#only $713 raised!

[oediex]

@a-shade-of-blue @c-u-c-koo-4-40k @soft-sunbird @ankle-beez @murderbot @comrademango

🚨🚨‏Please Dont Skip-

-Don’t Ignore💔😡

-Help me😭💔

Hello, I am Farah Kamal from Gaza, I am 21 years old, a medical student at Al-Azhar University, we are a family of 5 people, I am talking to you from the midst of genocide, famine and displacement😭😭, before the war we had a beautiful house, a school where driving was taught and a big supermarket, our life was full of happiness, security and comfort. 💔Now after the war, unfortunately, 😭we have lost everything. We lost our house in the blink of an eye, the school burned down, 💔the supermarket was destroyed and my father lost his source of income. 😭Now we are homeless, without money, and when we were displaced from the north to the south, our belongings and clothes were taken and my father was taken at the checkpoint and we do not know anything about him😭😭. The most difficult thing is that we were left without my father. 💔💔There is no one who can work to provide for our needs. My older brother is now in high school and we cannot provide him with books or buy them, 😭💔and I cannot complete my studies in the Faculty of Medicine because of the high fees😭. My little brother needs clothes and healthy food, and my mother suffers from chronic diseases and has become severely weak in her eyesight and we cannot provide her with treatment. 😭I cannot describe to you the extent of our suffering at this time, as there is no healthy food or clean water and fear and danger do not go away around us and we are exposed to death at any time. 😭💔We tried to travel, but unfortunately they were demanding that each person pay $7,000 and we did not have this amount to travel and escape death and bombing.😭💔 We are still suffering to this day. I hope that you will help me provide treatment for my mother and complete my studies in medicine and provide the necessities of life for my family, whether food, drink, clothes or shelter. 💔💔And to get out as soon as possible if the Rafah crossing is opened because then we will have to pay $ 28,000 We live a life of helplessness, oppression and despair, 🤦🏼‍♀️and we spent more than a year under bombing and fire in a canvas tent that did not protect us from the cold of winter or from the insects of strange seasons and serious diseases, please do not ignore our urgent appeal, 💔💔a small donation from each person will make a difference and save our lives, together we can rebuild our lives and restore and shape a future full of hope and 🙏🏻🙏🏻❤️❤️freedom. I trust in your humanity Thank you❤️🙏🏻

✅️Vetted by @gazavetters, my number verified on the list is ( #436 )✅️

@nabulsi27 @90-ghost

[gpcwsl]

Lia wälti x reader where reader comes down with food poisoning and is beyond sick but still insisting she can go to training after spending their day off and the whole night being sick. Lia looks after her and tells her that she is not training she needs to rest

Lia Wälti x Reader

- I’ll be fine -

WC: 713

MasterList

Warnings: short, sick?

You wake up to the sound of your alarm blaring and immediately regret it. The moment you move, your stomach churns violently, a fresh wave of nausea washing over you. You groan, pressing the heels of your hands against your eyes in an attempt to will it all away.

You’ve been like this since yesterday—your one day off, ruined by what you’re now certain was a bad meal. The day had started fine, but by the afternoon, you were battling stomach cramps, and by the evening, it was a full-blown war. A sleepless night followed, leaving you shaky, exhausted, and feeling like you’d been run over by a truck.

Still, it’s training day, and you’re convinced you can power through it.

You manage to sit up in bed, though it takes far more effort than it should. Your head feels heavy, your limbs even more so, but you start to shuffle toward the bathroom to splash some water on your face.

That’s when Lia appears in the doorway, arms crossed, her expression caught somewhere between concern and disbelief.

“Are you seriously trying to get up right now?” she asks, her Swiss accent soft yet pointed.

You freeze, mid-step, and try to muster up a nonchalant tone. “I’m fine, Lia. Just… a little tired, that’s all.”

She raises an eyebrow, clearly unimpressed. “You’ve been throwing up all night. You barely slept. And now you think you’re going to training?”

You sigh, leaning against the doorframe for support. “I have to go. Jonas will kill me if I don’t show up.”

“Jonas will understand,” Lia counters, stepping closer to place a gentle but firm hand on your arm. “You’re not going anywhere in this state.”

“I can do it,” you protest weakly, though even you don’t believe it at this point.

Lia shakes her head, her expression softening as she guides you back toward the bed. “No, you can’t. And you don’t have to.”

You’re too tired to argue further, allowing her to help you sit down. Your body sinks into the mattress, relief flooding through you despite your stubbornness.

“I’ll be fine,” you mumble, though your voice lacks conviction.

Lia crouches in front of you, her hands resting lightly on your knees. “You’re not fine,” she says gently. “And it’s okay to admit that. No one expects you to push through when you’re this sick.”

You glance down at her, guilt creeping in. “I just don’t want to let anyone down.”

Her expression softens even more, and she reaches up to brush a strand of hair away from your face. “You’re not letting anyone down by taking care of yourself. In fact, you’ll be letting the team down if you push yourself too hard and end up even worse.”

She’s right, of course, but it’s hard for you to let go of the guilt. You sigh, leaning your head back against the headboard. “I hate being sick.”

“I know,” Lia says, a small smile tugging at her lips. “But that’s why I’m here—to make sure you rest, even if I have to fight you on it.”

True to her word, Lia spends the entire day looking after you. She brings you tea and dry crackers, though you can barely stomach either. She adjusts the pillows behind your back when you’re lying down and puts a cool cloth on your forehead when you complain about feeling too warm.

At one point, you manage to fall into a restless sleep, only to wake up to the sound of her soft humming. She’s sitting in a chair beside the bed, reading a book, but her attention shifts to you the moment your eyes flutter open.

“How are you feeling?” she asks, setting the book aside.

“Like I got hit by a bus,” you admit, your voice hoarse.

Her lips twitch into a small, sympathetic smile. “Sounds about right. But you’re not getting up until you’re better, understood?”

You nod reluctantly, too tired to argue anymore. “Thanks, Lia. For… all of this.”

She reaches over to squeeze your hand. “Always. Now, get some rest. I’ll be right here if you need anything.”

And with her by your side, you finally feel like you can let go of the guilt and focus on getting better.

[drcomttheo]

Enzo Berkshire x YN

summary: You and Enzo are Amortentia brewing partners.

warnings: fluff

words: 713

a/n: Excerpt from my fic "Inordinate love" or find it on my ML that's pinned.

Slytherin Boy oneshots—ML

Slytherin Boy oneshots—AO3

𝘗𝘰𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯

"Today, we will be brewing Amortentia." Slughorn stated.

Amortentia is the most powerful love potion in the world.

You immediately put your head on your desk.

Potions was your least favorite class; you liked hands-on magic, and you were already well advanced in most of the potions you were learning.

"Can anyone tell me what this potion is? Come on! Why don't you give it a try, Ms/Mr..."

Please don't say it.

"Y/L/N," you sighed inwardly, knowing that was coming considering you were the only one that paid attention.

"It's the most powerful love potion in the world." you said. "It's rumored to smell different to each person, according to what attracts them." Slughorn nodded appreciatively.

"Correct, Ms/Mr. Y/L/N, well done." Slughorn said, lifting up a vial as to cheers. "Now, everyone find a partner and turn to page seven."

You turned to Hermione, but Ron had already grabbed her arm and was pulling her towards the supply cabinet.

Sighing, you glanced around the room, which was pure chaos; everyone was rushing around to grab their friends and soon, everyone had a partner.

Everyone except...

"Mr. Berkshire, why don't you work with Ms/Mr. Y/L/N?" Slughorn put a hand on the boy's shoulder, pushing him towards you.

You raised an eyebrow. "I assume you expect me to do all the work?"

He laughed. Leaning back, he put his feet on the desk. "Absolutely not, Berkshire," you said as you shoved his feet off of the desk.

Skimming through the instructions on the page, you started gathering everything you needed to execute the position correctly.

"Two Lionfish spines, please..." You turned to him and thought for a few moments, "And a rose petal." Enzo smirked while getting up "Coming right up, your majesty," you glared at him and continued to read.

The process wasn't too bad since Enzo was a smart guy and actually put in a decent amount of effort. You figured you would be finished rather quickly.

As you continued to mix all the ingredients as stated in the pages, you finally had a bubbling potion.

You tried not to get too close, since you were scared of what you were going to smell.

"Time's up!" Slughorn said, "Books down everyone. Now, I'm going to call your names, and when I do, I want you and your partner to take a whiff and tell us what your amortentia smells like. That way we'll know if you've done it correctly."

Your heart skipped a beat.

Oh no.

You knew exactly what you were going to smell.

Enzo elbowed me, "Do you want to go first or shall I?" He asked.

"You go," you said, shaking your head, turning it away from him and scooting the potion closer to his side.

Enzo paused for a moment. "I smell... (Y/N scent), (Y/N scent),

(Y/N scent) and (Y/N scent)? You don't think Parkinson smells like (Y/N scent)...

and..." he hesitated, "peacocks." You looked over at him and scoffed.

"Peacocks?"

He had to be lying. You didn't smell remotely close to peacocks—(Y/N scent) was obviously you.

"Yes. White ones, to be exact. Is something wrong with them, Y/L/N?"

Yes.

"No." you said shortly. "Shall we continue?" Enzo asked with a smirk. It was your turn.

Should you try to lie?

"I smell..." you breathed in, trying to come up with the easiest lie, but you couldn't.

"...peppermint, hot tea, and citrus." You quickly pushed the cauldron away and sat down quickly.

Slughorn then cleared his throat to push the awkwardness out of the air. "Well, uh, done, class. Tomorrow we will be learning about the principles of potions; please read chapters four through six. You may be dismissed."

You quickly gathered your things and rushed out of class. When suddenly, you heard the sound of footsteps following close behind me:

"Peppermint and tea? Really, Y/L/N, that's obviously me."

