#this chariot killed me bye

[aniraklova]

THE GREAT RAVAGER OF WASTELAND

Invincible, fearsome and legendary figure

[oidheadh-con-culainn]

tell me about him.

the story i remember: an orphan boy is raised to be very good at sports. he accidentally kills the local king’s favorite dog, and takes the dogs place as a guard??

not an orphan! he has many dads. really a disproportionate number of dads. and also a mum. she's called dechtire or dechtine and doesn't come up very often, but she's the sister of conchobar, king of the ulaid, so cú chulainn is the king's nephew

he gets his name by killing (deliberately) the watch dog of a man named culann, bc he was late to a feast and the dog had already been let out to guard the place so it tried to kill him but he got there first. culann wasn't thrilled about this, so young sétanta (or sédana but it's sétanta in all the versions of the boyhood deeds that i know) is like "i will get you another dog and in the meantime i will guard your land for you" and everyone is like, cool, that seems a reasonable thing for a six year old to say, let's give him a new name while we're about it

anyway then he grows up to do a shitton of murder, most notably in táin bó cúailnge, which is the story of one 17-year-old boy (cú chulainn) versus the armies of ireland, and he's winning. also he kills his best friend/foster brother in a deeply homoerotic duel, as ya do.

bunch more murders, bunch more adventures, then eventually it catches up with him ~16 years later and the kids of loads of people he killed are like "hey so fuck that guy in particular, right?" and team up to murder him bc truly he was great at making enemies. bye bye cú chulainn. he dead.

cú chulainn's best friend, best weapon, and probably the sole reason he didn't die at 15 instead of 33 is his charioteer láeg mac riangabra. láeg my best beloved. bit of a weirdo, bit obscure, no one's totally sure where he comes from and also he is entirely down to do murder for cú chulainn when necessary. probably a similar age to cú chulainn which frankly explains a lot. they play fidchell together which is a strategy board game a bit like chess so basically they are the chess club nerds who will beat YOU up

i love them, your honour

[auspex]

VtM Fangfest 2024 Prompt 8: The Chariot

Hello! Here is my eighth fic for Fangfest 2024 :)

All my fics will be about characters that are previously established, so you might not have context for everything mentioned or hinted at within :( Feel free to reach out to ask I love explaining!

I've never really posted my writing before so be kind!

my first fic is here

my second fic is here

my third fic is here

my fourth fic is here

my fifth fic is here

my sixth fic is here

my seventh fic is here

This fic is about Sampson, and the last time he ever spoke to Mark. This one will probably be the hardest one to enjoy without context.

Sampson, before Mark's embrace, was Mark's boyfriend. But, he was ghouled and used to spy on Mark to see if he was a suitable candidate for embrace, and had his memory erased often. After Mark's embrace, Mark saved Sampson from dying (long story, keeping it brief) and Mark unintentionally ghouled him in the process. Later, unbeknownst to Mark, Sampson was approached by one of Gaius's contacts to help Mark in kiling his sire, Julius. Sampson also wanted this to happen so he could get the fuck out of the city without being killed as a possible masquerade breach (Julius would definetely have had him hunted down and killed).

Theres a lot more context and history but... we don't have time for a full plot summary. if you aren't familiar with their story you might consider skipping this one... but if you do know them... without further ado...

Sampson leaned up against his truck, waiting for Mark and that other kindred he’d apparently attached himself to, JP. 

Their new neighborhood, East Village was on the outskirts of Detroit and solidly straddled the line between urban and suburban. Most houses had chain link fences, and were kept relatively free of trash. It wasn’t the worst place to live. Sampson couldn’t help feeling guilty when he thought about the others living here; he had enabled two monsters to move in. He could never let himself forget that Mark was a murderer.    

Finally, Mark’s car pulled up. “Took you long enough. It’s almost 8,” Sampson spoke, annoyed, as both kindred exited the car. JP for his part looked deranged as always, but thankfully stayed behind Mark. 

“I know, I’m sorry. We had to pick something up that we had left on my territory. Uh, but thanks for meeting me.” Mark gave one of his ‘I’m trying hard to be normal’ smiles. 

“Yeah. Sure. Whatever.” He held out the house key. “Well, there you go. I left the deed inside.” 

Mark took the key. “Thank you Sampson. Uh, how are things with you?” 

Sampson stuffed his hands into his pockets and looked out to the road. “Good enough. Yeah.” He took a deep breath. Time to tell him. He wished JP weren’t here. “So. I’ll be leaving town at sunrise.” 

“What?” 

Mark looked shocked, as he expected. He pushed through conflicting feelings and kept his voice steady. “You know I wanted to leave.” 

“Yes, but this soon?” 

“Yeah. Your sire’s dead. I can leave without him sending goons to hunt me down. So I’m going.” 

There was silence for a moment. JP cut in, thank god. It was hard to relax with him there. “Hey uh, Mark, why don’t you give me the key?” Before waiting for a reply, JP took it from Mark’s unmoving hand and turned towards the house. “Nice to meet you and good luck Sampson, um. Thanks for everything. Bye. Good luck Mark. See you inside, uh, soon.” 

He shuffled away towards the house. Sampson and Mark were left standing outside.

Sampson released his held breath, but Mark spoke first, fast now. “Now hang on Sampson, I know you wanted to go but everything is happening really fast, things are uncertain, and I-” 

Here we go. “You what? Can’t promise it's safe for me to go? You can’t promise me safety, period. This is the best time. Or, fuck, even if its not, I’ve gotta chance now and I can’t wait any longer. Neither can Kaylee. It’s killing her, being here, knowing you and others are around.” He glanced over his shoulder, as if someone could be watching them right then. “I’m, uh. Man.” He sighed. “Look Mark, I hope your sire’s death is good for you too. But I was trying to get out, that’s why I helped you do that, and now I can. So I’m going. There’s no reason for me to stay.” 

“Could you wait until I’m a bit more settled? I-” 

Sampson grimaced at that - did he not realize they couldn’t be friends, that they were not friends? “No. I’m leaving. And this is goodbye.” 

“I.” Mark’s face fell. “I can’t believe it. I mean! I know you wanted to go and I support you in that, you know I do, it's just I didn’t think it’d be so soon. I just, don’t know. I don’t really even know what I’m going to do, yet, I’ve just been taking it one step at a time.”

“Then fuck, you’ve got to figure it out. You don’t need me for that - I don’t even think I could help with that. Oh, here’s another key for you. To The Forgetful. Whoever that monster is who helps manage your territory can run the damn bar now. I guess. Or you can. It doesn’t matter. Hell, you could even rename it.”

Mark stared at the key for a moment before carefully picking it up from Sampson’s outstretched palm. “I. Ok. Sampson, I…” 

“Don’t, Mark. Just let this be the end. Don’t contact me.” 

Mark opened his mouth in shock. “But, wait, why not? I would just want to make sure you’re ok, I wouldn’t ask for details, or anything.” 

“No. I’m changing my number. Might even change my name. Don’t try and find me.” 

Mark spluttered a bit. “What? I. Okay. Okay fine. Take my number at least. Okay. Why don’t you take mine at least?” 

Sampson sighed as he observed Mark scribble his number down in a notebook he had in his bag, rip it out and hand it to him.

He took it wordlessly. No way he’d ever call. 

“There, so, just call me if you need anything. You’re really leaving tonight? Where will you go?” 

“You don’t gotta worry about that anymore.” 

“What about Lucky?” “Not your problem anymore either. Don’t worry about shit to do with me, Mark. It’s my life. I’m trying to go live it. Go enjoy your l- er, whatever the fuck you have.” There was no longer any venom in Sampson’s voice, but no love either. The situation was just sad. He ran a hand over his head and sighed. “Look, I am thankful, ok? You sure fucked up a lot but you could have done way worse by me, and well. I survived. I have another chance in life, and you could have tried to stop me from doing that, but instead you helped. So thank you for that, Mark.” 

“I… of course Sampson. You know I, I would do so much for you. If you only asked. I didn’t want things to be like this.” 

“I know.” Mark was always saying that, as if it really meant anything. 

For a minute, the only sound was the echo of cars, streets away, and a dog’s solitary bark.

Sampson broke the silence. “Is there anything you need to ask me? I really am about to leave.” He wasn’t about to get emotional around Mark. 

“I, I mean, I guess not. Not much anyway. Do I have to worry about whoever was helping you get me that stuff I needed to break the bond?” “No.”

“Ok. That’s good I guess. Um.” “Anything else?” “I mean.” Mark struggles with his words, but eventually simply blurts out: “What do you think of me, really?” 

Sampson paused for a moment, thinking. “That you’re in an impossible situation. A bad one.” Sampson blew air out of his lips, making a ‘pfft’ sound. “And, well damn, I feel bad for you, but like how you would feel for a stranger going through it, y’know. Plus the whole ‘you suck people’s blood until they die’ thing. And I want nothing to do with it.” 

“Right.” 

Let Mark sit with that for the rest of his existence, as he lost the shell of who he was and fully became a monster. If Sampson was a braver man, if he really wanted to do something to help out the man Mark used to be, he’d really kill Mark now.

But he couldn’t bring himself to do that - Mark was too similar to how he had been when he was alive, even if Sampson would never forget that he had murdered someone. 

“Anything else?” 

“No. I understand that you have to go. So, this is goodbye?” Mark had his characteristic mask up; his voice was detached, and formal. “That I do. Yeah. You won’t see me again but I wish you the best.” Sampson wasn’t sure if he was lying, but he held out his hand for a handshake anyway. 

Mark took a moment to compose himself before returning the handshake. “Thanks for everything that you did for me. I am here if you ever need. Don’t lose that number. Please.” 

“Mmm. Goodbye, Mark.” Sampson met his eyes for a moment. 

He felt Mark’s cold hand slip away as he released it. “Goodbye, Sampson.” 

With that, Sampson quickly turned, went into his truck, and without a second glance, drove away. Mark was left on the driveway fighting back tears. 

Mark stood there for a moment, watching Sampson’s truck get further and further down the road. Soon, Sampson couldn’t make him out in his rear view mirror. 

All that was left was to pick up Kaylee. And they could both get out of this city.  

[theredqueenandthebloodwyrm]

episode 8 Castlevania Nocturne

Episode eightttt

Like Major Spoilers

Like don't read this if you don't watch spoilers for the season 1 finale type of spoilers

I can't spell the Vampire Messiah's name. I'll admit it. Ezeb...Bathory? Captions to the rescue, it's Erzsebet.

Anyways her Sekhmet Transformation is a total glowup and I can get behind the new hair. Also that gold and black dress? Yes, just yes. And that golden chariot? Loving it!

Did the Abbott fucking forget that Isaac didn't actually kill his son??? Yeah Tera fucking tell him!

Edouard's singing!! Forget the power of love, try the power of music. Well actually they're somewhat intertwined but yknow.

Hahaha get wrecked by a turtle Drolta! Turtle attack! Or uh tortoise. Maria's animal summoning is wonderful. Shoutout to the teleporting cat too.

Olrox saving Mizrak was a nice surprise. Love his green eyed shadow form. Haha go kick their asses Olrox!

Erzsebet / Vampire Messiah's new Sekhmet design is so...so good, that is a god. A goddess who can and will kill you. Then Olrox saved Mizrak from being a suicidal knight, like seriously what were you thinking Mizrak? If Richter Fucking Belmont and his blue flames couldn't touch her, what was your basic ass sword gonna do??

She wasn't gonna kill her? I mean she planned to turn Maria into a vampire so kinda kill her but like everyone totally was thinking she was going to use Maria as a sacrificial lamb of sorts (myself included) imagine my surprise when she was like "no dumbasses, I'm giving her life" albeit vampiric life.

Gasp my heart "I don't want you to die, Mizrak."

No no no not Aunt Tera being the fucking Ram.

Huh you know I wondered how someone became a vampire in the Castlevania universe. Guess the classic drink their blood and then give them vampire blood works. Damn newbie vamps are hungry as fuck it seems.

The Abbott's face is hilarious to me, it's a look of pure terror mixed with the realization he fucked up.

ALUCARD?? ALUCARD?

Bye bye Drolta!

ALUCARD ALUCARD ALUCARD HOLY SHIT IT'S HIM

Oh how have I missed him.

What happened to his pigment though? Is it a vampire thing? Like his hair went from blonde to nearly pure white? Skin too? Has he been sleeping in a coffin for these few hundred years without moonlight? It's probably a vampire thing. Or half-vampire in his case I suppose.

I love all these characters, the animation, the music and soundtrack, the beautiful voice acting, the story and its themes. The character designs, their outfits, their glowups, their magic.

[aru-loves-krishnaxarjuna]

Hey!

So uh...what if Arjuna died by Karna's Divyāstra? Mind you, this is my alternative universe

Soooo, here it goes!

"Madhav..Please! Let me kill Angaraj! He will kill Ghatotkach!" The chariot steered the opposite way Arjuna wanted it to be. Arjuna exasperated an impatient yet upset sigh and leaned out of the white chariot.

"What are you doing?" Krishna asked, finally speaking. "Please Madhav..i- i have to do this!"

"Focus on Duryodhan!" Krishna shouted to let his voice be audible to his anchor, who continued leaning to shoot the King of Anga. "He isn't even doing anything!" Arjuna shouted back at him.

Meanwhile at the other side, Karna was aiming at the teenage Ogre with the Divyāstra that was given to him by his arch-nemesis's father. "May this weapon have the ability to read both my mind and heart. Om Indraya namah." And with that he released his weapon.

Unbeknownst to him, Arjuna had also released his arrow. Arjuna's arrow pierced Karna through his right eye and brain, killing him in an instant

The Divyāstra of Karna divided into two and one pierced Ghatotkach and the other...

Pierced right through Arjuna's heart.

Arjuna let out a painful gasp, causing his best friend to snap his neck towards him. Arjuna's eyes were wide with the shock that travelled throughout his body and his hair stood up for a moment and fell limp again, his body falling down backwards, his Gandiva falling down from his limp hands, blood flowing out of his mouth and chest, heavily.

Krishna looked back in shock. This was not what was supposed to happen. He had stopped the chariot as soon as his anchor had let out the painful gasp. He rushed to catch his Parth's falling body. Krishna's eyes started burning and then he saw...drops of water? It took him moments to realise that those were his own tears.

This was NOT supposed to happen. What did Krishna not do for his Parth, just so he can escape from the cruel paws of Niyati? He did so much, SO much, just so he could prevent his lover's death, but that went in vain.

Krishna wanted to scream in agony and heartbreak. And so, he did. As soon as he screamed, he started glowing, resulting the war to stop for a moment and look at the Lord.

Krishna now wouldn't take sides. Parth. His Parth. His Parth had just died, because of everyone here. He had to suffer the most for everyone here, his family included.

His Parth should have fought back. He should have. But he didn't. And that resulted in so many things. True, that Nara doesn't get served but serves everyone instead.

But now, Krishna didn't care for any right or wrong. He wouldn't bear it. He couldn't. He should have told Arjuna to fight back.

There is no value of the world where his Parth, the ray of sunshine in his life, the one who loved him and trusted him more than anything else, wasn't there. Krishna had vowed to his charioteer Daruka that if there is not Arjuna in the world, then there is no world that is existing.

Krishna delicately picked up his lover's body and behind him, his Vishwaroop appeared, and growed. It growed and growed, till the skies and everyone alive looked at him in horror and terror. But he didn't care.

His Sudarshan chakra appeared, and he aimed aimlessly. Maybe it killed crores, maybe started a wildfire, maybe did a bloodshed. Who knows?

Aight sooo, you can continue the rest! Ba-bye!!

Krishnarjun fans, especially @h0bg0blin-meat @prettykittytanjiro and @rorapostsbl maybe this can fuel your Krishna x arjuna heart ✋️😭

[thiswasinevitableid]

64. I didn’t know my ex moved so you find me curled up on the floor in front of your apartment door

Ot4, nsfw, please!

Here you go!

Duck didn’t mean to fall asleep in front of her cave. But there was no one home and the rock in front of it is just the right temperature to coax him down into a nap in the spring sunshine.

“Um, can I help you?”

His nose tells him the voice belongs to another dragonborn before he opens his eyes. It’s just not the one he’s hoping for. Instead of blue scales and muscle, he finds blue eyes staring down at him while black and white scales glint in the afternoon light.

“Uh, I, uh, do you know the dragon who lives here?” He didn’t think she’d move on that fast.

