#surro speaks

[promptsforyourwhumpfic]

I know I’m behind on my WT prompts posting, but I’ve found a really good OC-tober list that I want to do.

So I’m going to set myself a goal: if I get my WT stuff completed/queued today, then I’ll do an OC-to-vember! (OC-tober… in November XD)

Just want to try something different as well as have the excuse to flesh out my characters.

[steddieunderdogfics]

This week’s writer spotlight feature is: @stevesbipanic! They have fourteen works under the Stranger Things tag and thirteen of those works are under the Steve Harrington/Eddie Munson tag over on Archive of our Own!!

Our anonymous nominator recommends the following of their works by stevesbipanic:

Stevie's Time Loop

Home For Christmas

Remember Me

The Clothes That Make Us

Boy for All Seasons

She's an amazing writer that's able to make you feel connected to the characters, especially Steve. She's able to make me both cry and laugh in the same fic which is a feat to do well. She's also an amazing friend. Stevie's Time Loop is one of my favourite as it's a really unique way of writing a timeloop with large time jumps and most loops focusing on Steve and his trauma rather than finding a solution. - anonymous

Below the cut, @stevesbipanic answered some questions about their writing process and some of their recommended work!

Why do you write Steddie?

Steddie was the first ship that ever drove me to write fanfiction. I think the fact that I see myself a lot in both of them, especially Steve makes them so enjoyable to write for me. I think they’re also such moldable characters that you can write them into a lot of different stories quite easily and I love exploring their personalities and dynamics.

What’s your favorite trope to READ?

Soulmate AUs because I’m a sucker for true love.

What’s your favorite trope to WRITE?

Angst with a happy ending, I love making both these boys and my readers cry but also want them to be happy and in love in the end.

What’s your favorite Steddie fic?

This is such a hard question, there are so many talented writers and amazing fics, but if I had to choose one I’d have to say “The One in Which a Time Loop is Fucking Exhausting” by badpancake, it was one of the first time loop fics I read and really inspired my own time loop fic.

Is there a trope you’re excited to explore in a future work but haven’t yet?

I’d love to explore a fantasy AU in the future, I know many talented authors writing dragon!eddie and King Steve or knight and bard steddie and it is one of my favourite genres of fics that are outside of Hawkins.

What is your writing process like?

A mess, most of my works on Tumblr are spur of the moment ideas that will come to me and I immediately need to write them down. It’s actually the longer slower projects that are hardest for me since they require a lot more planning and editing, I really admire the authors consistently putting out those big fics.

Do you have any writing quirks?

I’d say my most noticeable one is how I write dialogue, I really don’t like writing steve said eddie said etc etc. I usually write each thing said on it’s own line and it’s clear who’s speaking by what they say or how they say it, I think it breaks up the story nicely too since you feel you’re seeing the conversation rather than reading it.

Do you prefer posting when you’ve finished writing or on a schedule?

As soon as I finish writing I want people to see it, I kinda hate sometimes when I’m doing a project and have to wait for a specific time to post but the anticipation can be fun too.

Which fic are you most proud of?

Honestly, I’m most proud of my latest fic “Home for Christmas” it was the first time I’d ever participated in a bang and the project felt huge, it felt like a big achievement getting it all out in the end and it’s the longest fic I’ve ever written as a bonus.

How did you get the idea for Remember Me?

I think I’d been reading a fic where Steve got a concussion and had a bit of temporary memory loss and I just thought what if all those concussions had long lasting effects on Steve’s brain when he grew older. I’ve also experienced a love one going through long term memory loss and how hard it is to watch that.

When writing Stevie's Time Loop, what was something you didn’t expect?

I didn’t expect it to become a whole fic! It started off as one little off hand drabble I wrote that alluded to a lot of loops surrounding the scene of Steve and Robin discussing how Robin had a bad feeling about this and just thought well what if this is like time loop deja vu.

What inspired The Clothes That Make Us?

Exploring why Steve dresses how he does and how he likes the things he does and how there’s an emotional reason behind some of the fans favourite outfits was something I wanted to explore more and this was my very first fic I wrote for ao3 so it was a bit daunting but also very exciting.

What was your favorite part to write from Boy for All Seasons?

My favourite part was definitely thinking of all the silly costumes Eddie would come up with as well as flirty Steve is so fun to write.

How do/did you feel writing The Clothes That Make Us?

I felt nervous since it was the first fic I ever wrote but excited since I felt really proud writing something that long and the feedback I got was so heartwarming.

What was the most difficult part of writing Remember Me?

Omg just getting to the end without crying so hard, after I posted it so many people messaged me about how they cried through it, just know I was writing that through tears too!

Do you have a favorite scene and/or line from any of your fics?

"Thank you for giving me a life worth remembering.” in “Remember Me” makes me want to cry everytime and really shows what we want for our favourite characters is to have a happy life however long they get.

Do you have any upcoming projects or fics you’d like to share/promote?

I’ll be posting my fic in the upcoming Reverse Bang in March which is exciting and I’ve got a secret project coming up later this year that people can follow @steddielycrying.

Outside of these questions, Is there anything YOU would like to add?

I’d just like to thank everyone who’s supported me through writing, whether it be a random comment on a fic or my lovely mutuals that get me through hard days, this has been an amazing fandom to be apart of and I can’t wait to write more!

Thank you to our author, @stevesbipanic , and our nominator! See more of @stevesbipanic's works featured on our page throughout the day!

Writer’s Spotlight is every Wednesday! Want to nominate an author? You can nominate them here!

[cantstoplovingjude]

Underneath the Black Veil: Victor Premium

This is from Ikemen Villains EN, Cybird owns everything.

(The mission's all done. And now...)

Victor: "Will you marry me, Kate?"

Kate: "......"

Kate: "What...?"

(Huh?)

She blinked at me, her eyes wide and darling.

Victor: "I said, let's get married."

Kate: "Um, I..."

Victor: "The followers will wake up soon, right? They think the wedding ceremony is going on as planned this afternoon."

Victor: "But if the bride and groom suddenly disappear, alongside their leader..."

Kate: "They'll be anxious."

Victor: "Exactly."

She finally understood what I meant and nodded.

Victor: "I have your wedding dress. Go on and change."

Kate: "O-okay!"

==========

A few hours later, I stood in the chapel where we originally planned to have the wedding.

Followers: "Congratulations!"

The door opened and Kate appeared, wearing a jet-black wedding dress.

She looked as if she walked with the night trailing behind her. I couldn't take my eyes off her.

Victor: "You look so beautiful, Kate."

Victor: "Just as I imagined... No, you look even more beautiful than I imagined."

Kate: "Thank y..."

She was about to speak but then looked startled.

She was looking at the minister who stood by the altar.

(No wonder she's surprised.)

The man wore a veil over his face just like the leader from earlier.

Victor: "Don't worry. This is the new minister I brought with me."

Kate: "A new minister?"

Victor: "The followers here just believed in a man who said love is eternal."

Victor: "Worship isn't a bad thing. It can give you emotional support and a community."

Kate: "Victor..."

Everyone had the freedom to believe and live for whatever they wanted.

Victor: "From now on, this place will be somewhere that can truly support couples who are looking for eternal love."

Minister: "Ahem. Shall we move onto the vows now?"

(Oops.)

Kate and I looked at each other and smiled.

Victor: "Oh, of course."

Kate: "Yes, of course."

Minister: "We'll start with the groom."

Victor: "Kate..."

Victor: "I swear to protect you for the rest of my life."

Victor: "You'll promise eternity to me, won't you? My darling bride."

Of course, the vows we said were all the false.

But whoever gained the privilege to exchange them with Kate for real one day was truly someone lucky.

Victor: "Will you promise yourself to me?"

Kate: "Yes! Of course. I promise to love you forever."

Victor: "Ahaha. Thank you for that enthusiastic reply, Kate."

(Even though it's a fake vow, it still makes me happy.)

Minister: "I hereby acknowledge their true love and bestow unto them eternal love. Now, exchange a kiss to seal your vows."

(Oh, a kiss... Now what should we do?)

A kiss was a part of the vows. And even though our wedding was fake, this was no exception.

I looked at her and noticed her body was tense and anxious.

(She's so serious, honest, and adorable.)

Victor: "Turn this way, Kate."

Kate: "O-okay..."

I hugged her and pulled her close, turning us away from the followers.

Then I covered her mouth with my palm and kissed her over it.

Followers: "Yay! Congratulations!"

Follower in Glasses: "So wonderful! What a beautiful couple!"

Brunette Follower: "Aren't they? May the two of you have eternal love!"

Victor: "Save the real kiss for the person you actually marry."

I whispered that to her and gave her a smile.

Victor: "All right! Now, I'd like to thank you for hosting such a beautiful wedding for us!"

Follower in Glasses: "Thank us?"

Victor: "Everyone, may I have your attention?"

Victor: "I'm going to shake this jacket like this..."

I made sure to flap my jacket to draw everyone's attention to it.

Victor: "And then..."

Victor: "Look, it's a white dove!"

As promised, a white dove flew out of my jacket.

Victor: "I did it! I really did it!"

Kate: "Pfft, ahaha! Victor, since it's a dove, I can't tell if it was a success or a failure!"

Victor: "Hey..."

Followers: "Ahaha!"

Victor: "One more time! Let me try just once more. Hm, what should I do this time?"

Kate smiled happily as the followers surrounded us.

(I'm glad she's smiling.)

Although I'm the kind of man who could never promise to love you forever...

(Right now, it should be all right simply to make you smile...)

==========

Victor: "That was a fun wedding, wasn't it?"

Kate: "It was. Your magic tricks were really popular."

Victor: "They're probably just being nice. But I'm glad that everyone was smiling and laughing."

Kate: "Me too."

A soft breeze tousled Kate's hair.

(The wind's getting chilly. I don't want her to catch a cold.)

(Maybe I should call for someone soon.)

As those thoughts ran through my mind, she began to speak softly.

Kate: "Victor, can I ask for a reward for successfully completing the mission?"

Victor: "Hm?"

(It's unusual for her to talk like this. It might even be the first time.)

But I wanted to give her everything.

Victor: "Sure, of course. I, Victor, shall give you anything your heart desires!"

Victor: "Now tell me. What do you want?"

She said she wanted a reward for successfully completing the mission.

She sat there in her jet-black wedding dress and spoke with a serious look on her face.

Kate: "The right to listen to you when you go through something sad or painful."

Victor: "Kate..."

(Oh, I see.)

-Flashback-

Victor: "I've experienced a lifetime's worth of pain and suffering, Kate."

Victor: "And I got tired of being held captive by it..."

-Flashback Ends-

(She was remembering what I said back then.)

Kate: "Oh, um. I won't force you or anything. I'm sure there are things you don't want to talk about."

Kate: "But when there are days you think you can't get through on your own, will you come to me?"

Kate: "I might not be as good at listening as you are, but for anything you tell me, my lips will sealed like a vault!"

Victor: "Pfft, ahaha! Like a vault!"

She was so serious, but I couldn't help but laugh.

So precious and adorable.

Victor: "You're much too cute to be like a cold, steel vault."

Victor: "But I really appreciate it."

Victor: "So I can call on you anytime then?"

Kate: "Yes! Of course, Victor."

She showed me the biggest smile so far today.

(Are you smiling like that just at the thought of helping me?)

Victor: "Ahh, just what am I going to do with you?"

Victor: "If you keep being so cute I'll have to drag you down into the darkness with me."

(I'm a man who could easily take everything away from you.)

(Should I just...)

Victor: "Just kidding."

I gave her my usual businesslike smile, and she smiled back at me.

(There are a lot of things I can't tell you. But...)

Victor: "It was such a lovely day, I'd hate to head home. Shall we play together a little longer first?"

End Premium.

[mjj-nostalgia]

"Maestro's Home" || Michael Jackson One-Shot

Imagine going to Maestro's home to meet him. When you do, he is intrigued as you are not scared of him. You become fast friends.

Based off my imagine I recently posted, but I changed it a bit to fit the story version lol

It's been a long time since I wrote a one-shot, so I'm sorry if it seems rushed - I didn't know how long was too long and how short was too short LOL

There also shouldn't be any identifiers such as gender or appearance - just simply you :)

You hadn’t been to your hometown in a few years - admittedly a long time. Growing up, you never had many friends and you sometimes would get picked on for things out of your control. You felt like all you could do was travel. You tried not to stay in one place for too long, as wherever you ended up never felt right. One day you arrive in a town called Normal Valley. You had just set up your apartment with the essentials  - that being a sofa, a TV, and a bed. Amongst other little knick-knacks you picked up while you had been on the go. You had made the lease only six months. You went to work downtown and suddenly, you got a feel for the people there. They seemed awfully judgemental and terribly, well, normal. As you finish up your shift at the local grocery store, an older woman could see you were new. She probed you for a moment.

