#must be great for his dad to also see what his son all accomplished outside the sport

[heartsoftruth]

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[miraculouswolf99]

Forest Wolf Academy Idea

I formed this idea after I read a Miraculous fanfiction where Marinette transferred to a school for magic along with Chloe, Nathaniel, Marc, and her brother. At the school already is Felix and the Quad kids. The magic schools are actually for those that are members of witch covens and you must be a member of the coven to join the school. Luke and Juleka are also witches but in a different cousin. Marinette and the other transfer because of Lila. Adrien soon joins them at the school as well. I also got inspiration from the anime Fairy Tail.

I loved the concept of it so much that it gave me my own idea. My idea if an Adrien-focused story since he is my favorite character and always will be.

My idea started after Miracle Queen. Because of Chloe working with Hawkmoth and because Lila had turned so many of Marinette's friends against her, her parents transferred her to an art school so that she can focus on her designing. The only ones that stayed her friends were Adrien, Nathaniel, Kim, Alix, and Juleka. Outside of the class, she had a lot more friends, but her parents wanted her away from Chloe and Lila.

Adrien's dad still makes him model with Lila despite how Adrien and the staff are always telling him that she is the worst model ever. She never shuts up with her lies, never poses as she is told to do, and is basically also sexually harassing Adrien as well. She drives them all crazy.

But then one day during another photoshoot, Adrien hears some music and is drawn toward it. The music is like a siren song that he does not notice that only he can hear. When he arrives at the source of the song, he finds an old friend of his, Lyon Garden. Lyon and his twin sister Vallia are friends of his that he met in Greece when their family hosted a charity fashion show at their family's nature and animal sanctuary. Adrien had gone there with his parents a year before his mom vanished and he kept in contact with them the entire time.

Lyon and Adrien are happy to see each other, Adrien spilling his guts about everything bad going on. Especially all the things with Lila and Chloe. And Lyon gives him an extraordinary opportunity. The reason why Adrien was able to hear his magical song was because he was magical as well. A fellow witch. So, he was able to offer him a place at his school, Forest Wolf Academy.

The two of them went to Gabriel and he actually let Adrien go to the magic school. It turns out that Adrien's mom had also been a witch and that was why he was allowing Adrien to go so easily. Adrien is more than happy to accept the offer.

When Adrien goes to Forest Wolf Academy, he is amazed to see such an incredible school. Forest Wolf is not the only magic school in the world. Each school is hidden in a pocket dimension where they can be entered in any place in the world through the use of a magical key. But each school still has a main magical doorway in the home of the founder of each school. Forest Wolf's main door is in Athens, Greece.

Adrien only lets his real friends know that he is transferring. He would have told Nino, but he no longer considered him his best friend since he turned against Marinette. But given that magical people can hear Lyon's magical song, there are more teen witches in Paris than Adrien knew about. So, even after he transfers, he is actually soon joined by a lot of his true friends. Luka, Kagami, Nathaniel, Marc, Juleka, Kim, and Alix. And each of them would have their own powers that Lyon and Vallia help them learn to control.

Lyon has siren song magic. He is a real-life siren with the added abilities to control sound and music, not just being able to use his voice as a weapon. Vallia has rainbow aura magic. She is also to surround herself with different color light auras that give her other abilities like how sky blue gives her flight and ruby red helps her shoot fire like a dragon.

Adrien would find out that he has light magic, being able to control all forms of light and even be able to change into it like a human shooting star. Luka would have enchanted instrument magic, being able to do all types of things by playing different instruments while still having his natural ability to hear a person's inner song. Juleka would have a similar ability called music spirit magic, where she is able to turn into magical creature spirits that are hybrids with music like harp playing fairies or werewolf drummers. Kagami would have Requip magic, where she is able to store weapons and armor in a separate dimension that only she can access. Nathaniel would have art-to-reality magic where he is able to bring his drawings to life no matter what they are. Marc would have Fairy Tale magic where he could read from a magical storybook that he has and summon any legendary or mythical creature from it. Kim would have were-beast magic where he is able to turn into any were-creature version of any animal like a werewolf or cat creature. And Alix would have time magic, where she would be able to manipulate time around her while also being able to travel through time on her own.

All of them actually have a great time at Forest Wolf Academy and learn to appreciate and covet their magical lives even if Hawkmoth is still a problem. But he would actually have become less active lately as if he is losing motivation for trying to gain the miraculous.

Vallia would actually gain a crush on Kim and the two of them would eventually start dating. The same would go for Juleka and Alix as well as Luka and Kagami. Nathaniel and Marc would be an already established couple since they are too adorable to break up. Adrien would also find himself gaining a crush on Lyon, something he never expected to have on his old friend.

But, as per all good things, their peace had to come to an end. Magic itself was not hidden, just the people that used it. It was why heroes and villains like Ladybug, Cat Noir, and Hawkmoth all had masks when they used the miraculous.

But, the schools have come under some fire with people thinking that they were secret evil cults that wanted to take over the world. So, they all had to open their doors to people. To politicians, school field trips, and even some tours of powerful world leaders just to show that they were all perfectly normal schools that just happen to teach magic to their witch students.

Only, one of the schools that request to tour Forest Wolf Academy is Dupont High, which puts the new students on edge. Especially Adrien and Juleka because of Lila and Rose. It did not help that Lyon and Alix were very protective of their partners and would hurt anyone that tries to hurt them.

But since they have to keep up appearances as a "normal" magical school, they have to accept the field trip request. Luckily, it is the whole school and not just Bustier's class. So, there are still good students like Aurore, Mireille, and Zoé. It is only Bustier's class that believes Lila, anyway.

Adrien and the others do their best to avoid Lila and her attack dogs. They have their jobs to stop the more temperamental students from attacking the annoying group with how they obviously bully almost everyone around them. Not to mention all of the lies that keep coming out of Lila's mouth that she is related to so many powerful witches, how she is a descendant of Merlin, how her grandparents run the best magic school in the world.

There are a lot of students that wanted her head. Especially since it was known through Adrien and Lyon that she had not heard Lyon's magical song, meaning that she had no magic at all. And since magic was passed down from parent to child, that also meant that no one in her family had magic either. Not unless they were one of those families that had been stripped of their magic for crimes against the magical world.

And if it wasn't Lila causing problems with her lies, Chloe was causing problems with her attitude. And how she kept trying to force the students to do as she says and make them her slaves. Like she would go to those with ice magic and demand that they get her a cold drink. Or she would go to the students with gem and crystal magic and demand that they give her the biggest diamond that they can make.

Once the former Dupont students are found by the group is when things really go downhill. There is a lot of yelling about how they abandoned their friends, that they should not be so jealous of Lila's accomplishments, how they needed to get over themselves, how they needed to stop being bullies. And the group fires back that they can not abandon friends that abandoned them first, that they can not be jealous of accomplishments that never happened, and that they never talk to Lila let alone bully her.

Meanwhile, Adrien is trying hard not to be seen by Lila or Chloe since he does not want either of them hanging off his arm like they usually do. But, Lila soon locks her eyes on him and down try and latch onto him, crying her crocodile tears about how much she missed him and how she wanted him back since he "promised to date her."

That is where Lyon steps in and would be so close to using his sonic scream on the annoying liar. Adrien uses his powers to turn into light and get back to Lyon's side. That is when the two of them go into a big "why Lila sucks" speech and reveals that the two of them were dating and that Adrien would never EVER date Lila.

She is not exposed, but a new demonstration of the more dangerous powers from the students, low key threats against the annoying class, makes them never come back after they leave.

Lila hopes to be akumatized over her rage about not being able to lie her way into dating Adrien, but she does not know that Gabriel gave Marinette the butterfly miraculous and the peacock miraculous already. He gave up once he saw how truly happy his son was and did not want the wish to change his son into any other version of him that would never be this happy. It also helps that a few witches from the school that could heal offered to help him restore his wife.

[pet-genius]

The Death Eaters as a Cult - Part 2

Follow-up post to this post, exploring the DE dynamics and speculating on how Voldemort got them on his hook. Trigger warning: Cult abuse, I suppose.

The Death Eaters’ behavior at the graveyard reflects what was expected of them during the first war. LV refers to his Death Eaters as his “true family”, and yet:

Then one of the Death Eaters fell to his knees, crawled toward Voldemort, and kissed the hem of his black robes.

“Master... Master...” he murmured.

The Death Eaters behind him did the same; each of them approaching Voldemort on his knees and kissing his robes, before backing away and standing up, forming a silent circle, which enclosed Tom Riddle’s grave, Harry, Voldemort, and the sobbing and twitching heap that was Wormtail. Yet they left gaps in the circle, as though waiting for more people.

If this is how anyone in your family has EVER treated you, go to the police. No: Death Eaters were expected to crawl on their knees and to kiss their master’s robe. He had enforced such discipline that they all remembered their place in the circle 13 years later. He expected to be worshiped and humiliated his own people.

He also tortures them, for their failure to try to find him and resurrect him:

“It is a disappointment to me... I confess myself disappointed....”

One of the men suddenly flung himself forward, breaking the circle. Trembling from head to foot, he collapsed at Voldemort’s feet. “Master!” he shrieked, “Master, forgive me! Forgive us all!” Voldemort began to laugh. He raised his wand. “Crucio!”

He also manipulates them:

“Get up, Avery,” said Voldemort softly. “Stand up. You ask for forgiveness? I do not forgive. I do not forget. Thirteen long years... I want thirteen years’ repayment before I forgive you.

Wormtail here has paid some of his debt already, have you not, Wormtail?”

He looked down at Wormtail, who continued to sob.

“You returned to me, not out of loyalty, but out of fear of your old friends. You deserve this pain, Wormtail. You know that, don’t you?”

Why does LV feel that Peter owes him anything? Peter resurrected him. But pleasing LV is impossible. He needs his followers to be driven by loyalty, not fear - they are not even allowed to be self-interested in the sense of wanting not to die. Peter might deserve pain, but one must ask why Voldemort of all people feels this way - Peter never hurt him.

Then, he expects Peter to show gratitude for what he would have had in the first place, had Voldemort not taken it from him: a hand. Peter falls for it:

“Yes, Master,” moaned Wormtail, “please, Master... please...”

“Yet you helped return me to my body,” said Voldemort coolly, watching Wormtail sob on the ground. “Worthless and traitorous as you are, you helped me... and Lord Voldemort rewards his helpers....”

[...]

“My Lord,” he whispered. “Master... it is beautiful... thank you... thank you.”

That’s how Voldemort rewards his helpers: He stops the pain he himself inflicted.

These are Death Eaters with obvious vulnerabilities for Voldemort to exploit:

Barty Crouch Jr. has a very dysfunctional relationship with his dad. Sirius: “Crouch’s fatherly affection stretched just far enough to give his son a trial, and by all accounts, it wasn’t much more than an excuse for Crouch to show how much he hated the boy... then he sent him straight to Azkaban”.

Voldemort clearly took advantage of this, played up the parallel between Tom Riddle Sr. and Barty Crouch Sr., and BCJ has clearly come to see him as something of a father figure:

“I will be honored beyond all other Death Eaters. I will be his dearest, his closest supporter... closer than a son....”

[...]

“The Dark Lord and I,” said Moody, and he looked completely insane now, towering over Harry, leering down at him, “have much in common. Both of us, for instance, had very disappointing fathers... very disappointing indeed. Both of us suffered the indignity, Harry, of being named after those fathers. And both of us had the pleasure... the very great pleasure... of killing our fathers to ensure the continued rise of the Dark Order!”

Bellatrix’s vulnerability is obvious: She’s in love with Voldemort. He is constantly toying with her, promising intimacy and reward, but never delivering. He only uses her: Her vault, her duelling skills, her home. It’s interesting that she’s the only female DE outside of Alecto. Perhaps she was insecure about being female, or felt oppressed by her marriage, or perhaps she was failing to live up to her family’s expectation that she make pureblood babies, and Voldemort promised her a future where she’d be free of these constraints.

She’s supposed to be the closest one to him, the one he cares about the most, yet she too fears his wrath. Following the prophecy’s destruction:

“Master, I am sorry, I knew not, I was fighting the Animagus Black!” sobbed Bellatrix, flinging herself down at Voldemort’s feet as he paced slowly nearer.

“Master, you should know —”

“Be quiet, Bella,” said Voldemort dangerously. “I shall deal with you in a moment. Do you think I have entered the Ministry of Magic to hear your sniveling apologies?”

“But Master — he is here — he is below —”

Voldemort paid no attention.

He really should have paid attention to her warning that Dumbledore was coming. Instead, he threatened her even as she was begging forgiveness for something that was not her fault.

The chapter Spinner’s End shows how giftedVoldemort is at spreading enmity and discord among his followers. Not only do they not all know each other, the ones who do can never conspire against their master, because of the atmosphere of distrust.

“Before I answer you — oh yes, Bellatrix, I am going to answer! You can carry my words back to the others who whisper behind my back, and carry false tales of my treachery to the Dark Lord! Before I answer you, I say, let me ask a question in turn. Do you really think that the Dark Lord has not asked me each and every one of those questions? And do you really think that, had I not been able to give satisfactory answers, I would be sitting here talking to you?”

She hesitated.

“I know he believes you, but...”

“You think he is mistaken? Or that I have somehow hoodwinked him? Fooled the Dark Lord, the greatest wizard, the most accomplished Legilimens the world has ever seen?”

He is accusing Bella of heresy. He has clearly learned a thing or two about manipulation, having spent his entire adult life either under Voldemort or under Dumbledore. He presents himself as selfish for staying with Dumbledore, and he presents Voldemort’s words as gospel: “The Dark Lord does not complain that I stayed, so I do not see why you do.” He also takes pride in being closer to him and more useful:

“But what use have you been?” sneered Bellatrix. “What useful information have we had from you?”

“My information has been conveyed directly to the Dark Lord,” said Snape. “If he chooses not to share it with you —”

“He shares everything with me!” said Bellatrix, firing up at once.

“He calls me his most loyal, his most faithful —”

“Does he?” said Snape, his voice delicately inflected to suggest his disbelief.“Does he still, after the fiasco at the Ministry?”

The master stroke is the subtle insinuation that lowly half-blood Snape is closer to Voldemort than Bellatrix is. This makes her lose what little composure she had, and plays on her insecurity. Her interrogation ends shortly thereafter, and she seems satisfied with explanations that are frankly not very convincing.

“If he has forbidden it, you ought not to speak,” said Snape at once. “The Dark Lord’s word is law.”

Narcissa gasped as though he had doused her with cold water. Bellatrix looked satisfied for the first time since she had entered the house.

“There!” she said triumphantly to her sister. “Even Snape says so: You were told not to talk, so hold your silence!”

Bella is enforcing silence on her sister. This phenomenon exists in real cults too: Members enforce the rules on each other, the leader’s hands are clean.

Bella tells Cissy off for caring whether Draco lives or dies:

“Draco should be proud,” said Bellatrix indifferently. “The Dark Lord is granting him a great honor. And I will say this for Draco: He isn’t shrinking away from his duty, he seems glad of a chance to prove himself, excited at the prospect —”

I think this was LV’s pitch to Bella: She is the one who wanted to prove herself.

Bella is willing to give him so much, and he gives her nothing. Also, twice she claims that it’s a point of pride to be willing to die for the Dark Lord.

In DLA, he is particularly subtly abusive toward her:

“My Lord,” said a dark woman halfway down the table, her voice constricted with emotion, “it is an honor to have you here, in our family’s house. There can be no higher pleasure.”

[...]

Bellatrix leaned toward Voldemort, for mere words could not demonstrate her longing for closeness.

Why is Bellatrix halfway down the table? She has been unfailingly loyal, why is he punishing her with distance? Is he punishing her for being related to Narcissa?

“No higher pleasure,” repeated Voldemort, his head tilted a little to one side as he considered Bellatrix. “That means a great deal, Bellatrix, from you.”

Her face flooded with color; her eyes welled with tears of delight.

“My Lord knows I speak nothing but the truth!”

Look how nice he’s being! Look how happy he makes her! Except this is immediately followed by teasing her about her niece’s marriage:

“No higher pleasure... even compared with the happy event that, I hear, has taken place in your family this week?”

She stared at him, her lips parted, evidently confused.

“I don’t know what you mean, my Lord.”

“I’m talking about your niece, Bellatrix. And yours, Lucius and Narcissa. She has just married the werewolf, Remus Lupin. You must be so proud.”

There was an eruption of jeering laughter from around the table. Many leaned forward to exchange gleeful looks; a few thumped the table with their fists. The great snake, disliking the disturbance, opened its mouth wide and hissed angrily, but the Death Eaters did not hear it, so jubilant were they at Bellatrix and the Malfoys’ humiliation. Bellatrix’s face, so recently flushed with happiness, had turned an ugly, blotchy red.

He is punishing with humiliation. Lucius screwed up the mission at the DOM and Draco didn’t kill Dumbledore, but what did Bella do? Nobody is safe. Instead of resenting the way she is treated, Bellatrix demonstrates her fanaticism:

“She is no niece of ours, my Lord,” she cried over the outpouring of mirth. “We — Narcissa and I — have never set eyes on our sister since she married the Mudblood. This brat has nothing to do with either of us, nor any beast she marries.”

[...]

“Many of our oldest family trees become a little diseased over time,” he said as Bellatrix gazed at him, breathless and imploring.

“You must prune yours, must you not, to keep it healthy? Cut away those parts that threaten the health of the rest.”

“Yes, my Lord,” whispered Bellatrix, and her eyes swam with tears of gratitude again. “At the first chance!”

“You shall have it,” said Voldemort. “And in your family, so in the world... we shall cut away the canker that infects us until only those of the true blood remain....”

Bella does not needanyone (a half-blood!) to teach her she must keep her family tree pure. She clearly doesn’t know crucial things about Tom Riddle, or is in denial. This is the same Bellatrix who killed her own cousin, so she is very capable of “pruning” her own family tree.

At the Malfoy Manor:

“Gold!” laughed Bellatrix, still attempting to throw off her brother-in-law, her free hand groping in her pocket for her wand. “Take your gold, filthy scavenger, what do I want with gold? I seek only the honor of his — of —”

She stopped struggling, her dark eyes fixed upon something Harry could not see. Jubilant at her capitulation, Lucius threw her hand from him and ripped up his own sleeve —

“STOP!” shrieked Bellatrix. “Do not touch it, we shall all perish if the Dark Lord comes now!”

She seeks only the honor of his [something], but she is scared to death of him. She will kill for him and die for him, but she is keenly aware of the possibility that he might kill her - yet she loves him. She is a true believer - without him, she is nothing, and her devotion controls her every interaction. In her defense, he does not let others kill her, at least - he saves her at the end of the battle at the Department of Mysteries and seems upset when she dies.

Bellatrix thinks independently once: She doesn’t trust Snape, even though her master does. This is not so odd - the half-blood appears to be undermining her, to have aspirations to griw even closer to Voldemort than her - her jealousy and insecurity override how brainwashed she is. The dynamic between the Black sisters exemplifies the way cults drive wedges between family members - not that the Black family needed any help with that.

Peter’s vulnerability is obvious: His own friends think he’s worthless. He clearly isn’t - he became an animagus too, and he tricked Sirius, kill 12 Muggles with a single curse, and perform the tasks to revive Voldemort - but Voldemort exploited Peter’s insecurity, and even whatever guilt Peter had felt at betraying his friends. Sirius says Peter always sought the protection of the biggest bully. His “uselessness” was the express reason Sirius switched with Peter - obviously, someone like that could never be pegged for a potential spy. Voldemort must have made Peter feel valuable, like there was something only Peter could do - and when Peter’s choices ran out, he showed Peter his true colors.

We’ve seen how LV treated Peter at the resurrection ceremony. We also have the way he bossed him around in the first chapter of GOF, and that he forced Peter to work as Snape’s “assistant”, as seen in Spinner’s End. Sending Peter to work for Snivellus was brilliantly cruel - Peter must have viewed this as the height of humiliation.

In Dark Lord Ascending, he is shrinking himself to near non-existence:

“Yes, m-my Lord,” gasped a small man halfway down the table, who had been sitting so low in his chair that it had appeared, at first glance, to be unoccupied. Now he scrambled from his seat and scurried from the room, leaving nothing behind him but a curious gleam of silver.

In part 3 - Draco, Regulus, Snape, Lucius, general dynamics, and more speculations!

[sj-thefan]

Memories Will Last Forever (Sitka x reader)

Masterlist

Warnings: Major character death

A smile quickly made it’s way to Y/n’s face as her eyes landed on her husband. Kallik’s excited babbles suggested that he had also seen the man walking toward their home. He squirmed in his mother’s arms, reaching out for his dad. Y/n placed him down, letting the young boy walk on shaky legs to his father.

Sitka let out a small chuckle as Kallik reached him. “Hello, little bug,” he smiled, picking the boy up and pressing a kiss to his head. Sitka made his way over to Y/n. “And my darling wife,” he kissed Y/n’s cheek, “You’re looking absolutely beautiful today.”

“Thank you. You’re looking good yourself.” Y/n smiled at her little family. Every time she saw them together, she remembered the first time Sitka held his son.

Kallik was born during last year’s first summer storm. Thunder and lightning were rare in the north, but that night had been filled with loud booms and flashes of light. Sitka was terrified, not of the overstimulating storm but of the screams of his love that filled the silent pauses.

Their relationship seemed to be rushed. Y/n and Sitka had grown up together, and he knew from the moment he came of age that she would be his wife. She was his rock when his parents died, and she helped him take care of his little brothers. They got married when they were twenty, but even then, some of their friends had been shocked it took so long. It wasn’t even half a year after the wedding that Y/n got pregnant.

They were absolutely terrified. It seemed too soon for a baby, but everyone reminded them that they had already been taking care of children for a couple years. Denahi and Kenai weren’t young, but they had still needed caring for when their parents had died. After some convincing and reminiscing of the times they had to help Denahi or Kenai out of a sticky situation, Y/n and Sitka felt ready.

Still, no amount of planning could have prepared Sitka for the fear he felt when Y/n’s contractions started.

Her screams were loud, and his hand was sore. When she started crying, he tried to calm her, but it was nearly impossible with his own erratic fears. He kissed away her tears and tried to reassure her it would be over soon.

In the end, they both felt it was worth it. The feeling of seeing their spouse with their son was more happiness than either had ever felt.

Y/n was grateful that she got to feel a piece of that happiness every time Stika held their son. She pulled herself out of her memories.

Kallik was babbling as if he was talking to Sitka, and Sitka was playing along. He could say a few words, like ‘food’ and ‘up,’ and he even knew the names of the people he saw every day, even if he couldn’t always pronounce them correctly. He stopped talking suddenly and rested his head on Sitka’s shoulder.

“You tired?” Sitka asked the boy.

“He shouldn’t be,” Y/n responded. “He just woke up from his nap.”

Y/n’s eye caught on something behind her husband. It was his bag of supplies from their fishing trip. She went and picked it up, bringing it inside. Sitka followed her.

