#the new republic won't help and he's like

[callmeasinnercallmeasaint45]

Carson Teva is singlehandedly protecting the entire Outer Rim

[the-force-awakens]

*banging pots and pans together* I FUCKING HATE THE NEW REPUBLIC

[entitled-fangirl]

Such a pretty sight.

Din Djarin x reader

Summary: Toro Calico drags Mando into his hunt, which drags the Mandalorian's riduur and child into it as well.

Warnings: blasters, cursing, kidnapping, weird comments

Masterlist

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"Where are we going?"

Din turned back to look at his riduur. "I'm finding work."

This didn't help her confusion. "Then why am I coming with you?"

He turned to start walking again, "Because Mesh'la, you need a break from the kid. Now, put your mask back on."

She huffed under her breath but didn't argue.

When she started traveling with Din, he had given her a mask that fitted the bottom half of her face. It was simply for her safety, considering the wanted child they carried with them.

…

"Hey, droid, I'm a hunter. I'm lookin' for some work." The Mandalorian leaned on the bar, Y/N awkwardly standing behind him.

"Unfortunately, the Bounty Guild no longer operates from Tatooine."

"I'm not looking for Guild work."

The girl's head snapped up. What is Din doing?

"I am afraid that does not improve your situation, at least by my calculation."

A voice came from across the cantina, "Think again, tin can."

Y/N could feel the slight annoyed feeling in Din purely by his stance. He turned to look at the man who had interrupted them.

"If you're looking for work, have a seat, my friend." The man was young and cocky, Y/N could tell that much. "I'm Toro, Toro Calico." He pointed to the table he was sitting at, "C'mon, relax."

Y/N stepped forward slightly, her voice slightly muffled through the modulator of her small mask, "Mandalorians don't relax."

Toro smiled, "How about pretty girls?"

Din scoffed under his mask and moved to sit at the table, Y/N following behind.

Toro puts down his Bounty Puck, "Picked this up before I left the Mid Rim. It's Fennec Stand, an Assassin. I heard she's been on the run since the New Republic put all her employers in lockdown." He stared into Din's visor, which gave him nothing to read from him.

Din's deep, even voice calm through the modulator, "I know the name."

"Well, I followed this tracking fob here. Now the positional data suggests she's headed out beyond the Dune Sea." Toro looks over to Y/N with a charming smile, "Should be an easy job."

Din was getting annoyed, "Well, good luck with that." He got up from the table, holding his hand out to help Y/N stand. 

Toro was surprised, "Wait, wait, wait, hey. I thought you needed work?"

Din turned sharply, "How long have you been with the Guild?"

"Long enough."

"Clearly not. Fennec Shand is an elite mercenary. She made her name killing for all the top crime syndicates, including the Hutts." He balanced his weight onto his other foot, "If you go after her, you won't make it past sunrise."

He grabbed Y/N's wrist gently, pulling her away from the table. 

Toro groaned and moved to follow them, "This is… my first job. You can keep the money, all of it. I just need the job to get into the Guild." He scoffed, "I can't do it alone."

Din considered the plea, "Meet me at Hanger three-five in half an hour."

Toro looked relieved. But Din wasn't done.

"...bring two speeder bikes and give me the tracking fob."

Toro's eyes widened, his gaze shifting from the Mandalorian to the girl before he smashed the fob against the wall.

Din's head tilted in anger, and even his riduur was nervous.

Toro smiled, "Don't worry, got it all memorized."

Din's voice lowered, "Half an hour."

The man nodded. He turned to Y/N again, "And do I get to know your name before you leave?"

Her eyes widened, her lips slightly parted under her mask in slight shock. She turned to Din.

But before she could answer, Din's voice broke through, "No."

And he grabbed her hand, pulling her out of the cantina.

Toro yelled on their way out, "Looks like you're stuck with me now, partners."

…

The walk back to the Razor Crest was tense and she was unsure what to say. 

They walked up the ramp.

As she went to say something, Din stopped as if he hit a brick wall.

She stopped behind him, "…Din?"

The kid was gone.

Din ran out, leaving Y/N behind. 

He kicked at the droid near the Razor Crest, his voice a low growl, "WHERE IS HE??"

Peli Motto ran out with the child in her arms, "Quiet! Oh!" She shushes the child, "You woke it up."

Y/N wandered down the ramp, watching the exchange.

Din is enraged. "Give him to me."

"Not so fast. You can't just leave a child all alone like that. You know," she remarked, "you two have an awful lot to learn about raising a young one."

Y/N stepped up to meet Din. She looked to the woman, "Please. I'm his mother, Please."

Din went rigid at the confession. 

His riduur considered herself the child's mother.

Peli Motto sighed, handing the child to Y/N. Y/N immediately took the child back into the ship, a content smile on her face.

Peli held her hands on her hips, "Anyway, I started the repair on the fuel leak. There you go. I had a couple setbacks I want to talk to you about. You know, I didn't use any droids, as requested, so it took me a lot longer than I expected."

Din moved back into the ship, grabbing his bag.

She smiled, "But I figured you were good for the money since you have a few extra mouths to feed."

Din stopped, "Thank you."

…

Din met Toro in the Hanger, leaving his riduur and child in the ship. 

Toro sat on one of the speeder bikes proudly, "Hey, Mando, what do you think? Not too shabby, huh?"

Din expected the bike carefully.

Toro opened his mouth again, "What? You didn't bring the lady with you?"

Din turned slowly and angrily, but took a few deep breaths to make himself relax. "No."

Toro laughed, putting on his goggles, "Shame really. Would've been a pretty sight."

And he took off on the bike before Din could retaliate. 

Din followed behind. 

…

Y/N sat in the Razor Crest with the ramp down for hours while the men were gone, happily entertaining the child, and making small talk with Peli who continued her work. But soon, Peli had finished and made her way into her home for the night.

The Mandalorian's riduur babbled with the child and he walked around happily.

She heard footsteps and peaked her head up, hoping for Din to have already returned.

But he hadn't.

Toro did.

And he was aiming his blaster at her.

"Stand up, girl."

Her eyes widened in fear, shifting to the child.

Toro's tone became angrier, "I stand, stand up."

She did, holding her hands up.

"Now, get the child."

Y/N leaned down and picked up the child as intructed. "Toro, please…"

"Quiet. You're gonna do as I say."

…

Now at nightfall, he was finally making his way back to the Razor Crest.

The whole plan had gone to shit and the man had abandoned him.

Or had he?

Cause now Din saw the speeder bike outside of the Razor Crest.

He took out his blaster, carefully approaching.

"Took you long enough, Mando."

Toro emerged from the dark of the Razor Crest ramp. He held Y/N tight to his chest, and in her arms sat the child. His blaster was against the girl's temple uncomfortably.

"Looks like I'm calling the shots now. Huh, partner? Now drop your blaster and raise 'em."

He took a moment to study his riduur. She no longer had her mask. Her eyes were wide in uncertainty, and she held the child close to her chest in comfort. 

He couldn't handle the sight.

So, he dropped the blaster, and held his hands behind his head.

Y/N let out a gasp, "Mando…"

Toro grabbed at her neck harshly with his free hand, "Shut it."

The man leaned his head down to hers, his lips gently touching her ear, "I want you to go cuff him. Give me the child."

She gave out a small whimper, but knew there was no way to fight it.

She gave Toro the child and took slow, hesitant steps with the cuffs towards her riduur.

Toro took this time to monologue, "You're a Guild traitor, Mando. And I'm willing to bet that this here is the target you helped escape." He held his blaster towards the child.

Y/N, who had no reached Mando at this point, gently called out, "Don't touch him, please… please…"

Toro scoffed, "Cuff him, pretty girl. I'm waiting."

She nodded, moving towards Din.

Din had something in his hands behind his head.

"…Bringing you in won't just make me a member of the Guild, it'll make me legendary."

Mando took that as his opportunity.

He pressed the button on the remote in his hand, making a bright light and small explosion that blinded Toro.

Din grabbed Y/N and hid behind the nearest wall.

And blaster fire was all Y/N could hear and think about.

Until Toro was shot and fell from the ramp.

Y/N cursed, following closely behind Mando to the body. He reprimanded, "Stay back, Mesh'la."

She couldn't help it, "…the child…Din…?"

The child was no near to be seen.

She began to look around as Din inspected Toro's dead body.

Finally, she heard his babbling from behind a nearby crate.

"Oh, thank the maker… C'mere." She held the child close, kissing his little bald head.

When Din had turned back to his riduur, a smile came across his face beneath the beskar.

Toro was right.

She is such a pretty sight.

He stepped close to the woman and child. His gloved fingers lightly grazed the cut on her forehead.

She shook her head, "M'fine, Din."

He nodded. "Let's go, Cyare."

The little family left Tattooine in the Razor Crest. 

Din may have had fewer credits than he hoped to make out with, but he had much more that he was grateful to have. 

........................................................................

[ladyanidala]

Reader Insert Masterlist

Crosshair

Preservation - a two part story about Crosshair reuniting with his secret Jedi wife after the events of Order 66. Set during an unspecified time between s1 and s2.

Quietly, Gently - a little snippet of Crosshair's thoughts after a fight. More of a character study than anything else. Modern AU.

Tear My Soul In Two (Don't Leave Me) - a four part story involving Crosshair and his soulmate. Set pre Order 66.

Tequila - a oneshot where Crosshair likes Tequila. Utter crackery ensues. Modern AU.

The Ghost Took My Heart - a four part story about Crosshair leaving his significant other and coming to terms with the fact that he made a mistake in doing so. Republic Victory/Skeevy Sheevy dies AU.

An Unthinking Kiss - a oneshot where Crosshair accidentally kisses his best friend. Modern AU. (One of my favorite pieces!)

Left For Dead (Oh Baby, I Won't Leave You) - a oneshot where Crosshair betrays his Jedi wife when Order 66 is given. Based off a Tumblr post I found in the wild.

Insolence Answered - a short and fluffy oneshot of Crosshair making dinner. Modern AU.

The Joy You Give Me - a oneshot where Crosshair likes to brush hair. Modern AU.

In The Midst Of The Night, My Heart, Be Still - a oneshot where Crosshair wakes up from a nightmare, goes out to the porch on Pabu to breathe, and his wife finds him. Can be read as canon compliant.

I'll Share My Heart (Please Stay) - a oneshot where the reader is forcibly transferred from CF99 to the 501st. The reunion with Crosshair is interesting, to say the least. Republic Victory (Ball) AU.

Tu Me Manques (You're Missing From Me) - a reunion oneshot set after s3ep5. Forgiveness ensues.

Hunter

Your Personal Weighted Blanket - a oneshot where Hunter gets a weighted blanket, of sorts.

My Happy Home - a oneshot where Hunter attacks his wife with snuggles. Modern AU.

Echo

A New Reality - a oneshot where Echo comes back from the dead. Set pre-Order 66.

I'll Be Needing Stitches - a oneshot where Echo feggs around and finds out. Modern AU, and written for the TBB 2024 Fic Exchange!

Fives

Dessert - a oneshot where Fives won't let you help him make dessert. Can be either Modern AU or in universe.

Commander Fox

A Picture of Love - a oneshot where reader and Fox attend an art gala for reader's job. Republic Victory AU.

Cody

Kiss It Better (Tell Me We'll Be Ok) - a oneshot where Cody and reader deal with the fallout of a fight. Modern AU.

Jesse

Don't Come Any Closer (But Don't Move Away) - a novella length enemies to lovers oneshot with Jesse and medic!reader. Canon divergent (everybody lives, nobody dies)

[blackkatmagic]

Mace Windu?

“Captain,” Mace says, and when Keeli turns, he inclines his head in greeting, refusing to let the usual flicker of caution stop him as he advances across the space set aside as a makeshift sparring ring. Ryloth’s red dust is a thick coating over everything, turning the white parts of Keeli's armor to rust and giving his hair even more of a red cast than usual, and Mace can feel his surprise, his concern, his wariness.

Not unexpected, given that Mace hasn’t had a chance to visit since droids ambushed Keeli's party, and it was only Mace's last-minute intervention that saved them. With Ima Gun-Di being taken to New Holstice for treatment, that means Keeli and his men are now under Mace's direct command, and Ponds brought Mace plenty of whispers about the whole company being terrified of being sent back to Kamino for decommissioning or reeducation.

Mace would be offended that any clone could assume he would do such a thing, but—it speaks volumes as to the clones’ situation and their servitude to the Republic.

There's very little Mace values the way he values the Republic, but at this point in the war, that bedrock faith is cracking, tarnished, and the way the clones exist is the entire reason as to why.

“General Windu,” Keeli says promptly, snapping to attention. He’s stripped down to just the lower half of his armor, skin bare and slicked with sweat, breath coming quick, and Mace can feel the wash of prickling self-awareness, bordering on embarrassment as he hesitates.