"No, it is not Berkshire." You scowled, "Why on Earth would you smell someone as vial as you?" You retorted and Enzo laughed.

"Sure, it's not?" He said, running his hand through his hair and walking backwards for a few steps until turning and heading back down the corridor.

[reminiscingtonight]

Reunions

Alessia Russo & Reader (Leah Williamson x Bronze!Reader)

Word Count: 713

A/N: Started this after the transfer news. Finished after Alessia's semi-final goal. Seems fitting to add it the Setbacks Universe

[Setbacks Masterlist] // [WOSO Masterlist]

The last couple months have been a rollercoaster. 

After working through your injury, you’ve bounced back with a vengeance, all the weeks you’ve spent cooped up translating to endless bounds of energy on the field. 

There’s no other way to describe the second half of the season than constant ups and downs. 

Arsenal beat out Chelsea for the Conti-Cup title. 

Your girlfriend tore her ACL.

You sold out the Emirates for the Champions League semi-final.

You lost the Champions League semi-final. 

And then you got called up for the freaking World Cup.

It’s definitely a bittersweet feeling, being called up to live your dreams while your girlfriend is stuck watching on the sidelines. But Leah’s quick to reassure you of how much you deserve it. Of how proud she is of you.

You thought making the world cup squad would be the highlight of your year. The peak of this year of ups and downs.

You never accounted for one Alessia Russo.

July 4th might be America day to those living across the pond, but July 4th will always be “Alessia Russo joins Arsenal” day to you.

“So.”

Blue eyes look up at you, narrowing with good reason. There’s a devious look in your eyes as you plop down next to one of your best friends. 

“Missed us that much, huh?” 

Alessia’s dressed in Arsenal gear, having just finished her photoshoot and making her rounds around the training ground. You lit up the second the blonde opened the door to the physio room, you having had accompanied Leah to her appointment, and you haven’t left Alessia’s side since.

Alessia rolls her eyes. “Lotte maybe. You? Not so much.”

“Ouch, you wound me,” you gasp, hands clutching at your heart.

Of course you’ve been aware of all of the rumors floating around. Alessia Russo to Arsenal everyone said, the media, the fans. Everyone but the one person who actually mattered. 

Despite all of your probing, Alessia refused to tell you where she was actually headed to after her contract with Manchester United ended. 

You were just starting to entertain the idea of her following her ex-Manchester teammate to Barcelona when Alessia finally spilled the beans. Not even Leah’s injured form could stop you from lifting and twirling your girlfriend around when you got the news. Leah had simply laughed at you, telling you to put her down.

And now you’re here. Sitting in the oh-so familiar locker room, with someone who’s also oh-so familiar, just not familiar with this side of the field.

“I can’t believe it. The Tar Heel gals, back together again.”

Alessia snorts at the phrase, remembering when she shouted that upon your late addition to the Lionesses senior squad.

“Only this time we get to do it at Arsenal.”

“The better reds,” you nod in return, laughing when Alessia shoves you back in retaliation. Alessia might be a gunner now, but you know she’ll always have a soft spot for her childhood team.

“Babe, leave her alone.”

The sight of Leah making her way into the locker room has your face breaking out into a smile, but something akin to a whine is quick to break out of your mouth at her warning. “But Leah! Lessi is--”

The sight of a perfectly crafted eyebrow raising at you has you shutting your mouth with a click.

“Lessi is what?” Alessia eggs you on, laughing at the face you pull at her. 

Leah ignores the disgruntled look you shoot her way, sighing at your dramatics. “The two of you are children.”

“Well this child gets to go home with you,” you point to yourself. “That child is banned from… ” you trail off, trying to think hard of something to stay. 

It’s Alessia’s muffled laughter that has you blurting out the first thing that comes to mind.

“Alessia’s banned from ever meeting Winnie!”

The silence that follows is very telling.

Leah avoids eye contact while Alessia looks all too gleeful.

You gasp, pointing an accusing finger at Alessia. “You’ve already met Win?! They wouldn’t let me meet her until I my second month here!”

.

The three of you run into Win on your way out.

Leah has to try not to laugh when Win nearly knocks you over to get to Alessia.

[veritas-scribblings]

night - @jegulus-microfic - words: 713

James knows that he’ll find Regulus in the astronomy tower because, for all they might try to deny it, Regulus and Sirius are more alike than either of them realise. When they are overwhelmed or overstimulated by the world or raging from a tsunami of emotions within them, they go to the astronomy tower and they look at the stars and they try to find ‘themselves’. And often, without realising or acknowledging it, they find each other as well.

Regulus is sitting on the floor, his back leaned up against one of the columns as he reads by wand-light. It’s a thick book, thicker than James would ever have patience for. When James approaches, Regulus looks up like James has just invaded his private space. 

‘What are you doing here?’ Regulus asks. He doesn’t sound hostile, as James had expected, merely curious and a touch confused. But then, in true Regulus fashion, he adds, a lot more cutting than before, ‘I was under the impression you might lose your superpowers without the adoration of your loving fan base.’

‘Eh, too noisy, too many people’ James says, echoing the words Regulus had said to him mere weeks ago. He sits down next to Regulus on the cold, stone floor, and plucks the book from Regulus’s hand, leaving the boy gaping in shock at his audacity. 

‘What is this thing you’re reading?’ James says, holding the book up and flicking through the pages. ‘You were reading it last time too.’

‘It’s a book, you dimwit.’ Regulus snatches it back and whacks James aggressively up the side of the head with it. And damn, it actually hurts. Because apparently Regulus is not in the least bit shy about violence. He glares at James, his cheeks adorably pink with fury, and hisses like a wounded cat, ‘You lost my page.’

‘Oh. Sorry.’ James reaches over to take the book back and generously help him find his page, only to have Regulus smack his hand away and raise the book up, brandishing it like a weapon. ‘Okay, okay, geez, sorry, I surrender!’

‘Weak,’ Regulus scoffs. He quietens for a moment, stars up at the stars which sparkle across the clear, night sky. ‘So, why are you here?’

‘I came to find you,’ James says. There’s something so endearing about how bewildered Regulus looks at this admission. Like he did not expect this. Like it is surreal, that he cannot quite believe it. Something in James’s stomach flutters. There is a warmth in his chest that leaves him feeling slightly breathless and overwhelmed.

But then Regulus seems to realise that his emotions are showing and he schools his expression to become empty once more.

‘You ran away from the party so quickly.’ James leans over, peers around at Regulus who has turned away from him. Regulus’s hair has fallen into his eyes and James wants so desperately to brush the locks aside, run his fingers through Regulus’s hair because he’s so sure that his hair is soft like spun silk.

‘Too noisy,’ Regulus says. He’s almost smiling; the corner of his lips twitch upwards. ‘Too many people.’ And then, cautiously, ‘You came to find me?’

‘Yes.’ James swallows. Regulus looks downwards, at the book in his hands. He wets his lips, blinks, silent. His lashes are long, framing his eyes, which are a dark stormy grey. And James wants to kiss him. He wants to kiss him more than he’s wanted to do anything else in his life.

And so he asks, seized suddenly by a burst of Gryffindor courage, ‘Can I kiss you?’

Regulus nods.

So James does just that. It’s awkward at first because James’s mouth is dry from anxiety. He pulls backwards, wets his lips, and quickly chases Regulus’s mouth when Regulus thinks James is done and turns away. It’s a closed-mouth kiss initially because James isn’t really sure how Regulus feels about all of this and worries that he might be too presumptuous if he tried anything else.

Regulus is bolder, however, and runs his tongue over James’s bottom lip and invites himself into James’s mouth. It’s wonderful, steals James’s breath and fills him with a buzz that’s all joy, and he smiles so huge and wide that Regulus pulls back and calls him an absolute idiot for ruining the moment.

[myths0f01d]

Ok so few months ago I can't remember when. I went through a faze of reading every merlin cross harry potter fic I could find. Including merthur. It's a small list. A really really small list. It's amazing though. I grew up obsessing over harry potter and then merlin. So obviously I devoured the fics and then grew sad when there were no more. So I started writing my own. To be fair it was a very complex story line I chose to write so it didn't last long. I think I have the first half of the first chapter down but I have no hope even for that. But now. As the flame is rekindled. I'll be thinking it out more and writing it again. I say this in hope. But I have no idea since school is starting soon for me.

I have the summary written and maybe the title? I'm not sure.

Also fun fact about me. I have never stuck to reading a 100k fanfic until I read 'Emrys Ascending' by tricksterity on ao3. Probs one of the best merthur fics I've ever read. Go check the fic out. You won't regret it. Trust me.

Anyway here's the summary for my own one. Sort of. Or the main outline?

Many years ago, around 300 years to be exact, Merlin placed the crystal of Neahtid in vault 713, in the lowest part, at the time, in Gringotts wizarding bank. He thought it would be safe there.

What he did not expect was that approximately 200 years later would he be informed that it had been taken, then attempted to been taken again. Now chasing after a half giant, a child and a wacky Headmaster and some unforeseen lurking evil Merlin is forced to venture out into the wizarding world once more.

Though now in hindsight it was not a smart idea to attend the school as an 11 year old boy, apparently it raised a lot of questions when you appear out of nowhere.

It also does not help when a few older years resemble suspiciously to close to Arthur and the knights, so its no wonder he’s so distracted.

There's going to be loads of shenanigans by the way. I want it to mostly be funny fluff and light hearted. Obvi there has to be angst on some parts. I still have a lot to refine and go through but the base idea and what I want for it is there

Here's the old summary (first draft)

Long ago merlin put the crystal of neahtid in vault 713 in the depths of gringotts Wizarding bank.

He thought it's be safer there.