“How was the river?” Y/n started unpacking the bag. “Lots of fish?”

Sitka nodded. “Yeah, there were a couple times we lost some because Kenai was fooling around, but we still got plenty.”

“Is he nervous?”

“He seems pretty confident. Nothing like we were.” They both let out a soft chuckle remembering their coming of age ceremonies.

Sitka’s birthday was just a month before Y/n. He had been terrified, pacing the entire morning before the ceremony. His parents had tried everything. They reassured him, told him the stories of their own rituals, and even tried giving him tasks to do, but nothing seemed to work. Y/n was the only one who could get him to calm down, even if it was only a bit.

She had stopped him, holding him still with her hands on his shoulders. He was stronger than her and could have easily moved, but he let her block him. Looking him in the eyes, Y/n promised him that no matter what his totem was, she would still be his friend. She told him that it didn’t change who he was; it just showed him the best path to take.

He didn’t tell anyone until years later, but that was the moment Sitka knew he would marry Y/n.

A month later, before Y/n got her totem, he had repeated her words to her, and for good luck, he gave her a kiss on the cheek.

Y/n barely remembered the rest of the day after the kiss, but she didn’t really care. She was pretty sure she loved her best friend, and that was more important than anything else.

Together, they figured out their totems. They weren’t sure how to live like an eagle of guidance or a reindeer of perseverance. But they figured it out, and they figured out their relationship, too.

As Y/n finished unpacking the bag, Sitka’s voice rang out, “Is Tanana back yet?”

“Not yet—”

As soon as Y/n had said the words, someone called out: “She’s back!”

They could hear people running past outside. Y/n smiled. “Nevermind.”

Sitka walked over to his wife, giving her a kiss. She took Kallik from his arms as he went to check on Kenai and make sure both his brothers were heading to the ceremony. “See you there.”

Y/n placed Kallik on her shoulders before joining the rest of the tribe.

Y/n sat beside Alasie, making sure to leave room for her husband and his brothers. Alasie had several children, and Y/n often spent time with her, letting their children play together. Kallik enjoyed spending time with them, and the older children seemed to enjoy playing with him.

Kallik crawled from Y/n’s lap, standing as soon as he could. He seemed particularly interested in the music and dancing. He bounced himself up and down in his own little dance. Y/n and Alasie giggled as they watched him. Some of the older kids joined in, trying to mimic the adult dancers.

Eventually, Sitka, Denahi, and Kenai joined them.

Kallik was excited to see his uncles and quickly paused his dancing to go see them. The boys smiled at their nephew, tickling and playing with him.

Y/n remembered when she and Sitka had told them she was pregnant.

She had been worried they wouldn’t take it well.

Denahi had come of age and already got his totem. He had started spending less time at home with the family, preferring to go out with friends. He still spent a lot of time with his brothers and new sister, but he didn’t seem like he would be overly worried about a loss of attention that the baby would bring.

Kenai was a different story. He was a wild 14-year-old, adventurous and a bit reckless. Since his parents died, he had taken to exploring and going on adventures with Y/n or Sitka. Those adventures would have to be paused for a little while, at least Y/n’s would. Sitka would have to stop when the due date got closer to get ready for the baby.

Y/n was worried Kenai would be upset that he was losing his adventure pals; she knew how upset he had been when his dad—who used to take him on the trips—was gone. She didn’t want to be the cause of his distress.

In the end, it was all for naught. Denahi was happy for Sitka and Y/n, but Kenai had shocked both the adults with his reaction. He nearly exploded with excitement. As soon as the words left their mouths, Kenai started talking about the adventures he would take the baby on and all the cool things he could do with a baby. Y/n and Sitka had to explain that some of those things wouldn’t be happening with their baby, but they were still overjoyed with the reaction.

Suddenly, Lusa, Alasie’s daughter, started running away. Alasie kept her eyes on the little girl, watching that she didn’t stray too far.

Tanana entered the circle. She lit the fire, officially starting the ceremony.

She was interrupted by a quiet voice calling for her. Lusa held her arms up, hoping to be picked up by the shaman.

Tanana lifted her up before beginning her speech. She carried Lusa in her arms as she talked. “When each of us comes of age, the great spirits reveal to us a totem that helps guide us through our lives. Some of us use courage to guide us.” She gestured to Kanut, who had received a totem of courage. “Others patience.” She handed Lusa back to Alasie with a smile. “And some of us, beauty.” She sat down and picked up a bowl of paints. “Kenai,” she called.

Kenai was up and over to Tanana as soon as he heard his name. Y/n, Sitka and Denahi laughed lightly at his eagerness. They could see him bouncing with excitement as he talked with Tanana.

“Kenai,” Tanana continued, loud enough for everyone to hear, “I have been to the mountain where the lights touch the earth, and the great spirits have revealed to me your totem. To become a man, your actions must be guided by one thing.” She reached behind her and began unfolding the bundle. “Your totem is,” she paused, revealing a bear, “love.”

“What?” Kenai asked.

“Yes, love.” Tanana put the totem around his neck.

He picked it up from his chest. “The bear of love?”

Denahi started silently laughing. They all knew how excited Kenai had been; he was sure he would get a sabre tooth tiger for bravery or something equally as cool. Y/n elbowed the middle brother, silently telling him to knock it off.

When Kenai turned around, his face looked so desperate, Y/n couldn’t help the quiet laugh that escaped her lips. Her hand quickly clamped over her mouth as Kenai whispered, “Who wants to trade?”

Tanana grabbed his face, turning him back to her. “There is no trading!” She hit his head. “Oh, Kenai, love is the most precious of totems. It reveals itself in unexpected ways. Let love guide your actions, then one day, you’ll be a man and will place your mark next to those of our ancestors.”

They stood, walking over to the cave wall. Kenai glanced from his hand to the wall. His parents had placed their marks on the wall, as had Sitka and Y/n. He wanted to prove that he could be a man—that he could be accomplished.

Tanana lifted his hand into the air, and the crowd erupted into cheers.

Once the ceremony was over, everyone began standing. Y/n, Sitka, and Denahi were going to go see Kenai, but he had already left.

Denahi ran off, promising to find Kenai. Sitka and Y/n made their way back slowly, letting Kallik walk at his own pace. Every now and then, Kallik would spot a rock that caught his eye. He would stop to pick it up and present it to one of his parents as a gift.

“You know,” Y/n started as Kallik gave Sitka a rock, “I’ve started feeling some of the signs.” Sitka glanced up, not understanding what was his wife was talking about. Y/n smiled at him as he rose back to his full height. “How would you feel if we had another child?”

Sitka smiled brightly. “Are you serious?”

“I don’t know for sure, but all the signs I had with Kallik are starting again. I think I might be.”

Sitka grabbed Y/n in his arms, hugging her as tight as he could. “I am so happy.” He nestled his head into her neck. “Another baby.” He pulled back, still smiling. “The boys will be so happy and—”

Kallik came running up to them with another rock, this one for Y/n. She bent down and picked him up.

“And this little bug,” Sitka continued, tickling his son, “I bet he’s going to love being a big brother.” He kissed them both.

The sound of his brothers arguing caused both to turn their heads. Sitka smiled as he headed towards the sound. “Make sure they don’t kill each other.”

“I’ll try.”

As soon as he was out of sight, Y/n smiled down at her son. “Want to come help with the fish?”

Kallik didn’t know what most of those words were, but he liked fish. “Fish!” he cheered as they walked.

When they go there, a few others who were helping with the fish, including Denahi, had already arrived. They were all looking around at the remains of the fish. The basket had come down, and the paw prints in the dirt suggested a bear had done it. Denahi picked up the rope. They all noticed it was unbroken.

Sitka and Kenai arrived at that moment, talking about thieving bears.

“You didn’t tie it up, did you?” Denahi asked, stepping closer to Kenai. Kenai stuttered, not knowing what to say. “You should have gotten the totem of pinheads.”

“Knock it off,” Sitka interrupted. “We’ll just make another basket.”

“—We? Oh no,” Denahi stormed forward, “it took me two weeks to make that basket. Get loverboy to do it. He’s the one that’s messing things up all the time. Typical Kenai.”

Kenai disappeared briefly and returned with his spear. “All right. I’ll go get your basket.”

“Kenai, wait!” Sitka called, but Kenai was already gone. “Kenai!” He glared at Denahi.

“What?”

Y/n stepped up to him. “You know exactly what. How many times have you made a mistake that Sitka or I had to fix?” Denahi looked down. “Now, your brother has gone out to hunt down a basket taken by a bear. I think you best go with him.”

Sitka smiled when Denahi left to grab his spear. He placed a kiss on Y/n’s forehead and ruffled his son’s hair as he rested against his mother’s chest. “I’ll see you later. Apparently, I’m on basket rescue duty.”

Y/n smiled. “Keep them safe.”

“Yes, ma’am.”

--

The sun had just gone down when Y/n heard the commotion outside their home. She glanced back to see Kallik playing with his toys before she stepped out. Several of the tribe’s men were rushing towards the river. The women were watching from their homes. When they caught Y/n’s eye, they gave her a sorrowful look.

She spotted Denahi walking towards her with his head hung low. “Denahi,” she called, pushing forward. “What’s going on?” He glanced up, his eyes filled with tears. “Where’s Kenai? Is everything okay?”

Denahi held up the fabric in his hand. It was Sitka’s hood.

Y/n gasped, bringing a hand to her chest. “No,” she whispered with a shaky voice.

He handed her the cloth. “I’m so sorry, Y/n.” He reached out to put a hand on her shoulder, but she collapsed to her knees.

Tears streamed down her face. She clutched Sitka’s hood to her chest as she sobbed. The rest of the world was tuned out as her mind replayed her time with Sitka. From the time they learned how to fish to their wedding, Y/n replayed it all. Her heart broke as she thought of their conversation just before he left. If she was pregnant, she would have to do it all without him—without the love of her life.

She felt someone put their arms around her, and for a moment, she pretended it was Sitka. She knew it wasn’t. She knew it was probably Denahi or even one of her friends. But she needed to pretend, even if it was just for a minute.

Her imagination was broken as she felt two little hands on her cheeks. She opened her eyes to see her son.

“Mama?” Kallik asked, worried at the sight of her tears. He had never seen his mother cry; she had always been so happy.

Y/n pulled him into her lap and held him close. “I’m sorry, my love. It will be okay. Mama’s okay.”

--

Y/n walked through the crowds with Kallick in her arms and Denahi and Kenai by her sides. Denahi carried Sitka’s spear while Kenai had his fur hood. They placed the items down in front of Tanana as she began the ritual of farewell.

Denahi, Kenai, and Y/n, with Kallik on her lap, knelt in front of Tanana and watched.

Y/n was certain Kallik didn’t quite understand what was happening. She had told him what she thought he would comprehend. She told him that his father wouldn’t be coming home, and it was just them now. But Kallik still asked when his dad would be back.

He could understand that tonight was a special night through the bright lights and his best clothes, but he didn’t know what it was for. He stayed quiet, curled in his mother’s lap.

As the ceremony ended, Y/n notice Kallik yawn. She stood up, listening to the condolences of everyone who approached. When Alasie came up, she offered to take Kallik home and put him to bed. She could see that he had almost fallen asleep already, so Y/n handed him over, thanking her good friend.

Y/n glanced over to her family but found that Kenai had already gone. She stood by Denahi, watching as the fire flicked up into the night. When she noticed the tears in his eyes, she held Denahi’s hand, squeezing it as a sign she wouldn’t leave.

When the fire had finally died out, Tanana left, leaving Y/n and Denahi.

Kenai approached from behind, carrying two spears and a bag with food. “You ready?” he called out.

Y/n and Denahi turned. “For what?” Denahi asked.

“For going after the bear.” Kenai tossed one of the spears to him.

Y/n shook her head. “Kenai, you can’t. The bear didn’t kill him. This will only anger the spirits.”

“I know what you’re feeling,” Denahi agreed, “but killing that bear is wrong.”

“Wrong?” Kenai’s voice was firm. “Our brother is dead, and it’s because of that monster.”

“Kenai,” Y/n pleaded, but her voice was drowned out by Denahi.

“I don’t blame the bear, Kenai.”

“Denahi!” Y/n scolded. “This was no one’s fault. You both need to calm down.”

“—No offence, Y/n, but you weren’t there.” Kenai scoffed. “You don’t know what happened.”

“Kenai,” Denahi drawled, “killing that bear won’t make you a man.”

“Oh,” Kenai pushed his brother. “Now you’re trying to be wise.”

“I’m trying to follow my totem. Why can’t you do the same?”

“You really think love has anything to do with being a man? A man wouldn’t just sit here and do nothing.” Kenai turned, but Denahi stopped him with a hand on his shoulder.

“Kenai. Don’t upset the spirits.”

Kenai scoffed. “Spirits. Thanks for your wisdom.” He began his angry stomp again, only pausing when he passed Tanana. He pulled his totem off and threw it in the ash before leaving.

Tanana picked it up and brushed it off.

Denahi looked between Y/n and where Kenai disappeared to. “I’ve got to stop him.”

Y/n took the totem from Tanana and placed it in Denahi’s hand. “You come back to me—both of you.” She brought a hand up to caress his cheek. “Sitka doesn’t need to be avenged; he needs his family to be together.”

Denahi nodded before chasing after his brother.

--

Y/n noticed the eagle that always seemed to perch on the trees near their home. Whenever she was having a bad day, or she felt like she needed her husband, the eagle was there. It watched her and Kallik, making sure they were okay. She dared to think it was Sitka watching over her and his son.

When Denahi returned from tracking Kenai, he returned with two bears in tow. He claimed that it was Kenai—that the spirits had turned him into a bear for taking an innocent life. At first, Y/n was skeptical, but one look into the bear’s eyes told her exactly who it was.

The bear was gentle as it nuzzled Kallik and Y/n’s stomach, which had grown slightly over the past few months. Y/n adored the smaller bear that came home with them, too. Koda, as Denahi told her was the young bear’s name, was adorable.

Y/n saw the eagle that afternoon.

At the ceremony to celebrate Kenai becoming a man—or a bear in his case—Y/n felt happier than she had in a long time. And as they walked back to their home, Y/n spotted the eagle.

It appeared at every major event. When Y/n gave birth to her baby girl, Awena, the eagle was perched outside.

It brought her comfort to know that her husband was still watching over her and their children. He wasn’t truly gone. She saw him every day, and in the nights, while she slept, she relived her memories of him. When her children were older, she would tell them her memories, and in that way, he would live forever.

[eternalglitch]

Like Father Like Son: Chapter 3

Prologue Arc 1: Chapter 1, Chapter 2, Chapter 3

Mikey let out a small sound in the back of his throat, bending down to pick up the odachi by its hilt, hands shaking slightly. His reflection stared back at him, eyes wide and face a paler shade of green than was normal, pale enough that he could actually see his yellow freckles that oh so rarely showed up. “Guys?” he whispered. “Has Leo ever gone out without his weapon?”

Read it HERE on ao3.

Chapter Specific Warnings: no specific ones (please see the general ones listed in the prologue)

Chapter Three: All Green and Blue

“He’s not picking up. Why isn’t he picking up?!” Mikey demanded, looking up from his phone. The youngest couldn’t help but shift from foot to foot, a sort of buzzing energy from his anxiety making him want to move. Why couldn’t his brothers walk faster?

“Yeah, it is odd he wouldn’t answer either of us…” Donnie agreed, squinting at his wrist tech. “I can’t locate his phone’s location, either. It’s either out of battery or broken.”

Finally, Mikey thought with relief, Raph’s pace noticeably quickened, his brothers right on his heels. “Okay… okay. First, we’re gonna backtrack the possible routes to the pizza place, and then we’re going to check any place he could have ended up. Donnie?” The leader of the group glanced at the purple turtle, gaze expectant.

“On it, I’ll hack any nearby cameras and run a scanner through social media looking for buzzwords,” the technological prodigy replied, typing quickly. “I’ll compile a list of people that might’ve gone after him as well.”

“People that went after him?” Mikey asked, now even more nervous, his voice rising a pitch or two until it cracked completely. “You think the foot clan or Big Mama is behind this? What if they’ve hurt him?” Mikey reached out and clung to Donnie’s elbow, staring over at Donnie’s screen as stats whizzed by. The other turtle tolerated it, but didn’t stop typing to pat his shell or head. That was a sign things really were serious. “What if he’s all alone and scared or… or I don’t know! I can’t even begin to picture him being scared!”

“Again, Michael, I’m sure it’s really nothing, we’re just being thorough—“ Donnie finally started to reassure him, but his eyes never moved from the screen until a loud clatter rang out. Donnie froze, Mikey almost stumbling as he was also pulled to a sudden stop. They looked down.

Leo’s sword was lying, innocently forgotten, all alone on the sewer floor.

Mikey let out a small sound in the back of his throat, bending down to pick up the Odachi by its hilt, hands shaking slightly. His reflection stared back at him, eyes wide and face a paler shade of green than was normal, pale enough that he could actually see his yellow freckles that oh so rarely showed up. “Guys?” he whispered. “Has Leo ever gone out without his weapon?”

“I’m sure there’s a reason… or… or an explanation,” Donnie grasped at, but after he glanced at Raph, who shot him a panicked look, Donnie bowed his head, his eyes flicking back and forth as he thought.  

It was Raph who spoke next, his voice low and urgent. “If something did go down– someone must’ve been inside of the sewers– I’m not sure Leo even made it outside for the pizzas in the first place.” The eldest scratched his head, his expression slowly darkening.

“So they came here purposefully looking for us and somehow we didn't even notice them brothernap Leo from right here?” Mikey looked around at the ground, eyes flicking up and down the sewer walls like the name of the culprit would be left behind with a clean, neat note. He needed someone to tell him flat out that it was going to be okay, he realized weakly, hugging the sword close. Someone to crack a bad joke about the situation, or know what to say. He needed… he needed his brother.

“I’ll call April,” Raph said, phone already out. He already had her number pulled up as well, finger hovering over the green button to call. “We’ll need eyes in every possible place, including checking to see if this was on Leo’s way to or from the pizza place.”

“I now have generated the list of most likely suspects,” Donnie added, pulling up a screen that had a numbered list of the names of their many yokai nemeses. At the top of the list were the various yokai that constantly fought with them on the regular, and the list continued down until it ended with a Warren Stone, although Donnie must have added him just to be safe; in reality, Mikey barely remembered the guy. “It looks like the first name my algorithm came up with is those mutant crabmen we came across recently- apparently they sometimes linger in this area.”

Raph nodded, pulling his phone away from his tympanum and giving them a thumbs up. “April’s in,” he confirmed. The way he said it was heavy; the air shifted, and the panic is forced down until Mikey only has to concentrate on being efficient and focused. “Now, Mad Dogs; let’s move.”

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The floor framed between Leo’s hands was swimming; sweat dripped down and splattered onto the negative space that the floor was made up of, and he was dimly aware that his arms shook under the pressure of holding himself up. Get up, he told himself. Get up, you have to do something. Anything. Just get up, Leonardo.

“Get up,” Draxum echoed his sentiment, voice expectant.

The repeat was like a slap to the face; Leo could only lift his chin to stare at him, a bitter laugh being swallowed before it escaped his lips. Sure, he knew he needed to do that, but it seemed a bit ridiculous for the guy with the metaphorical big red button to ask him to as well. He had a concussion and had just been fried; what did Draxum expect him to do-

The collar let out a shrill buzzer sound, and Leo only had a split second to think what? before the collar lit up for a third time. His arms gave out and he hit the ground hard, and even though he knew what would happen if he screamed, he couldn’t help but do so anyways. The result was exactly as expected. His mouth felt dry.

“Don’t you think the shock’s intensity is too high, Boss?” one of the gargoyles asked from above him. Leo couldn’t see which one; stars danced in front of his hazy vision. “He looks kinda dead after just four zaps.”

“Yeah. And it’s probably going to take a lot of these shocks for it to sink in,” the other agreed. “He keeps making it worse.”

Draxum scoffed, and Leo flinched slightly at the sound, hands weakly rising to shield his head from any more attacks. “Well. I just set it to what he should be strong enough to take. It’s his own fault for being weak. He’s lucky; I don’t have the advanced setting on yet.”

Leo felt Draxum’s nails dig into his bicep as the yokai reached down and hauled him up to his feet, Leo swaying as he tried to lean away from the yokai. “Stay still,” Draxum ordered, and Leo bit down hard enough on his inner cheek he tasted copper, barely accomplishing the feat.

Draxum circled him, hands clasped behind his back. Leo’s head felt foggy, and he didn’t even bother watching Draxum; his head kept drooping forwards, like when he was watching Donnie’s favorite Jupiter Jim movie without Raph around to liven things up. Everything hurt so badly. His hands wrapped around himself and Leo shrunk a bit under Draxum’s assessment.

“You’re slower to catch on than I would have thought,” Draxum said after a moment. “But let me spell it out now, just for the sake of ‘fairness,’” he added with his fingers punctuating the last word with air quotes. “The collar has three things that you will be shocked for. Any vocalizations, or any failure to follow my exact orders as well as… well. I could always just order it to go off.” Leo flinched, his fists tightening. Was Draxum enjoying this? April had taught them the meaning of the word sadistic at one point, after their first prank day on her where no one had told her it was coming. And that was the only word Leo could think of at the moment when he glanced up and into Draxum’s eyes.

This was sadistic.

“It was quite the impressive invention, really,” he continued. “Somehow a simple shock collar had a complicated A.I. that understood the situation at hand enough to correct situational humor. Not to mention it didn’t even need to feel the vocal chords vibrating; it could be programmed to listen for a certain individual’s voice and go off regardless of if it was being worn or not. A bit overkill, if you ask me, but who am I to judge?” A smug smile crossed his lips. “Your brother must have felt quite strongly about this to have put so much work into fixing your flaws.”

He didn’t know anything, Leo told himself. Donnie was just like that, he had made his dorky and kind of insensitive gifts for everyone, he hadn’t been trying to single Leo out or anything. Of course not. Even if Mikey and Raph’s inventions hadn’t caused them any harm at all when they used them, just tried to prematurely stop them from doing it. Even if Leo and Donnie were the main two that squabbled, he never would have… Leo shook his head, one hand slowly rising to press against his forehead.

He couldn’t think like this, he needed to bounce his ideas off of someone for it to be useful. Had Dad ever taught him what to do in a situation like this? A quick scan through memories of Splinter handing him his first pair of swords, of noodle fights and throwing stars, and the only thing Leo could come up with was the advice “stay with your brothers. You will protect all of them, and they in turn will all protect you. And if you get separated, stay in one spot until we can find you.”

Yeah, great, but that advice had been from when Leo was seven. When Splinter had first let them wander a bit farther into the sewers to explore with just the four of them. This wasn’t getting lost in the sewers, this was- this was something more. He was starting to have to face the knowledge that this was something serious, even.

