#paired blessings ssr

[maladaptivedaydreamsx]

Artem Wing Paired Blessings SSR wallpapers

[animeweeb115]

"May we always walk together, with days filled with luck."

[kiyo-cant-write]

vil schoenheit with an otaku s/o

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I felt like we needed something on this blog with my bias, Vil. So I took it upon myself to write something.

This comes from my love of pairing otakus and nerds with ultra-glamorous people. Vil/Idia is also something I enjoy, but as this blog is catered to reader-insert content, have this.

If anyone has any Vil requests I may prioritize them....

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Summary: [Name] is the s/o of Vil Schoenheit and an otaku who challenges the shut-in Ignihyde Housewarden for his title. They have a fixation on games and often find themselves obsessed with them. What does Vil think of this?

TW/CW: None

Notes: established relationship, they/them pronouns for the reader, the reader is implied to be Ramshackle Prefect/Yuu, the reader is younger than Vil (lightly implied), explicitly post B5

Guest Stars: Rook Hunt. Neige LeBlanche (implied/referenced), Idia Shroud (mentioned)

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✧･ﾟ: ✧･ﾟ: ✧･ﾟ: ✧･ﾟ: ✧･ﾟ: ✧･ﾟ: ✧･ﾟ: ✧･ﾟ:

Vil Schoenheit

Vil wasn't always so open to dating someone who obsesses over fiction and 2D media to this degree.

Idia always irked him a bit, but maybe it was the tablet.

Honestly, he still doesn't really understand.

Vil Schoenheit is the commodity, not the consumer.

He respects his s/o for their dedication, though.

The only criticisms he has are if they do not take care of themselves properly (like neglecting food or sleep for games).

Vil has come to know random things about whatever anime or game his s/o likes and picks up special items when opportunities arise at work, albeit without drawing attention to it publicly.

What Vil wasn't prepared for was [Name]'s friendship with Rook.

It's a blessing and a curse to be in their presence.

He's thrilled they get along... but once they start yapping... it never ends and is typically about Vil himself or worse Neige LeBlanche.

Vil often pretends that he doesn't hear those chats.

He finds the praise from his s/o nice, though.

He's relieved they aren't one of his creeper fans.

Be assured that he did some interrogating early on for safety.

Vil appreciates that they live outside the spotlight.

It means that he can be "normal" with them.

It's nice to just be "Vil" and not some mega-star.

Vil values that even though they love his work, they also love him as a person, the Vil that the rest of the world isn't privy to.

Vil grimaced at the sight of his darling partner who was buried in blankets on the couch trying to "grind" for an "SSR" in some game about idols. He didn't pretend to understand such concepts but he was certainly watching it happen before him: [Name] was ignoring the world for games.

He sighed but he knew he chose this.

[Name] gave that tablet-wielding Idia Shroud a run for his title, surely. They were a shut-in as any otaku was, keeping their darling face away from view and covered by baggy clothing. They took poor care of themselves when "banners" were yielding?

That was what got on Vil's nerves the most. The utter disregard for their health in favor of fictional men and digital items.

"[Name]," Vil said, trying to get his beloved's attention.

They did not answer.

That's alright, they probably did not hear him.

"[Name]," he repeated a bit more urgently.

They remained focused on their screen, unaware of the person standing beside their cozy setup. Vil wasn't sure if he was offended or not. The housewarden sighed before using the only trick he had up his sleeve at the moment.

"[Full Name]."

"HUH?!?"

[Name] whipped around like they had heard gunshots and were faced with the radiant beauty of their boyfriend.

Oh! It was Vil!

"Sorry, Vil," [Name] offered, looking down for a moment to ensure that the story was paused, "I guess I wasn't paying attention."

"And that," Vil told them, "is a crime in and of itself, I look lovely today and you should appreciate all beauty that graces your eyes."

Vil smiled, posing in a way that made it seem natural. A hand on his hip asserted that Vil held the power in this room, even when it was not his dorm. Pomefiore's housewarden was too charismatic for words sometimes.

"You know, dear, like Rook always says and does..." Vil continued, pausing for a moment at the thought of his vice housewarden, "Though maybe not so enthusiastically as him."

"I love you so much, V, but I also have so many pulls I need to do to get this SSR," [Name] told Vil, tapping into the next part of the event they were working on, "This. is. why. I. exist. And Idia put the support card I told... begged him to."

[Name] had ventured to Ignihyde the other day, Ortho accompanying them, to beg the Game Master to put his level 105 maxed stat card for support. It was a terrifying journey that incurred the wrath of the heavens (Idia screamed in such a shrill voice that he nearly gave [Name] tinnitus) but it was worth it. The Game Master ceded and the support for the battle was won! Huzzah!

"I can see that this means a lot if you cried to Shroud about it, but you... " Vil trailed off until he noticed a familiar bag by the side of the couch, "I'm sorry, darling, do you have a guest?"

"Eh, do I have a guest?" [Name] asked Vil.

With that, Vil was about to launch into another lecture about how they should watch their house and remember if people were present, but he was cut off by the entry of one (1) Rook Hunt wearing something he would be skinned for if he were at Pomefiore with his hair tangled as if he fell asleep half smothered into something, hair and all. Vil could believe his eyes, but he didn't want to.

"Do I even want to know?" Vil asked him.

Rook raised his hands in a shrug that felt a tad passive-aggressive.

"I'm not going to ask then, neither of you has the answer that keeps my sanity alive," Vil said, sighing as he closed his eyes to avoid questioning his vice housewarden.

"We're doing this for you, Roi du Poison!" Rook told him.

"In what world does this game have anything to do with me?"

Vil was floored by the implication that he was familiar with one of these idol-ish games. He had worked on them once or twice, sure, but that was hardly the same as being a fan, a player.

"I thought this as well, but [Name] explained it to me!"

And... Rook was enthused. Yay. Time for theatrics.

"Rook, I'm not in the mood for theatrics, try to be concise."

"Of course, My Queen!"

"Rook-senpai did you make food?" [Name] asked him, cutting into the conversation.

"It is cooking now!" Rook assured with a (slightly scary) smile.

"I thought you..." Vil trailed off once more, it wasn't worth it.

Rook was here, he wasn't. [Name] knew, they didn't. At least Epel wasn't also here trying to get muscular at a dangerous speed (again). In the end, the hunter had agreed to cease his shenanigans, but there were sure to be more theatrics and tomfoolery ahead. It might seem impossible, but Vil could sense it.

"Do you two wish to tell me what has you so involved in this game? And how in all of this Twisted Wonderland it pertains to me?" the housewarden asked after a moment sitting down on the Ramshackle couch after a moment of deliberation and joining his vice housewarden and the love of his young life.

"It has everything to do with you!" [Name] told him, managing to tap away at the rhythm game while speaking which Vil would never admit impressed him, "I'm doing this because I love you.... and the cards. But mostly for you, V!"

"It's about your honor, Beautiful Vil!" Rook added.

About his honor? How was this about his honor?

Vil sighed as he turned to Rook. His hair was still a nest on his head, one fit for a bird. His golden hair color aided that appearance.

"I really wish you would fix your hair, Rook..."

Rook shook his head, expression saddening if only for a moment.

"Non, non. There is no time for it when your honor is at stake!"

And... Yeah, there's no stopping Rook now. Vil admitted to that defeat as much as it pained him, a couple of years of friendship had taught him not to... Well, to be crude, not to fuck with that.

"Yeah!!" [Name] agreed, "We need to focus on this. And... Win!"

Oh, good. Lovely. His lover was also not backing down.

Vil sighed as he leaned closer to [Name], a show of his own tiredness that he seemed to neglect the wrinkles to his clothing that could form. His face close to theirs, he watched their game, skimming the dialogue of the stylized men on the screen and trying to parse through why the player seemed to have a hoard of 167 men at their disposal while also being a 17-year-old orphan with dead famous parents who left them a company in their will.

Maybe I should have paid more attention when Idia tried to explain his visual novel collection to me...

Vil continued to watch, slowly feeling himself grow just a tad invested in the story. He cursed it, wanting to say he was above falling for the media he seldom worked in... And here he was, wondering what the MC was going to do now that one of the beautiful young men had been kidnapped by some kind of underground association of famous men. He was still a bit unclear about that last part.

"This is why, V," [Name] told him, tapping the arrow on the screen to reveal a character Vil had not seen in the section [Name] was reading.

They were tall blond with deep blue eyes wearing a shimmering gown and extremely high heels.

Vil looked back to [Name].

"Everyone is saying this character is the in-game equivalent of you," they told him, "So I wanted to help them... win against..."

A voice echoed from Rook's phone that sounded eerily similar to a certain raven-haired boy's voice. But it wasn't, Vil was certain of it. There was a certain energy to Neige's voice that this person did not have, a kind of sweetness that made Vil's stomach churn a bit.

"The you-coded guy is going to be my strongest card and he will win in the polls! Rook and I will make sure of it!" [Name] told Vil, "Also if he does lose I still have to do a favor for Idia-senpai so I really don't wanna lose."

The fact that [Name] was willing to go to such lengths for his apparent honor was heartwarming to Vil if not a tad silly. Since the events of the competition, Vil had rethought some of his prior-made statements, but it seemed that [Name] and Rook both wanted to assure him of his worth and that was... sweet, honestly. A little weird considering they chose an anime game to do so, but sweet nonetheless.

He smiled at [Name], pressing a kiss to their cheek.

"Thank you, my love," he told them before looking over at Rook, "And you as well, I suppose, Rook."

"...Might this lessen the pain I caused at the VDC?" Rook asked.

"I'm no longer angry but perhaps," Vil told the hunter.

"And it was all my idea!" [Name] cheered, glowing with pride.

"Oui, your shared love is most radiant~" Rook practically sang, pausing his rhythm game (he has a full combo and SS rank) to stand and gesture boldly to Vil and [Name].

"I know, it's why I love them so much," Vil mused.

Yes, having a significant other with differing interests had perks, sometimes. Vil had to admit that every once in a while, [Names] hobby was cute, on them anyway... Vil wasn't so sure he could handle it if they came to school as a tablet like Idia.

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Imagine the rest for yourself~

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✧･ﾟ: ✧･ﾟ: ✧･ﾟ: ✧･ﾟ: ✧･ﾟ: ✧･ﾟ: ✧･ﾟ: ✧･ﾟ:

Thank you for reading! Likes and reblogs are appreciated! Do NOT repost my writing/headcanons as your own >:c Check the top of my blog for the inbox status and read the rules before requesting. This is not a twst-only blog! ^^

[bucknastysbabe]

God Bless the Inventor - 40’s AU series

Rating: Explicit

Word Count: 3,268

Synopsis: Howard comes up with a…new invention for his adventurous pals to try. Bucky’s devious wife has plans. Bucky is questioning his life choices.

Tags: 3k of femdom filth, anal play, fancy vibrators were invented by Howard I know, Subby baby buck, chubby bunny buck, man tears, oral (f!receiving), humiliation kink, weight gain TW if that’s not your thing, men in panties, overstim, SSR GANG, Peggy should’ve been gay and not a dumbass plot choice I loved agent Carter and stand by that, We Stan Dum Dum Dugan, Bucky and him wife are very much in love and supremely horny, praise kink, slight sub space

A/N: I wanted a thicker man in lingerie smh

Howard sat on the other side of his Art Deco living room, newly furnished from what you could tell. Bucky was next to you, a question furrowing his brow. His flesh arm was around your shoulders, the cutie would get touchy around Stark’s flirty demeanor. Regardless if they were best of pals.

You smiled and asked, “So what’s this new invention you want to pitch to us of all people?”

Howard’s dark eyes gleamed with mischief. He grinned and sat forward, extending his hands. The genius elaborated, “Well- it’s a bit of a strange idea, brought to my attention after seeing a housewife in dire need of,” he winked, “companionship.”

Bucky barked, “What the hell Stark? You comin’ onto us or something?”

You shushed him and gestured for Howard to continue his pitch. He laughed airily, pulling out some sort of sleek oblong thing— faintly in the shape of a prick with a ring on the end. Your eyes widened when it dawned, you gasped, “Howard! You made one of those sex toys?” Bucky rolled his eyes with a groan, thoroughly displeased.

Howard wagged his finger, “Nuh-uh-uh! It’s a ‘massager’! Good for working out sore muscles.”

You and Bucky shared a dubious look, then turned back to Stark. He slapped his knee and guffawed, “Yes of course it’s a vibrator! But the magic here is that it’s battery powered and,” he winked, “remote controlled for the partner!”

Bucky snorted, “What about the damn flying car Stark? Been waiting on that one since 42’.”

“It’s still under work!,” the man snapped.

You interrupted, “What then? You want us to try it out for you? Why can’t you do it on one of your two million dames?”

Howard slyly smirked, responding, “If the inventor says it’s good then what proof is that really? Just take it home, lube it up, come back to me so I can sell the patent. Stark Industries wouldn’t look good selling hysteria machines.”

Bucky sucked his teeth. He mumbled something that sounded suspiciously like, ‘can’t get a goddamn break with these SSR loons.’ You were already hooked by Howard’s pitch and toy. Poor Buck was going for the ride of his life sooner than later. You held out your hand and hummed, “I’ll bite, be back in a week. Hopefully I can leave you a glowing review, Howard.”