Nothing in Mace is capable of leaving Keeli to squirm, even for a moment, no matter how uncertain he is about his offer being accepted. He nods, waving Keeli out of his stiff attention, and says, “At ease, Captain. I wanted to make sure that you and the rest of the men were settling in.”

That doesn’t ease the wariness, but Keeli nods, mouth pulling into the start of a grimace. “We’re fine, sir. Just a couple of minor injuries, but everyone should be on their feet in a few days.” He hesitates, just for a second, and then says a little stiffly, “If you're going to transfer us back behind the lines, sir, I can assure you, an incident like before won't happen again—”

Mace raises a hand, stopping the words. “I know,” he says evenly, and meets Keeli's eyes. “You weren’t able to spot the ambush in time to avoid it last time. I want to make sure that next time, you can.”

There's a moment of outright alarm that’s blunted by anger, and Keeli says, “Sir, if you're sending us back for reconditioning—”

Mace shakes his head, takes a step closer. “I'm not,” he says plainly. “Close your eyes.”

“Sir?” Keeli asks in confusion, but he does so regardless of his concern, standing stiff and uncertain in the heavy sunlight.

Considering him for a moment, Mace tips his head, breathes out. He trained Depa, helped train Quinlan, helped train A'Sharad. This is hardly the first time he’s offered lessons to someone who could use them.

It’s the first time he’s made such an offer to a man who might not believe he’s able to say no, though.

“Commander Ponds tells me that you're an excellent earthbender,” he says steadily, and then, “I want to put my hand on your shoulder, and share the way I see the world, mind to mind. Do I have your permission?”

“Of course, sir,” Keeli says, bemused. “Do I need to do anything?”

“No, just pay attention.” Mace closes his own eyes, breathes out, reaches as he shifts his feet. Feels the twitch Keeli gives at the foreign sensation of another mind alongside his, and then—

An inhale, sharp, and then an equally sharp surge of something that Mace can only identify as fascination.

“Sir, what is that?” Keeli asks, intent, and shifts, dragging one foot along the ground. Mace shares how it feels in his carefully tuned senses, the ripples that run through the earth, the way it shifts the image in his mind. Doesn’t answer, but watches Keeli's face, and—

He’s been watching Keeli since well before the mission went south. That same edge of hunger right beneath his even expression is still there, almost hidden but not quite, as he takes in the ripples spreading outward.

All the clones are hungry to learn what they can about bending, beyond the absolute basics the Kaminoans and the Mandalorian trainers drilled into them. Mace has seen it in practically every clone, but Keeli's want is even sharper, even greater. Every time he earthbends, every time Mace sees him across the practice field, he can sense Keeli's focus, see his grace and grit as he pushes himself further.

The thought of teaching him this arose before, but Mace is viciously aware of just how any advance, any suggestion, could be taken when Keeli doesn’t believe he can say no, and he hadn’t wanted to press.

And then, startled, Keeli opens his eyes, looks straight at Mace. “Vibrations,” he says with surprise. “You’re feeling the vibrations through the earth? With your bending?”

Mace can't help the faint pull of a smile. Teaching quick students is always the most rewarding task, and enjoyable. “Indeed. We don’t have much time before our orders come in, but I can teach you if you’d like to learn.”

“Yes,” Keeli says, almost before Mace can get the words out, and then coughs, sheepishly drawing back and rubbing at the back of his neck. “I mean. Yes sir, I’d like that. If you think I can manage.”

“I do,” Mace says steadily, and catches his gaze squarely. “You understood what I was doing with no context beyond your own bending. Ponds was right to call you impressive.”

Keeli scoffs, looking away, and—that sense of embarrassment twists up with pleasure in a way that hooks itself into Mace's ribs. “Ponds is a waterbender. He wouldn’t know a good earthbender if they dropped a rock on his thick skull.”

Mace hides his amusement. “I’ll have to tell him you said as much,” he says gravely, and when Keeli's eyes widen in alarm, he snorts. “A joke, Captain. Though I think Ponds would take it as a compliment.”

Keeli rolls his eyes, the tips of his ears flushed. “That’s not proving me wrong,” he says, and steps back, turns to scan the ring. “We should have time right now if you're not doing anything better—Sir!”

Mace pauses, halfway through unbolting his robes, and raises a brow.

Keeli stares at him for a moment, looking a little like a deer in the headlights of an oncoming train—

The earth shivers, rises like the start of a wave right beneath Keeli's feet as he yelps, but Mace has seen this particular trick too many times to fall for it, and slams the roll of stone back down with a sharp gesture. Turns, levels a speaking look across the camp, and pins Depa with a wholly unimpressed stare.

Undeterred as ever, Depa waves cheerfully, then ducks out of sight behind a tent, though Mace isn't foolish enough to think that that’s anywhere close to the end of her little matchmaking attempt.

This is going to be a long training session, it seems. And Keeli's grin, half-hidden behind one hand, isn't doing anything to make it easier.

[burningcheese-merchant]

You have fully covered me into a burningcheese fan. I absolutely love how you write these ships with them!

But one question if burningcheese ever decided to have a wedding, what do you think it looked like and play out?

*inhales deeply* MY FRIEND! MY GUY! I'M FOUR PARALLEL UNIVERSES AHEAD OF YOU! (also, welcome to the cult and thank you so much for your support! I'm happy to bring people joy with my stories!)

I'll just give a few bullet points, because a) I have a lot of thoughts, and b) I haven't finished planning their wedding in full lol

Biggest. Wedding. Ever. Not exaggerating at all. It would be the biggest, most grand and beautiful wedding in the history of the world. Eclair will be there and he won't even be fully enjoying himself; he'll be too busy taking notes on EVERYTHING he sees, because it's such a fascinating culture mix/clash, there are so many guests (many of which are important figures), there are so many unique traditions and rituals and artifacts on display and and and... This isn't even his field of study, but he would absolutely be remiss to NOT document the wedding extensively, if only to pass it along to colleagues that actually specialize in cultural history (and help author some textbooks lol)

As said above, a big, fun culture clash. Members from both of their kingdoms worked together and went above and beyond to blend Egyptian Golden Cheese Kingdom aesthetics and with Indian Wild Spice aesthetics to create something traditional, yet brand new and exciting. Who would've thought they would work so well together? (You can say the same thing about the bride and groom tbh lol)

Our lovely couple's outfits would have bits and pieces from each other's cultures as a respectful homage to one another (and to show that they will be unifying their peoples through their marriage). Golden Cheese will dress mostly in her own traditional style, but with a good handful of pretty, tasteful Wild Spice accessories to accentuate her look. Same with Burning Spice; traditional Wild Spice wedding clothes, but with a touch of GCK to honor his wife

Also, they would both have matching henna (or mehndi, as they're actually called in India) tattoos. Very elaborate and beautiful, done by Wild Spice artists. (Henna/mehndi are mostly for women/brides, but from what I understand, men/grooms can get them too. I want to do this because I LOVE the idea of GC and BS having matching tattoos/makeup)

Everyone is invited. Literally everyone. They don't even have to know you. Just show up and have a good time (and be in awe of their love and devotion lol). It's very common for Indian weddings to be big ragers with many, many, MANY guests, and I thought that would suit a BurningCheese wedding too (especially for GC, she honestly probably would want EVERYONE to show up, both to show off and because she genuinely wants to share her joy with others)

Wedding party(ies) is their closest homies. The other Ancients plus the Cheese Gang (Smoked Cheese, Burnt Cheese and Mozzarella) for GC, a handful of his best subordinates for BS (Nutmeg Tiger, Saffron Buffalo, Pepper Pangolin, maybe Cilantro Cobra too).

Burning Spice thought of having Pitaya Dragon as a best man equivalent of some sort because they're Crime Besties (in my headcanon lol) but Hollyberry walked him through why that's a terrible idea and just left Pitaya as a regular guest

Wedding lasts a whole week, the main ceremony plus other rituals and a whole lot of dancing and drinking and laughing and having a blast together and with their loved ones

A+++ food, both GCK dishes and Wild Spice dishes, plus an assortment of delicacies from other lands (there's food from the Dark Cacao Kingdom, Faeriewood, the Creme Republic, etc). Hollyberry came in clutch and provided most of the booze (her kingdom has the god-tier alcohol, it was a welcome choice)

You can rest assured that they enjoyed their wedding night very, very much lol. Especially because there were technically seven of them. (One of Mozzarella's wedding gifts to them was soundproofing GC's bedroom no strings attached. She Knew™️. She's a girl's girl lol)

I'll stop there for everyone's sake, but TL;DR: it's a enormous, gorgeous event that perfectly encapsulates and celebrates their love. (And I envision this as part of Burning Spice's redemption arc, so it's like the reward at the end of a long, arduous journey. The breathtaking sunrise waiting at the mountain summit.) And they live happily ever after and have a family in the future, but I'm not spoiling that for any of you just yet :)

[profoundbondfanfic]

Do you have any recs for Reallyyy long fics? Like 200-300k+ words? That isn't 91W... avoiding that one because I feel like it will hurt me... preferably fix-its? Oh and no a/b/o pls :) thanksss

Here are a few:

Angel's Wild by riseofthefallenone (Explicit, 389k words)

But that’s the whole reason he’s here, isn’t it? He’s not out here hunting Humans. He’s not even hunting deer, or bears, or anything else that featured in Bambi. He’s out here, freezing his nuts off every night, because he’s hunting Angels. Sometimes Dean wishes that Angels were like how they’re described in the Bible. How people from time too old for him to care much about thought Angels were messengers and warriors of God, protectors of Humans. He knows that how they’re really described in the Bible is actually pretty terrifying, but at least they were told by God that they’re supposed to love Humans, right? That’s a thousand times better than what Angels really turned out to be.

Bitch Better Have My Money by Duckyboos (Explicit, 256k words)

How Dean Winchester - mechanic, shitty cook, single father - became the power behind the throne in one of the biggest crime syndicates in the Midwest.

Computer Safety Verse by followthattardis (Explicit, 232k words)

On the day of his 29th birthday, Dean receives an email from his old nemesis: Michael Milton, the guy who got him kicked out of college and stole his girlfriend. The email contains encoded images with top secret CIA/NSA intelligence – and now their only copy is in Dean’s brain. Both agencies send their best operatives – Castiel Novak and Victor Henriksen respectively – to handle their accidental asset and protect the invaluable data in his head. To justify their sudden appearance in Dean’s life, they adopt covers: Victor as Dean’s new co-worker and neighbor, Cas as his new boyfriend. Needless to say, Dean’s brother and his girlfriend are thrilled to see him in a relationship they believe to be real. Clearly, there’s no way this could go wrong.

Four Letter Word For Intercourse by bendingsignpost (Explicit, 228k words)

As a grease monkey turned college freshman, Dean's constantly three seconds away from being stressed out of his mind. It hardly helps that he's finally figuring out his sexuality in his thirties. What might help with that stress is a little phone number (and a big credit card bill). If he can't figure out how to be bisexual in person, he can at least give it a go over the phone, right? (It's probably a bad idea, but he really can't help himself.)

Light me up by tricia_16 (Explicit, 218k words)

Five years after participating in a life-changing threesome with his then-girlfriend and her friend Cas, Dean's single, comfortably bisexual, and has everything he's ever wanted except for that special someone to share his life with. When tragedy strikes, he and Cas are reunited in an unexpected way, and a split-second decision entangles their lives in ways neither of them could have predicted…

Not Part of the Plan by Annie D (scaramouche) (Explicit, 337k words)

Castiel's spent most of his adult life keeping his head down and staying out of trouble. This is a deliberate choice on his part, because as a cousin of the King, he'd rather stay unimportant and forgotten. This changes abruptly when King Michael decides that he has a better use for Castiel: he is to be wed to a noble member of the neighboring Republic, as part of an agreement between their two nations. Castiel knows he has to obey, but that doesn't mean he won't rebel in what small ways he can. Unexpectedly, his actions end up having far-reaching consequences.

one million fires burning by dothraki_shieldmaiden (Explicit, 248k words)

Dean Winchester teaches three classes a day, tutors after school, and chairs the English Department for Lawrence High School. He does enough. Unfortunately, his boss doesn't feel the same and informs him that he has a new job: co-coaching the school's trivia team. His co-coach? None other than the school's golden boy, Castiel Milton. Who Dean can't stand, for various reasons, all of which are valid, thank you very much. And the fact that Dean can't stop talking about the stick up Cas's, sorry, Milton's ass? Completely irrelevant.

Redux by emmbrancsxx0 (Explicit, 386k words)

Dean Winchester is dead. For decades, he, along with Castiel and Sam, has led a peaceful afterlife in heaven. He has everything he’s ever wanted: a home, his family and friends surrounding him, and a relationship with Cas—and he’s bored as hell. Until, one day, Chuck escapes heaven’s lock up and begins capturing souls to regain power. To stop him, Jack sends Dean, Cas, and Sam back to Earth. After so long away from hunting, will they be able to once again find their place in the family business?

