#requests temporarily paused for this challenge

[bananabeebenson]

Kinktober 2023

I will be posting my upcoming 2023 Kinktober list. I will be posting them to AO3 and will be linking them. I already have the list planned out, so I won't take requests for them at this moment, but after the challenge my requests will be full force ready.

I hope you all enjoy, I'm looking forward to posting these and writing about these. They will be unedited, posted as I wrote them so I can crank them all out, and because I have to prep for NaNoWrimo.

1 King - Pegging 2 Bellamy - Titfuck 3 Akainu - Hate Sex 4 Obito - Teratophilia 5 Tobirama - Sweat 6 Diavolo - Chastity 7 Solas - Waxplay 8 Erwin - Breeding 9 Fatgum - Lactation 10 Levi - Fucking Machine 11 Lucifer - Petplay 12 Loid - Somnophilia 13 Cu Alter - Menophilia 14 Doflamingo - Cloning 15 & 16 Tobirama/Madara - Temp Play and Double Pen One Hole 17 & 18 Levi/Erwin - Threesome and Spanking 19 & 20 Kylo Ren- Uniform and Mind Control 21 & 22 Giovanni - Panties/Lingerie and Bondage 23 & 24 X Drake - Collaring and Sex Toys 25 & 26 Hux - Pregnancy and Masturbation 27 & 28 Katakuri - Double Pen Two Holes and Cock Bulge 29 & 30 Miguel - Breathplay and Overstim

31: Surprise Free Day

[fr0stf4ll]

Forge of Starlight - Part 3

paring; Azriel x reader

summary; In the heart of Velaris, a skilled blacksmith's quiet life is turned upside down when unexpected bonds begin to form with the enigmatic Spymaster of the Night Court. As she navigates the challenges of her craft and the complexities of newfound relationships, she discovers that love and loyalty may be the strongest forces of all in a world where darkness often lingers just beyond the light.

word count ; 4.6k

warning; blood, vomit °°3

notes; hello hello everyone, here is the part 3 a bit earlier this time ! Please take into account the warnings it's nothing to big but I rather mention them before. Otherwise don't hesitate to comment (I'm down to see if you guys have some theories for the next parts :)) ) or ask to be on the tag list ;)) See you soon, bisous bisoussss

here is the link for part 2 or part 4

---

The morning sun had barely risen over Velaris when you began preparing for your trip to the Winter Court. The crisp air carried a hint of frost, a promise of the cold that awaited you in Kallias’s domain. Your latest commission was an intricate and challenging one—a weapon requested personally by the High Lord of the Winter Court. The order was for a ceremonial glaive, crafted with a blade of shimmering, icy blue steel that seemed to capture the essence of winter itself. The hilt was designed to resemble the ancient trees of the Court, with delicate, frost-like etchings that trailed along its length, meeting a pommel embedded with a crystal that glittered like freshly fallen snow.

You admired the weapon one last time as you packed it carefully in a protective case. The glaive was a masterpiece, a blend of artistry and power that you were proud to deliver personally. But as you were finalizing your preparations, Alex approached you, his expression a mix of determination and concern.

“Nana, I think I should stay in Velaris,” Alex began, his tone firm despite the lingering traces of the boyish enthusiasm he usually carried. “The shop needs someone here, and I can handle things while you’re gone.”

You paused, turning to face him fully. “Alex, it’s not just about the shop. Leaving you on your own in Velaris for a week, it’s not safe.”

Alex crossed his arms, his brows furrowed in a way that reminded you of your younger self. “But Nana, you’re the one who taught me how to take care of myself. And besides, business is going great! We can't afford to close the shop for a week, maybe even longer. I can just tell customers that we’re temporarily closed for new orders, but that we are still selling regular weapons.”

You sighed, considering his words. “It’s not just about the money, Alex. It’s about making sure everything stays secure. The shop, our work, you—it’s all important.”

Alex stepped closer, his eyes pleading. “And that’s exactly why I should stay. I know how much this place means to you, to us. I’ll make sure nothing happens, I promise. Stellan can stay with me for protection, and you know he’s more than capable of keeping any trouble away.”

You glanced at Stellan, who was lounging nearby, his dark eyes watching the conversation with quiet understanding. The direwolf had been your protector for years, and you knew that with him by Alex’s side, there was little to fear.

“But Alex, you’re still young. I can’t help but worry,” you said softly, your concern evident in your voice.

Alex’s expression softened, but his resolve didn’t waver. “I know, Nana. But you’ve trained me well. I can handle the shop, and Stellan will keep me safe. Besides, I’ll just be here in Velaris—it’s not like I’m going anywhere dangerous. You’ll be back before I know it, and everything will be just fine.”

You hesitated, the protective instinct within you clashing with the knowledge that Alex was more capable than you sometimes gave him credit for. The truth was, he was right. Business was good enough that closing the orders for a week wouldn’t be a disaster, and with Stellan at his side, the risks were minimal.

Finally, you sighed, nodding in reluctant agreement. “Alright, Alex. You can stay, but promise me you’ll be careful. No taking on new orders, just handle any clients who come by and tell them we’re temporarily closed for them. And if anything happens—anything at all—you send word to me immediately.”

A grin spread across Alex’s face, a mix of relief and excitement. “I promise, Nana. I won’t let you down.”

You smiled, ruffling his hair affectionately. “I know you won’t, Alex. Just remember, Stellan’s there to protect you, but don’t take any unnecessary risks. I’ll be back before you know it.”

As you finalized your preparations, you brought Stellan downstairs, where he immediately positioned himself near Alex, his massive frame a comforting presence. “Keep an eye on him, Stellan,” you said softly, rubbing the direwolf’s head. Stellan’s eyes met yours, and you felt reassured by the silent understanding between you.

With everything settled, you turned to Alex once more. “I’ll leave early tomorrow. You know where the emergency contacts are, and if anything comes up, don’t hesitate to reach out.”

Alex nodded, his expression serious now that the plan was set. “I’ve got it covered, Nana. Just focus on your trip and getting that amazing glaive to Kallias.”

You smiled, feeling a mixture of pride and a hint of anxiety as you realized how much Alex had grown. “Thank you, Alex. I’ll bring you back something from the Winter Court.”

Night had fallen over Velaris, and the familiar routine of winding down the day had set in. You were seated in your bed, sketchbook open on your lap as you meticulously worked on the designs for your next project. The soft light of the moon filtered through the curtains, mingling with the warm glow of the candles, creating a peaceful ambiance. Alex was fast asleep beside you, his breathing slow and even, the day’s events having worn him out.

Stellan, ever vigilant, lay at the foot of the bed, his eyes half-closed but his senses still sharp. As you sketched, you felt a deep sense of contentment, the tranquility of the moment wrapping around you like a comforting blanket. But that peace was suddenly shattered.

Within seconds, the atmosphere in the room changed. The air felt thicker, charged with something ominous that set your nerves on edge. Stellan’s ears shot up, his body tensing as a low growl rumbled from deep within his chest. The hairs on the back of your neck stood on end, and you felt a chill run down your spine.

Before you could react, a dark shadow coalesced in the corner of the room, and Azriel, the shadow singer, materialized before you. His face was grim, his usual calm demeanor replaced with urgency. "We need you," he said, his voice clipped and direct, wasting no time on pleasantries.

Without another word, he reached for your arm, his grip firm but not harsh. The world around you blurred as shadows enveloped you both, and in the blink of an eye, you were no longer in your apartment.

You arrived at the House of Wind, the sudden change in surroundings leaving you momentarily disoriented. The grand, familiar architecture did nothing to ease the confusion swirling in your mind. Azriel was already moving, his expression dark and unyielding as he led you down a corridor.

"Azriel, what’s going on?" you demanded, struggling to keep up with him. The urgency in his movements only heightened your anxiety. "Why did you bring me here?"

"I don’t have time to explain," he replied, his voice tight with controlled emotion. "You’ll understand when you see it."

That statement did nothing to calm your nerves, but you followed him without further question, your heart pounding in your chest. The path he led you down seemed endless, the tension in the air growing thicker with each step. Finally, he pushed open a heavy door and ushered you inside.

The room was dimly lit, the air heavy with the scent of herbs and something far less pleasant—blood. Your eyes immediately landed on Rhysand, who stood near the bed with a look of barely-contained worry. Madja, the healer, was at his side, her face set in grim determination. But it was the sight of Cassian that made your breath catch in your throat.

He was lying on the bed, his usually powerful and imposing figure reduced to a broken and battered state. His wings, once magnificent and strong, were shattered—twisted at unnatural angles, with blood staining the once-proud feathers. The sight was enough to bring a sharp gasp to your lips, your hand instinctively covering your mouth.

Madja’s eyes met yours, and in that moment, you understood why Azriel had brought you here. There was no hesitation in her voice as she spoke. "Y/N, we need your power. You’re the only one who can heal him."

Your heart raced, fear and uncertainty clawing at your insides. You had never used your abilities on something this severe before, and the mere thought of it sent a wave of doubt crashing over you. But as you looked at Cassian, writhing in pain and clinging to consciousness, you knew there was no other choice.

Steeling yourself, you stepped forward and surveyed the state of his wings. The damage was extensive, and you knew that to heal them properly, you needed to use your power to its full potential—a process that required something very specific.

You turned to Azriel, your gaze falling on the blade at his side. "Truth-Teller," you said, nodding toward the dagger.

Azriel hesitated for a moment but then handed you the blade without question, his eyes dark with concern. Taking a deep breath, you positioned yourself over Cassian, holding your arm above his wings. With a swift motion, you made a shallow cut along your forearm, letting your blood drip onto the mangled wings below.

Azriel's eyes widened as blue flames flickered to life where your blood touched, spreading over Cassian’s wings. "Y/N, what are you doing?" he asked, his voice laced with worry.

You glanced at him, offering a small, reassuring smile. "Don’t worry. The fire doesn’t burn—it heals."

As the flames grew, their warmth enveloping Cassian’s broken wings, you focused all of your energy on mending the shattered bones and torn flesh. The process was intense, your body straining under the effort as the flames worked their magic, knitting together what had been broken.

But as the flames did their work, a frown creased your brow. Something wasn’t right. You could feel it—a lingering darkness that wasn’t being touched by your fire. Once the wings were fully healed, you stepped back, still frowning as you scanned Cassian’s body for the source of the disturbance.

"Rhysand, Azriel," you said, your voice tense, "help me turn him over."

They moved quickly, carefully shifting Cassian onto his back. You placed one hand on his face and the other over his heart, closing your eyes as you focused on the strange, dark presence that clung to him.

Madja watched you closely, her expression filled with concern. "Y/N, what’s going on? What do you feel?"

Your eyes snapped open, and without answering her, you leaned down, your instincts guiding you as you pressed your lips to Cassian’s mouth. The taste was bitter, acrid, and wrong. You inhaled sharply, feeling the dark presence surge up, and with a gag, you spit out a thick, black liquid.

But it wasn’t over. You reached into Cassian’s mouth, your fingers searching, feeling for the source of the darkness. Your hand closed around something cold and solid, and with a grimace of effort, you began to pull. 