“I haven’t seen your face around here before…What’s your name?” She asks.

“Oh, yeah, I’m new…for now. My name is (Y/N),” You say as kindly as you can.

“What brings you to Normal Valley?” She asks you again.

“Oh, you know. Just looking for a change of pace,” You chuckle nervously.

“A change of pace, huh? Well, it sounds like you won’t be sticking around for long,” She says, getting a bit annoyed. Before you could speak again, she continued talking.

“As long as you stay just the way you are, you’ll fit in fine here. Nobody likes a freak…Which reminds me - Don’t go up the hill at the edge of town. That’s where the biggest freak of them all lives,” She says, widening her eyes as she gossiped. 

You felt that was quite rude of her to say but you nod.

“Uh, thank you for the tip…,” You say, feigning a pleasant smile. You watch the woman walk away and speak to an older man with white hair and black glasses. He had a hearty laugh. You must have made a face because your next customer spoke up.

“That’s the mayor! Pleasant man, keeps the order around here better than anyone,” He said.

You look at your customer then look back to the mayor. He seemed like anything but pleasant to you.

That night as you lay in bed, you couldn’t stop thinking about ‘the freak’ that lived on top of the hill. You had seen the grand old mansion that rested there but you didn’t think anyone actually lived there. It looked run down and vines encased the whole thing. Someone really lived there? And ‘freak’? Why was he called that? You felt bad as you had been called many names in your time and it was always hard to hear. You sat up and sat on the edge of the mattress. You couldn’t shake the feeling - the feeling of something innately calling your name. You stood up and walked to the window, peeking out of the blinds. You hadn’t noticed that you could see the mansion from your window, but you could. And oddly enough, you could see a light on. 

“I guess someone does live there,” You say to yourself outloud. 

You grab your hoodie laying nearby and slip your shoes on. You put the hood up and zipper up the zipper. You were trying to look inconspicuous, but you potentially looked a little more like you were up to no good. But, at any rate, you grabbed your keys and left your apartment after locking it. You got in your car and drove to the base of the hill. You parked your car and looked around before you got out. It was around 10 PM and the town was dead. You took a few steps and looked around once more before you began to ascend up the hill. When you got to the top, the hill plateaued. It was foggy and honestly quite a bit spooky. The home was surrounded by a large fenced in yard. The yard had dead grass and tombstones. You couldn’t tell if they were just decoration or not. There was also a gate at the entrance. The gate said:

“SOMEPLACE ELSE”

You weren’t sure what you were going to do. Go forward or turn around and go back home? You pulled your hoodie closer to your body as a chill went up your spine. Then - the gate opened by itself. It let out a loud, rusty, squeak. You look around. There was still no one in sight. But, the decision had been made for you, clearly. The thing that was calling you seemed to be this mansion. It was like it wanted you to be there, too. You step into the gate with a shaky breath. You weren’t sure why, but your feet kept moving. Your feet took you to the front door. And that, too, opened by itself. You blink for a moment.

“I must be out of my damn mind,” You say out loud. Part of you urges you to turn back and go home. But, the other part of you is far too intrigued. You take a deep breath and inhale, close your eyes, and exhale. You then open your eyes and step inside. 

You look around. The mansion is even more grand on the inside. Marble pillars and checkered linoleum floors. Tall walls and a picturesque central staircase. You walked straight through and entered into the parlor, as that door was open too. You look around - the moonlight shone bright through the large bay windows. 

“H-Hello?” You call out. You don’t get an answer but you hear a loud bang. You don’t necessarily jump but you look quickly over to where the noise had come from. You walk over to a doorway with a black curtain in front of it. You sigh and turn back towards the windows.

“Well, I guess this was a waste of time,” You say.

But, just as you’re about to walk away, something touches your shoulder. You freeze but for a moment before you turn around and are met with a tall, lanky, cape with a skeleton face. You blink. You’re a little scared but mostly just confused. The figure stands there for a moment, almost staring at you. You clear your throat.

“So someone does live here,” You say with a chuckle.

The figure pulls the skeleton face down, revealing that it was a mask. You are met with piercing brown eyes staring you down.

“Did I scare you?” He asks.

“Eh, maybe startled me a little. But, no…I’m fine,” You say with a smile.

“I’m (Y/N). I was told not to come here by the locals. But, I had to see what was going on for myself,” You say.

“Is that so? Come to see the freakshow?” He asks a bit harshly. You shake your head.

“Quite the opposite. I came to see the poor soul that they called ‘the freak’. What should I actually call you?” You ask in a friendly manner.

He pulls the mask down further and furrows his eyebrows at you.

“Maestro. You can call me Maestro,” He says a bit shortly, but he’s intrigued by you now.

"You know, people don't just come here to say a friendly hello to me…,” He says, taking the cape off and laying it down on a chair. He circles around you. You watch him closely.

“It’s late for you townsfolk , isn’t it?” He asks, pacing the floor a bit.

“I guess it is but, erm, I’m not really part of the townsfolk. I’m new around here,” You say a bit nervously. 

Maestro stops and looks at you with a bit more of a kinder smile, but still quite mischievous.

“Oh? When did you get here?” He asks, crossing his arms.

“A few days ago. I work at the grocery store. But, I never stay in one place for long,” You say softly, a little sad at your own answer. 

Maestro tilts his head a bit.

“Why is that?” He probes your mind once more.

“Well…Truthfully I don’t really have a place to call home. No where has ever felt like home to me,” You say, crossing your arms now. 

Maestro looks at you with an even softer face now.

“You're not like the others, either, are you?" He asks, giving you a sincere look. 

You look back at him, looking him in the eye. 

“I guess you could say that,” You say with a smile.

Maestro opens his arms and looks around.

“You’re welcome to stay here for the night - should you see fit,” He says with a kinder smile.

“Just watch out for my family,” He says with a mischievous laugh. You look at him confused before you hear a growl. You look up and see a werewolf-like creature hanging on the ceiling, staring at you. You look at Maestro.

“They don’t scare me either, you know,” You say matter-of-factly.

Maestro laughs and smiles.

“I think you’ll fit in here just fine, (Y/N),” He says. 

“We can be ‘the freaks’ that bothers the normies in town,” You say with a playful smirk.

This makes Maestro laugh again and he nods.

And thus was the start of a beautiful friendship between the two of you - and the rest of Maestro’s family at Someplace Else. After your friendship became stronger, you decided to stay and live with him. Finally, able to call a place home and it feel like home. And when the mayor’s angry mob came to the doorstep in efforts to kick Maestro out of town - you joined in on his hijinks and scared the townspeople as well. You especially enjoyed scaring the older woman who you originally met at the grocery store who called Maestro a freak.

“You’re a freak, too, I knew it!” She shrieks.

“Maybe I am. But you know what? I’m with people I love and people who love me. And yeah, we might be a bunch of weirdos - Yet, we are kinder and more unified than this entire town is!” You proclaim to her, and to all.

Maestro smiles proudly at you. He was very happy to have taken you under his wing but also happy that you were strong enough to stand up for yourself and for him and his family. And with your help, you were all able to stay in town by the vote of the community, after they realized none of you were an actual threat to their town.

[tokoyamisstuff]

Breaking Bonds Ch. 8

Summary: Being underestemated by your own peers can be an advantage that could bring upon the downfall of even the strongest foes. Warnings: None. Not proofread. A/N: No Rabban/Reader interaction and a lot of exposition. Lame and short but necessary chapter tbh, sorry.

"Some people were never taught to speak the language of softness. They were only taught the language of blood and fire. Still, they love - and they express that love the only way they know how."

[Previous Chapter]

At the dead of night a small cargo-starship requested entrance through Caladan's shields.

Gurney, plaqued by sleeplessness as usual, was the first one to be informed - and he knew that type of engineering all too well.

"A Harkonnen ship." His voice was flat, yet not fully capable of hiding the thrill of an upcoming battle. "What kind of deceit do those vermin try now?"

The Warmaster had already equipped his weapon, always in a hand's reach, as well as the shield he had never discarded of. Fast and firm steps led him towards the spaceport, eager to quench the thirst for his dead enemie's blood...

...however when he arrived, only two humans stepped out into the moonlight - one of them a hooded woman.

"Search the ship" Gurney ordered, then turning to his second in command. "Any other ships in the atmosphere?"

"No, Sir, Mr. Halleck, Sir!"

Hard to tell if this was good news or simply a trap still in need of figuring out.

Irritated about this obscure situation, he quickly assessed that interrogating one of you would suffice, thus logically eliminating the greater threat.

You winced when the man swung his blade towards your companion - one of Rabban's most trusted - taking a clean hit towards his neck. The cut was not deep enough to be lethal immediately, and you couldn't help but wonder if a fighter so skilled chose this cruel method intentionally.

Not minding the surroundings you knelt next to the soldier, unable to do more than holding his hand as he bled out on the ground.

Not long ago you would've been delighted to see one of them fall, as distasteful as it may sound...

...but now, seeing life leave those reddish-brown eyes you couldn't help but see a piece of Rabban in them. Sobs escaped your trembling lips, imagining what could await if his plan was to fail - or worse, if it succeeds.

There was not much time to ponder however, since you felt cold steel already pressed against the back of your neck.

"Raise your head." Gurney's voice was boiling with a hatred you were not unfamiliar with, pressing the blade deeper against the fabric of your veil. "Show your face. And don't try anything, scum."

You breathed in the scent of the now bloodsoaked grass - not quite like the climate back home, but compared with Giedi Prime refreshing nonetheless - and looked up to your possible executioner, a forlorn smile curving your lips.

The Warmaster's face fell when you revealed yourself, utter shock at those unforeseeable events instantly raising his guard again.

"Why? You..."

"Gurney!" another voice called out for the man, his posture stiffening at the sound.

"My Duke" he proclaims with the utmost respect, only to be harshly scolded. "Why have I not been informed about this?"

"We've had everything under control, Sire. Nothing Mylord should be bothered with in the middle of the night." His former hostility had been replaced with an astonishing submission, making you even more anxious as you saw the Duke and his entourage approach.

One of them, a bearded man with rather long hair, you recognized from Rabban's stories: Duncan Idaho, whose parents were once slaves born on Giedi Prime...and murdered through his hands.

The other that almost cut off your head just the minute before must be Gurney Halleck, then - another person whom The Beast had caused uncomparable pain.

Ironic, how Rabban's cruelty had forged not only his greatest enemies, but also House Atreides' strongest warriors.

So basically, not only were you on a foreign planet, you were also surrounded by people who rightfully wished for your husband's demise...

...or, if given the opportunity, to make his loved ones suffer, just as theirs have?

"I'm sorry for my men's thoughtless violence" the Duke now adressed you directly, "Their remarkable passion for defending those lands exceeds rationality, much to my frustration."

Leto generously offered you a hand despite his men's protest, observing you professionally distant yet also with a calming courtesy. "May I ask what brings you to Caladan at a time like this, and on a Harkonnen ship at that?"

"I-I'm..." you were reluctant at first - but then again, may as well die proud of the hardships you've overcome. "My name is Y/N Rabban, rightful Countess of Lankiveil, and I have an important message to deliver."

Everyone present fell dead silent as your married name dropped from your lips, and you were sure to have brought upon your own doom...

...but the Duke was reacting foremost, a raised hand enough to sign his subordinates restraint.

"Bring her inside" he urged, and that said two guards aided you upwards and after the ruler of this planet. You tried to avoid it at all cost, yet still locked eyes with Gurney of all people - and the bottomless hatred you deciphered in them was frightening enough to make you shudder.

It was a miracle that none of them had attacked you right then and there - but in the end, what would be greater: Their loyalty to the Duke, or a wish for retaliation? The former, as it seems...for now.

You gulped harshly as you were led through secret hallways, far away from unwanted ears. Their architecture was not unlike the Harkonnen kind, you reminisced as you admired the dark stone building with only minimalistic decoration.

Hopefully his concubine would be excluded from this inquisition as well. A Bene Gesserit knows no allies or moral more important than the mission of the order, after all.

Most likely she already knows about the Empire's plan to eradicate House Atreides, and merely endures the pain of losing everything without even daring to oppose.

Walking unassisted was still a hard task after the previous events, but you managed until you arrived at the destination: A hidden room with a round table, meant for emergency sessions of the Duke's most trusted council members.

