#signal airship

[lizasweetling]

Love this open as an infiltration tactic, but also wow. This guy?? is Just?? Planning to stay???

like there's clearly at least one person still here, so, what's with that???

[aspenmissing]

ᴍᴏʀɴɪɴɢꜱ ɪɴ ᴛʜᴇ ᴛᴀʟɪꜱ ʜᴏᴜꜱᴇʜᴏʟᴅ

ᴊᴀʏᴄᴇ x ʀᴇᴀᴅᴇʀ x ᴠɪᴋᴛᴏʀ || ᴄᴏᴍꜰᴏʀᴛ/ꜰʟᴜꜰꜰ || 1097 ᴡᴏʀᴅꜱ

ᴡᴀʀɴɪɴɢꜱ: ɴᴏɴᴇ

ꜱᴜᴍᴍᴀʀʏ: ɪɴ ᴛʜᴇ ᴛᴀʟʟɪꜱ ʜᴏᴜꜱᴇʜᴏʟᴅ, ᴛʜᴇ Qᴜɪᴇᴛ ᴍᴏʀɴɪɴɢꜱ ᴀʀᴇ ꜰɪʟʟᴇᴅ ᴡɪᴛʜ ʟᴏᴠᴇ, ʟᴀᴜɢʜᴛᴇʀ, ᴀɴᴅ ʟɪɢʜᴛʜᴇᴀʀᴛᴇᴅ ʙᴀɴᴛᴇʀ ʙᴇᴛᴡᴇᴇɴ ʏᴏᴜ, ᴠɪᴋᴛᴏʀ, ᴀɴᴅ ᴊᴀʏᴄᴇ. ᴀᴍɪᴅ ꜱʜᴀʀᴇᴅ ʙʀᴇᴀᴋꜰᴀꜱᴛ ᴍᴏᴍᴇɴᴛꜱ ᴀɴᴅ ᴄʀᴇᴀᴛɪᴠᴇ ᴄʜᴀᴏꜱ ɪɴ ᴛʜᴇ ʟᴀʙ, ʏᴏᴜ ꜰɪɴᴅ ᴊᴏʏ ɪɴ ᴛʜᴇ ʙᴀʟᴀɴᴄᴇ ᴏꜰ ᴛʜᴇɪʀ ᴘᴇʀꜱᴏɴᴀʟɪᴛɪᴇꜱ.

ᴘᴀʀᴛ 2

ʀᴇᴀᴅᴇʀ | ᴊᴀʏᴄᴇ | ᴠɪᴋᴛᴏʀ

The gentle light of dawn filtered through the lace curtains of the Tallis household, casting a soft glow over the quiet rooms. Outside, the city of Piltover was just beginning to stir. Airships hummed faintly in the distance, and the occasional bark of a merchant announcing their wares carried through the streets. But inside the warm, comfortable home shared by Jayce, Viktor, and you, the world felt still and serene.

You were the first to wake—as always. The bed was a tangle of limbs and warmth, with Viktor tucked neatly at your side and Jayce sprawled across the rest of the mattress like a human starfish. It was a miracle Viktor managed to get any rest with Jayce’s restless movements, but he never complained. In fact, he often joked that the chaos kept him young.

Carefully, you wriggled out from under Viktor’s arm, doing your best not to disturb him. He made a soft noise of protest, his brow furrowing slightly before settling back into peaceful sleep. Jayce, on the other hand, remained oblivious, his snore rumbling low and steady. You smiled fondly at the sight of them, their contrasting personalities so evident even in sleep.

Padding into the kitchen, you set about your morning routine. The kettle was soon on the stove, its comforting whistle blending with the rhythmic ticking of the clock. The scent of fresh coffee beans filled the air as you ground them by hand, relishing the quiet moments before the house fully woke.

By the time you heard the familiar shuffle of Viktor’s cane in the hallway, the table was set with steaming mugs of coffee and a plate of buttered toast. You turned just in time to see him enter, his golden eyes still heavy with sleep and his unruly hair sticking up in every direction. He looked utterly endearing.

“Good morning, my love,” you greeted, pulling out a chair for him. “Did you sleep well?”

He gave a small nod, gently placing a kiss on my lips before lowering himself into the chair with a sigh. “Well enough,” he said, his voice still husky from sleep. “Though I suspect Jayce attempted to wrestle me in his dreams again.”

You laughed softly, pouring him a cup of coffee. “He’s lucky you’re too patient to retaliate.”

Viktor rolls his eyes playfully, wrapping his hands around the warm mug. “Patience is a virtue when you live with a man who sleeps like a flailing octopus.”

The two of you shared a quiet laugh before a loud thud from the bedroom signaled Jayce’s less-than-graceful awakening. Moments later, he stumbled into the kitchen, his hair a wild mess and his shirt half-tucked into his pajama pants.

“Morning,” he mumbled, making a beeline for the coffee pot.

“Good morning, sunshine,” you teased, sliding a mug toward him. “Rough night?”

Jayce grunted, taking a long sip of coffee before replying. “I had the weirdest dream. Viktor was… building a robotic octopus, and it kept chasing me around the lab.”

Viktor raised an eyebrow, his lips twitching with amusement. “Perhaps your subconscious is trying to tell you something.”

“Yeah, maybe to stop eating so many snacks before bed,” you added, earning a mock-offended look from Jayce.

Breakfast was a relaxed affair, filled with the usual banter and laughter that defined your mornings together. Jayce devoured his toast with the enthusiasm of a man who’d been starved for days, while Viktor nibbled his more methodically, his focus already drifting toward the day’s projects. You alternated between sipping your coffee and reminding Jayce to slow down.

“So,” you began, leaning back in your chair. “What’s on the agenda today?”

Jayce brightened immediately. “I’ve been working on some new hextech prototypes. They’re not quite ready for testing, but I’m hoping to make some progress today.”

“And by ‘progress,’ he means blowing something up,” Viktor quipped, earning a laugh from you and a playful glare from Jayce.

“It’s called experimentation,” Jayce defended, pointing his coffee spoon at Viktor. “Besides, you’re the one who nearly set the lab on fire last week.”

“That was an isolated incident,” Viktor replied smoothly. “And if I recall correctly, you were the one who suggested increasing the power output.”

“I—” Jayce began, but you interrupted with a laugh.

“Alright, boys, let’s not turn breakfast into a blame game. Save the explosions and whose to blame for the lab.”

After breakfast, the three of you fell into your usual rhythm. Jayce and Viktor headed to the lab, their minds already buzzing with ideas, while you took some time to tidy up the house. Despite their brilliance, neither of them was particularly organized, and you often joked that it was your full-time job to keep their chaos in check.

As you moved through the house, you found little traces of their lives woven into every corner—a stack of blueprints on the dining table, a half-finished sketch of a new invention on the couch, and Viktor’s favourite book resting on the armchair where he often sat to read. You couldn’t help but smile at the evidence of their shared passions and their shared space with you.

Later in the day, you prepared some snacks and made your way to the lab. The soft hum of machinery greeted you as you pushed open the door, revealing Jayce and Viktor bent over a glowing piece of hextech. Their heads were so close together it was a wonder they hadn’t bumped into each other.

“Our savior,” Jayce declared dramatically when he noticed you, grabbing a cookie from the tray before you’d even set it down. He grinned, crumbs already on the corners of his mouth.

Viktor glanced up, his golden eyes warm with affection. “Don’t encourage him,” he said with a fond smile, though he accepted a cup of tea gratefully.

You shook your head, amused as always by their antics. “How’s it going?” you asked, leaning against the workbench.

“It’s going great,” Jayce said through a mouthful of cookie. “I think we’re close to something big.”

“Or another explosion,” Viktor murmured, though his tone was light.

As they launched into an animated explanation of their progress, complete with wild gestures from Jayce and more measured input from Viktor, you couldn’t help but feel a swell of affection. This was your life with them—full of creativity, warmth, and the perfect balance of chaos and calm. Watching them together, their passion for their work and their clear admiration for each other shining through, you were reminded once again just how lucky you were to be a part of it all.

[therocketeer0501]

Emptiness Machine

Starscream X Reader (mech pilot AU)

Warnings/TW: blood, weapons, mention of torture, robot gore, human experimentation (shockwave is shockwave), language, and peril. (I’ll add more as I post)

(Author note: Before I get started I wanted to get a few things out of the way. This is my own AU and doesn’t really lend itself to much existing media. Gonna mash a few continuities together. This is in no way a professional writing by any means. I am not running it past a beta or anything so it’s going to be rough. I wanted to write this for myself and share it with y’all! This is my silly nonsense. That being said if I don’t clarify something or if something doesn’t make sense please submit an ask and I will promptly explain! Now without further ado. Here is the anticipated first chapter of Emptiness machine! Thank you all for waiting.)

Read first

Data log entry #857

Date: 003029 Time: 0700

Time since first contact: 2 years, 4 months, 7 days

What began as a national defense strategy became one of the most complex military operations in the history of the world. Project Archangel, founded by Dr. Zinovy Antonov, began under the pretense of creating the world’s first mechanized army. He started his research long before we found out we weren’t alone out here among the stars. With the arrival of the Cybertronian visitors came the fear that humanity was not only vastly outgunned, but also grossly unprepared to deal with any threat from deep space. Dr. Antonov pleaded with the government to allow him near the deactivated body of one of the Cybertronians, who was discovered after a battle had broken out between factions.

He studied their biology and created what he dubbed the perfect exoskeleton. Fueled by chemical X, also known as Energon, and operated by none other than the human soul itself. There weren’t many volunteers to undergo the rigorous training and testing that these pilots had to go through. But with the help of Cybertronian Autobot scientists, Project Archangel was finally given the green light to move forward. Only three pilots made it through the initial testing.

Pilot: Seraphim, Pilot: Uriel, and Pilot: Michael.

With their functioning mecha, these pilots were meant to assist the Autobot Cybertronians in keeping earth from being terraformed by the opposing Cybertronian facton, the Decepticons.

Which brings us to the present. We have had zero contact with the other faction known as the Decepticons until two months ago. The Autobots insisted we keep our distance and only deploy Project Archangel as a last resort. Keeping the humans out of the conflict was essential if they wanted to stay neutral in the eyes of the Decepticons. As far as we know, no Decepticon has ventured down to the planet’s surface from their airship Nemesis to interact with the population. Only sending drones to wreak havoc on areas rich in Chemical X.

However, in recent months, there have been sightings of Decepticon officers and scientists (identified by Autobot command) on the planet’s surface. It was decided that we bring Project Archangel out of the shadows and deploy them on a scouting mission alongside several Autobots. We only hope that we haven’t made a grave mistake.

Chapter 1

You let yourself be pulled through the spiral of light emanating from the ground bridge. Traveling via the alien tech was a feeling that no one could describe. The closest thing to it was like having a magnet in your chest be pulled faster than your brain could register before spitting you back out on the other side. It had taken many practice runs for you to not throw off your stabilizers and stick the landing. Though it still made you dizzy and a bit sick.

After landing behind Bee in a heavily wooded area, you quickly scan the trees for energy signatures. Your scanners were only programmed to detect the Decepticon drones and of course the energy signatures of your comrades. Bumblebee signaled for you to fall in behind him and you promptly obeyed. You could feel the way your heart pounded against your ribcage where your body rested snug inside the metal chest of your mech. Your consciousness flawlessly divided between the two bodies. One living metal, and one flesh. Energon flowed steady through your lines as you tried to calm the slight tremor of your hand that came with the rush of adrenaline.

