#that means he wore yellow regularly

[ndrwlls]

the way fan artists give arthur lester yellow articles of clothing…. yellow suit or yellow tie or yellow coat…. the symbolism and determinism of it all. i love you malevolent fan artists let me kiss you right now

[logansgaar]

the gross mischaracterisation of Steve Harrington's music taste is an unbearable crime goddamnit, this man has never even heard a pop song in his life! All the music he plays is either rock, new wave or indie music, we see this at his party and so the music playing in his car (which you can find lists of on what-song and similar sites).

someone on reddit noticed Steve is also wearing an outfit identical to one Freddie Mercury wore the same year season 4 is set. In fact, Steve regularly dresses similarly to Freddie Mercury, the more I look the more I see there's definitely influences of Freddie's casual fashion (not his show looks) in Steve's style; some of them, like the yellow jumper look the redditor noticed, are almost like for like. Why is this unusual? Maybe because Queen had tanked in America at the time, America's radio stations found them insulting in fact, so it's a big deal that Steve had Queen playing in his car, it means it wasn't on the radio by chance... he owned a copy himself

I'll have to rewatch but I'm pretty sure the only times Steve has mainstream 80s disco, dance or synth pop anywhere near him it's either someone else's party he's a guest at, and therefore has no say in the music, or he's referencing it to make fun of it (ie Tammy Thompson, and even then it was still pop rock).

Steve is a rock, by the looks of it mostly British bands too, I wouldn't be surprised if he knows The Clash just as well as Jonathan does and it's time people realize that and respect it

(edit: my dumbass misread post-punk as punk, feel free to throw rocks)

Stop making his Vecna songs disco, synth pop music and make it something he's actually shown to listen to

[darknesscreepin]

haku shota | h.st

warnings: perv!shota, breeding kink, cumming in pants, little bit of exhibitionism.

perv!shota who has been obsessed with you since you let him borrow a pencil in class one day. turning around to hand him the utensil with a kind smile on your face, your hand accidentally grazing his in the process. he immediately was enraptured by your every move.

perv!shota who was so happy that he sat behind you because the smell of your perfume would waft directly in his direction— “thank god for the air conditioning.” he would think to himself as he inhaled your air. he would purposely make his way to class faster so he could smell your scent when you sat down. it was most prominent then.

perv!shota who made it his goal to befriend you. you were a little wary of him at first— i mean the kid had no friends. he was always making weird, unintelligible noises that made people look at him sideways, but with time you found his quirks adorable. the little alien language he sometimes communicated in, always pulled a laugh from you and shota’s heart would race. sometimes he would purposely exaggerate the things he did just to hear you giggle.

perv!shota that made sure to stay near you during your shared graduation party. you had suggested the idea after hearing he was going to play games after the big day. “come on sho, you can’t spend all day playing minecraft! let’s just merge the day for us, it’s fine i swear. it’ll be so fun!” all shota registered was us he was immediately on board. throughout the party he would follow you around, extremely close behind you that he’d have to stop himself from tripping. he just wanted to feel the curve of your ass graze against his clothed dick. you were so busy greeting everyone with a smile on your face, that you didn’t feel the sensation of the bleach haired boy just barely grinding against you.

perv!shota that invited you out for ice cream and you happily accepted. it was a sweltering day and you were finally free, it had been so long since you had seen your friend. did shota intentionally wait to call you to hang out on one of the hottest days of the week? yes. he knew you’d wear something more revealing to avoid being unnecessarily hot—and you did. a baby blue maxi skirt falling against your legs, and a black tank top that hugged your tits so nicely. how could shota not stare?

perv!shota who insisted on sitting outside in the blistering heat. “it’s such a nice day, y/n, c’mon!” you reluctantly agreed and the two of you made your way to a table. shota would offer you a taste of his ice cream in a cup. the spoon making it’s way into your mouth made shota breathe heavier. he hurriedly took the utensil from you, taking another bite so he could have your leftover saliva from the spoon is his mouth. you did the friendly thing and also motioned your ice cream cone towards the boy. he felt his cock twitch in his pants. holding the cold treat to his mouth, he took a few meekish licks and handed it back to you. he also made sure to film a video of you licking the rapidly melting ice cream from your arm, because it was “so funny.” little did you know he’d cum untouched to the video that night, imagining your arm was his cock and you were licking cum from it.

perv!shota who would regularly find himself on your insta, palming himself through his boxers. he was currently looking at an innocent photo of you clinking your glass with a friend’s. to shota it was so much more. his favorite trait of yours, your breasts, were perfectly exposed in the pastel yellow sundress you wore. he wanted to have your hard nipples in front of him, and wrap his pretty pink lips around your huge tits. the thought made the sick boy slide his hand under his briefs and firmly grip his leaking dick. so much precum dripping from his mushroom head. the image of your lips being smeared in the substance oftentimes made it’s way into shota’s head, you wearing it like a lipgloss. he slicked his length with the man made lube and he barely lasted a minute. cum leaking through his boxers, only getting in five proper strokes.

perv!shota who watched too much hentai. he had adapted such vulgar kinks from the porn. one of his favorite things was imagining breeding your cunt. filling you up with so much of his cum—he had so much of it to give, and he only wanted to share it with you. trying his best to place your face in his mind as he watched cum leak from an animated character’s pussy. oh how he wished he could do those things with you.

perv!shota who would rut against his pillow and loudly moan, not a care in the world. his room smelled just like you and he was getting high off the smell. last time he visited your house, he made sure to snatch one of your perfumes. spritzing it around his room before he straddled the cotton filled pillow. his cock would just leak and he wondered if you would let him cum or not. wondered if you’d stop being his friend if you ever found out how much of a slut he was for you. you’d probably look at him in so much disgust, that only turned him on more, leading to his orgasm. “sorry y/n.” he whispers as he slowly continued to grind his hips, riding out his high.

perv!shota who was such a pervert for you, couldn’t help but want to be your boyfriend. he knew you would never want to be associated with him if you ever knew what he was really like.

[atlasofthestaars]

[MX X READER] New Era - Chapter .003

first part | previous part | next part

NOTE: First off, thank you ALL so much for the support! I sincerely love every one of your comments so far, and feel grateful you all enjoy the story! The comments are lowkey pushing me to write this all, so again tysm for the support!

Hopefully this chapter showcases how I’ll try to implement extra scenes within the story! Because after this chapter we will divulge for a bit storywise to get bonding moments between the kharacters and the reader! I’m doing this due to the months time skip, and thought it’d be a good time to develop some of the relationships before the Outworld arc!

Sorry for how Lin Kuei heavy the interactions have been, but we’ll soon get the champion squad as the focus soon, so I did want to implement some of this groundwork first. That doesn’t mean the Lin Kuei are totally gone soon, especially since I also need to give Smoke his share of time together, but they will be used less often after this chapter so we can bond with the others.

ALSO, for those reading this on tumblr, please reply to the poll here whether you do want Shang Tsung as a love interest! It will affect my planning somewhat so I would like to gauge interest! AO3 fans, leave a comment on your thoughts !

ALSO ALSO! If you want a character included as a love interest that is NOT part of the initial roster mentioned in part one, please send in messages/leave comments mentioning it so I can see what you all want! It’s not a guarantee, but it is helpful to get input on those types of things.

FROM THE EYES OF ONE WHO HELPED RECRUIT NEW ALLIES

“Only you and Kuai Liang for this mission?”

You eyed the blue clad and yellow clad assassins curiously as you walked into the room where the Lin Kuei trio typically sat when they were awaiting for Liu Kang. You pursed your lips as you walked right up in front of the two brothers, your gaze switching between them before they settled on Bi-Han. You crossed your arms as you watch Bi-Han’s gaze narrow.

“That should be more than enough.” Sub Zero replied gruffly, keeping his gaze on yours. It felt like a staring contest was always happening between you two. While most times you would entertain it, you instead searched his face. It was hard to tell whether Bi-Han was irritated, or if it was his grumpy face that he always wore, but from the years you knew him, you picked up on the tells.

This time, it was simply his natural face. 

“I’m not saying it’s not enough, I’m just surprised.” You replied smoothly as you moved your gaze from Bi-Han’s face to the arm you had patched up yesterday. You sighed as you pulled out the medical kit you had tucked away on your person. “I would have thought that the Grandmaster of the Lin Kuei would know how to regularly change his bandages.” You chided as you knelt beside where he was sitting.

“I know how to change my bandages, fool.” Sub Zero scoffed, but as usual let you come close to inspect the wound you had dressed. You let the insult go, you knew at this point any insults towards you were rarely meaningful. If he really hated you, he would have not even let you dress his wounds in the first place.

It was odd, before he used to be diligent about changing his own bandages. But nowadays it felt like he expected you to change it for him. 

Maybe it was because you started to patch him up for him instead of letting the cryomancer do it himself. It had bugged you, how often he left wounds unattended. Never had they turned into infections, but it irritated you to no end. So one day, you just began to do it for him, despite his initial protests.

Now it was like a routine between you two. It didn’t happen often, since Bi-Han had become more proficient in avoiding injuries, but it happened enough that it felt like a routine.

You gently removed the bloodied bandages from around his right bicep. You hummed as you noted how it was healing. Carefully, you brushed your fingers over the wound to see it had begun to scab over. You noted the odd way he seemed to tense at this, and sent him a small glance.

“Relax, I’m not going to stab you.” You teased, a small chuckle leaving your lips as you returned your gaze back to the wound. Even though you weren’t looking at him, you felt Bi-Han’s gaze burn into you. Maybe being the pyromancer would have fit him better with how searing his gaze was like. 

“As if you would get the chance.” He grumbled as he relaxed. You rolled your eyes as you carefully reapplied the bandages over the wound. Proud of yourself, you grinned as you pat the bandages on his bicep. 

“Done.” You declared as you stood back up. You saw Bi-Han sigh as he reluctantly nodded in acknowledgement. You turned your gaze towards the younger brother, sending Kuai Liang a soft smile. 

Strange, why did Bi-Han seem a bit irritated at your smile?

“Do you need any wounds of yours patched up while I’m at it?” You inquired as you walked over to stand in front of Scorpion. Returning your soft smile with one of his own, Kuai Liang shook his head, holding up a dismissive hand. His eyes sent an almost apologetic look towards you, as if apologizing for his brother.

“While appreciative, it is not necessary. I was not cut during the examination.” Kuai Liang reassured you with a small nod. You returned the nod, glad to hear the news. Still, your eyes roamed his body to see if he had any bruises that were beginning to bloom. 

“Good, I’m glad to hear it.” Your smile grew to a grin as you recalled the events of last night. The exam still buzzed in your head, and you could easily replay it in your head over and over. “Good performance, by the way. I didn’t get to tell you that yesterday.” 

“I was simply doing the job as required.” Kuai Liang humbly said, though you could see a hint of what you interpreted as bashfulness within his expression. You laughed. The Lin Kuei trio, so different, yet all people you held close to your heart. They were the ones you considered to be your friends, and you only hoped they returned the sentiment.

“Come, Lord Liu Kang is ready for the both of you.” You beckoned them to follow, and almost in sync they stood up and followed your lead. It was quiet for a few moments as the three of you walked through the Fire Temple. You felt like a leader of a pack, with Kuai Liang on your left and Bi-Han on your right. You briefly wondered if this is how Liu Kang often felt. “Were you both informed of what our mission is, and where we are going?” 

“From what I recall, we are going to California to recruit an actor and a swordsman to see if they will join Lord Liu Kang’s cause.” Scorpion piped up, and you nodded, pleased at how accurate his memory was. 

“It is unnecessary for all three of us to have to go.” Bi-Han commented. Despite his words seeming rough, you could sense he was only speaking his mind and not trying to insult Liu Kang…even if he could definitely word it better.

“It is probably for the best for all of us to go, just in case.” The younger brother interjected, sending his older brother a glance. “Lord Liu Kang has his own reasons.”

The conversation ground to a halt, and you felt the temperature drop around you three by a few degrees. 

You ignored it as you three arrived at the door of the room where Liu Kang was waiting. Best not to linger on that. 

You all had a mission to get to, after all.

So this was California.

You marveled at how different the city around you was. The buildings were so different. Everything was different. You took in the atmosphere as you basked in the small amount of time you all had to stand around before you had to go.

Even though the area you teleported too was on the quieter side, the area around you was so much busier than it was anywhere you’ve recently been. So many lights, noises…it was so foreign. You were so in awe you even let Bi-Han scoff at your amazement without glaring at him.

“Is it possible for you to confirm the location?” Liu Kang inquired, after calling your name. You blinked as you stepped forward to look towards the fire god. You nodded, pointing to a large fancy home up ahead.

“That one, correct, Lord Liu Kang?” You asked, eying the place. You watched as the fire god nodded approvingly. Jumping and leaping into the air, your form turned smoothly into that one a crow and you flew close to the house. 

You always enjoyed being a bird, feeling the wind in your feathers and the feeling of freedom it granted. Circling the house, you spotted how a wall was completely open, and you soared down towards that area, landing just behind the wall beside the pool. You noted the large floating plastic animals in the pool.

Interesting.

“Step one is selling this place.” A woman spoke. Curious, you tilted your head to peek barely in, seeing who you presumed to be Johnny Cage and a woman. Your head pulsed with the all too familiar headache as you peered at the man who paced inside the house. 

Your mind granted you a vision of a similar looking Johnny Cage, so you knew you were in the right place.

Who was the woman though? You peered at her, vaguely listening in on the argument between the duo. You didn’t even bother to hide yourself all too well behind the wall at this rate, they were too deep in their conflict. 

When you gazed at her, no sense of headache arose in your mind. You continued to eavesdrop, learning about the unfortunate circumstances befalling Johnny Cage and who you presumed was his wife with the conversation they were having. You nodded as the words they said confirmed your suspicions.

Cris…Wasn’t his wife supposed to be Sonya Blade?

Your head seemed to pound upon remembering that, and you winced. Sonya Blade…Sonya Blade… If only you had more time to interpret and unravel these memories when convenient, and not when you were on a mission!

Taking a mental note, you told yourself to write this down in your journal within the Fire Temple as soon as you got back.

Either way, you figured out that in this life, Johnny Cage was with a different woman.

You watched with a sense of pity as Cris walked out on Johnny…or John Carlton as you just learned. Although the man seemed distraught, you were surprised to see that he didn’t chase over his wife. You observed as he continued to drink, berating himself.

You felt guilty intruding on such a private moment. 

Your guilt vanished as you watched a swordsman enter the house, dressed in a suit. Carefully, you backed up behind the wall, but you were sure he probably wouldn’t have even seen you. Even without the pulsing of your mind, you knew who this man was due to Liu Kang: Kenshi Takahashi. You watched the beginnings of their confrontation before backing up.

That’s all you needed to know. 

With a quick flap of your wings, you got back into the air and flew back to the trio who were waiting right where you had left them. Landing on the ground, you stood up as you transformed back and no trace of the crow you had been was left.

“It’s the right location.” You began as you rolled your shoulders back, trying to bend your body back into shape. “Johnny Cage is confronting Kenshi Takahashi over a sword named Sento.” You informed Liu Kang, bowing as you told the fire god of what you had seen. 

“As expected.” Liu Kang said before nodding, a smile on his face. You took that as praise as you stepped around to take your spot again at his right side. “Come, the confrontation will be over soon.” With a nod from the others, you all strode down the hill over to Johnny Cage’s house.

Without hesitation, Liu Kang rang the doorbell as the four of you arrived in front of the front door. You looked around, noting how the house looked from the front instead of the back. It was much, much different than what you had been used to in the Fire Temple. 

Instinctively, you straightened your posture as you heard the door open. You stared forward at the perplexed face of Johnny Cage, holding back the amusement you wanted to let out. You had to look professional. Both of the Lin Kuei brothers stood behind you and Liu Kang. 

“What in the actual fu-”

“Good evening, Johnny Cage.” Liu Kang cut him off, his arms uncrossing as he bowed and introduced himself. Johnny recoiled at the action, looking confused as ever. “I am Liu Kang, protector of Earthrealm.” The fire god introduced himself, wasting no time. He gestured to the inside of the house. “May we enter?”

“Uh…” Johnny leaned over, peering at all of you suspiciously. “Nothing’s being shot here tonight. You sure you’re in the right place?” Johnny inquired, looking at all of you as if you were all crazy. 

“Yes.” Liu Kang answered seriously, nodding. “We come here on a matter of grave importance. We must speak to you and your guest.” 

“What?” Johnny seemed shocked at the mention of Kenshi, before squinting at the group in suspicion once more. He leaned close, dropping his voice to be closer to a whisper. “How do you know about him?” 

“Because I am the God of Fire.” Liu Kang responded, his voice holding an authoritative tone. Despite this, Johnny seemed to brush it off. You raised your eyebrows, surprised to see how quickly the man fell into denial. 

“Cris, you vixen. Nicely done.” You bit the inside of your cheek, feeling a pang of guilt in your chest. He thought his wife set him up for an odd prank. You looked away until he spoke up again. “Sure.” Johnny said, drawing out the word in such a way to make it obvious he didn’t believe a word of what Liu Kang had said. “Come on in.” And with that, he opened the door to welcome you all in. “Glowing eyes are a nice touch.”

You all entered the house, and you noted how it looked from this angle. Your eyes fell on the swordsman who was now tied to a chair next to the pool, and you were slightly surprised to see he had lost. You followed Liu Kang swiftly as you approached the tied up man.

“Kenshi Takahashi.” Liu Kang addressed the man. He stopped in front of Kenshi and crossed his arms in a disapproving way. “A tragic figure with a noble cause. Your actions this evening do you no credit.” Liu Kang even threw in a disapproving shake of his head.

“Who are these people?” Kenshi inquired, just as perplexed. You focused your eyes on the swordsman as the tiny voice in your head questioned how the man in front of you had his eyesight. It seemed that way, at least.

Past life. Right.

“You tell me, they’re your scene partners.” Johnny Cage answered back with a shrug, looking towards Liu Kang for an explanation.

“I also know of your struggles, Johnny Cage.” Liu Kang spoke, turning his gaze to Johnny Cage. You nodded subconsciously, having witnessed the struggles Johnny had through the argument he had with Cris. “I am here to offer you both a path forward.” 

“Dun. Dun. Dunnnn.” Johnny retorted dramatically, his carefree attitude shining through. He still didn’t believe the situation, and for a brief moment you recalled how this felt all too familiar. The actor let out a laugh, looking around. “C’mon guys. Let’s call this. Cris was a doll to set this up, but…” He shrugged as he scoffed. “As pranks go this one’s…eh…a bit obvious.” 

“This is no prank.” Liu Kang warned Johnny. He looked at you and spoke your name before gesturing towards Kenshi. “If you please.” You nodded as you strode over to Kenshi’s chair and knelt behind him. You observed the rope. Normally, you would transform your hand into claws to free the man, but you did not want to risk hurting Kenshi, especially with how thick this rope was, it was better to untie it.

You set to work untying it. You struggled, noting how strong and tight the knots were. Did Johnny Cage have experience in typing people up? You grimaced as you continued to try and untie the rope. You were so concentrated on the task in front of you, Johnny’s words didn’t register in your head. 

It wasn’t until he laid a hand on you until you noticed he had been talking to you.

Eyes wide open, you paused as you looked up in shock, your mind reeling as you tried to piece together whatever Johnny had been saying. His grip was strong, but it didn’t hurt. You were just confused at what he had been saying. 

You had no time to do so as you watched Bi-Han shoulder tackle Johnny off of you before sending him flying with a heavy kick.

“Bi-Han!?” You exclaimed, surprised at the sudden action from the cryomancer. You were stunned as you watched Johnny groan as he had a glass fixture drop on him. The grandmaster did not turn around to look at you, but you watched as Kuai Liang stride up, sending you a concerned look before looking towards his brother.

You were surprised that Kuai Liang did not tell him off. For a moment, the two brothers sent each other an unreadable look as they got into a fighting stance against the now angry Johnny Cage. You paused in your actions to watch the fight happen, confused at how it escalated so much. 

It had been an honest mistake on Johnny Cage’s part. 

Somehow, the actor knocked down the brothers. 

“I hope you’re insured, because you’re paying for my Hichuli.” Johnny huffed as he stared at the Lin Kuei duo who got up from the ground. You stood up, trying to speak up, but were cut off by Bi-Han’s outrage.