“I am the dragon who lives here.” The other male adjusts the satchels on his shoulders, one laden with food and the other with books, “I moved in a week ago.”

“Well...fuck.” Duck slides off the rock with a groan, “sorry, didn’t know the place changed hands. Didn’t mean to, uh, crash on your front porch.”

“It’s okay. I was hoping to meet more of our kind here.” He writes a glyph on the door and it opens, “do you want to come in? I got some nice wine from town and, um” he scratches at the stone, “no one to share it with.”

“Sure.” Duck follows him through the familiar front hall and into the kitchen. The furniture is different, all clean lines and polished wood, and there’s new art on the walls. He reads the spines on the stack of history books on the table while his host pours them each a glass of wine.

“Thanks” he takes the goblet, “I’m uh, I’m Duck by the way. It’s a nickname.”

“Joseph.” The other dragon sits across from him, “I take your...ex lived here?”

“Yeah” Duck scratches the back of his neck, “we end things a month ago but, uh, I was missin her and I, uh, I, I, fuck, nevermind.”

Joseph sniffs the air, “surprise heat?”

Duck nods, “I was kinda hopin for, uh, for a pity fuck or somethin. Fuck, that sounds pathetic.” He rests his head in his hands.

“There’s no shame in wanting intimacy.”

“Guess not. Uh, enough about me, how’d you end up here?” He prays Joseph takes the hint.

“I travel around studying humans, trying to bring a greater understanding of them to our kind. My hope is it’ll help keep the peace, since we’re less likely to fear or attack things we understand. Kepler might be the place I settle; the town is a great mixture of dragon and human cultures.”

“So you just...study everythin they do?”

“Right now I’m focusing on technology. Hence the, um, the scars.”

“Oh shit” the white zigzags and bursts that Duck assumed were simply markings are, in fact, scars, “what happened?”

“Mostly minor accidents, like you’d get cooking or gardening. This one” he gestures to the white on his cheek, “is embarrassing; I was so engrossed in my research I didn’t notice the experiment I was running was about to go haywire.”

“Ouch.” He hazards a joke, “hate to see what your hoard is like, probably, uh, shock me.”

Joseph smiles, “I don’t really have one, it’s a pain to move it every time.”

“Not even a little pile?” Duck raises a brow; there’s a magpie-ish quality to the other dragon that suggests there’s a collection hiding somewhere.

A faint dusting of gold on his cheeks, “I do have a, um, a small stack of books.”

“Can I see?”

“Of course. This way.” He leads them to the master bedroom. A wave of unwelcome nostalgia hits Duck as he enters, and he’s about to excuse himself back to the kitchen when a giggle climbs up his throat.

“A small stack, huh?”

Joseph settles on the cushions at the center of three towering bookcases, each crammed full, “I don’t have that many. I once met a wyvern who had whole hills of books. I like them like this so I can actually find things.”

“Hate to say it Joe, but this is an honest to gods hoard.” Duck kneels near him.

“Joe....huh, I like it when you call me that. Normally I hate it. And it’s a library, not a hoard.”

“If you say so. Uh huh, what’s this?” He crawls to where a pile of puzzles toys and games is hidden between the bookcases, “seems like the makings of another ho--oh hell yeah” he grabs a box, “Minotaurs Riddle, I fuckin love this game. Haven’t played it in years, lent mine to a trio of centaurs and never got it back.”

“Do you want to play a few rounds? I, um, I don’t have anything urgent tonight but if you have things to do-”

“Nah, got all my shit taken care of early in case...uh, well, you know.” Humiliation at his earlier desperation rears its head.

Joseph drags a low table over, “Then it sounds like we could both use a night off.”

Three hours and two bottles of wine later, they locked in a stalemate, Duck scanning his cards for a way to break it. He’s never had this intense an opponent before and it’s so fucking fun.

“I play the hero's spear BUT” he flips a card facedown, “on my own chariot, which opens up the way for my chimera to attack.”

Joe’s eyes flick between his hand and the board, pupils no more than slits as he concentrates. Then he sets his cards all facedown, “I don’t have a counter-move, so you win.” His grin is fairytale perfect, “that was great! And now I know your method of play so I can beat you next time.”

“You wish.” Duck doesn’t mean to growl as deeply as he does.

“It’s not a wish, it’s a promise.” Joe boxes up the game without ever taking his eyes off Duck.

“If you say so. But if you break it” he curls his tail around to stroke black scales, “think I oughta get a prize.”

Joe’s responding click-growl is unfamiliar, could be anything from agreement to “leave me the fuck alone.” He starts to retract his tail only for Joe to close his claws around it.

“I think you should get one for your win tonight, too. You did come here in a, um, a certain state.”

“Ain’t you the polite one.” Duck shoves the table aside and prowls across the pillows, “offerin that stylish tail up for meWHOAH, fuck.” He laughs as Joe, lightning quick, lunges forward and traps him on his back.

“Sorry, I’ve been wanting to get my hands on you since you got here. Gods” he undoes the wrap at Duck’s waist with a hungry growl, “do you have any idea how hard it is to think strategically with all of this” he runs his palms up Duck’s chest, “on display. Once I’m done give your body the attention it deserves, then I’ll put my ass in the air for you.”

“You drive a hard bargain Joe, but I’ll take it.” He grins as the other dragon gropes his thighs.

“Good. Besides, this is a proven way of getting over heartbreak.”

“Think that theory might need a little more testin. So get down here and kiss me.”

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

“Interesting.” Joe taps the bottle with a claw as he studies the ship inside it, “you really don’t know how they do it?”

“No fuckin clue. I can build model ships outside bottles, but this? This is wild to me.”

“I wonder if we-” Joe raises his head, inhales, and breaks into a dazzling smile, “dinner’s here! You can come in Barclay, we’re in the sunroom.”

Footsteps on stone announce the cook, who Duck usually sees at Amnesty Lodge down in Kepler.

“Didn’t know y’all did delivery.”

Barclay sets a bag crammed with tins and bottles onto the table, “We don’t usually, but Joseph’s a special case.”

Duck spots the blush on his friend’s cheek, “Oh yeah?”

“He, uh, he lets me test new recipes on him?” Two pink patches bloom under Barclays' beard, “there’s a berry custard tart in there today.”

“Sounds wonderful.” Joe’s tail is subtly twitching, “do you want to stay a bit and eat?”

“I’d love to, but I gotta get back before the dinner rush.”

“Right, right, of course, oh, right, your tip” the dragon darts into his study, returns a moment later with a small purse of coins, “here you go, thank you so much it, I’ll be ready for our cooking lesson on Tuesday and, um, it’s always nice to see you.”

Barclay pockets the money, smiles softly, “you too, Joseph. Bye Duck, see you in town.”

Joe watches him go long after he’s out of sight. When he turns around with a sigh, Duck smirks.

“You got it bad, Joe.”

“I know.” He slumps down in a chair, “I think he feels the same way but I don’t want to make him uncomfortable. Coming out to a dragon’s lair and getting hit on, all while you’re at work? It would stress me out if I was human.”

“You pay him for those cooking lessons?”

“No. I, um, I guess I could ask him then but dragon/human relations are understudied outside of things like midnight weddings. I’m not even sure how something like sex would work, if it would work at all. The books I have on it are out of date and, honestly, most likely written by dragonborns who never had firsthand experience.”

Duck stands, circles the table to drape his arms over Joe’s shoulders and nose his neck, “You could still just ask. Learn what he likes instead of fussin over research.”

“You’re right. I’ll ask. Eventually. Maybe.”

He chuckles and nips a sensitive patch of scales, “It’s a start.”

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

Duck’s busy in the back garden when the chanting starts. It sounds enough like an angry mob that he draws the thicket of brambles across the door to be safe before heading for the second floor and the window to the front yard.

The crowd isn’t from Kepler, people there know he isn’t much for offerings or other forms of intervention into human affairs. He inherited his position from a true dragon who was once considered a forest and weather god. It took years for humans who came to understand that while he could help them identify what was killing their orchards or blighting their fields, he couldn’t summon rain or quash frosts.

Not only do the humans out front seem unaware of those facts, they’re constructing a convoluted, cobbled-together, ceremony. There are offerings of food, but the chants have something to do with slaking his deep hunger. Which is weird, because when you offer food to a dragon it’s meant as a gesture of kinship, not fear. The music doesn’t match either of those dynamics, the robes on the elders are white, which indicates surrender in war, and the incense they’re lighting is too heady; if he eats with it in the air, all he’ll taste is myrrh.

Wait, those are the bundles of incense humans used to burn during weddings. No one’s held a midnight wedding in decades. And holding one when it’s not yet sunset is really baffling. He’s about to write it off as yet more cultural miscommunication when two men drag a bound figure, all dressed in black, out from the crowd and drop it near the door.

“Fuck.” He tromps down the stairs, peers through the thicket for a closer look. The figure is a young man, dirtied silver hair tangled across his face and shattered red spectacles on his nose. His ankles and wrists are tied, and when he tries to scoot back from the cave entrance the crowd jeers. The man looks sluggishly between the crowd and the cave. Resigned, he crawls Duck’s way.

The dragon sets a hand on the thicket to will it away and tell everyone to get lost when he scents blood beneath the incense. Members of the crowd are getting agitated, suggesting they light a pyre to hurry the process along. That’s not even remotely how a midnight wedding works, and were Duck a certain other dragon he might tell them that. Instead, he makes a gap at the bottom of the thicket, grabs an enchanted rope from his work closet, and whips it through the opening. Two seconds later he has a cheering crowd outside his house and a petrified sacrifice inside it.

He kneels, undoing his rope and the bonds. The humans brown eyes lock onto his claws.

“Please. Please just make it quick.” His voice is raw, his pleas continuous, but he doesn’t pull back when Duck cups his chin and touches his forehead.

“Fuck, you’re burnin up. Your eyes a pretty glassy too, wonder if-”

“Drugged. To keep me from running or fighting. Not like they needed to. They, they did enough before that.” He hiccups and Duck smells exactly what plants they put into the mixture. They’re meant to make the human body more pliant. More receptive.

Fuckers.

“Okay” Duck keeps his voice soft, “here’s what we’re gonna do. I’m gonna take you somewhere you can lie down and look you over. Once you’re patched up, you can rest.”

He nods as Duck scoops him into his arms, “Need my strength.”

“Yeah, but not for, uh, for what you think.” He nudges the light with his elbow, illuminating the rumpled green of his bed. When he sets the human down on it, he tucks his arms across his chest.

“Can you get your shirt off for me?”

The man reaches one skinny arm under his back, whaps it about, then shakes his head. Duck eases him upright, let’s him slump forward onto his shoulder why he undoes the eyehooks and buttons. The sight that awaits him is grim.

“Fuck, what’d they have against you?” He counts gashes from four different instruments intermingled with bruises in every color.

“Outsider. Came looking for work. Angered the wrong person.”

“They get you on your legs too?”

A weaks nod.

“I’m gonna have to slice the pants off; got a bad feelin I might re-open wounds if I try to pull ‘em free.” He runs a clawtip up the outside of one leg; the human grips him, afraid, though when he runs a thumb soothingly up a newly-bare spot, he sighs happily. Duck’s instinct is right; there are half-healed wounds now oozing blood thanks to the man being tossed about. He instructs the human to lay on his belly, fetches his bandages and disinfectant from the bathroom, and starts water for the tea that will clear the potion from his system.

When he starts on the wounds on his back the human whimpers, weakly clutching the blanket.

“Shhh, it’s okay sweet thing. Know it hurts, but you’ll feel better soon.” He runs the claws of his free hand through silver hair, undoing tangles as he goes. He is sweet; long legs and wiry arms, a face that’s odd but impossible to look away from. Duck wishes he were a worse dragon than he is; he could slip his threadbare underwear down and relieve the effects of the potion another way. Instead he patches and cleans, tips tea between parched lips, and finds one of his smaller robes to protect the skinny frame from falls oncoming chill. When he’s done, the young man is asleep. So he draws the blankets up and goes to sleep in the garden.

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

His body feels like it’s been through a wine press. No doubt a result of the dragon “marrying him.”

No, wait. He’d taken him to bed, run his claws tenderly through his hair, but then he’d tended his injuries and let him sleep unmolested. Indrid rubs his forehead, wishing his foresight hadn’t been so weakened by his weeks in jail; it would be nice to know if this is a sign the dragon is harmless or if he just prefers his food uninfected.

The bedroom door slides open and a scaly figure walks in, nose firmly in a book. It’s not the same dragon as yesterday; this one is sleek, with midnight scales and long, narrow horns. The one who tended him was bulkier, with scales like a forest viewed from above, dozens of greens and golds melding together. His horns were shorter, Indrid remembers because in his fevered state he wanted to rub them. They looked soothing to touch.

“Oh, good morning.” The dragon closes his book, “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to wake you. I just came in for some scale oil and I’ll be out of your hair.” He grabs a purple bottle from a shelf.

“Wait, please.” Indrid struggles to sit up, “can, can you tell me what’s going on?”

“We were sort of hoping you could enlighten us. From Duck’s description, your delivery was so garbled he couldn’t figure out what they wanted. Or, um, it was clear what they wanted done to you, but not why it should be or why they chose him.”

Indrid’s about to answer when a second voice drawls, “Joe, you better not be pesterin our guest with questions.”

The black dragon looks over his shoulder into the hall with a sly grin, “He asked me first.”

“Uh huh, a likely story.” The green dragon, Duck, steps into the room, pausing to kiss Joseph’s cheek. Oh gods, Indrid understands now; he wasn’t fucked or eaten yesterday because Duck was waiting to share him.

“Since you’re up we can--whoa, whoa what’s wrong?” Duck kneels by the bed as Indrid tries to scramble backwards.

Joseph sets his book and bottle down, “You still think you’re dinner, don’t you?”

“Wh-why shouldn’t I?” Indrid pulls the blanket up to shield himself.

“For starters, we don’t eat humans. And we sure as hells don’t fuck ‘em without them bein’ real eager. Even then, some of us stall.” Duck gives Joe a pointed look, “beyond that, someone dropped you here after torturin you. You need lookin after more than anything.”

“We should get these fixed too” Joseph picks up his shattered glasses, “I might have what we need in my workshop, or we could go into Kepler-”

“We’re near Kepler? Thank the gods.” Indrid slumps against the wall, “It was the last place I stopped before things went south. I should have just stayed there. Instead I got it into my head to keep travelling, find an enchanter to train under and got...well, you saw.”

Duck carefully sits on the bed, as far from Indrid as possible, “Yeah, I did. I promise, nothin like that’s ever gonna happen to you again.”

“And if you’re interested in learning magic, most dragons have some. I’d be happy to share what I know if you’re willing to assist in my research.”

“That means makin sure he don’t fall asleep too close to his experiments.”

Indrid has no idea what those experiments might be, but he decides he’s very willing to find out.

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

Voices echo from the back garden, so Barclay curves left instead of going to the front of Duck’s home. Joseph asked him to bring his next few meals here since he’s helping Duck with an “unexpected house guest.”

He’s anticipating another dragon, almost drops his cargo when he sees how wrong he is.

“Indrid?”

“Barclay! I, when Joseph mentioned we were getting dinner from town I hoped it was the Lodge but seeing you is better still.” The other man is in a thick sweater and is wearing one of Duck’s wraps as a makeshift skirt, “I’d get up to hug you but I’m a bit weak at the moment.”

“I got you.” He sets the bags down and leans in for an embrace.

“I’m glad you fellas know each other.”

Barclay remembers burying his fingers in fine, silver hair while Indrid kissed him and worked his clever fingers inside him, promising he’d make him feel wonderful. He did. Every time.

“Yeah.” He blushes, spots Joseph registering this information and--knowing him--storing it away for later.

He was already making frequent trips to see the dragons, but as weeks give way to months he finds that whenever he’s not working, his feet ache to wander up into the hills.

Tonight, he and Joseph made dinner for the four of them (Indrid’s taken up residence in Duck’s home, and the dragon seems deeply uninterested in making him move). The dragons are on dish duty, so he and Indrid wander back to the library where Joseph has lit a fire.

“You really ought to tell him how you feel.”

“Is it that obvious?” Barclay fiddles with the bracelet on his wrist.

“Very. Then again, I know what desire looks like on you.” Indrid bumps their shoulders together playfully.

“But he’s, uh, he’s got Duck. He wouldn’t want a human, no matter how much we like each other.”

Indrid wordlessly moves to the bookshelves, smile widening as he finds a tome bound in blue leather and brings it back to the rug, “I found this when I was fetching books for him the other day.”

