” she said.

He could not resist stroking her cheek with his fingers, nor delighting in the way she leaned into his touch. “Miranda, I’m not going anywhere.”

“Maybe not on purpose. But this damned war has its teeth in you, and it’s not letting go any time soon.”

The irony of her discomfort with his precarious position was not lost on him. “Says the woman who cavorts with werewolves, vampires, and fiends for sport.”

“I know my line of work isn’t the safest, but at the end of the day, it’s only money. I can walk away from money, no questions asked. You’re in it for blood.”

He kissed her forehead and let out a shuddering breath. “If you are asking me to abandon the task I’ve been set, I’m afraid I must disappoint you. I will see it to completion.” Or die trying.

“For Lily?” she asked.

Her question lacked any tone of accusation or jealousy, for which he was more grateful than he could express.

“And for myself,” he replied, as though realizing it for the first time.

“I understand. And I want you to know that you don’t have to do it alone. I’ll help you, if you’ll let me.”

The feeling of loving Miranda, apparently unrequited, that he’d endured up to this moment was completely overshadowed by the overwhelming emotion of having that love returned. Melancholy as the former experience had been, it had been one unfortunately familiar to him. He hardly dared trust this reversal of his fortunes--it was so new and strange.

A rack of potions sat on the shelf over his desk, next to a bright red poppy flower that seemed to be nodding to him with encouragement. He stepped away from Miranda to retrieve a vial of midnight blue. As he clasped it in his hand, its cool weight gave him the reassurance he required to go forth into this uncharted land.

“Come,” he said, taking her hand and lacing their fingers together. “I think it is time I taught you to fly.”

*****

The crescent moon was a mere sliver in the black velvet of the clear night sky, accentuating the celestial beauty of her more distant sisters. Severus did not let go of Miranda’s hand as they walked over the damp earth together, and the students all appeared to be in bed for once. The lake lapped quietly at the shore, and an owl cried softly in the distance of the Forest beyond. The pair continued unmolested to a spot past the Quidditch pitch where they could work in the shadow of the ancient trees.

“Is this it? The famous master potion?” she asked eagerly as he unstoppered the vial.

“It is the latest version,” he replied, carefully adding a single drop of silvery mercury to the concoction with the tip of his wand. “I am afraid the taste will be...unpleasant.”

“If it means I can fly, I’ll deal with it.”

“I shall remind you of your boast when you complain of it.” He passed the vial into her waiting hand. “Drink it in one swallow. Then we begin.”

She pinched her nose and gulped it down, blanching as it hit her tongue. He chuckled softly at her reaction, and she might have swatted him in retaliation, but her hands began to shake violently.

“Now what?” she asked as her body vibrated with the effects of the potion.

“Give me your hands,” he ordered, holding his out to her, palms up.

“Second star to the right and straight on ‘til morning?” she asked cheekily.

He caught hold of her trembling hands to steady her. “In a manner of speaking. Breathe deeply. With each breath, you will feel your body become less corporeal. Do not resist. Let it become like the clouds.”

Her breathing was somewhat undermined by her giggling--extreme giddiness was one of the less malicious side effects of the potion--but her light-heartedness seemed to aid rather than hinder her progress. Within a matter of moments, her limbs had transformed into a dark mist, and she began to rise off the ground.

“Well done, Miranda. Exactly so,” Severus said.

“It’s so simple,” she laughed. “Why didn’t I ever think to do it before?”

“I suspect you did, but the assumption that humans cannot fly unaided hindered you from making the attempt.”

“Hence the suspension d’incrédulité?”

“Hence the suspension d’incrédulité.”

He let his mind go wonderfully blank, and his body quickly blurred into a black cloud. Miranda was slowly but surely drifting upwards towards the top of the trees, and he was careful to keep hold of her hands as they rose. Although he did not expect her to lose her nerve, he wanted to be able to check her fall if her doubts overcame the potion. As the night sky wrapped around them, she let go of one of his hands, stretching out as though she might gather a star or two from the heavens.

“Don’t look down if you think it will trouble you,” he warned, although in truth he was more than pleased at how easily she took to the air.

“No, I think it will help me believe this is really happening.” She glanced down to see that they were well above the trees, her hand tightening in his. “Fuck, this is phenominal. Have I mentioned that I love you?”

“You have, but I doubt I will tire of hearing it.”

They floated over the pitch towards the castle, gaining speed and altitude as they approached the turrets of Ravenclaw tower. Like any terrestrial creature, Miranda gained confidence the nearer they came to this physical boundary. There was something unnerving about finding oneself alone in the whole expanse of the sky, and he knew it would take several more flights before his protégé became accustomed to the sensation. As they swirled up the side of the castle, the misty outline of her limbs tangled with his, sending a rush of pleasure through his translucent body. Her eyes locked to his, and the desire he saw there told him she too had felt the unexpected thrill.

“Focus on your flying,” he warned, though he was sorely tempted to experiment with this facet of flight he’d been unaware of. “You must maintain your control.”

“Damn your control,” she replied, darting up to brush her lips against his. He felt her shiver as she began to solidify, and she pulled back quickly. “Shit, you weren’t kidding!”

“No, I was not. And if you defy me again, I’ll take you down and refuse to brew you the suspension until doomsday, no matter how much you beg.”

She bit her lip and her limbs returned to their mist-like form. Now that the danger of falling had passed, she flew up the side of the tower, with him keeping easy pace at her side. When they were above the castle, she tested her agility, spiraling through the air like an acrobat. After a moment’s observation, he joined her in her play, rolling through a low lying cloud. Icy droplets of water passed over and through him, washing away all the cares that kept him chained to the earth. It had been ages since he’d flown with no urgent purpose at hand, and the act blessed his mind with a rare sense of clarity and peace.

Eventually she began to tire, and he led her down to a long-necked gargoyle perched on the astronomy tower. As they landed, their bodies became solid and heavy once more. He sat down with his back against the roof of the tower, and she sat in front of him, leaning against his chest as he wrapped his arms around her.

“That was fantastic. Thank you,” she said.

He kissed the top of her head, inhaling her scent. “I ought to have taken you sooner. I’d forgotten how restorative a flight can be.”

“I’m not sure it would have worked before now. But I hope you made more of that potion. I want to do this again as soon as humanly possible.”

“You will have to limit yourself to three or four doses of suspension per week to avoid a potentially fatal build up in your system. However, I expect it will not be long before you are able to fly without it.”

“I think I can live with that.”

A hallowed silence descended on them as they rested together, watching the stars roving the ancient course. The imps of all the toils and snares that were waiting for them when they returned to earth prowled in the periphery of Severus’s consciousness. He swept them all to the back of his mind to wait for another day.

The poet who’d coined the phrase that had inspired Severus’s master potion had once spoken of “the willing suspension of disbelief for the moment, which constitutes poetic faith.” Severus wasn’t sure that he had faith--poetic or otherwise--in much of anything. But as Miranda turned over her shoulder to kiss him with an aching sweetness--

Merlin help him, he had that faith in her.

*****

Thank you for reading this far in my epic tale! I am hard at work finishing the draft of this book, and I expect to begin updating again in January or February of 2021. Thank you sticking with me--and stay safe out there <3

The Coffin, Candle, and Cross Alchemical was named for an English fairy tale, The Buried Moon.

Second star to the right... is a reference to Peter Pan

The poet Severus refers to is Samuel Taylor Coleridge, who coined the phrase "suspension of disbelief."

<< Chapter 9+

libera nos a malo masterpost+

[fortheheavenssake]

MM Anon 4

MM Anon 4

Nov. 1

MM ANON … She Telegraphed it !!…… mechanically damaged 🤣🤣🤣……… rugby widow😭😭😭……alone on the Balcolonial …… “ Turn around re-play”…… wading through the Slush…… an American Psycho…… PR-int error ………🎼”God only knows “🎼…… 🧣🐓👯‍♀️🤔😭🤥……🎼”Wake up ,little ……… wake up“🎼…… “ I may wear purple Philip “…… “epic old thing ‘ that’ll p!$$ her orf “…… “hair of the DOG Harry”🤣🤣🤣”lets PARTY”……… 15-9 ……… “OK , give me £500”. …… $h!t, I’ve lost my phone!!……” OMG’ all those photos on it!!”

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Nov. 1

MM ANON …… NUTMEG not sanctioned by the BRF on visit to the bakery,all a SS stunt to get an interview with the Tele- laugh. Her woke ramblings ‘ a tossed salad of word salad … me ,me ,me me look at me , “because we’re all women right!! and I’m going to empower you all to become inspired by your own emotional strength,we’re cool sisters of the oppressed forces that the monarchy controls …… yeahhh ‘ right on and solid.”

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Nov. 1

MM ANON, Why is Trampmeg trapped in a bakery with the sisters of Perpetual retribution spreading her bacteria all over the sweeties…… simple!!! She’s $h!t scared of being Booooooood !! If she had a public outing with the great unwashed there’d be booing and a knashing of teeth. That’s why the the colonial carpetbagger stays hidden from the public. If its appearance on the balcony at RD. is anything, I bet someone gives her the old verbal finger

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Nov. 2

MM ANON , DEAR SWEET JESUS, The Sus-sex saga is really,REALLY dragging on , the anticipation of a drama at RD, the escape to LA, the archificial debacle, the suspect charity slush funds, it just piles on day after day of PR lies and nutmeg hand wringing, whinging and virtuous lectures to the great unwashed. Hiding in Bakery’s and WC kitchens isn’t facing the public ( boooooooo!!! ) this colonial carpetbagger is on the run from the Brits who see through her bull$h!t and mendacity. 🤥🤥🤥

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Nov. 2

MM ANON … “ You are part of this monarchy, you WILL adhere to its traditions”…… “ her past, so embarrassing!!”…… Rogue PR…… “we’ve “cleaned” her phone ma’am”…… “ I fear it’s still out there”…… promoting the impossible …… “ give this one to William” “ thank goodness we have one classic beauty,old thing “ …… “ is Charles thinking of leap-frogging to William ,Philip?”……” my teams made arrangements “…… “shut up!! It’s my Duty!!”…… 🎼” to dream the impossible dream “🎼……”total meltdown sweetie”

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Nov 3

MM ANON … ‘ and in the morning, we shall Booo!!!……… Mall-content. …… camera click ‘ I’m OK!!…… “ sit Harry with Melania??”………… a reduced detachment …… “ it’s in the Fine print M’lud”…… “ what!! a night of fruity duty” …… “6 of the 13 are solid!! “…… “ leapfrogging, not a chance old thing” …… “ the right order of things Philip” ……… “ my apologies for the interruption Ma’am”…… “ One should act post-haste”…… “ and keep Harry out of this”. ……… O’ Kate, I hear she got quite scwiffy Philip”.

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Nov 3

MM ANON … occasionally one exposes an anomaly within the mainstream collective , I’m not talking about the proud hard working women of America, I’m describing the grifting harsluts who screw their way up the social dung heap that is the domain of institutions of suspect provenance. This specific specimen grift, escort , yacht, sexually ingratiate blow , and manipulate their way into positions of kept high maintenance. Who the hell could that be?… O’her!!!

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Nov 4

MM ANON,…… THE ACTUAL REALITY!! The evidence appertaining to nutmegs missing years, The exodus to Madrid for a “ procedure” after leaving the American embassy in BA “ she apparently had an affair with a junior attaché. Then it vanished into the very private and murky world of yachting escorting, often mentioned in her SM posts as auditions for film appearances. 🤣🤣🤣 a clandestine history of sordid consequences that led to an embarrassing entrapment of himself, an archificial birth and lies.

—————-

Nov 4

MM ANON …… RD,will she ‘won’t she?…… a Congressional offer…… The foundations support …… 🎼” don’t stop thinking about tomorrow”🎼………a bit LAX of her…… W&Ks PR assault …“ the popularity of the children your Highness”……” Popular!! we call it “Charlottes Web 🤣🤣”……” it’s the future direction ma’am”…… “she imploded ma’am ,end of!! “…… “ Christmas!! A family portrait ma’am , only the family “…… “ it’s exciting Philip ‘ a new chapter “…… “any cream caramel left old thing”. … tut tut,dyspepsia Philip”

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Nov 5

MM ANON …… A prospective congressional candidate ……caLiforniA voting …… bankrolled by Bubba…… 🎼” ain’t nobody Straight in LA”🎼…… Nov.14th , liftoff !! …… “ don’t come back, general consensus ma’am”. //… “ William’ you’ll love the break darling “…… “ 🦄can I come daddy, pleeeeeez!!”…… “bring me back a 🦎”…… “ Well, rather you than me squidgy” …… “ I’m reading these balcony jokes old thing” ……” 🤣🤣 Philip, look at this one ‘ wicked!!”… “make it there problem, it’s her decision “ … “Ad Nauseam.

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Nov 5

#FREECAMILLA……… the hashtag is emblematic of the impossible situation that the DOC has to endure on the 7th. Camilla is scheduled to pay her respects at the field of remembrance at Westminster Abbey following the D&DOS. nutmeg is an appendage regarding TBRF , she turns up all PR and no knickers, poster 42 year old for middle age yachters. How long is it going to soil the institutions of dignity. If you’re not OK and WOUNDED, go back into hiding. #FREECAMILLA. allegedly, speculation of course.

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Nov 6

MM ANON, KATES TAGLIATELLE NAPOLITANA. … cook tagliatelle till al dente, Toss in a little truffle olive oil. Napolitana sauce, … cook ground beef( 300grams) in pan with finely sliced garlic and shallots. Season. Add superior tomato sauce ( Italian). Cook for 10 minutes. Pour over tagliatelle that’s in a oval oven dish. Cover with parmigiana reggiano , medium heat for 12 minutes in oven,Serve hot with a glass of good Chianti. Happy Harry guaranteed. NB. This is Kate’s own recipe.

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Nov 6

MM ANON, As soon as the last notes of the RD parade fade nutmeg will hot foot it to Northolt to catch her private jet to LA. She’s all packed and ready to flee the country she hates , the “Wounded” snowflake who’s not “OK” won’t stay a second longer in soho house. Harry can start his re-hab from the insidious co-dependency he’s fallen into, and W&K can visit him and coach his return to royal normality, having eaten to many chicken dinners he can relish Kate’s Tagliatelle Napolitana, GSTQAOBC.

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Nov 6

MM ANON ………” the pest is fleeing the rented nest” SO-HO HO HO !!!………”🎼” don’t give me that do goody good bullshit”🎼…… I’ll catch him , you talk him round” …… “ don’t be naive, it’ll be longer than 6weeks.”……… “I’ve got a cunning plan”………… Mmmm’ money but NOT title!!…… “ the Privy Purse won’t finance that”. …… “ I’ll have a chat with the LCJ, ol’ Netty will fix it.”…… “ done and dusted darling”. …… 🎼” we’ve already said “ so long”🎼………🎼” With a Little help from my friends”🎼. Amen!!

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Nov 7

MM ANON, THE D&DOC , met family’s and school children today at St. Martin in the Fields. The epitome of royal class. Kate stunning in royal blue dress. Equate this with the sloppy belted afterthought nutmeg wore? A poodle weave, ill fitting navy blue ( not a respectable black) couch throw. Harry dignified in regimental frock coat. Once again she denigrates a solemn occasion with her smug indifference to protocol and traditions. People were laughing contemptuously at her. GET RID !!!

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Nov 7

MM ANON …… Royal blue class…… navy blue @ss……… royal winning ……… smug grinning …… “ a quiet word in your shell-like Harry, she embarrassed you”…… “Sunday night ma’am, alone!!”…… Royal Trinity …… 🎼” leaving on a jet plane , don’t know “🎼……… “Exeter airport, not far from Babington ma’am”……”What!! a brotherly tour LG?”…… SANDRINGHAM sand pit…”one disaster at a time,old thing”……” Melania has royal discretion Philip”…… “ God knows Philip, money?”…… “whatever’ but not in bloody black and white “

——————

Nov 7

MM ANON , WELL WHAT’I,TELL YA, congressional representative for a district of L.A. , if my little birdies are chirping the same song ,the appointed one is going to run , and it won’t be South Central, some nice residential upmarket suburb , 60% coloured. The Gang of Four will offer their endorsement and Nancy with the laughing face will put the cherry on top. 2020 cometh. She won’t come back. And Harry will become mr. Megan Markle, unless of course’…………………

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Nov 9

MM ANON … beyond the bathrobe… hit the spot(not)…… never on a Sunday …… 🎼Sun-day my Prince will come🎼…LA Confidential …… morning TV. …… The Late shows …… “And now a surprise guest ‘Princess Megan and Prince Archie”…… “And now a word from her sponsor”…… A Meg-a endorsement … “you can have my jet”…… please!! a little decorum”…… Who’me!!

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Nov 9

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Nov 10

MM ANON, SO …… “ Don’t stand with us, Don’t sit with us , we don’t require your company or conversation , just f***off back to California and re-connect with your vacuous valley girls who can only talk of their therapists,and being f**** by their personal trainers”. “ What say you Camilla”… “ I totally agree ma’am”. Alleged royal drawing room conversation between HMTQ,DOC,D&DOS. 🤭🤭🤭🤭🤣🤣🤣🤣

—————-

Nov 10

MM ANON, So , megherp wears an inverted piss-pot on her head , another FU protocol, while outcasted to the Siberian balcony, I wonder what the conversation was inside the rooms of the foreign Office while she was waiting with Harry. M.” Look at that stuck up bitch Kate,talking to the Queen” K. “ well’ Megan looks very average again, naked legs I see, Mmm,ever-ready Rachel suits her”. H. “What time is your plane leaving “. M. “ as soon as I can f*** off from you lot”. Allegedly, speculation only.