“Imbecile! You have no idea with whom you are dealing!” Bi-Han pointed towards Johnny Cage, seeming ready to go again and fight. You shook your head as you strode over to make Sub Zero calm down.

“Bi-Han-”

“ENOUGH!”

You jolted as you side stepped to avoid the burst of flames that emerged from Liu Kang. Loud beeping occurred for a second, and you winced at the noise. You sighed as you continued your walk over to Bi-Han, standing right next to him.

“Uh…” Johnny said, his eyes wide in disbelief as he had shielded away from the flame. “That’s no special effect.” He continued, and the look on his face told you that he was finally piecing things together. 

“Indeed, Johnny Cage.” You could not see Liu Kang’s face right now, but the tone he held said enough about the frustrated look he was sending the actor. The god of fire inhaled and turned to you three. You held the god’s gaze as he examined you before looking towards Scorpion. “Kuai Liang?” He inquired, gesturing towards Kenshi.

You watched as the younger brother walked away to finish the job of freeing Kenshi. As Liu Kang spoke to Johnny and Kenshi, you sent a perplexed and slightly angry glare at Bi-Han. Why had he been so aggressive? 

Yet, despite your glare, you didn’t think you were actually angry. Just mostly…confused.

Bi-Han, despite his knack for wanting staring contests with you, seemed very keen on ignoring your glare this time. You sighed as you looked away and focused on the conversation with Liu Kang. 

“All will be explained, Johnny Cage.” Liu Kang told Johnny Cage as Kenshi was untied and he got to stand up. “For now, what is important is that you both have been chosen to join its champions.” He said, now referring to both Johnny and Kenshi. 

“Why him?” Johnny pointed at Kenshi in confusion. “Or me, for that matter?” He asked, turning to look at Liu Kang with a perplexed look. 

“Because I have faith that you will rise to the challenge.” Liu Kang explains to the actor. “And because your service will change the arcs of your lives.” Liu Kang looked at the three of you and dismissed you all, allowing you to wait outside while he discussed the finer details with the two. Almost immediately, Bi-Han walked off, leaving you in the dust.

“I would advise to not take offense to his attitude.” Kuai Liang said as he stepped up to stand beside you. You sighed as you crossed your arms, looking towards the entrance. You shook your head as you looked towards the younger brother. 

“I’m not offended.” You clarified as you searched Kuai Liang’s expression. “Just…confused why he would do that.” You also had confusion on why Kuai Liang would also help him take down the actor, but you would chalk that up to the brotherly bond the two had…even if it felt like it was waning nowadays.

Memories of two brothers, one corrupted and inky like a shadow, and the other an icy grandmaster flashed in your mind.

You closed your eyes as you tried to push out those memories. It’s been years since you’ve first had them about the Lin Kuei since you’ve met them so long ago, but when you worried over the two, you were always reminded,

Damn these memories.

“I see.” Scorpion said, and although his words seemed final you could sense the hesitant tone in his voice. It was strange, but you assumed it was due to Scorpion’s manners. He was never one to make unnecessary comments. You turned to look at Liu Kang, to try and focus in on the fire god’s words to get your mind off of things.

Still, you felt the gaze of Kuai Liang burn into you.

Thankfully, the protector of Earthrealm quickly wrapped things up with the new recruits. He turned around, and there was a faint look of surprise to see that both you and Scorpion remained inside the manor. Regardless, he nodded and smiled at the two of you before exiting with the both of you in tow.

Outside, Bi-Han had been waiting, arms crossed as he leaned against the wall. His eyes were focused on the ground, and a furrow in his brow. He seemed deep in thought, but his demeanor quickly shifted as he heard the three of you approach. The cyromancer straightened up and came to attention, nodding.

“Excellent work, you three…even if there were some hiccups.” Liu Kang commended as you all followed him to the hill where he had initially teleported you three from. Liu Kang did not look towards Sub Zero, but you all knew who he had been referring to.

The walk back to the hill was silent. That wasn’t unusual, but the uneasy tension between the group certainly was. You held back a sigh as you continued to walk beside Liu Kang, trying to pretend like the source of the tension wasn’t you and Bi-Han.

You disliked this.

“You are all dismissed, thank you for your services.” Liu Kang thanked the three of you as you arrived back in the Fire Temple. Teleporting was always quick, and you were thankful for it. You nodded as you began to walk off. You needed to walk to clear your head. 

It wasn’t long after you set off that you heard your name be called. Surprised, you turned around and stood still. You blinked as you watched Kuai Liang jog over to you, nodding as he came to a stop in front of you.

“Would you mind if I accompanied you?” The pyromancer inquired, and you furrowed your eyebrows in confusion. While it was not uncommon that you had been on walks with the assassins before, it was odd to have it occur after a mission.

“Are you not going with Bi-Han back to the clan?” You inquired, crossing your arms as you shifted your weight to one leg. You scanned Kuai Liang’s face, searching for any sort of answer. He shook his head, and you were genuinely surprised.

“I asked brother if I were allowed to stay for a bit. He was fine with it.” Scorpion answered, and you hummed. Odd, but Kuai Liang was anything but a liar. You nodded, shrugging.

“Alright, I don’t see why not.” You said, curious why he had wanted to stay. Was it just to talk to you? That felt a little ridiculous, but you didn’t know what else it could be. A slight expression of relief settled on the assassin’s face as he moved to your side. 

“Thank you.” He said, and you waved off the words. You didn’t see why he’d be thanking you for something so simple.

“Don’t mention it.” You said, and then the two of you walked off. You tried to not think about the odd scenario, but it ended up haunting you as you walked. You lasted about five minutes before you let out a sigh and turned to face Kuai Liang, arms crossing. “Okay, I’ll say it. Why are you here exactly? I’m not ungrateful for your presence, it’s just that I can tell that you came here for a reason.”

“You are perceptive as usual.” Scorpion praised, and you both accepted the compliment, but also wanted him to get to the point already. “I just wanted to see if you were feeling alright. I could sense you were upset with brother and…”

“While appreciated, you do not need to make up for your brother’s actions.” You said quickly, wanting to stop Kuai Liang from going on. You sighed, sending him a weary, but grateful smile. “Look, I know you are close with Bi-Han, but I don’t want our conversations to revolve around him. We’ve known each other for years, I consider you a friend, and I want to be able to talk to you, Kuai Liang, not Bi-Han’s brother.”

For the first time in perhaps forever, you saw a look of surprise on Kuai Liang’s face. With a moment of hesitation, he nodded. He put on a small smile, seeming genuinely grateful for your words.

“Alright, then let me, Kuai Liang, accompany you on this walk.” 

“Good, I’m glad.” You grinned at him as you both set off on your walk. You walked on, feeling more relaxed and relieved now. Words were exchanged here and there, but with Kuai Liang, you didn’t really need words. The two of you could bask in a comforting silence together.

 Still, the memories from earlier still flew around in your mind like an annoying fly. Sensing this, you noticed Kuai Liang’s concerned look.

“I’m fine.” You lied, a worried feeling filling your mind as you looked at the man who often haunted your memories. Your heart squeezed as you looked back ahead. As much as you wanted to confide in anyone, someone about your memories, you couldn’t. Or rather, you didn’t. 

No one needs the burden of the memories that plague you. Of the knowledge of other “lives” they had lived, especially since you did not even know whether these visions were even memories themselves. You just assumed it, seeing as they all seemed to follow a life you once lived. 

Even though you spent time pondering these visions with Liu Kang, you only did so in the most desperate times now. The fire god had no idea just how many more memories you had unlocked that he was unaware of. That whole dilemma leaves a guilty imprint on your soul. 

Still, the honest and welcoming dark eyes of Kuai Liang was tempting. For a moment, you opened your mouth, wanting to confess how worried you were over the trio of brothers. How you knew of a world where they all were torn apart by death and corruption.

Of how he was the only one alive of the three of them by what you could remember.

You couldn’t though. That knowledge wasn’t fair. Plus, there was no way to explain anything well. You’d just seem like a hallucinating amnesiac, and you didn’t need one of your friends thinking of you that way.

“I’m just thinking about how Johnny and Kenshi will fare during training.” You continued to lie. Despite the momentary guilt, your mind did turn to the new topic with open arms. Ah, right, you were going to be in charge of their training. Or at least, somewhat. You still haven’t discussed that whole ordeal with Liu Kang yet.

You really had to get on that.

“I have a feeling the swordsman will be competent.” Kuai Liang mused, his head tilting to the side as he spoke aloud. “The actor, I fear, will be a challenge.” The yellow clad assassin confided in you, and you let out a small chuckle. “I have faith in you that you will be able to instruct them, regardless of the difficulty.”

“How is it that even when you’re insulting someone, you make it sound somewhat eloquent?” You inquired, grinning at the man. Though he did not have a grin that stretched from ear to ear, you could see the subtle smile on his lips. He seemed pleased with himself, and it was a sight you were blessed to see. “Thanks, still, I’m honored to have you think so highly of me.”

“There is no reason to think so, the high regard I have within you is rightfully earned.” Scorpion replied. You looked away, letting out another laugh, though this one was more bashful. Did this man know how he sounded? You couldn’t tell.

“Okay, okay, stop flattering me before I suspect that you want something from me.” You said, managing to find the words to respond to him after the high compliment he gave you, deciding to play off the warm feeling you got from all this as lighthearted. You felt outdone, not knowing how to make him feel the same way he made you feel after his praise. 

“I hope you know I am serious about the praise I give you, but I shall relent.” Scorpion said, the serious tone he seemed to always have was prominent in his tone. You swallowed as you nodded. You knew. Kuai Liang was never one to play around, especially with the feelings of those close to him.

You wished he did though, just for this one moment, so you could pretend that the words he told you didn’t affect you as much as they did.

“You are too kind, Kuai Liang.” You murmur as you find yourself back at the Fire Temple. The walk had gone faster than expected. You supposed that’s what good company does. You watched as the Lin Kuei assassin stopped at the entrance, and for a moment you found yourself slightly saddened at this.

“I am only saying the truth.” He replied. For a moment, you saw him tense, as if considering something. Instead, he nodded as he stared at you with an expression you couldn’t quite understand. You opened your mouth, considering asking him what he was thinking, but thought better of it.

You weren’t certain if you could handle the answer.

“Goodnight, Kuai Liang.”

“Goodnight.” You smiled at the quaint way he spoke your name, and waved him off. You watched him walk off before turning around and walking to the area where you would usually watch the sunrise.

The moon hung high in the sky now, basking you in the moonlight. Your eyes closed as you took in everything that happened recently. Your fingers tapped along the wooden railing, tracing along the grain. The cool breeze passed you by. You had a lot to think about.

part four

[matan4il]

Update post:

Today marks 123 days since Hamas launched the war in Gaza with its massacre of Israeli civilians.

There were two terrorist attacks today in Israel, both stopped before anyone was injured. The first entails Palestinians from the West Bank shooting at a home in kibbutz Meirav in the Gilboa mountains (where the Israelite king Shaul and his sons died 3,000 years ago), the house was damaged, but no person was hurt. This kibbutz was attacked several times along 2023. The second was in the city of Shchem (you might know it as Nablus, the Arab mispronunciation of the Greek word 'Neapolis,' because Arabic doesn't have the sound 'p'), I'm attaching the pic of the gun and knife which were found on the terrorist after he was neutralized. I found reports about them on two Israeli websites (Ha'aretz and Now14), but both are in Hebrew. The latter also mentions a rock throwing terror attack earlier today, against the car of a woman named Rachel Yaniv. Her brothers, Halel and Yagel Yaniv, were murdered by Palestinian terrorists almost a year ago.

We got the info today on an Iranian attempt on the lives of Jewish leaders in Stockholm, that was stopped in 2021. These terrorists, believed to be linked to the IRGC, infiltrated Sweden under the guise of Afghan refugees, and were deported (rather than put on trial) in 2022. This is a small reminder that the Islamist axis led by Iran, and which includes the terrorist organizations it funds (including Hamas, Hezbollah and the Houthis), as well as countries that chose to align themselves with Iran against the west, such as Qatar, is not anti-Zionist, it IS antisemitic.

In an Israeli TV interview conducted in Arabic, an Israeli journalist asked the right hand man of Palestinian Authority's president Mahmoud Abbas, whether he's willing to denounce the Oct 7 massacre. He didn't. Instead, he insisted that the occupation is the source of all this violence (even though terrorist attacks against Jews in Israel by Arabs predate both the war in 1967, which used to be defined as the start of "the occupation," and the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948), and that as long as the occupation continues, so will such acts [as the Oct 7 massacre].

As part of the campaign against the antisemitism and bias at the BBC, an employee who called the Jews Nazis, and denied the Holocaust, has finally been fired.

Israel's most popular sketch comedy show decided to tackle UNRWA with this funny short vid:

In the segment where the UNRWA teacher shows how he teaches biology, history and English using Hitler's Mein Kampf, on the left side of the wall behind the "teacher" you can see the lyrics of a song titled Fedayeen (a term used for Egypt-funded Palestinian terrorists who attacked Israelis in the 1950's), and the pics of two Hamas leaders who are heading the war in Gaza now, Yahya Sinwar and Mohammed Deif ('deif' is a nickname, his real name is Mohammed al-Masri, a last name that literally means "the Egyptian," so guess where his family is originally from).

Jewish singer Montana Tucker proved she's the bravest artist from among countless performers who attended the biggest American entertainment award shows recently, as she wore an enlarged version of the yellow ribbon to bring the Israeli hostages back home to the Grammys. She didn't just speak up for her people, she made sure everyone would hear her. She's been regularly speaking up for Israelis and Jews since Oct 7.

The ceremony also included a nice gesture to the over 400 people in Israel who were either murdered at or kidnapped from the Nova music festival on Oct 7. Taylor Swift broke yet another music industry record, so this is a good time to remind everyone that there are several Hamas leaders who are each individually richer than her. It pays more to kill Jews, than to be one of the most successful musicians ever (her net worth is estimated at about 1 billion dollars).

This is 19 years old Idan Alexander.

His mom Yael recounted how cool he was in every given situation, and how proud his family was of him, when he told them that he intends to leave New Jersey and make Alyiah. Moving to Israel of course meant he'd have to serve in the army, too. On Oct 7, Yael got to talk to him, and hear that he has seen some horrible things already. She knew something was off, because unlike his usual behavior, he sounded stressed. Idan was kidnapped by Hamas, and it took 6 days before the family even learned whether he's alive or dead. He's been in captivity for 4 months now.

(for all of my updates and ask replies regarding Israel, click here)

[padfootdaredmetoo]

I love your Harry Potter x Peaky Blinders crossover!! The idea of Harry growing up as Tommy's son is amazing!! And just imagining book one with Harry having the attitude/life experience of growing up around the Peaky Blinders is incredible! Also the mental image of little first year Harry Potter insisting on wearing a peaky cap like his family is adorable!!!!!! If you ever wrote more of that universe I'll be eternally grateful<3

Hey Anon,

Again I'm so so sorry this took forever. Thank you for writing in and I'm happy that you enjoyed the story! Hope this blurb makes you just as happy.

Warnings: Mentions of death, boys fighting

You were tucked in your closet clutching a sticky half-drunk bottle of sweet wine. Tears were stinging your eyes as you thought over just how difficult things were. Sirius was trying his best to adjust, but his hollow figure and quiet nature was heartbreaking. He did his best to listen when you would talk to him but you would see his mind wander regularly. He’d cry at night, about James, Lily, Regulus, Marlene, no different than you or Remus. 

The dinner was a disaster and you were wondering how you would make these two very different lives mesh together. Looking up at the yellowing lightbulb hanging from the ceiling you said a silent prayer. Your eyes landed on a small pink floral picture box on the top shelf of the closet. 

You got up craving the familiar sting of comfort mixed with pain. Opening the box you carefully sorted through what was left of your friends and family from that lifetime. Photos, letters, ribbons, tickets, and candy wrappers. The box was so colorful, filled with laughing smiling faces, and yet things felt so dark and cold. 

You picked up a letter from Lily, in the brief time she had after school had finished. She was upset that her sister had sent her a mean letter. It didn't matter how many nasty things or how much time Petuna had been removed from her life, these things always cut Lily deeply. She complained about how her sister had bought the house near her childhood home, and how Lily wasn't invited to the wedding. You recalled the comforting letter that you had sent her. Reassuring her that she would be your maid of honor when the time came. 

You started to wonder if Petuna still lived in that house. From what you knew of her, you strongly doubted she would move after living on the same street her whole life. If she was there, Harry was there too. While Dumbledore had said you had to leave him there, you pulled the thick purple envelope from the stack of worn papers. You technically had custody…. 

You could drive there tomorrow and visit, just to ensure the boy was alright. No harm would be done by checking up on him. 

You dried your eyes, and the pain of the current stressors in your life shifted to the back of your mind as you embraced your new mission. 

You told Tommy the plan lying next to him in the dark. He’d found you in the closet crying not too long after you had made your decision. 

“I’ll go with you.” He said kissing the top of your head. You thought of all the meetings and things he had planned for tomorrow.  

“You don't have to, I could see if the boys want to go.” You thought of how Sirus would react and realized that might not be the best idea. 

“Let's scope the place out before we kidnap the boy eh?” He chuckled. “Figure out what we are getting ourselves into, then tell Sirus.” 

Guilt swirled in the pit of your stomach. You hated keeping things from your friends, however, Sirius was temperamental these days. He was trying to figure out what life without James was like. Once he picked Harry up there was nothing that would stand between him and the boy. Dumbledore’s warnings rang through your mind. 

“We will sort it, we always do,” Tommy murmured before falling asleep. You tried to follow him, but for once you were the one left awake with ghosts swimming in your eyes. 

________________________________________

You wore a nice dress and were happy that Tommy, a muggle was accompanying you. Thomas was their kind of people and it should put them at ease. You had called ahead and after a rather rude discussion, they had agreed for you to come by. 

You watched their eyes absorb the wealth that oozed off of you and Thomas. You certainly caught them off guard. Once you saw the little face poke out from behind a wall at the end of the hall something inside you shifted. 

The big green eyes of your childhood best friend peered up at you hesitantly. Dark bags lay under his eyes, his skin too pale. He had a large red mark on his cheek and a cut above his eyebrow. Anger swelled inside you as the boy visibly shook. 

“Harry, say hello.” Vernon barked. “He’s a slow talker. Been to lots of doctors” Vernon fumbled in his excuses clearly caught up in winning Tommy’s approval. You moved past Petuna’s skeletal frame and watched the boy take a step back from you. His clothes were too big making him look even skinnier if it was possible. 

You opened your hands to him and he reluctantly toddled towards you. You pulled the boy up to your chest bringing those haunted green eyes eye level with your own. 

“Hey, Harry.” The boy gave a little nod showing that he had heard you. “I’m a friend of your parents.” You said softly. The boy’s face perked up with interest as a small stuffed horse came into your line of vision. Thomas handed the small boy a white horse. 

“Should name him Shadowfax” you mumbled more to yourself than anyone else. It was a stupid reference, you didn’t know why you said it. The memory of listening to Remus reading the Lord of the Rings to the group in the boy's dorm crushed you. Who read Harry's stories at night? Did they read to him at all? 

A wave of hysteria washed over you. Thomas with his cold mask in place put his arm around you and started to lead you out of the cramped entry hallway and out into the front yard. He opened the car door for you and commanded you to get into the car. 

There was a short and curt conversation by the door but you were too absorbed in looking down at the boy. 

The three of you sat in silence the whole journey back to Arrow House. You had brought lots of water and treats along for the ride and Harry wasted no time eating them. His hands were sticky with jam and you tried to wipe it off with a handkerchief. 

The car parked and the realization of what had happened hit you. People, Dumbledore, would surely be on his way. So many questions and conversations would have to be had. 

Harry’s laugh brought your attention back to the cab of the car. Tommy had taken off his hat and placed it on Harry’s head. The hat had slipped forward causing the boy to laugh. The sound was enough to cure any sadness. You let out a laugh as he pushed it back up his face for the thing to fall forward immediately. 

What ever happened you could sort it out. 