The excitable man jumped up and cheered, “Fantastic! You two will love it!” You grinned and let Howard peck your cheeks to Bucky’s consternation. Calling over your shoulder you joked, “Make sure Peg and her ‘roomie’ get a pair too huh Stark?” All three of you burst in to giggles after that, Bucky leading you out with a big hand on your waist.

Once strapped into the car Bucky had a strange look on his face. You purred, “Scared baby? This thing is preeeetty hefty.” He grumbled and turned the key into the ignition, ignoring your comment. You squeezed the plush layer over his strong thigh and said, “Poor Howie doesn’t know the trap he put you in Bucky-bear.”

“Tell me about it, sweets,” the brunette huffed.

Couple o’ days later

Bucky was sweating through his blazer, even in the chilly temperatures. You could see the perspiration beading on his upper lip, collecting on his temples. The man couldn’t stop shifting, tapping, grinding his teeth. Conversations went around the SSR members and their plus one’s, usually other significant others. Peggy had brought that sweet but brutally New Yorker ‘friend’ of hers, Angie.

Ray and Johnson kept away with nervous looks after the debacle at the last get together. You fondly remembered fucking Bucky into sweet submission that night. There would probably be a rehash soon if your poor husband didn’t cum all in his slacks. Which he probably would anyways, but that was okay.

Bucky was currently shoving his face with food to stop the nonsensical little noises he couldn’t hold back, passing them off as enjoying the meal. You smirked at the thought of the vibrating toy in his ass. Howard and oh goody, Dugan was in town! They ambled over greeting folks. Bucky’s eyes opened wide in fear. You knew that he knew Dugan was going to zero in on his bootcamp to field buddy.

“Barnes!,” Dugan boomed. Bucky dropped his food to sheepishly smile and get up on shaking legs. The mustachioed soldier pulled your husband into a hug, slapping his back heartily. Buck made a choking noise, rasping back a hello. Dum Dum manhandled Bucky backward to get a good look.

He patted Buck’s side and peered over a wide shoulder to joke, “Hello Missus Barnes! A sight for sore eyes! What’cha been feeding Sarge here? Lookin’ like pre-bootcamp dough boy Barnes!”

You could almost feel the mortification radiating off of your other half. Bucky’s face was a deep flush, him turning to look at you pathetically.

Down the vibrator went to zero in your pocketbook. Poor bear.

Dum Dum smiled happily, hugging the brunette again, whispering, “I’m so happy you’re okay man. Blessed, really.” Bucky gave a less strained smile at that, relaxing into the big man’s arms. “Missed ya’ too Dugan, lots.” Howard cooed, “How adorable! Let’s get the whole team together over in Europe.”

“I like New York thank you very much,” Buck deadpanned to a raucous of laughter. You sidled up to your husband, beaming. Dum Dum teased, “As long as she gets to go, gotta have some guts to keep Barnes tied down.”

Your lips quirked up, a hand sliding to palm Bucky’s ass while you purred, “I’ve got some steel under my frilly apron.” Bucky flushed and looked down, lamely replying, “She does, she does.”

The party went on a bit longer, people getting rowdy. You let Bucky get some much needed catching up with Dum Dum. His cheeky smile made your heart skip. Later on, Chief Dooley had to disperse the drunken men and Peg howling war songs. You laughed and clapped along with Angie, sharing a warm look.

Bucky was sweaty and disheveled by the time he was launched out of the circle into your arms. You caught his bulk, laughing and batting at your husband as he peppered you with wet kisses. He laughed, “C’mon you don’t want some lovin baby?” You scrunched your nose and giggled, “I always want your lovin sweetie, let’s get home Hm? Then we can take Stark’s toy for a real test drive.”

Bucky’s pupils blew at the implication, body going woozy in your arms. You eyed his needy expression, pushing back some fallen strands of dark hair. Nipping at his earlobe you hummed, “That was only level one baby, and you couldn’t sit straight.“ Bucky’s breath left him in a punched out groan, slumping into your smaller frame.

You gave his ass a tight slap and hollered, “I got the wheels this time Sarge!”

Making the rounds of goodbyes, Bucky was definitely rushing to get back home. Stark had a knowing gleam in his eye, giving you a wink behind your husbands back. Hugging the genius you thanked him.

Bucky, resigned and so, so horny followed behind like the pet pup he was. You deviously cranked the remote up another level, eyeing Bucky for the inevitable reaction. He yelped, legs spreading, arms flailing. You could hear the crunch of his metal hand on the door. Bear could hardly climb into the little two-door, so wracked with pleasure.

You cooed, “How’sit feel bear?”

Bucky’s cute nose was scrunched up as he whined out, “S’fulll m-my god, s’fuckin me up baby.” He was now rutting back against the car seat, whimpering needily. Bucky moaned, “So good, so good, fffuck!” You pulled the car forward, grinning helplessly. Oh how you loved your submissive little big boy. Bucky mewled and made to palm at his swollen cock, probably painfully smushed in those tight slacks of his.

He was too prideful to admit it, but you’d ordered some more clothes so Bucky would stop looking like he was shoved into his work suit. Stubborn bastard. You slapped his hand away and tutted, “We have to test out Howard’s device correctly dear.” You patted his plump cheek and added softly, “Can’t have your slutty dick get in the way can we now hm?”

Bucky’s tears were getting worked up but he dropped his dark head and whinged, “Yes ma’am.”

“Good boy,” you crooned. Bucky shivered and seemed to relax at the praise. Bear loved his praise and coddling almost as much as he liked the humiliation. You’d get to that later.

Bucky was going mindless, humping and sucking on his bottom lip as he bounced in the seat. To be a bitch you taunted, “Had alot to eat tonight, don’t wanna bust your nice slacks dear.” He thinly whined and blushed, curling in but didn’t stop the movement.

Pulling into the garage Bucky ungainly hopped out and staggered over to you, opening the car door. You simpered, “Sweet boy, thank you, earning a lot of treats tonight.” He blubbered, “Really?” Thumbing his swollen slobbery lips you nodded, pecking them one time.

Bucky led the way, albeit slowly due to the vibrations dragging across his ass and the heavy weight of the plug on top of the prostate. You came from behind, like a jungle predator. From the gloom of the hallway you crooned, “Special drawer’s calling your name, bear!”

Bucky moaned frustratedly. You didn’t like that insolent tone, cranking it up to the highest power. There was a clank of his arm and throaty wail emanating from the darkened bedroom. You sped up to the scene, and my- what a scene you saw. Bucky was on his knees, blazer discarded and his fingers digging into the chest. You knew that was to keep him from touching his cock.

Bucky sniveled, “S’too much, baby baby, ah fuck baby! Can’t stop l-leaking mmmgh!” You moaned softly, clambering behind your shivery husband. Slowly you discarded his clothes, baring that adorable fluffy flesh to your eyes.

“Pretty baby,” you sighed.

You could hear the vibrator assaulting Bucky’s ass, pounding his poor sensitive prostate. Your sarge whimpered and mewled, definitely getting overwhelmed. You shushed him, pressing sweet kisses and praises to relax Buck. Your nimble fingers undid his belt and unbuttoned the pants. You bit your lip bloody at Buck’s fat cock swollen and leaking all over his slacks and panties.

“Oh my, s’it milking you out sweet boy. You feelin’ sweet baby?”

You sucked in a breath, your pussy causing a slippery mess in your panties. You adjusted the sticky fabric with a strained whimper. God your husband was a work of art.

He nodded jerkily, leaning back onto your slim shoulder. Your hand caressed his damp chest and cheeks, pressing a kiss to his temple. In slow terms you asked, “Buck, you got me?” Bucky was approaching fast if not already in that foggy space. He nodded slowly, blue eyes wearily opening.

You flipped his bigger frame around to back against the drawers. Bucky was so pliant it was like moving a rag doll, albeit a heavy one. He mewled upon seeing your face, “W-wan you so bad baby.” His cock spurt out more pre. Instinctively you slid your fingertip across the milky bead and sucked on it, Bucky crying your name.

Undressing the baby was an easy affair. Surveying his flushed skin, you figured a pink set would compliment the blush, pale stretch marks, his lips, and pretty pink nipples. Shaking yourself out of the horny catalogue you moved to open the drawer, snatching around until you found the lacy baby pink set. Bucky sighed and watched with hazy eyes.

You held it up to the befogged Bucky, watching his lax body begin to tremble in excitement. You teased, “Yeah pup, you’ll look like a dream.” One leg went in a hole at a time, Buck weakly lifting up his hips to slide the thin panties on. He cried out at the fabric caressing his full balls.

Next came the garter, Bucky’s least favorite part. You relished in it, watching the softness of his belly tighten and struggle to fit under the unforgiving straps. You snapped the waistband across his belly, Bucky whining and shaking his head. Palming his tummy you questioned, “Did you get get hard when Dugan mentioned you’d packed it on?”

Bucky’s red cheeks grew wet with tears as he sniveled, “N-no! God no, I w-was so embarrassed!” You surveyed his twitchy blues while you slid up the stockings and clipped them to the ill fitting garter. He kept looking down and away as if he was going to escape. You knew what that meant. Liar.

“Uh-huh baby, just say you like being my greedy plump housewife and I think you’d feel better.”

Click click.

The buzzing grew louder.

Bucky’s legs snapped open as he howled in ecstasy, hands pulling and ripping at anything in grasp. He sobbed, “S’not tr-true! M’gonna go train with Johnson.” He shivered and mewled again at the sensation of the vibrator. You cocked your head in amusement, crawling to sit between his thick thighs.

“I know you will baby,” you teased.

You upped the vibrator to the final setting, watching Bucky seize and wail helplessly. Your own pussy tightened more and leaked at the sight of the brunette’s panties growing a darkened stain. Your belly was awash with heat, could you actually cum from watching this? Poor Buck was huffing and squirming, unable to do anything but take it. You nibbled at his chest cooing, “S’that feel good? Color baby?”

“Green mmmm- oh god yes,” he yelled.

You didn’t want to give that unspeakable German bastard any credit but whatever he dosed Buck up with in Azzano did make your husband eager to cum as much as possible. Rolling with the punches, one would say. You cleared the thought by rambling dirty nonsense.

Detaching your mouth from a puffy nipple you cooed, “What’s gotten into ya’ baby? Being so good for me. Such a good little slut, lovin’ Howard’s fun toy up your whore ass like that.”

Your husband was too busy drooling and agreeing in sloppy disjointed ‘yesses’. He was far gone, maybe had one em’ before the overstimulation took over. You crowded closer into his bulky frame, breath fanning over heaving lips. Bucky mewled and chased your lips, hands twitching at his sides, obedient as ever.

You indulged the needy slut and grabbed a full cheek of his while taking his mouth. Bucky cried out, “Oh! Mmph!” You licked into his open mouth, twirling your tongue with Buck’s while swollen wet lips caressed your own. Your husband shuddered and shoved himself closer, rubbing his tits against your silky negligee.

You smoothed your hands down the brunettes plush sides, purring, “I know you’re feeling s’good baby, you loving all this? I mean lookit’chu, you’re a mess baby.” Bucky made an indignant noise, squirming underneath you. He managed to pant, “Luh’ it. M’so horny.”

Sweet Jesus you’d lucked out. Bucky was the perfect whore, all for you. His watery blue eyes, achingly wide- watched yours. Cheeks red, trembly lips, sweet belly twitching. The cherry on top was his cock just pouring rivers of cum. You palmed his bulge, gasping at how soaked it was.

In a frenzy you unclipped the garter, Bucky gasping in shock. He made an inelegant, “whuh?” Flipping the garter up, your shaking hands yanked down the ruined panties. Mouth running overtime you rambled, “Baby is wet, so wet, gonna give me one big one Hm? Gonna cum all over your wife like a good slut?”

Bucky nodded frantically, eyes scrunching shut. He cried, “Wet for y-you- ah! Touch my balls, pluh-please they’re so heavy for you! Hngh!” You nodded, biting your lip in ecstasy, the buzzing of the toy echoing on and on. You palmed and held onto the swollen sac.

“Jesus fuck baby!,” you swore.

He was all hot hot hot and swollen. That wouldn’t do. You squeezed and rolled them, thumbing down the seam. Spurts of cum hit your belly, Bucky throwing his head back with a wail of your name. The Sargeant babbled, “Thankyouthankyouthankyou G’nna cum so hard for you ma’am!” He sucked in a wet sob and violently trembled.

“Yeah babydoll, I know you’re full up, c’mon Buck, be my good houseslut and paint my fancy clothes, ruin me, pretty baby,” you rambled breathlessly.

Bucky’s balls tightened and drew up under your palm, cock shooting load after load onto your negligee. You cooed and praised him through it, your own orgasm coming out of nowhere. You gripped at the soft flesh on his belly, panting through your nose. Simple excitement from the show that was your husband. Fat tears and hefty sobs tore Buck’s throat as he emptied.

You scrambled to turn off the vibrator, Bucky’s crying already growing frantic. You eased it out of him and tossed the device across the wooden floor. Bucky cried and mumbled nonsense, itching to touch you. You purred, “S’good, c’mon and touch me Buckybear. Good damn boy.” The supersoldier wrapped up tight around you, strong fingertips embedded into your flesh.

Teary eyes searched yours as he begged, “Baby, sweets, oh, lemme’ eat you out please! Want you on my face!”