“Pay attention when I am speaking!” Draxum suddenly snapped, and Leo went rigid when the collar let out a low, almost inaudible chirp, his eyes darting down to where he could see the blue rim of the machine before back up to Draxum. The collar didn’t otherwise react, though, but Leo kept still, wondering when the proverbial shoe would drop. “How will I teach you anything if you keep zoning out?”

“It miiiiiight be the concussion,” Muninn offered, one hand on his chin. “We’ve seen a few guys get hit before, Boss, and they also had that spacey look to them.”

Draxum threw up his hands. “Well, he should learn to deal with that. Injuries are something to be powered through.” The yokai took a deep breath, and the two gargoyles dipped as his shoulders slowly became less tense. “But. Very well. Before I forget, a few rules,” he said, voice suddenly back to the flavor of ‘calm with an undertone of smugness.’ AKA the most punchable tone of voice Leo had ever heard. “No trying to escape from me.” The collar let out a soft beep and Leo winced. “No trying to take the collar off.” Another wince. “And, other than attacking, absolutely no contact with any other turtles.” What? That wasn’t- he couldn’t just do that. Leo opened his mouth, keen to argue, but Draxum just raised an eyebrow, crossing his arms and waiting.

On second thought, Leo had nothing to say. His hands curled into tight fists.

“Excellent. And now that I have…” Draxum trailed off, pausing. He fixed Leonardo with a puzzled gaze. He leaned closer to Muninn, holding up one hand to loudly whisper to the gargoyle. “What was this one called, again?”

Muninn blinked, turning and glancing at Huginn, who shrugged back at him. “Uh… ha, wow, Boss, wait, you don’t know?” The gargoyle asked, chuckling nervously. “Didn’t you hand pick him, though?”

Draxum’s eyes widened, slightly flustered. “No! Well, yes. But…” All three villains turned and stared at Leo, who crossed his arms as he stared back at them, lifting his chin slightly in a challenge. This guy had been after them long enough to at least know their nicknames, he thought, somehow still finding it within him to be annoyed.

“Wasn’t it… Larry or… Lawrence?” Huginn weakly offered up, but Draxum rested his chin in one hand, thinking.

“No, it wasn’t that. What was it again…” Draxum trailed off, frowning.

Muninn suddenly perked up. “Hey, wait, why don't we ask him? Hey, turtle! What’s your name?” he yelled, and Leo felt one of his eyes twitch. He glanced down at his shock collar, and both gargoyles made little ‘oooooh’ sounds of understanding.

“That’s right, it was Green!” Draxum suddenly said, hitting his fist into the palm of his other hand. He smiled, brushing some of his hair over his shoulder. “I remember now, how silly of me to have forgotten.”

“What? But- but he’s the one wearing blue.” Huginn darted around Leo, pulling at the bandana tails behind his head. It was a light touch, but even just that made Leo sway, his arms having to slightly go forwards as he forced himself to stay standing. He didn’t know if he would be shocked again if he fell, but from the way black dots swam in Leo’s vision, he couldn’t afford to risk it. “I don’t know, Boss, I think his name would be Blue if he’s named after a color.”

“Nonsense, I’m sure of it,” Draxum declared as Leo weakly shooed the gargoyle away from him with one hand. “It was definitely Green. Besides, that’s but a small detail. I could call him whatever I wanted, really. More importantly, we need to decide how to go about making him my ideal warrior before any of the others show up.”

Leo flinched, one hand absently reaching up to rub at the collar. The skin underneath it already felt raw and uncomfortable; he wondered if it was going to leave scars.

He then wondered if he’d ever be able to even see if it had.

“Ooh, why don’t we inject him with some more ooze?” Muninn suggested, clasping both hands together excitedly, wings fluttering as he hopped slightly into the air. “That seems to make everything better! Think of the possibilities: spikes, a tail, and our personal favorite—”

“Fire-breathing!” The two gargoyles sung at the exact same moment.

“A tempting idea, but no,” Draxum said, shaking his head. “Physically speaking, his body is as good as I had hoped for, it’s the rest of it that’s the issue. Respect and obedience should come naturally with the aid of that collar, but as for training techniques…” Draxum circled Leo yet again; was he trying to make him dizzy enough to fall over? “With the level of sheer incompetence that I’ve witnessed, it would take far too long for me to train him myself from scratch. And I don't trust you two to be in charge of it, either…”

“Ouch, Boss,” Muninn said, one hand over his heart. “That really hurts.”

“Wait, wait, wait!” Huginn flapped harder, shooting over to Draxum. “We actually know exactly how to do this! I mean, not to flex or anything, but Muninn and I did do our fair share of training in school.”

“Uh,” Muninn stammered, looking lost, but a quick elbow from Huginn and he blinked and also smiled at Draxum. “Yeah, absolutely. So…” he trailed off, shooting his friend a nervous glance.

“What faster way to train someone than to just give them a bunch of experience! You know, the good ole ‘learn as you do’ method!”  Huginn finished with a flourish.

“Hmm, you do have a point,” Draxum considered. He stopped walking. “Surprisingly.”

“Why thank you,” Huginn trilled, bowing.

Draxum’s gaze went back onto Leo, who couldn’t help but shrink away, hands nervously reaching up to hold onto the top of his plastron. “And that gives me the perfect idea…”

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“Draxum!” Raph bellowed, kicking open the door, Mikey and Donnie flanking him on either side. The turtle huffed, glancing around the lab as he searched for his target.

The third name on Donnie’s list had to be it, right? Surely. It had taken them far too long to hunt down the Sando Brothers and force them to tell them anything, and the next yokai they had tried had had similar results. April hadn’t found anything, either, but the pizzas had been paid for so… so…

Ugh! Raph couldn’t put these pieces together right now. He just needed to find his younger brother and save him from whatever mess he had found himself in this time.

There was the sound of slow clapping, and the sheep yokai appeared from around the column of ooze, one gargoyle perched on his right shoulder. “Well, well,” he greeted them, a smile on his face. “It’s quite rare for you turtles to come and seek me out. To what do I owe the pleasure?”

“Cut the cr—“ Donnie started to say, but Mikey beat him to it, bounding in front of his brothers. Raph almost reached out to pull him back, but he stopped himself; he understood Mikey’s point of view enough that he had also barged in, weapons ready to go.

“Where’s our brother, you creep?” Mikey demanded, his weapon already spinning in his hands.

“Ah,” the yokai replied, blinking at them. The gargoyle snickered softly, and Draxum glanced at it, some message passing between the two of them. “I’m afraid I have no idea what you’re talking about.”

The way he said it- it was casual. Too casual. That was suspicious, right? Raph couldn’t possibly be the only one to think so. “You’re lying,” he snarled. “What did you do with Leo?”

The gargoyle perked up, about to say something, but Draxum covered it with one of his hands. “Really,” he said, sounding exasperated. “Whatever you silly children are accusing me of, I don’t have any involvement. Search my lab, if you must, but I’m in the middle of some very important experiments. I’d really rather not fight today; but I will, if you insist. That is,” and the yokai sneered at them, eyes flashing. “If you have that kind of time to waste. Whatever you’re up to, it sounds very... urgent.”

(Chapter Four –>) 

[we-arethenewheroes]

I Hate Bullies part1

Stray Kids Felix Imagine

bully!felix x reader

Synopsis : you just got a scholarship (thanks to your amazing grades and talent at handball) and just got transferred to one of the most prestigious high school in Seoul Korea : Inchang Highschool. But of course, life couldn't be so wonderful. (ft enhypen, theboyz, clc and more)

>> Part2 Part3

"The score is 17-17 right now, if we mark, we win, if we don't, they win."

"B-but we have only 1 min left ! Coach, it's impossible !"

"Y/N, do you think you can do it ?"

All eyes turn on you as the coach calls your name. You look at her, straight in the eyes.

"Of course I can."

You hear the high pitch noise of the whistle, signaling to the teams to go back to the field.

Okay, we have the ball, and we've been playing safe so... i just need to...

You look around a little, and as soon as the ball touches your palm, you sprint to the goal, throwing the ball to your teamate who already ran to the other side. The opponents gets it back be you quickly stop the action and get the ball back.

20 second

You get back on your feet and run to the goal again, sprinting and dribbling as fast as you can, you face three other girls trying to stop you, quickly blocked by your teamates.

5 second

You get to the zone, jump and throw the ball. You close your eyes and hear the whistle, ending the game, Then the whole stadium cheering on your side, as your teamates run to you.

"Y/N Oh my god you did it !"

You open your eyes back open to see the ball in the goal, as your opponent goes to shake your hand. You turn to see your coach talking to two inspectors, locking eyes with you, signaling you to join them.

"I must say, you impressed me today Miss L/N"

"You turned around the game and saved your team. You truly have a potential"

"That's why we want you to be part of our handball program, the Hope Pole. It's a girl's scholarship only, it can get you to great universities, and even get you to the national handball team."

"In the meantime, you'll get to study to Inchang High, looking at your grades, you will fit right in. You're actually the first one to get this scholarship, we don't usually go to other schools, but we give it a chance, and we were not disappointed."

You look at the inspectors, shocked of the news.

I did it... I finally got my scholarship...

Your coach looks at you.

"I already talked to your uncle about it, and he wanted the decision to be fully yours. So what do you say ? You're in ?"

She smiles at you.

"Of course I'm in ! Where do I sign !"

You're new trophy in hand, as well as your scholarship papers, you finally get home.

Home sweet home

"Uncle ! I'm home !"

"DON'T GO IN THE KITCHEN !"

This, is my uncle, Kim Jisub.

He's very fun to be around, a great dad to his son and I, and a real, real, loser. He's been trying to be a chef for over 5 years now, with no results.

"Oh my god what did you do..."

"He tried to do some flambé noodles or whatever, didn't really work as you can see"

And this is my cousin, Kim Junho, he's 8 and just starting to get sassy, too sassy actually. He's my uncle's one and only son. His wife dies giving birth to Junho, so for my uncle, his son is very precious to him.

"Uncle ! You can't just burn stuff in the kitchen like that, at leats do it outside, I don't know! Now the only pan we had left is ruined"

"Yessss I'm sorry Y/N, I'll do a few extra shifts at work and I'll buy ten pans, I promise!"

You sigh, seriously...

"Well... Maybe you won't have to do extra shifts...."

"No way.... Don't tell me...."

Your uncle looks at you with big eyes

"You got a job ??"

You sigh again, more annoyed this time.

"No ! iI got my scholarship you idiot !"

Your uncle's eyes get even bigger

"Oh my god- well first of all, don't call me idiot- and Oh My God ! Y/N congrats!"

Your uncle smiles at you and hugs you, congratulating you on your scholarship.

"Hum, am I gonna benefit from your 'scholarship' ?"

You turn to your cousin,

"Well, yes? Probably ?"

"Then, congrats Y/N, I knew you could do it."

He outs on a fake smile, but you know he is actually happy for you. This little brat, I swear

You sitting at the kitchen counter, as your uncle tries to save the burnt pan, while your cousin is in his room.

"So, what's in this scholarship exactly?"

"Well, first, I get to be in the Seoul Girls Team training program, I get to study at Inchang High, AND, I have a big fat check every month to pay for 'school supplies, books and clothes', but we all know here that we just gonna buy some new furniture and pay the rent."

"Oh noo, come one Y/N, you earned it, you do whatever you want with it."

Your uncle goes to clean the burnt pan.

".... How much is it?"

"1 000 000won a month." (~1000$)

Your uncle stop his action and goes quiet for a moment, then turns to you.

"say what now ?"

"You heard it well, Jisub."

Your uncle turns back to the pan, then looks at you, then look at the pan. He picks it up from the sink, goes to the trash can and put the pan in it.

"Uuuh ??? Excuse me sir, you can't just give up like that-"

"Y/N, with 1 000 000won a month, we can pay and the rent, and water, and the gaz, and the electricity, and 20 pans, heck, we can buy new forks and knives, new beddinds- new BEDS"

"Don't go to far"

"You get the point !"

"Yes, I get it. I'll give you the money so you'll be able to pay for everything and don't have to worry about extra shifts."

"Y/N..."

"I knoew your dream is to have your own restaurant, well now you can save your job's money to buy one, and we won't have to worry about money ever again!"

Your uncle looks at you and sits next to you. He sigh.

"I know I'm not the best parent ever, amd can't keep a job to save my life, I forget your birthday, or can't nake it to graduations, but I try my best, to keep you and Junho safe."

You look at your uncle, letting him talk.

"I promised your parents and grandparents to keep you feed and warm, no matter the cost, and I will keep doing that. But this scholarship- this money, you earned it yourself. You accomplished what I couldn't accomplish. This money is yours, keep it. Buy clothes and makeup, video games, new handball outfits- whatever you want to have, have it. Live your teen years. You shouldn't worry about money, you should worry about grades and boys. You'll have plenty of time to worry about money, but this time is not now. Over my dead my body."

You look at your uncle, his eyes tearing, probably sad that he made you worry about money too, also sad talking about your parents.

"Don't worry uncle, I will. I promise."

You smile at your uncle and hug him.

"I hate to see you guys grow up"

"Ookay that's enough sads for today, I'm gonna take a shower"

You get on your feet and head to the shower.

"A few years back I used to shower you ! You were just a little baby!-"

Inchang High, one of the most prestigious school in Seoul, in this school it's just rich kids, sons and daughters of CEO, conglomerates, lawyers, surgeons, heck even politicians. And here I am, daughter of deceased parents, adopted by her jobless uncle. Wow, impressive.

You look at your new school for a few seconds then make your way into the building. You look around and search for the teacher's office. You knock at the open door and get the attention of two professors.

"Ah ! You must be L/N Y/N right? Come over here."

You approach a tall men, pretty young, wearing round black glasses. You stand next to him

"I'm Mr. Choi, your homeroom teacher, and English teacher. Are you excited for your first day?" He asks, smiling at you.

"Yeah, kinda nervous but very excited."

"Don't be, the students are nice, and seeing your excellent grades, you'll get used to this school in no time."

Mr.Choi turns to his well organized and neat desk and get a few books and papers from a drawer.

"Come on, I'll get you to your class, it's the 1-4"

You then follow your teacher out of the office, and into the corridors. He talks to you about the school's history and building but you can't seem to focus.

You look around, seeing all those rich kids. They all look so neat and clean, they all have expensive shoes and bags, jeweleries, immaculate white button ups, well ironed skirts, their uniform all looks so nicely fited. Next to them, I just look like a homeless men, like a fly in the soup..

"Ans here is your class, not everyone is here yet, you can take a sit next to the window, at the 5th row, the class president is at the front row doing some homework, is name is Heeseung, if you need anything you can just ask him, now I gotta go, but I'll see you around, okay?"

You nod at your teacher and bow to him goodbye as he leaves. You take a deep breath before entering the class, you try to look as presentable and open the glass door.

From the outside you could only see the front row, but as you sneak your head inside, you see that every single one of your classmates are already in class, as they turn to you, all going completely silent at the new arrival.

Oh my god they're all looking at me waht do I-

"You must be Y/N," you turn to the voice, "I'm Heeseung, the class president." He stands up,

"Mr.Choi told you about me ?..."

"No" you look at him, quite confused "The principal came to the class lasy friday to tell us you'd be here." Oh boy

"Yeah" you turn to the other voice in the class, this time a girl. "We missed half of our math class because of it."

"O-oh hum well, I-" I'm sweating wdid-

"We should thanks you for that hahhaa" the tension get down immediately as your classmates giggles at the student's comments

"Yeah, the teacher was so pissed, we were supposed to have a test but we couldn't do it"

It's actually goind better than I expected...

Yo see the same girl approaching you "I'm Eunbin, and this is Chanhee, my best friend"

She points at a shy guy with blond hair. You wave at him and he wave back at you.

Heeseung, still standing next to you clears his throat

"Do you know where you have to sit ?"

"Oh, hum yeah, Mr.Choi said I had to sit at the 5th row, next to the window."

Heeseung looks at EunBin, who looks at Chanhee, who looks back at Heeseung. They all seem very... Scared ?

"Wha-what's up guys..?? Is something wrong ?"

Heeseung looks at you "Maybe we should ask the teacher to change your sit or-"

Then, a girl with one of her friend pushes Eunbin to the side to get a look at you. She's scans you from head to toe, cleary judging you.

"Hum, excuse me? Who are you and why are looking at me like I just ran over you dog ?"

"Where did you get those shoes ?"

"Uuhh the store ? Where do you buy shoes, dumbass"

The girl looks at you dead in the eyes "Do you know who I am?"

"well, no, that's why I asked, 'Who are you', or do you not understand ?"

Eunbin holds back her laugh.

"I am the daughter of the-"

"I don't care, actually. What do you want ?"

Even Heeseung can't seem to keep a straight face, turning his back at the girl a little.

"Hu- well- How dare you-"

"Oh my goooood what. do. you. want. Let's get this over with please."

The girl stutters a bit, she clearly didn't expect for you to respond like that.

If she thought that I'd be impressed or scared then she's wrong.

"Look, if you're here to be intimidating, it's not working, okay ? You got here because your the daughter of some conglomerate men, I got here thanks to my talent and hard work, so you're not scaring me."

The girl humphs and turnd on her heels, get out of the room.

"Oh my god, Y/N, you have some balls wtf" Eunbin says, looking at you with her to thumbs up. "You were really cool just now." She looks at Heeseung "She'll do just fine with Lee Felix"

"Lee Felix? Who's that ?" You look at Heeseung.

"He's... Humm your class neighbor !"

"And also a bully." It's the first thing Chanhee ever says to you.

"A bully ? Seriously ? I'm next to a bully? Damn I HATE bullies.."

Chanhee stands up and stans before you. "If you could shut him down like you did with the other girl, I think you could do a lot of good in this class, heck even the school"

You look at Chanhee, "Don't worry, I won't let him bully anyone under my sight, that's for sure."

As you finish talking, you hear the bell ring, and the teacher coming in the room. You take a sit. He's not here yet-

As you think of it, you hear the back door sliding open, seeing a tall guy with black hair, looking at his phone, followed by two other guys talking to each other. The two guys takes sit next to the door as the other guy sit next to you. I assume he's Lee Felix..

You try to not pay much attention to him and concentrate on the lesson.

You can feel the ray of the sunrise shining on your the left side of your face, the warm feeling giving you chills down your back.

You then hear a low voice "You're blocking the light." Lee Felix...

You sigh, not even giving him a look. "Not my problem."

Felix sighs, clearly annoyed at your response. "Who the fuck even are you-" he says as he turns to you, but as his eyes gets to you, he's amazed. It's like seeing an angel...

He's never seen a beauty like your yours, as the sun hugs your features so prefectly, you hair falling on your shoulders, the concentrated look on your face. Everything he sees is perfect.

I found an angel..

A/N: hope you liked it ! Follow me to know the story, part 2 coming very soon !!!! (Class 1-4 is nothing serioussss it's just because my class is the 104 so yeah)

[voltage-vixen]

The Great Pumpkin Surprise

Fandom: Kissed by the Baddest Bidder Pairing:  Eisuke x MC (Female)  Notes: This fic was written for the server gift exchange in the Kings of Paradise discord, and my recipient was @eikouxd. I really hope you like this!

The gentle breeze was chilly on the crisp fall afternoon, and there was a bright mixture of orangish-red leaves that painted the ground. Decorative ghosts hung from the stripped trees in preparation for Halloween since the spooky holiday was nearly upon them. Today, MC had convinced her family to travel outside the bounds of the city to visit a farm known for their festive autumn attractions. Eito was quick to agree, and her husband Eisuke voiced how amusing this trip would probably be for him if he did accompany them. 

A few hours later they were deep into one of the rural suburbs, with a smirking Eisuke and a giddy MC bearing witness of a rare moment where Eito was racing around the farm and acting like a child his age would be expected to act. MC typically would fret over Eito being in such a rush to grow up, but today watching him radiate in childlike innocence while he lit up at the sights warmed her heart. It wasn’t often the three of them were able to escape from their daily routine given the demands of Eisuke’s work schedule, and these occasions were something she treasured when they presented themselves. Well, the three of them and…..

“Eito, come take a look at this gourd!” Ota cried out, holding up the large disfigured fruit for the boy to see. “Doesn’t it remind you of Baba’s face?”“Ota!” 

Baba pouted, feigning annoyance by dramatically crossing his arms over the front of his chest. “How cruel of you! I hardly look a day over twenty! I’m sure everyone here would feel inclined to agree.” Glancing around, the thief’s gaze locked onto Soryu’s, who also happened to be standing nearby. “Sor, don’t you think I have an eternally youthful looking face?”

The mobster rolled his eyes and uttered a loud sigh for once again being dragged into the childish antics of the group. “I don’t know anything about that stuff. Stop trying to get me involved in your shenanigans.”

“You’re pretty uptight for a criminal, aren’t you now?” Mamoru muttered under his breath. Lighting his cigarette, he surveyed the food and beverage stalls up by the entrance. “Do they sell booze at this joint? I need something to help me get through this day that I was coerced into spending with you lot.”

“Ugh, must you really insist on smoking that here?” Shuichi scolded, massaging his temples at the headache he felt oncoming. Seeing Luke nearby, he barked at the spaced-out doctor next to him. “Luke, you’re a medical professional. Inform him at once how neglectful of his health he’s being by smoking those like a chimney.”

“Oh, how I do despise the colder weather,” Luke groaned, ignoring the nagging ambassador. “I can’t even sneak a peek at Sexybones’s exquisite collar bones when she’s wearing this many layers of clothing.”

“Don’t be weird, Luke,” Hikaru murmured, shaking his head over the doctor’s odd obsession. Wanting to ease some of the innocent tension among the bidders, Hikaru decided it would be best to change the subject. “Hey, I promised Maddy I would bring him back some souvenirs. Why don’t we all pick out some together as a group? I bet Maddy would really appreciate that.”

“Good idea, Hikaru!” Baba cheered, immediately beginning to assist Hikaru in ushering the grumbling guys over to the souvenir shop. “Hurry up, everyone! Time’s a wasting!”

Yup, you guessed it! Somewhere along the way, what was intended to be a family trip, somehow escalated into the Ichinomiya family + the auction managers = chaotic group outing.

 Despite the crashers, Eito who had been wandering through the patch in search for the perfect pumpkin, spun around and burst into laughter at the familiar sight of the men he considered uncles causing the same old commotion he had grown to associate them with.

“Remind me why they are here again?” Eisuke scowled, though there was a softness in his face that didn’t align with the harshness of his words while he watched the group disappear into the front of the stop.

“Because they’re our friends,” MC giggled, while she rested her head onto his arm. “Besides, look how much fun Eito is having! Isn’t that what matters the most?” 

Eisuke leaned over to plant a soft kiss on the top of her head, and tenderly stroked her cheek. “That face you’re making now isn’t the worst,” the CEO teasingly mocked. “I suppose a trip like this isn’t half-bad if it means I get to see more of that ridiculous grin you’re wearing.”