_______________________________________________________________________________

Harry was an abnormally easy child as long as you were holding on to him. Esme had brought over some clothes for him, and some toys. Tommy had handled all the phone calls for you. Leaving you to get Harry washed and dressed. You wrapped him in a big linen blanket before settling on the couch in Tommy’s office. You started to read The Hobbit to him in a soft voice. 

The boy had one arm around his horse and the other hand fisted in your blouse. You felt his body go limp as he drifted off to sleep. The door to the study opened and you jumped at the sound. Sirius rushed into the room with the fire that used to surround him. His eyes were bright and teary. He sat on the couch next to you before putting his arm around you. His face hidden in your neck. 

A sob shook through him and you tried your best to comfort him. Remus slumped into the spot next to him looking worn and unprepared. After a long moment of silence, you continued to read aloud from the book. After a long while Sirius finally sat up. Harry let out a squawk and you watched how everyone came back to life around you. Sirius and Remus both fawned over the boy. 

You handed the boy to Sirius and for a moment you wondered if he would ever put Harry down again. 

“I suppose he will come home with me then?” Sirius said while bouncing Harry on his lap. 

“Wh-” Before you could answer Thomas had stepped in. 

“Figured it would be best to do this the traditional way. A village and whatnot. You can take the cottage at the end of the property or stay in the house.” 

Your head spun to look at him then back to Sirus to see how he would respond. Sirius got up and extended a hand to Thomas. They shook hands, silently ending a feud that had been hanging over you since you got Sirius released. 

“I’ve gone over the paperwork you have done, to my understanding you have custody regardless of what this Dumbledore has to say. Remus can you look over it to see if I’ve missed anything.” 

Remus gave him and nod and the two of them started to discuss the paperwork and magical law over Tommy’s desk. Sirius leaned against the back of the couch as Harry drifted off again. The firelight shining against Sirius’s face was soft and warm enough to almost hide the damage he had suffered. For a moment he looked like the boy that you grew up with, back in the common room. 

His eyes opened and flashed to you. 

“Wot?” You said quietly. 

“I didnt think he would let you keep him here.” Sirius whispered. 

“Why?” 

“Well, it's all fancy, maids and nonsense.” Sirius waved his hand. Suddenly his reluctance to your new life made more sense. 

“Thomas knows what it’s like to be a kid like Harry. He wouldn’t let it happen to someone else if he could help it.” Anger was starting to swell in your chest. 

Sirius thought about things for a moment. 

“What do you mean?” He asked in an interested voice, free of the usual judgment reserved for Tommy. 

“Sirius, Tommy built all of this” You waved your hand around. “This isn't family money or status. He made his way in life, you might not like how he got here, but he is fair.” 

Sirius thought about your words staring back at the fire before a smile crept across his face. 

“Might have misjudged him.” He said quietly suddenly looking at his fingernails. You punched his arm getting even more frustrated when he barked a laugh. “I guess this place just reminded me of my parents a little, he’ll never be good enough for you.” He paused for a long moment before sighing. “But I will say he’s trying to be and I respect that.” 

You smile at him and finally felt that he was home from Askaban. It took some effort but soon everyone had settled into Arrow house. 

Dumbledore came and helped with the protective enchantments. You and him struck up an agreement that so long as Voldemort was gone Harry could stay. However, once he started his comeback Harry would have to go back to the Dursleys. You shook on it, knowing full well that you would never let it happen. 

_________________________________________________________________

Harry got put through another round of hugs as his large family stood on the platform. He was glad that his cousins and most of the family stayed home having said their goodbyes the night before. 

Polly crushed him in her arms leaving a smudge of pink lipstick on his forehead. He watched as Sirus struggled to stay calm, Remus looked a mix of excitement and his usual sadness. Harry had been up most of the night with his Godfather listening to all sorts of stories about Hogwarts. Harry was excited to see everything for himself, but he would have to admit he didnt like the feeling of being away from his family. Saying goodbye to Sirus was hard, and Harry could feel the anxiety radiating off of him. 

You hugged him next, you had the same sort of anxiety radiating off of you. Your arms made a painful lump form in his throat. You kissed the top of his head. 

“See you at Christmas, love. Whatever Siruis told you to do.” You put both hands on his shoulders and looked down at him with a hard eye. “Don't.” You smiled and Tommy came and gave him a quick hug. 

Tommy placed his cap on his head and Harry froze. 

“For good luck. Stay out of trouble alright.” He said it in a firm voice but winked at Harry. 

He got on the train and felt a strange sense of panic wash over him. He was excited, his parents sat on this train just like he did. But as far back as Harry could think he had never been on his own before. There were always people at Arrow House, just outside his bedroom. Always games to be played with his cousins, always someone telling stories. 

He was on his own. 

He pulled open the glass door of a compartment. He tossed his heavy trunk up into the shelf above the seats. He pressed his face up against the glass and waved at his family before they faded out of view.  

Someone knocked on the glass and he saw a redheaded boy, with worn clothes.  

“Can I sit here?” 

“Yeah, sure.” Harry was slightly hesitant. He was always hypervigilant of strangers, he knew what could happen and go wrong with outsiders. The heavy cap on his head gave him an added sense of security. His fingers came up and ran gently along the rim of the hat. No blades. But that could be easily fixed if Harry felt he needed some. 

“Woah, you're Harry Potter.” He scrunched up his nose for a moment, before nodding. Sirius said it would happen. He thought the name sounded funny after being referred to as a Shelby all the time. 

“That’s me,” Harry said wondering how the boy would react to him.

“Ron Weasley.” The boy stuck out his hand and Harry shook it. He thought of how Sirius had met James on the train and smiled brightly hoping that maybe Ron would also become a lifelong friend. 

_________________________________________________________

Everyone was stuffed into the hallway, some kids looking nervous, others looking excited. When Harry saw a particular blonde-haired boy he knew right away they wouldn't get along. The boy had a mean sneer on his face as his eyes locked onto Ron. Harry was ready, his fists balled properly. He knew that he would have to assert himself quickly, it’s what Tommy would do if he was here. 

The blonde boy moved towards them with a strut in his walk. 

“Weasly. Surprised they another one of your lot in here.” Harry noted the posh accent and it made his blood boil even more. He hated people like this, whether that came from Sirius or Tommy, he wasn't sure. Harry made a quick assessment of the two larger boys that hung off of the small boy's shoulders. 

If he was going to hit him he would probably take a beating, but that shows bravery, right? Harry listened as the boy started to list off, rather loudly about how poor Ron’s family was. He looked as Ron’s face got redder and redder, his own hands balled into fists. Harry figured he would know what to do then. 

The boy took a sharp step towards Ron and by instinct, Harry took his hat in hand and started to beat on the blonde-haired boy. There was a satisfying crunch of his nose and Harry figured that a crooked nose would teach him not to be rude.  

The other two boys started to lay down upon him, his ribs burned and he took it without crying or fussing. 

He pushed himself up off of the floor and started to round on one of the boys. He doubled over when Harry hit him hard in the stomach.  

“Boys! BOYS!” A stern Scottish voice called out. Harry took a step back and looked up at the woman, who surprisingly looked exactly as Sirius had described her.  Minnie. 

She grabbed his shoulder tightly, stepping in between the boys. 

“You will behave for this ceremony, or you will be sent home.” She paused for a moment to let her words sink in. “Now we will talk about punishments after.”

She glared down at them over the top edge of her glasses before ushering them into the great hall. 

Anxiety gripped him tightly until the hat shouted he would be in Gryffindor. Just like his parents, he took a breath and settled into the castle. 

__________________

You were tired and missing Harry. Tommy was feeling the same way as he poured over his paperwork. You sat on the couch next to Polly as she tried to teach you how to crochet. You knew she was trying to give you a project to save you from empty nest syndrome. She understood why Harry had to go but she wasn't pleased about it in the slightest. 

Your fingers kept getting tangled in the yarn and you wondered when her patience would wear thin enough that she would let you give up. The door swung open and all three of you jumped. 

“He’s already in trouble,” Remus said as Sirius handed you a letter. Your eyes ran over the paper. A fight with another first-year? 

“A fight with another boy?” You murmured. 

“Malfoy” Sirius added in a dark tone.  

“Oh,” You weren't sure how you felt but were relieved to know that you and Sirus had been summoned. 

“Aren't they death munchers or whatever” Arthur had also entered the room and you were surprised he remembered that. Sirius snorted at the mistake. 

“Good on him. He’s got to assert himself right away with that crowd.” Polly said with urgency. 

“Exactly,” Thomas said with a nod. “He needs to show he’s not soft in case Voldy-whatever comes back.” 

Esme and John came in and also started to make their arguments for not being soft in a school that size. What they should do to the Malfoy family in retaliation to show that his family would back Harry magic or not. 

“Let’s go and see what’s this about before we start threatening people,” You said trying to get the yarn untangled from your hands. 

You could tell that Tommy wanted to go, he was a father figure to Harry. You asked Sirus quietly as you walked towards the front door.  He gave a nod and you called out for Tommy. 

The three of you walked through the night to the cottage, as it had the only fireplace connected to the flu network. 

___________________________

He got in a good deal of trouble for starting the fight. The boy’s father came through the giant green flames in the fireplace. Harry took a breath about to claim that his parents should also be summoned but seeing your face emerge from the flames he thought perhaps it was better that you weren't involved. 

Sirius also followed through the fireplace. Harry could tell that he was not pleased. Then to his surprise, Tommt came through. He could tell that the Malfoys were already making judgments.

“Now-” Dumbledore started then Draco quickly interrupted. 

“He started it! I was walking up just like everyone else and he attacked me!” His voice was whiney and Harry felt that the boy's behavior had already gotten him out of trouble with his family. 

Harry took a breath and let his face fall like Tommy’s was. 

“Look, I don’t know what your problem with Ron is, but I won’t sit around and watch people throw slurs.” He shifted his gaze from Malfoy to the fire. “Plus, three-on-one is a coward's move.” He smiled smugly as both the boy and his father got angry. 

“My son was assaulted.” The man shouted viciously. Harry felt triumphant, he was calm and cool and they looked positively deranged. 

“Your son deserves-” Harry started but Sirius clamped his hand down on Harry’s shoulder. Harry was conflicted on one hand he thought Sirius would be happy he was like his father, but instead he got the feeling all of you would be giving him a long lecture. 

“Now, I want this boy expelled or I’ll be forced to go the ministry. He’s dangerous.” Malfoy spat at Dumbledore. 

“I hardly think a conflict between 11-year-old boys needs ministry intervention.” To Harry’s surprise, it was Tommy who spoke. “Harry will apologize, and I assume that someone at the school possesses the magical ability to correct the boy’s nose?” 

There was silence in the room. When no one else said anything he continued.  “My son won’t tolerate whatever agenda that boy is pushing, so for everyone’s safety I would recommend he keeps his thoughts to himself before things like this escalate past broken noses.” 

His eyes locked with Malfoy's father’s. Harry could feel the power radiating off of Tommy’s glare, he could tell that the other man would back down. 

“Harry apologize.” You spoke clearly. 

“I’m sorry I broke your nose,” Harry said in a flat tone trying to sound like Tommy. The two men were still glaring at each other when eventually the man gripped the boy's shoulder in a way that almost made Harry flinch. 

“I’m sorry I spoke about your friend that way.” Draco looked scared and Harry felt sorry for the boy. 

“Well, all that’s left is punishment,” Dumbledore spoke softly. “This will be determined by your head of house, and approved by me.” The man looked slightly amused and Harry wanted to know why. 

“I would like to speak with Harry before we leave.” You stated and Dumbledore nodded. Sirius guided Harry into the hallway, where you and Tommy followed. 

“Punishments here are no joke, so I would get that temper under control before your quidditch years,” Sirus said sternly. Harry gave him a nod. 

“No more hitting. Older students-” 

“Don’t tolerate whatever shit that boy was pushing. Not ever, not for a moment.” Tommy interrupted you. “That nonsense has hurt this family enough.” 

Tommy bent down to look at Harry. “You need to be smart about how you navigate this, you're not like everyone else. The reputation you need to build here can’t be won with violence. A time is going to come when you will get a chance to fight. But this is the time to make friends, find out who you can trust. And learn everything you can about people like them.” His voice was low and dark. Harry didnt know what exactly he was referring to, but he believed him. He would be more careful. 

Tommy gave him a hug and then he listened to you and Sirius before getting more hugs. He felt sad as his family departed into the fireplace. 

________________

Harry got settled into his bed after talking with Ron. He could see the bruise forming where Ron had been hit, and he was glad that Ron’s family hadn’t been called.

He missed his bed. He missed how you would still come and read to him before bed. Looking up at the beams supporting the curtains he could see a little set of antlers carved into the wood. His heart lept at the thought that perhaps this could have been his father’s bed. With his thoughts wandering he realized that Tommy had referred to him as his son in the meeting. He felt conflicted about how much that meant to him. Sirius never crossed those boundaries, out of respect for him or his father he wasn’t sure. He was a Godson. You always said all the things a mother would say but still never assumed the title of his mother. 

Tommy had said, son. 

Perhaps that would make his parents happy. Maybe they could see how many people loved him. He hoped they knew.

[gabriel-xander]

Don't Forget

[Sans x Female!Reader]

1: Welcome to the Underground (How Was the Fall?)

♪───✿⁠(⁠✧◕⁠ᴗ⁠◕✧⁠)✿⁠────♪

All you do is stare up at the small, small circle of light above you. Your breathing is slow and steady, and one of your hands is on your stomach right underneath your titties. The other is resting down on the ground, softly feeling the large, yellow flower petals beneath you that had broken your fall. You honestly don’t know how long you’ve been lying there. You can’t bring yourself to get up either. You feel… so peaceful.

It’s a little chilly here, but not so much that it makes you want to bundle up, but cool enough that it’s pleasant. Honestly, you’re tempted to close your eyes and take a nap right where you are. The only reason that you don’t is because this is not a normal situation you have found yourself in. That, and the throbbing pain of your right leg that is slowly bleeding out onto the gold flowers (though it was not lethal that you had to be seriously concerned).

Well, actually. This is not the weirdest thing you’ve experienced before. There was this one time you got stabbed as a prank when you were seventeen, but you tried not to think about it too hard. Mainly because you also stabbed that punk back but that was six years ago! No use in dwelling in what once was.

Still.

Somehow falling into a dark Chasm at the top of the mountain? That somehow beats that time you fought God (your parole officer) in the Denny’s parking lot. Is this your attempt to repress the seriousness of this situation with humor?

Yes.

Because you don’t fucking know what the hell happened that ended you up in this situation.

──

You fix your dress and scrunch up your nose at your reflection, trying and failing to pose in the comfort of your bedroom inside your apartment. It’s not… typically something you would wear regularly. Still, your friend, Elliot, had gifted it to you for your birthday not too long ago, so you might as well use it now. He’s a friend you made in your second year of University, and you two have been pretty close since.

If you were honest with yourself, you would’ve NEVER thought you could make it to where you are now. You’re currently in your last year at Northern Arizona University, and applying to get accepted into a graduate school. You’re almost done with the last year to get your bachelor's degree in Biology, and the last semester is just around the corner. You went to community college at eighteen for two years but afterward took a year off before attending University for the next two years.

It’s a little unorthodox, but it’s much cheaper and better pacing for yourself. After all, you know that getting your doctorate’s is going to kick your fucking ass. You’re not in a rush for that crap, so no, you have no issue with taking your time. Doing all this just to be a surgeon is a lot of work! If your dad had taught you anything, it is to take a break when things start to get too much. There’s no use in stressing yourself out too much to the point of self-destruction, after all.

Anyway, you met Elliot when taking an elective and were sitting next to each other in class. He was a little shy at first, but when he realized you were just as mentally ill as he was, you two got along great. As you two kept hanging out, naturally you’d adopt certain habits from each other.

For example: his fashion taste.

The dress he picked out for you is more “cozy, mid-autumn weather” core than your usual “I am surviving off of cocaine and ecstasy but I’m trying to look good” core, you know? It’s not bad, by all means. You’re sporting a light and dark brown striped dress that hangs a bit close to your figure with the skirt stopping mid-thigh. The sleeves were very short and only covered your shoulders and the neckline was low and round, so you wore a white, button-up shirt underneath it. You would’ve gone full white woman’s Instagram and put on some panty-hoes as well, but Arizona weather is the fucking worst. You knew that it would get hot later even though it was nearing the end of December (in the year 201X), so you ditched the panty-hose and slipped on black ankle boots.

Look at you, so fucking fancy. University life is turning you into a bad bitch who drinks coffee from Dutch Bros and looks out the window so you can seem mysterious and sexy.

You nod at your reflection, looking around your room for a moment to find your small, crossbody purse. Making sure you have everything you need in that bag, you leave swiftly without looking back.

──────

Elliot… had gone ahead before you!!! You just got off the phone with the guy and he had gone up the mountain while waiting for you!

You’ll admit that you were running late by 30 minutes, but only because you grabbed a drink from the store for you both! Granted you drank both of the cold drinks during the ride because you got lost in thought-

Anyway! It’s not unusual for Elliot to go on ahead of you sometimes whether on purpose or accident. You don’t take it personally, you just need to catch up with him. You put your phone in your purse and sled it on before leaving the car. Your poor, poor car. It’s going to break down eventually, you just know it. It’s been through way too much shit, but she’s still running.

You begin walking up the faded trail, definitely a legal and legitimate trail, and not one that you and Elliot made for yourselves because you guys know a good spot up the mountain that is off-limits. Still, you never actually went up the mountain alone before, it was always with Elliot–you never had to really pay attention to where you were going.

This is not falling in your favor at the moment.

It doesn’t help that the sun was rapidly setting already even though it’s only a little after 5 pm. You swear you’re not dumb, your intelligence is just a fucking roller coaster: sometimes it’s REALLY high, and other times it’s embarrassingly low. Not waiting for Elliot to come back down the mountain so he could walk with you back up the mountain is certainly one of your dumber moves in the book.

Not as dumb as that one time you challenged the bouncer at a club to a dance battle to let you in because you forgot your ID at home and couldn’t prove you were 22. No, no, no. You have a full arsenal of moronic things you’ve done in the past. (Spoilers: you did NOT win that dance battle.)

You don’t know how long you’ve been walking up the mountain. You lost the faint trail a while ago and had pulled out your phone’s flashlight to light your way and not trip and eat shit.

“I fucking hate it here…!” You grumble under your breath, “This is the last time I go out on a school night.”

You raise up your flashlight and stop walking. You’re… You seem to be a lot higher than you originally thought. You’re definitely not where you should be. You’re not a professional hiker, or someone who is knowledgeable in nature and crap. But you’ve learned enough to see signs of anything walking through an area, or man-made tracks via the dirt or on the trees. This place hasn’t been touched in a long time.

You turn on your phone to call Elliot, but you don’t have any bars or a signal. Shit. This might be a good time to go back down, but… Ah, you’re a little excited to see where this adventure takes you! You know the ins and outs of this city, and you rarely explore outside the mountainside you and Elliot frequent. You’re going to feel bad about it, but you’re sure Elliot will be fine waiting for you a little longer as you explore this side.

The air is getting colder now, you must’ve misunderstood the weather for today since it’s not usually this cold at this time. Your legs, your beautiful legs, are beginning to feel the consequences of you not wearing an extra layer of clothes. You don’t know how long you’ve been going up, but it was, surprisingly, not as tiring as you thought it would be. You didn’t realize you’d reached the top until the light from the moon was brighter than your phone. You put it back in your purse, smiling and taking a deep breath.

No, this isn’t the very top of the mountain, but a particular summit on this uncharted trail. You notice a strange, large something a few meters from you, but you decide to keep away from it because you’re not white like that. You still want that break though, so you remove your purse from your person and set it down. You lay down on the green grass, staring up at the beautiful stars.

You start humming to yourself, feeling comfortable enough to do so since there shouldn’t be anyone for miles.

“LA la LA laaa,” You grin to yourself, thinking how awkward it’d be if someone was listening, “LA la LA la… La… la. La LA la. LA… La… laaa.”

You keep repeating the same tune, not musically talented enough to make up your own song other than a simple “la-la-la” tune. It’s so peaceful out here, that you kind of wonder if you’re able to take a quick nap-

“WHAT THE FUCK?!”

A thorny vine wraps around your right ankle, spiraling up to your calf and digging into your skin to make you bleed.

You’re being dragged by the leg.