Asides from Gurney and Idaho, the only other person present was a mentat called Thufir Hawat. A man as dutiful as he was honorable, or so you've heard. And greeting you with a surprisingly kind, compassionate look on his face.

You were offered a seat opposite to your...host? Captor? Only time will show.

"I promise, unless it's necessary, no harm will come over you" the Duke reassured you, "Neither from me, nor from my people."

Not very convincing you thought, feeling the other men's eyes burning holes into your back, certain if you were to say anything they wouldn't like to hear, it was over for you.

"You can speak freely, Countess. Why did you seek me out?"

"A trade, put simply." Folding your hands in your lap, you fondled with your thumbs as you searched for proper words. "I'll disclose important information that could possibly save your entire House - in exchange for my protection."

"Sire, you cannot possibly trust her-"

"Gurney, stop it" the Duke harshly interrupted, focusing his attention on you again. He leaned forwards with a stern yet sympathetic expression, even from afar noticing both old scars and new blemishes scattered across your body.

"You've been through a lot on Giedi Prime, unsurprisingly. I can assure you even without valuable information, you are safe here." Instead of directly asking the important questions, he wondered "How did you manage to escape all by yourself? Convincing your escort must not have been easy."

You couldn't help but smile at his curiosity, clutching the necklace Rabban had once gifted you. "I didn't. My husband arranged this for me."

All men in the room simultaneously furrowed their brows at your unbelievable statement, reactions varying from pity over irritation to sheer disgust.

Of course it would make no sense to them - the Beast they knew was not the same man anymore.

"Over time the Count grew fond of me" you explained truthfully, no matter how insane it might sound to them. "Even after I outlived my value to the curt, he intended to keep me as a Concubine. But he was denied that wish, and in order to spare my life in those abstruse political ties, had no other choice than to send me away."

The Duke nodded along with the sound of your voice, his interest in your story being the only reason the others wouldn't use violence to keep you from talking any further.

"I have to admit I don't quite understand" he breathes out, mentally exhausted. "What is it your husband is trying to achieve? Because I'm afraid if the Bene Gesserit want you gone, there's no planet in the known universe where you'd possibly be safe for long."

"That's why my death has been feigned, to stall for time" you sighed, adding "Though I know it won't be long until the truth may be revealed, no matter where I hide. The Holy Mother simply sees too much."

"What my husband desires is a vendetta, I fear." You bit your lower lip, watching Gurney's hand tremble in anticipation on the grip of his weapon. Thufir and Idaho however seemed torn between confusion and intrigue. "He tries to achieve it through sheer impossible measurements...and by a possible alliance with others who will soon be forsaken by the empire."

Now it was your eyes who'd soften with concern, revealing the truth the Head of House Atreides had already seen coming: "You most likely expect the Harkonnen to try and take Arrakis back from you - but you're not aware of the true extend of this treason." The Emperor will no longer be a mere bystander in this everlasting quarrel. He was convinced by the Bene Gesserit that your growing influence proposes a threat, and they all conspired against your House. Sardaukar troops will support the Harkonnens, and a traitor from the inside would deactivate your shields one night. Soon after you step foot on Arrakis, there'll be carnage."

"Lies, nothing but lies" Gurney practically growled by now, having decided that he heard you sputter this nonsense for long enough. "She was sent by her husband to spread distrust between us, weaken us in fear so we are more prone to mistakes!"

Much to your surprise it was Duncan Idaho who went between you and Gurney, whose blade was already pointed right at your face. "Let her finish." You could hear the same amount of bottled up rage and aversion in his voice, and yet he was in perfect control of those emotions for the greater good. "We can check her assertions without having a seed of doubt planted in our midst."

"...the spy is Dr. Wellington Yueh" you spoke almost mockingly as you slowly pressed the blade away from your line of sight. "You may think I'm delusional because Suk Doctors are conditioned unable to harm others. But in order to deactivate the shields, cut your communication and drug your most important men, he wouldn't have to."

The Duke was frozen, if shock or thought no one could tell. You admired his strenght to stay this collected after everything you had just revealed to him - knowledge that could make life as he know it collapse.

That's the strenght of a leader, you guess.

"Please do not be too harsh with him" you plead for the stranger, "The Baron held his wife hostage and did horrendrous things to her. He does not know yet that she is already long since dead. A salvation, if you ask me. I'm sorry."

"Duncan, make sure she is assessed and receives medical treatment" the Duke decided, his eyes absent and looking right through you.

"...and then throw her into the dungeon. I'm sorry as well."

______

At the same time, an incomprehensible distance away, your husband was waiting for a sign - which one he wasn't sure of.

On Giedi Prime, while also being belittled, at least his violent nature was embraced and even encouraged. But now, after your love had caused what one could call a metamorphosis, he did not belong here anymore either.

Nothing compared to the brief yet blissful time he had spent dwelling in your presence - and now all that was left of it were the haunting nightmares of what they had made him do to the only good thing that ever happened to his life of evil.

Circumstance left him with no other choice than to send his beloved wife far away from him, and into the unknown fate or his enemies at that.

Yet it was the only chance to at least prolong your life, no matter how insignificantly low success may seem. He had to try or die in his attempts, for your sake at last.

Those past weeks, Rabban had been thinking about the possibility to pull through with a coup d'état, but came to the conclusion that even if he may succeed to get rid of his uncle and brother, the people of Giedi Prime would never willingly follow his reign. Not to mention, both the Emperor and the Bene Gesserit wouldn't be fond of him as a new Baron, let alone one to overthrow their whole society as they knew it.

So for for the first time in the many decades of his life, he wouldn't giving in to erratic rage, exercising his patience. No matter how hard it was to play his part and act like the man he was before you stepped into his life, he would bear with it...

...and then, one day, a package is delivered to his residence on Lankiveil, where he ought to be distracted from the hardships that come with having developed a conscience.

Rabban immediately recognized the ribbon it was tied with - part of the gown you had worn on your wedding night - and in his excitement almost tears it apart.

There's quite a few random items, along with receipts and other paperwork to not make it too obvious to others. For a moment he internally cursed his obtuseness, but then he finally found it: A hunting knife, the steel forged in Lankiveilan custom - which means it changes color when in contact with water.

Looking around, he takes the next best liquid - a bottle of alcohol, of course - and pours it over the black metal. As soon as it's touching each other, letters appear on the surface.

Written as mixture of Harkonnen and Lankiveilan words, a small riddle to decipher - yet it's instructions clear:

"During the next of Caladan's full moons. Come alone. X"

Your husband clutched the blade, his frightening grin merely an expression of pure rapture in thought of your reunion.

Soon he'd be able to hold you into his arms - and not even death itself he would allow to separate you again.

[tgrailwar-zero]

Rider, is there anything you can tell us about Historia and what they might be doing?

CONSTANTINE: "We didn't exactly have much time to talk personally. Historia remained closely to Saber's side, and seemed to have the most tactical rationale of the group. I don't see how this applies to this specific situation, though..."

As he spoke, you all jumped into action yourselves with your code casts.

There's a decisive burst of magical energy as you used the Destruction Declaration, magical circles and symbols manifesting around the white shadow before it shattered, one final pulse of magical energy echoing outwards.

The Valkyrie dropped to the ground, unconscious, though most of the color and vibrancy seemed to be returning to their bodies.

That, and you quickly healed BRYNHILDR too- just enough for her to get into fighting shape. The signal jammed, and her body healed enough, her arms flexed and the binds holding her snapped.

With immense speed, BRYNHILDR whipped her spear upwards, placing it threateningly against the neck of the White Attack program. In a careful series of moves, it seemed as if the entire situation had flipped on its head. As the White Attack Program stood at nervous spearpoint, the Saber seemed amused, letting out a hearty laugh at his misfortune.

HISTORIA: "Ah, there goes the signal. I'm sure you're not happy about that, and neither will His Majesty. Still, silencing the anguish of those Valkyrie before engaging in battle is a truly admirable feat, you have my respect."

You could feel a sense of… displeasure emanating from the White Attack Program that didn't seem to be shared with the Saber-facet, who continued to speak out into the open air. To whoever was attacking- it wasn't directed, but he was clearly aware that you were here.

HISTORIA: "Regardless, this means I'll have to do my knightly duty and fight. How many Servants? I can sense two, maybe three others? Some Extra-classes, perhaps? This body might be borrowed, but overall that seems unfair. Maybe I should reveal my True Name to even the odds? Tie one hand behind my back? What say you?"

His tone was playful, but you couldn't sense much malice or sarcasm behind it. He simply spoke brightly and candidly, same as he did back at the Hamlet. Though now you could tell he was absolutely oozing with magical energy, even if his physical stance hadn't changed at all.

HISTORIA: "The Solar Cell as a concept is doomed, but my King insists on ruling it, you see. Though his motives have twisted slightly. Nonetheless, I-- the first Phantom summoned by his Noble Phantasm-- stand ready for battle."

Before he could continue, you heard the sound of something speeding past him.

AVENGER: "Sa… ber…! Saber! SABER!"

Like a flash of lightning, the Avenger-class Servant surged forward with a deafening roar, clashing with the Saber. With almost no effort, the Saber had deflected the attack.

HISTORIA: "Hello, Avenger. You're doing well? Since we've skipped the preamble, shall we get straight to the main course?"

He used the blunt edge of his sword to knock the AVENGER away, throwing his arms out wide as his magical presence began to surge- as something mighty, holy, and powerful. The fog drew in around him as he spoke, his voice clear as church bells.

HISTORIA: "The mind is a tool of the body. The body is a plaything of the mind. This body represents the legend of Charlemagne, and this mind represents the one who wrote it down and saw everything to the end. A way for the 'legend' and the 'reality' to coexist without conflict."

He raised a hand, throwing his cloak to the side, his Spirit Origin solidifying.

HISTORIA: "The glory of Rex Magnus Carolus, humbly maintained by his Archbishop. There is no greater honor. There is no greater gift. For how swiftly you destroyed this machination, I will have to treat you as a real threat. Rejoice."

With one swing of his sword, he blew away the fog surrounding the lake.

CAROLUS-TURPIN: "In other words… ah, what's something His Majesty would say in a situation like this? Something like, 'cool, right'?"

You could tell this Servant was pure power, yet a mere fraction of the true SABER... and yet, he was a Holy Knight of the highest caliber. In a stroke of luck, you had made it past anything that would have made this even more difficult.

[sweetbuckybarnes]

May I Speak to Penelope, please? 5/10

Summary: One of the Bridgertons calls on Penelope, and a secret is spilt.

Tag list: @josephine-waters

Masterlist

A knock on his chamber door alerted Colin to the outside world, when he allowed the person on the other side entrance, standing there looking at him was Violet.

"Colin, what's the matter dearest? You've missed breakfast, and you came home early from the ball last night," she wondered.

At the sheer mention of last night's ball, Colin very nearly burst into tears. He started sniffing.

"Colin?" She hurries over to his bedside, as Colin curls in on himself. "What happened last night? You came home after you went outside after you spoke to Penelope."

"She heard me," Colin said, holding a yellow pillow close to his chest. "At her family's ball, she heard me."

"Oh, Colin," Violet reached her hand and started running her hand through his hair. "I'm so sorry, my darling boy."

Colin had cried himself back to sleep, and Violet headed downstairs to see Anthony and Kate reading over the race results in the overstuffed chair in the drawing room.

"Anthony, can you wait here? I need to speak to Penelope," Violet said, finishing off her cup of tea.

Anthony gave his mother a nod, despite him being Lord Bridgeton, he would always obey whatever his mother would tell him.

"Why are going to visit Penelope?" Kate asked, running her fingers through the hair at the nape of Anthony's neck.

"Colin has messed everything up. Penelope overheard him last season. He has fallen back asleep, he has missed breakfast, and he has told me he adores Penelope. I'm going to sort this out before it slips through his fingers," Violet says.

Anthony nods, knowing what it feels like to nearly lose the love of your life. He lashed out at everyone whilst Kate was unconscious, and Colin was hurting over the thought of losing Penelope forever.

"The Dowager Viscountess Bridgerton to see Miss Penelope," Ludders introduced, and Portia motioned for him to let Violet in.

"My Lady," Portia bobbed, and Penelope nodded her head.

Violet waited until the door shut behind her. "May I speak to Penelope, please? Alone?"

Portia blinked repeatedly. "Erm, of course," Portia walked over to the door and left the green drawing room. Leaving Penelope and Violet.

"What can I do for you, Mrs. Bridgerton?" Penelope asked, getting up from the long chair by the window, and putting her book down.

"Oh Penelope, I have told you to call me Violet," she says sitting on one sofa as Penelope takes the sofa opposite.

