#please take this as an apology for not having chapter 10 ready. life is collectively kicking my ass rn

[maize-is-lost]

A series of Graveyard Train Emmet thoughts I want to expand on someday:

When Ingo disappeared, Emmet was 100% a wreck. Like, surveillance cameras recorded Ingo walking into an empty train and just. Never coming out. Emmet stayed in the train for hours the next day looking, and eventually had to be forced out so he didn't contaminate the crime scene. (Not that there was much to find.)

Elesa and the other Station workers helped keep Emmet busy in like... A productive way. Dragging him out to dinner or other activities, spending time with him when he'd normally be alone, things like that. Eventually one of his friends takes him to a piano concert. Watching the pianist's hands working separately and yet together to make multiple parts of a song come together... It interested him. Eventually he starts going to grief therapy and learning piano to help cope.

It took a surprisingly long time for anyone to notice Emmet was missing when he boarded the In-Between Train (I never came up with a cool official name so that's my stand-in). It was the year anniversary of Ingo's disappearance and Emmet was already taking a few days off. No one realized he was missing until Elesa went to his home and it was empty.

That combined with the fact that he left his Pokemon behind led to some very. Not good conclusions. Thankfully he reappeared about three days later! Horribly injured! Oh no.

Yeah Emmet spent a whole week on the In-Between Train. Most of that time was spent in Cyrus's version of the Distortion World.

Since Emmet was taken back to Nimbasa City, a lot of his background memories were able to return pretty quickly! He still can't remember specific events but he can usually figure out if he's done something or seen a movie before. He still remembers how to play piano.

He also occasionally models with Elesa since he started working in the gym with her! But he mostly helps challengers get ready to fight on stage, mostly to help make sure they don't get overwhelmed by the lights and noise.

No matter what he does, he can't remember anything about Ingo. He knows he has a brother, sure, but for some reason any information about him just... Doesn't register in Emmet's head. This doesn't stop him from feeling like something in his life is missing.

Has three main friends outside of Elesa: Isadore, one of his old coworkers; Krissa, a cyclist who works as an anatomy teacher at a local high school; and Clyde the Gym Guide.

Amnesiac Emmet doesn't like people constantly bringing up his past. Even if he can't remember much about it, it still leaves a bad taste in his mouth. That's why he spends so much time with those three. Isadore doesn't ask uncomfortable questions, Krissa barely knew a thing about the Battle Subway in the first place because she just bikes everywhere, and Clyde only really wants to know how Emmet's doing as as co-Gym Leader.

Emmet also plays Wordle and like a dozen more challenging variants of it. He, Krissa, and Isadore have a group chat where they compare how they do. He also has a very long daily streak on Flow Free. Connecting dots is fun, what can I say.

Very adamant on the fact that he did not have a hand in killing Volo. Blame Emmet's memory ghost, not him.

Was 100% putting himself between Ingo and Volo in chapter 9 so that he'd get hit instead of Ingo. Emmet didn't even have his memories of Ingo back yet and he was already ride or die.

Emmet does not have a violent bone in his body. Unfortunately Ghost!Emmet did not have a body and almost had to watch Ingo getting attacked by Volo AGAIN. He makes an exception this once.

In the time he was on the train, Ghost!Emmet was like an older brother to Ray and Ailey. Like oh my god these two love him and think the world of him. He's also good friends with Anabel and Looker. Not so much with Cyrus and Mohn. Of course, he and Ghost!Ingo are inseparable at that time. (I'll absolutely include scenes of this in chapter 10)

Still isn't sure how he feels about Rei, The Conductor. He's thankful that they helped reunite him and his brother but... They still unnerve him. He isn't sure why anyone would willingly spend so much time on the In-Between Train.

Emmet didn't end up on the train by accident. He was called there by Rei. There was a chance that he could have ended up on the In-Between Train on accident... Well, no there wasn't. People don't accidentally end up on the train more than once.

Emmet has no memory of this, but, when he was very young, he and Ingo went to the Entralink one day to play. The two became separated and Emmet became lost. There shouldn't have been any trains in the Entralink, but he ended up on one somehow. Someone led him to the exit, though he would not recognize them when he grew older. But... That's a story for another day.

[shemarmooresfedora]

Rebuilding Family

Summary: Y/N and Spencer were college sweethearts at Cal-Tech but once Spencer got accepted to the FBI Academy, he ended things deciding it was not fair to make Y/N wait for him. When they meet again years later, he discovers something unexpected.

Pairing: Spencer x Fem! Reader

Masterlist

Chapter 10

You were packing up your stuff as students filed out of the lecture hall, it was your last class of the day. As you were walking out towards the parking lot, your phone started to vibrate in your bag. It was the school.

“Hello?” you answered.

“Hi Y/N. It’s Mrs. Flynn. I was just calling to let you know that Jo is now waiting inside with me because she was getting cold outside,” she informed you.

“Spencer’s not there?” you questioned, looking at the time displayed on your phone.

Pickup time was fifteen minutes ago.

“I’m on my way. I’ll be there in ten minutes. Sorry for the inconvenience,” you opened your car door and set your bag down in the passenger seat, turning on the ignition.

“No worries, I have to reorganize the classroom library anyways so I was already planning on staying after.”

Once the call ended, you tried to call Spencer but it went straight to voicemail.

“Hey Spencer, I don’t know if you forgot but it was your day to pick up Jo. I’m getting her now,” you said as you reversed out of your parking spot.

Minutes later, your phone rang again. Expecting Spencer’s contact to show up on screen, your brow furrowed when the name read “JJ” instead.

“Hi JJ?” you said, more of a question than a greeting.

“Y/N, Spencer has been shot. I already told Will to go back to the school to pick up Jo. You should get here if you can. He’s in surgery now but there has been no update since he went in,” JJ explained.

“Oh my god. Okay, I’m turning around now. How did this happen? He didn’t mention he was on a case?” you pulled into a random parking lot to turn around.

“Well technically, we weren’t. We had a lead on a possible local case and we went to interview a potential witness who could give us some more information. We realized too late that he was the unsub. He thought we were on to him and shot Spencer in the leg while trying to escape.”

You had silent tears running down your face.

“I’m five minutes out” is all you could muster and then you hung up the phone.

You ran into the ER doors to find the rest of the team in the waiting room. You were glad you went to Rossi’s dinner party now or else this would have been a much more awkward first meeting.

“Any updates?” you asked frantically.

“No,” Derek sighed, “But no news is good news.”

You took the empty seat in between JJ and Penelope and put your face in your hands, not wanting everyone to see your tears.

-

Two hours of crappy coffee and vending machine snacks as your only source of sustenance later, a doctor emerged from behind the double doors.

She had a completely neutral expression that you couldn’t read but then again you weren’t a profiler.

“Dr. Spencer Reid?” she asked, glancing down at her clipboard.

All of you stood and desperately crowded around her.

“Dr. Reid is in stable condition and awake. The bullet went into his thigh but it wasn’t through and through. He will need to be on crutches for about a week or so but luckily the bullet wound is near the edge of his thigh rather than the middle, meaning recovery time will be shorter,” she explained.

There was a collective sigh of relief along with a few “thank god”s.

“Although he is awake, I don’t think it’s best if you all go in at once since he is very drowsy. He has been asking for a Y/N?” the doctor looked around at you all.

All eyes fell on you. You collected yourself, grabbing your purse and following the doctor down the hall.

“I’ll let you know how he is,” you told everyone before you disappeared past the double doors.

The doctor guided you into a room at the end of the hall. You thanked her quietly and she nodded in acknowledgement, leaving you two alone. Spencer had his eyes closed but his hospital bed was inclined so he was sitting up slightly. You briskly walked over and took the seat right beside him. You took his hand in yours and squeezed it lightly, combing his messy hair out with your fingers.

As you were softly massaging his scalp, you heard a light groan. You retracted your fingers immediately as Spencer began to open his eyes.

Once Spencer took in his surroundings, he quickly sat up completely in bed, letting out a yelp of pain.

“Jo...it was my turn to pick up,” he said frantically.

“Hey, look at me, Spence. It’s okay, she’s at JJ and Will’s. You were shot in the thigh though so you’re not going anywhere. Please lie back down,” you assured him.

He nodded his head, relaxing a bit and looking down at his hands in his lap. He seemed to be processing something in his head.

“You called me ‘Spence’,” he stated.

Shit. That was twice now. It keeps slipping.

“Sorry, I-,” you began to ramble some apology that you didn’t even know where you were going with it. Luckily, he stopped you before you could further embarrass yourself.

“I didn’t say it was a bad thing,” he spoke softly as he looked up at you, tears threatening to fall.

“I was so scared, Y/N,” he sobbed.

You swiftly pulled him into your embrace, tucking his head into your neck as you began to gently stroke his hair again.

“It’s okay, let it out. I can’t imagine what that was like. I’m so sorry you had to go through that but you're safe now, I promise,” you whispered to him.

“I was so afraid I was going to abandon you and Jo again. It hurt worse than the actual bullet,” he muttered into your neck.

You removed your hands from his hair and cupped his cheeks, forcing him to look up at you.

“Spencer Reid, you did not abandon Jo in the first place so there is no ‘again’. Second of all, you would have died a hero saving lives and I would have made sure Jo knew that and she never forgot her Daddy or how much he loved her,” you spoke earnestly, never breaking eye contact.

Spencer’s eyes softened. A second later, his lips were on yours again. This time, however, you didn’t pull away. Life was too short and this was already complicated as is, what’s the harm.

You basked in the familiarity of his lips locking with yours. Once he finally pulled away for air, he rested his forehead against yours.

“Go out with me. A real date. No more college dorm dates with takeout,” he smiled.

“You know you didn’t have to get shot to ask me out, right?” you teased.

“I thought I needed a grand gesture,” he beamed, chucking lightly.

“Yeah, Spence, I’ll go on a date with you.”

His lips found yours once again.

-

“Jo, are you ready?” you called out from the kitchen, packing snacks.

“Mommy, I’m already at the door!” she exclaimed.

Jo was eager to go see her Daddy at the hospital. You would spend the day there until he was discharged and then he would live with you guys for the week. You insisted on being there to take care of him while he was healing. You didn’t want him hobbling around all alone in his apartment.

When you walked out to the front entryway, there was a stack of various toys and books that hadn’t been there when you came down the stairs.

“What is this?” you gestured to the pile, amused.

“Daddy has big boo-boo so he needs stuff to cheer him up,” she stated.

“I don’t think we are going to be able to bring all this. Plus, remember Daddy is coming home with us later today. So here’s what we will do,” you handed Jo her dinosaur backpack, “You pack all the stuff you can fit in this bag that you think Daddy needs right away and the rest of the stuff can wait.”

Jo made quick work of sorting through her massive pile, trying to decide what would make her dad the most happy.

-

“Daddy!” Jo excitedly screamed, running towards the bed.

“Jo!” he returned with the same sentiment.

She was unable to get up on the bed herself so you had to lift her up.

“Remember what I said, careful with Daddy or he won’t get better,” you reminded her.

“You can sit her on my good leg,” Spencer patted his right thigh where you gently set Jo down.

“We brought you loads of stuff, Daddy,” Jo chirped, looking over at you.

You revealed a box of donuts from your bag and the coffee tray you had been holding. You handed him a chocolate frosted donut with sprinkles and Jo a strawberry frosted with sprinkles. The two ‘cheers’ed their donuts before biting into them.

“Jo also brought you some things to cheer you up,” you handed her her backpack.

First, she promptly pulled out a pink Disney princesses band-aid and stuck it on Spencer’s already bandaged thigh.

“You need that so it doesn’t get infected,” she repeated Spencer’s words from when she fell at Rossi’s dinner party.

“Thank you, princess. What would I do without you?” he kissed the top of her head as she rummaged around in her backpack some more.

She set up her five favorite dinosaur toys on his tray table in front of them, glancing up at him for approval.

“Perfect,” he smiled, nodding.

Next, she pulled out a piece of paper that had been colored on.

“Who’s this?” Spencer asked, looking at the three stick figures doodled on the paper.

“That’s you, that’s Mommy, and that’s me,” she pointed to each of the sketches.

“Aw, that one is definitely making the fridge,” you smiled.

Finally, Jo took out her Magic Tree House book that she was currently reading. She needed help with some of the words but either you or Spencer or the both of you would help her read it every night.

“You already finished the last one?” Spencer picked up the new book that was next in the series, examining it and smiling proudly.

“And I didn’t need help with a single word on the last chapter,” Jo beamed.

“You’re so smart,” Spencer kissed her head again, “let’s see how far we can get on this one before we can go home.”

[petri808]

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

Inukag Royalty Au

The shapeshifter hauled in a disheveled human male and forced him to his knees before his king. “Here he is your majesty.”

“Please spare me! I needed the money for my family.” The man begged.

“Great job Shippo!” Inutaisho thanked the kitsune yokai soldier. He then turned his attention to the human. “I am not swayed by your excuses, for I am sure if you’d gained such valuable information, King and Queen Higurashi would have rewarded you greatly for it, but instead you aligned with an enemy. Shippo, keep him sequestered until they arrive…”

In the Higurashi castle, parts of the building were kept off limits to staff under the guise that the Inutaisho and his family did not want to be disturbed because they didn’t know if there were any other spies lying in wait. The only ones allowed in were hand-picked, namely Sango as Kagome’s attendant and two others that both women agreed were loyal to her. Between the servants, they made sure the royal families were attended to. From the Inu’s side, Miroku served as a temporary help because he was human and could blend in easier. The subterfuge that started when they’d snuck Kagome back in on day one, held up very nicely.

The two royal families passed the couple of days in wait by getting to know each other better. Until now their dealings have been strictly business, so learning about each other’s personal sides would aid in creating a comfortable union. Even Prince Sota was taken with the extroverted Princess Rin, because he’d never had a younger sibling to play with before. Queen Higurashi couldn’t help but be proud as she watched her daughter continuing to tutor Rin even though Kagome would no longer be the child’s attendant, instead taking on a big sister role in guiding her development. The Queen lovingly teased about how wonderful a mother she’ll become soon enough. Of course, that kind of a statement left both Kagome and Inuyasha embarrassingly flushed, to the amusement of both sets of parents. Though in truth, she had thought about it, and was excited to start a family of her own with the prince.

It had been understandably frustrating to be kept sequestered for a few days now as they waited. Of course, her new husband and friends kept her occupied, but she couldn’t wait to be completely free to resume a normal life without fear. This whole mess was something Kagome was still processing. When she’d run away, she knew there was bound to be consequences, but never could have imagined this would be it. She still worried that Naraku would hurt her family, but Inuyasha and his father convinced her they’d never let it happen. The Inu kingdom was bigger, stronger, and the bastard King simply didn’t have a chance. As expected, scouts tasked with keeping an eye out for Naraku, notified the king and queen of his arrival by morning. The stage was set, and within the next 24 hours this whole nightmare would finally be over for Kagome.

When King Naraku arrived, he brought with him a small garrison of soldiers, a standard practice for protection. That alone told the Inutaisho, King Naraku still believed nothing was wrong. The foreign King, his personal guards, along with an advisor were the only ones to actually enter the castle itself, while the garrison were set up just outside of the walls and met by Higurashi soldiers. However, once Naraku was beyond their view, his entire garrison was surprised and surrounded by the Inutaisho’s forces before they knew anything had gone terribly wrong. A few soldiers put up a fight, but because the Inutaisho’s forces were made up primarily of yokai, the humans were outmatched and easily routed.

The foreign entourage was led into the throne receiving room where King and Queen Higurashi sat on their thrones. Flanking them were standard accompaniments, Prince Sota, guards, and the royal advisor off to the side.

“Ah, King Naraku,” King Higurashi acknowledged the man. “Right on time.”

“I’m not here for pleasantries.” Naraku huffed in annoyance that Kagome was nowhere in sight. I’m here to collect on our contract. Now produce your daughter at once!”

“My apologies.” It was bristling to be spoken to in such a manner, but King Higurashi played along just like they’d prepared for.

At the sound of Naraku’s voice, the Inutaisho and his son, Prince Sesshomaru stepped out from behind a veiling curtain, along with Shippo and a human male being held in chains.

Surprised and angered, Naraku went into a rage, acting as if he knew nothing. “What is the meaning of this?!”

Inutaisho stepped forward, glaring at the other King. “Deceit,” he growled back, “that’s what this is! How dare you intercept and intervene between our two kingdoms royal communications?!” he gestured towards the Higurashi’s.

“Tch!” Naraku narrowed his eyes and crossed his arms. “I don’t know what you’re talking about! The marriage arrangement I have with them has nothing to do with you.”

Inutaisho’s eyebrow raised. “Oh? But it does. You recognized Kagome during your visit to my kingdom and realized something was amiss. And since the only people who knew about our children’s arrangement were us, including the amended contract, the only way you could have known of any changes is you secured a spy which we caught in this castle.”

“Are you accusing me of espionage?! I did no such thing! I am a King and yet you speak to me like a peasant! This is an outrage!”

“Shippo,” Inutaisho gestured for his guard to come forth. The kitsune yokai followed his ruler’s instructions, dragged the man in chains forward, pushing him down to his knees before them. “This man has confessed to taking money from you. He is your spy! Do you deny this?”

“Tch, it doesn’t matter if he was,” Naraku crossed his arms. “Spies are a part of our world. You of all people know that! Your son screwed up and my contract is still binding. You cannot stop my marriage to Kagome.”

“Yes, he made a mistake, but as for your contract, that is where you are wrong. There are always consequences when do such underhanded things. You see, as part of the Inu/Higurashi contract, the Inu kingdom swore to protect this one from threats. You threatened them with attack if they did not agree to the contact therefore evoking my response.” Inutaisho grinned menacingly. “Your spy may have given you information, but not the full details and that is where you messed up.”

“Bullshit!” Naraku took a step forward. “You can’t do that! You can’t stop this deal!”

Inutaisho’s grin widened. “It’s already done.”

Naraku’s jaw dropped, when Inuyasha and Kagome stepped out of a side door dressed in matching royal wear and crowns. Inuyasha stayed slightly forward of his wife just in case something happened, his hand readied upon the hilt of his sword. The princes eyes were crimson and his yokai markings on full display, showing he was ready and willing to do anything to protect his wife.

“They are already married,” Inutaisho spat at King Naraku. “Your garrison has also been captured.” He narrowed his newly crimsoned eyes in a death glare. “That just leaves you four. Now you have a choice. Leave quietly and never set foot in either kingdom ever again or die here and now. And believe me, I would be happier if you choose the latter.”

Naraku took two steps back, realizing he was completely outnumbered with no option but to comply. “I will have my vengeance,” he growled. “Outnumbered now, but I will get my revenge!”

“Then perhaps I should settle it now!” Inutaisho pulled out his sword in a rage, followed promptly by his son’s Sesshomaru and Inuyasha who’d advanced forward as well. “Tis but a long time since I’d had to resort to violence, but for you we will gladly do so! Kings like you are a disease in our world and are not fit to wear a crown! You have two seconds to comply or meet the end of my sword!”

“Your highness,” Naraku’s advisor stepped forward to address his King. “Inutaisho is right. We have no chance against his forces and must think about our own kingdom.”

“Listen to him,” Inutaisho growled. “Or I will subsume your little kingdom by force, just like you’d threatened to do to the Higurashi’s.”

Naraku shook his advisors hand off his shoulder in a huff, but he knew that man was right. It infuriated him to be so powerless. His hope of marrying Kagome was just the first step in a plot to eventually take over the Higurashi kingdom to expand his own. Now he’d never have that chance. “Fine,” he growled. There were other ways and other kingdoms to go after. “I’ll leave.”

“Remember,” Inutaisho glared, “one false move will end with death, now take your entourage and leave these lands for good!”

“And my garrison?” Naraku glared back unwilling to show weakness.

“Consider their capture as punishment for your crimes.”

More yokai guards were signaled for and led Naraku’s group out of the castle, and out of the territory. Kagome finally breathed a sigh of relief; this chapter was over.

[thotsforvillainrights]

~Pivitol~

Summary: Pops takes control of the date and gets in some opinions (much to Kai’s disdain). Meanwhile Kai is trying to find a way to balance the quickly moving relationship along with his newfound feelings. Plus there is some touching!

Chapter: 10

Warnings: None

“Anyway, gonna show me your room kind sir?”

If his heart wasn’t beating that fast before, it was certainly beating fairly quickly by now! “M-my room?” He mentally face palmed at stuttering and you laughed a bit. His shyness was out of character so it was soothing to know you had that much of an effect on him! “Uhhh yeah? Your room? Well unless you have any other room to show me?” A little lightbulb went off in his head and he quickly stood up from the couch. He held his hand out for you...the second time today he would be touching you...and you graciously accepted it, being sure not to comment on his germaphobia and kill the moment. “I do have some other rooms to show you. “ He lied smoothly. There was nothing else in the house of true interest (at least to him anyway), but he wasn’t even sure the condition of his room at the moment. “Follow me this way, Angel.” He tested the waters with the nickname again, and you complied as if he’d been calling you it from day one. In fact, he had been testing the waters for a good time now. The increased effort to touch you was a test to himself. At one point he rolled up his sleeves and relished in the fact that he had not a single hive to show. 

You were like magic to him.

