#round circle kara

[onlinesikhstore]

Sikh Kara Mool Mantar Kada Singh Kaur Khalsa Smooth Stainless Steel Bangle DD4

Singh Kaur Khalsa Smooth Flat Stainless Steel MOOL MANTAR Kara Sikh Kada - Sikh Bangle Bracelet

Design: DD4

Width is approx 6.5mm

Thickness of Kara is approx. 6mm

Weight approx. 48-65g (Variable due to different sizes and each kara is handmade and unique)

Mool Mantar is written Beautifully on outer circumference of this kara as shown in photos and inside side is plain and smooth - non

allergic to skin.

Kara sizes are the measured internal diameter of the kara in centimetres.

Brilliant finish and very decorative. Ideal gift item for loved ones on all occasions.

We are UK based supplier. Items can be collected from our shop in Kent, UK.  

Very Reasonable Economy Royal Mail Signed Postage in UK for this Mool Mantar Chakri Kara. 

Postage discounts for multi-buys.

Any questions please do not hesitate to contact us.

PLEASE NOTE: Please measure/check size of your kara/bracelet first while ordering to avoid any hassle or posting it back to us and paying extra for p&p for exchange and swap of kara with other desired sizes.

P.S. Colour of item may slightly vary due to camera flash and light conditions. Some Kara may have negligible small black grinding mark on the kara joint. This is always seen on all kara from Amritsar as most of the Kara making/shaping work is done by hands with traditional methods. However, this will not affect the quality/look of Kara.

[autisticlenaluthor]

Vigilante

thank you thank you to @2-the-moon-and-2-saturnfor betaing <3

“Kara Zor-El, what the fuck were you thinking?” 

The sound of Lena’s roar is quickly followed by heels snapping against the linoleum floor. Alex and Kara both shoot each other looks, like two kids about to get caught screwing around by the principal. 

Within the second, Alex has hopped off of Kara’s bed and is carefully backing away.

The med-bay door slides open and Lena enters, her arms folded across her chest and brow raised. For a moment, she remains quiet as she takes in the scene. Kara’s lying in her suit on a stretcher, surrounded by red sun lamps, and connected to an IV drip. 

Lena nods to herself and draws in a breath, shooting Alex a look before turning back to Kara.

“Two days,” she remarks and holds up two fingers. “You couldn’t wait two days for the kryptonite suit to be finished?” 

Kara goes to respond, getting out a meek ‘I know, I-’ before realizing the question must’ve been rhetorical because Lena’s already cut her off. 

“You promised you were going to lay low until it was done.” 

“I didn’t know he’d have kryptonite!” Kara exclaims. (She regrets it as soon as she does.) 

“Well, I don’t think that’s something criminals like to advertise.”

“Look, she took a calculated risk,” Alex interjects. “Maybe not the smartest one. But this is what she does– there’s always a chance of this happening, it just comes with the territory.” 

Lena raises an eyebrow. “The territory? Kara’s life is not collateral, Director. It’s not worth the risk.” 

“I’m not saying it is.” 

“Then stop treating her like she’s indestructible. You know, I’m getting really tired of this vigilante shit and the DEO acting like–”

“Woah, this is not vigilante shit, Supergirl is a nationally recognized hero. She’s basically a member of law enforcement!” Alex argues. 

“NCPD officers always have back-up. If Supergirl is a cop, then where the hell is her team?” 

“Right here! The entire DEO is behind her, she–”

“Alex–” Kara cuts in. “Both of you, just stop.” 

Lena retracts. She rubs her palms together and looks down at the floor. 

“Could we just have a minute?” Kara asks, looking over at her sister. “Alone?” 

Alex hesitates. She looks from Kara, to Lena, then back at Kara. 

“We’ll be fine,” Kara adds and tilts her head towards Lena. “I’m okay.” 

“Okay.” Alex exhales. “I’ll be in the conference room.” 

Kara nods. She folds her hands together and scrapes the dried blood from beneath her fingernails as she waits for Lena’s rant to pick back up. After all, it isn’t like she doesn’t deserve it. She made a promise and she broke it. Broke Lena’s trust after years of building it up. 

But the spiral never comes. Lena’s silent as her eyes graze the med bay again, watching the monitors on the wall, and the cuts on Kara’s chin. 

“I… I’m sorry,” Kara speaks up eventually. She looks up with round, worried eyes, trying to feel out a response before she continues. “I didn’t want to make you mad.” 

“I’m not mad,” Lena responds. She drops her arms by her side and then picks them back up again so she can tap her thumbs together. She needs something to do with her hands so the pent-energy circling inside won’t start to seep out again. “I know, with the yelling, but…” 

She pauses and approaches the bed, sitting on the edge beside her girlfriend. 

“I’m not mad.” 

“I’d understand if you were,” Kara says. “I told you I’d wait and I didn’t.”

Lena nods. She gestures with her hand, her expression softening. When she goes to speak, all that comes out is a sigh. 

She looks down and folds her hands together. They’re shaking– it’s practically imperceivable but they are. Kara reaches out to gently cover them with her own. 

“You know, for three years I’ve been Supergirl without an anti-Kryptonite suit and I’ve always made it out okay,” she says. “And today was bad, I- I know how bad it was. But I’ll bounce back. I’ll be safer.” 

Again, Lena nods and her eyes gloss over. 

“I know.”

She smiles as she says it, the way she always does when she’s fighting back tears. 

“But you’re…” Sniffing, Lena reaches out to trace the area by Kara’s scrape with her thumb. “You’re all cut up. You’re– you’re bleeding. You never bleed.” 

“I’m okay,” Kara whispers. 

But Lena doesn’t believe her. She shakes her head and sets her hand down, beginning to fidget with her fingers once more. 

“You’re hurt.” 

“I am… a little.”

“I don’t like seeing you hurt.” 

“You’ve seen it before.” 

“And I didn’t like it then either.” 

Kara sighs. She reaches out to take Lena’s hand in hers, giving it a squeeze. 

“I’ll be okay,” she says again. “I promise.” 

“Yeah… you better be,” Lena says, her voice shaky. “Because I’m really fond of my girlfriend and I’d hate to lose her to some anti-Kryptonian creep.” 

“You’re not gonna lose me.” 

“Sure.” 

“You’re not.” 

Lena looks up and meets Kara���s eyes. 

“How am I supposed to believe that?” She asks. “All I asked for was two days to finish your suit… and you went out anyway.” 

Kara averts her gaze, drawing her bottom lip between her teeth. 

“And I know you’ll be fine this time. But what if next time is different? I don’t…” 

The words get caught in Lena’s throat. They’re heavy in her mouth, she wishes she could swallow them. 

“I can’t do this without you.” 

She isn’t sure what this is referring to. These relationships, these friendships, this job.

All Lena knows is she’s gotten used to her life and for the first time in as long as she can remember, she really fucking likes it. She likes that she gets to come home from work to her best friend and the penthouse they made a home together. She likes that there are two toothbrushes in the holder on her bathroom sink, and a pair of sneakers next to her heels by the front door. She likes that when Kara showers, she can hear her singing in the other room, and that they have Fast Food Fridays because, at the end of the week, neither of them ever wants to cook. 

So maybe it’s all of it. Lena likes her life– loves it, even. Kara is the one person she can’t imagine doing it without. 

“You won’t have to,” Kara breathes. “I promise.” 

Lena doesn’t say anything. She soaks in the silence until Kara feels ready to continue. 

“Today, when I fell and the wind got knocked out of me… I felt this… this rush. Like… you know how people talk about their life flashing before their eyes?” 

Lena nods. 

“It was like that except it wasn’t my life, it was like, I was seeing what I’d miss if… if something really did happen. It was all of these moments a- and all I could think was, I can’t miss this… I can’t not live it.” 

“What did you see?” Lena asks, her voice hardly above a whisper. 

“So much.” Kara smiles and sits up, leaning her weight on her hands. “It was me and you in this big house. And we had pets– a dog and a cat. And we were so happy.” 

Lena draws her bottom lip between her teeth, the corners of her mouth curling into a smile. She’d be lying if she said she hadn’t had similar fantasies. 

“That sounds nice.” 

“Yeah,” Kara agrees. “And then I… I hit the ground and I knew I’d messed up. And I- I regretted it so much– I still do.”

Lena looks over at her. She wants to ask what that means, what all of it means. The flash forward and the regret, what it really is to mess up. But again, she’s quiet. 

“I want that life with you,” Kara continues. “And I was so stupid to risk it today when all you’d needed was two more days.”

“You’re not stupid.” 

“I know. But the choice I made was.” 

Lena nods. 

“I want the big house and the dogs and all of those moments with you. Supergirl is… I love Supergirl but you are my family. She’s just a job.” 

“Kara… what are you saying?” 

Kara smiles. Her heart’s beating so fast it could burst right out of her chest, but this feels right. It feels good.

And before she knows it, two more words have slipped out. “Marry me?” 

[loveandleases]

sorry, i don't know if you've already said this. but i can't find it. what do they look like the ros? height, ethnicities, body type. for all the nitty gritty fanart/-fic/-tasy reasons! ty

The deets will be on the character intro post but I guess I'll go ahead and answer here too. (I suck at descriptions so lts hope 588 words is enough)

Edit: Just added link to the character intro's. Character Intro

Cam- Cam is fair-skinned with warm coppery hair. Length is kept just below the ears. (he's always struggling with the front) He has heterochromia, so his left eye is a warm brown, while his right is a deep green. Cam has a slim athletic build, and he stands at 6'2. He has several piercings in his ears, with a scar on the left lobe from a bad attempt at homemade piercing (thanks mc) Cam has one dimple in his left cheek. He jokes that if he had two he would be unstoppable.

G- G has a warm skin tone. Their hair is a cool black, while their eyes are dark brown almost black. Male G keeps their hair in a two-block style and tends to keep it pushed back (because puppies like to play with hair) while Female G keeps hers mid-length and layered. FG tends to have her hair pulled back. G has a lean build, female and male g are both 5'10''. (and a half, G likes to ensure ppl know that) They are of Korean descent. Their lips are not exactly plump also not exactly thin, a nice in-between. G has a beauty mark under their left eye and another on the right side of their neck. (long gorgeous lashes)

Kara- Her skin is slightly warmer than Cam. She has round strikingly blue eyes, very soft features. Small nose, dainty lips. Her hair hits just above the waist, while the front is layered just above her chest. She keeps in a lighter blonde shade. Kara's has a curvy body type. Her thighs have very much saved some lives. She stands at just 5'4.

M- ( gonna start calling them Mar for short)- Our cinnamon roll is mixed race. Chinese and Caucasian. Their skin tone is naturally warm neutral, though they spend so much time inside they tend to go more pale. Their eyes are slightly downturned and have a nice honey shade. Black messy hair for M and F Mar. While male M's hair is almost to their shoulders female M's hair is just past. They tend to always have dark circles (too much work not enough sleep). W is one of the shorter ros at 5'7. Their build is soft. Ideal for cuddles.

Isaac- Isaac is African American, Slightly upturned blue eyes (Isaac thanks their mom for that). Umber skin-toned. Isaac is built, they like to work out think athletic build. Their hair is curly and a warm black shade, in between lengths it's not short but it's not long sits to the base of their neck. Jawline that could cut glass. Somewhat sharp features. Isaac is an even 6 ft, they're more broad than tall. Isaac has several tattoos on their arm, not full sleeves.