It's not his fault a half giant, a child and a slightly less marbles then there should be headmaster stole it.

And it's certainly not his fault when he thought the best plan of action was to go undercover and take it back. As an 11 year old.

Only to find out the past has come back to haunt him. In the form of of a few 3rd years scattered across houses.

Because really, Guise isn't around anymore to tell him it's his fault. So he'll believe it's not.

That is until he hears a familiar laugh in the forbidden forest.

Ok so maybe it is his fault.

Destiny can go shove it honestly, merlins not amused.

Tell me witch one you like better

[kmomof4]

A Christmas Surprise: Ch. 4

It's the 🎶final chapter🎶 (yes, I know I'm really dating myself with those notes, but I don't care. I just have to...) and all the happy endings are here!!! Thank you all so much for reading and MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

Summary: Elsa Jones enlists her friend Emma Swan to come up with a scheme to surprise her niece Alice Jones when her Papa, Killian, returns from deployment just in time for Christmas.

From the beginning on ao3/ Current ch

Rating G Total Christmas fluff ahead!

Words: Almost 6200 of 18,5K

Tagging the usuals. Please let me know if you'd like to be added or removed.

@jrob64 @teamhook @winterbaby89 @hollyethecurious @artistic-writer @xarandomdreamx @undercaffinatednightmare @the-darkdragonfly @stahlop @superchocovian @pirateprincessofpizza @tiganasummertree @anmylica @cosette141 @motherkatereloyshipper @zaharadessert @jonesfandomfanatic @ultraluckycatnd @jennjenn615 @allons-y-to-hogwarts-713 @kymbersmith-90 @booksteaandtoomuchtv @wistfulcynic @mie779 @snowbellewells @lfh1226-linda @aprilqueen84 @whimsicallyenchantedrose @pirateherokillian @elfiola @ilovemesomekillianjones @justanother-unluckysoul@poptart-cat-78 @myfearless-love @goforlaunchcee @searchingwardrobes @gingerpolyglot @gingerchangeling @djlbg @cocohook38 @cs-rylie @thisonesatellite @donteattheappleshook @deckerstarblanche @veryverynotgoodwrites @wefoundloveunderthelight @fleurdepetite @alexa-fangirl-forever @bluewildcatfanatic @qualitycoffeethings

Under the cut, unless Tumblr ate it.

The month had flown by, and Killian was due to report back in Boston in less than a week. He wasn’t anywhere near ready to say goodbye to Alice and Emma, even if it was only during the work week. Since Alice was in the middle of the school year in a school she loved, Killian didn’t see the need to bring her to Boston with him when he was planning on being in Storybrooke every weekend anyway. There was no way he was going to stay away from Emma from the first of February to mid April, when he’d finally be separating from the US Navy. 

While January had been a desperately needed respite from his normal duties in the Navy, that didn’t mean he’d been idle. He’d spent every minute he could with Emma, falling more and more in love with her as he did, in between sitting for his licensure exam that he blew out of the water, and pursuing the job opportunity in Storybrooke that looked better and better every day. Nemo had said, even before he’d submitted his résumé, that he didn’t foresee any problems bringing him on, but they were now nearly to the target date Nemo had mentioned for having an offer in hand, if he were to be hired.

Killian was making himself an afternoon snack when his phone buzzed in his pocket.

“Hello?”

“Killian?” 

Killian’s heart rate sped up when Nemo spoke on the other end of the line.

“Yes, sir,” he greeted the man that he hoped would be his boss in a few months.

Nemo chuckled and Killian’s hope soared.

“Well, there’s no real reason to beat around the bush,” the older man said. “The job is yours if you want it.”

Killian held the phone away from his mouth for a moment as he silently crowed at the ceiling and raised his fist in the air, before drawing it sharply back down in a ‘YESSSS’ gesture.

“I definitely do, Sir.” There was no need to talk to anyone about the decision. He knew he had Liam and Elsa’s full support to pursue and accept the offer when it came, and he’d had enough discussions with Alice to know that she desperately hoped he’d get the job as well. And Emma’s words on New Year’s Eve were the final green light he needed to accept the proposal.

“Excellent,” Nemo said. “You’ll be leading the department. With your experience in the Navy, I can’t think of anyone better suited to do so.”

Killian was stunned, and had to snap his hanging jaw shut before speaking. “Th- Thank you, Sir,” he stammered. “I’m honored.”

“When is your retirement date? I have it here somewhere…” Killian could hear papers rustling over the line and chuckled.

“April 10th is my last day of duty and the ceremony is on the 11th.”

“Very good. How about you start the following Monday, the 16th?” he asked. “That’ll give you a few days of downtime with your family, and to decompress a bit before we throw you in the deep end.” They both laughed at Nemo’s choice of words.

“Good thing I’m in the Navy, then,” Killian quipped. “I’m used to swimming in deep water.” Nemo laughed good naturedly.

“Did you have any other questions for me that we haven’t already addressed? The official offer will be emailed to you in a few minutes. Just for you to have for your records. Can you come in on Monday to get your paperwork squared away and meet a few folks?”

“Yes, I can, Sir,” he replied. “And I don’t have any questions. The offer is very generous, and I’m excited to be leading the team.”

“It’ll be good to have you, Killian. Come in Monday anytime after ten.”

“I will do that, Sir. Thank you.”

Killian hung up his phone and immediately checked his email. There it was. The employment offer that was going to make all his dreams come true. Killian could have leapt with joy. 

After another fist pump, Killian ran for the stairs to go tell Liam and Elsa. He would have preferred to share the news with Alice and Emma first, but Alice was at dance class for a little while longer and Emma was at her house. There was no way he’d be able to contain his excitement until he could tell them, so he had to go with who was readily available. Liam had come home early for some reason and had immediately gone upstairs without so much as saying hello when Killian passed him on his way to the kitchen. 

He came to a stop outside their bedroom to see Elsa sitting on the end of the bed, her head in her hands, Liam sitting next to her rubbing circles into her back. His excited words died on his lips completely.

Liam looked up at him. His eyes were slightly glazed, and Killian wondered if he really saw him standing there. He looked completely shell shocked, and Elsa’s posture was no better. She rubbed both of her temples, and Killian could just hear low mutterings coming from her mouth.

“Hey, guys,” he said, coming in slowly. “What’s wrong?”

Elsa raised her head, and threw it back laughing. It had a manic quality to it that made Killian even more nervous.

“Your brother,” she began, pointing at Liam who still sat on the bed, his hand on her back.

“M-, ME?!” Liam sputtered.

“Yes, you!”

“Last I checked, babe, it takes two to tango.”

Killian’s confusion suddenly cleared and he moved to the bathroom to see a little white stick sitting on the vanity. PREGNANT showed clearly in the tiny window. Killian had to press his lips together hard to keep from laughing. It may have been a lot of years since he’d had to concern himself with women’s cycles, but it wasn’t rocket science to figure out that his brother and sister-in-law had made fireworks of their own on New Year’s, and this was the result. 

“Congratulations,” Killian said, coming back in the room, smirk planted firmly on his face. He could understand their shock and surprise. Elsa was closing in on forty, and Liam was well past that milemarker. Plus, the twins were thirteen years old, and would be fourteen before their new sibling made their appearance. They obviously needed some time to themselves to come to terms with the hard left turn their lives had just taken. But he still wanted to share his own news with them. “I have some good news of my own, if you’re ready to hear it.”

That got both their attentions. Their countenances cleared and a wide smile broke on Elsa’s face.

“Did you hear from Nemo?” Liam asked.

“I did.”

Elsa let out a loud whoop and launched herself at him. But before she reached him, her hand flew to her mouth and she ran for the bathroom instead. He could hear her retching as he followed his brother who’d rushed after her. Killian stood in the doorway to see Liam hovering, and Elsa waving him away.

“This is all your fault,” she said in between heaves, a petulant whine in her voice. “Get away from me.” She disappeared behind the wall separating the toilet from the rest of the bathroom again; whatever she’d eaten earlier making another appearance. “Congratulations, Killian,” she wheezed when she was done. She made it to her feet, slapping Liam’s hand away as he tried to help her up. “Did you tell us first?” she asked. “It’s almost time to go pick up Alice! She’ll be ecstatic!” Killian turned to go, when Elsa spoke again. “Don’t say anything to the kids about this yet.” She waved her hand around in an aimless gesture. “We’ll make an announcement… sometime. Soon.”

“Just the kids?” Killian asked. 

“Ohhhh,” Elsa said, realization coming over her. “Yeah, go ahead. You can tell Emma.”

Killian smiled at them both and all but ran from the room.

~*~*~

Killian grinned widely when Alice came out of dance class. As soon as she was in her booster in the back seat with her seatbelt on, Killian turned to her.

“So, you want to stay in Storybrooke, Starfish?”

Alice’s eyes got as big as saucers. “Did you get the job at Uncle Liam’s, Papa?”

“I did,” he replied. Alice’s shout was loud enough to burst his ear drums. “He called a little bit before I came to get you. I’ll start on April 16th.”

Alice unbuckled her seatbelt and leaned across the front seat to hug him as tightly as she could in the awkward position.

“I’m so excited, Papa!” she exclaimed. “So what does that mean? What’s going to happen?”

“Just like what we’ve talked about, Starfish,” he reminded her. “I’ll be heading back to Boston on Wednesday night after you go to bed. I’ll be there Thursday and Friday before coming back Friday night to spend the weekend with all of you. Then I’ll be going back to Boston again Sunday night for the whole week, and I’ll be here on the weekends. I’ll do that every week until I retire on April 11th. You’ll be staying here while I’m there, living with Uncle Liam and Aunt Elsa and your cousins, going to school and dance and all the things you normally do.”

“And after you retire, we’ll still live with Uncle Liam and Aunt Elsa?” she asked.