Talk Some Sense To Me (Kenopsia) by ImYourHoneyBee (Explicit, 244k words)

Scrambling to his knees Castiel hugs back, burying his face in Dean’s neck, breath coming in fast little pants against his skin. Dean closes his eyes and just breathes him in, barely able to believe that this is real. At any other time in his life, closing his eyes against a threat like Death would be an inexcusable lapse in his hunter’s judgement. Right now, he doesn’t give a single fuck. Death can reap him for all he cares, he’ll die knowing Cas is going to be ok. Alive. “I will see you soon, Dean,” Death tells him, that deliberate voice of his soft enough not to intrude on the intimacy of the moment, “Raincheck on that grilled cheese.” “Thank you,” Dean croaks, propping his chin up on Cas’s shoulder, unmindful of the tears trickling down his cheeks, “Thank you.”

The Closest Thing We Have To Magic by EllenOfOz, TrenchcoatBaby (Explicit, 221k words)

Dean Winchester is a graduate student at Stanford University’s School of the Occult. A naturally-talented mage but a lazy professor and student, he figures he’ll coast through his final year the way he always has: with charisma, charm, and a natural aptitude for magic. All that changes when his thesis advisor, Dr. Castiel Novak, turns out to be the strictest and most challenging educator on-campus. Unfortunately for Dean, the uptight professor is nearly his age and infuriatingly gorgeous. But Castiel is keeping a secret, a powerful talent that’s more a curse than a blessing when he’s targeted by seditious parts of magical society. Can Dean and Cas put aside their animosity—and undeniable chemistry—long enough to instill real change in the magical community? Or will sinister plots and hidden agendas keep them apart?

To Build a Home by intothesilentland (Mature, 383k words)

Twenty-three years of head-over-heels, devastating devotion and love, love, love for the man with bright eyes and dark hair. Fourteen years of friends, best friends, of always together. One moment of rejection. Nine years of apart. Nine years of heartbreak, nine years of continents away, of not speaking, of no acknowledgement, no interaction, no closure, no peace. No happiness. Nine years of Dean’s life entering motions, going through them, constant, cold and mechanic, like clockwork. Nine years of alone. God. Nine years. A lot has changed. And yet Dean still loves Cas just the same. Even if his heart hurts all kinds of different.

Under The Midnight Sun by NorthernSparrow (Explicit, 232k words)

Dean Winchester’s been camp manager of a science research station on the Alaskan tundra for thirteen years. Dean likes his job; fixing the camp trucks, troubleshooting the generators, keeping clueless undergrads and NSF bigwigs from walking into grizzly bears or getting lost in snowstorms — it’s all in a day’s work. It keeps him pretty busy, and this year his brother Sam's visiting too, so he's even busier. So it’s really not any of Dean’s business when some weirdo antisocial ornithologist sets up a tent a few miles away, a dark-haired blue-eyed guy who’s doing a “very long-term" study on birds or wings or something, and who never, ever takes off his big lumpy backpack. But then the new guy starts dropping by camp for coffee and… well, he’s not officially part of camp; he's not Dean’s responsibility; he’s really not Dean’s problem at all, but when a strange blizzard comes sweeping in, Dean gets worried and goes to check. Thing is, Dean's spent years in the sweeping vistas of the Arctic. He knows all about the midnight sun and the northern lights, the ice caves and avalanches, the rough-and-ready Haul Road truckers and the even rougher-and-readier wild animals. But even so, what he finds is much more than he bargained for.

With Interest by everandanon (Explicit, 296k words)

Eighteen, bored, and not quite able to turn down the money, Cas agrees to an ill-advised bet, and Dean's heart isn't the only one that gets broken. Eleven years later, grieving his twin brother and struggling to take care of his niece, Cas finally returns home — only to meet Dean again and discover that the boy he left behind has grown up a lot. And now, Dean seems to have every intention of getting him back — with interest.

You can also check our >100k tag for all the longer fics we rec.

[hadesisqueer]

All past Avatars seem to have at least one fuckup or a regret that one or more of their next lives will have to deal with.

Szeto, quite literally, worked for the Fire Lord of his time. Although his work brought peace and prosperity to the Fire Nation, ending the conflicts that were destroying the islands, it also caused a centralization of the administration that would later allow Fire Lord Zoryu and his descendants to centralize all the power, which would end up leading to Sozin and the Hundred Year War. Since he seemed to prioritize the Fire Nation, he most likely neglected the rest of the world, too, which means that Yangchen had to step up more for international issues.

Yangchen was a highly revered Avatar to the point that she was deified; she helped the nations progress and flourish. However, focusing too much on human matters and always favoring humans, she neglected spirits. That led to Kuruk having to deal with the consequences.

Kuruk, unlike Yangchen, focused too much on Spirit World issues—to the point that it cost him his life and died very young—, seemingly neglecting human issues, causing the Peace of Yangchen's era to deteriorate very quickly. His premature death and apparent neglect led to Kyoshi having to deal with a very unstable world.

Kyoshi managed to stabilize the world during her extremely long life—in contrast to Kuruk's short life—and is remembered as a highly effective and respected Avatar. However, her big mistake and regret was the creation of the Dai Li, which would later help with the Conspiracy of Ba Sing Se, help Azula conquer the city or start kidnapping the new airbenders: overall, give Aang and Korra headaches.

Roku enjoyed relative stability at first after Kyoshi's death, though this didn't last that long; he lived through a industrial revolution and the rise of nationalism in more than one nation. He was a very diplomatic Avatar who managed to stop a war between the Northern Water Tribe and the Earth Kingdom, and became a respected Avatar. However, he was indecisive when it came to stopping his former friend Sozin, which was probably the biggest mistake and regret: it led to the genocide of a whole nation and a war that lasted a hundred years, leaving Aang to deal with it.

Aang ended the Hundred Year War and helped create a new nation where people from everywhere could leave peacefully. However, by letting Yakone live and escape prison, and failing to fully give nonbenders a voice in Republic City, caused Korra a lot of headaches with Amon and the equalists. Furthermore, another one of his biggest regrets was running away before the Air Nomad Genocide (although it was not really his fault, he was a child and an untrained Avatar and had he stayed, he probably wouldn't have been able to avoid it: he would have probably died too or been captured), and his biggest wish was to rebuild the Air Nation one day, which Korra did during her life, making up for what he thought was his biggest mistake.

Korra will probably have one of those mistakes/regrets too, and I really wonder what it'll be. We know it likely won't be neglect of neither spirituality or human issues like Yangchen or Kuruk, since she seems pretty focused on both. So far her biggest regret seems to be losing the ability to make contact with her past lives, so maybe it'll be that? The next Avatar will somehow manage to regain their connection with the rest of the past Avatars? Doesn't seem likely to me but idk. Or maybe more Red Lotus bullshit, since in the show they said that there were probably more members and Korra didn't stop them all? Idk

[ofmdrecaps]

11/19-20/2024 Daily OFMD Recap

TLDR; Rhys Darby; Taika Waititi; David Fane; Samba Schutte; Megan Vertelle; Lindsey Cantrell; Damien Gerard; Dominic Burgess; Hugo Pierre Martin; ShopStands Black Friday Sale; Articles; Fan Spotlight: OFMD means Frames hosted by Ram & Tsutsuya!; Love Notes; Daily Darby/Today's Taika Gifs.

Hey crew! I wanted to add a bit more but I'm already late and we've got a couple things coming down to the wire! If you wanna get in on the Auntie's Tiny Boats raffle being hosted by @ofmd-buys-boats's raffles you can until 23:59 Thursday 21st November 2024 (GMT) (WHICH IS TONIGHT)! That's not far away! Be sure to submit your entries!

= Rhys Darby =

The gigs just won't stop! Next up is Christchurch AoNZ! Christchurch Tickets

Source: Rhys' Instagram Stories

Rhys is also going to be at The Bell House, Brooklyn NY on Feb 22, and Feb 23! Get tickets at TheBellHouseNY.com

Source: Instagram

Australia Dates are also up! Get tickets at his website! PW: ROBOT for priority.

Rhys is going to be at the London on the 22nd for The Republic of Pirates with Vico, Con, Nathan, and Kristian!

Source: Rhys Darby's Bsky

And if there wasn't enough going on with Rhys:

Also, Final Fantasy XIV won a Clio for Best use of Influencer and Talent -- and by that they obviously mean Rhys!

Source: We Are Royale Instagram

== Taika Waititi ==

Taika is super excited about the Moana 2 Maori screening, he's sending out a PSA that you can help sponsor one to help others experience the wonderful Maori language!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Taika Waititi (@taikawaititi)

Wanna sponsor a screening of Moana 2 in Maori?

Visit watewamedia.nz

Source: Taika Waititi's Instagram

= David Fane =

Just a quick promo video with David Fane and the rest of the Moana 2 crew!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Walt Disney Animation Studios (@disneyanimation)

Source: DisneyAnimation Instagram

= Samba Schutte =

Samba and Damien's new game Call of Duty Black Ops 6 is up for Best Action Game at TheGameAwards! If you've played and would like to give it some love, you can vote for the game amongst others at TheGameAwards.com. (Note: You do need to sign up for an account to vote).

There are still hand signed pictures of Roach available at ShopStands! Get some cool merch and support charities here!

Samba also sent a little reminder to keep that scurvy away with an immoderate use of citrus!

Source: Samba's Instagram

= Megan Vertelle =

One of our fabulous set decorators -- Megan Vertelle was kind enough to help support the @ofmd-buys-boats charity raffle and send us some BTS for Zheng's ship as well!

Source: Megan Vertelle's Instagram

= Lindsey Cantrell =

Our dear Lindsey, who CREATED the tiny boats that are being raffled off in @ofmd-buys-boats's raffle is reminding you that entries end at 23:59 Thursday 21st November 2024 (GMT)! That's not far away! Be sure to submit your entries!

Source: Lindsey Cantrells Instagram Stories

= Damien Gerard =

Our dear Father Teach could use a pick me up, if you have a bsky account and a few spare minutes, would you be so kind as to send him some love? Quotes-- music, photos, anything that brings you joy <3

Source: Damien's Bsky

= Dominic Burgess =

The countdown is on! Our wonderful Jeffrey Fettering will be adding his talents to the new Skeleton Crew show!

Source: Dominic's Bsky

= Hugo Pierre Martin =

Our favorite valet from s1, Hugo Pierre Martin is calling out for some art submissions for his spotify series! "The next season of the audioseries will be called "The Seventh Son." The series will have icons for every episode and I'd like it to be some variation on this ancient symbol: The Oroboros. It can be: - A snake biting its own tail - A dragon biting its own tail - A blue Bunny dragon biting its own tail" Interesting in submitting something/checking out the submissions? Check out his Instagram!

Source: HPM's Instagram

== Stands Black Friday Sale ==

There's still OFMD merch available at shopstands! If you were thinking of picking some of these up this is a great time -- and it's for a good cause!

Source: ShopStands

== Articles ==

More articles about our favorite show, and our Captain talking about his new tour! Thanks so much to @adoptourcrew fand @ofmooshd for keeping us appraised!

Source: Moosh on Twitter

Source: Adopt Our Crew Twitter

== Fan Spotlight ==

= Our Flag Means Frames - Moonlight Scene =

There's a new frames project hosted by Ram and @tsutsuya on Bsky! Here is the link to the full thread. The deadline will be the 31st of Janurary 2025! -- and you can sign up here! It looks like they've already shared so many frames that there are just some hand frames left so get in while you can!

Contact info:

Email: youwearfineframeswell@gmail.com

@tsutsuya.bsky.social

@panodtortur.bsky.social

Source: Ram's Bsky

== Love Notes ==

Hey lovelies! There are two things in this issue that are time sensitive and I'm running late as it is so I'm gonna make this short today! You're halfway through the work week if you work weekdays-- you are almost there crew! You can make it! <3 Sending some love notes from others for today <3

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by The New Happy® (@newhappyco)

Source: NewHappyCo Instagram

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by The New Happy® (@newhappyco)

Source: New Happy Co Instagram

== Daily Darby / Today's Taika ==

I just have to re-share this look they give each other today. Today's gif courtesy of the lovely @captain-flint!

[saradika]

— if you send for me, you know I'll come

[series masterlist]

din djarin x f!reader

rated E - 4.5k

Tags: protective!neighbor!din, canon-typical violence, Nevarro is attacked, pirate invasion, death of pirates, angst, brief hostage situation, established relationship, outercourse, multiple orgasms, PiV

A/N: mini-sequel to only if for a night (but also can be read as a one-shot!) Spoilers for 03.05 - absolutely cheering over “I decided to take you up on your offer for a tract of land” and wanted to explore that

The blasts rain down. Turning parts of your beloved city into crumbling stone and smoking ash. A cry of distress sent to the New Republic. A whisper throughout the crowd saying that help isn't coming. That this time, Nevarro is on it's own.

But you're sure of one thing. Hang onto that hope like a lifeline, as you send out a small message of you own.