Ahead you could see the energon mine in the waning light. A clearing with a large metal structure in the center. The two huge metal doors at the entrance had been blown wide open to reveal the tunnel that went deep inside the earth to extract the precious ore. The human sentries, once posted outside, were nowhere to be found. Vehicles were overturned and some still smoldered where they had been hit with plasma bolts. You switch to internal comms so you can communicate with Bee without anyone on the outside hearing.

“Second wave in twenty. Nineteen….”

You slowly count down the seconds until the others arrive so you can rush the structure together. Adjusting your grip on your rifle you study entrance trying to imagine just what awaited you inside. Clearly a monster. Looking to your left you see Bumblebee gripping his null ray, an uncharacteristically stoic look on his face. You had some form of friendship with all the autobots, but you were closest to the little yellow scout. Perhaps it was shared interest or the fact that he seemed more your age. Whatever the case, you had shared so many things with each other over the two ish years that you had been a part of Project Archangel. Only once did you ask him about his home.

He looked saddened at the question and at first you thought he wouldn’t answer you. But he did. You spent the better part of a day listening to how he didn’t know Cybertron before it had been nearly obliterated by the war. It had been a planet filled with culture, music, and arts. No factions to speak of. A united Cybertron. But then came the slow divide of the classes. The divide grew until there were only the obscenely wealthy, and those who had nothing. That’s when, from the pits of Kaon, came the leader of the Decepticon faction.

Megatron.

Bumblebee described him as charismatic and well spoken. Someone bots wanted to rally behind. Many of the Autobots started out as Decepticons in the early days of the war. Taking down the government brick by brick until nothing remained. When it came time to build a new government, Megatron wasn’t satisfied. He wanted all the bots and their families who dared oppress him gone. Obliterated until nothing was left. He ended up doing exactly that. This cost him many followers and eventually after many thousands of years, his home. He didn’t stop. Blaming the Autobots for the lack of energon and destruction on Cybertron.

With a dead world and nowhere to go, the Autobots turned to the libraries in what was left of Iacon. There they found records of worlds seeded with energon by the 13 original Primes. A failsafe in case something were to happen to Cybertron. Optimus Prime lead the remaining Autobots off world to look for a suitable new home. Of course Megatron followed. They tore their way through 11 uninhabited worlds while trying to find one that suited them best. Stripping the worlds of their energon before moving on to the next. Earth was the first seeded world to have intelligent life. Optimus made it his sole mission to keep that intelligent life from having to endure the horrors of the war they brought with them.

It was nearly impossible due to the ever present evil that lurked in the sky. The Nemesis, like a dark cloud, hung overhead when you looked up. What kind of monsters would tear apart their home just to make a point? You were about to find out. A ground bridge portal appeared nearly blinding her as she adjusted her optics to its harsh blue light. Four bots landed and immediately began sprinting towards the entrance. Your peds began to automatically move. The yellow scout close on your heels as the two of you followed your comrades inside. Drones swarmed around you the instant you broke the entrance. Inside you could see Cliffjumper, Sideswipe, Sunstreaker, and one of your brothers in arms Michael. His mech was a heavy class. Not very good at maneuvering but excellent at breaking things. Throwing a drone into a wall with the butt of your rifle, you turn to Bee and chuckle over comms.

“I was expecting more of a fight. This is a fairly average number of drones.”

He didn’t reply right away as he tried to pull a drone off of one of the lambo twins. You couldn’t tell which one because of the sheer number of bodies trying to suffocate the bot. Using your jump jets you propel yourself forward and into the pile sending a good number of the drones flying. They broke easily, not filled with much energon either. It made you wonder just how the Decepticons managed to manufacture so many drones while the Autobots controlled the energon. With the last of the drones dispatched, you look around and regroup with the others. Slowly you start moving further into the mine. Eventually it would open up into a huge cavern. It would be beautiful if not for the dread that had settled over the group like a thick fog. Suddenly your comm crackled to life as Sideswipe replied to your earlier comment in Bumblebee’s stead.

“We’ll get a good fight eventually. These tin cans are just the appetizer for the main course. It’s confirmed, Shockwave is here. I’ve been itching to dig my fist into that lone optic of his.”

He emphasized his excitement by sending his fist into the shoulder of his brother. The golden bot gave him a sour look but didn’t retort like he normally would have. The energy of the Autobots had been stoic ever since it was confirmed that the first Decepticon on scene was Shockwave. You had no idea what to expect. You knew Shockwave was a scientist and known for his cruel and unusual experiments during the war on Cybertron. He created the most horrific weapons used in the Great War, so he must be someone to fear at the very least.

As you make your way down, you begin to hear a long drawn out noise. Almost like a squeaky door hinge but amplified, bouncing off the walls of the mine shaft. Then there was the screaming. You had wondered what happened to the sentries who were stationed outside. Now you knew. A deep voice rumbled from up ahead. It was cold, unfeeling, and filled you with dread.

“Test 8 unsuccessful. Most illogical. Send another.”

There was that horrible sound like metal rending and then another shriek cut short. Before a sigh of resignation came from nearby. It wasn’t Shockwave who made the noise of dissatisfaction. Another Decepticon. Your heart pounded as you look over at your fellow bots to see if they heard the same thing you did. If their wide optics were any indication, they had. Two Decepticons. Not just one. You listened closely as the other bot seemed to pace back and forth in front of the opening to the cavern. You and your companions were split on either side of the entrance, listening but not yet entering the space.

The other Decepticon doesn’t speak and suddenly he goes eerily silent. It made your hair stand on end and you almost felt like you were being watched. Could Decepticons see through reinforced steel? You shook your helm at the thought. No way. But after a heartbeat he said something that had your heart in your throat.

“Shockwave wrap it up. We aren’t alone.”

Cliffjumper growled into his comm in recognition of the voice.

“Spinster. He’s going to be trouble.”

[reixtsu]

Chapter 1: Unexpected Encounter

Next Masterlist

The city was alive with activity. Neon lights painting the skies in hues of blue and violet. The hum of airships overhead blended with the cacophony of voices in the crowded market square below. For a Stellaron Hunter, such chaos was both a blessing and a curse-it offered cover but also countless opportunities for things to go wrong. Very wrong.

You stood near a vendor stall, your eyes constantly scanning the crowd. Elio's script had been vague, as always, leaving you to fill in the gaps. The mission was to retrieve the data drive, avoid detection, and regroup. Sounded easy enough, but you wished that there were more details within the instructions.

Behind you, Kafka leaned lazily against a lamppost, her lilac eyes glinting with nonchalant amusement. "You're too tense, y/n," she said, her voice as smooth as silk. "Relax. Everything's going according to the script."

You shook your head. "I know, but you're not the one with a five-year-old son to look after," you muttered, keeping your voice low.

She chuckled softly, her gaze flickering to where your son, Hajime, stood beside Silverwolf. The boy was wide-eyed, captivated by the holographic displays at a nearby stall.

"Silverwolf's got him," Kafka assured you. "Blade and I will cover the east quadrant. Focus on the task at hand, alright cutie?"

You nodded, though the unease of a mother twisted in your chest. Hajime was your world, the one part of your life that isn't dictated by Elio's vision. You'd do anything to protect him-even if it meant walking away from the man who shared the same magenta and cyan eyes.

The mission began smoothly enough. You slipped through the crowd, your every move calculated like a ninja's. Blade and Kafka disappeared into the east quadrant, starting their part of the script. Silverwolf stayed behind, her fingers flying across her hacking device as she worked to intercept the rogue agent's signal.

"Hajime," you said, placing your finger into the little speaking device that was well hidden in your ear. "Stay close to Silverwolf. No wandering off."

"I know, mom," He replied, his tone both obedient and slightly exasperated as he sat next to Silverwolf, watching as she continued her job.

For a while, everything seemed fine. Hajime stayed within sight, his curiosity tempered by your warning. But then the stall selling glowing crystals caught his attention.

"Silverwolf, can I look?" he asked, his voice tingled with excitement as he stared at her, practically begging.

She hesitated, glancing at her device then back at him while her fingers kept typing. "Just stay where I can see you," she finally said.

Hajime eagerly nodded then darted off.

Minutes passed, and you felt a flicker of unease. After infiltrating the building and finishing your part of the mission, you went back to Silverwolf. She was sitting, legs crossed as she was preoccupied with whatever she was doing. Stretching, you walked up to her, patting her back until you realized something. 

"Where's Hajime?" You asked, your voice sharp enough to have Silverwolf look at you.

"He went exploring," she said blankly, her gaze scanning the crowd to look for the boy's fluffy blond hair.

Panic surged through you. With a sharp glare, you turned and pushed your way through the market, your heart hammering in your chest and making its way up your head, causing you to have a pulsing headache.

Aventurine had no particular reason to be in the fun part of the city other than the fact that he was bored. His work often brought him to places like this-a bustling, neon-soaked market in some distant planet. But tonight the atmosphere intrigued him. Surely the higher ups wouldn't mind if he lingered in the area for a bit.

He strolled through the square with a calm, almost lazy grace, his sharp, neon and magenta eyes taking in the sights. Vendors called out to passersby, hawking everything from the rare spices to glowing trinkets. Children darted between stalls, their laughter cutting through the noise like a sharp melody.

Then that's when he saw him.

A boy, no older than five, weaving through the crowd with the confidence of someone much older. Aventurine paused, his gaze narrowing. There was someone about that child, something oddly familiar that he couldn't place a finger on. Then that's when he saw it. The boy's eyes.

Avgin eyes.

Ones that looked a little too identical to his own.

Realization hit him like a bolt of lightning, but he pushed the thought aside, approaching the boy cautiously.

"Hey there," he said, crouching to the boy's level. "You seem a little far from home."

Hajime looked up at him, his expression wide from curiosity. "I'm not far. Mom's around here somewhere."

Aventurine raised an eyebrow. Why wasn't the boy at least accompanied by his mom then? Was his mom off drinking at a nearby bar or something? "Does your mom know where you are?"

The boy shrugged. "Probably. She's busy. Silverwolf's supposed to be watching me, but she got distracted. Sooo I walked away!"

The name Silverwolf sent a jolt through Aventurine. he knew that name, who didn't? Silverwolf, one of the Stellaron Hunters, a bounty with so many credits for her head. He studied Hajime more carefully, giving him a smile.

"What's your name?" Aventurine asked, keeping his tone light.

"Hajime," the boy said proudly. "Who are you, sir?"

Sir? Aventurine smiled, charmed despite himself. "Just someone passing through. How about we find your mom together?"

Hajime considered for a moment, humming dramatically before giving Aventurine a huge grin. "Okay."

Aventurine couldn't help but genuinely smile as Hajime peppered him with questions. The boy was sharp, his curiosity knowing no bounds.

"Do you live here?" Hajime asked as they walked through the busy market.

"No," Aventurine replied, his eyes wandering off but his peripheral vision on Hajime. "I'm just visiting for a while. How about you?"

"I don't live anywhere," Hajime said matter-of-factly. "Mom says we're always on the move because of her work. But she always makes sure I'm safe."

Aventurine hummed nonchalantly, feeling a pang of something he couldn't quite name. Pity? "She sounds like a good mom."

Hajime nodded enthusiastically. "She's the best! She's really strong, and she knows everything. But she gets grumpy sometimes."

The older male chuckled. "I see. And what about you? What do you like to do?"

the boy tilted his head, thinking. "I really like learning about stars and planets. They's so cool! Mom tells me stories about them all the time. Do you have any good stories, sir?"

Aventurine smiled. "Many, Hajime, like-" He began to ramble on about a star that burned so brightly that it burned the planets around it. Hajime listened intently, his eyes only growing wider with wonder.