Penelope nods, she knew Violet was coming here with a purpose. Violet Bridgerton always came with a purpose.

Violet let out a sigh and then spoke. "Colin told me what happened last night."

Penelope shook her head, got up from her spot and walked over to the window. "Then you know what he said to me the night of my family's ball last season."

Violet got up from her spot and walked over to Penelope's side. "Penelope, darling. He feels terrible. After you spoke yesterday, he went straight home. He went straight to bed and hasn't moved since. He missed breakfast," Violet says, making Penelope look at her with surprise.

"Colin loves food."

Violet wraps an arm around her shoulder. "I believe he loves you more."

Penelope shook her head. "He doesn't. Colin doesn't love me, he never has. If he did, he never would have gotten himself engaged to Marina, he never would have said what he did last season."

Violet knew there was no altering Penelope's mind. "Ok, Penelope. But, when Colin speaks to you and lays his heart in front of you, please listen to him?" She asks.

Penelope nodded, turning her head from Violet and to Bridgerton House across the street. She saw Eloise sitting in the Bridgeton drawing room, she knew Eloise wouldn't look over at her.

"Now, what is happening with yourself and Eloise?" She asked, and it made Penelope drop her head and very nearly cry.

Penelope didn't know if she was going to tell Violet the truth, because Penelope knew her surrogate mother would never look at her the same way ever again. But she trusted Violet more than her mother. She knew Violet would be able to come up with a plan to help her make it up to Eloise.

She let out a heavy sigh. "Penelope? Whatever's the matter?"

"It's me," she tells her. "I'm Lady Whistledown."

Violet looked at Penelope with surprise. Penelope was the last person she expected to be Lady Whistledown. "It's you?" She whispers, making sure she was still holding onto Penelope's hand and she collapsed into the lounge chair.

"I'm sorry, Lady Bridgerton," Penelope said, removing her hand from Violet's grip.

"Penelope, Penelope, darling," Violet said, reaching for the young woman she has always considered her fifth Bridgerton daughter. "You have punished your family with nearly every issue. Especially with Miss Thompson."

"Marina planned on trapping Colin in a loveless marriage and would nearly pass off her twins as his," Penelope explains, and Violet nodded. The older woman knew that Penelope always did everything with other people's interests at heart. "I had already spoken to Colin to get him to see what she was doing, but he wouldn't listen to me, I had to resort to Lady Whistledown."

Violet nodded again, reaching over for Penelope and making sure the youngest Featherington was sitting next to her. "What happened with Eloise?"

Penelope nearly collapsed in on herself. "I had to do it. The Queen was becoming suspicious of Eloise. I had to do something to throw her off."

And with that, Penelope burst into tears.

"Oh, Penelope," Violet said, wrapping her arms around Penelope. She looked out the window and saw Eloise stood by the window with furrowed eyebrows.

[undertale-anomaly20]

Mortal Kombat 10 x reader: Chapter 7

3rd P.O.V

The scene cuts to the Sky Temple. Team S-F creep up behind a wall overlooking a crevice as D'Vorah speaks with Liu Kang, Kitana and Sindel "Lord Shinnok is nearly finished. Soon the Jinsei's corruption will be irreversable" D'vorah spoke to them "The invasion can then proceed Raiden and his allies will be unable to offer resistance" Kitana stated Kung Jin missteps, and some stones crumble under his feet and fall into the crevice below them. Takeda and Cassie stop Jin from falling "Once the realm falls, our path to victory will be clear. Advise Lord Shinnok that the Oni and Orochi are ready. At his command, we'll unleash them on Earthrealm" Liu Kang commands D'Vorah nods and walks into the Sky Temple. Kung Lao and Smoke walk up to the rest of the revenants "Have you found Raiden's portal to the Heavens?" Liu Kang asked "Yes, but his wards protect it. We can't break through" Kung lao answered Team S-F peer over the wall at the revenants "That is unacceptable. After Earthrealm is destroyed, we must complete Lord Shinnok's vengeance; invade the Heavens and destroy the Elder Gods" Kitana said annoyed "Come" Liu kang said as he, Smoke and Kung Lao walk off "Make war on the Heavens?! If Shinnok can take down the Elder Gods--" Takeda freaks out whispering "End of the universe. Got it" Jacqui finished his sentence (name), with her mask pulled back up looks to Kung lao, whose face shows pain and sorrow, and places a hand on his shoulder "Jin..." she whispers "Kung Lao... to see him like this..." he says to himself "We'll all be hangin' 'round the Netherrealm water cooler if we don't pull this off. C'mon" Cassie saysAs they creep along the wall, a rock comes loose from where Takeda puts his foot. Unlike Kung Jin before him, the rest of Team S-F are unable to catch him and he falls, just barely grabbing into the crevice edge in time "Takeda!" (name) shouts. She reaches her hand for Takeda to grab Sindel and Kitana notice the noise. Realising they've been spotted, Cassie motions to Jin and they spring out of cover, running forward and engaging in kombat. Kung Jin swings his staff at Kitana as Cassie fends off Sindel's strikes. Kitana gets through Jin's staff swings, punches him in the stomach and kicks him in the face as he bends over, staggering him. Cassie punches Sindel, who blocks two more strikes from her and sends her reeling with a punch of her own. Cassie begins to retreat as Sindel advances on her

"Has your mother ever told you what I did to her friends? Killed them all in the blink of an eye" she taunts Cassie "And your own daughter. You proud of that?" Cassie barks back "We are bonded in death. You will join us and I will give you a proper upbringing!"They fight. Without the magic of Shang Tsung and his consumed souls in Sindel's body, she is unable to bring up the same power and strength that killed so many of Earthrealm's warriors. That is why she finds herself unable to take down Cassie so easily and that allows the leader of Team S-F to rally and beat her down, eventually leaving her unconscious on the ground "Nice offer, Mommy Dearest, but I'll pass." (name) is still trying to reach down and pull Takeda up from a sticky end at the bottom of the crevice the Sky Temple rests on. They both strain to reach each other's outstretched hand. Takeda suddenly loses his grip and falls... but (name) leans down and grabs his hand in the nick of time. Both of them struggle for a few moments, but eventually (name) pulls Takeda back up "I owe you one" he says smiling at her She pats him on the shoulder "I'll remember that" she replies Kung Jin yells out as he is flung backwards, crashing into the large gong in the temple courtyard. He passes out from the collision. As Kitana moves in to finish him, Cassie calls out to her "Back off, princess!" "You think mere words can stop me?" Kitana taunts she turns as she spots Takeda and Jacqui running toward her. The four, counting Mileena, of them surround the revenant "Thanks for the assist" Cassie thanks them "Any time" Jacqui replied "Tick tock, ladies" Kitana blocks strikes from Cassie and Jacqui with her fans, kicking Cassie away at the same time she punches Jacqui backward. Takeda lands two punches across her face, but she blocks a third and counters with a roundhouse kick that staggers him then knocks aitlyn into a stone pillar making her stunned. She then levitates him and Jacqui into the air with her fan-nado attack and chucks of her fans into his abdomen. She follows up on Jacqui by throwing her remaining fan into her shoulder. With them both down, Kitana recalls both fans to her and twirls them around, turning to face Cassie

"No!" Cassie screams "You wish to die first? So be it"They fight. Kitana proves to be a huge test for Cassie, as her speed and skill in battle matches and surpasses the young Earthrealmer. However, Cassie shows that she has tricks of her own up her sleeve, and these allow her to remain in the fight and take it to the revenant. After a fierce battle, Cassie manages to emerge victorious."You're not killing anyone" As Kung Jin pulls himself to a seated position, Cassie rushes over to Takeda. "Help Jacqui!" she commanded as Mileena ran to (name) helping her up. Realising the situation is dire, Jin does as he's told for once. Cassie helps Takeda to his feet. He's favouring his abdomen, which is bloodied up from Kitana's fan. Cassie: Messed you up pretty bad "Ugh, great bedside manner. I can fight" Takeda said but Cassie puts his arm around her shoulder to support him. They walk over to Jin and Jacqui, who's sitting down and favouring her shoulder "Jacqui?" she asked "It's nothing. Just like Kurdistan" Jacqui said putting on a smile "(name) what about you?" "I'm all good" Team S-F hear someone call out in Chinese.They turn to spot Liu Kang, Kung Lao and Smoke rushing toward them "alright you two get going" (name) stated "Mileena, Takeda, Jacqui and I'll handle them" Cassie and Kung Jin try to argue but she cuts them off "just go! have faith in your team" Cassie looks to them and pulls out her pistols "Damn it. Keep your heads down. I'll see you on the other side" She nods to Jin and they take off into the Temple. The scene cuts to Shinnok in the Jinsei Chamber. He has now completely corrupted it with his presence. Raiden is still trapped in the skeleton hand, barely conscious.

D'Vorah is with the cocooned Johnny Cage, watching as her insects slowly eat into his face "They taste your flesh. Burrow deep. Inside you they will grow. Gnaw your innards" D'vorah taunts Johnny is still fully conscious during this horrific ordeal, but he refuses to cry out in pain. Cassie and Jin rush into the Jinsei Chamber "By the gods!" Kung Jin shouts "DAD!" Cassie yells D'Vorah turns around at their voices and engages them in kombat. She blocks a kick from Jin and a punch from Cassie, kicking her in the stomach and forcing her backward. She blocks a punch from Jin and extends one of her stingers, stabbing him in the chest. She coldcocks him with her fist and ducks a right hand from Cassie. Once more, D'Vorah launches her stinger, but Cassie catches the appendage. She blocks D'Vorah's strikes as best she can, but is forced backward by a punch to the face "First father, then daughter. Will they taste the same?" D'vorah taunts.They fight. Under normal circumstances, the fighting prowess and powers of D'Vorah would have been too much for Cassie to handle alone. But now the daughter of Johnny Cage fights with an aggression and strength unknown to her before. She relentlessly pummells the Kytinn, not stopping until she is well and truly unconscious at her feet. Cassie: You're the bug? I'm the windshield"

Outside in the Sky Temple courtyard, (name) Takeda Mileena and Jacqui are going up against the revenats Takeda and Jacqui hold their own agaisnt Smoke and Kung Lao, (name) finds herself fighting Liu Kang again while Mileena is up against Kitana. (name) is dong fine on her own as are the others but no one counted on Sindel sneaking up behind Mileena. (name) didn't notice until she heard that chilling scream her head whipped around and what she saw made her heart drop. Sindel had managed to distrate Mileena long enough for Kitana to shove he closed fan through Mileenas' chest "NOOO!" (name) screamed and kicked Liu Kang away then ran to them and absolutly smashed them into the wall behind themshe then ran back to Mileena, dropped to her knees and cradeled her head

"Mileena? speak to me!" she cried out Mileena slowly opened her eyes "P-Pretty bird..." she replied weekly tears welled up in Kaitlyns' eyes "don't worry we'll fix you up w-we'll get help" she said more so of trying to convince herself "Pretty bird we both know I won't make it" "don't talk like that please! please don't go away! we still have so much to do! w-we-" "Pretty bird i want you to listen to me very carefully...I-In the palace there is a hidden room...to...to enter it you need to press the only stone on the wall that with the lotus symbol...behind the tapastry" Mileena reaches for Kaitlyns hand, who snatches it up quickly, and places it on her cheek "p-promise me..." "I promise! I promise...please..." Mileena smiled "I love you my pretty bird" Kaitlyns eyes overflowed with tears as they left stains on her cheeks "I love you too, Beautiful" Mileena took her last breath and her hand fell back onto the ground.

Kaitlyns world fell apart in that one moment the sadness drained from her body and was replaced by rage "GRAAHHHHH" she let out a feral roar as she stood up and whipped around facin Kitana who had only just gotten up "YOU!" she charged at her. Kitana on instinct swiped her fan up hitting Kailyn in the face knocing her back a few steps she went to attack again but paused "you know me...and i know you" (name) let her see her face Kitanas eyes widen "(n)-(name)" taking the advantage (name) landed a hit on her knocking her to the ground she sat on kitanas stomache as she hit her in the face over and over and over again. it was just a blur and no noise could be heard as flashbacks of her and Mileena.when they fisrt met, finding eachother again, training together, sleeping in the same bed and her dying moments. (name) finally snapped out of ith when someone grabbed her from behind and threw her off. she hit the ground with a thud but quickly had arisen to face her thrower Liu Kang "lady (name)" he tried to speak to her "fuck off!" she hissed at him uppercutting him.