Knowing that Din Djarin will come for you.

That he will find a way.

The Corsair hangs heavy, overhead.

Appearing suddenly, a dark splash against the sunny, blue skies. A weight in your limbs, an uneasiness creeping up your spine as the hail comes in.

Stuck frozen in place, as you watch the face of the Pirate King - Gorian Shard - appear on the holo. Filling the room with his dripping visage.

Ushered quickly off to the side, as the two engineers make a hasty exit - though you don't remember moving. Listening to the sharp back-and-forth.

“Believe your ears then, and don't mistake my hospitality for weakness."

“The Spinward patrol passes through here regularly."

Karga holds his ground against the threats that fire down. Shard coming back for his revenge, for the pirates killed in the streets of Nevarro all those weeks before.

A day you remember well. The day he had come back into your life.

And for a second you feel safe - until you see that confident veneer chip. That hesitance in Karga's voice, in his words, as Shard calls his bluff.

The blasts that start to rain down, after.

That uneasiness morphing into pure dread. A matching fear that flashes in both your eyes, as the call ends, and the droid enters the room.

"High Magistrate, the escape pod is ready." It chirps. Voice friendly, in spite of the dire situation, "I will lead you to the launch site."

"I won't abandon my city," Karga shakes his head, turning your way, "You take it. Get to safety."

And in spite of your complaints before - those told in confidence to Din, about how your boss was too much, too extravagant, too Karga - you can't bear it. Not when you see how he puts the people first, instead of running.

You shake your own head. Words coming shakily, but you mean every one, "I'm with you. What can I do?"

"We have to get the people to safety. Send out a directive immediately." He barks out, and you're nodding. The command giving you something to do - unsticking your feet.

Raising the alarm.

Following him into the streets.

———

Your fingers key in the codes for the message - the cry for help. The recording Karga quickly made in his office after the evacuation had begin - his one shot before the building began to shake with the force of the blasts.

A message for Captain Teva, of the New Republic.

You had wanted to protest. Had tried to - arguing that there were others that could help.

"He's one man. He might not even come." Karga had snapped back. His patience thin - each second that passed meant another part of the city crumbled, "We'll have a better shot at surviving this if we reach out to someone with numbers."

You flinched at his tone, at the insinuation. The words from the message replaying in your head.

"The situation is dire."

"I'm afraid that our planet will fall."

His voice softened when he saw your expression, "We don't have time for another message. Send it."

Part of you had wanted to argue.

That Din would come, for you. If he knew you were in danger.

He'd save all of you.

He'd find a way.

Instead, you bit the words back. Focusing on the comm code that Karga had rattled off. The crushing bands still wrapped tightly around your chest as the message is sent, firing off with a sharp click.

Sending your own after, with a small wish - breathed out into the stars. These numbers long-since memorized, fingers flying over the keys. The briefest of messages, but you hope he'll understand.

Din. It’s the Pirates. If you get this, we could really use your help.

Please.

There's the boom of another blast, the floor rattling beneath your feet.

And then, you're running.

Retreating to the lava flats, with the rest of the city.

———

Dirt clings to your tunic. Clay dusting your side, your shoulder - from when you shielded a neighbor from a blast, tugging them down the alley.

No time to do anything more than get out. Following the waves out people out of the city limits. Watching as months and years of growth and progress and green crumble. Sending you into the wastes, once more.

Feet aching by the time you stop - shivering now, in the evening chill. The dark sky above illuminated with the golden and red flickering of a fire, tearing through the western edge of town. Sending up billowing smoke, blocking out the stars.

A grief that surrounds you, in the dark. A selfish ache in the way that you mourn for you home. The happiness you had built. Promising to look after his, after that night you spent together.

Having to face that you weren't able to. That there might be nothing left.

The thought follows you, seeping into your bones. Weighing you down, as you huddle in small groups. Fires dotting the lava flats, flickering in the wind. Shifting against the ground as you try to get comfortable - finding it near impossible.

Drifting off, when your eyes get too heavy to stay open. Even with the ridges of rock digging into your side, an arm tucked under your head.

You call to him in your sleep. Drifting off to the memories, on repeat for comfort. Replaying the messages you've exchanged, since he left.

Hoping you'll get the chance to see him. Even if it's just one last time.

Even if it's just in your dreams.

———

The Corsair lingers. Pirates deployed in waves, pillaging and looting. Those who stayed inside, those who refused to leave, were at their mercy. Turned into captives or pushed around. Forced to smile and serve food and drink as a blaster points at their guts.

Not daring to refuse.

There's not enough weapons left among you to fight back. Not thinking to arm yourself - all thought focused on getting out. Leaving you vulnerable - stranded on the dark field of igneous rock.

There's whispers of surrender. Looks thrown Karga's way, as he stands firm.

Still a beacon, in spite of the hardship.

But you stay firm, as well. You know hope will come.

You believe in him.

The hours pass and the pit in your stomach grows. A man breaks away, a hurried plan to sneak into the town. To try to gather those inside, to see if he can grab weapons.

He doesn't come back.

Instead of gunfire there's shouting now. Harsh laughter that filters through the whipping wind. Trails of smoke still rising up to the sky, where the ship still hangs - waiting.

Waiting for Karga's hail of surrender.

Waiting for the city to fall.

———

A cry breaks through the stilted silence. Everyone muted with worry - no longer speculating.

The pointing of fingers, as something streaks against the sky.

A glint of silver, shining like Beskar.

You know that ship. Have seen it, in the space between your house and his.

A leaping in your heart and a wetness on your cheeks that you don't even realize - as your shouts are among the first to rise.

Cheering, for the help that has come.

Watching as a larger ship joins his - as it opens, spilling figures with jetpacks into the air.

Karga smiles, as he meets your eyes. Relief in them, as he raises his comm.

"Thanks for your help, Mando." There's fondness in his tone.

You can't stop grinning, as the voice you know so well crackles back, "Heard you might need a hand."

"Be careful, my friend." He smiles, before growing serious, "They've got you outnumbered ten to one."

There's an edge to Din's voice then, the words low and smooth, “I like those odds."

Karga chuckles, reminiscing, "I bet you do."

There's a beat of silence, and then a final request.

“Karga. Keep her safe, for me."

His eyes find yours. Knowing who Din means - your heart flipping at the words.

A knowing smile, as he answers.

"You know I will."

The comm clicks off, but the heat that rises in your chest and face lingers. Hiding the smile as your face turns towards the sun.

Watching with the others as the two ships dart around in the sky. The sounds of blasters layering over each other from within the city.

The bright flash of red and gold as a hit is landed on the Corsair, the handful of snubfighters in the sky quickly dwindling.

Whispers of hope race through the groups of people around you. Steps as they start to head towards the city, as the pirates are picked off.

A groan, as the turrets above shift. A spray landing a kilometer away, but each round moving closer. Spending up dirt and rock and the dread is flooding though you again as it quickly approaches.

“They’re targeting us!” A cry goes up, as that bit of hope wavers.

The groups scattering, splitting apart as they back up.

Your eyes stay on the sky. Watching as the two smaller ships team up - and fire.

The blaze of fire and smoke as the Corsair tilts, and then plummets. An achingly slow descent, as the front tips down, colliding loudly with the rocky ground. Crumpling into broken metal, and the explosion that fills the sky is so bright that it hurts your eyes.

The Pirate King, defeated.

The cries around you change. Fear turning swiftly into joy. Voices blending and mixing until it’s just a drawn out, repeated chant.

“It's gonna be okay!”

———

You’re among the first to breach the far border of the city. The remaining pirates gathered in surrender, weapons thrown upon the ground.

The Mandalorians chasing them from the bowels of the city, intent on seeing things through.

But not everyone among the remaining decide to go so easily. Something moves at the corner of your vision, as you pass by the crumbling house.

Something tall and broad - turning just in time to see the mottled yellow skin of the Quarren as he lunges your way.

Fingers twist around you, hard and cold. Your breath in your throat as the barrel presses against your chin - using you like a human shield.

Another pair, their skin in matching shades of crimson, grab the older woman and the young man next to you. Mimicking their leader, guns clicking in their hands.

A forced negotiation.

Ice creeps into your veins - fearing that this is the end, when you were so close to salvation. Eyes wide as you look towards Din.

How he turns at the gasp that skitters through the crowd. The briefest second - when he sees you.

The twitch of his hand, as he stalks forward. A blaster raised so quickly you can barely blink before something hot and bright is shooting past your cheek.

Downing the pirate that’s holding you captive with a single shot.

Whistling birds from the Mandalorian at his side taking out the other two in an instant.

You’re in his arms a moment later. The beskar cool against your cheek as he pulls you to him. Crushing you against his chest, before he’s pulling back.

The swivel of his helmet as he looks - paying an abandoned storefront just off to the side. Hauling you with him as the Mandalorians round up the rest of the Pirates, as they finally surrender.

You can feel the few eyes that follow you - the weight of their gaze. But in this moment, you can’t bring yourself to care.

He’s ripping the gloves off - bare hands coming to cup your face the moment you’re inside. As if unable to help touching you himself, not wanting any layers as he tilts your face up to his so he can see you.

A slow drift of his helmet as he checks you over.

“Are you hurt?” Din rasps, “Are you alright, cyar’ika?”

The meaning of that word is still unknown, but there’s such an affection in the way he says it. Carefully, earnestly, and it has you nodding.

“I’m fine.” You croak, your hand coming to rest on his. Pressing it against your cheek, leaning into it.

Some of the stiffness in his posture wanes. Your back pressing against the wall as he crowds you, as relief crashes through him.

Staring up at him - feeling the rush of emotion. Making your words soft, no more than a whisper.

“You came.”

His own voice rough, “Of course I did. I always will.”

You smile then, at that.

Sweet and soft, just for him.

“I knew you would. I just knew.”

At your words - the adoring look you give him - his hand is raising. Traveling to his helmet. Lifting the edge, where you can just see the briefest glimpse of tan skin, the scruff of his beard.

Before your eyes are snapping shut, and his lips are pressing to yours.

And oh, how you remember them.

Your fingers curling in his cowl as you cling to him. The moan sliding from your throat as he leans into you, his other hand gripping almost painfully at your waist.

Desperate.

That’s how you feel. Like you can’t get enough, as you curve yourself against his chest. Lips parting when his tongue brushes against the seam, letting him deepen it.

Leaving you panting and breathless when he finally pulls back. Fingers searching for more, tangling in the belt around his waist as his hips rock against yours.

“You’re safe now.”

You hum in distracted agreement, something much more welcome than panic thrumming in your veins.

He’s there with you, hand roaming - fingers dipping under the hem of your tunic. Bunching it up until he can brush the bare skin at your waist. A thigh nudging between yours, your own face reflected back in the shining visor.

Eyes half-lidden, with kiss-swollen lips.

“Din.” You whine, and he groans.

Hips rolling slowly against yours, just as the sound of his name echos.

Lower, this time. Modulated, like his.

The fingers slide from your shirt, but he stays close - twisting so he’s half-blocking you from sight.

From the sight of the Mandalorian that fills the doorway - tall and broad in his painted, blue armor. A cock of his head, as his arms cross over a thick chest.

“You did not tell us you took a riduur during your stay,” Amusement tinging his words, even through the helmet, “No wonder you were in such a rush to return.”

Another word to figure out - as Din’s posture stiffens, shifting closer to you. His hands on the wall, keeping you tucked carefully between them.

“What do you want?” He asks, not bothering to hide his own annoyance.

“Your friend, the Grand Magistrate, is requesting our presence.” There’s the low rumble of a laugh, “Or should I tell him you’re too busy?”

“We’ll be right there, Vizsla.”

It’s a dismissal, and the other Mandalorian takes it. Leaving the two of alone for a moment to make some swift adjustments.

The heat lingering in your cheeks, at getting caught. Grateful that the visitor wasn’t a few minutes later - certain that sight would have been a lot more than he bargained for.

A gloved hand is wrapped in yours, as you head back into the light.

Where Karga is waiting, ready to thank them. A generous gift offered - the land from the western lava flats to Bulloch Canyon, ceded to the Mandalorians.

His smile bright, as he tells them, “You may no longer have a home planet, but you do now have a home.”

———

That edge is tempered, now that Din knows you’re alright. But there’s a part that still lingers as he’s surrounded by his kin, his words clipped and short.

Stuck helping with negotiations - getting the ships moved to the landing pads, instead of hastily exited.

Unhappily separated, as you’re pulled into your own work. The city littered with debris and broken buildings. Bodies and smoldering fires.

Better to stay outside for one more night - to begin together, at dawn.

The best warriors sent in just to grab supplies. Coming back with materials to set up small camps, tents.

You work on your own, cozy enough for two. Not needing much more space, after hearing that Grogu would be staying safe with the other foundlings. Finding a spot to the edge of the camp of the Mandalorians, hoping Din will be able to find you.

Exhaustion tugging at you as you curl in the bedding, determined to wait up for him. That dull thrumming persisting between your thighs, even now.