A long, snake-like spirit, dark and twisted, slithered from Cassian’s throat, its form writhing in your grasp. It fought against you, but you held firm, your determination outweighing the horror of what you were doing.

"Hold him straight!" you commanded, urgency in your voice.

Rhysand and Azriel quickly moved to hold Cassian upright, their faces etched with shock and concern. As they did, Cassian began to vomit, thick black liquid spewing from his mouth and covering you as you knelt in front of him. You didn’t flinch, your focus entirely on the cursed spirit in your hand.

With a final, forceful pull, you yanked the spirit free from Cassian’s body. It writhed in your grip, hissing and snapping, but it was powerless outside of its host. You held it aloft, the dark entity thrashing violently as you turned to the others.

Rhysand, covered in a mixture of concern and gratitude, stared at you, his voice calm but firm. “I think we all need some explanations, Y/N."

Breathing heavily, your body and clothes drenched in Cassian’s vomit and the remnants of the cursed spirit, you nodded wearily. "I’ll explain everything," you said, glancing down at yourself with a hint of exasperation. "But first... I need a shower. I’m still covered in Cassian’s… well, everything.”

—— 

Rhysand led you through the winding halls of the House of Wind, his pace measured and deliberate. The tension from the night’s events lingered in the air, a heavy reminder of the seriousness of the situation. He stopped in front of a door and pushed it open, revealing a room that was both elegant and functional, with the understated luxury typical of Velaris.

The room was furnished with deep, rich fabrics, the bed draped in dark, sumptuous linens. A fireplace crackled softly in the corner, casting flickering shadows across the walls. A balcony at the far end of the room offered a breathtaking view of Velaris, the city’s lights twinkling like stars against the backdrop of the night sky. Beyond, the Sidra River glimmered in the moonlight, its gentle flow a calming presence.

Rhysand gestured toward an adjoining door. “The bath is through there. Take your time, Y/N. We’ll talk when you’re ready.”

You nodded, your body aching with exhaustion and your mind still spinning from the events that had just transpired. As you entered the bathroom, you were greeted by the sight of a grand, sunken bath made of smooth marble. The water was already drawn, steaming gently and scented with soothing herbs that filled the air with a calming aroma.

You sank into the bath, letting the warmth seep into your bones, washing away the grime and tension. The soft light of candles flickered around you, the scent of lavender and eucalyptus soothing your frazzled nerves. As you soaked, you allowed your thoughts to drift back to that night long ago when everything had changed.

You had been just a child, wandering through the woods late at night. The night was alive with shooting stars, bright streaks of light cutting across the dark sky. You’d been entranced, watching the stars fall when you stumbled upon a glowing entity lying in a small crater, its form otherworldly and beautiful. It was like a scene from a dream, the world around you shimmering with magic.

The creature had been weak, its light flickering like a dying flame. It had reached out to you, a small, scared girl, asking for your help in a voice that echoed in your mind rather than your ears. You hadn’t understood the full weight of the decision at the time, but you had agreed to help it, to take it into yourself, binding its essence to yours. From that night forward, you were never the same.

After your bath, you stepped out and found a set of clothes laid out for you—fitting for Velaris, yet with a touch of practicality that matched your own preferences. A tailored tunic of deep indigo, embroidered with subtle patterns, paired with fitted leather pants that allowed for ease of movement. A sturdy yet elegant belt completed the outfit, cinching at your waist with a silver clasp. It was both comfortable and suited for someone who needed to be ready for anything.

Once dressed, you stepped out onto the balcony for a moment, letting the cool night air brush against your face. The view from the House of Wind was nothing short of spectacular, the city of Velaris spread out beneath you like a sparkling jewel. For a brief moment, you allowed yourself to breathe in the peace of the night, to let the beauty of Velaris ground you before you had to face the others.

When you returned to the main room, Rhysand was seated near the fireplace, his expression thoughtful but unreadable. Azriel stood off to the side, half-hidden in the shadows, his gaze flickering toward you as you entered. He didn’t sit but remained in the shadows, a silent sentinel. There was something different in the way he looked at you now—something intense, as if he were seeing you in a new light.

You moved toward them, your steps measured as you took a seat across from Rhysand. The silence between you all was thick, heavy with the weight of unspoken questions and the lingering shock of what had just occurred.

“How’s Cassian?” you asked, breaking the silence, your voice quieter than usual.

Rhysand’s expression remained neutral, his violet eyes sharp and assessing. “Madja is with him. He’s stable, thanks to you. His wings will heal in time, and the curse… whatever it was, is gone.”

You nodded, relief mixing with the residual tension in your chest. “I’m glad to hear that.”

Rhysand’s gaze didn’t waver as he continued, his tone calm but probing. “Madja told us about the healing flames, but what you did tonight—extracting that curse—it’s something we didn’t expect. We need to know, Y/N. How is it possible?”

You took a deep breath, the memories of your past stirring once more. You could feel Azriel’s eyes on you, a strange, unreadable intensity in his gaze that only added to the tension in the room. But you pushed it aside, focusing on the question at hand.

“We all make mistakes,” you began, your voice steady, though the weight of the words pressed heavily on you. “When I was young, I made a contract with a creature that fell from the sky. It wasn’t like anything I’d ever seen before—an entity of pure power, beautiful and terrifying.”

Rhysand leaned back slightly, his expression unreadable as he listened. “A contract?”

You nodded, your gaze distant as you recalled that night in the woods. “I was just a little girl, alone and afraid. I was out in the woods, mesmerized by the falling stars when I stumbled upon this creature. It was weak, dying, and it asked for my help. It needed a host—someone to share its power with, in exchange for life. I didn’t understand what I was agreeing to, but I said yes. I took its essence into me, and from that moment on, it became a part of me.”

Azriel’s eyes narrowed slightly, though he remained silent, his posture tense. There was something almost protective in the way he watched you, though he kept his distance, as if struggling with his own thoughts.

Rhysand’s gaze remained steady, assessing you as you spoke. “And that’s how you gained your abilities.”

“Yes,” you confirmed. “The creature’s power is vast, but it’s also dangerous. I’ve had to learn to control it, to keep it from consuming me. The blue flames you saw—they’re just one aspect of it. But tonight, with Cassian… I could feel the curse inside him, a darkness that my flames alone couldn’t touch. I had to draw it out, to confront it directly.”

“And the curse?” Rhysand asked, his tone careful.

“It was tied to something much darker,” you explained. “The creature’s power allowed me to see it, to pull it out before it could do more harm. It was a risk, but I couldn’t just leave it there.”

Azriel shifted slightly, his gaze softening as he listened. There was a tension in his posture, as if he were grappling with something internally, but he remained silent, letting Rhysand lead the conversation.

Rhysand exchanged a glance with Azriel before turning back to you. “You’ve been carrying this burden alone for a long time.”

You nodded, the weight of your confession settling over you. “I didn’t want to involve anyone else. It’s my responsibility, my mistake.”

Rhysand’s expression softened just slightly, though his voice remained firm. “You’re part of this court now, Y/N. You don’t have to face this alone.”

Azriel’s gaze met yours across the room, and for a brief moment, something unspoken passed between you—a connection that felt both new and ancient, as if something had shifted irreversibly between you two.

As you finished recounting your story, the room fell into a contemplative silence, the weight of everything hanging in the air. You sighed softly, rubbing your temples as the exhaustion from the night caught up with you. Finally, you stood, a sense of duty pulling you back to the reality of your responsibilities.

“I appreciate everything you’ve done,” you began, glancing between Rhysand and Azriel. “But I need to get back home. Tomorrow, I’m supposed to leave for the Winter Court to deliver Kallias’s order.”

At your words, Azriel’s expression immediately shifted. His brows furrowed, and he took a step forward, his posture rigid with concern. “That’s not possible. You can’t go alone—it’s too dangerous.”

You met his gaze, a flicker of frustration sparking within you. “Azriel, I’ve been traveling alone for hundreds of years. I’ve crossed continents, faced dangers you can’t imagine. I know how to take care of myself.”

Azriel’s frown deepened, his eyes darkening with a mix of worry and something more. “Things have changed. After what happened tonight, we can’t take any chances. The roads to the Winter Court aren’t safe, especially not for someone like you.”

You took a step closer to him, squaring your shoulders, determined not to be underestimated. “I’ve handled myself just fine, Azriel. I appreciate your concern, but I’m not some fragile thing that needs protecting. I’ve faced worse than bandits or creatures in the wild. I can deal with it.”

Azriel opened his mouth to argue further, his wings flaring slightly in his agitation, but Rhysand raised a hand, cutting him off. “Azriel, calm down,” Rhysand said, his tone soothing yet firm. He then turned to you, his expression more measured. “We know you can handle yourself, Y/N, and we trust your judgment. But just promise us you’ll be careful.”

You nodded, appreciating their concern but determined to maintain your independence. “I will. I’ve been traveling for centuries, and I know how to handle whatever comes my way. I’ll be back next week, and we can talk more then.”

Rhysand offered you a small, understanding smile. “We’ll look forward to it. There’s much more to discuss, and we’ll be here when you return.”

Azriel, still tense, stepped closer, his gaze intense but still filled with worry. “I’ll fly you back to your place,” he said, his tone steady but leaving no room for argument. “It’s late, and you should rest before your journey.”

You hesitated for a moment, but then nodded. “Alright. Thank you, Azriel.”

Before you could step out into the cool night air, Azriel shrugged off his jacket—a soft, dark leather that still carried the warmth of his body—and draped it over your shoulders. The jacket was far too big for you, the sleeves hanging well past your hands, but the warmth and the gesture itself made your heart skip a beat.

“It’s cold out,” he said quietly, his voice almost a whisper in the quiet of the night. His eyes lingered on you for a moment longer before he added, “And the wind can be biting when we’re flying.”

You pulled the jacket tighter around yourself, the scent of leather and something distinctly Azriel surrounding you. “Thank you,” you murmured, genuinely touched by the small act of kindness.

With his jacket securely around you, Azriel stepped closer, wrapping an arm around your waist to lift you effortlessly as his wings unfurled. The warmth of the jacket and his presence eased the chill of the night, and as he took off into the sky, the cold wind seemed to matter less.

Flying with Azriel, wrapped in his jacket, you felt a strange comfort. The world around you blurred momentarily as the ground fell away, and then the night opened up before you—a vast expanse of stars and the twinkling lights of Velaris below. The city was breathtaking from this height, the Sidra River winding through it like a ribbon of silver, reflecting the moonlight in shimmering patterns. The rooftops of the city glowed softly, the night alive with a quiet, serene beauty that took your breath away. Everything became a blur of twinkling lights and darkened streets, and for a moment, it was just the two of you, soaring through the night sky, sharing a silence that felt more like an understanding than anything else.

The cool wind whipped through your hair as Azriel flew, his strong wings cutting through the air with practiced ease. Despite the speed, his flight was smooth, each powerful beat of his wings propelling you forward with a steady, unerring grace. You found yourself momentarily entranced by the view, the way the world seemed so peaceful from up here, so distant from the chaos and dangers you had faced below.