“Holy fuck” Barclay stares at the drawings, faded and labeled with draconic runes but undeniably that of a dragonborn fucking the living hells out of a very happy knight.

“I believe it tells the story of a knight who agrees to take a fair maiden's place as an offering and ends up enjoying his new station in life. It’s clearly been read often, though the anatomy is off in places.” He indicates a drawing in which it’s obvious the human doesn’t have balls to go with his enormous cock.

Barclay wants to say something witty, but all he can think about is gripping Joseph’s horns while he twines his tongue around Barclay’s cock.

“Yes, it’s giving me ideas too.” In the firelight, Indrid’s uncovered, brown eyes are almost red.

“Yeah?” Barclay sets a hand on his knee, “I’m no dragon but, uh-”

Indrid leans in, kissing him gently, “While dragons have their appeal, you are what I want right now.”

Barclay lets himself be pulled to the ground and is suddenly very glad dinner required so many dishes.

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

“I didn’t realize you’d be taking notes while you did this.” Indrid smiles, amused, as Joseph scribbles something at the top of a fresh page. They’re heading down the hall in Duck’s home, Indrid having agreed to be the subject of a very exciting day of research.

“I’m not. Not, not that I’m uninterested but, um, since I need to be able to observe everything, Duck will be the one actually fucking you.”

Indrid stops dead, heart fluttering in his chest, “He...is he just doing this as a favor to you?”

Joseph smiles, shakes his head, and Indrid understands that he was reading all the times Duck looked him over with those green eyes correctly.

They reach the bedroom and step across the threshold wearing twin expressions of confusion; Duck forgoes nesting in favor of a bed, but the mattress, a dozen blankets, and every pillow in the house are now on the floor, the dragon busily arranging and rearranging them. Then he sniffs the air and turns, pinning Indrid to the spot with a toothy grin.

“Why the nest?” Joseph drags a chair across the floor and positions it between the pillows and the fireplace.

“Dunno, ever since you told me that today was the day, I’ve had the itch to build one. Gotta make sure you’re comfortable, sweet thing.” Duck holds out his hand and Indrid reaches for it.

“Not yet. Indrid, please undress so I can make some notes.”

“You’re killin me here Joe.” Duck growls as Indrid moves towards the chair, peeling off layers until he’s naked. Joseph scribbles some notes. Indrid would feel like a scientific specimen were it not for the way the pupils in those blue eyes dilate each time he looks at him.

“I just need some measurements.” He pulls a ruler from the pocket of the notebook and kneels down, gingerly taking Indrid’s cock in his palm.

“I, I should mention that is generally frowned upon when it’s just humans.” Indrid squirms as hot breath skates up the sensitive skin.

“Humans are touchy about size.” Duck adds, settling his claws on Indrid’s hips from behind. He’s good foot and a half taller than the human, which always makes Indrid feels safe in his embrace; those have been more frequent these last few weeks, Indrid using the cold weather as an excuse to cuddle with the living furnace whose home he shares.

“Hmmm, if they have less genital variation than dragons, I could see how size would become the point of competition.”

“Variation?”

“Dragons got all kinds of set-ups” Duck grinds against Indrid’s ass, “Joe and I happen to have the same kind, where we can lay in someone and get, uh, laid in if we want.”

“Laying?” Indrid squeaks, “I, I’m not opposed but I’m not prepared either.”

“Nah, won’t do none of that today.” Duck blows hot breath down the back of his neck, “if you want, we can try some other time. Can even let Joe take notes. And if he’s good” Duck rests his chin atop Indrid’s head and looks down, “I’ll even save some for him.”

Joseph’s head snaps up, eyes wide, and for an instant Indrid expects to be sandwiched between two dragons, which sounds deliciously warm. Then Joseph collects himself, “Yes. I’d, um, I’d like that. But for now, I need one more measurement” his tongue flicks the air near the head of Indrid’s cock, “may I?”

“Please. Ohhhhhhhyes” He moans as Joseph licks his shaft, “that’s lovely, so veryOHgods” he bucks his hips as Duck digs his claws into the meat of his thighs.

“That’s very helpful, Duck, he’s getting wonderfully hard.”

“I aim to please. Now hurry up before I start fuckin him here and fuck up your data.”

“Just a second..there, done. Duck, please kneel, Indrid do the same but keep facing me.”

“Yessir.” Duck pulls them both to the floor. Claws spread his ass open and the tip of one pokes the base of the plug he put in earlier, “heh, you let Joe help you with this?”

“N-no” Indrid cranes his neck back for a kiss.

“I didn’t want to overstep.” Joseph replies matter-of-factly.

Indrid runs his mouth along Duck’s jaw, “next time I’ll make him warm me up with his tongue before putting it in.”

A moan from the chair as Duck rumbles, “good thinkin, he’s fuckin incredible with his tongue. But you better let me watch.”

“Of course.”

Fabric shifts behind him and then Duck’s wrap falls to the floor. The plug joins it and then a solid, ridged cock is teasing his cheeks.

“You ready, sweet thing?”

“Yes.” Indrid pushes his ass back, whines when only the first half-inch is pushed in.

“Don’t worry, you’ll get the whole thing. Just gotta go slow, don’t wanna hurt my mate.” Duck pauses, “huh, sorry, that just came out.”

“I don’t mind.” Indrid sets his hands on top of the dragon’s.

“Fascinating.” Joseph scribbles more notes.

“You like the idea of bein my mate?” The question is shy, Duck hiding his face in Indrid’s neck.

“So very much. You make me so happy, Duck, you take such good care of meEEEoh, oh I see.” He snickers as Duck thrusts shallowly and laps at his throat, “you like being a good mate, don’t you sweetheart?”

“Fuck yeah. Wanted to, to do this months ago, wanted, when they gave you to me I wanted to climb into bed with you, fuck you sweet and slow and tell you nothin was gonna hurt you now, that you were all mine, keep this cute little body safe under the covers. Under me.” He thrusts several inches at once and Indrid moans, bounces in his lap in search of more, Duck click-growling each time he pushes down.

“Please, please, I want it all, Duck, pleasepleaseAH, AHhnnnngods” he grabs Duck’s arms as they wrap around him, the dragon bottoming out with a groan.

“Holy shit.” Joseph stares at them, and Indrid follows his gaze down to his lower belly, where the outline of Duck’s cock is unmistakable.

“Oh I like that a great deal.” He whispers, biting his lip as the outline slowly moves.

“Me too. Fuck, fuckin love how small you are, you barely fit on my dick and you’re still beggin for it.”

“How could I not?” Indrid purrs, relaxing against Duck’s chest, “this is going to sound very silly, sweetheart, but please, please” he tips his head up to kiss Duck’s chin, “take me?”

A tender, deep purr, then “anythin’ you want, sugar.”

Indrid lets his mouth fall open, spilling moans across the floor as Duck fucks him with abandon. It’s so much, almost too much, but it’s all he wants, to be taken and cared for by the magnificent, loving creature behind him.

The stretch and drag of Duck inside him is so intense he barely registers his own orgasm, though he cums hard enough to splatter some on Joseph’s leg. Then he’s holding on and whimpering as Duck spills into him, hotter than a human and so plentiful it drips down his thighs before the dragon even pulls out.

“Got what you need?” Duck pants, still holding Indrid to him.

“Yes.” Joseph is purring, gaze drinking in the two of them.

“Good. C’mon, sweet thing, let’s do see how my nest holds up to me mating the fuck outta you.”

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

Duck said it was fine to use the glyph to come in without knocking, so that’s what Barclay does. He sets the cake he made in the kitchen, wanders down the hall in search of the others. They weren’t at Joseph’s, so odds are good they’re here. Muffled voices direct him towards the bedroom, but when he arrives his libido kicks all sensible thoughts from his mind.

There’s a giant mound of cushions on the floor, at the middle of which he can see Duck’s tail, the spines of his back and, occasionally, his head. Indrid’s feet and calves are just visible, so limp he’d worry he was asleep except for the little moans he knows quite well. And sitting by the fire, watching the scene with an obvious tent in his lap, is Joseph.

Two scales snouts snap up into the air. Duck notices him, whispers something to Indrid, who waves and then pulls the dragon back down. The same can not be said for Joseph, who is licking his lips like he’s just seen a gourmet meal.

Barclay smirks, moves to the chair but stays standing, stroking one horn as he does, “I’m not interrupting research, am I?”

“Um” Joseph’s cheeks go golden, “yes and no. I, I really was making notes at first but for the last hour it’s been, um, hard to focus.”

“Wonder why. Wait, holy fuck, they’ve been doing this for an hour?”

“One hour and twenty-four minutes.”

“Knew Indrid had stamina but that’s impressive. Uh” he trails a finger up Joseph’s leg, scales as smooth as he’d hoped, “how long have you been dealing with this?”

“Most of that time.” Joseph’s breath catches charmingly as Barclay straddles him.

“Babe” he kisses the warm column of his neck, stopping to pay special attention to each scar, “I know you’re dedicated to your work, but I’m pretty sure they’d let you join them.”

“I didn’t want to be rude.”

“My polite dragon” Barclay nuzzles his cheek, “you still deserve to be taken care of, you know that, right?”

Joseph nods, tips his head to the side so Barclay can nibble his throat while undoing his wrap. What he finds is spectacular; a pointed cock with circular ridges and, beneath it, a slit just begging for his tongue to tease it. But since he’s not done kissing him yet, he adjusts his balance so he can close one around the shaft and slide the fingers of the other into the slit.

The dragon makes a series of hurried clicks and growls, throwing his arms around him and kissing his face, “Barclay, you, you’re so wonderful, I never thought you’d want this, ohgoodgods.”

“I do, babe. I wanna know what my whip-smart, handsome dragon likes, wanna make you come apart” He squeezes lightly and Joseph growls.

“I did not wait this long to cum on you while you’re clothed.” Clawed hands grip his ass as Joseph stands and carries him to the nest on the floor, dropping him into it with uncharacteristic carelessness. Which he then remedies by methodically removing Barclays clothes and folding them into a pile.

“Mmmm, hello dearest.” Indrid turns his head to kiss him as Joseph rolls him to face the other two.

“Hey. Gotta say, you look really good like this.”

“Damn right he does.” Duck’s hips stutter and Indrid squirms happily, “heh, shoulda known Joe would pick that for you. He’s got a thing for thick thighs.”

“Huh? OH! Ohfuckyeah.” He moans as Joseph manhandles him to thrust his cock between his thighs. Teeth nip his neck as golden pre-cum streaks his skin. The scales of his cock rub wonderfully on the base of Barclays own, and soon he’s so hard he’s ready to promise Joseph anything he wants for the chance to cum.

Cool, human fingers encircle his shaft. Indrid grins, “I may not be able to move much, but Joseph seems to be more than capable of getting you to fuck my fist.”

Barclay dips his head forward with a groan to kiss his shoulder.

“You don’t gotta worry about movin’” Duck grunts, tongue darting out to Indrid’s cheek, “all you gotta do is lay here and take my cum like a good little mate whenever I say.”

“Yes, yes, oh goodness Duck please, take me, use meAHnnnnn” a whimper “so much.”

“Shhh, s’okay sweet thing, I’m almost done.”

Joseph purrs in his ear, “cum for me, big guy, cum for me while I coat your thighs and, gods, and Duck breeds your boyfriend into next week.”

“Fuuuuck.” Barclay spills helplessly into Indrid’s hand, holds tight to his shoulder and Joseph’s right arm as the dragon cums between his legs. There’s a muffled curse and an “eep” from beside him, then Duck rolls off Indrid and begins licking the humans cum from his stomach.

“I, I think you built a very sturdy nest.” Joseph curls his body around Barclay and drapes his tail over Indrid’s legs to brush Duck’s.

“Thanks, handsome.”

“I also think living with Indrid for months has made your mind assign him the position of partner, hence the nesting.”

“Makes sense.” Indrid murmurs.

“And--oh” Joseph sighs as Barclay kisses him.

“Promise you can share more theories later, babe. Right now, how about napping with your boyfriends?”

Joseph purrs deeper as they all cuddle closer, “I like the sound of that.”

[noirshadow]

Subtext Ch 2

Subtext AO3 1 | 2

Alina spills the tea on LMA to her friends. She's still pissed about her meeting with Aleksander but at least they won't have to work together again, or will they?

——

CUT TO:

4. INT. THE LITTLE PALACE - DAY

The Sun Summoner is in the training room working with Baghra. Little light sparks come out of her hand as she learns to control her power.

BAGHRA: More! Push harder! You aren’t concentrating your mind. How can you How can you expect to face The Fold with half power?

Baghra approaches The Sun Summoner and grabs her hands in hers. She lifts one hand to her her heart.

BAGHRA (CONT’D): Feel it in here. Do not be distracted by the mortal world around us.  Clear your mind and focus here, on your heart, where your true  power lies.

THE SUN SUMMONER: (WHISPERING) I can’t focus. There is too much noise in my brain. Too much  pressure. I don’t know if I can live up to the expectation.

——

It took the better part of a month for Alina to get mostly settled in the job but she still had moments where she was completely lost. Thank goodness for Tamar. She didn’t know how many times the seasoned assistant had to cover her ass. However, by the start of the fourth week, she was definitely feeling more comfortable. She even had started to pick up and read Vasily’s moods even through his tersest emails.

Tamar was not joking about the lack of social life, though. It was definitely the busiest job that she had ever held. Now that she was relieving Tamar of her double duty, several times a week she had to come in at 7 to prepare for early breakfast meetings or stay late when her agent was at dinners or shoots. These first weeks passed quickly and most weekends she just lazed around trying to catch up on sleep.

Finally, though, after desperate pleas from Nikolai, they finally planned an evening on the final Friday of the month. It was payday, anyhow, so everyone was itching to go out. Even Alina, who was more of a homebody, could admit to missing some good old socializing. Because of all their crazy schedules, whether it be shooting or at press events. Genya and Zoya still haven’t gotten to hear much about the role yet either. So even without Nikolai’s chiding, they were due for a good catch-up.

Friday came around and passed through as quickly as the rest of the days. The end of the week was usually very quiet - all the agents went out for boozy lunches and never came back to the office. It was a good day for Alina to catch up on admin stuff that had piled up for the week and to get away on time. Plus, this was Tamar’s Friday to cover so she was off the hook.

At 6:59, Alina started packing up her bag. Zoya had dropped her off today so that Alina could Uber to the restaurant. Zoya got off earlier and went home to drop off the car.

“Bye Tamar — have a nice weekend and see you Monday!”

“Have fun tonight, Alina. See you.”

——

As she sprinted down the massive front steps of LMA, she saw the Uber Black waiting for her. Eyes rolling as an arm appeared, pushing open the door to the Mercedes E-class from the inside - of course Nikolai always sprung for the poshest option. He worked a couple buildings away so they had planned to share a car to dinner.

“My lady. Your chariot awaits…” Nikolai grinned as Alina slid into the seat next to him.

“Are we splitting this? I do not want to pay this premium…” Alina said in feigned annoyance.

“Since you’ve been a total ghost this month, I am in charge of making sure you didn’t bail and you actually made it to dinner. Zoya would kill me if you didn’t show. So, I thought this was necessary to get you there. And you know me, I only ride in style…” Nikolai teased, bringing the sass right back at her.

The rest of the ride was quick - the two old friends falling back into the sorely-missed familiar banter. The car pulled up in front of Sugarfish Hollywood. This was the gang’s go-to sushi spot. Genya had already texted her that they were waiting to be seated as soon as they arrived. Rushing in, she quickly checked her phone. The screen lit up to tell her it was 7:40. LA traffic was not great at the best of times but definitely not on Friday night. 10 minutes late wasn’t too bad, though.

“I’m so sorry, guys! Thanks for putting our name down.” Alina did a round of quick hugs as Nikolai gave a quick kiss to Zoya and Genya went to tell the host that their party was complete.

10 minutes later they were sitting down with chilled glasses of Kunde Sauvignon Blanc and first courses coming through.

“I am starved! I should have gotten the Trust Me. Ugh.” Genya whined.

“You always do this. Why don’t you just order properly to begin with so you don’t have to steal my food.” Zoya rolled her eyes.

Because of their busy schedules, Alina hadn’t properly hung out with her roommates in a couple weeks. For the first part, she just sat back for a second and took in their exchange, absorbing their company and already feeling mentally better, completely relaxing with her closest friends.