You found Hajime just as Aventurine was finishing his story. Relief crashed onto you like a tsunami, but it was quickly replaced by dread as you saw just who he was with.

Aventurine.

He looked up, his gaze locking onto yours. Time seemed to slow, the noise of the market fading into the background. His expression shifted-first surprise, then it morphed into something deeper, something more intense.

You forced yourself to move, your steps graceful despite the chaos inside of you. "Hajime," you said, voice calm but firm. "I told you not to wander off."

Hajime ran to you, his small arms wrapping around your leg. "Sorry mama. But look!" He looked up at you, grinning as he pointed at Aventurine. "He helped me look for you."

Aventurine just stood there, his charm seeming to radiate off him. His gaze never left yours, a slow smile spreading across his face. "It's been a while, hasn't?" He said, his tone laced with something unreadable, making your heart jump a little.

You met his gaze evenly despite the pounding of your heart. "Indeed. Thank you for watching him."

Hajime tugged on your sleeve, momentarily bringing you back into the present away from Aventurine. "Mom, he told me a story about a star! Can I hear more? Please?"

You smiled faintly, your mask firmly in place. "Maybe another time."

Aventurine chuckled, his usual charm sliding into place as he slipped his hands in his pocket. "I'd be happy to. But first, I think your mom and I need to have.. a little chat."

Author’s notes: Here you all go! Your rich sugar daddy baby daddy! I love his gay ass so much… I might do those poll votes on how the story progresses in the future, but let me know if you’re interested so far! I’d love to hear from you!

ALSO!!! If you wanna join the Taglist then comment down below!

Likes, shares, and reboots much appreciated!

Taglist: @godoffuckedupcats, @sweetistic

[brassclaws-of-oddworld]

The day of the new performance has finally arrived and The Palace welcomed it's guests. Numerous luxurious airships were docked at it's piers. It's halls and observation decks buzzed with voices of the wealthy visitors and shined and dazzled with their jewellery and posh dresses and costumes.

The crowd started pouring into the auditorium, filling the seats. The filming crew scurried about, preparing for a live translation of the performance for SNOB Entertainment channel.

Madame Delvona herself made an appearance in front of the big stage to start the event with a speech.

"Dear viewers and guests, today is truly a special day that we've all been waiting for. With this grand premiere we are taking The Palace back up to the sky. In spite all the obstacles our performers and crew members have been working hard to deliver a new spectacle for you all, and prove that even in these uneasy times, The Palace is as glorious as ever!..."

The lights in the auditorium dimmed. The gears of the Mechanical Orchestra started turning, and music flowed across the hall, signaling the beginning of the show, and the audience waited with bated breath for the main curtain to raise.

They waited.

Then they waited some more...

Wasn't the performance supposed to start by now? Confused whispers of the crowd added to the music.

But the curtains stayed still in their place.

The music stopped for a moment, and started over from the beginning, covering the sounds of commotion backstage as the staff bustled around in a panic.

The Principal Dancer was not backstage. He wasn't in the dressing room either. Oddett, and several other dancers were nowhere to be seen!..

Finally, after weeks, maybe even months of preparation and meticulous planning... It was time. But not just for the highly anticipated grand premiere, no. It was finally time for Madame Delvona, Jabodo, and all the other corrupt and control-freak rich denizens of the Palace to be seen for what they truly are and what they did to those who suffered. It was time for freedom.

Brass Claw operatives took their places, a secret pep talk was given to the stagehands and servants of the Palace to raise their spirits, and remind them of what roles they'd be playing in this grand premiere; that hope now on the horizon, and justice was going to be served. While it may not be as bombastic as a coup d'etat, it was at least something. Kyung was in position, leading the escape route and escorting the escapees through a secret route alongside a few other armed agents; vigilante, anticipating a fight at anytime, but praying to Odd that it wouldn't be more than fisticuffs. Shinju, Zhuzhu and Lee were amongst the rich and dazzling crowd; sitting in the audience, watching from a private balcony in wait. Among the scrambling backstage crew and staff; Slig, Mudokon and Intern operatives were busy putting on their own show, sewing seeds of doubt, confusion, he-said-she-said, and sending different people on wild goose chases that kept them far away from the fleeing party.

Meanwhile, Glukkon associates dotted around the general audience seats blended in among the rest... Grumbling impatiently, chewing on their cigars or cigarette holders, whispering doubts, slowly but surely creating more tension and acting disgruntled enough to infect the others' moods.

[geothewriter]

Vermillion Seas Cardinal Skies: Chapter 32 - The Dawn

As one threat wanes, another rises, and Aang will have to face the consequences of his actions as a fight against the Fire Lord looms. And…just what are the Fire Sages up to?

--

Hi y’all! 

I had a few questions come in last time around about how that whole thing worked regarding Katara and her ‘abilities.’ The answers will arrive in due time - soon! Just know that the machinations behind everything have been in motion for far longer than it may be apparent. On another note, this week’s chapter is brought to you by the letter H. As in Holy shit. 

I thoroughly enjoyed all of your comments and the surprise in the last chapter, and I hope that as we power on through to the end that we reach a satisfying conclusion to this story together. 

As always, a major thank you and the biggest of props to the best beta/editor/friend/person/fruit there is - @achillmango. You legit make this possible every time, and no, I won’t stop shouting you out.

Now, without any additional delay, please enjoy Chapter 32 of Vermillion Seas Cardinal Skies - The Dawn.

Aang’s mind is in turmoil as he launches a chunk of mountain toward the distant airship. Blue fire? Zuko never mentioned that. Does the Fire Lord share Azula's sapphire flames? The ship begins to fall from the sky with its balloon torn asunder, and as it sinks, a plume of flame paints the sky above. A signal.   One by one, the flames cease from the other vessels, and the Fire Lord is rapidly approaching. He focuses on the fleet, and…they've stopped. A miracle? Except–  A stream of fire builds and roars toward him, closing in at breakneck pace. He takes a breath and launches himself into the air, just barely avoiding the azure flames as they bathe the rocky column where he was positioned just a second earlier.  “AHH!” He yelps, spinning around and pushing himself out of the way of dozens more blasts.  He’s on the back foot right from the start; he needs to buy himself time to assess the situation and come up with a new strategy. With a wave of his hand, he pulls a mass of wind from below and directs it toward the origin of the fireballs as he continues to dodge through the air.  It does the job well. The blast throws his opponent off balance, and as he lands on another pillar, the stark realization hits him like lightning to the chest.  “What are you doing here?!” He shouts as a sudden, angry frustration escapes him. “Where’s the Fire Lord!?”

Continue Reading on AO3.

[annoyinglandmagazine]

First Time Reading Girl Genius Novels!

Airship City just arrived!!!! So just to clarify, I have read and am entirely up to date on the webcomic so don’t worry about spoiling anything! I’m also only really reacting to things that stick out to me while I’m reading the novels specifically, I already know the story. So without further ado let’s get into it:

Heterodyne Boys content! Hell yes!

Bill silently cleaning his weapons while Barry worries about him is so wholesome and sad at the same time. It is a tragedy that we never really get to see much of this sibling dynamic because it seems really sweet.

The thumbs up signal too, just a little snapshot of how they were before all this.

Damn the Other is terrifying, just picking all the main players off one by one until no one’s even being accused anymore because it’s so clearly something on another level.

‘It was the most Bill had spoken this week.’ This is just too depressing

It’s kind of weird to be reminded that the Heterodynes did actually win against the Other; the end to their story is just so far from triumphant it feels like a loss.

Actual descriptions of the way the locket and the Spark impacts Agatha’s mind!

The atmosphere of Beetleburg is really fleshed out which is nice.

‘Jägermonsters found everything amusing. Except when people tried to beg for mercy. That they found downright hilarious.’ Ha!

The implications that ordinary household appliances have kill modes installed that are only activated in the presence of a strong Mechanicsburg accent should surprise me more than it does

There is so much irony in Agatha hiding the fact she reads Heterodyne Boy novels from her adoptive parents Punch and Judy.

‘If a mad scientist wasn’t at war with at least two of his neighbours it was because he had his back to the sea and even then he had to watch out for an invasion of intelligent sea urchins.’ Europa really is just Like That

The fact the Heterodynes represented hope to the average people because they actually tried gives me so many emotions

Moloch’s narration is a lot more sympathetic than he comes across in the comic at the start.

The general populace automatically getting worried at Sparky tones even with no context is a nice touch

Jägers and their terrible pick up lines make a first appearance

Beetle was really very sweet to Agatha and meant well which I tend to forget because of the whole Hive Engine first impression

‘Glassvitch’s specialty was chemical engineering which minimised his experience with hysterically sobbing young ladies.’

Something, something, “science is better than emotions or people” is both extremely autistic and a very common take in Girl Genius which I love.

Klaus’ backstory is once again so depressing.

Also the fact no one took him seriously because he was an adventurer who let Bill and Barry take the spotlight and then he just came back out of nowhere, challenged anyone to try and take him on and ended up taking over a significant part of the continent, is kind of badass.

Oh Agatha, assassination attempts since he was revealed are nothing in the wide array of shit going on to make Gil the way he is; that is so far from the problem that to call it the tip of the iceberg would be assigning it too much importance

Boris being known and feared almost as much as the Baron, hell yes, that long suffering man deserves respect for his efforts.

‘He clutched the fishbowl to his chest protectively’ Gil, I love you

Klaus swinging an arm around Gil’s shoulder and patting it while smiling and calling him his son non critically might be the most affection we’ve ever seen him express.

Why do I feel like this is peak healthiness for their relationship, the bar is in the fucking basement

Klaus and Gil ‘eyed each other, as if each were embarrassed at the thought of speaking first. Finally the Baron cleared his throat and said, “Yes, Gil, what do you think of that?”

The description makes that already hilarious interaction so much better. Their whole role in this confrontation reads as second hand embarrassment at the poor planning of their enemies and awkwardness at being remotely associated with this disaster of an coup

‘Klaus looked disgusted’ yep that’s definitely it.

The Wulfenbach Empire understanding that most Sparks really only want praise, a space to work, something to challenge them and someone to make sure they eat is hilarious.

Worldbuilding in the form of universe specific bigotry is my jam. The way constructs get portrayed as comic relief in pop culture due to a culture of discrimination is ingenious. I also appreciate the touch that Klaus has strong and public opinions on this though I suppose it’s not that surprising considering he himself is one in some sense.

I think Lilith teaching music and dance is a new detail and it’s nice to flesh their lives out more, it fits what little we know about her really well.

They are such good parents and this is just adorable

That’s all for now, I’ll pick it up again later!

[sarksarkos]

Batman '60: Hell Yeah

Buckle up your eyeholes, tumblrinos! This is Batman #133, and we are talking about KITE MAN! Welcome to the Gutters!

The actual cover to Batman #133 doesn't have anything to do with Kite Man, so I don't care about it. Kite Man is a bit of silver age lunacy that hits all the right notes to become a permanent fixture in the lorescape of comics. He was used as a serious villain all of twice over a period of two decades, before Jenny Isabella used him as an extended Charlie Brown reference in an issue of Hawkman, and then Tom King got a hold of him for his Batman run and turned him into an even bigger joke by making him a sympathetic character with a tragic background that revolves around wearing a giant kite to fly around. It's so good you almost forget that Tom King probably did some war crimes for the CIA.

In this first appearance, Kite-Man is basically Batman but kites. Anything Batman can do by making it bat-shaped, Kite-Man can do by making a kite out of it. He's got a jetpack kite and a bomber kite, he has a giant kite airship and a one-man glider kite. At one point, he just pulls a kite from the kite dimension and throws it at Batman's face with the full confidence that it would work, and somehow it actually did.