Azriel’s grip on you was firm but gentle, his warmth a comforting presence in the cold night air. You could feel the tension in his body, the silent worry that still lingered despite your reassurances. It was as if every beat of his wings was fueled by an unspoken need to keep you safe, to ensure you returned to Velaris unharmed.

The flight was over too quickly, and before you knew it, you were descending toward your apartment. Azriel landed lightly, setting you down with care. The ground felt solid beneath your feet again, but you couldn’t shake the lingering sensation of being cradled by the night sky.

“Thank you,” you said quietly, offering him a small smile. “I’ll be fine, Azriel. I’ll be back next week, and we’ll talk then.”

He nodded slowly, his expression softening just slightly. “I’ll be waiting. Just… be careful, Y/N.”

“I always am,” you replied, giving him a reassuring look before turning to head inside.

As you thanked him one last time and made your way inside, you couldn’t help but feel the weight of the jacket—a comforting reminder of the connection that had silently grown between you two.

As you quietly made your way up the stairs to your apartment, the door creaked open to reveal Alex waiting for you in the living room, his arms crossed and a comically exaggerated look of suspicion on his face. Stellan was by his side, watching you with calm, knowing eyes, but Alex’s expression was what really caught your attention.

“What is going on, young lady?” Alex began, his voice mock-serious. “A guy intrudes our place, you run off with him without a word, and then you come back hours later with different clothes, a MEN’s jacket, and then he flies you home? Hmm, hmm, hmm…”

You couldn’t help but burst into laughter at his over-the-top delivery, the tension from the night finally breaking as you took in his antics. “Alex, I promise, it’s not what it looks like!”

He raised an eyebrow, leaning forward with a smirk. “Oh, really? Because it sure sounds like something out of those romance stories people talk about. Are you sure you’re not hiding something from me?”

Still chuckling, you shook your head, stepping further into the apartment. “I was helping a friend, that’s all. And the clothes were a necessity after… well, let’s just say the night got messy.”

Alex’s grin widened, clearly enjoying every bit of this. “And the flying home part?”

You sighed, though your smile remained. “That was just Azriel being… protective. And practical.”

“Uh-huh,” Alex nodded sagely, as if he had it all figured out. “Sure, sure. Just Azriel being ‘protective.’”

You reached out to ruffle his hair, playfully messing it up. “Enough, you little troublemaker. It’s late, and we both need to get some rest. Tomorrow’s a big day.”

Alex laughed, batting your hand away but finally relenting. “Alright, alright. But you’re not off the hook, Nana. I’m keeping an eye on you.”

You gave him a mock salute. “Duly noted, Captain.”

As you headed to your room, Stellan trailing behind you, you couldn’t help but smile at Alex’s antics. Despite the seriousness of the night, his playful teasing was exactly what you needed to lighten the mood.

And as you finally settled into bed, the weight of the day easing off your shoulders, you knew that no matter what challenges the Winter Court or the future might bring, you were ready to face them—with Alex’s humorous observations always keeping you grounded.

tag list: @annamariereads16 @hanatsuki-hime @elsie-bells @shizukestar @rose-girls-world @brit-broskis-cole-fanfic @faridathefairy @elsie-bells

don't hesitate to comment if you want to be added to the tag list ;)))

[fayes-fics]

A Blessing

Pairing: Benedict Bridgerton x fem!reader, Modern AU

Summary: Turns out the father of your favourite pupil, could end up being your favourite adult

Warnings: none really… this is flirtation and fluff. Developing relationship.

Word count: 2.1k

Authors Note: This is a request fill for Anon (ask HERE) about a meet-cute between single dad Benedict and teacher reader. This is also dedicated to my lovely mutual @bridgertontess on the occasion of her birthday this weekend. Happy birthday my dear! Thank you for choosing the name of Benedict’s daughter in this fic. Many thanks to wonderful @colettebronte for giving this a read through, the title and for her generosity in creating the lovely artwork above. Enjoy! <3

You sigh as you fiddle with your nameplate, awaiting the start of Parents Evening. It’s always a night you dread - having to be polite to the parents of nightmare kids. There are a few pupils you simply adore, but somehow, those parents seem to linger less than those you struggle to find nice things to say about.

One of your favourites - yes, you know you’re not supposed to have them, but you do - is little Georgia Bridgerton. She is cute as a button with blue eyes and chestnut curls, but mostly, it’s her sweet temperament and intelligence you admire. You hope her parents turn up. You are intrigued to meet whoever created this little blessing, although you have only heard her talk of her Dad.

About an hour in, you have talked to six sets of parents of mostly middling pupils. You are just sneaking a look at your phone when someone flops into the chair opposite, and you hasten to drop it back in your bag.

When you look up, your lungs feel tight. Quite the most beautiful man has taken a seat, and you are temporarily dumbstruck as you glance at his name sticker. In the ‘hello my name is’ box, he has written Ben in large looping black letters. The ‘my child’s name is’ box has been left blank.

“I’m sorry, Ben,” you stutter, slightly distracted by his hazy eyes. “I don’t see your child’s name on your tag; who are you here for?” you ask.

He glances down at his navy shirt. “Ah shit, sorry.” Then he immediately winces. “Sorry, I didn’t mean to swear.”

“It’s fine,” you bat a hand. “The kids aren’t here tonight. You should hear me when they aren’t within earshot,” you jest, attempting to break the ice, even as you feel your face prickling hot at just the sight of him.

He laughs heartily, his face creasing up in quite the most handsome way, and you squeeze your legs together reflexively, hidden under the table. Good lord, he’s beautiful.

“I’m Georgia’s dad,” he explains as he stops laughing.

“Oh, my star pupil!” you gush, then have to stop. “Shit, I’m not supposed to say that,” you confess, eyes darting around the buzzing gymnasium to all the other parents and teachers, but no one seems to have heard.

“Or swear…” he adds for you, with a wink.

Oh fuck. You could be in trouble here.

You briefly dip your head, cheeks heated, until he starts talking again. “But it’s wonderful she’s doing so well. She talks about you a lot, to be honest. Always saying Mrs y/l/n is her favourite teacher,” he smiles. 

“I am her only teacher,” you remind drolly, even as you can’t hide how pleased that makes you. “Should we wait for another parent before we dig in…?” you ask, gesturing to the empty chair to his left.

His face clouds slightly, and you worry you have made a faux pas. “Oh, she, uh, won’t be making it tonight,” he says quietly.

“Gosh, I’m sorry that was rude of me to presume,” you cringe.

“No, no, don’t worry,” he placates kindly. “Georgia’s mother left me when she was just a toddler. But six months ago, she cut off all contact and moved abroad. It’s been…” he pauses to sigh and roughly rubs his eyebrow,  “…a tough adjustment, to be honest, mostly for Georgia. It’s been challenging trying to explain gently but honestly to a six-year-old that, in essence, her mother wants nothing to do with her.”

“I’m so very sorry,” you murmur, and part of you itches to reach out and give his hand a sympathetic squeeze as he picks his cuticles, probably unconsciously. “I can’t imagine why anyone would abandon her; she is quite the sweetest little child imaginable.” 

You know it’s unprofessional to say so, but you want to comfort him human to human. And for some reason, you feel completely at ease being open and honest with him. His eyes flick up from his hands, and they are so soulful you once again feel tongue-tied.

“Thank you,” he demures. 

“She talks about you a lot, too, in class. My dad did this; my dad did that. She looks up to you so much. You must be an excellent single parent,” you reassure, then lean forward over the table. “Umm, please don’t let anyone know I said any of this; it’s very unprofessional.”

His face morphs into a look of surprise, and then a lopsided smile tugs at the right corner of his mouth as he mirrors your stance, leaning in. “Your secret is safe with me,” he chuckles as you feel your blood run warm. “But it will cost you….” he adds teasingly.

Your eyes dart to his uncertain. “W-what?” You stumble, genuinely concerned for the first time about your job.

He leans back in the chair, assuming a very relaxed stance, that crooked smile growing more prominent. “Yes. The price is your apple crumble recipe. Georgia brought some home; she said you had made it for the class to commemorate the school centennial. And it was quite the best dessert we have ever eaten.”

You exhale the breath you were holding, relieved and can’t help the giggle that bubbles up. “Deal,” you agree.

This is quite the most casual and flirtatious you have ever been with a parent, and you suddenly become cognisant of it. Sitting up straighter and clearing your throat, you shift gear a little, discussing the details of his daughter’s progress. He listens intently, nods, and asks questions at appropriate moments.

“Usually, I would conclude with suggested things you can do at home to assist your child,” you wrap up, “but, to be honest, for Georgia, I have no suggestions. She is just a delight and could not do any better. Just keep doing as you are; she will go far in this world.”

He clutches his chest, patently proud of his little girl, but you find yourself fixated on the crisscross of raised veins mapping the back of his large hand. Your traitorous brain chooses this moment to give you a vivid flash of that hand grabbing your flesh, making you squeak in your throat and a shiver run down your spine involuntarily, goosebumps breaking out over your arms. 

“Are you alright?”

“Sorry, must be a draught from somewhere,” you fib, tugging at your cardigan sleeve. “Old school buildings and all,” you titter nervously.

He nods in understanding, but his eyes linger slightly longer than necessary on your body.

“Why are you a Mrs if you wear no wedding ring?” he blurts, then looks mortified. “God, I’m sorry, that is really none of my business,” he admits, blushing endearingly.

Your heart leaps into your throat at the idea he checked, but you maintain composure by waving a dismissive hand. “No, don’t worry, it's fine. I’m, umm, actually a widow,” you confess, seeing his eyes soften with sympathy. “Oh, it was a few years ago now,” you preempt the platitudes, “and I never took his last name for work, but I did change to Mrs at the school’s suggestion. I keep thinking I will change back to Ms one of these days, but all my pupils know me as Mrs you know,” you shrug with a nonplussed look.

He chuckles understandingly. “I’m sorry that happened,” he offers more soberly, and you nod.

“And I’m sorry for what happened to you and Georgia. She is doing remarkably, considering.”

Your time together is naturally wrapping up, but you are reluctant to voice it, and he seems in no hurry to move.

“At the risk of sounding completely inappropriate,” he hedges with a very beguilingly almost sheepish mien, “may I have your phone number?”

Your heart pounds, and you resist the temptation to squeal like a teenager or even show it on your face.

“Certainly,” you respond brightly. “I am always available to parents to discuss anything to do with their child’s education,” you try to justify as you scribble your number on a new page of your notepad.

“And what if I don’t want to discuss my child?” He asks quietly, his tone turning smoother, “may I still text you?” 

You almost rip the paper straight through as you try to detach it from the metal spirals. You are certain your face is giving you away now, feeling flushed from your toes to your eyes.

“Yes,” you whisper, nervously glancing to meet his eyes for a brief second that feels blistering as you fold the paper and push it over the table towards him.

His fingertips brush yours as he takes the paper, and your body riots at that simple touch. 

“Thank you,” he says sotto voce. “I look forward to connecting more,” he adds as he stands. You try your best not to ogle his body in his fitted dark wash jeans as he tucks the note in his pocket, but it’s at eye height now. And you try to ignore how his shirt hangs off his broad shoulders when you look up, but mostly, you fail.