“Kai, what room is this?” You asked in confusion and he smiled, turning on the lights to reveal MANY books from wall to wall. In fact, the medium sized room had all walls set as a bookshelf. “This is Pops collection of books. Before you ask, there is no way in hell the old man read all of this. I just think he’s an avid collector. Although I do seem to recall him reading quite a bit when I was younger. I always assumed it was mostly paperwork. Oh my apologies, is my prattling on beginning to bother you?” He asked as you gently trailed your hands along the books. “It’s not bothering me at all! It’s cute when you talk about your childhood. And these books are all so well taken care of. Not a speck of dust in sight!” Kai chuckled and leaned against the doorframe. “That’s because of my contributions during chore day. That old man tends to the fish in the Koi pond and calls it a day. Can’t complain though, at least he gets out of the way for me to handle the business.” You rolled your eyes and him and scoffed playfully. “Poor Kai, left to do something I’m sure he enjoys doing for fun anyway.” 

“Bold of you to assume I enjoy cleaning because I’m a germaphobe. The whole point of it is to stay away from as much dirt as possible.” He teased you and reached out for your hand again. “C’mon. There are more rooms in this house to show you.” While you were enjoying the time and taking in as many as views as possible, he was internally freaking out about holding your hand. This was the first hand he’s intentionally held in his life! Well, besides holding Pop’s hand to cross the street when he was a kid. A part of him wonders if it’s childish to have this kind of mental breakdown over something as simple as handholding, but it’s quickly silenced by the urge to push his limits further. You’re beginning to make him wonder if he’s even truly a germaphobe in the first place. Around the 5th or 6th room he was starting to look at your dismissive face and he became concerned. “Is there...something bothering you Y/N?” 

“Hmm?! Oh no it’s okay. I just...I really am ready to see your room. It’s getting late and I don’t wanna miss the opportunity is all.” You fessed up and he swallowed. “I see. Okay then, just follow me.” He could feel his hands getting a little clammy underneath the fabric gloves. Thank God he made it to the door before it leaked through and you felt it. That would’ve been more embarrassing than any childhood story Pops could tell you. When you made it to the doors, he mentally braced himself before opening it and moving aside for you to enter. The gasp you made almost made him fall out but luckily it was coming from a good place of mind. “Kai it’s exactly like I imagined! This is the neatest room I’ve ever been in! Have you even ever slept in that bed over there??? This makes me want to go home in clean my rats nest of a room (no offense reader, but your room in this story is in fact a rats nest)!” You continued to compliment him while his eyes locked onto the singular book laying on the desk and not on his shelf. He dashed to put it back into place and you laughed. “No need to panic over something so simple. This room is damn near spotless. I’d live here if I could!” You exclaimed as you let yourself fall back onto the plush bed. He didn’t mind you rolling around and your laughter was awakening something him at the moment until Pops interrupted the two of you. “Live here you say!?” He popped his head in the doorway and Kai verbally sighed. “Not now please...” He begged but the old man ignored him. “How about staying the night for a starter? I’ve got somewhere to be tomorrow and the boy can’t handle the Hassaikai work and the chores as well. Perhaps could you lend a hand with my end of the work please?” 

“Pops there is no way in hell-”

“Sure thing!” Kai just about got whiplash with how fast he jerked his head around to look at you. “W...wHaT???” You laughed and sat upright on the bed. “I’ll sleep over for a night or two if I need to. It’s kinda boring at home and this place is nice. Besides, I’m off for the next few days. Plus hours have been cut and I’m one of them thanks to me being a rather new employee still. Pops you can trust us to keep the house running while you’re gone!” You assured him and he smiled in return. “Thank you my dear. I’ll be heading out to pack right now.” Pops walked out and Kai excused himself to follow directly behind the elder. Once in the confinement of Pop’s room, Kai went off. “Are you actually going senile old man?! What the hell was that!???” Pops simply laughed it off and began packing his bags. “What do you mean? I just recruited some help for you from my darling in-law. Besides, it would be nice for Y/N to get to know the house better since I intend for the two of you to move in together once the relationship progresses to that point. Oh yes, then the marriage will soon come. And of course the grandkids you’ll have/adopt. Oh and also-”

“YOU ARE GETTING AHEAD OF YOURSELF!” Kai’s face was beet red with anger and embarrassment while Pops simply laughed it off. “Calm down my boy, I simply wanted you to spend some time with them. It’s better because you’re far too late in developing feelings. I was wondering if you planned on dying alone. I’m glad to know you aren’t going to be alone when I pass someday. I’m proud of you for finding someone so wonderful to be at your side. Y/N is good, I can tell from her/his/their smile.” Pops gently reached to pat Kai’s shoulder and he calmed down under the old man’s touch.

Sometimes he was bearable.

“Besides, I left you another special gift below the base in your office. I thought it would come in handy.” Pops smiled mischievously while Kai gagged.

Sometimes bearable, not all the time...

Now he would have to tend to you for a day or two.

[rebelsarestrongashell]

Sunsets in Wakanda - 8

Summary: After his programming is removed, Natasha secretly visits Bucky in Wakanda. They rediscover each other as they are torn between love and promises.

Characters: Bucky x Natasha

A/N: I posted Chapter 8-10 on WattPad and Ao3 so please excuse as I now posted them on here! Sorry it’s been so long! I do have a ko-fi if you want to stay updated! https://ko-fi.com/rebelwriting

MASTERLIST

By the time Natasha had made her way through the rolling hills of Wakanda, the sun had begun to descend behind the mountain tops, coating the sky in an orange glow. Shuri had welcomed her when the jet arrived but quickly pointed her in the right direction, sensing she had no time to waste. Natasha had hoped that this moment would have been nothing but joy. But, instead, she felt shame for what she was about to ask him to do. She tried to come up with a way to ask him to rejoin the fight, but no matter how she phrased it in her head, it felt like a betrayal.

Smoke from a chimney appeared a few hundred feet in front of her, pulling her out of her thoughts. A cabin soon appeared from behind a hill as she continued to walk, followed by an outline of a man. She stopped where she was, just to watch for a moment. He was tossing food to the chickens and goats behind the cabin. She was close enough to see the faint smile on his lips as the animals gathered around him. The left side of his body was still wrapped up in a blue sash. The moment the food was gone, they dispersed across the grounds. James removed the cross-body bag from his side and made his way to the front of what Natasha assumed to be his home. He had nestled down with a mug in his only hand, admiring the sunset, when Natasha decided it was the right time to approach.

It only took a few more seconds for James to see her walking towards him. Slowly standing up, he looked at her, not with a sense of surprise, but of relief like she had finally come home. They both stood still for a moment, soaking in the sight of each other. His hair and clothes were grimier from the laborious work of farming. Still, it brought the smallest of smiles to Natasha's face. James swiftly closed the gap between them, wrapping his one arm around her waist, bringing her in as close as possible. Natasha brought her hands to his face, guiding his lips to hers. Everything around them faded away for a bit as they embraced each other. James only pulled away to bring his forehead to hers, "What brings you here?"

At the moment, there was nothing for her to ask of him except to just be with her, "You." She responded in a whisper.

He immediately lifted her up, and she wrapped her legs around his waist. He brought her into the cabin as the sunset behind them. In the darkness, they rediscovered every inch of each other as many times as they could. It had felt like a lifetime, but yet like no time had passed. They melted into a familiar rhythm from years before, and afterward, as they both caught their breath, they fell asleep in the warmth of each other's arms. For once, there was no worry of getting caught, and neither of them has ever slept better.

Natasha lazily opened her eyes as the sun came streaming into the window. The sound of the chickens and the smell of coffee from the other room told her good morning. She sat up, wearing nothing but the smooth sheet wrapped around her. She took in the sights surrounding her. The room was small but cozy with not much in it besides the bed, a nightstand, a small dresser, and a desk in the corner where she spotted what looked like some handmade cards. Curious, she made her way over to the desk and picked up one of the cards. It seemed to of been made by a child. A picture was drawn on the front of a one-armed man doing some sort of farm work while kids watched from a nearby tree. Inside of the card, the words' Welcome White Wolf' was written across the paper. Looking at the others, they all had some kind of drawing of James around the farm or hanging out with a group of kids. It filled Natasha with a warm pride and relief. At that moment, she knew she couldn't ask him to leave, and she was beginning to question whether she wanted to go either.

"Breakfast is ready."

Natasha looked up to see James in the open doorway. By the look on his face, she suspected that he had been standing there for a while, watching her look through the drawings. "Sorry," She apologized as she put down the card in her hand, "I didn't mean to snoop, just curious."

James charmfully grinned, "It's okay. A group of kids likes to visit me while I work a few times a week. They gave me those shortly after I moved into here."

She raised an eyebrow at him, "Am I allowed to watch you work today?"

"Of course," He replied with a laugh, "Though I'm not sure how much work I'll be able to get done."

Natasha gave me a mischievous smirk as she made her way towards him and planted a soft kiss on his cheek. Keeping one hand on the sheet around her, she caressed his beard that had only gotten thicker since she last saw him, "I like it." She said with another kiss on his lips.

James had to bite his lip from going any further, "Your breakfast is getting cold," He nodded his head towards the dresser on the other side of the room, "Shuri left some clothes for you in the bottom drawer."

She looked at the dresser and back to him with confusion. James shrugged as he went to leave, "I don't know, she's a genius."

Natasha dressed in a casual black sundress with tropical green florals covering it. She noted to herself to ask Shuri if she could keep it. The bedroom went right into the kitchen, where she found a wood-burning stove, an icebox, and some small counter space on one side, and a small wooden table with two chairs on the other side. There was a tiny living space between the kitchen and entryway that included a small loveseat and a loaded-up bookcase. She took a seat at the kitchen table as James handed her a cup of coffee and a plate of bacon and eggs, "I like the dress." He said as he looked at it up and down.

She sat up with delight and pulled the fabric of the dress out so he could get a better look. She couldn't help the laugh that escaped her as he sat down across from her, "What's so funny?" He asked with a confused smile.

Looking down at her plate of food, Natasha shook her head, still with a grin on her face, "Nothing, it's just... I've never felt so normal in my entire life, and to be honest, I don't hate it."

"You want to feed the chickens?" He abruptly asked, enjoying the baffled look on Natasha's face.

"Will they peck me?"

"Yes."

Natasha's laugh was more genuine than had been in a long time, and Jame's felt his whole soul lift at the sight of her smile.

There was nothing extraordinary about their day, which is what made it so special. It was quiet, calm, and peaceful. James showed her how to feed the goats and chickens in the morning. They seemed to take quite a liking to her. In the afternoon, she found an old, beaten copy of Pride and Prejudice on the bookshelf. She read it underneath the tree near the cabin, occasionally glancing up to watch James collect straw together. A nearby farmer visited a couple hours later to bring James some fresh lamb meat in exchange for a basket of eggs from the chickens.

As James began to work on dinner, Natasha sat on the bench outside, watching the sun as it started to lower in the sky. She told Yelena that she would come here to ask for James' help, but now she realized she came here because she was too tired to fight. Too tired to face another Red Room, the new enemies, and new deadly missions. James could see the exhaustion written on her face as he bent down in front of her, placing her plate of food next to her. His hand on her cheek, "Natalia, stay. Stay with me." He said softly.

Tears were forming in the corner of her eyes. She knew there were promises she had made, people were counting on her, but right here, right now, there was only one correct answer, "Okay." She replied, bringing their lips together.

Tag List: @tvjunkie22 @harduy @shanetoo @doralupin01 @alphaaddict​

[zozee122-2]

The War Ends at Dusk

This is my first fan fiction, so I worked super hard on it! This is the prologue, and the first chapter is finished so I will post that shortly. The premise is four years after the accounts of RWBY and Blake and Yang are awaiting the birth of their first child. Ruby, Weiss, Nora, and Ren are in the waiting room awaiting the birth of the bumbleby baby. The fic is centered around the bee family, and add a bit of found family trope and new age angst.

WC: 2,214

“Does anyone know how much longer this is going to take? I mean they’ve been in there almost 10 months!” Nora barked, getting up to stretch. Ren sighed and grabbed his partner’s hand.

“Patience, please Nora. This has got to be hard on Blake and Yang too.” Ren said ever ready to calm down his excitable partner.

Ruby chuckled, “Guess they’ll be as stubborn as Yang. Taking bets that they’ll be born tomorrow?” she said checking the clock on the wall which read 5:38 pm, the group had been there since Yang’s frantic group text that early morning that Blake was going into labor.

“I’ll put ten liens on that bet, Ruby” Nora said tossing Ruby a rolled-up bill.

Weiss and Ren collectively sighed at their partner’s immaturity and gave each other a knowing look.

“Ruby, your sister’s wife, your best friend, is giving birth to her first child have some sympathy.” Weiss retorted rubbing the bridge of her nose. The four of them sat in silence for a minute. It seemed impossible that they were here together to celebrate life. Something none of them saw in their future a mere four years ago when they were fighting for their lives and battling a unkillable creature. Ruby sat back in the hospital seat closing her remaining eye. She was about to be an aunt, she still couldn’t believe that they were all here like this, yesterday it seemed that Blake and Yang announced they were officially dating, yesterday that they were trapped in Purgatory without seeing any way out. Ruby smiled, she couldn’t quite describe how elated she was to celebrate this moment with her closest friends and family.

“You know,” Ruby started, “I don’t know if you all feel this way, but this feels unreal.”

Weiss looked to her best friend and smiled sincerely, “It does feel unreal. Like all the tribulations we went through as teenagers seems so close, yet so far away. I’m happy in a way that we were a part of the new future that we are giving to Blake and Yang’s child, to all future generations, that they will never have to worry about the things we did.”

“Never thought a future would exist for us like this,” Nora chimed in, taking Ren’s hand, “After everything, I am so thankful that I get to experience this moment. Can’t imagine what they must be feeling too and I’m glad Jaune is assisting in boosting her aura for childbirth.” She smiled and looked towards the birth wing.

Ren rubbed her hand with his, smiling contently, “When we became huntsman it seemed like a forever thing, like we would never be able to experience moments in life as precious as this. I felt like this at Yang and Blake’s wedding too. Their happiness and love for each other filled the room with pink petals, their emotions were so raw and real, I can even feel it today.”

The three smiled at him, “You always know what to say, Ren.” Weiss said, “I just cannot wait to spoil the little thing.”

The group laughed, “They just have to hurry up and get out into the world!” Nora yelled earning a strict look from one of the nurses. She uttered a soft apology while Ruby chuckled and in turn Weiss gave her a look.

Ruby sighed, “It is taking a long time, I hope she’s okay. Has anyone heard anything from Yang or Jaune?”

The four of them checked their scrolls, “Haven’t heard anything sense ‘Blake is 7 centimeters,’ and that was two hours ago.” Weiss replied, huffing quietly in annoyance.

“Hmm, well we could tell some stories to pass the time?” Ruby asked rubbing her chin.

Nora looked up at her, “Practicing your story telling skills on us before you have to tell famous, huntress who saved all of Remnant Auntie Ruby Rose stories?” Nora asked.

Ruby laughed, “Partially, I guess. So, yes, or no?”

Ren nodded, “I’d like to hear some, maybe some that we were not together for? Like what you’ve been doing now with Jaune and Weiss?”

Weiss looked at Ruby, not like her work now was anything confidential, just not something Ruby liked to talk about specifically. It hit close to her.

Ruby took a long sigh, she closed her good eye and raised her hand to touch her scarred over right eye, “I’d hate to put a damper on our good moods,” Ruby let out a long breath and Weiss put her hand on Ruby’s shoulder.

“You don’t have to talk about it if you do not want to Ruby, it’s not an easy topic to discuss,” Weiss reassured Ruby.

Ruby looked to Weiss, who has been next to her throughout her whole journey, never questioning Ruby’s judgement, the most loyal person Ruby has ever met. However, Weiss was right, this was not an easy topic to talk about. Especially when this only mattered to her, but she has not discussed this with anyone except her teammates and Oscar. She was reminded of her mother for a moment, and Maria who did not have a lot of information to give her either on the silver eyed warriors. After seeing Salem’s Hound, she promised herself that she would do whatever it takes to end any part of Salem’s tyranny, and as of late Ruby found several lackey groups that still practiced horrid experiments on silver eyed people.

“I could talk about it, but I am not sure where to begin, it is not a particularly easy thing to talk about. You remember four years ago in Atlas, the Hound that was after Oscar and Penny?”

Ruby could feel the atmosphere shift. Weiss raised her hand from Ruby’s shoulder to fix her hair bun. Nora’s shoulders slumped and her eyes darted to the ground. Ren let out a long audible sigh as he straightened in his seat.

Ren spoke first, “It, it is not something I like to think about,” remembering his own impudence, “but I will never forget it.”

“I was thankful that I did not have to see it in person,” Nora added rubbing her lightning bolt scar on her neck.

Ren folded his hands on his lap, “It’s never something I like to discuss either, if the students ever bring it up, I mean.”

Weiss nodded, “Ruby and I have been well…” Weiss looked to Ruby.

“We have been finding Salem’s old research facilities and finding silver eyed people being experimented on.” Ren and Nora collectively gasped. “Yeah, it is not something, well it is not an easy thing to talk about. The hardest part was finding out that Salem, even now that she is gone, still has her clutches across Remnant.”

Weiss rubbed Ruby’s back, “As a huntsman rehabilitations counselor, I focus on finding homes for the silver eyed people who have either been born into the lab, or who have lost family members…” Weiss trailed off looking at her scroll to check any messages.

Ruby picked where Weiss left off, “It is not an ideal situation, but through Weiss’ company we are finding homes that are taking children and teenagers and Oscar is letting adults live in some empty apartments in Vale.

Ren shook his head, “I hate that there are still veins of Salem’s reign throughout the kingdoms, but I am glad that there is you two that are liberating these people.”

Nora placed her hands on her thighs, an exasperated expression on her face, “I have a student with silver eyes, they’re so promising. I can’t imagine anything ever happening to them.”

Ren nodded in agreement, “Yes, they are a wonder, though I am not sure they know how to use their silver eye powers yet.”

Ruby nodded, “It might be best right now, for your student to not know, it will paint an even bigger target on their back.”

Weiss looked to Ren and Nora, of course they would be worried about their students, even though there was peace many dangers still lurked around the corners, still small threats of Salem’s powers.

“Nowadays, huntsmen and huntresses are returning home, all of the small lurking problems are ones for the younger generation now.” Weiss said giving a reassuring look to Ren and Nora.

“Remnant is safe, yes though there are Grimm still lurking about, thieves trying to steal maiden powers or relics, even bandit troops are still around. While these new huntsmen nowadays don’t have to worry about the fate of the world, they are just cleaning up our scraps.”

Nora stood and looked Ruby in the eye defiantly, “Ruby, that is why Ren and I decided to become professors at Beacon. People will always be willing to help those in need and we will be there to offer support, just like our professors and mentors did for us.”

Ruby sniffed and stood to give Nora a hug, “I will always count on you guys to do that for us, and if you ever need a guest talk about the silver eyed warriors or to teach your student how to use their eyes, I am here for you. All three of you.”

“You guys, I love the sentiment, but you should really save your tears for Blake and Yang’s child.” Weiss sighed.

The group laughed. “I am glad our parents were allowed to go into the room with them, but I am a bit jealous,” Ruby said and continued, “Dad is so excited to be a grandpa and I know Kali and Ghira have been waiting for this moment too. I don’t think I have been this excited for something in a long time.”

“I couldn’t wait to meet the little cub since the baby shower, I think I bought too many gifts.” Weiss sighed leaning on her knees.

“I am surprised you still have money after that spree,” Nora said sitting back down next to Ren.

Ren laughed, “I splurged a bit too much as well, almost my whole paycheck.”

“Mrs. Xiao Long-Belladonna! Do not run in the halls!”

The group stood up when Yang burst into the waiting room.

“Yang! Is everything alright?!” Ruby and the rest stood quickly.

Yang ripped the hair cap from her head and pulled her surgical mask down, beaming from ear to ear.

“Guys! You’re allowed to come into our room, there is someone I’d like you to meet!”

…

The gang followed Yang quickly down the hallway to the room. Jaune was waiting outside for them.

“Everything alright still?” Yang asked him, leaning an arm on his shoulder.

Jaune looked to everyone, his eyes heavy, “Yeah, they are resting comfortably. Though, that kid is a fighter, I used up all of my aura.”

Nora stood by her teammate to rub his back.

“We really appreciate it, Jaune. Now guys, please come in.”

The group of seven walked in slowly passing by Taiyang who was standing in the corner of the room, weeping softly. Ruby placed a hand on her father’s back.

“Alright, Dad?” Ruby whispered. Taiyang nodded and ruffled Ruby’s hair. Yang passed by to sit beside her wife. Blake reached up and kissed Yang sleepily. Blake held a bundled blanket closer to her chest and smiled happily to the rest of the gang.

“Well don’t just stand around like that you guys! No need to be nervous!” Kali said grabbing Ruby by the arm leading her to stand by Yang.

Blake and Yang laughed as the group nervously huddled around Blake’s bed. Yang gently touched the bundle which in turn made a soft gurgling sound.

“Hehe, our little guy just ate, he and Mommy are super sleepy now, huh?”

Weiss raised her eyebrows and stared at Yang, “A boy?”

Nora and Ren bumped fists, “We knew it!” Nora cried.