Ardent- Ardent would tell you that his looks are the best things his parents gave him. He's Greek, with olive skin and brown eyes. His hair used to be a nice warm brown now it has a bit of grey on the edges. The length differs, he used to love to let it grow to his shoulders but the cat had other ideas. so now its just a bit short and a bit choppy. It falls to his chin, though he keeps it tucked out of the way. He's our tallest RO a nice 6'4 and broad, so broad, maybe too broad. .Hes tanky. He has scars along his forearms, and one on his lip.

[lena-in-a-red-dress]

John Wick AU Pt 2

Lena's "coronation" before the High Table and its families is a lavish, stately affair. Kara has taken up the role of Lena's chief bodyguard, despite no longer being bound to the high table. She's freelance now, free to serve who she wishes-- and she chooses Lena.

The day of the ceremony, Kara watches as attendants help bathe Lena, and rub oils into her skin before robing her in an embroidered silk robe. Only when Lena is ready to undertake the rites does Kara split off to survey the safety protocols she'd ordered for the hall in which the ceremony would take place, and only when Kara is satisfied does she nod for the ceremony to commence.

Representatives of all the families, seated and not, bear witness as the great doors open, admitting Lena and her retinue, Kara first in step behind her. Lena strides down the aisle with her head high, tall and regal.

At the end of the aisle stands a padded kneeler, akin to one on which a catholic bride might pray before exchanging vows. Upon reaching the golden, velvet lined stool, Lena pauses. An attendant, Eve, steps forward, assisting Lena to disrobe.

Lena's nudity is not sexual in nature-- it is ritual vulnerability, a symbol of her trust in the families who serve and an expression of her tenuous safety as Queen of the High Table. Without an ounce of self-consciousness, Lena turns and kneels, looking up at the Harbinger who would conduct the vows-- the same who had witnessed the duel that saw the end of her brother.

The vows are simple-- does Lena accept her role as Queen, and swear to serve in the interests of the table, and families who comprise it?

Such vows had not been asked of Lex-- no monarch has ever had to. For these are Lena's vows, the first of many changes she intends to sow during her reign. A monarch should not be above the social contract that governs their community, but be part of it more than any other party.

"I will serve," Lena affirms. "I will be of service."

Vows complete, Lena bends until her chest rests atop the kneeler. Eve delicately sweeps Lena's long hair to one side, exposing the back of her neck to the cool air of the room and the gaze of everyone present.

Taking a red hot brand from the brazier behind him, the Harbinger steps beside Lena, and presses it just above the center between her shoulderblades, below the nape of her neck.

Kara sees Lena tense, long fingers gripping the tops of her thighs where they rest. She issues a single grunt of pain-- a gesture more for her audience than for herself. She has survived worse than this, but she shows them that the burden of rule is not taken lightly.

It is done.

The poker pulls away, revealing a round circle overlaid with a cross-- a gunsight. A sign that wherever she goes now, Lena will always have eyes watching her, waiting to strike should she slip.

The room erupts into cheers and applause. Kara takes the robe from Eve, and holds it while Lena threads her arms into it. She leaves it loose on her shoulders, allowing the back collar to gape so that it would leave her new brand to air.

Kara's fingers gently brush Lena's skin as she pulls away-- a silent vow that she is there, a stolid pillar of support and safety. Their eyes meets briefly as Lena turns, and Kara sees the glimmer of affection and gratitude sent her way before Lena sits in the ornate throne that is exchanged for the kneeler.

What follows is a parade of family representatives kneeling at Lena's feet, swearing fealty to her. Kara keeps a close eye on each one, ever on guard, but spies no weapons. It seems the families are as eager to witness Lena's rule as Kara is.

When the parade of fealty concludes, Lena makes her way back down the aisle and out of the hall, trailed by Kara and the rest of her attendants. Her mother Lillian is among her retinue, and Kara could swear she sees a hint of pride in the woman's chill gaze.

Once back in her chambers, Lena allows a doctor to see to the brand now gracing her skin, applying ointment but no bandage. The families would be celebrating through the night, and the mark would remain on display for all to see.

"Leave us," Lena instructs her attendants, once she's draped in a flowing gown and her hair and makeup finished. With a look from Lena, Lillian leaves as well, until only Kara remains.

And it's Kara who helps adorn Lena in her necklaces, bracelets, and rings-- all of which she knows could turn into weapons at a second's notice. Lena regards her as Kara finishes with a kiss to her royal hand.

"Kara."

Lena leans in, kissing Kara gently. "I may have sworn fealty to the families today," she continues, "but I also swear fealty to you. I will serve you-- I will be of service."

The sacred words hit Kara straight in the chest. Given freely and unprompted, it means more than Lena would ever know.

"And I you," Kara returns. She turns Lena's hand over, bringing Lena's open palm to her lips. She meets Lena's gaze, bold and unafraid of any trouble that may come their way.

"Now and forever, I am yours."

[cardcaptorsakura96]

We're All In This Together-Chapter 4

Fandom: Supergirl, Batman, Superman, The Flash

Characters: Kara Danvers, Clark Kent, Bruce Wayne, Barry Allen, Barbara Gordon, Leonard Snart, Mxyzptlk, John Stewart, Lois Lane, Jimmy Olsen

Summary: Kara, Clark, and Barry are taken off guard by a request by the imp Mxyzptlk: watch over and protect the children of their alternate selves from a different Earth. Will our heroes rise to the occasion?

Chapter 1, Chapter 2, Chapter 3

Mxy suddenly appeared in the middle of a den. He winced because everything was in shades of green from the walls to the furniture. The only thing that wasn’t green was white the door to enter and exit the room. 

Mxy sighed and muttered, “Probably white so that a sane person knows how to leave the room without knocking themselves out. I know the Lanterns like green, but this is too much.”

Mxy shook his head while looking around until he found his targets. As he looked around, his face fell as he saw three sad children sitting on the couch with John in front of them talking.

Mxy sighed and muttered, “At least they are not crying full-fledged tears.”

Mxy shook his head as he walked towards the group. About two years ago, both John and Mxy had a sinking suspicion that this wouldn’t likely be their permanent home. The Green Lanterns weren’t making any ground with Superman and his clones. As much as they wanted to be in denial about that, John and Mxy agree that the kids need to be prepared to leave at a moment’s notice. That also meant figuring out a way to let them know the gravity of the situation without permanently scarring them for life. Since they turned three, they decided to keep the concept for them simple. They told them they were caretakers for them until they found them permanent homes with a parent(s). They told the children multiple times over the years so that they would not be blindsided. However, he should have known that they would be upset regardless. This was the only home they had ever known, and they were suddenly being taken away from it. 

Mxy gave a soft smile as he knelt so he was at eye level with the children and asked, “Why do my favorite people in the world have such sad looks on their faces?”

Alura looked up with big round eyes and huge pout. Mxy would almost chuckle if it wasn’t such a serious situation.

It’s uncanny how she has Kara’s infamous pout down.

Alura said as her voice wavered, “It isn’t fair Uncle Mxy. We don’t want to leave.”

Jonathan looked up with teary eyes and said, “We would miss you guys too much.”

Mxy nearly winced at that statement. 

He tried to force a smile and said, “We have had this conversation before that this was a place temporary for you guys until we find you a new home.”

Alura’s pout became more pronounced. Mxy was nearly startled. He didn’t she could get her pout to look so big. 

“But we like it here better,” whined Alura.

Jonathan sniffled while wiping his eyes with his sleeves and asked, “Is it because I accidentally bumped into the vase and it fell? I said I was sorry. I tried to fix it but it kept falling apart.”

John kneeled down in front of Johnathan and gently grabbed his hand while rubbing smooth circles around it. He used his other hand to lift Jonathan’s face so they were staring eye to eye with each other. 

John gave a soft smile and said, “You guys never did anything wrong. It isn’t safe for you to stay here. I would never forgive myself if something were to happen to you guys.”

Alura whimpered and said, “But the Green Lanterns are the greatest army ever.”

“Ultraman is coming,” said Nora softly. 

Mxy and John looked at Nora startled. They have tried to keep the devastation caused by Superman (or Ultraman as he began to call himself this year) from them, but looking back Mxy realized that may have been unrealistic. There were other Green Lanterns and staff that the kids ran into throughout the day. He shouldn’t be surprised that the kids may have picked up on a few things. 

Jonathan frowned and said, “Ultraman isn’t real. That is just a story to scare children.”

Nora turned to Johnathan terrified and said a little louder, “It is true. I heard some of the other Green Lanterns talking about it. Ultraman destroyed 30 of the Green Lantern’s rings.”

Alura looked up startled and said, “That can’t be true. The Green Lantern rings are supposed to be powerful.”

John sighed while rubbing the back of his head and said, “What Nora said is true. We are struggling to prevent Ultraman from reaching Oa. That is why we want to get you guys to a safe place. 

Alura and Johnathan looked up at John terrified. Nora looked down while wringing her hands. 

John scooped all of the kids in for a hug. The kids all embraced him tightly.

John said softly, “I don’t want you guys to worry. The rest of the Lanterns and I will be holding him and his army off while Mxy gets you to a safe location.”

“Will you come back for us when this is over?” mumbled Alura with tears streaming down her face.

John tried to keep a passive face but was struggling. 

“No, my dear, you are going to your permanent home now.”

Mxy gave a soft smile and asked, “Do you guys remember that I told you that I was looking for a mommy and daddy to take care of you guys? You were all excited about having parents.”

“But that means losing you guys too,” said Nora softly while wringing her hands.

“We don’t want to go if it means not seeing you guys again,” wailed Jonathan. 

John hugged them tighter and said, “I don’t want you guys to go either, but my priority is to keep you guys safe.”

Mxy embraced them all as well and said, “I know you guys won’t be able to see John again, but I will still be around with weekly check-ins.”

All three kids looked up at him surprised. 

Mxy smirked and said, “You guys aren’t getting rid of me that easily.”

The children looked away sheepishly. 

After a couple of minutes, Nora looked up thoughtfully and said, “Are the new parents nice?”

Mxy smiled and said, “They are the best. They are very kind and noble. And guess what?”

All the kids look up at him curiously. 

“What?” asked Alura scratching her head.

Mxy leaned in lowered and whispered, “They are all superheroes.”

“Really?” squealed all three kids. 

Mxy smiled and said, “Yes, they are their universe’s greatest defenders, and they are looking forward to meeting you all.”

“What kind of heroes are they?” asked Nora quizzically.

“Remember the stuffed animals that I gave you guys earlier?” asked Mxy.

The kids nodded. 

“They are modeled after The Flash, Superman, and Supergirl,” said Mxy.

All of the kids looked at each other in awe.

Read the rest on AO3

[saitama-division]

Generations of Divisions (Redux)

Basically this is just the original post I made a year ago but updated with all the new divisions that joined this year. These are based off when the blogs are created so please forgive me if I made a mistake.

Note for future creators, if you’re planning on making a division, the ones labeled “Inactive” are basically free for you to adopt for your own.