I also really like Kite-Man's costume here, which stands out by looking like somebody a person might actually wear. Maybe it's because I first became aware of comics in that era when all the Avengers wore matching leather jackets, but I like when comic book superheroes wear actual clothes. The jodhpurs in particular make him look like an ex-military man, it does something for me that the typical underwear-on-the-outside design doesn't. Kite-Man would have been an amazing villain on the Adam West Batman if only they had the budget. Get Steve McQueen to play him and he could ride a motorcycle with a big kite on the back.

However, as the old adage goes, he who lives by the kite, dies by the kite. Batman's greatest triumphs against Kite-Man only come when he uses his adversary's weaponry against him. First, he happens to find a speedboat with a parasailing kite and... sure, I guess, I mean I'd buy that if it was anything but a box kite. Then, when Kite-Man captures Batman, he uses the wallpaper in his cell to make a signal kite for Robin. Finally, they raid Kite-Man's stash of battle kites and use them to defeat him.

I live for this kind of story. I love Batman as a fighter, and Batman as a detective, but I adore Batman as a one-upman. There's nothing better than seeing Batman go up against some dude with an absolutely silly gimmick, and he gets even better at that silly gimmick than the bad guy is. That is peak Batman for me. I'm very tempted just to post this whole story up here because it's delightful.

As much as we wish it, not everything can be Kite-Man. Batman #129 contains another important story, "The Man From Dick Grayson's Past." This story involves Batman and Robin solving a circus crime involving a strongman that Dick Grayson knew back when he was a circus acrobat. From there we get a story about his origins, the death of his parents, and his origins as Robin. The bones of this origin have basically stayed the same since the Golden Age, including the name of his parents' killer, Tony Zucco. Unfortunately, the comics industry didn't predict the slow, lingering death of the circus, so the idea of a mobster putting a hit out on a pair of acrobats seems ludicrous when retold in the modern age, but it's part of the legacy so there's nothing to be done about it.

Sadly, the rest of this story doesn't have anything to do with Robin's origin, which is a real shame. The crime guy of the month is just some random guy who's got the strongman's kid in a tough situation, and it could have easily been Tony Zucco who was behind it. That would have given Dick a nice full circle moment, and add something extra to a story focused on Robin.

Finally, I want to look at Batman #136, "The Challenge of the Joker" because it's a really good Joker story. Batman goes on TV to make a speech about how crime is obsolete because of SCIENCE! Joker, as he does, takes that shit personally, and decides to do a series of alchemy crimes, ones based on each of the four elements. As per usual, the Joker puts way more effort into any of his crimes than he could ever possibly recoup from this expense, but he doesn't care because it's all about the game for him.

This is the kind of thing I would probably get upset about, and I'm sure I have in previous posts - if it was anyone but the Joker doing it. Like, Kite-Man, no matter how successful he is, he's probably barely breaking even once you take out all his kite expenditures. The Joker, however, does not care. He will spend a million dollars to steal a handful of change from a lemonade stand if it makes him laugh.

I mean look at this, look at this damn thing. The Joker made a flame-throwing hovercraft shaped like his own face and he's doing it basically just to mess with Batman. That thing must have cost billions of dollars to make. He could have funded a space program with the R&D expenses alone. But it is worth it to have Batman and Robin look at him with no earthly idea what they're seeing.

I know that just prior to this post, I got too mad for too long about one single, very silly comic book about Batman getting a zebra paintjob and how that was the downfall of the medium or something 25 years before I was born. And I stand by that, I absolutely do. But sometimes, these old comics do just get it. They know how to make good entertainment. I honestly can't tell you if there's more good than bad, Sturgeon's Law is always in effect, but I can be damn sure that I enjoyed myself enough to make it worth it.

Until next time!

[retropopcult]

“Roy, come and get this ---damn cat.”

On October 15, 1910, Kiddo the cat became the first of his kind to attempt to cross the Atlantic Ocean by airship—and he wasn’t very happy about it.

When aeronaut Walter Wellman’s hydrogen airship, America, was preparing for take-off from New Jersey, Kiddo was found in the airship’s lifeboat. The wide-eyed grey tabby was not pleased about his unexpected journey, and his howling annoyed the airship’s chief engineer, Melvin Vaniman. (The duo seemed to have made-up after their spat—enough to pose for a photo together, at least.)

The America was the first airship to have radio equipment. Kiddo has the distinction of being the subject of the first ever radio communication from an aircraft in flight: “Roy, come and get this ---damn cat.”

The 71 hours that Kiddo and the rest of the crew spent in flight were fraught with storms and engine failure. After traveling just over 1,300 miles from their launch point, the America sent out a distress signal. Kiddo and the crew were evacuated via the airship’s lifeboat on to a Royal Mail steamship. The America—no longer weighed down by the boat, crew, and cat—drifted away and eventually crashed off the coast of Maryland.

According to the airship’s navigator, Murray Simon, Kiddo preferred the sea-faring portion of the journey; he described Kiddo as perched on the lifeboat’s sail, “washing his face in the Sun, a pleasant picture of feline content.”

(photograph and story courtesy of the Smithsonian)

[bunnynoirr]

Somewhere soft

Eren Yeager x black reader (part 2)

(Part 1) <- <- <- 🩷

What’s it finna play?- OH: The titans march on without Eren. You and Eren have an another talk, this time with answers.

Warnings: none that I know of!

𓆩❤︎𓆪 𓆩❤︎𓆪 𓆩❤︎𓆪 𓆩❤︎𓆪

The wind tore through her short hair.

She didn’t move.

She stood at the edge of the airship deck, knuckles white around the railing, watching the horizon darken with smoke and dust. The earth trembled beneath them—distant, rhythmic, impossible to forget.

The Rumbling was still moving.

She could feel it in her teeth. One step. Then another. Then another. Thousands of Titans. Thousands of deaths. And all of it—Eren.

He was somewhere out there. Not just leading it. Becoming it. And still, she waited for the signal. The right moment. The right words. A breath beside her. Armin. He was speaking. She barely registered it.

“Did you feel that?” he asked.

Mikasa blinked. “What?”

Armin turned sharply, scanning the sky, the ground, everything. His face had gone pale. “Something’s wrong.” She followed his gaze. Nothing had changed. The Titans still marched. The wind still howled. But then—

She felt it.

Not like a blow. Not like a shift in balance. Just… absence. A silence that didn’t belong there. Like the moment after a blade is drawn—but before it strikes. Like reaching out for someone in the dark and realizing your hands are empty.

Armin looked shaken now. “Eren.”

Her heart clenched.

He swallowed hard. “He’s not here.”

“That’s not possible.” Her voice was quiet. Flat. The kind of calm that comes right before collapse. “it’s like—he’s been pulled away.”

She stared out at the Titans. Still moving. Still crushing the world beneath their feet.

“But they’re still marching,” she said. “He’s still in control.”

Armin shook his head. “Not completely. Something else is pushing them now. Or whatever was left of him.”

She didn’t answer.

Because she felt it too.

The invisible thread she’d always carried—tied to him since they were children—had gone slack.

Not snapped. Not broken.

Just… barely there.

Her hand moved slowly to her scarf, gripping it tighter. She didn’t cry. She didn’t scream. That wasn’t her way. But her chest ached with a new kind of hollow.

What the hell happened to Eren?

And wherever he’d gone… still, she hoped—just for a moment—he could finally breathe, but if she was being honest with herself, someone just disappearing was never a sign of peace.

𓆩❤︎𓆪 𓆩❤︎𓆪 𓆩❤︎𓆪 𓆩❤︎𓆪

They regrouped later in the ruins of an old Marleyan base, just outside the Titan's last known path. The air smelled like dust and steam. Like old ghosts.

They were still moving.

The Colossal Titans hadn’t stopped—not completely—but they were slower now. Sluggish. Like something inside them had gone quiet.

Dead machines still walking.

Mikasa crouched near the edge of a crumbling rooftop, her eyes locked on the endless wave of steam and earth-shaking steps stretching across the horizon.

It was wrong.

All of it.

Not just the Titans.

Not just the silence where Eren’s voice should have been.

But the world itself.

Behind her, the alliance argued. Again.

Pieck’s voice was sharp. “They’re still marching. That’s all that matters. If we wait too long, there won’t be a world left to save.”

Jean snapped back, “And what exactly do you expect us to do? We don’t even know who’s in control anymore!”

“Eren is,” Reiner said flatly, though there was no conviction behind it.

Mikasa didn’t turn around. She didn’t need to. She could feel the fracture spreading. In the team. In the mission. In everything.

They had always assumed this ended with confronting Eren.

But what if Eren was already gone?

Armin stood a few feet away, staring blankly at a map that no longer mattered. His hands trembled just slightly at his sides.

“We can’t reach him,” he said, voice low. “Not through the Paths. Not through the Titans. It’s like… he’s been cut off. Pulled out.”

“By who?” Connie demanded. “Ymir?”

No one answered.

Because no one knew.

Mikasa swallowed the lump in her throat and forced herself to speak. “If Eren’s not in control anymore… then the Rumbling has no plan. It’s just destruction.”

Floch—somehow still alive, still unhinged—laughed from where he leaned against a ruined wall. “So? You said it yourself. Isn’t that what he wanted?”

She turned to him slowly, eyes narrowing. “No.”

He stared back at her, smug until he realized she wasn’t just disagreeing—she was sure. “Eren wanted freedom,” she said. “Not chaos.”

The wind howled across the broken street. No one responded.

Because what do you do when the devil you came to stop disappears? When the plan becomes pointless? When the world is already burning and your reason for fighting vanishes with the smoke?

They had no answers. And for the first time since all of this began—

neither did Mikasa.

𓆩❤︎𓆪 𓆩❤︎𓆪 𓆩❤︎𓆪 𓆩❤︎𓆪

The sun is already cutting through the blinds, washing the walls in soft gold and pale blue. You’ve been awake for a while, but haven’t moved—just lying in bed, staring at the ceiling, thoughts crawling in circles.

Everything feels… quieter this morning.

But not lighter.

Eventually, you pull yourself up, stretch, and tiptoe out into the hall. You peek into the living room.

Eren’s still on the couch—but he’s awake. His elbows are on his knees, head in his hands, body hunched like he’s trying to hold himself together with nothing but tension and bone.

You clear your throat softly. “You okay?”

He grunts.

Not a yes. Not a no. Just… sound.

You nod awkwardly, standing there in your oversized sleep shirt and socks, arms crossed like they might keep you from asking more.

The silence hums for a second.

Then you say it. “You… need a shower.” He doesn’t respond, but he doesn’t argue either.

You disappear into the hall closet, grabbing a towel and a fresh rag, then place them on the bathroom counter before glancing back at him.

“Go ahead,” you say gently. “Take your time.”

He stands, slow and stiff, and disappears into the bathroom without a word.

Thirty minutes later, the door creaks open.

Steam curls out from the crack as Eren steps into the hall, hair still damp, skin flushed from the heat. He’s wearing the clean shirt and sweats you left on the counter—ones that actually fit this time. Not too loose. Not swallowing him whole.

He looks… more human now. Less like a loaded gun ready to fire. You’re in the kitchen when he walks in, flipping eggs in the skillet, the smell of toast and bacon curling into the air.

You glance over your shoulder. And pause. Not because he’s standing there. But because—damn.

Clean, quiet, still a little dazed—but undeniably handsome. The kind of handsome that sneaks up on you and makes your breath catch before you can stop it.

You look back at the pan, pretending you didn’t notice.

“Those clothes look better on you,” you say casually, “They were from an ex. Few years ago. Took me forever to find them again.”

He doesn’t respond.