The baby moaned a bit at the sudden loud noise and Blake and Yang were quick to reassure their newborn son. Ruby and Weiss shot Nora a look and Ren rolled his eyes.

Blake laughed after the baby calmed down.

“Sorry, Blake. I know you’ve had a hard day.”

Blake laughed again and looked at Yang, “Nora, this was one of the happiest days of my life. He was a sucker to push out, but I would do it all again to share this moment with the person I love the most and my most prized possession, our son.”

Ruby smiled and moved closer to Yang, “So, are you going to introduce us then?”

Weiss grabbed Ruby’s arm, Ruby leaned in closer to Yang, and Ren, Nora, and Jaune linked together.

Blake unwrapped the small bundle a bit where two little, folded blonde cat ears stood up.

Weiss teared up, “He’s beautiful, Yang, Blake”

Yang smiled and kissed the small head, “Well, I mean he came from the most beautiful woman on Remnant, of course he’s beautiful.”

Blake and nearly everyone in the room rolled their eyes.

“Yang, please. I love you, but please.” Blake pleaded, “Even the baby hated your joke.”

Yang chuckled, “No, he didn’t. Look at the perfect little kitten.” She said taking the small baby’s hand.

“So,” Ruby pleaded her eyes beginning to water, “What is his name?”

Blake and Yang looked at each other then to their son.

“Everyone, I’d like you to meet Dusk Yin Xiao Long Belladonna”

[fromtheo-withlove]

Pt. 4 - A Reunion

Finally get to bring in a bit of comfort, I hope you guys enjoy! It’s been such an amazing experience getting to share this story with all of you. Apologies in advance - it’s a bit of a long chapter but I’m hoping it’s worth the read.

TW: prisoner shackled, emotional whump, guilt and self-loathing, mention of injuries

Tag-list: @ihaveacrushonjester @tears-and-lilies @starnight-whump

Masterlist | Previous | Next

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Even before her mother had passed away 4 years ago, Princess Aurelia had always been incredibly close to her father. She treasured the time she got to spend with him and wanted to be like him when she became a ruler herself. Stories of the adventures and bravery of his youth were legendary and he had a way of charming everyone he spoke to. And Aurelia loved him.

But after watching Bennett and Gabriel’s arrival unfold and hearing about her father’s plans for them, she didn’t think she’d ever be able to see him in that light again. He had been different since the war began, quicker to anger, quiet, but she didn’t think he’d do something like this.

He had admitted Gabriel was an innocent in all of this, yet he let him think he was going to die, left him terrified and blindfolded while he played mind games. He had even whispered to her that he wasn’t going to actually let him die, but told her that he’d make it worse for him if she was uncooperative. She just couldn’t forgive him for all of this.

“Well,” she thought, “he may be acting like a stubborn monster, but I inherited every bit of that stubbornness and I’m not backing down either.”

She didn’t have any ideas on how to get Bennett and Gabriel out of this mess, but she was determined to see them at least, take care of them as much as she could.

It ended up being relatively easy to make it happen. She sought out Robert, the head of the castle guard, and he had ultimately agreed to let her visit the dungeons while one of the guards he trusted was on duty. He had known the princes when they were young. He had even given them sword lessons for a time and had been a tough teacher, but had a soft spot for them as well. It appeared he still did.

“Aye, war is war, but those boys were good lads. It’s a shame it’s come to this. I’ve told my guards to take it easy with them, but half this damn castle is hungry for their blood. They could use a friend in this mess.”

The guard’s first shift was that night, just past sundown. She passed the preceding hours pacing her room, gathering food and medical supplies to smuggle in, and trying to mentally steel herself for the reunions she was about to have.

The dungeon was vast, spanning the length of the castle. The king had ordered the princes be kept separately to avoid conspiring, as if they posed any threat in chains, shackled down. She was worried about Gabriel, but she decided to visit Bennett first. She needed answers and she needed a clear head for this conversation.

As the guard let her into Bennett’s cell, he reassured her that the prince would be shacked down and wouldn’t harm her. She almost laughed at the absurdity of the reassurance before remembering the crimes everyone believed Bennett committed. Rather than laugh, she nodded politely and thanked the guard as he closed the door and went back to his post.

It had already grown dark outside and the cell would have been pitch black if not for the glow of the lantern that Aurelia held. Luckily, she thought, there isn’t much here to light. The cell was small – enough space to pace in circles if the prisoner wasn’t shackled and enough room for them to lay down, but not much beyond that. Bennett sat in the corner looking tired and wary, his hands shackled behind him on a chain bolted to the floor.

He was the first to speak up. “Why are you here?” he asked, his eyes mistrustful.

She didn’t blame him for such a blunt greeting under the circumstances.

“I needed to see you, talk to you. Apologize. What happened earlier, the show my father put on…. It… shouldn’t have happened. I’m sorry.” She slowly walked closer as she spoke, then kneeled down near him.

She raised her hand to place it on his shoulder, confirm to herself that he was real and there, but he flinched and pulled away from her reach.

“I don’t deserve your time or pity, Auri. I wish I did. God, I wish I did. Please just go to Gabriel, he’s the innocent one in all of this. And do you want to know the worst part? He has every reason to hate me and he’s probably more worried about me than himself.” He let out a bitter laugh. “You know how good he is and you’ve already heard how much of a monster I am. Just go.”

Aurelia gave Bennett a hard glance. “Benn, stop it with all the self-loathing and self-sabotage. I’m going to see Gabriel after this. Let’s not waste time with you trying to convince me to leave, unless you truly have no wish to see me.”

In truth, he desperately wanted her company and in that moment he couldn’t bring himself to lie and say otherwise. When he stayed silent for a few seconds, she continued talking.

“I came here because I wanted to see you. I’m a grown woman now, I can make my own decisions.”

He finally spoke up, more quietly than before. “I know you can, I’m sorry… You have every right to stay here, but I don’t know what to say.”

“Well I didn’t come here to throw around accusations, you faced enough of that today, but, please, help me understand how things got to this point. Did you really murder innocents in those villages? I- I just can’t believe that. I need to hear it from you, without an audience. How could the same boy I knew, the one who wouldn’t hurt a fly, ever do something like that?”

She said that she couldn’t believe it, but Bennett noticed her stumble on her words, saw the fear in her eyes at his response. He knew her doubt in him was deserved, but it still somehow hurt.

“That boy you knew was pathetic, weak, naïve. When I returned to Lianhar, I had to see that and grow up. It’s the way the world works, Auri.”

Aurelia shook her head sadly. “Your father really did a number on you.” She stayed silent for a moment before asking quietly, “Do you remember the baby bird?”

“Obviously I do… why?”

“Humor me, what do you remember about that day, Benn?”

He knew what she was trying to do, but it had been so long since he’d been spoken to with compassion and a part of him wanted it to last as long as possible. “Okay… We were probably 11, maybe 12. It was springtime. It was that time of year when it’s finally starting to get warm but the weather keeps changing. There was that crazy wind and rain storm. The day after the storm we were so excited to collect fallen sticks and build our own little fortress.”

“We never did get around to building one,” Aurelia remarked with a small smile.

Bennett paused for a moment at Aurelia’s remark, but didn’t want to dwell on unfinished childhood dreams. It hurt too much to think about. He continued.

“Gabriel was inside, probably reading some textbook. We went down to the old oaks, and there was the baby bird, almost hidden in the tall grass. He was so small, and cute in an ugly way, with his feathers still growing in.”

Aurelia smiled genuinely at the memory. “You were amazed by it, shouting at me to come over. Until you saw its broken wing. I told you there was nothing we could do, tried to comfort you, but you were so upset about it.”

He nodded. “I was sad. I think I named him Momo.” He felt the corner of his mouth creep up in a smirk, the closest thing he’d had to a smile in weeks.

“You weren’t just sad, you were heartbroken. You laid near it crying and talking to it for almost an hour.”

“Auri, I get it, I was an overly dramatic child.”

“No Benn, you were loving and hated to see anyone or anything suffering. That bird would’ve died without you.”

Bennett scoffed. “No, your memory is way off. Gabriel was the one who saved him. I just sat there like a blubbering idiot.”

“I know he mended its wing, but he wouldn’t have even known about the bird if you hadn’t refused to come inside for lunch. He did always have a knack for medicine, but it was your heart that saved the bird.”

Bennett’s slight smirk was gone. He grew silent and leaned against the cell wall, no longer looking at Aurelia. When he spoke again, his voice had hardened.

“Well, regardless, real life isn’t like that bird story. And like I said, I had to grow up.”

“So you’re saying that you did kill them? Those innocent people?”

“No Auri,” Bennett snapped, his tone more annoyed than he intended. “I didn’t myself, but what difference does it make if I held the blade or my soldiers did? I didn’t stop them. That blood is on my hands.” He finally looked back at her, eyes narrowed, “I’m sorry if that gets in the way of you reminiscing on idyllic childhood memories.”

Aurelia raised her eyebrows, but didn’t take the bait. “So was it your idea? A plan to show strength? Did you want to do it?”

“Stop, it doesn’t matter.”

Aurelia stood up. “Just answer the question,” she commanded angrily. The sight of Bennett flinching at her demand was like a bucket of cold water on her anger. She quieted. “Please Benn, I need to know. If you still have any feelings of friendship towards me, tell me the truth.”

“You’re going to play that card?” Bennett said angrily. “What do you want me to say? That I never grew out of my weakness? That I didn’t want to lead a battalion, but conceded after just 10 minutes of pressure from my father? That my men never respected me, that they resented me for not allowing them their fun? That they killed my squire and pretended he died in an enemy attack? That they made veiled threats when Gabriel visited with medical supplies? That they were ready to stab me in the back because they felt my tactics were too passive? And instead of stamping out the disloyalty or, even better, dying for my own morals, that I gave up and handed my second-in-command the reigns?”

As he spoke, the anger in Bennett’s voice began to soften, but the bitterness and pain remained. “It doesn’t matter if I didn’t want them to pillage villages or harm civilians, I took a coward’s way out and convinced myself that what they did was out of my hands. I didn’t think they’d go so far.” His voice started to break.

“I really didn’t think they would, Auri. It will haunt me for any days I have left. But I should’ve known what I was doing. A good leader would’ve avoided that bloodshed. When I was a child, I’d cry about the injustices of the world, but then I actually had the power to change things and I was too much of a goddamn coward.”

Aurelia stood staring at her friend, tears in her eyes. “So, now you know,” he whispered. “You can leave with your answers.”

Instead of turning to the door, the princess knelt down face to face with Bennett and wrapped her arms around him in a tight embrace. The gesture broke down his last barriers, and he began to cry into her shoulder.

“Benn, listen to me. You were forced into an unfair situation from the start. You didn’t ask for any of this. You avoided innocent bloodshed for a long time. They killed someone close to you, threatened you and Gabriel. Put you in an impossible position. You do not deserve this.”

He continued to cry for a few minutes as Aurelia stroked his hair. It was better than he deserved, but he needed comfort more than he ever had and he knew there was a chance this embrace would be the last he ever received. He only regretted not being able to hug her back.

Eventually, he began to breathe more normally and Aurelia let him go.

She looked at him with sadness in her eyes. “I’ve been trying to change things for you both, I swear I’ve been trying, but… my father….”

“Auri, the fact that you even visited is more than I can ask for. I’ve already accepted that I’m not getting out of this mess, don’t anger your father over something impossible.” He paused, then continued, “But my brother…. I know it’s unfair to ask and it’s probably not doable, but if there’s any chance for Gabriel, if you see any way to convince your father to spare him, please try.”

“I promise I’ll keep trying, but I don’t want to give any false hopes about the odds.”

Bennett just nodded.

Aurelia’s eyes suddenly lit up as she remembered what she had smuggled in. “I almost forgot, I brought you some food!”

“I’m not sure I can stomach it right now to be honest.”

Aurelia looked skeptical. “When’s the last time you ate?”

Bennett didn’t even bother to answer the question. He sighed dramatically. “Fine, you’re right, I need food.”

“I knew it! You always hated to eat when you were stressed out, but then you’d end up exhausted and feeling worse.”

“I guess some things never change. Like you acting like a mother hen, trying to take care of me. “Benn, wear your jacket it’s cold. Benn, eat your breakfast. Benn, it’s not a good idea to jump off the stable roof into a tightly compacted bale of hay.” I guess I should’ve listened to you on that last one,” he said with a grin.

“And I guess I should just lean into the mother hen for today – I also brought medical supplies. Your shoulder and head looked injured earlier. Can I see them?”

He nodded. “They’re from the fight when I was captured, but they’re really not bad. I’ve had worse.”

She examined the wounds for a moment. “Okay tough guy, but they’re still pretty bad. I can’t leave anything visible like bandages unfortunately, but I’ll clean them out and apply some ointment to help numb them a bit. I’ll ask Robert if he’s willing to have the guards bandage them before tomorrow night, maybe under the guise of appearances for the banquet or something.”

The mention of the banquet brought Bennett back to reality. “Do you know what your father has planned?”

“No more than you do, I’m sorry. But I do know he plans to keep you both alive for a while, for better or for worse.”

Auri spent some time treating Bennett’s injuries, trying not to think about how many more she’d be caring for over the next few weeks. She needed to take things one day at a time.

When she was finished, she packed up her things and wrapped Bennett in one more hug. “I should go see Gabriel now, I can’t risk wandering around too late and having my father discover I’ve seen either of you. I’ll come back though, as much as I can.”

As she headed to the door, Bennett felt overcome with gratitude that she planned to come back. “Hey Auri?.... Thank you.”

-----

Keep reading: Next

[shutupandshipit]

Sharpen Your Blades - Ch.9

Summary: “What the fuck is that supposed to mean?”

The thinning of Aizawa’s patience was evident in the twitching of his brow. “If you stop asking questions, maybe I could finish explaining.

”With a huff and roll of his eyes, Katsuki glanced away from their coach.

“City Hall and the SC want us to give them more variety. We are a team solely made up of single skaters. Every year, we dominate the rankings for single skate while Shinketsu dominates the pairs, so this year both cities are being required to split their skaters evenly between singles and pairs with at least one pair coming from out top five.” There was a collective intake of breath, but no one commented, choosing instead to remain silent. “Unfortunately, for us, it’s a lot easier to switch from pairs to singles. With our male to female ratio, alpha/beta/omega ratio, and those of you actually experienced with pair skating, we’re at a disadvantage. So, I’ve decided to choose your partners for you.”

…..

Or where Katsuki and Izuku are forced to be partners so they can continue to compete, but the blood in the water may be thicker than anyone realized.

Pairing: Bakudeku

Rating: T

Chapter: 9/20

Previously <- Chapter 8: First Snows

Chapter 10: Alpha Wanted -> Next

Chapter 9: Refill

“We’re going to prescribe you suppressants.”

Blinking rapidly, Izuku lifted his head. He hadn’t been paying attention, not really. All of his focus had been on the agonizing cramps turning his guts into knots, washing his vision black and grey, and his mother’s hand crushing his. His heat was still another week away, but he’d started pre-heat that morning. It would only get worse with each passing day, and bile rose in the back of his throat at the thought.

He knew that word though, ‘suppressants’. He’s read about them, not extensively, but enough. Mostly to find out how they affected the performance of the Olympic skaters who were ‘strongly encouraged’ to take a form of both suppressants and birth control for all primary and secondary genders.

He’d never thought about using them himself though.

Clearing his throat, he asked over Inko’s sniffling, “Suppressants?”

The kind while strange doctors cocked their heads at him. “Do you know what suppressants are?” the man asked.

“Yes, a little, but why? I’m not really sure why you would want to put me in suppressants...”

Inko sobbed, “You think things are that bad?”

The doctors glanced at each other, but seemed to come to the conclusion to ignore his mother’s question. The only thing was that he wanted to know the answer too. “Suppressants have many uses. We want to use them to help regulate your heat and to make them easier,” the man explained.

Izuku bit his lip, shame twisting his insides as badly as the cramps, but asked anyway, “Can you make them go away? I don’t… want to have heats. I don’t like them. They hurt.”

“Well, that can happen during periods of excessive stress and when you’re young. You see, it’ll level out eventually. So, we’re just going to use the suppressants until that leveling out happens,” the woman explained.

Izuku stared at her as the pain in his abdomen worsened, but he managed to not hunch over completely. “I don’t care. I don’t want them.”

Inko gasped beside him, and he didn’t have to look at her to feel her eyes boring into him. “Izuku! Don’t say that! Having heats, being able to bring life into this world, is a gift!”

Again, Izuku said, “I don’t want them.”

The man pursed his lips, pushing a hand back into his dark hair. “Restricting your hormones like that is not advised, especially since you’re so young. But we can do this for you, okay? We’re not willing to endanger your health like that.”

Izuku didn’t reply, doing his best to fight the uncharacteristic anger that rose in his chest with the very characteristic tears that flooded his eyes. He didn’t want to have heats, not since he’d started them. He’d just have to find a way to use the prescription to his advantage.

…..

November Week 1

“Dr. Matsumoto?” Izuku asked tentatively as he poked his head around the door to his doctor’s office.

The omega man spun around in his chair, quickly pushing his glasses up his nose and smiling at Izuku. “Mr. Midoriya! Come in, come in! Dr. Kavinsky will be here in just a moment. Please, have a seat. There’s a few things we would like to discuss with you today.”

Izuku followed the doctor’s orders, sitting down on the paper covered exam table. The stirrups attached to the end made him queasy, but he wasn’t here for that kind of checkup, thank everything holy. To take his mind off his nerves, he stripped out of his coat and held out the arm that hadn’t just had blood drawn from it. Dr. Matsumoto strapped a blood pressure cuff to him. It was all business as usual. Even though Dr. Shuzenji had taken over his care for physical therapy and sports physicals, he still went to his usual doctors for everything else.

Nowadays, he only found himself in the doctor’s office every six months for his check-ups and whenever he needed to refill his suppressants. Today had only been meant for a refill, but he didn’t actually interact with either of his doctors for that normally. So the fact that they had requested him to attend an appointment with both of them present was more worrying than he was willing to let on.

He and Dr. Matsumoto chatted idly while they waited for Dr. Kavinsky, and each passing moment of small talk made Izuku all the more nervous. When the female omega bustled in with jovial apologies, he was nearly ready to vibrate right off the edge of the table. Digging his fingers into the padding, he forced a smile and said, “No worries, Dr. Kavinsky, but um… is there anything wrong? I only needed a refill, and there’s still another couple of months until my next check-up.”

The doctors glanced at each other, a peculiar habit they’d had as long as he’d known them, before Dr. Kavinsky glanced back at him and Dr. Matsumoto turned to click away at the computer. “Well, no, there’s nothing particularly wrong. Well, I haven’t seen your blood work just yet, but I would like to say everything is alright. That is to say, we didn’t ask you to come here for anything concerning your check-ups, but concerning your refill.” She’d also always had a peculiar way of speaking, and Izuku took a few moments to process her words. There was a ping on the computer, and she glanced away towards the screens as the other omega began sliding around open files around on the screen.

Ice trickled into his veins, the first indication of panic. “My refill, ma’am? Is there something wrong with it?”

Again, the two doctors exchanged a look. There were colorful charts that made no particular sense to Izuku across the computer screen now including a long list of text open on the opposite monitor. They pulled the screen away from the wall to swivel it towards him, a piece of furniture he found cool every other occasion but right then. Flanking the screen, Dr. Matsumoto spoke while Dr. Kavinsky pointed at spots on the bar and pie graphs. “I want you to take a look at this chart, Mr. Midoriya, do you know what this represents?” Izuku shook his head, and the doctor continued without missing a beat. “These are graphs that we devised to make it easier to explain things to patients. These charts represent the levels of crucial hormones in your body over the past couple visits you’ve had. You might be able to tell why we’re concerned.”

Izuku swallowed, eyes absorbing every ounce of info he could glean from the sparsely labeled graphs, but he thought he understood what they were trying to say. “The levels have been dropping over the past two years?” He was only taking a stab in the dark on the time frame. He couldn’t remember how many times he’d come in in the past year, but he knew he’d gotten his blood drawn every time. There were a lot of charts staring at him.

“These charts are just from the past year not including the one that was run today. That one is still in text format over there. We have ones dating back to when you were first placed on suppressants as well. We’ve seen dips in your levels that track with the dates you’ve given us for your heats though they are lower than what we’d expect for normal suppressant usage, but this has been a common theme with your heats and suppressants.” He glanced at Izuku though, and the slight frown of disapproval seemed to say he suspected foul play on Izuku’s part. He wouldn’t have been wrong, and Izuku ripped his eyes away back to the screen. “But your levels have rapidly begun to decline this year and that is dangerous. Dangerous for everyone, but particularly for omegas and alphas. We’d hoped that they would level back out, but...” Dr. Matsumoto inhaled noisily, but Dr. Kavinsky was the one to speak.

“Mr. Midoriya, we are no longer going to be providing you with suppressants.”

Izuku’s eyes snapped to her. Every ugly emotion he possessed -fear, anger, horror, terror- all crowded together in his chest. They all vied for attention until he was feeling nothing at all. Since he’d started training close to Katsuki again, he’d also started having to regularly take his suppressants -sometimes even taking them twice or three times a day-, and the sweeping numbness that they occasionally caused was a welcome relief at times. “Why? I… I need my suppressants, ma’am, sir.”