You grinned, a complete mess, and nodded. You rasped, “Yeah, yeah, that’s a good boy, you deserved it.” You leaned back, bracing your elbows and spreading your legs for your needy husband. Bucky moaned, clambering onto his belly, big hands swallowing your thighs. He croaked, “Smell so good, my angel baby!”

“Have a taste Buckybear, sweet Jamie.”

Bucky lapped eagerly at your soppy pussy, eyes rolling at up the taste. He ate and sucked like his life depending on it, thick hips and thighs flexing against the hard floor. You threaded trembling fingers through his brunette locks, tossing your head back with a wanton cry. You blabbered, “S’good, keep it up baby.” Bucky shoved his tongue into your cunt, slurping and whining rudely.

So soon after your surprise orgasm, this was intense. All you could do was moan and whine your husbands name, riding his pretty fucking face. Bucky’s hands squeezed your thighs roughly, spreading you even wider. You cried, “Fuck sweetie! Yeah yeah that’s it!” He rutted harder, whining into your swollen pussy.

He suckled on your clit, interchanging with flicks of his tongue. Baby knew you like the back of his hand. Bucky looked up, adoration in his glossy eyes, slurring, “Love ya’ baby, pretty mama please please!” He slid a thick finger inside you, crooking the digit in quick motions. Your body arched and shivered, pussy convulsing and pushing out more and more slick.

Bucky gasped into your cunt, wordlessly wailing.

He’d cum— again. You curled around your husband, legs caging in his dark hair. Pleasure and overspent nerves overtook your flesh, making reality fizz away for God know’s how long.

You came to, cuddled with your baby in a heap on the floor, Bucky laying reverent kisses on your jaw. You gripped his soft cheek and pulled the sweetest man alive to your lips, moaning a raspy, “Love you.”

Later that night

“Yeah, so, Howard- I will give a glowing review.”

Howard’s brash laugh echoed on the other end of the line. He purred, “I take it Barnes enjoyed the treat?” You grinned and looked over to your husband, diligently rearranging and cleaning his gun. You giggled, “Oh very much so Stark.” Bucky barked from across the room, “What does he want?”

You laughed, “Sorry gotta go Howie, talk to you later, you scoundrel!”

Suspicious blue eyes stared at you, making you fall into a fit of giggles. Poor baby bear.

[hananoami]

Zayne's Directional Orbit: Ice - Stage 130 Clear + VOD

Continuing our 130 post clear write ups, Zayne and I cleared his Directional Orbit: Ice - Stage 130 on July 23rd! This time I have footage of my team set up and stat attributes included in the clear vod. Unlike his Stage 120 clear (which still traumatizes me to this day) we were able to clear this in one shot! Most likely due to the fact I heavily invested a ridiculous amount of time and resources into his team build for the 120 clear...

Stage 130 is a red orbit which requires 2 teams. Team 01's Protofield Stellactrum is 5-Sapphire and 1-Amber. Team 02's Protofield Stellactrum is 5-Ruby and 1-Pearl.

By having a ’perfect match’ with the Protofield Stellactrum you will receive additional attribute bonuses (for every color you match increase DMG boost 5.0% and DMG reduction 5.0% up to 30.0%), as well as the ability to shatter two protofield shields in a single strike. For this stage I opted to match the colors for each team. The bonuses of having a perfect match was more optimal rather than me trying to brute force it.

As previously mentioned we were able to one shot this stage! I'll treat his 120 clear as both a curse and blessing in disguise if it meant making my life easier in the long run for later deepspace trials... Maybe, I don't know yet. It was pretty stressful/traumatic.

I've learned from previous fights that MC kinda has mochi for brains and does not like to use her stacks that she gains from using her basic attack, which is why I usually manually play when using Foreseer. For the first half of the fight I used her charged attack anytime I had stacks readily available. They are so useful for AoE damage.

For the second half of the fight it was a breeze with Master of Fate. His play style and kit is fast pace (to the point of spamming abilities), but I actually really enjoy it. For someone who doesn't particularly enjoy melee classes it's fun being able to weave in Spiritual Sword and Sacred Rainfall's Piercing Rain after using Zayne's Resonance Skill, Orchid Metamorphosis. I also find it hilarious MC says "wack it on the head" in English VA every time we use Master's support skill, Return Unto Oblivion.

The wanderer locked its HP around 75% on the last HP bar, but you're still able to do some damage to it. Just don't be like me and panic press buttons. In order to maximize the damage output I would suggest waiting until the lock disappears before using your resonance skill. Luckily, time was on my side so I got away with it.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

TEAM 01

Companion: Zayne’s Foreseer [ Defend | DMG | AoE ] Weapon: Everlasting Song (staff) [ Support | AoE | Heal ] Attribute Bonus For each matched stellactrum, increases DMG Boost 5.0% (currently increased: 30.0%) and DMG Reduction 5.0% (currently increased 30.0%). ♡ Affinity Bonus: 106 (Zayne’s Protective Skill) When you take a fatal blow, Zayne teleports to you, blocks a hit, and counter attacks. Enemies will be knocked back. [ HP 3xxx || DEF xx || ATK xxx ] Pair Bonus [ FS ] -- Starting Effect: increases team DMG by 8%, and reduces team DMG taken by 8%. When fighting together with Foreseer, your Active Skill DMG is increased by 25%. -- Duo Rank 1: boosts Ardent Oath charge by 20%. When you and Foreseer are granted with Wards of Curses, team DMG will be increased by 12%. -- Duo Rank 2: increase Energy Charge cap by 1. When unleashing Resonance Skill, Foreseer gains 1 stack of Divine Prayer, and your DMG is increased by 10%, lasting

5☆ FOREVER SEALED (sapphire/solar) Lv 80/ awakened rank 3 using xx SSR protocores

5☆ PROMISE EVERLASTING (sapphire/solar) Lv 80/ awakened rank 2 using xx SSR protocores

5☆ HEARTS WITHIN REACH (sapphire/lunar) Lv 80 rank 1 using xx SSR protocores

5☆ BUSINESS TRIP (sapphire/lunar) Lv 80/awakened rank 3 using xx SSR protocores

5☆ SNOWY SERENITY (sapphire/lunar) Lv 70 rank 1 using xx SSR protocores

4☆ FLEETING SWEETNESS (amber/lunar) Lv 60 rank 3 using xx SSR protocores

TEAM 02

Companion: Zayne’s Master of Fate [ DPS | Burst | Sustained ] Weapon: Sacred Rainfall [ DPS | Burst | Single-target ] Attribute Bonus For each matched stellactrum, increases DMG Boost 5.0% (currently increased: 30.0%) and DMG Reduction 5.0% (currently increased 30.0%). ♡ Affinity Bonus: 106 (Zayne’s Protective Skill) When you take a fatal blow, Zayne teleports to you, blocks a hit, and counter attacks. Enemies will be knocked back. [ HP 38xx || DEF xx || ATK xxx ] Pair Bonus [ SF ] -- Starting Effect: increases team DMG by 8%, and reduces DMG taken by 8%. When the enemy is in [Shattered Jade] state, reduces its DEF by 10%. -- Duo Rank 1: boosts Ardent Oath charge by 20%. When fighting alongside Master of Fate, the enemy’s weakened state is extended by 2 seconds. Each time an enemy in weakened state is hit, the damage it sustains increases by 0.5%, up to a maximum of 10%. -- Duo Rank 2: increases Energy Charge cap by 1. When [Jadesunder] is triggered, restores a small amount of Energy Charge. -- Duo Rank 3: increase team DMG by 8%. Increases DMG of [Jadesunder] by 100%. When [Orchid Metamorphosis] is replaced by [Piercing Rain], there’s one more attempt of using [Piercing Rain] hitting an enemy. The cooldown reduction can be triggered once when unleashing [Piercing Rain].

5☆ SNOWFALL ENCOUNTER (ruby/solar) Lv 80/ awakened rank 3 using xx SSR protocores

5☆ SNOWFALL EMBRACE (ruby/solar) Lv 80/ awakened rank 3 using xx SSR protocores

5☆ EXCLUSIVE TUTORIAL (ruby/lunar) Lv 80 using xx SSR protocores

5☆ MEDICAL RESCUE (ruby/lunar) Lv 80 using xx SSR protocores

5☆ DRUNKEN INTIMACY (ruby/lunar) Lv 80 using xx SSR protocores

5☆ GENTLE TWILIGHT (pearl/lunar) Lv 60 rank 1 using xx SSR protocores

signal boosting: @hunters-association

[emlan]

Finished expansion!

Final Fantasy XIV Dawntrail done, here's some MSQ spoiler thoughts:

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I've had XIV on ice for a while so I was going into it as a casual and not a diehard fangirl but still I am shocked and disappointed by how bored I was during the whole thing… And annoyed, which is a bigger crime. Constantly wondering why characters act like they do or why they aren't asking about X.

Alphinaud and Alisae did nothing and they were both an eyesore with their old outfits, dressing them in local threads would've been so easy and a cute way to buff the immersion of visiting a new continent. (To be fair I guess they HAVE to tag along even if the writer doesn't want them there due to Trusts? I'd argue Krile and Erenville were just pieces of furniture until the very last stretch too but they were at least interested in the same goal as Wuk Lamat so they didn't feel out of place.)

My fav stuff is interacting and bonding with characters new and old but it doesn't feel like we got much of that? Trying to picture what people will even draw fanart of for DT of and all my mind's eye can see is Wuk Lamat lovers drawing WoLship art or just her looking cute and/or hot. (Also Erenville looking cute and/or hot.)

Doing a "sweet girl turns into massive threat" right after a "sweet girl turns into massive threat" expansion is rather brazen but it is a Classic so whatever. Would've been neat if she was an adult woman instead.

I could probably rant about several particular moments but I can feel myself slowly starting to morph into a WORST expansion EVER red-arrow-and-circle YouTube thumbnail which would be rather unsexy of me so I'll go ahead and choose happiness by listing the things I enjoyed instead;

Starting with the incredible lvl 93 weapons!!!! They all look like bland NPC pieces which is something super rare in this game, such a breath of fresh air. The NIN daggers especially is pure 10/10 and I was even considering changing my never-glamming-it-away ARR longbow into the new BRD one. The new sets are good too, I'm not much for scifi-y gear but the ones you get before Solution 9 are very nice and the aiming top gave my lizard a very lovely waist. I was really lucky to get the golden bangle hand drop that all Tuliyollal NPCs wear so I could fit in proper :3 Tweaking my main glam slightly to blend into each new areas better was a big source of fun.

Zoraal Ja bringing back an SSR Alpaca made me chuckle.

The moblin pot contract stuff is very endearing, basically they are keeping a crafter as a personal pet to love and pamper so they can do their best work? Such a cute Human Cattle aligned setup even though it's a mutual agreement and not actual ownership.

I liked the little merchant/seller skit we do with Koana even if my main glee was just seeing him wear something that didn't clash with his teal hair.

I perked up during the cooking contest introduction since it seemed like the chance for shenanigans was high, but they didn't really play around with it. At least we got Alisae musing to herself about Zuraal Ja and Baka Ja Ja in matching aprons 👌 Is the Fu awakening in you, my girl…?

Bakool Ja Ja doing his best to help out and getting a little flustered when receiving thanks after having been a stupid miserable bully that pretty much set off a nuke willy-nilly was nice, but only bcs I tend to clap like a seal no matter what when this trope appears. Since I am choosing happiness I'm not gonna comment more on his character.

The play was delightful as was the FF9 town wink in general (I also laughed for the wrong reasons at poor Otis doing a voice gag in an unvoiced cutscene, at least it still got the gist across well.)

lvl 100 dungeon nice presentation.

And…

Of course…….

Koana turning out to be an all-in siscon 🙏

Blessed be. It was rather predictable him and Wuk Lamat would end up as a duo ruler pair to cover each other's weaknesses, but her energetic public marriage proposal and stone carving to truly show off their union ran with the premise more than what I had braced for!

Love him feeling super jealous and obviously having been crying in the shower over WoL getting asked about a place in his sister's court [before he knew he had a place too] and then later him also clearly feeling threatened when she states that she views the WoL as one of her beloved siblings too. So pathetic clearly wanting to be the only Brother™ in her life ❤

I was kinda eyes emoji at Zoraal Ja too when he was staring at his sister with icy contempt, emboldened by my incest win when it came to the catboy I dared to dream that the oldest brother also harbored some obsessive feelings towards her that he didn't know how to handle, but that's not quite what happened… It's a shame we didn't get flashbacks of all those siblings together in various stages of life, I kept forgetting they were actually family so Wuk Lamat angsting over her evil brother made me go Oh Right every time I got reminded.

Lastly it wasn't quite part of the MSQ but the chuuni villain roundtable intro for the Role Quests was very silly (positive) and probably the most entertained I was during these past 4 days. Well, besides the actual trial fights being fun but I don't count those for story.

Ignoring the "human" faces and only going by the world the graphics/lighting update is very nice! My guy made it out OK but it stings a bit every time I see his mouth having had its charm nerfed. Very impressed by the not-Vanu Vanu, Horthgals and Mamool Jas facial expressions. However, hairstyles all look worse than before, so soft and "washed out"? I'm exaggerating for effect rn but Koana looks like he has a soft teal cloud as hair basically? And the twins' white hair is now too uniformly white without the darker hair strand lines…

The inn room is probably the nicest looking one we've gotten so far, both luxurious and cozy vibes. Always crack up seeing my Au Ra in bed nothing says relaxation like a super stiff coffin pose.