“I can’t help the fact that spending time with you two reminds me of how blessed I am,” MC sighed, nuzzling her head against his shoulder. “These moments are precious. They’re the ones I’ll forever cherish from now until the end of my time.”

Eisuke’s heart skipped a beat at the adorableness of MC’s confession, and a rare shade of crimson faintly painted his cheeks. His past self would never have been able to envision that someone like him would ever be fortunate enough to be experiencing his very own version of family bliss. Yet here he stood today as a husband and a father. He used to believe success was measured by one’s professional accomplishments. While the value of business metrics was still one of importance, Eisuke now also factored in the prosperity and good fortune he was privileged to be immersed in from MC and Eito.

“Always honest to a fault,” Eisuke retorted, trusting MC failed to notice his blush. “That’s a quality that deserves a reward, and I don’t intend on making you wait for reimbursement any longer. Come here, baby.” 

Reaching around behind MC, Eisuke placed his hand on her back. Pulling her into his embrace, MC’s body stiffened in a bashfulness from how intimately they were standing in public. The familiar masculine scent of his cologne radiated from his body as her husband wiggled MC even more snugly against him. Eisuke’s hot breath tickled the front of her neck, and his expression softened as he cupped her chin, and MC’s nerves instantly melted away. She wanted to kiss him, and she wanted to kiss him now. Rising on her tip toes, MC inched closer, drawing herself to the part of Eisuke’s lips until-

“Mom, take a look at what I found!” Eito boasted, interrupting his parents by suddenly making his way over. “I found you the perfect pumpkin!”Eito was grinning from ear to ear, his cheeks puffed out in pride as he held up a large, bright orange pumpkin. 

Stepping away from Eisuke, MC crouched down and extended her arms to greet Eito.“Eito, what a wonderful find,” MC cheered, genuinely impressed by the amount of though Eito was putting into ensuring he found her such an impeccable pumpkin.

“If that’s what you consider a superb pumpkin, then you have very juvenile taste,” Eisuke jabbed, miffed that his MC’s attention was taken from him. “Don’t ever present your mother with less than she deserves.”

“Eisuke….,” MC began to interject, but was left unheard since Eisuke was already headed towards the fields. 

“Don’t make excuses for him,” Eisuke replied. “Come on, Eito. Allow me to remind you of what constitutes as an Ichnomiya standard.”

“I don’t need you to tell me anything!” Eito argued. Despite his protests, Eito set aside his pride and chased after his father. 

MC watched from a distance as the two thoroughly inspected the rows of pumpkins. She was able to gather they were quarreling back and forth based on Eito’s everchanging facial expressions, but she was also able to observe the look of admiration Eito often held for Eisuke. Eito was intently hanging onto every word Eisuke spoke, and even divulged his appreciation by offering the billionaire a small nod in approval when they reached an agreement on the ideal pumpkin. Eisuke signaled for one of the workers to come assist, and Eito held the pumpkin proudly to his chest.  

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

A few weeks had passed since that fun day at the pumpkin patch. MC was about to leave their home and meet Eisuke in the lobby of the Tres Spades, when she caught a glimpse at the picture frame of the three of them on the coffee table. Her lips curled in a smile as she recollected that fond memory. Sparing one final peek at the happy photo, she eagerly stepped into the elevator.  

After riding down into the lobby, the doors to the elevator sprung open and MC gasped in awe at the marvelous scene decorating the entrance into the hotel. She could hardly believe that the entire face of the lobby was covered in pumpkins. Each was turned into a different type of jack-o-lantern; carved with intricate details, and brightly illuminating from the inside. The normal atmosphere was vastly transformed into a not-so-spooky Halloween theme.

 “Mom, you’re finally here!” Eito shouted as he ran across the room to greet her.

 “Conduct yourself more appropriately,” Eisuke scolded, frowning when Eito ignored him and continued to race towards his mother and tightly hug her.

“We had the farm deliver all of these pumpkins, and then dad and I asked Uncle Ota to design them since we thought it would make you happy! Did it work? Are you happy?” the little boy asked, his eyes widened in an impatient anticipation as he awaited his mom’s response.

“Of course, I’m happy! You two did an amazing job working together,” MC acknowledged in pride, also addressing Eisuke who had just finished walking over to join her and Eito. “What did I ever do to deserve to be spoiled like this by my two favorite men in the entire world?”

MC wrapped Eito up into a hug and reached out to grasp onto Eisuke’s hand. Knowing that Eisuke and Eito worked through their differences to come together as father and son and plan such an elaborate surprise for her was truly better than any physical gift they could present her with. 

“I love you, guys,” MC whispered, blinking back the tears of joy threatening to spill in elate of her excitement.

“Love you too, mom,” Eito murmured, blushing shyly at the direct confession.

Pressing a kiss on Eito’s forehead, MC captured Eisuke’s gaze with her own. Her eyes flashed in adoration when Eisuke lightly gave her hand a squeeze, and shared the sentimental smile he retained only for her.

I love you too, baby. I love you too.    

[hamliet]

Hey there! I’d like to ask something, if you’re ok with that. In mdzs, a lot of people say that despite JC being so antagonistic towards WWX, he still loves him and misses him. I don’t see how, his actions in any version of the story say the exact opposite to me. Maybe one needs to look between the lines to see it, but I’m horrible at reading others, so if I may bother you and ask what your thoughts are on the subject?

Hey! You are always welcome to ask me questions about MDZS. Especially while we’re all trapped inside.

So I will say I do think Jiang Cheng does indeed love and miss Wei Wuxian. I also think the fandom has a tendency to wipe away Jiang Cheng’s extremely serious flaws (especially in comparison to, say, how they treat Jin Guangyao’s flaws in comparison). Jiang Cheng is very much a foil for Jin Guangyao and for Madame Yu, Wei Wuxian, and Jin Ling (as well as Su She, but that’s perhaps for another meta).

Jiang Cheng’s fundamental defense mechanism is projection. We know already that he is insecure–the way his father treated him is horrible. Madame Yu, in turn, was very clearly projecting her own insecurities onto her son:

Jiang Cheng was stuck between his father and his mother. After a moment of hesitation, he moved to his mother’s side. Holding his shoulders, Madam Yu pushed him forward for Jiang FengMian to see, “Sect Leader Jiang, it seems that some things I have to say. Look carefully—this, is your own son, the future head of Lotus Pier. Even if you frown upon him just because I was the one who bore him, his surname is still Jiang! … I don’t believe for one second that you haven’t heard of how the outside people gossips, that Sect Leader Jiang has still not moved on from a certain Sanren though so many years have passed, regarding the son of his old friend as a son of his own; they’re speculating if Wei Ying is your…”

She’s really asking: I’m here, so why don’t you care about me? Do you really prefer a dead Cangse Sanren to me? But the tragic irony is that the way in which she asks this question only pushes Jiang Fengmian away. And yet, she did love him, which Jiang Fengmian realizes when, in the end, he finds out Madame Yu had taught Zidian to obey his command as well as hers. Zidian is a symbol of her pride and heritage.

Let’s also look at MXTX’s description of Jiang Cheng’s ideal woman. While it’s not in the novel and is extra material, it’s a perfect example of projection:

naturally beautiful, graceful and obedient, hard-working and thrifty, coming from a respected family, cultivation level not too high, personality not too strong, not too talkative, voice not too loud and must treat Jin Ling nicely. 

Is he looking for a wife, or is he looking for Shijie to mother Jin Ling? Because he’s 100% describing Jiang Yanli.

Jiang Cheng does exactly what his mother did to him to Wei Wuxian. He projects his own insecurities, the very ones Madame Yu identified (great job mothering there), onto Wei Wuxian. Why does he hate Wei Wuxian? He hates Wei Wuxian for killing Shijie, when it was Shijie’s own choice to sacrifice herself, and Jiang Cheng then rendered her last sacrifice moot by killing his shixiong. So does Jiang Cheng hate Wei Wuxian, or does he hate himself for killing his sibling in a moment of rage?

It goes deeper, though. Because we see that Jiang Cheng’s fundamental issue is that he hates himself, because he is not as good at cultivation nor as strong as Wei Wuxian, and his father doesn’t love him as much as he loves Wei Wuxian. A child’s mind is going to connect that to “if I’m stronger, Dad will love me.” Jiang Cheng never grew out of this mindset. But what is strength to Jiang Cheng?

It’s protecting the people he loves. So Shijie’s death? He blames himself. One of Jiang Cheng’s most vulnerable moments is when he begs Wei Wuxian to turn away from Yiling and the Wens, because “I can’t protect you.” He wants to protect Wei Wuxian because he couldn’t protect his parents, yet he wants to protect himself more. It’s tragic. What Jin Guangyao said to Jiang Cheng in the temple is true, though of course, it’s not so simple as to be Jiang Cheng’s fault solely. But his insecurities did play a role and were indeed exploited by a cruel, calculating society:

“… Back then, the LanlingJin Sect, the QingheNie Sect, and the GusuLan Sect had already finished fighting over the biggest share. The rest could only get some small shrimps. You, on the other hand, had just rebuilt Lotus Pier and behind you was the YiLing Patriarch, Wei WuXian, the danger of whom was immeasurable. Do you think the other sects would like to see a young sect leader who was so advantaged? Luckily, you didn’t seem to be on good terms with your shixiong, and since everyone thought there was an opportunity, of course they’d add fuels to your fire if they could. No matter what, to weaken the YunmengJiang Sect was to strengthen themselves. Sect Leader Jiang, if only your attitude towards your shixiong was just a bit better, showing everyone that your bond was too strong to be broken for them to have a chance, or if you exhibited just a bit more tolerance after what happened, things wouldn’t have become what they were. Oh, speaking of it, you were also a main force of the siege at Burial Mound…”

Jin Guangyao isn’t wrong here, and unlike Jiang Cheng, he’s aware that society sucks but tries to join it anyways. Jiang Cheng grew up privileged despite his sad home life, and therefore never examined whether society was fair or not (as is reinforced by the early conversation Jiang Cheng and Wei Wuxian have about Jin Guangyao, in which Wei Wuxian expresses that he likes Jin Guangyao and Jiang Cheng says that, as the son of a whore, Jin Guangyao will only be able to climb so far, yet expresses no deeper concern about this). Jin Guangyao’s tragedy was trying to join society in an effort to prove himself to his father, and Jiang Cheng’s tragedy was not examining himself and his role in society in an effort to prove himself to his father as well, both fathers of whom would be better off ignored. Jiang Cheng did rebuild Lotus Pier, but Wei Wuxian learns that the local people are terrified of Jiang Cheng and hate him, while Jin Guangyao actually did protect the common people, yet Jiang Cheng still has a chance to redeem himself in the end and Jin Guangyao does not, which can be chalked up in great part due to privilege.

This isn’t to argue Jiang Cheng is worse than Jin Guangyao, because better/worse is moot in the world of MDZS. The point is that both Jiang Cheng and Jin Guangyao bring about the death of a brother by prioritizing their own wellbeing and proving themselves to the fathers whose approval it is impossible to win (because the problem is with them rather than with Jiang Cheng or Jin Guangyao themselves), would have/did kill a child on the basis of their parentage (Wen Yuan was rescued by Lan Wangji or he would absolutely have been killed, Jin Guangyao does kill A-Song–it doesn’t matter whether or not either of them did/would have done it personally; at the very least they set in motion events they knew would result in a child’s death), and yet both raised and genuinely loved Jin Ling (as Jin Ling himself concludes in the end).

But in regards to Jin Ling, Jiang Cheng’s insecurities make it impossible for him to communicate well with the people he loves. He warns Jin Ling not to come back unless he accomplishes something on Dafan Mountain, which almost gets Jin Ling killed trying to prove himself. (I wrote more about that in this meta here.)

After Wei Wuxian’s resurrection, Jiang Cheng proves that he doesn’t hate Wei Wuxian several times despite claiming he does. Firstly? When Jin Guangyao accuses Mo Xuanyu of being Wei Wuxian in the middle of a crowd, Jiang Cheng could easily turn him in  and be rid of him since Jiang Cheng already knows it. And yet, Jiang Cheng does not do so, even when called upon; instead, his indecision is noted. Secondly, he kept Chenqing with him all these years, when he very easily could have destroyed it (which is another parallel to Jin Guangyao, who kept Suibian, an ultimately useless sword); the flute, on the other hand, is a symbol of demonic cultivation and yet Jiang Cheng does not get rid of it. He went so far as to torture other demonic cultivators to death, many of whom are noted to have been innocent, and yet he kept demonic cultivational tools with him, because it was his brother’s–which also, yes, shows how he hates himself and kind of wants to punish himself, too.

And, of course, there’s the sacrifice that Jiang Cheng never reveals (at least not by the novel’s end). He sacrificed his own life to save Wei Wuxian from the Wens, was willing to give up what he always wanted–to lead Lotus Pier and thereby earn his father’s respect–to save Wei Wuxian’s life. Yet, in the end that led to Wei Wuxian sacrificing his golden core for Jiang Cheng, and in the end, Jiang Cheng can’t tell Wei Wuxian for the same reason Wei Wuxian couldn’t tell Jiang Cheng in his first life: it would sound like an excuse. So, again, Jiang Cheng’s pride is getting in the way–yet, at least this time, he is willing to sacrifice looking good and look worse for the sake of letting Wei Wuxian go.

However, I think there’s reason to hope, as I’ve said before. I did not interpret that ending to mean their relationship was over or could never be significantly close again. Wei Wuxian has let go of a lot of his pride and learned some hard lessons about self-sacrifice and protecting people, and the younger generation is making so much room for nuance and kindness and thereby challenging society. I personally assumed they’d have that conversation eventually, but we didn’t need to see it to assume it would happen.

[itsbebachan]

Unfortunate Soul Chapter 4

Hello again my lovelies, I’m truly sorry for the wait. Covid has really made a mess out of the airline industry which has really affected my job. I haven’t been able to get as much time has I would have liked to write seeing as I had to get a second job to make up for not being able to fly as much. But like I have promised in the past I will finish this story. Thank you for all of those that have left comments, liked and have even subscribed to my story. You truly have no idea how happy you all have made me, it truly gives me inspiration knowing people out there like my work. So Thank You So Much, I will see you next time.

I woke to the chatter of voices. I looked around my small white wall room and realized that I was in the hospital. I could see my parents talking in soft voices about what had happened the day prior. I stayed very still, giving the illusion that I was still asleep. I need to hear their conversation; I wanted to know what it was all about. I looked around the room and saw a few files on my bedside table; I know that those must be my potential mates.

"This can't be happening, Toshi. Izuku had so many dreams that he wanted to accomplish. Katsuki took that away from him! I can't believe that Katsuki would do something like this. I should have tried harder when I spoke to Mitsuki, and maybe we could have come up with a better solution than Izuku having to go through this arranged marriage."

"Shota, having Katsuki marry Izuku would have been the ideal plan, but do you want our son to be with someone that clearly doesn't want him. He may go along with it if we force him. But in the long run, it would be very detrimental to Izku's mental and emotional health, and God only knows if that kid turns out to be a complete asshole and causes physical harm to our boy."

"But an arranged marriage, Toshi. Don't you think that's a little bit extreme? Shouldn't we at least let him find someone that would be right for him instead of choosing for him?"

"Sho, Honey. It's the best solution. We can't wait any longer. The doctor already told us that he is already at the end of this first trimester; he will start showing soon. We are running out of time; our society will not accept him otherwise."

"Dad, mom. I really don't mind seeing what will become of this arranged marriage."

At my words, they both stopped and stared at me. Confusion mirrored their faces. I continued and hoped that they wouldn't stop me in the middle of my sentence. "Look, I understand what has to happen. I truly am disappointed that I can't marry my child's father, but if he doesn't want us, then fuck him. I'm not going to raise my child with a man that hates us both. Yes, Katsuki is the love of my life, but I have to do what is best for my baby."

Following my words, my mom came to sit on the edge of my bed. "I'm so sorry, baby. I wish this were not happening to you. And if I could change it, you better believe that I would. I wish you would have come to us sooner, then maybe things could have been different."

I reached out my hand to hold his with a small smile on my face. "I know, mom, this is all my fault. You and dad are the most important people in my life, but I was so scared that you would hate me and abandon me. Can you ever forgive me for not coming to you first?"

"Zuku, my boy. You have nothing to be scared of, your mother and I will always love you. No matter what happens. We will figure things out." Dad said as he also made his way to my bed.

"Now, don't misunderstand. This situation is not what we dreamed for you and damn Katsuki. He will not get away without being made responsible. You can be sure about that; your mother already informed his parents that he would have to pay you child support, but we believe it is best if you find another mate. I'll be DAMNED if I let that son of a bitch hurt you again."

I smiled at my parents, knowing that everything they have done has been for my well-being, and I know deep down in my heart that they would always be there for me when I needed them. I sat a little bit straighter on my bed and looked at the stack of files on my nightside table, the thought of meeting a complete stranger made me nervous, but I know that there was no other way. Kacchan would never change his mind about us, and I was too scared to raise my kid alone. Reaching over, I pulled the files to my lap and grassed my fingers over the covers. In these files were the names and photos of my future husband. Having the flies so close truly made my situation feel extremely real. There was no turning back now.

"You don't have to go throw them right now, baby. Just rest for today. Will let you sleep, and we will be back later to take you home." With a kiss on my forehead, my mom started heading to the door. "Sleep, my boy. You still have plenty of time tomorrow to go through those. It's best to go into this with a clear head." My dad ruffled my hair and followed my mom out the door.

Sighing, I looked at the folders again; this was it. The moment my life would change. I wonder what my future husband would be like if he would be understanding of my situation. The thought of him not accepting my child was heartbreaking. But I knew I would do anything to protect my baby, even if it meant marrying a man that I did not love. Picking the top file and placing the other two on the nightstand, I open it to the first page. The guy in the photo was around my age, with lovely corn color hair and a babyface. His tiny blue eyes had a scene of adventure and fun. They grabbed my attention instantly, which made his smile appear like a ray of light. He looked very handsome in his white shirt and green pants uniform. He was handsome, indeed.

Name: Togata Mirio

Birthday July 15, 2516

Age: 19

Birthplace: Chiba Prefecture

Quirk: Permeation/Formally

Occupation: College Student at Tokyo U

Favorite Color: Green

Favorite Food: Ramen

Hobbies: Comedy

He enjoys making people laugh and sees life as a beautiful adventure. He works part-time at an orphanage where he is well-loved.

With a small smile, I placed his file to the side and reached for the next one. Once I opened it, it blessed me with the most captivating face I have ever seen. He had a small smile on his face, but his beautiful blue and grey had so much sadness in them. It tugged at my heartstrings and made me want to know more about him. His beautiful white and red hair was unique in its beauty; it suited him well. The red mark around his left blue eye makes him intriguing and mysterious.

Name: Todoroki Shoto

Birthday: January 11, 2513

Age: 22

Birthplace: Musutafu

Quirk: Half Cold - Half Hot

Occupation: CEO Todoroki Industry

Favorite Color: Grey

Favorite Food: Cold Soba

Hobbies: Going to the gym and visiting his mother

He loves visiting his sick mother in a lovely home that was bought by him. He is a very loving and caring child and makes sure that his mother has everything he needs.

Knowing that he took such great care of his mother frankly spoke to my soul. I would do anything in my power for my mom, and it showed me that he had a kind soul. I reached for the last file, wondering what kind of man he would be. So far, I had two beautiful candidates, the anxiety that had been building over the past few days had started to lessen. Opening the last file, I see a man that was in desperate need of sleep. He reminded me of my mom with these heavy bags under his eyes. His dark purple eyes are so intense that it brought a shiver up my spine. He looks intimidating, giving off the impression that he has lived a hard life. His long tufts of indigo hair were messy and flaring out everywhere.

Name: Hitoshi Shinso

Birthday: July 1, 2512

Age: 22

Birthplace: Santana Prefecture

Quirk: Brainwashing

Occupation: Accountant for Angelic Hormonal Watch Monitor

Favorite Cool: Burgundy

Favorite food: Gyudon

Hobbies: Going for bicycle rides and playing with his cat named Mimi

He works very long hours as an accountant, which doesn't give him much free time. He enjoys going walking his cat Mimi in the park and going camping.

After reading his file, I understand why he looks so tired. I couldn't imagine being stuck in an office all day. Closing his file, I laid my head on my pillow and closed my eyes. Reading about these men had brought a little bit of hope into my heart. Being without Kacchan was killing me, the pain of his loss still too fresh, too new. But with time, I know that I could learn to like or even love one of my new suitors. Only time would tell.

That afternoon my parents came to pick me from the hospital. The weather outside was cloudy and cold in the autumn afternoon. The drive home was silent, which gave me plenty of time to let my mind wander. My mind was still reeling from the information I had read. They all seemed like good candidates. They all have something in common with me, Togata sharing my birthday or the fact that Hitoshi's love for cats just like me. The matchmaker listened to my mother's advice when it came to finding the right mate for me. The excitement of meeting them was overwhelming. My mom could see my excitement too. He turned around in his seat and asked if I was feeling well.

"Yeah, mom. I was just thinking about my suitors." At my words, his eyes widened, a small smile appeared on his face.

"So you read over their files. Is it worth getting to know them?" He asked me with pure curiosity. My dad was listening very intently for my answer.

"Of course, it is. Did you know that one of the guys shares my birthday? His name is Togata Mirio. He is 19, only a year older than me. He's a college student, but he works part-time at an orphanage. Then there is Todoroki Shoto, his 22 and is the CEO of the Todoroki Industry if I'm not mistaken, that's one of the largest computer companies in the world. The last guy reminds me of you, mom."

"How so, baby? He asked with a smile on his face, the look of confusion evident in his eyes.

"Well, he works as an accountant for dad's company, so he doesn't get much free time. His bags under his eyes can rival yours." I say, giddy. I was covering my mouth so I wouldn't laugh.

"I do not have bags under my eyes, young man." My comment on his beauty affronted him.

"Honey, it would help your health if you would take it easy once and a while. Zuku is just looking out for you." Dad tried to help but only got a nasty look from my mom.

"Nevermind all that, tell me more about this guy. What's his name?"

"His name is Hitoshi Shinso; he is 23. He loves going outdoors and has a cat named Mimi. If I were to be stuck in an office all day, I would love the outdoors too." I finished with a smile.

"That sounds fantastic, honey. The matchmaker sure picked out some quality candidates. I'm just a little concerned that two of them are a bit older than you."

"Sho, I'm three years older than you. What's the big deal?" He looks at my mom with a smile on his face. "It's not that different from us, and one of them is a CEO. You can't get a better mate than that." He turns his gaze back to the road; my mom gives up the argument. "All right, you win. I don't know why I even bother." Turning back around on his seat.

I start laughing at their antics. After all these years, the love they felt for each other was in every word they spoke. I wish that I could feel that way too. I look outside my window and see the city passing by; my thoughts on the man I love and the hurt I fell, knowing that he will never be mine. But there was hope, hope that one of these incredible men would fill my life with happiness, and after everything I have been through these past few weeks. I was looking forward to a new beginning.