Killian chuckled. “Oh, no. We’ll move into our own home after I retire.” Killian thought about the house Liam had told him about. It was still on the market, but Killian hadn’t wanted to really look at it until he had the offer in hand. And now that he did, he could begin seriously looking for a home that would accommodate him and Alice and perhaps a couple of others, as well. Killian couldn’t keep the smile off his face if he tried.

“Yayyyy!!!” Alice shouted again, bouncing in her seat.

“Now I want to go see Emma and tell her,” Killian said. “Do you want me to take you home or do you want to come with me?”

Alice bounced in her seat again. “Come with! Come with!”

Killian chuckled and turned the car on. “Alright then. Let’s go.”

No sooner had Killian brought the car to a stop in Emma’s driveway than Alice was out like a shot, shouting as she ran for the front door.

“Miss Swan! Henry! Papa got the job! We’re staying in Storybrooke!”

Killian knew his smile was ridiculously wide with how much his cheeks were hurting, but he couldn’t begrudge his daughter being the one to break the news. He caught up to her as she banged on the door, opened moments later by Henry, followed closely by Emma.

“What?” asked Henry, his own smile taking over his face.

“Papa got the job!” Alice repeated. “We’re staying in Storybrooke!”

Emma’s face looked like the sun coming out from behind the clouds after a storm. She ran for him, and he caught her in his arms, spinning her around as she hugged him tightly and showered kisses all over his face. 

Once he put Emma down, Henry and Alice scurried off to his room to play and Emma showed Killian into the living room.

“I’m so happy for you, Killian,” Emma said, sitting down next to him and holding his hand tightly.

“Me, too,” he agreed. “It’s a relief to be sure.” Killian looked her full in the face. “And now that I have the offer in hand, I can start moving forward into this next phase of my life.” He paused and scratched at the spot behind his ear, his eyes skittering away from hers for a moment. He took a deep breath, and met her gaze again, his eyes full of love and hope. “A phase that I hope I’ll have a companion for.”

Emma gasped. They had of course talked about the job and the opportunity it would present for him and Alice, but they’d been careful to steer away from what it might mean for them. But now that the job was certain… 

“Calm down, Swan. I’m not proposing.” Emma hoped she kept the surprise and slight disappointment off of her face, but wasn’t sure she succeeded when he winked at her. Or attempted to, anyway. “You’ll know when I do,” he assured her. Emma giggled. “Anyway,” he continued, “I’ll need to start looking for a house for myself and Alice to move into once I’m here permanently. And I was hoping you might join me in that search.  To help me find a house for all of us. Where we can be a family.” He paused again, giving her a moment to absorb everything he’d already shared. 

“I love you, Emma.”

A gasping sob escaped her and she grabbed him around the neck and pulled him to her until their lips joined in a joyful expression of love, both felt and reciprocated. When air became necessary, she pulled back.

“I love you, too, Killian.”

Killian surged forward and captured her lips with his own, pushing her back on the sofa until she was reclined and every part of her body was fully lined up to his. The passionate kiss they shared was making his head spin, but he knew they couldn’t go any further, not with their children in the next room. Very reluctantly, he pulled back.

“We have to stop, Swan,” he said, “As much as I don’t want to.”

“I know,” she agreed, her own reluctance on full display. 

Killian rolled off of her, tucking himself between her and the back of the sofa. “I just had a thought. What would you think about coming down to Boston the Thursday after Valentine's Day? We could have a nice dinner without fighting all the Valentines’ crowds and you could spend the night?” It was a question, and she knew exactly what he was asking. She had to admit, it was something she’d definitely thought about and he obviously had, too.

“I think that sounds like a fine idea, Captain.” She lifted up slightly and kissed him.

“Then I could take Friday off and we could do some touristy things around town before coming home a bit earlier than I normally would.” Emma smiled in agreement.

“Oh, I forgot to tell you.” 

“What?”

“You remember what I walked in on on New Year’s?”

Emma’s eyebrows shot up, her cheeks flushing with secondhand embarrassment. “Uh huh.”

“Well, Elsa’s pregnant.”

Emma’s jaw dropped and her eyes widened so much that Killian couldn’t hold back his chuckle.

“Are you kidding me?” She was stunned and couldn’t pretend otherwise.

“Nope,” Killian assured her. “She found out this afternoon. She must have called Liam to come home early. When I came up to tell them about the job, she was…” Killian trailed away, searching for the words. “A bit hysterical? Extremely annoyed? Both? Yes.” He nodded decisively. “Both is good.”

A snort laugh burst out of Emma. “Bless her so much.”

“She said I could tell you, but she doesn’t want to say anything to the kids, just yet.”

“Oh, don’t worry,” Emma said, pursing her lips and miming locking them and throwing away the key. “My lips are sealed.”

Killian chuckled. “I can think of another way to keep those lips busy,” he said, eyebrows waggling.

Emma grinned at him. “A method I highly approve of,” she said, before drawing him down into another kiss, celebrating all the news of the day.

~*~*~

The next day was Saturday, and Emma and Elsa were finally enjoying their joint spa day. After the news she’d received the day before, Elsa was especially ready and thankful for it.

Once the ladies were gone, Liam joined Killian in the kitchen where he was just finishing his coffee.

“You ready?”

Killian took his last swallow and got up to put the mug in the sink. “Yep. Let’s go.”

When he had come back home yesterday after giving Emma the news, Killian asked Liam if they could go look at the house he had told him about while the ladies were occupied Saturday morning. Liam’s grin was blinding as he made all the arrangements. 

Now they were pulling up in front of a beautiful Nantucket style three story home. It was sky blue with a huge wraparound front porch and a three story turret anchoring the front facade.

Killian’s jaw hung open slightly as Liam opened the gate of the white picket fence on the edge of the sidewalk and moved toward the steps leading up to the front porch. He couldn’t take his eyes off of it as he followed Liam, almost in a daze.

Once inside, Liam took him through the house, from the basement to the finished third story that would be ideal for an office or a game room when the kids were a little older. Or, and a small smile turned up his lips at the thought, perhaps another bedroom, if needed. But as it was, the house was beautiful, inside and out, with all the room they needed for a growing family. The price was a little higher than he wanted, but it had been on the market, sitting empty, since autumn, so Killian was hopeful the sellers would be willing to come down a bit in order to get it off their hands. 

Killian’s excitement was sending his heart rate into overdrive. This house was perfect in every way, but he needed to get Emma’s input as well. If she was going to be a part of his life going forward and a part of his family in the not-too-distant future, she needed to be on board with whatever home he bought. The ladies would be done with their pampering about one o’clock; maybe he could bring her over afterward to have a look at it. 

“Could I bring Emma back this afternoon when they’re done to have a look?” Killian asked his brother. “I love it. It’s perfect. But I can’t in good conscience make an offer on a place that I would hope will be a home for all of us without getting her opinion first.”

“I completely understand, Brother. And I agree,” Liam said. “Let me let the seller’s agent know, and I’ll give you the key.”

Killian nodded and turned around in a full circle looking at the main floor of the house. He imagined moving into this beautiful home- Emma, Alice, and Henry with him- filling it with love and laughter for a lifetime.

~*~*~

A few hours later, he parked his own car in front of the house and looked at Emma in the passenger seat. Her face was very much like his when he’d seen it for the first time earlier. Killian couldn’t keep the grin off his face if he tried.

“What do you think?”

“It… it’s gorgeous,” she breathed. “Have you…?”

“Swan! No!” he exclaimed, completely shocked she would even ask him that. “I’d never make that kind of decision or make a purchase like this without talking to you first.” He took her hands in his and looked her right in the eyes. “Not if we’re going to have a future together.”

Emma’s heart completely melted. She already knew she loved him, but this was just another confirmation that her heart and soul had found a haven in his. She reached up and pulled him to her in a kiss that he eagerly reciprocated and that quickly turned heated.

“Come on,” he said, pulling away some moments later. “Let me show you the inside.”

Emma followed Killian through the gate and up the front steps. It was the most beautiful house she’d ever seen, the wraparound porch a feature that she’d always wanted in a home. When she’d bought the house she lived in now, her budget didn’t come anywhere close to affording a house with a porch like that. But, she had to try to keep her excitement in check. Killian obviously wanted her honest opinion on the house that he hoped would be a home for all of them, and she couldn’t let her immediate affection for the exterior drive that opinion. The house would have to meet certain thresholds in order to be something they could all live in for many years to come.

And as Killian took her through the house, it became quite obvious that it met every single one of those thresholds. A wide open floor plan and tall ceilings weren’t necessary, but were very welcome additions to the generous square footage, ample storage, kitchen and bath upgrades that thrilled Emma to no end, large bedrooms and even enough room for any future children they might have.

Emma looked at Killian, a soft smile on her face as she imagined moving into this beautiful home with Killian, Henry, and Alice by her side. It was everything she could have hoped and dreamed of.

“So what do you think, Swan?” Killian asked, love and hope in his eyes.

“I love it, Killian,” she said sincerely. She stepped toward him and took his hands in hers, her gaze meeting his. “I can see us, all of us, living here for many, many years. Many happy years.”

The relieved grin on Killian’s face, made her own smile bloom before she drew him into another kiss. When they separated, Killian wrapped his arms around her as they both turned and looked out the back window to the large backyard where the kids would no doubt spend many hours playing.

“I didn’t even ask,” Emma began. “What are they asking for this place?”

“It’s a little more than I can afford,” Killian said, “but it’s been sitting empty for four months, so I’m hoping they’ll be a little more motivated to come down on their asking price.”

“With my income, you could probably afford it,” she suggested.

“Yes, but we’re not married yet, and that will create all kinds of complications that we really don’t need to deal with right now,” he explained, kissing her on the tip of her nose.