Part 2

Generation Zero (October 2017 — August 2020)

Ikebukuro Division: Buster Bros!!! (Created October 24th, 2017)

Yokohama Division: MAD TRIGGER CREW (Created November 13th, 2017)

Shinjuku Division: Matenrou (Created December 4th, 2017)

Shibuya Division: Fling Posse (Created December 25th, 2017)

Osaka Division: Dotsuitare Hompo (Created October 28th, 2019)

Nagoya Division: Bad Ass Temple (Created November 25th, 2019)

Chuohku Ward: Party of Words (Created August 15th, 2020)

1st Generation (December 2020 — April 2021)

Harajuku Division: Alley Catz (Created December 7th, 2020) @harajukudivision (INACTIVE)

Kawasaki Division (formerly Akihabara): DayBreakers (Created January 16th, 2021) @kawasaki-division (INACTIVE)

Saitama Division: Femme Fatale (Created April 1st, 2021) @saitama-division

Shinagawa Division: CodeX (Created April 1st, 2021) @shinagawa-division

Ueno Division: Sakurai Clan (Created April 30th, 2021) @uenodivision

2nd Generation (May 2021 — September 2021)

Aoyama Division: Jet Set Trio (Created May 7th, 2021) @aoyama-division

Taitō Division: Blade Maiden (Created August 31st, 2021) @taito-division

Urayasu Division: Cherry Go Round (September 1st, 2021) @urayasu-division (INACTIVE)

Naha Division: Wild Shīnu (Created September 5th, 2021) @naha-division

Sapporo Division: Polar Knights (Created September 5th, 2021) @sapporo-division

Okinawa Division: Liberty Guild (September 27th, 2021) @okinawa-division

3rd Generation (October 2021 — December 2021)

Minato Division: Oculus (Created October 26th, 2021) @minatodivision

Chiyoda Division: Crimson Glow (Created October 28th, 2021) @chiyoda-divison (INACTIVE)

Sumida Division: Gilded Revolution (Created November 24th, 2021) @sumida-division (INACTIVE)

Akihabara Division: Otaku Corps (Created December 15th, 2021) @akihabaradivision

4th Generation (January 2022 — April 2022)

Fukuoka Division: MIHANASA (Created January 18th, 2022) @fukuokadivision1

Toyama Division: ECO BooN (Created February 12th, 2022) @toyama-division

Sendai Division: Kiya Kara (Created April 9th, 2022) @sendaidivision

Nagasaki Division: Thirteen (Created April 27th, 2022) @nagasakidivision (INACTIVE)

5th Generation (May 2022 — June 2022)

Edogawa Division: Wicked Requiem (Created May 3rd, 2022) @edogawa-division

Suginami Division: Sazanka Zombeez (Created May 17th, 2022) @suginami-division

Minato Division (2nd Team): R.I.P. Märchen (Created May 22nd, 2022) @minato-division03

Akihabara Division (2nd Team): Pixel Syndicate (Created May 22nd, 2022) @akihabara-division03

Meguro Division: DOG STREET CLUB (Created June 10th, 2022) @megurodivision (INACTIVE)

Toshima Division: Inner Circle (Created June 10th, 2022) @toshima-division (INACTIVE)

Shizuoka Division: Silent Tragedy (Created June 23rd, 2022) @shizuokadivision

6th Generation (July 2022 — August 2022)

Chiba Division: MAD LYNX (Created July 26th, 2022) @chiba-division (INACTIVE)

Nerima Division: Vivid Angels (Created July 27th, 2022) @nerima-division (INACTIVE)

Koto Division: Toxic Love (Created July 27th, 2022) @koto-division (INACTIVE)

Miyazaki Division: Beautiful Nightmare (Created August 4th, 2022) @miyazaki-division (INACTIVE)

Nagano Division: Han’nya no Tsumi (Created August 6th, 2022) @nagano-division (INACTIVE)

Kobe Division: Lovesick (Created August 7th, 2022) @kobedivision

Kanazawa Division: Justice Shield (Created August 7th, 2022) @kanazawa-division

7th Generation (September 2022 — December 2022)

Gion Division: Hana No Joō (Created September 6th, 2022) @gion-division

Enoshima Division: Solar Siren (Created September 6th, 2022) @enoshima-division

Odaiba Division: Artificial Heaven (Created September 26th, 2022) @odaibadivision (INACTIVE)

Ōta Division: Birds of Prey (Created October 22nd, 2022) @ota-division

Nakano Division: BittASweetZ (Created November 3rd, 2022) @nakanodivision

Ginza Division: Last Judgment (Created December 22nd, 2022) @ginza-division

Saga Division: Bloody Divas (Created December 31st, 2022) @sagadivision (INACTIVE)

8th Generation (January 2023 — May 2023)

Nara Division: Miraitabi (Created January 19th, 2023) @naradivision

Katsushika Division: Death Row Block (Created February 1st, 2023) @katsushika-division

Hakodate Division: Kuma no ie (Created May 3rd, 2023) @hakodate-division

Setagaya Division: ENIGMA (Created May 12th, 2023) @setagaya-division

Chuohku Ward: Party of Words Tertiary Team (Created May 23rd, 2023) @nug-chuohku

Kumamoto Division: Strange Magic (Created May 28th, 2023) @kumamoto-division

9th Generation (Part 1) (June 2023 — December 2023)

Echizen Division: Clockwork Lament (Created August 25th, 2023) @echizen-division (INACTIVE)

Chiyoda Division (2nd Team): KURUNE INC. (Created August 29th, 2023) @chiyoda-division2 (INACTIVE)

[blorbyeo]

In the Ring

Vox Phantasma! Reader, Kara, who, freshly shipped from New York, sneaks out every night to see if she can find fighting rings to test her skills. After all, she had been training for years under the monks at the Order of the Concrete Fist, as a good pupil she couldn't dishonor them by getting rusty.

Obviously, she cannot go out at night as a woman. Luckily, years ago her sister had gifted her a three-quarter dragon mask. It's a red mask depicting a snarling dragon. It juts out beyond her nose, gathers in towards her cheekbones, and splays out to her just beyond her jawline. This mask was no ordinary mask, it was a magical mask crafted by the wizards at the Gramercy Occult Society. It has the ability to physically alter the gender of the wearer. The mask's effects only end when she chooses to take it off, or should it ever break. This way, Kara could escort her sister without breaking the chaperone rules of high society.

The mask can only change one's appearance so much. For Kara, the mask squares her jawline and broadens her shoulders. Her breasts shrink to fit a muscular build, and she loses her feminine curves in place of a traditional triangle body shape.

One night, Kara finds her way to the Barbary Coast fighting pits. She is cocky and confident in her abilities. She has already gone three rounds in the pit when Ah Sahm enters. The masked man in the ring has just won. He is garbed in a vest and a pair of loose-fitting pants.

"Who else will challenge me? Huh?! The man who killed a dragon," Kara yells into the crowd. And Ah Sahm loves a challenge and, on occasion, enjoys putting egotistical people in their place. So, he steps into the pit against the man wearing a red dragon mask.

The two men enter the ring. Immediately, Ah Sahm knows this man is not a boxer, at least not in the way other white men are. He has long loosely curled brown hair that is tied back and his eyes are a striking green. The strange fighter circles him like a martial artist would. Ah Sahm, testing his theory, lets the other fighter attack first.

Kara starts with a quick series of punches all aimed at her opponent's chest and face. Almost all of them are blocked except for a couple of lucky hits to his torso.

Ah Sahm is surprised at the young man's martial abilities. But that doesn't stop him from attacking back. He delivers precise and calculated kicks and punches of his own, in return aiming for his opponent's weak spots and openings. The brunet does his best to block and dodge, but he is quickly tiring. A lucky kick to the chest sends the younger man sprawling backward into the dirt.

"Not so cocky when you have your ass in the dirt," Ah Sahm taunts. He sees the fury flash in the man's eyes.

Instead of dignifying her opponent with a response, Kara growls, pushing herself up and charging. She fiercely kicks her opponent several times. Again, he blocks most of them, except for the lucky one that manages to catch him off guard. It connects with the side of his head, sending him sprawling to the ground. Panting, she puts space between them, in an attempt to recover.

Even though all Ah Sahm can hear is ringing in his ears, he gets up quickly. He can tell when a fight is almost over. He charges. He knows the man is tiring quickly and, even though he could keep up in the beginning, is quite outmatched in comparison. He unleashes an absolute barrage of blows, kicks, and punches against the younger man.

Kara does her best to block but realizes she is outmatched. However, that doesn't stop her from putting up a fight. She goes for a feint, but her opponent dodges her attack. She feels herself getting yanked forward, and a punch landing harshly against the mask before she falls at her opponent's feet.

Her blood runs cold as she feels the mask shatter against her skin. Now in a heap on the ground, the mask falls from her face, and Kara's body reverts to its original feminine shape. The crowd falls silent, just as confused as Ah Sahm.

Ah Sahm watches as the mask falls from his opponent's face and the man transforms into a woman. Had they been a woman the whole time? How could he make such a mistake? How could he have not noticed? He can only stare down at her in surprise. Their eyes meet, and hers are filled with anger and fury. He almost thinks he imagines the grief he sees behind the more volatile emotions.

"You're a...woman?"

Kara can only glare furiously at the man standing over her. She collects as much of the broken mask as she can. Surrounded by men, the grief, anger, and fear are too much. Kara feels her magic and the Umbral Arcana surge in response to her emotions. The wildness inside her responds to her instinctual desire at that moment, the desire to escape.

In an instant, Ah Sahm watches the woman in front of him disappear. He knows he saw her there one instant and gone the next. Logic and his brain tell him she just ran through the crowd, but he knows she saw her there one instant and gone the next. There is no way she pushed her way through the crowd so quickly.