Just stands there, staring past you, like he’s watching something only he can see.

You press your lips together. “Go sit,” you say gently. “I’ll bring you a plate.” He does as he’s told—same as last night—moving to the small kitchen table like he’s sleepwalking.

You finish plating the food—toast, eggs, bacon, a cup of orange juice—and place it in front of him. Then you slide into the seat across the table with your own plate.

He doesn’t move at first. Just looks at it. Like he’s trying to decide if it’s real.

You start eating. Quietly. Slowly. Eventually, he picks up his fork. Takes a bite of the eggs.

You finish before him, scoop up your plate, and carry it to the sink. You’re rinsing it when you hear his voice for the first time since that grunt this morning.

Low. Rough. From behind you.

“…You didn’t have to do all this.”

𓆩❤︎𓆪 𓆩❤︎𓆪𓆩❤︎𓆪 𓆩❤︎𓆪

He watches your back as you rinse your plate.

Sunlight cuts across your shoulders, soft through the kitchen window, making the steam rising from the sink look almost holy.

He doesn’t understand this place.

This stillness.

This version of you—calm, quiet, warm without flinching. You brought him water. Gave him a shower. Clothes. Breakfast.

He doesn’t know how to hold this.

“…You didn’t have to do all this,” he says.

You don’t look at him, but your voice is steady. “I know.”

A pause.

“But I wanted to.”

Silence settles between you, thick and waiting.

Eren looks down at his plate—half-eaten eggs, a crust of toast—and wonders how long it’ll last. How long until the look changes. Until you remember he’s not just some guy with memory loss and a temper problem.

He sets his fork down.

And begins.

“I’m not from here,” he says quietly. “You probably figured that.”

You still don’t turn around.

“I’m from a place where people live inside walls because monsters roam outside them. Giant ones. Titans. I used to be one.”

You still. Just slightly. But you don’t speak.

He presses on.

“I’ve killed people. A lot of people. I destroyed cities. I started a war… ended others. I thought it was the only way.”

Your shoulders stay still.

“I wasn’t always like that,” he says. “I wanted to be free. That’s all. But I kept losing people. Watching everyone else decide how the world should be. So I made a decision.”

He pauses.

“The wrong one.”

He watches you like he’s waiting for the recoil. For you to flinch, to step back, to say what the fuck is wrong with you?

He braces for it.

You say nothing.

You just turn around slowly, your face unreadable, your eyes locked on his.

You stare at him for a second too long—long enough that he starts to feel it in his chest, like a burn.

And then, with a breath:

“Well. Good thing you got zapped out of there before you committed mass genocide.”

The words hit him like a slap he didn’t see coming. He stiffens. Jaw tightens. “It was the only way,” he snaps, sharper than intended.

You raise a brow, not backing down.

You don’t argue. You don’t agree.

You just lean your hip against the counter and let the silence breathe between you.

Then, finally:

“…Do you want to go back?”

The question is quiet. Dry. Honest.

But it lands heavy.

He blinks. Looks away. Something in his stomach twists.

Because he hasn’t even asked himself that yet.

You ask if he wants to go back—

And for some fucked up reason,

he doesn’t know how to answer.

𓆩❤︎𓆪 𓆩❤︎𓆪 𓆩❤︎𓆪 𓆩❤︎𓆪

You don’t push him for an answer.

You don’t need to.

The silence says enough.

He won’t look at you. Not directly. Just stares down at his plate like the answer might be hidden in the leftover crumbs.

You walk over quietly and sit across from him again, pulling your chair in slowly, your hands folding around your now-empty glass like they might hold the moment steady.

You speak softly. No edge. No judgment. Just the truth.

“…I’d understand if you didn’t want to go back.”

He lifts his head a little. Just enough to glance at you.

“It’s obvious you’ve had it rough,” you continue. “And I don’t mean just the whole war and Titans thing. I mean…”

You pause. Shrug.

“I don’t know. You look like you’ve been holding your breath for years.”

Eren’s jaw clenches, but he doesn’t interrupt.

You lean back slightly. “I’m not saying any of it was right. And I’m not saying I get what it’s like to carry that kind of weight.”

You meet his eyes.

“But I know what it’s like to be tired.”

That’s all you say.

You don’t ask him to open up. You don’t offer comfort he might not want. You just sit there, honest and still.

Across the table, Eren finally exhales.

Not in relief. Not in peace.

But like he’s finally starting to feel how tired he really is.

[altocat]

other than Rosen and Rhadore what was one of the worst missions Sephiroth has ever had?

Buckle up buckaroos. (TW below the cut for graphic survival content)

During a seemingly routine mission out in the wilderness, Sephiroth's airship is sent crashing down into the snowy mountains. "Technical difficulties" was the excuse given in the aftermath. Sephiroth is fairly confident someone was attempting an assassination.

Sephiroth survives the crash, along with 30+ infantry soldiers. But they're completely at the mercy of the elements, lost in snow, unable to contact Shinra HQ for a retrieval. The signal is lost. Things are going to fall apart very, very quickly.

At first, Sephiroth elects that everyone make camp as best they can and wait for a search and rescue. It's hard going. Supplies are limited. Some are still badly wounded from the crash. Sephiroth does what he can to direct and give orders. He is unquestioningly obeyed, at least at first. He's a highly respected soldier, and didn't seem to take any fall damage from the crash at all, from the look of it.

For the first few days, spirits are high. Rescue WILL come, even if the icy winds surrounding them make it difficult. They need only be patient. Sephiroth is dreadfully lonely for Angeal and Genesis. Though he would not have wanted them to experience such a disaster, their company would have soothed his nerves.

Around the fifth day, things start to get bad. Rescue still hasn't arrived. There's still no signal. People are freezing in their makeshift shelters. And food is beyond scarce. The limited rations have very quickly dried up.

Sephiroth often goes out to hunt alone down the mountain slopes, finding barely anything. And what he DOES bring back isn't enough to feed the nearly forty hungry mouths that clamor for meat. He feeds the weak and the sickly, though he himself is gradually beginning to starve. It isn't enough. Not enough food. Not enough medicine. People start dropping like flies. And that's...when things get really bad.

Some of the more unstable soldiers take to cannibalizing each other, attacking weaker soldiers in the night and feasting on...well, whatever they can get.

Sephiroth does not participate in such barbaric actions. He immediately executes the culprits in what is essentially a mass culling, leaving the area all but bathed in red against the snow.

With only a small handful of starving men remaining, Sephiroth unhappily realizes the truth--help isn't coming. Not HERE at least. They're trapped. There's no rescue. The only way out of this mess is to take the few remaining soldiers he has and to trek past the mountains to find a better signal reach. It's been weeks now. Most of his men can barely stand. But it's the only option they have.

And so they move along, clinging to life, trekking through the mountains to reach the other side. Sephiroth himself is fatigued and starving, though curiously not succumbing to hunger and the cold the same as the others. They're collapsing all around him. It's a death march, with Sephiroth leading the head, watching helplessly as bodies fall one after the other.

By the time Sephiroth reaches the other side of the mountains...he's the only one left.

He's too exhausted to question why he managed to survive longer than the average human, why he still seems to have some energy reserves available despite no food for nearly two weeks. It can at least be said that the hunger is slowly driving him to delirium, hallucinating as he stalks step by step through the snow.

Faces flicker across his vision against the sea of white. He can see them, beckoning to him, crying out. Old loved ones. Memories. Fuzzy against the backdrop of snow. But calling to him. Genesis and Angeal. Glenn, Matt, and Lucia. Professor Gast. Lazard.

His mother.

Sephiroth nearly collapses when the signal beacon finally sparks back to life, the subsequent rescue retrieving a miraculously frostbite-free skeleton of a soldier, bringing him swiftly back to HQ.

Sephiroth is bedridden for several days. He heals quicker than the average soldier, making a speedy recovery. But the effects on the mind have taken a toll. He refuses missions for several months, spending most of his time alone in his room, alleviating his haunted memories only through the cocktail of drugs supplied to him.

Rumors circulate around the office that Sephiroth cannibalized his men, especially once a team moved in to salvage what remained of the bodies. Hojo finds the idea pleasing because of course he does. But the second he taunts his son during one of his lab sessions, Sephiroth nearly breaks his neck.

Angeal and Genesis stay close to him most of the time. They don't ask much about the mission, gleaning what they can from field reports. They know it was bad. They thankfully don't push Sephiroth into remembering more than he needs to. Even Genesis chills out for a bit and is remarkably gentle and coddling towards him.

Shinra propaganda turns the event into a big success story--how the courageous and noble Sephiroth beat the odds in a race against the elements. A true survivor's tale.

Hojo happily spends the next several months cutting his son open to see how the Jenova cells managed to produce such a fine nature-defying specimen of a superhuman.

Sephiroth readily chooses fire over ice to the end of his days.

[shiorihyugawrites]

The Devil's Bride

Aurora Jaeger, Eren's long-lost childhood friend, was taken from him when they were children. After years of suffering under Marleyan control, Aurora is reunited with Eren while he’s undercover in Marley, igniting a bond neither of them expected. Despite her gentle nature, Aurora breaks her vow of pacifism to save Eren’s life, solidifying their deep connection. Secretly married before the Raid on Liberio, Aurora is swept into Eren's world of chaos and destruction. As the Scouts learn of her existence, tensions rise on the airship home. Mikasa’s heart shatters, and Levi demands answers. And Eren will stop at nothing to protect the only light left in his dark world—his bride, Aurora.

In this journey of love, loyalty, and war, Aurora must reconcile her innocent heart with the brutal reality of the man she loves, while Eren faces the truth of what he’s become. (Eren x OC)

Chapter Twenty Five

One Month Later

A month had passed, and the Jaegerists had grown stronger, their numbers swelling as Paradis Island fully transitioned into a military state under Eren’s command. Eren's vision of unity through domination was materializing faster than anyone anticipated, thanks to his alliance with Historia and the relentless work of Floch.

Far away from the Jaegerists' compound, in the dense forests of Paradis, Floch Forster was leading a relentless pursuit. His goal: eliminate Levi and Mikasa Ackerman once and for all. Over the past month, he had launched countless tracking missions with a select group of loyal Jaegerists, but the Ackermans proved elusive.

Floch crouched near the remnants of a campfire. The faint embers suggested it had been extinguished only hours ago. His sharp eyes scanned the area, searching for any trace of Mikasa and Levi.

“They were here,” he muttered, signaling to the Jaegerists behind him. “They’re close.”

One of his men frowned. “How do they keep slipping away? Every time we corner them, she bolts. And she’s impossible to catch with her gear.”

Floch’s jaw clenched. “Because she’s an Ackerman. She’s not like us. Mikasa’s instincts are unnatural.” He stood, his frustration barely contained. “But she can’t keep running forever. She’s dragging around an injured Levi. He’s dead weight, and eventually, they’ll slip.”

Another Jaegerist stepped forward, glancing at Floch warily. “Do you think Eren knows about this?”

Floch’s eyes darkened. “Eren doesn’t need to know. Mikasa is his blind spot. He’s too sentimental to deal with them properly. That’s why we’re here—to do what needs to be done.”

The group exchanged uneasy glances but didn’t question him further. Floch’s determination was unshakable, and his hatred for the Ackermans burned brighter with every failed attempt to capture them.

Back at the compound, Aurora was bustling around her workspace, surrounded by vials, herbs, and notes. Over the past month, her elixirs had become an integral part of the Jaegerists' regimen. Soldiers reported noticeable improvements in stamina and endurance after weeks of consuming her mixtures, and their loyalty to Aurora grew alongside their respect for her work.