“Hmmm, yes, that’s true,” she agreed, smiling at the tender gesture.

“I’ll talk to Liam, make them an offer, and see what they say,” he continued. “Wouldn’t it be great if we could have this squared away before I go back to Boston?” The hope in his eyes made her smile and matched the joy in her own.

“Yes, it really would.”

~*~*~

Retirement day had finally arrived. His last two months, one week, and two days of duty were over and all that was left now was the ceremony that would signify his official separation from the United States Navy. He couldn’t believe how quickly the time had gone. Living it day to day, he didn’t think this day would ever get here, but looking back, the time really had flown by.

The offer he’d given Liam for the house back at the end of January had been eagerly accepted by the sellers, even at significantly below their asking price. His offer wasn’t unfair, but he’d fully expected them to counter, and when they didn’t, he was stunned. They’d closed on the house on Saturday just a couple of weeks ago, to accommodate Killian’s work schedule, and he and Emma had been busy both weekends since, moving boxes and some furniture into it, so they’d be able to fully move in tomorrow. The movers would be collecting the rest of his and Alice’s furniture in Boston tomorrow and bringing it all to Storybrooke. He hoped to be fully moved in and unpacked before he started at Storybrooke Real Estate on Monday.

After Emma visited him in Boston in February, they figured it was time for him to meet her parents. Mary Margaret Swan had immediately welcomed him into their family with open arms. It took just a little longer to win David over, but now the bromance between him and David flourished after Killian assured him of the honor of his intentions.

He peeked through the curtain to see all his loved ones arriving en masse and making their way to the front of the room. As the family members of the retiree, they had reserved seating. Seeing Emma there surrounded by his family and hers, sudden inspiration hit him. There was only one thing missing that would make this day truly perfect. When she spotted him looking at her through the curtain, he signaled her to join him. She turned to her mother for a moment and then started toward the podium and backdrop.

Emma came around the edge of the curtain where Killian waited for her to join him before gathering her into his arms and planting a kiss on her lips that wasn’t nearly enough, but would have to be, given their present location.

“Emma,” he said, sinking down on one knee, “I know you probably didn’t expect this today, but when I saw you come into the room, all I could think of was that I wanted you by my side today as my fiancée, not my girlfriend.” He pulled a small, black velvet box out of his dress blues pocket. Emma gasped, her hands flying to her mouth. “These last four months since we met have been the best of my life. I love you more than words can express, more than I ever believed possible. Would you make me the happiest man alive and consent to be my wife?”

Emma’s eyes were filled with tears and she could barely see straight to nod and hold her hand out for him to put the beautiful round diamond solitaire on her finger. She knelt in front of him, taking his face in her hands. The tears escaped her eyelids and rolled down her cheeks as she pulled him to her and kissed him with all the love in her heart.

When they pulled back, she touched her forehead to his, tears still streaking down her face.

“I love you, Killian,” she whispered. “And yes, I want nothing more than to be by your side today as your fiancée.” They were both quiet for a moment, just enjoying the love between them. “I should probably go back out there. They’ll be wondering what’s going on.”

Killian chuckled. “Don’t say anything. Let’s see if anyone notices. If they don’t, we’ll announce it at the reception.”

Emma smiled her agreement. They got to their feet, and Emma moved around the curtain to go back to her seat. Killian peeked through the drape again and saw her sit down on the front row, Elsa on one side of her, Mary Margaret on the other. Killian grinned and pulled back from the drape only to hear twin squeals from the other side of the curtain. He moved back, a wide grin spreading on his face as he saw his fiancée showing off her ring to her best friend and mother.

It was going to be quite a party this afternoon, and he couldn’t wait.

~*~*~  

Emma sat before the vanity on her wedding day, watching as her mother gathered her hair into an elegant bun at the nape of her neck and tucked the comb holding her veil underneath.

Everything was ready for her to join her life with the love of her life, Killian Jones.

She rose from her stool and turned to face her mother, best friend, and daughter.

“Oh, Mama,” Alice breathed. “You look so beautiful.”

Emma smiled at the child, her heart swelling with love for her. Once school let out last May, Emma and Killian had both initiated adoption proceedings for Alice and Henry, with Emma’s adoption of Alice going through in August and Killian’s adoption of Henry finalizing just last month due to residency requirements.

“Thank you, baby,” Emma said, opening her arms for her hug. She felt the tears fill her eyes as she looked at her mom and Elsa. Elsa’s own eyes glistened with tears as well. She was radiant in the ice blue gown she wore. You couldn’t even tell that she’d given birth three months ago to a daughter, Lila Emily Rose. 

When they first talked about dates for the wedding, Killian had suggested August, thinking that would be plenty of time for the planning, but Elsa, Mary Margaret, and Emma herself had loudly protested that it wasn’t nearly enough time. Plus there was the fact that Elsa didn’t want to be walking down the aisle as Matron of Honor nine months pregnant. And so December 15th was chosen, one year to the day since their meeting.

“You look so beautiful, too.” She stepped back, holding Alice’s hands, then releasing one as Alice spun a perfect pirouette under her arm, the skirt of her dress, a smaller version of Elsa’s, flaring out before settling back around her ankles.

“Your father is gonna cry,” Mary Margaret said, completing the teary eyed trio. “We’re so happy this day has finally come. You’re marrying Killian, joining together to create a new family.” Mary Margaret sniffed, and Elsa handed her a handkerchief. 

“One year ago today, I saw something that I’d despaired of ever seeing- my brother-in-law, Killian Jones, noticing a woman,” Elsa said, her smile nostalgic as she remembered Emma and Killian’s first meeting. “He’d been alone for six years, but he was smitten with you from that very first moment, and my heart rejoiced. And now here you are, a year later, about to join your lives together, forever.” Mary Margaret handed the handkerchief back to Elsa when a tear escaped and ran down her face. Emma chuckled and then wiped away her own tears. 

Outside the room, they could hear the organ beginning to play Sheep May Safely Graze, the last piece before Mary Margaret was to be seated. They moved from the Bride’s Room to the vestibule, where Emma’s dad, Liam, and Henry waited for them.

Elsa and her mother took their places on either side of Liam, and Alice took Henry’s arm, making Emma’s eyes fill with tears yet again. Henry was growing up much too fast. Holding his arm out to his best friend and now sister, just like a little gentleman, made her realize just how quickly time passed. She shouldn’t be able to see glimpses of the man he would one day become, not yet. She looked at her loved ones, meeting their eyes in turn, accepting the love and joy they all had for her on this special day. Having them all here on the happiest day of her life- loving and supporting her, loving and supporting them- made the day perfect. In every way.

“I’ve waited for this day for years,” David whispered. “In the sense that I hoped you’d one day find someone to love. Someone to love you and Henry the way you deserve. Someone to walk beside you through all the ups and downs of life. Killian is everything a father could want for his daughter and I cannot be happier.” The smile on his face was happy and sad at the same time, and Emma could no longer hold back her tears. She moved toward him, hugging him tightly, his hand coming up to cradle the back of her head.

“Thank you, Daddy,” she whispered. “I love you.” 

“I love you, too, sweetheart.”

Emma pulled back and took a deep breath, accepting the now ruined handkerchief from Elsa to dab at her own eyes. Pachebel’s Canon in D was beginning, and Liam led Mary Margaret from the vestibule into the sanctuary. She carried two tall taper candles that she’d place on either side of the Unity candle Emma and Killian would light toward the end of the ceremony. In the absence of Killian’s own mother, he’d asked her if she would step in and fill the role.

Only a few minutes later, Liam and Elsa walked down the aisle, followed by Henry and Alice.

Emma felt David turn toward her, so she raised her eyes to meet his. Tears glistened in them and his smile trembled slightly at the corners.

“This is the… third best day of my life,” he said. “First was marrying your mother. Second was the day of your birth. And now today.”

Emma had nothing to say, so she simply rose up on her tiptoes and kissed him on the cheek. 

“Are you ready to give me away, Daddy?”

David nodded. “Let's go.”

The doors to the sanctuary opened as the opening bars of the Trumpet Voluntary began to play. She and David entered, and her eyes immediately landed on Killian. He wore his Navy Captain dress blue uniform, and Emma caught her breath at how handsome he was. 

She couldn’t take her eyes off of him as they continued moving forward. He beamed as he watched her, his smile lighting up his eyes and his entire face with profound love and unspeakable joy.

When they reached Killian and Liam, the four of them faced the vicar. 

“Welcome everyone, to the wedding of Emma Swan and Killian Jones,” he began, addressing the small congregation. He turned his eyes upon David. “Who gives this woman in marriage?”

“Her mother and I do,” David answered. He turned to Emma and placed a tender kiss on her cheek before turning to Killian and placing Emma’s hand in his. With a nod and smile of approval and affection, David turned and took his place next to Mary Margaret to watch the rest of the ceremony. 

Emma, Killian, Elsa, and Liam followed the vicar up the steps to the stage before he turned to them and began the ceremony.

Killian couldn’t take his eyes off of his bride. She was the most beautiful woman he’d ever seen, period, but today, she was literally breathtaking. She wore a simple gown in a slimline style with a sleeveless deep v-neck wrapped bodice with a satin skirt. Her hair was pulled back into a soft bun, her veil trailing down from the bun almost to the floor. He’d never beheld a more exquisite sight. He missed what all the vicar was saying, simply soaking in the vision that was his almost wife, until he announced it was time for the vows.

“Emma Swan,” he breathed. “I think I may have fallen in love with you on the very day we met. I knew that day my life was about to change for the better, and that sentiment has been proven correct many, many times over. You’ve made my life complete, Emma. I can’t imagine loving you more than I do right now, although I know I will as we walk through life together, because my love for you has grown every single day already. This day do I pledge thee my troth, to share everything in life, the good and the bad. No matter what the future holds, I want you to be certain that I will always, always be by your side. I love you, Emma.”