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Nov 10

MM ANON …… game,set and lies…… “ that royal DR conversation actually took place “……… game, set And Siberia …… William isn’t enamoured …… “Bare legs, ever ready Rachel “🤣🤣🤣🤣………”So-Ho hook-up?? really”……… “the RPO HAS to keep quiet!!! …… “ a scandal to far old thing “…… “ pray it stays!!”…… “extra protection , NO , let her pay!!”……… “ her little friends ‘ it’s a called a sleepover William “ …… “Yes,Edward and Sophie “…… “wheels up ma’am ,… thank god LG”

Thank you MM Anon…😊❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

This is not written by Skippy!😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

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Nov 10

MM ANON ……… “ for the attention of the intellectually challenged trolls, I write my own riddles and submit them to skippy. “ but then again, that’s the reason you’re all intellectually challenged. 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 one thing trolls have in spades, contempt prior to investigation ……… many thanks skippy.

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Nov 11

MM ANON …… “H’ phone Oprah , NOW!!…… “ we’ll stay with SW for a while”…… “ my mother’s already here”. ……… “ Lottie’ tell your little friends to stop jumping on the bed.” …… BREAKFAST!!…… “ OK’ who’s for sticky maple syrup and waffles?”…… Charlotte!!!! behave. …… “ We’re outnumbered George!!”……”NANNY HELP!, …… “Wait and see,ma’am, wait and see!!”…… “yes, my friends in the service!!”… The banquet would be a good time. ……Embroil him in duties to his regiment ……’seven for a secret never to be told.

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Nov 11: MM anon?

Dear skippy, I do believe I’m being logged and monitoring by TPTB. Also my dear friend ALLEGEDLY ANON. every word I write, they’ll be watching me. ……… MM ANON. They’ve already got to me very surreptitiously. Please post this ,the more anons know the better. Kind regards.

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Nov 11

MM ANON… … Delayed flight 14th Nov.

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Nov 13

MM ANON ……… 🎼” let the Sunshine”🎼…… who pulled the short straw?……… palm trees at Sandringham …… “ pass the Dorito’s darling “……… Sophie’s surprise ……“ I love the belt sweetie”. … Preg-nont…… “ I love the belt sweetie” ……… “yes , smile and serve them gru-el”…… Christmas?” Musical chairs old thing” ……… more of a 12 by 6 ……… small expectations …… Kate’s red carpet …… “ bet she goes for the lovers knot.” …… Hobson choice.

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Nov 14

MM ANON …… MAD-ISON AV. Re-Sunshine Sucks…… a tabloid too far…… LA thanksgiving? …… homeless shelter thanksgiving?……Royal Family thanksgiving?…… professional lie juggler …… $h!t scared of loosing tax millions …… HMTQ drops in 🤣🤣🤣🤣…… MM drops out…… “ it’s not rocket science Harry dear boy, she’s a s****!!…… “ but I love her” … “Really!!, sit down and watch this” …… “ now!! convinced!!”…… “ ones judgment is sometimes compromised Harry” …… “ But, But ,But …… “No ifs, no Butts. … just act royal

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Nov 14

MM ANON ………… surreptitiously, “lift off”. …… who dares,bins…… 🎄it’s a wonderful strife🎄…… failure is not a-doption……Interstellar McCartney………me invito tactiost…… an act of con-passion…… “ therapy, the humanitarian solution Harry”. …… “serious emotional and mental disorders” …… it’s not her fault, she seems to have been born that way” ……… “ yes!! Section 8. … “ it’s your call!! “

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Nov 15

MM ANON, WTF !!! there’s a record of conversations and confidences A DIARY!! really,REALLY !! This is a potential IED … regarding a tome of disastrous consequences for HMTQ and the Royal Family. Whispers about said Tome have been fluttering around royal circles for over a year. If ‘ IF , someone had a resentment or grievance against the RF and one had recorded all in a “Diary” the publication would be of universal interest. ( $20 million advance) at least. Her future secured!! just sayin !!

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Nov 15

MM ANON, coercion is a crime. Blackmail is a crime, so why is nutmeg bleeting on about empowerment and mindfulness 🤮🤮🤮 while the biggest criminal manipulation against a monarch and her family was undertaken with her at the Center. This grifter used and abused a naive recipient into a marriage and turned him into a co-dependent with emotional and character changing traits. BLACKMAIL IS A CRIME!! Tick TOCK.

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Nov 15

MM ANON, EXPLOITATION!!! Stella(money) McCartney pays East Hungarian women £2.6 an hour ……… and say it takes a worker 5 hours to complete a coat / say materials cost £50.00 + labour £15.00 … so £65.00 for a coat retailing at £1.545.00……… quite a mark up a Stella’ old woke , humanitarian nutmeg buys your extortionate rag without any bleeting of exploitation of Hungarian women ……… Mmmm not to Woke nutmeg. HYPOCRISY!!

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Nov 15

MM anon .......... “wash spin repeat”......... no hole barred🤣🤣🤣......... reflect,deflect,infect...... DM is armed and dangerous...... court jester 🎭......... the light is Fading...... nice hypocrisy you’re wearing...... hunger-Ian...... GCHQ on the QT......... I’m not a row boat...... “they will unleash the dossier from hell”...... complete disclosure......... in case of emergency, pull handle. ...... sorry you’re out of time......... 🎼 …”rescue me”…🎼.

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Nov 15

MM ANON ……Ventura Highway …… “ yes, let’s go!!”…… GCHQ, on the QT…… W knows EVERYTHING!!…… PR pops in”🤣🤣……… “ one pops in , Philip”…… archificial pops out, when?……… “ bit of a soft interview “…… tighten security, NOW!!…… “ this ones out the bag , old thing”…… “ I’m looking forward to it Philip, all the little ones”…… “yes , one is a tad hurt”…… A good appointment.…… “ right up Her street”. …… 🎼give yourself a very🎄merry Christmas🎼…… “ Little ones?the service is too long,Philip”.

This is the one I thought I deleted….I deleted the copy not the original…..forward we go….😊❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

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Nov 16

MM ANON/ ALLEGEDLY ANON/NANNY ANON/0 YEA,O YEA ANON/ HOLD UP, HOLD UP ANON/ LIFT OFF ANON ……………………………BYE BYE.

Because I won’t post tirades against PA….they have chosen to leave. I thought keeping PA separate from riddles was the right thing to do. It seems that was not what they expected from me. I am on the side of truth, I’m not burying PA stuff, I just don’t believe there is enough info for me to support their thoughts. I’m not here to expose PA…I am here to expose MM…and PA is a distraction. Sorry.

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Nov 18

MM ANON ……”too many eyes, it has to be privejet “…… SS , travel agent ……” NO more interviews “ ……” I’ll, give her away!!” …… 🎼”they had style,and well read,MM gave good head,vogue “🎼……… Aotearoa…… DM litigate big guns…… Subpoena demeanour ……… “ocean view,or the hills princess?”…… “ ones posterior is sore” …… “ I warned you old thing”…… “ Bugger them, tomorrow’s chip paper!!”……… “ I want a monkeeeeey!!🦄🐒

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Big 18

MM ANON , MANY BLESSINGS AND SALUTATIONS FOR THE SKIPPY GANG ……… (my bad!! ) …… ONWARDS TOWARDS THE JUDICIAL INCARCERATION OF MADAM. Please dear sweet Jesus let the righteous triumph over the darkness that she’s bestowed on TBRF. 

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Nov 19

MM ANON … Sharon concern about Forth Bridge …… operation updates …… charitable uncoupling …… LG takes a grip?…… GM on the QT with Harley St. ……

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Nov 19

MM ANON ………GM consults Chobanian…… Sharon,concerns about Forth Bridge. …… Charitable uncoupling ……… a worried sausage …… LG ‘quite confidence …… cogs oiled and ready …… Dark clouds over ninety mile beach …… “it’s a runaway train old boy”…… “PRUNING , autumn or Spring?”……” I’m only the messenger!!”……… W&K ,royalty personified …… “weathering the shower, it’s not a storm old boy”……

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Nov 19

MM ANON , Re-lesser anon, There is a principle which is a bar against all information, which is proof against all arguments and which cannot fail to keep a man in everlasting ignorance … that principle is contempt prior to investigation. Just sayin’ 🤣🤣🤣

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Nov 20

MM ANON ……… LVH, she’s vanished” ……… BC , Arkan-SIDED……… 🎼” another one bites the dust “ 🎼………”the notebooks are no longer available”……”ones concerned and caring”…… Sandringham sanctuary …… Amazingly stoic “bloody fuss, piss off”……… W&Ks Support is continuous ……… C&C on recall?……” He had a multitude of secrets” …… warden patsy’s……All the ex-Presidents woM.E.N.…… “OMG,not another lift off?”

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Nov 20

VERY HAPPY 72nd WEDDING ANNIVERSARY 🍸🍸👑👑🍮🍮🎊🎉💞💞

Yes…A Very Happy Anniversary!🙏🏻❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

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Nov 20

MM ANON, ……… NOW EVERYONE CAN RETURN TO WHAT REALLY MATTERS ………… THE INCARNATION AND JUDICIAL CONCLUSION TO THE HIGH CRIMES AND MISDEMEANOURS OF THE COLONIAL CARPETBAGGER. 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

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Nov 20

MM ANON … THIS BLOG IS NOT PRO-PEDOPHILIA. PERIOD.

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Nov 21

MM ANON …… Hey’ RF!! I’m still not OK…… Daughters dilemma …… FBI delivers legal documents …… canary’s calling …… wittiness projection …… Max-well-on-Her-way-farer…… southern district documents verified …… Kuwaiti waity …… Lottie lustre camera caper…… DOC photo exhibition imminent …… “ I have a request”…… request denied !!…… USA demands archificial …… Northern flights.

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Nov 21

MM ANON ……💜💜💜💜💜. To all anons. I appreciate all submissions on the riddles, all are brilliant interpretations of words and meanings. BRAVA TO ALL !! …… PG is one of our much loved deciphering anons , so on a spiritual level we pray for dear PG. prayers and positive energy for our dear much loved friend. 💜💜💜💜💜💜 prayers for Mr skippy and PG. 💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜❤️❤️❤️❤️💜💜💜💜

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Nov 22

For PG

MM ANON 💜💜💜💜💜💜💜WELCOME BACK PG💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜it’s good to have you back. 💜💜

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Nov 22

MM ANON, O’SKIPPY, the angel who opened a dog hospice, ……… I CRIED , I REALLY CRIED 😢😢 how wonderful, what thoughtfulness and humility a real HUMANITARIAN!!! Hey nutmeg, how about donating a dress price to this canine saint. GOD BLESS YOUR IMMORTAL SOUL 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

It really is something…earth angels are with us to restore faith in humanity, we are seeing more earth angels now as the world is dark we are learning. Thank you God for giving us these amazing stories and anons who bring them.🙏🏻❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

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Nov 22

MM ANON, Dear skippy i posted riddle earlier today 🤣💜💜💜. 🎼🎼🎼🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧🎼🎼🎼

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Nov 22

MM ANON …a cuppa and a trot…… “ no damage darling”…… “W&K will pick up the slack”…… “ let’s go visit the old bugger”…… A Christmas PR push…… “ she has to show archificial “……… Harry and Sandringham??……… “ for goodness sake,nanny had the night off” ……… “it’s a wonderful Christmas card darling”………… will boss baby go viral??………Mmm , Little punk Prince!

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Nov 23

MM ANON …… “ it’s not Andrew it’s Meeeee!!”…… “suits is a positive act”🤣🤣……… “ life is like a box of chocolates”…… “Doritos here”……… “I’ll cook a turkey dinner”…… Charles Champion……… “ we’ll have to, in the speech??”…… media vita in Monte sumus…… “something borrowed ,someone’s blue”…… “Christmas’Blue Water,Lottie,”…… “Unicorrrrrns”🦄🦄……… “strictly Party Nanny 🥳”……… “ bit of week old thing, hugs!!”…… “ and a large sherry”……… “ a large malt”

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Nov 24

ALLEGEDLY/ MM / NANNY/…… ALL THE GANG. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️🎼🎼🎼��❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️💜💜🙏🏻HAPPY BIRTHDAY SKIPPY HAVE A WONDERFUL DAY.

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Nov 24

MM ANON …… a homecoming hiatus …… Top of the Pops👑👑…… “ And when they were only half way up”……… “ it’s going to be a PA tabloid tsunami”…… 🎼”potato,patarto, lets call the whole thing off”🎼……… “just take the bloody photo”……… “a horrified positive Pratt”…… 🎼” iiiiim’putin on my top hat”🎼……… Kate’ “I do everything he dose, only backwards and in six inch heels, and with three children”…… “ I trust in William old thing”…… “Sir!! focus,a century is demanded!”…………… 🎼”pictures of Lily”🎼

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Nov 25

MM ANON ………lay a place for Vlad?…… lovers knot hiding …… Kate ,Melania & Ivanka shine …… nutmeg crashes posh-nosh?…… “ it’s just impeachy’Donald” ……… “ no chance Ma’am”……… “Hows the Dook?”…… “a special Yuletide for a million reasons ,ma’am”…… legalities,Banalities,Calamities …… “2020, I’m an optimist Christopher”…… “less is more, ma’am”

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Nov 26

MM ANON … “ it’s a Mozzi bite …… wed-ding-a-ling …… “my advice ‘ have it in Italy”’…… “ She’s crippled with shame”……… “I saw her with archificial yesterday in Waitrose,“ …… “from Windsor to Winnipeg”. ……… Andy, Charles and Clarence ,……”thanksgiving ‘ darling she went back to LA”…… “ but ,but, but the SOOOOOOPKITCHEN!!! “…… spin ,grin and a bottle of gin…… 🎼”I’m dreaming of a ( WOC) Christmas “🎼……… “Sandringham old thing, fuck the election”. …… “ ones duty first Philip”……… “ don’t mention him”

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*** Nov 27. Answer

MM ANON, DEAR ANONS, TO BE HONEST, I didn’t even know where Winnipeg was!! I was speculating where nutmeg was going to end up at Christmas? I now know that I’ve upset the whole pop. of Winnipeg……… SO SORRY ! Sorry PG. 💜💜💜💜💜

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Nov 27

MM ANON … Archificial carves the Turkey …… Megan BURNS the gravy……Frogmore or LESS… ” Harry PULLS a CRACKER”… Dorito’ where is Dorito??…… An-drew the short straw… Con-sort it out Charles … swimmingly!!🦄🦎 …… “ the general public would lap it up your Highness” …… “ little stars”……… 🎼four and twenty Black-Birds🎼…… “Frozen film party at KP”…… “Darling I’ll cook, how many?”…… “14, no problem!!”…… “a ten pounder”…… “Kate’s cooking old thing”…… “another drink Philip?”… “wait till Christmas Eve !!”

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Nov 28

MM ANON ……… pencil thin 👀…… 👧👦🏼👶🎡🎢🎠……… maple, leaf it alone ……… 🛩who knows?……… “one has responsibilities Charles”……… “ six weeks’ and they can’t show the bloody baby.”…… “flown out , bloody good job!!”……… send up the menu!! …… very secure ma’am!! ……… all those SS chappies…… “ I hear she’s quiet the English Rose” ……… “ if only!!”……… “good stock, don’t cha’ know”…… DEEP and CRISP and IVAN…… He’ll stop their extravagant travel. ……… “ charades ,old thing”. …” pass the parcel,Philip!!”

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Nov 29

MM ANON …… 🎼 build it up with wood and clay🎼 ……… a crown script …… Harry’s rapid response …… the wrong side of the tunnel ……… “give time,time old boy”……… “ if it was Good enough for HM”……… tagged ,bad, and dangerous to know ……… look ,listen and learn ……… black fry-day……”nowhere as secluded as Sandringham”……… “she’s a beauty mate, breath of fresh air”

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Nov 30

MM ANON ……… “Darling’ please pass the Wrinkle cream” ………”she’s on this blog I read”💜……… “ we’ve been invited to the Boxing Day shoot” …… WoW ‘ that’s a beautiful photo Kate …… “he’s to young ‘ good grief William!!”…… ‘This cobra has no fangs ……… “The service, maybe bring C&G.” ……… “ The spring diary ma’am’ was thinking they could do The America’s and Canada” ……… “ the Children too”…… “what say you Philip?” …… “indubitable , old thing” …… “ Settled!!”……” Sidney’ more refreshments”

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——————-/

Dec 1

MM ANON, I’m watching series 1 of the crown, BRILLIANTLY WRITTEN AND EDITED. The filming is so accurate and attention to detail. I remember Norman Hartnell designing the Queens wardrobe for the commonwealth tour. My mother was a dress-maker so I watched everything she watched. Methinks the Queen had something to do with this because it’s so accurate. Reason, she’s 92 ‘ what a visual legacy. I can imagine her throwing a ashtray at Philip, and HIS secret dalliances. EPIC!!

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[expressandadmirable]

Tomorrow Untrodden (Morgan)

I.

“Hey.”

Morgan offered a wan half-smile. “Hey.”

Pulling the Lefein into a soft hug, Aviva was struck by the memory of hugging Morgan the Gnome. Back then she had been half the Tiefling’s size rather than half a head taller. “Is he gone?”

“Yeah.” The pair released one another and settled onto a bench in the hallway, the soft, misty light from the windows at either end making the world seem preternaturally quiet. “He was happy to see us. He told us a couple times.”