You stand too, feeling awkward, and hold out your hand to shake, as you do with every parent.

He looks briefly bemused, then takes your hand in his. It’s warm, the skin soft except for some callouses where he holds a pen or maybe a paintbrush, and the size engulfs yours. You never want to let go. Fireworks explode behind your ribs as his eyes dance even under the harsh gym lights.

“It was wonderful to meet you, Mr Bridgerton,” you parrot your usual parting line at him, but somehow, it feels weighted with additional meaning. 

“Likewise, Ms y/l/n,” he replies pointedly, not using the Mrs, as his thumb swipes distractingly over the back of your hand, not letting go. “And please call me Ben,” he requests duskily, finally stepping away, his fingers gradually slipping from yours.

You just nod, almost unable to speak, not trusting your tongue at this moment. You try not to watch Benedict walk away towards the exit, but again, you fail miserably. 

Less than thirty seconds later, your phone buzzes in your bag. It’s a number you don’t recognise.

BB: I’ll need that apple crumble recipe for tomorrow if you don’t mind. I have a big family lunch on Saturday and have been roped into bringing dessert.

You giggle, your fingers fly over the screen, composing a response in your lap, even as the next parents pull up to take a seat. 

Y/N: Okay… but good luck. Most of the secret is in the prep…

BB: Hmm, then a demo might be best. Fancy being a culinary teacher tomorrow after work?

Your heart flutters hard, and you must mumble an apology to the waiting parents as you can’t resist firing off a flirty response.

Y/N: But what if I don’t want to give away my trade secrets just yet? 😉

BB: Fair. Then my family will have to settle for Tesco’s finest cake instead…

Y/N: I can’t in all good conscience let that happen. OK, you have a deal. 7pm tmrw?

BB: 👍😁

You spend the rest of the Parents' Evening floating on a little cloud. You even smile through the meeting with Damien’s parents, who couldn’t be more aptly named. 

The next evening, when his front door sweeps open, Benedict and Georgia are wearing matching pinstripe aprons, faces so eager. They look so adorable you crack a smile from ear to ear. 

“Where’s your apron, Mrs y/l/n?” Georgia pipes up.

You smile, then reach into your shoulder bag and pull out your trusty apron with a flourish.

She breaks into giggles and does a happy little dance as Benedict gestures for you to come in with an exaggerated bow.

By the time you leave, hours later, they have a delicious apple crumble for their family lunch the following day, and Georgia is sleeping soundly. You have an apron dusted in flour, a tingle on your lips from his wondrous kisses and a lightness in your being that fizzes like champagne.

The following day, he texts that the apple crumble was such a success his mother demanded the recipe on the spot. Then, a few seconds later, another message asking you to drop by. You practically trip in the rush to get out the door.

When his front door sweeps open this time, he’s alone and dressed handsomely in a white shirt with those jeans. You are powerless to do anything but push up onto your tiptoes and kiss him immediately. And when he whispers hotly in your ear that Georgia is staying with her cousins for the night, you almost melt right into his doorstep.

It turns out Georgia was not the only blessing you got from the Bridgerton family.

Benedict taglist: @makaylan @foreverlonginguniverse @iboopedyournose @colettebronte @aintnuthinbutahounddog @severewobblerlightdragon @margofiore @writergirl-2001 @heeyyyou @enichole445 @enchantedbytomandhenry @ambitionspassionscoffee @chaoticcalzoneranchsports @nikaprincessofkattegat @baebee35 @crowleysqueenofhell @bridgertontess @fiction-is-life @lilacbeesworld @angels17324 @broooookiecrisp @queen-of-the-misfit-toys @eleanor-bradstreet @divaanya @musicismyoxygen84 @benedictspaintbrush @miindfucked @sorryallonsy @lilithseve @cayt0123 @hottytoddyhistory @truly-dionysus @fictionalmenloversblog @zinzysstuff @malpalgalz @panhoeofmanyfandoms @kinokomoonshine @causeimissu @delehosies @Mlovesbridgerton @m-rae23 @last-sheep @kmc1989 @desert-fern @starkeylover @corpseoftrees-queen @jeanfreau @magical-spit @bunnyweasley23

[acewritesfics]

There's a lot of making up to do | Tommy Shelby

Pairing: Tommy Shelby x Reader

Request: No

Warnings: Mentions of suicide, a minor side character being a drunk. Former friends to lovers. As usual italics are flashbacks.

Word Count: 2,990

Tommy Shelby Masterlist | Main Masterlist

"This girl should be out on a farm, with lots of grass and space to run," Y/N says as she runs a brush through the mare her father was keeping at his scrap metal yard. "All the noise and ruckus has her anxious and scared." 

"She's here temporarily," Charlie tells her as Curly starts cleaning the mares shoes and hooves. "Tommy's still looking for a home for her." 

"I see that hasn't changed," she chuckles.  

“What hasn’t changed?” Y/N hears from behind her.  

She pauses her grooming of the horse and turns towards the person who just spoke. “Speak of the devil and he shall appear,” she says with a small smirk on her face. “Good to see you again, Tom.” 

“Y/N Strong,” a smile also appears on his face. He hadn’t seen his childhood friend in 7, almost 8, years. As soon as there were talks of war, Y/N had left for London to go become a nurse. “It’s been a long time.” 

“It has,” she agrees, “and it’s also Y/N L/N now.” 

“You’re married?” He asks unsure how he felt about it. Y/N didn’t know it but she was the one who got away. The first girl he loved, and the only person he’s loved unconditionally. He thought he had moved past all the feelings he had for her. She was out of sight out of mind except when he over heard his “Uncle” Charlie mention her when someone asked how his daughter was doing. But seeing her here in Birmingham, in Small Heath, those feelings were flooding back. 

“Not anymore,” she tells him, turning back to the horse, her smile disappearing. “You know, you really ought to find her a home, out in the countryside, away from all this noise and chaos.” 

“How long are you back for?” He asks ignoring what she just said about the horse. 

“I have cottage on the outskirts of town,” she tells him.  

“Will you be at the Garrison tonight?” He asks, sounding slightly hopeful. 

“I might be,” she tells him. “Dads invited me out for a drink. He told me it’s under new ownership.” She adds smirking slightly letting him know she’s heard about him buying the pub.  

“I’ll see you tonight, then,” he smiles as he starts to leave. 

“I said I might be there,” she reminds him. 

He turns to face her once again, walking back over to her, this time standing so close, she could smell his cologne mixed with the scent of cigarettes. “You’re never able to stay away.” 

“I was the one who moved away, wasn’t I?” She challenges him but knows she’s last as she realises her words hold nothing. 

“But you’ve moved back,” he points out, his smile still on his lips. “Now why is that?” 

“If you think it’s because of you, think again, Thomas Shelby,” she says before tip-toeing to place a kiss on his cheek. “It was good to see you again,” she goes back to brushing the mare who has seemed to calm down a little. 

- 

Later that night, Y/N walks into the Garrison and is surprised to see how much it has changed. Tommy has really tidied the place up. For her it doesn’t seem as cozy as it use to be. But it’s still nice.  

She quickly spots her dad and Curly sitting at a table off to the side and starts making her way towards them. But she only gets a couple of feet when she’s stopped by someone. 

“We’ll look who it is, looking even more beautiful than she did when she left us.” 

A large smile makes its way onto her face as she turns to greet Polly. “And look at you, as stunning as always, Aunt Polly.” 

Polly pulls her in for a tight hug. Y/N’s mother walked out on her and her father not long after her 2nd birthday with no explanation for her absence and just a note saying goodbye. She was just gone. Charlie always told Y/N when she was older that her mother wasn’t ready to become one when she was born, she couldn’t bond with Y/N and aside from feeding Y/N, Charlie mostly cared for her.  

Until Polly and the Shelby siblings mother stepped up. In the way that her father had become Arthur Jr, Tommy, John, Ada and Finn’s uncle, their mother and Aunt became her Aunts who were like a mother to her. Y/N couldn’t be more grateful for the two woman who helped raise her. Her heart broke almost as much as the Shelby's did when Mrs. Shelby passed. 

"Tommy told me you were back," she smiles, letting her go. "How long have you been back?" 

"A few days," she tells her. "I wanted to unpack and get settled in before I made my presence known again. Dad was the only one I told about me returning."  

"Were you hoping to surprise us or is there a reason you didn't want to tell us?" she asks feeling a little offended that Charlie was the only one she told. 

"Surprise!" Y/N cheers, her smile stretching from ear to ear. "Did you really think there was a reason I wouldn't tell you about me coming home?"  

"And I haven't heard from you in a while. I wasn't sure," Polly admits, voicing her worries.  

"I'm sorry I haven't written or called in a while," Y/N apologises for her lack of communication. "I had a lot going on." 

"I understand," Polly smiles reassuringly. "You can tell me all about it over a cup of tea tomorrow."  

"Sounds wonderful," her smile falters a little. The only people who knew about her husband was her dad and Tommy but they didn't know the full extent of what happened. 

Polly hugs her once more before making her way back to the gentleman who she was occupying her time with. Y/N continues to make her way over to her father.  

An hour goes by before Y/N sees Tommy walking through the door and towards the bar. She politely leaves the table and makes her way over to Tommy before he can disappear into the snug beside the bar where she knows him and his brother go for privacy. 

"Tommy, can I speak with you, please?" she asks as she reaches him. 

"Is everything all right?" he asks her as he gets the bottle of whiskey that he ordered.  

"Is there anything I can get you, Y/N?" Harry asks before she can answer Tommy. 

"No thank you, Harry, I'm good for now," she smiles politely at the bartender and former owner and turns back to Tommy. "Everything is fine. I have a suggestion for that horse of yours." 

"I'm looking for a more suitable space for her," he tells her, trying to assure her the horse will be okay. 

"What's her name?" she asks.  

"Rosebud," he tells her. 

A look of shock makes its way onto her face when she hears the name of the horse.  

“Rosebud?” she asks, wanting to make sure that’s what she heard him say. 

“She looks like her, doesn’t she?” He replies.  

Y/N’s taken back to when they were about 13-years-old. She’d drawn a horse that looked very similar to the horse Tommy now owns, claiming that she’ll one day own a horse that looked just like that. Tommy laughed at her thinking she’d never find a horse that looked exactly like her drawing. 

As soon as he saw his horse grazing in a paddock on one of his drives out of Birmingham, he thought he was hallucinating. The mare was a remarkable resemblance to the one Y/N had drawn when they were younger. Once he realised he wasn’t hallucinating, he hatched a plan to convince the owner to sell her to him. It didn’t take much convincing for the owner to hand her over to him.  

“She does,” she agrees now that she’s reminded of the drawing she drew. Letting out a laugh of disbelief, she shakes her head. “How did you even remember that silly drawing?” 

“I remember a lot of things,” he tells her simply as those brilliant icy blue eyes of his bore into her. “And it wasn’t a silly drawing. You were so sure that horse you drew existed somewhere out there.”  