They all caught up on generic mundane news for most of the meal but as the blue crab hand rolls came along, Nikolai was repeatedly tapping Zoya on the arm.

“OK OK. Go ahead.”

Eyes rolling, Zoya turned to Alina.

“I made him promise not to bombard you right away with work questions but he’s bursting as you can see.” Sighing exasperatedly, she turned her head away and his kiss of appreciation landed on her cheek instead.

Turning back to Alina, “Well?! Tell me everything! Is my brother being a dick? Is Marie being a bitch to you? Zoya told me you already had an altercation with Aleks. Good for you, Lin. Don’t be like the rest of the airheads in reception throwing themselves at him.”

Alina laughed, detailing her day to day. It was easy talking to Nikolai who knew all the players involved. Between the two of them, they spelled out each character to the other two girls. It was also nice being able to question Nikolai and ask for advice, because he was in the same industry and he had practically grown up in it with his dad.

“Yeah, so basically everyone in the industry is either a raging bitch or an aspiring talent. Not much in between.” Alina shrugged, facetiously.

“Yep - welcome to my life. At least LMA is pretty decent. I hate to say it but my dad did do a good job with the culture there. It comes with the territory but I would say it’s as nice as it can be. I’m glad you have Tamar. She’s the only one that can handle my brother. Trust her to teach you the ways, young Skywalker.” Nikolai did a mock bow, hands in prayer.

Alina giggled, returning a deferential bow back. “Yes, master Jedi.”

Genya leaned in toward the table, pushing Nikolai out of the way. “OK, what is the real gossip. Is there anyone who has caught your eye yet?”

Alina shifted in her seat. “Well…basically everyone - guy or girl - is drop dead gorgeous with the wardrobe to match. I can’t keep up.”

Nikolai, arm around Zoya, leaned in, “Speaking of hot people, tell me more about how it went with Aleks.”

Genya’s head swiveled so fast, “Wait, you never said he was hot also! YES. I need to hear more about this.”

She turned back, as if her head was ricocheting back into place, to catch Alina’s reaction.

“Your dad introduced me. He’s this young, attractive guy that everyone in the office loves, but he is known for being a bit of a hardass. And I definitely didn’t have a great first impression. He was really rude.” Alina's cheeks started to heat up again just thinking about that first interaction.

“Don’t let his looks fool you. He’s a stone cold killer. The company wouldn’t have made it without him. My dad does all the glad-handing but he does not have the balls for the difficult negotiations. Aleks is young but he can throw down with any of the toughest old-school studio execs and manage to cut a great deal for LMA and the talent. That’s how he managed to steal a lot of the top actors from under WME and other agencies' noses. I don’t even think my brother will admit it but Aleks is the one slated to take over when my dad retires.”

“Ok, ok, but what is the real goss?? I don’t care if he works hard! Why was he so rude?” Genya shook her thick mane of lush red hair in frustration.

Alina sipped her white wine, she didn’t want to complain, but she knew that her closest friends wouldn’t care and would always take her side.

“He was really dismissive and a condescending asshole when Mr. Lantsov was introducing me. He’s apparently a good guy to know because most of his roster is screenwriters and he’s well-known in the industry for it. But I just didn’t get a great vibe and he wasn’t friendly at all.”

Nikolai nodded. “Yeah, I’ve heard that. I think he puts a lot of pressure on himself. He’s only 32. He started out at CAA as my dad’s assistant. I first met him when he came over for Christmas one year back when he was just starting out. I don’t think his parents are alive or he really has any family. He couldn’t have been more than 22/23 at the time but he was already the emotionless robot that he is now…”

Zoya interrupted, “Well, is he single then??”

Nikolai narrowed his eyes. “Excuse me, Nazyalensky. I do believe you’re taken…”

Zoya hit him playfully on the arm. “I’m asking for Alina, you idiot!”

Alina chimed in, involuntarily blushing - thankful for the dim surroundings, “Absolutely no chance. He was a total douche.” It didn’t excuse his behavior, but hearing about his family background did earn him a tiny bit of sympathy in her book.

“Anyway,” she continued, “I won’t really ever work with him so I won’t really get to know him. Plus, Nikolai’s right. He’s very serious and REALLY work-focused. I don’t think he’s looking to date anyone - especially not at work.”

Genya and Zoya eyed her suspiciously. They have known Alina so long, they could read every emotional redirect that she attempted. She was never a good liar anyway and although, she had been truthful about her interactions, they sensed that there was a little something she wasn’t telling them. That the initial interaction had made her heart do a flip. It was true that his cold demeanor had put her off, but it didn’t mean that his hardened gazes hadn’t quickened her pulse a bit.

Alina, sensing the girls’ bullshit meter scanning her, quickly swerved the subject. “So Gen - how is it talking to David again?”

Genya and them had met David at NYU and she had desperately tried to make a relationship happen but it didn’t. In the past year, David had moved out to LA and realized what he was missing and was trying to win her back. She did still like him but was enjoying watching him work for it.

“Excuseee me. Don’t try to change the subject! Everyone knows where I stand on David. For you, it sounds like there is a little something? Dish! Now!”

Alina balked but she knew she would have to come clean. They wouldn’t judge her and if anything, would just offer their unending support. She downed the rest of her wine, hoping the buzz would bolster her confidence.

“I mean, I can’t explain it. I was so pissed after we met but there is something so intriguing about him. I get why the reception girls all love him. He’s just some cocky asshole but girls just love that, don’t they. I wish I could say I was immune but that almost makes me more mad. That he was a total jerk that I should ignore but he still got under my skin.”

Zoya put an arm around her. “Remember when we met Nikolai and I thought he was some arrogant prick? He rubbed me the wrong way but I couldn’t get him out of my head. That’s when I knew. But it’s ok to feel multiple things at once. At least it’s something - God know’s you need something to entertain you after the snoozefest that was Mal. And a little work crush keeps things interesting. See how it goes…”

“Et tu, Brute? Not little old angelic me…” Nikolai batted his eyes, Bambi-esque, in feigned innocence.

Alina laughed. Zoya was right. It wasn’t even like she would have to really work with Aleksander. He was some nice eye candy if they didn’t have to interact. After they paid, they headed down to Harvard and Stone and passed a fun evening getting considerably drunk and ringing in the weekend.

——

“Morning, Tamar. Here is your skinny vanilla latte.”

Alina set the hot cup down. Monday was always her morning to grab the coffees as Tamar had to arrive early to take the early morning coverage. She set the tray on the edge of her desk and carefully brought the extra hot black Americano with two Splendas into Vasily’s office.

She came back out and sat down, booting up her laptop as she took a sip of the venti iced coffee with soy milk that she got herself.

“Omg I love you. I’m so tired today - I went to bed late yesterday.”

Although Tamar’s eyes did seem a bit more ringed in shadow than usual, it was offset by the Alice and Olivia red-orange shift dress she wore, with ruffled sleeves so bright, it seemed to add a glow to her face. After sleeping in from their night out, Alina and Genya had gone for hangover pancakes at kitchen24 before a day of shopping to try to bulk up her wardrobe. Taking Genya’s fashionista eye, they had done well with Alina’s measly assistant budget. The trick was to get a few statement pieces from designers and then pair with basic staples - cheap but sturdy un-identifiable generic brands to supplement. Today, she had on a new purchase - wide-leg cuffed burgundy trousers with a plain black t-shirt tucked in and Zoya’s chunky Gucci belt.

“Ok - so I’m not sure if you got through your email yet? Vasily emailed this morning that you have to go to the Fedyor meeting at 9:30. We have his new picture that he’s directing. Sorry, I would have told you sooner but didn’t realize we are already kicking off pre-production today. Once that starts, we will have this weekly meeting you’ll have to attend to go over any outstanding agenda items from the talent side. We are in casting reviews right now so that will be the subject for the next month or so. Basically, Katie had this job before because she was going in place of Ivan. Fedyor is one of Aleksander’s biggest clients but he also is Ivan’s boyfriend…”

Alina mouth gaped open in shock. “Wait, what?” Half the surprise was feeling unprepared for such a big meeting. The other half was because it was weird to think of the juxtapose of a talent dating an agency assistant. Fedyor Kaminsky was one of the biggest directors in Hollywood. Ivan looked like a totally normal guy.

Tamar took a big swig of her latte and nodded her head conspiratorially, “I know, right? Basically there is a huge conflict of interest there but Aleksander made it work. So for anything related to Fedyor, Ivan isn’t allowed to deal with it. No drafting contracts, no interaction, not even photocopying. Sorry to pile this on you, but it was Katie’s job before, so you have now unfortunately inherited it. I think there was meant to be a rotation among the assistants but it never happened…”

Tamar took another sip. “… I also thought there would be a bit more time as the deal wasn’t even signed yet but apparently they want to start shooting on Feb 1. And of course, I’ll help you as things come up or if you have any questions. The immediate thing is just to show up to the meeting and take notes.”

Alina nodded. Not what she expected for first thing Monday morning. But also, maybe there was more to Aleksander that met the eye. She would have expected a no-nonsense agent, or any for that matter, to have fired the assistant. Not worked around it, inconveniencing himself.

“Oh, also, Aleksander is pretty meticulous so just be really thorough on the notes. With some of the other agents, you can totally get away with half-assing it but not with him. Any other questions, just let me know after - I’m here to help!”

Alina felt the acid rising into her throat as she quickly tried to swallow it away with a gulp of the cold coffee. She would be working with Aleksander after all. She would have to prove herself. And prove to him that she was good - and deserved him acknowledging her and perhaps to eventually help her. As much as she hated to admit it, she still wanted him to give her pointers on her writing. Nikolai’s impassive smirk swam into view blurring out those thoughts. She would also have to control any rise in emotion - positive or negative - she felt around him. She couldn’t put her finger on it but there was still something alluring about him that did make it harder to think clearly.

——

Tamar walked her to the big conference room that was on the 18th floor. It was a typical executive meeting room with a large long table completely surrounded by Herman Miller office chairs. The side table was already laden with coffee, egg white breakfast sandwiches and other morning goodies. Ivan was directing the catering people as she walked in.

“Hi- I’m Alina. I don’t think we got to meet properly yet.” She smiled broadly at him.

His wavy hair with soft undercut was as meticulous as it was when they first met but he still absentmindedly pushed it out his face before reaching his hand out to shake Alina’s.

“Ivan - hey. No we haven’t. You met Aleksander a couple weeks ago, right? I hope it’s going alright so far. Anyway, thanks so much for your help. I think Tam caught you up on the sitch? Firstly, that stack on the edge of the table are the casting look books that everyone needs. Can you distribute it around the table? Then, usually you sit here -” he gestured to a row of chairs of supplemental seating that lined the edge of the room and weren’t at the table.

“Just take notes on everything especially paying attention to any action items and Tamar and I can help you weed through them. We should probably catch up after anyway. Are you free for lunch? I can walk you through how Aleksander likes things done and to be honest, probably for Feddy also.”

Alina nodded, dizzy from the influx of information, “That would be great. Thanks so much.”

“Great. I’ll swing by your desk. We are ordering Bay Cities today because Botkin requested it. You’re fine with The Godmother? The assistants usually just split the larges and get a couple side salads and chips.”

“Works for me. Thanks.”

Looking at his Apple Watch, Ivan said, “Ah, I’m getting buzzed. Fed is here. I have to go walk him and the other producers in. Don’t worry - you’ll be fine. See you after.” He put a reassuring hand on Alina’s shoulder before walking out.

Alina sat down, quickly getting her laptop open and set up as a couple other people started filing in. She recognized some of them from around the office but didn’t know them. They nodded politely at her before turning towards breakfast, chatting animatedly. The talent casting was one of the biggest pieces of the film lifecycle for the agency teams.

As she organized herself and opened a new Word doc, the chatter died down. She looked up to see Aleksander walk in. He nodded around the room in recognition.

She swallowed thickly, mouth completely dry, wishing she had grabbed a glass of water. He was just as handsome as when she had first met him a few weeks ago. He was in his same uniform as last time - black suit, but this time with a dark burgundy tie. His hair sat perfectly around his face, lightly gelled.

“Morning, all.” He was an imposing figure, and Alina could feel the respect and presence he commanded from the rest of the team.

Approaching closer to her, he exacted, “Alina. Thanks for doing this. I’m sure you have been briefed on the situation. For this meeting, please focus on taking notes. There will be a couple other tasks, I will eventually need you help with but we’ll cross that bridge when we get to it.” Nikolai was right. He was definitely no nonsense.

“Morning, Aleksander. Of course. Happy to help with whatever you need.”

He gave a curt nod. He opened his mouth like he was going to say something else but then didn’t. And then, Fedyor came in with his entourage of producers and Aleks’ attention was directed there.

The meeting went pretty well. Alina learned a lot. There was a whole politics involved with casting. There was who the director and writers envisioned. There were the producers behind the film with their own opinions and then the casting directors themselves - all of whom had their own agendas. The talent agency added another complication as they always aimed to pick from their own internal stable.

This also gave her a unique opportunity to see Aleksander in his element. It was clear, even to an agency rookie like her, how well-suited he was for this role. Deftly managing all the conflicting personalities while pushing through negotiations and subtly advancing his and the agency’s priorities. It was a masterclass and Alina found herself sitting back and looking on in pure admiration for a bit. It was also pretty hot, she had to admit - him bringing these grown adults, if not older than him, equally smart and intense men and women to their knees with his demands.

It didn’t help that every once in awhile, from one end of the table, he would look over at her, jet black eyes searing through her, bringing her emotions to a boil. He wouldn’t pause but just carefully look over before turning back to his current victim.

Tamping down her involuntarily urge to blush, Alina typed furiously, trying to not miss anything. It was hard as she was also trying to listen and absorb all the information that was flying around her. With all that was going on, the two hour meeting flew by in a flash. Before she knew it, Ivan had come back down to escort the guests out. Alina stayed seated waiting for her notes to save.

Aleksander lingered behind with Fedyor, who Alina actually struggled to not gawk too much at during the meeting. Not only was he an incredibly attractive silver fox, she truly admired his work and loved his films. He always went for the gritty dramas - big character studies - that Alina loved. After a few minutes, Aleksander walked over to her with him. She stood up, hurriedly, trying to keep her laptop from crashing onto the ground.

“Fed - this is Alina Starkov. She just started and will be taking over for Katie on this project. Anything you need, please direct it to her.” Aleksander said matter-of-factly.

Of course, everything was completely business with him, Alina could feel herself fuming again. Her admiration of him during the meeting quickly dissolved. She didn’t know why she was so bothered by this but it was probably this same curt tone of condescension from their first meeting, stirring up the remnant emotion.

“Hi Alina, I’m Fedyor Kaminsky. Great to meet you. Thanks for all your help this far. My personal assistant, Kuwei, will get in touch on the notes from today. I need to review the supporting sections more closely - hadn’t heard of most of those names. Anyway, looking forward to working with you - see you next week, Aleks.” With a quick tap on the shoulder to Aleksander, he exited.

Aleksander looked at Alina and gave a slight nod before his head turned, eyes tracing Fedyor’s path toward the door. He lingered slightly, shifting his weight from one leg to the other.

Alina looked back at him nervously, expecting another barb.

Turning back to her, he said, “Thanks again, Alina. Hopefully you learned a lot. This is an invaluable opportunity for you and Fedyor is one of our top directors. If you do well on this, it would provide great visibility for you and potentially help your other career interests.”

He adjusted his tie and hands sliding back into the safety of his pockets, he turned toward the door to walk out. Right before the door, he slowly stopping in his tracks, he turned his head to the side, as if to reach back toward her. “Looking forward to your notes.”

Before she had time to respond, he was gone.

——

“So how did it go?” Tamar was leaning on Alina’s desk as she re-docked her laptop and waited for the screen to pop-up. Alina was still reeling a bit from that last interaction with Aleksander. It was in his usual cold tone, but she was undecided if he was maybe actually trying to help her? But, that wasn’t something to chat about now.

“Super interesting. Fedyor is so so cool. But it’s almost too difficult to try to pay attention and take notes at the same time.”

“I know what you mean. It will get easier but unfortunately for now, you’ll just have to focus on the notes. After you get them cleaned up, just get the distro list from Ivan so you can send to everyone. Were there any other actions for you?”

“Not that I know of. They agreed on a couple people so I think I’ll need contracts for those soon, but I’m not sure? I think I’ll have to check with Ivan.”

Alina looked at her computer as a Slack message popped up. It was from Ivan, marked urgent.