Eren entered the room quietly, leaning against the doorframe as he watched his wife. She was utterly absorbed in her task, her focus unwavering as she carefully measured out a glowing liquid into a small vial.

“You’ve outdone yourself,” he said, his voice breaking the silence.

Aurora looked up, a smile spreading across her face when she saw him. “Eren! You’re back early.”

He approached her, wrapping his arms around her waist and pulling her close. “I couldn’t stay away,” he murmured, resting his chin on her shoulder. “You’re amazing, you know that? The soldiers swear by your elixirs.”

Her cheeks flushed with pride. “I just want to help. This is my way of contributing.”

Eren placed a gentle kiss on her temple. “You’re doing more than enough. And,” he added, placing a hand over her stomach, “you’re already giving me the most important contribution.”

Aurora’s eyes softened as she placed her hand over his. She was now two and a half months pregnant, and though her bump hadn’t appeared yet, the anticipation of seeing it every day filled her with joy. “I can’t wait for us to meet them,” she whispered.

Eren nodded, his expression softening in a way it rarely did. “Me too.”

…

Later that evening, Eren descended into the basement of the compound. The air was cold and heavy, and the dim lighting cast long shadows across the walls. In the center of the room, a large crystalline cocoon stood like a statue encasing five figures—Hange, Armin, Jean, Connie, and Sasha.

Eren approached Armin, his footsteps echoing in the silence. He placed a hand on the smooth surface, his expression unreadable.

“Why can’t you see it, Armin?” he whispered. “Why can’t any of you see it? This is the only way.”

His voice wavered, the flicker of guilt he refused to acknowledge threatening to break through. “You always believed in me, didn’t you? You thought I could save everyone. But I can’t. Not without this.”

His eyes flickered to Jean, then Hange, then Sasha, and Connie, his jaw tightening as he looked at their frozen form. “I’m sorry. I had no choice.”

Eren’s thoughts turned to Mikasa, and a pang of regret pierced his chest. He knew she was still out there, running and fighting. He had let her go because, deep down, he still cared for her. But he couldn’t let her or Levi interfere.

Finally, he stepped back, his gaze sweeping over the room. “When this is over,” he said quietly, “I’ll set you free. I promise.”

Upstairs, Floch gathered a few trusted Jaegerists to discuss their ongoing mission. Despite his public confidence, the hunt for Levi and Mikasa was wearing on him.

“They’re out there, regrouping,” he said, his voice laced with frustration. “Levi’s injured, but he’s not dead. And Mikasa…” He shook his head. “She’s a problem.”

One of the soldiers hesitated. “Do you think we should inform Eren?”

“No,” Floch snapped. “Eren has enough to deal with. This is our responsibility.”

As the meeting ended, Floch glanced out the window, his resolve hardening. The Ackermans were a threat he couldn’t ignore, and he wouldn’t rest until they were eliminated.

The stage was set, and the pieces were in motion. The Jaegerists were stronger than ever, but danger loomed on the horizon—from Marley, from Mikasa and Levi, and from the cracks of doubt forming within Eren himself.

…

Night had fallen over Historia’s farm, and the Jaegerists' compound was quiet. The distant sound of crickets filled the air, but inside a dimly lit bedroom, the atmosphere was heavy with unspoken thoughts. Aurora sat cross-legged on the bed, her gaze fixed on Eren, who stood by the window, his silhouette framed against the moonlight. His arms were crossed tightly over his chest, his jaw tense.

“Eren,” Aurora said softly, her voice breaking the silence. “You’re doing it again.”

He didn’t turn to look at her, but she could see his fingers twitch slightly. “Doing what?” he replied curtly.

Aurora sighed. “Getting lost in your head. I can see it, you know. The way your shoulders stiffen, the way you avoid looking at me. You’re carrying too much.”

Eren’s gaze remained fixed on the darkness outside. “I’m fine.”

Aurora wasn’t convinced. She scooted closer to the edge of the bed, her feet brushing against the cold floor as she stood and walked toward him. Placing a hand gently on his arm, she coaxed him to face her. “You don’t have to lie to me, Eren. I can feel it—your guilt. You think you’ve hidden it well, but you haven’t.”

For a moment, Eren stayed silent, his green eyes flickering with emotions he didn’t want to acknowledge. Then, he exhaled sharply, his shoulders sagging ever so slightly. “I trapped them, Aurora. Armin, Hange, Jean, Connie, Sasha... even Mikasa.” His voice wavered, the weight of his confession thickening the air. “They were my friends. And I betrayed them.”

Aurora’s heart ached at the pain etched into his features. She reached up to cup his face, forcing him to look at her. “You didn’t betray them, Eren. You’re trying to protect them. You’re trying to protect all of us.”

“They don’t see it that way,” he muttered bitterly. “They think I’ve lost my mind. They think I’m the enemy now.”

“They’ll understand one day,” Aurora said, her voice firm but soothing. “When they see what you’re fighting for, when they see the world you’re trying to create, they’ll understand.”

Eren closed his eyes briefly, leaning into her touch. “They experienced the world beyond Paradis,” he said after a pause. “They saw the beauty—the laughter, the kindness in people like Ramzi and the others in that refugee camp. And now, they’re blinded by it. They can’t see the truth. They can’t see how cruel the world really is.”

Aurora stroked his cheek gently, her mind racing for the right words. “You’re not wrong, Eren. The world is cruel. I’ve lived through that cruelty just like you. But you’ve always known that there’s no place for sentimentality in a fight for survival. I wish they could see that too.”

“They won’t,” Eren said flatly. “Especially Mikasa. She’s too tied to the idea of who she thinks I am. She doesn’t see me for who I’ve become. She never could.”

Aurora hesitated before speaking, her voice tinged with concern. “Maybe you could try reasoning with her again. Mikasa isn’t like the others. She loves you, Eren. I think if anyone could understand you, it’s her.”

Eren shook his head, pulling away from her touch and pacing the room. “I’ve tried. She won’t listen. She’s too blinded by her own feelings, by her loyalty to me. And besides...” He stopped and turned to face Aurora, his expression hardening. “She’s with Captain Levi.”

Aurora tensed slightly at the mention of Levi. Her gaze dropped to her hands, fingers fidgeting with the edge of her dress. “Captain Levi,” she murmured. “I didn’t finish him, did I?”

Eren’s eyes softened slightly as he noticed her shift in demeanor. “No,” he said. “But it wasn’t your fault.”

“I know,” Aurora said quickly. “But still, if he’s alive, then he’s probably their biggest hope. Mikasa is likely taking care of him somewhere, waiting for a chance to strike back.”

Eren walked back to her, placing his hands firmly on her shoulders. “Levi is dangerous, but he’s not invincible. I’ve planned for this, Aurora. I’ve planned for everything.”

Aurora looked up at him, her wide eyes filled with both trust and fear. “I just... I wish there was more I could do, Eren. For you, for us. I hate feeling helpless.”

“You’re not helpless,” Eren said firmly, his grip tightening slightly. “You’ve done more for me than anyone else ever could. Without you, none of this would’ve been possible.”

Aurora felt a lump in her throat as his words sank in. “I just want to protect you, Eren. You and our baby. That’s all I care about.”

Eren’s eyes softened further as he leaned down, pressing a gentle kiss to her forehead. “And that’s why I need you to rest. You’re doing enough, Aurora. More than enough.”

She nodded reluctantly, allowing him to guide her back to the bed. As they lay down together, Eren wrapped his arms protectively around her, holding her close. The warmth of his body against hers was comforting, and for a brief moment, the weight of their world seemed to fade.

“Do you think Mikasa will ever forgive me?” Eren asked quietly, his voice barely above a whisper.

Aurora hesitated, choosing her words carefully. “I think she will. But it’ll take time. Right now, she’s hurting. Just like you.”

Eren closed his eyes, his mind replaying the memories of his friends’ faces, now frozen in crystal. “I never wanted it to be this way,” he murmured. “But I had no choice.”

Aurora nestled closer to him, her hand resting over his heart. “You’re doing what you have to, Eren. And I’ll be right here with you, every step of the way.”

As Eren held her tighter, he silently vowed to himself that no matter what happened, he wouldn’t let anything or anyone harm his family again. The world was cruel, but he would be crueler if that’s what it took to keep them safe.

…

The next morning, the sun had barely risen over the farm when Eren prepared to leave for the Reiss Chapel. He is determined to unlock more of his father’s memories through physical contact with Historia. It had worked for him before at the funeral for the fallen scouts years ago, and he figures the Reiss Chapel is the best place to possibly unlock more memories.

 His expression was stoic as always, but Aurora could see the determination in his eyes as he kissed her goodbye. “Stay safe,” he whispered, his hands lingering on her stomach for a moment before stepping away.

“I always am,” Aurora replied softly, watching as he joined Historia and a small group of Jaegerists. They mounted their horses, and within minutes, they were gone, leaving the compound under heavy guard.

Aurora sighed and turned back toward the farmhouse. Her work on the elixirs awaited her, and with every passing day, she felt more pressure to make them as effective as possible. She knew Marley would retaliate soon, and the Jaegerists would need every advantage they could get.

Inside the farmhouse, Aurora was tending to a minor wound on one of the newer recruits. The young man winced as she applied a salve, but Aurora worked with practiced efficiency, her hands steady.

“Hold still,” she said, her tone calm but firm. “This will sting for a moment, but it’ll keep the wound from getting infected.”

The recruit nodded, biting his lip as she tied the bandage snugly around his arm. “Thank you, Mrs. Jaeger.”

Aurora managed a small smile, though the title still felt strange to her. “Be more careful next time,” she advised, standing and gathering her supplies.

As she walked toward the kitchen to clean her hands, she overheard hushed voices coming from a nearby room. Her sharp ears caught snippets of the conversation, and she froze in place when she heard a name that sent a chill down her spine.

“Floch’s orders... He’s still tracking Mikasa and Levi,” a voice whispered.

Aurora froze mid-motion, her hands hovering over her supplies. Her sharp ears caught every word.

“He says if Eren won’t handle them, he will,” another voice added. “Levi’s in bad shape, and Mikasa’s just running. It’s only a matter of time.”

Aurora’s chest tightened. She took a deep breath, her mind racing. Floch was hunting them? Without Eren’s knowledge? She wiped her hands on a towel, excused herself from the recruit she was helping, and walked briskly toward the barracks where Floch was stationed.

He stood outside, surrounded by a group of Jaegerists. He barked orders, his posture commanding as the recruits practiced their drills. Aurora didn’t wait for him to finish; she approached with purpose, her expression calm but determined.

“Floch,” Aurora called out.

Floch turned, his eyebrows raising slightly at the tone in her voice. “Aurora,” he greeted, though his tone lacked warmth. “What can I do for you?”

Aurora didn’t mince words. “What’s this I hear about you hunting Mikasa and Levi?”

Floch’s eyes flickered with surprise, but he quickly composed himself. “I don’t see why that concerns you.”

Aurora’s expression didn’t waver. “It concerns me because Eren doesn’t know about it, and you’re acting without his orders.”

Floch crossed his arms, his jaw tightening. “Eren is too soft when it comes to them. He let Mikasa escape, and Levi is still out there. We both know how dangerous they are. If they regroup, they’ll come for us.”

Aurora shook her head, her voice calm but firm. “Eren doesn’t want them, especially Mikasa dead unless there’s no other choice. You’re overstepping.”

Floch stepped closer, lowering his voice. “Overstepping? Aurora, Eren is blinded by sentiment. Mikasa and Levi are threats. If he won’t deal with them, then it’s my responsibility to do what needs to be done.”

Aurora frowned, her tone softening but not losing its resolve. “Floch, this isn’t about responsibility. This is about trust. Eren trusts you to follow his orders, not to act on your own.”