“WHAT THE–NO, NO, NO!!”

You dig your fingers into the dirt and grass, trying to grab anything and everything. You’re trying to pull yourself free and resist, you barely managed to reach the straps of your bag and thwack your bag on the vines. Damn you for leaving your knife in the glove department of your car!

As if taking that personally, the vines thicken and tighten around your leg and TUGS you violently.

“YOU SON OF A BITCH!”

Your grip on your purse weakens and you let it go by accident, and the pain is so sudden that you can’t muster the strength to resist anymore. Apparently, that was all the vines needed to drag you closer to the strange something on the ground that you were purposely trying to stay away from. Now that you’re being forced closer to it, you can see that it’s a hugE FUCKING HOLE!

“NO, NO, NO, NO!! STOP, STOP, STOP!!”

The thorny vines do not listen to you, however, because they are vines.

“PLEASE, I SWEAR I’LL FINALLY GO TO CHURCH!!”

Your desperation grows stronger when you can feel your legs begin to hang off an edge–entering the dark pit of this summit. Your own weight is pulling you down and adrenaline is the only reason why you’re able to clutch to the edge of the crater with all your might to not fall-

The vines YANK your right leg, and you fall, down, down, down into the dark hollow of the mountain.

──

“Haa… Ha…”

Your breathing had only just slowed down, and so did your adrenaline. Your voice is soft and meek as if you’re scared to break the silence.

“Ah… What… What the hell just happened…?”

If you didn’t know any better, you would’ve already thought you were completely, royally, and utterly fucked.

[thegreatimpersonator]

Okayy so I have a lottttt of thoughts but I won't share ALL of them since that'll get too much but I will however share some positive ones because I always feel when I send you an ask about taylor, it's always something negative that happened so I want to be a bit nicer today

1. I'm not the biggest fan of the two piece colored 1989 fit BUT she wore the color combo yellow and blue which are Swedens flags colors so that was something thoughtful

2. Her note belting (I'm taking about real belting, not screaming into the mic like during dbm) during the ttpd set where she sang "BUT WHAT IF THEY DID" or "IVE BEEN DOING IT SINCE HE LEFT" or "YOU DESERVE PRISON" gave my chills all over my body

3. The visuals during down bad are probably imo the most expensive and most fascinating visuals she's ever done because I was sitting very much at the top and from there it literally looked like she was floating and getting beamed up by the ufo plus projecting the ufo like that must've been very hard so yeah I was impressed

4. I already mentioned this yesterday but getting my two fav songs off 1989 and then a great red song AND HOW DID IT END was genuinely the highlight I think

5. This isn't something crazy but I love how she learned like those little phrases for every single country she's been going and how she changed little parts of her performances (cam saying "like ever" in different languages or her normally welcoming the crowd in different languages) based on the countries she's performing in. She literally learned how to say "fuck you guys are amazing" in Swedish and that was funny when she said it out loud lol

6. I know I criticise her for a lot of stuff but I will never deny the fact that she can put on a show because she's there on stage for 3 1/2 hours and just having the time of her life and you can see that. I'm not saying there isn't any other artist doing it like her but there are however a lot of artists that are on her level who just stand there and sing for 1 1/2 hours without really moving which is completely fine too! i just admire how she put big effort into this tour

Okay I'll stop now or else this will never end lmao but I'd love if you'd give your individual opinion on each things too! You mentioned that you're going to another eras show in Canada right? I'm sure there you can see what I mean with points 2 and 3

aw yayy! im so happy you had such a good time, all of these points are so true and rightly very impressive/cool. and yes im really interested in seeing points 2 and 3 in the future for my show in december (hopefully she doesnt change it up and take them away lol) the ufo visual looks so cool and as someone who's been pretty regularly disappointed/unimpressed with taylors visuals (like with album covers/merch/etc) it's extra exciting to see something so cool.

[satanourunholylord]

Love and Love Making Among the Vikings

Below is an infodump post which focuses on these topics:

Courtship: The Viking Way

Good Personal Hygiene

Sex Before Marriage

Homosexuality being Acceptable (with limits)

Some Viking Marriage Customs That Survive Today

Viking Sexual Euphemisms

Acceptance of Adultery in the Viking Age

Viking Women Divorcing Their Husbands

Vikings in popular culture are often viewed as the brutes of the Dark Ages, robbing, raping and pillaging people and goods. However, an analysis of their personal lives shows a much different side. Family life was important to Norse men, and every proper, upstanding Viking aimed to marry and have children. And although their parents arranged their marriages, Norsemen liked to court their ladies- and made a special effort to impress them with their appearance.

As for Norse women, although they had to put up with their husband’s affairs with live-in mistresses, slaves and even other men, they had the right to divorce their partners for violence, neglect, and various sexually related issues. In fact, Norse customs of love, marriage, and sex set a high standard in their time- and some even survive to this day.

Courtship: The Viking Way

Courtship wasn’t strictly necessary in Norse culture as marriage was more about alliances than love. The prospective bride and groom’s families would command the negotiations, to create a match that would bind the two clans as allies – and sometimes end feuds. Many brides were promised as "peace pledges" to smooth troubled waters between rival families. Although the couple in question could voice an opinion, it was fair to say they had little choice but to go ahead with the match.

That didn’t mean there was no romance -but Norse men had to handle it carefully. If a potential groom was too slow in making advances to his prospective bride, the lady’s relatives could take this as a slight and seek blood vengeance. Eighteen courtships in the sagas ended in this messy fashion. On the other hand, it also didn’t pay to move too fast or stretch out the courtship too long. If the couple liked each other too much to wait for the wedding night, matters could become complicated by an unwanted pregnancy.

So attempts to cultivate what the Norse called ˜inn matki munr’ (‘the mighty passion’) were intricate and involved specific rituals. Meeting and talking was one way to forge a relationship. But some odd practices were also employed. For instance, if a girl wanted to show her man she liked him, she made him a shirt. As for Viking men, they would go out and handpick their lady a bunch of purple flowers- and then slap her around the face with it!

Love poetry, although a favorite of the Norse gods, was viewed with suspicion. In fact, Icelandic law forbade skalds to compose Mannsong, (‘maiden songs’) for women who were not married to them under the threat of outlawry or death. This suspicion came about because the Norse believed that the poems could act as spells to seduce and bind women. Worse still, such praises could suggest that the skald or his patron knew the lady more intimately than he should.

Even if they were not in love before the wedding, the couple would try and cultivate it afterward. Husbands would seat their wives next to them if they wanted to show affection. Couples could also express their closeness by sharing the same drinking horn. If a husband were feeling very affectionate, he would ˜put her on his lap’ where he and his wife could indulge in “kyssir hana’ – a kiss and a cuddle. Or he would put his head on her lap, and she would stroke his hair.

Good personal hygiene was a must

Central to making a good impression on a potential or actual partner was good personal hygiene and pride in one’s appearance. This practice applied to both men and women. Norse graves are packed with grooming essentials for the afterlife- regardless of whether they belonged to a man or a woman. Combs, toothpicks, tweezers and ear spoons were all familiar, demonstrating the Norse liked to be neat and tidy-and clean. The Arab, Ibn Fadlan may have felt horror at the Viking practice of sharing a communal wash bowl, but at least his Norse acquaintances washed their face and combed their hair daily.

In fact, the Norse were probably the cleanest people in the Dark Ages. According to the Saxon cleric, John of Wallingford, they bathed weekly, on a Saturday. Wallingford complained that this, and their habit of changing their clothes regularly, was to “ undermine the virtue of married women and even seduce the daughters of nobles to be their mistresses.” However, the Norse were not content merely to be neat and tidy. Ibn Fadlan also noted the Rus- Viking traders who occupied what is now modern Russia-favored bleaching their beards to a saffron yellow, using a strong lye soap.

This method was probably also used on the hair of men and women. Norse women would have been particularly keen on achieving the long, fair, shiny hair that was the feminine ideal, although the white skin that men also coveted was probably only managed by the wealthy. Men also favored long hair, as only slaves wore their hair close cropped. However, this did not mean they were unkept. Figurines show Viking men wearing their hair trimmed and their beards well groomed- either styled to a point or shaped as a goatee.

Finally, there was the question of clothing. When it came to making an impact, the Norse liked to dress to impress. As well as being clean, garments were brightly colored and adorned with the most costly array of jewelry you could afford. Cloak pins and arm rings all showed off status, impressing the object of your desire not only with your appearance but your wealth and prospects in life.

Sex before marriage was acceptable

It wasn’t always possible to marry the one you loved - or lusted after. The sagas make constant reference to “the illicit love visit.” In such cases, a young couple, forbidden from marrying would meet in secret. The sagas never mention sex occurring. However, it is highly unlikely the young man would risk a secret tryst simply to ˜talk’ to the object of his affections. The lovers, however, were said to ˜enjoy’ each other. A document detailing a wife’s dissatisfaction with her impotent husband because she couldn’t ˜enjoy‘ him suggests this is a term linked to sexual fulfilment.

Indeed, although female virginity was the ideal, it was just about acceptable for a woman to have had sexual relationships before her marriage-with certain provisos. First, she needed to have been discrete and not too prolific in her pre martial encounters. However, most importantly, she should not have had any children out of wedlock. This restriction was not for moral reasons. Illegitimate sons could become their father’s heirs- if he recognized them. Rather, society censured Illegitimacy because of the burden it placed on the maternal family, not because it was deemed wrong or shameful.

Illegitimate children were the responsibility of the mother’s family- and so a burden to it. It was they who ultimately supported the child. Even if the father acknowledged his child, he and his family were only obliged to provide two-thirds of its support. Worse yet, the mother probably lost all hope of marriage, as few men would want to take on the responsibility and expense of another man’s child. Thus her family would lose out further as she would gain no bride price and no family alliance. Thus chastity was often the safest bet.

For men, sex outside marriage posed no such strictures. They were free to indulge themselves however they pleased-as long as they submitted to marriage in the end. For to remain unmarried in Norse society was unacceptable. A man accused of shunning wedlock was said to be ˜fleeing from the vagina.’ Women who did the same were “fleeing from the penis.’ Such people risked becoming social outcasts because they were not fulfilling their ultimate role: the procreation of children for the survival of their families and society.

Homosexuality was acceptable- with limits

Pre Christian Norse views on homosexuality weren’t simple. On the face of it, Norse society accepted sexual relationships between men. However, there were restrictions. Firstly, such relationships could not interfere with any future or current marriage. So the man still had to marry- whatever his views on the opposite sex- and his wife and her family had to be prepared to ignore her husband’s male lover or lovers. It was most important that the man did not neglect his conjugal duties. He still needed to have sex with his wife.

More important was that no free Norse man was the passive partner in a homosexual relationship. Vikings would rape males and females when on raiding trips to shame, degrade and weaken them. To be penetrated was to be submissive. It was acceptable to gain pleasure from penetrating someone- but not from being penetrated yourself. One of the worst insults an enemy could hurl at a Norse man was “sordinn” (penetrated). Any man branded as such would fight to the death defend his honor. These conflicts led to Scandinavian law codes making such types of insult illegal because of the bloodshed, with the slanderer often outlawed- if the injured party didn’t kill him first!

However, if such abuse was believed or proven, it had grave consequences for the man in question. Although Norse myths tell of gods such as Loki and even Odin taking on a submissive role in sex, Norse mortal society did not tolerate passivity in men. The man in question would become a social outcast, branded "ergi” (unmanly). Such men were believed to lack the ability to be vital and virile members of society. They were deemed liable to be ineffectual as fathers and fighters- and as such of no use. Dominant homosexuals were quite another matter.

There is no mention of lesbianism in the tales. Nor are there any references in other Old Norse texts to female homosexual relationships, so we cannot gauge pre-Christian attitudes to female homosexuality. However, Icelandic Christian law suggests lesbianism did occur in Norse society. In the 12th century, Bishop Porlakr Porhallson decreed “if women satisfy each other they shall be ordered the same penance as men who perform the most hideous adultery between them or with a quadruped.”

The Eddas and some of the sagas also specifically mention Freja having sex with other women. In fact at a banquet Loki accused her of having slept all the other Aesir at one time or another, a claim which Freja never denied.

Some Viking Marriage customs survive today

The Norse held their weddings on a Friday, the day of Frigg, the goddess of marriage and fertility. The time of the year was also crucial. Late summer or autumn were the preferred times. This period of the year was harvest time, a time of abundance and plenty. A good supply of meat, fruit, and grain was essential to ensure an amply provisioned wedding feast.

One beverage was of particular importance. The ˜bridal ale’ was first consumed in a loving cup by the bride and groom at the marriage feast. The couple would use the mead-like brew to seal their union with a toast to Odin and Freya. The bridal ale was brewed with a good deal of honey, to ensure the fertility of the newlyweds. Their families gifted the couple with enough of this sweet beer to last them a month- a custom that gives us the modern term ˜honeymoon.’

Before the wedding, both bride and groom took a ritual steam bath. Although they did not wear special clothes for the wedding, both wore specific tokens on their special day. For the bride, this was a floral wreath upon her head. For the groom, it was a sword, purposely robbed from one of his family’s burial mounds (or an old family sword buried in a fake mound that he ritually disinterred.) This sword was presented to the bride at the exchange of vows, as a way of making her a custodian of his family line.

As is common today, the bride and groom exchanged rings- both finger rings and arm rings as they spoke their vows. Once the ceremony was complete, the “brud hlaup” occurred. This was a race run by both wedding parties to the feasting hall. Whoever arrived last served the ale. But before the bride could enter, she had to be escorted over the threshold by the groom. The Norse, like many pagan peoples, believed thresholds were dangerous places for in transition to a new stage in their life.

The groom would then thrust a new sword, a gift from his bride, into the central pillar of the house. The depth of the resulting cut was used to determine the success of their union. Then, after the feast, eight witnesses lighted the bridal couple to bed. The groom then removed the bridal wreath from the bride- a ritual deflowering before the real event.

Viking Sexual Euphemisms

The Vikings could be quite ˜direct’ about certain matters. However, they could also be rather coy about sex – or at least, so their stories suggest. The sagas had various ways to refer to sex that describe it in a rather round about way. A man about to have sex with a woman was said to ˜turn towards’ her, “laying his hand/arm/thigh ” on her. The rest was up to the audience’s imagination. However, what was clear was the man was in charge. He took the lead. His partner followed.

Once the action warmed up, the sagas implied the increased activity in similarly guarded terms. A couple in the throes of passion would ˜crowd together in bed” (hviluthrong) and ‘enjoy each other. ‘ If things were particularly raunchy, the tales would describe the man as enjoying a good old brolta a maga or ˜romp on her belly’ or describe the couple as ˜travelling together.” Once they had exhausted themselves, the couple spent the aftermath at ˜hvila meth henna ” (rest with her), or he would ˜amuse one’s self.’ This activity referred to him enjoying a quiet conversation or game of cards with his partner.

However, the everyday terms used by the Vikings were probably not quite so reserved, judging by sexual words they have bequeathed to modern times. The Old Norse ˜thviet’ for a cut or slit began life as a sexual euphemism for a particular part of the female anatomy. Gradually it evolved into the old English ˜thwat’ and later into the more familiar twat which is used today as a term of abuse. The same occurred with another Old Norse word for the female genitals “Kunta’.

However, not all euphemisms were this crude. In contrast to these rather basic sexual terms, the Old Norse for sexual desire was “munuth.” This word derives from the root word for love “mun‘ and that of thought or memory ˜hugr,’ making the sexual impulse a ˜love thought.’ So perhaps the Vikings could be romantic souls after all.

Adultery was acceptable for Viking men, but not their wives

Many Norse men adored their wives, judging by the last words of one man just before he was hung:

” Happy am I to have won the joy of such a consort; ” said the condemned man of his wife. “I shall not go down basely in loneliness to the gods of Tartarus. So let the encircling bonds grip my throat in the midst; the final anguish shall bring with it pleasure only, since the certain hope remains of renewed love, and death shall prove to have its own delights. Each world holds joy, and in the twin regions shall the repose of our united souls win fame, our equal faithfulness in love “(Saxo Grammaticus)

Sadly, however, not everyone practiced “faithfulness in love” The basic requirement of a Norse man was to produce children with his wife. He was not, however, obliged to be faithful. Norse men could keep concubines known as frilles – lower status women who they did not marry and who lived with the man and his wife. According to Adam of Breman, a man could keep as many frilles as he could afford. Society regarded any children from these liaisons as legitimate.

Norse men also kept bed slaves. These unfortunate women had little choice in whether or not they lay with their master. Nor was it a great advantage to be the master’s favorite. Ibn Fadlan described witnessing a Viking funeral where the favoured bed slave of the deceased man was killed to accompany him to the afterlife. However, the one taboo liaison for a Norseman was to lie with another man’s wife. For this, he could be fined or killed.

Wives, however, were expected to remain faithful, probably because of the possibility of falling pregnant with a child that was not her husband’s. It’s unlikely that every wife did remain constant. However, if anyone caught a woman being unfaithful, the penalties varied. At best, her hair would be cut off. At worst, she could be divorced or fined- or killed. Adam of Breman even states that she could be enslaved.

Viking women could divorce their husbands

Viking women may have had to put up with their spouse’s affairs. However, they didn’t have to put up with their husbands ‘until death‘. Although a Norse wife could not divorce her husband for being unfaithful, there were other circumstances where it was perfectly acceptable. If her husband hit her, a woman could fine him. If he abused her in front of witnesses, not only did the fine apply, but his wife could divorce him after the third blow.

There were also various sexual reasons why a wife could divorce a husband. Men who dressed in feminine clothing such as low cut shirts, for instance, could be cast off, as could those who were homosexual- even if they were the dominant partner. A wife could object to the lack of discretion in homosexual liaisons – or the attention they distracted from her relationship with her spouse. In each case, the now ex-wife could claim back her original dowry and any inheritances she received during the marriage.

Another, perhaps surprising reason for divorce was if a man did not satisfy his wife sexually. A man who had refused to have sex with his wife for three years could be set aside. Likewise, if he could not perform or was leaving his wife sexually unfulfilled, he was at risk of being divorced. For if a couple wasn’t having sex, they weren’t producing children. Also, an unhappy marriage bred bitterness and resentment that could boil over into violence and family feuds. So it was better for a sexually unsatisfied woman to look elsewhere for a partner.

Judging by the sagas, it was the women who generally instigated divorce. All that was required was for them to assemble witnesses, cite their reasons and declare themselves divorced. This had to occur three times: in their bedroom, in front of the house and before a public assembly. It was Norse women’s one significant freedom. For if they were to remain tied to one man, run his home and land and put up with his lovers, the least they could expect was satisfying sex life.

[vintage-marina]

A woman out of time chapter 5

TW: talking about death of a loved one

wordcount: 2628 words

You left his cabin and stood outside on the deck of the Dauntless, the Navy men who took you to the Commodore were ahead of you and showed you your bedroom for the following weeks or maybe even months. They didn't look really excited for you, maybe it was misogyny, maybe they still thought you were a pirate, maybe they thought that a woman on a ship would bring misfortune or maybe a mix of all three.

Hopefully they didn't saw your red eyes that would signal that you were on the verge to cry but even if they noticed it they didn't said anything. You were lead to below deck and to a small room.  Thankfully it had a door with a lock and the three Navy men went away after they gave you a foul look, you ignored it and stepped inside. The room was little and smelled a lot better then the cell you were in, it had a small bed and a desk in it. You stepped further into the room and you saw that on your bed laid two bundles of clothing, one for sleeping and one for during the day. The sleeping wear was a simple cotton shift that went to your knees and the other bundle was an old looking outfit from the Navy, possibly from a retired Navy man. You folded the clothes and walked to the desk, it didn't had any engravings like the Commodore had but it was bare and reminded you of home. Home, you really wanted to go home again, to see your friends but most of all you wanted to see your parents and your sibling again, not that they were alive. You shooked your head and focused on your surroundings again, on the desk laid a bowl with water and a cotton cloth. You walked towards your door and locked it.