[gaygoetia]

Part 2 of the Oneshot Polls

[leaahhh]

some things i consumed in april

blondshell’s self-titled debut album

there is a shocking amount of music i truly, madly love coming out this year. i think this is one of my top 3 albums of 2023 (i know it’s only april). i’d only casually listened to blondshell until i saw her play the rolling stone showcase at SXSW in march, where her music suddenly became a safety net for me, marking the first time in 8 straight months i actually felt capable of treading water. angie, who’d interviewed blondshell late last year, sent me the advance for “salad” a couple weeks before it came out. i listened to it at least 4 times a day walking through greenpoint as spring emerged and i felt the sun on my skin in a way i hadn’t since it all started to hurt. this album, to me, feels like coming up for air.

this essay in the paris review about curtains and radiators

“For Springsteen, as for Deleuze, desire is not a lack but a productive force. Disaffection holds affection like a cigarette between the teeth.”

the gego exhibit at the guggenheim

i spent my birthday weekend microdosing celebration: a bar on friday, brunch saturday, dinner at bonnie's sunday, several cakes in between. on monday, my actual birthday, it was eerily quiet and rainy. eliza and i ate breakfast at the neighborhood diner before she had to head into the studio to rehearse for her show that night, leaving me with my solitude. i got back into bed and considered finally taking myself to the guggenheim, walking through the city with a specifically curated playlist, silently sitting under a tree, but i remained frozen there, unable to muster the energy to fill the space around me. i shuffled around the apartment, then M texted me lomelda’s “bust” and said he’d meet me anywhere. at the museum we contemplated shadows and shapes and fired off crude comments circling up the rotunda, increasingly aware of our shared fear of heights. outside he bought me a frozen-over ice cream bar from a truck and we walked the same route through central park as we did the first time together. i know him so well now it’s hard to remember that version of us. we sat on the same bench on the west side, too, laughing differently, holding entirely new conversations. a year passes and history takes shape. the trees were blooming pink all around, the reservoir glistening. the sun shone bright for the rest of the day. i closed my eyes and thanked it.

bonnie’s (east williamsburg)

best dinner in brooklyn, maybe. a near-perfect family meal. the round corner table at 7pm in the spring and summer is a great place to be if you want to sit and watch the people you love laughing and eating, backdropped by the sky changing from day to deep blue to black. the waiter put a birthday candle in the head of a whole fish.

the new daughter album

i remember standing in front of eavesdrop before heading in to finish listening to “neptune,” texting screenshots of the lyrics back and forth with ryan, remembering the time someone leaned over to me at a party while we both gazed at the same person and whispered into my ear, “you know who’s losing, right?”

radical adornment: the music of julius eastman at 92Y

went uptown saturday afternoon with M and C to listen to a retrospective of the compositions of julius eastman. dev hynes played the piano for the last piece, i was thoroughly mesmerized. afterward we walked through the park as the last of the cherry blossoms fell off the trees, and i kept thinking of this tweet i’d bookmarked that reads, “Woke up this morning gripped by what seemed to me a brilliant and original insight about how April is a particularly hard month . . . because it rekindles desire . . . and also memory . . . and there’s something cruel about that”

this newsletter on “contact” from bookbear express’ substack

particularly this excerpt:

kara jackson’s “why does the earth give us people to love?”

and hanif abdurraqib’s review for the new yorker that put me onto the album in the first place. pitchfork’s review, too:

“The cost of love comes up repeatedly on Why Does the Earth, and it’s never clear if it’s one Jackson feels is worth paying. ‘Have you thought about the price of my mouth?’ she asks her lover cheekily on “Free.” On “Rat,” Jackson sings of a man who ‘couldn’t buy compassion cause it’d cost him 40 dollars.’ “Price,” “cost,” “bargain,” “pay”; her frustration with transactional relationships is palpable, as is her desire to devote herself to someone without giving away parts of herself. The record captures the dangers of living with an open heart at a time of diminished personal connection, massive overwork, incessant productivity, and constant grief: To prioritize love one must give up something else.”

[sulevinen]

Last lines tag game

thanks for the tag @milfcutlawquane

rules: write the latest line from each of your wips (or post where you last left off in your art) and tag as many people as there are wips you are working on (except that i probably won’t tag anyone lol i have like 9 wips)

Gunshots

”Here”, Pearl gave the rookie the gun and a stern glare. ”Since you were so eager before.”

The rookie’s hands shook as he looked up and down the blaster, eyes round and lip quivering.

”W-what?”, he asked, and Pearl scoffed, moving out of the view so the rookie could look the man in the eyes.

”Since you were so ready for Ardor to kill him, you might as well do it yourself”, Pearl said, pointing at the man. ”Come on. Do it.”

”N-no, I can’t! I don’t want to.”

”Thought so”, Pearl snapped and yanked the blaster from his hands into her holster. ”Don’t wish for death if you’re not ready to bring it yourself. Killing isn’t as easy as you may think. And you can see now that it takes real guts.”

Tell me your dream

”Aren’t dreams all you need to keep going?”, he smiled smugly, and took a sip of his drink. ”Aren’t dreams a way to escape?”

Escape? Where exactly? Lucid wondered. Escape to the wastelands of her dreams, where his brothers cried in the mist, out of reach, out of touch, out of time. Escape to the visions of possible futures that she could alter, but wouldn’t help the end result in any way. Escape to the endless sleep, where she still couldn’t rest? Escape to the dreams she could never have, never experience, never witness? Escape to the hopeless daydreams of her holding her own baby in her arms, with the sun rising above her head and the flowers of Naboo beginning to bloom?

Where exactly could she escape to, when her own mind was the prison?

Mercy comes from my needle

”You’re giving them mercy”, Lucid said quietly. ”Death is mercy, sometimes. And when it isn’t, you make it to be. Because of you, hundreds of our brothers can rest peacefully without pain. If you’d just let me show you..”

”I don’t want to see”, Twinkle mumbled into his hands. ”I don’t want to. It’s too much.”

”Okay.”

(the rest of the wips are below the readmore)

Reflections (chapter 2, Reborn)

”Aren’t you gonna come?”, Kino asked, and Lucid gave her a tired smile.

”No. I think… I’m going to stay for a little while longer.”

”Lucid…”

”It’s okay. Kino, I have been dead for quite some time. Well, actually I haven’t: life has been getting on my way.” Lucid’s smile widened, but the tears began to flow. ”I have been waiting for this… for rest. And besides, I won’t be alone”, she continued, and took in a shaky breath. ”I have everything I need.”

Reflections (chapter 3, Orphei)

”She’s in the attic”, Ine said quietly, to not to disturb the silence of the house. Kino turned her head up the stairs, listening to the quiet hum of the second floor, dwelling in darkness. The sunlight penetrated the windows, but the shadows moved unnaturally: Orphei must’ve been disturbing them, somehow.

”I think I’ll find my way”, Kino nodded, and began climbing the stairs. Ine didn’t try to follow her, but Kino could sense her anticipation and worry, so she turned around before pressing the button to open the hatch. ”Don’t worry. I’ll do my best.”

Kino wasn’t sure if her best had ever been enough, but Ine didn’t have to know that. It’d be enough to reassure her.

Born to heal, prone to die (chapter 2)

”Aren’t you a little small for a Padawan?”, was the first thing Kara heard from the Commander of the Guard. Kara frowned and laid her hands above his arm where a deep cut was bleeding all over the bedsheets.

”I’m old enough”, she responded and closed her eyes to concentrate. She channeled the Force through her body, savoring the feeling of it travelling through her veins and find the Commander’s Force signature. She put all her focus into merging with it, offering him strength to heal the cuts. She felt how the Force circled around him, how his signature danced around with hers, until they connected and she felt the Commander get stronger.

”Nice work”, the Commander said, and Kara opened her eyes to see the smirk on his face. ”For a little one.”

”I’m not little”, Kara frowned and got to the other wounds.

”You’re about small enough to fit into my helmet”, the Commander joked, only deepening Kara’s frown.

”Excuse me, I am trying to help you”, she said, with a twinge of annoyance she couldn’t filter from her tone. Her master and the other Jedi reminded her of her attitude constantly, but she felt like the Commander had earned her annoyance.

”Yeah yeah, I know”, he sighed and leaned back. ”Could you make it quick? I have a meeting.”

”I’m going as fast as I can. It’d be faster if you didn’t disturb me.”

The Commander mumbled something under his breath, probably an apology, then snoozed off. Kara looked at him momentarily, mildly worried of the level of exhaustion she sensed in him, but got back to work.

Still (chapter ?, Above the clouds there is sky blue)

”I’m sorry I left you and your brothers”, Cebyi’tra said somberly, and Fox nodded. ”My mother’s death was… unexpected. Taking over the clan leadership was even more unexpected. And then the war, the Empire, everything… I lost touch. I’m sorry.”

”It’s okay. I understand duty. Better than anyone.”

Cebyi’tra smiled and looked down at her armor, painted all blue with golden details, curved and twirling like smoke around her shoulders and chestplate. The gold centered around her Iron heart, which glowed in gray. Mourning a lost love.

”We never heard of you after Jango died.”

Cebyi’tra’s face fell. ”I know.”

Just like others

They always wanted to include him, just in case.

Just in case.

They always wanted to do things with him, ask if he wanted to join, make things okay for him, just in case.

Just in case he had changed his mind.

But he couldn’t change his mind, not this wretched, rigid stupid brain of his, that never allowed him the freedom to be like others.

He wanted to go. He wanted to be included, be involved in pranks, inside jokes, plans, dreams. He wanted to be part of something, belong somewhere. He wanted to matter.

But he never could. And yet they kept asking. Just in case.

Just in case a miracle had happened.

[onlinesikhstore]

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Weight is approx 45-65 grams (Variable due to size of Karas).

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Design No. is SBF1 

Please note its not a real Gold/Fine Gold line. It is a replica and Gold edge is actually a Brass Line polished to give 22ct. Gold Look.

Please read below more Information about Sikh Kara:

A kara (Punjabi: ਕੜਾ (Gurmukhi), کڑا (Shahmukhi) कड़ा (Devanagari)), is a steel or iron (sarb loh) bracelet, worn by all initiated Sikhs. It is one of the five kakars or 5Ks — external articles of faith — that identify a Sikh as dedicated to their religious order. The kara was instituted by the tenth Sikh guru Gobind Singh at the Baisakhi Amrit Sanskar in 1699. Guru Gobind Singh Ji explained:

He does not recognize anyone else except me, not even the bestowal of charities, performance of merciful acts, austerities and restraint on pilgrim-stations; the perfect light of the Lord illuminates his heart, then consider him as the immaculate Khalsa.

The kara is to constantly remind the Sikh disciple to do God's work, a constant reminder of the Sikh's mission on this earth and that he or she must carry out righteous and true deeds and actions, keeping with the advice given by the Guru. The Kara is a symbol of unbreakable attachment and commitment to God.[2] It is in the shape of a circle which has no beginning and no end, like the eternal nature of God. It is also a symbol of the Sikh brotherhood. As the Sikhs' holy text the Guru Granth Sahib says "In the tenth month, you were made into a human being, O my merchant friend, and you were given your allotted time to perform good deeds." Similarly, Bhagat Kabir reminds the Sikh to always keep one's consciousness with God: "With your hands and feet, do all your work, but let your consciousness remain with the Immaculate Lord."

The basic kara is a simple unadorned steel bracelet, but other forms exist. It was historically used like a knuckle-duster for hand-to-hand combat. Battlefield variations include kara with spikes or sharp edges. Sikh soldiers of the British Indian army would settle disputes by competing in a form of boxing known as loh-musti (lit. iron fist) with a kara on one hand.

Brilliant finish and very decorative. Ideal gift item for loved ones on all occasions.

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P.S. Colour of item may slightly vary due to camera flash and light conditions. Some karas may have negligible small black grinding mark on the kara joint. This is always seen on all karas as most of the Kara making/shaping work is done by hands. However, this do not affect the qualty/look of karas.

Gender: Unisex

Design Number: SBF1

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Main Material/ Metal: Stainless Steel/Brass

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[turbantraditions]

The Unbroken Circle: Exploring the Spiritual Meaning of the Sikh Kara

The Buy Sikh Kara Online , a simple yet powerful steel bracelet, holds deep significance within the Sikh community. Worn by both men and women, the Kara is one of the five articles of faith, known as the Five Ks, that devout Sikhs are required to wear as a commitment to their faith. Its round shape, made of steel or iron, is not merely an accessory but a profound symbol of unity, strength, and devotion.