Back in the Jinsei Chamber, the insects burrowing into Johnny's face have all died once D'Vorah fell unconscious. He looks up to find his daughter trying to free him from the cocoon "Hey... Punkin..." Johnny whisper "I'm a little old for "Punkin"" Cassie tries to joke The cocoon proves to be tough for Cassie to open, but she still goes at it "No... Get... Shinnok" Johnny urged "But--" "I love you"He falls silent and his eyes close "Dad?" Cassie panics. Before she can check if Johnny has died, the corrupted form of Shinnok descends from the Jinsei onto the chamber floor itself, looking toward her "So you are the issue of Johnny Cage. Fitting that I exterminate his entire line" He chuckled out Cassie's fear at the sight of the fallen Elder God is quickly replaced by determination and resolve "You want him, you're gonna go through me" Cassie barks As Shinnok strides towards her, Cassie lets rip with several punches that he effortlessly blocks. One slips through, but it doesn't faze him. She throws a supergirl punch, but only hurts her hand when she punches his skull. Shinnok throws a light jab that almost floors Cassie before grabbing her by the throat and lifting her into the air. He throws a measured punch to her face that sends her flying across the chamber, just barely conscious "Yes, that's better. Watch, Miss Cage, as I rend your father's flesh" He summons magic into his palm and blasts Johnny square in the face with a red beam of power. This time, Johnny is unable to keep from screaming in pain. Cassie looks up and struggles to her knees as Shinnok breaks off the spell. "This is what awaits those who defy me: excruciating, exquisite death" He blasts Johnny again in the face with his magic, prompting more screams from him. Cassie gets back to her feet and charges forward "You son of a BITCH!" she screams.As she runs at Shinnok, the same green energy that surrounded her father twenty-five years ago envelops her as well. As Shinnok blasts her with his magic instead, she puts up her hands to block it. Like Johnny before her, the magic has no effect and she throws off the blast. She takes a moment to look at the glow on her body "Holy shit, it does run in the family!" "Your father's power will not save you. You cannot hope to survive!"

They fight. The battle is truly epic, with neither the enpowered Cassie or Shinnok getting any clear advantage for the majority of it. For what seems like an age, the daughter of Johnny Cage and the fallen Elder God fight with everything they have, but eventually Cassie Cage gains an advantage and with one final assault, she knocks Shinnok to the ground "You got Caged" As Shinnok rises, Cassie throws a knee that he blocks, but hits a kick that connects to his stomach. She follows through with a punch to his abdomen, an overhead punch to his head, a low roundhouse kick to his crotch and a knee to his face, staggering him. With a battle cry, Cassie lands one more punch to Shinnok's face and finishes him off with a somersaulting kick that leaves the fallen Elder God knocked out for the count. With Shinnok defeated, the green glow of power surrounding Cassie fades out. Kung Jin picks himself off the floor and walks over to her, noting that Shinnok is out like a lightbulb "That you? Nice" Kung Jin complimented "Cassandra Cage..." they turn their heads to Raiden, who is still imprisoned by the skeleton hand, which has since blackened slightly with Shinnok's defeat. Cassie and Jin run up to him "Put me... in the Jinsei" he whispered "what?" Cassie Questioned "But you're-- it-- it'll kill you!" Kung Jin tried to argue"Must... be... cleansed. Hurry" Raiden urged them. Together, Cassie and Jin support Raiden and walk him onto the floating rocks leading up to the Jinsei. He floats into the corrupted Jinsei and starts chanting in Japanese. His arms charge up with lightning that envelops his body. As Cassie and Jin look on with concern, he blasts Shinnok in the chest with a lightning bolt, lifting his unconscious form into the air. The lightning acts as a conduit, and Raiden begins to absorb the corrupted essence of Shinnok into his own body. He begins to grimace in pain, but does not stop the spell. Shinnok's demonic form is eventually restored to his original self, still unconscious and now no longer holding his amulet. With the power gone from Shinnok, Raiden cries out once more and blue essence expells itself from his body, back into the Jinsei. The chamber is completely filled with white light, so bright the entire screen whites out.

Outside of the Sky Temple, the revenants have been unable to beat Jacqui and Takeda. Everyone stops fighting as the corrupted cloud pouring out of the Jinsei Chamber dissipates, and the clouds above it begin to lose their blood red hue "We must withdraw" Liu Kang said to his revenats. Jacqui and Takeda look to the sky, smiles on their faces as sunlight breaks through once again. They only notice too late that a portal opens up that takes the revenants back to the Netherrealm. Nonetheless, this does nothing to their current joyous mood. Takeda puts a hand on Jacqui, and they both walk over to the temple, sitting down near the giant statue of Raiden, completely exhausted "we need a vacation" Takeda said "Poolside. Umbrella drinks" Jacqui replied They look at each other and smile, but soon those smiles dissapear as soon as they look to (name) who is holding Mileenas body close to her trying to hold in her tears. Takeda came up behind (name), sat on his knees and hugged her as did Jacqui. (name) let it all out and sobbed as her friends held onto her being her support they wouldn't let her go through this alone.

Back in the Jinsei Chamber, the lifeforce of Earthrealm is back to it's regular blue hue. Cassie Cage and Kung Jin both hold Raiden up and walk him back to the chamber floor. Raiden has fallen motionless from the ordeal and they set him down as gently as they can "Is he alive?" Cassie asked "Barely. I'll help him. Help your father" Cassie runs back to Johnny, still cocooned but alive. He smiles as he spots her "And to think... I was worried when you started dating" Johnny says smiling "Afraid I'd come home with someone like you?" "Funny, beautiful, saves the world. My work here is done" "This way! In here!" Sonya arrives in the chamber, flanked by Special Forces soldiers "Isolate Shinnok and D'Vorah. And get the medic!" she commands. She runs up to Cassie and Johnny, finally looking at her ex-husband with concern "We'll fix you up. Help is on the way" "You shoulda seen Cass. Wiped the floor with Shinnok" Johnny said smiling "I believe it. And you... you did a great job with your team, Johnny" "You hear that, Cass? She called me "Johnny"" Cassie smiles "I thought she might"

As the Cage family smile at one another, the camera pans up to the Jinsei, restored to all it's former glory. Cut to black. The final scene - partway through the credits - opens in the Netherrealm. Raiden stands in the throne room of a gigantic fortress, but it's not the Raiden we've seen earlier. He wears darker attire, his skin tone is darker, his eyes glow yellow instead of blue and most tellingly of all, Shinnok's Amulet is now worn on his chest. Who he is speaking to is not shown "Too long have I allowed Earthrealm to endure the horrors of war. Time and again we've defeated our enemies. But we've exacted no retribution. Demanded no remuneration. What have we gained for our mercy? More intrigue. More senseless violence. As the new rulers of the Netherrealm, heed me. No longer will I simply defend Earthrealm. I will seek out and destroy all who threaten it. No mercy will be shown. No quarter given" Raiden states as he opens up a satchel that he has been carrying and throws out the contents. It is the severed head of Shinnok - still alive and in terrible pain "Shinnok was an Elder God. Impossible to kill. There are fates worse than death" He teleports out of the fortress. The camera pans around the decapitated head of Shinnok to the people Raiden was speaking to - Liu Kang and Kitana, the Emperor and Empress of the Netherrealm. They both regard the head in silence. Cut to black.

[perpetuareality]

listen. i hate caliborn as much as the next girl, but the fucking chess trick he pulled off was really fucking funny

like callie my sweet dearest precious callie, i love you, but this is fucking awesome LOL

(transcript under the cut)

undyingUmbrage [uu] began jeering uranianUmbra [UU] uu: SO FuCKING SMuG. HAVE I MENTIONED LATELY HOW GREAT IT'S GOING TO BE WHEN YOu'RE DEAD? uu: JuST BECAuSE YOu HAVE NEVER LOST A MATCH. DOESN'T MEAN YOu WON'T LOSE THE GAME THAT REALLY MATTERS. uu: NOR DOES IT EVEN MEAN YOu'LL WIN THIS ONE. IT'S FAR FROM OVER. TRuST ME. uu: "BISHOP TO C6." undyingUmbrage [uu] ceased jeering uranianUmbra [UU]

uranianUmbra [UU] began cheering undyingUmbrage [uu] UU: why have yoU been enclosing all yoUr moves in qUotes? UU: yoU have really been acting so odd this match. UU: knight to d6. UU: look oUt! i'm coming for her. UU: i think she's langUished behind the front lines long enoUgh, woUldn't yoU say? UU: time to shake things Up. move her, or take my knight. UU: yoU know yoU want to take her. jUst look at her there. what a cheeky intrUsion. slithered right into yoUr palace and made herself comfy. maybe she'll lay an egg once she's finished her feast. ^U^ UU: might as well take her oUt. yoU know when the action begins and pieces start to fall, that's when yoU make all yoUr most creative mistakes! UU: anyhoo, far from over yoU say? UU: no, i don't imagine this game will be taking Up mUch more of oUr time. uranianUmbra [UU] ceased cheering undyingUmbrage [uu]

uranianUmbra [UU] began cheering undyingUmbrage [uu] UU: that's a fine attitUde. maybe yoU are finally making some progress in the realm of sportsmanship? UU: qUeen to g7. UU: checkmate. ^U^ uranianUmbra [UU] ceased cheering undyingUmbrage [uu]

undyingUmbrage [uu] began jeering uranianUmbra [UU] uu: NO IT ISN'T. undyingUmbrage [uu] ceased jeering uranianUmbra [UU]

uranianUmbra [UU] began cheering undyingUmbrage [uu] UU: what are yoU talking aboUt? UU: don't be a poor sport again. yoU were doing so well there, relatively speaking. UU: the game is over. better lUck next time, "bro." ^u^ uranianUmbra [UU] ceased cheering undyingUmbrage [uu]

undyingUmbrage [uu] began jeering uranianUmbra [UU] uu: IT IS NOT OVER. "SIS." uu: LOOK AT THE BOARD CLOSER. uu: I AM NOT IN CHECKMATE. undyingUmbrage [uu] ceased jeering uranianUmbra [UU]

uranianUmbra [UU] began cheering undyingUmbrage [uu] UU: i have no idea what yoU're babbling aboUt. soUnds like desperation to me. UU: i am looking at the pieces. yoUr king cannot step anywhere that does not pUt him in check. UU: nor can the threat to him be eliminated by other means. UU: yoU have been mated. UU: the king is dead. UU: yoUr enchantment has failed. uranianUmbra [UU] ceased cheering undyingUmbrage [uu]

undyingUmbrage [uu] began jeering uranianUmbra [UU] uu: THAT IS NOT MY KING. undyingUmbrage [uu] ceased jeering uranianUmbra [UU]

uranianUmbra [UU] began cheering undyingUmbrage [uu] UU: this is becoming silly. UU: Unless yoU have something to say aboUt the game which actUally makes sense, i am done with it. UU: i have more important things to do. uranianUmbra [UU] ceased cheering undyingUmbrage [uu]

undyingUmbrage [uu] began jeering uranianUmbra [UU] uu: YOu ARE NOT DONE WITH ANYTHING. uu: uNLESS YOu WANT TO FORFEIT. uu: LOOK CLOSER AT THE "KING" AND "QuEEN." uu: AND THEN. uu: REMOVE THEIR CROWNS. undyingUmbrage [uu] ceased jeering uranianUmbra [UU]

[Image ID: A pair of hands taking off little form-fitting headpieces of a king and queen piece of the same colour on a chessboard. The headpieces belong to the opposite piece (the king piece wears a queen hat, and viceversa). Both the pieces and the headpieces are red. Other red pieces, as well as green pieces, can be seen atop the chessboard, but these are unaltered.