@alovelie @girl2257 @strawberry-panic @0-ddball @monkeyzz-r-ur-bff @dragon-lover-idk @iyemicomic1920 @leynly @otaku-chan-world @jawazia @im-the-villin-in-this-story @itsatomichyena @rainytears2 @nevergrowingup101 @littlelovebug98 @koyukiy @justthememes1

[bssaz97]

Hey can we get a sequel to the happy room where after much arguing and childish temper tantrums jaune caves in and starts liking the room much the everyone’s delight thank you for reading this have a awesome day

The Happy Place 2

Jaune: “Let me go you traitors! I will not be forced against my will!” *wiggles against his restraints*

Ruby: “Jaune this is for your own good.” *finishes duct-tapping him to the comfort chair*

Jaune: “You can’t just force me to like this place!”

Yang: “Sorry but you really have a choice in the matter now.” *finishes tapping up a controller in his grasp*

Nora: “Here Jaune-Jaune, you even get a gaming cup!” *Pulls out a large plastic cup that’s reminiscent of a sippy cup*

Jaune: “Ok now that’s just degrading!”

Weiss: “If you continue to act like a child Arc, then we will start treating you like a child!” *sticks a pacifier in his mouth*

Jaune: *spits it out* “I’m not a baby! I’m-!”

Ren: *places hand on Jaune’s head*

Jaune: “Fine. Do what you guys want.”

Yang: “Wait a second! You could’ve done that the whole time!” *glares at Ren*

Weiss: “Why didn’t you do that before?!”

Ren: “I can’t use my semblance on something that’s running away.”

Weiss/Yang: “.....Ohhh.”

Ruby: “Sorry Vomit Boy. But since you’ve refused to stay in the room by choice, we’re gonna have to make it mandatory.”

Jaune: “There is no true choice in the world. Only actions and outcomes. Either way what’s the point. We’re all gonna die in the end.”

Oscar: “WOW. He really needs this room more than I thought.”

RWBYNR: “We know.” *deadpans*

Ruby: “Ok Jaune. We’re gonna leave you in here so just sit and relax.” *turns on the screen that has a gaming menu opened with multiple games added on the playlist*

Jaune: “Ok.”

-The Next Day-

Jaune: *left and right* “Ok. Time to go.”

Slowly Jaune creeps by both teams dorms and does his best to keep quiet. They may have caught him yesterday, but they won’t succeed today. He’s secretly memorized each one of his friends sleeping patterns and plans that if he leaves to train before they notice him then they won’t proceed to follow him. Jaune hasn’t done this tactic since Mistral but he knows it’s full proof as he knows no one took notice that he did such a thing while one their journey. He begins to make it down the when he froze when he felt someone tapping on his shoulder.

Jaune: *slowly turns to look behind him*

Behind Jaune was Ruby, Nora, Ren and Blake, giving him the most tired glares he’s ever seen.

Jaune: *whispered* “Umm... Hi, you guys up to go grab a glass of water too?”

Ren: “You grab water with your weapon and armor on?” *points out*

Jaune: “Umm... Maybe.”

Ruby: “You sure you’re not gonna go train in the middle of the night and wake up with barely enough sleep to function tomorrow morning, Vomit Boy?”

Jaune: ‘Curses, I didn’t count on Ruby knowing my secrets! Then again I suppose having my girlfriend finding out I’m sneaking out to go train in the middle of the night isn’t as bad as how most of these situations goes to others. At least I hope not. Never mind that Jaune, you need to think of an excuse to why you’re out here before they try to foil the plan!.’ *thinks to himself*

Jaune: “Well... It makes me feel powerful enough to scare away the night ghouls.”

RBRN: 🤨

Jaune: ‘...Night ghouls. That was your best excuse? It’s was the best I could think of in the time I had! Good gods man, you couldn’t have thought of oh I don’t know any other plausible explanation to explain why you have your freaking armor on in the middle of the night! Hey I don’t see you thinking about anything at the moment, why don’t you try to fix this! Fine I will!’ *mentally arguing with himself*

Jaune: “Sorry that was a bad attempt at a joke. What I meant to say was that I wanted to have my armor on so that no Atlesian guards would catch me in my pajamas. Gotta save some dignity you know?”

Blake: “Wow. That sounds like a great explanation.” *says with a sarcastic tone*

Jaune: “Thank you.” *didn’t notice the sarcasm*

Blake: “But! There’s one flaw in your story.” *points at him with her index finger*

Jaune: “What ever could that be.” *starts getting nervous under her glare*

Blake: “Our rooms have a filtered water dispenser. So why would you ever need to go get water from outside of your room?”

Jaune: ....

RBRN: ....

Jaune: “....YOU’RE NEVER GETTING ME ALIVE!” *starts sprinting down the hall*

Ruby: “Nora.”

Nora: “I got ‘em.” *hold up one of her emptied grenade canister and throws it down the hall in a perfect spiral*

*Ting!*

Jaune: “AGH! MY LEG!”

Nora: “Touchdown!” *raises both arms in the air*

-The Next, Next Day-

Jaune: ‘Ok so the plan last night didn’t work, but that’s no issue you’re not used to seeing. You’ve been through worse situations before and you’ve overcome them... most of the time... ok sometimes. But that’s besides the point. You are an Arc, and Arc’s do not give up remember what your dear old dad said!’

////Flashback////

Papa Arc: “Remember son, if you’re ever in a situation where you are forced to slow down on being a great huntsman... listen to them. Because being a huntsman is bad and you should never try to run away from home and be something you’re not meant to be. Trust me son, it’ll be better for you in the long run. Now run along and play while I go and earn bread for the family. See you in two months son! Also don’t touch great-great grandfather’s sword!”

////Flashback End////

Jaune: 😐

Jaune: “I’m starting to think I have more issues than I originally thought. Anyway, you are a Arc and Arc’s don’t surrender easily! The others are out on missions right now, so there’s nobody around to force me to into that room of lies and deceit.”

Penny: “Salutations friend of Ruby’s!” *says from behind him*

Jaune: “Gah! Where’d you come from!” *jumps in place to turn around*

Penny: “Oh my apologies Friend of Ruby, it was never my intention to startle you. I was just hoping to surprise you with my presence.”

Jaune: “‘sigh’ That’s alright Penny. So what did Ironwood or Winter send you?”

Penny: “Nope. I have actually been issued a special secret assignment from Friend-Ruby to watch over you.” 😊

Jaune: “...Is it still a ‘secret’ mission if you tell me about it?”

Penny: “Silly Friend of Ruby, my mission is to keep it a secret from General Ironwood.” *she says then whispers to him the last part*

Jaune: “Hmm. I guess that makes sense.”

Penny: “I’m pleased that you agree Friend of Ruby.”

Jaune: “Also why are you calling me ‘Friend of Ruby’? Not that there’s anything wrong with that but why not call me by my name?”

Penny: “Oh that’s simple Friend of Ruby, it’s because I have yet to learn your name!”

Jaune: “Really? Ruby never told you my name?”

Penny: “That is correct. Although in Friend-Ruby’s defense I have yet to properly interact with anyone else in your teams.” *her smile never ceasing*

Jaune: ‘Huh. Now that I think about it, none of us has really ever gotten the chance to get to know Penny as well Ruby did.’

Jaune: “Well my name’s Jaune Arc.” *offers to shake hands*

Penny: “Splendid! I’m happy to meet you Friend-Jaune!” *shakes his hand rapidly and enthusiastically*

Jaune: *rubs his sore hand* “‘hiss!’ You don’t need to call me-you know what never mind, it’s probably going to be easier on both of us if I don’t question it.”

Penny: “Very well then, let us be on our way!”

Jaune: “Where are we going?”

Penny: “We are going to be visiting your designated room of happiness. That is what Friend-Ruby asked me to accomplish while she was away.”

Jaune: “Um, actually why don’t we go do something else that’s fun! Like... going to train, I don’t think I ever had the opportunity to spar with you ever so I want to see how I would fair against Mantle’s hero.”

Penny: “‘gasp!’ That sounds like a splendid idea! Let’s- Oh wait! Friend-Ruby instructed me to not allow you near the training room while she was away so I’m afraid that’s going to be impossible to do.”

Jaune: ‘Crap! I should’ve known that Ruby would go ahead and ask Penny to keep me away from the training room. What am I going to do now..... wait a minute.’

Jaune: “Wait so Ruby said that we can’t go to the training room to spar right?”

Penny: “Correct.” *nods*

Jaune: “What about sparring somewhere else then? Someplace that’s not the training room?”

Penny: “Hmm. Friend-Ruby didn’t specify anything about sparring outside of the training room.”

Jaune: “Well there we go then, why don’t we go spar somewhere else that’s not the training room then!” *smiles with exaggerated enthusiasm*

Penny: “Well... I don’t see anything wrong about that then. Come along New Friend-Jaune! We must make haste!”

Penny activates her rocket thrusters then grabs onto Jaune, wrapping her arms under his armpits and carries him along with her to search for a place to spar.

Jaune: “Waitwaitwaitwaitwaitwaitwait Penny!”

*Twenty Minutes Later*

After finding a suitable place to spar, Penny initiated her landing procedure and softly settles Jaune down onto the ground then lands herself onto the ground.

Penny: “What an exhilarating flight! Although I do apologize Friend-Jaune about the several evasive maneuvers during our way here. I was searching in multiple areas to see which would be suitable for our sparring match. I hope it was no problem.”

Jaune: *wiping any vomit residue with his forearm* “‘bleh’ That’s ok... as long as we’re here.”

Penny: “So shall we begin Friend-Jaune?”

Jaune: “You know what, maybe we should wait a minute or so before we start. You know, warm up and stuff.” *says while crouching down so to calm his stomach*

Penny: “Is this how you ‘warm up’, Friend-Jaune?” *says while copying Jaune’s crouching form*

Jaune: “Sure, why not.” *nods*

Penny: “Friend-Jaune, is it alright if ask you a ‘personal’ question?”

Jaune: “Go ahead. We have time.”

Penny: “Do you dislike being happy?” *tilts her head in a innocent manner*

Jaune: “....What?”

Penny: “I do not mean to offend Friend-Jaune. I’m just curious about your view upon the matter.”

Jaune: “Do I dislike being happy? No, of course not. Who in their right mind say ‘no’ to that?”

Penny: “Well, would you like for me to explain my view on the matter?”

Jaune: “Uhhh... sure, go ahead.” *being confused where this conversation was going*

Penny: “Well from what I’ve observed for awhile now there are two significant results to happiness. The first benefit of being happy is that it is a vital part of maintaining one’s proper mental/emotional health and usually leads to a longer life.”

Jaune: ‘Oh boy here we go. This is probably why Ruby asked Penny to watch me.’

Penny: “The secondary benefit to being happy is the most fulfilling I believe! It is a fulfilling emotion or feeling that one gets after doing something good for themselves or others.”

Jaune: “Yep. That sounds about right.”

Penny: “Which brings us back to my previous question. I was confused as to why someone like yourself seems to avoid the fulfillment of happiness when it has been so easily presented in front of you by your teammates and friends. If I were given such a thoughtful gift then I think my Aura core would self destruct from excitement!”

Jaune: “Please tell me that’s an exaggeration.” *says worriedly*

Jaune: ‘Otherwise I gotta tell Ruby to never plan any birthday parties for you at the risk of accidentally blowing you up.’

Penny: “Have no fear Friend-Jaune! My core is made out of a very strong alloy so it will not self destruct.”

Jaune: “Ok good.” *sighs in relief*

Penny: “So Friend-Jaune, when the others showed you the room did you not feel surprised or happy?”

Jaune: “Well I was surprised that’s for sure...”

Penny: “But not happy?”

Jaune: “...I guess not.” *bows head a little bit*

Penny: “Friend-Jaune, is it ok if I ask another question?”

Jaune: “Sure Penny.”

Penny: “Does Ruby or your friends make you happy?”

Jaune: “Of course they do! I wouldn’t know what to do without them. But lately they’ve been trying to force me to go into that room expecting that I’ll be happier just by going there. It feels like whenever I go in there the others think there’s something wrong with me, you know?”

Penny: “Do you think there’s something wrong with you Friend-Jaune?” *asks while tilting her head*

Jaune: “I mean... I’ve been getting better at controlling my emotions. Well I think I am anyway.” *sits down on the snow covered ground*

Penny: “I can detect a bit of uncertainty in your voice Friend-Jaune.” *sits down with him*

Jaune: “...Probably cause there is. Penny do you think everyone is entitled to their own happiness?”

Penny: “Hmmm... well as long as no one is harmed or killed in the process then I don’t see why not.”

Jaune: “I used to think that too, but lately as everything with this fight against Salem has been going on I can’t help but wonder, there are others that have fought and died so that I have the right to be happy, but do I really deserve it? So far I don’t think I have done anything extraordinary or worthy of being happy. Sometimes I wonder why they even bother trying to cheer me up with something that will never last.”

Penny: “Have you considered perhaps it’s not so much of you deserving the happiness but more of your friends wanting to see you be happy and in a good state of mind?”

Jaune: “...I still don’t see the big deal in all this effort though.”

Penny: “Well in my experience of having friends, I’ve determined that making others happy doesn’t always have to be logical.“

Jaune: “Yeah but why give me a room all to myself? That’s just like saying ‘We want you to be happy so don’t feel the need to worry about us, as long as you’re happy!’ It just feels wrong. Like I’m the only one that deserves to be happy in their minds. They’ve done so much more than me if we’re talking about good deeds and they’ve gone through so much more than me.”

Penny: “So you don’t want to go into room because it will feel like it’s exclusively for you?”

Jaune: “Pretty much...”

Penny: “...Does it make you feel excluded from your friends?”

Jaune: “...Yeah.”

Penny: “Well why not tell them that?”

Jaune: “Because they’ve already spent so much effort in making the room. I just...don’t want to let them down.”

Penny: “Well maybe you should ask yourself what makes you happy Friend-Jaune.”

Jaune: “...Thanks Penny, I will. You know you’re actually good at talking to other people. If you weren’t set on being a huntress I’d make you my therapist.”

Penny: “Thank you Friend-Jaune. Now would you like to begin our sparring now or would you rather have me take you back to Atlas?”

Jaune: “We should probably get back, don’t want Ironwood or Winter worried about you.”

Penny: “There’s no need to worry about that. I’ve temporarily disabled their ability to track me before arriving here.”

Jaune: “....And you’re sure that was a good idea?”

Penny: “Why of course Friend-Jaune. They won’t panic if I’m gone for only a few hours.”

Jaune/Penny: ......

Jaune: “We should probably go now.”

Penny: “Yes that be a wise decision.”

*The Next, Next, Next Day*

Jaune stood before team RWBY and his own in front of the dubbed “Happy Room,” as he asked to speak to all of them to discuss about the last few days.

Jaune: “Ok, now I’m sure many of you are wondering why I asked you all to come here. I know things have been pretty hectic for us all in regards to this issue so I’ll be straight to the point.... I have a problem accepting being happy.”

Weiss: “No.” *says in sarcastic tone*

Ruby: *shushes her*

Jaune: “But I’m not here to talk about that bottomless barrel. What I want to talk about is about how we’re going to do about the room situation. I know you all mean well and I do appreciate the effort made to making this place for me...but the truth is I don’t think the way this arrangement is right now is gonna work out for any of us.”

Everyone tensed up at the last part of what Jaune said.

Ruby: “Jaune-.”

Jaune: “Ruby please I just need to say what i need to say.”

Ruby: “...Ok.”

Jaune: *breathes in* “So back to what I was saying before. I don’t think the way this arrangement is right now is gonna work out for any of us...which is why I have an idea that might help fix the problem.”

RWBYNOR: 🤨

Jaune: “I spent a good part of yesterday thinking about this and I think for the benefit of all of us, we should share the room.”

RWBYNOR: O_O

Nora: “Huh?”

Jaune: “I know you all care about me being happier and more relaxed but I also care about your happiness too. Which is why I’ve been so hesitant to actually use the room because I don’t want to exclude any of the time I spend with you all and that’s why I think it would be to everyone’s benefit if this room was used for everyone’s enjoyment. So what do you all think?”

RWBY and NOR think about Jaune’s offer, then huddle up where they all muttered amongst themselves about how everyone felt about it. Once they had finished conversing they separated and Ruby walked forward looking at Jaune.

Ruby: “So if we accept this resolution of yours, will you promise start using the room?”

Jaune: “I will promise as an Arc.” *he nods*

Ruby: *smiles* “Then I personally don’t see why we can’t give this a shot.”

Jaune: “Great to hear. Also sorry that I’ve been giving you all a hard time.”

Yang: “We’ll forgive you as long as you start using the room.”

Jaune: “Of course.”

Ruby: “Also.” *raises a finger*

Jaune: “Hmm?”

Ruby: “...If you give me a hug.” *blushes while opening her arms*

For the past few days things had been tense between the two of them so Ruby greatly missed the warmth his aura/person provided for her.

Jaune: “Sure thing Crater Face.” *envelops her in a hug, lifting her off the ground*

Ruby: ^//_//^

BYN: “Aww.”

*Some Days Later*

RWBY and JNPR by now have fully adjusted to being regular visitors of the ‘Happy Room.’ Despite having mixed feelings towards the place at the start, Jaune found himself enjoying the the time he gets to spend with Ruby, his and her teams while there.

Ruby: “So enjoying the room now?” *said while sitting on his lap while sharing a comic book*

Jaune: “*chuckles* Yep. But it’s definitely better spent while with company.” *pats her head*

Ruby: “Good to know” *snuggles into his chest*

-Fin-

@thelastdragneel6417 hope you and everyone else enjoy this one. Probably gonna finish off this story as a two shot, but I had a blast writing it.

[writtenbyhappynerds]

Fanfiction 102: Unit 1, Villains

        Welcome back to class! The topic of villains came up while writing Fanfiction 101. The Editor and I consider villains important. They are the most important characters in a narrative because it is their actions and their choices that shape the plot, the desires of the main character, and their actions. Usually, in fanfiction, you already have a villain. If you write Harry Potter fanfic, your villains are Voldemort, Umbridge, Snape, Lucius, etc. If you write Supernatural fanfic, your villains are Crowley, Lucifer, Chuck, etc. We can acknowledge that for most fanfic writers the most you’ll have to do is accurately capture the voice of a villain so you can replicate them for your story in a way the audience will believe. This is done by studying the character and taking care to not reduce the villain to a one-note trait of their personality. However, we see lots of fanfic writers add in their own villains; these are usually secondary or minor characters. Sometimes they are backstory villains only, or sometimes they’re just bullies meant to be an added antagonist. These villains, because they are all your own, need to be the most important characters in your stories, and that’s why we’re here to talk today.

          Villains are the most difficult to figure out. When you write a villain, you are writing a character and explaining to yourself, and therefore the audience, not only why this person is a bad guy, but why they’re doing bad things. I do not like villains who are Bad Guy McBadGuys that exist solely to make the OC’s life miserable. That isn’t a villain. That’s an asshole. These characters are the most common villains we see, and I myself am guilty of writing them in the past because we don’t want to give the bad guys thought. Usually, the writer wants to focus on the protagonist, but the side characters and opposing characters need way more thought than the OC. The OC’s motivations are easy to figure out. Their job is to complete the quest, save the day, and oppose the villain. Their entire goal as a character can be written around a villain, and when that happens you better be damn sure you know why the villain is doing what they’re doing. One-note villains are common in both Harry Potter and the Avengers. Usually, this is because the villain is either a Death Eater or HYDRA, and they can be bad for the sake of being bad because we know both groups are bad guys. I want you to remove yourselves from that approach. I would highly encourage you to read the comic series published a few years back called Captain America: Hail HYDRA. If you know Avengers you probably know this comic, because it’s the one where the writers tried to say that Captain America, God’s Righteous Man, has been a secret HYDRA agent this whole time. It was a whole Twitter moment, it was the #saynotoHYDRACap thing. That comic. In that comic, along with Captain America pledging his support to HYDRA, is an account from a character named Robbie Dean Tomlin. We as the audience follow Robbie’s story and see how a young kid can get wrapped up in an organization like HYDRA and get beaten and broken down to the point that he’s willing to become a suicide bomber for them. What Hail HYDRA can teach us is how to make a villain relatable, and how a normal character can get wrapped up in a group that we as an audience can look at and immediately know is bad. We see them as evil, but we never question why or how a character gets involved in that. If you are going to write a villain that can compel an audience, you need to start asking those questions. Why is this character where they are? Are they angry? Are they scared of someone else? Does this character think they’re doing the right thing? If so, why are they/do they use violence to accomplish their goals? Why is that necessary? When you look at Robbie Dean Tomlin’s story you can answer all those questions. You get him not as a villain, but as a character, and that’s where it starts.

          Another great example of villains as characters and not as bad guys is found in Avatar: The Last Airbender. Specifically the episode ‘The Boiling Rock’ where Sokka and Zuko break into the Fire Nation’s highest security prison and pretend to be guards. Their goal is to break Sokka’s dad and girlfriend Suki out of prison. The important note is that during the episode Sokka is able to chat with the Fire Nation guards. These people are his adversaries in this episode. They could imprison or kill him if he is discovered, but the guards aren’t set on that. They aren’t hell-bent on torturing the prisoners either. They’re just people. Not only that they’re nice people. The guards are nice to each other. They’re nice to Sokka, and they give not only their characters but the Fire Nation more dimension. Not every Death Eater under Voldemort is going to share his exact viewpoints or his bloodthirst. They are not all hell-bent on, ‘I must capture and kill Harry Potter,’ or, ‘I must spit in the face of muggles and mudbloods because they have to know their place.’ The same is true for HYDRA, or the Empire if you’re writing for Star Wars or the Fire Nation. You have to start writing your characters as people and give them the backstory and reasoning that would make them evil.

          Me personally, when I am writing a story the villain is the first character I write. I want to know them and know why they’re about to be mean to my OC. We’ll use two different villains I’ve written as examples: Anna and Sion. We will also use a common villain from fanfiction, Dolores Umbridge, for comparison.

          Treat your villains like protagonists. In a sense, they are the protagonists of their own stories, they just happen to be the antagonists of your OC’s. Know about their hobbies. Whether they have a family. If they don’t, what happened to that family? This information doesn’t need to be used necessarily, but it helps you as a writer know your antagonist as a person. For Anna, I know that she loves the outdoors. She likes rock-climbing and kayaking and she enjoys time outside. I know she has a son that she loves dearly, and she has a specific brand of French candy that she keeps well-stocked for herself. Sion, I know she has been married twice and has kids from both marriages. I know she likes fantasy novels because the idea of mythical beasts sounds cool to her. Dolores Umbridge, we know as readers loves the color pink. She likes frilly and lacy things. She loves cats. She’s the epitome of the old white ladies who shop at Dillards. It’s okay for you to give your villains something that isn’t stereotypically villainous. When we get into good examples of villains we’ll explain more why quirks and characterization is so important.