“Do you know why we have suppressants, Mr. Midoriya? Do you know what they do?” Dr. Kavinsky asked.

His immediate response was ‘yes’, but the look on her face told him that any answer he gave was going to be wrong. At least partially. Still, he said, “To control heats for omega and ruts for alphas so we can still function in society. Either putting them on a set schedule or making them easier to handle so there will be less damage and recuperation afterwards.”

“Well, that is true, yes, but that’s only part of it. Here’s the thing, suppressants are actually meant to sustain hormone levels. That’s how we manage all of those things. That’s also why there are so many different kinds, and not all of them work for every omega or alpha. Everybody’s bodies are different, and therefore need different hormone levels for suppressants to work. Here’s another thing that isn’t usually explained, but it is why prolonged use is highly discouraged. Prolonged use can make these crucial hormone levels drop to severe and dangerous levels, which is why blood tests are needed to track these. That is what we’re beginning to see with your hormone levels. For an alpha or omega, if these levels drop too far it could cause a catatonic state or that person to go feral. Much like with what happened to you when you were younger. If use is continued, this could even cause death. So, we’re discontinuing your refills, and if your hormones do not return to normal, we may have to start hormone treatments. There are other safer ways to manage your heats, especially since you’ve been an adult for a few years now.”

The room fell silent, and after a moment, Dr. Matsumoto seemed to feel the need to include, “This is commonly seen in… suppressant abuse and dependency cases…”

Izuku worked his jaw, and after a moment, muttered, “What am I supposed to do without my suppressants? I haven’t had a heat… that isn’t unbearable since I presented.” He hadn’t really had any heats since he was eleven and was put on his suppressants, but he didn’t need to tell them that.

The suppressants he’d been prescribed were supposed to be taken daily, but he skipped his dose most days and saved them for the moment he started feeling his pre-heat set in. He’d take double until his heat would normally end, effectively eliminating it all together. Heats and ruts functioned as a full body detox, resetting the body for a new cycle, so to completely be skipping them… Well, he was sure that it had something to do with his declining hormone levels. It couldn’t be healthy.

But he didn’t have any other choice. They were just too painful.

“There are apps that provide heat services where an alpha will stay in your vicinity or even physically help you through your heat. Or if you’re a traditionalist, possibly you could date. There are also some very R-rated sites that have plenty of heat implements that may make things easier. As for the chemical route, we cannot condone further use,” Dr. Matsumoto explained, repositioning the screen and sitting back down.

He looked so helpful, sounded so helpful, but all Izuku wanted to do was strangle him. Maybe that was why he forced a smile, hopped off the table and grabbed his coat. If that wasn’t an addict’s response, he didn’t know what was. He didn’t want to be an addict. It was a hard truth to consider. “Thank you for your time today, doctors. I appreciate you explaining things to me. I’ll see you in another couple of months.” Without waiting to hear their answers, he turned and left the room despite how rude that was.

He had to get to practice. He didn’t have time to be worrying about things like this.

…..

Katsuki hadn’t been looking forward to practice. He enjoyed cardio generally, but once the first snow fell for the season, he absolutely despised it. He would rather skate endless circles around the rink or do sprints or just about anything else for hours over running outside. Living in Yuuei, logic would have stated that he was used to the cold by that point in his life, but reality was a cruel mistress. Every breath he took felt like ice picks being rammed into his lungs, and once everything was said and done, it took him at least two hours to properly warm up again.

Still, he dutifully showed up to practice that afternoon dressed in thermals and his workout gear instead of his usual heavy winter wear. He wore the beanie and gloves that he’d had to dig out of the bottom of his closet, a little musty and very itchy. He hadn’t remembered why he’d relegated them to be forgotten in the shadows, but standing there wearing them, he was reminded all over again. He was mildly bitter about the fact that Izuku had hoarded his gloves and hat instead of returning them.

Granted, Katsuki wouldn’t have accepted them -he gave them to an omega for fuck’s sake, he’d never see them again- but he would have liked the gesture. Well, he’d take them back under very specific circumstances.

‘Gifts to omega. Must provide. Keep warm. Warmth is strong body. Strong body is strong pups. Court omega to mate omega. Omega will give strong pups. Omega will make good mate. Omega will make alpha happy.’

‘I get it,’ Katsuki thought at his alpha viciously, but as much as he hated to bother with the basest of his instincts, he had allowed his alpha to guide him. And it seemed to have paid off.

He slouched on a park bench while he waited for the rest of the team to show up, nursing a bottle of hot tea. Several of the others had already turned up including his partner, and his eyes hadn’t left Izuku’s hands. Wrapped up in green, white and black thermal fleece lined gloves with a rabbit decal on the back, Izuku’s hands looked very warm indeed. And from what he could tell, the size of the gloves were perfect.

Smirking to himself, he slid a little further down.

The omega stood several meters away from Katsuki as he watched Iida and Uraraka go back and further. Iida gestured as animatedly as usual, and Uraraka mimicked his movements until a small smile appeared on Izuku’s face. The omega didn’t join in the conversation though, and something about the way he stood, a little further back than usual with his arms held tightly across his chest, told Katsuki something wasn’t right.

‘Omega distressed? Worried? Angry?’ his alpha asked worriedly.

‘I don’t know.’

The smirk on his face fell away, and as if sensing his gaze, Izuku turned towards him. There was a fakeness to his smile that Katsuki had been forced to get used to since they’d presented. That smile had stuck around for years after Aizawa had recruited them, but it had rarely made an appearance in recent years. Seeing it now felt like an ill omen, like the worst kind of shock to his system. He sat up straight, but as Izuku headed his way, he watched it ease into something more true.

“Kacchan!” Izuku said, stopping beside Katsuki as he shoved his hands into coat pockets.

“What do you want, nerd?”

Izuku’s smile didn’t falter, and only seemed to grow wider as he held out the pair of gloves Katsuki had given him the week before. “Sorry for keeping them so long. I was still using them, but someone left me these as a present in my bag yesterday, so I thought I’d return yours.”

Pursing his lips, Katsuki stared at the gloves, not reaching for them even though he very much wanted to trade out his current itchy pair. The fact that they’d smell like Izuku just made it harder to fight. “Are those better than mine?”

Red flushed Izuku’s cheeks, and Katsuki knew the answer. “Well, I uh, that is- Yours are really nice-”

“Stop stuttering, and just give me a straight answer. Damn.”

“They’re… a bit nicer than yours, but only because they fit better!”

Which meant they were worlds better than Katsuki’s beat up, worn in fur lined leather gloves. He hid a smirk in his collar. Snatching them from Izuku’s hand, he said, “Better hurry up and figure out who gave them to you soon to thank them properly.”

Still smiling, Izuku clasped his hands behind his back. “You wouldn’t have any idea who that would be, right Kacchan? Maybe you saw something?”

“The only thing I see is the fact that you’re still wearing my fucking beanie too.”

Izuku’s hand jumped up to his hair flattened by the black and orange beanie. “Do you want it back?”

“I’m already wearing one. No use when it’s just going to go in my pocket.”

“Okay.” Izuku didn’t turn back to his friends like Katsuki thought he would, but instead took a seat beside him. As soon as he sat, he seemed to deflate, shoulders drooping and smile dropping almost into non-existence. His eyes gazed off into the distance.

Katsuki wasn't sure if he should say anything and disturb Izuku, or continue to stare and watch him wallow. He chose the former, preferring a smiling Izuku to whatever he'd turned into. "What's the matter with you?" Izuku's eyes snapped towards him, startled, and Katsuki felt worse for knowing that it was because that was the first time Katsuki had asked how he was doing in years. Even when they'd actually been best friends, he'd rarely ever asked Izuku that question.

That fake smile returned immediately. "Oh, nothing, Kacchan, just a little tired. Thanks for asking though."

'Don't. Don't pretend with me. Don't put on that fake expression. You don't have to do that with me,' Katsuki thought desperately, wishing he had the guts to just come out and say it. Before he could muster up the words though, Toshinori called their attention, waving them over to the beginning of the hiking trail.

Together they stood and started towards their coaches.

Aizawa was bundled up tightly in black and maroon, looking not at all present as he dozed against a tree. Toshinori, tall and gaunt, stood beside the omega beneath the dropping bows of the pine. His blond hair was pushed back with a hairband much like the one Katsuki had given Izuku several weeks ago, and his track suit looked bulky and warm. "Good afternoon, my young charges! I hope you all had a good night yesterday." As always, Toshinori's voice was loud and booming, drawing the attention of people down the walking path.

The team tittered away for several long moments until Toshinori cleared his throat to bring their attention back to the task at hand. "Alright. We haven't used this hiking path for a run in awhile so be mindful of the condition of the road, low hanging branches, icy patches and roots. Don't overwork yourselves too early, this trail is an eight kilometer loop all together. With the season about to start, we're also starting up our annual Run-to-Win Competition. Remember, first place gets the most points, and if you're the first to cross the finish line, you get certain prizes. Today is the right to choose your own outfit for the exhibition within reason of course, but you'll be the final decider in the end." The group erupted in excited shouts again, and even Katsuki perked up.

He'd gotten to choose his outfit a couple times over the course of his career, but there'd always been something his coach rejected or made him change. He'd never had a true say in what he wore. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Izuku straighten up in interest. Right, they were partners this year. If one of them came in first, that person would also be choosing the others’ outfit as well. They had to match, at least for the most part, and Katsuki wasn't about to wear something fucking stupid because he lost to Izuku.

Izuku glanced at him, catching his eye. They held eye contact for a long moment before the real smile was back again. "What do you say, Kacchan? Who's going to be choosing our outfits?"

With all of the others, they lined up at the mouth of the trail, and waited for Toshinori to start the clock. "Me, of course, shitty Deku," Katsuki spat before taking off with everyone.

Both he and Izuku didn't go full tilt right off the bat like a lot of their teammates did. The course was long, and they didn’t need to burn out too early. At least half of the others streamed out ahead of them, but soon enough, they were leading the pack. The rest lagged, some beginning to walk and others stopping all together to bend over and breath heavily. Only a few kept a steady pace, but none of them were as fast or steady as Izuku and Katsuki. Soon enough, they were the only ones on the path.

They kept pace with each other. Step for step, breath for breath, they ran together as if they were practicing synchronicity again. It was only when they'd already passed the fourth mile that they glanced at each other and simultaneously picked up the speed. Even as their race truly started, they were in sync. It was maddening in more ways than one, and Katsuki huffed like a boar as he worked to get even an inch in front of Izuku. Still, they remained neck and neck.

"Goddammit, Deku!" Katsuki spat on a sharp exhale. They were all but sprinting by that point, drenched in sweat and nearing the end of the trail.

Izuku had a wild smile, cheeks flushed with beautiful color and eyes alight. "I'm- going to- beat you- Kacchan!"

"Like hell!"

A wild laugh fell from Izuku's lips as the mouth of the trail came into view, and they both put in every last ounce of strength they had left. They reached the end of the trail, and kept going as they slipped on a patch of ice just on the other side.

"Fuck!" Katsuki cried, flailing backwards and snapping out a hand to keep Izuku from crashing forward onto his knees. Instead, they tumbled back into the snow between the trees, Katsuki on his back and Izuku against his chest completely out of breath. "Fuuuuuuck," Katsuki groaned, head flopped back even as the snow began to melt and soak his hair. He could barely breathe, and Izuku's weight didn't make it any better. Still, Izuku didn't try to get up and Katsuki didn't push him away.

After a moment, Katsuki felt the frozen tip of a nose skim along the column of his throat. Izuku's scent wafted to him. Sweat and excitement and musk and mint and arousal and lightning, and again, that chemical cleanness. It was the same as the last time he'd smelled it, but stronger than before. Like when they'd been twelve, and Izuku had been abusing suppressants. Wrinkling his nose against the scent and the sudden rush of worry and anger in his body, he felt more than heard Izuku gasp above him.

The weight disappeared from his chest, and he cracked his eyes open to find Izuku's surprised expression as Toshinori lifted him off Katsuki and Aizawa grasping his forearm to pull him to his own feet.

When his eyes found the omega's again, Izuku grinned. "Good race, Kacchan, but it looks like we're going to have to work together on our costumes."

"One of these days, you're going to have to give the others a chance to win a race," Aizawa said.

Katsuki sneered at their coach. "Not a chance in hell! We won fair and square. They need to try harder if they want to win."

Izuku laughed, the sound a tinkling chime even as Aizawa rolled his eyes and pulled the other omega away. "See you later, Kacchan," he called, hand waving over his head.

Katsuki couldn't rip his eyes away from him or rub away the reminder of his scent.

[terreisa]

Love Down the Line: Chapter 9

The last thing Indie musician Emma Swan needs is a gigantic wrench thrown in the workings of her biggest tour to date weeks before its launch.  When her backing guitarist that caused the problem says she has the perfect solution Emma is skeptical but left with little choice but to accept.  Unfortunately she isn’t really prepared for said solution to be former Rock Star and leading man of Emma’s teenage fantasies, Killian Jones.  With no other options and a month of performing across the country ahead of her Emma just hopes she doesn’t come to regret letting Killian onto her stage and into her life.

Ch 1, Ch 2, Ch 3, Ch 4, Ch 5, Ch 6, Ch 7, Ch 8, AO3

~*CS*~

Los Angeles, May 24th

“-and there’s a bit of a backup on the 405 just south of the 10 due to a two car accident in the southbound lanes.  That’s the morning traffic report brought to you by your local Southern California Honda dealer.  This is Treena in the morn’ and I got some Yaz on the way along with Echo and the Bunnymen and Talking Heads after this-”

“A clock radio?” Emma mumbled into the pillow, “Really?  What are you, like, three hundred?”

Killian’s chuckle stirred the hair at the back of her neck, “Try thirty-five, love.”

“So you say,” she groused as he reached over her to turn off the alarm.  She blinked up at him as he set his hands on either side of her shoulders, looming over her with a smile, “I bet you still have a landline, old man.”

“And a rather impressive laserdisc collection,” he said with a wink.

“You would.”

He laughed, a bright joyous thing that had her smile stretching from ear to ear.  It was the last of the three days of no shows that they had while in LA and the second morning she’d woken in the bed of Killian’s house in Malibu.  Since their first night together in Denver they hadn’t slept apart, much to Tink’s delight and Will’s annoyance.  When they’d arrived in LA Emma had been surprised and pleased to discover that Killian had a house there where no one would disturb them as long as they kept their phones on silent.  Unfortunately it hadn’t really been an option as her suddenly vibrating phone reminded her.

“What time is Regina sending the car?” Killian asked as he dipped his head and started trailing kisses down her throat.

She hummed in pleasure, blindly swiping at her phone to dismiss the call, “Nine.  We’re having brunch with people from the label to talk about the next album and then it’s interviews for the rest of the afternoon.”

“And after all that we’ll rendezvous back here for dinner and a bit of Netflix and chill,” he murmured into her collarbone before dragging his tongue across it.

“You go-” her breath hitched as his hand travelled up her thigh, “going somewhere?”

He paused his ministrations, much to her frustration, and said somberly, “Aye, Robin still lives out here with his son.  I haven’t been in town for… well, quite a while and I’m long overdue for a visit.”

The delicious tension she’d been feeling mellowed into something warm and soothing at his earnestness.  Ever since they’d landed he’d waxed nostalgic about all the things he’d used to do in the city, places he’d eaten that he wasn’t sure were still around, venues he’d played, museums he’d spent hours getting lost in and all the interesting people he’d met in that time.  What he hadn’t mentioned once was his former bandmate and friend.  In the bright morning light streaming through the wall of windows she could see that for some reason he was nervous about seeing him again.

“You guys talk all the time,” she reminded him, reaching up to run her fingers through his hair and cupping his cheek, “I interrupted one of your FaceTime dates just a couple of days ago.”

Killian chuckled, “Aye, and don’t think I haven’t received more than my fair share of nosey texts about that since.”

She blushed, forgetting that when she’d done the interrupting she’d been wearing one of his shirts and not much else.

“Seeing as Robin has come to Boston several times in the years that I’ve been there it’s only fitting that he gets to monopolize some of my time while I’m here,” he said, one shoulder lifting higher than the other in a half shrug. “I’ll be home by the time you’re done with your interviews.”

“You don’t have to rush back just for me,” she said quickly, guilt already pulling at her, “Just text me when your male bonding time is over.”

“We’ll deal with the logistics later, love,” he murmured, turning his head slightly to press a kiss to her palm, “For now I’d like to pick up where we left off before-”

Emma sighed in disappointment as her phone began to vibrate again.  Knowing that Regina was the only one who would not only call but do so before nine a.m. no matter the time zone she couldn’t ignore it.  She’d made the mistake of doing it before a show in Arizona once and had sworn Regina would have pushed her into the Grand Canyon if she’d been given the opportunity.

Gently nudging Killian off of her with an apology she sat up and grabbed her phone.  Killian sat up behind her, pushing her hair to one side as he nuzzled into her neck.  Giggling but in no way discouraging him she swiped up to answer.

Regina started talking the second the call connected, “The car will be there in thirty minutes to take you straight to the restaurant-”

“Wait, what?” Emma jerked away from Killian’s ministrations to look at the clock on the bedside table and saw it was only a little after seven. “I thought you said it’d be here at nine!”

“Plans have changed,” Regina said off-handedly. “The brunch meeting is now a breakfast meeting and I’ve pushed up one of your radio interviews to give you the time you’ll need for the streaming exclusives.”

“Exclusives?” She asked warily.

“Enchanted XM wants you to curate a ten song playlist and record intros for their Alt Rock station and then there will be an in-depth interview with one of their djs.  Snowdrops and Buttercups has been their number one request since its debut and is poised to take the number one spot on the chart next week.  It’s also been getting increasing play on their hits station.  We need to strike while the iron’s hot.”

Emma tipped her head back to stare at the ceiling as she counted to ten to keep her patience.  She was well aware that self promotion came with the territory, especially as a solo artist, and usually she had no problem giving interviews or whatever little fun extras needed to do so.  What she hated was that Regina tended to take liberties with her schedule whenever they were in a big enough city and there was extra down time.  It was all the more frustrating that Regina knew that things between her and Killian had shifted and apparently didn’t care about infringing on their time alone together.

“We’ll still be done by six right?” She asked, resigned, Killian’s warm hand gliding across her shoulders calming her much more than her counting had.

“Yes,” Regina huffed and Emma could practically hear her eyes rolling, “You and lover boy can have your romantic evening together and don’t think we won’t be discussing how to play whatever it is you two are doing to the press.”

“Really?” She growled.

“Really.”

Before Emma could even begin to shoot down that idea Regina had hung up, leaving her staring at the phone in her hand with disbelief and anger.  Even Killian’s gentle ministrations were no longer helping.

“I need to get ready,” she said mournfully, moving to stand from the bed.

Killian stopped her with a hand on her wrist, “Everything alright, love?”

“Yeah, everything’s great.  The meeting with the label got moved and there’s already a car on its way.  Which normally wouldn’t be a big deal but-” she shrugged, still angry but also starting to blush, “We were getting to the good stuff.”

“That we were,” he agreed with a salacious grin.  Then the grin faded and he narrowed his eyes at her, “Was there something else she said?  You seem upset over more than just an earlier meeting.”

Emma hesitated.  As much as she wanted to share her frustration with Regina dictating her life she couldn’t do so without bringing up the questions she’d successfully avoided since the morning after they’d first slept together.  First and foremost, was what they were doing just as important to him as it was to her and if it was, then what did that mean for them once the tour was over and they returned to their respective lives.  Chickening out she figured they could talk it over later, when there wasn’t a time constraint or a full day of interviews where she’d need to keep focused.

She shook her head and smiled, “Nothing you need to worry about.  Regina just has me getting some list of songs together for some streaming thing and I have no idea what I’m going to pick.  It takes me two hours to edit the playlists I already have, how the hell am I supposed to choose ten songs and then talk about them?”

“Simple, pick one of your playlists, put it on random and the first ten songs that play are the ones you choose,” he said easily. “You already know and enjoy those songs if you spent two hours picking them and there’s no pressure of trying to curate a perfect list from scratch.”

“That’s… actually a really good idea-” she beamed, grabbing her phone and bouncing up from the bed.  She spun around and gave what she hoped was a come hither look, “You know, I hear California is in a drought.  It’d be a shame to waste water by taking separate showers.”

His lips curled wickedly, “I’d say that I love the way your mind works, Swan.”

Taking his hand she led him into the bathroom and made good use of the less than twenty minutes they had before her car arrived.  Several hours later, however, she wished she had pushed back a little more against the schedule Regina had set up for her.  Of course she’d had no way of knowing that her too short morning with Killian was going to be the least stressful of her day.

Sitting in one of the green rooms at Enchanted XM between the recording session for her song picks and her interview she let her eyes slide shut.  It had already been a long day and it was nowhere near being over and done with.  The breakfast meeting had been good, the representatives from the label had been pleased that she had already written a few songs that she felt were strong contenders for the next album and they had easily agreed to giving her three months off after the tour to work on the rest.  Even Regina had been pleased with the meeting, if her short and not too unreasonable list of demands for moving forward were any indication.