“She was always in my dreams,” she smiles. “That’s how I knew she was real,” she continues before laughing and gently hitting his shoulder before grasping it. “And now the boy who didn’t believe me has her. What a coincidence,” she chuckles and let’s go of him. “This is wonderful.” 

“What did you need to talk about?” Tommy asks, an amused look on his face.  

“Oh right,” her amusement falters slightly as she remembers that she needed to speak with him. “It’s actually about the horse… Rosebud. I may have somewhere you can keep her. It’s away from all the noise and smoke. She’ll have plenty of room to run and graze. There’s also a small barn that could be turned into a shelter for her.” 

“Where is it?” He asks. 

“Not far out of town. I can meet you there tomorrow, show you it. The owners already given permission for you to use it,” she tells him, adding the last part to reassure him everything has already been set up.  

“How does 9AM sound?” He asks. “Not too early for you?”  

“Not at all,” she agrees to the time and tells him the address. “I have to get back to my dad. I’ll see you at 9.” 

Tommy nods and watches her go back over to Charlie and Curly. 

- 

Y/N checks the clock in the entry way seeing that it is 8:57AM. Tommy would be arriving any minute and the sun had yet to shine through the cloudy skies. The smell and the feeling in the air let her know it was going to rain soon and she wanted to show Tommy where Rosebuds potential new home could be. After a minute passes she decides to stand outside and wait for her childhood friend.  

As she waits for Tommy her mind goes back to the last time she was with him.  

It was the night before she was meant to leave for London. She’d said goodbye to everyone except Tommy who had suddenly disappeared.  

After scouring all the places he could be, she found him sitting on her bed after she returned home feeling defeated that she couldn't find him. Seeing him sitting there she feels relieved but also angry as she glares at him.  

"Where the hell have you been? I've been looking everywhere for you?" she scolds him, letting her anger win. 

"You have no right being angry with me," he glares back at her as he stands up. "You're the one who's leaving, after all."  

"You're the one who encouraged me to go," she shouts back at him. Confusion adding to her frustration. "What was it that you said? You'll be the best nurse this country ever has? You were made to be a nurse, because you're always looking after others? London will be lucky to have you?"  

"Well I've changed my mind," the 21-year old Tommy, backtracks on his words. "Maybe London won't be lucky to have you and you'll make a terrible nurse." 

"Get out," she yells at him, throwing her hand towards her bedroom door and pointing to it. 

"No," he says stubbornly standing his ground.  

"Leave, before I decide I never want to see your face again." 

Tommy sits back on her bed, further proving that he wasn't going anywhere.  

"What is it that you want, Thomas?" she asks, giving into the young man's stubbornness after a few moments go by. 

"I want you," he declares. "Because I am in love with you." 

Y/N is stunned. Her heart is beating out of her chest and there is a lump in her throat preventing her from saying anything. 

"I've been in love with you for so long," he continues.  

"Why now, Tommy?" she says exasperated, feeling tears build up in her eyes. She can't remember the moment she fell in love with her best friend but she knows it was a long time ago.  

"Because I don't want you to go," he stands up and moves in front of her.  

She refuses to look at him, knowing as soon as she meets those beautiful blue eyes of his she'll give into him. "I have to," she sighs resting her head on his chest. "I start nursing school in two days. I can't back out now. It's too late." 

"I know," he says as his arms wrap tightly around her. "Tell me you love me too and give me tonight. Then we can go from there." 

Lifting her head from his chest, she pulls him in for a kiss. 

That night she had gotten little sleep wanting to spend every minute she could with him. Tommy stayed with her until she got in her car to drive to London.  

Once she settled in London, Tommy went to see her on the weekends he wasn't busy with the illegal betting den his father started. They wrote letters every week, reminding each other how much they loved them and missed them. There was a few weekends that Tommy was with her when he talked about moving to London to be with her. He even got as far as packing his trunks with all his belongings but then his dad had disappeared on one of his benders, leaving him and Arthur Jr to pick up the pieces. They were both frustrated and disappointed but aside from that things were going well between them. 

Until the war happened a year later.  

They had both been shipped off to France, Tommy to fight and Y/N to tend to the wounded. Letters became less frequent as the war went on. The letters eventually stopped under the war ended and Y/N sent a letter to Polly to make sure everyone made it out. Tommy was the one to reply to her, telling her he loved her but nothing was the same anymore. That was the last letter she received from him despite her having written to him multiple times. 

Y/N's pulled from her thoughts when Tommy's car pulls up outside the front gate. She waves to him as he gets out and closes the door behind him. Opening the little gate, he walks closer to her. 

"Did you say to meet here so I can pick you up?" he asks her, dressed in nice suit, his peaky cap on his head and a cigarette hanging from his lips as he buttons up the jacket. 

"No, this is the place I told you about," she informs him and takes his hand.  

He allows her to lead her through her small cottage and into the backyard. At the edge of the backyard was another little gate that lead to a paddock and a small barn structure that could indeed be converted into shelter for Rosebud. 

They reach the small barn just as it starts pouring with rain. The heavy rain showed that the barn had a few leaks that could easily be fixed. 

"So, what do you think?" Y/N asks, letting go of his hand and moving to face him.  

"You were right about it being enough room for her and being away from the noise and smoke," he says pleased with the space. "How much do you want for me keeping her here?"  

"I don't want any money, Tom," she replies. "You pay for her feed and upkeep and she can stay here free." 

"What about the barn?" he asks.  

"You can pay for the conversion, if you must." 

"Anything else?" 

"You can let me ride her and let me groom her but you must clean out her stall. She is your horse after all." 

"Fair enough," he agrees and looks at her. She looks back at him before looking away and like she there was more that she wanted to say. "Whatever it is, you can tell me." 

Y/N looks at one of the leaks as though she's inspecting it but the leak is the last thing on her mind as she ponders whether it would be a good idea to bring up the past or not. 

"Why did you never write back?" she asks, unable to stop herself from asking.  

"The man who came back from France wasn't the same one you fell in love with and he wasn't the man you deserved," he answers, his eyes never leaving her. "From when we were kids, I was always told that you were too good for me." 

"And it took a war for you to listen to those people?" she asks now looking at him. "When have you ever listened to other people's opinions?" 

"It's not just their opinions, Y/N," he goes on to explain. "It's what I've done, who I have become. I'm a bad man who's done bad things." 

"We've all done bad things, Tom," she tells him. 

"I never stopped loving you," he tells her. "Seeing you yesterday reminded me that I still do." 

"It's too late," she tells him, thinking about all the time she could have had with Tommy but because of his decision she spent it with a man who was drunk more than sober and eventually took his own life. Was she in love with this man? No, because she never stopped loving the man standing in front of her right now.  

"No it's not," he says moving closer to her. She makes no move to stop him as he takes her face in his hands and tilts it up, making her look at him. "Tell me you still love me too." 

"I never stopped loving you too," she admits out loud. "There's a lot of making up to do." 

"Then let's start right now," he says and pulls her in for a kiss. 

[mariacallous]

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency has frozen all of its election security work and is reviewing everything it has done to help state and local officials secure their elections for the past eight years, WIRED has learned. The move represents the first major example of the country’s cyber defense agency accommodating President Donald Trump’s false claims of election fraud and online censorship.

In a memo sent Friday to all CISA employees and obtained by WIRED, CISA’s acting director, Bridget Bean, said she was ordering “a review and assessment” of every position at the agency related to election security and countering mis- and disinformation, “as well as every election security and [mis-, dis-, and malinformation] product, activity, service, and program that has been carried out” since the federal government designated election systems as critical infrastructure in 2017.

“CISA will pause all elections security activities until the completion of this review,” Bean added. The agency is also cutting off funding for these activities at the Elections Infrastructure Information Sharing & Analysis Center, a group funded by the Department of Homeland Security that has served as a coordinating body for the elections community.

In her memo, Bean confirmed that CISA had, as first reported by Politico, placed employees “initially identified to be associated with the elections security activities and the MDM program” on administrative leave on February 7.

“It is necessary to rescope the agency's election security activities to ensure CISA is focused exclusively on executing its cyber and physical security mission,” she told employees in the memo.

While Bean is temporarily leading CISA, she is officially the agency’s executive director, its top career position. CISA’s first director created the executive-director role to provide continuity during political transitions. Previously, Bean was a Trump appointee at the Federal Emergency Management Agency during his first term.

In justifying CISA’s internal review, which will conclude on March 6, Bean pointed to Trump’s January 20 executive order on “ending federal censorship.” Conservatives have argued that CISA censored their speech by coordinating with tech companies to identify online misinformation in 2020, during the final year of Trump’s first term. CISA has denied conducting any censorship, and the US Supreme Court dismissed a lawsuit over the government’s work. But in the wake of the backlash, CISA halted most conversations with tech platforms about online mis- and disinformation.

CISA and DHS did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Since 2017, state and local election officials have relied on CISA’s expertise and resources—as well as its partnerships with other agencies—to improve their physical and digital security. Through on-site consultations and online guidance, CISA has helped election administrators secure voting infrastructure against hackers, harden polling places against active shooters, and create polling-place backup plans to deal with ballot shortages or power outages.

Election supervisors have always struggled to overcome serious funding challenges, but in recent years, their jobs have become even more stressful as intense voter scrutiny has given way to harassment and even death threats. Election officials of both parties have repeatedly praised CISA for its apolitical support of their work, saying the agency’s recommendations and free security services have been critical in boosting their own efforts.

But that bipartisan accord began fraying after the 2020 election, as some conservative election officials started criticizing the agency for its focus on mis- and disinformation. Congressional Republicans joined the fray as well, calling CISA “the nerve center of the federal government’s domestic surveillance and censorship operations on social media.” Their rhetoric echoed Trump’s own history of election denialism, which involved false claims of rigged voting machines and mass voter fraud and culminated in Trump supporters’ January 6, 2021, attack on the US Capitol.

With conservatives pushing to axe CISA’s election security mission, Trump’s election last November virtually guaranteed an end to that program, and employees have been bracing for retaliation against the people who participated in that work.

Bean’s memo indicates that CISA’s internal review will cover every agency position related to election security, as well as performance plans for employees involved in that work; all support services provided to the election community; and all election security guidance and publications. Bean wrote that CISA will describe any steps necessary to “correct any activities identified as past misconduct by the Federal Government related to censorship of protected speech,” including eliminating programs or roles.

After CISA completes its review, the agency will submit a report to the White House addressing how it plans to “deliver a more focused provision of services for elections security activities,” Bean told employees. The report will focus on three goals: streamlining the election security services that CISA offers to state and local governments, ensuring that its activities align with its new “mandate to refocus” on its core mission, and removing “all personnel, contracts, grants, programs, products, services, and activities” that conflict with Trump’s anti-censorship directive or exceed CISA’s authorities.

It is unclear if White House officials or DHS Secretary Kristi Noem directly ordered Bean to launch the election security investigation or if she independently determined that Trump’s executive order necessitated it. The January 20 directive does instruct the attorney general to work with other agency leaders to investigate Biden-administration activities that are “inconsistent” with Trump’s vow to end online censorship, but it makes no mention of activities prior to Biden’s term, including CISA’s 2020 election work.