Aviva considered making a joke about how impossible it had always been to unravel Lukahn’s ramblings, even for someone as adept at prophecy as Elerian or Cid, but she thought better of it. Morgan had always had a gift for deciphering her spiritual kin. “You came to see him often, huh?”

Morgan nodded. “Uncle Cid and I made regular trips. We built a lot of card houses, and we told him how the world was changing. I came up with a lot of ways to play games differently, like extra rules and variations and stuff, and he really liked that.” She smiled. “Maergrahn trained me well, I guess.”

“Was he able to leave you with any parting thoughts?”

“A few. Mostly he told us he was happy. And he asked me to build an extra large card house in his honour.”

“Sounds like an appropriate cairn.”

Morgan snorted, then let it fade into a sigh. “Uncle and I are the last of the Lefein now.”

Aviva nodded slightly. “How are you feeling?” The eternal question.

“I don’t know.”

“That’s okay.” For a brief time, Aviva had known what it felt like to be the last of her kind. But they had been able to restore the Tieflings. The Lefein did not share that destiny. She took Morgan’s hand and gave it a gentle squeeze. “You want to come back to Aelfheim for a bit? Spare room’s yours whenever you want it.”

“Uncle and I need to take care of a few things first. We’re going to scatter Lukahn’s remains in places of significance to the Lefein. It shouldn’t take too long, with the Highwind. But then yes. I’d like that.” Morgan smiled a little more broadly. “I think Starman is pining for Demon.”

Aviva chuckled. “I know Demon’s pining for Starman, she regularly tears up the toy you gave her that looks like him and then cries at me until I mend it. Please let our cats reunite before she drives us mad.”

Morgan giggled. “Okay. I’ll come by once I’ve dropped Uncle back at his lab. Maybe a week or so.” For a few moments, she lapsed into silence, then laced her fingers with Aviva’s. “Thanks for coming.”

“Of course.” Aviva kissed the Lefein’s cheek. “You’re family.”

II.

Leaving Halei in their sitting room, Aviva grinned in anticipation, the air turning translucent gold as she cast her spell. A moment later, the bridge of the Highwind shimmered into view. “Cidney!” she called. “I’m here early, and I brought treats from Aelf--”

“‘Viva, get down!!”

Instinctively, Aviva ducked, just in time to see a bolt of energy streak through where her head had been. Turning in a crouch, she realised the ship was listing precipitously to one side, the internal gravity only thing keeping her from tumbling into the window. “Cid?!”

Another bolt of energy struck the floor near her knee. A mote of flame instinctively forming in her palm, she spun to face her attacker and nearly collided with Morgan coming for her at a sprint. “Cid, what in all the hells?!”

“Behind my chair!”

The pair dove beyond the captain’s chair just as the hulking metal humanoid at the other end of the bridge fired again. Calculating the distance of its prey, the living tech lumbered towards them. “Making friends?!”

Morgan flashed her a lighting quick withering look, then raised both guns and fired, hitting the tech square in the chest. “Lefeinish creation. Prototype servitor. In near perfect working condition, and I’d like to try and keep it that way--” She ducked to avoid a retaliatory blast. “So don’t hit it in the head!”

With a curt nod, Aviva let loose handful after handful of searing flame, dutifully aiming for the torso. Morgan reloaded her guns with practiced efficiency and separated the tech’s joints from its body, causing it to topple forward onto the deck. In perfect unison, each woman took one final shot, and with a frustrated whir, the tech stilled.

Silence crept across the bridge. Morgan stood cautiously, stepping out from behind her chair and nudging the tech with her boot. It did not move. Confidence instantly restored, she crouched by its head. “Well, that didn’t go how I expected.”

“And how, exactly, did you expect that to go?” Aviva straightened, then leaned against the chair.

“How was I supposed to know it had defence protocols?” Morgan replied testily, rapping on the tech’s head. “Just means I have to run more diagnostics before I turn him on again.” Sensing Aviva opening her mouth to retort, Morgan waved a hand. “It’ll be fine.” Every inch the mad scientist. She pushed to her feet, straightened her hair, then turned to Aviva with a wide, delighted smile.

“You said you had treats?”

III.

“It’s time.”

Halei set up from her place on the sofa, instantly alert. “Are you sure?”

Aviva glared at her wife, then doubled over as a contraction shot through her, leaning against the dining table for support. “Yes,” she forced through gritted teeth, “it is most definitely time.”

“Right.” Appearing at Aviva’s side, Halei helped her into the bedroom and over to the bed. “Mei and your mother are in the garden; I’ll fetch them first, then Elerian. You breathe. What else do you need?”

“Infinite willpower. And water.” Aviva winced in pain as Halei turned on her heel, then an irritated chirp drew her attention to the corner of the room. From a nest of old fabric, the amber eyes of Demon of the Abyssal Reach stared back at her. “You too?”

“Hmm?” Halei returned from the kitchen, pressing a mug of water into Aviva’s hands. “Me?”

“No, Demon.” Aviva nodded to the ball of black fur. “I think she and I are on the same timeline.”

Halei’s eyes widened. “Seriously? That’s far too many babies for one set of quarters.”

“I’ll say.” Aviva sipped her water. “Well, I promised I’d tell Cidney when either Demon’s clock went off, or mine, so…” Flicking her fingers in the familiar gestures of Sending, she announced into the air in front of her: “I’m going into labour -- and so, I think, is my cat??” She took another drink of water as she listened to the response, then promptly spat it out in a burst of manic laughter.

“What?” Halei pressed. “What did she say?”

Aviva looked up at her, her breathing laboured and her eyes watering, though whether due to joy or contractions was unclear. “‘What did Elerian do to your cat?’”

IV.

“This might be the best augment you’ve made.”

Morgan grinned, sliding into the steaming bathwater and letting out a happy sigh. “There we go. Worth it. I wasn’t using this space as a cabin anyway.”

“No?” Aviva laughed. “I guess your garden variety servitors don’t use beds.”

“These aren’t garden variety servitors,” Morgan replied haughtily. “They’re salvaged Lefeinish tech, updated with my own personal designs. They don’t make them like this in Scanderimus, no matter how good they are down there.”

Aviva humphed in acknowledgement. Morgan had spent years collecting and restoring these specimens and they ran the Highwind like clockwork -- in some cases literally, given her clock-making background. It did, however, mean that the majority of Morgan’s interactions with living people came in the form of shopping for supplies or visiting Aviva and her family. “Have you made one from scratch yet?”

“Not yet.” Morgan slouched further into the water, creating tiny ripples that lapped against Aviva’s chest. “I think I’m gonna try soon, though. I have enough small pieces to build most of the chassis, and I think I could synthesise the rest. I can do all the internal programming. After that it’s just a matter of designing the right exterior. If I’m gonna make it entirely by myself, I want it to be really special.”

“Like you?”

That caught Morgan off-guard. “I… I don’t know. I don’t think I would make it look like me, but less metallic would be interesting.” She paused. “It won’t be like me. I mean, it won’t have a spark. I was an anomaly.”

Aviva watched her, head tilted in thought. “Anomalies can happen more than once.”

Morgan slid up to her nose in the water, her white hair piled atop her head like a captive cloud, and she thought for a few long moments before coming up for air. “They can. I guess it could happen.”

“Would you like that? Is that something you would want?”

“Hadn’t thought about it.” Spying Aviva’s raised eyebrow, Morgan glowered. “Okay, I’ve thought about it. I’ve wondered if there were ways for me to do it on purpose, but I don’t think there are. It’s just random. So I haven’t gotten my hopes up.” She met the Tiefling’s gaze. “But I think I would like that, if it happened.”

Aviva smiled. “I could see that being… really nice.” She grinned. “Parenting without the childbirth.”

“What, no!” Morgan squealed, water splashing as she sat up. “I wouldn’t be its parent! Maybe its teacher, or its caretaker. But I wouldn’t be giving it life, I’d just be building a vessel.”

“Mmm. Maybe.” Aviva leaned back, resting her head on the lip of the bath. “I may be relatively new at it, but that sounds an awful lot like parenting to me.”

“Maybe.” Morgan watched the ripples on the surface of the bath. “Maybe.”

V.

“Cid,” Aviva slurred, rolling her head to look lopsidedly at the Lefein at her side. “Ciiiiiiidney.”

“Mmmwhat,” Morgan responded, blinking the Tiefling into focus.

Aviva grinned brightly, if sloppily. “I’m real glad you’re here.”

Morgan reached for her bottle of wine, nearly knocking it over in the process. “I’m glad I’m here too. You know I’ll always come visit.”

“I know, but I mean, like… here.” Aviva gestured broadly with her own wine bottle. “In the world. In my life. I’m real glad you’re here.”

Spreading her arms wide, Morgan pulled Aviva into a hug, nearly tipping them both over in the process. “Me too.”

(Art by @stufflaalikes​)

[peterknowsshit]

Road trip (Leg 1, Part 5) Pride in the Pines #TheRedDoorsWrite

Peter:

-I knew there was a reason I packed this shiny gold vest at the last minute. I had even pulled it out of my bag at one point, sure there was no way in hell I was going to need it on the trip. But just like every other time my fucked up version of a Spidey sense was tingling, I ultimately gave in and trusted that it meant it would come in handy at some point. And low and behold, here we were. We had seen the advertisements all over Northern Arizona for Pride in the Pines. And decided it would be a fun thing to check out before we rolled out of the state to continue our trek west. As I eyed myself in the mirror, it felt like something was missing. Reaching for one of my hats hanging on the pegs near the bed, I tried my usual brown one on for size and shook my head. I may not know shit about fashion. But I knew that didn’t work. Tossing that one on the bed, I reached for the black one. There it was. That was the missing piece. With a grin and a nod, I made my way out of the bus in search of @MyJokersWild-

Tori:

[I could have watched him a thousand times try on hat after hat and the reaction would have still been the same. It was no secret that @PeterKnowsShit was a fine specimen to look at but put him in that button up and vest? Well, let's just say that soft sigh that left my lips was paying homage to women across the world that ever had a thing for a man that knew how to rock an entrance and the color gold.] My Gods.. [When you did the spin for me to fully take it all in, I couldn't help but laugh almost nervously.] You can't be serious right now. Peter Pan! [Wolf whistling, I wasn't even sure I knew what I was asking but I did know one thing, the festivities that awaited us that night were something I was never going to forget, especially with the likes of you in that hat.]

Peter:

-My grin was instant when my eyes landed on my pretty bird, and I let out a chuckle at that wolf whistle- Well, I was second guessing the C-3PO vest. But if it gets that reaction out of you… -winks as I walk up and place a tender kiss to your lips- Have you ever hit up one of these pride things before, babe?

Tori:

Not here but elsewhere I have! [It wasn't my first rodeo at a PRIDE celebration and once I had turned into a free spirited teen like my mother, there wasn't one I missed since. Whether it was to pay my respects to those few that had gone before me, celebrating in their honor and in general or to be with others of my kind, I always looked forward to the month of June every year. This year however, was even more special because I got to spend it with you. That fact fueled my excitement the more I checked you out in your attire for the evening and I gave you a quick kiss back, careful not to get any more glitter on your clothes. Let alone your mouth as our chariot awaited. Our sights set on downtown where you could already hear the buzzing of the car horns and music blaring from loudspeakers. The energy alone, was calling our names like a corner street light coming on would. That being the signal from childhood that it was past time to come home.]

Peter:

-The closer that we got to our destination, the more palatable your excitement got. And I found myself stealing even more glances than usual at you. It didn’t help the way that colorful eyeshadow seemed to make your eyes pop even more, and briefly had me wishing that my vest had been a more vibrant color to match- I’ve been a couple times for various reasons. -grins- It’s always a good time. But I have a feeling this year is going to top even those. -places a hand on your thigh, giving a playful squeeze- Anything in particular that makes Pride for you? Something you have to see or do to make it complete?

Tori:

You mean besides one of the famous shows and a joint? A toast at the end of the night! Mmm, pancakes at IHOP or Denny's sounds amazing too. [Who was I kidding? Of course, I only had to ponder your question for a moment when instantly a shot of Peppermint Schnapps with a Miller High Life came to mind, a dear old friend's signature drink in memory and a tale that would spark laughter in all those who heard it was soon to follow as you made the drive for us and parked once we arrived in true stoner fashion. One of the clubs had to be in our sights but not before we made our way over to the walkway of tents you had every plan of showing off to me then. The smile on my face only widened the closer we got as I heard the hostess with the mostess over the outdoor intercom system. The celebrations

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1PLQR0kBLvU&feature=youtu.be

Peter:

-As we made our way through all the different tents, most of them adorned with shirts that said things like, ‘Adam and Steve, not Adam and Eve,” I couldn’t ignore the loud booming music from the drag tent. My eyes occasionally flicking over there to catch glimpses of big wigs and colorful lights. By the time we reached the end of the row, I turned to you with a raised brow- What is it with Liza Minnelli and drag queens? This is like the third one I’ve heard...

Tori:

It won’t be the last either. She is an icon, mine. Judy Garland’s daughter. [Smiling as we made our way down the rest of the strip, the make-up was flawless, not a hair out of place and as I walked through with you, to the human eye, we were mingling with the stars. Liza, Madonna, Janet Jackson, Cher, and Lady Gaga, were all in attendance and let me just say, they did not disappoint. Nor did Mariah Carey number three four and five. Between merchandise booths from local artists and the bars open for curbside, there wasn’t a stone left unturned when it came to celebrating, or showing our love and support for our community, our friends and our family. Having reached the end of the row, we were having to make a decision to go either left or right. Either way we chose, the day of adventures already proved we were in for a treat and I ducked my head inside the first tent on my right to see what was going on inside, dragging you with me. The scent of that powerful herb hitting my senses like a ton of bricks was too inviting to ignore once I caught wind of it.] You smell that, Peter Pan? [That’s when we found them, or maybe I should say they found us. There she was as if I had plucked her right out of the movie itself and before you know it, her voice like velvet filled the air. Mother Judy. It was Dorothy, in the flesh. “My my, if he’s Peter Pan, hold up Tink. They do not make men like him anymore, honey.” I flat out snickered. That smile growing incredibly wide as the ladies, Mariah number six and myself, fawned all over mine as we shared not one but three blunts going around our little drum circle and what they had signed us up for next was something that was going to go down into the history books indeed.]

Peter:

-Sitting there in that vest, you would think I would be the brightest one in the room. But the way these women were dressed made it look like I was wearing a potato sack of boredom. And the more times I was passed to, the more vibrant everything seemed to become. Looking down at the blunt in my hand as I slowly exhaled, I popped my brows. This shit just might give my homegrown pride a run for its money. I was so lost in that thought, that I didn’t even notice the music getting louder, and was caught by surprise when an impeccably manicured hand pushed me back. Before I could utter a word I was overwhelmed by the smell of expensive perfume and hairspray. Not my pretty bird. Definitely, not my pretty bird. I wish I could tell you which one it even was that was now using me as a prop to their show but all I could see was hair. Lots of hair coming to swallow me whole. It got in my nose, my eyes, and as I coughed and choked a little at the taste of aforementioned hairspray, in my mouth. As I worked to pull my head back and breathe non aerosol air, I briefly wondered if this was the way that I was going to go. A long ass life burned out in a blaze of glittery glory. But just as the desperation was starting to take over, the song ended and my lap was free again. Taking a big gulp of air, I realized even though the wig had departed my lap, there was still enough hair in my mouth to make another of my own. Shooting @MyJokersWild a look of desperation, I attempted to pluck the hairs from my tongue-

Tori:

A human chair? My Peter Pan? [I laughed. That blunt now long gone but the conversation between Dorothy and myself had still been in full swing as I chanced glances @PeterKnowsShit’s way, making sure he was alright with the sudden burst of attention he was getting. The second his hat went however, all bets were off, that long hair of his not just my undoing but the collective “Girrrrrl.” that sounded around the makeshift dressing room could have been heard two streets over if you asked me. “Do you see him, Dorothy! Right off the cover of one of those romance novels. He has to be in the show! The crowd will eat him up honey if I don’t first!” All those big hopeful eyes were on him, even the Mariahs’ were laying the eye fucking on thick and I couldn’t help but nod my head, giving him a wink.] Just one song.. [Cracking up, I was still high as hell but managed to get back up on my feet, Dorothy already joining @PeterKnowsShit with the rest of the ladies and I gave him the universal hand gesture for grabbing a drink, knowing that if I was feeling thirsty as hell, so was he as our newfound friends began to help you get ready with the sounds of I’m coming out starting to play.]