Anticipating his return.

But the soft glow that the fire casts on the canvas starts to tug you under. Hazy with sleep when his voice finally comes, the sky an inky indigo above.

The soft call of your name.

A body lowering next to yours. Curling behind you, and you’re so relieved and content that you don’t mind the cold bite of the beskar against the thin fabric of your top.

A stiffness lingers in the way he holds you. As you’re unable to help arching back, his breath crackling harshly through the vocoder as your ass presses against him.

An arm, wrapping around you - his hand splaying across your stomach when you do it again. The thrust of his hips as he meets you this time, grinding himself against you.

“I need you.”

His words - low and rough - make you clench.

Rocking against him with more intent, as his bare hands begin to roam, like before. Rucking up your shirt so he can touch bare skin.

“I thought I would be too late.”

He can say it now, when it’s dark.

When it’s just the two of you.

Those worries finally breaking through the armor, spilling out from the cracks. Extracted, by the feeling of your body against his.

Letting himself breath for the first time in hours. An urge to feel every inch of you, to make sure you are truly okay. Wanting to make you forget, with the only way he knows how.

“You have me.” You tell him, catching his hand - dragging it up to your mouth. Pressing a kiss against the calloused knuckles, fingers warm in yours, “I believed in you.”

It feels silly now, that you ever doubted. Even for the brief second.

His groan is low, the edge of the helmet biting into your shoulder. Hand pulling free so he can grasp at the edge of your leggings - your hips rising so he can push them down.

Leaving them twisted around your thighs as his hand follows, dipping between them. Cupping you, where you’re molten. Aching, from that moment when he kissed you - replaying it over and over in the tent while you waited.

The tips of his fingers finding where you’re slick - rubbing tight circles, like he did in the springs. Each pass sends a little jolt down your spine, a flicker of pleasure in your brain.

Your breath short and sharp as you flex into his touch - a low whine when he pulls away to free himself. Feeling the heavy, velvety curve as it nudges against your ass. Damp fingers smearing your slick across a thigh as he lifts it.

Fitting his length between them, pressing it snug against your wet pussy. Petting at your clit again, as he thrusts.

Fingers focused - no teasing tonight. Gliding over the senstive bud as he grinds against you, fucking your thighs with his swollen cock. The ridge pressing against your folds as his hips roll, adding to your mounting pleasure.

Each pass brings you higher.

Each slide of his hips coming easier, as your arousal slicks up his cock. Dragging against you - making you want to just tilt your hips, so during the next pass, he’ll nudge inside.

Instead, your fingers drift beneath your shirt. Teasing your breast as the other hand makes a fist around the tip of his cock, a gentle pressure when his hips press flush against yours.

His groan joins yours, his pace stuttering.

That low voice coming out ragged, as your thighs tighten around him, “Come on my fingers, and you can have it.”

It has you clenching around nothing, a jerk of your hips into his touch.

“Please,” you moan, the familiar heat pooling in your belly. Winding with each swipe, as he presses just a little bit harder.

“Know you can,” He breathes, “Know you’re close.”

And you are - muscles tight as your focus narrows down to just his fingers. The heavy drag of his cock, so wet as it drags across sensitive skin.

The arm he has tucked under his head shoves beneath you, pressing between your breasts as he holds you tightly against him.

His breath ragged, loud through his helmet - only adding to the sensations that flood you. You own breath trapped in your chest, as everything strings tight.

Each gasping “oh” sending you higher. So close that your eyes screw shut - and when his cock catches against your entrance again, your fingers move.

A hitch of your hips as you guide the tip inside - Din’s moan filthy in your ear.

You come, as he’s pressing into you. Each shallow snap of his hips sinks him deeper, giving you something to clench around as you cry out his name.

A low groan that sounds close to a snarl, as he feels you. Hears your voice break on his name, pride flooding through him.

Not caring that someone else might hear.

Not this time.

Not when you’re pulsing around him, hot and wet and warm. Stiff in his arms as the spark flickers down your limbs, as you senselessly grind back against him.

Riding out the waves - until the fire that floods through you cools down to an ember, warm and low in your belly.

He pulls back, then - your moan pitiful as he leaves you empty. Urging you onto your stomach, as his weight presses against your back.

A sloppy thrust of his hips sends his cock against the curve of your ass, your thighs, before he finds you again.

Entering you with a long, slow thrust - punching the air from your lungs. His chest pressed against your back, braced on his forearms as his shoulder curl around yours.

Helmet biting into your shoulder as he pulls half-out, only to bury himself again.

“Fuck, mesh’la,” He groans, the words drawn out. You can only moan in response, as he splits you open, “So fucking perfect. My sweet girl.”

It’s needy, desperate. Clothes pushed to the side as needed, your legs pressed between his knees. His armor solid when it presses against you, the tent filling with the creak of the leather straps, the smack of skin on skin as he fills you.

Laid out, underneath him, fingers curling into the blankets as he pulls each soft sound from you.

Your thighs still bound by your leggings, making him feel even bigger, deeper, than last time. A little wiggle of your hips as you try to meet his thrusts, moaning against the bedding.

Half-finding your voice, panting the words out, “Feels so good. Gods, I missed you-“

His response a rough hum of agreement - nearly past words with his need. Managing a gritted out, “missed you, too” as his hips snap against yours.

Grinding himself deep, his cock dragging against your walls. Bumping that spongey spot that makes you see stars, over and over.

Until you can’t resist - until you’re shoving an arm between your stomach and the bedding. Reaching desperately between your thighs.

Fingers touching down on soaked skin, splitting around where he’s buried in you. Feeling the slide of his shaft, as his weight presses into just a little more.

It’s bliss, as your fingertips circle your clit. The heavy weight of him - the deep, pounding thrusts.

Din’s voice, so low in your ear. An edge that drives you wild, “I’m, fuck-”

He shifts, just barely slowing, “Want you to come with me. Can you do that?”

If he keeps it up, you know you can. Sending his cock against that spot, paired with the stroke of your fingers.

“Yes,” You manage, “So close-”

His reply is groaned out, a tremor in the way he holds himself. Losing that steady rhythm as your hips tilt, as he sinks just a tiny bit deeper. Listening to the way your breath changes - faster, higher.

Until his arm is shifting, the twist of his wrist as he reaches for your free one. Fingers entwining in yours, as your own vision starts to go hazy.

“Cyare, I can’t-” The words sound frustrated, but he can stop the rutting of his hips - so close to his own release. Trying to draw it out for you. Unable to hold back, as he feels you spread out beneath him.

“Wanna feel you,” You beg him, “Please, Din-”

Fingers circling quickly, feeling yourself tighten up again. His thrusts rough now, breath loud as he falls to the sound of your begging.

A pretty, drawn-out groan as he presses himself deep. Your name, mixed in with his breath as his cock throbs. Shallow thrusts with each pulse that ripples through him, as he empties himself.

It sends you over. Full of him as you come, milking him dry as your thighs clench. Shattering with white-hot pleasure, as he holds you - everything else seeming to fade, to grow soft and hazy.

Taking you a second to realize the strangled moans are yours, mixing with his soft, soothing praises.

Staying pressed together until your breathing returns to normal. Until he’s carefully sliding from you, and you’re doing your best to clean up, dripping and sticky with him.

Finding each other again after, in the darkness of the tent. Not wanting to be apart - not after today.

It feels like a weight been carved out of you. Leaving you hollow, in the darkness. Pressed up against him, though for the first time in days - you can breathe.

A comfort in the tents that surround you. The warmth of the fires, the city now silent.

“I don’t know what waits for us inside.” Your words are whispered out into the night. Guilt still gnaws at you, as you remember your promise, “I am so sorry that I couldn’t protect our home.”

“You did the right thing. That man’s cruelty is not your fault.” A palm strokes down your arm, your cheek pressed against his bare chest. Feeling the rumble of his words as they comfort you.

“If anything, it is mine.”

It has your head tilting up, chin pressing into this skin. Frowning, as you repeat his words back to him, “His cruelty is not your fault either. I heard what Karga said. They shot first. They chose to return.”

He makes a sound of uncertainty, as silence settles. A long moment passing, before you’re unable to help asking. Clarifying.

"Are you really going to stay, this time?"

The hand moves to your back then, pulling you closer. Tucking you further against him, until your nose is brushing the warm skin of his neck. Filling your senses with him - his voice, the warm, familiar scent of leather and metal and him.

"Yes, cyare." He soothes, "We'll stay. And if anything has happened to our home… we'll rebuild."

And you can hear the smile in his voice then, the word home. Because it was before, and it still is, now.

A finality in the way he says it. His own comfort in knowing that you're safe. In knowing that his culture will flourish here - that the children of the covert will feel what it is to play in the sunlight, once again.

“Together."

But if you send for me, you know I'll come

And if you call for me, you know I'll run

I'll run to you, I'll run to you

I'll run, run, run

(Mando’a: mesh’la - beautiful / cyare & cyar’ika - sweetheart / riduur - spouse)

[kazoosandfannypacks]

sabezra week: day 1: in-between

during the decade in between, sabine helps the rebellion defeat the empire, but after the new republic is started, she's a rebel without a cause, until ahsoka suspects some force sensitivity in her and takes it upon herself to train her. after the death of sabine's family, ahsoka worries her grief will lead her down a dark path and stops training her. a rebel without a war, a mandalorian without a clan, and no longer a jedi- a keeper of the peace she's now trapped in- sabine spends most of her time on lothal, wondering if there's any way she can find ezra and bring him back home.

during the decade in between, ezra finds the noti and joins their clan, initially communicating with them via the force, but eventually adapting to their language, and swapping stories with them to pass the time while he waits for sabine to bring him back home.

headcanons and taglist below the cut. do not repost moodboards!

Sabine's loth cat, Murley, is nicknamed Cyar Kaysh Mirsh Solus [two mando'a phrases meaning: "beloved" and "his brain cell is lonely"] because of how much he reminds her of Ezra.

Anytime Ezra has a stupid idea, he hears a sarcastic little voice in the back of his head calling him out for it, and usually calling him a D'ikut, or some other Mando'a insult. That's part of why, when Sabine's with him again and makes a sarcastic and self-confident remark, all he can think to say is "I've missed you."

Sabine paints the walls in the tower on Lothal a lot, usually things that she knows Ezra won't mind when he gets back, but occasionally one or two things that'll annoy him in a half-sincere attempt to spite him out of hiding.

Ezra attempts to learn to draw/paint so that he can impress Sabine when she finds him. A lot of his early attempts were horrible, but by the time she gets there, he's quite good for someone with his limited resources, and he has a not-too-bad mural of the ghost crew etched in the wall of his mobile home.

Though she wouldn't even admit it to herself, part of the reason Sabine wanted to become a Jedi was to find a connection to Ezra though the Force.

Part of the reason Ezra worked on his proficiency in combat without lightsabers was because he half-expected Sabine to have lost his lightsaber over the course of their separation.

Sabine's family noticed how downtrodden she was at losing Ezra and asked about him, but she told them she didn't have feelings for him. Tristan asks her about it later, and and she tells him the truth, but her secret dies with him a couple days later.

Ezra tells the Noti all kinds of stories about what happened before he got to Perida. Naturally, their favorite stories are the ones that he seems the most excited when he's telling, so they ask him a lot to tell him stories about his friend Sabine.

Jacen loves hearing stories about his ghost crew family. One time while Sabine's watching him, they sit at the table drawing while she tells a story about his Uncle Ezra. Jacen, without even looking up from his coloring page, asks Sabine if she loved him. She's a little startled and deflects the question, but in that moment, she almost said yes. She hadn't even told herself that until that moment.

The language the Noti speak is a little different from basic. It throws Ezra for a loop when one of them asks to hear about his "girl friend Sabine" until he realizes that the Noti word for a romantic partner is completely different, and they were merely referring to his friend, Sabine, who is a girl. He has to admit though, he likes the sound of that phrase.

taglist: @laughingphoenixleader @accidental-spice @kanerallels @piraterefrigerator @jedi-nurse @sabezraweek (if you'd like to be added to or removed from my Sabezra taglist, let me know!}

[dyns33]

The Mand'alor

HAPPY PEDRO DAY !!!

I wanted to do a tiny bit dark Mand'alor Din Djarin x reader, but the sweet part in me is really bad at this.

The whole galaxy had heard of the Mandalorians and their leader, the terrible Mand'alor, with his shining armor and his darksaber. A group of mercenaries, weapons fanatics, relentless killers.

They had fought against the Empire, they didn't like the Republic very much, and no one really dared to force them to follow the new rules. They had a code of honor, but also a lot of pride and temperament.

Y/N had never seen a Mandalorian. There wasn't much action on her little planet, even during the war. Few people stopped there, unless they had to, to find resources, rest, or hide for a while.

When the little green thing grabbed her leg in the street, she jumped. She almost kicked to get away, but her eyes met the child's, full of fear and hope, and Y/N stopped to lean closer to him.