You took of your combat shoes, you stripped from your green leather suit that had safety straps and pieces of vibranium on it and took of your gloves with your ring on it. The suit you layed on the chair by your desk, the heavy shoes with a steel nose shoved you under the desk and the gloves with your ring you layed on the desk itself. You unclasped your sport bra and slid on the shift, it was comfortable. Until now you realised how sore your muscles were and you stretched yourself and gave a spin to your vibranium arm. It gave a loud mechanical sound and you widened your eyes in surprise, maybe that wasn't the best idea. You hoped that nobody heard that strange sound and you walked fast towards your new bed, you laid your new clothes on your suit and stepped inside your bed. If somebody did hear that you could always say: ''huh I didn't hear any sounds, maybe you were imagining that. I was asleep.''

You tossed a few times around and your eyelids grew heavy, nobody stormed inside of your room and it was safe to say that nobody heard you. The ship rocked gently on the waters and with that you felt asleep.

A few hours later

You woke up somewhat refreshed and cleaned your face with the cloth and the water that was given to you. You tried to pull back your hair but without a mirror you couldn't see anything so you could only guess that it looked okay-ish. The Caribbean weather was really hot and although you couldn't leave your beloved suit, you had to. You were sweathing in that thing and you possibly would die of a heathstroke. You slipped of the shift and you put on your sport bra. With the same cloth you washed your body and you took the Navy outfit from the chair, you changed into the white pants, buttoned up a white blouse with white cuffs and above that you wore a white waistcoat. You took the red coat off the chair and swung it on your shoulders. The uniform didn't fit properly, the pants were to long, it was a little bit tight by your hips and the blouse was to oversized. What really comfortable was but it did look a bit weird with your waistcoat above it, but luckily the coat was fine. Your shouders and arms weren't to big for them and it sat really nice on your shoulders. You snatched your gloves off the desk and put it on, your ring went into your pocket and you stepped outside your room.

Outside of your room you could hear the coughing, the mumbeling and groaning of some of the men. Probably in a room where nobody could see them, but before you went to them you needed to retrieve your medpack. On the way you were still asking yourself why Jack Sparrow so familiar was, but you couldnt put your finger on it. You walked on the chairs but with each step you were hoping that your pants didn't rip. Outside on the deck, you felt your face tinteling Your face from the sun and you sniffed the salty sea air in your lungs. Men were working on the deck  but you didn't see James, maybe in his cabin then. Your boots were loud on the wooden deck and you maked your way to his cabin. You knocked a few times on his door to alert him and you stepped inside. It looked like he was about to leave, his posture straight. But when he eyed you his posture went even more stiff. His face fell, like he didn't want you to be here and he didn't meet your Y/E/C eyes, instead he looked at the door that was behind you. You really did hurt him huh? You shuffeled uncomfortable with your feet and clasped your hands behind your back.

''I uh.. I'm here to retrieve my medpack Commodore.'' He gave a tight lipped smile but didn't say anything instead he only gave you your medpack. You gave a soft thank you and you made your way out.

Infirmary

There were circa 10 men in the makeshift hospital and a men fussing about them. The boat was rocking on the waters and some of them were emptying their stomachs in a wooden bucket because of it. You could see the sweat on their foreheads and the yellow puss on their bandages, the smell was disturbing and it made you almost gag. Sympathy washed over you, they were in pain and the medicine from the 18th century didn't help them either. The medic stood over a sickly looking man, dabbing a cotton cloth on the man his stomach.

''Here, let me do it,'' you walked towards the two men and you took the cloth out of his hand. ''How peculiar,'' mumbeled he under his breath, but he didn't protest like you expected. You opened your medpack and picked a bottle of desinfectant handgel. The man who was laying on his bed was eyeing you curiosley but didn't had the energy to ask, the other men were or sleeping or zoning into nothing.

''Before you are going to treat the patient it is necessary to wash your hands with soap or disinfect them, otherwise bacteria can spread to the patient and any further damage must be avoided-'' he nodded but he said: ''what do you mean with that?''

You poured a bit of gel on your hands and on the surgeon, but he looked weirdly at the substance on his hands ''sorry I thought you knew of Leeuwenhoek's his discovery-'' ''ofcourse I heard about his theory, it is absurd!'' ''It's not! Just rub that gel in your hands alright?''

In your medpack were laying handgloves, you picked two and tossed them towards the man. ''Here wear this, clean hand gloves can help against cross contamination. With cross contamination you can spread bacteria from products on other products. ''

You looked up from your medpack towards the surgeon, ''I'm surprised that you don't even argue with me, why?'' He looked surprised at your comment, ''To be honest, I do not really know why. You are talking about things that I never heard off and it makes me wonder if I really have knowledge in what I do. But I still think that bacteria thing is absurd!'' You laughed a bit at his ridiculousness.

''I do think you have knowlegde in your profession, doctor-'' ''Thomas Smith.'' ''Doctor Smith, but I also think that you can learn so much more, so let me show it to you.''

During the rest of your day you showed him how to clean infected wounds, the weather was cooler and you could see the relieve on the men of the faces. You told him tips and tricks how to treat infected wounds, like with sterile honey and how you should wash your hands and your equipment. He got your name and it was pleasant to work with him, he didn't make stupid comments like some of the pigs on this ship and he asked questions when he didn't get something.

''Preferably we like to disinfect our equipment with special substances, but I see that you do not have that and I can't get it for you, so listen very carefully. You can disinfect your equipment with gin or wodka. The alcohol in those two drinks will break down the bacteria, you got me?'' He nodded, ''but you need it to rest it for a whole day. Other ways are to boil your equipment in boiling hot water, bake your equipment or heat up your equipment under a flame. Further everything should be clean your hands, your clothing, the room itself, just everything. And you need to wash your hands regularly and pick new handgloves, dont touch your head or anything with your freshly washed hands otherwise you need to clean it again.''

The two of you were treating the wounded and you couldn't help but to notice how sick some of them were looking, they probably were going to die with the lack of medication that you had. But you did everything that you could do.

It was dinner time and you made sure that Thomas was cleaning his hands afterwards you did too. He looked at you nervous, like he was afraid to say something.

''Y/N-'' ''yes?'' ''Do you think they will make it?'' You looked towards the ground, your eyes not meeting with his. You noticed that some of them were looking bad, like they were on their death trial. ''Some of them, but I'm also afraid that some of them will not make it, 'm sorry. I don't have much medicine left,'' he nodded, his mood getting more depressing. ''All we can do is treating their wounds and making sure that they eat well and let them live their remaining days in peace.''

The two of you were making your way through the mess hall and into the kitchen.  There were already men eating their food in peace, you saw that they stuck by their rank. The Navy men were still giving you dirty looks but you also could see a glimpse of desire in some of them. Disgusted by their behaviour you maked sure that at all times you were alert. Coming into the kitchen you fetched the food that the cook had made for them, it was vegetable soup with pieces of chicken in it.

Thomas and you both had two bowls in your hands and were walking towards the infarmary, in the mess hall you couldn't spot James so you thought he was in his cabin. The men were chattering and there was a gleeful aura. But that couldn't say the same about you or Thomas, oh how they don't know. It wasn't like you were sad or anything but you felt helpless, they really could have lived if only they had the right medication. In Thomas his eyes tears were forming and you could see his lip tremble. Arriving in the makeshift infirmary you set down the bowls of soup by each nightstand and repeated your action untill everyone had gotten their food.

An old man was sitting up in his bed, he picked up his food from his nightstand and tried to eat it. He picked up the spoon with shaking hands and you saw that he spilled some on his shirt.

''Sir, let me help you,'' you walked towards the man and sat on the empty spot of his mattress.

''You know, when I got my shaking my wife helped me. But after her death,'' tears were falling on his cheeks. ''After her death, I was on my own and it has gotten worse. I really miss her.'' choked he out. ''I understand, it has gotten lonely isn't it?'' You took the bowl from the man and feeded him, ''yes it really is.''

''The loneliness is not so bad when I'm around these boys, you know? You get distracted easily, you chatter or you you're doing your job. But when you and your thoughts are alone, you're going to think and think. And then you're thinking about your loved one, how you miss them or what their voice was like and then you are suddenly aware that they are really dead and not just upstairs or something, you know? You get reminded of your loneliness and you get reminded that you can never speak to them ever.''

''I completely understand what you're saying sir.''

he didn't say anything for a couple of minutes, after he finished his soup you gave a light squeeze in his hand.

''You lost a loved one too?''

''Yes sir, multiple.''

''I'm sorry for your loss'' he said to you and he gave a light squeeze into your vibranium hand, just like what you did to him earlier. He didn't noticed that he gripped metal or if he did he didn't said anything about it.

''Thank you sir. You too.''

''You can call me Gary,'' he gave you a reassuring smile.

''Okay Gary, you can call me Y/N.'' and you smiled back.

You stood up from his bed and you walked over to Thomas, he was feeding another patient of yours.  he was sitting on a bed and you kneeled beside him and whispered: ''Thomas I'm gonna find the Commodore and I'm gonna inform him about the statics.''

''Alright,'' you heard him softly whisper to you. You took the stairs and walked towards the deck of the Dauntless, on the furthest point of the ship you could spot two people discussing things with each other. The more you closed the distance the more you noticed the figure of the Commodore.

''Commodore?''

The two turned around and James noticed the raggy old Navy suit that you had on.

''Yes?''

''We need to talk it's about your men.''

''I will let you two alone then,'' said Groves to the both of you and maked sure to leave.

''Y/N, what is wrong with my men?''

You were mulling about how you should say it, but it was for the best that you said it straight forward.

''Some of them are not gonna make it, they are gonna die in a few days and sadly there's nothing to prevent this.''

His face fell and you could see the cracks of emotion through his awkwardly stiff posture.

''There's nothing? Have you looked into our medicine shelve?''

''Yes I have, but most of them are highly addictive and don't kill what needs to be killed.''

He deeply sighed and runned a hand over his face.

''Have you told them?''

''No I did not, I'm planning to.''

He excused himself out of the conversation and walked downstairs having a last conversation with some of his crew.

[libraryofloveletters]

Soulmates In This Life & Another

Evan Buckley x Eddie Diaz

Warnings: typical 911 level graphics, blood and injures, hospitals, mentions of praying, love confessions 

Category: angst with some fluff at the end

Word Count: 3.7k

Author’s Note: part 2 to my buddie fic!! this can be read as a standalone but for some backstory, read Just Friends // typical 911 level of graphics but a shitter description of the scene cause I’m not a firefighter and I’m lazy

----

“It was fine.” The three words would be the beginning of the downfall of their friendship in the upcoming weeks. 

A few weeks have passed since the kiss. 

They were fine, as they normally were.

Buck still regularly stopped in by the Diaz residence to see his two favourite boys and hang out with them. Eddie still had Buck babysit or drop Chris off at Buck’s place when he needed to go out or if Chris just wanted to spend the day with him- but with each day came a bit more distance. The random drop bys slowed, Eddie stopped asking Buck to babysit, and eventually, they stopped seeing each other outside of work altogether. 

Work was a completely different story. They still sat next to each other, they still talked but it wasn't the same. Eddie spent less and less time with Buck- Buck also taking the hint, kept his distance from Eddie, not wanting to upset him further. In the field, they worked together seamlessly- nonverbal exchanges, handing each other what they needed and assisting each other without question but all of that stopped the moment the truck pulled back into the station. 

Once again, station 118 had found themselves on a 24 hour shift and again, Buck is the only one still awake. He stood by the railing, looking down at the trucks parked in the station, counting the steps on the ladders as he waited for the coffee maker to be done. He thought he was by himself until he heard some tumbling in the kitchen, he turned to see Hen- halfway into the fridge looking for something. She stood, a bottle of water in her hand when she smiled at Buck. 

“Why are you moping ?” she took a sip of her water, sitting on the stool by the counter.

“I’m not moping” he says, walking back over when the coffee maker beeps.

“Okay, so why has Eddie been moping around then ?” 

“Are you trying to reverse psychology me ?” he gives her a ‘are you serious’ look.

“Would you know if I was using reverse psychology on you?” she questions the man in front of her. 

“Obviously” he trails off, she chuckles and shakes her head. “You and Eddie have been off the last few weeks, the moping around, the distance between the two of you- it’s awkward. What's going on?” she looks up at the blonde man who’s sipping on his coffee. Buck sighed- he wanted so much to confide in someone, to tell them about the kiss- about how he was in love with Eddie. 

Except, he always confided in Eddie, it was hard to turn to someone else. 

He could always go to Maddie, she would never judge him - or Bobby and Athena, they would give him advice. He knew he could turn to Hen, she’d know what to say and she’d probably tell him to follow his heart and tell Eddie how he felt. 

Buck chuckled to himself at the thought of telling Eddie that he was in love with him. Hen’s brow raised, looking at Buck in confusion. It was a bit strange that he was laughing by himself at.. nothing ? But then again, it was Buck so she didn’t think much into it. 

“Do you want to talk or?” she says, breaking his train of thought. 

“I uh- We, Eddie and I-” he paused, unsure where to go from there. 

“Evan, spit it out” 

“Did you just call me Evan ?” his mouth hung open slightly and she breathed a laugh. “Yeah, that’s not the point right now.” 

“We kissed.” Buck blurts out before he loses the courage to tell her. 

“Finally” Hen huffs, smiling at him. 

“Wait, you’re not surprised ?” 

“Buck, you’ve been drooling over Eddie since your first shift with him. I’m just surprised it didn’t happen sooner.” 

“Huh” was all the man said before walking off. 

“Yeah, good talk” Hen mumbled before turning her attention back to the book she had with her. 

--- 

40 minutes. 

That’s how long it had been since they last heard from Buck.  

He had run back into the building, even after Bobby had given him strict instructions not too but it was Buck- he never gave up. 

Eddie’s heart pounded in his chest as he stood helplessly behind the truck. Bobby radioed over for Buck, the static from the radio seemed echoed although the street was busy and full of people. It took all of Eddie not to run in there and look for Buck himself- actually he almost did, finding his way to a backdoor that was still structurally sound but Hen found him and reminded him that Christopher was waiting for his dad to come home and that Buck was more than capable of getting himself out. 

There he stood, Chimney and Hen beside him as Bobby radioed again. “Buckley, do you copy ?” Bobby waited for an answer but was met with static once again. 

The ground beneath them rumbled, Bobby looked at his team before turning to face the building. Just as the other 3 turned, they saw the entire building collapse. A 42 story hotel had been reduced to a pile of rubble. The team braced themselves as the building came down, hoping that it would come down as it once stood, in one straight pile. 

They all hoped that Buck has pulled a stupid stunt and jumped over to the next building. 

Eddie couldn’t bare the thought of losing Buck. He was the first to run towards the pile of rubble, pulling whatever he could pull and shouting for Buck. There were at least 4 other stations there, everyone started moving through, trying to find safe pathways to start the search for survivors. 

Survivor. 

That’s what Buck was to him- that, amongst other things. 

Eddie had made his way through a pile in the corner, a yellow piece of something caught his eye. He wasn't sure what it was but something in him made him think about Buck. He tugged until he got the piece out and it was a piece of Buck’s- or another firefighter’s turnout jacket. He stood there, hunched over, his hand on his chest, trying to steady his heart as all the possibilities ran through his head. 

Buck was stuck under all of this. Buck would die if they didn’t find him soon. Who was he to say that Buck was even alive? 

He pushed the heart wrenching thoughts from his mind. 

Buck is alive. Buck is alive. Buck is alive. 

Those 3 words were the only thing getting him through this. He needed to find Buck. 

Buck needed to be alive. 

Buck is alive. 

“Buck’s alive” he barely heard his radio over the chaos around him. Chimney’s voice ringing through the radio once more, Eddie let out a sigh as he heard the news this time. 

“Buck’s alive.” 

Eddie dropped everything, he didn’t mean too but Buck needed him- he needed Buck. He found the 118, Bobby stood outside of the ambulance. His hand comes up to hold Eddie back as he ran towards the ambulance. 

“Cap, move. I need to see him” “Eddie, Eddie! Hey, give them some space.” Bobby’s hand was against Eddie’s chest. His hand wrapped around Bobby’s wrist, trying to push him away to get to past him but Bobby was stronger than he looked. 

“Eddie, Buck needs all the attention he can get right now. Give them a minute to work, okay ?” 

Chimney jumps out the back of the ambulance, shutting one of the doors. “We're heading out now,” he shouts, making his way to the driver’s seat.  Eddie looks at Bobby, his head slightly tilted, his eyes silently pleading to let him go with them. Bobby reopened the door that Chim closed and nodded towards the inside. Eddie gives his captain a nod before getting in. Bobby shut the doors and hit the back as Chim pulled off. 

Eddie’s eyes trailed over Buck’s body, assessing his injuries. There was a large gash on his side that was currently covered by gauzes and he was in and out of consciousness due to the concussion he had. That was only externally, he had no idea what was going on inside- there were so many things that could be happening to Buck right now and they had no way of being completely sure until they reached the hospital. 

Hen could see the worry on Eddie’s face. Eddie was one to hold himself together but when it came to those he loved- he wore his heart on his sleeve. 

“He’s going to be okay.” She tells him- she isn't sure if those words are true but Eddie desperately needed something to cling too. 

“He's going to be okay.” Eddie repeats her words - he too, knows that those words might not be true but he tries to convince himself either way. 

The ambulance bounced as it hit a pothole. Chimney shouting a sorry from the front. The gauzes that were once taped to Buck’s side had loosened from the amount of blood that had soaked through and the pothole was the cherry on top. 

“Eddie, you’re gonna have to put pressure on it” Hen tells him, turning to reach a medical glove. By the time she turns back, Eddie’s hand is pressed to Buck’s side, his other hand holding Buck’s that laid by his side. 

Hen watched the man sitting across from her, the way his brows furrowed each time he glanced at the monitor, how his eyes glimmered with hope when Buck almost regained consciousness. Through all of the emotions, not once did Eddie’s hand shift from Buck’s side- not even an inch. 

When they arrived, Eddie and Hen moved along with the stretcher, following it inside as Hen told the nurses what his last vitals were and what injuries she has assessed so far. Eddie’s hand pressed to his friend’s side still, he silently mumbled a prayer- one he hadn’t said in a long time, hoping that his friend would pull through because he couldn't bare to lose some else. 

The nurse assured him that she was able to take him over for him, her hand ready to replace Eddie’s, yet he still walked with the stretcher. The nurse followed behind him, looking back at Hen. 

The stretcher halted in front of the OR doors, Eddie couldn't follow them in there and he knew that. “Come on,” Hen’s hand rested gently on his shoulder. 

Eddie’s heart was beating relentlessly in his chest, the fear of something happening to Buck if he leaves him was setting in but he also knew that if he didn’t step by that Buck could die right there, feet away from the OR. 

He glanced at the nurse, she nodded- her silent way of assure him once more that she’s ready when he’s ready. “Okay” he mumbles, carefully moving his hand as the nurse’s hand replaces his. 

He watched as they rolled him through the doors, he could still feel Hen’s hand on his shoulder. He walked with her back to the waiting room, Bobby and Chimney in there, Maddie too. 

All eyes were on Eddie, his hand stained red from being on Buck’s side. He hadn’t noticed until the red liquid fell from his fingertips and made little red droplets on the white floors. He walked away quietly, feeling the eyes on him until he stepped into the bathroom. 

Peeling off his turnout gear, he stepped out of it, leaving it on the floor for the moment being. The sleeve of his uniform button up was covered in blood, it had dripped down his arm. 

Discarding the shirt with his turnout gear, he stood in front of the sink, the cold water turning red as it went down the drain. He took a look at himself in the mirror. 

Parts of his face covered with dust and soot, a little drop of red on his cheek from when the gauze came loose in the ambulance, he wiped off the blood and returned to the waiting room, his gear and shirt hung on the chair beside him. He had on his regular LAFD t-shirt under all of that. 

Maddie took a seat beside him, her hand reaching for his. He didn’t say anything, he let her hold it. They both cared deeply about Buck in their own way. 

“He’s going to be okay” He tells Maddie- repeating the words Hen had told him during the ride over, he could see that she needed something to hold onto.

“He’s going to be okay” Maddie gave Eddie’s hand a small squeeze. She had been in the same waiting room countless times with the team but each time felt like the first and it didn’t get less scary either. 

--- 

Hours have gone by and only once has the doctor sent a nurse by with an update. 

“He's stable as of now.” 

As of now. 

The 3 words ringing in Eddie’s head. He knew how these things went, nothing was certain but for Buck’s sake, he hoped it was. His leg bounced, his eyes fixed on the poster about teens against drugs on the wall. 