A Historical Symbol

The origins of the Kara date back to the 17th century when Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru, introduced it as part of the Khalsa uniform in 1699. At the time, the Khalsa was a brotherhood of initiated Sikhs who vowed to uphold the teachings of Sikhism and stand against injustice. The Kara, like the other symbols of the Khalsa, was meant to remind Sikhs of their duties and responsibilities. It served as a constant reminder of God’s eternal presence and the unbreakable bond between the Sikh and their Creator.

Spiritual Significance

The circular design of the Kara, with no beginning or end, represents the concept of infinity, reflecting the eternal nature of God. Its unbroken shape is also symbolic of the Sikh belief in the oneness of humanity, emphasizing that all people are equal in the eyes of God, regardless of caste, gender, or social status.

The material of the Kara, often iron or steel, holds its own meaning. These metals symbolize strength and resilience, reminding the wearer to be strong in their faith and virtuous in their actions. The Kara serves as a protective band, encouraging the wearer to live a life of righteousness and moral integrity.

A Constant Reminder

Beyond its religious significance, the Kara is a practical tool in a Sikh's daily life. It serves as a constant reminder to act with kindness, integrity, and honor. Sikhs believe that the presence of the Kara on their wrist encourages them to refrain from wrongdoing and to remain mindful of their actions. Whether engaged in work, prayer, or everyday activities, the Kara gently reinforces the values of Sikhism, helping the individual stay connected to their faith at all times.

A Global Emblem of Sikh Identity

Today, the Sikh prayers is recognized worldwide as an emblem of Sikh identity. It transcends borders and cultural differences, symbolizing unity within the global Sikh community. From the bustling streets of Punjab to cities around the world, the Kara can be seen adorning the wrists of millions of Sikhs, a testament to the strength of their faith and commitment.

In a world that often feels divided, the Kara stands as a beacon of unity, reminding Sikhs and non-Sikhs alike of the importance of compassion, justice, and equality. Its timeless message continues to inspire those who wear it and those who witness its significance.

This article encapsulates the importance of the Sikh Kara while remaining respectful and informative for readers from various backgrounds. If you'd like any revisions or further details added, feel free to ask!

[badbraincake]

Trial by Fire

I usually post my writing on Wattpad but I decided to try something a little different. Honestly, I'm just putting my work out there for fun lol.

wordcount: I can't remember but it sure is a lot (for me)

warnings: gore, fire, lightly edited

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

The flames remind me of summer so I close my eyes. I remember the sweat on our foreheads and the mosquitos floating around the lake. Wilnobia and I floated side by side, lost in conversation. Saris came crashing down from a nearby tree. The wave from his cannonball dispersed water into heavy drops of rain. We paddled after him, cornered him in a patch of reeds, and splashed him until we laughed so hard we couldn’t breathe. 

“Alright, alright!” Saris sloshed ahead of us towards our circle of logs. It was our spot, the one we had built before we officially called it ours. All we wanted was a place to be together before we got too old to see each other. It felt as if we had more time than we did. Those days of youth and peace would be over soon. 

The sun had faded out beyond the trees and the cicadas buzzed in the tall grass. Wilnobia and I huddled together in wet clothes while Saris fought the fire. Wil and I had offered to help but he carried on saying, “I’m older.” As if being born minutes before me was somehow a significant difference. “Besides, I’m a tower guard now. I should at least know how to start a fire.” 

It should’ve hurt more watching my twin brother go ahead and achieve guardianship while I remained a trainee. People expected me to be jealous of him. Realistically, they should’ve kicked me out of the program ages ago after all the things I failed to learn. Still, they kept me out of pity, I assume. Who would refuse to train the child of two missing prodigal hunters? It wouldn’t just be stupid in terms of morale, it would be cruel to deny me that birthright. But I couldn’t share the same sentiment. 

Wil and I shared that best friend, all-knowing, kind of look. Eventually, we couldn’t hold back our amusement which only frustrated Saris further. 

“Fine! Go ahead. Please, show me how much better you are. My little sister Kara everyone and her best friend” He says to an imaginary audience.  

“Gladly.” Wil giggled her way into the darkness and returned to us with a handful of glowing pink flowers. I knelt beside her and helped to pick the petals. We sprinkled them onto the wood and twisted a sharpened stick against them. Saris feigned disbelief as the fire came to life within seconds. 

“Pyris.” I sighed jokingly. “A man’s best friend.” 

“That’s cheating,” Saris huffed. 

Monsters don’t need Pyris, they don’t need weapons and they don’t need a reason. A witch could set us aflame with a flick of their wrist. Someone pushes me forward in the crowd and growls in my ear. I stumble forward and close my eyes to avoid the sight of the body burning ahead of me. 

Wilnobia drummed on her thighs with excitement. “Come on, stop teasing! Just show us!” 

Saris grinned and pulled the jacket from his bag, “Ladies, you are now looking at your brand new bell ringer and guardian of southern humanity.” 

I gave a small round of applause and raised my jar of drink. “To new beginnings.” 

“To new beginnings.” They agreed. 

Time slowed and I scanned between the two of them, finally feeling the weight of the moment. It isn’t until all of that potential is gone, that I see the love between the two. My best friend and my brother are helplessly in love. I saw it and now I realize that we will never have a moment like that again. Maybe I’ve wasted my life away. 

Saris stood proudly as I stood in front of him and attached the shield-shaped badge to his uniform. It slumped against the fabric and the pin came loose. ‘Don’t worry.” I sighed, “I’ll fix it before your first shift tomorrow night.” 

“Yeah.” He scoffed. “That’s alright.” 

An alarm arises in my head and suddenly the pin is all I can think about. “Saris,” I say. “Saris, your pin!” I start to shout for him but I’m promptly shoved to the ground. A man runs past me, mowing down multiple others in his way. The scarce stream of survivors leap out of his way but he falls regardless. A wolf emerges from the flames on the other side of the street. Its teeth gleam with dripping saliva and it pounces. 

I shrink into my arms and try to bury my eyes into my palms but it’s too late. The image sinks into my brain and my senses continue to heighten. The nails of the wolf drag across the pavement, stalking me with a growl but I’m too paralyzed to move. This is the beginning of my end. My parents would be ashamed. They always knew that I wasn't going to be a fighter but they at least saw me as someone who could survive. 

Someone grabs me by the arm, nearly taking it out of its socket, and forces me to stand. There’s nothing left of me to fight so I stare with wide eyes and wait for death. The pin breaks my skin and blood runs down my fingers to my elbow. Wilnobia stands before me, her dark eyes completely focused. She yanks so that I face forward and pushes on me until I’m able to walk alongside her. With our arms linked, we meld into the perfectly straight rows of humans and face the invaders. 

Ahead of us, six large wagons are marked with three different symbols. I don’t recognize them but I’m able to put together what they mean. A purple hood, a gray wolf, and a red set of fangs. 

“Congratulations humans!” A man with blonde hair exclaims. He jumps effortlessly onto the roof of the town’s main well and suspends a torch over his head in victory. “You’ve finally stopped resisting! Now, we’re going to need you to hush or we will do it for you.” He shushes us with a finger to his lips as he spins to see us. Once all attention is on him, no one dares to move. All that’s left is his voice and the sounds of our homes as they burn. “Good good,” he praises. “Now! Prepare to be liberated, elevated, and rejoice! We are here to help your poor souls discover your potential.

We stiffen, feeling and hearing his companions approach from the alleys behind us. My muscles go dead as a blood-soaked wolf brushes against my leg. A cloaked figure breaths heavily on the back of my neck, white teeth sparkle from the darkness as they pass. They revel in our obedience and terror. 

Our population would have filled the town’s circle to the brim. It’s hard to believe that just hours ago Saris, Wil, and I walked through this very square shopping for food in preparation for one of our many picnics. Wil and I slung our arms around my brother’s shoulder, trying to cheer him up. He didn’t say it but he was saddened by our parents being gone. Now he’s gone too. The idea makes my head spin, but I force myself to stop and let my blood run cold. 

“Werewolves will take the first pick. As agreed upon.” the man motions to a particularly large wolf. Other wolves surround it, waiting for its command. They follow and pace around the well in a circle, eyeballing humans up and down. A few of them begin to turn into human form. The wretched sound of their bodies turning inside out leaves a few people stuttering back from their spots. Pops and squishes echo against the brick until they stand. 

With the little knowledge we have of werewolves, I never thought they’d wear clothing or appear so human. My parents had always described them as lone beasts that crossed human territory to terrorize us. They’d have to be tracked for several weeks and when they were finally found, they were put down immediately. There was no time or reason for interrogation or peaceful resolve. Education stayed at the back of everyone’s minds. The method of killing was the only thing they needed and with that taken care of, hunters didn’t ask questions. 

The alpha continues around, sniffing at the knees of certain people and jerking its head. The werewolves that transformed seize the humans with forceful grips and usher them into the wagons. 

“Please, Habidius.” the blonde man sighs. “Hurry along, some of us don’t have all night to choose.” 

The large wolf makes a guttural growl that rings throughout the square. A chill runs up my spine and Wil jerks beside me. From the corner of my eye, I can see her attention darting around the square. I take her hand and squeeze hard enough for her attention to settle on me. She stills and relaxes even as the wolves come around, 

They focused on us with the same animalistic eyes they had as wolves. As they pass they lean into view and sneer with bright white teeth. Their charming posture and beautiful features are practical in their almost human form. It’s a deadly trick that even the best of humans might fall for. 

The man perched on the well clasps his hands together and then motions to the cloaked woman in the shadows. “Ravina.” 

Everyone stifles their breaths once again as the cloaked one begins to glide past us in an orderly fashion. Their soft fabric brushes my skin and I try to control my flinches. My hand crams around the pin, still teeming with blood but my adrenaline is so high that I’m barely aware of the pain. Saris’s smile fills my mind and the connection that we’ve had since birth makes it feel as if he’s right beside me, keeping me strong. “Kara.” He says, in the strong and playful way he always does. 

Wil’s hand jerks out of my mind and our arms come unglued. I stifle my reaction and advert my eyes away from her. Helplessly she reaches for my hand but she’s dead now and I will never see her again. My heart rate speeds and my head swims to forget her. The smoke from the town finally starts to get to me and I gag on my own cough. Unable to get a grip on the rising panic, I squeeze my eyes shut and think of summer. The sparkling lake and the bonfire are just out of reach. 

“Kara!” Wil screams from far away. 

“Well, what do we have here?” A voice tuts, far closer than I can handle. 

My eyes fly open and I come face to face with the man leading it all. His long blonde hair sways against my face but I can’t pull back so I glance to the side as if Saris is there to comfort me. The man grabs the side of my head so I’m forced to see him. His lips part, revealing his fangs while he peels my bloody fingers away from my palm to release the pin. 

“Is that a shield?” Oh, you humans and your petty little titles.” His other hand grabs my cheek to steady my shaking jaw. “It’s not yours, is it? A little bird like you doesn’t seem very brave.” He shakes his head and plucks the pin from my skin. His teeth scrape across the metal as he sucks it clean. My hand gets maneuvered to his mouth so he can spit the badge back into my grip. I close my hand around it and let my arm drop back to my side only for it to swing there uselessly. 