Quite bummed I couldn't find as much excitement as in previous expacks and I probably won't bother renewing sub for a while, but at least I already have other fandoms to keep me occupied.

[shiningdesignersreflections]

Tavi: Magic Hour

Designer's Reflection: Magic Hour

Obtained: Sleeping Star of Eternity hell event

Rarity: SSR

Attribute: Pink/Sweet

Awakened Suit: Magic Moment

Story - transcripts from Designer's Reflection

Chapter 1 - Tea Party

Chapter 2 - White Cat

Chapter 3 - Gems

Chapter 4 - Notes

Story - summarized

Tavi attends a tea party with several upper-class women. He charms them with his wit, kindness, and a couple of magic tricks. In return, they offer him their jewelry. With the gems, he finally has enough for a cruise ticket for the ship Princess Yesenia. It's leaving Pigeon for Apple soon, and there's nothing left for Tavi here. His family has no money, and he seems to be the last one left.

His last visit is with Madam Wilder, wife to the viscount. He hopes their investment would help him not just flee to Apple, but also get a new start there. However, Mrs. Wilder is distraught that her precious cat is missing. The cat only stays on the manor's grounds, so if the cat isn't there, someone stole it.

Tavi agrees to help find the cat. In return, Mrs. Wilder will arrange a meeting with the viscount.

Tavi enlists the help of the children in the slums, offering them food as they look for the cat. Finally, they notice strange behavior from the manager of a local grocery store. He goes to investigate himself. Sure enough, the manager is suspicious. Tavi pretends to complain about the nobles being snobbish. He mentions that the Wilder cat's collar is made from priceless stones, that's how snooty and extravagant the upper class is.

After leaving the store, he spies on the manager as he leaves the shop and hurries to an abandoned courtyard. Inside are all manner of dogs and cats. The manager slips in and steals the collar. It's actually just colored glass, but the manager is none the wiser.

Tavi sneaks into the courtyard and rescues the Wilder cat. And since he knows that all the other dogs and cats here will end up dead anyway, he sets them all free. Now, he can return to the Wilder estate.

But guards wait for him there. They bring the cat inside, but then beat up Tavi. Someone had tipped them off that he had been collecting jewels and cash from the noblewomen, and they think he stole them. They leave him sore, dirty, and with only a tiny amount of cash. No way is Tavi leaving Pigeon.

In the alleyway, an old woman offers him an antique notebook, claiming it's about love. He buys it off of her, giving her the last of his money. The woman vanishes before he can ask her anything. He flips through the notebook, which is written in a strange language. But he can read enough to know this is about an unlucky Knight who saves a Princess.

Tavi gets an idea for how to get onto the Princess Yesenia cruise ship.

Connections

-Yesenia reveals in her Reflection for Shimmering Star that Tavi indeed is from a lowly family. And the notebook he receives seems to be combining his two lives, mentioning a Knight and the notebook itself.

-Aphrodia is the woman that gives Tavi the notebook. She gave Tavi and Yesenia her blessing thousands of years ago in the forest, as shown in Shimmering Star, and in the last Side Story of the hell event, Aphrodia appears and admits she helped Tavi reunite with Yesenia by giving him the notebook.

-Tavi isn't the only one in Miraland who grew up in the slums. Qin Yi was tired of being abandoned by his mother, so Mind Maze 3 and its featured suit Out the Phoenix Palace mark his shift into joining the Qin family and rising to the top. And Krista from the Fallen Kingdom Sorrows hell event grew up in the slums (Midnight Tears) and agrees to suffer and cry for the blessing of Delmond and to feed and clothe the poor (Diamond Teardrop).

Fun Facts

-At the tea party, Tavi and the ladies played bridge. Bridge is a game with two pairs of players, each pair making a team. The goal is for each team to earn points by strategizing and tricking the other team for the best cards. You can learn more here.

-The guards think that Tavi stole the gems from the noblewomen, but in the Profile for the Designer's Reflection, the noblewomen reveal they knew Tavi wanted money from them. But they find him charming, and they appreciate how easily he can brighten someone's day. So, they don't mind giving him their jewelry if it means they can have a splendid day with him.

-While Tavi may be after money, he still has a kind heart. He does his best to help the slum children, and he genuinely loves performing magic tricks for others if it makes them happy.

[tricoloured-cat]

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, KUNIKIDA! sorry guys decided to do this instead of what you wre expecting HAHA anyway

my top 5 kunikida cards from mayoi

based on a mix of strength, utility, art, and just vibes

NOTE: this is purely based on what Mayoi has blessed me with. that, unfortunately, does not include the Masquerade and Chinatown ones WARNING: barely coherent ramblings and lots of simping HAHA

5: [Harvest Moon]

Oh the tears of joy I wept when I finally got this even after the event... how could I not cry? Look at it! Kunikuni with a bunny! AND it's animated! tho ngl not a fan of the animation

Art and concept aside, it's part of the top 5 because it's actually pretty useful. Decent ATK, one-hit-kill + azure orbs to omni, not to mention its leader skill reduces turns for active skill? Pretty good!

4: [Doppo Poet]

A classic. His first SSR. But it really is good and I do use him a lot because of how strong his active skill is. 100% ATK and 100% marble force increase, and best part is it lasts for 3 turns! Not one I'd put as the leader definitely, but it's a great support for the rest of the team.

3: [Rainy Season]

The first smiley Kuni card I have would be the [Resplendent Banquet] - and imo it's STILL the cutest sprite and skill animation - but aside smile I have to give it to [Rainy Season] for giving us a beautiful, colorful, and amazing leader of a card. I ADORE the skill animation as well, but this card isn't ranked higher because the active skill isn't that great.

2: [Year of the Tiger]

I'm a big fan of the traditional stuff - better if it's got the traditional vibes like this one! The washed out colors, the composition of the main art, and just the overall concept is definitely in my taste. Another smiley Kuni (ofc) but more subtle and more of a proud type. I just LOVE this card because it has a great leader AND active skill. It's just not higher because I'm biased towards...

1: [Joyous Night]

This is my second SSR Kuni ever and it's still my favorite to this day. I gave nearly all my moons then JUST for the art (card change one) because LOOK. He's SMILING. He's HAPPY. He's got his HANDS in his POCKETS. He's HOT in his SUIT-

No but seriously as a concept plus the colors and composition of the main artwork AND the cute contented sprite - I just HAD to get it. Thank you Mayoi for blessing me with this AGH

The reason why it's also one of my all-time favs is because of its active skill. I'm biased towards high ATK (150%) increase + something else, and that something else just happens to be "piercing marble" effect which is super useful. You could finish two waves in just two turns with this one.

HONORABLE MENTIONS: FAV SRs

3: Fish- I mean [Vivid Color]

It's a strong SR. The leader skill isn't great BUT paired with other SRs its active skill is actually pretty decent. Also, fish.

2: Azure Ki- I mean [Tarot]

Honestly, the only reason why this ranks higher than Vivid Color is because the art is *chef's kiss* HAHA The active skill is meh but at least the leader skill is good!

1: Fish again- I mean [Enjoying Nature]

Great leader skill. Decent active skill. Man's about to enjoy his favorite hobby. Need I say more?

---

AAAAND that's it! My mini-Kuni tribute for today. Just looking for an excuse to gush about him and the amazing art dedicated to him... ugh I love him sm GIVE HIM MORE CARDS, BSD MAYOI!

[jasmariswonderland]

Dreams Adorned In Silk ~ VilxOC

Synopsis: After months of knowing her, Vil thinks it's time to finally time to express to Danica all that he feels for her. And what better way than under a dazzling, firelit sky?

A/N: Vil's new SSR has a death-grip upon my heart. 😭😍😭

Pairings: 👑/🦢

Word Count: 2315

Warnings: A lot of fluff with just the slightest hint of angst.

~~~

With the final descent of the sun, the evening began to take on a cooler temperature. A blessed relief from the scorching heat. They had arrived earlier that afternoon while the sun was still blazing high in the sky and while their silky attire offered stylish comfort, a break from the heat was not unwelcome. Now, nestled together in a private tent some distance down the river and away from the crowds, they prepared for a spectacular night they were sure to enjoy. And for Vil, the moment he’d been greatly anticipating, but simultaneously dreading, had finally come.

In the corner of the tent, sat his fair companion. He watched as she held out her hand, musing over the elegant jeweled bangle circling her wrist. The beginnings of a smile pulled at Vil’s lips, it was something he’d seen her admiring it in the marketplace earlier that day. She said nothing, not wanting to feel like she was imposing on him, but the wistful look in her eyes told him all that he needed to know. When they arrived at their tent a little while ago, the first thing Vil did was surprise Danica with a beautifully crafted gift box. Biting back a smirk at the small gasp and the way her eyes lit up at the sight of the bangle. 

“How did you know?” she had asked him. “I was looking at it, true, but…I don’t think…”

“Your lips might not have said you wanted this, but they didn’t have to.” A playful smile caused her cheeks to redden. “The look in your eyes was confirmation enough that you would appreciate if I gave this to you.”

“Ahh, oh Vil-san, thank you!”

The red tint upon her face darkened as she slipped the bangle on her arm. She turned it afew times with her other hand, watching as the gems sparkled, their light jumping from one facet to another. Though she did not realize it, her own eyes were sparkling as well.

“It’s so beautiful, thank you. Thank you!”

Seeing her joy caused a fluttering sensation in his chest. Secretly, it brought him joy as well, seeing her so happy. There were not many instances where Vil could see Danica smile. The last few months had been particularly difficult ones and loath he was to admit it, Vil had been the source of much of her despair. 

Things in their world were now beginning to calm down. The VDC had passed, their emotions reconciled and they managed to escape STYX. The Shroud brothers were dealt with and, best of all, Vil’s youthful beauty had been restored after his heroic dive into the underworld. Everything seemed to be returning to normal and today’s venture to Scalding Sands was a wonderful change to their usual routines. 

And for Vil, it was even more wonderful that despite all they had been through, Danica was still able to smile at him and enjoy his company just as much as he enjoyed her’s. How nice it was to finally have some time alone with her, without the pressures of school or the expectations of the world breathing down their necks. At that moment, he wasn’t Vil Scheonheit, the international mega celebrity and dorm leader of Pomefiore. He was simply Vil enjoying a vacation with the one he cared about above all others. 

“I’ve had so much fun today,” said Danica. “I’m so excited for the fireworks, it will be the perfect ending to a perfect day!”

“I’m glad to hear that, Little Potato,” Vil smiled. “I take it you’re no longer feeling sad?”

“Sad? Why ever would I feel sad for?”

“Well I know a few of your friends were also here today,” he thoughtfully tilted his head. “Iman, Vidaria, Kalim and Cater. Even Trey and Yuulan are here as well. I saw some of the pictures Cater uploaded to Magicam.” 

“Yes, I saw the pictures too,” Danica lowered her gaze, which momentarily gave Vil reason for concern. But she ended up smiling. “But I wasn’t sad, I’m…much happier that I got to spend the day with you, Vil-san.”

“Really?” This genuinely surprised Vil, though it also secretly tickled him. “You’re glad you spent the day with me, as opposed to your friends?”

“What? Does that sound very strange?”

“No, no. I don’t mean it that way, it’s just that…well…I figured…”

His voice trailed off, surprisingly at a loss for words. Danica smiled and went on to explain how she could hang out with her friends anytime while they were at school. However with Vil, though they were in the same dorm, their obligations often kept them from spending time together. Especially considering that Vil was a dorm leader and soon to begin preparing for his senior internship. Once the new school year began, they were likely not to see much of each other at all. 

“I could always call up Kalim or Cater and arrange a meetup if I wanted to,” she said. “But I value the time I can have with you because…well…” A light red tint returned to her cheeks. “Because it’s so rare that we can be alone, I value this time with you all the more.”

“Danica…”

Vil’s heart began to flutter once more. Over the months, Danica had gradually become more assertive in speaking her mind. She still had her timid moments, but she was finding her voice and her thoughtful astuteness was something that he always found intriguing. But for her to voice how much she valued their time together, well, it was enough for Vil to start feeling rather bold. 

He couldn’t deny the close bond they had forged. A most unlikely friendship that Vil never could have anticipated. When he thought how this was the same shy and soft-spoken spudling he was introduced to at the start of the school year, it made him chuckle. What initially began as a curiosity on his part soon blossomed into a genuine respect, eventually giving way to awe and now, something even deeper. 

As time passed, he found he could not deny these feelings developing within him. Nor could he deny the immense comfort Danica had provided him during the more recent times of difficulty. When he overblotted, she did not judge him. When his appearance drastically changed after his underworld dive, not once did she flinch. Instead, in both situations, her unwavering support had been his anchor.

Vil was grateful for her growth, her strength, and her newfound confidence. He had come to appreciate her not just as a friend but as someone truly special.

Still, a nagging thought continued to gnaw at him. In his pursuit of beauty, he had been quite ruthless with her at times. His harshness often overwhelmed her, sometimes reducing her to tears. The pressure he placed upon her was insurmountable and he cringed inside thinking of the pain he caused as they were preparing for the VDC. All of this weighed as heavily on his heart as his feelings for her. Could she really accept him after enduring such pain?

Her words were the exact answer he needed. And as the evening became cooler and Danica slowly moved closer to him, Vil found he could not deny his feelings any longer. In his mind, he rehearsed his words, reminding himself that as a professional actor, this shouldn’t be such a difficult thing to do. How many times has he said these words before be it on stage or film? A dozen times at least? This is what his mind told him but in his heart, he knew this would be far from easy, and unlike any other performance he gave, this was real. 

Danica was now sitting very close to him, close enough for her to take in the elegant scent of his perfume. It was woody and slightly spicy, but also sweet, perfect for their surroundings and suited Vil very well. She glanced up at him, his brows furrowed and deep in thought, and couldn't help but stare for a few moments. Not too long ago, just to be in the same room as Vil seemed to her like the most harrowing experience in the world. And to look at him was tantamount to looking into the eyes of a god. Time had calmed her anxiety around him and while their closeness still felt unnerving at times, it also made her heart feel strangely warm. As she thought about this, she began turning back around and was surprised by a gentle hand running down her cheek. Vil pulled a lock of hair away from her face, catching her attention. 

“Danica, there’s been something I’ve wanted to say to you for a long time.” 

“Hmm? What is it, Vil-san?”

“I…well…” he took a deep breath. “First off, I would like to apologize. The first time I attempted to convey this, I did so in an extremely undignified manner.”

“What do you mean?”

“I was extremely selfish and cruel then. But please know, even though I did a very poor job at expressing my feelings, they haven't changed,” Vil smiled a little. “And when I say that I am the only one who sees you for the jewel that you are, I mean that.Truly.”

These words made Danica blush, though they also perplexed her. She couldn’t yet understand what Vil was trying to say but she did notice how he was looking at her. His usual intense gaze was softer and more tender. With his tone lacking its usual authoritative manner. Once again, she asked what he meant by this. But just as he worked up the courage to continue, they were both startled by a loud, booming sound filling the air. Fireworks erupted in a brilliant display.

Like a garden of flowers blooming in the sky, the night was illuminated with glowing color and dazzling light. Danica even reached out to the sky, she’d never seen such large fireworks before and felt they were close enough to touch. In the distance an enchanting, infectious music began to play, filling the air and loud enough for them to hear. Both of them were enraptured by the gorgeous display and Vil momentarily forgot his words, smiling at Danica.

“Would you like to dance with me, Little Potato?” he asked. “You know, it’s a Scalding Sands’ tradition to dance under the fireworks. Kalim told me.”

A bright red tint returned to Danica’s cheeks. “Was that…what you wanted to ask me, Vil-san?”

Of course it wasn’t, but he looked at her teasingly. “Do you want to dance with me or not?”

She eagerly agreed, allowing him to take her hand and pull her to her feet. Under the firelit sky, he guided her through an array of fun and graceful movements that perfectly matched the music. The colorful silks of their attire swirled elegantly with them as they danced, adding themselves to the gorgeous display up above. Vil was a beautiful dancer and the perfect partner, Danica already knew that firsthand. The way he danced with her always left her breathless; every turn, every sway, was captivating. The way he never took his eyes off of her, caused her heart to race with the rhythm of the music. 

However, what touched Danica the most, at that moment, was seeing Vil laugh and smile with such natural joy. It was rare to see him smile, even at her. He often kept a stolid expression when he wasn’t glaring with disappointment or smirking with amusement. But a true smile from Vil was almost as rare as him going a day without once having to scold Epel. But because she didn’t often see him smile, when he did, it was all the more special. A beautiful treasure that she held dear to her heart.

It was also quite infectious and Danica found herself smiling with him, sharing in this joy. So deep was this joy that what happened next was as natural as it was spontaneous. Vil stopped spinning her and for a moment, they continued gazing up at the colorful sky before he lifted her chin to face him. He gazed at her thoughtfully and without a word, gently pressed his lips to hers. He half expected her to be shocked or even to pull away, but to his surprise, she didn’t. There was no resistance and Danica slowly wrapped her arms around his neck, kissing him back.

Under the firelit sky, the fireworks weren’t the only thing booming. Though Vil hadn’t yet voiced his feelings, at that moment, he didn’t have to. Their closeness, this kiss, spoke louder than any words he could say. And her response said it all, his love was reciprocated. 