          Once you’ve created a character with a personality, start to flesh out where they work. What they do. This will give you a better idea of how they will interact with the OC. This too can be against the grain of stereotypical villains, which the Editor and I usually see as men in dark rooms brooding over something we the audience don’t know and beating the OC because it’s fun. Again, that isn’t a villain, that’s just an asshole. I also as a reader don’t know who that villain is as a person. I just know that I’m supposed to really really hate him or her because they’re mean to the OC. So, give them a personality, and tell me about their life. Are they the CEO of a massive corporation? Are they politicians? A teacher? A spy? Give me something I can take in and help me as the reader understand who this person is. We know Dolores is senior undersecretary to the Minister. She is a woman in a high place who loves her job. Anna, for example, we’ll say is a former spy. She was a spy when she was younger and has moved up in her organization to the point where she oversees other agents and acts as their support. Sion on the contrary is the head of the department of Chemistry wherever she works. She oversees students and has her own research lab. All characters have opportunities to interact with people, and therefore the OC. Your villain shouldn’t be a hermit. That’s less realistic, because then, how can we expect them to go antagonize the OC if they never leave the house?

          So, we now have a character with a personality, and we have a character with a career that fits their story. A good way that I’ve found to turn a character who would otherwise be good evil, is to pile on those flaws and have them act on their weaknesses more so than their strengths. We give our protagonists strengths and weaknesses but seldom do they lean on their weaknesses and put faith in insecurities. Let your villains down that kool-aid. It’ll make the drop into madness smoother. For Sion, we’ll have a character who is insecure. She is insecure about her usefulness, she’s worried her department will be absorbed into another, she’s insecure about her age and about some freak from nowhere with none of her training or experience being able to take away and undercut her value in the society she lives in. She has many children to provide for, and has a lot to lose should she lose her job (psst, this is where the OC comes in). Anna as a character grew a bit differently. Her insecurities came from her backstory, where she fell in love with another spy, had a long happy life with that spy until the same life that brought them together and made the world a game killed him. Her weaknesses come in that she feels abused by the system, and that she will not let others be abused by the same system. She feels more gallant than a character like Sion, and that she is saving characters who wouldn’t listen to her otherwise. Who doesn’t understand that the world is filled with bad people and no one else is willing to take out bad people? (psst, this is the easy driving force for the protagonists to oppose). Dolores’s insecurities come from ignorance. She follows the Minister on blind faith and doesn’t want to be proven wrong. If he fails she sees herself as failing too. In addition, she has internalized intolerance that has built up over time because of the oppression of half-breeds and muggle-borns. She helps write laws that oppress muggle-borns. She makes them submit for questioning. Dolores is happy where she is because her prejudice is a blanket of security for her. She loves her job, and she wants to stay where she is. So when Dumbledore or Harry try to uproot her, she is antagonistic.

          The impact of Sion, Dolores, and Anna, is that you end up with characters who do bad things but don’t see themselves as bad people. Anna believes she is doing the work that no one else is willing to do. That she is going after bad guys. Sion believes she is keeping her department alive. That she is looking out for the good of her people. Dolores is serving her ministry. None of these characters are truly evil, but when you present a young upstart who comes out of a factory that gets the spotlight and attention, or a group of ragtag kids who are trying to save as many people as they can regardless of experience because, “you can’t change where you come from,” or a wizard trying to shake down the years of intolerance at the central government, you get antagonism that is natural and makes sense. You get conflict that makes sense not only for the protagonists, but it makes sense for the antagonists to oppose them. That should be your goal when writing a villain. It should make sense for the villain to oppose the protagonist and vice versa, and it shouldn’t be because the villain is evil and that’s it.

          Now, to drive these points home further we’re going to break down great villains from the media and discuss why they are successful in the context that we’ve given you. We hope that by explaining these villains in the terms that we’ve just described, the importance of creating villains as characters first will make more sense.

          Let’s talk about Azula. She was the first to come up when the Editor and I discussed villains. We as an audience know Azula’s backstory. We know she was “born lucky,” and was beloved and revered by her father and grandfather. We know she had a bad relationship with her mother. We know she had friends. These are all aspects of personality that make Azula someone we can understand. Azula is serving her father and the Fire Nation. It just so happens that that nation is under more evil leadership. When we see the downfall of Azula, we see how the writers used her own insecurities to become her undoing. We see her instead as a deeply paranoid person, who is afraid of being betrayed by people she is supposed to trust. You see her crack under her own pressures. The brilliance of Azula is that we as an audience can relate to her in her downfall, and we see who she is beyond being a bad guy. She’s not like General Zhao, whose motivations and desires were more straightforward. She has complicated goals and wishes and desires that allow us to understand who she is as a person.

          Lucifer from Supernatural is another great example of a compelling villain. You see it in his development. He is meant to be the ultimate evil because he is after Sam and wants the end of the world. What the writers on Supernatural did is really explore the why of Lucifer’s actions. You see it in how his brothers talk to him. You see how Lucifer was, “the only one who could see what was going on.” That he couldn’t handle the new baby (mankind) coming home and lashed out. That he was kicked out of heaven by trying to prove that humans weren’t perfect. You see in the actor himself, that Lucifer is given a reason to be angry and a methodology behind his anger. This makes him more compelling as a villain. He isn’t evil just to be evil and he isn’t opposing humanity just to do it, he has a reason behind what he does. It makes us understand him as a character because his anger is relatable.

          Loki is often a villain or a love-interest in fanfiction. Sometimes when we’re feeling spicy, he’s a villain turned into a love interest because oh my god growth. Loki is given familial relationships and friendships that help us understand who he is as a character. On top of that, he’s given justifiable anger similar to that of Lucifer’s, which makes him act bad but believe he is in the right. Often when we read Loki fanfiction we see the tortured soul Loki who needs someone who can “understand” and “see him” in ways that his brother of 100-odd years somehow inexplicably cannot. This does not just apply to Loki (see Draco Malfoy, Lucifer, and sometimes Paul Lahote but he isn’t a villain). If you are going to give Loki a family that doesn’t know or understand him, you need to give Loki character traits that said the family wouldn’t know about. Hobbies he likes, activities he enjoys. Often Loki is reduced to reading, but in-depth analysis can allude to his reading being a means of escaping a bad situation. Does he write too? Tell me more. Loki is often reduced to either the tortured soul or the lunatic and he is neither. He is a boy first and foremost, who has been lied to his whole life, who was taken in as a political prop and was shoved aside and made to feel unwanted because he was not the blood son. That kind of stuff stays with a person. It messes you up and puts a lot of negative ideas in your head. From here is the source of Loki’s anger, but don’t say that his family doesn’t know him. They do, what they don’t do is accept or nurture him. The exception to this is Frigga. Loki’s motivations as a villain come from his backstory and the relationship he has with both his father and brother. Where fanfic writers often stumble is this dynamic, which is not one of unfamiliarity but one that lacks acceptance. Loki was ostracized for being different, but that isn’t to say Thor and the Warriors Three didn’t know he was different.

          Let’s talk about the Death Eaters. The Death Eaters are a great example of how systemic intolerance shapes a generation. They serve Voldemort out of both fear and loyalty because his power is something that is ingrained in their minds as something that is right. His ideas are perpetuated by Salazar Slytherin and enforced by pureblood families. The Death Eaters are examples of those who grew up in intolerance. They don’t necessarily follow Voldemort because they agree with him, but because their families do, their colleagues and friends do. They are so deep in this life they don’t know how to get out. Look at the obvious discomfort of the Malfoys in books 6 and 7. They clearly don’t want to be there. Death Eaters are way more complex than people give them credit for. If you’re writing Death Eater characters, lean into the Draco Malfoys and the Regulus Blacks of the world. Study how people in cults act and reflect on their time after leaving the cult. These resources will help you write characters that are more compelling than just, ‘Mudbloods suckkkk lmao.’

          Because he is so popular as a villain, we’re going to talk about Lucius Malfoy in addition to Death Eaters. Lucius Malfoy’s representation in fanfiction is horribly executed 9 times out of 10. This is because he follows the same fate of many characters that we discussed in Fanfiction 101. Lucius Malfoy is reduced to one-note beats and the most blatant parts of his personality. Because he is a villain, that beat is “I hate mudbloods and love Voldemort.” He’s like one of those MLM moms who are like, “love my God and my Essential Oils.” Lucius Malfoy should not be reduced to MLM moms with Live Laugh Love and internalized misogyny. He is way smarter than that. You don’t become one of Voldemort’s most devoted followers and come back from that without having your wits about you. Lucius is way smarter than what fanfiction writers commonly give him credit for. He’s intelligent. He’s driven. He was a Head Boy in his time at Hogwarts, and he knew how to try and sink his enemies without implicating himself. If you write Lucius Malfoy you need to dip into the cat-and-mouse games that are Lucius's personality. He’s not aggressively evil. He’s quiet. He slips in after the fighting is done and takes what he wants. The best example of this is during Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. Everyone knew that it was Malfoy who slipped Tom Riddle’s diary in Ginny’s cauldron. However, there was no proof. Lucius Malfoy is a careful man, and in fanfiction that needs to be reflected.

          Villains are the most important character in your narrative. You need to view them as people. As characters first and as bad guys second. Your OC’s story can be centered around the villain, who should be complex, thought-out, and should have methods behind their madness. The audience needs to understand who your villain is by reading about them, just as much as your OC or side characters.

          Next week we’re discussing superpowers. We’ll break down how to make a cool set of superpowers, the common mistakes in superpowers, and give good and cringe examples.

Xoxo, Gossip Girl.

[timetravelingheart]

Consequences Chapter Ten: A.M. Imagine

This is moreso a filler chapter, so I’m sorry if it’s a little boring. Just trying to establish more relationships throughout. 

______

Tessa was certain she was about to lose her mind. 

It seemed like the entire contents of her bedroom closet were scattered all over her bedroom floor, the bed, the chair, and the desk. 

What was an appropriate outfit to wear to dinner with your very newly minted boyfriend’s parents? Did such a thing even exist? She was starting to think the answer was no. 

It wasn’t like she hadn’t met her previous boyfriends’ parents before. She had. She didn’t really count meeting her high school boyfriend’s parents because they had lived down the road from her family’s farm ever since Tessa could remember. She met that boyfriend, Alex, when she was 6 years old. 

She met the parents of her first serious college boyfriend completely by accident. They were moving him into his dorm and she was right across the hall from him. Technically that boyfriend, Dylan, met her father that day as well. When she re-met Dylan’s parents as his girlfriend, it was over a weekend trip they made to their university and they took them out for lunch. She remembered being nervous about that, but it felt nothing like the level of nerves she was currently experiencing. 

These were the parents of Auston Matthews, superstar hockey player for one of the richest sports industries in the world. Even though she tried as hard as she could not to think of him as ‘the Auston Matthews,’ she wasn’t an idiot. She knew how the rest of Toronto saw him. She also knew that his parents were likely prepared to snuff her out and see if she was with their millionaire son for the right reasons. 

Tessa knew she shouldn’t have anything to worry about - him being ‘the Auston Matthews’ was actually almost enough of a reason for her to say no to him in the first place. She wasn’t a gold digger and couldn’t imagine ever relying on a man for money or fame or clout. But how could she prove that to his parents?

It felt like those moments when you walked into a store, buy nothing, and still think the alarm will go off at the front door as if you had stolen something. That was a legitimate fear Tessa had regularly. And this was feeling like that same emotion. 

She needed reinforcements. She needed Lydia. 

__

After calling Lydia in to help her, Tessa was finally ready 30 minutes later. She decided to keep it fairly casual since Auston told her not to dress up. She eventually settled on a pair of dark wash skinny jeans and an emerald green fall sweater. It had a high neck and was only a little tight. It felt like a safe outfit and she knew Auston loved when she wore green. Lydia had been a calming presence while helping her get ready, making her laugh and just feel at ease. It was also an opportunity for Tessa to explain her mid-afternoon skating date with Auston when he asked her to be his girlfriend. 

She was now waiting patiently at the restaurant where Auston told her to meet. Originally he had offered to pick her up, but she felt like she needed the drive over to calm her nerves. She was still in her head when the family of three - his sisters still being in Arizona - walked up to her. 

“Tess,” Auston greeted her with a huge smile and a warm hug. She could tell he was excited, and she felt a pang of guilt for how much she had been dreading this moment. He pulled away and sent her a subtle wink, clearly knowing she was feeling a little off. “These are my parents, Ema and Brian.” 

“It’s so nice to meet you Mr. and Mrs. Matthews,” Tessa reached out her hand for them to shake, but was caught off guard by Ema ignoring the hand and pulling her into a gentle hug. Brian followed suit. 

“Oh, honey,” Ema smiled kindly, “please call us Ema and Brian. We are so excited to finally meet the girl Auston hasn’t stopped talking about for months now.”

“Months?” Tessa turned to look at a sheepish Auston who was conveniently avoiding her gaze. 

“To be honest, if it wasn’t for Mitch talking about you too, I was pretty certain you were just a figment of his imagination,” Brian laughed at his now beet-red son’s expense. 

“Nope, definitely real,” Tessa laughed, already feeling a little more comfortable. “But I can’t vouch for everything he said about me. And I definitely can’t vouch for anything that may come out of Mitch Marner’s mouth.”

Ema and Brian laughed heartily, already liking Tessa’s sense of humour. 

“Let’s eat, shall we?” Brian gestured to the dining area of the restaurant. 

Once they were seated they continued to make small talk about the weather in Toronto and Arizona, and Auston’s upcoming game that they were attending. Eventually their orders arrived and the conversation took a more personal turn. 

“So Tessa,” Brian started, “Auston tells us that you’re doing your Masters?”

“I am,” Tessa nodded, taking a sip of her water. “I have about a year left if everything goes according to plan with my research.”

“So you’re doing that full time and working with Launchpad?” Ema asked. 

“Yes.”

“She’s also a TA at school,” Auston added, a hint of pride in his voice. 

“Wow,” Brian was impressed. “So you’re a full-time student, a Project Manager, and a TA? How do you have time for all of that?” 

“Honestly, it can be difficult some weeks, but it’s rarely full-speed in all areas at the same time. My research advisor understands my other commitments, so she works with me to develop realistic deadlines for me to submit my research and work. I think I’ve only had one week or two where I had to mark 50 essays, organize the final details and process paperwork for an event at work, and submit a lit review draft.” 

“Was that the week I went by your office and you looked like you were going to murder me?” Auston asked, laughing at the memory. It felt like they had come so far since he had sent her those flowers. 

“Yep,” Tessa popped the ‘p’ sound and laughed along with Brian and Ema. 

“I can’t say that I blame you,” Ema continued. “That’s a lot for one person to take on. You have to be dedicated and organized for all of that to go smoothly.”

“That’s really impressive,” Brian agreed. Tessa smiled thankfully at them, not certain of what else to add. 

“She’s definitely way too smart for me,” Auston laughed, putting an arm around the back of her chair. “She’s thinking about doing her PhD after her Masters and working at SickKids.”

Tessa felt a swoop in her chest at the pride she could hear in Auston’s voice when he bragged about her accomplishments. 

“SickKids is an incredible place,” Brian started. “Auston and I have a pretty close relationship with some of the staff and kids there.”

“Yes, Auston explained that to me,” Tessa started slowly, knowing that it was a sensitive subject. “I am so sorry that you’ve experienced such a great loss, but it is so admirable that you’ve taken that loss and continuously work to turn it into a gain of sorts for someone else. I’m sure those kids and their families appreciate you so much.”

“My brother was an amazing human being and we just want to continue that legacy,” Brian replied, emotion evident in his voice. “Ema and I are also very sorry for your loss. We know how tough that must have been, and continues to be, on you and your dad.”

Tessa sucked in a breath, unaware that Auston had told his parents not just about her existence, but personal stories that she had shared with him. She let out the breath slowly when Ema reached across the table to capture her hand and give it a squeeze. 

“Thank you,” Tessa responded sincerely. When she felt Auston’s hand on her thigh under the table, she turned to give him a small smile and a wink. She could feel the tension in his body, concerned that maybe he had overstepped. She wasn’t upset though; she had learned over the past couple of months just how close Auston was to his family and she wasn’t ashamed of her loss. 

“So,” Tessa turned back to Brian and Ema, “are we at the point in the conversation where I ask you to share some embarrassing childhood stories of Auston?”

__

“Thank you so much for dinner tonight, Mr. and Mrs. Matthews,” Tessa reached out to accept their hugs as the four of them stood outside the restaurant. 

“Ema and Brian,” Ema gently scolded, accepting the hug. She knew there had to be something special about this girl based on the way Auston had talked about her over the past couple of months, and she was right. Tessa was perfect for Auston.  “It was so nice to finally meet you.”

“Yes, we look forward to seeing you again. Do you ever go to any of the games?” Brian asked. 

“Rarely,” Tessa shrugged. “I would like to go to more, but my schedule doesn’t always allow for it. And ticket prices are a little out of this grad student’s budget,” she laughed. 

“What makes you think you’d be paying for them?” Auston nudged her teasingly. “I might not be good for much, but I think I could get you into a game or two, Tess.”

“Well, just make sure you put her near us. I promise I’m not one of those crazy moms who scream at the coaches or refs,” Ema laughed. 

“We should get going though or we will be late for our show,” Brian reached out to wrap Auston in a hug. “We’ll see you back at the apartment tonight, kid.”

“Yeah, sounds good. I’m going over to Mitch’s for a bit, so don’t wait up,” Auston responded, leaning down to kiss his mom on the cheek. “See you guys later.”

“Bye Tessa,” Ema waved as they started making their way to their car. 

Once his parents were out of earshot and view, Auston turned to Tessa and pulled her into a tight hug. He tugged gently on her ponytail, tilting her head back so he could finally place a kiss on her lips. 

“I’ve been wanting to do that all night,” he sighed when he pulled away. 

“Didn’t think your parents would approve of a little PDA?” Tessa teased, accepting his hand as he lead her to her car. 

“I’m sure they wouldn’t care, but it’s weird,” Auston shuddered as Tessa laughed. “Want to go to Mitch’s with me?”

“Sure,” Tessa handed her car keys over to him. “You drive. What’s going on over there?”

“Nothing big,” Auston took the keys and opened the passenger door for her before climbing in on the driver’s side. “I think he’s just having a few of the guys and their partners over. Thanks for tonight, by the way.”

“What do you mean?”

“I know I just sprung that on you. I think my mom thought you’d been my girlfriend for a while now, so I couldn’t say no when she asked to meet you.”

“Let’s just say that I’m not the best with surprises, so while this was nice, please don’t pull that kind of thing again,” Tessa laughed, remembering the current state of her bedroom floor because of her stress. “But thank you for wanting me to meet them.”

“They absolutely loved you, I could tell,” he beamed, reaching over to pick up her hand and bring it to his lips for a kiss. “But I’m not surprised. You’re an easy person to lo- to like,” he caught himself before the word left his mouth again. It was much too soon for that. Right? 

Tessa ignored the slip, thinking he probably didn’t mean to say it. 

“So what did your parents mean when they said that they’ve heard a lot about me from Mitch?” she asked, changing the subject. Auston simply groaned, causing her to laugh. His best friend would definitely get him in trouble someday. 

__

“So T,” Mitch wrapped an arm around Tessa’s shoulders and pulled her closer to him as they sat on his couch, “can I call you T?”

Tessa looked at him questionably, mostly just for her own amusement to watch him wait, and finally nodded wordlessly.

“Great, so T,” Mitch leaned in as if he were about to tell her something important, “now that you’re official with my boy, I think we have a few things we need to discuss.”

“Oh really?”

“Mhm, best friend duties and all that.”

“Oh, and all that. Okay Mitch, hit me,” Tessa folded her hands in her lap and sat up straighter, pretending to be super serious.

“Now, since Lydia gave Auston her whole ‘if you hurt my best friend I’ll hurt you speech, I feel like-”

“Wait, hold up,” Tessa held up a hand to stop him. “When did she do that?”

“Eons ago,” Mitch waved her away. “As I was saying, I feel like I-”

“What did she say?”

Mitch sighed audibly. He really wanted to make his speech.

“You’re so stubborn sometimes, T,” Mitch rolled his eyes, still keeping up his serious facade, but Tessa could see the mirth that lurked behind his eyes. “She basically told him if he hurt you, she didn’t care how amazing his thighs were, she’d hunt him down and make him hurt just as much, only physically instead of emotionally.”

Tessa let out a bark of laughter. What?

“Anyway,” Mitch continued dramatically, “I just wanted to say that I feel like I should say something similar, but while I have nothing against your thighs, I don’t think I can say the exact same thing. So, all I’ll say is, please don’t hurt my best friend. He really likes you and I’ve never seen him like this before.”

“That ended a lot sweeter than I had expected,” Tessa nodded, impressed. “I respect your best friend responsibilities, and I will tell you I have no intention of hurting him. I don’t know if you can tell, but I really like him too.”

“Oh, I can tell!” Mitch laughed, giving her a squeeze. “I love you two together. But now you have to be my best friend too.”

“I didn’t realize that was part of the deal. I may have to rethink this whole relationship thing,” Tessa started to pull away from him, laughter in her eyes.

“Yep! You’re stuck with me. I think this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship,” he grinned his shit-eating grin at her.

“Mitchy!” William called from the other side of the living room. “It’s your turn!” 

“Call of Duty calls, T,” Mitch leaned forward and placed a smacking kiss on her cheek. “Oh, and if I haven’t said it already, thanks for making my best friend so happy,” he winked at her as he took his place on the other couch. 

As he left, Stephanie walked over and took his spot. 

“Please tell me he wasn’t giving you his ‘if you hurt my best friend’ spiel,” Stephanie rolled her eyes, handing Tessa a glass of water. 

“You know him well,” Tessa laughed. She really liked Steph. Any time they hung out in a group, she was always really friendly, but had enough sass that Tessa never felt like she was just being nice because she was with Auston. She actually treated her the way she treated their other friends. 

“He thinks he’s a lot tougher than he is but I deep down he’s so happy that Auston has found someone like you,” Steph replied sincerely. Tessa’s eyes traveled across the room after feeling eyes on her. She caught Auston’s gaze across the room as he pretended to pay attention to the video games the other guys were playing. He sent a wink in her direction before turning back to the TV. “I’ve never seen him like this before.”

Tessa shrugged, not sure what to say. Everyone kept telling her that, and even though it was meant to be comforting, sometimes it did make those initial doubts she had resurface. She tried to push them back down though. He asked her to be his girlfriend and she met his parents - he was obviously serious about this and them and her. 

“Anyway,” Steph broke Tessa out of her thoughts, “how would you feel about hanging out with me tomorrow? We could go for mani pedis or to a yoga class or something together?” 

“I’d really like that.”

“Perfect! I finally have someone who I can make fun of Mitch and Auston,” Steph lifted her glass to cheers Tessa. “Welcome to the family, Tessa!”