He debates something for a moment while he savors the taste of my blood in his mouth. I know he sees my wide-eyed stare and rapid breath but that only seems to make him more amused. His examination of me lasts for an eternity and I’m able to feel the energy radiating off of him. It’s not warm or gentle energy either. It’s a swarm of flies buzzing around us in unbearably frigid air. 

“I like you.” He says. “You’ll make a good feeding bag. Although it’s a bittersweet curse. Within weeks I’m afraid they might bleed you dry. I might have to keep you for myself, I have patience.” 

His nails twist into my scalp and I cry out. My body is suddenly alive and flailing with me as my knees get shredded against the gravel path. “Please, don’t do this,” I beg, my voice too hoarse and tight for me to hear. 

“I’m sorry.” He coos but there’s no apology in his voice. “Are you scared?” 

 My ribs buckle and crack against the hard edge of the wagon marked with red fangs. “Why?” I hiss for no reason at all. A bag comes down over my head and I don’t get my answer. The rope tightens around my neck, wrists, and ankles. For a moment I am weightless, flying underneath a dark clear sky, and then my back slams into the wooden floor. My back arches away from the ground but it does nothing to reverse the damage. 

It feels like hours pass before we begin to move. The sound of wheels crushing a collection of things becomes loud enough to offset our cries. With my head against the floorboards, I can smell the blood and smoke hanging in the air. I have a feeling that the source of the blood isn’t just the people around me but the bodies that we pass. My forehead bangs against the floor with every bounce from every object in our path. I lay there hoping harder than I ever have but I eventually conclude that there’s no one left to save us. 

(there are more chapters on my Wattpad if you're interested)

[denizbevan]

Rules: Share the first lines of ten of your most recent fanfics and tag ten people.

Sketches by Frenchie: A face with dark circles on its cheeks and round its eyes. An angry man, eyes narrowed, yelling. (<a href=https://archiveofourown.org/works/44486440>Found: A Notebook</a>. A two-parter, told through entries by the crew in the logbook of the Revenge, SFW)

In the Republic of Pirates, known for its lawlessness and debauchery, there stood one inn so beyond the pale that even the most dreaded pirates feared to speak its name. (<a href=https://archiveofourown.org/works/45174532>Starmoonsun</a>. Sex pollen :p)

On the way to the restaurant, Stede took Louis’ hand in his free hand, and Alma held Ed’s other hand, so somehow it seemed right, and fitting, for him and Ed to not let go. (<a href=https://archiveofourown.org/works/46580728>Stede’s Morning</a>. Part 2 of the Dock of the Bay series. Following the meet cute, comes the NSFW...)

“Hi, all! Er, anyone around? I’m supposed to meet a Kara Sakal?” The accent was atrocious. This must be the ambassador’s son Ed had been saddled with. Curse Izzy and his endless plans that needed execution. (<a href="https://archiveofourown.org/works/46197589">The Maiden’s Tower</a. Set in Constantinople in 1498!)

“You know, Ed, I’ve been thinking...” Ed’s ears cocked instantly. Pensive Stede always equated to unhinged Stede. (<a href=https://archiveofourown.org/works/46555084>Sail Away</a>. What if there was a wedding on the journey?)

Izzy made the Swede pull the cart. (<a href="https://archiveofourown.org/works/46642711">Communication Breakdown-->Friends</a>. One day, they raided a merchant ship. The next day, the crew set out as seven couples to fence the various items. Along the way, they resolved some language barriers. But they didn't quite make the sales they'd expected...)

Stede dragged himself home from a double overtime shift at Faubourg Bagel. (<a href=https://archiveofourown.org/works/46141291>Goldenheart</a>. Montreal, 2002. A love for the ages. Also, Ed has a band!)

“But I want to be used!” (<a href=https://archiveofourown.org/works/46737868>Blackbeard's Delicacies and Delights and Fishing Equipment</a>. The Gentleman of Your Dreams has applied for a position at Blackbeard's Delicacies and Delights and Fishing Equipment. The Gentleman's videos were filmed in advance and edited. Blackbeard's crew stream live, 24/7. Now, Ed has a dilemma: When you're performing for the camera, and thousands of viewers, how do you hide the fact that you're falling in love?

It’s a camhouse, folks.)

“Oh, dad! I can’t believe I forgot to tell you!” ... “This year’s play is Into the Woods!” (<a href=https://archiveofourown.org/works/46689085>Ready for the Journey</a>. Ed and Olu’s school theatre troupe performs Into the Woods. Stede is a class parent...)

When Stede’s fever broke, the voices in his head became even more cruel. (<a href=https://archiveofourown.org/works/48536068>I surrender to the future / I’ll stay with you if you let me</a>. My Reverse Big Bang fic! With gorgeous art by <a href=https://archiveofourown.org/users/tabbystardust/pseuds/tabbystardust/>tabbystardust</a>)

Tagging anyone who wants to play! Hope my linking works, first time trying this...

[prxttybxybxstxrd]

Whatever one might call it, the fact of the matter was simply that she had. It was impossible to call it anything but conquest even if he either did not seem to realize or refused to do so. Something like that happening to him, by a woman no less, was simply something he could not accept nor could he possibly see. In his mind Kara had merely risen to a status equal to his. Curious how the mind works like that.

"Fufu~ Trust me. I'll be gulping down your load in no time. Just leave it to your husband." A quick peck on the cheek then before simply ducking down beneath the table to get face to face with the cock that, honestly, probably was buried in his guts earlier that day. His handiwork already seemed to get her ready to go so no need to get through foreplay.

A few kisses would be pressed to the head as a greeting before with a long, lewd 'aaaaaah~' he'd take her in. One hand on the shaft to stroke, the other cupping those smooth round balls as he suckled on the tip. That skillful silver tongue being put to use in a more constructive way as the slit would be teased before it began swirling about in long, slow, purposeful circles.

It was odd to think about. In the short time she knew Alibaba he had come across as a man so deep in his hatred of women that one might call it a cruel joke. Yet in her dogged nature as her God's chosen she had not only shattered that bravado, but had him so smitten he had taken to calling her his wife without ceremony or even agreement. It was weird. But to call it a pure and simple conquest was...incorrect.

"Assertive. Very much so, my prince. Very well. If what you say holds true, I suppose that much is allowable." Not like it would be good to let him keep pumping her like this anyway. Everyone would grow wiser to it and demand they leave in time.

[searidings]

hi, i just love you and your writing

can i suggest something - you are in love (taylor swift) and supercorp

i cannot listen to that song without going yeah, that's them

(also on ao3 if you prefer)

Five years from now, Kara is going to reach across the table at Noonan's and take her hand. She's going to look deep into Lena's eyes, biting her lip as her thumb rubs gentle circles into Lena's palm, and her voice will barely rise above a whisper when she asks, “When did you know?”

And when she does, five years from now, Lena will think back to this moment.

This moment, which is as close as Lena's come to happiness since she'd woken up ziptied to a chair in her brother's office. This moment which, despite the fuzzy feeling of her unbrushed teeth and the pungent aroma of burnt toast filling the air, is perfect.

Kara, bed-warm and sleep-heavy, is gazing beseechingly down at the charred remains of a slice of a bread as though if she only pouts hard enough, its edges will un-blacken and its corners will stop smoking.

“I'm so sorry,” she says as Lena rounds the screen separating Kara's bedroom from the rest of the apartment and perches herself on a barstool, tugging her borrowed sleep shorts a little lower down her thighs.

Kara's tone is mournful, her face so forlorn she looks to be one deep breath away from tears. “I wanted breakfast to be perfect, since it's your first time staying over and if it's terrible you might not want to stay again and I, I really want you to stay again, but I don't know why you would since you probably have a private chef waiting for you at home and I can’t even manage toast—”

“Kara,” Lena interrupts, biting at the inside of her cheek to keep from laughing as Kara's bottom lip trembles. “It's fine, really. I once set fire to my dorm kitchen trying to boil an egg. And besides,” she winks as blue eyes meet hers. “I like to give my personal chef the weekends off.”

Kara huffs out a relieved chuckle, her face brightening. “Oh, well, in that case,” she grins, a sparkle returning to her eyes. “I'd better feed you up before you go home. Never let it be said that I don't look after you.”

Lena can't help the smile that pulls at her as the warm bright feeling in her chest grows and grows. She tugs the sleeves of Kara's sweatshirt over her hands, fighting the urge to fidget as the blonde orders a frankly obscene amount of food from the brunch place on the corner.

She feels exposed like this, face bare and hair sleep-mussed, unshowered with unbrushed teeth, huddled inside borrowed clothes after the impromptu invitation to stay over when last night's movie marathon ran late. It's a far cry from the regimented composure she fights so hard every day to project, and something in her chest twists anxiously.

Kara is a reporter, after all, and National City really doesn't need any more reasons to hate Lena right now. The darkest corner of her mind – the one which has been waiting for the other shoe to drop, for everything to come crashing down ever since the whirlwind of Kara's too-good-to-be-true friendship had come blazing into her life – still worries that this may all be an elaborate ruse. A trap, a way to get close to her in order to assess her weaknesses, to bring her down with an inside scoop.

But in their six months of friendship, Kara's never given her any reason to believe she has any kind of ulterior motive. And despite the suspicions and anxieties hammered into her by a lifetime of hurt, Lena knows now that even if this is a trap, she'll take the bait willingly. Especially if it means Kara will keep looking at her like there might just be something in Lena that's worth her time.

"Hey,” the blonde says gently, leaning back against the counter opposite and pinning Lena with a searching look. “You okay? You kind of zoned out on me there.”

Lena jumps, blinking back into herself with a start. “Yes, sorry. I was miles away.”

The blonde only smiles, flicking on the coffee machine at her elbow. “You sleep okay?”

“Very well, thank you,” Lena answers, fighting to lessen the formality of her tone, to soften the edges her harsh childhood had sharpened into a fortress to keep the world at bay. “Your bed is surprisingly comfortable. I had a great night's sleep.”

"Perhaps the company had something to do with it,” Kara winks as she turns to pull two mugs down from the hooks at her shoulder. Lena thinks back to the smell of Kara's sheets and the soft pulls of her breathing, to the warmth of Kara's ankle against her calf and the strong fingers that had wrapped themselves in the sleeve of Lena's sweatshirt in sleep, anchoring them together. She blushes.

Kara only smirks, pouring their drinks and grabbing the milk from the fridge. “Well, the food's all ordered, it should be here soon,” she says over her shoulder, the waterfall of her golden ponytail mesmerising in the bright rays of morning light filtering in through the vaulted windows. “And you don't need to head off in a hurry, unless you have plans—?”

She glances back at Lena, who shakes her head. “Great!” she grins. “’Cause I was thinking, maybe we could check out the botanical gardens, since it's such a nice day? Oh, and there's a new bakery right across the street that I've been dying to try—”

Lena listens to the blonde's excited rambling with an endeared smile plastered to her face, feeling happy and warm and wanted with every fibre of her being. The feeling is new but so welcome she could cry, and Lena wonders – not for the first time – how she ever got so lucky.

Kara's presence in her life is like sugar in her coffee; meant only to sweeten that which has always been bitter.

Lena's always taken her coffee black. Softening the blow was never much her style.