The interview she’d done directly after had been the kind that she’d gotten used to over the years.  Questions that were more often than not the same ones others had asked her time and again.  She’d gotten good at making it sound like she was hearing them for the first time and varying her answers just enough so she didn’t sound like a robot.  The best part were the teasing texts from Killian waiting for her once she was done.  She was surprised and touched that he had taken the time out of his day to listen to her interview, especially since he knew how unexciting they could be.

As her day continued Regina had left her to make her way to the Enchanted XM studios on her own.  Once there she had immediately had to get to work ironing out her list of songs and recorded the intros with the program producer.  It had been more fun than she’d anticipated.  She’d already had her choices written down in one of her ever present notebooks, having listened to a randomized playlist in the car on her way to breakfast like Killian had suggested.  The first ten songs that had played had been perfect but she’d made one substitution to make sure that a Realm of Jewels song was one of her picks.  It was her thank you to Killian for giving her the idea in the first place and a not so subtle wink to whatever was going on between them.

The producer, a woman named Gwen, had been impressed with her choices.  They’d spent nearly an hour talking them over, working through a rough script of what she would say about each one.  Then she had been taken to a small recording booth where it had taken less than an hour to get what they needed.  She’d wanted to text Killian about it but Gwen had immediately invited her to lunch and she hadn’t had the chance.  Once they’d returned to Enchanted’s headquarters she’d been asked to record a few small promos for the stations that played her songs in heavy rotation.  Not willing to say no she’d been ushered to another recording booth with barely any time to take a breath.

Being left alone in the green room was a welcome break from what had become an increasingly busy day. Just as she was about to pull out her phone for the first time since after her first interview the door opened and Regina stormed in, angrily snapping at whoever the poor soul was that was still in the hallway.

“-not recording as scheduled and I want to know why a rider was requested when nothing that is on it is in this room.  There’s not even a bottle of water.  See that it gets taken care of.”

“Of course, Ms. Mills.”

The disembodied voice wavered slightly and Emma's earlier annoyance at Regina flared back up.

“The water that’s in here is fine,” she called out, leaning forward and catching the eye of the young woman in the hallway giving her an apologetic smile.  She turned pointedly to Regina and glared, “I don’t need anything else.”

“That’s not the point,” Regina sniffed, her dark eyes narrowing followed by the sound of retreating footsteps. “Certain expectations were to be met and they weren’t.  Just one more thing this company has failed at.  I have a mind to stop booking appearances here if they’ll just be treated like this.”

“Okay, this is about something more than water bottles and a missing box of Milk Duds.  What’s going on?” Emma asked suspiciously.

Regina pursed her lips as she took out her phone and began rapidly typing.  Emma waited patiently for her to answer, knowing better than to push if she wanted to keep her head on her shoulders.  With a final tap on her screen Regina focused back on her with a wary look that immediately had her on edge.

“You were supposed to do the on air interview with Graham Humbert but apparently due to an ‘unfortunate’-” Regina rolled her eyes, “scheduling conflict you have to do it with Walsh Hoakley instead.”

Emma groaned.  An interview with Graham would have been fun and easy.  They’d both gotten their start in the business around the same time, so he not only knew what types of questions she enjoyed answering but what her boundaries were when it came to her personal life.  Walsh, on the other hand, was the complete opposite.

Every interview she’d had with him had her sitting through bad jokes and his comparing her career against his own.  He had been the frontman of a pop punk group that had taken a break almost a decade before, though he insisted that it was only a matter of time before they would release another album.  It was bad enough she had to play nice as he gave her unsolicited advice but once the mics were turned off he tended to dial up his smarmy charm and invite her out for drinks or a meal.  She’d always firmly said no but he’d kept it up and after their last interview nearly two years earlier she’d told Regina that she preferred not to do any more with him.

“I thought he was with that big station in New York,” she said sullenly.

“Apparently not,” Regina sniffed.  Her eyes softened fractionally, “Do you want me to reschedule?”

“No,” she sighed, “We’re already here and I know we don’t have any time to come back while we’re still in LA.  Plus I don’t want rumors starting that I’m being difficult over Walsh Hoakley.  I don’t want to give him that honor.”

Regina smirked, “I’m sure he’d dine out on that for years.”

“He would.  So where’d you disappear to?” Emma asked, through talking about Walsh.

“I do have other clients that happen to conveniently live where their label’s offices and some of the best recording studios are,” Regina said drolly, perching herself delicately on a chair. “You might want to reexamine the benefits of moving out here after this tour is done.  You’re only going to get bigger from here on out.”

She hummed noncommittally.  For a few seconds she let herself daydream about moving into Killian’s beachfront house, waking up in his arms every morning before heading to the studio that would admittedly be leaps and bounds better than the one back in Maine.  She could almost see herself returning at the end of her day to find Killian preparing dinner in the kitchen or strumming his guitar on the balcony.  Before her thoughts went any further than that she stopped them in their tracks, forcing herself to remember all the reasons why she loved living in Storybrooke and to not let herself get wrapped up in a fantasy.  She didn’t let herself dwell on how her imaginings had given her the same feelings of home that her real memories of Storybrooke did.

Ten minutes and an increasingly impatient Regina later another assistant came to show them to the recording booth.  From behind the glass they watched as Walsh introduced the next group of songs that would be playing and teased her interview.  As soon as he switched off his mic she was ushered into the booth, shown which headphones and mic to use and then left alone with him.  To her great relief he smiled and shook her hand, seemingly not knowing that she had requested not to do interviews with him.  She smiled back, settling in the chair in front of the mic she’d been shown and adjusted everything to her liking.  As they waited for the queued songs to finish playing they made small talk about their day and the thankfully very few mutual acquaintances they had.

The interview started off well.  Walsh only mentioned his band Behind the Curtain twice and kept his advice to a minimum.  Emma found herself actually enjoying the questions he asked, responding with enthusiasm when he asked about living in Maine and her writing process.  She was so caught up in lightheartedly debating with him over notebooks versus a phone app to write lyrics that she was surprised when he mentioned that their time was drawing to a close.

“So, Emma, before you go, how has this tour been so far?  You’ve only got a few shows left right?”

“Yeah, just the last few cities heading north but it’s been really, really great,” she enthused, “This is the biggest tour I’ve ever done and the fans have been amazing in every city we’ve played.  I’m actually really looking forward to tomorrow night’s show since it’s where they have the Oscars.”

“Right, the Dolby theater, when we played it was still the Kodak and it’s a great venue.  Bigger than what you would think when you see it on tv,” Walsh said with a wink and a grin.

Emma fought against a cringe at his bad innuendo, glad that he hadn’t been like that through the whole interview.

“I haven’t had a chance to get in the space yet and, I know this is really nerdy or whatever, but I’m really excited to stand on the same stage that some of my favorite actors have been on.  I mean, some of my idols have played there and it’s always an honor to get to perform where they have too, but come on, tomorrow I could be standing in the exact spot where Meryl Streep or Tom Hanks or Oprah have stood.  Oprah!”

Walsh chuckled, “So you still get starstruck meeting other celebrities?”

“Oh, yeah,” she said with a nod. “I don’t even think of myself as a celebrity.  I live in the same town I mostly grew up in, all my friends are ones I’ve had since before I even thought about recording an album, I don’t even have ‘people’ or whatever.  I nearly had a heart attack seeing Lady Gaga from across the room at a benefit concert once.”

“So how was it when you met Killian Jones, famous guitarist for Realm of Jewels, before the start of your tour?”

She shot a glance to the window into the sound booth where Regina had been throughout the whole interview.  Regina barely looked up from her phone and nodded, twirling her hand in a gesture Emma took to mean keep going.  They had talked about what would happen when Killian was finally recognized but the longer they went without it happening the more she had convinced herself that they could get through the whole tour with no one the wiser.  It seemed their time was up.  Taking a deep breath to settle her racing heart she looked back at Walsh and found him watching her closely.

“I was surprised and a little annoyed actually,” she said with a small laugh. “Ruby, the guitarist I usually tour with, had broken her arm but said that she’d found her replacement for me.  The thing was she wouldn’t tell me who it was so I walked into the recording studio and Killian was there.  Realm of Jewels was one of my favorite bands, still is, so seeing him sitting there was a kinda surreal fangirl moment and intimidating too, knowing how good of a guitarist he is.”

“Rumors have been circulating on social media for a few weeks that it was Killian onstage for your tour and then earlier this afternoon uber-producer Robin Locksley seemed to confirm it-” Walsh pulled up a sheet of paper and began reading, “He said in an interview: ‘I’m very excited to begin working with Killian Jones on new music and other projects moving forward.  He’s been touring the past few weeks as a backing guitarist and he told me it’s been a great first step to getting back out there.  I was even fortunate enough to hear a few rough cuts of songs he’s already written for a new solo album and they’re amazing.  I really can’t wait.’  Since you’ve confirmed it yourself have you heard any of his new songs while on the road?  He’s already with your label and turns out he signed on with your manager Regina Mills back in March so will the rest of the tour be a double bill?  Maybe even a possibility of a duet in the future?”

Emma felt dazed, like she’d been hit with a pillow shot out of a cannon.  She had completely forgotten that Robin had become a music producer after Liam and Milah had died.  He’d even sent her an email after her last album had been released, saying he wanted to work with her at some point.  That little detail was nothing compared to the realization that Killian hadn’t mentioned that his lunch with Robin was really about business.  He hadn’t even hinted that he had whole songs written let alone recorded anything.  Worst of all was that he had signed on with Regina before he’d joined the tour and she knew without a doubt Regina would do anything necessary to further a client’s career.  Especially if the final outcome would prove advantageous for two clients at once.

“I, uh, haven’t listened to anything he’s recorded-”

Her phone buzzed at her elbow.  There were several notifications but the preview screen showed a text from Regina.  She opened it in a daze.

Regina: No double billing, play coy about duet, plug rest of tour, still seats in Vancouver

The fog she’d been in cleared away as white hot anger took its place.  She looked at Regina through the glass and found her making the same ‘continue on’ motion she had before.  There was no sign of an apology on her features, only impatience and  the ever present look of expectation that she perform well.  While acting wasn’t her forte she was more than ready to give the performance of a lifetime.

“Killian was only brought on temporarily until Ruby was well enough to play again.  Luckily her recovery happened to work out perfectly with us arriving in LA-” she knew she sounded too upbeat but pushed through, “I’m sorry to dash any hopes but Killian has decided to stay here and focus on his own music.  Ruby will be back for tomorrow night’s show and will be finishing out the tour.  We’re sold out for most of those shows but I think there’s still some tickets left for Vancouver, but not many.”

“So, no duet?” Walsh asked hopefully and Emma wasn’t sure if he meant musically or hinting at something between her and Killian.

“Nope,” she said decisively, her heart cracking as she did. “I’ll be taking some time off after this tour is done.  Rest and relaxation are the only duets I’ll be performing any time soon.”

Walsh laughed, “Now that’s a duo everyone loves.  Well, Emma, it’s been great talking to you.”

“You too,” she said with feigned pleasure.

“Here’s Emma’s latest single ‘Snowdrops and Buttercups’ which has been flying up the charts.  Safe to say you’ll be playing it tomorrow?”

“Yup.  It’s been fun to see the responses get more enthusiastic as it gets played on the radio more,” she said, finally feeling like she was being genuine.

“That’s always a great feeling,” Walsh said with a grin. “Alright, here it is ‘Snowdrops and Buttercups’. Thanks for stopping by, Emma.”

“Thanks for having me.”

As the first notes of her song filled the studio Emma ripped off the headphones, ignoring the constant buzz of her phone at her elbow.  She wasn’t sure who it was that was calling, she’d told everyone important to her about the interview and she knew they had probably all tuned in to listen.  With the way her pulse was pounding in her temples she wasn’t too sure she could keep herself from unfairly snapping at whoever it was and whatever questions they were going to have.

“Emma?”

She looked up at Walsh and by the way his grin faltered a bit she was sure that her anger was painted clear across her face.

“Yeah?”

“Er, I was wondering if you wanted to grab a drink?” He asked hesitantly. “Talk a little shop, maybe?”

“I already have plans,” she said shortly, the words tasting like the ashes of the evening she originally thought she’d be having.

“Coffee then? Or lunch?  I’m up for anything really,” He said with a wink and a chuckle.

“Look, I don’t know how much more clear I can make this but I’m not ‘up’ for doing anything with you,” she snapped, his annoying persistence the final straw. “I thought that you’d gotten better than the last time you tried this but apparently not.”

She snatched up her phone and turned to leave when she heard him scoff and mutter something under his breath.  She spun back to face him.

“Wanna share with the whole room?”

“Yeah, actually,” he said with a sneer that twisted his face into something vicious. “You act all high and mighty but you’re just a step away from falling into obscurity just like me.  That whole thing about Jones was given to me by your people and by tomorrow morning both your careers will be reaping the benefits from it.  I could have helped you along even further with the contacts I have in this business.”

Emma gaped at him, “By going out with you?  Classy, you sack of shit.”

Something flashed in Walsh’s eyes, “You-”

“Emma!  Let’s go, now.”

For half a second she was grateful that Regina had burst into the room, then she remembered why she was angry in the first place.  She brushed past her, ignoring her stream of hissing admonishments and the stuttered apologies of the producer.  Halfway back to the green room she realized her phone was still buzzing non-stop.  Her stomach lurched, not wanting to know if it was Killian calling when she was walking the thin line between yelling at him or breaking down in tears.  Steeling herself she finally looked at the screen and breathed a sigh of relief, swiping to answer.

“Ruby, pack your shit.  I need you in LA tonight.”

[aquadrazi]

Find Someone to Carry You

Chapter 10

…….Koi Tower…….

The room looked like some kind of perverse shrine to the Yiling Patriarch.  It seemed that someone had collected everything that was in the Demon Subduing Cave and brought here.  Even the random scribblings that were clearly Wei Ying’s attempt to grow something other than radishes.

Lan Wangji was particularly curious as to why items that were thought to have been destroyed with Wei Ying were actually here, in a hidden room in Koi Tower.  Like, the Stygian Tiger Seal and Chenqing.  Two things that every account said had been on Wei Ying when he…exploded.  But here they were.

At least this explains the HOW of the demonic cultivation experimentation.

Lan Wangji sensed someone behind him and whirled around, hand ready on Bichen.  He saw a person, dressed all in black, with their face covered, bowing to him.

“Honorable Hanguang-Jun.  I am glad to have run into you.   I would advise that you take anything you want to look at later with you, because this room is about to burn to the ground.”

So I guess that’s what Nie Huaisang meant by “interesting”

Lan Wangji took the Stygian Tiger Seal, Chenqing, and the more important looking papers and shoved them into his Qiankun bag.  He was about to signal that he was finished when his eyes landed on a pile of dirty clothing.

What are Wei Ying’s clothes doing here?!

Had he somehow exploded, but left everything behind?

His hands trembled as he ran his fingers over the fabric.  He fought the tears welling up in his eyes.  He would NOT cry.  Not here, not now.  He gently picked up the torn and dirty red ribbon that used to live in Wei Ying’s hair.  He carefully folded it up and placed it in his Qiankun bag.

Surely he was allowed this one token of remembrance.  He stood for what felt like hours, his heart breaking all over again before he was interrupted from his sad memories by the other person who he had forgotten was in the room with him.

“Hanguang-Jun, I’m sorry to rush you, but I’ve received the signal.  I must begin.”

“Mn”  He acknowledged and stepped back towards the door.

The person, who presumably was one of Nie Huaisang’s spies, quickly went to work placing talismans on just about everything that looked flammable.

“Once I light these, please follow me.  I will make sure the no one sees you anywhere you shouldn’t be.”

Lan Wangji nodded in agreement, and watched all the talismans light the entire room into an impressive blazing fire.  He was sure nothing would survive, no matter how quickly someone came to put out the fire.

“Hanguang-Jun, please follow me.”

Lan Wangji gave one last look to what was left of Wei Ying.

Goodbye Wei Ying.

You were loved.

…….Koi Tower…….

Nie Huaisang felt like his entire life was just a preparation for this performance.  He felt terrible that it was necessary to hurt his friend so badly, but he needed the scream to be real.  He needed all of this to be as believable as possible.  He’ll apologize to Wei Ying later.  Probably with alcohol.

But now, it was show time.

He let out his best hysterical wails as he ran about the room, setting off more fire talismans and fanning fires.  He had to admit, the fabric hanging down from the ceiling, blazing with fire, made everything that much more dramatic.

It didn’t take long for some Jin guards to come to his rescue.  Thankfully because that room was going up like dry kindling and he was, in fact, not fire retardant.

“What HAPPENED?!”  Jin Guangyao squeaked running up to him.  He was clearly out of sorts.

Good.

“H-He”  Nie Huaisang did his best version of a panicked maiden about to pass out, and fanned himself excessively.  He made sure that he darted his wide eyes back and forth quickly, to help sell the panic.

“Try to calm yourself Huaisang and tell us what happened.”  Lan Xichen had followed Jin Guanyao because OF COURSE.

Nie Huaisang made a big show of taking big, deep breaths.

“He…he just…screamed and burst into fl-flames”  He stuttered out while huffing loudly.

Nie Huaisang would burn the image of Jin Guanyao’s face into his mind so he could paint it later and remember it forever.

“It was just so horrible.  One minute he was a person, the next his…his skin…was MELTING OFF!!”  Nie Huaisang let out another loud wail and started sobbing as he collapsed on the floor.

“I can’t- I can’t breathe.  I need air…”  He flailed about, struggling to get up.

Lan Xichen came to his rescue, since it seemed that Jin Guanyao was distracted by, other matters, probably involved the now DEAD Wei Ying.

I’m so going to laugh about this later with Wei Ying over alcohol.

Too bad he can’t see it himself.

So good.

Okay, focus.

“I need WANGJI!  Where IS he?!”  He wailed in the Lan Sect Leader’s arms.

“It’ll be okay, I will help you find my brother.”  Lan Xichen lead Nie Huaisang outside and towards the perimeter of the chaos that seemed to have enveloped the Lanling Jin Sect home.

His spies had done good work.  There were blazing fires everywhere.  People were running around in the chaos, trying to put them out, but no one seemed to really be in charge.  It was like someone had kicked over the ant hill and everyone was scurrying about, not really knowing what to do.

“Hanguang-JUUUUUUUN”  He pathetically wailed, like a child who had lost its mother.

That seemed to do the trick, because Lan Wangji seemed to materialize beside him.  He flung himself at his friend and clung onto his outer robed like a life raft.

“It was so horrible!  I can’t stop seeing it.  His SKIN WAS MELTING!”

Must not laugh

Stay in character

Almost there

Do not laugh

“I can’t ever eat MEAT again!  The SMELLLLLL”

“Perhaps it would be best to take him someplace quieter.”  Lan Xichen looked at his brother with concern.

“Mn” Lan Wangji responded and managed to draw out Bichen despite having Nie Huaisang stuck to him like a sea barnacle.

“I CAN’T be a vegetarian.  I’ll DIEEEE”

Lan Wangji managed to get them mounted on Bichen and into the air.

Once they were safely away from the chaos of Koi Tower Nie Huaisang finally dropped the act.

“You certainly created quite the…incident”  Lan Wangji said with more than a hint of judgement.

“You caught the tail end of one of the best performances of my life I’ll have you know.” Nie Huaisang responded with mock hurt.  “Besides, nobody got anything that they didn’t deserve in my little…incident tonight.”

Lan Wangji seemed content to spend the rest of the journey in silence, so Nie Huaisang let him.  This was just the eye of the storm anyway.  There would be much more drama in the near future.  He expected much more yelling coming his way.

……..Qinghe…….

As Lan Wangji was landing inside the walls of the Qinghe Nie compound, one of the Nie Sect Disciples was running to meet them.

“Sect Leader Nie.  Your most recent…acquisition has arrived and has been taken to the holding room.  We took the liberty of beginning the…damage inspection”  The disciple was clearly worried about if he was allowed to speak in front of Lan Wangji.

“Perfect!  Well done.  Are the other acquisitions secure?”  Nie Huaisang seemed to not be bothered at all about talking in front of Lan Wangji, however he was still obviously using a code.

“Yes Sect Leader.”

“Good.  Please alert the doctor.  Her services will be needed.”  Nie Huaisang waived his disciple away with his fan.

“Hanguang-Jun, please indulge me just a little bit longer.  I do think that you will find this of great interest.”

If it ends up being some lewd piece of art I’m never speaking to Huaisang again.

A short time later, Lan Wangji found himself just inside the doorway of a room that was NOT some sort of display room.  It was, in fact, living quarters.  They had gone through an impressive amount of security to get to the room, which he found curious.  He heard the sound of water sloshing in a bath and he REALLY wanted to know what was going on.

“Sect Leader Nie.  We have finished our initial inspection.  He will require the services of the doctor.”

“I figured as much. She has already been summoned.”

Lan Wangji saw a battered and scarred body being basically dragged to the bed, hanging limp between two servants.  When they turned him to lay him down Lan Wangji quickly averted his eyes realizing the man was naked, but not before he caught a glimpse of familiar piercings.

What was Huaisang doing with the Koi Tower Sex Slave?

Why did Huaisang think HE’D be interested in the Koi Tower Sex Slave?!

This is too much.

Never had he been so humiliated.

Okay, that isn’t true.

How DARE Huaisang think he could tease him like Wei Ying?!

No one would ever be Wei Ying.

How DARE he?!