Peter:

-I was still picking the hair out of my mouth when I vaguely heard @MyJokersWild referring to me as a human chair. And damn if that wasn’t an accurate description of what I had just been through. I was still reeling so much from the first round that I didn’t even fight my hat being plucked from my head and placed atop another wigged one. Was that one of the Mariahs? Hell, if I knew. But I was interrupted from that thought process when the chorus of, ‘Girrrrl,’ sounded around me. Now my eyes were darting between dramatically made up faces as they plotted my ass being part of the show. What the hell was going on here? Bringing my eyes back to my pretty bird as she joined right in on the encouragement, I knew I was outnumbered- What all does this entail? -my brow cocked in a show of are you fucking kidding me when Liza number one answered with, ‘Don’t you trust us?’ I had to bite back an answer of, ‘To thoroughly suffocate me and make me the first vampire ever to die at the hands of a drag queen? Yes.’ Apparently I wasn’t going to be answered as a chorus of laughs now filled the dressing tent and suddenly I was being accosted by brushes and pink fuzzy blobs of nope. Now, I was cursing every thought I had about not being colorful enough because I was sure by the time this was done, I was going to be everything but bland. Suddenly a blast of cold and perfumed something hit my face, causing me to blink rapidly- Fuck! That burns? What the hell was that? Satan’s piss? -Another round of laughter at my expense as my hair was tousled and then they all stepped back admiring me. ‘You know what he would be perfect for?’ Liza number one turned to one of the Mariahs with a knowing nod. My eyes flicking between the two of them as they seemed to have a silent conversation- What? What would I be perfect for? I’m not wearing a dress. -Finally they seemed to hear me as Mariah shook her head, “Oh, no, no, honey. A dress you will not wear. You’ll just join Belle over here in her rendition of Beauty and the Beast. Damn it, I forgot the mask. But we’ll make it work.” Next thing I knew, I was in the middle of the stage, bright lights shining on me as I looked out at the crowd which was now packed. I had made it clear to them that dancing was not my strong suit. So, if they expected me to do anything complicated, they were going to regret it. After many attempts to teach me to “flow” across the stage and me nearly tumbling off the side as I blinked through the mountains of spray glitter they had sprayed on me, they finally took my words to heart and allowed me to stay put in a chair. Luckily, this time around the wig was some complicated up do that stayed out of my face. And Belle proved to be a little more hands off as she danced around me, mouthing the words. What I hadn’t accounted for was how fucking long the song was under those bright lights. Now, that damn vest was working like a sauna, causing me to sweat. And wouldn’t you know it, Belle was sweating too under that dress and wig. She was also getting awfully fucking touchy again. I tried, man. I fucking tried to be a good sport. Grinning through the pain as that shit dripped into my eyeballs. I wasn’t going to see right for a week. Then she propped herself in my lap again, sweaty body to sweaty body as she casually slid that glove from her hand, and flicked it out into the crowd just in time for another fucking song to start. Glaring up at Belle with red, glitter filled eyes, I mumbled- I thought it was just one song? It took a few notes before I recognized what fucking song it was now. Just in time for Belle to stand, ripping off her dress to reveal a sparkly bodysuit beneath, and striking a pose as she mouthed the lyrics, ‘It’s raining men!” To my horror several leather clad men jumped up on the stage and began gyrating around me. I attempted to get up only to be slammed back into the chair and held there by Belle’s surprisingly strong grip, a quick shake of her head that had a small drop of glitter sweat flicking from the end of her nose and smacking me right in the middle of the

forehead. Nope. This was done. I promised one song. I struggled with Belle as she motioned for her dancers to help her out. Now the Village People from Hell were holding me in place as Belle did dances that would make a stripper blush. Then it happened. That glittered up chest was being pressed to the side of my head as I clawed and fought for freedom. I don’t know what the hell those boobs were made of, but it definitely wasn’t soft. And as she turned to the crowd in a dramatic flourish, I seized the opportunity to jump up and yank myself free of her hold. Only to trip on that motherfucking wire of her microphone. Haven’t these people heard of wireless microphones? Instinctually, I reached out in an attempt to break my fall, which only brought Belle down with me, in a faceplant right to the groin that I couldn’t have planned if I tried. With a shove of Belle, I was up off that ground and jumping from the stage in a beeline for the exit of that damn tent. Only stopping once I was sure I was free to send @MyJokersWild a text- Oh dear God, it got in my mouth again. Help!

Tori:

I’ll be right back... [Famous last words and sure enough, I sing-songed all four of them before I ducked completely out of @PeterKnowsShit’s line of sight, realizing the words had left my lips before I could stop them as my mind finally caught up, and of course I knew better. I. Knew. Better. A jinx, was a jinx was a jinx as my dad would say and in this case, it was a given that the moment you did say those words, the next thing you knew, you’ll be two songs deep into a rescue mission while still waiting for those celebratory free gratis drinks you were gifted for helping out. My Peter Pan was being a good sport about the whole thing, totally and completely on board through the rainbow filled haze we found ourselves in.. One song, @PeterKnowsShit had agreed to just one and I had reassuringly went along with it because seeing him up there, well, it just added to the “Remember that one time..” list of memories we were making here. So when I saw Dorothy’s head pop up not a second later out of nowhere while I was standing in line for the bar, I couldn’t help but wonder what awaited me upon my return. My view of the stage had been nearly blocked off by paying customers more than ready to wet their whistles and before I knew it, Dorothy’s arm was hooked around mine, dragging me to the front of the line, calling in a favor or two no less, I was sure when the stools before us suddenly opened up and the invitation presented itself. “I can’t thank your man enough! All of us have had our fair share of turns playing Beast for Crazy Belle all month! The goddess herself has smiled down upon me with the likes of you two!��] If you don’t mind me asking, why do they call her crazy? [When I was met with a “You’re about to find out.” Drinks now in hand, or one hand rather, I watched as Dorothy graciously grabbed my free hand and helped me climb up on the stool to get a better look, seeing how she had done the same only seconds ago. Before I could fully take it all in, a flash of gold filled the sky as a surge of bodies surrounded and began piling up on the stage. The big finale was raining men literally. And just like with lightning, realization struck again.] Oh no… [It wasn’t just a finale, it was an encore too. Every performer from along the boulevard, was making their way up to the stage just in time for us all to see @PeterKnowsShit almost levitate, and yes, I mean close your eyes and up you go levitate. It wasn’t even ninety seconds later that he was in that sitting position one minute, and almost off the stage the next… Almost. Life as we know it sometimes has a way of making our wildest dreams come true and in that moment as the stage was descended upon by every color of the rainbow, I laughed at the sight of you popping out of what could only be described as a huge pot of gold. And while you were magically delicious, Belle was no match for your Beast literally when she met him in the form of your crotch. That was it. You were gone in a sea of wigs galore and lifting my head back, I let out a loud whistle before taking a leap of my own down off the stool, drink still in hand when I got that incoming text alert from you. “Oh dear God, it got in my mouth again. Help!“ As quick as my fingers flew across the screen with an “OMW” back, I was just as quick to fire off another one too.] I can’t believe you stuck your dick in crazy! [Hitting send, I laughed again and sent a follow up before pocketing my cell as I made my way outside, in search of you. That’s right. He didn’t know it yet but I saw it all and pancakes were most definitely on the menu. I just had to know if @PeterKnowsShit preferred Denny’s or IHOP.....]

Peter:

-The sound of @MyJokersWild calling my name jarring me out of my trance as a grin instantly spreads across my face at the sound of your laughter. I was about to point out again that had I known she was referred to as Crazy Belle, I would’ve resisted the whole thing a little harder. Only I was interrupted by the waitress appearing at our table with our pancake orders. Now my mind was effectively redirected to the doughy goodness that would soon be filling my mouth. And by the time both plates were set in front of us, I had already placed the blueberry syrup I knew was your favorite in front of you, and was reaching for the OG for myself. Taking the time to draw designs on my pancakes with the syrup as I poured, I only looked up at your question. “Thinking about the night again?” That knowing smirk you sported causing me to chuckle low, and shake my head.- Baby, I’m going to be thinking about last night for ages to come. -picks up my fork, cutting off my first bite, and popping it into my mouth before offering you a closed mouth grin- #TheRedDoorsWrite #Pride

[tentoriwrites]

Pantry Raiders

A side story in the same timeline/story/whatever as the “Beautifully Unbroken” with Tadakatsu and MC. This is what happens when @suzunesays challenges me to write a crackfic. I have ZERO excuses for this. Please enjoy!

Also tagging @jane-runs-fast @melody-chii and @alva-radio since they asked to nicely!

MC learns to go “downtown” with the help of daikon instructional aides.

“So…” She looked around awkwardly unsure where her eyes should be right now. This was the first time she had gotten Tadakatsu to this level of undress. Her blush telling him everything she didn’t feel comfortable saying.

“Something wrong, Milady?” He wondered eying her playfully.

“OH! Umm no!” Her gaze flashed back to him then away again. She fidgeted with her kimono just to have something to do with her hands.

“Milady, are you by any chance a virgin?” The way he phrased the question it didn’t come off like a question at all.

“I’m not without some experience! Just not with someone of your… size…” She snapped back defensively as she crossed her arms over her chest. Her bravado didn’t last long, she slumped forward and frowned.

“Well I am in great shape from training all the time. Don’t worry though, when the time comes I’ll be gentle.” He replied with an easy, warm smile as he moved to embrace her.

“That… That’s not exactly what I meant…” She mumbled as her blush intensified again when his naked body came into view.

“Oh?” He cocked an eyebrow playfully. “What ever did you mean then?” He asked teasingly as he waggled his eye brows. She thought he might have caught on, but he wouldn’t let up! He just kept staring at her with a cheesy grin, his naked body pressed against her.

“You have a rather large daikon!” She blurted out, almost immediately shrinking away in utter embarrassment.

WHY?! Why is it always food with me?

Just as she was about to hide behind her sleeves, Tadakatsu started laughing genuinely. He took her hands in his, resting his forehead on them. When he finally pulled himself together, he looked up at her very seriously.

“Don’t worry, Milady, I’ll make sure to properly till your field before burying my daikon in it…” Even though this was exactly something he would say, that didn’t make it, or its implications any less apparent.

“I know…” She sighed finally relaxing again. “I know…”

 Lord Ieyasu was summoned to see Lord Nobunaga a few days after that awkward moment. For whatever reason, he deigned it unnecessary for her to go with them. That meant she would be alone in the castle for quite some time. She saw this as an opportunity. After seeing them off, she wandered into Tadakatsu’s room to find something to help her with her problem. She just wanted something to maybe, acclimate herself with someone of his… endowment… She swallowed hard as she browsed over his extensive collection before pulling a book at random off a shelf.

Why… why does he have a book called, “The Lover’s Guide for Women?”

She slowly opened the cover and flipped through the pages idly until something caught her eye. Some very graphic pictures made her drop the book initially. Though, she realized this was exactly what she had been looking for. After a hard swallow and deep breath, she picked up the book again and started reading the section titled, “Other Ways to Pleasure Your Lover.” Managing to read through the entire section, somehow, she hid the book in her obi so she could steal it away to her room.

The next day, she set off in search of what she needed to start practicing what she had learned. The book was very clear that practice makes perfect. The problem with that, she didn’t have anything, or anyone, rather, to practice with. Being as everything with her comes back to food, she decided produce was probably her best bet. Go with what you know! With that in mind, she went to the greengrocer. It was at this point she realized the problem with having such a good relationship with the greengrocer…

“OH! You came at just the right time! We just got some great produce! Look at the size of these daikon!” He beamed pulling out quite possibly the biggest daikon she had ever seen. She blanched instantly. “Is something wrong with it?” He wondered pulling the produce back and scrutinizing it. Now she was turning red. She tried to think quickly, to come up with something before he looked at her again.

“Well… it’s just… I wanted to try a new recipe and I don’t want to waste such a beautiful specimen if it doesn’t turn out…” She replied very bashfully. The greengrocer looked up at her with a knowing smile.

“I understand, you’re trying to impress a certain special someone, so you want to get it right before going for the good stuff.” He added a wink for good measure.

“Yes…” She replied with a sigh of relief shoulders untensing. Then her mind went south and her face colored again.

I guess he’s not wrong… I do want to get better before trying on Tadakatsu… It was at this point her brain ceased to function completely, realizing she was subconsciously agreeing with the greengrocer about something she never in her life would have imagined… That she could somehow equate a man’s *ahem* to the choicest produce was mortifying. And yet, she fully intended to stick it in her mouth as if to eat it. The whole line of thought she was going down on the one hand made her deeply aroused and deeply embarrassed all at once.  

The green grocer continued fussing through his wares a few moments allowing her to calm down again. “I have just what you need…” He displayed some small and slightly lower quality pieces perfect for her needs. She made her selections and quickly headed back to the castle. No amount of rushing or focus could keep her thoughts straight. They kept straying back to naked Tadakatsu and how she wasn’t going to see him for quite a while. Somehow that made the ache worse.

There she sat in her room, a line of daikon in front of her, book opened to the page she needed. As she sat there staring at everything, amazingly all the other things she could have been doing ran through her head.

Did I do the preparations for dinner? Yes… before I went to town… Right, right… The washing? No, that’s done too. How about! No… Umeko helped me with that…

She went back to staring at the vegetables, a bit distraught.

Tadakatsu is much bigger and these seem so daunting…

She closed her eyes, sullenly slumped forward. Then, she sat up straight, a look of pure resolution as she patted her cheeks briskly. No, she was going to do this! Tadakatsu had been so kind and patient with her she wanted to reward him. Food he would be expecting. This, this he would not expect. She picked up one of the vegetables, washed and ready to go, and looked down at the book.

“Start with a firm but gentle grip on the base.” She got a firm hold on the green tops of the produce. “Depending on your Lover’s level of arousal…” she gulped, “you may need to stroke him… a few times… to make him…” She gulped again and skipped ahead a bit. “If there’s too much friction… try licking your hand first… or… him…” She dropped the daikon. This was too much. She couldn’t do this! What was she thinking?

She found her resolve again, steeling herself as she picked up the daikon. Trying to get over her nerves, she decided to just stick it in her mouth. Maybe, she thought, if she could get over that weirdness, she could back up and start from the beginning. She started off tentatively resting the daikon on the tip of her outstretched tongue. Not so bad! She quickly advanced the daikon into her mouth, too quickly. She instantly regretted that decision as she recoiled to avoid throwing up. Slow down. You have plenty of time…

She started over, this time listening to the book rather than her own overzealous brain.

Just… imagine it’s Tadakatsu!

She cringed, she couldn’t! He’s too big! That’s what started all this! But she tried anyways. Giving the tip of the produce a gentle kiss to start with before slowly descending it. With slow strokes increasing in length. Doing it this way, she found she actually rather enjoyed it. The feeling of something on her lips pleasant, the texture on her tongue appealing.

Mmm… Tadakatsu…

She stopped abruptly, embarrassed by how weirdly turned on she was getting by sucking on a piece of produce. She decided, after a few pensively moments of thought, that was a good thing. That meant she would enjoy doing it with Tadakatsu when she got the chance. With a smile she read the next part then tried to put it into practice.

 A few weeks had gone by and she went for her weekly trip for practice materials. “Ahhh! Back again? How’s the recipe coming along?” The greengrocer asked moving to get her some of his smaller pieces.

“I think…” she started hesitantly before starting to smile, “it’s time for the good stuff.” His whole face lit up as he pulled out the best-looking daikon he had, displaying it with a certain pride. She could see it in his eyes, he wasn’t proud of the produce… He was proud of being able to able to help her with what he, ostensibly, thought was food to romance her potential lover. She just kept smiling, trying to hide her awkwardness at realizing that.

“Perfect!” She paid for it and left quickly before he could catch on.

 A few more days had gone by when the castle came alive. Lord Ieyasu was back and that meant so was Tadakatsu! She got to her feet and rushed to the kitchens to help with everything that would surely need to be done. Especially, getting a big meal ready for Lord Ieyasu.

Despite the exhausting effort of getting everything put together, she got back to her room that night full of excitement and giddy energy. Though, she decided to keep it to herself. She figured Tadakatsu would be tired after traveling, he hadn’t been at dinner, after all. She started to get ready for a bath when she heard a familiar voice outside the door.

“Ohhh Milllaaaadddyyy…” He cooed and she took off running for the door. In one smooth motion, she slid the door open and launched herself into his arms. He was not prepared and they both tumbled into her room. He was laughing as he held her close, taking in the smell of her hair. “I’m happy to see you too!”

“I thought you might have just gone to rest after your journey, so I let you be.” She said as she snuggled into his warmth.

“Oh no… a hard situation need my immediate attention as soon as we returned. I knew you were busy, so I took care of it myself.” He replied, and she knew what he meant. Still, his stomach growled audibly. They both chuckled for a minute before he sat up again. “Say… are those jars of pickled vegetables?” He wondered reaching out and grabbing one.

“Y… yes…” She stuttered trying to hide her embarrassment. It’s supposed to be a surprise! She can’t tell him the truth. “I wanted to try something different… for you…” That wasn’t entirely a lie…

“You made all these for me?” He seemed genuinely amazed as he cracked the lid off the jar. He didn’t even bother with decorum, sticking his hand in and cramming a handful in his mouth. “Oh these are soo goooodd…” He practically moaned with his mouth still full.

His mouth was full… Her mouth had been full of the same produce that made those pickles at some point… Doing… that… so she could do it… for him… Watching him eat had set her mind down a very dirty road, one from which she could not turn back.

“Tadakatsu… don’t eat too many of those at once or something else might turn sour!” She whispered.  He looked at her slowly flashed her a cheesy grin.

“Don’t worry, I won’t get all sour like Lord Ieyasu!” He replied before shoving more in his mouth.

That’s not what I meant… She kept it to herself this time.

“I’ll go make you a proper a dinner. So… just wait for me here or in your room.” She got up quickly to leave through the still open door.

“Say…” He called to her and when she turned around he was licking his fingers.

AHHHHHH!!!! Don’t do this to me right now!

“Do you want to help me with that hard situation later? I don’t think it’s completely resolved yet.” Her eyes grew wide as her heart started pounding in her ears.

“Yes… There was something I wanted to show you anyways…” She managed to reply before taking off running. She need to be a caring, responsible lover and feed him first. There would be plenty of time for that later…

[doggonneit]

The Last Red Scribble | Part 2/2

Fandom: Haikyuu!!