[marshalforgotten]

@cosmicxblossoms continued from {x}

The fight was something eyes witnessed on accident, as she was merely traveling across nations via In-between. The thought of leaving it be crossed her mind, as what right did she have to intrude upon another's territory? Those thoughts were changed however, once soul sight beheld this so-called "Bone King"; seeing his wretched state of the spirit.

She may know very little of the individual personally, but watching one's own kind be reduced to such a deplorable condition felt unnerving if not downright insulting. No, she would not stand for this. Thus did concealed primate inform Maya that she would be out of town for an indefinite amount of time. Keeping up her human appearance happened to be important, but this felt more so.

MK's words temporarily gave her pause, making a frown appear on countenance. She supposed him taking notice eventually would be inevitable, but changing tactics did present challenges at times.

"...And so does the pot call the kettle black," she muttered, before promptly turning to face him with a faux grin and hands akimbo to sides. "Requesting help, from a thief? You and that famous warrior truly are in a real pickle, huh? I suppose I can help, since you asked so nicely." Strangely enough, hidden baboon felt that this would be needed, so she endeavored to drain plenty of medical herbs dry beforehand.

[allgoodnamesrgoneee]

Hello everyone,

I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to take a moment to update you all on something important regarding my request schedule. Due to the overwhelming response I've received, I am temporarily pausing the acceptance of new requests for the next couple of weeks, and potentially even longer. The reason for this is that I currently have a staggering 51 requests waiting. While I am incredibly grateful for the enthusiastic engagement, it has become clear that managing and responding to everyone is quite challenging.

As many of you are aware, I am a nursing student, and as such, my time is significantly constrained. Although I’ve had a bit more flexibility this past month thanks to a break, the reality is that school is about to start in a month, and my academic responsibilities will demand more of my attention. Consequently, I anticipate that once the school year begins, my ability to upload content will be limited, likely to once a week or as my schedule permits.

I truly wish I could dedicate myself to writing full-time and engage with all of your requests more regularly. Unfortunately, the demands of my studies make this impossible for now. I hope you can understand. 🥺

Thank you for your continued support, and I look forward to being able to engage with your requests in the near future.

With that being said I will try to post as much as I can before school starts. I will also be giving 24 hours to submit any last-minute requests😉

Have a good day/night😊

Love, Bianca🌻

[follow-up-news]

A federal appeals court on Tuesday rejected the Trump administration's bid to pause a lower court's order that temporarily halted a massive freeze in federal funding. A judge in Rhode Island blocked the funding freeze Monday and ordered the government to “immediately restore frozen funding.” In its ruling Tuesday, a three-judge panel of the 1st U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals wrote that the "defendants do not cite any authority in support of their administrative stay request or identify any harm related to a specific funding action or actions that they will face without their requested administrative stay."

[justinspoliticalcorner]

Reuters:

A US appeals court on Friday rejected an emergency bid by TikTok to temporarily block a law that would require its Chinese parent company ByteDance to divest of the short-video app by 19 January or face a ban on the app. TikTok and ByteDance on Monday filed the emergency motion with the US court of appeals for the District of Columbia, asking for more time to make their case to the US supreme court. Friday’s ruling means that TikTok now must quickly move to the supreme court in an attempt to halt the pending ban. The companies had warned that without court action, the law will “shut down TikTok –> one of the nation’s most popular speech platforms –> for its more than 170 million domestic monthly users”. “The petitioners have not identified any case in which a court, after rejecting a constitutional challenge to an Act of Congress, has enjoined the Act from going into effect while review is sought in the Supreme Court,” Friday’s court order said. TikTok did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The DC Circuit Court rejects TikTok’s bid to pause a law that would ban the app.

[autistickremylecroux]

Could I pls request a zora x reader eenmeies two loves :d

zor/reder work at ocena bliz and both try 2 bet teh othe with boutny, butt 1 da read gets rlly inryed,zora rlly worry and confesion

(sossy for spelign itz lik 3 amnr)

Bounty battle-Zora x gn!reader

Hi! Sorry for the week wait, my school has caught up to me quite badly. And dont worry about the spelling. I really enjoyed writing this ! it was a lot of fun

WC:1559

Warnings:Blood, surgery, mentions of needles.

“Howdy [name]~” you cursed internally, turning your head to glare at the women behind you. The same face which matched the top bounty. 110,000. Hardly even above yours. Zora laughed at your glare, a loud sharp chuckle. “Not too happy I see? shame you just can’t seem to—“ she stepped forward, getting a bit closer into your personal space, her voice dropping to mock condescension “—keep up” she pulled back, twirling her pistols, before firing a bullet which grazed past your ear.

You forced back an annoyed scowl, she always knew how to get on your nerves. And you were sure she was doing it on purpose to annoy you. To mess up your ‘game’. You forced yourself to sigh, before smirking. “Oh i can keep up, not too sure you’ll be able to though.” You watched as she paused, turning around and raising an eyebrow.

“challenge accepted.” She whistled, before disappearing off into the surrounding woods. Leaving you standing there, you turned back to the board. Staring at your poster , which had a bullet in line with your forehead. Your scowl returned, and you ripped the poster off of the wall and put it in your pocket. Before taking a marker out and reaching up to Zora’s poster.

[timeskip]

You walked past the same bounty board, turning to look at it. Your bounty was now at 120,000. Zora’s hadn’t changed. It was a bit of a disappointing jump after your latest job. It had been risky. Although, after the 100,000 mark it was noticeably more difficult to climb the ranks. You were willing to take the risk. You couldn’t let Zora out perform you.

You snatched the posters down, taking Zora’s as a motivation of sorts. You know , to motivate you to do better. Not any other reasons. You were planning to hand them to Zora as a taunt. Not because you knew Zora liked to keep and collect them as ‘achievements’. You continued back to your base, planning out more ways to ‘annoy’ Zora. You knew exactly what to do. There was a Banzai blaster base nearby, and you had one hell of a heist planned.

[timeskip]

leaves and twigs crushed under your feet, your limbs were heavy and you were losing blood. But you needed to keep going. You needed to reach them, the heist had gone horribly. Some of the Vice Presidents or whatever had been there, and you hadn’t expected them to be there. And by the time you had realised, you had been shot, it didn't do much but it had caused you to slip, falling backwards out of the window. It wasn’t a big fall, since it was only a first ground window. But the glass had hit your side rather seriously, and it had started bleeding.

You trudged through the forest, before you spotted a familiar figure, you couldn’t make it all out as your vision had begun to blur, you focused on getting one foot in front of the other. You managed to push yourself through the brambles, being closer to the figure you knew was Zora.

You watched as she temporarily stopped threatening the other one, all you could tell was they looked like a yellow blob. Probably a Banzai Blaster, but you couldn't tell as your vision got worse. The last thing you could see was Zora, suddenly start running towards you, yelling out something you couldn't make out. Before you promptly faceplanted into the forest floor.

Zora cursed, scooping your unconscious body into her arms, she turned to the Banzai Blaster she was trying to get. Before starting to run towards the nearest Bliss Ocean outpost. Leaving the Blaster confused on the floor.

She stopped after a bit,realising you were losing too much blood, temporarily setting you down and ripping off part of her beloved poncho— if it was to keep you alive it was worth it. And tied it around your waist tightly, desperately cursing under her breath as the adrenaline kept her going. She picked you up, and dashed off again. “you better stay above snakes [name] “

She eventually made it to the base, bursting open the door with her foot, everyone there instinctively shuffled out of the way, Zora when angry was something. And when it had to do with you? Twice as much. Everyone seemed to know except you how much she liked you, mostly due to some things she admitted while drunk. Or because of the glares she sent anyone trying to flirt with you.

At this point, even Naven had taken notice of it. Which said a lot. As sweet as he was, he could be a bit oblivious at times.

None of this mattered, as you were almost dying. Blood gushing from your arms, legs and waist, some was coming from your head too, which left your hair damp and sticky. She shook the thoughts from her head as she ran into the medical bay, practically yelling at the nurse. “OI! GET YOUR ASS OVER HERE—“ she yelled,setting you down at the bed.

The healer rushed over, they were one of the few people in the organisation who had an epithet, mostly because it was useful having someone with a healing epithet. They started examining you, clearly worried. “what happened?” they said, grabbing some damp cloths to start applying it to the wounds.

“i dont fucking know i wasnt there for fuck sakes” she snapped, pacing back and forth. Before stopping and looking at you, “are they going to be okay?” she whispered , her voice becoming a lot quieter. Almost scared. Which was a first.

“yes but they’ll need emergency surgery— if you could wait outside it would be good” they said, tensing as they hoped Zora wouldn’t flip out. Seemingly their prayers were answered. As she silently left and slammed the door behind her.

Zora paced around for the next six hours outside the medical bay. She didn’t get anything to eat or drink,just waited and waited. When she heard the door open, she snapped her head around. “[name] will wake up in about an hour,they’ll need to rest for a bit”

Zora sighs in relief, practically pushing the medic out of the way to get into the room. She sat beside you,your arms, legs and waist were covered in bandages and yet you looked peaceful. There were needles in your arm, most likely giving you some nutrients to makeup for the lost blood.

She stayed silent for about half an hour, before softly grabbing your hand. There was so much she wanted to tell you, whether it was to yell and cry about how reckless you had been. Once she figured out what had happened of course. But she also wanted to wait and tell you everything would be ok.

As the clock ticked on, she started speaking. “you better wake up you coot” she snapped, while subconsciously rubbing the back of your hand. “I'll kill ya if ya dont” she adds, watching as you shuffled around but stayed asleep.

You felt yourself come to your senses,but you didn’t want to get up, you heard the voice. But kept silent, you knew who it was. But she was acting differently than usual. And you wanted to hear what she would say.

“you’re a right idiot. “ you heard her say, her accent making her clip some of the vowel sounds out slightly. “ya got y���rself hurt just to one up me” she laughed, and you wanted to bottle the sound and get drunk on it every night. But you still kept quiet. You wanted to see what she’d say.

“i’m not sure why I even bother to love ya.” your heart felt like it stopped as you heard her say those words, and you visibly tensed. Which she noticed clearly. “…” she stared at you, and you could feel her gaze even if you couldn’t see. “ [name] ?” you opened your eyes slowly, turning your head to look at her, your vision still wasn’t the best. And the light was bright enough to give you a headache “How long have you been listening” she continued, her tone dark as she seemed to be rather annoyed.

“a bit” you admit, humming. It was silent for a second, as both of you tried to think of what to say. You chuckled as you noticed her looking away. It was surprising to see the all cocky and confident Zora flustered and embarrassed. “it’s nice to know you love me” you added, mostly because your inhibition was reduced from the painkillers. “i mean, i thought it was a one…way thing” you added,your words slightly slurred as you started to close your eyes again. Falling back asleep.

People noticed Zora spending more time in the medical bay in the upcoming days. They also noticed she seemed happier than usual, and slightly less murdery. And they knew it had to do with you.