Floch scoffed. “And what about you? You think you’re the voice of reason here? You’ve only been here a few weeks and already you think you can call shots around here?”

Aurora’s gaze didn’t falter. “This isn’t about me. It’s about the mission. If we start fighting amongst ourselves, we’ll lose focus on the real enemy. Marley is out there, preparing to destroy us. We don’t have the luxury of personal vendettas.”

Floch hesitated, her words hitting a nerve. The recruits nearby had stopped their drills, their attention subtly drifting toward the heated conversation. Aurora noticed but kept her voice steady.

“Call off the hunt,” she said, softer now but still resolute. “If Eren wants to handle them, he will. But it has to be his decision, not yours.”

Floch’s jaw tightened, his pride wounded, but he could see he was outmatched. “Fine,” he muttered through gritted teeth. “But don’t come crying to me when they show up and ruin everything.”

Aurora nodded, relieved but wary. “Thank you, Floch. Let’s focus on what matters.”

As she walked back to the farmhouse, she let out a shaky breath. Confronting Floch had been nerve-wracking, but she couldn’t let his recklessness jeopardize everything. She returned to her lab and sat down, her hands trembling slightly.

She didn’t want to be at odds with anyone, but she couldn’t stand by and let Floch undermine Eren’s authority. They were all fighting for the same goal—survival. Personal vendettas had no place here.

Aurora picked up her tools and went back to work, though her mind lingered on Floch’s words. “Eren is blinded by sentiment.” Was that true? Or was it simply that Eren still had hope for his friends, even after everything?

She didn’t know the answer, but one thing was certain: she would do everything in her power to protect her family, even if it meant stepping into the line of fire.

…

As the sun began to set, the tension hung heavy in the farmhouse, even after Floch reluctantly agreed to Aurora’s demand. She had watched him walk away, his shoulders stiff with frustration, but her instincts told her the conversation wasn’t over. Floch was a fanatic, and fanatics didn’t abandon their missions easily. Aurora leaned against the wooden wall, gripping the edge of her table tightly. Her pulse raced as she considered her next move.

Floch had lied to her. She could feel it.

Her hands trembled as she packed her herbalist bag with vials of elixirs and antidotes. She needed to be ready for anything. Time was running out, and she couldn’t afford to be unprepared. The image of Eren’s devastated face if something happened to Mikasa haunted her. Despite everything, Mikasa was still family to Eren—someone he loved deeply in his own way. Aurora couldn’t bear the thought of adding more pain to his already heavy burden.

She burst into the central hall, her boots clicking against the wooden floor. A group of Jaegerists, about half a dozen, stood around the table discussing their latest assignments. They turned as she entered, their expressions wary but curious.

“We’re leaving,” Aurora announced, her voice steady and commanding.

One of the men, a broad-shouldered recruit with a scruffy beard, frowned. “Leaving? Under whose orders?”

“Mine,” Aurora replied, her gaze unwavering. “Floch, he’s gone after Mikasa and Levi, and we’re going to stop him.”

The Jaegerists exchanged uneasy glances. “With all due respect, Mrs. Jaeger,” another soldier spoke up, “Floch is our commanding officer. We can’t disobey him.”

Aurora squared her shoulders, her voice sharpening. “Floch doesn’t have the authority to act without Eren’s orders. And as your Commander’s wife, I am ordering you to listen to me.”

Her words silenced the group, but hesitation lingered in their eyes. Aurora stepped closer, lowering her voice but making sure each word carried weight. “If Floch succeeds, do you think Eren will thank him? Do you think he’ll celebrate the death of Mikasa? No. He’ll see it as betrayal—and you’ll all pay the price.”

The Jaegerists exchanged looks again, this time with less certainty. The scruffy-bearded soldier finally nodded. “Alright. We’ll follow you.”

Relief washed over Aurora, but she didn’t let it show. “Good. Saddle your horses. We leave immediately.”

..

The group rode hard through the forest, Aurora leading the charge. The cold wind stung her face, and the rhythmic pounding of hooves filled the air. She clutched the reins tightly, her thoughts racing as fast as her horse. What exactly was she going to do when she caught up to Floch? She hadn’t thought that far ahead.

All she knew was that she couldn’t let him succeed.

The forest grew denser as they rode, the sunlight barely breaking through the thick canopy of leaves. Aurora’s heart pounded in her chest as she scanned the trail for signs of Floch’s passage. Broken branches, hoofprints in the mud—they were fresh. He wasn’t far ahead.

One of the Jaegerists riding beside her leaned over. “We’re gaining on them,” he said. “But what’s the plan when we catch up?”

Aurora’s grip on the reins tightened. “Leave Floch to me,” she said firmly. “You focus on stopping the others. No one gets near Mikasa or Levi.”

The soldier nodded, though his expression was skeptical. Aurora knew they doubted her, but she didn’t care. She had to do this.

As they crested a hill, Aurora spotted Floch and his squad in a clearing below. They had dismounted, their horses tied to trees, and were spreading out as they prepared to advance. Aurora’s stomach twisted as she saw the determination on their faces. They were ready to kill.

She raised a hand, signaling her group to halt. They dismounted quietly, tying their horses to the nearest trees. Aurora motioned for the Jaegerists to spread out and surround Floch’s group, ensuring they couldn’t retreat.

Taking a deep breath, Aurora stepped forward, her boots crunching against the leaves. “Floch!” she called, her voice cutting through the tension.

Floch turned, his expression darkening as he saw her. “Aurora,” he said, his tone dripping with irritation. “What are you doing here?”

“I could ask you the same thing,” Aurora shot back. “You lied to me. You said you’d call off the hunt.”

Floch smirked, spreading his hands. “You didn’t really believe that, did you? Mikasa and Levi are threats, and if Eren won’t deal with them, I will.”

Aurora stepped closer, her jaw tightening. “This isn’t your decision to make, Floch. Eren doesn’t want them dead unless absolutely necessary.”

Floch’s smirk faded, replaced by a sneer. “Eren is blinded by his feelings. He’s too attached to the past to see what needs to be done. If you can’t see that, maybe you’re as blind as he is.”

Aurora’s fists clenched at her sides. “Don’t pretend this is about loyalty to Eren. This is about your own delusions of grandeur.”

The tension crackled like a live wire as the two faced off. The other Jaegerists shifted uncomfortably, unsure of where their loyalties lay. Aurora’s group stood behind her, their hands on their weapons, ready for her signal.

“You’re making a mistake,” Aurora said, her voice low but steady. “If you kill Mikasa and Levi, you’ll lose Eren’s trust forever. Do you really think he’ll forgive you?”

Floch hesitated for a fraction of a second, but his resolve hardened. “I’m not waiting for his forgiveness,” he said. “I’m doing what needs to be done.”

Aurora’s mind raced. She could see the determination in Floch’s eyes. He wasn’t going to back down. But she couldn’t let him move forward, not without risking everything.

“Stand down, Floch,” she said, her voice firm. “This is your last warning.”

Floch’s hand moved to his weapon, but before he could draw it, Aurora raised her hand, signaling her Jaegerists to step forward. The clearing erupted into chaos as the two groups faced off, weapons drawn but no one willing to make the first move.

Aurora’s heart pounded as she locked eyes with Floch. She didn’t know how this would end, but she knew one thing for sure: she wouldn’t let him succeed. Not today.

…

Meanwhile, far on the edge of Paradis. Unbeknownst to Aurora and Floch, an even bigger problem was approaching…

A Marleyan ship glided silently through the fog toward Paradis’ abandoned shoreline. Onboard, Reiner Braun sat hunched, his hands gripping his knees tightly, his face a mask of exhaustion and grim determination. Beside him, Pieck Finger leaned casually against a crate, her sharp eyes scanning the dim horizon. The small team of Marleyan officers with them spoke in hushed tones, their unease palpable. This was not a standard mission—this was their chance to salvage what little control Marley had left after Eren Jaeger’s devastating raid on Liberio.

Reiner’s jaw clenched. Motivation had eluded him for so long. His spiraling failures haunted him: the Founding Titan slipping through his grasp four years ago, the catastrophic loss at Shiganshina, Bertholdt’s death, and then their devastating defeat in Liberio. Every loss weighed on his shoulders, every failure etched deeper into his mind. He was nothing more than a tool for Marley, one that had dulled over time.

“You have one last chance, Braun,” Magath had said coldly during their briefing. “Bring back Aurora Jaeger, or you’ll be deemed a liability.”

The unspoken threat had been clear: failure meant Reiner’s Armored Titan powers would be transferred to a new warrior candidate. And Reiner knew exactly who that candidate would be—his cousin, Gabi. The thought of Gabi enduring the curse of the Titans made his stomach churn. He couldn’t let that happen.

“You okay, Reiner?” Pieck’s voice broke through his spiraling thoughts.

He looked up at her, her ever-calm demeanor offering little comfort. “I’ll be fine,” he muttered, though he wasn’t sure if he believed it.

Pieck studied him for a moment, her expression unreadable. “You better be. This mission isn’t just about you.”

Reiner’s fists tightened. He knew what she meant. Eren Jaeger had completely turned the tides of their war. The Marleyan forces needed Aurora Jaeger as leverage—if the rumors were true, she was not just Eren’s wife but his greatest vulnerability. The intelligence they’d gathered on her suggested she had a unique role in his plans, though the specifics were unclear.

The ship slowed as it approached the shore, its engines nearly silent to avoid detection. The officers disembarked first, scanning the beach for any signs of scouts or Jaegerists. Pieck and Reiner followed, the faint crunch of sand under their boots sounding deafening in the tense silence.

“This place looks abandoned,” Pieck murmured. “But we should still be cautious. If the scouts find us here, we won’t have the element of surprise.”

Reiner nodded, his gaze sweeping the darkened landscape. The towering silhouette of Wall Maria loomed in the distance, a haunting reminder of the years he’d spent infiltrating Paradis. He knew this land better than anyone else on the mission, but that knowledge didn’t bring him comfort. Instead, it brought a sense of dread—he was back on the island where everything had gone wrong.

As they moved cautiously along the beach, Reiner’s mind drifted to the briefing when he first learned of Aurora Jaeger’s existence. He’d been half-conscious in the infirmary for weeks. He wasn't able to be present at the military briefing weeks ago when the Marleyan brass had discovered the existence of Aurora Jaeger. His mental health had deteriorated to a pitiful state and he had lost the will to live, therefore his Titan powers were not healing his body as it should’ve.

Reiner was lying in a cot in a hospital and wallowing in his despair, when Pieck had burst into his room.

“Eren Jaeger has a wife,” she’d said bluntly, shaking him awake. “Married her while undercover in Marley.”

Reiner had stared at her, uncomprehending at first. The idea of Eren, the enemy he’d fought tooth and nail, living a double life in Marley for seven months, was unfathomable. The thought of him finding someone to marry during that time felt like a cruel joke.

“Why are you telling me this?” he’d asked flatly.

“Because we’re being sent to capture her,” Pieck had replied. “And you’re coming with me.”

Reiner shook off the memory as they approached the treeline. The beach gave way to dense forest, and the group slowed their pace, mindful of potential ambushes. Reiner led the way, his familiarity with the terrain guiding them.

“We need to move quickly,” Pieck said, her tone clipped. “If the Jaegerists catch wind of us, we’ll lose any advantage we have.”

One of the officers spoke up. “Do we even know where to find her?”

“We know she’s likely wherever Eren is,” Reiner replied. “Eren would most likely be in his hometown, Shiganshina. Let’s start there.”

“And what if we don’t find her?” the officer asked nervously.