[K, Ivan]: Heyy, How did it all go???

Aleksander told me to ask you to send up the contract for Nina. He’s asked for you to finish the notes first and bring up the contract by 4pm for review. I have attached the distro list to the workspace. LMK if you have q’s.

[K, Ivan]: I am running down to reception to pick up the lunches at 12. I’ll swing by after and perhaps we can eat in the Sky Garden?

“Oh, I have to bring up one of the contracts later. How do i do that?” Alina queried, glancing over. Tamar came over and read the note over Alina’s shoulder.

“Oooh. I am so happy we have another Nina movie! She is literally so glam in real life. You’ll see when she comes in…OK, so, open the shared drive and there is are templates for both lead and supporting cast contracts. Take the terms from the meeting notes and add that in with their names and film details. The reference doc for the roster is in this folder.”

Alina followed Tamar’s pointing and opened up the relevant documents.

“Great that you’re meeting with Ivan! He’s nice and sorry, my bad…I’ve been meaning to but just haven’t had time to introduce you. Good to get the ins and outs from him as literally nothing goes past him. He also gets tons of industry gossip from Fedyor…Nice day for Sky Garden too. Do you know where that is? On the opposite end on 18th, from where you just were, there is a big balcony patio with picnic tables. A lot of the assistants take breaks there when they can.”

By the time, Alina had cleaned up her notes, Ivan was already at her desk, plopping down a large almost empty box with a few wrapped sandwiches left and a couple foil takeaway boxes.

“Hi Tam- here is your Godmother and the coleslaw you like.”

“Thanks, Ivan. Have a good lunch both of you.”

Alina grabbed a notebook and pen and followed Ivan down to the 18th floor and out to the Sky Garden. It was pretty unremarkable as a space but it was nice to be outside. Basic picnic tables and some wall-like bushes in rectangular planters lined the area. After being in the A/C all day, the sun felt pleasant. It wasn’t too hot today for LA. Some of the tables were occupied and Ivan waved at various people he knew.

They sat down at a table a bit secluded from the rest. For awhile, they just ate in silence, faces turned upward basking in the sun.

Finally, breaking the silence, Ivan turned toward her, setting down his chip bag and opening his sandwich. “So, how did it go? Fed said it went well. I told him to be nice to you.”

“Oh thanks. It went ok, I think. I was telling Tamar, it was just hard to keep up with listening and typing notes. I think I got everything though. I sent them right before you picked me up. So cool that Nina is going to be in Fedyor’s next movie. And the concept sounds super interesting.”

“Nina is an absolute babe. So glad Feddy pushed for her. Her people were trying to get more moolah but Aleks talked them down apparently. And don’t worry, it’s pretty hard to fuck up the notes so don’t worry.” Ivan reassured her.

Putting down his sandwich, and taking a sip of Perrier, he looked at her.

“How is everything else? Are you enjoying it? I’ve been here so long now I forget what it’s like to be fresh-faced and excited.” He remarked.

“I can’t believe it’s already been a month. It’s sooo busy here that the time just flies. But Tamar is literally amazing - don’t know what I would do without her. Vasily is fine, I guess? Because he deals with mainly producers, he’s always meeting them at their offices so it’s pretty easy just getting email and text requests.” Alina kept it topline, unsure how much to reveal to Ivan now. Although, similar to her first meeting with Tamar, she instantly felt comfortable and liked the guy across from her.

“Oh my god, don’t even get me started about Vasily! Tam says you went to school with Niko? He’s a gem. I am honestly not sure how they are related. But I also heard you had a bit of a rough intro to Aleks?” Ivan waited for a reaction.

Alina hesitated, her stomach in a flurry - anxious churning. How did he even hear that? And what exactly did he hear?

Sensing her reaction, he said, “Relax, it was only Magnus who told me. He just said that Aleks was pretty rude to you and wanted to see if you were ok. But don’t worry. I wouldn’t repeat anything. Magnus just loves to chat - I think he likes having a token gay guy to gab with. He’s adorable when he tries so hard like that.” He gave a little teasing shoulder shrug pose and a wink.

Alina breathed out a small sigh of relief. “Oh, I mean it wasn’t bad. He was just busy, I think.”

“Don’t let it get to you. He’s come over to our house before many times before for social events as he’s pretty friendly with Feddy, but he still acts like we barely know each other at work. He’s just like that - super serious work mode. I’m sure you saw during this meeting. Did anyone cry? Wouldn’t be the first time…”

Alina shook her head as Ivan continued on. “Magnus said you want to get into scriptwriting? He told me to remind you to set up time with Aleks. The next couple weeks are rough for him but I’ll get something squeezed in when I can, if that works for you?”

“That would be so great. Thanks, Ivan.” Alina stammered gratefully. In her angry exit, she completely forgot to set up that appointment At this point, she wasn’t sure how helpful it would be, but it couldn’t hurt. It’s about who you know in the industry, after all.

The rest of the lunch passed amicably getting to know one another. Ivan was super easy to talk to and seemed really down to earth despite who he hung out with on the weekends. He also gave her valuable insight into the lay of the land at the agency and how to manage Fedyor and Aleksander for this ongoing production. Since Nina was going to sign, it was going to be a lot easier, with a lot less pressure on the deals. With such a big name attached, the other cast should easily fall into place. Still, it was super helpful and she was grateful for the advice.

Ivan dropped Alina back at her desk after lunch. “Thanks for lunch, Alina. Just to let you know - Tam and I and a few of the other assistants are going to drinks next week. You should totally come. Get to know everyone. It’s only the cool assistants who are going anyway…” Ivan winked and gave a small tap on her desk.

Tamar rolled her eyes at him before turning to Alina, “Yes, you should totally come. We try to do it monthly but then sometimes work gets in the way. Great to blow off steam and vent. Occasionally, some sympathetic agent gives us a corporate card so that’s always nice.”

“Now shoo, Ivan. We have work to do.” jested Tamar.

Alina smiled to herself as she sat down at her desk and waited for her computer to come out of sleep mode. She finally felt like she was getting the hang of everything and starting to fit in.

[kayluhoh]

Disclaimer: I do not own the rights to these songs, or she ra and the princesses of power. 

You don't have to read this. It was just fun for me to do.

Songs that make me think of Catradora.

Milk & Honey - Jessarae

I imagine this song as the music of the future looking back on the past. “Slow chariot lay me down oh she's coming to set me free and oh I was lost, now I'm found the spirit will move in me.” this lyric encapsulates this perfectly. Even after Adora saves Catra from the ship, she still has a lot to work on. Adora is there and helps to set her free of her self deprecating thoughts. To put the cherry on top, she’s with the girl she’s always wanted.

Butterfly’s Repose - Zabawa

    I imagine this song as more of a lullaby that they both receive at one point, in the first verse, “You don't have to speak. Don't need to talk to me. Baby, I already know.” This lyric strikes me, Catra and Adora really do know each other, so I’d imagine they both have trauma from the war and from growing up the fright zone with Shadow Weaver. When one or the other gets flashbacks, I imagine the other already knows the reason behind it. Secondly, the lyric, “The shadows in your head. They've got you down again. Got you feeling low. But it's time to rest now. Let it all melt now. Wipe your tears.” makes me imagine them holding one another in bed trying to sleep. both of their self-doubt being soothed by one another. Thirdly, the lyric “The future's looking bleak Your will to live is weak But, honey, hold on for me,” reminds me of the time Catra almost died on the ship as well as the kissing scene. They both saved each other because they needed each other. Finally the lyric in the chorus, “Stay right here I'll stay here with you, my dear,” is self-explanatory. The word stay is said so many times in this show because they kept leaving each other. Now that they have each other it’s hard to even think about leaving, reminding one another that they’ll stay too is so important.

I Go Crazy- Orla Gartland

    I Imagine this song pre kiss, season five, more specifically when Catra leaves with Melog. The first verse, “I've got no clue what you're thinking. You move your hand away from mine. Shifty eyes and indecisions. Why does this happen every time?” this is what must be going through Catras head when she says “Adora doesn’t want me, not like I want her,” because Adora is choosing everyone else above herself It makes Catra question what the hell goes through Adora’s head. Secondly, the lyric in the chorus, “Three words, two hearts, one maybe. Say something before I go crazy now. And my tears, your tears, don't phase me. Say something before I go crazy now,” makes me imagine Catra screaming this to the void, she’s loved Adora for so long, and now she is wondering if she’s too late. Finally the lyric in the bridge “But I'm still so devoted to you, it scares me,” captures Catra’s mentality so well, Catra is not one to follow others, but for Adora she makes an exception. This must be so scary for Catra, to let someone take the lead. Even after leaving for so long, she trusts Adora so much and that must be terrifying.

Soldier, Poet, King - The Oh Hellos

    This song is just fun, I just like to think of Adora as the soldier and Catra as the poet in a medieval AU and then they fall in love ok bye.

It’s Alright - Mother Mother

    I can’t find a better way to explain this as a Catradora song besides telling you that Adora is singing the Chorus and Catra is sing the verses, then singing the chorus at the end with her.

Safe & Sound - Taylor Swift, The Civil Wars

    Alright this one will be a little more detailed. The first line of the song, “I remember tears streaming down your face, When I said I'll never let you go,” reminds me of the childhood scene when Adora tells Catra, “You look out for me and I look out for you. Nothing really bad can happen as long as we have each other,” *chefs kiss*. Next, the singular line, “When all those shadows almost killed your light,” Should immediately make you think of Shadow Weaver and everything she did to Catra and Adora. It seemed like their entire childhood was spent protecting each other from her. Next, the lyrics, “I remember you said, "Don't leave me here alone," But all that's dead and gone and passed tonight” this lyric makes me feel like Adora acknowledges that she left Catra, but Catra forgives her for it and wants to leave it in the past. The lyrics “The war outside our door keeps raging on,” also encapsulates the war between Etheria and The Horde, but also the war between Catra and Adora. They both still have a lot to work on before everything can be close to perfect. Finally the chorus, “Just close your eyes, the sun is going down. You'll be alright, no one can hurt you now. Come morning light, you and I'll be safe and sound,” is a lullaby for Catra from Adora in my mind. They’re together now, and Adora is not gonna let Catra go as long as she can help it.

In the Name of Love - Martin Garrix, Bebe Rexha

    The entire first verse of this song screams Catradora to me. “If I told you this was only gonna hurt If I warned you that the fire's gonna burn Would you walk in? Would you let me do it first? Do it all in the name of love Would you let me lead you even when you're blind? In the darkness, in the middle of the night In the silence, when there's no one by your side Would you call in the name of love?” there’s a lot to unpack here, but mostly this first verse is about trust. Catra spent so long in distrust and pain, she’s going to have to learn how to trust people again. This is Adora asking if Catra would let Adora take care of her, lead her, and help her because she loves her. I feel like this is something Catra would struggle with. Finally, the lyric, “When there's madness, when there's poison in your head. When the sadness leaves you broken in your bed, I will hold you in the depths of your despair,” speaks volumes. it’s all about the two recovering from everything healing themselves and healing each other. Love is the root of healing and trust. The love is there but it’s going to take a lot of work and practice to heal and to trust, but they are both there for each other.  

Let me know if you want more of these! They were fun!

[hopeaterart]

I’m gonna be there: Chapter 15

Alright, so for this chapter and the next: TW: Mentionned/Implied rape/non-con due to J.Geil being there. This one is also kind of short, and is happening at the same time as the previous one.

Earlier that day...

“Bye everyone! Stay safe!” Holly called out as everyone in the house beside her and Polnareff left the front yard waving them goodbye one last time. She then went back inside of the house, sighing and slumping against the door.

“Hello, Holly, good morning!” Polnareff cheerfully exclaimed as he came out of the dining room, standing in nothing but his pajama pants and with his hair down. He was holding a cup of coffee and had a big smile on his face. “How’s it going?”

“It’s going.” The blond woman answered, standing a little straighter as she made her way to the kitchen.

The white-haired man frowned. “Is there something I can help with?”

“Oh no, no. It’s not something to do, it’s more... how I’m feeling.” Holly started to explain. “This whole “Dio after us” thing is exhausting. Not even worrying, just... exhausting.”

Polnareff tilted his head. “Wanna talk about it?”

“I actually do. Let’s go back to the dining room.” Holly acquiesced with a small smile, the taller man following her and sitting down as she started cleaning up.

“So, what’s so exhausting?”

“Well, for starters, the fact that there’s so many people in the house is making both my husband and my son snappier than usual, and it’s making my workload bigger.” Holly started. “After that, seeing Jotaro in so much distress breaks my heart. I can’t bear to see him so grumpy...”

“Wait, so Jotaro’s default state isn’t constant frowning?”

“No, he smiles a lot when he’s comfortable.”

“... Uh.”

“Overall, it’s taking a toll on everyone, and having so many people gathered in one place is exhausting.” Holly summed up, sighing once more.

“I mean...” Started Polnareff. “Sadao’s nieces live close to here, right? Can’t they just stay home?”

“Sadao wants them until we find your sister’s killer.” Holly dully explained. “Since the Empress proved Dio hired idiots who can’t make the difference between my side of the family and his side of the family, he insisted they stay for a while. I mean, you saw Kakyoin give up his room.”

“Doesn’t explain why he helped him make himself comfortable in his house office while I’m stuck on the couch...” Polnareff bitterly muttered, pulling a giggle from Holly.

“If my husband is anything like I think he is- and he is-, it’s because Kakyoin-kun is a teenager in distress his son befriended, and you’re a grown man babying his wife.” She explained as Polnareff spluttered.

“I’m not babying you!”

“No, but you are constantly asking me if I need help around the house.”

“No one else is doing it.”

“Trust me, Sadao and Jotaro help when they can.” Holly started. “They both keep their living space clean, Jotaro always takes care of the laundry, Sadao’s the one who takes care of the bathrooms, and they both usually helps me with the dishes after each meal. If anything, my husband might be frustrated with you because you’re the one helping with the dishes now, and he wants to make every second he spends with us count.”

Polnareff tilted his head. “Your husband’s not here often?”

Holly shrugged. “That’s the musician life for you. And his group has the bad habits of not having agents that consider their feelings and families... granted, he’s gotten rid of every single one of them, but it’s still rotten luck.”

Polnareff acquiesced, getting up from the table and putting his cup of coffee in the sink. “I guess I’ll have to talk to Sadao. I don’t want him to hate me...”

“This said, I do appreciate you helping me around the house.” Holly reassured the white-haired man with a smile. “Both my son and husband are solitary people, and it’s nice to have someone to talk to during the day.”

Polnareff smiled, flashing a thumbs up and blushing. “Here to serve-”

Someone knocked at the door. Holly and Polnareff looked at each other, confused, before the blond woman got up and started walking toward the front door. Vines wrapped around her forearms and Polnareff was right behind her, his Silver Chariot floating behind him with a wary expression.

The blond woman slowly opened the door, confusion writing itself all over her face when she saw who had knocked at her door.

It was a cowboy. “Hey, s’this the Joestar’s house?”

“You’re with Dio, aren’t you?” Holly asked as she raised an eyebrow, deadpan.

“We’re not gonna go with you, so fuck off!” Polnareff hissed, Chariot pointing his sword at the stranger.

They didn’t expect a gun to appear in his hand in a small explosion, or for him to point the gun at Polnareff first. “Careful there. Dio wants the woman, not you. So step back, let the lady step outside, and I’ll take care of it real quick. She won’t feel a thing.”

“Okay, first: Holly would- and will- kick your ass.” Polnareff snapped at the cow-boy, putting his hands on his hips with a comically offended expression on his face.

“Second,” Holly stuck her leg out, kicking the strange man in the stomach and making him double over, before raising her leg and sending him flying with a kick under the chin. “If you’re gonna be talking about me while I’m right there, the least you can do is address me. I don’t even know who you are!”

The cowboy looked at Holly with confusion, before smiling and getting up. “Fair enough. The name’s Hol Horse, I’m a bounty hunter. Dio reached out to me, and offered me a frankly insane amount of money for the head of you and your son.”

“I see. My name is Holly Kujo, nee Joestar. I’m a stay-at-home mother. Dio is a megalomaniac vampire who hates my family for no good reasons, so I’m afraid that I do not wish to speak with you.” She then slammed the door in his face, Hol Horse throwing himself at it and banging.

“No, lady, believe me! I came with someone else, and I was supposed to distract you while he broke inside the house!”