[coneygoil]

The Home We Built Together, part 12

Two young Vikings. An arranged marriage. Hiccup always wanted to win the girl of his dreams, but not like this. Now he and Astrid must learn to live together and maybe one day, learn to love…

Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Part 5 | Part 6 | Part 7 | Part 8 | Part 9 | Part 10 | Part 11

Writer’s note: I didn’t plan on this chapter becoming a monster at 2500 words, but here we are! Thank you to everyone who is sticking with this fic! You guys make my day :) 

He liked her cooking. Granted, it was only broth from a nearly fool’s proof recipe her mother had given her (along with the already cooked ham bone her mother also supplied), but it was an accomplishment Astrid was proud of. And Hiccup had liked it!

Astrid was determined to not fail at her wifely duties. She expected to have the same kind of pride that swelled her chest and jutted her chin high like when she did well in battle training. But it wasn’t the same. Her chest didn’t swell; it fluttered like a tiny nestling on it’s first flight. Her chin didn’t rise in pride; instead, her cheekbones warmed and a smile tugged the corners of her mouth.

All these sensations were new and exhilarating, and sometimes downright confusing and frightening. Even with the uncertainty of how to respond to the new conglomeration of emotions, Astrid knew she didn’t wish for them to end. All this over Hiccup-clumsy-sarcastic-little-dork-Haddock.

They sat around the firepit as they usually did most evenings sipping on a warm drink – their unspoken evening ritual. Tonight was different. Astrid was the one to bluntly show affection (out of her duties she’d been trying but failing to convince herself), but tonight, Hiccup called her something that was not her name.

Milady. She knew what the term of endearment meant. It wasn’t a term you called just anyone. Hiccup looked like a deer caught in the glowing yellow eyes of a dragon. She had to stop him from apologizing. His sorrys drove her crazy, and her mood was too light to have it fall.

“I like it,” tumbled out of her mouth. She couldn’t quite meet his eye as he accepted the mug from her.

A strange air rose up around them, like the electrical currents gathering for an approaching lightning storm. Astrid glanced at Hiccup from the corner of her eye. His jaw was set and a self-confidence emitted from him that she’d only witnessed when he would tout one of his latest inventions. A mission was on his mind.

As Hiccup wiped his mouth on his sleeve and relieved his grip on the mug, Astrid’s heart quickened. Come on, Hiccup. Make a move. Make a move. He was going to. She just knew it.

Astrid’s breath caught as the walls reverberated with the sound of the Great Horn. Her teeth clinched. Damn dragons! Why, tonight of all nights?

His disappointment wasn’t lost to her. He wished her safety. Astrid caught the opportunity to make up for their interrupted moment by catching his hand and giving it an encouraging squeeze. Then she left, their lost moment lingering at the doorstep.  

***

Mass Chaos was one way to describe a dragon raid. The cacophony of battle cries and dragon roars, along with wood crackling and sheep bleeping in terror mixed in the air. The intense blaze of fire all around stung the eyes and made it hard to see.

Astrid dodged an annoyed Gronkle as it buzzed by, a Viking hanging from its neck smacking the beast with his hammer. She paused in the middle of the path to regain her bearings. She’d lived through dozens upon dozens of dragon attacks throughout her short 15 years of life, but this was her first to take up arms and fight since training began. The glory of battle was slowly fading into a blur of disorientation. Fire brigade duties were far simpler and straight forward.

Every chance she picked to help an older Viking, they’d yell at her to go help someone else. As soon as she arrived, the next Viking would send her on her way to another fight. It was getting to the point of ridiculousness. Astrid was almost tempted to give up and go help the new crew of the fire brigade. Almost.

Astrid Hofferson – Haddock, she had to remind herself sometimes – did not give up.

“Night Fury!” a cry rang out from the chaos.

“Get down!” another warning from somewhere across from her yelled.

The telltale eerie whistle of the Night Fury’s dive cut through the air causing every Viking to duck, knowing ultimate destruction was afoot. One catapult tower exploded in a massive fireball as shards of broken wood and fireballs rained down. Astrid ducked using her axe as a cover for her head, and regretting that she totally screwed up the first rule in dragon training. Grab a shield.

The Chief barked orders as he hastened passed her, simultaneously unscathed by the explosion he just survived. Astrid was about to follow her Chief – and father-in-law, another fact she also had to remind herself about – when a familiar cry echoed down. She whipped around. Silhouetted against the night sky was a small, skinny figure being chased by a Monstrous Nightmare.

Dread made her heart leap into her throat and her entire body quailed. There was no mistake of who was being mercilessly chased.

“Hiccup.”

Taking off into a mad dash, Astrid blazed up the paths, dodging Viking weapons and dragon teeth. She had to get to Hiccup before the Nightmare did. She had to save him.

She spotted his slim frame pressed against an enormous fire pillar trying to hide from the terrifying dragon in pursuit. Hiccup was good at epic fails and this hiding spot was one of them. A fierce dose of adrenaline shot through her. A battle cry erupted from her lungs. Her axe clutched in both hands above her head, primed to chop off the Nightmare’s head.

The fiery dragon focused its attention on the new threat, snarling and baring its teeth. Astrid swung down, missing its long neck as the Nightmare’s head swiveled snake-like out of reach. A stream of red-hot flames spewed at her. Astrid barely leap out of the way, tumbling head over heels on the ground.

Rolling to her feet, she crouched in a battle stance. Monstrous Nightmares were revered as one of the most dangerous dragons. If she killed this dragon, she’d gain high recognition within the tribe. Being the Chief’s daughter-in-law, they’d probably even throw a feast in her honor.

None of that fueled her need to kill this beast. Protecting Hiccup was her only focus.

The Nightmare whipped its tail, annoyed by the gnat that was buzzing between it and its current prey. The flickering flames of the torch above doesn’t provide the best lighting as it begins to burn down. Astrid merely blinked and a spiky tail was slapping at her like a gigantic fly swatter. The grip on her axe handle was knocked loose sending the weapon spinning out of reach.

Astrid cried out, holding her right hand close to her chest. A sharp spike on the tail grazed her skin, leaving a slice across the inside of her palm. There’s no time to nurse the wound. Her mind is flooded with panic. She was left exposed without her weapon on top of being wounded. She darted her eyes about the rocky path, spying her axe several feet away.

Her back was to the beast. She had no idea where it was about to strike, or even if Hiccup was safe. She moved toward her axe in a frantic crawl. Her body moved on its own accord, the adrenaline and panic pumping in burst through her.

Astrid barely registers the battle cry of her Chief, and she flipped onto her bottom to find he was already taking on the Nightmare. She scrambled to her feet to get out of the way of the fight. In typical Stoick the Vast form, he pummeled the beast with his bare fists before it slicked off into the dark sky.

The fire pillar Hiccup had taken refuge behind suddenly fell over, the basket of flames rolling down the hill as recovering Vikings jumped out of the way. It rolled over a net full of Nadders, releasing the dragons from their captivity. Every eye was on the retreating dragons carrying away their spoils.

“Sorry, dad.” It was Hiccup’s pitiful voice that cut through the thick tension in the vicinity. Astrid locked eyes on him. Thank Thor, he seemed unscathed, but what wrath the Nightmare didn’t unleash on him, his father was about to. 

 Hiccup chewed his bottom lip then pointed behind him. “Okay, but I hit a Night Fury. It wasn’t like the last few times!” he explained as his father yanked him along by the collar of his vest. “I really did hit it! You guys were busy and I had a clear shot. It went down just off Raven’s Point. We can get a search party out there.”

Astrid’s back rose and fell in a seething breath, not only from the exertion from the battle but the ire that was rising up inside her at Hiccup’s words. He hadn’t listened to her. He was still up to the same old routine with his haphazard dragon killing inventions that caused more damage than good. The revelation stung more than the gash on her palm.

“Stop!” Stoick’s voice boomed through the crowd. It shut Hiccup down in an instant. The Chief’s face was weary, and it wasn’t for lack of sleep or pushed endurance. “Just stop,” he repeated softer this time. “What were you thinking, Hiccup? You almost got yourself killed. Again. A good part of the village is on fire now because of you! Every time you step outside, disaster happens.”

“But Dad, listen! I really did shoot down a Night Fury!”

Stoick pressed a hand to his forehead, pushing up his helmet an inch. “I thought in the last few weeks you were getting passed all-“ he looked at his son and waved an open hand at him, “-this.”

Hiccup rolled his eyes as if the statement had been exhausted before. “You just gestured to all of me.”

Ignoring his son’s indignation, Stoick continued, “Winter is at our doorstep and I have an entire village to feed.”

Hiccup’s eyes flick behind him and he leaned in closer. “Between you and me, the village could use a little less feeding.”

“This isn’t a joke, Hiccup! Why can’t you follow the simplest orders?”

“I can’t stop myself. I see a dragon, and I have to just kill it. It’s who I am, dad.”

Astrid glanced away, shaking her head in secondhand embarrassment. If only Hiccup knew how ridiculous he sounded. How childish he looked mimicking something like ringing off an invisible dragon’s head. She nearly stormed off right then and there.

“You’re a lotta things, Hiccup,” the Chief’s tone was eerily calm, making him seem even more treacherous than if his yells were shaking the cliffs. “But a dragon killer you are not.”

Astrid froze. Stoick’s penetrating gaze suddenly landed on her. “Astrid! Make sure he gets home. I have his mess to clean up.”

For the first time since they bid each other’s safety at home, their gazes meet. Hiccup’s bottom lip was caught up by his top looking more like the disappointed little boy from years’ past. Gobber smacked him on the back of the head, softer than what the weathered blacksmith could dealt. Hiccup hunched over. His eyes fixed on the ground as he followed Astrid away from the crowd.

Whispers floated their way as they walked away. Astrid glared side-to-side from under the long fringe of bangs. The rest of the village had no right to glower pity at her.

“Quite the performance,” Tuffnut remarked as they passed by.

“I’ve never seen anyone mess up that badly,” Snotlout added onto the mockery.

Her ire helped Astrid bite her tongue trying not to lash out in defense. Hiccup deserved the taunting for his idiot decision. At least, that’s what the red-hot coal burning in her chest convinced her to think.

Hiccup trailed behind as they trekked through the ravaged village, dodging debris and sporadic fires being doused by the new members of the fire brigade. The tension in the silence between them felt like an invisible stone wall. Hiccup’s footfalls remained one step behind her. More than once she recognized the shift of his hand reaching out then falling to his side with a light thud.

As they approached their home, remarkably unscathed by the dragon attack (the dragons were more prone to targeting the houses with livestock), Hiccup finally worked up the courage. “Thanks for saving me back there.”

Astrid kept her back to him. It was hard enough being angry with him and also relieved that he was okay. “That’s what I’m here for,” she said bitingly, “To keep you from getting yourself killed.”

She didn’t give him a chance to response. She reached for the door handle of their home and gave a sharp hissed, completely forgetting about her injured hand in the heat of events.

“Hey, what happened?”

Hiccup tried to take her hand to check, but Astrid cradled it to her breastbone. “Just a cut. It’s nothing.”

Hiccup’s eyes widened. “If it’s nothing then why is your hand bloody?”

“The Nightmare clipped me, okay? I’m fine.”

He tried again to examine her hand, but Astrid maneuvered away. He was concerned and she hated him for it. He had no right to be after the promise that was broken tonight.

“At least let me clean it for you.”

“I can clean it myself.” She wanted so badly to yell. She probably needed to drop her axe before she used it to threaten him.

Hiccup gave a third try to take her hand, this time succeeding in catching her wrist. “Please, Astrid. Let me make this up to you for saving me back there.”

Astrid yanked her arm away. “You’ve done enough, Hiccup!” she finally burst. Hiccup blinked at her in surprise. “I thought you were done with your dragon killing inventions. I thought you’d finally decided to grow up and start taking responsibility like the future Chief should!”

“I am, Astrid! A future chief needs to be able to kill dragons, and this is my way of doing just that!”

“It’s the wrong way, Hiccup!”

“I can prove to you that my way works!” He gestured out into the darkness as if the proof was hidden just beyond the night. “I can prove to you that I can be the Viking you deserve!” He’s at it again, attempting to grab at her. The slice across her palm forgotten to him over his incessant need for approval. “Come with me and I’ll show you. I really did shoot down a Night Fury.”

“Stop!” The fierceness of her tone caused Hiccup to stand straight and abandon his task. “Give it up! You’re a blacksmith.” Her axe was pointing at him, and Astrid knew she should have set it down. “Accept that maybe that’s what you were made to be, and leave the dragon killing to me.”

“Astrid-“

She tried to ignore the hurt and disappointment written on his face. He dug this hole knowing exactly what he was doing. “I’m going to check on my parents, see if they need help.” She glared as slicing as her axe was sharp. “Just stay here. If you can’t listen to your own father then at least listen to your wife.”

@martabm90 @chiefhiccstrid @justatranquilcloud  @saieras

[fallout4holmes]

Journal 52

We traveled by night to the Taffington Boathouse. A way-point for traveling Railroad agents and synth refugees from the Institute, the two-story house usually provided a safe place to rest and a meal. They were not quite equipped for a dozen people to suddenly appear at once, but made the most of it.

The sun was just coming up as we arrived with Tinker Tom and Pam. As I was known to be searching for the Mechanist, the idea was that an assaultron in my company might be less suspicious than with any agent trying to look average. Dr. Carrington, Drummer Boy, and a handful of agents had gone ahead of us, while Desdemona, Glory, and the remaining agents were behind us. Deacon had gone east, disguise in hand.

Drummer Boy stood on the porch, keeping watch as a woman worked in the thriving garden in the front yard. She stood up with a basket full of vegetables, saw us coming, and promptly dropped the basket with a yelp.

I recognized her. As her creator's son rushed out of the house, I had a horrible premonition of what was about to happen. I immediately froze, and fortunately all my companions did the same.

"Hello, Eve," I said. To the young man staring at me with shock and anger, I said, "Liam. Good morning."

"Fuck off," he spat. He stormed toward me. I held a hand out to keep my friends from reaching for their weapons. If Liam was still a pacifist, the worst I would receive would be a verbal beratement. If he wasn't, I would probably deserve whatever he did to me. "You lied to me! You destroyed my home and you have the nerve to come here and say 'good morning?!'"

Tinker Tom spoke, hesitant, "We... probably should have mentioned Patriot was staying here, huh?"

"Don't call me that!" Liam snapped.

"I won't be in your way," I told Liam, "and I won't stay for long."

"Good," he said, and stormed back inside.

I looked at Tom. He shrugged, "Glory found him after the Institute was destroyed. She recognized him. His dad… almost made it."

I winced, "That must have been terrible for him."

We continued to the house, "Yeah, man. If Glory hadn't found him, if Zachariah hadn't been able to talk some sense into him—"

"Who?"

"Used to be called Z1-14. Convinced Liam that this was the world he'd sent synths to, this was what freedom looked like, the least he could do was help them survive in it. So Glory got them set up here. I hear Eve is a pretty good cook.”

Preston had carefully approached Eve and introduced himself as she recovered the produce scattered across the garden. He offered to carry the basket for her, which she politely declined, and thanked him for his concern. She hurried inside.

"General?" Preston asked as we went inside, "The kid that chewed you out…"

I explained, "Liam Binet is responsible for a great many synths being sent to the surface. He decided that freedom in whatever world existed up here was better than slavery inside the Institute. I was going to help him free more… I was going to help him free all of them."

"And instead you showed up with a bunch of Minutemen and blew his home to hell," Preston sighed.

“Yes.”

Drummer Boy had gone inside at some point during all this, and now met us at the door, “Tom, we’re gonna give the boathouse a proper floor for you to set up shop. Carrington’s setup is temporarily in the kitchen. Pam, there's a space for you in the living room. Still not sure how we’re going to fit everyone here.”

“No sweat, Drummer Boy,” Tom said, “we’ll make it work. It’s only temporary, anyway. Hopefully. First though? I don’t know about the rest of you, but I need some breakfast.”

We agreed. Danse left his armor on the porch temporarily, mindful of the limited space inside the house. Seeing yet another Minuteman uniform did not comfort Eve as she tried to cook. "Why are you here?" she asked Preston.

"Just here for a bite to eat and a moment's rest, ma'am. Then we'll be out of your way."

This comforted her somewhat. “You came with the Railroad.”

“General Holmes wanted to warn the Railroad that the Brotherhood were planning an attack. Figured we might as well help with the evacuation.”

Eve nodded, “The doctor, he said something similar, though much… harsher.”

“I can imagine,” I said with a small smile. “Dr. Carrington is not known for his bedside manner.”

“I’m not surprised. He’s sleeping now, but I’m sure he’ll reclaim the kitchen as soon as he wakes up. I’m glad you aren’t staying long,” she continued in gentle tones, no longer scared but still concerned, “it will be hard for Liam with you here. Harder than usual.”

“Are you his mother?” Danse asked.

She shook her head, “No, I’m a copy of her.” Seeing Danse’s scowl, Eve explained, “After she died, Liam’s father designed me to be a surrogate mother. I was a social experiment, to see if a synth could integrate into a family. That’s what he always told his colleagues. I like to think it was becoming more than that. I know Liam isn’t really my son, but I've come to love him as if he were.”

“How has he adjusted?” I asked.

She shrugged with a small smile, “Not much use for a computer genius on the surface. When synths come through, some of them like to talk to him, when they find out who he is, what he did. That seems to help him."

Danse’s scowl had lessened to a frown, but was made suddenly worse by Drummer Boy’s appearance, “Hey, mind if we borrow your power armor?”

“Yes.”

“We just need to move—”

Danse stood and followed, “Show me what you’re trying to accomplish.”

Preston, Tom, and I ate while Danse assisted with construction outside the house. Tom left to find a place for his sleeping bag, and Preston and I followed his example. Liam entered the kitchen as we left, pointedly ignoring our presence, and helped himself to breakfast with a pleasant "hello" to his surrogate mother.

Danse entered after him. Liam glared at the intrusion, unwilling to leave, and Danse wasn't about to be intimidated by a teenager.

So Danse filled his plate, sat down across the table from him and said, "I understand you're good with computers."

Preston and I listened in from around the corner.

"I was better than good, back when they still existed," Liam grumbled.

"The fact that you are no longer within a safe and secure closed system does not mean there is no use for your skills. Have you ever programmed a turret?"

"Have I… what?"

"Not as sophisticated as the challenge of freeing synths, but necessary to--"

Liam sighed angrily, "That's what I hate most about this place, everything comes back to violence."

"A pacifist nature in a world where ninety percent of it wants to eat you is exceedingly dangerous and unwise."

They ate in silence.

"You've been on the surface for nearly a year," Danse said, "what have you accomplished in that time?"

"Accomplished? Staying alive isn't enough?"

"You are secure in your position here with a consistent source of food, water, shelter, and supplies. Why haven't you done more?"

Liam was flabbergasted. "Like what?!"

"You're the so-called genius, you tell me." And with that, Danse stood, thanked Eve for the meal, and joined us in our search for a space to rest.

"Damn, Danse," Preston muttered when we were out of earshot, “think you were a little hard on the kid?” Despite the words, there was no mistaking the admiration in Preston’s tone.

Danse scoffed, "If anyone had known the entire population of the Institute could be utterly demoralized simply by forcing its inhabitants to the surface, the technology could have been salvaged instead of destroyed."

We ended up on the porch, out of the direct paths of activity in the house. I lit a cigarette as Preston and Danse made themselves as comfortable as is possible on ancient wood. We managed to rest for a few hours before Desdemona, Glory, and company arrived, sparking a rush of activity as everyone tried to expand the limited amount of shelter. It was time for us to go.

“Hey, Danse?" Preston suddenly asked, "The salvaging technology thing. Do you ever miss that part?”

“Miss it?” Danse was surprised and had to think for a moment. “Not exactly. I was skilled at identifying potentially useful artifacts, and there was always a sense of satisfaction in discovering a piece, but I was also content to simply hand them over to the scribes for study." He opened his armor, "However, I think there would be great value in scavenging missions, using technology to further enhance the effectiveness of our troops and security of our settlements.”

Preston shrugged, “We'd have to figure out how to use it.”

“True, though we do have some more scientifically minded individuals among some settlements.”

Preston’s brow rose. “You want to start a Minutemen version of Brotherhood Scribes with Institute refugees.”

Danse smirked and stepped inside his armor, “It does sound insane when you put it like that, doesn't it?”

"I completely disagree," I said.

They both looked at me, surprised, "General?"

"I know precisely who I want as our first recruit," I said over my shoulder as I hurried back inside.

Eve told me he'd gone out back, which is where I found him glaring at a machine gun turret pointed at the sewer drain north across the river.

“Liam, may I speak with you a moment?”

“I’d rather not.”

“I know I’m the last person you want to talk to, but I have a proposition--”

He spun to face me, “There is nothing you have to offer me! You betrayed me! My father is dead, everyone I loved and cared about was vaporized or lost in this barren irradiated shithole, because of you. I wanted to blame myself, I thought that somehow me trusting you meant I was responsible, but you were always going to destroy humanity’s best hope for the future, whether or not we ever met. You know, I used to feel sorry for you? You lost your son, you missed out on every moment of his life, but now, I see it's only what you deserved.”

I was incensed, “I will not be lectured by a petulant child. You were perfectly willing to send synths to this world you were so ‘curious’ about, you were perfectly willing to risk your perfect comfort, as long as you never had to think about the fact that your father was still building those slaves in the first place! There were plenty of scientists who had second thoughts about the Institute's isolation, about whether or not synths were people, about whether it was acceptable to experiment just because they could, and not a single one spoke up! Those ideas were firmly beaten down by fear of the consequences, and so apathy was chosen over compassion, because it was easier. And you want me to believe generations of isolated amoral inventors were the best hope for humanity? What about this humanity? What about the very real, human lives existing in this wasteland?”

"General?" Preston spoke from behind me, wary.

I breathed, suddenly very tired. “It's alright, Preston. Nothing to worry over."

"Awful lot of shouting for nothing."

"I'll explain later." I focused on Liam, "Your father was right in his belief that science should be done with compassion in mind first and foremost, but it takes a far more patient man than me to teach compassion to those who cannot feel it toward those they do not see. Not a day goes by that I don’t regret my actions, that people died, that the science that could have saved the world was lost. But neither could I stand by and permit it to exist. I tried to reason with the Director. I tried to tell him I wanted nothing to do with his Institute, but he wouldn’t listen. I tried to tell him… so many things. He was so convinced in his vision he refused to consider his father might not share it.

"But science with compassion," I continued, "that is a vision you and your father both shared, and it is one that could still happen. No, that needs to happen."

Liam was confused, "What?"

"You aren’t the only one to get out. There are Institute refugees scattered throughout the Commonwealth. Imagine what they could accomplish if they gathered together with a simple goal in mind - make life on the surface better for everyone."

He thought about this a long moment. "We’d work for you." The prospect did not please him.

"You’d be a new branch of the Minutemen," I explained.

Liam shook his head, "I don't want anything to do with you."