A hiccupping sob escaped Emma’s lips as she prepared to share her own vows.

“Killian, the day I met you, I had a feeling that there were many wonderful things to come. To look forward to, having you in my life. And it was hardly any time at all before I knew that I loved you and wanted to spend my life with you. Killian, you are the best man I know and I love you deeply. Truly. This day, in the sight of God and our dearly loved friends and family, I promise to love you. To honor you, respect you, cherish you. Walking through life together, the ups and the downs, will be a great adventure with you by my side. Until death do us part.”

Killian swallowed heavily. “And I promise to love, honor, respect, and cherish you, Emma, until death do us part.”

Once the vows were spoken, they exchanged rings, solid white gold bands, the vicar speaking a blessing over the rings. As they moved to light the Unity candle, the vicar read from the Book of Ruth, the passage speaking of never leaving the other, as long as they both shall live.

They returned to the vicar at the foot of the stage where he proudly proclaimed, “Killian, you may kiss your bride!”

Killian grinned, his eyebrows waggling as he took Emma in his arms and dipped her back before joining his lips to hers. The congregation around them erupted into shouts and cheers, but they were oblivious to all of it, simply soaking in the love they had for one another as their lips moved together. 

Long moments later, he finally raised them back up and they turned toward all their loved ones as the vicar announced them.

“Presenting Captain and Mrs. Killian Jones!”

The congregation again erupted in cheers as Emma and Killian proceeded back down the aisle, followed by Liam and Elsa, then Henry and Alice.

And they all lived happily ever after.

The End

~*~*~

Thank you for reading and sharing! I'd love to know what you think! Merry Christmas!!!

[sammy-writes-sometimes]

Word Count: 713

Notes: He/It Skizz our beloved >:3

---------

Cleo doesn't even need to open her eyes to know who or what is in front of her. Soft, almost chuffing sound muffled in as best a way as he could.

“Staring at me again, Skizz?” They don’t even open their eyes.

“I can’t help it!” The angel says loudly. “You’re so hot!”

She hums as Skizz giggles, all too giddy as always. A wing comes up, resting carefully over her side and sitting there as lightly as it can.

“Can you blame me?” He adds.

It's then that they open their eyes, looking at it with an eyebrow raised. But it's smiling, bright as the dawn and the day, welcoming like the morning bird’s call.

As he leans forward, hand gently on her thigh – Skizz learned a long time ago not to touch higher – that smile on his face, she shifts backwards with a soft groan.

“Bad pain day?” It says softly.

“You caused this.” They add with a slightly pained laugh.

And then they’re both laughing, mischief high in their tone.

“Do you want me to make breakfast? Make up for what I did last night?”

“I would love that.” She says in mock annoyance, but she already knows that Skizz sees it as soft. Some kindness under the surface that’s only seen by some.

“Want me to carry you?”

They shake their hand, tentatively sitting up with a groan. “It doesn't hurt that much. I can walk on my own."

There's a hand on her side again – the one that’s fully intact – as Skizz places a soft kiss on her cheek. "Rest a little bit, okay?”

“I don’t need rest, love.” They hum, turning to kiss him.

It rests its head on her shoulders, looking at her with big, blue eyes in an all too begging sort of way.

“No, Skizz.”

Skizz’s sigh is exaggerated as he leans back, looking away with that same expression.

“Skizz.”

“I wanted to make you breakfast in bed!" Skizz complains loudly.

"Sweetheart, you know I don't like to eat in bed." They point out with a smile.

His feathered tail flicks with annoyance until he sighs, giving up on the fight.

The zombie slides out of bed on wobbly feet, slowly shuffling over to where she put her crutches the night before. She quietly thanks her partner's patience, the angel already dressed and in the kitchen by the time she's left the room.

Sunlight filters through the windows of the small cabin, dancing over feathers and skin and hair, illuminating every inch of the open space that Skizz has made and each inch that the now wingless angel takes up. It wasn't just for them, Cleo knows that, but it never stops the feeling in their chest.

It makes her pause, even just for one moment, to question her heart and how cold or rotten it might truly be.

But they watch it, hear it's soft singing, smell the rotten flesh it chose to cook with. And it chose that, chose them, chose learning new things to accommodate their specific needs.

She's walking again, moving to stand comfortably next to Skizz as he continues to sing something.

"Clebert, the bacon’s almost done already so do you–"

"I thought you wanted me to rest." They say with a laugh.

"You looked like you wanted to help." Skizz says with a smile.

She rolls her eyes, shaking her head. "Fine, if you insist."

Their partner looks proud of himself, the feathers on his cheeks and ears fluffing out before laying back down.

She slips off one crutch, putting it to the side as Skizz hands them an egg.

There isn't a lull of silence that follows as they cook, instead there are jokes and laughter and teasing. Skizz telling her that they'll need makeup, Cleo helpfully reminding it that they bruise easily.

It’s less of a quiet thing, not even a gentle thing, but it feels like home and safety and warmth as Skizz looks at her with a smile and leans down to kiss her as he chuffs. There’s a hand in her own once she’s done, calloused and scarred, but soft.

They don’t say “I love you”, at least not that often, but with moments like this does it even have to be said?

---------

Our ko-fi

[randomperson99sworld]

Ruffled Feathers 🪶

~ Part 26 ~

Summary: Julia Morgan, Bobby's niece, has always been a royal thorn in Dean Winchesters ass since the day they met 1 year ago at Bobby's memorial. She wants to be a hunter, he thinks she's a dumb kid playing dress up. Will she always be seen as an unwanted load in Dean's eyes or will he see something more?

Pairing: Dean x OC

Warnings: Age, language, sexual themes (used lightly), physical abuse (Not by Dean).

Word Count: 713

A/N: Y’all should’ve told me Dean’s name was cut out in the first sentence lol Stated as always this story is cross posted to Wattpad. Happy reading! ♥️

Dean stood in the dimly lit room, the First Blade clutched tightly in his hand as he faced Abaddon. Her eyes burned with fury as she looked at him, a twisted smile playing on her lips. She towered before him, radiating power, her voice dripping with mockery.

"Do you really think you can kill me, Dean?" Abaddon sneered, her voice echoing in the room. "I am Hell's Queen."

Dean's jaw tightened, the Mark of Cain pulsing with dark energy. It felt like fire coursing through his veins, and his hand gripped the Blade tighter. He didn't reply—there was nothing to say. The only thing that mattered now was ending this, once and for all.

Abaddon made her move first. With a flick of her hand, she sent a wave of power hurtling towards Dean, slamming him into the wall with bone-rattling force. Dean grunted, the air knocked out of his lungs, but he didn't let go of the Blade.

"You're just like Cain," Abaddon taunted, walking toward him slowly. "A killer. It's only a matter of time before you lose yourself completely."

Dean struggled to his feet, the Mark urging him to fight, to kill. The pain didn't matter—nothing did except the Blade in his hand and the woman in front of him. He swung, but Abaddon was faster, disarming him in one smooth move.

The First Blade flew from his grasp, skidding across the floor. Dean's heart pounded as he felt the loss of it's weight in his hand. Abaddon smirked, raising her hand again, ready to deliver the final blow.

But Dean wasn't done. The Mark pulsed again, and something shifted inside him. A new power surged to the surface—something dark, something ancient. His hand twitched, and the Blade flew through the air, back into his grip as if it were drawn to him.

Abaddon's eyes widened in shock, but before she could react, Dean moved with lightning speed, driving the First Blade into her stomach with a feral growl.

The room was bathed in a burst of red light as Abaddon screamed, her body convulsing. The light seemed to explode out of her, filling every corner of the room as Dean twisted the Blade, forcing it deeper into her. Her power flickered, fading as the Mark's hold over Dean tightened.

With one final gasp, Abaddon crumpled to the floor, her body limp and lifeless.

But Dean didn't stop.

The Mark pulsed, driving him forward. He knelt over her body, his eyes wild, filled with a rage he couldn't control. He raised the Blade again, bringing it down with brutal force into her corpse. Once. Twice. Over and over again.

Blood splattered across his face, his breath coming in ragged gasps, but still, he didn't stop. The Blade felt like an extension of his arm, and the Mark—oh, the Mark—demanded more. More blood. More death.

"Dean, stop!"

Julia's voice broke through the haze, sharp and filled with panic. Dean's hand froze mid-strike, his chest heaving as he turned to look at her. She stood there, just a few feet away, her eyes wide with fear and concern.

"Dean," she whispered, her voice trembling. "She's gone. It's over."

He blinked, his mind catching up to the present as the reality of what he had done settled over him. Slowly, his grip on the Blade loosened, and he dropped it to the floor with a heavy thud. His hands were shaking, covered in blood—some of it his, but most of it hers.

Dean stood up slowly, his legs unsteady. He didn't look at Abaddon's mutilated body. He couldn't. Instead, his gaze remained locked on Julia, who stepped toward him cautiously, her heart pounding in her chest.

"Dean?" Julia asked softly, her hand hovering near his arm. "Are you okay?"

For a moment, he couldn't speak. The weight of what he had just done—what the Mark had made him do—hung heavily in the air. He felt sick. Empty. And the worst part was, part of him wanted more.

"I..." Dean swallowed hard, his voice hoarse. "I'm fine."

But they both knew he wasn't. And Julia, standing there with her heart in her throat, could see the war waging inside him clearer than ever before.

[tr4pnests]

runaway love

this is my first proper post i guess! i write but normally just for my eyes, i really enjoyed writing this so i thought i'd share it! please be easy on me... this was so nerve wracking to post.

this has beck and michiko to hatchin themes/influences throughout! they're some of my favourite shows/animanga.

pairing: minami ryusuke x reader

oc x eiji kimura

word count: 713

warnings: cursing.

this is the first mini chapter to the whole kind of story i'm writing! enjoy.