~~~

Vil slowly stirred awake, tears dampening his cheeks even before he opened his eyes. His heart ached with the bittersweet residue of the dream that had felt so vivid, so real. He knew what he would find before his eyes opened to confirm it. The empty space beside him in his bed told him that it had indeed all been a dream. A beautiful, silk-adorned dream, and now reality was crashing down upon him.

Cursing his own mind for playing such a cruel trick on him, Vil couldn't help but wonder why he would dream of something so poignant in the first place. That’s when his gaze shifted to the dress form in the corner of his room, adorned with the silky outfit Trey had gifted him, a plethora of vibrant colors and glittery fireworks printed upon the fabric. At the time, gratitude welled up within him for the thoughtful gift, but now it was overshadowed by sadness and regret. How he would have loved to attend and see the fireworks for himself, dancing in the gorgeous silk outfit with Danica by his side. It could have been a perfect date, and the perfect moment to finally express his feelings to her.

As he showered and dressed in his school uniform, Vil continued to contemplate this. He had fallen in love with her, that much was certain. And considering all they had gone through, he was almost certain that she was in love with him as well. Unfortunately, they hadn’t had much opportunity to really discuss their relationship since their return from STYX. The emotions from that harrowing experience were still quite high even a month later, to say nothing of his guilt at how badly he’d treated her before. 

He was just about ready to leave for the day, classes would start soon and he had to shift his focus. Vil gleaned out the window of his room, it was a lovely day at least, warm and sunny without a single cloud in the blue sky. His window also overlooked the Pomefiore courtyard and when he glanced down, there she was. Danica sat under one of the apple trees, chatting and laughing with Yuulan, Grim sitting in the latter’s lap. Her laughter was like music to his ears, and it ignited a spark of determination within him. 

The time for hesitance had long passed. It was time to seize the moment.

With his phone in hand, Vil quickly wrote up a text to Danica and watched as she received it and checked her phone. The message was simple: a request for her to meet him in the lounge later that evening for a monthly evaluation, something he gave to all freshmen. In truth, the evaluation was merely a pretense for something just as important, but even more special. 

[ad-hawkeye]

got hit by the artem truck out of nowhere and now that he’s jumped to my favorite rn i was wondering if you had any card stories you would recommend(recent or old is fine if you answer this)

Come On In To The Artem Truck

oh gosh! oh uh, okay okay okay! i got this! i got YOU! pulling out the tot app for this. my recommendations are below. bolded cards are my absolute favorites, but the rest are cards that while not my favorites, are very good and do have important relevance to artem or his future cards. also worth noting, these are only cards on global. i plan on making a list of future card recommendations soon! i think i talk about a few on this blog as well!

any cards not on this list aren't awful per say, just not as good or important - in my opinion, anyways!

BASE GAME CARDS (RECOMMENDATIONS)

loving memories (SSR): showcases pre development artem well. good neil lore. the haunted house also gets mentioned again in future cards.

focus fire (SR): good neil and artem lore. not exactly groundbreaking or anything, but i think it's worth a watch.

sparks (SR): you'll be seeing a lot of bold early on. sparks is a classic and favorite of many people. recommended.

in sickness or in health (SR): the og. this made me an artem stan.

autumn dreams (SR): while not a "must watch" imo, it is very cute and worth it if you have the time. also the final card art is artem's background on his tablet (you can see it on artem's tablet skill item)

thin veil (SR): paywalled but up on youtube. this is a MUST watch. introduces mockingbird and artem's whole deal with movies. also artem sucks at hand crafts and its a treat to watch him panic

unusual love (SSR): paywalled but up on youtube. this one is just rly fun to watch. it's fake dating AND angst! fun fun.

-

EVENTS (RECOMMENDATIONS)

lost gold: just. lost gold. love artem's route so much. also if rosa tries to use her little gun, it references artem teaching her how to shoot in focus fire.

artem's first birthday event: this one is so cute! recommend.

-

EVENT BANNER CARDS (RECOMMENDATIONS)

entwined fate (SSR): yeah you saw this one coming. it sets up a lot of stuff for the artemrosa dynamic. also it's just very cute AND you get amazing neil and artem angst! for what is probably the last time ever!

dreamful melodies (SSR): artem is so deeply pathetic and incompetent in this. please watch it <3

fixated on you (SR): very cute and one of my personal favs! marks a shift in their dynamic towards them being good friends AND has artem sucking at art

wandering heart (SSR): one of the classics. artem tricks rosa into eating some shitty chocolate to make her laugh and feel better.

two hearts as one (SSR): artem cries in this one and it's great!

sunshine after the rain (SSR): i just wrote a whole block of text about this one and it's one of my favorites. trust in meeee

winning ball (SR): not groundbreaking but watching artem talk about his absentee father is always a win in my book

eternal yearning (1st anniversary SSR): well yeah this one is a requirement for reasons. it's very good! i wouldn't say it was life changing but they do get together here and it's very nice imo.

new skies (SSR): i like this one a lot. playful artem makes a reappearance and the ending is super cute

masquerade passion (SR): love this one a lot!! this is also a classic artemrosa card, imo. its very in character and also includes theater boy artem again. cant go wrong with that!

paired blessings (SSR): this one is honestly a little boring, but they go back to the temple from entwined fate and talk about life and stuff. also worth a watch!

heart listener (SR): this one references loving memories! artem also heavily relates to the kid they have to babysit who is struggling with busy borderline absentee parents.

the weeds (SSR): probably one of artem's better au cards, which is why it's making it on this list. this is the one to watch if ur in an au mode.

day and night (SSR): this one isnt my favorite but it's his second bday card and does have some interesting stuff in it, me thinks. worth a watch.

[cosmicangst]

kinda fascinated by this anniversary always and his wording of "started having feelings for you." wish i could read what it was before it was localized. for the other boys it's more clear cut like this was the day they first met/reunited while artem's is more nebulous.

it makes me think of whether this day was the day he seriously acknowledged his already existing feelings and/or he made clear intentions to himself to fully pursue rosa. a big theme to a lot of artem's flashbacks is his inability to express or act on his feelings towards her (recalling specifically the paired blessings ssr) so im really intrigued by the specific trigger point that actualized this day as something to be marked for him (rather than the boring game function answer of this was the first chapter of the story and we gotta mark it somehow lol)

[sg-artem]

Artem’s Enduring Light SSR [Shrouded Daybreak]

Video Translation and Line Translation from Jin Yamashina

First, If you don't like spoilers, this is not the place for you. I will be ranting about this card and all its spoiler-worthiness. Secondly, thank you, Jin, for translating this card so that I could read it a year earlier and sob my eyes out earlier than global. Thirdly, I would like to thank Hoyoverse for having the guts to give us angst cards after so long. It was actually full-on angst for the last half, and if you ignore the after-story, it ends without comfort.

“We’re moving as partners, and share the codename “Cloudbreak.”

The first thing to point out is that I can't believe their codename is Cloudbreak. If you don't know, Artem and Rosa visit Cloudbreak Temple together in Entwined Fate SSR. They also revisited the temple in Paired Blessing, so it's a pretty special place for both of them. The fact that they share the codename cloudbreak just does things to me that I can't explain. THEY CHOSE A PLACE OF SO MUCH SIGNIFICANCE TO BE THEIR CODENAME TOGETHER. Like they might know it but I DO SO DISksjdjS. It's not even just a codename for one of them. It's the fact that they share and have the same codename that just does things to my heart. HOW ARE THESE TWO PARTNERS JUST FKEHFIEIBIEBF so adorable.

“Load, reload, and shoot. I’ve taught you all of these personally, yet you can always surpass me.”

Secondly, as you can see from the image above, Rosa is holding a gun. We're not in the angsty part yet. However, just like in their dating verse, Artem teaches Rosa how to use a gun again in the pretense that she'll need it when she becomes an agent like him. It's just so heart-melting to see all these references from their dating verse in this AU. You can really see how every detail was thought of to make it as sentimental and heart-wrenching as possible.

“Y/N, have you really though it through?”

Next, this freaking ARTEM WING always has the most incredible love languages. Always letting us have the final decision. He has no choice, but we are always the ones with the choice. Reading the card made me realize just how thoughtful this man really is. He didn't enroll Rosa into the organization because he wanted her to think about it with a clearer head. Not just because he saved her but because it is what she wanted in the end. CRIESS THIS MAN, HOW CAN I NOT LOVE YOU. Always double checking if we're sure and, in the end, making us really think through the decision because he doesn't want us to live in regret BHJFHKJFOJSIO. YOU WILL ALWAYS BE MY CHOICE, YOU LOVELY MAN. Just like how Artem saved Rosa, she will always choose to save him.

“Then proudly stand by your side someday in the future.”