He didn't speak, either because he was too young or because he used another language, but she couldn't get anything out of him by asking his name or what he was doing here. What was certain was that he was bleeding slightly from his right ear, and that he needed help.

Those who were running after the little one didn't take long to find them, following Y/N to her place. Luckily for her, they were also being followed.

She had never seen a Mandalorian, but she had heard the legends, and she watched this tall, armored man kill the attackers one by one without the slightest difficulty.

As soon as he finished, he approached her, who was holding the child in her arms, ready to defend him against this new threat.

“You’re alright ?” he asked with a calm voice, extending his hand towards the child who fidgeted, wanting to reach him.

"I won't let you hurt him."

"Oh, little me'suum'ika. I would never harm my ad. My son. These cowards pretended to be warriors to come in and kidnap him. Without you… Vor'e, mesh'la ! Thank you. You have all my gratitude. I want to show you all my gratitude, will you come with us ?"

There would have been several reasons to refuse to follow the stranger, clearly dangerous and masked, but the kid seemed to trust him completely, jumping on him as soon as Y/N let go of him a little.

The Mandalorian claimed to be his father, and he acted like one, patting his little head and whispering reassuring words, along with apologies for not having properly protected him.

His invitation was not an obligation, Y/N felt that he would not insist if she refused, but there was nothing very important on her planet, she had no family for a long time, and she never left this place. A little adventure would be fun.

The trip shouldn't last very long, just to please her as a thank you, before moving on.

There were some things she didn't know at the time.

First thing, a Mandalorian never forgot. Mando'ad draar digu. He would never move on.

Second thing, the leader of the Mandalorian forgot even less. Din Djarin, as he entrusted his name to her as an immense privilege, adored his son more than anything in the world. So he held Y/N in high regard for defending him when she didn't know the child and wasn't a fighter.

In addition, little Grogu seemed to have become very attached to her.

The last thing was whispered to her, even though it had been several weeks since she arrived on Mandalore, where she was treated like a true princess. Shyly, she asked when she would return home.

“Aren’t you happy here ?” asked Bo-Katan, the captain of the guard. "A simple word and our Mand'alor will do anything for your pleasure."

"Everything is perfect. I don't want to intrude too long by abusing your hospitality, that's all."

“Has anyone made a comment to you ?”

"No not at all." Y/N replied nervously.

No one said anything, but it was strange to be the only person not wearing armor all the time.

In the interest of fairness, the Mand'alor had allowed those who wished to remove their helmet, but he himself did not remove it in front of anyone, maintaining an old, almost fanatical belief.

However, he had not asked Y/N to convert, drawing the attention of his people to this new woman. They said nothing, but she felt their eyes on her.

“He will kill the first person who dares to criticize you.” Bo-Katan said before speaking lower. "It must be said… There is a werde in him. The sword is heavy to carry."

"I do not know this word."

"Just know that you are important to him. You help him a lot. Stay as long as you want."

It took her a bit longer to understand that she was more or less a prisoner. Free to roam the palace and the city, but not to leave Mandalore. Din Djarin wanted to keep her here.

The looks turned towards her were not full of hatred, but on the contrary of pity, mixed with a certain hope.

Since inheriting the darksaber, their leader was no longer the same. He hadn't completely lost his mind thanks to his son, but he had some moments of extreme, uncontrollable violence.

These attacks had calmed down a bit since Y/N’s arrival. No doubt Din didn't want to scare her or lower her esteem. There were rumors that she was his ori'copaad, which didn't entirely seem like a good thing.

“Uur !” he growled as the Armorer came to see him to talk politics. “I don’t care at all about the Republic.”

"Me too, Mand'alor, but we should receive them. They might try to harm us."

"They can try, they will fail. I have no chaab, none."

"Really, Mand'alor ?"

At that moment, Din turned his head towards Y/N, who was discreetly listening to them from the garden, Grogu snickering in her lap. He remained silent for a moment, before sighing.

"Fine. Contact them."

“Your aliit will be proud of this decision.”

More than not being able to leave, Y/N found this habit they had of going from basic to a language that she didn't understand quite painful. As if they were doing it on purpose.

The Mand'alor was the only one who made an effort with her, translating most of the unknown words. He only kept what seemed like nicknames a mystery.

“What does “mesh’la” mean ?”

“That means you, kar’ta.”

"And that ? What does that mean ?"

“Cyare, you ask a lot of questions.”

“And you don’t give many answers.”

“Mir’sheb.” he sneered, handing hier Grogu. She was the only one to whom he entrusted his son like this. "Your buir is a mir'sheb, like you. Give her a mureyca."

The child's hug, plus all of Din's attention, almost made her want to forgive him. Aside from the fact that she knew she wasn't allowed to leave, nothing made her want to leave.

But Y/N didn’t think she belonged here. She wasn't a Mandalorian, and as a leader, equivalent to a king, Din had no time to waste on her. Maybe she had saved his son, but she wasn't anything special.

Whenever he could escape his responsibilities, he would come with Grogu to watch her play with the child and talk about her.

He had to see that she had nothing interesting to offer.

This was why she tried to flee, by taking a ship. Her father had shown her how to fly before he died, it had been a long time. She therefore had to be discreet to have a maximum head start, to have a chance that they would lose her tracks.

Unfortunately Bo-Kanta had been very serious in telling her that she was important to Din. Her surveillance was as important as it was for Grogu. Her absence was quickly noticed, and reported to the Mand'alor.

Being the best tracker, he personally set out in pursuit, without having to yell at the others not to shoot at the stolen ship. They all knew what they were risking if Y/N got hurt.

"Dank farrik, cyare ! Y/N ! Stop !" She could hear him shouting into the communicator, what sounded like sadness in his voice. "Why are you leaving ? Vhey vencuyot… Cyare… Talk to me, tell me what's going on !"

It was very dangerous but she managed to lose him by passing through an asteroid field. Since it would be too obvious that she was going to return to her planet, she headed to a small system, landing on Tatooine.

Yet she had heard the legends. You couldn't escape the Mandalorians, and even less the Mand'alor.

This time, when a hand grabbed her arm, she didn't hold her foot. But beskar was a hard metal, and she probably did more harm to herself than to Din, who let go of her all the same, surprised by her reaction.

He didn't attempt to touch her again, simply following her as she ran through the alleys, begging her to listen to him.

Her run ended in a dead end, and that didn't seem to surprise the Mandalorian. He obviously knew this planet.

"Cyare… Why are you running from me ? Grogu misses you a lot. You… My commander told me that you can ignore what you really represent, but I don't dare believe that."

"I don't understand."

"Oh, mesh'la… As soon as I saw you with my son, I knew that my heart was yours, that I couldn't live without knowing that you were happy and safe. The missing part of my clan, of my life. Nor ceta, Y/N. I thought my intentions were clear. Will you forgive me ? Will you accept… Come home with me, gedet'ye. I beg you."

After everything he had done, she wasn't sure he would take no for an answer. But Din had never hurt her since they met. He had always been gentle and patient. If she could have seen his face, it would probably have been more obvious that he was looking at her with complete devotion.

Seeing that she didn't say no, he approached slowly, until his helmet touched her forehead. She then heard him sigh in relief.

Y/N had seen some Mandalorians do this. Bo-Katan had explained that it was a mirshmure'cya, a keldabe kiss. A very important form of privacy for those of them who did not remove their full armor.

She wondered if she would ever see him if she stayed. For a while she had imagined his face, until he told her that Grogu had been adopted. It would be a terrible offense to ask him for this sacrifice. But he asked him to stay locked up in his palace.

"I would like to see you." she whispered, trying not to tremble.

"See me ?"

"Yes. I mean, I like you a lot. I like Grogu. But I would like to know what you look like."

“Will that change anything ?”

"… No." Y/N said honestly. “I’m just curious.” To see his face, but also if he would do this for her, he who said he would do anything.

There was a moment of silence, of hesitation. Then Din nodded, reaching for his helmet to remove it. Immediately, Y/N placed her hands on his to stop him.

"But… Your vows…"

"Cyare. My sweet cyare. I have the right to remove my helmet in front of my aliit. You have been part of my clan since the moment our paths crossed."

“But you’ve never done this before.”

"I didn't dare… I didn't want to disappoint you and… I wanted to wait for our riduurok. I haven't properly wooed you for that yet."

"If you are… If you are sure, show me."

“Anything for you, cyare.”

He was younger than she had imagined. More handsome too, with his black eyes and his little intimidated, almost frightened pout. Din let her look at him without moving, displaying an expression of complete satisfaction when she touched his cheek.

He only stopped her when she tried to kiss him.

"Not here."

"Why not ?"

"I wouldn't be able to control myself. And I'd rather we were at home than in a dark alley for that."

The entire galaxy heard of the Mand'alor's marriage to the woman who had saved his son. The only two people who didn't risk his fury, who had some control over him, and for whom he was ready to burn everything if anything happened to them.

Some madmen tried to approach his clan, as they had tried to take Grogu. Rumors of what had happened to them were enough to stop all further attempts.

Even after Y/N managed to convince Din to bring her with him to the few extra-planetary missions he carried out, because she could no longer stand the life of a stay-at-home queen.

"No."

"Please."

"No."

“He’ll bang on the glass until you do.”

“Pato.” Grogu confirmed, fidgeting in his mother's arms.

"… Fine. But this is the last time."

“Of course, riduur.”

“Cyare.” Din purred, a hand settling on her leg, as he activated hyperspace to please their child.

[hotwaterandmilk]

With the Pumpkin Scissors manga off hiatus and volume 24 set to come out in Japan next month, I've started re-reading the series. While I'm still not well, I really wanted to put together a brief post encouraging new readers to check it out because it is woefully neglected given the strength of its writing. Plus hey, legally available in digital format in the US via Kodansha -- easy to check out for many of you!

What's it about?

Pumpkin Scissors is set in the aftermath of a great war between the European (German)-inspired Empire and the Republic of Frost that has now been resolved via treaty. To keep money flowing, the Empire's Imperial Army commissions a small military unit to serve as a propaganda platoon by providing visible war relief efforts across the decimated country. However, this small but dedicated unit (State Section III aka "Pumpkin Scissors") actually tries to make a difference despite their limited funding and powers, finding themselves drawn into all sorts of dramatic and brutal post-conflict scenarios as the Empire itself reckons with the ghosts of its past.

At the centre of the story are Alice L. Malvin, second-in-command of the Pumpkin Scissors unit and Randel Oland, a new recruit to the team. Alice comes from a noble background and has lofty ideas about justice, while Randel is a gentle a veteran who served during the war and struggles to reconcile his past and present selves. These two couldn't be more different but for Randel, who was left without purpose after the war, stumbling upon the determined Alice and finding himself ushered into a unit dedicated to war relief could give him the direction he needs to go forward.

Why is it worth reading?

Don't let the rough early art or medicore anime adaptation fool you, once you get past the first major arc in the Pumpkin Scissors manga it grips onto you and won't let go. I cite the anime specifically here because even if you've watched it you're probably not entirely sold on the Pumpkin Scissors manga as a result of the ho-hum adaptation (which you can watch on Crunchyroll). However, the anime ends at a point that is basically this meme given form:

Because where the manga goes next after the final arc shown in the anime is is absolutely phenomenal. Hostage situations, terrorism, ridiculously intense tank fights. The war is over in this story but it is so deeply ingrained in every character, town and situation that its claws will never let go of anyone in this world. In that sense, with each arc building on the last, the series goes from being about superifical "war relief" to the lingering atrocities of war gradually enough that you don't even realise you're holding your breath while reading until something humorous happens to break the tension.

The author Iwanaga uses this smothering atmosphere effectively, with each successive arc peeling back more and more about the horrors of war and the difficulty of surviving after participating in the unthinkable.

However, Pumpkin Scissors never loses a sense of hope. Randel and Alice are both driven to achieve something that feels unfairly far out of their reach, but they never give up and they continue to inspire others along the way. I feel this sense of hope, this desire to improve society and to never remain satisfied with the pre and post-war status quo, is what helps Pumpkin Scissors avoid feeling too bleak even when dealing with some extremely heavy topics.

When you think about it, so many series are set during war but few opt to look at the immediate aftermath of conflict and how things don't ever really go back to normal. In this sense, I think if you liked a lot of the observations made in Golden Kamuy (which also has a cast inhabiting an in-between space post-conflict) then Pumpkin Scissors may also appeal to you.

While the Pumpkin Scissors unit are our heroes, there are no punches pulled regarding the Empire itself - be it how corrupt the military is, how useless the politicians are, or how abominable the country's wartime acts. Nobody is really who they seem to be within the rank and file, with allies and enemies coming from the most unlikely places as the series chugs along.

This is a series that deftly weaves a tale of mesmerising characters and scenarios that, while set in an alternate history, still feel depressingly relevant to today.

What about the characters?