The waiting room was almost empty, most of the team had gotten up to stretch their legs or get coffee. Bobby had stepped out to call Athena, giving her an update on Buck. Chimney and Maddie went to get some air and coffee, Hen had also stepped out for the moment, to call Karen he assumed. 

Bobby stepped back into the waiting room, Eddie still staring at the poster on the wall. He took a seat beside him. “You okay ?” he asks him quietly, not wanting to startle him- though not much scared him. 

“Yeah, fine. Did you get an update yet?” 

“No,” Bobby sighs, “Athena says she’ll be on her way with coffee and breakfast when she drops the kids off” 

Eddie hums. An announcement broke his thought, he only heard the last part- “cart to OR 3″ and his brain filled in the rest. The panic that just settled was starting to build again. Bobby noticed how Eddie’s entire demeanour changed after the announcement, his body shifted in his chair, his chest raising and falling faster than it was moments ago. 

“OR 6″ Bobby says, Eddie’s brows furrow. “What ?” 

“Buck’s in OR 6″ 

Eddie sighs. Bobby looks over at the man sitting beside him- sure they were all worried about him but no one was more worried than Eddie. 

“Eddie, can I ask you something ?” 

“Yeah, of course” 

“What's going on with you and Buck ?” 

The question hit him like a ton of bricks. Things had been less than normal between the two men, the distance after the kiss putting a strain on all the relationships in their lives. Eddie had to explain to Chris why Buck wasn't around as much and things were just awkward. 

The thought of losing Buck before he could make things right made his heart ache in the worst possible way. 

Bobby could see the way his question made Eddie stop and think. He resisted the urge to laugh but he let Eddie take a moment to figure it out. Bobby had seen the bond the two men formed since their first shift together- as long as you had eyes, you’d be able to see it too. 

From the way they looked at each other to the way they spoke about each other with glowing affection, it was hard to miss the feelings between them. 

The only person that seemed to be oblivious to this was Eddie. 

“Nothing’s going on with us” Eddie finally answers him. Bobby sighs, shaking his head. 

“Eddie, you know I don’t lecture you because I never felt the need too but I feel like I should now.” a slight frown on Eddie’s face from Bobby’s words. Bobby shifted in his seat, now facing Eddie. 

“Everyone seems to see it except you. That look you had when you saw the hotel come down- I've seen it before, on those who were waiting for someone they love to walk out but they didn’t. Why do you think you were the first to go running towards it ? Because you love him.” 

“We all love him Cap, we couldn’t just leave him there” Eddie tells him, he was unsure as to why he brought upon the fact that he loves him- they all did. 

“I understand that, but you love him.” the emphasis on the word love still didn’t connect the dots for Eddie- Bobby noticed the confusion on the man’s face. “Look at what's right in front of you, the most obvious answer is usually the right one.” he pats his shoulder before leaving Eddie to his thoughts. 

Bobby stepped out, Athena coming his way. He smiled at his wife as she approached him, his arm now over her shoulder. She leaned into his side when she saw Eddie in the waiting room. “Is he okay ?” she looks up at her husband for an answer, he hums. “Eddie’s about to realize that he's in love-” a loud ‘oh my god’ came from the waiting room, interrupting Bobby’s sentence. “Yup, there it is” 

“There’s what? I’m going to need some context here.” Athena says, still looking at the man in the waiting room. 

“He’s realized he’s in love with Buck” Bobby chuckles, “about time.” 

--- 

The sun was coming up, the curtains slightly opened in his room. Eddie had spent the night in his room, the chair in there was far too small for him as he kept drifting in and out of sleep. 

He had called Carla, letting her know that he wasn’t coming home that night. Maddie offered to stay but she deserved a proper night’s sleep in an actual bed. He promised to call her if anything changed. 

Buck stirred in his sleep, groaning as he turned. Eddie was half asleep and hadn’t noticed until he heard Buck groan. Sitting up straight, he saw Buck rolling back onto his back, “did you roll onto your side? Let me see” Eddie gets up, walking to the bedside. 

“What are you doing here?” his throat dry, a whisper was all he could manage. 

“Didn’t want you to wake up to an empty room. I spent everyone home to get some rest. Maddie said she’d be back as soon as visiting hours start.” Eddie tells him as he lifts the side of the gown to check if Buck had pulled a stitch when he rolled onto his side. Buck stayed still, feeling Eddie’s hand gently touch his side in a few spots, his fingers dragging across the edge of the gauze that was taped over what he was sure was stitches. 

“Chris ?” he asks, looking at his friend. “Home, with Carla”

“Eddie,” Buck’s hand reached for Eddie’s. 

“Buck?” his brows furrows- the typical Diaz look. Buck smiled at his expression.

“Why are you really here?” 

“I told you, I didn’t want you waking up to an empty room.” Eddie says once more, trying to convince himself more than he was trying to convince Buck. 

The blonde scoffed, that was bullshit and they both knew it. “If you’re going to lie, be better at it.” 

Eddie smiled, thinking back to their kiss in the locker room. Buck had said those same words to him just moments before. Eddie's hand comes up to Buck’s face, cupping it. Eddie leans down, his eyes locking with Buck’s. The warmth Buck radiated was the only thing that filled Eddie’s head.

Things were different this time, he was completely and utterly ready to devote himself to Buck, no questions asked. 

Buck could tell him to stop and Eddie could pull away at any moment but neither did. 

Buck took in the moment, the way Eddie’s brown eyes glimmered as the sunlight hit them, the way his hand held his face like it was made to be there. His lips finally met his, the world stopped spinning and everything melted away. It was just the two of them, as it always was - but it was different. They were so different but they were made for each other.  

When Buck finally pulled away, he looked up at Eddie. The expression on his face was nothing but love- happy, relaxed, not a worry in the world. Little did Buck know but he was mirroring the exact same expression back to Eddie. 

Buck’s brows furrowed for a moment, the reality starting to flood in. Eddie could see the change in Buck. 

“What’s wrong ?” he asks him, sitting at the edge of his bed, his hand holding Buck’s. 

“Ana, is she,” he trailed off. It hurt his heart to bring it up but he couldn't knowingly get into something with Eddie if he was still with Ana because it was wrong to both himself and to her but also because it would kill him to lose Eddie to her. 

“I- uh, I ended things weeks ago” he fidgeted with his fingers, not looking up at Buck. “It didn’t seem right to lead her on when I knew I wasn’t in love with her.” 

“So are you saying what I think you’re saying ?” Buck asked, a small smile on his face. 

“What am I saying Evan ?” Eddie bit back a smile, looking at the blonde man on the bed. 

“That you’re in love with me Edmundo” 

“Ew don’t call me that” his face twisted into a look of disgust. Buck let out a loud laugh, before telling him “don’t call me Evan then.” 

The men bickered back and forth, laughing and prodding each other for the next few minutes. The room filled with laughter and love, so much so that it hurt their faces from how much they were smiling. 

“You know,”  Eddie’s hand rested on top of Buck’s, “I really do love you” 

Buck smiles, “I love you too.” 

--- 

Taglist: @dralexreid​ @mrs-dr-reid​ @ickletheficklepickle​ @yelenabelous​ 

[prfctparis]

In a Sweet Sunshower

AO3 Link

summary: He Who Brings Rain and The One Who Shines Bright are siblings. It’s fitting that there’s a sunshower during one of the campaigns when their legions team up.

a/n: a few things about Tatooine Slave Culture in this is borrowed from fialleril here on tumblr, so all rights go to them for that. except for the sunshower thing, i came up with it while driving and wrote this as fast as i could and actually kind of proud of the concept ngl. fun fact! zariza’s name mean ‘gold, brilliantly bright’ in hebrew so obviously it means something similar here in this star wars universe.

There’s an old phenomenon, here on Tatooine – from thousands and thousands of years ago back when this place wasn’t all dirt and sand – where the suns shone high in the sky, and voluminous clouds did little to darken the earth below, and rain fell from them, soaking the life on the ground.

It never lasted long, a few or so minutes at most, but it always happened during the hottest season of the year. It was said to be a beautiful sight to behold. The down pouring rain and the bright shining suns, together. Apparently it looked like liquid gold.

Everyone called it a sunshower. All of the Depur took it as a sign for there to be tricksters coming their way. Some of the Amavikka said that it was a sign of hope from one of the ancient prophets – Ekkreth, or Maru, or Tena, or Ebra – or even Ar-Amu to the slaves.

But most said that during it was when slaves became Free for good.

…We haven’t had rain in ages.

Zariza huffs and grimaces. Every single part of her is sweaty and sticky, and the humidity of this planet’s region might actually end up being the death of her. No, not the droids they fought earlier, or the damn Separatists, or even a stray blaster bolt. But the humidity. She knows that hate isn’t a good thing for a Jedi to feel, but she hates it, through and through. The air feels suffocating – the exact opposite of what it should be – and makes the heat of the sun feel hotter than it actually is. 

It’s horrible. She says as much to her Jedi Master.

“Yes, humidity does make what we’re doing harder. Unnecessarily so,” Mace agrees, sounding less annoyed and tired than his padawan but Zariza can hear the edge of the emotions in his voice. He isn’t fairing so well in this weather, either.

At least the battle is over. Now they just have to clean up everything.

The leaders of the planet had asked for clean up help once the fighting had ended and they had verbally agreed to officially join the Republic. Of course the 187th and 501st easily promised they would do so. Neither of the legions have somewhere important to be, except for maybe Coruscant or a High Council meeting, and so here they are. Sweating their asses off in the humid heat that somehow feels like a murder attempt.

“Take a break if you need it, Zariza – I don’t want you overworking yourself in this heat. It could be dangerous,” Mace says after a few more moments. Then to Commander Ponds, “Same goes for all of the one-eighty-seventh, Commander. Take as many breaks as you need.”

Zariza sees Ponds nod out of the corner of her eyes, followed by, “Yes sir, General. Lieutenant Spite and a medic squad are collecting bottles of water and setting up tents for shade. I’ve heard that the five-oh-first are doing the same as they work as well.”

“Good.”

Wiping her brow with the bare skin of her bicep, Zariza is glad that she had the foresight to leave her black cloak and outer tunic on the venator-ship. She now only wears the black boots, leggings, and the sleeveless white under tunic, which is now stained with dirt and a few specks of blood but she could hardly care. The troopers did earlier, though, especially at the beginning of the fight – lack of armor meant danger but Zariza wasn’t about to give herself a heatstroke. She at least still wore the braces for her forearms, and the chest plate that she has since taken off.

One of the troopers – Mayhem, she recognizes the armor – hands her a container of water hardly ten minutes later. She smiles gratefully at him and takes it, taking a few sips, and then hands it back. He caps the container, clips it on his belt, and they both get back to work cleaning broken droid parts and other various debris from the fight. Mayhem never strays too far from her. Zariza might have been annoyed by it if she didn’t know that he’s looking out for her.

On the other side of the large area that had been used a battle field against Seppie droids, are the 501st – her brother included. Like her, he has darker robes than the usual Jedi, and had also foregone the outer tunics because of the planet’s heat before battle started. Zariza won’t be surprised if he’s currently completely shirtless by now – a risk for a sunburn, no doubt, with skin much paler than her own, but that’s his problem. She also knows for a fact that Ahsoka is wearing the tube top outfit she wore constantly before Anakin corralled her into wearing something more covering, a few pieces of armor included, just a month ago.

Hell, even Master Mace Windu is shirtless right now, the weirdness of it be damned. Some troopers have started to disappear regularly, leaving in full gear, only to pop up again with the top half of their blacks and armor gone.

Yeah. Humidity karking sucks.

Needing a break, Zariza leans against a lone tree nearby. She can feel the Living Force flowing through it and focuses on that as she catches her breath. Mayhem spots her and brings her more water without question.

“Thanks,” she sighs, and takes another sip.

Mayhem nods, undoing a second bottle from his belt, right next to where his helmet it clipped. He’s shirtless just like many of his brothers, curly hair frizzy as hell. “You’re welcome, sir,” he says. Once he’s had a few sips of his own, he asks, “How much is left in there?”

She shakes it, and shrugs. “Half, maybe?”

He nods again. “I’ll go back to one of the tents and refill it for you soon.”

She smiles thankfully. “Don’t forget to get yourself some.”

Mayhem chuckles. “Of course not, sir.”

After taking another drink, she hands it back just like before. But she doesn’t move to get back to work just yet. Master Mace nudges her in their bond, asking if she’s okay, and she tiredly pokes back to confirm that she is, all the while eying what’s left of the field to clean up. They’re getting there, but it looks like it will take forever. At least Anakin, Ahsoka, and the 501st are tackling the other half; and they’re getting closer, slowly but surely.

Her eyes flit up to the sky, and she spots grey clouds nearby. But, ugh – they aren’t close enough for them to get rained on.

It causes a frown to tug on her lips. A pout, if she wants to be honest about it.

Mayhem chuckles for a second time, more amused than before. “Finally saw the clouds, huh, verd’ika?”

Another trooper nearby stops and looks as well. A wounded noise escape them. “It’s so close but so damn far,” they say, forlorn. What a Force-damned mood.

“This humidity will be the death of me,” Zariza mumbles.

“That’s not happening on our watch,” they say, firm yet exhausted, the sadness about the clouds suddenly gone.

“Damn straight,” Mayhem agrees.

She can only groan.

Once Zariza has rested for a good few minutes, she stands up straight again, but instead of getting to work, she unties the knot of the yellow bandana at the nape of her neck. The wild, dark waves of her hair are no doubt frizzy and wilder than ever; earlier she was positive that she felt the waves grow in size because of the friz and the humidity, and she honestly doesn’t want to know what she looks like because of it. Quickly, she works on putting her long hair into a nerftail and ties it with the bandana.

What feels like ages later, the planet’s sun is beginning to finally lower in the sky and the 187th has done most of their half of the battle field. Through the bond, Zariza can tell Anakin is close by yet she stays lying on the ground, taking yet another much needed break. The clouds are closer, too. Yet still no rain.

The sound of boots crunching the dry, summer grass as someone walks gets closer and louder, up until the person stops right at Zariza’s head, casting a shadow over her. She blinks and tilts her chin to get a better look at who it is despite already having a pretty good guess. Anakin stands over her, sweaty and shirtless, with red tinting his shoulders, chest, and nose. His dirty blond hair is matted with sweat and it sticks to his forehead and the nape of his neck, a few of the short curls frizzed up, and his face is contorted into a scowl.

“I cannot believe I’m saying this,” he says, “but I miss Tatooine’s dry heat.”

“Agreed,” she grunts.

Anakin huffs and steps to her side. He then sticks out his flesh hand, and Zariza forces herself to sit up so she can grab it. He pulls her to her feet and almost immediately lets go once he’s sure she’s balanced well. The humid heat has made the brother-sister who hug every time they see each other, want to not be touching another body in any way for the foreseeable future.

Anakin runs a hand through his hair, grimaces at the sweat, and wipes it on his pants. Disgusting. “Been drinking enough water?” he asks.

She sighs. “Yep. You?”

“Yep.”

“Ahsoka?”

“Yep.” A beat. “Master Windu?”

She almost says ‘yep’ again, but decides not to. “Yeah, him too. Don’t worry.” She smirks. It’s no secret that before Master Mace took her as his padawan, that Anakin couldn’t stand the man. The feeling might have been mutual, but honestly Zariza doesn’t know and doesn’t care to. For now.

Anakin just rolls his eyes and flips her off, walking off to help Captain Rex and a few more guys of Torrent Company.

Ahsoka comes up to her a second later. The younger teen doesn’t say anything, and neither does Zariza. Usually energetic and happy to get her to know her Master’s little sister better, the heat has zapped the togruta of most of her energy. So in silence, they work together on a particularly large piece of debris, and then immediately head to the nearest tent for some much needed shade. Breaks are becoming more frequent, and Zariza thinks that maybe she will have to stop helping if they don’t finish up cleaning soon.

Anakin is already in the tent, along with Master Mace, Captain Rex, and Commander Ponds by the time the girls get there, and the two padawans wave a short greeting to the men before beelining where other troopers are giving out fresh water.

It’s when one of the Boys In Blue (as the GAR has started calling the 501st) hands them both a fresh container when it happens.

The sound of rain pelting the top of the tent makes everyone freeze. It’s obviously still sunny, but that doesn’t stop Zariza or any of the others to turn to check for themselves. And it is – no clouds directly above them at all – yet the rain is falling down, gradually increasing to a steady downpour. She blinks a few times and inches closer to the edge of the tent, and hardly a second later Anakin is at her side, looking out as well, mouth parted in shock.

“A sunshower,” Anakin whispers.

Zariza numbly nods.

Her mind conjures up a faint memory of being told of a phenomenon from hundreds of thousands of years ago on Tatooine. Of sunshine and rain, together. Of liquid gold. Of tricksters visiting Depur. Of a sign of hope to slaves, or a celebration for the Freed.

It doesn’t look completely like liquid gold like Amu’s tales said, but it was close to it. It’s still beautiful. A stunning phenomenon that neither Anakin nor Zariza believed they would ever get to see. 

“They don’t last long,” she finds herself saying.

The Skywalkers turn their heads in unison to look at one another. Matching grins of excitement and mischief form, and without any prompting Zariza is taking off into the rain almost as fast as a blaster bolt, Anakin hot on her heels.

Zariza jumps into an already formed puddle. It’s right next to one of the 501st troopers, Jesse, and it splashes him. Zariza may or may not have used to Froce to make the splash bigger, but that doesn’t exactly matter. Just that there’s a sunshower, that her and her brother are both Free, and there’s a fucking sunshower and it’s amazing! 

Jesse lunges at her, wanting to retaliate for getting splashed at, but she slips away easily with loud laughter.

From him, anyway – Anakin catches her a second later with water from a puddle cupped in his hands. He promptly dumps it over her head with laughter of his own, then misses up her hair just for the heck of it.

“Wha– ugh, Anakin!”

“Tag, you’re it!” he shouts, as if they’re eight and twelve again in the Room of a Thousand Fountains instead of sixteen and twenty in the middle of a field post-battle.

Zariza gapes at him, but it quickly turns into grins and she chases after him without a second thought.

It doesn’t take long for Ahsoka to join, or even for the troopers. Within seconds, there’s a large game of tag, troopers splashing in puddles, and almost everyone running in the rain with the sun shining down on them, laughter ringing out into the open and so much Light seeping into the Force that Mace can’t help but shove his Commander into the rain as well.

…Yes, we haven’t had rain in thousands upon thousands of years.

But it is said that one day, when the twin suns shine hotly over Tatooine, that clouds will form once again yet they will not obscure the twins from sight, and a downpour of rain will wash over everyone.

All the slaves will be Free, and Depur will no longer have power over us.

We will have a sunshower once more.

[kakiwrites]

Pirate sero trying to raid the kings palace, unfortunately for him the princess knows how to fight and takes him down instantly, before he can even get in. Fortunately though, it's the start of a beautiful friendship (or relationship), in which he regularly brings gifts from around the world for his princess and in return... (i didnt think this far tbh I'm so sorry).

saving a princess who doesn't need saving

Genre: fluff

A Hanta Sero x reader

Here's Part two of sero x princess! Reader

Synopsis: A time where elves, fairies, dragons, and other wonderful creatures live in harmony, how would you choose to live? On a pirate ship? Making potions? Who do you stumble upon along the journey? A soldier, a poet, a king? Well, that’s for you to decide.

 (masterlist is under navigation!)

 a/n: hey guys! You guys enjoyed pirate sero so much so here we are again~ I'm still in the middle of my hmc phase so I'm also going to try not to let that show with this fic in particular. I also kind of changed the course of this but if you enjoyed it so much anon, i could make a part 2 or something! Requests are open so please don't be shy to request anything! Let's get started~

 "what do you mean by 'raiding a kingdom', captain?"

 "I said what I said."

 Captain bakugo said to one of his duller crewmates, Denki. Everyone was in shock to say the least. You raided other ships and bumped into the navy at sea before but raiding an entire kingdom? What was their captain thinking?

 "wouldn't that be a little off brand for us pirates, Captain?" sero asked, re-tying his bandana on his head, looking inquisitively at the blonde hothead who was scanning his big map resting on his desk.