Pairing/Characters: Kuroo/Tsukishima, Shimizu

Rating: T for Teen

Warnings: Abortion reference

A.N. This is the final part of the KuroTsuki Gift Exchange 2017, written for @moonislander on Tumblr. Hope you enjoy!

Italics is Tsukishima. Bold is Kuroo.

[Read on AO3]

Tuesday PM

(11:02) so i might be dumb

(11:05) If you have the mental capacity to figure that out, you paradoxically can’t be that dumb.

(11:06) i might not play in the match on thurs (11:06) i punched a guy

(11:07) Why the fuck would you do that.

(11:08) im a rational guy (11:08) but when things happen (11:09) they happen

(11:10) I changed my mind. (11:10) I’m not letting Tobio anywhere near you. You are the worst role model for him.

(11:10) hear me out (11:11) its good i swear

(11:12) …

(11:12) so at practice this newbie kept staring at akaashi (11:12) creepy but harmless (11:12) but then the dudes hand started wandering (11:13) so i socked him in the jaw (11:13) gotta keep the bros boyfriend safe right

(11:15) I’m sure Akaashi appreciates it.

(11:16) nah but bokuto did lololol

(11:16) The question is, how many laps did your coach make you run?

(11:17) dude i ran till i hurled (11:17) make me feel better? (11:17) *sad face emoji*

(11:20) The newly discovered dinosaur fossils in China have changed the way scientists understand the evolution of feathers.

(11:22) huh (11:22) not quite what i had in mind but cool

(11:23) It’s my job.

(11:23) youre a geneticist who collects dino dna from amber (11:23) YOURE GOING TO BRING THEM BACK

(11:23) I’m a research assistant.

(11:24) doesnt mean you dont know how

(11:24) Amber DNA is too deteriorated for any type of resurrection.

(11:24) but if you could (11:25) would you

(11:25) Yes.

(11:26) million dollar question which dino though

(11:27) Velociraptor, duh.

(11:27) not a t rex?

(11:28) T-rexes were lumpy potatoes with useless arms. (11:28) Velociraptors had claws on their hind legs for disembowelling prey. (11:28) You tell me which one’s superior.

(11:29) youre so fired up its great (11:29) keep talking dinos to me

(11:31) I would but I have articles to type up before tomorrow.

(11:31) what an aDULTY ADULT (11:31) doing his JOB AND HAVING PROSPECTS

(11:33) Do you mock young and successful people because it temporarily alleviates the worthlessness you feel on a daily basis?

(11:35) savage af

(11:35) :))))

(11:35) i never shouldve went to uni (11:36) dietetics then sports med? (11:36) regret tastes like ash in my mouth (11:36) fucking murder me

(11:37) That was very poetic.

(11:38) you like poetry?

(11:38) I don’t mind it.

(11:39) hypothetically (11:39) could bad poetry seduce you

(11:40) Hypothetically (11:40) No.

(11:40) damn

(11:41) I bet you’re the type of person to fall for sappy crap like that.

(11:41) damn right (11:41) in elementary school a girl wrote me a poem (11:42) we dated all the way from recess to lunch

(11:43) Your longest relationship, huh?

(11:44) all from a shitty roses are red poem (11:44) i bet you can do better (11:45) seduce me o seductive seducer

(11:47) Congratulations, I have literally never been less turned off in my entire life.

(11:48) to reiterate (11:48) 1. i am dumb (11:48) 2. regret tastes like ash in my mouth

(11:49) Mmm. (11:50) You know what else tastes like ash? (11:51) *image attached*

(11:53) oh baby (11:54) you could never taste like regret (11:54) now take that cigarette out of your mouth

(11:54) Yes, daddy.

(11:55) hjlfkllkkl (11:56) okay i need you to stop fucking with me its bad for my heart

(11:56) :)))))

.

Wednesday PM

(8:13) tsukki you cant just do that

(8:14) Do what?

(8:14) i almost rolled into an early grave

(8:14) I have no idea what you’re talking about.

(8:14) do you know what its like to turn around and see the brightest blueberry eyes in the entire universe

(8:15) Oh, you mean Akiteru taking Tobio to the recreation centre?

(8:15) I SAW STARS IN HIS EYES TSUKKI

(8:16) Tobio said he had a lot of fun. (8:16) I’ve never seen him so animated before.

(8:17) your son is adorable (8:17) i dont have favourites but hes my favourite

(8:17) Don’t spoil him.

(8:18) no promises (8:18) your blueberry son is everything that is good and pure in this world (8:18) im so proud of you

(8:19) Me??

(8:19) well you made him

(8:19) You must’ve slept through Biology in high school because making a child is a two-person job.

(8:20) clearly tobio got his good looks from you

(8:20) We literally look nothing alike.

(8:21) are you telling me tobio has two beautiful parents (8:21) lies (8:22) pics or it didnt happen

(8:22) ...

(8:23) i just realised how that sounded (8:23) and i in no way meant to ask you for a picture of you sleeping with tobios mother

(8:27) I have never (8:27) Laughed so hard in my entire life (8:28) I choked on my fucking tea.

(8:28) whoopsss

(8:29) But since you asked (8:29) *image attached*

(8:29) please dont tell me thats actually a pic of you two fucking (8:29) because i would be really weirded out

(8:30) That’s not a picture of us fucking.

(8:30) im trusting you okay (8:31) OH MY GOODNESS (8:31) AHAHAHAHAH (8:31) SHE IS SO BEAUTIFULLL

(8:31) She gets that a lot.

(8:32) im having a hard time trying to figure out if im jealous of you or her

(8:32) No point. We’re not together.

(8:33) i figured if you were you wouldve said something earlier (8:33) so let me guess (8:33) she cheated on you

(8:34) No.

(8:35) you cheated on her

(8:35) No. (8:35) Do I look like a cheater?

(8:35) hey i dont stereotype

(8:35) There was no cheating. Just unfortunate circumstances.

(8:36) one night stand accidental baby?

(8:36) Yeah, close enough.

(8:37) thats tough (8:37) it happened to my older sister too (8:37) but she ended up marrying the guy (8:37) they were like fuck yeah lets be a family (8:38) so now im the proud uncle of a literal ball of snot

(8:39) That was Akiteru when he held Tobio for the first time. (8:39) He couldn’t stop crying. (8:39) It was gross.

(8:40) dude was holding the future in his hands (8:40) of course he was crying

(8:40) You cried when you held your literal ball of snot for the first time, didn’t you?

(8:41) THIS ISNT ABOUT ME ITS ABOUT YOU (8:41) BACK TO YOUR ONE NIGHT STAND

(8:41) You need to be a level five friend to unlock my tragic backstory.

(8:41) well okay (8:41) what level am i at now

(8:43) Zero.

(8:44) what (8:44) how can you say that (8:44) we had an anniversary (8:44) your brother loves me (8:45) your son adores me

(8:45) My brother what now.

(8:45) did i forget to mention?? (8:46) we bonded over vball (8:46) now were texting buddies (8:46) we talk about you ALL THE TIME

(8:48) You’re lying. (8:48) Akiteru would never do that to me.

(8:48) you had a dinosaur nightlight until you were eleven

(8:49) … (8:49) Excuse me. (8:49) I have a murder to commit.

(8:49) tell akiteru i said hi!!

.

Thursday AM

(9:23) WISH US LUKC TSUUKIIIII

(9:24) You’re… Bokuto. The Bset Freind Foreber.

(9:24) YAEH YOU RMEMEBR ME (9:24) I STOEL KUROOS PHONE LOL (9:24) WE GOT OUR MATHC TODAY (9:24) HES PLAYIGN TOO

(9:25) Even after he punched that guy in the face?

(9:25) COAHC IS A GOOD UPTSANDING MAN (9:25) WHO DOESTN TOLERATE SEZXUAL ASSUALT (9:25) I ALSO MAY HAVE THROWN A TANTRNM ON COUTR

(9:26) I’m impressed. Good job.

(9:26) WE’RE RARIGN TO GO (9:26) LOOK AT US WE LOOKS O GOOD (9:27) *image attached*

(9:27) Yeah, you blurs look really good.

(9:27) OKAY OKAY WAIT (9:28) *image attached* (9:28) AKAASGHHI TOOK TAHT ONE (9:28) AWESOME AYYY

(9:29) Are those (9:29) Sleeveless red jerseys (9:29) ?  

(9:29) YAEEHHHH (9:29) WAIT THISS IS EVEN BETTER (9:29) CHEKC THIS OUT (9:30) HOLD ON

(9:30) *image attached*

(9:30) ...

(9:30) GROUP FLEX

(9:30) I

(9:31) LOOKGNI SEXY SMEZY RIGHT (9:31) ;)))))))))

(9:32) No.

(9:32) LIAR I BET YOU’RE BLUSHIGN

(9:32) Go warm up before your match.

(9:32) IM TELLIGN KUROO!!!!!!

.

Thursday PM

(3:16) a lil birdie told me (3:16) youre into (3:16) BICEPS

(3:17) It’s a lie.

(3:17) so this does nothing for you (3:17) *image attached*

(3:17) ...

(3:17) oikawa and akaashi (3:18) slender and toned specimens (3:18) 7.5/10

(3:18) You have got to be kidding me.

(3:18) dont be shy no judgement here (3:18) *image attached* (3:18) terushima and ushiwaka (3:19) terushimas built but ushiwakas got power going (3:19) 8/10 and 9/10

(3:19) I can’t believe you right now.

(3:19) *image attached* (3:19) these are bokutos (3:19) amazing right my boy is STACKED (3:20) 10/10

(3:19) Please stop.

(3:20) the real killers though (3:20) *image attached* (3:20) IWAIZUMI (3:21) look at that (3:21) he could choke me and id thank him 12/10

(3:22) Are you done with the meat parade?

(3:22) just one more (3:22) *image attached* (3:22) ME (3:23) what do you think??

(3:23) I’m not stroking your already inflated ego.

(3:24) i know for a fact youre not a blushing virgin (3:24) now stop being shy and rate me

(3:24) You’re ridiculous. (3:24) Fine. (3:24) Solid muscle. Good definition. (3:24) 9/10  

(3:25) only 9?? (3:25) im hurt im insulted (3:25) would it make a difference if i used a filter

(3:26) Why not.

(3:26) *image attached*

(3:26) Superb musculature, clearly the result of endless hours of hard work. (3:26) 10/10  

(3:26) i knew it (3:27) i gotta go rub this in oikawas face (3:27) he will rue the day he ever thought he was better built than me (3:27) text later okay

(3:27) Kuroo.

(3:27) yes dear

(3:27) You forgot to tell me. (3:28) Did you win the match?  

(3:28) YEAH LOL

(3:28) Congratulations.

(3:28) thanks babe (3:28) the thought of you kept me going strong (3:28) *heart eyes emoji*

.

Friday PM

(10:23) i wondered what’d gotten tsukki so riled up (10:23) and then i saw all the biceps (10:23) loolllll  

(10:25) im intrigued (10:25) who is this mysterious person with tsukkis phone

(10:25) ahh i’m yamaguchi (10:25) tsukki’s best friend (10:26) i may or may not have borrowed his phone when he wasn’t looking  

(10:26) devious (10:26) i like it

(10:26) ur going to like this a lot more

(10:26) oho?

(10:26) it’s friday night (10:27) which means it’s karaoke night (10:27) with everyone from work  

(10:27) there wouldnt happen to be (10:27) alcohol (10:27) involved would there

(10:28) ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)

(10:28) you bring great news friend (10:28) so what do i need to sacrifice to get a vid of tsukki (10:28) doing a drunken rendition of my heart will go on

(10:29) that’s a big request (10:29) tsukki hates performing (10:19) especially to cliches  

(10:30) okay but you do have the ability to make him to do so

(10:30) that depends on what ur willing to sacrifice

(10:30) you ARE devious (10:30) all right what do you want

(10:32) ur number and ur firstborn

(10:33) im devoted to tsukki just saying (10:33) firstborn no problem

(10:33) i want ur number bc i want to keep u accountable (10:33) not bc i’m interested in u, u loser  

(10:34) i can see why you two are best friends

(10:34) we have a deal??

(10:34) fuck yeah lets go

(10:34) gimme fifteen minutes (10:34) tsukki’s already tipsy on strawberry daiquiris  

(10:34) this is gonna be so good (10:34) lets go lets go lets go

(10:53) i am (10:53) a GOD (10:53) *video attached*  

(10:57) AHAHAHAHA (10:57) this is (10:57) the second best day (10:57) of my life (10:57) omg is this real its beautiful

(10:58) he is SO BAD, RIGHT

(10:58) is he better sober

(10:59) no but he can rap sober

(11:00) are you fucking with me

(11:01) nopee

(11:01) what do i need to sacrifice to see that

(11:01) u couldn’t afford it (11:02) ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)  

(11:02) worth a shot (11:02) youre a true bro anyway

(11:03) why thank yoyiijkpll

(11:03) you okay bud

(11:03) What teh fuck

(11:03) tsukki?? (11:04) babe (11:04) so me and your bestie bonded too

(11:04) Waht the actual fuvk (11:04) I’m too drukn to typpe (11:04) You fuckign pick up whenm I call  

(11:05) wait what

.

Mysterious Phone Man Tsukki is calling…

“Uhh… hello?”

“I… I am going to… gouge your eyes out.”

“Holy shit, you’re slurring. You’re soo drunk.”

“Hi, Kuroo!”

“Shut up, Yamaguchi.”

“Sorry, Tsukki!”

“Kuroo, you shit. I sh… should’ve known you’d do something like this.”

“Hey, Yamaguchi was the one who filmed you!”

“Ohh no, don’t blame me, you enabler!"

“You know what, I’m not even sorry. That was wicked. Oh my god, I’m definitely in love.”

“What a complete dick… hole.”

“Aw babe, you’re so eloquent when you’re drunk. What did Yamaguchi give you, hmm?"

“JÄEGERBOMBS, WHOO!”

“Fucking disgush-- disgusting.”

“Then why’d you drink it, you dork?”

“Ughh…"

“Don’t forget you owe me, Kuroo!”

“Gonna kill you both.”

“I dare you. Come to Tobio’s practice tomorrow and we’ll have a fucking throwdown.”

“I’m going to be so hungover.”

“I double dare you.”

"Fucking… fine.”

“Wow, Kuroo. You’re really good at riling Tsukki up, you know that?”

“It’s a special talent. Now you boys enjoy the rest of your night. I’m going to watch that rendition one more time and laugh myself to sleep.”

“FUCK YOU, KUROO!”

“I love you too, sweetheart.”

“Aww, you guys.”

“YOU FUCKING--”

Click.

.

Saturday AM

(7:46) GOOD MORNINGGG (7:46) THROWDOWN AT 10 (7:46) DONT FORGET

.

Mysterious Phone Man Tsukki  is calling…

“Uh-oh. Am I in trouble?”

“I fucking hate you.”

“Soo… your head is pulsing, your throat is parched and you want to die in a hole?"

“I was unconscious. Unable to feel pain. Now I’m back in the world of the living.”

“Don't be mad. If you drag your ass down to the rec centre, I’ll get coffee for you.”

“...”

“Is that a yes?”

“Large black.”

“Black coffee? Are you serious?”

“It matches my soul.”

“O-kay, anything else?”

“Strawberry muffin.”

“Your soul confuses me.”

“And something for Tobio.”

“No shit, duh. Akiteru?”

“He can starve.”

“Still haven’t forgiven him for telling me about the dinosaur nightlight, huh?”

“And I’ll never forgive you if you bring it up again.”

“Bring what up again?”

“Good boy.”

“Can we revisit that conversation about kinks again?”

Click.

.

Saturday AM

(9:47) ive got coffee and muffins (9:47) hot chocolate for tobio (9:47) and a latte for akiteru bc im not an ass

(9:52) Fuck.

(9:52) i know youre mad at akiteru but no need to get hissy

(9:52) It’s not that. (9:52) We can’t make it to practice anymore.  

(9:53) ????

(9:53) Tobio’s mother is here.

(9:53) whoaa what

(9:53) I’m really sorry. (9:53) Especially since you bought breakfast. (9:54) I’ll pay you back.  

(9:54) dont worry about it lol (9:54) ill share it with the other guys

(9:54) Are you mad?

(9:55) kinda disappointed but not at you (9:55) its not your fault

(9:55) I really am sorry. (9:56) I need to go, but I’ll text you later okay?  

(9:56) no need to stress (9:57) practice is about to start anyway

.

Saturday PM

(1:28) Are you free to talk now?

(1:29) kuroos sperm bank (1:29) you squeeze em we freeze em

(1:29) That is disgusting.

(1:30) tsukki its time for the talk you never got when you hit puberty (1:30) what you must realise is that masturbation is healthy and natural

(1:30) We are not having this conversation. Ever.

(1:31) babe dont be embarrassed (1:31) one day youll have to have the same convo with tobio lololol

(1:31) Please don’t remind me.

(1:31) you doing okay

(1:32) I’ve had a shitty morning.

(1:33) id also be in a bad mood if i were hungover and my ex showed up uninvited

(1:33) She’s not (1:33) Whatever.  

(1:33) not... your ex?

(1:34) She can’t be my ex if we never went out.

(1:34) idk you had a one night stand with her

(1:34) It’s complicated.

(1:35) have i reached level five friend yet

(1:35) …

(1:35) im here to listen

(1:37) I guess you might be a level five friend.

(1:37) hell yeah

(1:37) I can’t believe this. I don’t even know you.

(1:38) im hurt (1:38) you just blessed me as your level five friend

(1:40) I don’t know where to start.