[xtruss]

Justices Will Hear Arguments On Trump’s Effort To End Birthright Citizenship

— By Amy Howe | SCOTUSBlog.Com | Thursday April 17, 2025

The Trump Administration Came to the Court Over a Month Ago. Photograph: Thomas Hawk via Flickr

The Supreme Court will hear oral arguments on May 15 on the federal government’s request to be allowed to implement President Donald Trump’s executive order ending birthright citizenship – the guarantee of citizenship to almost everyone born in the United States, which dates back to the post-Civil War era.

The court left in place orders by three federal judges that prohibit the government from enforcing the executive order anywhere in the country until it can hear oral arguments and rule on the Trump administration’s request.

The 14th Amendment to the Constitution provides that “[a]ll persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside.” It was intended to overrule one of the Supreme Court’s most infamous decisions, its 1857 ruling in Dred Scott v. Sandford, holding (by a vote of 7-2) that a Black person whose ancestors were brought to the United States and sold as enslaved persons was not entitled to any protection from the federal courts because he was not a U.S. citizen.

In 1898, the Supreme Court ruled in the case of Wong Kim Ark – who was born in San Francisco to parents of Chinese descent – that the 14th Amendment guarantees U.S. citizenship to virtually anyone born in this country. Writing for the six-justice majority, Justice Horace Gray explained that the amendment “affirms the ancient and fundamental rule of citizenship by birth within the territory, in the allegiance and under the protection of the country, including all children born here of resident aliens.”

When campaigning for his second term in office, Trump promised to try to end birthright citizenship. Shortly after his inauguration in January of this year, he made good on that pledge, issuing his executive order indicating that people born in the United States will not be entitled to citizenship if their parents are in this country illegally or temporarily.

The order was quickly the subject of legal challenges around the country. In Seattle, Senior U.S. District Judge John Coughenour in early February blocked the Trump administration from enforcing the executive order anywhere in the United States, calling birthright citizenship “a fundamental constitutional right.”

A federal appeals court in San Francisco turned down Trump’s request to limit Coughenour’s order to the individual plaintiffs named in the Seattle suit.

In Maryland, U.S. District Judge Deborah Boardman also temporarily barred the government from enforcing the order there, in a lawsuit brought by immigrants’ rights groups and several pregnant women. Boardman stressed that “no court in the country has ever endorsed the president’s interpretation.”

A federal appeals court in Richmond, Va., declined to pause part of Boardman’s ruling. One judge dissented from that decision, calling the government’s request a “modest motion.”

And in Massachusetts, U.S. District Judge Leo Sorokin granted a request from 18 states, the District of Columbia, and San Franciso to put Trump’s order on hold nationwide. He explained that allowing the Trump administration to enforce the order in some parts of the country but not others would be “inadequate,” because – for example – pregnant women living in one state could cross state lines to give birth in another state.

A federal appeals court in Boston rejected the government’s request to partially pause Sorokin’s ruling.

The Trump administration came to the Supreme Court on March 13 with what then-Acting Solicitor General Sarah Harris characterized as a “modest request”: The court should put the three district judges’ orders on hold, allowing the Trump administration to enforce the order except with regard to the individual plaintiffs named in the lawsuits, the specific members of the organizations that are challenging Trump’s order who are identified in the complaint, and the individuals who live in the states challenging Trump’s order. Or at the very least, she continued, the government should be allowed to “develop[] and issu[e] public guidance regarding the implementation of” Trump’s order.

Harris complained that the kind of nationwide (sometimes also described as “universal”) injunctions issued in the three cases “transgress constitutional limits on courts’ powers” and “compromise the Executive Branch’s ability to carry out its functions.” She exhorted the justices to “declare that enough is enough before district courts’ burgeoning reliance on universal injunctions becomes further entrenched.”

The challengers urged the justices to leave the three orders in place. “Being directed to follow the law as it has been universally understood for over 125 years is not an emergency warranting the extraordinary remedy of a stay,” Washington Solicitor General Noah Purcell told the court. This is particularly true, the brief filed by New Jersey and 17 other states (along with D.C. and San Francisco) added, when the Trump administration does not “even attempt” to challenge the underlying merits of the district courts’ orders.

CASA and the Asylum Seeker Advocacy Project, the two immigrants’ rights groups challenging the president’s order in Maryland (along with several expectant mothers), disputed the administration’s broader contention that district courts have issued too many nationwide injunctions that block the Trump administration from being able to “carry out its functions.” The number of nationwide injunctions issued this year, CASA emphasized, “must be understood in proportion to the number of major policies announced through Executive Orders.” Trump, CASA told the justices, “has already issued more than 100 Executive Orders in his second term, far and away the most ever for this point in a presidential term.”

In a brief unsigned order on Thursday afternoon, the justices indicated that they would put off considering the Trump administration’s request to pause the three judges’ orders until the May 15 oral argument. The three cases will be argued together, beginning at 10 a.m. The justices allocated one hour for the oral argument, although it will almost certainly last much longer.

A decision in the case will likely follow by late June or early July.

— This Article was Originally Published at Howe on the Court. Posted in Featured, Emergency Appeals and Applications. Cases: Trump v. New Jersey, Trump v. CASA, Inc., Trump v. Washington

[vmax012017]

Innovative Video Ad Server Features Every Publisher Should Know | Vmax

The Challenge: Balancing Multiple Demand Sources

The landscape of digital video advertising is rapidly evolving, especially in the OTT and Connected TV (CTV) space. Publishers looking to maximize revenue and engagement must move beyond traditional ad formats like pre-roll and mid-roll. Today, video ad servers offer powerful new capabilities that enhance user experience while driving monetization. Here are some of the most innovative video ad server features every publisher should consider integrating:

Client-Side Ad Insertion (CSAI) for Cost Efficiency & True MetricsWhile Server-Side Ad Insertion (SSAI) is often praised for its ability to bypass ad blockers and provide a seamless experience, Client-Side Ad Insertion (CSAI) remains a cost-effective alternative with key advantages:

More Accurate Metrics: Unlike SSAI, CSAI ensures true viewability tracking, as ads are only counted when actually rendered on the viewer’s screen.

Lower Infrastructure Costs: SSAI requires complex backend changes and additional streaming costs, while CSAI leverages existing player-side ad requests.

Seamless Experience: With optimized buffering techniques, CSAI can now deliver a seamless viewing experience similar to SSAI.

Pause Ads – Monetizing User-Initiated PausesWhen users pause a video, they are engaged but temporarily idle—making this the perfect moment for non-intrusive advertising. Pause ads display static or interactive branded content only when the user pauses.

Higher Engagement: Users are naturally paying attention when pausing.

No Disruption: Unlike pre-roll or mid-roll ads, these ads don’t interrupt content.

Ideal for CTV & OTT Apps: Works effectively on streaming platforms where users take frequent breaks.

Contextual Shoppable Ads – Turning Content into CommerceShoppable video ads take product placement to the next level by allowing viewers to interact with items directly within a video. AI-powered contextual detection enables:

Dynamic Overlays: Relevant products appear as overlays when the user hovers or taps.

Seamless Purchase Flow: Users can add products to cart without leaving the video.

Better Targeting: Contextual AI ensures ads are highly relevant to the scene.

To know more about the topic visit the entire blog —  https://www.vmax.com/blogs/innovative-video-ad-server-features-every-publisher-should-know.html

[aviewofthejames]

Self-Aggrandizement of Jurisdiction

A divided Supreme Court on Wednesday turned down a request by the Trump administration to lift an order by a federal judge in Washington, D.C., that had directed the State Department and the U.S. Agency for International Development to pay nearly $2 billion in foreign-aid reimbursements for work that has already been done.

In a brief unsigned opinion, the court noted that the Feb. 26 deadline for the government to make the payments had already passed. It instructed U.S. District Judge Amir Ali to “clarify what obligations the Government must fulfill to ensure compliance” with the temporary restraining order that Ali has entered in the case, paying attention to how feasible it is for the government to comply with those timelines.

Ali is expected to hold a hearing on the aid groups’ motion for a preliminary injunction – which, if granted, would suspend the freeze on foreign-assistance funding going forward – on Thursday, March 6. This means that the dispute could return to the Supreme Court as an emergency appeal again soon.

Four of the court’s conservative justices would have granted the government’s request to put the order on hold. Justice Samuel Alito, in a dissenting opinion joined by Justices Clarence Thomas, Neil Gorsuch, and Brett Kavanaugh, described himself as “stunned” by the ruling, calling it “a most unfortunate misstep that rewards an act of judicial hubris and imposes a $2 billion penalty on American taxpayers.”

The brief unsigned order came six days after Chief Justice John Roberts temporarily paused Ali’s Feb. 25 order, which had ordered the agencies to pay contractors and grant recipients by 11:59 p.m. on Feb. 26 for work that had already been done before he issued a Feb. 13 temporary restraining order that prohibited the State Department and USAID from suspending foreign-aid payments.

In an executive order last month, President Donald Trump ordered a halt to the distribution of foreign-aid funds so that federal agencies can ensure that those funds are only disbursed in ways that are “fully aligned with” Trump’s foreign policy. Following that order, Secretary of State Marco Rubio ordered a freeze on all foreign-aid programs funded by the State Department and the USAID.

Several groups that receive or have members that receive foreign-aid funds challenged the pause in federal court in Washington, D.C. They argued that the funding freeze violated both the federal law governing administrative agencies and the Constitution.

Acting Solicitor General Sarah Harris came to the Supreme Court on Wednesday night, asking the justices to quickly put Ali’s Feb. 25 order on hold before the deadline for the State Department and USAID to make the payments and then ultimately to lift it. She argued that Ali’s order infringed on the executive branch’s power to make decisions about foreign aid and “stands on the brink of placing USAID into a court-run receivership.” And although she agreed that the government “is committed to paying legitimate claims for work that was properly completed,” the government could not “pay arbitrarily determined demands on an arbitrary timeline of” Ali’s choosing.

A few hours later, Roberts – who handles emergency appeals from Washington, D.C. – granted Harris’s request to temporarily pause Ali’s order before the midnight deadline.  

Foreign-aid recipients on Friday urged the Supreme Court to quickly lift the Roberts order. In a 21-page brief, they told the justices that “the government’s actions bring their very existence—and the existence of fellow foreign-aid partners—to the brink.” Their work, they said, “advances U.S. interests abroad and improves—and, in many cases, literally saves—the lives of millions of people across the globe.”

The foreign-aid recipients emphasized that, as a general rule, temporary restraining orders like the one Ali issued on Feb. 13 are not appealable. But the government has not even asked the Supreme Court to lift the TRO, they observed. Instead, it has asked the justices to lift Ali’s Feb. 25 order directing the government to comply with the TRO and pay for work that had already been completed – something that is even less amenable to an appeal than a TRO. Moreover, they noted, because the government has not appealed the temporary restraining order, it would still have to comply with it even if the court were to lift the Feb. 25 order. 

In a one-paragraph order on Wednesday, the court emphasized that Harris’s request to lift the Feb. 25 order “does not challenge the Government’s obligation to follow” the Feb. 13 temporary restraining order.