“Thanks for the tip. Polnareff?” Holly turned toward Polnareff, who nodded just as Hol Horse started yelling.

“No, what I mean is: that guy is a creep! If I’m offering to kill you, it’s because he’s gonna do way worse! And he’s also after that Polnareff guy! He said something about they’ve got unfinished business with this guy.” He started explaining, slightly frantic. “I don’t like having to go after women, but in this case, a bullet in your head is the merciful option! So please, just come out!”

“As if!” Holly disdainfully said. “I’m not going to come out and let you shoot me! Right Polnareff?” She then spotted the look on Polnareff’s face, fear and anger written all over it. “Polnareff? Is everything alright?”

“What I think he’s trying to say...” Polnareff shakily started. “Is that the guy who killed Sherry is inside of the house.” Judging by Hol Horse starting to yell in agreement right outside, Holly suddenly realized the situation she was in.

Outside, a man with a gun is waiting for her to come out.

Inside, a deranged rapist is after her.

In both cases, they wanted her dead.

And the only person who could help her was arguably more shaken by the situation.

If I make it out of here alive, I’m rip Dio apart with my bare hands.

[3m3rs0n]

Narcissus Not

Lisa Michelle Boyd-Tanner, M.S.W.

Bigger games in play than I?

I dwell upon this 

Ponder...Sigh...

Wondrous world full of fables

Like the wanderers biased cables.

Hypocrites and sycophants;

Monies! Food! Dwelling rants.

Earthly beings?  They live here?

Oh, yes! Amongst the cacaphony.

Tension mounts...

Where is the Manna?

Grocery herds like a dingo’s savannah.

Monopolize the wind and rain...

Give more juice to Nature slain.

Capitol Lies? ( If half a chance...)

Charlatan’s Rise~ ”Shall we have this dance?”

Stifled death, I need not thee!

Nor gear or crank, nor lofty sea.

Where but are the Champions here?

Peaking through the chambers near.

“Do not tempt me,” said the Duke.

Warriors do battle with no rebuke.

Anger lingers like a corset...

“In your Time a Soul merits sport?”

Funny tis to have the power

over those thou doth devour;

Simple folk? They perceive why...

““Theirs is but to do or die”“ 

(better poets words than mine).

Troubled times, these and those are.

Watered down, time is never far

sneaks up on you, around the bend,

to her death alone I send.

Oddly though, just Angels noticed 

and gave her knowledge to forebode.

“Techno in thou gray matter be?”

A question for “sea to shining sea”.

Tis like they are on a shopping spree.

It took their very souls it did, 

had they one?  If so it hid.

Inside radon sills it slid.

Why would they want us underground?

“Tis where you will be safe and sound”, 

No more torment, no lament

Knowing but toil their journey spent.

At the knee of one not Just.

Masked and mange yet...tragedy struck

Lovers hidden, all these years...

Behind all those clanking gears

Soldier on to glory’s tears.

Good-byes? Shocking how bereft the moat

In memory’s mist, the safety there...

(not to all, to that I swear).

Behind screen and useful advice,

hide the gears of wars and vice.

Where we walk our passage be

marked by stewards of the sea.

Also hidden? Old tribe and new:

Anesthetize their brains?

Let’s do!

See what falls upon the floor to rest.

Sealed from the very best,

Hide it! Mute it! It’s souls unrest.

They strafe her home up in the sky.

Doctor, Lawyer, Indian Chief...

Their words they carry to the deep.

Bad energy is the rule of thumb,

stalk it, kill it, divide the sum

of all their parts, the missing too

Faith is fettered, I know not how

to explain the horror show, I vowed, 

“Never tell nary a one”

Lock and load or insidiously divest.

Comfort zones, are but a myth

just take me to the highest tree

dangle there her demise saw

to implement with shock and awe.

Angry by now, the Muse she was

funny girl that need no cue.

Falter not, nor sway to that

Heavens love not given scant. 

Rise above the near torched lair,

be a voice to none that care.

Hollow voices ring untrue

answered by the stately view.

Ulterior motives, sketch and sly,

no one knows where duty lie

“Just to the Ego”, so saith Id.

Bent and broken: “Carry on”

“Withdraw please your dire song”:

A chant of supercilious rubbish

to power gained by tepid crown.

Keep your gowns your Chariots

give me back my Lariot!

Amusing?  Maybe.  We shall see.

I hear the roar of an old sick steed;

Loner not by choice but yet...

track and trace to heart’s content.

Ancestors of the Muse were there

knowing all the righteous deeds...

She knew the Souls of war torn years...

(These do not, nor do they want)

they continue forward power sought.

“Whatever.” Said the Muse of Plenty~

Her half smile memory of the Other’s Hell.  

Lisa Michelle Boyd-Tanner, M.S.W.

Written today 1/17/2021 9:00pm post

[kylo-wrecked]

The Chariot (What if Kylo Ren ruled the whole galaxy?)

*side-eyes Kylo* 

On his own? That would be disastrous. The Chariot. More like The Chariot Reversed.

Although he resides in multiple forms (mun has more than a couple of headcanons, many of which interlace), there is no version of Kylo Ren as a competent, composed political leader. He feels too much; he’s mercurial. 

More than that, he doesn’t like politics. As he matures in age and experience, he comes to see each ‘functioning’ political system (Republic, Empire, First Order) as vast failures. He doesn’t think very highly of politicians or tacticians either. He needs them (see Hux), but he resents that need. 

Now, he can lead the Knights just fine, because they operate on the periphery--’outside the system,’ if you will. Because his Knights are his bros, his sisters, his comrades. He trusts them and loves them. Of course, there are certain Knights¹ who will betray him. Traitors are retired and replaced with new recruits. Oftentimes their bodies are retired, but their faces are not. Helmets and uniforms can always be fitted with new bodies. Sometimes, these bodies come from within the First Order itself (until the Order is dismantled, at least), but ordinarily, they come from the outskirts, the margins of their respective societies². Kylo Ren recruits the Knights himself. He ordains them. He allows them to choose their names. All this barring any benefaction from his superiors/masters, where they exist. 

In Star-Crossed, Supreme Leader Kylo Ren rules the Galaxy with Rey at his side. So far, Rey of Jakku, now Solo, makes the executive, legislative decisions, and Kylo Ren carries them out because he has the push-power. He also has the assistance of Leia, Rose, the Naboo (who he HAAAATEs), Hux (who will betray him), and sometimes Poe, who absolutely can be diplomatic. (Finn hates Kylo, and will always hate him, so Bye Bitch. That’s that. Kylo Rendemption is not for everyone.) 

Even the elder, wisened and wearied Supreme Leader Ren does not have much success with his regime. It will always crumble, and he will always die unfulfilled, leaving the Galaxy in anarchy. 

_____

¹ Traitors: (verse dependent, but generally) OCs Sirax, Byrec, Zela, and canon Trudgen, who have betrayed Kylo in a few ways: Sirax usually loses control and kills {romantic interest/promising protege}. Then Byrec, the originator (much like “Ren,” only Byrec was created ~4 years before The Rise of Kylo Ren, and I don’t give a flipping flip about no “Ren” Ren). Byrec usually tries to do away with both Kylo and Snoke (who he came up with during the Imperial Era. Snoke is his own entity to my mind); Zela, unconventional as she is, wants a Sith master, not some renegade boyo in a mask, roight? And then there’s Trudgen, who’s canon, and just an idiot and a traitor!!!!  

² Recruits: Are never children, with the exception of Sirax (ages ~13-15), who’s found in Coruscant’s Underworld and does a real number on OC Hindrel (who always dies, verse-regardless, oop).  

Fun fact: Byrec Ren is actually my friend Mike’s OC. I love Byrec, he’s such a dad. A very disappointed dad. So I asked for permission to use him, and Mike was more than happy to lend me the character. 

[swiftlythebest]

So we know that levi was a debate kid. Which I love because I'm an ex debate kid myself. What do you head canon the b team and nico doing in high school? My thoughts: Nico: swim team captain and class president, Helm: Academic decathlon and lots of volunteer work for extra credit, Casey: did something on his own like radio or whatever and finally qadri who I think is the obvious mathlete.

Ah, love this! Okay, so I think they all probably did A LOT because they were those overachiever types that thought the more they did, the better their chances were at getting into the best school.

My ~thing~ in high school was the Junior Classical League which I honestly think all of them could have been in. If they all knew they wanted to be doctors, they probably had some involvement in Latin. Taryn definitely killed it in Certamen (a Jeopardy type team game) and Nico did all the sports. They probably all ran for office too. Casey and Qadri helped build catapults and chariots.

Levi did debate, as we know, and maybe some kind of gaming club. He probably worked on yearbook too because he wanted to make sure his less popular classmates were still represented. He was on student council but people tended to disregard his ideas because he was the nerd. (Cue Schmico AU where Nico stands up for him and makes everyone respect him okay bye.)

I usually write Nico as a tennis player because of Alex’s tennis background. At least at my high school, tennis was fall and spring and swim was winter, so I totally think he could have done both. And he’s such a class president! He reminds me of my class president (also my best friend), who was sporty and sweet and so smart. I also HC him as out towards the end of high school so he was probably big in the GSA. He was also a sports writer for the school paper.

Taryn was also out and in the GSA. Actually, president of the GSA. Definitely did any academic competitions she could. So decathlon, quiz bowl, Certamen. She was the MVP of them all. I so see her volunteering at an animal shelter and a clinic and working part time at a local restaurant or store. Out of everyone, I think she had the least amount of free time.

Casey was in GSA but maybe not out yet? He painted himself as an ally. He was probably in ROTC as well. Maybe student council too. And he probably did have some kind of local radio show that everyone in school listened to. He liked the autonomy and freedom the show granted him because his appearance didn’t matter.

Qadri is such a mathlete, yes! And class treasurer as well. She maybe wrote for the newspaper and did Model UN as well. She also founded the Multicultural Club at her school, which has grown to be one of the most popular clubs. They have her back occasionally to give talks to the members.

A lot of this is based off HCs because we don’t know much about them. I like imagining who they may have been before. If anyone has anything else they think any of these guys would have done, please share!

[avid-author-activist]

The Princess Andromeda (1): I Crash A Date

(read it on ao3!)

Blackjack’s wings skimmed the waves below as we dipped towards the Atlantic. The salty sea spray filled the air, dissipating a little of the anxiety curdling in my stomach. I glanced at my pocket, where I kept a picture of my girlfriend, Silena. She’d seemed nervous before I’d left camp today, but these days, everyone was jumpy.

“You don’t have to do this, Charlie,” she’d told me. “Let someone else go instead of you.”

I pulled her in for a hug. “It’ll all be okay,” I reassured her. “It’s just another routine mission.”

“No… no, it won’t,” she sniffled against my chest. “I have a bad feeling about this, Charlie.”

“Hey, you’ll see. I’ll come back, just you wait,” I promised. “But I have to go now.”

As she pulled away, I saw a silver bracelet glinting on her wrist. There was only one charm on it, like a moon or something. I opened my mouth to ask her about it, but—“Stay safe,” Silena said, and I was alarmed to see tears shining in her eyes. “Goodbye, Charlie.”

I felt a lump in my throat. “Bye, Lena.” The words stuck in my mouth.

With an effort, I pulled myself back to the present. We were spiralling higher over the Atlantic, flying parallel to a couple seagulls. Some part of me wanted to put out my hand and touch one, but the glint in its eyes gave me pause. Blackjack shook his mane and flew higher, like he wanted to get away from the birds too. Man, even the horse knew seagulls were evil.

“There they are,” I said. As the mainland came into view, I could see a Prius parked right on the ridge above the ocean. If I squinted, I thought I could make out the outline of Percy in the driver’s seat. Blackjack tossed his head again, as if in acknowledgement. Not for the first time, I wondered if he was able to understand me.

“That’s ridiculous,” I said aloud.

The pegasus snorted.

As we got closer, I finally recognized the girl sitting in the passenger seat. Frizzy red hair pulled back into a ponytail, freckles, peeling sunburn. That could only be Rachel Dare, the girl Percy might or might not have a crush on. I said might not because I’d seen the way he and Annabeth looked at each other. Silena gushed about those two all the time:

“When are they going to start dating? If Percy doesn’t ask her out soon, I think I’ll die!”

“Alright, Lena,” I always said. If it happened, it happened, and if it didn’t, it didn’t. That was my philosophy on couples. But Silena always listened to my rambles about armor and smelting, so I listened to her attempts at matchmaking.

I fought the urge to reach for the photo of her in the pocket of my shorts.

Then—WUMP-WUMP-CRUNCH! Blackjack stomped across the hood of Percy’s car, leaving horse hoof indents in the metal and almost throwing me off in the process. Way to make an entrance.

“Blackjack!” I groaned. If a horse could shrug, Blackjack would have.

I sighed and put my head in my hands. Percy hadn’t turned sixteen yet, so that Prius had to belong to his parents. They were going to kill him… if he survived our mission. Maybe they’d be mad enough to dig him up and kill him again.

“Blackjack, what are you–” Percy looked up. His eyes met mine. Act natural!

“‘Sup, Percy.” I nodded and waved, trying not to look concerned about the fact that I was sitting on a pegasus that had just trampled the hood of his car. Not that natural!

“Time?” Percy asked, trying and failing to look upbeat. Rachel pursed her lips. I looked back and forth between the two of them. It looked like they had been on a date… had they been on a date? I took a mental note to tell Silena later.

Rachel looked up at me. “Hi.” Her startling green eyes reflected the sunlight. She wore a white blouse, bird-shaped earrings, and... mascara? According to Percy, Rachel never wore makeup.

Yep, I had definitely been that guy that interrupted your normal date by landing a pegasus on your car.

I waved, trying to ignore the heat rising in my face. “Oh, hey, I’m Beckendorf.” I almost expected her to snicker at my last name. A ton of people did, mostly the immature rich kids at my old middle school. “You must be Rachel. Percy’s told me… uh, I mean he mentioned you.”

“Really? Good,” Rachel said, quirking an eyebrow. The expression reminded me of Silena for the third time in probably five minutes. I tried to block her face out of my mind, just temporarily. If I lost focus like that on the cruise ship… well. That wouldn’t end happily for Percy, me, or Western civilization.

Blackjack pawed at the hood, which flattened alarmingly. Not for the first time, I wished he came with reins and a saddle. What was I supposed to do in this situation, talk to the horse? “Whoa,” I said under my breath. The pegasus ignored me and kept beating up the car.

“So I guess you guys have to go save the world now,” Rachel said, glancing at Blackjack. She seemed incredibly calm about the entire thing. I remembered Percy mentioning she could see through the Mist.

“Pretty much,” I said.

Percy looked at Rachel. “Would you tell my mom–”

“I’ll tell her. I’m sure she’s used to it. And I’ll explain to Paul about the hood.” I could see what Percy saw in Rachel now. She was mortal, yeah, but she also kept an incredibly cool head in weird mythological situations. And she was really pretty in her own way.

“Good luck.” Rachel leaned in and kissed Percy on the mouth. He turned brick red. I managed to turn my laugh into a cough as he glared at me. “Now, get going, half-blood. Go kill some monsters for me,” she said.

Percy clambered onto Blackjack’s back with a last wave to his date. The pegasus spread his wings and launched us into the sky. I swallowed, watching the ground recede beneath us, replaced by glittering blue waves. Pegasus takeoff always made me a little sick.

“So,” I joked, once my stomach had settled. “I guess you don’t want me to mention that little scene to Annabeth.”

Percy groaned. “Oh, gods. Don’t even think about it,” he said.

I grinned. “Just pulling your leg, Jackson—wouldn’t dream of it.”

To pass the time, I studied Blackjack’s wings as we soared in circles over the ocean. They seemed way too brittle to get a horse and two armored demigods into the air, but somehow they did. If I could copy and modify the design, I could build a sweet war chariot. Sure, the chariot would have wings, but that just added to the cool factor.

The sun sank slowly over the horizon, turning the sky and sea to gold. The only sounds now were those of the ocean waves below us and Blackjack’s steady wingbeats. I breathed in the salty air, grounding myself in the moment. Part of me couldn’t help but wonder if it was the last sunset I would ever see.

As the sky purpled into twilight and the first stars came out, the Princess Andromeda appeared over the horizon. The ship gleamed gold and silver in the night, bobbing gently in the waves. Suddenly, it seemed like a large and flashy piece of bait, waiting to trap unsuspecting demigods—us—with the larger and scarier monsters aboard. It was so bright that whenever I glanced away from it, spots appeared in my vision. Even so, I noted that the craftsmanship was perfect, and I felt a twinge of regret that we had to destroy such a beautiful work of art.