(1:40) lets start small (1:40) howd you meet her

(1:40) Shimizu was my senior in high school. (1:40) We weren’t close but we kept in touch after she graduated. (1:40) Study tips and stuff like that.  

(1:41) thats cute (1:41) sounds innocent

(1:41) It wasn’t ever anything more than that. (1:42) We just (1:43) There’s a lot to learn about yourself when you’re a teenager. (1:43) And we thought we could help each other out.  

(1:44) seems like you two trusted each other a lot

(1:44) We did. (1:44) Do. (1:44) But there was never a relationship. (1:45) We slept together but neither of us really wanted it.  

(1:46) what do you mean?

(1:46) I’m gay. (1:46) Shimizu’s ace. (1:46) We both cried afterwards. (1:47) Pathetic, right.  

(1:47) i dont think thats pathetic at all (1:47) you bared your vulnerabilities to each other (1:47) and learned something about yourselves in the process (1:48) it takes a lot of courage to do something like that

(1:49) I guess.

(1:50) so tobio was the result of that huh

(1:50) Yeah. (1:50) It was bad. (1:50) Our families were so pissed at each other. (1:51) They talked about abortion and marriage and all that shit.  

(1:51) i dont envy you at all (1:51) that mustve been a complete shit storm and a half

(1:51) Shimizu and I considered a platonic marriage. (1:52) But we didn’t want to do something neither of us wanted again.

(1:52) so wedding nay but baby yay

(1:52) Tobio lived with Shimizu. (1:52) Until she got a job offer in America. (1:53) She thought a new country would’ve been too much for him. (1:53) You know how that turned out.

(1:54) stomping sandcastles and chucking buckets (1:54) i still think tobios a champ

(1:55) Dickwad.

(1:55) i love you too babe (1:55) but seriously you and tobio have been doing a lot better (1:56) hes talking to you and his teacher said he was playing with other kids

(1:56) Tobio had (1:56) He’d settled. (1:56) He’d looked at me. (1:57) But one glance at Shimizu today and (1:58) It was like I didn’t exist again. (1:58) Fuck. (1:58) I can’t do this.  

(1:58) hey hey hey (1:58) tobio was just excited to see his mum (1:58) four months right (1:59) he wouldve missed her like crazy (1:59) he wants kisses and cuddles (1:59) doesnt mean hes forgotten his old man

(2:00) First of all, I’m not old.

(2:02) ... (2:02) second of all??

(2:02) I don’t have a second of all.

(2:03) LOLOLOL

(2:03) Shut up, I’m emotional right now.

(2:03) naww babe (2:03) youre just overthinking things (2:03) talk to tobio (2:03) hes five but he understands shit (2:04) tell him you love him just as much as his mum does (2:04) then throw in a vball reference or something idk

(2:04) You’re so helpful.

(2:04) even if tobio doesnt understand everything (2:04) verbalising will help sort out your emotions

(2:05) I thought you were doing Sports Medicine, not Psychiatry.

(2:05) i am an old man with decades of wisdom

(2:05) There it is.

(2:05) what?

(2:05) STRANGER DANGER.

(2:06) i cant believe (2:06) i walked right into that one

(2:06) Lol.

(2:06) feeling better?

(2:07) Yeah. (2:07) Thanks for listening to me vent. (2:07) It did help clear my head.  

(2:08) thats what level five friends are for

(2:09) I’m still sorry about missing practice this morning. (2:09) Can I make it up to you?  

(2:09) how about (2:09) lets do this properly (2:10) and go on a real date

(2:11) I (2:11) You want that?  

(2:11) youre intelligent witty and hilarious (2:11) you love your son and would do anything for him (2:12) plus youre the most beautiful person ive ever seen (2:12) theres no reason i wouldnt want to

(2:12) Wow.

(2:12) thats a very lacklustre reaction

(2:13) No, I’m just (2:13) Surprised.

(2:13) good or bad surprised?

(2:13) Good surprised. (2:13) I didn’t expect you to be so straightforward.  

(2:14) i have literally been calling you babe and sweetheart and dear

(2:14) I thought flirtation was an integral part of your personality. (2:14) Am I wrong to assume you flirt with everyone?  

(2:14) well no (2:15) i joke around a lot (2:15) but i mean it with you (2:15) youre amazing in every way

(2:16) I really don’t know what to say to that.

(2:16) how does this sound (2:16) you me and tobio (2:16) at the park tomorrow (2:16) picnic and volleyball

(2:18) You’d want Tobio there?

(2:18) of course hes my favourite (2:18) and also because hes important to you

(2:18) Nice save.

(2:18) so picnic?

(2:18) Yeah. (2:18) I’d like that. (2:19) Tobio’s excited too. (2:19) He says he’ll help make riceballs.  

(2:19) thats the cutest fucken thing ive heard all day (2:19) BOKTUO BRO HIGH FIVE ME IM GOING ON A PICNIC WITH TSUKKI AND TOBIO TOMORROW ADN IVE NEVER BEEN THIS EIXCITED IN MY ENTIRE LIFE

(2:19) Kuroo.

(2:19) uhh (2:20) wrong number (2:21) fuck it NO REGRETS

.

Sunday AM

(9:12) Hello, is this Kuroo?

(9:15) yeess (9:15) whos this

(9:17) My name is Shimizu Kiyoko.

(9:17) wait as in (9:17) tsukki and tobios shimizu??

(9:18) Yes.

(9:18) uhh hey (9:18) not that i dont want to talk to you (9:18) but why do you have my number

(9:19) I took it from Tsukishima’s phone. (9:19) Our last few conversations he mentioned your name and it piqued my curiosity.

(9:19) tsukki talks about me?

(9:20) He doesn’t think you’re a nuisance. (9:20) That’s very rare.

(9:20) what can i say (9:20) im charming when i want to be

(9:20) Tobio is quite taken with you. (9:21) That’s also very rare. (9:21) You’re the exception to the rule; I’m sure you understand why I’m curious.

(9:22) i guess but i dont know if theres much to say (9:22) we all just like volleyball

(9:22) Your influence helped smooth out their relationship.

(9:22) it wasnt much (9:22) i just mentioned vball and things went from there (9:22) it was all them

(9:23) You helped them find common ground in their lives. (9:23) I know how difficult it was for them beforehand.

(9:23) they wouldve figured things out eventually (9:23) theyre amazing as they are

(9:24) You sound fond of them.

(9:24) i am (9:24) tobios a good kid (9:24) and tsukki makes me laugh (9:24) mostly at my own expense (9:24) but i like that he doesnt hold back

(9:25) Tsukishima holds you in similar thoughts. (9:25) He’d never admit it but I know him well enough.

(9:25) so this conversation (9:25) are you basically sussing out whether or not im a piece of shit

(9:25) Yes.

(9:25) how am i doing so far

(9:27) You’re fine.

(9:27) oh thank god

(9:27) I don’t understand. You sound relieved?

(9:27) well youre tobios mum (9:27) and tsukki has a lot of respect for you (9:28) so your opinions pretty important

(9:30) I’m surprised. Not many others would consider that.

(9:31) idk it makes sense

(9:32) I’m glad Tsukishima found someone who accepts our unusual circumstances. (9:32) I was afraid my decision to keep Tobio would affect his future relationships.

(9:32) tsukki wouldnt care about people like that anyway (9:33) hed give tobio the world before he gave it to anyone else (9:33) but who wouldnt for a kid like that

(9:35) I think the same, but I may be biased.

(9:35) tobios earnest and hardworking (9:36) determined to challenge himself (9:36) you raised a good kid

(9:36) Thank you. That means a lot to me.

(9:36) its the truth (9:36) so i have passed your inspection or nah

(9:39) There’s a lot I want to say but I’ll keep it brief for both our sakes.

(9:39) yikes

(9:40) I care for Tsukishima and Tobio so much more than I can put into words. (9:40) I hope it means something that I think you’re good for them.

(9:41) oh (9:41) yeah (9:41) yeah it does (9:41) thanks (9:41) im not eloquent enough for this (9:42) but i care a lot for them too (9:42) and ill take care of them (9:42) for as long as theyll have me (9:42) for as long as youll let me

(9:44) I can see why Tsukishima and Tobio like you.

(9:44) tsukki only likes me for my biceps

(9:44) Funny. (9:44) Tsukishima is actually reading this over my shoulder.

(9:45) uh oh (9:45) is he sulking now

(9:45) A little bit. (9:45) He does have a weakness for muscles.

(9:46) I KNEW IT (9:46) AHAHAHAHAHA (9:46) hes never going to live this down

(9:47) Oh, I shouldn’t have let that slip. (9:47) Tsukishima’s mad at me now.

(9:47) bless his sensitive soul

(9:47) He’s telling Tobio to spike a ball into your face.

(9:48) what

(9:48) Tobio might actually do it.

(9:48) shimizu (9:48) i know were merely acquaintances (9:49) but help

(9:50) Strawberry shortcake. (9:50) It’s Tsukishima’s favourite.

(9:50) thats adorable (9:50) i owe you one

(9:50) Then take care of them. (9:50) Or I’ll take care of you.

(9:51) wh

(9:51) Have fun on your date. (9:51) Tobio will tell me all about it. (9:51) :)

[sablelab]

Three Days in the Highlands Chapter 36

DISCLAIMER:

This is a complete work of fiction and as such is an entirely fabricated tale created in my imagination.  I appreciate you taking the time to read my story and or leave a message. Many thanks xox

SYNOPSIS:

Caitriona is made aware of Sam’s intentions for her dessert, but it is certainly not what she had imagined it would be. Suggestive content.

Chapter 36

 Caitriona didn’t have to wait long until Sam made his appearance known to solve the mystery of why he was in the bathroom. Cait’s eyes followed his every step towards her again as Sam’s returning view was even more magnificent. With a silly satisfied smile on her lips and a questioning look in her eyes, she locked on his magnificent toned body. Smiling into his beloved’s eyes, Sam walked towards her with a confident swagger; he had an enigmatic grin on his face that was difficult to read as he came closer and closer to the bed where his siren was waiting.

"Hi," he said, a second before he captured her lips in a deep, provocative kiss.

It was just one word. One little, small word, but when uttered in his lilting, sexy Scottish accent, it was enough for Caitriona to want to lose control in her longing to jump his bones and have her wicked way with him. Sam kissed her exposed neck and shoulder nuzzling his lips against Cait’s skin. He could taste the scent of the bath lotion they had used earlier which had infused into her pores and the taste lingered on his lips.

“Hi, yourself,” she answered as she smiled into his sparkling eyes.  

Without severing eye contact, Caitriona teasingly reached out and did what she had wanted to do when Sam had approached the bath. She grabbed the towel from around his hips and whipped it away from his body, revealing the most magnificent specimen of Scottish manhood.  She laughed at the look of smugness on Sam’s features and as a result of her bold actions he leaned down to kiss her yet again.  

Cait’s eyes filled with incredible tenderness for her man. “So is that kiss my dessert Heughan?” She finally was able to ask once she collected her breath from his devastating caress.

“No.”

“Then where is my dessert?”

“You’ll have it very soon.”

“I didn’t know it was found in the bathroom Sam.  I was under the impression dessert was found in the kitchen,” she stated flippantly giving him the once over with admiring eyes.  Sam merely smiled enigmatically and kissed her on the nose.

He moved forward and Caitriona watched him intensely as he lowered himself onto her body while secretly placing an object on the bedside table.  “Well it’s not the food kind of dessert my love. Be patient. You just might like this,” Sam replied with a wicked look on his face.

“Heughan? What are you up to?  My guess is no good,” she added for good measure.

"You are beautiful,” Sam whispered against Cait’s cheek before gently stroking her face causing her to lean into his touch.

“Don’t try and change the subject ...  but thank you babe ... You make me feel beautiful.”

An inscrutable grin crossed his mouth and Caitriona was none the wiser as to what he was planning to do. With a little smirk and a raised eyebrow Sam leaned in close to her face with his eyes intent on his love’s glorious mouth. Subconsciously, Cait licked her lips and he watched spellbound as her tongue appeared from out of her mouth erotically tasting her lips and then returning to its hiding place. Caitriona’s teeth then captured her bottom lip and she nervously bit her flesh before they too slipped back from whence they came.

Touching her face with the most delicate of touches, Sam ran one hand down her throat with the very tip of his finger, stroking down and returning up and under her chin, that Cait held her breath before swallowing the sigh that rose there. She shivered in anticipation of the eventual joining of lips she could not draw her eyes away from. Tentatively raising her fingertip to Sam’s jaw she lightly skimmed over the indentation on his chin before trailing it up to touch the source of her attention. Ever so slowly Sam’s mouth opened slightly to give her entry and his lips suckled on her finger placed there.

“So are you going to get me some dessert Sam or not? And by the way, what were you doing in the bathroom?”

“You taste … so good,” he replied ignoring her questions as he stroked his hands gently through the strands of Cait’s silky hair then her temples and around her ears with the tips of his fingertips. Wherever he touched, a tingling sensation was left in its wake causing her body to shudder in response.  Looking deeply into his eyes Caitriona captured Sam’s very gaze into her soul unable to take her eyes from his, while Sam watched his woman like a hawk eyeing its prey, as she placed her fingertip to her own mouth.

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

He leaned towards his love, but his lips just hovered over hers as his warm breath gently fanned Cait’s mouth. Sam teased her senses with his intent but no follow through, and so she pushed her lips enticingly closer to his when he did not touch her mouth. Sam did however, place his forehead on hers, they touched noses and looked into each other’s eyes aroused with passion. Gently, he brushed her lips just connecting and nothing more, until Caitriona sighed at his torturous ploy.

“Are you ... ready for ... your ... dessert?” Closing his eyes, Sam sighed deeply before opening them to watch his love’s reaction to his punctuated words as his lips caressed hers, nipping and withdrawing tantalizingly, before parrying again for more of her glorious taste.

“As ready as I will ever be,” she only just managed to utter in a breathless voice. Caitriona’s arms encircled Sam’s neck, returning his embrace in kind. Pressing her lips to his soft, gentle ones, they locked alluringly with hers, and when his kissable lips opened slightly she felt his tongue lightly touch her own.

“Mmmm… you’re rather delicious Heughan. Is this my dessert?” In reply to her question, Sam moved his body closer and closer to Cait’s until it was aligned … flush … skin to skin, and sensuously rubbed his torso against hers. His lips repeatedly retreated and then returned to gently bite her soft flesh, savouring the taste again and again. Nibbling on Caitriona’s bottom lip he gently drew it into his mouth and captured it with his own lips lightly scraping his teeth over the fleshy morsel. Sam let go of her lip and returned to nibble at her upper one, repeating the process before deepening the kiss with a ravenous hunger for more. His hands cupped Cait’s head and his fingers entwined in her brown tresses as he brought her mouth flush to his own. Holding her more tightly, he devoured her mouth as if it was forbidden fruit denied human consumption. He could never get enough of her sustenance. He craved Caitriona’s warmth, her compassion, her essence. Cait was his cornucopia of life.

“This is just the beginning of your dessert babe,” Sam sighed provocatively into her mouth.

Words were inadequate to vocalize what they were feeling. Both of their bodies were experiencing the involuntary heightened state of sexual arousal. Caitriona’s breathing was shallow, her breasts ached, her nerve endings were humming. Sam’s body too was beginning to betray the changes occurring within and Cait could feel his body swell against her own. She felt like melting ice cream had pooled in her nether region for Sam’s heat melted her reserve and she felt the changes to her body, centring particularly where her love had feasted many times before.

“Oh my,” she just managed to utter.

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

Reaching out his hand, Sam picked up a small bottle he had surreptitiously placed on the bedside table and held it in his hand. “Turn over babe,” he said to Cait as he unscrewed the top of the bottle.

Without questioning Sam’s command, Caitriona complied despite wondering what he was going to do, but also knowing that whatever he did she would enjoy it immensely.

Sam poured silky liquid from the bottle in small droplets over the tempting skin on Cait’s back. Feeling the wet, coolness to her skin, she shuddered a little, adjusting to the sensation of the oil on her back. In a slow circular motion Sam began to rub it in, while Caitriona’s skin tingled at the warmth of his touch.  Strong fingers massaged her lower back with gentle kneading as his touch began to soothe the kinks just below her flesh. It felt wonderful and Cait moaned at the incredible sensations of his hands on her body.  Just like the bubble bath scent had seeped into her skin, so too did the essential oil.  It permeated her flesh while transferring its wonderful properties into her bloodstream.

A euphoric, lethargic feeling possessed her body as his hands gently slid over her skin. “Mmm!” she muttered incoherently. “Nn-nice That’s so much better than dessert.” His beautiful hands were lethal weapons of pleasure, they were tactile communication extraordinaire and Caitriona could feel Sam’s genuine love for her through his caring touch. This only made her desire for him escalate more as he transmitted his gentle strokes all over her flesh.  So in tune was he to his love’s response to his touch that Sam could hear the reaction of Caitriona’s body through the pads of his sensitive fingertips.  Her skin was more sensitized than usual and she moaned in blissful pleasure communicating her desire and utter trust in her man. "Do you like that?" Sam asked as he leaned over whispering in Cait’s ear while trailing a kiss to her earlobe at the same time. "Ooooh, yesss," she mumbled. His soothing touch was sending her enjoyment skyrocketing as Sam kneaded Caitriona’s tight muscles still evident despite her long soak in the bath tub. He was so in synch with her body's needs that she writhed on the bed as she felt the tension rise up and out of her pores.  Cait vocalised her feelings and the sighs emanating from her mouth were testament to Sam’s skill in massaging away the last resistance in her fleshy tissue with his touch and overwhelming hands.