The characters, particularly Alice and Randel, really help make Pumpkin Scissors a deeply riveting tale. They have an extremely slow-burning affection for each other, but each is so obtuse about romance for numerous reasons that even getting them to admit they feel strongly for one another takes most of the series to this point.

And while their relationship is important, they both stand alone as characters in their own right with contrasting backgrounds that often make it hard for them to understand each other.

Alice is from one of the most privileged families in the country and in the opening pages of the series we see she graduated into the military the day the ceasefire was called. Having never served on the frontlines and coming from a wealthy, political family means Alice has been sheltered from a lot and in other series she could well be an obnoxious character as a result.

However, Iwanaga gives Alice the opportunity to actually grow, to make mistakes and to broaden her outlook as she progresses through each arc. She isn't always painted as "right" despite her idealism and it's interesting seeing a young, female protagonist in a seinen title get to be like this without also being grossly over-sexualised. Overall, Alice is a strong and proud noble whose journey has involved many harsh life lessons, but who still holds her unit together and strives for a better society.

Randel, our other lead, has come from a background of poverty and suffering. I won't spoil too much of his backstory, but he brings a perspective to the unit that even Oreldo the back-alley brawler doesn't. Randel not only grew up in an incredibly tenuous situation, but he selflessly sold himself to the war machine as a youth and as such, has actually endured the battlefield. Not only does Randel not eat meat as a result of this, he truly wants to live a life without raising his weapon again -- something he has yet to achieve.

Even with the war being over on paper, he very often has to take out his "Door Knocker" gun and literally fight armored tanks. Physically, this is destroying him. Mentally, it is driving him over the edge. But deep within Randel is this burning desire to be useful in achieving lasting post-war peace, for all his deep suffering and sacrifice to be worth it, and that propels him forward even when it probably shouldn't. In the Pumpkin Scissors unit he finds purpose and a commanding officer who gives him something to believe in again, but will Randel ever be able to stand by Alice's side or will he succumb to everything pulling him down?

Something I appreciate about Pumpkin Scissors is that every character comes into their own when the time is right, well beyond our leads too. From characters that play major roles in certain arcs like Haarkenmeijer right through to Rosetta, the minor gag character nurse. Everyone has an arc in the narrative and geez, some of them are good.

If you just watch the anime it seems like Stecchin and Hunks, for example, are two extremely flimsy individuals who round out the core unit by being "the peppy little admin girl" and "dull, middle-manager-esque commanding officer". When the true extent of their individual histories and skills become apparent in the manga, you're left agape at how truly incredible they both are and how vital they are to the success of the team (albeit in very different ways).

What about it isn't good?

There are a few things about Pumpkin Scissors that bug me, but surprisingly few given the length and content of the series.

The art is honestly not that great. Iwanaga draws a mean weapon but he can be quite clumsy with human anatomy and even though his style has improved over time, I still wouldn't say it's the best. I know the art can put people off a bit, but I'm glad I stuck with it because after a dozen or so volumes it does grow on you (and the story absolutely makes it worth the effort).

There has also been a literal 5 year break between volumes. We have no idea if Iwanaga will take another break or how long he intends to continue the series for and that kind of uncertainty, I get it's not for people who really only want to read a complete story.

Speaking of stories... story-wise, I dislike how the minor character, Princess Septieme, is 9 and has a mildly fliratious relationship with the adult Martis. While Martis doesn't actively pursue anything with her and it's all fairly light, it's still weird to put them in that situation to begin with imho and totally unnecessary. Overall there's minimal fanservice (aside from Alice's sisters having big honkers) so having a random loli princess is just odd to me.

That's about all that comes to mind, but obviously if strong, bloody violence in a war-related setting are triggrering for you then I would not recommend Pumpkin Scissors due to how much of it centres on conflict and its horrible results.

So how can I read it?

The manga was originally licensed for US print release by Del-Ray, but this release was discontinued a while back. Nowadays Pumpkin Scissors is a DIGITAL ONLY release from Kodansha USA and volumes 1-23 are currently translated and available for purchase here. If you're outside the US and don't have local official options or are in the US and low on cash then check the usual sites for free options.

Can I watch the anime then pick up the manga?

I'd say yes, if you watch the entire Gonzo anime adaptation you can fairly easily pick up the manga and continue on from there. Personally I'd recommend reading the manga from volume 1 even if you've watched the anime though, as it's a more tightly written story. If nothing else, you absolutely need to indulge yourself in the anime opening because it is top tier stuff (performed by Evangelion's Takahashi Youko no less).

I think the images contained in the opening sequence may also give you a bit of an idea as to whether or not you'll find the series to your tastes overall.

Anyway there are my extremely incoherent thoughts on Pumpkin Scissors and why it's a series I enjoy and recommend you check out. I feel it deserves far more attention that it receives and I am so happy to have it back from its long hiatus. If you do check it out, let me know what you think! If it isn't for you that's OK, hopefully you'll enjoy the next series I decide to ramble about :)

[stareyeds]

Luke Skywalker + TV Tropes

A TV trope is a common or expected use of characters, situations, settings, and time periods across a specific genre of television. Tropes are similar to clichés, but on a larger scale, and can be used to help guide the audience through a story in a familiar wa

Notes: All of these TV Tropes can be found on the TV Tropes website, below we will find some (not all) tropes that refer to Luke Skywalker.

Child of Forbidden Love: He and his sister were the result of Anakin's and Padmé's union since Anakin and Padmé were in a Secret Relationship due to Republic- era Jedi being forbidden to marry.

All-Loving Hero: Luke is very compassionate and caring towards others; he immediately wants to rescue Leia from the Empire upon learning she's on the Death Star with them and will drop everything to help his friends in need. He even believes that Darth Vader, the right-hand man to Emperor, can be redeemed, even though Obi-Wan, Yoda, and Vader himself has denied this. And he's proved right. He is more than willing to sacrifice himself to save the galaxy and manages to indirectly defeat the Emperor himself with The Power of Love.

Ancestral Weapon: His father's lightsaber. After losing it in his duel with Vader on Bespin, he builds his own and makes a point of telling this to Vader to show that he won't let his heritage define who he is.

The Apprentice: During Luke's Jedi training, he was first taught by Obi-Wan Kenobi before the former's murder by Vader and then received his final teachings by Yoda.

Badass Adorable: A sweet-tempered and kind-hearted boy who sincerely cares about everyone in a dark and uncaring universe and is an unstoppable sentinel of justice against the forces of cruelty and darkness.

Blue Is Heroic: He uses a blue-bladed lightsaber originally owned by his father when he starts his journey to become a Jedi and Rebel hero until he loses it at the end of The Empire Strikes Back.

Character Development: Over the original trilogy, he goes from a naïve Farm Boy who can be somewhat whiny and impulsive to an experienced and composed Jedi Knight who tells the Emperor to shove it and brings his father back to the good side.

Darker and Edgier: Luke's Character Development in Return of the Jedi. Luke's entrance sees him Force-choking two guards to get them out of his way, just to emphasize how much he has changed since his first appearance in the saga.

Dark Is Not Evil: Luke wears black throughout Return of the Jedi (as opposed to brighter colors) to represent his turmoil and struggle over a possible Face–Heel Turn. When he overcomes the Emperor's temptations and causes the destruction of the Sith, his black coat falls open to reveal it had a white lining, meaning that he was always wearing white the whole time. It's mentioned in some making-of specials that the outfit is very similar to what Luke wore in A New Hope, but the all-black color scheme makes it more "Jedi-like".

The Dreaded: Though Luke is not fully trained as a Jedi, Emperor Palpatine fears that he will become this to the Sith and for good reason. This example contains a TRIVIA entry. It should be moved to the TRIVIA tab.Word of God states that Luke Skywalker's Force potential is the same as his father if he had not been horribly injured on Mustafar. Such fear is quickly replaced by opportunity when both Sith Lords realize the implication.

Darth Sidious: He could destroy us. Darth Vader: He's just a boy. Obi-Wan could no longer help him. Darth Sidious: The Force is strong with him. The son of Skywalker must not become a Jedi. Darth Vader: If he could be turned, he would become a powerful ally. Darth Sidious: …Yes. He would be a great… asset. Can it be done? Darth Vader: He will join us or die, Master.

In The Mandalorian second season finale, as soon as Moff Gideon sees Luke on his light cruiser security feed mowing down his Dark Troopers, his attitude quickly shifts from smug to terrified to the point where he considers shooting himself before Luke arrives on the Bridge.

Emerald Power: He Took a Level in Badass between The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi, and during that time, he constructs a new lightsaber for himself with a green blade.

Face Death with Dignity: Throughout the last stage of the Battle of Endor, Luke goes out of the way to say that he'll die along with everyone else on the Death Star II, and has calmly accepted the fact. He ends up dropping the "dignity" part of this when he refuses to kill his father and is subsequently tortured by the Emperor, as he begs for Darth Vader to save his life. It works, and it allows Anakin to Face Death with Dignity. In the end, Luke lives after all.

Genius Bruiser: Luke is very intelligent and can use the Force to amplify his strength. A great example is the rescue of Princess Leia from the Death Star in A New Hope, where Luke CARRIES the entire group in one scene. By "Return of the Jedi", he can even outmuscle Darth Vader's cybernetic enhancements.

The Gift: Luke's connection to the Force is equal to his father. Without proper training and only a few tips from Obi-Wan, he was able to let the force guide his hand when blowing up the Death Star. Later, he was able to (with effort) force pull his lightsaber from ice while trapped in a cave on Hoth. By his mid twenties, Luke's Force abilities far exceed a typical Jedi Master.

Good Counterpart: To Darth Vader.

Good Is Not Soft: Especially in Return of the Jedi. For a film that showed the heroes as more Incorruptible Pure Pureness, some viewers were surprised to see Luke using powers generally associated with the Sith like the Force-choke. In this instance, it was used to demonstrate he was sliding towards The Dark Side.

Heroic Lineage: Luke's father, Anakin, was a Jedi before him. Luke later followed in his father's footsteps and became a Jedi himself. His mother was also seen as a hero on her homeworld of Naboo and a champion of peace and democracy in the old Republic.

Historical Villain Upgrade: In the eyes of Imperial sympathizers in the New Republic and the First Order itself, he’s seen as the man who turned Darth Vader from the Empire’s Number 1 guy into the one who murdered Palpatine in cold blood, while helping the Rebel Alliance found the illegitimate and illegal New Republic and trying to revive the Jedi, a group of people Palpatine himself worked so hard to destroy.

Hope Bringer: Both he and Leia's birth at the end of Revenge of the Sith represent the new hope in the shambles of the Republic that the new Empire was built upon for Yoda, Obi-Wan, and the small militant senators, like Bail Organa, who would form the Rebel Alliance.

While the title of A New Hope can also represent the Rebellion as a means of bringing the Empire's tyranny to an end, and even to Leia to a lesser extent, it most obviously applies to Luke himself. Luke ends up embodying Anakin's subconscious desire to be redeemed, and he himself expresses strong hopes of turning Anakin back to the light side, which he ultimately accomplishes. Coincidentally, his new lightsaber in Return of the Jedi emits a green blade, this being the first green-bladed lightsaber ever seen before the production of the Prequel Trilogy and its spinoffs (although actually the green color used for this new lightsaber was chosen in real life for different reasons, and not specifically to represent this theme of hope).

The Idealist: Has an idealistic view of the galaxy, and of his father.

Kung-Fu Jesus: Since he's a Messianic Archetype who's also a Jedi.

Messianic Archetype: Although his father is The Chosen One, Luke's character has the closest resemblance to Christ. He gains a group of devoted individuals ( Han, Leia, Chewie, C-3P0, and R2-D2), gallivants about spreading good, and ends up performing miracles like blowing up the Death Star. At the end of the sixth movie, he refuses the temptation of the Dark Side, then is zapped by the Emperor's lightning (his "death" scene). This act of selflessness would restore faith and bring forth a new golden age for his people.

In media, the Messianic Archetype is a character whose role in the story (but not necessarily personality) echoes that of Christ. They are portrayed as a savior, whether the thing they are saving is a person, a lot of people or the whole of humanity. They endure a sizable sacrifice as the means of bringing that salvation about for others, a fate they do not deserve up to and including death or a Fate Worse than Death. Other elements may be mixed and matched as required but the Messianic Archetype will include one or more of the following:

The Chosen One True Companions who follow him Betrayal by one of those followers Persecution by nonbelievers Crucified Hero Shot (or other parallels to the Passion Play) Figurative or literal resurrection A Second Coming Literally having the initials 'J.C.' The Redeemer Dressing like Jesus

Last of His Kind: He is said to be the last Jedi Knight to be alive (after Yoda's death) and serves as the foundation for a new Jedi Order. Yoda: Luke, when gone am I… the last of the Jedi will you be. Pass on what you have learned.

Living Legend: The guy blew up the Death Star on his first official day of joining the Rebellion. Top that.