In my head, I ran through the countless dry runs we’d done over the last few weeks. Get in, plant the explosives, get out as soon as possible. It was a simple plan, but it had every chance of going wrong.

Blackjack dove parallel to the ship, and I thanked the gods that he wasn’t a white pegasus, or we would’ve been spotted for sure. As we sped pasrt, I glimpsed decks stuffed with countless monsters—telekhines and dracaenae, for the most part. If Kronos had his way, they would all be in New York by tomorrow. My blood ran cold at the thought. We have to stop them.

The lowest stern deck was deserted. Blackjack spread his wings and landed gently. I slid off his back, a hand on the hilt of my sword. Part of me tensed, expecting the alarm to be raised any time now, but everything was silent.

"I think we're clear," Percy whispered. I nodded in agreement, checking to make sure the explosives were secure in my bag. 

Blackjack took off into the night, leaving us alone in enemy territory. I watched him disappear on the horizon, praying that we would both live to see him again.

I told myself to stop being morbid. Percy and I would both be fine. No one knew we were here.

But what if they did? What if they were expecting us, and this was all just one big trap?

Stop thinking about the what-ifs, I scolded myself. What was it that the Athena campers always said? Anything can and will happen. Worrying about it won’t change the outcome.

I took the picture of Silena from my pocket. She seemed more beautiful than ever, even by the dim light of Percy’s sword. I decided to ignore my earlier resolution to keep her from my mind. If anything were to happen, I wanted to have her in my thoughts.

“We’ll get back to camp,” Percy said, coming up behind me. I almost jumped a foot into the air. I tucked away the picture, part of me embarrassed that he had seen.

“You bet.” I tried to bury my fears. I couldn't let them mess with my head on this mission. “Let’s go blow Kronos back into a million pieces.”

[medicdoodles]

(Chapter 1)| (Chapter 6)| Chapter 7: Friend in Darkness, Chariot of Light. |(Chapter 8)

Jazz’s plan is put into action and the Twins find out what happened to Ratchet.

The last few cycles came and went faster than Ratchet had expected. Jazz for the most part treated him very similar to the way he did before. There were threats here and there to keep up Ricochet’s reputation but most of the time they behaved like good friends.

Then there was Deadlock or more so Drift. He still approach Ratchet with some hesitation but there were moments in which he let his guard down to tease the medic and engaged in light banter.

He also made a habit of taking Ratchet out on dates after their shifts. They always stayed in the base but Ratchet got to see more than just the med bay. Most of the time they dined in the observation deck and looked at the stars.

Other times they would go to the shooting range and enjoyed in a bit of competition. However, Deadlock learned that once Ratchet got his footing back he was going to lose again. It didn’t make to much of a difference who won because the next cycle the two of them went back to being distant.

As the date of Jazz’s departure came closer Ratchet beings to get nervous. He knew that this mission was more important than his escape and when push comes to shove Jazz will leave without him. However, there was still some part of him that hopes that he can come with him.

There’s also Deadlock to consider about to. If he’s out on perimeter check then Roller might be in major danger as the con has no remorse for killing his targets. The best case scenario is for him to be at base where Ratchet can knock him out for the others to take out the rest.

There weren’t many bots left on this base. Just Five indoors and three that stay on the outposts in a five click radius from here. He should asks Jazz about his exit plan but the way that he still treats him as a friend stops him from doing so.

It had been so long that Ratchet felt comfortable that he wanted delay having to say bye to one of his friends.

“The boys are almost here, we better get the plan into motion.” Jazz said as he stocks more cubes into his space sub. “There about 10 clicks west from here and will arrive around my final shift of perimeter duty.”

Ratchet looks down but adds nothing. He’s worried, Jazz can see it in his body language but can’t comment. “Look Ratch,” Jazz then puts his servo on the medic’s shoulder, and Ratchet looks back at him. “I’ll be alright. This isn’t the first mission I’ve been on.”

“What about the twins? And Roller, can you promise me that you can take care of them?” Jazz then puts a digit on top of Ratchet’s lip component.

“Roller will be fine, he’s used to these transports operations. As for Sunny and Sides they knew what they were getting into when they volunteered.”

Ratchet grabs Jazz’s digit moves it away from his faceplate to speak. “I assume you want me to stay here to make sure those scrap for processing units make it out okay?”

“Sorry that I got to leave ya’ again. I don’t know how long it will be before I can even tell OP that you’re here, but this job will gives us the edge we need to end the war.” Ratchet looks back down to the floor and stands still for a bit.

“I understand. Just make sure my wards don’t get trashed on the way over.”

“I can’t make promises but if you play your part prefect then you got nothing to worry about.” Jazz then gives Ratchet a hug good bye. He knows the medic is terrible at parting ways with his friends so this was the easiest way for him to do it.

“If you leave me here for more than a lunar cycle I’ll never forgive you.” Ratchet then returns the gesture.

Arriving on the outpost Roller contacts Jazz on their com links. Sunsteaker looks to Sideswipe as he ready his pistol. He tells them that in about five clicks east they’ll make contact with the Con outpost station closes to the Sonic Canyons.

“Should we go in and steal more med-grade? We have plenty of the standard stuff here but it will take us longer to patch up.” Sideswipe said as he steps into the dusted air.

‘Do what ever you got to do to make sure Roller gets through. This mission will fall apart with out the cargo.“

“So how many cons are we dealing with?” Sunstreaker asks.

Two on the outskirts. Five in the base. We also have an inside bot looking out for ya in case you two mess up.“

Sideswipe tilts his hem a bit. "We weren’t told another bot was on this job. So who is he?”

“Let’s just say I found him while I was here, but if this goes smoothly then he won’t have to blow his cover, okay.” Jazz adds a a digit waggle before entering in Rollers alt mode.

Sunstreaker huffs as he steps outside and transformers. Sideswipe follows suit and head towards the base. Now they’re on their own.

As they reach the front door of the con outpost Sideswipe notes that there’s no guards outside, meaning that there are on the inside hallways and alerts Sunsteaker to braces himself.

Crashing through the door they transform back into robot mode and take down two cons without much fuss. With three more left the twins split up as now they’re chances of getting capture is almost nonexistent.

Sideswipe takes the right hallway and keeps creeping forward. The base is small ,mast capacity is about 10,000; and height is three stories from the outside look.

Medical Facilities tend to be on the bottom floor center of the base, at least that’s what Ratchet has told him. Of course this would have been easier if he asked Jazz for the layout like he was suppose to, well the twins best work when they improvise anyway.

He approaches the end of the hallway and sees a door on the next turn. It reads Medical Care and Treatment.He pings Suntreaker that he’s found the med-bay and to come to his location. An advantage that their split spark gave them was always knowing the other is at all times.

Without waiting for his twin to catch up Sideswipe enters the room, hoping to find the Medical Grade Energy before the medic returns to post. The lights are off except for one at the other end of the room under the staff only door.

From what he can gather there’s only one exit so he has to plan his escape routes as he presses forward. The door that the light falls under opens and Sideswipe ducks for cover.

The bot who walks in looks a lot like Ratchet. Then Sideswipe gets a real good look at his faceplate and sees that it is Ratchet, he can’t believe it. Actually, he doesn’t believe it but then again why would a con disguise himself if they didn’t know they were here. Resting his intake Sideswipe takes a risk.

“Ratch is that you?” The bot jumps a bit before looking around the room. Sideswipe gets to his peds and then bot speaks.

“Sideswipe what are you doing here? Aren’t you supposed to be making a diversion for Jazz and Roller?” Ratchet is mad but Sideswipe couldn’t care less and went to give him a hug.

“It’s really you-We’ve been looking everywhere for you Ratch and couldn’t find you.” Sideswipe could feel cleanser forming around his optics but just held Ratchet tighter.

The medic put his arm around him and said, “Miss you brats too.” Ratchet stills smells the same and Sideswipe felt enough comfort to readjust himself. “So tell me why are in the med-bay when you should be doing what you do best.”


“I came to stock up on Med grade incase we need patching up.” Ratchet then pulls a container from his space sub and gives it to Sideswipe.

“Here. This will last you for at least six weld jobs, or five cycles of refuel. Now get going.”

Just then the exit opens and they both turn to see that it’s Sunstreaker. He’s optics dial in surprise before moving closer to Ratchet.

"Sunstreaker you nearly sent me to an early grave.” Ratchet said as his flicks the side of Sunny’s helm.

"Next time I’ll do a better job just you wait.” Sunstreaker then grabs Ratchet’s arm and drags him towards the door. “Come on we’re getting you out of here.”

"Sunstreaker I can’t go with you, not yet.”

"Why not? Can’t you see that this is your best chance to escape.” 

"Yeah, and I don’t want you to end up captured because I slow you down.” Sideswipe stops hugging Ratchet to look him in the optics.

“It’s very unlikely we’ll get caught if there’s only three cons left.” Sideswipe picks up the conversation for Sunstreaker.

“They’ll notice that I’m missing the moment we walk out of this room.” The entrance door opens and Sideswipe moves to cover Ratchet. Turning around he sees that Deadlock is holding a gun against Sunstreaker’s chassis. The barrel is pointing right above his spark casing. He also twist his arm and grips it hard.

“Step away from the medic and your twin will live.” Deadlock says as he motions the gun up and down to get his point across.

Sideswipe lifts his servos up, like he’s seen Ratchet do when patients get hostile. Deadlock still keeps his grip on Sunstreaker but lowers the gun.

“That’s good. Now come this way and I’ll escort you to your prison cells.” Sideswipe keeps moving closer to Deadlock thinking of a plan. If he tugs Sunstreaker forward that might give them a surprise advantage. However, there still wouldn’t be enough time for him to draw his weapon to go for the kill.

“Let them go and nothing bad will happen.” Ratchet said pulling out a gun from his space sub. It’s time like these that the twins regret their decision to warm up to the medic. He thinks that they both need his protection and has officially unofficial clam them as his wards.

Maybe among the auto bots ,it’s true, having Ratchet favor keeps them from being abuse. Here, however, the two of them know the best course of action.

“Ratchet, you know by now I can’t do that.” Ratchet then steadies himself and aims his gun towards Deadlock. Sideswipe rolls forward and drags Sunstreaker down to the floor with him.

Deadlock is now pinned in position and Ratchet moves towards them keeping his gun pointing at him. “It’s that kind of spunk that I admire about you.” Deadlock said while keeping his optics at Ratchet. Sideswipe can feel his em field shift to something of both pride and arouse.

Before Sideswipe has to much time to thinking about Deadlock lusting after their primary care taker, Ratchet pulls the trigger. It isn’t a normal blast, instead it’s a light EMP single to send the con offline.

“Alright boys you better get going if you plan on catching up with Jazz.” Ratchet then heads towards the light door and palms for a small button on the wall.“ Go right once you leave this room and keep going straight till you reach the rec room. Then turn left and walk straight on the first hall you see you’ll find the back entrance.”

The twins both get up and give Ratchet one last glance over before nodding and heading out. Once they leave the room the base alarm goes off the transform into their alt modes and make way for the exit.

It’s a while before the reach Jazz and Roller station at the mouth of the canyon, but when they see them they can’t help but get angry. How can Jazz know Ratchet’s location and not tell any bot about. 

“Jazz!” Sunstreaker said as he and Sideswipe reach Jazz and Roller. Jazz was expecting this kind of behavior from the twins but kind of hoped that they’d get captured so he didn’t have to deal with it.

“I see you boys made it back safely.” “Cut the slag and tell us why you didn’t mention that Ratchet was at that base.” Of the two twins Sideswipe is the most talkative but when it came to expressing outrage Sunstreaker takes over the conversation.

Jazz lets out a sigh, “Listen, I couldn’t tell you because otherwise Optimus would find out and the last thing we need is a OP getting distracted by the news Megatron’s got Ratch.”

“Oh yeah, ‘Cause let him worry sick about him is so much more helpful.” At this point Jazz looks over to sideswipe, whose wondering over to something glowing in the distance. Typical, when he needs him to calm Sunny down he’s out doing something else.

“Sunstreaker stop it.” Jazz really wants to tell him to frag off. Ratchet was his friend long before the war. “Look I get it, Ratch means a lot to you, he does for me too. But I made the choice to keep him there to end the war faster.

Sunstreaker looks at him like he grew a second helm. "If you’re both done arguing I need one of you to answer the vid screen.” Roller speaks still in his alt mode.

“Just remember Sunstreaker, if this mission is successful then we have a better chance of saving him.” With that Jazz goes inside to answer the call.

[cianmars]

Pieces of a Puzzle:

Rogers, David, and Mary have been together for ten years and have already have a ten year old daughter, Alice, together.

They all have their own issues and problems, but they’re happy. That being said they feel like something’s missing.

They’re waiting to adopt a baby, the last piece of their family, and only have four months to wait. In the mean time they decide to foster six year old Emma, what they assume is going to be a short stay, before she finds her forever family.

Chapter 3- Two Mornings Two different mornings for the Charmings and Emma Swan

AO3

Kian woke up with a start, covered in cold sweat and his heart beating, he looked for his spouses, he panicked finding he was alone, but when he glanced at the clock he realised why. He had majorly overslept. Well, he guessed that it wasn’t really oversleeping for most people, but usually he would wake up and go for a jog to start his day. He sat up, dragged his hand over his face, he sighed deeply. It had all just been a dream. He grabbed his prosthetic hand from the stand on the bedside table and fastened it on to where his arm had been amputated. It was a part of him, but he could remember how foreign prosthetics felt to wear when he was a child and had first lost his hand, though this one was a million times better, it was almost like a real hand. He moved the hands of the hand, testing it as he always did, he knew he’d be getting a new one soon and although he was looking forward to it, it would be weird to have a completely different hand.

He dragged himself out of bed, wishing he could just skip work and sleep… and hang out with his husband, they didn’t always work together as they weren’t work partners, but they would hang out on their breaks, he missed that time together. He forwent a shower due to the accidental lie in, but quickly washed his face in the en-suite, before getting dressed in his usual dark clothes.

Once dressed he headed down the stairs, he heard Alice shout through her closed bedroom door, having hear him passing by. “Papa! The kid’s coming today!”

He knew better than to distracted Alice when she was meant to be doing something, instead he raced down the stairs, and into the kitchen where he knew his spouses always were in the mornings.

“Morning.” Mary called, jotting something down in her planner for her day teaching.

“Hey.” David was scribbling furiously on a piece of paper, his greeting was more of a habit than an actual greeting.

“Uh, hey.” Kian was still frowning in confusion. “Al said that the kid’s coming today?”

Mary took a long sip of her latte and nodded as she swallowed. “Yeah, Dave answered the call from Matilda at about seven,” she took another sip of her coffee and checked her watch, “the doctors are going to discharge her today, Matilda asked if we’d be able to take her in today.”

“Let me guess, if not she was going to have to take her to a children’s home.” He already knew the answer before his husbands head bobbed. “Did I do something?” He joked, nodding his head towards David who hadn’t looked up from his list at all, Kian poured himself a big mug of coffee.

“David’s trying to make a list of the things we need to get for Emma,” Mary said in a stage whisper, “he’s kind of stressing.”

“There’s a lot we don’t have,” David pointed out, “we’ve never fostered a kid her age, and normally we’re all home for when we got the foster kid. We all have tomorrow off which is when we were going to get stuff sorted.”

The detective placed his hand on his husband’s back, usually he’d take the mick out of David, but he wasn’t quite in the mood to. “Better than with Alice, we had no preparation with her, just suddenly a baby on the doorstep.” Just then their daughter walked through the doorway, in her school uniform, running around trying to get ready for school. “You only have one shoe on, Starfish.” He pointed out gently.

Mary placed her hand on the top of her daughter’s head to get her to pause and focus on just her for a second. “Sweetheart, you need to go find your other shoe and grab your bag, we’re all running late this morning, I’ll grab you a slice of toast and you can eat it on the way or while you hang out in my classroom.”

“Mare, I’ll take her, love.” Kian said, he placed his hand on her back as he leant down and kissed her lips, as he did he felt his nightmare start to wash away like marks in the sand as he felt the love of his new family. “Just worry about you being ready, I’ll make sure Starfish has more than a slice of toast, I’ll take her to school on my way to work.” he dropped a kiss onto the top of Alice’s blonde head. “What do you say, Starfish, is Papa’s car a worthy chariot?”