Talking was kept to a minimum, as the lovers communicated by touch and feel.  The need for words obsolete, as they were talking the words of tactile communication and speech seemed superfluous.

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

Using the flat and in particular the heel of his hand Sam continued his massage, kneading Caitriona’s glorious, tight buttocks, rotating his hands in a circular movement, around and around, until her head was spinning in unison with his touch. She sighed and clenched her buttock cheeks as this wonderful man sustained his touch to this highly erogenous zone. “Oh, honey that feels soooo good,” she sighed at his unrelenting kneading of her beautiful flesh. Her nerves were tingling with every light, or penetrating touch to her derriere.

Leaning down Sam gently nipped her on the backside and Cait tightened her cheeks at the sensation of his teeth on her skin. “Your skin tastes divine,” was his cheeky retort. Caitriona laughed out loud as Sam’s breath tickled her bottom and she knew instinctively that this infuriatingly, gorgeous man was wiggling his eyebrows at her at his playful actions.  However, he knew just where she liked to be touched and Sam was pandering to her sensitivities. Curling his fingers under his hand, he placed them towards the top of Cait’s upper legs, circling sensually with his first and second fingers in an outward motion, one hand alternating with the other. He caressed her cheeks over and over with slow and leisurely movements, stroking her flesh with varying degrees of pressure.

As she felt the consciousness of Sam’s touch penetrate her senses Cait sighed.   “Don’t stop … Please don’t stop, hon.” His reply was minimal but it was steeped in meaning. “Never.”

Kneeling back on his haunches, he supported Caitriona’s sinuous leg across his thigh and circled his thumb over her calf alternating his thumbs and applying firm pressure. Sam’s touch was killing her. He then gently grasped her foot supporting its weight in his hands. Kneading the instep firmly, Sam used his thumb to apply pressure, grinding it into her foot, as she in turn stretched it out like her Eddie would do, as sensations ricocheted through her body.

Her voice was a little shaky but she was still cognizant enough to utter, “You planned this all day didn’t you?  You knew that I would be a little sore and sorry after climbing today and especially since I injured my foot on the way down.”

“Huh, ha.”

Caitriona closed her eyes as her man continued erotically massaging her foot. Sighing in complete submission and pleasure her eyes rolled back in her head. “Awww ... that feels amazing Sam.”

“I’m glad,” he replied kissing the ball of her foot. “Ooooh, I love that.” Supporting her foot in one hand Sam firmly massaged the centre of her instep as his Cait sighed into the pillow in delirious abandon. His touch inflamed her heightened senses and she willed her legs not to go into spasms because of what he was doing. Sam then kissed her foot again and continued gently working over the ball of Caitriona’s foot and up towards her big toe. It was like he was making love and this was foot fetish foreplay.  Leaning down he kissed her foot yet again and gently sucked her big toe with his lips, then Sam devoured her delectable toes by taking each one into his mouth. He licked and nipped her toes as if they were the most delicious, sweet delicacy he had tasted while biting gently on each toe individually.

“Awww! That … is … wonderful,” she breathlessly moaned. Although her senses were heightened, it was so calming and so relaxing, that Caitriona sighed blissfully as Sam continued to caress and massage her other foot in the same way.  Her toes tingled, hell her whole body tingled from his touch. Reluctantly, however, he released her foot, but he still continued his ministrations as Sam stroked around Cait’s sore ankle using a circular movement that felt so good. His sensual massage was having the obvious physical benefits on Caitriona’s psyche and she leaned into his touch more fervently.

“Enjoying your dessert Cait?” Sam questioned quietly, lavishing his pleasing attention on every inch of her soft skin from her temples down to her toes.

His touch was so intimate, so caring of her needs that she was nearly in a heavenly slumber. Her utter trust in her lover’s touch was causing Caitriona to float away on a fluffy white cloud to a very happy place where there was no Powers That Be, no production to worry about, no new scripts to learn, no complications and no separations ...  there was only them, together forever. “Oh, y-essss,” was her blissful sigh.

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

The increased skin contact between them only intensified Caitriona’s reactions to Sam’s touch. His fingers scorched her skin, his fingertips left trails of fire and his kisses ignited an inferno of desire. Sam was using every part of his magnificent body to feel contact with his love … his dangerous hands, wonderful arms and even his strong virile thighs applied pressure and warmth. He never broke contact with her body, as he gently touched her, spreading more of the precious massage oil to her skin. Even when Caitriona changed positions for him to work on a new area, Sam still touched her, connected to her … a touch to her hand or back, so that she knew he was still there, would always be there, and that he was focusing his complete care, attention and devotion on her alone.

Cait could feel Sam’s laboured breath on her skin coupled with the oil, like an aphrodisiac. The feel of his burgeoning body was playing havoc with her senses too, she knew his body as well as if it was her own, and she knew the consequences when Sam’s body hardened. God, she wanted him with a fever that consumed her. She could feel his desire for her even now, had received it in their bath, and she wanted it again and soon. The connection of energy passing between them was tangible. Sam never rushed, he took his time, he was rhythmic yet sensitive, and always proceeded from long gliding strokes to deeper ones that Caitriona could feel vibrating throughout her body. Their nudity had enabled Sam to work in long continuous strokes, without skipping any section or part of her body. It also allowed frequent sweeping up and down her torso, which was a sensory delight to the couple.

Sam’s actions caused her to surrender to his touch, but when his hands stilled for a while, she felt quite bereft of his touch.   However, leaning down he kissed the hollow in her back and ran his tongue the length of her backbone and Caitriona sighed in blissful capitulation. The feeling was so erotic that she arched her back in sublime pleasure. Her mind was in a foggy haze and she could just hear Sam’s voice as he whispered against her ear.  It sounded husky with emotion and his Scottish brogue was more pronounced like when he was in the throes of release.

“Don’t fall asleep on me my darling.”

So caught up in his wonderful massage Caitriona could only mumble her reply of acknowledgement. “Okay ...”

Gently he whispered in her ear. “Turn over my Cait.”

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

Leaning down Sam gently kissed her on the neck, his soft curls caressing Cait’s skin at the same time. Reluctantly, however, he eventually broke their kiss and reached over to the side-table unscrewing a new bottle. Placing his thumb in the sticky liquid gold Sam then touched her mouth. Caitriona’s taste buds stood on end and she wantonly suckled Sam’s thumb into her mouth moaning aloud as the sweet taste of the honey made contact with her lips.

Ever so slowly, he pulled his thumb out of her mouth.  Sam trickled a few drops of the honey over Cait’s hardened nipples, then he bent his head down to erotically lap up the golden dew. Over and over he suckled her breast as his tongue tormented her, then Sam transferred his lips to her other breast, until not a trace of the honey was left there. Caitriona followed the path of his eyes as they leisurely travelled over her body before returning to capture her eyes once again. Groaning she pulled Sam down for a long, deep kiss, encircling her arms around his neck and bringing him flush to her skin, tasting the sweet honey on his tongue. They both moaned in their explosive desire for each other. 

“De-lic-ious!” They declared simultaneously.

The feel of warm, bare, naked skin against each other felt good, oh so good. Sam’s touch had opened up a whole new world of sensual and sexual pleasure for Cait that she never thought possible especially after what had transpired in the bath tub. How could his touch affect her so when he was only touching her skin?  The experience was exciting and new, and Caitriona’s heightened arousal was unavoidable. If this was her dessert she was craving more. “I’m not finished yet,” he communicated with his eyes. “Sam?” “Shhh! Just relax babe and let me take you away.”

  ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Thanks for reading. xox

[candy-corps]

Beautiful Specimen

Haz’le belongs to glittertornado 

Send “Such a beautiful specimen.” for your muse to be a scientist keeping mine in captivity.

"Such a beautiful specimen." Sadly not the one that he looked for, but definitely worthwhile studying! And, as he said, tremendously pretty. Hank blushed as he approached the cage, pushing the thick glasses on his nose further back.

Haz`le struggled in the trap, trying to get free. Her heart pounded in her chest as she struggled against the net that was holding her just under the tree. She couldn’t reach the branch. Even if she could, she doubted she could do anything. It was fall, even trying to escape tired her out. She let out a squeak when she saw the person approaching and tried to struggle even harder, but to no avail.

Now, this was interesting. She seemed to be a human … but significantly smaller and with … insect attributes.

Three … four wings sprouting from the back, apparently damaged… but that couldn’t be from his trap? Maybe it was just well that he caught the poor creature.

“Hey. Hey-hey. Don’t hurt yourself. I’m a friend! My name’s Hank. Hank Jones” he called up. She was lucky that he was still nearby when he heard the trap go off.

“Sorry about this” he laughed, nervous.

Haz`le’s heart pounded in her chest, she had hardly heard a word he said. She was on the verge of panic. She had been in one to many cages and in her experience it never ended well.

She was hyperventilating and she felt lightheaded. She continued to struggle, though if she did much more, she might actually hurt herself. But she wasn’t focused on that, she just wanted to get out, out, OUT!

“Hey! Heyheyheyhey” Hank called. Heesh. Not how this was supposed to go. “You want to get out? I would gladly be of assistence” he promised, guessing she would understand him, at least by the tone of voice he used. Hands up in the air he approached and tried to maintain eye contact with the little winged lady.

Haz`le jumped once when he called to her, but finally stopped moving. She was nervous still, it was clear by how she was shaking. Her heart pounded painfully. She flinched away when he came closer, but didn’t move beyond that except for shivering a little.

“I’m a friend” he repeated. “Hank.” Oh, he didn’t want to let her down just so she’d hurry away and leave him with that little data … but it wasn’t quite right to keep her like that.

Heavy hearted, he turned to the tree’s trunk where the rope was attached. From a pocket in his vest, he got out a pocketknife and started to cut through it. It would take a little while - he didn’t want her to simply fall down, but hold on to the rope to make her fall a little more easy.

Haz`le was quiet for a long while as he worked on the rope. He seemed to be helping her, even though she was pretty sure he had put the trap there. It might not have been for her but she had fallen into it anyway.

“Th-thank you.” She says, before falling silent again.

“You’re very welcome!” Hank replied casual. So she could speak, And was a polite one, as well. As the rope got thinner, he held tighter on it. “Just out of curiosity! Are you gonna run away once you’re set free?”

He was just wondering if he should ask now, or later.

Haz`le gripped the ropes tighter when he asked his question. She wanted to, she really did want to run. She hated being trapped and she wasn’t sure what she felt about this person yet.

“Mmm. Wouldn’t you?” She asked quietly.

He chuckled. “Got a point.” Without further ado, he cut the last string, then clung on it to break Haz’le’s fall. He was heavier then she was, but that was to be expected. He was a little sad he got just that little data.

But it would be cuel to keep her prisoner against her own will, and he wasn’t like that. The last bit of letting her down was unavaoidably bumpy. He wasn’t tall enough to let her down all the way smooth.

Haz`le let out a squeak when she fell at the last part, then she quickly struggled to get herself free of the net. Once that was done she stood and looked over at him awkwardly. “Er, th-thank you.” She said.

She turned to leave, she didn’t want to stay in a place where she had been trapped, but she didn’t see the rope still tangled around her feet. The fairy let out a squeak as she fell. Her head hit something hard and she was knocked unconscious by the blow. 

Ooh? Hank just let go of the rope as he heard the sound of Haz’le tripping. Sigh - did he really appear that intimidating? Maybe when he cought her a couple times more, they’d develop a foundation of trust, of sorts …

“Okay there, little lady?” he called over, noticing then that Haz’le didn’t get up. Something was off.

This was absolutely not what he wanted… Hank approached and turned her around, on her back. he couldn’t weight more than a child … and actually had the height, too. But her voice … that didn’t seem like it. Hm.

Her vitals were okay. Seemed he got some ore time to study her. He picked the little woman up and was on his way, back to the laboratory. He could treat her better there.

Haz`le didn’t wake up right away. There was a small wound on her forehead and she was out cold. Fall wasn’t helping her either. Fall always left her tired.

Hopefully when she woke she would be at least on a comfortable bed in a warm house. But right now, she couldn’t do anything.

A too comfortable bed wasn’t exactly what she was getting, but Hank managed to sneak a sickbed into his office with not too many people looking. The university was surprisingly crowded, considered it was an off day. But he was a little bit glad he wasn’t the only one among his colleagues who couldn’t let their studies rest for a petty thing like free days.

The woman’s heart rate and breathing was steady, so far, and it took just one band-aid to cover her wound, once it was cleaned. Hank was sure the fall would result in nothing worse but a bad bump and headache, for which he prepared a cup of water for her to drink as soon as she woke. He didn’t leave her alone like that, but doing nothing also wasn’t an option. So, sitting nearby on his desk, he typed up the notes about his expedition, while the heater was working to get the room warm. It wasn’t as big of an office as he had hoped, but he was a new professor, after all. Least he didn’t have to share, so the stuffed birds and other animals couldn’t put anyone off. The large windows on one side of the office let in some light. German music was playing on a low volume and papers and books lay seemingly scattered around. The office wasn’t all set yet, but comfy, Hank found. And it has space for at least two working tables and an own wash basin, too.

Haz`le didn’t wake up right away, the first sign of movement was her curling up in a tight ball. She felt safer wrapped up in a ball. Eventually she slowly woke up, to a pounding head ache.

“Mmh-uhg!” She gasped. Her hands slowly moving to her forehead. She had a terrible headache. As she slowly woke up she realized that she wasn’t in the forest and also that there was a strange music playing in the background.

Haz`le cracked open one eye and looked around. She wasn’t sure where she was. She was facing the wall at the moment, but she slowly propped herself up and looked around.

“Wh-where am I? What happened?” It was clear that she wasn’t quite fully there yet. 

“You tripped” came the voice from Hanks corner of the room. “There is a glass of water right next to you, lady. You’ll find the door unlocked, but … ” Hank looked up behind his desk, guessing she’d recognized him by now. Nerdy glasses and puffy brown hair - he guessed that was recognizable, too, even though the light here was dimmed. “I’d appreciate when you sit for a little bit longer. You were out for some time.” He checked the clock on his screen to gauge how long. He had a bad habit of loosing track of the time …

Hank made an effort to get up - thinking it better to check on Haz’le - but kept his gaze on her to leave it be in case he put her nervous.

Haz`le looked around. She didn’t get up right away, she didn’t want to be dizzy. She reached up and was surprised to feel the band aid on her forehead.

She looked over at him a little nervously. “Er, um, thank you.” She said. She took the glass of water and took a few sips.

She looked around a little, unsure of what to do now. She didn’t know where she was or how to get back to where she had been. She thought it best to ask.

“Where… where am I?” 

“Welcome to my humble office. MC University. I’m in charge for biology; specifically hybrids. Third flooor, so I highly advise you not to leap out of the window. There’s a door, too. And water. See.” To bring her back to the matter at hand. She was disoriented and didn’t seem all too collected just yet, but that had to be expected. Still, he made notes.

Haz`le had no idea what a university was, nor really what biology was either. Since her wings didn’t work there was no way she was going to throw herself out the window. She pressed her lips close together, still feeling very nervous.

“What’s a university?” She asked, for lack of anything else to do.

Hanks mouth fell open at that. He lifted a finger, about to reply, when he fully understand what she was really asking. “It’s … like a school. You know what a school is” he asked in-between, frowning with his bushy eyebrows. “With scientific studies in a couple fields. Math, languages, arts … ” he listed, helping, he hoped, endin with: “ … biology. Study of life and living organisms, including structure, function, growth, evolution … taxonomy.”

“Oh.” Haz`le said simply, though most of what he said went over her head. She had never been the best student. There were always more interesting things to focus on just outside the window.

“Could you… maybe show me the way back to the forest? I have to get going. I need to keep traveling.” She said.

Travel? “Oh, sure” Hank said, getting up. “You’re not like a migrating bird species, aren’t you” he asked - starting out as a joke, but asking serious at the end of the sentence. He considered it for a second, but then got up eventually - he had to fetch his jacket when he was going to let her out.

Haz`le shook her head. “No, I’m just traveling.” She said carefully. She didn’t want to tell him too much about what happened to her and her home.

She stood up and brushed herself off. She looked up at him, eyes wide. “So, where are we going?” She asked, hoping to get out soon. 

“My van” Hank answered shortly, pulling the jacket over his broad shoulders. “Then the forest? Or you want to go somewhere else?” There was time. Hank waited at the exit for her to follow.

Haz`le nodded. “The forest, please.” She said. Before she started to follow him she pulled out her shawl and wrapped it around her shoulders so her wings were hidden.

“Thank you.”She said as she walked toward the door. 

“No problem, little lady” Hank assured, smiling. It may be rude to get out of the door first when he was the man, but he had a feeling she’d feel more secure to follow him and not the other way around.

[starr-fall-knight-rise]

Humans are Space Orcs, “For Science pt. 2″

IMPORTANT: This is a very important story in regards to the plot-line of everything. I know I posted the first part of the story on the 4th so a lot of people were busy, so here is the link 

https://starr-fall-knight-rise.tumblr.com/post/186052173240/humans-are-space-orcs-for-science

BOOK: as for this, I hope to get the first chapter out by tomorrow. Tomorrow is sort of a special day for me, so putting it out would be a present from me to me. I WILL let you all know where it is and provide the link for you. The platform will be wattpad for those of you wondering. 