𝟏 𝟐

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

𝟏.

‘give up. you’re not going to find him.’ nelle said harshly leaning against the door frame looking at your back, watching as you mindlessly shoved items of clothing into your slightly worn out black duffle bag. 

‘i don’t care nelle. he has something of mine that i want b-‘

‘you’re kidding right? you’re going to put your life at risk to get a silly necklace back? do you hear yourself? if you’re going to fucking lie at least make it believable. you sound ridiculous.’ she spat as she walked further into the room, causing you to turn to face her. your eyes had little to no emotion behind them, nelle’s heart to sank as she stared back at you.

she let out a slow sigh. seeing her best friend like this hurt her, she hated that she was still hung up on that coward. she hated him for what he had done to her.

‘i don’t expect you to understand.’ 

‘no i don’t fucking understand y/n, the man left ! he LEFT you for god knows what reason, what’s wrong with you? did all sense just go out the window the second he left? what did he do to you?’ nelle attempted to grab onto your shoulder but you had pushed her away gently.

‘i want my necklace back nelle. i’m going to get it… nothing will stop me from getting it back.’ you look down at your legs for a moment trying to hold back the tears that began to flood your eyes, you take a moment to compose yourself - turning back around to mindless packing.

you knew you were making excuses, you didn’t care about the necklace that much… you were just too embarrassed to say that you had wanted ryusuke back. the only man you have ever loved…disappeared, leaving only a shitty hand written letter saying sorry attached with a polaroid of the two of you at your happiest.

in the photo ryusuke had an arm around you tightly and the other holding the camera, his face was mushed on the side of yours while you smiled at the camera with your arms around his neck. you were sitting in your living room that night drinking and laughing about various things together as you usually did after the dinner you had made for both of you.

you take one last look at the polaroid before shoving it into the bag, zipping it closed, grunting slightly as you put it over your shoulder, slowly walking past your friend almost as if this was the last time you’d be in the same room together. 

‘wait i’m going with y-‘ nelle grabs onto your arm, stopping you from walking any further away from the room.

‘no…nelle…i have to go by my-‘ you struggled to get out as you tried to escape her hold. 

‘i’m not losing you to that man… i’ll…i’ll…kill him before that happens.’ she blurted out, nelle was unsure if that last part was fitting for the moment but she meant it at the bottom of her heart.

you stand by the door frame for a second and begin to laugh. ‘you’ll kill him?’

the sound of your laugh lowered the tension in the room for a moment, allowing the both of you to relax slightly. 

‘yes! that’s what i said! i’ll take eiji’s gun when he’s not looking, find ryusuke and i’ll shoot that son of a bitch for hurting you’ she rambles as she rushes to pack a bag as well which only causes you to laugh hysterically.

‘at least let me give him a hug before you do…’ you smile at her, unaware of the fact you had blown your cover.

‘why would you need to hug him? you just want your necklace back, no?’ nelle smiled back but raised a brow at your comment.

you're taken aback by this and turn to face the door in embarrassment. ‘what are you trying to say? that’s all i’m going for!’

nelle bursts into laughter as she gets up from the ground with her bag. ‘i’m your best friend y/n, i knew what you really meant from the time you decided to leave.’

you huff and walk towards the front door, too embarrassed to continue talking about the situation.

[adrl-pt]

What to blame for the ones who hide behind civilians? Who to help this week. Homosexuality is not a disease.

You are watching news from the weekly rally at the Russian Embassy in Lisbon. Today is May 18, 14:30.

On May 15, Russian rapper Misha Mavashi posted a video on his Telegram channel of a Grad MLRS firing while on the road surrounded by cars stuck in a traffic jam. In his comments, he explained that if the Russian army is “working like this,” “it means there is a permission for that.” https://novosti.dn.ua/ru/news/373813-rossijskij-reper-zasvetil-v-seti-strelbu-grada-iz-belgoroda-po-ukraine

The "Important Stories" media found out that this is the road near Shebekino in the Belgorod region, and the direction of fire corresponds to the territory in the north of the Kharkiv region. https://istories.media/news/2024/05/15/poyavilos-video-strelbi-rszo-grad-iz-probki-grazhdanskikh-avto-pod-belgorodom/

On the “Khodorkovsky Live” channel, international lawyer Sergei Golubok explained that this is “the use of a human shield. The same thing that Hamas does when launching rockets from hospitals… Article 51 of the additional protocol to the Geneva Conventions clearly states this… In this case, this MLRS will be a legitimate target for a Ukrainian strike, and civilians around will be legitimately damaged." https://www.youtube.com/live/DePwmNTB4Zo?feature=shared&t=1081

The "Go by the Forest" project, which helps Russians not participate in this war and tries to stop it, is holding the "Run through the Forest" campaign to raise funds for their work. The first race will be on May 19. In Lisbon we start at 10 AM from the Belem Tower. https://t.me/iditelesom_help/3287

On May 23 at 7 PM in Lisbon, the Sputnik bar will host a charity screening of the documentary film “The Hardest Hour”. This is an honest film about how Ukrainians lived until February 24, 2024 and how their lives changed on that day. https://maps.app.goo.gl/uQseM5w78gyvvvoF7

The screening is in support of the Orphans Feeding Foundation's Bring Kids Back UA program. The Foundation has already been able to return 36 children illegally deported from Ukraine. https://www.orphans-feeding-foundation.org/bring-kids-back-ua-program/

Former municipal deputy Alexei Gorinov asks for help with publicizing the fact that they are trying to fabricate a case of extremism for him. Gorinov is in prison for speaking out against holding a children's drawing competition during the war with Ukraine. https://t.me/alexei_gorinov_2022/713

The repression that suppresses dissent and opens the door to war begins with small, vulnerable groups of people. May 17 is the International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia. On this day in 1990, the WHO General Assembly removed homosexuality from its list of diseases, declaring that "it is not a disease, disorder or perversion." https://www.europarl.europa.eu/topics/en/article/20110513STO19333/17-may-international-day-against-homophobia

The English mathematician Alan Turing did a lot for the invention of the computers that we all use. https://ru.wikipedia.org/wiki/%D0%A2%D1%8C%D1%8E%D1%80%D0%B8%D0%BD%D0%B3,_%D0%90%D0%BB%D0%B0%D0%BD

After the outbreak of World War II, Turing worked to crack the code of the German Enigma cipher machine. Winston Churchill said about it this way: “No one else made the same contribution to our victory in the war.” In 1952, Turing was arrested for a homosexual act, which was illegal then. He was given a choice: prison or treatment, which was essentially chemical castration. He agreed to treatment. He was pardoned only posthumously, in 2013. https://www.bbc.com/russian/society/2014/11/141112_imitation_game_turing

Proofs and links are in the description. Subscribe and help.

[rh0mbus0fruin]

Save Ibrahim! 🙏💔

Your $10 donation can save the life of my 5-year-old son, who suffers from severe injuries caused by an Israeli airstrike in Gaza. 💔

Please, don't let my child die without receiving the urgent medical care he desperately needs. 🙏💔

Every donation makes a difference... Help save his life! ❤️

Donate now through this link:

https://gofund.me/ffd62c2a

Vetted by @gazavetters,"

❗ Note:

10$ CAD = 7$ USD

Please help out this family and young boy in need! This campaign is very low on funds so far (only 2% funded) please share and donate.

$713 (CAD) raised out of $40,000 so far

[vilevileposting]

I'm really enjoying my first reading of Homestuck

I forgor to post this after Homestuck Book Club!

In my notes for Week 3 I talk a little about not really knowing how this blew up and how niche it feels, but I think the picture is forming. WV: Ascend demonstrated that even without really knowing what's going on, Homestuck definitely has the narrative pull to bring me along for the ride. Compared to that, a 13 year old trying to read the thing her friends like probably won't care that she's not picking up on all the references and programmer humor.

My discord status has been RANCOROUS for several weeks. I think the time may be nigh to make a second homestuck reference.

Week 3:

539: Not convinced that John’s dad’s room will be much of anything. Maybe that’ll be the point where John learns his dad doesn’t give a shit about harlequins and the harlequin thing was all a misguided attempt to connect with his son! But if that’s what that is then what John walks in and sees is probably a normal room as opposed to like some FMA shit.

543: The combination of a book whose girth is known to be lethal with a system whose velocity is known to be lethal is interesting.

544:

As a metaphor for the disconnect between you and also you’re the guy who knocked over your grandmother’s ashes and cleaned them up like shit. Where are those ashes now, John, were you careful with them?

554: Lethal momentum through a wall, baby!!! I still get credit for seeing the future even when it’s heavily foreshadowed.

556: Southern colonel? ☹

592: Does this guy have Kamina glases…

614: Based on how I’ve heard Dave’s name more than John’s as a fandom outsider, John really kinda is the other guy.

629: Blood Loss in the Big Easy sounds like a made up nonsense phrase that somehow captures the intended vintage vibe but it turns out New Orleans is actually called the Big Easy.

636: I bet I can annoy Char by incorporating the phrase “that’s really all there is to say on the matter” into my vocabulary.

644: TOBY FOX ARRIVAL

645: I’m constantly struck by how niche this all feels. I haven’t gotten any answers to why homestuck blew up like it did, and I think I won’t until I get to the trolls.

651: I bet that mystery silhuette is GG

672: Damning hole in my “this guy is a shadow demon” theory – no sharp teef

687: Lot of king hatred for a guy who isn’t a shadow demon in a cosmology that literally or metaphorically uses chess pieces…

691: Bro eats green… Me too man.

696: CAR DEPENDENCY!!!