And then there's our dear Rosa. How can I not love how the MC is portrayed. All her feelings and thoughts are what I want to achieve as well. Her desire to save Artem and her selfish thoughts just stay by his side. THIS DAMN COUPLE HUHUHUHU. There continues to be parallelism between their dating verse on how one of Rosa's goals is to stand by Artem's side as partners. THIS MAN ALREADY VIEWS YOU AS HIS WORLD, BUT YOU STILL WANT TO WORK HARDER, HUHUUHU. It's not even the fact that she works hard, but even if she doesn't, Artem continues to accept her and reassure her that how she is right now is enough. She doesn't need to change for him, yet he still loves her very much.

“Then, I’ll choose to let you live.”

“Leave. Don’t look back.... You aren’t allowed to look back.”

AND THEN THE SCENE WHERE ARTEM WAS READY TO SACRIFICE HIS LIFE FOR HER, OH MY GOSH. My heart was pounding so hard at the thought of these two apart. Rosa slowly understood that she never was on probation and how Artem kept questioning her motives to stay. Once again, Artem was giving her a choice. She can live as an ordinary citizen or help the organization with its cause. CRIEESSS. He doesn't want her to be shackled by the weight of responsibility if she doesn't choose to bear it. Even if it would mean her sacrifice and their separation. He still gives her the right to choose what she wants. THESE TWO I CANNOT WITH THEM, MY POOR HEART. I was sobbing my eyes out for these panels. The freaking illustration didn't help because, my gosh, I have never seen Artem Wing look so coldly in my direction before.

Also, another parallelism with Chapter 6 of the main story now. Remember how Artem and Rosa were in those glass containers. How Artem was ready to sacrifice his life so that you could escape safely. He wasn't even sure if she would return, but the fact that he saw you leave safely and he was on the brink of death just killed me. This man, your selflessness will be the death of me. This is why I just love you so much dfkshfkhfkd

“Do you... want a present this year? I’ve wrapped them all, they are hidden at home.” “I wanted to give you some right of choice and a chance of reconsiderations.”

THIS FREAKING LINE JUST KILLED ME. Artem's talking like he isn't going to make it, and he's like saying his final lines to you, oh my gosh. THIS MAN!! Even in his last moments, he thinks about how Rosa can still escape and how it's okay that she's mad at him for betraying her with the organization stuff. The heart-wrenching situation. Also, even in his final moments, he's talking about if she makes it out alive and he doesn't, she still has the CHOICE of not joining. THIS MAN AND HIS CONSIDERATION FJBSFDHHSH. It made the scene so much more angsty, and my gosh, I will never be the same ever again. CRIESSS ARTEM WING!!

“Mrs. Mrs. Wing”

“Mrs. Wing. Mr. Wing.”

LASTLY, THIS GOSHDAMMING AFTER SCENE!! Not the after story but the after scene where Rosa is supposed to have lost consciousness. I can't believe they went back to the time in the car before all the events. Firstly, the fact that he notices her distress and immediately stops the car when she starts crying fkhdskfhks. He just cups her face and wipes her tears like in the romantic scenes you see in movies. (well, he could have hugged her, but that's just my preference HAHAHHAHA) ALSO, MR. WING AND MRS. WING. THEY WERE PRACTICING CALLING EACH OTHER THESE NICKNAMES. I CAN'T. This just absolutely broke my heart. If we think that them dying next to one another, and in their afterlife, this is what they call each other CRIESSSS. The fact that these two will never be separated, even in their deaths, will be my demise. HUHUHUHU

That is all for me, fkhdskhd. Also, can I just point out that Zhao Lu's voice acting was so freaking good??? He nailed all the emotions and the angst 10000% better with voice acting like my God. And the background music, mwuah, it was chef's kiss so good. Also, all the antagonists voiced lines were so good as well. They had the best lines and all the tones that made me want to hate them so much. Overall, it was such a good card, and I'm so excited for this to come to global next year and to hear the other dubs voice it as well AHHHH. Thank you, bye!

Video Translation from Jin Yamashina

[saiilorstars]

Love, Ours: What Happens on Earth...

Fandom: MCU

Pairing: Steve Rogers x OFC

Story Summary: One-Shots/AU collection of Seren and Steve outside of their fics (Darkest Before Dawn, Alignment, etc.).

Story Masterlist ○ Seren’s Masterlist ○

Also available on Fanfic ○ Ao3 ○ Wattpad

Taglist: @ocappreciationtag​ @arrthurpendragon​ @anotherunreadblog @maaaaarveeeeel @stareyedplanet​ @averyhotchner @foxesandmagic @kmc1989​

[If you’d like to be a part of any OC’s works/edits, let me know!]

Despite only a few days passing by since they returned to headquarters, Steve saw Seren very little. It did nothing to help his concern for her state. Logically, he shouldn't be that worried. After all, the SSR had agreed to help Seren build a new suit for herself and a method of communication to reach her family. Peggy had even offered Seren to stay with her while they tended to matters in the city. And Steve and the others lived right in the same building for the time being. The fact remained that Seren was not alone, therefore nobody could hurt her. And it seemed like nobody wanted to hurt her anyways.

Nearly everyone had taken a liking to her. Howard was utterly fascinated with her knowledge of space and the stars. He was probably the one who spent the most time with Seren, as much as it pained Steve to think about it. The other soldiers who'd been kept by HYDRA with her seemed to have taken her in as their honorary comrade. They all knew that HYDRA valued her the most because of her "special" attributes and given that Bucky had shared what he knew, it didn't take them long to figure out that Seren was not from their world.

All in all, Seren was very much liked and cared for. Steve should be content…but it killed him. It was stupid, and so incredibly selfish of him, but try as he might he couldn't get rid of those feelings. Everyone got to spend time with Seren, everyone wanted to be around her, and she — bless her heart — was fascinated with the human world. She was eager to know what things were and what they did. Logically, she learned more educational things from Howard, what women typically did from Peggy, and then the idiot stuff directly from the other soldiers. Some of them had already tried getting smart with her but Steve, and Bucky too ironically, shut it down before Seren ever noticed.

Steve was furious with those particular men, shouting and threatening them to back off. Bucky laughed at him all night for that.

Tonight was a night they were all free, and once again Seren was very popular. It turned out, her alcohol tolerance was very strong. She could not get drunk and people just didn't buy it. So she proved them every single time. Once she got tired of the competition, she accepted the offers to dance. She liked the kind of music they usually played. She was a fast learner, especially when she had such talented teachers.

Steve watched his own best friend chat it up with Seren in the pub. He wondered if Bucky was doing it on purpose.

Bucky swayed them to the music and almost every minute or so, Seren would let out a giggle or two. Eventually, Steve couldn't take it and he turned to the bar to order another drink for himself…not that it would matter. As it turned out, he too couldn't get drunk. How ironic.

"Well, you look like you're having the time of your life…" Peggy couldn't, and definitely wouldn't, hide her laugh when she approached the bar. "What's the matter? I thought the men agreed to the plan?"

Steve took his freshly served drink from the bar. "They did." He had lined up the perfect team to take HYDRA's bases down and he should be happy. But he wasn't. He was far from that and he didn't understand why.

Peggy looked at him and then the dancers. "You know, I know I was against bringing her in. I thought she was a danger — an alien, for God's sake. How wrong of me to assume. Thanks for pushing on the idea to have her. She's done well for us. And herself."

Steve looked over his shoulder just enough to catch Seren. She was still laughing with Bucky. "Yup. Very well."

Peggy seemed to smile knowingly. "But you know something, she's still afraid. She doesn't say it, or show it, but she still gets very nervous around new people, around the medics. She's got nightmares."

Steve stopped drinking then and looked at Peggy, completely dumbfounded. "She does?"

Peggy nodded. "She's in the next room. I hear her screaming. I've come in multiple times but she never wants to talk about it. Can't say I blame her. What she went through must have been horrible. Prodded and relentlessly experimented on. It's terrifying. I'm glad she can find a moment to laugh."

Steve's shoulders slumped. God, he was just so awful. He was the worst human being. How could he be so upset that Seren was off dancing with someone when she deserved to have fun, to be happy.

Peggy kept looking at him while he went through his thoughts. Her smile grew. She walked off without saying another word. She'd said everything she needed to anyway.

Steve mulled over his thoughts for a few minutes until he heard the laugh again. This time it was a lot closer and when he looked back, Seren had stumbled on her heels nearly falling into the bar.

"Whoops!" She giggled and popped her head up. All her hair fell back over her shoulders. Unlike the rest of the women, Seren didn't seem like a big fan of the tight 40s curls. "Sorry," she planted a hand on the bar counter. "These heels — why are they so chunky? Is that to make a point?"

Steve truthfully had no idea how to answer that. No one ever asked him about fashion.

"What are you drinking?" Seren plopped down on the stool next to him. "I'm so thirsty. Your friend Bucky can sure dance!"

"Yeah, I've been told," Steve said, trying his best to keep his bitter tone out of the conversation. Unfortunately, Seren and her perfect hearing heard it well.

She tilted her head at him. "Are you alright?" Steve nodded silently and drank the rest of his drink. "I don't understand. Bucky said your new friends accepted the proposal to fight HYDRA. You should be celebrating! Go dance or something!"

"I don't dance," Steve said.

"Correction!" Bucky suddenly appeared on Steve's other side, clapping his shoulder hard. "He does dance, but he always has a hard time finding a dance partner!"

Steve glared at his best friend. Shut up was written all over his face. Bucky just laughed and ordered himself a drink.

"Well, have you asked anyone here?" Seren asked innocently. "There aren't that many women around here but someone would say yes, I know it."

"Oh, doll, there's someone who would say yes if he just asked," Bucky said, discreetly nudging Steve while Seren looked out to the pub.

"Who's a doll?" Seren said distractedly.

Bucky chuckled. "Never mind. Steve, something you want to say?"

"I got a lot of things I want to say right now, Buck," Steve muttered.

"Oh! Peggy's found a table! Is it alright if I go join her?" Seren eagerly looked at the men on her side. "She's trying to introduce me to her friends she's made in the SSR. I haven't been doing very well so far…"

Steve barely hid his smile at that. Seren was popular amongst the men, yes, but she was either feared or misunderstood by most of the women in the SSR. She didn't get it, or so it seemed.

"Go ahead," he told her with an encouraging glance.

Seren beamed and hopped off the stool. "Wish me luck!" She said before marching off.

Bucky 'tsk'd' as soon as Seren was gone. "Were you always this pathetic?"

"You're a punk, you know that?" Steve glanced at him.

"Why? Because I asked your girl to dance with me?" Bucky's smirk was incredibly wide.

"Be quiet! She can hear!"

Bucky laughed. "But she wouldn't understand. She's a sweet one, not really my type, but still real pretty. I had to ask her to dance, man. We spent way too much time together at HYDRA and it wasn't exactly a party over there. Wanted to cheer her up, that's all. Honest."

Steve knew he shouldn't expect any explanations from Bucky. After all, he had every right to ask Seren, or anyone else, to dance…but it did sort of bring him some relief knowing Bucky didn't want Seren in any other capacity. "Really?" He signed to the truth with that one-worded question.

Luckily, this time Bucky didn't tease him. He just nodded. "Yeah." He drank from his glass. "She's a good woman. Back in the lab, she was the one bleeding and she kept telling me not to give up. She must have been on the verge of dying at least once a day from all the experiments but she always told me — and the others — that they would get out."

Steve stayed quiet for a minute. Seren had not told him much about her time with HYDRA, and he didn't ask either. Hearing her faith that something would save them managed to crack his heart a little. She had zero trust in humans but she still had faith that something would happen to save them all.

"She's a good one, don't be stupid and let some idiot woo her," Bucky said. "I like her but she's a bit naive when people flirt with her. Did it twice and she had no idea what was going on." Steve started glaring at him again. "Hey!" Bucky raised a hand in front of him. "She's pretty!"

Steve gave him a hard shove and went back to his drink.

~0~

Steve lost sight of Seren for an hour or two. He honestly assumed that she had gone home already but to his surprise, he found her in the corner of the pub and she didn't appear to be having fun anymore.

"Hey," he approached her slowly, and a bit bashful too. The last time he was near her when she was upset, she had fought him and nearly won.

Seeing him, however, pulled Seren away from the wall. "Steve, hi…" She seemed out of sorts, and her face was flushed.

"Are you alright?" Steve asked her. "I thought — the women you were with—" Seren let out a sharp scoff, stopping Steve in his tracks. He turned his head halfway, raising an eyebrow at her. "Did something happen?"

"It turns out that the women here are vile," Seren said, hugging herself. "They hate me."

"I take it the introductions didn't go so well…" Steve wondered how badly it must have gone for Seren to have separated even from Peggy.

Seren shook her head. There was not a trace of her laugh and giggles she had an hour ago. "I want to go," she said quietly.

"Seren, I'm sorry you had a bad moment, but you were having a fun time before…" Steve stepped closer to her, "Are you sure you want to leave?"

Seren raised her head at him and nodded. "Nobody wants me here. Peggy's friends made that clear."

"Fortunately, they don't speak for the rest of us," Steve smiled at her. "Listen, how about we stay for another 10 minutes and then I'll take you back to the apartment?"

"Steve, I can leave on my own. You don't have to cut your night short because of me."

"No offense Seren, but you still don't know the streets. I can't let you leave on your own and besides, I'm not exactly the party type. That's more of Bucky's thing."

Seren peeked around Steve and spotted Bucky across the pub. He was dancing with another woman. "Yeah, sure seems like it," she nodded. "You don't want to dance?"