Sunny looked on in helpless horror as her human friends slumped to the ground and grew still. There was nothing she could do, the window remained unbroken by her attack, and no matter how hard she hit it, or what she hit it with, it would not break. Krill, likewise stood staring on helpless unable to help. She wasn’t sure which one of them suffered more. Her for her emotional attachment to them or him because, as a doctor, he knew what might just happen to their bodies. 

Between the two of them it couldn’t have been worse. She turned from the window ran out the door, pushing past Connn, who floated like a useless sack of garbage staring off into space with nothing but a vacant expression.

She made it to the place where the intake room had been locked down jamming her fingers under the door and began to pull. If she pulled hard enough, than maybe…

“STOP!”

She didn’t stop.

“I said STOP.”

A body  dropped in front of her between her in the door obscuring her vision and stopping her progress. She reacted suddenly and violently jolting upwards and grabbing the distraction about the throat. Ribbons of white billowed around her as she moved.

Conn almost died right there and then. Had she pushed him any harder against the wal his entire body would have shattered. But you couldn’t tell just by looking at him such a thing had taken place. He stared at her defiantly, his unnervingly human face pulled into an expression of annoyance rather than fear. Slim fingers raised towards his head, and his hands began moving quickly translating his words into speech that she could hear, “You will only get them Killed. If you run in there now they surely have cameras and sensors. We are lucky if they have not noticed us yet.”

“I won’t let them die.” She snarled 

“Oh yes, and getting yourself killed heroically while you attempt to save them and fail is even better.” The sarcasm was thick, layered on like butter. She was reminded how human Conn was compared to the rest of them. It almost made her jealous at times, and she wondered if that may have been one of the reasons she couldn’t stand the smug creature.

But he continued speaking, “I can hear them, you’re humans. They are not dead yet, but we must remember that, somehow they managed to defeat two teams of humans on the insides and two teams of humans on the outside. They have all our men, what do YOU think you can do? If you storm in now they WILL die.”

“But Ada-”

“Is still alive.” The straborn signed exaggeratedly, “And dreaming cute fluffy dreams about bunnies.” He mocked. With one hand he reached out and pushed her away. As weak as he was it wouldn’t have done anything if she had been trying to resist him, but she stepped off and ran back onto the observation deck, leaving Conn floating behind her massaging his throat.

Krill was still there waiting and watching in wide eyed horror as doors opened up in the sides of the room leaving six cavernous black spaces from which nightmarish things poured. 

Large, blocky, black robots gilded their way onto the floor. They were tall slabs of black with blocky mechanical arms resembling no species that she knew of, simply wide rectangles with blinking lights and a set of arms. She would assume they had originally been used as autonomous guards when the prison was still under friendly hands.

But now, they were busy picking up the fallen humans, taking their weapons and stripping them of some of their gear. Helmets rolled across the floor and vests were sliced off to be piled against one corner. The robot that held Adam turned in a wide circle and then proffered the body in a random direction as if it was asking someone’s opinion on the specimen it had collected.

“Fascinating, truly fascinating.” The robot spun the limp body about in its arms, “Show me the leg.” A loud ripping noise broke through the silence as fabric was sliced, and a single knee guard was torn off and tossed away. The glittering blue of her carapace glowed slightly in the ambient light. The prosthetic itself was dead, and unmoving just like the brain up to which it was synched. “How FASCINATING.” The scientist repeated, “I wonder….. How many parts can you remove before it stops being a human…. This one already has a leg and an eye missing. Shouldn’t be an issue to see what else I can take. Sure humans are powerful all by themselves, but the MIND of a human integrated with the body of a machine…… GLORIOUS. Take the other leg, and the arms, then that eye of course. Oh, and then destroy the ears, implant something a bit better.” 

The scientist paused for a long moment as Sunny stood hands pressed against the glass in despair.

“What else could I remove….. The pump system is fine, and so is the waste system I suppose. Probably want to keep its ability to breed if I want more of them….. Does it need a tongue? Well I suppose it does if I still want it to eat. You know, on second thought, can we just replace the entire rib cage, I want it to be stronger. The soul of the human, body of a machine. I mean of course I could just remove the brain and put that into a robot, but….. I don’t know what that would do to the soul….. Besides the trauma might just kill the poor creature. That’s why the human’s haven't made full cyborgs after all the brain doesn't like it.” 

A soft keening broke into the quiet of the observation booth, and she suddenly realized the sound was coming from her. Adam was carried away through the black door and into darkness.

“Mmm, I was also thinking soe biological weapons. Humans are nasty little creatures aren't they, just chalk full of delightful diseases.” One of the female marines was being held up now, “An epidemic here a plague there Viral Hyperactive Ectomucsacytosis,for the Gromm, it already destroyed them once, so it will do it again, not a human disease per say, but they are glorious carriers. For the rundi? Well they seem to be rather susceptible to the human flu, I am thinking Influenza A H7N9. Of course I have most of the starborn under my control, so that won't be much of an issue. Oh but the Vrul…. The ONE good thing about those annoying creatures is that they don’t get sick very easily….. Perhaps I will just send the painless in to deal with them. Their limbs are big enough for the humans to just rip off. 

The last of the humans was being dragged away through the doors. The last one to be carried through the door, Ramirez, head lolling arms dangling down towards the floor completely unresponsive.

Then the doors slid shut, and they were left in complete darkness.

Sunny leaned her head against the glass with a soft keening. She pounded her first halfheartedly against the glass. That crazy scientist was going to rip them apart, and there was nothing she could do about it.

That’s when she heard it, “Slimy little bastard.” She turned just then to find Krill floating at the control panel. As he did, a wall of holographic projections leaped to life before him, the cameras for the entire facility. The little doctor muttered something low in his throat and began cycling through the screens. Behind he, the convict floated his slow way into the room hands clasped lightly behind his back weaving through the ribbon-like strips that streamed from his back.

Krill turned to look at Sunny, “Asshole just gave me access to the entire facility, so maybe we can do something after all.”

Suny walked over leaning against the control panel to look at the screens, “That doesn’t exactly seem in character for you. I thought you would want to do something logical.” The Vrul went silent, and she looked down to find him glowering up at her, “Now listen to me little missy, saving our friends IS logical. You forget that I have been with them MUCH longer than you have, and I am just as attached as you are…… I have kept them alive for this long, and I am not about to fail….. Just because you…” He paused here and then trailed off

Her eyes narrowed, “Just because I what.”

“Nothing, It doesn’t matter. We have to get going if we want to save them. Conn floated up just behind them peering over sunny’s shoulder, “I can hear them now…. A lot of deranged souls here, a lot of sick starborn…. There are many. This will not be easy.”

“Yeah, no shit.” She said keeping with her back to him.

The star born made a gurgling noise deep in his throat, “I find it interesting how you haven't liked me from day one even though you have never openly spoken to me. I may not be able to read the inside of your head completely, but I have this theory that you don’t like me because I can see inside your precious human’s head, and that rankles you because you wish you knew how h-” This time she was very much intending to kill him when her hand went around his throat. His hands were dropped as they went to her wrists.

“BOTH OF YOU, KNOCK IT OFF!” The anger in Krill’s voice stopped sunny, and she turned to look at him where he was leaning up close to the projections, “This is hardly the time for childish insults and name calling. Conn, quit being an absolute dick, and Sunny, I get that you are upset, but Killing your allies isn’t exactly an appropriate reaction.” He flipped through a few more screens then stopped, “This is hardly the time because things are only going to get worse.”

Sunny leaned closer to the feed and her eyes widened when she saw a familiar figure. He was short, not as short as Krill, but not as tall as Adam. he had a furry tan body and large bat ears. He had thrown a guard's uniform jacket over his prison jumpsuit, but was leaning back against the warden’s desk like he owned the place.

“Noctus.” She breathed quietly, before Krill could answer she shoved further forward, “Can we get audio?”

“Yes…. hold on.” He played around for a few moments before pressing on the projected image. The other cameras fled towards the corners of their vision growing smaller and dimmer. The selected image grew large in their vision and audio, both hearing, and radio began to leak out into the room.

“Calm yourself my battle hungry friend. Give the scientist time to work. He may be a little bit crazy, but I guarantee he does good work.” He raised his arms and waved them about the room, “I mean look at everything he has already done for us.” He leaned back a little further in his chair brushing down the fur on the top of his head which was slicked back in a way that wasn’t particularly Tesraki in nature. “You just need to calm yourself and wait your turn.”

Sunny gasped as the figure came into the photo slamming her fists down on the desk, “I did not agree to this plan to be bossed about by a furry little maggot.” General Cosma, hissed leaning over the little creature in all her terrible glory.

To his credit, the Tesraki didn’t even flinch, simple flicked one of his large ears, “Please you shiny beetle, you aren't going to hurt me. I think by now you have realized that, while you are perhaps good at war, you are completely garbage at politics and economics.” He motioned to himself with two thumbs and hopped down from the over-sized desk…. Perhaps once belonging to a Rundi or even a human. 

He walked around the side of the desk and out of frame leaving General cosma standing alone by herself in the center of the room, “Look, Iet it. You are out for revenge against the race that killed your mate, corrupted your daughter, adopted your traitorous son, and turned your entire race into a spineless lot of peace loving pacifists, but let me tell you one thing, even in the new world empire, philosophy doesn’t run nations. Economics does. We give the people what they want, and they will fall into line. Once the humans are taken care of, than the rest of the galaxy should come quietly.”

General cosma remained quiet for a long moment before turning away, “I don’t care what you do maggot, as long as I get what is my due.”

“Yeah yeah, princess I’m right with yah.”

General cosma didn’t grace the last comment with a response, nd turned away  and off camera. The feed was silent after that, and Sunny felt her bones grow cold. Krill, knowing what had just happened turned to look at Sunny, “I didn’t know your mother was here.”

Sunny shook her head, “I had no idea either. I didn’t pay attention after I heard she was locked away….. This is very very bad.”

“Mm angry at you.” Sunny turned around to look at Conn, who had his head tilted to the side. His usual blank ace was dusted with a distant heir of concentration. She assumed that meant he was concentrating very hard.

“ You can hear them.” She demanded 

“Not easily, not their thoughts per say, but their feelings. She is bright with anger like a star that burns in the blackness. She doesn’t intend to work with either of them. Once she has control of the troops, she intends to take over completely….. The same goes for that Tesraki. He’s only working for her as long as she is useful, and then he intends to cause an accident. He is willing to wait longer though…… Your mother, she doesn’t like that human of yours. Let’s hope she doesn't find out that he’s here.”

Great, great, things couldn’t get much worse now, could they.

Krill flipped through a few more screens before turning back to them, “I’ve got it.”

“Got it…. Got what?” 

“The floor plan.” He muttered in annoyance 

“But this prison is huge, you couldn’t have just…..” She trailed off at the look he shot her

“Of course I can JUST. Perhaps you don’t pay enough attention to notice, but I WAS one of the greatest doctors in the galaxy before this mess for EVERY species, and I have four separate cortical hemispheres that can work separately or in tandem, so yes of course it wouldn’t take me that long to memorize a floor plan.”

Sunny frowned, “What is your problem.”

Another incredulous look, “Oh, so now your the only one who is allowed to be upset that our friends are missing, but I have to be nice calm and collected, is that it.”

“Well no I-”

“Just because your Adam’s best friend does not give you the right to act all special.” He turned away towards the monitors and began working furiously.

“Wait….. Are you jealous.” Conn wondered aloud from the other side of the room.

There was a long silence, and Sunny turned to look at rill who stood ramrod straight still working, “I wouldn’t call it jealous. I am logical enough to understand that you two have a lot more in common as friends, and have a lot of the same hobbies that I cannot participate in, but I find it rather unfair that he seems to spend all of his time lavished upon you when there are others of us that he has known longer and gone through more with.”

“So he is jealous.” Conn hooted from the other side of the room, “I knew it.”

“SHUT UP.” Sunny and Krill snarled at the same time.

“Krill I…. Didn’t mean-”

The doctor held up one of his three hands and with a sigh shook his head, “This isn’t the time or the place. The only thing I will say is I consider the entire crew my family, my clan, my people, and I worry about them. Things are changing, and I am not particularly known for enjoying change.”

“But.”

“Ah, there it is.” He turned around and scuttled past her, “I have dissabled the feeds for as long as I can. Hopefully that will give us enough time to make it through without he guards noticing. Sunny, I need you to pry open that door.” He glanced back towards Conn, “And you… well, think helpful thoughts I suppose .”

Sunny did as told eager to be doing something again, fitting her nails under the door and pushing with all of her might. It was tough, and on any other day she might have given up. But today was not that day. She shoved and shoved and shoved, until something gave, and the door began to slowly slide open. 

Krill was the first to make it under followed by Conn before sunny was able to fit her massive bulk under the door and let it slide closed.

They were left in almost complete blackness. The Drev weren’t exactly known for their night vision. With the volcanic activity on their planet, there was always light at night, but with the help from Krill, she was able to make it across the room and past the stacks of discarded equipment. On second thought, she grabbed two of the guns as she went past. She knew it wasn’t much, but one of the marines would be happy to have it when they finally found them.

She tried to keep her thoughts positive as they pushed their way into the dark building, but it was hard when she thought of what might be being done to her friends…. Adam, at that very moment. Were they cutting off his limbs? Ripping out his rib-cage? The thoughts were just too horrible to fathom, and she tried to keep her mind clear as they stalked through the darkness. 

She did her best to keep quiet, but with her size and carapace, it was rather more difficult. Of course the motor on the back of krill’s backpack made a quiet whirring, but the thing was battery/ solar powered, so wasn’t much more than that. And Conn, well he was completely silent simply floating through the air unhindered by the weight of gravity and propelled by the stored energy on the small solar cells along the ribbons on his back. 

They came around the corner and were met by a dim illumination. Now that she was able to see, her sealth improved remarkably, and she took point keeping the other two behind her back as she stalked forward. The other two would be worse than useless in a fight, so things were left to her to keep everything going well. Reaching the end of the hallway, they came across a juncture, and Kril indicated the need to turn left. 

Holding her staff out before her, she took the corner eyes wide in anticipation, but saw nothing. The hallway was much lighter than before, almost blindingly so. The source turned out to be a wide row of windows just to her right.

From the angle she stood, she was unable to see through the windows, and slowly she began to push forward ignoring Krill’s warnings from behind her. As her angle grew closer, she began to see snatches through the window. What once must have been a massive prison block towering thousands of feet into the air and lined with rows upon rows of glass fronted cells, was now plastered with medical equipment. Large, white tarps lay over the floor of the cell block, while each and every one of the prison cells housed either some sort of experimental unit, or one of the test subjects.

They came in all shapes sizes and species. There were Drev, and Tesrkai, and Rundi and Tvek, and the list went on. The “researchers” themselves wore the same prison garb as many of their own subjects, but the glittering tools in their hands separated them from their counterparts. There were many species among them as well. There were Drev, Tesraki, Gromm, Tvek, and maybe one Vrul. The Rundi were conspicuously on display only as prisoners and not as scientists. Of course, they didn’t wear the garb of prisoners which made Sunny suspect that they weren’t originally prisoners, but were, in fact, the old prison guards.

The Rundi would never allow their government structure to collapse/

No one seemed to notice her as she starred in at their experiments most gruesome, some painful, and all wildly unethical.

She turned back and motioned the other two forward.

They came a little hesitantly, but kept at her heels as she hurried up the hallway trying to keep to the far right side to avoid as much notice as possible.

Krill directed them down a few more hallways, before they came to a hallway much like the one they had seen originally. There was another large viewing bay onto an upgraded cell block, accept this time, there was one big difference.

All the subjects were humans.

They were kept in the small cages, sometimes packed together. One of the humans was strapped down and screaming as an apparatus was secured about his head. From behind her, Sunny listened as Conn whispered, “Don’t worry, human, it will hurt for a second, and then never look again.” Sunny wanted to look away, but kept her eyes riveted. Krill made an involuntary squeaking noise.

Out on the table, the human went still before a slow grin began to spread across his face, and he began laughing maniacally.

“By Sanctum’s rings.” She heard Krill whisper

“What are they doing to them.” Sunny hissed.

“Making their army.” Conn muttered. Krill and sunny both turned to look at the starborn who was staring off into the distance with a blank expression on his face, “They are creating an army. They will use biological weapons, humans that carry diseases, they will use the ones who don’t feel pain, they will see how far they can push project steel eye, and turn their humans into machines.” He turned in a slow circle as if he was trying to catch a better signal, “They are testing weapons viruses, chemicals, things that will incapacitate and kill humans. They will have some so that even their saliva causes burns. They can send a sweating human into a peace conference and kill all those with a water intolerance. Man can be turned into an enemy against everyone, and a friend to no one but their master. I hear them speaking, they feel no human emotions….. They are no longer human.”

Sunny shivered at the words, and went to move forward when the doors at one end of the massive room opened, and the large black robots filed themselves into the room carrying their human prizes.

One of the Terasaki doctors stepped forward to inspect the humans. It looked Adam over, “The boss wishes to see this one. Project steel eye.” Conn’s voice was oddly eerie in the long hallway. Sunny watched as the man was carried down the length of the floor unconscious. 

She didn’t bother trying to break the glass.

“This next ones will be in the carrier project. They look strong enough to hold off a virus for a little while.” 

Ramirez was dragged up afterwards. He looked strange dangling in the arms of a robot despite how large he was. His short, dark hair was matted with sweat and his head lolled back uncomfortably.

“A good specimen for the painless, I think. Can get him done in a few minutes.” 

At the other end of the room, the door had closed, and Adam was gone, the others  were brought into cages and locked inside lying on the floor, on their sides, unmoving.

The human test subjects screamed in agony.