Lan Wangji’s blood started to boil at the thought that he would have any interest in whatever it was that the man was here for.  Having lost the last of his patience with his former friend he spun to exit the room and go back to Cloud Recesses as fast as Bichen would carry him when he found himself face to face with a ghost.

“Lady Wen?”

[scarletwillowtree]

The Soldier and The Artist ch4 (soulmate AU)

Pairing: Bucky x artist!reader

Warning: slight angst

Word count: 2,146

Summary: In a world where your soulmates first words show up on your skin once you meet, it’s not entirely common to actually meet the one you’re destined to be with. Though you’ve always held out hope, you never believed you would meet them, especially after you got your words but haven’t seen the man since. Now, working closely with The Avengers for a project Tony Stark himself requested you for, you’re closer to your soulmate than you ever expected.

A/N: Yes, hello! I am aliiiiive! My apologies to my readers, it’s been rough going for me for a while, but I have returned. Originally this chapter was VERY different, and the way I wrote it honestly made me hate the direction the story went, so I scrapped it and now I’m much happier. Chapter five is being rewritten as it’s the epilogue I had planned, but we’re almost there! I hope you enjoy my lovelies.

masterlist

As I watched Bucky walk off the jet, I could feel my heart speeding up. My face flushed as I felt my lips part and a harsh inhale past my teeth must have been heard by Steve still standing next to me as I could see his head turn to me from my peripheral vision. But none of that mattered. Not Steve, not the fact that I was standing on the roof of the compound still, not even that I was still dressed in my paint stained clothing.

All that mattered was Bucky, the man from the coffee shop, my soulmate. I couldn’t peel my eyes away from his steely blue ones as he made a beeline for me, never looking away from me. Once he finally reached us, I expected him to move for Steve, his life long best friend.

Surprising everyone in the area, Bucky reached out and pulled me into his arms where I immediately melted into his embrace, feeling him press his face into my hair with his mouth near my ear.

“I’ve been waiting so long for you, doll.” He whispered gently, his arms squeezing me slightly tighter as he did. We stood there for what could’ve been minutes or years, before a throat clearing to the side of us caused me to pull back enough to see who it was, Bucky’s grip loosening enough for that to happen but not letting me ago entirely.

“So uh, you two know each other?” Steve shifted awkwardly as he looked between me and his best friend, still wrapped in each other’s arms. Beyond Steve I could see who I guessed to be Sam and Thor standing there, both wearing teasing smiles while looking at the group that had gathered.

Looking back up at Bucky, I felt a warmth blossoming in my chest as my next words spilled from behind my lips with no fight or filter.

“We’re soulmates.”

***

After a lengthy talk in the communal kitchen, several cups of coffee, and a very awkward walk from the hangar, Steve sat across the bar from Bucky and myself. Everyone else had cleared out already after the initial announcement, too tired to unpack the full story yet.

“Gotta say, I’m happy you two found each other. Bucky here wouldn’t shut up about what you’d be like when we were younger (Y/N).”

“Alright punk, that’s enough about that. Why don’t you get lost for a while?”

Steve raised his hands in mock surrender as he stood and moved to leave the kitchen. At the last moment, he turned to face us at the bar, a genuine and soft smile on his face.

“Hey, (Y/N), treat him right okay?”

I smiled and gave him a nod in response before he finally left the room. I turned back to Bucky to see him shaking his head as he grumbles under his breath too low for me to understand.

“What was that, Buck?”

His face flushed as he looked up at me, his words only coming out barely above a whisper as his eyes darkened from their brilliant ocean blue.

“It’s not you he should be worried about.”

“What do you mean by that Bucky?” The worry in my chest began spreading quickly, hoping this wouldn’t be one of those instances where a soulmate rejects the bond.

“I’ve...I’ve done a lot of bad (Y/N). I could understand if you choose to leave, I’m damaged and I’ve hurt so many people...it wouldn’t be fair to you to be stuck with someone like me...with a monster.”

I felt my heart crack at his words, a few tears building on my lashes as I took a shaky breath before softly saying his name. When he didn’t look up, I placed my hand gently on his chin and raised his eyes to finally meet mine, the pain in his shining bright as fear mixed with it.

“James Buchanan Barnes, what you did as another person was beyond your control. Being damaged is part of being human, you just got a really bad lot in life. But look at what you’ve done to turn it around! You save lives and prevent wars now. From what Steve has told me of you, you are an incredible person with an amazing heart and you’d give anything for those you love. You. Are. Not. A. Monster. Okay?”

By now a few tears had fallen from your eyes, and his as well. He grabbed your hand from his chin, placing a kiss to your palm before letting out a shaky sigh.

“So...you’re not leaving? You’re not scared?”

“Bucky, the only thing that scares me is that I won’t be good enough for you. I’m just a normal person who loves to paint. I’m not skilled or super in any way.”

He laughed lightly at you, shaking his head as he stands and hugs you where you still sit, placing a gentle kiss to the top of your head.

“I wouldn’t have it any other way, doll.”

***

As the weeks flew by, I continued the portraits and spent every spare minute with Bucky I could. I had been saving his portrait for last, even though I’d already had it mapped in my head from the first conversation we had that day in the kitchen. He’d tried to sneak peeks of the other paintings, but hadn’t been successful as I wanted them to be a surprise for everyone.

Now that I’d finally come to his portrait, my time at the compound was almost at an end. I had spoken with Tony and was welcome at any time, and I planned to stay an extra two weeks at the compound before flying back to DC. Back to my life.

As my mind became lost in the strokes of greys, steely blue, and streaks of gold I thought back on my time here. I had come to view these people as good friends, maybe even a second family. Thinking about having to leave them caused a weight in my chest that made it hard to breath.

Finally finished with the final painting of the collection, I set my brushes aside to be cleaned, knowing they wouldn’t dry too soon with the oils smeared across the canvas and my hands. With a heavy sigh I moved to a nearby table and grabbed my phone, knowing it was time for my weekly update with Hannah.

She’d been so excited for me when I told her about Bucky, nearly exploding at my over the phone in typical her fashion. For someone so small, she sure was one hell of a force of nature all her own.

“You better be calling to tell me you’ve finally slept with that fiiiiine hunk of man you get to call your soulmate, lady.”

“Sorry to disappoint, but we are actually taking it slow and he’s been a perfect gentleman, Hannah.”

She snorted into the phone before I heard the telltale sound of the bay doors in the workshop we shared back home. Didn’t feel like home anymore, not with Bucky being here.

“So, judging by the timeframe I guess you’re done and coming home soon, huh?”

“I’m planning on staying an extra two weeks actually...not ready to say goodbye just yet.”

“I can understand that boo. Good thing we run our own company then, right? No need to ask for the vacation time!”

“That’s true. I miss you Han. I hope things go well while I’m still gone.”

“Well, as it happens it’s vacation time for me too lady, so no need to worry about the company! Just relax, and in to weeks we can both come back refreshed, okay?”

“Alrighty. Thank you! I gotta go, but I’ll call soon okay?”

“Love ya, ya weirdo!”

With her final affections given in her typical fashion, Hannah hung up. I gave a sigh before heading out of the studio and to my designated room, which had been moved to the one next to Bucky’s once he came back. I hopped in the shower, letting the nearly scalding water pour over me and wash away the paint and stress of the day.

Soon enough I had to face the music and get out, wrapping myself in a large and fluffy towel before padding my way into my room. Over my weeks here, the room had really become personalized to me, I even had an easel in here near the window overlooking the city. I quickly dressed in some leggings and a longer tshirt, aiming for comfort more than appearance.

I headed back to the studio, cleaning my brushes first in the sink in the corner, laying them next to it to air dry before making my way back to the easel with the latest painting. I smiled softly, this was truly a masterpiece in my eyes, whether it was because of the subject of because I poured every ounce of emotion I had into it I wasn’t sure.

I began moving the paintings into the common area where Tony intended to hang them, moving fast to get them all up. I managed to somehow get all 10 hung before anyone came out, no small feat in this place since they were all back from missions for the moment.

“FRIDAY, could you ask everyone to come here please? Non-emergency though.”

“You got it, (Y/N).”

***

Not long after they’d been called, I watched as all 10 of my friends stared into their portraits. The emotions written on their faces were enough of a response for me, I didn’t need them to voice how they felt.

Tony’s was in brilliant and bold colors, reminiscent of a peacock. With vague white lines indicating the iron man mask overlaying his face and the arc reactor in his chest glowing with leds embedded in the canvas from behind.

Wanda’s painting was a black and white portrait of her smiling wide, a red stream flowing through the background as a ghostly transparent silhouette of her brother Pietro framed her position on the canvas.

Steve’s painting was a mix of charcoals and paints, his pose of him mid laugh at some silly story he’d been telling me of him and Bucky as kids. He looked carefree and relaxed, years younger than his guarded self.

Vision had a black and white painting as well, with silver and gold foiling filling the background and a few lines in front of him creating an intricate circuit board that seemed to stem from the resin crystal emulating the stone in his head.

Clint’s painting had been done in various darknesses of coffee, as nothing could fit him better. He was pictured mid sign, his hands blurred to capture his swift and erratic speech as best I could in a slice of time.

Nat was the only one with a full body, necessary for the ballet pose her body was held in. Reds and black dominated the painting, a peaceful smile on her lips as her body contorted in a graceful way. The tulle attached to the canvas gave depth to her painting more so than I had expected.

Bruce had another black and white portrait, his shy smile painted on his face and his glasses sliding down his nose. Behind him stood a whiteboard with equations I could never make sense of filling the space, though the shadow he cast on the board was undoubtedly that of the Hulk.

Thor had a greyscale painting too, with a pale blue and lavenders accenting it as the edges of the lightning surrounding him and flaring away from his eyes. He was dressed in his royal armor as always, but he wore a cocky smirk on his face, the same he usually sported.

Sam’s painting was made of varying metallic materials in the colors I needed, the textures letting lights shine off it in various ways depending on which angle you viewed it from, making it look like he was composed of fireworks. Like Steve, he was also laughing in his picture, that mischievous twinkle to his eye you’d seen plenty after he played one of his many pranks during your week together.

Finally was Bucky’s painting. His eyes were full of warmth and love, the unending depths of that steely blue leaping from the mostly grey painting. His face was framed by his long hair, and from behind that extended a halo of glittering gold. In that same gold paint a golden heart rested on the sleeve of the Henley he wore stretched tight across his muscles.

There were no words they could find to truly express how the paintings made them feel, but the tight hugs and repeated thanks I received were more than enough to tell me.

Now to enjoy my time before I have to go home. Before I have to leave Bucky.

************

next chapter >

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[drariellevalentine]

Medically Inevitable

Chapter 2- Scintillating Second Days

Characters:- Arielle Valentine, Bryce Lahela, Sienna Trinh, Elijah Greene, Landry Olsen, Ethan Ramsey, Ines Delarosa, Naveen Banerji

Arielle’s PoV:-

You wake up to one of your favourite angst songs, “Please Don’t Go”, by Joel Adams. “Hmm, good morning to me!” You stretch your legs and half blindly walk to your suite’s bathroom while slipping on a pair of AirPods- a small gift that Adrian gave. You hum along to the song while stripping off last night’s clothes and slip on your favourite silk robe. Proceeding along with your morning routine which consists of washing your face, brushing and flossing and lastly a cup of green tea with honey and lemon, you head to the balcony to find a mesmerising sunrise. You savour the tangy taste of the tea as it hits your dry throat. You find yourself belting out the last few lines of the song, using the balcony railing as a piano for your skilled fingers. Checking the time, you head into the shower. Steam rolls off the water as it comes cascading down. You step inside the rather luxurious shower, taking off your robe. Pumping your favourite shampoo of vanilla and cinnamon in your hand, you massage it into your scalp and pin it up while you lather and rinse off the rest of your body. Turning on the water, you let your hands sift through your hair, slowly rinsing it. You let yesterday’s events get washed away with the warm water that rinses your whole body. Ringing the excess water from your hair, you dry yourself with a towel, wrapping your head in a towel and your body in a wool robe. You blast a few of your favourite tunes while you do your hair, deciding to pin it up with a braided half-up, after drying and massaging in a leave-in conditioner. You get dressed, an off shoulder lace top with a pair of leggings, walk to the cafe for breakfast and get in your Lexus, grabbing your mini backpack.

General PoV:-

Arielle parks her car and slides out, heading to the staff entrance, where she sees a bunch of interns playing basketball. The ball skitters to her feet. A muscular intern yells, “Are you going pass it back or what? She scoffs. Little do they know, she’s been trained in self-defence and gymnastics her whole life and decides to give them a show. She sprints towards the court, dropping her backpack, jumps up and dunks the ball. The interns whistle and cheer. “How’s that?”, she asks. The same intern who teased her is impressed. “Damn! Was not expecting that! I’m Dr. Bryce Lahela, surgical resident.”

“Scalpel jockey huh! That explains the arrogance. I’m Arielle Valentine, internal medicine.”

“Well Dr. Valentine, would your very skilful self like to join us for a round or two?”, he asks feigning respect. “I would, but my shift starts in a few minutes. See you later, Bryce.” He replies with a wave. Arielle heads to the locker room to find a rather cheerful Sienna and three sleep deprived interns. “Hey Ari! Can I call you Ari?”, Sienna innocently asks.

“Yes you can.”, Arielle replies. “Tone it down!”, Jackie says. “I baked some cookies. Sugar helps combat sleep deprivation.” Sienna hands out the chocolate chip cookies. Everyone praises and thanks Sienna for the cookies. “How do you manage to look like you slept for 10 hours, Arielle?”, asks Elijah. Arielle doesn’t want to lie, at the same time she doesn’t want to boast that she is rich. Before she can reply, “She’s rich you dumbass, but too kind for her own good to rub it in our faces. It’s kind of refreshing actually. Especially with Princess Nepotism.”, says Jackie. Arielle smiles, “Thanks Jackie, and yes I am quite well off. Anyways, I found an apartment that fits our requirements. Wheelchair friendly, near the T, 5 bedrooms. Listing price is 5k. I already spoke with the landlord and visited the place. We can go there, but on one condition. I get the master bedroom. I’ll pay extra if you want.”

“Why do need so much space? I take it back.”, says Jackie. “It’s nothing like that, I already bought a bunch of furniture for my apartment which includes my bedroom and balcony. Plus I have a piano.”, says Arielle.

“Okay then that settles it! Arielle already bought furniture which saves us a lot of time and expenses plus none of us need that much space.”, says Sienna. Jackie apologies saying that she was wrong about Arielle. “We’ll meet up in the parking lot after our shifts. I’ll drive us there.”, says Arielle.

Arielle’s PoV:-

"I hope they are nice. I have heard stories of residents making interns' lives hell," I say as we head towards the atrium.

"That's why you've gotta give as good as you can," Jackie smirks.

"I think that's them," Landry says nodding his in the direction where two doctors are standing.

Dr. Delarosa from the other day spots us standing in a corner. "Oh hi!" She beams,"Over here, with the other interns."

We walk towards them as they start giving their introductory speech.

"Do take your time. We've got all day!" The other doctor yells sarcastically at us and we hurry towards them.

"It's so lovely to see so many new faces ready for exciting adventures! I’m Dr. Delarosa, but to you. I'm just Ines!" Dr. Delarosa says when we approach them.

"And I'm Dr. Zaid Mirani. We've got your cases for the day. Come and get on."

"Do not ask me for something better than what you get. will treat you like you don't exist," He adds. God, this guy has a temper!

As the other intern starts to get their cases from either, I approach Ines to get my case. She seems nice and is way too better than the guy.

"Hi Dr. Valentine! Remember, we met yesterday?" Ines smiles while handing me a file.

"Of course! And you can call me Arielle," I say taking the file from her.

"Zaid and I will be your mentor during your intern year. We'll assign and monitor your closet and help you if you run into any problems," she explains. "Our purpose is to teach and guide you. Think of us as your safety net, okay? No matter what, we'll get through this together."

I smile at her before leaving her to help the other interns. By that time Jackie is finished talking with Dr. Mirani too.

"What was he like?" I ask her while waiting for the others to collect their cases.

"Ass. What about Ines?"

"Bubblegum-rainbows, incarnate," I smile.

"Gross. I'll take the ass." She snorts and I laugh.

By the time Elijah and Landry joins us the residents are done distributing the charts.

"Now that you've all got your cases, go forth and shine bright," Ines says, her infectious smile never leaving.

"What are you waiting for? A red carpet? Move, for god's sake!" Zaid scowls at us.

The interns scramble, moving to their designated patients.

A few hours later, you realise you’ve been paged for rounds a few minutes ago on the 4th floor, and you happen to be on the 14th floor for labs. “Crap! You flee down the flights of stairs and make your way to the fourth floor.

Ethan’s PoV:-

You decide you join this year’s batch of interns’ first rounds. You tell yourself, “It’s just to make sure the intern don’t kill anybody.” But deep down, you know it’s to sneak another glance at an owner of a pair of vivid violet eyes. You take the elevator to the 4th floor, just in time to inform Dr. Delarosa that you’ll be joining rounds. Her eyes flicker with surprise but doesn’t say anything.

You reach the 4th floor and before you can stop yourself, you find your eyes scanning the bunch of interns for a certain intern but she’s not there. You frown in confusion until a strong waft of vanilla and cinnamon hit you. You turn around and there she is, her almond eyes wide, cheeks flushed and lips slightly open, breathless.

“Sorry I’m late, Dr. Delarosa. I was on the 14th floor.” She doesn’t seem to notice me.

“It’s alright, Dr. Valentine. Make sure it doesn’t happen again.”, Ines says.

“Gather round interns...” She explains to the interns how rounds work.

“Today, Dr. Ramsey will be joining us!”

“Let’s see who the interns kill today.”, I say.

Arielle scoffs. “Anything you would like to say, Dr. Valentine?” The interns suddenly starts whispering among themselves. You roll your eyes, expecting Arielle to deny.

“Actually yes, Dr. Ramsey. It’s only our second day. You don’t have to joke about our careers to shake our confidence.” You’re surprised. Ines gulps.

“Has your confidence been shaken?”

“No, but I can’t say the same for others.”

“Well, what I say is absolutely nothing compared to what you will face here at Edenbrook.”-

“Haha! Let’s get back to rounds.”, Ines laughs nervously.

“Well, why don’t we start with your patient Dr. Valentine.”

You lead the doctors to a patient’s room. “Are my eyes multiplying?”, the patient asks.

“Good Afternoon, Mr. Knoblauch. They multiply, it’s horrible.”, says Dr. Ramsey with absolutely no remorse. His son plays on the room’s floor, unaware of the sudden crowd. Mike apologies for the noise his son makes and explains that he has ADHD.

“Everyone, this is Mike Knoblauch, age 43, my patient with Dr. Olsen.” You gesture Landry to start presenting. He starts presenting but stammers, you do your best to help him but he doesn’t improve.

“He’ll be forty-four by the time you’re done.”, Dr. Ramsey says.

You quickly swoop in and present the case yourself. “At least one of you knows how to speak. You continue with rounds with the rest of the interns.

“Hey Arielle?”

“Yeah Landry?”

“I know you were trying to help me, but next time just give me a little more time.”

“I did Landry, I also gave you clues but you didn’t say anything. That’s why I stepped in. You can’t expect me to give away our whole presentation. If you don’t say anything, it still affects me.

“You’re right Arielle. I’m sorry.”

“It’s all right. Just make sure you prepare next time. Alright, I have to go, bye!”

You check on some of your other patients until your pager beeps with a result for Mike’s labs.

You consult with Landry and figure out the answer. You inform Ines and Mike, and plan a treatment for him.

After your shift dwindles to an end, you change into your previous outfit and meet up with your friends at the entrance.

General PoV:-

“Ready? Wait here, let me get my car.” Arielle jogs down the parking lot and appears a few minutes later, driving a Lexus. “Damn! Nice car, Arielle.”, says Elijah. “Thanks Elijah, now I can drop you off anytime we have the same shift. Same goes for all of you. There’s no use of being rich if you don’t use it to help other people.” “I call shotgun!”, says Elijah. Jackie helps him into the seat while the rest of them slide in. Arielle turns on the radio and drives. They reach the place in a few minutes. “Looks nice!”, Sienna exclaims. They enter the building and take the elevator to the top floor, where the landlord is waiting.

“Ms. Raines, glad you could make it. Please come in.” Arielle’s friends share a confused look. Arielle flinches and whisperers, “I’ll explain.” Everyone goes in and tours the place. They decided on their bedrooms, Arielle having the master bedroom and bathroom, Landry and Elijah share a bathroom and so does Sienna and Jackie. They finish off the deal, leaving only the gang in the empty hall.

Arielle’s PoV:-

“So..... you going to tell us why you were called Miss Raines?”, asks Landry.

You sigh. “So the truth is...” you tell them about your family and how you used your influence to lower the rent of the top floor apartment. “That’s really sweet Arielle, but I can’t believe The Adrian Raines is your brother!”, exclaims Sienna. “I know, I didn’t want to bring him in but this was the only apartment that was wheelchair friendly and had 5 bedrooms. You guys have been so nice to me I wanted to repay the favour.”, you say. “Group hug!” Sienna brings a recluctant Jackie and everyone else into a hug.

A week later...