A little meter ranging from an unhappy jester mask to a happy jester mask can be seen at the bottom of the image as an overlay. This meter is very low, and there are little bolts of lightning surrounding it. End ID.]

uranianUmbra [UU] began cheering undyingUmbrage [uu] UU: oh bloody hell. UU: THIS was yoUr "enchantment?" UU: are yoU serioUs??????????? UU: UUUUUUUUUUUgh. this is yoUr shittiest twist yet! uranianUmbra [UU] ceased cheering undyingUmbrage [uu]

undyingUmbrage [uu] began jeering uranianUmbra [UU] uu: WELL PLAYED "SIS!" uu: YOu CHECKMATED MY QuEEN! uu: AAH! HAA! HAA! HAA! HAA! HAA! HAA! HAA! uu: THIS IS SO FuCKING FuNNY. undyingUmbrage [uu] ceased jeering uranianUmbra [UU]

uranianUmbra [UU] began cheering undyingUmbrage [uu] UU: i am jUst astonished. UU: not at the gUile of yoUr little ploy, bUt by the fact that yoU actUally seem to think this was a clever rUse. UU: it is jUst so painfUlly daft, i... UU: i am speechless! uranianUmbra [UU] ceased cheering undyingUmbrage [uu]

undyingUmbrage [uu] began jeering uranianUmbra [UU] uu: NEVER SAW SOMEONE SPEECHLESS. WHO HAD SO MuCH TO TYPE. uu: I THOuGHT YOu OF ALL PEOPLE WOuLD APPRECIATE MY MODIFICATIONS. uu: THE CROWNS ARE REALLY NICE AND WELL CRAFTED. uu: FORM FITTING. HARDLY ADDING ANY HEIGHT. uu: LIKE CAPPING. uu: A TOOTH. uu: YOu WERE COMPLETELY FOOLED. uu: AND NOW THE COVETED PRANKSTER'S GAMBIT BETWEEN uS. uu: BELONGS TO ME. undyingUmbrage [uu] ceased jeering uranianUmbra [UU]

uranianUmbra [UU] began cheering undyingUmbrage [uu] UU: this is absUrd. UU: yoU nagged incessantly for me to allow yoU to reverse the starting positions of the king and qUeen! UU: i only agreed to get yoU to shUt Up aboUt it, and regardless, i knew i coUld beat yoU anyway even with yoUr initial "advantage." and i was right! UU: how can yoU claim this as a legitimate strategy? UU: yoU broke the rUles! uranianUmbra [UU] ceased cheering undyingUmbrage [uu]

undyingUmbrage [uu] began jeering uranianUmbra [UU] uu: HEY! I DIDN'T BREAK ANY RuLES. uu: I MERELY ASKED IF YOu WOuLD AGREE. TO ME SWAPPING THE START POSITIONS OF THE KING AND QuEEN. uu: AND YOu DID AGREE. uu: BuT THEN I DIDN'T ACTuALLY DO IT. uu: WHEN DID I SAY I WOuLD? NEVER. uu: I WAS ONLY GAuGING YOuR WILLINGNESS TO MAKE THE EXCEPTION. uu: I THEN WENT ABOuT DECORATING MY KING AND QuEEN WITH NICE LITTLE HATS. uu: WHICH IS *ALSO* NOT AGAINST THE RuLES. uu: YOu DO IT ALL THE FuCKING TIME. GIVE YOuR GAME PIECES HORNS AND SHIT. uu: YOu EVEN GIVE THEM NAMES AND BLOOD CASTES. YuCK. uu: SO IF YOu HAVE A PROBLEM WITH MY DECORATIONS. I SAY POT. ALLOW ME TO INTRODuCE YOU TO THE FuCKING KETTLE. undyingUmbrage [uu] ceased jeering uranianUmbra [UU]

uu: EVERY SINGLE THING I DID WAS LEGAL. uu: MY QuEEN. DISGuISED AS A KING. MADE MOVES LIKE A KING. WHICH IS WITHIN ITS CAPABILITY. THIS WAS DONE TO DECEIVE YOu. uu: MY KING. DISGuISED AS A QuEEN. MADE MOVES LIKE A KING. BECAuSE DOING OTHERWISE WOuLD BREAK THE RuLES. uu: BuT YOu BELIEVED IT HAD HER POWERS. AND I uSED THIS TO MY ADVANTAGE. uu: WHICH WAS HILARIOuS TO OBSERVE. WATCHING YOu BACK AWAY FROMS "THREATS." FROM WHAT WAS IN TRuTH A DISTANT KING! uu: ALL THE WHILE MY RuSE. PATENTLY OBVIOuS IN HINDSIGHT. WENT EMBARRASSINGLY uNDETECTED. uu: NO RuLES BROKEN. NOT ONCE. uu: IN FACT. IF ANYONE HERE BROKE THE RuLES. uu: IT WAS YOu. undyingUmbrage [uu] ceased jeering uranianUmbra [UU]

uranianUmbra [UU] began cheering undyingUmbrage [uu] UU: WHAT?? UU: absolUte bollocks. UU: what rUles did i break?! UU: this oUght to be good! uranianUmbra [UU] ceased cheering undyingUmbrage [uu]

undyingUmbrage [uu] began jeering uranianUmbra [UU] uu: YOu AGREED TO LET ME START WITH THE KING AND QuEEN IN SWAPPED POSITIONS. uu: IT'S AGAINST THE RuLES TO MAKE AN EXCEPTION LIKE THAT. EVEN IF YOuR OPPONENT IS BEING OBNOXIOuS ABOuT IT. uu: YOuR WILLINGNESS TO BREAK THE RuLES IS DISGuSTING TO ME. YOu SHOuLD FEEL ASHAMED OF YOuRSELF. uu: LuCKILY. AT LEAST ONE OF uS HAS RESPECT FOR THE RuLES. uu: I STARTED WITH ALL MY PIECES IN THE CORRECT POSITION. uu: IN SPITE OF YOuR WILLINGNESS TO ALLOW THOSE RuLES TO BE BROKEN. uu: WHICH AS I HAVE ADDRESSED. IS TOTALLY SHAMEFuL. uu: YOu ARE VERY FORTuNATE TO HAVE A "BRO" WHO RESPECTS THE INTEGRITY OF THE GAME EVEN WHERE HIS "SIS" MIGHT FALTER. uu: A "BRO" WHO. WHILE FuLLY ADHERING TO THE RuLES. AND EXPOSING YOuR HIDDEN SHAMEFuL TENDENCIES. uu: STILL MANAGED TO DEFEAT YOu. undyingUmbrage [uu] ceased jeering uranianUmbra [UU]

UU: YOU PRICK!!!!!!!!!!!

End transcript.

[onoffhazau]

The ON / OFF AU Symbolism Handbook

Obviously, you're free to just figure out symbols and themes as you read the AU, but, this is here if anyone wants it. It was also just a lot of fun to write.

Gold and White

The color gold is often associated with Adam. It's the color of his wings, its incorporated in many of his outfits, it's present at his wedding, and it's even in his house. Similarly, white is also associated with Adam, Lute, and Heaven. These symbols first appear in chapters 2 and 3 of In Heaven and Hell.

The symbolism in this case isn't very revolutionary. The gold represents how Adam views his station in life. He believes he is above the rest, and holds the same significance as gold. Meanwhile, white represents how Lute sees her station in life, as well as her marriage, painting it and herself as more perfect and pure than others.

In general, gold and white represent a feeling of superiority, along with inflated importance or black and white thinking.

Vox's Underground and Depths Motif*

In chapter 2 of In Heaven and Hell, it is revealed Vox's three levels within the Vee Tower are underground and surrounded by Vox's shark tank. The depths of which can be seen on his lower levels, where the tank just gets darker and darker.

A long standing motif within the AU is "lights on, lights off", with characters typically acting more genuine within scenarios or locations that represent the "lights off" part of that equation. In the public lights up above, Vox is a famous overlord who soaks in the attention and surrounds himself with constant stimulation. But, in the intense privacy of Vox's own floors beneath the surface, Vox wonders how his life turned out the way it did and drowns in his sorrows:

He stares at the ceiling, the tears forming in his eyes. Though, they're less tears and more glitched pixels at the bottoms of his eyes... ..."What did I do to be dead to you all of a sudden, Al? What will it take to make me exist to you again?" Vox says, gripping onto his wrist.

-In Heaven and Hell Ch 7

The area most connected to Vox within the hotel also carries this theme, that being the pool area. Though it is not underground or beneath the water, Adam describes it as feeling like such, largely resembling a submarine:

The bottom floor contains the pool, located in an area that reminds Adam of a submarine with its dark walls and rounded, pink windows near its top. Though there's also a sizable aquarium surrounding the pool to further that deep within the sea feel. It is empty for the time being. It's quite a large tiled space, having a hot tub as well the main pool, changing rooms, and plenty of seats and floaties to go around.

-In Heaven and Hell Ch 6

*This section will be expanded upon as the story continues.

The Surveillance Room

Speaking of, our villain Vox is found at the very bottom floors, specifically the second basement level. He sits in his surveillance room, watching the life that's buzzing up above with keen eyes. Though machinery and lab equipment are being used outside, none of these sounds manage to trickle in through the screen covered walls. Not only are they soundproof, but the door can only be opened using Vox's specific cables, ensuring complete and utter privacy.

-In Heaven and Hell Ch 1

Vox, in his paranoid state, prefers to be in the know about everything around him without being detected.

The Vee Tower's Indoor Garden (TW SA mention)

The indoor garden of the Vee tower is located on Valentino's first floor, floor number six, with his second floor, floor number seven, having several balconies looking down at it attached to the dressing rooms. It is a dream-like landscape, a deep pink as far as the eye can see. So deep, in fact, its a wonder the floors and walls never devour the room's occupants whole. It is lit up by stunning blue street lights and lanterns. They alter the color of anything that dare stand beneath them, the former filling the room with a hum. Vox stands in front of the large center piece, surrounded by hearts on the floor and full of Venus flytraps. Their mouths gape open desperately, just waiting for their next catch. Beneath the light, Vox's screen appears a darker blue and his eyes take on a more pinkish tint. Meanwhile, his suit becomes almost entirely black, making him feel like a walking shadow.

-In Heaven and Hell Ch 3

It ultimately represents everything that Valentino values. The presence of balconies treats the garden and Valentino's activities in it as worthy of spectating. It is also connected to the upper floor to show Valentino's lack of boundaries. Private dressing rooms versus a public garden are no different to him.

It also represents how Vox views his relationship with Valentino, indicated by the blue and overpowering lights. In order to withstand Valentino's abuse, Vox alters his perception of the situation to the point its difficult to see the true nature of anything. The hum of the streetlights is similar to how someone may desperately hum to self sooth. In this world, Vox needs to be nothing but a shadow that sees and follows Valentino's lead. Yet, Valentino's influence can't be denied, his pink is everywhere in sight to the point Vox constantly worries it will overcome him.

The Exorcist Barracks

The barracks of the exorcists, located in the clouds just outside of Heaven's gates, is a lifeless stain on a place otherwise full of life. You see, while Heaven is covered in pastel colors, the barracks are made entirely out of smooth and gray stone. Inside this theme continues, with white banners lining the walls carrying the exorcist's emblem.

-In Heaven and Hell Chapter 4

The barracks represent Heaven's evil actions and their harmful need for order, contrasting the rest of the hope and light present within Heaven.

Sera's Office

Lute and Adam stand in front of Sera's desk, gold with a unicorn etched onto its front and resting before the window. The large window looks down at the Heavenly streets below. Her desk is clean, containing only a writing pad in the middle, a quill sitting in a pot of ink to the left, and a neat pile of books to the right.

-In Heaven and Hell Chapter 5

Sera sees herself as representing the purity of Heaven and works with the desire to protect that purity, just as a unicorn is seen as both a source of great power but also a symbol of innocence. She also values order over chaos.

The Doors on Valentino's Floor (TW Abuse/SA Mention)

The pattern against the purple always reminds Vox of tightly knit together chains, filling the space where windows would otherwise go and concealing the room just beyond. Vox's stomach ties itself into knots.

-In Heaven and Hell Ch 6

Because Valentino conceals what he does to his victims by mainly keeping it to his floors of the Vee Tower, this causes victims to feel even more trapped and unseen.

The Posters In The Vee Tower

The first showcases himself standing in the middle, with Valentino towering over him to his right, and Velvette resting her head on his shoulder to his left. A V is sparking in Vox's hand, the black and pink text above his head reading "The Vees" with X symbols above even that. The next three posters consist of separate black and white posters for each Vee, Vox's being the first...In the corner is a black V symbol representing Voxtek with a light blue backdrop. Valentino's contains his moth symbol, and Velvette's a text based though right side up heart. Finally, the fourth poster on the same wall is one for Voxtek, with Vox framing the V shaped logo with his claws on a blue backdrop. In each one, he's wearing a near identical smile and his usual outfit. In contrast, Velvette and Valentino's outfits and expressions change depending on the poster's subject matter.

-In Heaven and Hell Ch 7

Vox has stated his reputation and his identity almost solely on the fact that he's a Vee. While Velvette only identifies with the Vees reputation when it suits her (her symbol of a heart occasionally having the V shape within it highlighted), and Valentino is absorbed in his own branding, Vox's branding is ultimately also the Vees' branding. Vox in and of himself, in this way, has become a symbol of the Vees. He's the consistent foundation of the Vees when put alongside the advertisements of his counterparts, who typically let their specific focuses and personalities shine through more. This is also extremely telling in the name of his company, "Voxtek". Vox himself, or more of, the persona he's invented, is a major selling point.