But here, now, perched at Kara's breakfast bar with her hands wrapped around a steaming mug the blonde has brewed to perfection, sunlight streaming in and highlighting the angles and planes of Kara's face, the way she’s smiling at Lena like there's nowhere else in the world she'd rather be, she realises her reasoning is twofold.

Sugar isn't just appetising. It's addictive. And now that Lena's had a taste of sweetness, she's hooked.

In this moment, Lena knows. She's in love.

-

Four years from now, Kara is going to reach across the table at Noonan's and take her hand. She's going to look deep into Lena's eyes, biting her lip as her thumb rubs gentle circles into Lena's palm, and her voice will barely rise above a whisper when she asks, “When did you know?”

And when she does, four years from now, Lena will also think back to this moment.

This moment, which may well be one of the lowest of Lena's life. And she's had some doozies.

The two bottles of wine she'd managed to mainline between Sam leaving to orchestrate damage control at L-Corp and Kara arriving and attempting to confiscate her glass have well and truly caught up to her now. She sways heavily on her stool, the room spinning. Tears sting her vision and guilt scorches her throat as she presses a hand over her eyes so she won't have to look at Kara's face anymore.

“Please, just— just, stop believing in me, okay?” she slurs, heart full to shattering with the faces of lead-poisoned children. “I am not worth it.”

She hears Kara sigh, and the room falls silent for a long long time. Lena drops her head fully into her hands, fighting the nausea that's taken root in the pit of her stomach. It could be the booze that's causing it, of course, but it could also be the incessant headlines baying for her blood, the bullet James had taken for her that she'd fully deserved, the curse of her family finally fulfilling itself.

The guilt, the worry, the crushing disappointment of the knowledge that despite her very best efforts, she'll never be anything but a monster— it's too much to feel. It's too much to bear.

So, Lena drinks.

She drains her glass. She pours another. Kara watches, silent and disapproving, fingers twitching against the granite countertop between them.

Lena finishes her glass. Splashes the last dregs of the bottle into it, blood on ice. Still Kara watches, motionless and mute. It's only when Lena's swallowed the last of the red and is lurching unsteadily to her feet to source another that she moves, a hand reaching out to encircle her wrist.

Shame ignites beneath her skin and she pushes Kara away. Snaps at her to go home, to learn to recognise a lost cause when she sees one and just give up already. Kara refuses with a stoic shake of her head, and Lena sighs.

They repeat the same routine three times en route to Sam's wine rack, the blonde shadowing her every step. Each time, Lena wobbles, head fuzzy and room spinning. Each time, Kara steadies her, and Lena flinches from her touch like her palm is a brand, snarls at her to leave, to cut her losses, to just fuck off. Each time, Kara refuses.

She eventually retrieves the wine after a number of unsuccessful attempts but overbalances on her toes, bottle slipping from her grip as she sways dangerously. And then Kara is there, glass bottle caught a split second before it can shatter, a firm arm at her waist that will not be rebuffed.

Lena struggles, shoving and protesting, but this time Kara does not give in. “Enough,” she says quietly, firmly, blue eyes burning a mere inch from Lena's own. “Lena, enough.”

Lena's unsteady legs buckle further and Kara’s basically holding her up now, walking her slowly over to the couch and she shouldn't be this strong, surely, shouldn't be lifting Lena onto the cushions quite this easily. But it's such a minor concern when weighted against the fact that Lena is personally responsible for the hospitalisation of children that her mind brushes over it, forgets it immediately.

"Please go home,” she slurs as the blonde arranges her on the couch, as she stashes the unopened wine far out of reach and sets about finding blankets and pillows in various cupboards. “Please, just— leave me alone.”

“No,” Kara says, almost snaps, glancing back over her shoulder. Partially hidden in the linen cupboard, her face is cast deep in shadow, a splinter of half-concealed truth. “I made you a promise, I gave you my word. I'm your friend, and I will protect you. Always.”

She crosses back to the couch, soft blankets and pillows held out in invitation. When Lena refuses the offering Kara sighs, draping a knitted throw over her anyway and perching on the cushions beside Lena's hip. “I'm not going to leave you, so you might as well stop asking,” she hums, softer now, a hand reaching toward her that Lena no longer possesses the strength or coordination to bat away.

Long fingers make contact with her cheek, with the mussed curls tangling in her eyelashes, and Kara sighs. “You are not your brother,” she murmurs, fingertips grazing Lena's cheekbone, sliding back to thread into the fine hair at her temple. “And you never will be. There's too much light in you to allow for that kind of darkness, so put that fear down, Lena. Let it go. Be free of it.”

Tears spring unbidden to her eyes. “I poisoned children.”

Kara tilts forward and Lena wonders if it's just that her vision has upped its spinning, but then warm lips are pressing against her forehead, soft and delicate as gossamer wings. Kara's mouth moves against her skin, breath damp and sweet and unmistakeably her. “You saved the world.”

Neither one of them moves. When Lena speaks again, the words hit the elegant hollow of Kara's throat. “I don't deserve your kindness. I don't deserve you.”

Kara's lips are still on her forehead. “I don't care.”

Lena feels as if her throat is splitting open, every last fear and hatred and worry and insecurity gushing out of her in an unstoppable stream. “I'm scared.”

“I know.” Kara's lips press once more, and then withdraw. They watch each other in the dim light from the kitchen. Lena's vision is beginning to blur at the edges. Kara's hand is still in her hair.

“You will get through this,” the blonde whispers, so earnest Lena almost manages to believe her. “We'll figure it out. Together.”

Heart in her mouth, tongue sticking behind her teeth, Lena's eyes slide closed.

The sweetness of Kara's words, her gentle touches, seep inside her like honey. She doesn't deserve it but God, she wants it. She wants to be worthy of Kara's faith in her more than she's ever wanted anything in her life. She wants Kara more than she's ever wanted anything in her life.

And it's telling, she knows, that she's just lost the trust of all of National City, that she has no way of easing those children's suffering and no way to prove that she isn't the cause of it, that she's finally living up to the Luthor name she's been running from ever since she'd learned what it truly meant and yet in this moment, with Kara's hand in her hair and the ghostly imprint of her lips on Lena's skin, none of it seems to matter.

In this moment, Lena knows. She's in love.

-

Three years from now, Kara is going to reach across the table at Noonan's and take her hand. She's going to look deep into Lena's eyes, biting her lip as her thumb rubs gentle circles into Lena's palm, and her voice will barely rise above a whisper when she asks, “When did you know?”

And when she does, three years from now, Lena will also think back to this moment.

This moment, which stands alone as an oasis of calm in the turbulent tumult of the past days, weeks, months of chaos. Lex's escape from custody, Eve Teschmacher's betrayal, James’ shooting, the Harun-El serum, the whole shitty totality of it all has been weighing Lena down like an nth metal chain around her neck.

And Kara, Kara hasn't been around. The one person who has always managed to ease Lena's suffering has deserted her when she needs her the most and it feels like she's been sliced open, cracked in two.

She tells her as much, when Kara at last comes to see her. Tells her she's missed her, tells her she needs her, all but begs her to stay. And what does Kara do? She leaves.

And when she leaves, Lena is gripped by a panic so intense she fears she may never breathe freely again. So terrified is she that Kara is gone for good, that she's forced away the best thing that's ever happened to her, that almost before she knows what's happening she finds herself at Catco with apologies dripping from her own tongue.

Anything to get Kara back. Anything to keep her.

Lena apologises. Kara apologises. Lena cries, and Kara holds her, and tells her that the decision to help her brother when he was dying of cancer doesn't make her the monster she now believes herself to be. And standing on her office balcony with Kara's fingers wrapped around her biceps, with her own tears spotting dark on Kara's blazer, Lena manages to believe her.

When she's collected herself, smoothed away the wetness coursing down her cheeks, she speaks. “I really want to help you with your investigation on Lex.”

Kara's face lights up; Lena's whole world along with it.

“I'd love that,” Kara says, voice quiet and still a little tentative in the wake of their new truce. “But first— would you, um. Would you like to have lunch with me?”

Lena blinks. “Don't you want to get started on the exposé?”

“I do. But—” Kara's face is still painted that earnest shade from earlier, when she'd smoothed her hands over Lena's shoulders and whispered you are a brilliant, kind-hearted, beautiful soul against the sensitive skin of her neck. Lena feels her cheeks heat up at the memory, at the intensity in the blue eyes still roving her face.

Kara shuffles her feet but her gaze is clear, unwavering. “But you were right. I've spent too much time recently prioritising the wrong things. So, I want to work on this exposé with you, and I want to bring your brother down. But first, I'd really just like to have lunch with my best friend.”

Lena's heart trips in her chest. “I'd like that too.”

So, that's what they do. Kara asks her to wait, which she does, idly tapping out a few emails on her phone. And then the blonde is back, far quicker than should have been possible, with her arms full of takeout bags from the café on the third floor and she's taking Lena by the hand and leading her to Cat Grant's private elevator. She presses the button for the roof and Lena's gaze jumps to her face but Kara only smiles, and squeezes her fingers. “Trust me, it'll be worth it,” she hums, her excitement infectious. “You'll be safe with me.”

And Lena believes her.

That's how she ends up sitting at the edge of Catco's roof on a clean sheet Kara had borrowed from the builders on the second floor, heels kicked off, Kara's red blazer draped around her shoulders. It is worth it, she'll admit; the view from this high is phenomenal. The sun burns bright in a cloudless sky, glinting off the glass-sided skyscrapers of the business district, the glittering waters of the bay beyond.

Kara had picked up Lena's favourite salad, some flatbreads and dips, and they drink kombucha and eat strawberries in the sunshine. They talk and they laugh and they catch up and there's no more fighting, no animosity, no megalomaniac brothers or backstabbing secretaries or worlds needing to be saved. There's only them, she and Kara, and it feels like all she will ever need.

The blonde's hands are braced behind her on the rooftop and she looks happy and carefree as she regales Lena with stories of her upstairs neighbour's antics, and Lena feels the tight knot of tension that had taken up residence in her chest begin to unfurl.

"Hey,” Kara hums, pushing up straighter as Lena licks strawberry juice from her fingertips. The motion brings them closer, their shoulders brushing. “Look up.”

Lena does. High above them, a huge murmuration of starlings whirls and swoops through the air. Thousands of birds move together as one, a vast wave cresting but never breaking against the blue canvass of sky.

“Wow,” Lena gasps, awed.

Against her side, Kara hums. “Yeah.”

They watch the birds for a long moment, captivated by the ceaseless swirling and diving. When Lena at last tears her gaze away from the sky, Kara's eyes rest intently on her face. "Here,” the blonde murmurs, reaching out. The pad of one finger makes feather-light contact with her cheek. Lena's breath catches in her chest.

Kara holds out her finger, proffering the stray eyelash she'd captured with a smile. "Make a wish,” she whispers, her fingertip an inch from Lena's mouth. Her eyes never leave Lena’s.

Lena looks from Kara's face to the eyelash, and back again. From somewhere deep inside her heart, the truth bubbles its way to the surface. “I don't need to.”

Kara smiles, a brilliant, beautiful smile, and Lena knows. The stresses and anxieties of their current crisis feel far away here, harmless as birdsong. She's meted out forgiveness, received it in return. For the first time in her adult life Lena has communicated an issue with a loved one and been heard, understood. She has admitted her own mistake without having it spell out the end of her relationship.