"Well, I mean — are you — do you want to dance?" Steve had gone red in a matter of seconds. Seren, however, had smiled at the question.

"If you're willing…yeah…" She let her arms hang on her sides. "I mean, if you're willing to be seen with me. I'm telling you, the women are so rude here. They love you, so…I mean, pick wisely."

"Can I tell you something?"

"Sure."

"Most of them didn't bat an eye at me before."

Seren was, of course, confused with his particular word choice. She would ask if Steve hadn't offered her his hand. She accepted and slid her hand over his.

Together, they walked towards the dance floor. Seren mumbled something about being watched almost immediately after they settled with the music. It was slower, which called for their hands together and one of Steve's hands on her back.

"You want to tell me what happened?" He said to her. She truly did look like a whole other person right now. He felt even more guilty for being so selfish when she had actually been happy earlier.

Seren's eyes were to the side, gazing at the other happy customers. "I'm an alien, Steve. Not a lot of people like that. In fact, less than 10 do."

"They don't fully understand who you are," Steve said.

"They know exactly who I am. That's the problem. Serves me right — I did throw half of them at the camp."

"You were scared—"

"I was a monster."

"You were far from that. The only reason the other soldiers didn't lash out is because they were literally out of energy."

Seren wouldn't look at him. "I'll always be the alien here. Humans aren't ready for foreigners like me."

"There are many people who would think otherwise but hey, take a look at our war. We're fighting to get rid of those kinds of thoughts, because not everyone sees differences in people. I, for one, think you're great." Steve was happy when Seren turned her head to him. "I know Bucky thinks the same, and definitely the rest of our team. Don't we count?"

Seren half smiled at him. "I suppose. Although it feels like I haven't really seen you lately."

"I know, I'm sorry…"

"Don't be. I get it. You're working hard…taking charge…" Seren brought one of her over his shoulder and around her neck. They grew closer to each other. "I may not understand everything, but I know that putting you in charge of taking down the HYDRA bases was the only right choice. I'm proud."

Two simple words created such an emotion in Steve's chest that he had no idea what to even call it. She made him feel so good and he wanted to do the same for her.

"Seren, whatever those women said, whatever they did, it doesn't ring true. You're amazing, you know that?" He lowered the side of his face next to hers.

"You barely know me," Seren whispered. She could feel his breath tickling her cheek.

"You survived for a whole year under HYDRA, quite possibly taking the worst of the blow, and you're out here trying to push forward in a whole new world. Did I miss something? Not everyone has the strength. I'm glad you do."

Seren smiled to herself. "You have no idea what goes through my head these days. Sometimes it feels like I'm floating through, no real finish line in sight."

Steve understood what she meant. The communication method with her mother was not at all close. She felt alone.

"Hey, when this war is over, and you're still around, you think you might want to see New York?" He had no idea what he was asking and why, but he felt the light shake of Seren's body as she chuckled.

"That's where you live, right? Bucky told me the name. You think they'd like me there?"

"Oh, you'd be very popular," Steve said, having no doubt about it.

Seren was smiling for a moment when they looked at each other. And then it waned.

Steve hated it. "Do you want to go now?"

Seren nodded. "If you don't mind."

"Of course not." He let go of Seren and offered her his arm instead.

As they walked out of the pub, Steve caught Bucky smirking at him from across the dancefloor. He definitely didn't appreciate the thumbs up Bucky sent his way.

"I'm sorry about dragging you out," Seren apologized on their walk. She looked up at Steve, truly appearing the part of someone guilty. "I honestly would have found my way back someway. I'm not entirely helpless here. You could have stayed and had some more fun."

"You know, bars were never really my thing," Steve admitted.

"I thought it was a 'pub'," Seren said, tilting her head at him.

"Ah, the English call it a pub. Americans don't."

"Right…" Seren's brows pinched while she tried to recall those names. Peggy had mentioned something about that as well. "Well, either way, you could have stayed."

"Is it that hard to believe I wanted to leave?"

"You hardly danced with anyone," Seren pointed. "Actually, I don't think I saw you dance with anyone. Why not? You're a good dancer."

Steve smiled. "Thanks. You're the first one to tell me that."

"Really?"

Steve nodded. "Mhm, kind of the first time I danced at all. I'm not using that as an excuse in case you secretly thought I was a bad dancer but, yeah…" There were only so many pointers Bucky could give him without actually doing it. Luckily, Seren didn't seem upset at all.

"I think you were a great dancer," she said. "I enjoyed it. Leaving the place had nothing to do with the dancing part, trust me."

"I'm going to choose to believe you there…" Steve said, side-glancing her with an expression that ultimately made her laugh.

They reached their apartment building in no time but instead of heading in, Seren decided to take a seat in the middle of the front steps. She smoothed the skirt of her dress out and looked at Steve.

"If you want to head back, I'm good now," she said, "I just want to look at the sky for a bit before bed."

But of course, Steve walked up the steps and sat down beside her. He was careful to leave a bit of space between them. "So, what are we looking at tonight?"

Seren was openly pleased with his decision and, barely containing her smile, she turned her head up at the sky. "Well, Earth's sky is very funny to me. On most planets that I've been to, you can always see space and all the stars and nearby planets. You can barely see anything here!"

"Yeah, uh, that sounds amazing, actually," Steve said, trying to imagine a sky like she said. "The problem here is that with all the lights, you don't get a lot of visual of the stars. Especially in the city."

"Yeah, I'm starting to get that…" Seren mumbled, "Still, I try to squint my eyes and see something. Like to imagine my mother is out on one of those stars…looking for me."

Steve side-glanced her, taking note of the downcast glint in her eyes. It happened almost every time she spoke of her mother. "I'm sorry," he felt the urge to say. "I'll help you however I can, I swear."

Seren managed a half smile. She got the feeling that he meant every word. "I think my mother would like you," she said suddenly. She caught Steve off guard. One of his feet slipped off the lower step, making him lose his balance. Seren giggled behind one of her hands.

Great. Way to go you idiot! Steve was bright red from embarrassment. "I, uh — she, uh — really?" He cleared his throat and brought both his feet to the same step below them.

"Mhm," Seren nodded, lowering her hand to her lap. "My mother's been here before."

"To-to earth?" Steve blinked.

"Aha. She was on a mission and she ended up here. That was twenty years ago for Earth. I asked Peggy for the current year."

"What, uh, what was she doing here? Or-or what did she do?"

"She never told me what mission she had, just that her mother — my grandmother — assigned her something. My mother dallied, I suppose, and she stayed here for a bit longer. She had a fascination with humans and all their customs."

"She was curious? I can imagine that perfectly," Steve said, nudging her side.

"Yeah, guilty," Seren chuckled for a moment, but there was something else that seemed to be on her mind. "She, uh, she met somebody here. I think he's from your home — uh, the States? She spent a lot more time on Earth than she should have. My grandmother was livid when she got back."

"How long did your mother stay on Earth?" Steve asked curiously.

"Long time," Seren replied, tilting her head up at the sky. "As a Celessian woman, she had to leave at the eight month mark."

"Why?"

"Because Celessian women tend to go into labor between the 8th and 9th month. She barely made the trip back." At that point, Seren could feel Steve's burning gaze on her. She didn't dare tear her eyes off the sky, not yet.

"Are you…how old are you again?" Steve couldn't remember if he'd ever asked Seren her age but now it seemed like there was no point. He knew what he knew.

"Time runs differently the further you're in space…" Seren said quietly. "But my mother arrived back in Celessia just in time to…"

Steve began to shake his head; there were way too many things to connect. "Are you…are you saying that—"

"I'm half human," Seren said, finally meeting his eye albeit cautiously. "My father was human."

Steve gawked at her, mouth completely wide open. If someone years ago told him that he'd be having this kind of conversation, he would have laughed in their face. "Seren, I'm…I don't…I don't know what to say, honestly…"

"Does it make me less scary? Or more of a freak?" Seren desperately wanted to know the answer to the question. She'd been asking herself over and over ever since she got to the city. She wondered how Peggy would take it — how the other soldiers would.

"Neither," Steve said automatically. "Because you're not scary and you're not a freak. Not to me. I…" A smile started spreading across his face. "I just don't even know how to react to this. This is beyond my knowledge! You're half human! Maybe that's why you're so captivated with things here. Because this is also your home."

"You think so?" Seren said, doubtful. "I…I've never been here. My grandmother forbade us from coming."

"What, seriously?" Steve immediately frowned. "Why?"

Seren sighed. She didn't notice when she scooted a bit closer to him. "Being half Celessian has some of its downfalls. My powers came in late — like really late. Developmentally, I'm weaker than most Celessians. I eat differently, I need more sleep, and I'm a bit slower."

"Seriously?" Steve was baffled with what he was hearing. She had taken down a whole ward of soldiers and continued to be a strong force within the SSR and she thought she was weak? Other people thought she was weak!?

"In comparison to other Celessians, yes," Seren nodded. "And trust me, I see it too. I inherited half of my genes from my father. I'm an outcast at home, and I'm an outcast here. I'm too human for Celessia and I'm too alien for Earth." She brought her elbows on her knees and rested her chin on her hands. "Go figure."

"Seren, I think you're putting a lot of pressure on yourself for something that's out of your control," Steve said. "Personally, I don't see anything wrong with you."

"That's what my mother says — used to say," Seren muttered. "She still loves Earth and everything about it. She said she loved my father too. And that if he met me, he'd love me too."

"Does he know…?" Steve dared to ask.

"My mother was so in love with him that she told him everything," Seren said, shaking her head. "My grandmother was so furious. 'Humans — they're so behind that they deem anything different as monstrous'. According to her, my mother cursed me. I'm doomed to be the weaker link." Steve had not met Seren's grandmother but he was positive he despised her. "I wasn't supposed to hear that argument, nor the ones after that. My mother's talked to me many times about this stuff. She swore that my father would love me. He didn't care what she was; he was excited to meet me as a baby. But my mother had to leave; she was afraid human medics wouldn't be able to help her in labor."

"Why didn't she ever come back?" Steve wondered what could have stopped the woman. If her own mother was against the idea of a half-human granddaughter, why not leave?

"I don't know," Seren replied. "I think in the end, she was scared that I would need help from Celessia. My grandmother, hard as she is, is the Matriarch and she knows everything about everything. She's taught me so many things. For better or for worse, she's helped take care of me."

"Under backhanded compliments," Steve said abruptly. The moment he heard his own words, he apologized. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean—"

"It's alright," Seren straightened herself up on the step. "My mother would say something like that too. She would have definitely liked you."

Steve felt something warm in his chest — pride. He was proud of himself that he would have Seren's mother's approval. "Do you know who your father is? Maybe-maybe we can find him."

"Find him?" Seren blinked a few times.

"Yeah, if it was about 20 years ago, he could still be alive. Do you know his name?"

Seren deliberated her answer. At first, the idea of meeting her father was exciting but then it turned into fear. "I-I mean…she told me his name once. Course I didn't forget. He's my father. But do you think he'd want to meet me? I mean…you know…that was 20 years ago for him. If he's still alive, he could have a whole family. There might not be any more room for me."

Steve reached for one of her hands on her lap and held it gently. "I think you should at least try. You never know what could happen."

Seren looked down at their hands then at him. "Would you be there if that happened? If I found him…would you come with me?'

"Why ask what you already know," Steve smiled at her.

"Brooks Soul," she said. "That's his name. That's my father's name." It felt strange saying her father's name in the open. She never spoke the name on Celessia for fear of her grandmother finding out.

"We can start searching tomorrow," Steve said determinedly. The SSR owed him anyways so maybe he could cash that favor in. "Nice to meet you, Seren Soul."

Seren laughed softly. "That's not — if my grandmother heard you, she'd shoot you. My name is Seren Dade."

"Until you meet your father and decide otherwise, you are Seren Soul." Steve unintentionally tugged her closer with her hand still in his. She didn't seem to mind as she was smiling from ear to ear. Once again, he saw the freckles on her cheekbones, and they seemed to highlight her bright green eyes.

"I'll admit that I have thought about using my father's name," Seren said quietly, not leaning back. "My name — Seren — it means 'star' and if you pair that up with my father's name, it means—"

"Star soul," Steve started to smile with her. "What a perfect translation."

Seren then pulled her hand out of his and tugged the collar of her dress to show Steve what was sitting around her neck. It was a choker with a shining star pendant. "When you turn 21, you're officially regarded as an adult in Celessia. You go to a special mine and carve out a star. The very first one you carve is your star. Mine happens to shine kind of strange. Not even that can be normal about me. It never shines the same color twice in a row. Nobody else's does that except for mine. My mother says it's because I'm made of something different."

"I think she was right…" Steve said slowly, eyes flickering from her pendant to her lips. When did they get so close? If he moved just a bit more, their noses would bump. "A star soul. There's no one else like you."

"There's nothing else like this," Seren said, dropping her pendant. "It's why Zola wanted it so badly. Unfortunately for him, it never responded to him. Couldn't even crack it in two. It had to stay with me."

Talking about Zola was the last thing Steve wanted to do, though he did make a note to beat Zola just a bit harder for trying to take something so special to Seren away from her.

"You're amazing," he said breathlessly. He didn't know when he'd run out of air.

Seren bit on her bottom lip. She forgot all about pendants and stars the more she gazed at Steve. "You're a good listener…"

"I-I've been told…" Although if she asked him who had told him that, Steve wouldn't be able to remember. He wouldn't even be able to remember his own name right now!