Adam's Hellish Form

The fire in Lucifer's eyes extinguishes when Adam's eyes gain a fire of their own. His teeth become sharpened, and Lute and Lucifer swear they see the yellow of his wings and eyes become warmer and lean more towards orange in their color.

-In Heaven and Hell Ch 8

Appears whenever Adam lets his wrath get the best of him, showing how unholy Adam's insistence on exterminations is.

As chapters continue to come out, this will be updated.

[expertmedico]

Why MBBS in Kyrgyzstan is a Great Option for Indian Students

For Indian students with dreams of becoming doctors, the competition for a medical seat in India can be fierce and costly. In recent years, MBBS in Kyrgyzstan has emerged as an increasingly attractive option due to its affordable tuition, reputable medical universities, and practical approach to medical training. As Kyrgyzstan opens its doors to international students, Indian aspirants can take advantage of a quality medical education that meets global standards without the burden of exorbitant fees. In this article, we’ll explore the top reasons why Kyrgyzstan is a great option for Indian students pursuing an MBBS degree.

1. Affordable Tuition and Cost of Living

One of the primary motives why Indian students opt for Kyrgyzstan is the affordability of education. The average fee of an MBBS diploma in Kyrgyzstan degrees among $2,500 and $4,500 in step with yr, making it a fee-effective alternative to private clinical colleges in India, which could price up to $20,000 in step with year. Additionally, the value of residing in Kyrgyzstan is low, allowing students to control their charges without problems. From inexpensive housing alternatives to in your price range meals and transportation, the economic relief for households is massive.

2. Recognized Medical Degrees and Global Accreditation

Medical universities in Kyrgyzstan are recognized with the aid of distinguished international bodies including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the National Medical Commission (NMC) of India (formerly called the Medical Council of India). This recognition method that scholars graduating with an MBBS diploma from Kyrgyzstan are eligible to take a seat for the Foreign Medical Graduates Examination (FMGE), a obligatory test for practising medicinal drug in India. Kyrgyzstan’s clinical levels are also standard by way of different countries, permitting students to pursue in addition research or scientific licenses internationally.

3. No Entrance Exam Requirement

Unlike the rigorous entrance tests required in India, gaining admission to scientific universities in Kyrgyzstan is exceptionally truthful. Indian students are most effective required to bypass the NEET exam to qualify, but they are no longer required to undergo extra entrance checks to study in Kyrgyzstan. This less competitive admission method alleviates stress and permits college students to recognition immediately on their clinical training.

4. English-Medium Instruction

Kyrgyzstan’s medical universities offer MBBS programs in English, that is a massive advantage for Indian college students. Studying in a language they're familiar with makes the gaining knowledge of enjoy smoother, allowing college students to comprehend complicated medical ideas with out the need for full-size language guides. English-medium preparation additionally prepares college students to communicate correctly in global medical environments, especially useful in the event that they plan to practice in English-speaking international locations.

5. Practical-Oriented Curriculum

The curriculum in Kyrgyzstan’s clinical universities is designed to focus heavily on realistic education and medical publicity, which facilitates college students end up adept at dealing with real-global scientific conditions. Many universities have partnerships with hospitals where students can work with sufferers underneath the supervision of professional professionals, letting them benefit firsthand enjoy in diagnosing and treating ailments. This approach guarantees that students graduate with a strong foundation in medical abilties, making them greater organized for internships and jobs.

6. Cultural Comfort and Supportive Environment

Studying in a foreign country can be tough, however Kyrgyzstan’s cultural similarities to India make the transition simpler for Indian college students. Kyrgyzstan has a massive Indian pupil community, growing a supportive and comfortable surroundings. Many universities even offer Indian mess centers, ensuring college students have get right of entry to to familiar meals options. This cultural consolation, mixed with the welcoming nature of the locals, facilitates Indian college students settle into their new lifestyles abroad smoothly.

7. Safe and Student-Friendly Environment

Safety is a priority for global students, and Kyrgyzstan is understood for its low crime price, specially in towns wherein the foremost medical universities are positioned. Universities in Kyrgyzstan have support services in vicinity to assist international students with their desires, from orientation packages to health services. This supportive environment guarantees that students experience secure and targeted on their research.

8. Flexible Study Programs and International Exposure

The scientific education device in Kyrgyzstan is designed to offer students with flexibility, enabling them to participate in numerous worldwide activities, alternate programs, and studies opportunities. This exposure facilitates develop their understanding of world fitness practices and fosters a holistic method to remedy. Students are recommended to wait scientific meetings and participate in internships, which can be precious experiences for college students considering future careers abroad.

9. Preparation for Licensing Exams

For Indian college students, clearing the FMGE (or the MCI/NMC screening test) is important to practice medication in India. Many scientific universities in Kyrgyzstan provide specialized education and guide for FMGE education, assisting students to be properly-prepared for the licensing exams after they go back to India. Some universities also offer guidance for other licensing exams like the USMLE, which is essential for the ones planning to pursue medical careers inside the United States.

10. Modern Infrastructure and Resources

Kyrgyzstan’s medical universities are geared up with current facilities, which include superior labs, libraries, and lecture halls. The universities awareness on supplying students with updated scientific assets and era to decorate their getting to know enjoy. The virtual school rooms and palms-on labs permit students to advantage practical skills along theoretical expertise, making the training experience well-rounded and effective.

11. Scholarship Opportunities

Some universities in Kyrgyzstan offer scholarships to global college students primarily based on advantage, which may be a monetary improve for college kids who qualify. These scholarships reduce lessons prices in addition, making it less difficult for students to attention on their research with out disturbing about financial burdens. Scholarships may also vary by means of university, and Indian students have to test for available alternatives even as applying.

Conclusion

For Indian students facing the challenges of high costs and intense competition for medical seats in India, pursuing MBBS in Kyrgyzstan presents a compelling alternative. With its affordable tuition fees, global recognition, English-medium programs, and practical-focused curriculum, Kyrgyzstan offers a holistic and enriching educational experience. Studying MBBS in Kyrgyzstan provides students with the necessary skills, exposure, and confidence to thrive in a medical career, whether they choose to return to India or practice internationally. For those considering MBBS in abroad for Indian students, Kyrgyzstan stands out as an excellent option, combining quality education, cultural familiarity, and the opportunity to fulfill their dream of becoming skilled medical professionals.

[sayidoonthesuncoast]

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The Fairyland

Ao3 link here The Fairyland - Chapter 7 - Princessmh9 - Multifandom [Archive of Our Own]

Chapter 7: Surprising Deer Ride

{As Genevieve and Prince Ash walk to the stable. Ash try's to make small talk.}

{Ash} So you really are related to Emry's himself?

{Genevieve} My Great Grandfather is not Merlin like everyone else here does think. I am just a human who apparently makes her family the laughing stock of all of England.

{Ash} What's England?

{Genevieve} You know England. Were we are now?

{Ash looks confused} We are in the Otherworld, near Avalon and Tir Na Nog. You humans call it Fairyland. There is no England here.

{Genevieve looks at him thoughtfully} I see. Well once I shown that my Great Grandfather is not Merlin. I have to leave for home and that Noah Preachy.

{Ash} Who is this Noah Preachy you speak of?

{Genevieve} You probably don't have Amish here right?

{Ash shaking his head no} What are Amish? Are they Celtic?

{Genevieve} No they are strict religious people who believe in one god

{Ash} Agh. So they are the enemy's of the Celtic.

{Genevieve} You could say that.

{They come to a beautiful wooden stable and walk into and to Genevieve surprise there are deer and not horses stable.}

{Genevieve surprised and delighted} Deer? You ride deer?

{Ash proudly} Only the finest and best deer we do. It's a elf thing

{Genevieve goes up to a pretty doe} Hello there sweetie. You are so beautiful and pretty.

{Some Elvin stable hands comes up and Ash ask for two deer to be saddled and ready to leave} Have you ever ridding deer before Genevieve?

{Genevieve looks at him} No never. But I will only ride on one condition

{Ash amused by her smiles at her kindly} Oh please do tell me

{Genevieve crossing her arms} No side saddle. I absolutely refuse to ride in side saddle. I want to ride with a normal saddle like you males do.

{Ash smiling in delight at this} Of course you can ride normal saddle.

{The stable hands come up with two a handsome dark brown stag and light tan doe. Ash goes to help Genevieve up when she gently nudges him away and gets up with ease on to the doe much to everyone's surprise.}

{Ash} You are full of surprises Genevieve.

{Genevieve smiling happily at him} And I'm a quick learner too you highness.

{Ash smiling in great delight at this climbs onto his stag and leads Genevieve outside}

{Ash} We start at a walk so you can get use to riding a deer.

{Genevieve with playfully eyes nudges her doe into a gallop and gallops past the prince who watches in surprise and delight and laughs and nudges his stag into a gallop after them. From the balcony Lindir and Albina watch the two of them gallop off into the forest laughing and teasing each over playfully.

As Genevieve confidently takes control of the deer and gallops ahead, Ash follows suit, a wide grin on his face. They ride through the enchanting forest, their laughter filling the air, and their spirits lifted by the freedom of the moment.

{Ash, catching up to Genevieve} You truly are a force to be reckoned with, Genevieve! Your spirit and fearlessness are a breath of fresh air.

{Genevieve, her eyes shining with excitement} Thank you, Ash! Riding like this, without constraints or expectations, it feels liberating. It's like my spirit has finally found its home.

They continue their exhilarating ride, weaving through the forest, leaping over fallen logs, and racing alongside sparkling streams. The deer move with grace and agility, matching the riders' energy and enthusiasm.

As they slow down to a gentle canter, their laughter subsides, and a comfortable silence settles between them. The sunlight filters through the branches above, casting a warm glow on their faces.

{Ash, breaking the silence} Genevieve, I must admit, spending time with you like this, away from the constraints of royal duties, feels... refreshing. It's as if the weight of expectations is lifted, and I can simply be myself.

{Genevieve, a soft smile playing on her lips} I feel the same way, Ash. Here, surrounded by the beauty of nature, I can be true to myself, free from the judgments and limitations of others.

They ride side by side, their bond growing stronger with each passing moment. It becomes clear to both of them that their connection runs deeper than mere friendship.

{Ash, his voice filled with sincerity} Genevieve, I must confess that ever since I first laid eyes on you, something inside me stirred. Your spirit, your courage, it captivates me. I find myself drawn to you in ways I can't explain.

{Genevieve, her heart racing, gazes at him with a mixture of surprise and affection} Ash, I too feel a connection, a pull towards you. It's as if our paths were meant to cross, intertwining our destinies.

Their gazes meet, and in that moment, time seems to stand still. The world around them fades into the background as their hearts align, and the promise of an extraordinary journey together unfolds before them.

Unbeknownst to them, their love and connection will be tested in the trials to come. But with their shared determination and unwavering support for one another, they will face the challenges that lie ahead, united and stronger than ever before.

As the sun begins to set, casting a golden hue across the forest, they ride back towards the Kingdom of Enchantera, their hearts brimming with hope and the promise of a future intertwined.

[medicinelost-a]

arvo lightly nods as the other stands, begins searching for kindling, the smaller teen shifts in place, glancing around their woodsy surro -undings. he keeps a look-out, just incase. rubbing his legs absent mindedly for warmth, he speaks, " okay... call, if need help, alright? " 💊

" but, yes. " a thoughtful hum, " is true though, humanity always been less then perfect, but... is really show, during times such as these. " he tips his head, clearly lost in thought for a moment, eye's drifting, before suddenly, he sighs, and a smile returns to delicate features. 💊 " suppose am lucky then, no? have found someone like you, rather then... someone less favorable. " a faux shudder at the thought, a playful gesture despite how true it was--he tries not to linger on that thought, how his story could've otherwise ended. 💊

" sorry, sorry, do not mean make things dark. as for original topic... i... do miss my schooling, in way, despite how stressful was. it was kind of my 'thing', you know? academics, i mean. " elbow on knee, chin on palm. 💊

" oh! did ever tell you was in chess club? perhaps if we ever find game board, can play together, no? " arvo seems to light up at the thought. 💊

"Yes. Everywhere I went, people, groups especially, were only getting worse. I thought maybe it was better to be on my own." A decision that had changed recently, if that wasn't obvious enough. The playful turn of the discussion and little smiles must have been contagious, he couldn't stop himself from giving a little smile back. "I guess I am, not that it's a bad thing."

The fingers on James' other hand twitch, a momentary urge to reach up and touch bandages now that they were in place tickling his senses. He doesn't though, he only puts his arm down back at his side and nods. "Of course."