Lena smiles back. The weight of the world sublimates into nothing beneath the bliss of a simple picnic in the sun.

In this moment, Lena knows. She's in love.

-

Two years from now, Kara is going to reach across the table at Noonan's and take her hand. She's going to look deep into Lena's eyes, biting her lip as her thumb rubs gentle circles into Lena's palm, and her voice will barely rise above a whisper when she asks, “When did you know?”

And when she does, two years from now, Lena will think back to this moment.

This moment, which has sapped the both of them to the bone. Another fight, another screaming match, another quick-fire back and forth of accusations and recriminations. Another night of cursing and crying and choking on all the things they never said before this, on all the things they can't now that Kara's secret has detonated in the shrinking space between them like a nuclear bomb.

Another round of bloodshed, and for what?

Lena sags against the arm of the couch, exhausted. Her face is hot, scratchy with salt from the tears still drying on her skin. She's dehydrated, probably, and half hoarse from shouting, tongue blistered with the bitter sting of betrayal.

Across the no man's land of her living room, Kara slumps against the floor-length windows, drops her temple to the cool glass. She's breathing heavily, cheeks wet, posture battered and eyes dark-bruised beneath the force of Lena's wrath. As Lena watches, her eyes slide closed.

It's been three months since Lena found out. Three weeks since Kara found out that Lena had found out.

Every night since, they've done this. Every night, Kara has shown up on her balcony and begged, pleaded, apologised, cajoled, defended, rebuffed, and sobbed. Every night, Lena has unleashed the hollow agony of Kara's deception masquerading as anger in her chest, incinerating the both of them in the fires of her desolation.

She would have expected the wounds to have cauterised by now. To feel some kind of release, the relief of catharsis. Or at least, to have expended some of her fury after all this time.

She hasn't.

They've been at this for three hours already this evening, and gotten nowhere. Kara's skin is pale above that fucking supersuit, face drawn and complexion sallow.

Lena knows how she feels. The singular exhaustion that is her rift with Kara has sapped her in every way imaginable. She can't sleep. She barely eats. She's no longer interested in work, research, friends. There's nothing in her life that isn't tainted by the shadow of the lies her best friend told and kept telling, every day for four years. Lena doesn't know how any amount of screaming and crying is ever going to get them past that.

Across the room, Kara sighs. It might be the saddest sound Lena has ever heard.

“Should we keep doing this?” she asks after an interminable silence, voice rough with tears still building. Her eyes are still closed.

Lena manages, with exorbitant effort, to raise her drooping head. “What?”

“Is there a point to all this?” Kara asks quietly, hunched body sliding a little further down the glass. "The explanations, the fighting?”

Blue eyes blink open. The weight of the sadness in them is unbearable. Lena struggles to find it within herself to care.

“Lying to you about who I am is the single biggest mistake I have ever made, and if it will make even one single shred of difference I will apologise to you every day for as long as I live,” Kara says into the aching chasm between them. “But I can't keep doing this. Not if it won't change anything. I can't— I don't want to keep hurting you.”

An hour ago, Lena would have scoffed at a sentiment like that. Would have parried back with some piercingly dry comment about how the blonde should have thought about that before she decided to betray Lena's trust as soundly as she possibly could.

Now, though— now, she's just too tired.

“So, should we keep doing this?” Kara whispers, throat working. “Or— God, Lena. Should we just— should we give up?”

Green eyes meet blue, two shattered hearts haemorrhaging between them. “Is that what you want?”

“No.” Kara's voice is loud, fiercely determined in the face of Lena's hesitant whisper. “God, no. Never. I don't ever want to give up on you, Lena. I don't ever want to give you up.”

Kara straightens then, with a strength Lena cannot imagine mustering herself. Perks of being a superhero, she supposes. Perks of being Kryptonian. The thought stakes another shard of ice through her bleeding heart.

“But I know that I've spent four years calling the shots for both of us by keeping you in the dark,” Kara continues. “I've taken away your agency. I've taken away your choice. I won't do that again.”

She sucks in a deep breath, a little of Supergirl's regality seeping back into the defeated slump of her shoulders. “So, I'm doing what I should have done from the start. I'm being honest with you, and hoping that you'll be honest back. I'm asking what you want.”

Kara's fingers twist anxiously before her, bottom lip bleaching white beneath the nervous pressure of her teeth. “Do you think we should keep doing this? Or do you— fuck.” Her voice cracks, the tears brimming in her eyes once again breaking free. “Do you want to give up?”

Jesus Christ. Lena never knew that the prospect of doing the right thing could hurt so much.

“Fuck,” she mutters as she kneads her knuckles over her closed eyelids, digging in until white lights starburst across her vision. “Fuck, Kara.”

“I know,” the blonde whispers from across the room, brittle and broken. “I know. I'm sorry.”

Lena slows her assault on her own eyelids, pinching thumb and forefinger hard at the bridge of her nose instead. “I want to give up,” she mutters, and in the taut silence between them she hears the blonde gasp, watery and thick.

Lena blinks open her eyes to find Kara's face crumpling, every facet of her seeming to fold in on itself even as she visibly fights to keep herself upright.

Lena sighs, and hates Kara, and hates herself even more. “I want to, but— I can't.” She sucks in a ragged breath, hating the truth that's just fallen from her lips, hating the lies that had necessitated it. Hating everything and everyone and most of all, hating just how much she's hurting. “I can't give this up.”

The tiniest spark of hope flares to life in Kara's eyes. Lena hates that she notices, hates that she cares, hates that the sight eases the tight knot of devastation clawing at her ribcage just the tiniest bit.

She also knows that this was inevitable. She knows that, though she hates Kara, though she's nowhere close to forgiving her, though she has no idea how they can rebuild from here or even if she truly wants to try, a question like Kara's could only ever have one answer.

In this moment, Lena knows. She's in love.

-

One year from now, Kara is going to reach across the table at Noonan's and take her hand. She's going to look deep into Lena's eyes, biting her lip as her thumb rubs gentle circles into Lena's palm, and her voice will barely rise above a whisper when she asks, “When did you know?”

And when she does, one year from now, Lena will also think back to this moment.

This moment, which is barely even a moment at all. It's more like a dream, warm and faded and fogged in darkness, seconds stolen when sleep should have long since claimed them.

Kara's nightmare had woken them both. In the month since they'd pulled her out of the Phantom Zone, she hadn't slept alone once. Often, she stays with Alex, curling into her sister's side the way she would when they were just kids after one too many late-night horror movies. Once, she stays with Nia, tucked up snug in a borrowed pair of puppy print pyjamas.

Mostly, she stays with Lena. It's natural and unspoken and easy as breathing, the way Kara will show up at her place after a Supergirl save or Lena will let herself into the blonde's apartment after a late night in the lab. They cook dinner and watch Celebrity Masterchef and brush their teeth elbow to elbow at the bathroom sink and when Kara is inevitably tugged screaming and sobbing from her night terrors, the way she presses her face to Lena's neck and her hand over Lena's heart is natural and unspoken and easy as breathing, too.

Kara's racing pulse has calmed a little, her grip on Lena's body beneath her losing some of its urgent desperation. After a long moment of Lena's hand stroking her hair, of gentle reassurances and lips pressed to her temple the blonde pulls back, just enough to rest her head on the pillow facing her.

In the dim light filtering in through the bedroom window Kara's pupils are blown, her face solemn. There's something in her heavy gaze that Lena can't identify; something weighted and potent that prickles goosebumps up the length of her spine.

"Feeling better?” she whispers into the inch of warm air between them, reaching out to tuck a sweat-matted curl reverently behind the blonde's ear.

Kara catches her retreating hand and holds tight, twining their fingers together on the narrow swathe of pillow between them. If either of them were to move so much as a millimetre, their clasped hands would press against their lips.

The blonde nods and sure enough, the soft heat of her mouth brushes the back of Lena's knuckles. She shivers.

Kara is still watching her, the intensity of her gaze causing Lena's heart to thud hard in her throat. She squeezes lightly at the fingers threaded through her own. “What?”

A pause, heavy and sweet as overripe fruit. Kara blinks once, slow. “You're my best friend.”

Lena swallows down a sudden swell of emotion. The blonde nudges closer and when she speaks, the wet seam of her lips catches on the angle of Lena's bent knuckles, painting her skin with the words.

“You're the most important person in the world to me,” Kara whispers, breaths skating fire-flashes across Lena's fingers, voice muffling out past the mouth pressed to her skin. “You know that, right?”

Lena's voice deserts her in the wake of the quiet words. She leans forward instead, presses her lips to Kara's fingertips where they rest against the back of her own hand. It's answer enough.

She hears Kara's breath catch, feels the disruption mirrored in her own chest. Both their mouths are pressed to the joined hands clasped between them. If they were to move their fingers down even just a fraction, there would be nothing separating their lips but a promise, a prayer.

Kara's eyelashes flutter in the semi-darkness. The tip of her nose brushes Lena's own. Neither one of them moves their hands.

They only gaze at one another a long moment, and Lena wonders if the blonde is memorising the planes of her face the way she's memorising Kara's. She could look at her forever, be happy here with her forever, and in this moment, Lena knows. She's in love.

For the first time, she wonders if she might not be the only one.

-

Right now, Kara is reaching across the table at Noonan's and taking Lena's hand.

It's been three weeks since they'd taken down Lex for the last time. Three weeks since Kara had stormed into the Tower's med bay to cup Lena's bloody, bruised face in her hands; since she'd brushed her thumbs feather-light over Lena's split eyebrow and purpling jaw and growled don't you ever scare me like that again. Three weeks since she'd leaned in and pressed her lips to Lena's.

It's been two weeks and six days since Lena, confined to a gurney but utterly uncaring thanks to the warm Kryptonian curled against her side, had pressed her aching face to Kara's shoulder and first whispered that she loved her. Two weeks and six days since Kara had first said it back.

It's been two weeks and five and a half days since Nia had walked in on Lena in Kara's arms, lips pressed to her neck and hands wandering beneath her sweatshirt, and promptly shrieked the place down. Since their friends had exchanged pointed glances and relieved sighs and congratulated them on finally making it official, their expressions ranging from overjoyed to exasperated to plain exhausted.

It's been two weeks and four days of she and Kara dating; of morning kisses and shared showers and the perfect partner at game night and all of Lena's wildest dreams coming true.

It's been less than a minute since Kara had admitted, hushed and wondering, that she'd known she was in love with Lena ever since she'd found herself suddenly prepared to poison National City's entire water supply rather than let Lena fall. That she hadn't been able to fully it admit it to herself until she'd found herself suddenly prepared to alter the course of all of history in order to get Lena back.

And right now, Kara is reaching across the table at Noonan's and taking her hand. She's looking deep into Lena's eyes, biting her lip as her thumb rubs gentle circles into Lena's palm, and her voice barely rises above a whisper when she asks, “When did you know?”

And now that she has, Lena is sure of her answer.

The highlight reel of her relationship with Kara lays itself at Lena's feet, each precious memory between them stretching out like a roadmap of her growing affection, with every hard-won step leading her right to this moment.

And in this moment, Lena knows. She's in love with Kara. Really, she always has been.