 "we're not doing it for the knack of it. We're doing it because a lot of people are stuck in poverty and being abused by their king. We're doing them a favor by saving them from harm. We can also get all their riches and give them back. Win-win." bakugo said as he marked the place where the ship would meet the rocky cliffs where the castle was perched high above it. Even though bakugo seemed like a very evil person, he was really kind-hearted and always placed others before himself. Everyone, including sero admired that. That's why they joined his crew in the first place. A sea robin hood they called him. Sero wanted to be known as someone who was like his captain, someone who was willing to fight the world if it meant to save others he cared for.

 "we'll arrive there at dawn. Since climber over there is the most flexible out of all of us, he could get a rope up for use to get to and storm the castle." bakugo said, pointing at sero. You see, sero was known for being the most flexible out of everyone. He could climb the tallest poles and cliffs and make it look so easy. He nodded his head in agreement. There was no one else better for the job anyway.

 Everyone left the room and went off to get ready for the big fight. Mina, denki, and kirishima decided to chat and plan in their quarters, bakugo stayed in his study to thoroughly flush his plan of attack out and sero decided to stay on the dock to look out at the dark and shining seawater under the crisp and white moonlight, waiting for the clock to tick down before he could finally help his crew win and free people.

 This could be a step closer to person sero truly wants to be.

  The sun was barely peeking out of the horizon when the crew docked the ship and handed sero a long rope. With ease, the raven-haired boy started to climb up the rough terrain to use as leverage. Soon the rough side of the cliff turned to the smooth limestone of the castle. Sero couldn't tell how far up he is when he jumped over one of the balconies and tied to rope tightly to the banister, letting the other pirates take their time to climb up the rope.

 He turned around to check the insides of the castle but was met with a knife made of crystal to his throat. He looked into your (e/c) eyes and admired how your face was twisted with this determined look. You wore a dress made of the finest silk and lace, making it seem like you were innocent, naïve but you were quite the opposite. You looked like you were willing to slit his throat right there- wait, what was he doing? Why was he staring at you? You were on their side so why look so starstruck?

 Sero reflexes moved as his hand swiftly grabbed his sword and hit your knife out of your hand, you moved to catch it only to be met with the same position you tried to place the pirate in, his sword pressed to your throat. "you have courage and skill princess." you looked down and kicked his feet, causing him to fall to the ground. Just as you were about to retrieve your knife back, he grabbed your arm and pulled your back into his chest, sword back resting on your throat. "but not enough to defeat me." he whispered in your ear. He got a whiff of your hair, making him turn away to try to get your mind off of it.  He was a pirate so why is a small sniff of your scent making him blush.

 You glared at him from the corner of your eye. "why are you here anyway?" you muttered angrily. You knew there was no use for squirming or breaking out of his grasp. If he was here to take over the castle then he wouldn't mind killing you off.

 "we're here to save your peoples' asses from your asshole of a king, that's what." someone said. you looked over to see a blonde man, you presumed he was the captain. Next to go over your balcony was a pink-skinned girl, a boy with a streak lighting bolt in his yellow hair, and a man with a toothy grin. "take care of her, climber. We'll deal with the king. This little princess is already too much trouble if he let her roam." the captain said before pushing the glass doors into the castle open and striding in with his other companions, walking out into the corridors. You could hear the battle erupt between the guards and their little group.

 "look, I don't like my father as much you guys do," you said, trying to look back at the black-haired man to no avail. His grip was tight yet gentle on you. It wasn't as rough as you imagined being held hostage would be. Was he purposefully being gentle with you?

 "what do you want to do then princess? You giving me a sob story won't give me a reason for letting you go." he taunted you. You could tell he had a smirk on his face as he said these words. You scoffed at that. Damn, he really did knew what he was doing.

 "look, if you're going to fight for the freedom of my people, then I would join you instead of being locked in this tower with my father and his ulterior motives," you said. People would've thought you were lying but what you said was true. You knew of your father's intention from the start but you had to play dumb if you didn't want to die in the hands of assassins. "I trained for this moment. I can help you." you pleaded. If it was your choice, you would've disposed of your father a long time ago but he just had too many guards around him that you couldn't seem to get him alone in a room.

 Sero's breath hitched. You sounded so strong and confident. You reminded him of bakugo, how headstong and how you thought of others. But even so, could he really trust you? He thought for a moment before turning you in his grasp. You finally got a good look at his face. His black hair tied in a small bun at the back of his head, his eyes glistened in thought, a scar running down his lips but it didn't make his lips any less delectable- wait, what were you thinking? He was a pirate, your captor, a potential enemy if he doesn't accept your offer of help.

 "fine."

 "what-"

 "It was either you fight with us or against us. I'm glad you actually chose the right one. Don't make me regret this." he said, handing you your crystal knife then taking your wrist and pulling you into the chaos of battle. He swung his sword at the guards, encouraging you to join in too.

 "man, how am I going to explain this to bakugo." he muttered under his breath. He looked back at you and smiled. Maybe it wasn't such a bad decision to let you fight with them. He'll just have to convince bakugo that having you in the crew would be one of the best decisions he could make.

 And that's all! I had loads of fun thinking of lines and stuff for this prompt. Hope you guys also had some fun reading this one! Requests are still open for this series by the way so please don't be shy to leave anything! Love you guys 💖♥️💕

General taglist (don’t be shy to comment your tumblr @ below): @tokyoghoose @macaronnv @reogou @lnarizakis @midnightangelfox @wumboho

series taglist  (don’t be shy to comment your tumblr @ below!): @astrxrism ​ @kurookinnie @isentsworld @inkumistuki

[honesthammie]

Te amo

I am working on a few of the other prompts and a part 2 to prompt 4 the soulmate au I just recently got another puppy and I still have uni work to do so I'm a bit behind schedule with these and I'm so sorry. Hopefully this little kinda songfic makes up for it.

13th doctor x female reader

Warnings: swearing as usual, fluffy, sad thoughts, twist the original songs meaning, long as fuck.

Probably terrible as its my first songfic

I don't know much Spanish so some of the examples later on are Google translated and I know it can be wrong so I do apologise for any mistranslations

This is based off Rhiannas song Te Amo but I'm switching it up a little. I dont why 13th doctor came into my head when I was listening to it but it gave me this lil oneshot idea so enjoy! The picture is not mine but the rainbow effect added is done by me! Same for the picture later on.

I've been travelling with this amazing alien for a whole year now. The adventures are always amazing if she's there! The others sometimes complain and say its boring, especially on a junk planet but to see her face light up with excitement makes my day and it well worth the dirt we cover ourselves on by the time we are done. And when she finds something that she thought was useful and it turns out, it's not her scrunch is amazing.

Okay, I'll admit it. I'm in love with this alien. I know, weird, a human and an alien together? But I can't help it! I'm completely besotted with her. If she even looks in my direction, my legs go to jelly and I get butterflies. I know, cheesy. But thats exactly how I feel around her. I barely want to touch her because I nearly fainted the last few times. And I fear she may pick up on how I'm distancing myself from her. I don't want to break her heart and leave, the thought of her look kills me as is so I'm trying to get her to kick me off.

It doesn't seem to be working though. I've been distancing myself since I found out about how I feel, which is now 6 months ago and she's trying to get me to be as close as I was with her.

I'll tell her. On one of our amazing adventures but I can't do it straight forward, it's making me sick with anxiety just thinking about it. I'll fancy it up, make her work it out. Whenever we are next to each other and the moment is right, I'll tell her in another language!

I finally get out of bed after I finished writing in my diary. I slip some comfy clothes on and head out to the TARDIS library and hope no one is there, especially her. I'll be distracted and right now, I need to concentrate. I wonder the warm halls, grateful that the TARDIS had considered my preferences. I think the TARDIS likes me more than the others because I talk to her and show her gratefulness for taking us somewhere amazing and I chat to her regularly and I try to involve her in my conversations. The others find it weird, except for the Doctor, she just smiles and joins in with me. Im still learning how to translate her but I think I've sort of got it.

I reach my hand forward and grab the aged bronze doorknob and open to the giant room. There were so many floors that an elevator had to be used to access some of them as the Doctor said "walking would literally take weeks to reach some floors". Thankfully the TARDIS organises them to make them easier to find. I looked forward and saw an interactive map in front of me. My hands touched the screen and many subjects and categories came up. Anything ranging from kiddie tales to straight up smut, I have a feeling either River or Missy are to blame for that addition.

I've never met them but the TARDIS showed me videos from her database and brought books to my attention about them. They both seem very dirty minded people so I'm not surprised those are there. I wonder if the Doctor has ever stumbled upon this section or is it for none Doctor eyes only? If she does know about them, has she ever read one? No, don't go there you stupid brain! She probably doesn't know!

I quickly stop that train of thought and catch my breath. I've never thought about those kinds of things about anyone before. Stupid Timelord, making me go all weird and think dirty things. Now my face is all red, I really hope I'm alone in here. I quickly focus back to the task at hand, finding a new language to learn. The TARDIS seemed to know where to go and blue arrows appeared, guiding me to the right section in what could be a maze.

As I walking, I felt excitement rise within me. What if she felt the same way? What if she was impressed by how far I wanted to go just to say those 3 words? Would her hazel honey eyes sparkle with delight? Would she scronch her nose in amazement?

Before I knew it, I'd arrived at the language learning section and there were many alien languages but the TARDIS seemed to have a better idea of what would be perfect for me as a white hardback book fell off the 4th shelf onto the wooden floor. I picked it up and noticed how smooth the cover was and how old yet unused it looked. The white was a little off, almost a dull cream from ageing which made the gold writing harder to read. The title was simple:

Spanish basics and need to knows.

I did always find Spanish in school fun to learn, more than French or German anyway and I don't wanna stereotype this into a typical French is the language of romance. I never really found it romantic sounding compared to Spanish.

I picked up the book and quickly flicked through to the right page and took a note on my phone as to what the translation was and put the worn book away. I quietly thanked the TARDIS and rushed out of the library and back into my room where I could practice without getting caught.

A few weeks have passed since I picked up the new words and practiced them until I was confident and had the TARDIS' approval that I was saying it right. Today the Doctor wanted to take us to this party in the 18th century and we all decided to dress for the part once we landed.

Yaz was wearing a beautiful black and red ballroom gown, accented with little bows around the bottom and lace cuffs. She had her black hair curled into a ponytail. It was simple and cute, much like her style normally. Graham and Ryan wore similar suits but Graham wore green accents and Ryan wore yellow accents.

I let the TARDIS pick my dress. She picked a black and dark blue ballroom gown with blue roses on the bottom. It had black lace underneath and blue lace as the cuffs. The gown also seemed to glitter slightly in the light making me sparkle very subtly. I put my comfy boots on as you couldn't see my shoes as I walked anyway so why did it matter? With all the running we do, I'm not risking my ankles with heels, thank you very much. I had my (h/c) hair in (fave style). It suited my dress perfectly.

I nearly choked on oxygen when I saw how hot the Doctor looked in her suit. It took me a few moments to realise we match. We both blushed at the realisation. Of course the TARDIS makes us match! No wonder why she was more than eager to help me pick an outfit! Stupid sentient ship, shipping us already!

I quickly cleared my throat and complimented everyone on how amazing they looked but I just couldn't take my eyes off the Doctor for long. She was like a magnet for my eyes. Someone help before she realises!

"Don't we all look brilliant? Perfect for the party! 18th century Yorkshire to be exact! What a great century for you guys. Now then, this party is for Nobles and higher, as per usual in these times. Ryan, I suggest you keep in mind about any racist comments that may come out. But as long as you say your Graham's personal butler, you should be welcomed with little resistance. And Yaz, I want you to be (y/n)'s personal maid. That does mean you'll have to follow your so called "masters" around and do anything they ask unfortunately and Graham, (y/n), please act like the others around you and use them. Unfortunately this is the only way all 5 of us can join the party. You'll be fine as long as you bite your tongues. Now the Noble Edward Collins is the host so be sure to thank him for inviting you, even though you technically weren't. And try not to get too drunk, I know what you humans are like! Now follow me." The Doctor explained. I was going to tell the Doctor today, but I guess, I'll have to wait.

The Doctor opened the doors and we were in a cupboard under some gorgeous marble stairs. As we walked towards the party I noticed some family portraits along the walls. They were a very beautiful looking family. The mother had long blonde hair and pale blue eyes. The father was buff, long brown hair and daring brown eyes. There were two children, a girl and a boy. The girl had long brown hair and sparkling blue eyes, whilst the son had blonde hair and brown eyes. They also had a brown greyhound dog laying by the sons feet. The son must be the host, Edward. He looked not much older than 10 in the last painting but the daughter was no where to be found in the portrait and theu all looked mournful. Is she dead and is that the picture capturing the moment of grief? Why would anyone want that? It's so strange, even for this time period.

The Doctor held me and Yaz close, stopping us in our tracks. My heart was racing at the simple touch. But as soon as the touch was there, it was gone. "I hope its okay with you (y/n) but you're going to have to be married to someone."

My heart stopped for a moment and I nearly choked on air. "What? Why?"

"Because women like yourself would have been married as young as 13 or 14. Now your only choices are me and Graham. You can't choose Ryan as he's supposed to be a butler and you can't choose Yaz as she's your maid. The choice is yours, I just need to know wether or not I should refer to you as my darling wife or not?"

What. The. Fuck.

Why did her even calling me that l, turn me on? Obviously, I'm going to choose her but I'm going to have to perfect my reasoning here.

"As much as I love Graham, it's going to be awkward if I have to kiss him or anything because he's like my grandad! I guess you'll do Timelord. Come on then husband, we don't want to be late to the dancefloor!" I spoke clearly hoping she didn't notice how excited I actually was to have even a hint of a relationship with her. It may be fake but ill take anything when it comes to her.

We arrived at the welcome committee and handed our cards over, aka the psychic paper. We were going as Mr and Mrs (last name). The Doctor was holding my hand this entire time and it's driving me insane. I don't know if she can feel my racing pulse under her fingers but if she can I hope she puts it down to excitement! We walked down the most grandest staircase you would ever lay your eyes on.

First we walked around, greeting everyone as they came up to us or if she dragged me to someone she knew, but not personally. She was cute when she was fangirling over these people. Yaz found it annoying as she just wanted to party but I couldn't help it. The way her eyes shimmer with recognition was more beautiful than any galaxy she could ever take us. Sometimes her eyes flickered with admiration and it did make me have jealousy for just a moment before I remembered, I'm staying with her and they aren't .

As the party moved on we met the host Edward. He looked a lot different than in his paintings. He was around 20 years old now and his blonde hair was below his shoulders. He looked a lot like his father with his muscley build. And he was very charismatic which I did not like as he poured all his charm into the Doctor. Does everyone here know that he's gay or does he see through the Doctors disguise? Either way, it was rubbing me the wrong way. I quickly excused myself with Yaz and walked into the bathroom.

"I did not like him. I do not like this Edward guy. Something about him rubs me completely wrong. He's handsome but something is telling me he knows the Doctor isn't a man."

"I felt the same way. He knows something we don't. Before we go out there again, do you mind if I ask you a question?" Yaz asked. My mind was racing a hundred miles an hour. She knows. The jig is up with Yaz. "How do you feel about her, honestly? One minute you 2 are inseparable, then you distance yourself and now you are a nervous wreck around her! I won't judge but I just want to make sure my theory is correct."

Shit. I guess I really was obvious. Does she know?

"If your theory is about me falling hopelessly in love with the Doctor then you'd be correct. I can't help it. I'm going to tell her how I feel without being completely stupid. I just need a right moment to say it." I spoke with a heavy sigh. Hopefully, Yaz can help create that moment thay I need. She nods her head and opens the door. We walk back to the Doctor and notice Edward has gone to other guests and she was talking to Graham. I looked around and saw Ryan flirting with a pretty lady near the food table. Why am I not surprised?

A few hours had passed and the Doctor seemed bored with standing and talking so I made a plan in my head. I grabbed her hand and pulled her to the dancefloor as the next song came on. I didn't quite know how to dance properly but I knew the basics if it. She has to lead and I simply follow suit. It took a few moments but I got the hang of it with the Doctors help. Soon we were dancing so gracefully underneath the most beautiful candelabra that lit up her face perfectly.

Her hair swayed to our perfect dance ever so gently. Her eyes sparkled with amusement and her lips were in a permanent smile. She even laughed a couple of times. Then as the music slowed down to a pace that was perfect, I grabbed her waist and looked her. My heart was going crazy and my legs were about to buckle but I had rehearsed my lines. I can do this.

"Hey Doc. Its been an amazing time with you but I can't continue this without being honest with you. But everytime I get close, I back down in fear. So I'm going to let you figure it out. Doctora te amo. Entiendo que si no sientes lo mismo y me iré si quieres. (Doctor i love you. i understand if you don't feel the same way and i'll leave if you want.)" I spoke with as much passion and intention as I could. I looked into her eyes and saw her confused and trying to work out what I said. I would find it cute if my heart was beating right out of my chest. "Well, I've had a great time but I'm fucking knackered. I'm calling it night. I'll be heading to the TARDIS if you need me."

"I'll come with ya. I'm knackered as well and we both need each other to undo the corsets and mine is starting to hurt a little bit. How we used to do this for a full day, everyday, is beyond my understanding. As beautiful as we look, I don't think its worth the pain this will bring in the morning." Yaz spoke with a slight mumble as proof of her mental state and finishing with a yawn. I chuckled at her state and walked back to the TARDIS with a small amount of chat along the way.

She is right though. These corsets really do hurt you after a while, I'm glad I chose not to wear heels or else I'll be fucked for in the morning. I would literally scream. I think the Doctor had the right idea in wearing a suit, no pain. I do feel bad for leaving her but I just need some space after basically admitting everything that's been built up within me for too damn long. Maybe I should tell Yaz how it went and maybe she can help determine if the Doctor is happy or not.

We walked back into the wardrobe room and I helped Yaz out of her corset. She immediately sighed in relief. She finished getting herself into comfy clothes and started to untie my ribbon.

"So did you tell her?"

"Sort of. I basically told her everything but in Spanish. I just hope it doesn't change anything, except in a positive way, of course! If she wants me gone, I've told her that it's fine and I understand. She's very socially awkward and as cute as I find it, it may not help me in this situation. Do you have any clues on how she may react once she figures it out?"

Yaz stopped untying my corset for a moment and placed 1 finger upon her chin in thought. Her eyes were almost shut and seemed almost completely black in the light. After what seemed like forever, she took her finger off her chin and beamed a toothy smile. Her eyes sparkled as she remembered something and seemed to gleam slightly menacingly. A smirk replaced her smile soon after.

"There's a few times she's shown affection towards you. And I mean romantic affection. She always chooses to hold your hand over anyone else's if given the choice. She always steps I'm front of you when an enemy threatens to kill us all or hurt us in anyway. When you go wandering around on your own, she's terrified thats she's lost you forever to an enemy we don't even know of!" Yaz starts explaining carefully as if she's worried on how to word it.

"Those are just friendly affec-"

"I wasn't done. I was warming up." Yaz interrupts me as I was about to go into a self deprecating speech on how I'm just a friend to everyone and never a lover. "She always looks to see your face on adventures because she secretly loves your reactions, bad or good. When the Master revealed himself, she looked straight at you for support on how she should react. When she came back from the Kasavin, she ran straight to you and made sure you were ok first before any of us. When we were in the Tsungra medical ship, the first person she asked for was you! Whilst she was unconscious on board the ship, she kept mumbling your name, over and over again. When she saw how gorgeous you looked today, I thought she'd take you right there on the spot! She fucking loves you (y/n)! You're just so unbelievably blind to it all!"

Yaz was almost red with rage. Did she really do all that, for me? The TARDIS mustve read my mind and seemed to hum positively in reply. If everything Yaz said is true then she'll be so happy about it and maybe we can be a thing! But then again, maybe losing so many in a similar position as me will turn her away. Maybe her soul is awry and she's asking why right now.

Once I had gotten changed I went to sleep almost straight away, I suppose all that dancing and social ques having tired me out more than I thought.

I woke up to a soft knock on my door. I rubbed my (e/c) eyes and told them I'd be a few minutes as I've only just woken up. It wasn't until I finished brushing my (h/c) hair that I remembered what happened yesterday. All the panic rushed within me at once and I nearly threw up. I took several deep breaths and opened the door.