Alito’s dissent acknowledged Ali’s “frustration with the Government,” and that the aid groups had broached “serious concerns about nonpayment for completed work.” But the court’s denial of the Trump administration’s request to lift Ali’s Feb. 25 order, he contended, “is, quite simply, too extreme a response. A federal court,” he suggested, “has many tools to address a party’s supposed nonfeasance. Self-aggrandizement of its jurisdiction is not one of them.”

—Amy L. Howe, 5 Mar 2025

Amy L. Howe served as counsel in over two dozen merits cases at the Supreme Court and argued two cases there. From 2004 until 2011, she co-taught Supreme Court litigation at Stanford Law School; from 2005 until 2013, she co-taught a similar class at Harvard Law School. She has also served as an adjunct professor at American University’s Washington College of Law and Vanderbilt Law School. Amy is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and holds a master’s degree in Arab Studies and a law degree from Georgetown University.

[ivankahasbeentreatedsounfairly]

By Mattathias Schwartz and Benjamin Oreskes Jan. 28, 2025

A federal judge in the District of Columbia on Tuesday temporarily blocked the Trump administration’s effort to freeze as much as $3 trillion in federal grants and loans, siding for now with activists who said the order was illegal.

Judge Loren AliKhan’s decision came in response to a lawsuit filed by the activist group Democracy Forward. The group argued that the order, issued by the White House Office of Management and Budget, violated the First Amendment and the Administrative Procedures Act, a law that governs the executive branch’s rule-making authorities. The judge said she would render a more permanent decision on Feb. 3.

The suit was separate from a pending action by attorneys general from 22 states and the District of Columbia, which was also expected to seek to thwart Mr. Trump’s effort to freeze funding pending his administration’s review of whether the spending comported with his priorities.

Skye Perryman, Democracy Forward’s president and chief executive, praised the initial ruling. “We are grateful for this administrative stay to allow our clients time to sort through the chaos created by the Trump administration’s hasty and ill-advised actions” she said in a statement.

The White House press office did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

This ruling marks the second time that a federal judge has intervened to pause Mr. Trump’s expansive interpretation of his own powers in order to let a legal challenge proceed. On Thursday, Judge John C. Coughenour of the Western District of Washington issued a temporary restraining order that blocked an attempt by Mr. Trump to end automatic citizenship for babies born on American soil.

The funding freeze, announced on Monday night in a two-page memo from Matthew J. Vaeth, the acting director of the Office of Management and Budget, directs federal agencies to “temporarily pause all activities related to obligation or disbursement of all federal financial assistance,” specifically citing “D.E.I., woke gender ideology and the Green New Deal.” The meaning of the directive was unclear, and plunged state agencies, city governments and nonprofit organizations into confusion.

Judge AliKhan’s stay came as access to federal money for programs large and small was interrupted, causing chaos across the country. State health agencies said they had been locked out of their Medicaid reimbursement portals. State officials said funding for preschools, community health centers, food for low-income families, housing assistance and disaster relief was at risk. Universities were freezing new research grants.

With even Republican states pleading for guidance, the White House and its budget office tried on Tuesday afternoon to dial backperceptions about the order’s scope, saying the funding pause did “not apply across-the-board” and was limited to programs implicated by the president’s executive orders, including those on D.E.I. efforts and funding for nongovernmental organizations “that undermine the national interest.”

A question-and-answer document released by the budget office as a follow-up said that “mandatory programs like Medicaid” would “continue without pause.”

[theroadgoes-ever-on-and-on]

Found and Lost Again | Part 1

Prompt: [ wall ] your muse pinning mine against a wall. Crossover verse: The Sentinel

  A storm had been brewing over the Northern Dúnedain for months now. All of them from Sentinels to Guides and even those without any extra abilities could feel it. No one could settle fully, always on guard and waiting for something to finally break. The least settled of them all was their temporarily in charge Commander. 

  Despite what people thought, Hal didn’t have a bond with her friend and leader. She only tended to give Aragorn slight nudges when he started to fixate on something. It was how they had always worked and that wouldn’t change until the younger man found his Guide. 

  Hal had been deemed BROKEN with too many sharp edges, borderline wild nature and being emotionally distant. She was not a Guide that any Sentinel actually wanted permanently in their mind. Which didn’t bother her in the least, although it irritated her kin. 

“Where’s the Commander?” 

  The mission had been a complete success and they could go home now. But something felt wrong. Really really wrong. “She was going to check something out along with Ryton and Raidon. Something’s not right though.”

  “Exactly. Where’s Hal?!” Saeradan was a Sentinel with 4 senses. He was weaker than their currently missing Chieftain but he also knew the gender-fluid woman far too well as both a Guide and one of his closest friends. For her to suddenly take a detour in their mission didn’t bode well. 

  Neither did the sudden deep snarl that could have only come from one source: A captured Sentinel. It didn’t take long for Saeradan and Dirael to backtrack and follow the path that the three Rangers had taken earlier. The same path that the snarl had come from. Moments later, Raidon and Ryton appeared at the end of the tunnel. But there was no sign of Hal. 

  Raidon heard the familiar footsteps and put a hand up to stop them, not wanting anything else to go wrong. “Good news: we’ve found Strider.” He shared a concerned glance with Ryton, who was keeping a eye on the scenario ahead. 

“And the bad news?” 

  “He only recognises Hal at the moment and doesn’t like us being so close to him. Hence why we’re stood back here.” 

  The younger Dúnedain nodded, knowing what his former teacher was silently saying. It didn’t come as a surprise that Hal was the only one who Aragorn was letting near. But on the other hand, they couldn’t stay here for much longer. “Hal? Place is empty but we don’t know how long for.” 

~~~~ 

  Following her instinct and finding Aragorn had been one thing. Getting his Sentinel to calm enough for the man’s normal levelheadedness to take over, was a completely different challenge in itself. First thing first though: getting him to back off a bit so she could actually move away from the wall. “Understood. Ryton, could you and the others make sure that the way we came in is still clear, please?” 

  There was a definitely lengthy pause at her request. Normally Ryton would follow it without many questions but this was not a normal day. Nor was it a standard situation since their leader wasn’t.. entirely in his right state of mind. So it didn’t surprise her that none of them wanted to leave her alone with Aragorn like this. 

“Commander…” 

  “Please? Raidon will still be here but Strider isn’t calming-,“ The low continuous growl was making THAT rather clear and she rested a light hand on the man’s chest to push him back slightly, “and we need to get out of here soon.” 

  It took another few minutes and some quiet reassurance from Raidon, before they were left alone. The effect was immediate as tension drained from Aragorn’s taller frame. Now, and only now, did he finally heed her silent request to move back a bit so she could move. 

 “Hal…” 

   “Yes, Rai-,” It took longer than Hal would have liked to realise that Raidon hadn’t said anything. Dark orbs automatically refocused on the only person who could have spoken in a such rough sounding voice. “Aragorn..” She studied him for a moment, letting his Sentinel take comfort in the familiar sharpness of her mind. 

  Then she exhaled slowly and straightened. “I hate to push you but we need to go. I can shield you until we reach Rivendell or I can knock you out if you don’t think you’ll manage the journey.” They hadn’t planned to head for Rivendell but that plan had altered the minute Aragorn had been found. 

  Darkened storm blue eyes scanned his friend and second in command silently. For most people, Hal looked fine but the younger man knew differently. It was far too easy to spot the weariness and hidden pain that she was carrying- and he didn’t like it. But there wasn’t anything he could do right then. “Shielding but only if you can.” He chose carefully, giving her a sharp glance. 

“I’ll be fine.” 

  The Dúnedain Chieftain relaxed slightly when he felt the familiar sharp edges of her mind shielding him from a sense overload. But his concern grew as he followed his kin out silently, letting Hal remain in charge. Given how bad he actually felt, Aragorn opted to ride on Star with Hal. It also meant she wouldn’t have to work as hard to shield him. 

  Hal sped on ahead when Aragorn finally lost his fight with consciousness, quickly followed by Raidon as protection. The others stopped in Tornhad, a hidden Ranger community in the wilds near Rivendell and rested there. It was on the third day of waiting when they returned without Aragorn. 

  Saeradan only needed a glance and he was pulling the dark haired woman into his arms, already knowing what was wrong. “Come on, you need sleep and food.” ‘And a distraction.’ But he didn’t say that last part aloud and took her to where they was temporarily staying. 

  Raidon stepped in before anyone could ask questions, especially the Sentinels amongst the group. “Strider will be fine. They currently have Lady Arwen shielding him until he’s able to repair them himself.” He wouldn’t have said anything else, had it not been for Ryton’s stare. “Neither myself nor Lord Elrond think that he’ll react well when he wakes up.” 

“Why?” A simple question with a seemingly simple answer. But it was a answer they all expected yet no one wanted to hear. 

   “Because Hal’s his. Aragorn is like a dark swirling constantly moving tempest and strong as she is, Lady Arwen would have got snuffed out like a light, had she done what Hal did earlier. We’ve been asked to stay put in case our help is necessary.” 

  “But the only one among us strong enough to even attempt helping would be Hal. And Aragorn won’t let her go a second time if that happens. Not if it means losing her altogether.” Ryton realised quickly, noticing the looks of worry. “So we just wait here and hope that he accepts Lady Arwen’s help.” 

“Fuck.” 

  Waiting was not unknown to the Rangers of the North but this was a different sort of waiting. And the result would not be known for another day.

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Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer’s memo to employees regarding legal victory vs. FTC

Today a US District Court judge issued a decision denying the Federal Trade Commission’s request for a preliminary injunction, which would have temporarily blocked our acquisition of Activision Blizzard from closing in the United States. We’re grateful that, upon a review of the evidence and witness testimony, the Court rejected the FTC’s claims that our acquisition would harm consumers. The evidence showed the deal is good for the industry and that the FTC’s claims about console switching, multi-game subscription services, and the cloud do not reflect the realities of the gaming market.

After today’s decision, we are turning our focus to the UK. As you may be aware, a few months ago, the UK Competition and Markets Authority recommended that the deal be prohibited. We disagree with the CMA’s concerns and have challenged its decision on appeal. At the same time, however, we are considering how the transaction might be modified to address the CMA’s concerns in a way that is acceptable to the CMA. In order to prioritize work on potential options, Microsoft and Activision have agreed with the CMA that pausing the appeal now would be in the public interest, and both we and the CMA have made a joint submission to the Competition Appeal Tribunal to this effect.

From the beginning, the Gaming Leadership Team and I have believed that this acquisition will meaningfully benefit players and the gaming industry. Since we announced our intent, our actions have demonstrated our commitment to bringing more games to more people on more devices. This includes numerous signed agreements to make Activision Blizzard’s games, Xbox first party games and Game Pass all available to more players than they are today. I’m proud of our efforts to expand player access and choice throughout the process. This deal has already been cleared to move forward in 38 countries, and we will continue to work toward timely resolution in other jurisdictions.

Thank you to everyone who has devoted their time and dedication in support of our acquisition. We embarked on this deal with a clear vision for meeting players where they are, and with today’s decision by the Court, we take an important step forward in bringing this vision to life.

Phil

Credit: The Verge