"Very well. The invitation remains open, indefinitely." I turned to leave.

"Why are you here?" Liam suddenly asked.

"The Minutemen and the Railroad are allies. Did no one tell you?"

He frowned, "Allies."

Preston answered, “The Minutemen are always happy to help everyone, no matter who you are, as long as you aren't in the business of hurting innocent people.”

Liam rolled his eyes, “Sure. Unless you’re the Institute.”

Preston was surprised. “Wait. You're really serious, you don’t know? Listen, man, I get that you probably weren’t in on all the activities of the people in charge or whatever, but you have got to know the people up here have some damn good reasons for hating your home. Like, super mutants? You know the Institute made them, right?”

Seeing Liam’s disbelief, Preston continued, “The Institute used the surface as its experiment testing area and dumping ground for who knows how long. People up here were tired of having loved ones taken from us and replaced, tired of synth raids destroying homes, tired of living in fear, so we struck back. I'm sorry not everyone got out. I know a lot didn't, even with the evacuation order, and I know that the ones who did escape had a hell of a nasty surprise in store."

Preston sighed, "I know survival is hard, but it's what we've been doing our whole lives while you were living down there. And you know, I can't even blame you for hiding away. But I can blame the Institute for making the lives of innocent people struggling to survive so much harder than it already was. If you want to just keep hiding, I get it. But humanity's best hope for the future is the one we make ourselves. You decide you want to be a part of that? There's a guy at the Red Rocket station south of Sanctuary who'd love to meet you. Just ask for Sturges."

We left. I told Desdemona the Minutemen would be in touch regarding the Brotherhood, and asked her to return the courtesy. We made our way west.

I don’t know if any of us convinced Liam Binet to keep trying to make a difference, but I hope the young man continues to find a reason to keep living.

[dacreskars]

It’s Complicated (Part 6)

Trevante Rhodes x Reader

Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 Part 4 Part 5 Part 7  Part 8 Part 9

“How long are all of you staying?” You ask your dad, Darius and Ty.

“Damn you tryna get rid of us already we ain’t even been in LA 24 hours.” Ty laughs.

“No I was just asking.”

It was the morning after your party and your family came over to your house for breakfast.

“It’s actually perfect that you guys are here. I’m leaving for Paris in a couple of days for work and if y’all don’t mind would you please stay a couple extra days. I’m pretty sure Roman will need the help since he has to work too and I don’t want to keep putting Kayla off on his sister. You don’t have to if it interferes with anything I just thought I’d ask since you were here.”

“Of course you think I’d say no to spending time with my munchkin.” Your dad says.

“Girl you know we gotchu.” Ty added on.

“Also if you want you can stay here so you don’t have to stay in a hotel the whole time.” You say

Everyone was sitting at the table eating their food and talking about last night. Roman’s phone started to ring and he got up from the table to answer it , minute later he came back.

“I have to go pick up Junior from his moms I’ll be back.” He tells you leaving.

When he leaves you continue your conversation about last night and eventually you and Ty start cleaning up, soon Roman comes in with his son. Since he was asleep Roman took him up stairs. Your dad and your brother were on the couch watching tv and Ty sat at the table with Kayla as she was slowly falling asleep. You figured this would be the perfect time to start packing for Paris you go to your room and start picking out clothes.

“What are you doing.” Roman asks entering your closet.

“Packing.”

“I see that but why you don’t leave for a couple of days.”

“Because if I don’t do it now it’s not gonna get done until the day I leave and I really don’t need that stress.”

As you packed Ty, your dad and Darius went back to the hotel. They were gonna stay another night before coming back to your place to stay while you were in Paris.

Your alarm went off waking you, you turn over and see Kayla, Roman and Junior still sleeping. You get out of bed and get ready trying not to wake them up. Dress and ready to go you take your bags and make your way out of the room when you hear Roman’s voice.

“So you just gon leave without saying by or nothing.”

You laugh and walk to him kissing him on the lips.

“Bye baby! I’ll call you when I land and I’ll see you when I get back.”

“Love you.”

“Love you too.” You say walking out.

You struggled down the stairs with your suitcase and bags when your dad appeared and ran to help you. You put your bags by the front door and sat on the stairs with your dad waiting on the car that Ava sent to pick you up.

“Y/N I’m so proud of you and you’ve accomplished so much over the last few years. I know your mother would be proud of you too.” Your dad says grabbing your hand.

“I’m doing this all for her, she wanted wanted me to do what I love and I’m doing exactly that. I have everything I’ve always wanted and more.”

You hear a car honk out front and grab your bags to leave. Your dad followed behind putting everything in the trunk. You hug him before getting in the car and he closes the door. You were the first to make it to the private jet as you waited for Ava and Maya to arrive. 20 minutes go by when you hear “Good Morning Mrs.Rhodes.” Ava steps onto the plane and greets you just as you were about to sit down Trevante comes in. He flashes a smile and says hello and you hesitantly say hi back.

“Where’s Maya I thought she was coming with us?” You questioned.

“Something came up so she’s flying out tomorrow.” Ava responds. “I don’t know about y’all but I’m tired as hell so I’m gonna be in the back.” Ava says walking to the bedroom.

Once she was in the room Trevante sat across from you. Just when he started to speak your phone began to ring and you saw that it was Roman trying to FaceTime you.

“Hey baby!” You answer.

“Hey you haven’t left yet?”

“No we’re getting ready to in a couple of minutes, what’s up?”

“Nothing we just wanted to wish you a safe flight.” He says putting the camera on Kayla and Jr.

As you talked to Roman you could feel Trevante staring at you.

“We’re about to take off I’ll call you when we land. Love you.” You wave and kiss at Kayla before hanging up.

“He seems like a pretty nice dude.” Trevante says.

“Because he is...unlike you.”

“What happened to our truce? I’m just trying to make conversation.”

As much as you wanted to hate him you told yourself that you’ve moved on and you’re over it.

“Fine what do you want to talk about?” You ask.

“I don’t know. Um how have you been? It’s been a while since we’ve actually talked I a lot has happened since you know.”

“Yeah. I’ve been great actually...being a mom changes you a lot my daughter is my whole world ever since I had her I have this love that I’ve never felt before for another person.”

“I can imagine. I’ve always wanted kids but Ava’s not ready for that yet, hopefully it happens soon.”

You and Trevante spent the first two hours of the flight talking until you fell asleep. When you woke up Trevante was gone, you looked at the monitor and saw there was only an hour left until you land.

You check into your hotel room and get settled before calling Roman to tell him you made it. You fell asleep and were suddenly woken up by your phone ringing. It was Ava telling you about the plans for tomorrow and where to meet up in the morning. Setting your alarm you go back to sleep and wake up the next morning to meet Ava.

After spending all day at The Lourve and the Eiffel Tower shooting you go back to your hotel. As you walk to the elevator you see Maya checking in she turns around and you call her name.

“Maya!”

“Y/N hey girl!”

“Are you just getting here?”

“Yeah and I’m jet lagged as fuck. I’m about to go to my room and pass out.”

“Same I’ve been out all day and I’m still on Cali time.”

“Did I miss anything?” Maya asks as you get in the elevator.

“Nah not really. Same shit different country.” You laugh

As the elevator doors open both of you say goodnight and Maya gets out and goes to her room. You go to your room and call Roman but he didn’t answer you look at the time and realized that he was at work so you FaceTime Ty. She answered the phone and you could hear Kayla and Darius in the background. She turns the camera and you can see Darius, Kayla and Jr watching cartoons. You talk to them before you tell Ty to go to another room so you can talk to her. You tell her about Trevante coming to Paris and your conversation on the plane.

“Just don’t do anything stupid Y/N.”

“I won’t I just wish he wasn’t here I mean I don’t have a problem with it it’s just weird even though it shouldn’t and I know I don’t need to be saying this but whenever we do talk it’s like how we use to be.”

“Don’t let him get to you, it’ll be fine.”

“I hope so. Anyways I’m about to go to bed I’m exhausted and I have to be up early.” You say.

You hang up and suddenly felt hungry when you realized after running around all day you hadn’t had a chance to actually eat anything. Changing your clothes you go downstairs to the hotel restaurant when you arrive you’re escorted to a small table. The host gives you a menu to look at and seconds later your waiter arrives asking if you wanted anything to drink while you decide what you want. You asked for a glass of wine and your waiter leaves while you look over the menu. Minutes go by and the waiter appears with your drink and you order something.

Once you were done you go to the bar you spot Trevante on the other side of the bar and hope he doesn’t see you. You order a drink and turn around when you hear your name. Trevante stood in front of you smiling you turn back around and grab your drink.

“Good evening!” He says.

“Hey.”

“You down here alone?”

“Yup. What about you?”

“Yeah.”

“Where’s Ava.” You ask taking a sip of your drink.

“She went to the room.”

“Oh...well have a good night.”

You leave out the restaurant to go outside and Trevante follows.

“Shouldn’t you be upstairs with Ava?” You asked.

“I should but she wants to be alone and you look like you could use the company.”

You hesitate but agree to let him come along with you. As you walk outside the night breeze hits you making you a little relaxed. Not wanting it to be any more awkward than it was you start to talk.

“I don’t mean to sound rude or anything but why are you here.”

“To keep you company.”

“No not that. Why are you here in Paris? You never come on business trips now all of a sudden your tagging along.”

“If you must know Ava and I are having some problems and I thought coming here with her would show her how much I’m committed to our marriage. But I don’t really think it’s working every time we go a moment to ourselves she has to take a call or she wants to be alone.”

“What happened tonight?” You asked as you and Trevante walked down the street.

“We were having dinner and she decided she would rather work than spend some time with me.”

The two of you fall silent and take in the sites around you. Trevante decided to change the subject to talk about you.

“So when are you getting married?”

“Roman and I haven’t set a date yet but I know I want a summer wedding so sometime next year hopefully.”

“Cool. How did you two meet? If you don’t mind me asking.”

“Believe it or not Roman is the guy that stood me up the night we met.” You laugh. “The morning after everything between us ended I ran into him and here we are.”

“Engaged and you have a kid! I’m happy for you Y/N, you might not think that but I really am.” Trevante says as you stop to look at him.

“Thanks.”

You look at your phone to see what time it was. Realizing how late it was getting you and Trevante go back to the hotel. Both of you get into the elevator and you push your floor number and Trevante pushed his.

“Are you going to the party tomorrow?” You asked.

“What party?”

“The magazine is throwing a party at some castle tomorrow night I thought you knew about it.”

“No Ava didn’t say anything. If she wants me to I might be there if not I’ll be here or on a plane back home.”

The elevator stops and you get off waving bye to Trevante as the doors closed and you went to your room.

The next day you sat in Maya’s room helping help choose a dress to wear. After trying on ten different dresses Maya finally picked one. With only a couple hours left until the party you go back to your room, shower and do your hair. As you did your make up Maya showed up to your room dressed and s few minutes you were ready to go and you left for the party.

You and Maya had been at the party for almost two hours before you noticed that you hadn’t seen Ava. You thought maybe she and Trevante stayed at the hotel or went back home so you continued to enjoy the party. As a waiter walked pass with a tray of drinks you grabbed one and as he moved pass the crowd you see Ava. She walks to you and hugs you.

“When did you get here?” You ask.

“A few minutes ago. Couldn’t decide what to wear so it took me a little longer to get here.”

“You look amazing.”

“You too!”

Another waited walks by with a tray of drinks and Ava grabs one. She takes a sip while looking across the room intensely and you look in the direction that she’s looking to see Trevante across the room talking with someone. Ava rolls her eyes and looks back at you, Maya steps between you and Ava and greets her. The three of you talk for a while before you excuse yourself to go to the bathroom. You spent a few minutes looking for the bathroom before you ask someone where it was, they told you upstairs and you made your way up the stairs.

Walking out of the bathroom you bump into someone. As you apologize you notice that it’s Trevante.

“You look nice Y/N!”

“Thank you!”

Trevante puts his hands around your waist and pulls you into the bathroom. Before you could process what was happening he had you on the counter kissing you roughly. His hands were on your thighs and slowly made their way to your back. He put one hand around your neck while the other remained on your back. You were interrupted by someone knocking on the door. Trevante put his hand over you mouth and told the person that the bathroom was occupied. You push Trevante off of you and walk out of the bathroom running down the stairs and leaving the party to go back to the hotel.

Taglist: @kangchalla @yaachtynoboat711 @desireatatyana @alexundefined @lifelover4u @forbeautyandlife @janelledarling @chaneajoyyy @trevantesbrat @mebeingme1234 @missmohnique @leahnicole1219

[just-castlevania-imagines]

Interview/Panel #2

     “Hello Everyone!” The Speaker greeted warmly. The crowd warmed quickly, Sypha giving a big goofy grin as the full panel behind her waved lightly. “Joining us today is: The Tepes’ Family!” She said, gesturing to Dracula and his wifem their son sitting in between them. “Trevor Belmont !” The hunter waved, clutching a beer in his left hand. “The Demon Forgemasters; Hector and Isaac!” They simply nodded at their introduction. “ The Carmilla!”  “Boo.” Hector said suddenly, making Dracula crack a smile. Syphe simply continued herintroductions. “And Finally, Godbrand!” “Fucking yes!” The viking stood. “I made it on the panel!” “Sit your ass back down, You’re not special.” Trevor said quickly, taking a swing of his ale. “Now, we have a lot of ground to cover,” Sypha said quickly, “So let’s get this show on the road!” As Sypha spoke her grandfather appeared, wheeling in the basket full of questions on a cart. Sypha reached in, rummaging around before finally grabbing one. “The first question is for... Hector!” “What?” The forgemaster seemed caught off guard, blinking a few times to make sure he was really awake right now. “Oh, um, that’s great.” “Hector, @smolus-adorabilis would like to know... What is your favorite food?” “Oh..Well, goodness I never... Well, I’ve always really prefered vegtables and pasta, oh it’s so hard to pick a favorite. I every rarely eat meat.” Hector mumbled out his answer, Isaac sitting beside him and chuckling darkly. The young forgemaster struggled to even think of an answer, pissing off the hunter a few seats down. Trevor finally groaned, slamming his hand on the table. “Come on! It’s the first fucking question!” “Calm Yourself, Belmont,” Sypha warned. “Let him answer.” “The boy was always quite partial to beets.” Dracula answered. “Couldn’t get enough of them.” “I remember that phase.” Isaac added. Sypha simply took that as an answer, reaching in for another card. “Alright, Next question... Alucard.” The vampire smirked, shooting a look at Trevor who just rolled his eyes. “Do you sleep in the nude, or with clothes on?” “What-” Alucard was cut off by Trevor, laughing like a madman and wiping a tear from his eye.  “Well, go ahead, tell your adoring  fans how you sleep.” “Fine,” The vampire gave off a frustrated sigh. “H-Honestly The less I have on the better but I’ve never slept naked before.” “Try it, It’s very liberating-” “Belmont, no one asked you-” “Next question!” The speaker said with gusto. “It is for... Trevor! What is your favorite Booze?” “There’s this little bar outside of Craiova that I’ve taken a shine to, they make this mead with juniper berries in it-” “That’s an answer, Lets move on!” Sypha cut him off, Trevor lightly complaining as the others giggled at him. “Sorry Treffy, we have a long list.” She reached back in the basket, pulling out a card. “Another Hector question from Smolus-Adorabilus-” “Looks like you have a fan.” Isaac teased. “What is your favorite animal!” “Oh easy,” Hector said with a smile. “Dogs. I love dogs. They’re so sweet and loyal and you never have to worry about whether or not they love you... You just know.” Suddenly the table shook, a little zombie pug jumping on the panel table. It licked it’s masters face happily. Sypha smiled and reached back in the basket. “Our next question is for... Alucard.” The vampires mother patted his shoulder to congradulate him. “ Boxers or briefs?” “Are all my questions going to be like this?” He asked, raising a brow. His father simply shook his head. “Son, Tepes men are incredibly attractive. You must learn to deal with admirers.” “Anyway, I don’t really like either.” “So you just leave your cock swinging around?” Trevor slurred, taking in more alcohol. “That’s not safe-” “You’re drunk.” “At least I’m not freeballin-” “OUR NEXT QUESTION!” Sypha said loudly, “It is addressed to... Hector!” “Did I not get a question!” Godbrand complained, only for the hunter to lob his empty tankard at him, which he barely dodged. “Shut the hell up. You should be lucky they even allowed you up here.” “Hector, Do you sleep naked?” “W-What!?” Hector panicked, amusing Godbrand a little. “You heard her, Do you go to sleep with your dick out. If you do, Don’t be ashamed,” Godbrand started. “I do it all the time.” “That doesn’t surprise me.” Isaac said flatly. “I-I mean..Not often. My room is so high up in the castle.. it gets cold up there.” “So you have done it once?” Isaac asked suddenly. “You said ‘not often’“ “NEXT QUESTION!” Hector begged, the speaker scoffing at him. “That’s my line...but fine. Our next question is for... Both Vlad AND Lisa!” The couple gasped, reaching for each others hands. Adrian looked interested. “What is your ideal partner for your son?” “..Oh no.” Alucard said quickly under his breath. His mother let out a little squeal, tightly gripping her husbands hands. “Oh, My little Adrian.. He needs a good woman, someone highly fertile, wouldn’t some grandchildren be nice?” “She must be strong willed as well my dear, we want our grandchildren raised proper.” “Yes of course... oh and She should be sweet. The sweetest woman for my boy-” “Oh Man,” Dracula said quickly. “We merely say woman because we want grandchildren but... Son if you find yourself attracted to a man-” “Sypha, Please, Next question.” Alucard pleaded. “They could talk all day.” “Alrighty then. Alucard for you: What is your favorite human food?” “Well, I really like Shellfish, Mostly clams-” “didn’t he get that question before?” Trevor asked, “I thought he answered that-” “It’s not your turn, Belmont.” “Bite me-” “Your blood could get me wasted, no thanks.” He declined, simply waving it off. Sypha dove back into the basket, pulling another thing out. “The next question is for Alucard, Trevor, Hector, Dracula and Isaac!” “Not me-?!” “Be quiet Godbrand.” Dracula warned. “What is the question?” “Upper globes or lower globes.” Silence overtook the room and the men simply looked at one another. Drac turned to his wife but she was at a loss. Isaac, however, simply answered. “Lower Globes.” Isaac’s answer made Hector immediately look at him. “..Wait what does that mean?” “I don’t know,” The calm forgemaster admitted, “But I feel drawn to the answer ‘lower globes’ for some reason.” “Upper globes.” Trevor answered. Drac nodded in agreement. “I’m going to say Upper as well,” The vampire turned to his wife, “I’m unclear on the meaning but... I hope this answer is correct.” “I’m going to say lower.” Alucard said, “Also, very unsure what the question means.” “..I guess I’ll say Lower too then?” Hector asked, making Sypha sigh. “Someone want to explain to them what they just answered- you know what nevermind- Next question!” She changed the subject, digging back in the basket. “Our next question is for Hector and Isaac... this anon wishes to know if you would marry them.” “This is ridiculous.” Carmilla complained under her breath but she was undercut by Hector’s excitement.  “Um.. well.. If you’re nice and you genuinely care about me. oh and you have to be alright with animals.” “I do not plan on marrying.” Isaac answered. “It is a waste of time.” “Lighten up a little.” Hector complained. “There aren’t good enough people in this world to consider spending my life with. Dracula was lucky and managed to find the only rose in the desert.” Lisa put her hand to her heart and Drac nodded to his wingman, taking his wifes hand lovingly. “Alright then, Fair enough.” Sypha shrugged. “The next one is for Dracula and Lisa, It’s 2 questions on one card! Dracula, Who made the first move for...ahem, Consumating your marriage?” Alucard immediately put his hands over his ears, not wanting to hear this, While Trevor leaned in intently. “Well, Lisa. My Lisa has quite the insatiable sex drive-” “Vlad!” She scolded playfully, hitting his arm, making them both laugh. Trevor just watched Alucard sit there, his supernatural hearing making it hard to ignore the answer. “And Lisa, What would make you become a vampire? Would Grandkids convince you?” “Oh.. That is tempting..but Alucard doesn’t seem interested in children-” “Not at the moment, no.” He admitted, taking his hands off his ears. The move wasn’t helping anyway.  “I suppose I would become a vampire in my old age, spending my days with the love of my life...but before then, there is so much good I can accomplish and I need human advantages to do so.” “that’s beautiful Dr. Tepes.” Sypha swooned. “ Next question is for Hector! Where did you meet your dog?” “Oh. Caesar?” Hector asked, picking the pup up and cradling him. “Well, I found him in a cemetary.. his owners had passed and the poor thing stayed by their graves until he met his own fate..it was so cute and he had so much more love to give.. so I-” “BORING.” Godbrand complained loudly, leaning close to Carmilla who seemed disgusted with him. “Come on, When do I get my question!” “Wait until it’s drawn, Asshole.” trevor complained. “God this is a long night.” “The next question is for... Carmilla!” Sypha said, clapping a little. “Are you going to apologize to Lisa for calling her a breeding animal?” “Excuse me?” Lisa started, standing to her feet and glaring down the entire length of the table to the vampiress’s direction. Trevor held back a laugh, ready to see a human woman go off on a vampire. “Honey, Please,” Drac said sweetly, “Calm down.” “No,” She said suddenly. “I don’t.” “Excuseme!?” Dracula started darkly. Alucard stood and blocked his parents. “Mom, Dad, Please-” “Stake her in the fucking heart!” “BELMONT YOU’RE NOT HELPING!” “And one more question .” Sypha stated. “We actually had so many question, that we are going to hold a seperate mini panel one week from now to address them all. The last question for this panel is for Trevor and Alucard.” “Fucking finally.” the hunter complained. “Lay it on me.” “If your significant other gave you lingerie, could you pull it off and would you wear it for them?” Alucard was stunned but Trevor just shrugged. “Oh yeah, I’d wear it for them,” the hunter said casually. “Now, I don’t know if I could pull it off but... I’d try-” “I don’t even know how to answer that.” “Son, I think you could pull off lingerie-” “ Mother Please, never say that to me again.” Alucard begged. “Well, If your father can do it-” Lisa was immediately hushed when Godbrand failed to hold back a laugh, drawing attention to his end of the table. Drac’s eyes bled a sinister red as he stood, making the room glow with an eerie darkness. As Dracula made his way to Godbrand, Sypha quickly got the crowds attention. “And That’s all the time we have folks! Make sure to tip your writers and thank all of you for 1500 followers!” “I DIDN’T MEAN TO LAUGH-” “Pay no attention to the blatant murder occuring behind me!” Sypha said cheerfully. “WHAT I DO WITH MY WIFE IS NONE OF YOUR BUSINESS-” “I’M SORRY-” “Another panel will be held to finish up the follower question, as we had so many that we could barely use them all in one post.” Sypha explained, trying to block the view of Dracula lifting Godbrand off the ground. “Please stay tuned for that and I hope you all had fun here today!”

-Mod Alucard.