“We will,” Reiner said, his voice firm. He couldn’t afford to fail. Not this time. Gabi’s life was on the line.

The group pressed on, the towering trees casting long shadows under the moonlight. The air was heavy with tension, each crack of a twig beneath their boots making their nerves jolt. Pieck stayed alert, her Cart Titan abilities ready to activate at a moment’s notice.

Reiner’s thoughts churned as they moved deeper into Paradis. The weight of the mission bore down on him, but he couldn’t shake the lingering doubts. What kind of person was Aurora Jaeger? The reports painted her as a runaway slave from Marley, someone who had endured unimaginable cruelty. Yet she had fallen in love with Eren, the very man Reiner had spent years trying to destroy.

The irony wasn’t lost on him.

“Focus, Reiner,” Pieck said quietly, sensing his distraction.

“I am,” he muttered, though the truth was far more complicated.

As they neared the edge of the forest, Wall Maria loomed closer, its massive structure casting an imposing shadow. Reiner slowed his pace, raising a hand to signal the group to stop.

“This is where it gets tricky,” he said, his voice low. “Eren will have patrols near the wall. We’ll need to avoid detection if we want to get close.”

“Leave that to me,” Pieck said with a small smirk. “I can scout ahead in my Cart Titan form. You just focus on keeping up.”

Reiner nodded, his jaw tightening. This mission wasn’t just about capturing Aurora Jaeger—it was about proving to himself and to Marley that he could still succeed. And if he failed, the consequences would be devastating.

As Pieck transformed and scouted ahead, Reiner steeled himself for what lay ahead. The fate of his cousin, his country, and perhaps even the war rested on his ability to find and capture the woman who had somehow become the heart of Eren Jaeger’s plans.

With a deep breath, Reiner stepped forward, leading the group closer to Wall Maria and whatever awaited them beyond its shadow.

~

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[pilot-boi]

All this focus on v9 Twins lately, time to go the other direction. Leading up to Beacon Initiation, Yang is inexplicably panicking. She's a fraud, her grades(literally top marks at Signal) aren't good enough. She's a faker and everybody is going to find out. Oh god the anxiety on this bullhead is going to make her throw up, just like that weirdly familiar blonde guy. For the entirety of initiation she's fearing for her life... even if mid-way she suddenly feels more complete than ever before.

YEA

Oh my god Jaune’s Initiation jitters filtering over to Yang is such a good idea

And they’re not constant, they come in waves. The airship, Ozpin’s speech, 2 AM for some un godsly reason, the cliff overlooking the forest-

God the launch

Yang is fine when she’s launched, the joy of soaring through the air is almost enough squash the foreign feeling of panic, but that’s all thrown out the window a few seconds later when oh my gods oh brothers this is it tHIS IS IT SHES GOING TO DIE SHES GOING TO SPLATTER ON THE GROUND LIKE A PANCAKE WHY DID SHE THINK SHE COULD DO THIS SHES SUCH AN IDIOT-

And there’s a jarring jerk in her stomach like she just slammed Bumblebee’s brakes, and she lands unceremoniously in the branches of a tree

Yang has no fucking idea what to make of any of it, and it’s so strange that she just has to sit for a while and get her thoughts in order. There’s Grimm in the forest, she can’t afford to be distracted

She’s used to some anxiety before tests or stuff, even sweeps of happiness or fear during situations that don’t call for them, but this is ridiculous. She’s never felt panicky about landing strategies or like a fraud every time someone mentions they’re training to be Huntsmen

But even weirder is the feeling that… this is RIGHT. The emotions fit her soul like a glove, like a key in a lock, like two gears that were made for each other. They don’t feel intrusive in any, the way she’s felt some Semblances mess with her perception

For all intents and purposes, these feelings are HERS, and she doesn’t know what to make of them. She never has, even after feeling them for seventeen years of life

She’s pretty sure it’s a side effect of the physical nature of her Semblance, and she knows better than to ask her dad about it. He always just gets quiet and withdrawn whenever she mentions offhand an injury she didn’t get or feeling a swell of sadness while eating ice cream

The emotions cool off for a while, just a low rumbling of anxiety and fear keeping her from cracking the normal jokes she would to blow off steam. She meets her partner, Blake, and their eyes meet across the clearing. Strangers are just friends you haven’t met yet

They’re walking through the forest when there’s a sharp crack of pain across Yang’s cheek. Her Aura flares instinctively, but there’s no injury to heal.

Blake is worried, but Yang tells her everything’s fine. Because it is. This sort of thing has been happening all her life

But then the emotions seem to clarify and focus into sharp relief, and it’s like a fog she never knew she was seeing through is finally blown away. (Jaune unlocking his Aura) She staggers backwards and Blake nearly has to catch her as the overwhelming feeling of right safe complete light family washes over her like a tidal wave

She has no idea why, but for some reason, her soul is singing with joy

[thatgenderfluidmonstrosity]

Guys I can’t take this

Omg

Loved Act 3

Spoilers ahead for Season 2 as a whole

Cried

Cried so hard

Vi x Caitlyn forever

Caitlyn looks sick with her eye patch (positive)

I hope Vi is able to cope with Jinx’s absence. I also hope Vi and Ekko start to try and hang out more. After all, of the original Undercity crew, they are all they have left.

Jayce x Viktor forever

I’d like to think that they are in their own universe together. Just them, forever connected.

I love that Viktor didn’t end up being forever evil. He fixed what he caused and he did it with his partner. I will forever love Viktor

Miss Sky. I loved her.

Miss Jinx

(Idk if it’s widespread but there is the idea that Jinx is still alive, because there is a spark of pink after the explosion with Warwick, maybe signaling that Jinx escaped, then there is the scene where Caitlyn is looking at the tunnels that lead out of where Vi, Jinx, and Warwick were stuck, then there is the big blimp airship that is shown flying away at the very end of the last episode, which we are meant to assume is Jinx because of how she mentioned in season 1, episode 1 that she wanted to ride in one someday, and finally there is the “the end” screen which is in her art style)

Long live Vander

I loved him so much, and I knew there was little chance of us getting him back, but still. I had some hope. Just a little.

Love Ekko

I hope my boy is doing okay. He deserves so much. Just like everyone else.

Where is Heimerdinger, btw??

Love Mel

She’s so freaking amazing. I love her glowing eyes and her powers and stuff. She’s just so gorgeous and awesome.

Long live Isha

I hate that the only thing that we can really infer about her death is just the fact that Jinx is really hurt by it. I hate that there was no show of a memorial, even just a small one. No mention of her by name. It makes me really sad. I know she wasn’t forgotten, but I still would’ve liked to see something.

Screw you Ambessa

I knew you had some good intentions for the “betterment of your family” but girl… come on. Bloodshed cannot save or fix anything. Maybe temporarily, but it will never be stable enough.

Sad that Maddie was evil

I wish that we would’ve gotten a few more hints. I knew from certain theory videos that she would end up being bad, but it just didn’t seem like a possibility for a while. But it was still a great betrayal scene.

[ranticore]

are the hud elements in the dogfight drawing diegetic? that would be an interesting way for the dragons to provide quick notes on what they recognize in what the human sees, or vice versa, but they also do look very cool if they were just for decoration.

just decorative! i wanted to put them in to make it ring more like a plane drawing than a dragon drawing if you get what i mean (and it implies a fourth dragon whose POV we're sharing)

the dragons' vision is very poor and their electromagnetic sense is based on rapid pings, similar to echolocation, which build up a 3D image of their surroundings in their mind's eye. unlike echolocation it also gives them the ability to 'see' through thin walls and barriers (like for example the canvas skin of an airship)

there's no innate psychic or telepathic link with riders here so they can't share their vision, but they can 'flag' a target by latching onto its own unique electromagnetic signal in a way that also highlights it on the human side. they use this to distinguish friends and foes & roughly judge location and distance to nearest matriarch

[geothewriter]

Vermillion Seas Cardinal Skies: Chapter 23 - Time for Tea

Aang now has to face his friends after performing the death-defying, incredibly dangerous move of saving one of his biggest enemies. Then he learns a bit more about himself and gains an (old) ally. Meanwhile, Zuko and Katara make final preparations for a trip in a southern direction.

---

Good day readers! It's my Birthday! Which makes posting day even better!

That last chapter had quite possibly the most intense scene I've ever written! Oh Aang, why do you gotta be so good? I wonder if there will be long-term consequences for that act.

Now, most importantly, THANK YOU to achillmango for her incredible patience in beta reading/editing my chapters.

Without further adieu, please enjoy a snippet from Chapter 23 - Time for Tea

With shaking hands, Aang stows his glider in the saddle and takes back his seat on Appa’s head. His fingers clench the reins and he can feel his heart pounding relentlessly in his chest. A cacophonous orchestra of drums readying him for what’s to come. The airships haven’t started firing yet, but the men on board look as though they’re waiting for a signal. Then, he's surprised to see them drop their stances. One even nods toward him. He swallows roughly, nods back, and mutters three quiet words to Appa.  Let’s go, buddy.  It was the right thing to do, he tells himself again. He saved Azula. Him. The boy she killed. He could have died. Again. Doomed the rest of the world to fall to the Fire Nation. All because he can’t let go of the idea that he cannot take a life. And he’s going to have to make that impossible choice, for real, and soon. The comet is coming and it isn’t going to wait for him to debate ethics. He cradles his head in his hands and tries to focus on something else - anything else. Sokka’s voice starts softly, but quickly builds in intensity and volume as he speaks. “Aang, I really don’t like swearing around you, but I think this situation calls for it. Just, WHAT THE FUCK  WAS THAT? WHY DID YOU SAVE AZULA?” Not that. “Language Sokka!” Suki scolds. He shakes his head and with a quiver in his voice replies to the older boy. “Not now, Sokka.” He’s still asking himself the same question. Why did he do it? It’s the right thing to do? He can’t handle standing idle anymore? The answer isn’t clear even to him. “Now’s a pretty good time! What could you possibly have been thinking?!” “Sokka–” His voice breaks and he clenches his eyes shut. The world is full of choices we alone must make. His words are caught, struggling between keeping down tears and screaming in anger. Why is everything so difficult? Did he make the right call? Suki’s stern voice interrupts his thoughts and effectively silences the older boy. “Sokka, let it be.” “No.” He forces his voice to sound brave but keeps his gaze forward. “No. No– You all deserve an explanation.”  Keep flying straight, buddy.  He turns to address the grave expressions of his friends. Katara is holding tightly onto Zuko, Sokka is with Suki, and Toph is clinging to her other side. He’s alone up here. Alone. Momo chitters as he climbs into Aang’s lap. At least he’s not totally alone. Their eyes are all on him, waiting for him to speak. “Okay. So. I uh.” A sigh, and a deep breath. “I realized something.” He turns to Katara and Sokka. “Your dad gave me some advice back during the invasion, and I followed it. He told me that I need to do what I need to do, whatever that is. Even if it means making things harder in the short term. And, he said that the world is full of difficult choices that we alone must make. So–” “Dad said that?” Sokka quietly asks. “When?” “When we were flying on Appa toward the battlements. I told him I didn’t know if I could kill Ozai. Sokka, I don’t want to kill anyone. I know it's messed up, but you didn’t grow up the way I did. My people didn’t–”  A biting edge accompanies Katara’s voice as she speaks, “Aang, you didn’t live through what the Fire Nation’s campaign has done to the rest of the world. Not for the past hundred years. You’ve seen what it does now.” Her voice breaks and he can hear the pain in it. “How could you save Azula? She killed you Aang. YOU WEREN’T BREATHING! I spent weeks making sure you could wake up!” 

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