Seren closed the small space between them and kissed him. The moment Steve felt her lips on his, he felt like he'd come to life in a way that not even the serum had done to him. Kissing back was an instinct. Who would deny a new spark of life?

Seren parted first, almost as if to gauge his reaction. Kissing wasn't something she had planned on doing but she also didn't regret it. She just wanted to see what Steve would do…or say.

It turns out it was neither or. He was too stunned to speak…and it made her laugh.

She stood up from the step and a moment later, so did he. She moved to the next higher step so they could be on a somewhat similar height. There, they gazed at each other until words came to mind.

"Thank you for saving me," Seren said, "I, uh, don't think I ever said that to you. I'd be dead if it weren't for you."

"I'm glad you aren't," the words tumbled from Steve's mouth. He almost smacked himself for saying it but it seemed to be funny as Seren giggled. "I mean, you know, I…"

Seeing him fumble, Seren took her chance and leaned over to kiss him again. He stopped all attempts to talk. Her hand had come to rest on his cheek, like she was making sure he didn't slip away from her. If only she knew that he had no plans for that, none at all.

Seren pulled back first again and, with a smile, gave him a short kiss on the lips. "Thank you for walking me back. Goodnight." She then hurried up the steps and disappeared into the building.

"Good…goodnight…" Steve drew in a big breath as he stared after her. He did not move from his spot for another five minutes.

~0~

For the first time in a long time, Seren woke up from a good sleep. She was content while making breakfast — trying to make breakfast. She was still learning how to use some things. The stove was one of them.

Peggy had told her not to use it alone for fear of burning either herself or the whole apartment. That morning, however, Peggy walked into the kitchen and found Seren setting up a proper breakfast on the table.

"Well good morning…" Peggy said, absolutely bemused with the sight. "What is all this…?" After last night, she thought Seren would for sure be upset with her because of her very rude friends. Peggy had gotten up with the intention of telling Seren how she'd ripped her friends for their awful behavior. To put it in simple terms, she thought Seren would be depressed again.

"I tried making breakfast how you do it…" Seren said, resting her hands on the back of the chair. "I got fruit — by the way, I don't know about you but I think bananas would taste better if we stored them in the fridge — and then I made that tea you like. I didn't spill the water this time!"

"And it's not burned…?" Peggy's lips quirked into a smile.

"Not this time!" Seren said proudly. "Although, full disclosure, I did have to use my powers to sort of balance out the heat stuff. Your burners are weak."

"Hey," Peggy said, feigning offense.

Seren chuckled. "Try it! Try everything! And you can be honest if it's not good."

Peggy pulled out a chair and sat down. As she was serving herself, she motioned Seren to sit down as well. "You're not expecting me to eat all this on my own. Last time I remember, you've got a higher calorie intake."

Seren wouldn't deny that. She sat down across from Peggy and started serving herself a plate.

"So, about last night…" Peggy had only said those four words and yet it was enough for Seren to drop her fork. Peggy stopped and looked at the woman.

Seren felt her face warming up. "Uh…last night?" She picked up her fork off her plate.

Peggy nodded slowly, her gaze still lingering on her. "Yes, I want to apologize to you about my friends."

"Ooh, your friends…" Seren sighed of relief.

Peggy once again raised an eyebrow at Seren. "Yes…I know you were upset and rightfully so."

"Peggy, it's not your fault—"

"They shouldn't have treated you like that and I'm going to make sure that it doesn't happen again, I promise."

"Peggy, it's okay," Seren smiled. "What they do doesn't reflect on you. I…I get that it's hard. I did hurt them…maybe apologizing to them might be a good start."

"Absolutely not," Peggy said firmly. Seren blinked a few times. "You shouldn't apologize to people who are rude and stuck on presumptions. When they're ready to have a civilized conversation, we'll be here."

A small smile spread across Seren's face. "Thanks, Peggy. I promise I'll try to be more, uh, normal."

"Just be you, Seren, that's all we ask."

Seren's smile spread even more. She began to eat her breakfast.

"Now you want to tell me what's got you in such a joyful mood this morning?" Peggy knew something was up when Seren nearly choked on her fruit.

"N-nothing, just…" Seren cleared her throat, "Excited that I'm continuing to learn my way around these things," she made a pass at the table. "That's all."

"That's all?" Peggy asked suspiciously.

"Mhm, that's all," Seren nodded and picked up her fork again.

Peggy continued to stare at Seren with eyes squinted, but Seren insisted that everything was fine.

~0~

Howard had sent for Seren in the morning saying her suit was nearly done. He just wanted her input on some final details. Seren was delighted with the news and joined Peggy that morning at the SSR.

Seren knew exactly where Howard's lab was, having spent most of her time there when she was in the SSR. Peggy walked with her halfway to the lab.

"There's some things I have to take care of with Phillips. Will you be alright?" Peggy asked Seren in the hallway.

"Yeah, of course." Seren was still grinning from ear to ear, had been all morning so far. Peggy thought it was strange.

"And then we're all going to meet with Howard afterwards," Peggy said. "He's going to show some of the weapons he's developed for the soldiers."

"Will Steve be there too?" Seren asked with a beam on her face.

"Yes…" Peggy nodded. "And myself, as Howard…would you like the attendance list?"

Seren laughed. "I'm good, thanks."

Peggy would never say it out loud but Seren was acting very strange. She would much rather have this version of Seren than the depressed one, she would just like to know what the reason behind it was.

Seren went in to see Howard but it turned out that he was busy handling another matter. She was told to wait but of course doing so alone was not very appealing. She found out soon after coming into the city that being alone was even worse because she had no idea what could happen. The only reason she insisted on her new friends leaving her was so as to not take away their time from important tasks.

She left the lab to go find Peggy. Hopefully, she could stick to the woman's side until Howard was ready for her. She wouldn't admit it but she was also keeping an eye out for a certain blonde that could also be around.

She made the turn into a new hallway and to her shock, she found Steve. He was not alone — he was far from it. He was kissing another woman, one that — if memory served right — had been at the pub the previous night. She had not been kind.

She coughed intentionally and very quickly felt a deep rage start in her stomach. It was something she'd never felt before. It was absolutely horrid.

At least they both seemed to be embarrassed when they broke apart — Steve shoved the woman away a bit hard, but Seren wouldn't waste thoughts on it.

"Seren—"

"I think Colonel Phillips was looking for you," Seren lied through gritted teeth. She had no idea what Colonel Phillips was doing at the moment but if Steve got into trouble for interrupting him, she wouldn't lose sleep over it.

Her eyes flickered to the other woman. "I remember you," she smiled politely. "And you are absolutely right. My strength is very uncontrollable." Her sweet smile spread while the other woman paled. "Accidents do happen."

Seren turned and walked away. She had no stomach to see Howard or any of the inventions he prepared for them.

"Seren!" Steve chased after her. "That wasn't — it wasn't what you thought it was!"

Seren smiled sourly, picking up her pace. Unfortunately, they were both pretty similar in their speed. "I'm from another planet, Steve, not stupid. You're free to do what you want anyways. You've done so much for me, I won't get in your way."

"Seren, c'mon—" Steve reached for her arm but Seren easily pulled it away.

"I have to go find Peggy, scuse me," she muttered and made a show of walking even faster. With any luck, he'd get the message and not follow her.

And he didn't follow.

~0~

Seren did not show up to meet Howard as planned. Once she learned this, Peggy set out to find out what happened. It wasn't like Seren to miss an agreed meeting, especially when it concerned something so important to her. Thankfully, Seren had not left the SSR, although it wasn't because she didn't want to.

"I forgot the streets," she complained to Peggy. They were on their way to meet Howard.

"Why would you want to leave without meeting Howard first?" Peggy couldn't wrap her head around it. "You were so excited to see what he had for you. Did he upset you?"

"No, of course not!" Seren said quickly. The last thing she wanted was for Howard to pay for something completely unimportant. "I just…I started to feel bad." Depressed, more like it.

"I know you don't like the medics but maybe we can have one of them check you out?" As soon as Peggy suggested the idea, Seren refused.

"No way in hell! No thanks! Nu-uh!"

Peggy half smiled at her. "Alright, then how about we just get you home early? Soon as you meet with Howard, I can have you taken home."

"Yeah, that's a better idea," Seren nodded. "Honestly, it's probably just something I ate this morning. My stomach's not used to getting food so easily now. Good food, you know. I'm sure after I take a nap or something, I'll be better."

Peggy agreed and led her into the lab where Howard was working. Unfortunately, Seren also caught sight of Steve talking with him. And just like that, anger flourished in her chest again.

"Mr. Stark, I've found your missing client," Peggy announced as they joined the men.

"Perfect," Howard beamed. "I've got some things for you too, Seren!"

Seren was unwilling to smile even under his cheery gaze. She crossed glances with Steve. He seemed unsure of himself.

"I don't want to disturb if you're not done," Seren said to Howard and stepped a few — a lot of — steps back. Peggy, dumbfounded followed.

"Nonsense, we're almost done," said Howard dismissively. "Think Steve's chosen his preferred weapon. Isn't that right?"

Steve still seemed reluctant, eyes lingering on Seren while he reached for the shield they'd been discussing before the women arrived.

"That one?" Peggy said, sounding doubtful.

"Don't be fooled, Agent Carter," Howard said with a smirk. "It's completely vibration absorbent. Should make a bullet feel like a cotton ball."

"If you have it, how come it's not standard issue?" asked Steve, grazing a few fingers down the shield. It felt normal enough.

"It's the rarest metal on earth," Howard answered both. "You're holding all we've got."

Steve considered the uniqueness of the weapon and looked up at the others. "What do you guys think?"

All Howard needed was to give a thumbs up. Peggy merely shrugged; one weapon more or less was about the same for her.

Seren, however, smiled tartly. "I don't know, I think it should be tested."

"It's gone through a series of—" Howard had just started when Seren shot a blast of star matter from her hand. Steve barely reacted in time and pulled the shield in front of his face.

Both Howard and Peggy jerked back, utterly stunned. The shield remained perfectly intact. Seren stared at it, then at Steve when he lowered the shield. His eyes were just as wide.

"I owe you an apology…" Seren waited a moment then looked over at Hogward. "You were right. It is strong." She turned on her heels and stormed out.

Peggy slowly leaned off the table, hand on her heart as its beats started to slow to normal. Then, she looked over at Steve, still shell-shocked. "What did you do?" She whisper-hissed then went after Seren.

Steve was at a loss of words as well. He met Howard's gaze, and the man was basically asking the same thing as Peggy. The only difference is that Howard had more of a 'yikes' expression on his face.

~0~

When Peggy finally caught up to Seren, the latter was already nearing the entry point of the headquarters. "You want to explain yourself about what happened back there!?"

Seren stopped walking only out of respect for Peggy. "I'm sorry!" She turned to Peggy. "I didn't mean — I'm sorry!"

"Don't apologize to me," Peggy said incredulously. "I'm not the one you shot at with outerspace powers!"

"No," Seren agreed, "I just shot at Steve — oh my God…" Her eyes widened, comprehending what she'd done. She brought her hands together in front of her mouth. "I shot Steve."

Peggy's eyebrows raised. She was absolutely floored but she had a suspicion that something had happened between Seren and Steve that was just eating Seren up.

"So you just woke up today and decided to shoot at a fellow colleague?" Peggy said, crossing her arms. "Or is there something you want to get off your chest?"

Seren slowly lowered her hands from her face. "I, uh…" Her eyes roamed their immediate area, wanting to keep her words just between them. "I don't know what happened." And she really didn't know how it happened. "One moment, Steve and I are talking last night and the next, I'm kissing him. We're kissing. And then today, I see him kissing another woman and at first I was angry, then I was sad but then I got angry again and I-I just, I—"

"Decided to shoot him," Peggy said, her lips stretching into a smile. "Good. He deserved it."

Seren's brows furrowed. "You're not mad?"

Peggy chuckled. "No. He had it coming."

"No, but…" Seren sighed, "I could have hurt him. In the end, he can do whatever he wants. I'm the one who kissed him. I was just stupid for thinking things that weren't."

"Mm, I wouldn't go that far…" Peggy moved over to Seren's side, bringing one arm around Seren's shoulders. "What do you say we go out for lunch today? I can show you some shops."

"Why?" Seren made a face.

"Don't you go shopping when you're upset?"

"Our clothes were always made for us," Seren said, shrugging. "My family's important."

Peggy laughed. "Of course! My apologies, your highness! Well, then I'll have the pleasure of showing you how to shop around here!"

Seren walked with her out of instinct. She didn't really have the cheery mood to go and shop, but she supposed it was better than going home and lying in bed all day.

[psychopomparia]

my apologies, ive been inactive cause i lost the Artem Velocity of Desires banner to Artem's Paired Blessing SSR after whaling a bit and it sort of made me dissociate.

i'm fine now, especially cause I never owned Paired Blessings so I guess I won in a way.

i'm coping

[fateful-romance]

"SSR Paired Blessings" inspired Nendoroid outfit

[solomons-poison]

No man compares to Artem, I swear. I'll post screenshots later of his new SSR "Paired Blessings" but seriously the things he says makes me want to cry, he's so sweet and loving 😭