You’re setting up your bedroom like everyone else. This past week, you’ve been slowly setting up the furniture and decor in the apartment while letting everyone crash in your suite. “And... that’s the last of it!”, Sienna exclaims while arranging the decor in the living room. “Soft bed... here I come!”, exclaims Landry. Everyone heads off onto their bedrooms. You head into your blush with pearl and gold accent bedroom.

You’re emptying out your bag when you realise that your ID badge is missing. “Shit! I must have left it at the hospital!”, you curse. You explain to Sienna that you don’t want Dr. Ramsey to have another reason to shout at her and head to Edenbrook. You’re digging through the surprisingly neat lost and found when your face catches your name. “Aha! Found it!” You’re about to get up when you hear shouting. Instinctively, you run and hide behind the nurses’ station. You see Dr. Ramsey yelling at someone but can’t see who. You’re about to make a run for the exit when you see him. Your godfather. No, your father, your actual father doesn’t give a damn about you. This man is...was your father since you were a child since your actual father was too busy burying himself in his work. You gasp and quickly clamp a hand over your mouth. You know they’re fighting but you can’t focus on what they’re saying. Your mind is overwhelmed with memories flooding it, you run and don’t look back. You get in your car and slam the door, speeding away. You park a block away to catch your breath. Exhaling, you drive back to the apartment. “Did you find it?” You look up to see Sienna whipping up something in the kitchen. “Yeah, I did. Thank God, or else I would be screwed!”, you say trying to smile as genuinely as possible. She doesn’t sense anything amiss. You wish her good night and enter your bedroom. You reminisce of the happy times as you get ready for bed. Slipping on a silken pajama set, You set an alarm and tuck yourself under the covers. You know you’ll have to face him someday, but you can’t help but wonder if he’ll accept you.

[imagine-loki]

Stubborn Independence

TITLE: Stubborn Independence 

  CHAPTER NO./ONE SHOT: 7/10

AUTHOR: brightsun-and-darkmidnight

  ORIGINAL IMAGINE: 

Imagine Loki struggling to adjust to someone who is independent and insists on paying for themselves all the time, even if it is a struggle sometimes. They need to do everything on their own. They never ask for help and refuse help. Just imagine Loki really wanting to spoil this person. Imagine how creative he would get to make life easier on this person who has captivated him.

+

Imagine being a talented singer at your local club. Loki comes in one night with Thor and the others (he’d rather be anywhere else but who turns down free drinks?) and gets ensnared in the voice of the beautiful singer on stage. Suddenly, his interest (and arousal) are more than piqued.

+

Imagine getting into a petty fight with Loki, so in retaliation, he puts everything on the top shelf where you can’t reach? 

  AUTHOR’S NOTES: College AU. Loki is determined to take over Odin’s company. He works hard and has a strict schedule for success. However, with the interference of Thor and the other four, Loki’s plans are often interrupted so they can play matchmaker.

  My Ao3: brightsun_and_darkmidnight

 ~ ~ ENJOY  ~ ~

“Niagara Falls here we come!” Sirena cheered once everyone was ready to get in the cars.

  It was a long drive but being in Sirena’s vehicle was all the entertainment he needed.

  With music playing on the radio for a little, then phones hooked up to play personal songs. Then to stay awake Sirena put on funny podcasts. There wasn’t a dull moment the the entire time. Once at the hotel they rested for a little then went to a restaurant to eat.

  Loki whispered to Sirena with a hand on her thigh to catch her attention. “Darling let me pay.”

  Sirena pouted but her eyes showed the thoughts going through her mind. “Can I buy you something as a souvenir?”

  Loki knew she had issues with being spoiled but they were making progress. With a little squeeze to her thigh, “Of course.”

  Tony had a pamphlet with the map of the falls and the trails.

  They all went to look at the shops for a while then when it got dark they went back to the hotel and relaxed, tired from the traveling and everyone wanted to get an early start tomorrow.

  Loki got a shower first then Sirena got hers. Loki was drying his hair with a towel when she came out. 

  Loki swallowed because she was in a tank top and short shorts. She was beautiful, especially her wonderful soft curves and thick thighs. Loki cursed himself as he had to think about something other than Sirena.

  She was blow drying her hair in all different parts to her hair.

  Loki had to know, “What are you doing?”

  “This is what I do to get my hair…” she flipped her hair dramatically, “flippy.”

  “So that is your secret to hair always looking nice.”

  “Yep. Come here I can do yours.”

  Loki went to her and sat in the desk chair of the room. Her fingers were gentle in his hair and he found himself relaxing until Sirena stopped for a second to turn off the dryer. Her fingers returned to Loki’s hair and massaged his scalp then shoulders. Loki was in bliss, he couldn’t recall the last time he had a massage.

  She commented quietly. “You carry a lot of stress…”

  Loki breathed relaxed, “Yeah.” He hummed once she found a good spot. “My father is planning on giving either Thor or I the company… Thor has been slacking and his grades are not the best.”

  Loki heard Sirena’s heavy sigh. “So that’s why you have been working so much at your job and programing more.”

  “Yes.” Loki’s pleased sounds made her laugh. “That feels really good.”

  Loki felt more pressure on a particular space on his shoulder blades that made him moan out. He heard her amusement as she spoke.

  “With the near sinful sounds coming out of you I wouldn’t be surprised of everyone’s idea of what we are doing.”

  “I haven’t had a massage in forever.”

  “My hands are getting tired. Do you want me to go over anything again?”

  Loki was grateful for the massage and put his hands on hers. He moved her to the front and hugged her with her in between his legs. Her hands went to his head and she smiled down at him.

  “I love you.”

  Sirena giggled. “I love you too.”

  Loki stood and gave her a kiss to which Sirena deepened. They were both out of breath by the time they separated.

  Loki seen the time and Sirena did too.

  Sirena asked, “I guess we should go to sleep?”

  Loki grumbled out of annoyance of his body’s reaction to the kiss. “If we want to get an early start.”

  Loki felt Sirena looking at him so he smiled and gave her head a kiss. Loki seen the forced smile she gave and watched her go to her bag. Loki went to his side of the bed as Sirena laid a blanket on her side.

  She spoke as she set up her area, “I am going to hog the blankets, kick you off the bed and punch you when you try to get it back. THAT is why I have this blanket.”

  Loki chuckled, “Even in your sleep you are a fireball.”

  “Yep. Unfortunate for you though.” Sirena laughed as she got in the bed.

  Sirena laid on her side to face him. “Goodnight Loki.”

  “Goodnight Sirena.”

  The night was hell for Loki. 

  Sirena was peacefully asleep while Loki fought for his blanket. Eventually he abandoned the bed to set the thermostat up higher so there would be no need for blankets… but then Sirena wouldn’t stop moving, thus keeping him up. He decided to hold onto her to try and keep her still and thankfully it worked.

  When Loki woke due to alarms. His body ached and Sirena was still sound asleep. With a groan Loki went to his phone to snooze the alarm. He cuddled with Sirena again and once the hotel alarm clock went off Sirena groaned. Loki moved away so she could stretch to turn the alarm off.

  Sirena had a silly smile, “Did you hold me all night?”

  Loki yawned before answering. “No. But I will start tonight off that way. It was like I was sleeping with a tornado.”

  Sirena groaned, “Oh my god its so hot.”

  Loki went to adjust the thermostat. “I put the heat on so I didn’t need to wrestle you for the blanket.”

  “Was I that bad?”

  Loki held back the growl. “I don’t mean to sound rude but yes. The only way to keep you still was to hold you.”

  She looked sheepish, “sorry.” She got up and went to her bag, getting clothes and walked to the bathroom. “Do you want to lay down and I can go get breakfast for you?”

  “I will be ok. I will drink some caffeine." 

  Loki went to get his clothes ready as Sirena was in the bathroom. His body hurt in odd places and every time he would move his neck it would crack and his back felt like it needed an adjustment. Last night was not easy and he hopped tonight would be better. 

  Loki needed to apologize to her for his short responses. He knew he would be fine after breakfast but he still felt terrible.

  She came out of the bathroom looking beautiful as always but she was noticeably upset.

  "Sirena I am sorry for my abrupt responses. I will be fine after breakfast.”

  “Its ok. I know I am not the best at sharing a bed with.” She gave him a big smile, “thanks for the apology. That means so much.”

  Loki kissed her forehead before going to the bathroom.

  The day had a ton of walking which did nothing to help with the aches of his body but he made it through with the excitement of Sirena and her picture taking. The falls were an impressive sight and breathtaking beautiful. Also deafening loud when they were going through the caves but Sirena was obviously enjoying herself. Anytime there was a picture opportunity, there was a picture taken. Loki was looking forward to get back home to see the pictures on his computer.

  There were a few shops they went into and Sirena bought him a huge mug that came with a spoon for his tea.

  Loki held the mug and cheerfully said, “Thank you.”

  Tony called for everyone’s attention, “Where does everyone wanna eat tonight?”

  Sirena shrugged at Loki as everyone threw ideas around. Loki got to pay for dinner again and that was what mattered most.

  After getting back to the hotel and got ready for bed, Loki held Sirena and sleep went much better than last night. 

  The vacation was great and seemed to give Sirena the boost she needed to get back to working constantly. Loki admitted he loved spending all that time together and was looking forward to the next vacation. The pictures came out great and they were added to her collection of vacation photos.

  Once the new semester started Loki valued each moment he could get with Sirena.

[zabrak-show]

Blood of the Sith

Summary:

Kudra Deschain is a young pilot working for a trade company out of Coruscant. Her next trade route to Mustafar, ends up being a fiery life changing revelation to the dark side of the force, where she meets Maul, a Sith apprentice to Darth Sidious.

Notes:

This is pre phantom menace, by like maybe a couple years. I had fun writing this, but it's just for fun so hopefully no one takes this too seriously and gets mad at me for depicting Maul in a way they don't like, or not having some other random spec incorrect. I wanted to show a softer side to Maul. Probably NSFW, but there's nothing that graphic as I am a secret prude.

A huge thank you to my fiance for helping me out with some of the technical aspects as well as the story writing. And thank you to all my friends who have not only put up with me talking about my dumb Maul story for the past few months while I slowly chipped away at it, but encouraged me to continue. Sorry it’s such a slow burn, please hang in there I swear Maul shows up soon lol!!

7 chapters all together. 12.7k words (total for all 7 chapters combined)

Chapter 1

The metal floor plates quietly vibrated as the YT-1000 entered the Coruscant atmosphere. The pilots were a young woman with pale skin and long black hair, and a young male twi’lek with orange skin. They wore similar black jumpsuits and even seated at the helm it was obvious the twi’lek would tower over the woman.

“So Kudra, what are you planning to get yourself into now that we’re back from that mess?” The twi’lek asked with a smirk.

“Mess?” She replied, dodging the question, “I had everything under control the whole time.”

A green and gold astromech droid wheeled in to beep his counter and the twi’lek laughed and asked, “Your droid really loves to call you out. Why do you still keep that old thing around?”

Kudra busied herself with checking all the landing sensors and grumbled back, “That droid has proven useful on every run we’ve done. Plus, I like her sarcastic attitude.” She was cautious to not make it obvious the droid was her only friend and constant in her life the last 10 years.

“Have you set up the meeting then with Krass? After we land I won’t have much time to…”

“Yes Kudra,” The twi’lek cut her off and she shot an icy glare his way, “Krass will be ready and waiting for us so you can go off on your secret missions or whatever it is you do.”

Kudra sat in silence while they came into the landing bay. Why did he always get so mad she didn’t want to hang out with the team after a job? They just spent 2 weeks on this crusty cargo ship together. They both deserved to do whatever they wanted on their own.

As promised, Krass was there waiting for them, once they got off their ship. He was a tall weequay with leathery brown skin and knotted blonde hair. He always tried to look higher class than he was, which made him look tacky in Kudra’s opinion. He wore his usual worn out and dated long red leather coat with tarnished brass buttons and knee high black boots over canvas pants. He stuck out like a sore thumb on the landing bay amongst the muted flight suits of most everyone else.

Krass and the twi’lek discussed unloading the cargo and routine maintenance with the landing crew while Kudra checked in on L0-K1.

“Make sure these maintenance droids don’t mess anything up while I’m gone.” She said as she stooped down to wipe grease from the droid’s arm. L0 beeped and wheeled away.

Kudra stood in the back against the wall of Krass’ small, now crowded office. The whole team was probably over 40 people, but he only held the meetings for pilots, engineers, and copilots so 13 of them all together. A low hum of conversations between everyone enveloped the room until Krass spoke up to start the meeting. The room quieted and he gave his usual fanfare speech while explaining everyone’s next jobs. A sinking feeling hit Kudra in the gut as she realized her name hadn’t been called. She could not afford any time off right now, and as far as she knew she hadn’t done anything wrong lately. As it seemed like the meeting was wrapping up, Krass remembered her, “Ah yes Kudra, I haven’t forgotten you. You’ll be taking the Z95 to the outer rim for a small but important job.”

Kudra nodded her head, “Yes, Sir.”

Slowly, everyone filed out of the room and Krass caught her arm as she neared the door.

“Listen,I know you just got back, but if you can leave right away, it’d be a huge help. I’d consider your ship, the YT1000, paid in full after the job got done. If you do it right of course.” He finished sternly now forcibly grabbing the top of her shoulder.

“Sure,” Kudra responded coolly, “I can leave as soon as the ship’s ready. What’s the mission?”

He loosened his grip, “Top secret.” he stared into her green eyes as if to search for a reason he might be wrong about sending her on this mission, finally removing his hand from her shoulder and looking away.

“You’ll be going to Mustafar to trade with a mining collective there. In and out, easy peasy. It’s hotter than blazes there and not like some desert planet. It’s covered in lava so pick up some protective clothing, ‘fore you head out. I’ve already deposited more than enough credits for ya to prepare. Any questions?”

Kudra thought for a moment, “Naw, just load the information onto L0 about which landing bay to aim for and who the point of contact will be. Thanks for trusting me captain, I won’t let you down.” The weequay sprung to life suddenly and patted Kudra so hard on her back it made her cough. “Enjoy your night and I’ll let you know when the ship’s ready.”

Kudra pulled the covers up around her, pulling it off the naked sleeping man next to her in bed. She quietly packed her bags and got dressed. She debated on waking him up, and tripped over an Alderaanian wine bottle, spinning it across the floor and making a loud clank against a metal chair leg. Well, I guess that’ll wake him, she figured. He rubbed his eyes and yawned. He was really quite handsome, dark brown skin and curly brown hair with scruffy facial hair like he’d forgotten to shave.

“Hi gorgeous, are you leaving already?” he looked up at her from the bed.

“Yes,” Kudra responded plainly. “Apologies for waking you.” She started to pick up his clothes to hand him and he grabbed her for a kiss, causing her to lose her balance and fall into him, kissing him deeply and forgetting herself for a moment.

“I’m sorry” she said, pulling away, “this was fun. I do need to get going though.”

“Right,” he shrugged her off and got dressed in awkward silence.

Kudra made it to the ship bay just in time. Krass was waiting with L0.

“Ok, you’re all set with coordinates.”

“Great, thanks Krass,” she started to crawl up the boarding ladder.

“Kudra, wait.” She stopped and turned her head toward him.

“I didn’t mention it earlier, but” he paused to look around them as he handed her a small black velvet pouch, “this is very important and very secretive. Never take it off your person, until you meet your point of contact. It’s worth your very life.” He stuffed the bag in her hand and didn’t let go for a moment.

“So what, is this the actual cargo?” she looked at him skeptically.

“You could say that. Don’t let it into the wrong hands. It’s imperative it gets to our contact person.” he shook his hand holding hers and the pouch.

“Ok, I’ll make sure your old “friend” gets their prize.” she joked with a wink.

“Please, Kudra. This isn’t a joke. No funny business with the clientele this time. You won’t always have someone like me to get you out of your lovelorn messes.”

Kudra’s cheeks burned red hot and her heart raced. How dare he treat her like this, like some mischievous star crossed lover. She covered the anger up with her voice keeping it as cool sounding as she could, “Of course. In and out, business as usual.” She turned to crawl back up the ladder, and Krass was still standing there and yelled after her, “No. NOT business as usual! Professional this time please!” Kudra kept climbing, “Yup you got it Captain. You know I always get the job done one way or another.” She and L0 boarded the Z95 at last. She tied the bag to her belt and got ready for take off.

“What’s the worst that could happen, L0?” she asked the droid as they exited the Coruscant atmosphere. L0 responded, likely with an actual answer to the worst things that could happen and Kudra laughed.

After about an hour into their journey, Kudra remembered the weird encounter with Krass before they left. She opened the pouch to see what was so important inside. L0, beeped her opposition.

“Chill out, L0, I’m just seeing what it is that is so important. I’ll put them right back in the pouch.” She dumped the pouch contents into her palm. Two pyramid shaped, black and gold objects fell into her hand. She noticed there was some type of inscription on the sides of the pyramids. Somehow they felt heavier outside of the bag than inside of it.

“Wow, what do you think these are? Some kind of puzzle?” she asked L0 and the droid screeched a response.

“Ha ha yeah, I suppose my life should be worth more than a couple puzzles.” She slipped them back into the bag and tied it to her waist again.

“Alright, L0, we’re getting close. Narrow in on our coordinates before we get out of hyperspace.”

Kudra tied her long black hair back, revealing a portion of her head shaved and a tattoo of a convor. The ship came out of hyperspace near Mustafar, but in the middle of an electrical storm. The ship controls went erratic and every sensor that could beep started beeping.

“Woah, L0 what the hell is going on? I can barely get into a landing pattern.” Kudra weaved in and out with the barely working steering controls, trying to avoid the erratic lightning happening all around them.

“Why does this shit only ever happen in the outer rim?!” She was desperately trying everything as they started to enter the atmosphere, “L0 please fix our navigation plot, I can’t see anything!” L0 chirped, but the ship was struck by lightning, flickering their main power and everything went dark, the controls went dead.

“That can’t be good! I’ve gotta land L0, find me something to land on, find a way to SLOW us down.” Another lightning strike on the ship and power flickered on for a moment. Enough for Kudra to take some controls and slow the ship down. Everything happened so fast and she was doing everything not to panic and to just focus to try and find any type of solution. She had to use all her strength to try and guide the ship with what little power they had. All Kudra could see was lava. “Is there anything NOT lava on this dumb planet??” she screamed and L0 screamed back at her. She found a landing, but they were coming in way too hot. It was the best they could hope for, so she made the descent.

The initial impact onto the scorched ground completely obliterated one of the wings and most of the rest of the ship was torn up beyond recognition. They were sliding and spinning out of control until finally a bed of lava stopped the ship. What was left of the back of the ship was up in flames as the lava ate away at them. No time to think other than “escape” Kudra began kicking the canopy to try and free both of them. She was running on pure adrenaline as she could feel the ship slipping further and further into the lava, the flames getting hotter and hotter. It started to feel hopeless, so Kudra took a moment to focus every part of her on getting out of the burning ship. A deep breath in, eyes shut, and a strong kick thrusted the canopy off the ship and Kudra jumped out and fell onto the burnt ground. L0 flew out after her with a shriek and an ungraceful tumble next to her sounding like an empty can.

“Woah, L0, you look like shit.” Kudra coughed out, while starting to stand. L0 wheezed a response

“I know, I feel like shit too. Thankfully I have these ugly threads to keep me cool.” she looked down at the black and dark green thick formless robes draped over herself and then back at the ship melting and burning into the lava pool as she lowered her goggles over her eyes. The reality hit her again, and she realized how bad this was. The ship was gone. They were in the middle of nowhere on a lava covered planet. The ship let out a final death rattle as the lava engulfed it entirely and Kudra fell to her knees. Well, this was maybe the worst that could happen.

They started walking, with no real apparent plan other than to maybe find somewhere that wasn’t covered in lava.

“Do we even know how to get to the mining collective from here? What was the contact person’s name?”

L0 chirped the answer.

“Ok, I am choosing to ignore the distance we are from them, but Uane’s the name so we got that.” Kudra sighed deeply. She was too exhausted to keep up any sort of positive charade.

“We need to get out of this heat. Let’s see if we can find a cave over in those cliffs.” Kudra pointed off into the distance a series of cliffs that normally probably wouldn’t take longer than 20 minutes to walk to, but in this heat it was hard to say.

L0 beeped conversationally.

“Listen, I realize if I had taken Krass up on his original offer years ago, I’d be unhappily married but with a ship. And not here. That much I realize. What’s your point?”

Another prodding chirp from L0.

“Settle down? With Krass? Are you out of your mind? I do just fine on my own without looking after some useless old person all the time. This heat is really melting your brain, L0.”

L0 continued prodding Kudra with past mistakes she had made. Kudra wished she could punch a droid and have it do anything other than hurt her own hand.

“L0, what is your deal? We’ve been over this. Why are you always bringing up that deal on Corellia? The whole thing worked out a lot better, actually BECAUSE of me.”

L0 whirred in disbelief.

“Yes I stabbed Crix Harend! As you’ll remember he attacked me. At the time, I had no idea that was his wife in my bed.”

The droid buzzed on about this Correllian from Kudra’s past.

“I actually don’t think Crix ever found out about me and his brother. Anyway that was so long ago. Why can’t you let it go? We still managed to trade our cargo with them in the end.”

L0 wasn’t letting it go and starting to get on Kudra’s last nerve.