"GRAHAM THANK FUCK ITS YOU!" I almost shouted at him. He looked a little bewildered for a moment before he seemed to remember what brought him here in the first place.

"Hello Love, I'm here because Doc wanted to speak with you privately in the library. She says that the TARDIS will guide you to her location. She seemed a little off after you and Yaz left. Did something happen? Is everything ok?" Graham asked cautiously. He must be so confused.

"Sort of. I'll explain more when I get back but what do you mean by "a little off"?"

"Well she seemed lost in all sense of the word. She kept muttering "Te Amo" all the time. She was all over the place aswell. She got me and Ryan back here not long after you guys. Something about not trusting Ryan to not get alcohol poisoning without her around. She hasn't really left the library since if I'm honest. She's been in there for 12 hours. I only know she wants you because she whattsapped me on my phone. Whatever is going on, please sort it out, she's starting to really worry me. She hasn't been the same since that Master guy came around." Graham spoke clearly, albeit confused. I nodded my head and walked in the opposite direction to him and hoped the TARDIS would take me there quicker than normal. I want to treat this like a plaster, rip it off in one go.

Sooner than I realised, I grabbed the all too familiar door knob of the library. I took a deep breath and walked in. A blue line appeared towards the interactive map. I awakened the console and I saw a black screen with a few words on it. It looked like a message with how it was presented.

Hello (y/n)! Don't walk until you calm. Breath deeply and try not to panic. I promise you, all will work out in the end. I see more than you realise and I know my thief better than anyone whoever stepped foot into my being. I know of her main problem about the situation. If she loves you, drink this. It won't hurt, she'll know what it is.

The TARDIS

I should have been surprised by this new knowledge that she could speak to me, in a way, but I've seen so much and I am so tender hooks so I didn't take much notice of it. I quickly sat down and tried to control my breathing. After about 5 or so minutes, I felt calm enough to finally meet up with her and hear what she has to say.

I followed the blue line carefully until I spotted her in a comfy room. She mustve gotten changed at some point as she was wearing her usual rainbow outfit, minus the jacket. She was sat on a deep purple sofa, legs curled into her body. Her shoes were on the carpeted floor underneath her, seemingly forgotten for the moment. There were many books surrounding us from many cultures and spieces. One wall had a cozy wood burning fireplace crackling within the silence that surrounded us.

Her face was scrunched within deep thought. Her eyes sparkling with an emotion that I couldn't quite put my finger on; hope, sorrow or excitement? Her lips had a small smirk gracing them and her teeth had bitten a small part of it. Her hands were holding a book in a way where I couldn't quite see what it was.

I didn't want to disturb her as she looked so ethereal with the warm glow of the fire highlighting her in the perfect way. Unfortunately, it's plaster time and I wanted this sorted sooner rather than later. I took a deep breath took in the picture for memory.

"Hey, Graham said you wanted to talk to me? Is everything ok?" I asked gently and as softly as I could so she was carefully brought out of her little world. I didn't want to scare her. She raised her eyes from her book for a moment and bookmarked the page she was at with a little TARDIS paperclip. She placed the book on the table at the side of her and patted the seat next to her.

As I sat down my nerves were through the roof. She gave nothing away as she stared at me for a minute, as if assessing something about me.

"Why are you so nervous? Calm down. You are right, It is to do with last night. You left pretty abruptly after basically confessing your feelings to me. I was so confused, not just about what you said but about myself and what I wanted to do about you." The Doctor spoke monotonously. Did she mean get rid of me? "I had to first of all, find out what you said, well done on learning a new language by the way, one even I'm not fluent at. I'm guessing the old girl had something to do with that idea. Not that, you aren't smart enough but you don't know what languages I do or don't know."

The Tardis seemed to chuckled at the accusation and I simply nodded my head. "I wanted to buy myself time and to impress you."

"You impressed me a long time ago Miss (l/n). That is just a cherry on top. After I figured out what you said, no thanks to my old friend here, I went through a lot of thinking. I've not been in many relationships and you know my history regarding the ones I have been in. You know, River and Missy? And I have such a bad past with it ending in nothing but tears for me. I always lose those I care for deeply." She spoke with tears spilling from her gorgeous eyes. I grabbed her face gently and wiped away the stray tears that managed to escape their home.

"That was when you were a man. You're a woman now, everything is so different. Relationships can be heartbreaking. I know what you're main problem is and the TARDIS has a solution to that. I just need you to tell me the truth. How do you feel about me? Do you want me to stay or not?" I stated holding the small shot glassed amount of liquid in my hand. The liquid was golden and sparkled slightly in the light. There were specks of orange and silver within it and it was as hot as a nice cup of (hot drink). Her eyes sparkled with hope and shock. Her lips were smiling wide. And she seemed to giggle at the sight of it. She held it for a moment as if examining it like a rare artefact, maybe it was. Either way, I trust her judgement and if she's happy about it, then so am I. Once she had analysed the drink, she practically leapt into my arms and pushed me down on my back. She smelled of custard creams and the TARDIS which was odd but completely her and I couldn't imagine her smelling any other way.

"That does solve our problem! What she has just given you is the rarest liquid in the universe seeing as only one thing in the entirety of space can produce it. That drink is known as the nectar of the chosen ones. It's rare as the race that used to make them has practically gone extinct. There's only 3 left in the known universe and you're living in one. That drink is the blood of the TARDIS. It grants you immortality if you drink it. It is said to resemble your favourite beverage no matter who you are. However, it only lasts 100 years and you must drink it every century or else your body clock will kick in and you will age and be as mortal as you are now." She speaks with a warning as we sit up holding holds.

"I have no problem with that. I would sacrifice everything if it meant I got to call you mine. Just please tell me and I'll drink it." I told her with adoration in my eyes.

She held me close and planted a soft and gentle kiss to my lips. It was short but it sent more fireworks than you can imagine through my body. I knew I had found her. She grabbed my waist and whispered next to my ear:

"Te Amo"

[iloveitwhen]

First Meetings

I really should have posted this a long long time ago but.............. oh well.

@jasonette-july-2k20 

Sibling Jasonette

The first time he met Marinette he was pissed, she looked nothing like him! How dare she claim to be the daughter of his mother. 

“Listen, little girl,” he snarled at the dark haired teenager who stood calmly in front of him, “I don’t care how you got that name but I do not have a sister.” 

“Don’t the eyes match?” she asked emotionless, staring at him in a challenge. Jason was startled and took a better look at hers and felt the blood drain from his face. She was right, despite only meeting his mother for a short time he committed the face in his memory, the girl shared the same shaped rose lips, small nose, and shade of blue eyes that matched not only his mothers but his own. 

“My father was another doctor in Ethiopia, I was five when Shiela died and I was sent to live with my biological father’s sister and her husband in France.” She took a deep breath, “look. You don’t have to believe me but I wanted to let you know, I think people deserve the decency to know these things.” She adjusted the strap of her backpack on her back and turned to leave. “I’m sorry you didn’t want me for a sister.” she says as she walks away. 

Jason stands there for a moment, he doesn’t know if he wants to believe it, but she had proof on her face that held his mother’s features. Could she only be after him for his connection to Bruce? Was she really his sister? 

Sister. 

He had to make sure.

“Wait!” he stepped outside of his apartment and looked down the hallway the way she walked but she was already gone. He quickly shut his door and chased after her, letting his long legs bound over the running children down the hall. He skidded to a halt when he came to the reception desk. 

“Did a teenage girl with black pigtails just walk out of here?” he shouts at Riley, the receptionist who nods vigorously noticing his panic. He runs out and looks around the small area, luckily he was taller than most people and could easily look over the heads of the few people who were around in the early morning. Unluckily she had disappeared just as quickly as she had appeared. 

“Shit!” 

“You know it’s not polite to curse.” Jason whipped around and found the girl was leaning against the wall with her arms crossed. 

“You played me.” 

She shrugged, “you wouldn’t listen to me and I wasn’t sure if you’d come down or not to be honest.” then she pushed herself off the wall and gave him a bright smile and laughed a little, completely different from how she was acting before at his door, “I am glad you came though!” 

This girl was throwing him for a loop. 

“How do I know you're telling the truth? And what do you want?” she gave him a quizzical look. 

“We can do a blood test, and I don’t want anything from you!” she said as if it was the most scandalous thing. “I would never do such a thing, I just wanted to meet you.” she gave another, more soft smile, it was quite disarming and Jason got the distinct realization that this girl could be very dangerous. 

---

The first time he met Ladybug he was quite confused. She was standing in front of him in the filthiest part of Gotham in a strange red and black polka dotted superhero spandex suit with thick brown accents. Just who did she think she was running around in that suit. He eyed her warily, she had a similar face shape as his sister except she was taller and had big brown eyes and white hair crafted into twin braided tails that fell down to her waist. 

“Please, Red Hood.” 

"Look. I don't know you, you could be some evil mastermind for all I care, and besides, I'm really not the person you should ask. Even if this all is real I have anger issues and hearing about this guy really fuels my desire to kill the bastard." He shakes his head and shrugs. "I don't know what to tell you, I'm not even the best detective, actually, I might be the worst out of the bunch." He turns to leave but the girl calls him back. 

"Wait. You can help, I sought you out specifically, and you are also quite good at keeping secrets and this definitely needs to be kept a secret. We already know who is behind the mask but we need proof and that's where you come in. We need help, please, just think about it. I'll be here in two days at the same time for your answer. If you decide to help bring a bag with a few changes of clothes and whatever you need." 

"I'll think about it." 

She nodded and gave him a sad smile before turning and yelling, "voyage!" And stepping through a portal. 

Weird. Well at least he’d be able to see his sister, she did live in Paris after all. For a moment he thought that Ladybug could be Marinette but shook his head she would have told him about bleaching her hair, not to say that she wouldn’t be the type to hero around but there was just no way, Jason wasn’t that unlucky. 

---

Red Hood waited at the agreed upon spot with a duffle bag on the ground at his feet when the weird hero chick opened a portal and stepped through. 

“Red Hood!” she says, relief passing through her features and she spots his duffle and looks at him with excitement in her eyes. “Have you decided to help?” she asks with a hopeful smile. 

Red Hood grunts in response before threatening, “look, I don’t kill kids but if this is some sort of joke I might break my rules.” But instead of looking scared she sighed in relief, keeping her smile. 

“Thank you Red.” Jason’s heart broke a little at the utmost gratitude from her voice, like no one ever bothered to help her when she asked for it. Before she could say another word the round thing on her hip beeped and when she opened it she grimaced. 

“We have an akuma attack. Come on, I want you to watch but stay out of sight.” she called “voyage” again like last time and a portal appeared but she looked back at him and added, “please stay out of this fight, we have this handled and you will get in the way.” He nodded and they stepped through.

She had portaled them to the top of a tall building, it was nighttime in Paris when it was dusk at Gotham  and in the distance he saw the Eiffel Tower getting picked up by a giant kid who looked about six years old but was half the size of the Eiffel Tower itself that he just chucked. Behind the mask Jason's brows went high and his jaw dropped. 

“Don’t worry,” the girl reassured him. “Gigantitan isn’t too bad, just a poor kid who gets akumatized regularly. Dismount.” 

“Dismo-?” Jason began but was caught off guard by the flash of teal colored light surrounding the girl. In place of the suit from before she stood in a mostly black suit with red and black polka dots covering her arms and torso, the bottom was black with a thick red stripe around her ankles and black under her forearms and palms. Her hair had changed to black with short pigtails and her eyes blue. 

“What the f-”

“Stay out of sight, I’ll come back for you.” She pulled the round thing off her hip and started swinging it in a circle by a string, was that a yoyo?, and swung off after the giant baby child. Jason was slightly panicked, she just transformed in a flash of light and looked like his sister when they first met. Marinette had outgrown the pigtails and now usually wore her hair down, in braids, or in buns. And her eyes were blue. Jason shook his head of the thought, this Ladybug must have just made the pigtails popular, and plenty of people have blue eyes. He then ran after the hero to get a closer look without getting in the way. 

He saw two more heroes trying to keep the monster contained when they converged to meet up with the Ladybug. He decided to get closer and leaped across the rooftops till he could see and hear the heroes working clearly but was also out of the way. 

It was clear Ladybug was the leader, she barked orders while joining the fight as well. It was a quick win but the weirdest part wasn’t when the giant-baby-thing was enveloped in purple goo and shrunk to reveal a young six year old boy, it was when the girl tossed something in the air and a burst of little flying things came out of nowhere and magically fixed everything, including the destroyed Eiffel Tower. Jason was very confused. Sure he’d seen some crazy things over the years but that didn’t mean it was any less strange. He observed how they surrounded the boy and comforted him, soon the blonde haired man in the all black suit and cat ears gathered the boy in his arms and bounded away, likely taking the boy home. The black spotted hero with her third partner, pointing to the place he was told to stay and they both sprouted wings and flew in that direction. 

“Hey!” he called out, stepping into the light. The two heroes looked over and started in his direction. They landed softly on the roof and their wings disappeared into wisps of white smoke. 

“Red Hood I told you too-”

“I know, I know, I just wanted to get a better look. I think I need a lot more explaining.” 

The leader nodded then gestured to her partner, “this is Hornet, Hornet, this is Red Hood.” 

He looked her over as she did him, her suit was mostly black as well, her torso was black with burnt yellow along the seams in honeycomb shapes and in the same color she had several diagonal lines down her legs. She also had a mask like his though it resembled a bee’s head. 

“Nice mask,” Hornet commented, her voice wasn’t muffled as it should have been and Jason nodded his thanks. 

“Yours is a lot cooler.” He paused for a moment then continued, “I know it’s late here so we can meet up some other time so you kids can get some rest, I can have an explanation later.” Ladybug’s eyebrow quirked up but she nodded. 

“Thanks. Hornet will lead you to the hotel you’ll be staying. Don’t worry, it’ll be safe, no one will find your identity.” 

---

The second time he met Marinette, well, let’s just say the magic that conceals the identities of the Miraculous holders did not work on Jason. 

I did a second part that technically follows this and explains how Mari and Jason are related 

Soulmates Day 2

[atomicstrawbrys]

Three’s A Crowd (Chapter 1/?)

A/N: lmao i finished this just in time- i really wanted to get the first chapter out today so I’m glad I made it! i plan to focus on updating this pretty regularly bc i really liked the idea, so please let me know if you want to read more!  Summary: Arthur found his soulmate eight years ago. It’s been nothing but bliss since then, and as far as he’s concerned, he could go on the rest of his life like this and be perfectly content. However, it seems that that’s not exactly what fate would have in store. Soulmate tattoo AU, first words your soulmate says are written on your wrist. Rated T for language, please let me know if you liked it! 

-

“Hey, do you want help with that?”

Those were the words written on Arthur’s wrist since he was born- they were the first thing his soulmate would ever say to him, and, to be honest, they were really quite sweet. Growing up he’d cherished them, as they served to indicate that whoever his soulmate was, they were a kind and compassionate person who would help a stranger in need.

And, well, that’s exactly who Alfred was. He was honest, kind, cheerful and fun, and he was everything Arthur could want in a soulmate. They’d met in University- they were in the Library, finals were approaching, and Arthur was carrying a large stack of books over to his table to set up a late-night study session. Alfred had come up to him, hands already outstretched to lighten his load, when he said those seven magic words.

Arthur hadn’t even realized it at the time- he was far too preoccupied with keeping his perfect GPA, he had no time for soulmates. Still, though, when he’d replied with a simple ‘Thank you, they’re really quite heavy,” Alfred had positively beamed.

And that was the beginning of the best eight years of Arthur’s life. They’d since graduated and had their own careers- Alfred a brilliant wildlife biologist, Arthur an up-and-coming author in the mystery genre. As far as Arthur was concerned, his life could keep going on like this, and he’d be quite happy with it. They had good jobs, a nice apartment, and money left in the bank after their bills, so really, things were good. They weren’t perfect, of course- Alfred left every so often for excursions out to nature preserves and the like, and though Arthur was sad to see him go, he always looked forward to the day Alfred returned, as he was sure to have plenty of affection and good stories to tell.

Today was one of those days, in fact. Alfred had been gone for a month and a half to supervise the reintroduction of some wolves back into the wild, and yesterday had finally been his last day at the site. He’d continue to check in remotely, but his time away was nearly done and Arthur was just glad he was coming home. He already had a dinner planned- Arthur was by no means an excellent chef, but he could do a pretty good shepherd’s pie, and what he lacked in savory cooking he made up for tenfold in sweet. He’d have a chocolate cake ready with dinner, he decided, as a nice little ‘welcome home’ celebration.

As Arthur planned out his surprise, he went to the kitchen to go ahead and make sure he had everything he needed. He had everything for the pie, that was no problem, but when he looked in the cabinet above the sink, he let out a curse. Of course- he was out of sugar. Arguably one of the more important parts of a cake. Well- that was no matter. He could go out, the grocery store wasn’t far, he could still be done in plenty of time for Alfred to get back.

He walked out of their kitchen and through the living room, pulling his outerwear off the hooks near the door. He zipped up a navy-blue coat and tucked his cream-colored scarf inside it. Alfred would make fun of him if he could see- Alfred never seemed to get cold, and only ever wore a jacket at Arthur’s insistence. Grabbing his wallet and keys, Arthur turned out the lights and left the apartment, locking up behind himself.

The walk to the grocer’s was a short one, but it really was quite cold. Arthur rubbed his arms the whole way there, and when he finally stepped into that artificially yellow light and dry heat, he gave a sigh of relief. The store was small- it was a family-owned place rather than a chain, and though the pea-green walls were unattractive, and the linoleum floor seemed perpetually sticky, the owners were nice, so Arthur never considered another establishment. He grabbed a basket on his way in, and then began to wander the aisles. He was there for sugar, of course, but there were a few more things he could pick up while he was out. And this was the perfect time for shopping, too- there was hardly anyone in the store, and only one cashier on the registers. He waved to her as he ducked into the snack aisle, picking up a bag of chips that were Alfred’s favorite brand. He picked some up for himself too, as well as a gallon of milk and a carton of eggs. The last thing he needed was the sugar.

Of course, that would be no easy task. The sugar he always bought was on the very top shelf of the aisle, and although Alfred was normally around to get it down for him, this time he was on his own. Still, though, he could do it! He had before, it just...took him a second. And of course, when he turned into the aisle with all the baking ingredients, it was one of only a few preoccupied places in the store. Another man stood on the other end, seemingly trying to decide between two different items. He was tall, the same height or taller than Alfred. Other than that, Arthur couldn’t tell much about him- he was wearing a huge black jacket, one with faux fur lining the hood. He glanced over at Arthur when he came in, and though Arthur did notice how his gaze lingered, it wasn’t long before he looked away again.

Deciding to just get in and get out, Arthur set his basket down and reached as high up as he could for the sugar, his fingertips barely brushing the bottom of the bag. He strained with the effort, only pausing when he heard footsteps walking towards him.

The man stopped in front of him, and Arthur could see him more clearly now. He was definitely taller than Alfred, with a reddish-brown complexion and deep amber eyes that glinted with mirth. He had a cocky smirk on his face, and instantly Arthur could tell the man found him amusing. With a chuckle, the man glanced up at the sugar and then back at Arthur. He took in a breath, and when he spoke, his voice was teasing and smug.

“Hey, do you want help with that?”

Arthur shot him a pointed look- really, it didn’t matter what he said, not when he said it in such a patronizing manner. He shook his head, then looked away and reached for it again, ignoring the embarrassed flush on his pale cheeks. He could blame it on the cold later.

“Fuck off, Asshole, I don’t need your help.” He grunted, and, to his great surprise, the man dropped his basket and stared.

He ripped the sleeve of his jacket away from his arm, showing off his wrist. Surely enough, the ink on his skin was an exact transcription of what Arthur had just said, and it dawned on him that this stranger had greeted him the same way Alfred had nearly a decade ago. The words on Arthur’s own wrist were clear as day as he reached up for the sugar, his own sleeve sliding down his arm. The stranger glanced at it, just to be sure, and then he beamed.

“H-holy shit,” He spoke, still smiling and now with a tremble in his voice. “I…can’t believe it. Uh- hey, I’m Allen, it’s really nice to meet ya.”