"A lot of things seem silly now compared to what we have to live with. That doesn't always mean it is." Something of a reassurance before he's also looking up at the setting sun, then back down at the area around them. "I'll find us some kindling, shouldn't take long."

[poetesmorts]

Letter for the dead

Warning/s: a little bit of angst, slight mentions of grief, homophobia, death.

Word count: 849

A/N: happy one year for this account!! i finally had the motivation to write something. requests are open! enjoy :)

December 15th

Dear Neil,

I didn’t even get to say goodbye. I regret not having the chance to hold you for the first time and describe to you the things I was nervous about. My consciousness bears millions of regrets with me, this one will haunt me evermore.

I used to overhear people say they want to repeat the day before an incident, over again. Their feelings were unknown to me. I was vain, indifferent. Now, destiny showed me what they went through. The Universe would bless me if a genie would come to me one day to grant me a wish. I'd say I’d love to have one more day with you, only the two of us. We deserved one.

I should’ve asked before. The guilt I express currently would be more tolerable. You think you have the whole time on your hands. Then something shifts in the wind. It alters the timeline. How cruel can the minutes be? They pass, even though we implore them to stop, so we can linger the moments we experience. I did want to spend more time with you. I promise you that. My words couldn’t aid me.

I fear I will forget your gentle voice, your radiant face. The picture of the way you used to laugh and light the room more than candles will wither. A lack will be that of how you used to recite poems to me every night before bed. All the memories owned with you will fade. It’s my worst thought when I lay in bed. I rather stay awake, reliving my moments with you than going to sleep. Even there you appear in my dreams. It's the only way I can still hear you call my name. Remember when I had nightmares. You welcomed me in your bed and made me feel safe. I live my nightmare, and you are nowhere to calm my restlessness. Do you recognize the times when I cried in the middle of the night and you were there to wipe the tears on my face? My handkerchief dries them off instead, because your hands are somewhere unreachable. I will not be able to recall the images, yet my brain will deep-bury the evidence that you existed. My biggest concern will show itself. I will grow old. The things we did will burn out. None of us will tell the story we had to write. I wish I could at least have a piece of your something to help me see that, even if you aren’t here, your soul lives. I’m sorry if I do forget you.

The world is a beast. A survival of such an act would be a scandal and you would have hurt yourself more. It wouldn’t have allowed you to heal from the wounds, nor would it have let me speak. I accept the fact you’re gone, I can’t do anything about it, but here, on paper, I can confess and pretend you’re reading it. I love you, Neil. I always have. After the play, I planned on showing you who my heart beats for. I wanted to bring you to the cave, read you the poem I wrote for you. Your father was an obstacle. He took you away. I ensured myself to do it the next day. It was the worst idea I have ever had. So much love in my veins only for it to evaporate. Where we live, my darling, they would have executed our love. I couldn't care less. I would have risked my life for you to squeeze me in your arms. My life would have not been worthy if you didn't kiss the rivers my eyes drained. We would have run away, far, far away, where you wanted. I didn't believe the myth of first sight love. My unbelief cursed me. The things we had together sank me in forever longing. It's not the time to love a ghost, nor the remains. You're a photograph. You are the wind hitting my window. You're the snow I bury myself into. You're the missing piece I need. You're the flock of clouds hugging my street. I regret not telling you sooner... I fall in love every day with the objects of reality that embrace you. They also stab me as I remind myself I can't tell you the three holy words. You left for a place where you can be the actor you desire to be. I am surrounded by the sorrow of your passing, but at least I am happy you can have what you merit - peace.

Though you will not write back, wait for me instead! The day where we will hold each other without shame will come! We will enjoy our home there... I hope you rest well until then. When I become ashes, stand by the nearest pond. You will see me have a bouquet of forget-me-nots in my hands. It will be for you. I meant every word in this letter. I love you.

Yours,

Todd

[genshxn]

ｉｎｔｒｏｄｕｃｔｉｏｎ

Isekai oneshots series - Part 1 // 500 Followers event series

Thank y’all so much for 500 followers fhrjendjfir

For a while now you’ve been feeling an intense pair of eyes staring at you, despite being asleep. Shifting around, you’re pulled from your sleep from the gaze. Opening your eyelids feels like opening rusty shutters. It took a moment for your 3AM brain to compute what was looking at you, but once you finally realize it was a pair of stranger’s eyes, you immediately launch yourself back like an octopus.

You land backwards on your ass, hard. When the hell did the floor turn to stone, and when were you sleeping on it? Rubbing your sore backside a little bit, you finally take in your surroundings... some sort of unfamiliar laboratory? To your side, there’s all sorts of bookshelves and strange contraptions. Nothing you had really seen in high school biology class, for sure.

"...Are you okay?" A voice suddenly asks. What’s with the familiar voice? You look directly in front of you, and there’s a familiar face looking at you from a kneeling position.

You furrow your eyebrows. This shit can’t be real, right?

"Albedo?" You ask, your voice high pitched in confusion and apprehension.

"Oh my, you know my name," he speaks. He writes down something in a notebook he had next to him. "How strange."

What’s strange is that I’m suddenly face to face with a fucking video game character who looks real as hell. You think to yourself.

"How did I get here?" If your suspicions prove true, then you should be in Mondstadt, Teyvat. Specifically Albedo’s alchemy research lab.

"I was trying a particular summoning ritual I found in an old tome. You are the result of the summoning," Albedo trails off lightly, likely continuing his tangent to himself in his head.

"W-where am I?" Time to see if you’re right.

"You’re in my alchemy workshop. We’re in Mondstadt, Teyvat."

"Holy fuck I really did get isekai’d," you muttered to yourself, bringing your hand to your forehead.

"Pardon?"

"Nothing. I—I’m... uhh... basically not from this world."

"Another outlander... I figured." He thinks to himself. Alright, so you’re definitely here at the same time as the traveller. "Do you perhaps want a different attire? Those clothes don’t look very... practical. Like sleepwear, almost."

No shit. I’m still in my pyjamas. You pulled me outta my bed. You grumble in your mind.

"Sure. I’ll take a change of clothes if you have some."

"I’m afraid it’s just a standard Knights of Favonius uniform without the armour." Albedo hands it to you and turns away for you to change. You quickly do so and slip on the black turtle neck, puffy black pants and knee high boots.

"Decent," you say.

Albedo turns back around. "Come with me. There’s someone you may like to meet," he says, gesturing with his hand for you to follow him out of the alchemy lab.

You exit out of the headquarters and into the bright city of Mondstadt. It’s currently sunset, but the sky is still bright. You thought it was last 3AM, so you’re quite tired now. But you’ve already been woken up, so there’s no going back to sleep for you. Albedo appears to be headed in the direction of the tavern. What? Who’s at the tavern? The traveller?

Nah, turns out it was literally fucking everyone.

"What the fuck."

Pretty much every playable character is packed into Angel’s share. It’s lively with all the conversation between everyone. No one really notices your entrance except Diluc who simply casts a confused look at your unfamiliar face.

Albedo drifts over to a braid-styled blond that you instantly recognize as Aether, who was chatting to Paimon and Jean. He turns in your direction and wonders over with Albedo in tow.

"So you’re the same as me, huh?"

"Yep." You bite the inside of your mouth to not blurt out anything dumb. You’re surrounded by characters—uh, more people now—that you simp. You do not want to say anything stupid.

"What brings you to Teyvat?" Aether asks. It’s weird talking to him without Paimon being the surrogate speaker for the silent protagonist. He’s not really the protagonist anymore. It’s arguably you now.

"Uh... Albedo was stuffing around with summoning and I was the thing that got summoned."

"Oh, so you’re here by accident."

"Yes... I unfortunately don’t have any way to send them back to their world." Albedo joins in.

Maybe I don’t wanna go back so fast.

Out of nowhere, you feel something small bump into you from behind. You turn around and it’s a drunk Venti.

"Ehhhh, who’s this new pretty face?" He slurs. A blush is evident on his face. If he’s this drunk, he’s got to have knocked back at least 30 beers or so.

"This is... I do not know your name actually," Albedo realizes he never asked your name. Oops on his behalf, you guess.

"Y/N."

"Huh, that’s a strange name. Doesn’t sound local." Venti wracks his brain, trying to think where it could be from. "Oh! Could it be you’re like ol’ Aether here?"

How the fuck did the drunkard guess correctly. Then again, he is a god.

"Uh... yeah. Our situations are similar enough..." You say. You didn’t really lose your only next of kin to a god that looks like it’s from a different game. You got summoned here by Albedo out of pure fucky-wucky luck.

"Everyone!" Venti suddenly calls out. Oh boy, here he goes with his drunken antics. "We have another outlander with us now!" He pretty much hangs off you with one arm while pointing at you with his free hand. "Give ol’ Y/N a warm welcome!"

Literally everyone is staring at you. This is a nightmare.

"Uh... Hi," is all you can get out.

"Well hello there, Y/N. I must say, that name of yours is quite pleasant to say," a smooth voice coos from the corner of the tavern. You know exactly who it belongs to. Kaeya.

You look over at the blue-haired man who’s sat at the bar cross legged with one arm on the bench, propping up his head. His eye screams "FLIRT FLIRT FLIRT". You notice a blush on his face. He’s also drunk off his ass. Kaeya is promptly bonked over the head by Diluc with an empty beer mug.

"Owww..." Kaeya rubs his head.

"Shut it, Kaeya. Gods, can you wait 10 seconds without flirting? Sorry about him. He’s worse when he’s drunk. Just ignore him." Diluc sighs, crossing his arms.

"Oh, so you’re not going introduce yourself since you did for me?" Kaeya throws a glare at the redhead, who in turn sighs.

"Name’s Diluc. I own the tavern," he says.

"Y/N? I do not believe that is a name similar to Aether’s. You must be from different world, then." A deep voice chimes in. Oh fuck, you know who that is as well. Zhongli. Why is he here in Mondstadt?

"It’s certainly a strange name, alright."

"You’re one to talk, Fatui."

You also know the next two belong to. Childe and Xiao, respectively. Your eyes flitter about the crowd and spot them quickly. Xiao is perched on the second floor railing while Zhongli and Childe are sat at a table.

"Aww, no need to be a sourpuss in front of the new one," Childe chuckles to himself, obviously provoking Xiao, who takes the bait.

"I’m not a sourpuss!" He hisses. This just rises another laugh out of Childe. You’re surprised to find Zhongli suddenly standing in front of you, as you were distracted by the brief drama between the adeptus and the harbinger.

"My apologies for those two. They do not get along very well. My name is Zhongli. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance." He greets you.

"Y-you too."

Now it’s Childe’s turn to suddenly appear before you. "Hey, the name’s Tartaglia, or Childe. But if you want, you can call me your’s—," Childe was instantly cut off by Xiao hurtling a mug at Childe’s head. What’s up with the flirters getting bonked?

"I’m Xiao... If you ever need me, just call my name and I’ll be there," he grumbles, readjusting himself on his perch.

"Goodness, the men are certainly talkative tonight," Another voice speaks. This time, it’s a woman’s voice. "Don’t mind them, outlander. My name is Ningguang. Pleased to meet you." The white haired lady greets you with a coy grin. You thought she wouldn’t have any interest... So why’s she talking to you?

"Ah, so this the newbie, huh?" A strong arm slings around your neck. You look up and see Beidou looking down at you. "How ya doin’ kiddo? Name’s Beidou, cap’n of the Crux. Come visit if you wanna grab a drink sometime," she grins. Her chest is awkwardly close to your face.

"Beidou, you are rather tactless, you know," Ningguang sighs. Whether it’s from how close Beidou suddenly got or whether she instantly invited you out for drinks, you don’t know.

"Loosen up Ning, we’re at a tavern," Beidou nudges Ningguang, to which the white haired woman just rolls her eyes.

"Oh my, so this is the cutie everyone’s talking about all of a sudden?" There’s literally only one person who calls everyone a cutie. Lisa. "Hello there, sweetie~ If you ever need help with anything, I’m always available to do anything for you." She finishes with a wink.

"Lisa, don’t be so hasty. Give Y/N some room to breathe." She places a hand on the mage’s shoulder and reigns her in a bit. "Sorry about her... She gets a bit... enthusiastic when meeting new people. I’m Jean, Acting Grand Master of the Knights of Favonius. If you ever have any troubles, don’t hesitate to let me know," she says with a kind smile. Jean seems the most level headed here.

Looking around, your eye also catches Ganyu who’s face planted down on the table, asleep. That’s honestly how you wanna be.

Right now, you seem to have a lot of hot people clamouring over you. Did you die and ascend to heaven? Or are you burdened with the curse of the isekai harem protagonist?

ep 2 ->