699: Chess board…………………

704: Raising my eyebrow at the ominous planet

708: Me reaching this page marks the first time anyone has thought about Tab since the Tab mine collapse in 2013

713: Hidden message vibes from this page.

714: How could I forget sburb is green. Sburb is green, this guy eats green, think about it!

716: I think Cal sacrificed himself to save Dave, hence the face turn to thinking puppets are awesome and being rancorous. Also – kernelsprite prototyped with dead bird!

756: I don’t even know what a cliffhanger is, Andrew Hussie. I am reading this webcomic five thousand years in the future, cliffhangers are nothing to me. Your world is laid bare for me at my leisure.

757: Coolest shit ever. Whole lot going on. Just want to flex that I noticed the sburb rocket is in the crater of Rose’s house, complete with wizard hand. The next crater we see is John’s house, which bizarrely grows a tree, then a sburb fruit, then we see that sburb fruit is also a weird pod that the (other) other guy seems to be living inside, or emering from. After that we see a crater next to a volcano, and we see the meteor actually hit somewhere that’s clearly uninhabited and explicitly an ocean over. Also with a MASSIVE hole where the volcano used to be. There’s a chance GG is a mountain hermit but no matter how you dice it, with only three meteors they were never all going to be accounted for. John’s dad is a sleeper hit, what a badass. Those fools put him in the trick cuffs and now he’s going to tear through hell doomslayer style. Rose’s mom also seems to have a secret tunnel to the lab, which has a spirograph on it! Dave’s brother in the relative present seems like he might actually be the coolest guy ever between the hat and confirmed kamina glasses, so he might actually be 100% the kind of guy Dave thinks he is. Final note: the symbols for latitude and longitude look like the wandering vagrant’s tattoo.

[edisonblog]

The stone relief of a man holding an ibex, dating from 713–706 BC, is a fascinating work of art dating back to the period of ancient Assyria.

It is part of the cultural heritage of the Palace of the Assyrian King Sargon II, located in Dur Sharrukin, in the current northern region of Iraq, close to the city of Khorsabad.

This stone relief is a stunning representation of the artistic skill and iconography of the time. It depicts a man standing, holding an ibex in his hands. The ibex is a species of antelope from the region, and its representation in this relief probably has specific symbolic and cultural meanings within the Assyrian context.

The precision of the details and the artistic expression captured in the relief reveal not only the talent of the sculptor, but also the importance of animals in the iconography and everyday life of ancient civilizations. Furthermore, this relief serves as a valuable testimony to the rich history and artistic sophistication of the Assyrian civilization.

However, it is important to recognize that works of art like this can also raise questions about the provenance and context of their acquisition. With growing awareness about the protection of cultural heritage and the need to repatriate historical artifacts to their countries of origin, it is important to consider the ethical and legal significance behind the display and study of such works of art.

by: Eliza Mota source: https://encurtador.com.br/dlwIX

#edisonmariotti @edisonblog

.br

O relevo em pedra de um homem segurando um íbex, datado de 713–706 a.C., é uma obra de arte fascinante que remonta ao período da antiga Assíria.

Ele faz parte do patrimônio cultural do Palácio do Rei Assírio Sargão II, localizado em Dur Sharrukin, na atual região norte do Iraque, próximo à cidade de Khorsabad.

Este relevo em pedra é uma representação impressionante da habilidade artística e da iconografia da época. Ele retrata um homem em pé, segurando um íbex com suas mãos. O íbex é uma espécie de antílope da região, e sua representação neste relevo provavelmente tem significados simbólicos e culturais específicos dentro do contexto assírio.

A precisão dos detalhes e a expressão artística capturada no relevo revelam não apenas o talento do escultor, mas também a importância dos animais na iconografia e na vida cotidiana das civilizações antigas. Além disso, este relevo serve como um testemunho valioso da rica história e da sofisticação artística da civilização assíria.

No entanto, é importante reconhecer que obras de arte como esta também podem levantar questões sobre a proveniência e o contexto de sua aquisição. Com a crescente conscientização sobre a proteção do patrimônio cultural e a necessidade de repatriar artefatos históricos aos seus países de origem, é importante considerar o significado ético e legal por trás da exibição e do estudo de tais obras de arte.

[revoltingcocks]

$30,287 / $31,000 (short term goal)

soooo this is still getting notes but people aren't donating anymore. there has been less than $100 raised since i last reblogged this nearly 24 hours ago. we only have to raise $713 for this short term goal to be reached. this is less than $1k, it's extremely attainable, but donations are going too slow, and at this rate it won't be met. we have until thursday to meet this goal. please understand that these funds are essential for seraj's family's survival.

please please if you come across this post at least reblog it so maybe it'll reach people who can donate, i don't know how to properly write the most convincing post to get people to share and donate but interaction on all my other posts for Seraj have stopped. what do i have to say??? Seraj spends so much time and effort campaigning for the survival of his family, we can not afford to let him down. he is supporting a family of 9+ people and he has helped other displaced people in his community many times. he had to take a short break a few days ago because of the mental effort it takes to fundraise online. it is not easy to depend on strangers on the internet for your and your family's literal survival. i'm trying to help take some of that pressure off him. i will make as many posts as needed until he reaches his goal. it's been OVER A YEAR since the beginning of this stage of the genocide and we cannot look away now.

Seraj needs to reach 19k on his Chuffed TODAY. This is extremely attainable, only $250 to go.

he needs to reach 25k by October 15 and i believe this is doable, but only if people actually contribute.

$18,750 / $30,000 (final goal)

verification and other details explained here

[speedyposts]

Russia-Ukraine war: List of key events, day 713

Here is the situation on Tuesday, February 6, 2024.

Four people were killed and at least one injured after Russia shelled the southern Ukrainian city of Kherson, local officials said.

France summoned Alexey Meshkov, the Russian ambassador to France, after two French aid workers were killed in Russian artillery fire near Kherson last Thursday. Three more French citizens were also injured in the attack that Paris described as an act of “barbarism”.

Russia’s FSB security service said three Russian citizens had been detained on suspicion of attempting to assassinate a high-ranking Crimean official with a car bomb. The FSB claimed Ukraine’s security service was behind the attempted attack and said the three had been charged with “terrorist” offences. It did not name the official who was allegedly the target.

Four people were killed and at least one injured after Russia shelled the southern Ukrainian city of Kherson, local officials said.

France summoned Alexey Meshkov, the Russian ambassador to France, after two French aid workers were killed in Russian artillery fire near Kherson last Thursday. Three more French citizens were also injured in the attack that Paris described as an act of “barbarism”.

Russia’s FSB security service said three Russian citizens had been detained on suspicion of attempting to assassinate a high-ranking Crimean official with a car bomb. The FSB claimed Ukraine’s security service was behind the attempted attack and said the three had been charged with “terrorist” offences. It did not name the official who was allegedly the target.

The Kremlin warned Western countries that any attempt to use frozen Russian assets as collateral to raise funds for Ukraine would be illegal and lead to a Russian legal challenge. The United States and its allies banned transactions with Russia’s central bank and the Ministry of Finance, after President Vladimir Putin began his full-scale invasion of Ukraine two years ago, freezing an estimated $300bn of sovereign Russian assets.

The presidential bid of antiwar candidate Boris Nadezhdin is hanging in the balance. Nadezhdin said Russia’s Central Election Commission (CEC) had informed him that 15 percent of the signatures he submitted to access the electoral race were invalid. The CEC could now block his bid to enter the election.

Lawmakers from Hungary’s ruling party boycotted an emergency parliament session in which a vote on Sweden’s bid to join NATO was on the agenda. Hungary is the only member of the 31-member security alliance not to have backed Sweden’s bid. The US said it was disappointed at the move.

The Kremlin warned Western countries that any attempt to use frozen Russian assets as collateral to raise funds for Ukraine would be illegal and lead to a Russian legal challenge. The United States and its allies banned transactions with Russia’s central bank and the Ministry of Finance, after President Vladimir Putin began his full-scale invasion of Ukraine two years ago, freezing an estimated $300bn of sovereign Russian assets.

The presidential bid of antiwar candidate Boris Nadezhdin is hanging in the balance. Nadezhdin said Russia’s Central Election Commission (CEC) had informed him that 15 percent of the signatures he submitted to access the electoral race were invalid. The CEC could now block his bid to enter the election.

Lawmakers from Hungary’s ruling party boycotted an emergency parliament session in which a vote on Sweden’s bid to join NATO was on the agenda. Hungary is the only member of the 31-member security alliance not to have backed Sweden’s bid. The US said it was disappointed at the move.

Kajsa Ollongren, the Dutch defence minister, said The Netherlands would deliver six more F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine, taking the total number pledged to 24. “Ukraine’s aerial superiority is essential for countering Russian aggression,” Ollongren said.

Georgia said it seized a clandestine shipment of explosives bound for the Russian city of Voronezh from the Ukrainian port of Odesa. It said the explosives, hidden in a cargo of car batteries, arrived in Georgia in a Ukrainian-owned minivan and were to be transported to Voronezh, about 180km (110 miles) from the Ukrainian frontier. It did not say what for.

Kajsa Ollongren, the Dutch defence minister, said The Netherlands would deliver six more F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine, taking the total number pledged to 24. “Ukraine’s aerial superiority is essential for countering Russian aggression,” Ollongren said.

Georgia said it seized a clandestine shipment of explosives bound for the Russian city of Voronezh from the Ukrainian port of Odesa. It said the explosives, hidden in a cargo of car batteries, arrived in Georgia in a Ukrainian-owned minivan and were to be transported to Voronezh, about 180km (110 miles) from the Ukrainian frontier. It did not say what for.

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Dabiri-Erewa warns Nigerians against irregular migration, Especially to Canada

The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has urged Nigerians travelling abroad to go legitimately and with proper documentation

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