The Ace: By "Return of the Jedi", Luke is definitely this. It's to be expected from The Chosen One's heir.

Military Mage: Commander Skywalker's nascent Force reflexes make him a natural Ace Pilot and are directly responsible for the destruction of the first Death Star in the Battle of Yavin. The power of having a Force-user on the field is demonstrated again in the Battle of Hoth, where he is able to take down a powerful AT-AT walker on foot using only a lightsaber and a thermal detonator.

Mirror Character: His father, Anakin. Both grew up on the same desolate desert planet before being taken away to train as Jedi Knights under Obi-Wan Kenobi. Both are tempted by the Dark Side to protect their loved ones, but Luke's horror at the realization he is becoming like this father, down to their mechanical right hands, narrowly saves him from falling as Anakin did. Luke's faith in his father manages to save Anakin as well.

One-Man Army: An incredibly powerful soldier and Jedi. If one Imperial account is to be trusted, Luke once brought down an airborne Star Destroyer by jumping from the surface of Jakku and slashing it with the Force. He cuts down Jabba’s numerous goons like butter in Return Of The Jedi without breaking a sweat.

Superior Successor: To Anakin as Vader. This example contains a TRIVIA entry. It should be moved to the TRIVIA tab.Word of God says Luke inherited Anakin's full potential, hence why Palpatine sought after him as a disciple, since Vader was plagued with immense wounds and inner conflict at that point. By Return of The Jedi, he may very well be stronger than his father (though it's unclear, as Vader is very obviously holding back out of love), but he certainly grew beyond him by The Mandalorian.

Turn Out Like His Father: The efforts to keep Luke from being like his father (who, This example contains a YMMV entry. It should be moved to the YMMV tab.as we all know, went evil) occupy three separate characters: Owennote , Obi-Wan Kenobi, and Yoda. In Return of the Jedi, Luke realizes that he's dangerously close to invoking this trope after he cuts off Vader's cybernetic right hand and looks down at his own cybernetic right hand. This prompts him to deactivate and discard his lightsaber so that he won't be tempted any further.

Twin Telepathy: With Leia to an extent, beginning in The Empire Strikes Back. She hears him calling out to her through the Force and is able to locate him in Cloud City. In Return of the Jedi, she is able to sense that Luke wasn't on the Death Star when it blew up.

The Unchosen One: In a sense, compared to his father. Anakin was revealed as the Chosen One from age 9 and experienced firsthand both the positives and negatives of the Jedi Order. Darth Sidious (Palpatine) targeted Anakin for exactly this reason, amplifying the negatives and downplaying the positives until the Jedi's own Chosen One became the Sith's greatest weapon. Luke, on the other hand, experienced the exact opposite and became a hero because of it. Seeing Luke tortured led Vader to Heel–Face Turn and kill the Emperor, helping bring peace to the galaxy. Thus, fulfilling the prophecy of the "one who will bring balance to the Force", all thanks to Luke.

Unskilled, but Strong: After his Jedi training with Yoda, Luke is this, gaining abilities and strength in only a few months what takes most Jedi years. By the time he leaves for Bespin, he is connected to the Force, can feel it unconsciously, and manipulate it freely. That said, he had yet to learn fine control and had no real experience using the force in a combat situation. Likewise, even in Jedi, his lightsaber technique is a lot more raw and straightforward than that of the old Jedi, as he was a mostly self-taught duelist that didn't have the benefits of thousands of years of Jedi knowledge or an abundance of trainers or sparring partners.

Unstoppable Rage: During his final duel in Return of the Jedi…until he realizes he's following in his father's footsteps and calms himself.

Warrior Prince: He's Leia's biological brother, and, thus, son of Queen Padmé Amidala of Naboo.

World's Strongest Man: Word of God explains that Luke inherited Anakin's full potential in the Force, which exceeds all Jedi and Sith in history. With Obi-Wan, Yoda, Anakin, and Palpatine having died, Luke may very well be this at the end of Return of the Jedi.

Word of God: A statement regarding some ambiguous or undefined aspect of a work, the Word of God comes from someone considered to be the ultimate authority, such as the creator, director or producer. Such edicts can even go against events as were broadcast, due to someone making a mistake.

Notes: This comes to the end of this thread - a large portion of the TV Tropes were not included as this would be a long and drawn out post but all of the tropes can be found at the link below - there are for those interested TV Tropes on Legends!Luke Skywalker and Sequels!Luke Skywalker

https://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Characters/StarWarsLukeSkywalker

[beskarthief]

Chapter 1 of the Star Wars fic "Order 65". The rest can be found here.

Chapter One: Consequences

19 BBY, Coruscant, Senate District

 All of that; the deception, the risks, the death. And for what?

 For one pawn in a much greater game to pay the price for his allegiances? Riyo didn't have time to take down the Empire one corrupt politician at a time. This was war. The Clone Wars may have ended, but the battles had not. They had simply taken on a new face.

 She was glad that Rampart would pay the price for his crimes, not only against the Empire, but the people it was supposed to protect as well. But she couldn't help feeling that today had been a loss. 

 After all she had done and all she had asked of those clones - all they had risked - she had still been played. The Empire's new troops would have no lingering loyalties to the Republic that once was, only to the Empire that was steadily growing in strength every day. And the clones who had died for her and the rest of this galaxy would be further pushed aside. 

 The thought sickened her. The fact that she had ultimately played a role in it even more so. 

 As soon as the meeting had adjourned she had left, sweeping from her pod and hurrying down the hall so as not to be stopped by anyone. She did not have it in her right now to make pleasantries with her fellow senators, especially when she knew every word out of their mouths would be praise for her investigations into what had really happened on Kamino.

 But she didn't deserve the credit for any of that. Nor did it feel like something to celebrate right now.

 So she swept quickly down the hall and managed to brush by her fellow senators with little more than a nod and a smile of gratitude at their kind words. Her bodyguards, those that were left, lengthened their strides to keep pace with her.

 She was almost free when a familiar voice called from behind her. "Ah, Senator! I was hoping to catch you before you left."

 Riyo took in a deep breath, painted a smile across her face, and turned to face the man in the hall behind her.

 "My Emperor! It was a surprise to see you at the meeting."

 "A pleasant one, I hope?" he drawled.

 "Of course." she assured him, smile unwavering. "What is it that you wanted to address?"

 "Ah, yes." he shook his head sadly. "Not a happy matter, I am afraid. These are dangerous times, Senator." he continued, falling into step beside her. Together, the pair of them continued towards the lift that would lead them above to the docking bay.

 "But, you are well aware of  that." The Emperor said. "I was alarmed to hear that during your investigations you very nearly lost your life."

 Riyo's stride almost faltered, but she kept it steady. Of course he knew. Before she could reply, he continued.

 "The truth can often be dangerous, senator." The Emperor told her, as though she didn't already know. "But I am sure that won't top you."

 "The truth may be dangerous, Emperor." Riyo replied. "But it is also the foundation upon which our galactic order is founded. Is that not worth fighting for?"

 "Of course it is, my dear." The Emperor replied, hood concealing his face. "And that is precisely why I wanted to speak with you."

 By this time they had reached the landing pad, and Riyo was surprised to see a squad of clones standing before her ship. All of them snapped to attention as they approached. Coruscant Guard. She recognized the red markings on their armor. 

 "These are dangerous times, Senator." The Emperor repeated, waving a wrinkled hand to gesture at the assembled soldiers before them. "And I would hate for something to happen when I could have helped prevent it. Please, allow me to assist in your protection. So that you may continue your fight for truth without fear."

 "My Emperor-" she began, searching for an excuse. But there were none. "Thank you. I appreciate your support through all of this."

 "Of course, Senator Chuchi. You are a true servant of the Empire." He said, a small smile playing across his thin lips. "As much as I would enjoy hearing more of your findings, I am afraid I must leave you now. There are many matters that require my attention."

 “I appreciate you taking this time to come speak with me. And for your support in the senate."

 "The pleasure was all mine, senator."

 She bet it was. But the smile remained across her face as he turned and left her there, flanked by her bodyguards and facing the consequences of her actions. 

 She allowed herself a single breath and let the smile slide from her face. Her shoulders drooped as her composure dropped, but just as quickly as it had gone it returned and she straightened up again and smiled at the troopers assembled before her.

 The one in the lead saluted her, "At your service, ma'am."

 "At ease, trooper." she said, approaching. They owed her no such respect. Not after how much she'd just lost them. Did they even know? 

 The trooper didn't seem very at ease, though he gave the impression of someone who was trying to be. If anything, that made her feel worse. Riyo had spoken to enough lying bureaucrats to know how to read body language, and though the trooper's expressions were hidden beneath their helmets, she could tell they were on edge. 

 "What's your name, trooper?" she asked in hopes of easing the tension, stopping before him.

 "CC-1010, ma'am." he recited, tone flat.

 She considered trying to explain to him that she wasn't like the others, that she knew they had names. That she cared that they had names. But she didn't have the energy, not for trying to convince him or the inevitable gratitude at being treated like a living being. It was always there, in their eyes. Whether they thought you saw it or not. She didn't know if she could take it, today. 

 And so she chose to be selfish. "A pleasure to meet you." Riyo replied, her voice equally hollow. And then she swept up the boarding ramp of her ship and took her seat. 

 Her guards took their places in the cockpit and after a moment of silence, the engines rumbled to life. The vessel was small, just big enough to ferry her and her aids about Coruscant and back to Pantora when required. But now it was crowded as the clones followed her aboard and took their places around her, as though she were in danger from the very air inside the ship. 

 None of them spoke for the duration of the flight, which was thankfully brief, as her apartments were not far from the senatorial building. But still the silence felt stretched and thin, almost weary. When they landed, the clones stepped out before her and swept first the landing area and then her quarters for any signs of a threat. She was only permitted to step off the shuttle once they had declared it clear, and from there she went directly to her rooms.

 Of the five clones that made up the unit, two flanked the doors that led onto the landing pad, two the doors to her private quarters, and one paced the perimeter just outside. She supposed her guards could benefit from a night off, so dismissed them to their own chambers. They would reconvene in the morning and decide what to do.

 But even after they had gone and she was left with her new ensemble, she hesitated.

 "Don't even clones need to sleep?" she asked the one who appeared to be their leader. Perhaps she could call back her guards and arrange some sort of a shift.

 "Your security is our top priority, senator." he replied, misunderstanding. "We won't let you down."

 "I know..." she let the sentence trail off, wondering how much of a threat Palpatine deemed her as. Sargeant? Captain?

 "Commander." the clone supplied after a moment.

 Ah. A smile tugged at the corner of her lip. She felt oddly flattered.

 "Well, Commander, I appreciate the reassurance."

 He gave her a nod before returning to his patrol of the perimeter and she slipped inside her rooms and closed the door. After a moment, she locked it as well.

[hastalavistabyebye]

Greenhouses

Ao3 version

"I’m going to have to thank, Depa.” Ponds mused as they strolled in the Alderaan’s greenhouse, buttery scones in hand. “This is nice.” 

“We could get her dinner on the way home. She told you about a new chalactan place she wanted to try, the other day.” 

The Skydome Botanical Gardens were peaceful this afternoon. It was a sunny day during one of the Republic holidays, few people wanted to spend it in the closed and warm greenhouses, especially not the families with kids. It was the perfect day for them. They were practically alone with the luxurious plants and the occasional birds living in the gardens. 

“We’re going to have to bring enough food for the entire lineage then. Caleb’ika is also going to make you stay and won't take no for an answer. I swear he likes you better than both me and Gray.” Ponds smiled while knocking his shoulder against his lover’s playfully. 

“There’s no clone he likes better than you and Gray, and you know that.” Bacara huffed as he wrapped his arm around Ponds's shoulders to keep him close. “You spoil him too much.” 

“Says the man that helped me choose a new pair of forearm guards for his decanting day. And insist we get him the best quality ones.” Ponds shot back, mirth dancing in his eyes, his face illuminated by the golden light. “You're fooling noone, Marshall Commander.” 

Bacara shaked his head and pointedly bit into his scone. Ponds gracefully let him keep the rest of his dignity without more teasing, and nestled into his side with a playful peck on his cheek, left arm resting around his cyare's waist. 

It really was a great afternoon. Depa had been telling him to take Bacara here for weeks now. She nearly planned the entire date for them, from the scones food truck they had to stop at, on the way to the Botanical Gardens, to making sure he knew which greenhouses were the prettiest. The least they could do was to bring her favorite curry. She had been right about all of her recommandations, after all.

The scones were delicious and the gardens beautiful, bathed in the warm light of late afternoon. The delicate and colorful flowers were painted in the green shadows thrown by the trees overhead. Some blinkbirds sang hidden in the leaves, their whistles harmonizing with the faint noise of running water coming from thel pools, on the sides of the paved alley. 

Ponds watched his cyare smile at the scenery surrounding them. Yeah, it was truly beautiful. 

If I remember correctly, the idea comes from @rooksunday. It was a wonderful idea.