“Yeah!” Alice beamed, and she jumped up and down, her papa’s car was probably the coolest out of her parents’ cars.

“You still have to go on your booster seat, it’s the law! Go find your shoe quickly, sweetie, then Papa will make you some breakfast. I love you and I’ll see you in school.” She kissed her daughter’s forehead and she received a tight hug in return.

“I love you mommy.” Alice told her. “Are you sure I can’t just skip and go with Daddy?” She pouted, she looked back to David, but he obviously hadn’t heard.

“Nope, sorry, but when you get home you’ll have a new little foster sister- just remember we have to be careful around her, she’ll probably be scared, and she’s poorly.”

“I’ll help look out for her.” Alice told her mom with a smile, as though it would be that easy. She hugged her tight again. “I’ll see you at school mommy.” She raced off in search of the errant shoe.

“I miss you being in uniform.” Mary turned to Kian as Alice left the room, she placed her hand on David’s back and started to rub circles on it as she talked to their husband, she was a little worried about how stressed he seemed, but then she hadn’t stopped worrying about him since he had been shot. “You didn’t used to drive your old Camaro when you were in uniform.”

“Oh please, we all know it’s because I made that uniform work, like really well, much better than Davey.” He looked over at David waiting for him to protest, just David was deep in his thoughts as he stared at the list. “I got this.” He poured himself a cup of coffee and made one for David.

Mary sighed gently and quickly started to pack her things into her bag, including her lunch, and grabbed the bag with the marked homework in it, she couldn’t forget that.

“Dave.” Kian waited for his husband to look up before he handed him the mug of coffee, made just how David liked it, with a lot of creamer and sugar. “Coffee will make sure you’re not grumpy today.” He smirked at David’s playful scowl but he ran his hand through his husbands dirty-blond hair before gently kissing his lips, he didn’t even realise that he had now forgotten his nightmare completely. The list is perfect, just make sure we have what she’ll need for tonight and tomorrow, we’ll go shopping tomorrow with the little one while Alice is at school.”

Mary picked up her bags ready to go then walked over to David. She placed her hand on either of his cheeks, before gently kissing his lips, she pulled away but she didn’t let go of the cheeks. “You need to stop worrying, she will absolutely love you, she won’t hate you at all. I’m sure. Call me later.” She pecked his lips again. “Remember to make sure you write down all her medical things and ask Matilda for her clothes size and-“

“And everything else possible?” Kian asked with a sarcastic smile.

David cracked a mischievous smile as he wrote it down on the list. “Okay, I got ‘everything possible’ on the list, anything else?” He added sounding angelic.

“Okay, he’s back to normal now.” Mary rolled her eyes but she was relieved. “Okay I’m going to go, I’ll see you two after work, I love you both.”

“Bye babe.”

“Love you too.” They called.

When Alice got downstairs (with two shoes on her feet now) the three quickly ate breakfast and gathered all they needed for the day. Alice was so excited she could barely sit still, she kept talking about all the things she was going to do with her foster sister, and asking how long she would be staying.

David still felt guilty about not being able to take his daughter to school. “I’m sorry, Princess, I would take you but the hospital your foster sister’s in is on the other side of the city, and I’ve gotta get there as soon as possible.”

“I could come with you.” Alice offered hopefully, she dumped her plate into the dishwasher and placed her lunch into her bag.

David shot her his charming smile, dumping his and Kian’s plates into the dishwasher and turning it on, Kian tidied up the place. “As much as I would love that, you mommy would kill me, and Emma needs a little time to get used to being with us. We’re strangers to her and she’s been really poorly but I’m sure that having you here will help her a lot.”

Kian placed his hand on Alice’s shoulder and led her out of the house, David followed them. Both men picked up their house and car keys on the way out.

“I’ll try not to be weird around her,” Alice promised, “then she might like this place. Maybe she’ll even like me.”

It broke her fathers’ hearts to hear her sound so hopeful while putting herself down.

“Hey,” David crouched down to look her in the eyes, “you are not weird and you shouldn’t feel ashamed of yourself.”

“Never, ever, change yourself to make yourself fit in with other people, Starfish.” Kian added stroking her cheek. “She’ll like you for who you are. Let me tell you a little secret- all the best people are a little different, if we were all the same the world would be a very, very boring place. Please never let being scared of what others think change you.”

“You’re the most important girl in our entire world, and nothing is going to change that, Princess, you’re always going to be our number one.”

“Until you get a baby.”

David shared a panicked and silent conversation with his husband. “Erm… what do you mean?”

“I’m not a little kid, I’m ten, and I’m good at finding things out.” She shrugged but she was fighting a proud smile over not having been seen or heard. “Is Emma still gonna be here when we get the baby?”

“Nah,” Kian threw his arm around her shoulder, “she’ll have her own family by then. Are you okay with us adopting a baby?”

“We were going to tell you, Al, all of us together, a little closer to the time – when we knew more about it.”

“Chill.” Alice grinned. “I can’t wait! I hope it’s a boy. Is it gonna be a boy? Can I hold it first? Can I name it?”

“Chill.” David mouthed to Kian: Their little girl was growing up way too fast, she was already a pre-teen, it felt like a day ago she was still having tantrums. “How about we talk about this with mommy later? We don’t know too much but we’ll talk about it all, the new baby, and us looking after Emma for a little while. Now, I’ve gotta go, I love you.” He kissed Alice’s forehead. “And I love you.” He pulled his husband closer and kissed him. “Thank you for this morning, Kee.”

The three people split into two groups and went their separate ways.

   In a hospital, about an hour away, Emma sat fidgeting in the hospital bed as a doctor checked her temperature and listened to her chest

“I hear you’re a very luckily and you get to break out of here today.”

Emma shrugged her shoulders, her toyed with her handmade blanket, she needed to pack it safely in her beat up backpack which held all her other worldly possessions. “I guess.” She knew Matilda had said they were nice, but her last social worker had said all the other places were nice, she was old enough now to know that adults fundamentally sucked and couldn’t be trusted.

The doctor frowned, he didn’t like to see the girl so down, he reached into his lab coat pocket and pulled out a handful of things. “You’ve been my favourite patient here, you’ve been very good, I’m sure that you are going to find a very good family soon, I’m willing to bet on it. I got you a few leaving presents.” He passed her a small pot of bubbles, a few lollypops, and a small pot of jam like she usually got with her breakfast. “I’ll swing by and talk to you when your new foster parents get here.” He ruffled her hair before continuing on his rounds.

Emma smiled at the gifts, she held them to her heart, then hid them at the bottom of her backpack, it was where she had hidden any and all sealed food she had got since she had turned up in the hospital, just in case. She had spent too long being starved to not prepare. She buried her blanket in her backpack and pulled out the Matilda book her social worker had given her.

She started to read.

[hornyorca]

Hurricane.

Ivar x Crippled!Reader.

This is from the prompt I made: Imagine, while on a raid, Ivar discovers someone else who’s legs are just like his.

Yes, Sigurd is alive, kma, let’s just say this was while they were in England with the huge ass fuck me army.

I don’t know where this is going bye.

. ALSO THIS IS REALLY LONG IM SORRY BUT I GOT REALLY INTO THIS.

Warnings: abuse, sensitive content, slight!suicidal thoughts/words, atheism, abandonment, and probably more stuff but I can’t think of anything right now.

A gentle chirping echoed through the morning, brushing along your ear like the chilling spring breeze, and foggy eyes bore to the rose’ sky as gold began to peak over the roofs of cottages. Eventually, your expression became half-lidded as light poured into bare pupils, and the sound of crow’s calling out-weighed the innocence of morning-doves. But even the birds as black as night could not drown out the piercing shouts of harsh tongues that began to grow ever closer, darkness fluttering in feathers across the horizon, leaving you far behind as they escaped from such a tainted presence — yours or theirs? A soft voice rattled your head in wonder, your neck rolling and popping as you shifted, splinters working their way through the fabric of your dress as your discomfort became greater. Despite it a part of it that hung by a shredded thread, the last part of your dwindling faith asked in apathy to God: have you no sympathy left to give a sinner a second chance? Has the rest of the world worn you so thin?

The brandishing laughs, and the reason you began to see figures trekking through the thick fog should have been reason enough to diminish faith in your soul. That whore, that whore, your mind chanted, causing you more discomfort. But as you twisted in a feeble attempt to gain comfort, something warm raced down the palm of your hand and dangerously played on the tips of your fingers. Crawling in your brain, you heard nothing but the taunting voices that haunted your life, and there was a thump-thump, repeatedly throwing your head back against the thick wood that held your spine taunt. There was still so much inside of you as memories relapsed, the beating of your heart matching the strength of a black smith’s hammer; she had angered the Lord, and you were the punishment upon them, and to the demons, a sacrifice would go.

The spawn would be the perfect offering, would it not?

Curling, your teeth bared in the holy light of the sky, damning it as you began to thrash in your binds, a dry cry ripping through your sore throat. They were coming, they would see you before the deserted area, and your once idol only knew what they would do to you. The pain that coursed through your wrists did nothing to stop you, nor did the tears pouring down your nipped cheeks blind you from seeing them closer, and as the hounds sniffed the air, it was the scent of fresh blood in the melting snow that caught their senses. Your form rippled, shivering as the cold began to slowly set in like your fate, and burly demons surrounding your ascending form, one of them sat upon his throne that was carried by a pure stallion. 

A crow upon a straw roof screeching was the only sound you were still alive, and despite the situation, all the adrenaline began to catch up with you as you laughed and growled, slamming your skull against the post once more. They began to talk among your episode of mania, and the sharp rolls of their tongues made you wonder how anything could be more dangerous in this world. Through a now calmer sense, despite the heaving of your chest and the heated stares you were receiving from each of them, one word made your blood boil as it was spoken with utter disgust: Christian.

You spat as hard as you could, seeming to catch the attention of the conversing group, and especially the man who sat upon his throne who looked like he had suddenly made a very important decision.  “Fuck you,” Whether they could understand you clearly or not, but the malice in your voice and your snarl would surely get a message across. Though, it was not the answer you thought to receive — a flash of metal glinted in flight, and you were forced to stare at your reflection from the corner of your eye, oxygen releasing from your lungs.

The reflection of a devil, but the blade of an axe embedded beside your head would not be the only mirror you would glance in that day.

Despite the stillness that numbed you, and the ocean that became restless in your veins, there was nothing in the shock that wavered on your face, even as a red streak dripped down your temple. There was a round of laughter and cheers, seeming as though they thought you had been put in your place, but the man in his chariot immediately urged his horse closer, the white fur almost glittering as his gaze stripped you to the core. There was something about this demon, one that did not stand in any of the men there, even the ones that copied his eyes. His arms crossed, resting atop the rim of his throne as he leaned over, and it seemed for a moment there was nothing else in existence as you defiantly held the demon’s gaze. “Death stomps your holy ground and snaps at your feet, yet you throw insults and do not plead in fear?”

His English was a surprise, sounding wrong from his accented tongue, but it was oddly comforting to you. Rolling your stiff jaw, you knew there was no chance in fighting for your life, a thing you no longer cared for, so a calm washed over your being and your muscles went lax in your tight binds. “Why should I fear a kinder fate than I have been cursed with?” A part of you hoped this would end soon, this toying game of the hunt, and the next thing that would touch your skin would be a sword piercing through your skull.

The demon spoke, causing several men to act without hesitation. They crowded you, your face curling up in disgust as hands crawled around your body, bracing yourself for anything they were to touch or grab, but you were unprepared for the sudden shift in gravity as your binds were cut. Weight dropped, crushing to your legs and the pain that shot you like an arrow caused you to scream, but there was no crack before you fell to the barren ground. Instinctively you tried to catch yourself, only resulting in sliding, sharp rocks biting at your skin as you steadied. A foreign shout echoed the quiet group and it was then the crowd cheered, celebrating for what you did not know, but they began taking off in separate directions; kicking down doors to empty houses, ripping through food stalls, prying open barrels and boxes. “Where have the rest of you gone?”

A shaky breath escaped your lips, little clouds rolling upwards, but you could not find the strength within to lift your head and properly address the predator that spoke, though, the wondering eyes did not escape. “Ran,” You explained, the dirt spreading across your skin as your upper-half shifted, lips curling back at the spreading sting. Hopefully dead, darkness added, the screech of a raven ringing in your ears louder, the muscle under your eye twitching.

Despite how cold the ground was, the snow that leaked through your dress was almost inviting as it numbed your skin. It slowed your thoughts, your movements, as you raised your head a bit, glancing up through your lashes at the six men who were gathered in front of you like an alter, and flashes of armor and hair shifted behind them. “They left you behind?” A softer voice reached your ears, seeming almost surprised at the thought. 

Snapping up, your eyes met his almost instantly, a beautiful blue like all six of them were a little wide, though this one was famed with golden hair. Though, you remained impassive, peeking your tongue out to race your bottom lip. “Is it in your nature to ask stupid questions?”

Why had they not driven a sword through your heart? An axe through your skull? Ended your pain and suffering ? Perhaps they were going to toy with you first and see what all makes you tick and squirm.. whoever can make you scream the loudest wins?

Far from the reaction you expected, two of them burst out in laughter  — one clutching onto his carriage as the joyous noise escaped him, the other giggling manically, “Only him.” Stated the king, amusement lacing his voice has he came down him high, now relaxing and staring at you in half-lidded wonder.

Fingers twitching, the blonde was no where near amused, his hand nearing his rusted blood-soaked weapon. “Talk like that, you sound like you want to die.” His voice held much promise, one you were expecting him to keep.

“Go ahead,” You offered, immediately rolling on your back, shivering noticeably as the freezing temperature tried to paralyze you. Spreading your arms out, your eyes dropped tight and had you not been such a disgrace, you could of describe yourself as being crucified, but it was only water and your own sweat sticking to you and not blood. Yet.. “I have been left here as an offering, so take it. Let the blood of a whore’s pathetic crippled appease you.”

A dog barked, dove’s coo’d despite the hell that wandered the land and the silence around had never sounded so loud. “What did you just say?”

Fluttering your eyes open, confusion curled on your features as you looked up, selfishly drinking in the tanned sight of the king on his chariot, who was now hanging to look at you. His blue eyes were colder than a winter storm, his jaw taunt, fingers flexing around the rim of his throne. “I told you to kill me.”

“No, not that... “

“You are a crippled?” A small amount of astonishment.

“I want to hear her say it!” The dark one shouted, snapping like a wolf, silencing the man that stood beside him who bore a scar on his forehead. 

A low rumble resonated in your chest as you continued to lay on your back, spread wide for anything. “Yes,” A hiss, disgust seeping in your words and the child inside of you wanted to curl, shielding your soul away from the sneering glances and lashing words. “Taunt me, laugh at me  — say what you will for it no longer bothers me.”

It was then you found little breath in the glimpse of vulnerability that swam in his oceans, the blue almost glittering in the snow as you held his sight. A few foreign words flew through the air and two pairs of hands were grabbing your arms, manhandling you up, your limp legs dangling below you as each arm was slung over a shoulder, and they bought you dangerously close to the devil. “Who are these people?” 

For a moment, there was confusion in your mind until you realized he meant those who tormented you, treated you less than human and showed you what it was like to be a wild animal, and suddenly a strange shyness cloaked your being, an innocence peaking in your soul that you never remembered having. The nipping of the breeze did nothing to help the pink that dusted over your cheeks, and your head dipped, suddenly unable to withstand his gaze. “Everyone,” The heaviness in your voice seemed to be understanding.

Warm fingertips ghosted your chapped lips before your jaw was cupped, head tilted up and for the first time that you could remember, you felt accepted as his calloused thumb stoked the dimple above your chin. “What would you do if you found them?”

Something spilled from you, a heaviness in your eyes and breath bellowed from your mouth, a waterfall of clouds rolling through the air. Never so openly would you share your thoughts with someone, unable to understand what was happening to you. “I would kill them all.” 

That whore, that whore, your mind chanted.

He said nothing with clouded eyes, only jerking his head in the direction behind him and suddenly you were carried to the back of his carriage. Wide eyed, you quivered, not fully processing the things you had just shared, what was happening or what was to come. Sitting you down on the back of the carriage, your legs dangled over and out of curiosity you glanced to the man who was straddling his chair. In that moment, you understood nothing  — not the foreign words that were spoken back and forth and shouted, not even the English words that were spoken...

All you could focus on were the bound legs of the devil on his throne.