“Yes, because I slept with Crix too. What is with you right now?” She screamed at the droid.

They walked on and on in mostly silence now as Kudra was mad at L0 and also too exhausted and shell shocked to make commentary. As thankful as she was to have been warned about the heat and having the right clothing for this planet, something told her they weren’t meant for all day frolicking in the lush lava fields.

Mustafar felt like hell. Every breath was fire on Kudra’s lungs, every step reminded her of all the pain, mostly physical, but her mental game wasn’t so strong right now either. She trudged on and on, L0 whirring quietly behind her. At last, they found a cave to hide in. It wound pretty far back through some tunnels, but that was good. The further in they went the cooler and darker it got. L0 lit up the cave with a small flashlight attachment as Kudra made a makeshift pillow and blanket with her capes and passed out.

Next chapter

[dreamlover31]

Love Will Find a Way: Chapter 24

It had been a few weeks since the awkward encounter at the farmer’s market, life continued as normal for Alexa and Rafael, he fought for people who had been victimized by every form of scum you can imagine while she provided a safe haven for them. Recently, some additional security was hired on at Alexa’s insistence, even though it would be strictly on a volunteer basis since the shelter was on a limited budget, in the beginning, she grew concerned that the men would decline the offer, but to her amazement; they reassured her that doing their civic duty was far more rewarding than anything else.

As she was going over the safety procedures, a hand crept up her shoulder, when she turned around, the look on her face was one of surprise and profound excitement at the sight of Rafael holding a bouquet of white lilies. Alexa’s smile beamed at the romantic gesture, after he handed her the flowers, she sniffed at the fresh smelling aroma that emitted from the petals.

“Oh Rafi, their beautiful…thank you,” she leaned forward and planted a kiss on his cheek.

“Your welcome mi amor, are you ready to go?”

“Oh yeah, just give a minute”

Alexa excused herself and headed over to Gladys’ office, but was stunned to find that she wasn’t there, at that moment, she caught another one of the staff members walking down the hall; her hand stretched out at and tapped the co-worker’s shoulder.

“Hey, have you seen Gladys?”

“She said she had to leave early, I think she said it was a family emergency or something”

“Oh…well can you do me a favor? Can you finish going over the safety procedures with the new security guards we hired?”

“Sure, no problem”

“Thanks”

She gave the young woman the clipboard with the safety protocols and guidelines attached then made her way back to the area where Rafael and the guards were standing, she apologized for having to leave but assured them that her fellow co-worker would finish prepping them and if there were any questions, to leave them with the young woman.

All three of them shook hands and said their goodbyes as Rafael and Alexa exited the building, the SUV was parked across the street, as soon as they entered the vehicle, their seatbelts were securely fastened while Rafael started the engine. He checked his blind spots for any oncoming traffic, once it was cleared, the car was put into gear and departed from the spot.

“So where are you taking me to lunch?”

“Actually, I have a little something planned at home”

“Oh, that’s even better…it’ll be more intimate, you know…just the two of us,” her hand slid across the dashboard and linked with Rafael’s.

“Uh, yeah…sure”

Alexa’s face expressed puzzlement at his odd choice of words, but decided to shrug it off, the front of the brownstone was immediately in their line of sight, once the car was parked; Rafael was the first to get out and then walked over to the passenger side where he escorted her from the vehicle and up the steps, during which, she reiterated to him that she was more than capable of moving on her own.

When the door opened, she slipped off her purse and hung it on the coat rack, but after she took a few steps into the dining room, her body shifted to a position where it was as if she had stared into the eyes of Medusa.

“Surprise!”

Alexa was completely awestruck at what she was seeing, the room was covered in pink streamers and balloons, there were stacks of gifts along the table and a three-tiered cake covered in pink frosting with a signage that read ‘It’s a girl’ to match the banner that stretched along the wall behind the crowd of people that stood before her, tears pricked from her eyes as she placed a hand over her mouth.

It was then that Rafael came up behind her and put his arm around her, streaks of liquid flowed down her cheeks as her hand went from her mouth to her chest in an expression of the deep gratitude and love she felt for everyone in the room; Fin, Amanda, Sonny, Jesse, and even Chief Dodds were in attendance along with Gladys. Olivia came up to her with a small tiara, Alexa let out a small laugh as she put the bejeweled piece of headwear on her head, the women embraced themselves in a hug.

“Thank you all so much”

“Of course, we are all so happy for you and Rafael, we wanted to share in that joy”

“All right everyone, let’s get this party under way,” they all laughed in unison at Sonny’s playful announcement.

Rafael pulled up a chair behind Alexa, she carefully seated herself while at the same time, the guests huddled up next to one another; Amanda took it upon herself to pass out the first gift, she gently ripped the wrapping paper decorated in baby rattles and rubber ducks to find a small white box, upon lifting the top portion of it, Alexa gasped in awe at the collection of tiny shirts and pants color coated for a girl, but the one piece of clothing that attracted her attention was a cute little pink onesie that had a picture of baby Minnie Mouse in the front.

“Oh Amanda, this is so cute”

“Thanks, hope you don’t mind Jesse’s hand me downs”

“No, not at all”

The next gift that was given to her was from Olivia, after she unwrapped the small package, the same look of astonishment beguiled her as she gazed upon the item, it was a miniaturized version of a carousel with white horses whose manes were of pink and purple hues. After further inspection, Alexa saw the small knob at the bottom of it, with a few turns, the horses encircled the carousel as the song beautiful dreamer played.

“Wow, Olivia…this is so sweet, thank you”

“Your welcome,” once again, the two women embraced in another hug.

An hour passed, Alexa went through most of the gifts, many of them varied from clothes and toys to baby monitors and a breast pumping machine; courtesy of Gladys. The atmosphere of the party was filled with an overall sense of joy and happiness, Alexa’s heart swelled at the outpouring of emotion, the likes of which she hadn’t felt since that Thanksgiving night when those same people showed up at their door with plentiful portions of food and their warm and kind affections.

Suddenly, the festivities were interrupted by the sound of the doorbell ringing, Sonny got up from his seat and said that he would answer it, during his absence, everyone had a small plate in their hands with plastic forks digging into the pink frosted cake that had been cut up and passed around. Alexa was finishing up a small portion of her cake when she looked up to see Sonny standing in the doorway with a young blonde woman, everyone else met her stare as he introduced the woman as his cousin Sara.

All of them exchanged hellos and waves, then Sonny lead her to an open chair next to him.

“Hey, I thought that new guy you’re seeing was going to stop by”

“He is, he’ll be here any min…her train of thought was interrupted by the doorbell ringing again.

“I’ll get it”

Another gift was nestled on Alexa’s lap as Sonny answered the door, she was midway into unwrapping it when she saw Sonny’s cousin leap up from her chair and darted across the room and dove into the arms of some mystery man, she concluded that the man in question was possibly her boyfriend. Slowly, she released him from her grasp and faced everyone.

“Everyone, I’d like you to meet my boyfriend”

Alexa’s heart stopped as her eyes looked upon the man that stood in the doorway, oh god…this can’t be happening, please anybody but him. A feeling of dread overcame her when she came to the realization that Sara’s boyfriend was none other than her ex Sean, he quickly waved to everyone as the couple made their way across the room, and sat down a few feet away from Rafael and Alexa, when they met eyes, Sean tried to keep the look of shock from forming on his face.

Sara relayed to everyone that they’ve been together for a few months and went on to describe how he’s the most loving and supportive boyfriend she’s ever known, meanwhile, Alexa grew increasingly uncomfortable being in Sean’s presence, she shifted in her seat, to which it caught Rafael’s eye.

“Are you ok?”

“Yeah, I just need a glass of water”

“Alright, I’ll get it for you”

“No, it’s ok…I’ll get it,” Alexa lifted from her seat using the armrests for support, then she squeezed pass Fin and Sonny as she entered the kitchen. She grabbed a glass from the top cupboard and held it under the faucet of the sink, the water filled up halfway when a blur came across her peripheral vision, a startled reaction overtook Alexa.

“Jesus”

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to scare you”

“Is there something I can help you with,” the tone of her voice was apparent to him that it was one of sarcasm.

“I just wanted to make sure you were ok…you almost looked like you were about to keel over when I came into the room”

“I’m sorry…it’s just…I didn’t expect to see you again”

“Yeah…me neither…look Lex, about what happened at the market…”

“Sean, please”

“No, I need to say this… when I saw you, there were so many things that I wanted to say, but my brain just couldn’t form the words…anyway, I’m sorry for the way things went down between us. What I did to you was unforgivable and before I left…I wanted to tell you how sorry I was, but I knew that you didn’t want to hear it”

Alexa faced away Sean and remained silent as he continued to voice his apologies and affirmations that he was a changed man, that his relationship with Sara was a solid one and that he could see a future with her, for what seemed like 10 minutes passed by before Alexa looked up at Sean.

“Well…I’m glad that you’re happy, and I hope things work out between you two, just remember that her cousin’s a cop”

Alexa and Sean giggled, their gaze didn’t falter, it was then that Sean smiled softly.

“Wow, I think that’s the first time I’ve seen you smile since I’ve got here”

Alexa lowered her head to conceal the flush of pink that spread across her face.

“Hey look, I know that this is a long shot, but if you ever want to get together and grab a cup of coffee…his voice trailed off as he reached into his pocket and pulled out his phone.

“I was just hoping that maybe…I don’t know…we could start fresh”

Alexa thought for a moment, oh wow…this is awkward, I mean I don’t think it would be appropriate for me to…but then again, Sean and I have been over for a long time…so I guess it wouldn’t hurt just to have his number, not like I’m ever going to call him anyway.

“Ok…I guess that would be fine”

Alexa stepped over to one of the drawers under the counter and pulled out a small piece of scrap paper and a pen, Sean gave her the number as she scribbled it, then she folded it up and stuffed it inside her jean pocket.

“We should probably be heading back, people might start to worry”

She nodded, the two made their way back into the dining room where they returned to their seats, Rafael turned to Alexa and said:

“There you are, I was worried about you…everything alright?”

“Yes, I’m sorry…I didn’t mean to upset you”

“No, it’s ok,” he stroked her hair and then gently kissed her forehead.

As time went on, the guests enjoyed a few more helpings of the delicious, pink frosted cake while Alexa unwrapped the rest of the gifts, after partaking in some humorous games one played at a baby shower, one by one; people started to leave the party.

Olivia was ultimately the last to leave, she engaged in another hug with Alexa and reciprocated one to Rafael, when the door closed, she re-entered the dining room where she saw Rafael pick up the discarded plates and shredded up wrapping paper then threw them in a big, black garbage bag that was set on the other side of the room. After the last scrap of debris was discarded, he tied up the bag and dumped it into the garbage can out front, when he went back inside, he spotted Alexa laid out on the couch in the living room; he sat down next to her as she propped her feet on his lap.

His thumbs created circular patterns along the balls of her feet, Alexa tilted her head back with her eyes closed, soft moans escaped her lips as he resumed his ministrations.

“Did you have fun today?”

“Yeah, thank you”

“Come on, let’s go to bed”

“I don’t feel like moving, can we stay down here tonight?”

“Ok, let me just grab a blanket”

Rafael stood up and headed towards the linen closet in the hallway, he picked out one of the quilted blankets his mother bought for them as a housewarming gift, upon his return; Alexa moved from her position to make room for Rafael. He maneuvered himself next to her as he draped the blanket over them, she took his hand into hers and placed them on top of her growing belly, in that instant, a small kick poked from within. Their faces lit up at the sudden movement by the tiny human being growing inside her, Rafael kissed Alexa’s cheek as he spoke:

“Do you think she knows how much she’s loved?”

“I think she just answered that”

“Hmm, I am so blessed”

“I know…” Alexa moved her head towards Rafael’s to where their noses almost touched, her soft lips enveloped his in a chaste but affectionate kiss.

“Good night Rafi”

“Good night mi amor”

His eyes peered down to Alexa’s belly:

“Good night sweet girl”

Tagging: @madpanda75 @laceybellerain @southern-magnolia @tropes-and-tales @madamsnape921 @itsjustmyfantasyroom @karens-imagined-world @beccabarba @thatesqcrush

[cheemerthelizard]

Crusader of Life (Kakyoin x Reader) Chapter 9

Road trip! You and the rest of the crusaders are on their way to Egypt, but because of the plane incident, have to travel by road. Not ideal, but better than nothing. But will you ever catch a break from these constant Stand attacks?

After another encounter with an enemy Stand, on the road, of all places, and having to get a change in vehicles, the group of six had finally come to a stop in a small town, covered in fog.

"This is a nice little town," Joseph said. "Sure, it's a bit foggy, but that's alright."

"I'm not so sure," you replied. "I always get really bad feelings in foggy towns like these."

“You’re just paranoid,” Polnareff consoled you. “I’m sure this is a perfectly safe place!”

“Yeah...” last time you were paranoid like this, everything turned out to be all right, with Fredrick becoming your friend, too. “I wonder how he’s doing at the art contest,” you accidentally said your thoughts out loud.

“Hm?” Polnareff asked.

“Oh, nothing,” you quickly covered up. “I just think out loud sometimes without realizing it.”

Polnareff nodded, and left it at that. “Anyway, we need to find a hotel to stay at.”

“I’ll ask the man over there,” Avdol said. As soon as he approached the man, he started talking in a language you weren’t familiar with. Probably the main language in Pakistan. Even though you weren’t the one talking to him, that guy really creeped you out. Not in the way that the people from Calcutta did, no, but the way he just stood there, and did almost nothing. The most he’d done so far was flip his sign from open to closed. Something just felt... off about him. In fact, when Avdol was done asking his question, the man answered very quickly and briefly, then turned around and went inside.

“He said he didn’t know,” Avdol reported back to the group. You turned back to look at him, and could’ve sworn you saw beetles crawling around on the back of his neck. You shivered a bit in disgust, then went back to the conversation with the others.

“Maybe we should ask someone else,” Joseph suggested. “After all, that man seemed kind of rude.”

“Guys, I really think there’s something else going on,” you shuddered, trying to hide the terror in your voice.

“I’m sure it’s just because of the fog,” Joseph tried to comfort you. “Maybe this town is just weirder than the others we’ve been to.”

“I’ll go ask that man over there about a hotel,” Avdol said. He walked over and started speaking a foreign language again. This time, however, when he tried asking again, and even nudged the guy, he came running back. “That man is dead!” he exclaimed. In an instant, everyone ran to the scene.

“W-why did he die with so much fear on his face?” Polnareff stuttered.

“Look!” Kakyoin pointed out. “He was holding a gun!”

“And look,” Joseph added, “it’s still smoking!”

“Why is everybody else just turning a blind eye?” you asked.

“I’ll go ask that woman over there to call the police,” Kakyoin said as he frantically ran within her hearing range.

“Now do you believe me?” you asked the group. “Now do you believe that there’s more to this town than it being quiet?”

“Perhaps she’s right,” Avdol nodded. “This is really strange.”

Kakyoin returned to the group. “I asked her to call the police, but I doubt she really will. There’s something going on we don’t know about.”

“That’s what I’ve been trying to say this whole time!”

“Good grief, (Y/N),” Jotaro grumbled. “Nobody’s disbelieved you.”

“Look at his neck!” Joseph said, beckoning the three of you to come closer. “It’s a large hole, the size of a 10 yen coin!”

“That’s... not natural.” Each and every time someone found something new, it made you want to vomit even more. “There’s no blood pouring out.”

“I guess since he’s already dead, we should uncover any other injuries,” Avdol commented. “Avert your eyes, (Y/N). You’ve already been far too uncomfortable to be able to take this.”

So they had been noticing. Something about that made you feel both better and worse. Either way, Kakyoin let you stuff your face into the side of his uniform as you heard a jacket come off, and a collective gasp from the crew.

“T-those holes are everywhere!” Joseph exclaimed. Kakyoin must have felt you gag, because his reassuring arm draped over your shoulder.

“Hey, there’s a reason we hid (Y/N)’s face, is there not?” Kakyoin practically scolded Joseph.

“Right, right, my bad,” Joseph apologized.

“The chances that there’s a Stand user nearby just grew,” Jotaro scowled.

Really? Just now? The man, from what you saw before, and from what you heard, had large holes in him everywhere, with no blood gushing out. Surely the blood couldn’t have all exited by five minutes, and even if it did, the streets would be flooded with it. They’re just now suggesting the possibility of an enemy Stand?

“Come on, everyone!” Joseph exclaimed. “Let’s get out of here!” He looked like he was going to hop into a car, but for some reason, he was jumping into a gate. A gate with very sharp tops, as well. What has gotten into Mr. Joestar? He almost killed himself!

“I swear, the car was right there!” he said over and over. “Didn’t you see it?”

“Mr. Joestar, the car is right over there,” Kakyoin answered. As Joseph’s eyes averted over, there was an old woman walking up, very slowly. Her wrinkles bagged down everything on her face, from her forehead to her chin. She was also pretty short. You were convinced she couldn’t have been over 5 feet, or even reached there.

“You all look very tired,” the woman told your group with a smile on her face. “If you’d like, you can stay at my hotel. It’s a little bed and breakfast at the far end of town.”

“Finally, a normal person!” Polnareff laughed.

“That sounds nice,” Joseph answered.

For you, tons of red flags were going off. A single normal person, in a town that you were sure was run by a Stand? There was no way this was just a nice old lady.

“I guess we could stay for now,” Avdol said. He looked back at you. Something in his eyes told you he was just as suspicious, but that you two had to play it cool for now.

“Yeah, we’d love to stay tonight,” you beamed.

“Excellent!” the little old lady chimed. “I always love seeing new faces around here! Come on, I’ll show you to where it is!”

As she showed you the way to the hotel, you and Avdol dragged in the back.

“We need to keep a close eye on her,” Avdol ordered.

“Got it.”

You and the others entered the hotel, put your names in, and went to your separate rooms. Each person got their own room, but you all gathered in Joseph’s for the time being. Except for Polnareff. He needed to go to the bathroom.

“So we can all agree this woman is very suspicious, right?” Kakyoin asked. The rest of you nodded.

“I think the only one who doesn’t know what’s going on is Polnareff,” Avdol added.

“He never knows what’s going on, though,” you giggled.

“Well, to be sure, we could always use my Hermit Purple to get information on the enemy,” Joseph suggested. “In fact, there’s a TV right here.”

“Well, I’m getting tired,” you yawned.

“Tired?” Jotaro asked. “It’s only about 3:00.”

“We slept in the car last night. I don’t sleep well in anything that isn’t a bed. Mr. Joestar, you mind if I take a nap in your bed? I don’t trust that woman, and don’t want to be separated from you guys.”

“Go right ahead,” Joseph answered you. “Just make sure to wake up before we all go to bed.”

“You got it.”

After that, you went right to sleep.

“(Y/N).”

“(Y/N)!”

You cracked open your eyes, and found your mother looking at you.

“(Y/N), you’re going to be late for school!” Your mother called. “It’s already seven!” 

Groggily, you got up from your bed. “I had the weirdest dream. I was going on a trip to Egypt to defeat a vampire who was hurting an old man’s daughter.” 

“That is a strange dream,” your mother said. “What’s even stranger is that it’s not a dream.” 

“What do you mean by that?” 

“Honey, this is the dream world. You just fell asleep, didn’t you?” 

“I... I did, but-“

”But, you miss your parents.” Your mother came to kiss you on the forehead. “So I summoned myself to enter your dream, so you could see them again.” 

“Ace?!” 

Your mother giggled a bit, before she transformed back into your Stand. “Your emotions were getting too strong to keep in again,” she said. “And that longing feeling of misery was creeping up on you.” 

“You still sound like Mom.” 

“I know, it’s kind of creepy. But that’s not the point. The point is, you had so much sadness in you from missing your parents that I was summoned before you went to bed. Since anything can happen in a dream world, I transformed into your mother. It feels nice, being able to talk, actually.” 

“Thanks, Ace,” you said quietly. “Can... can you turn back into my mother? Please?” 

“My pleasure,” Ace nodded, and shapeshifted back to that familiar face. 

“Wait, this is a dream,” you interrupted the hugs you were getting. 

“Yup.” 

“I can do anything I want, right?” 

“Probably.” 

“So I can fly.” 

“Yeah.” 

Immediately, you jumped from the bed and stayed floating in the air. You moved around a bit, turning different directions. It was like swimming, but it was way cooler. 

“(Y/N), wake up.“

“(Y/N), we have to go.”

You opened your eyes, and saw Kakyoin staring at you.

“(Y/N), we’ve got to get out of here. The fog was the Stand.”

“What?” You were still in your dazed form of sleep.

“The fog made this place look like a small town. Take a look outside.”

You rose from the bed, and looked outside. Sure enough, there was no more town, but instead, a cemetery.

“You licked the toilet?!” Joseph’s voice came from downstairs. It sounded happy. He was laughing hysterically.

You shivered. “Blegh. Who licked the toilet?”

“Polnareff. Turns out all of our hunches were right.”

“The old lady? She made Polnareff lick her toilet?”

“Yeah.”

You couldn’t help but feel a snicker rise from your throat. “Well, I’m ready, let’s go.”

“Hey! Hol Horse stole our car!” Polnareff called from outside. “Get back here!”

You laughed a bit. “Well, looks like we might be stuck here a while.”

Kakyoin laughed with you. “I guess so.”