#very glad I kept the mannequin head my friend gave me as a joke

[finmoryo]

First circlet I’ve ever made, still very much a WIP

[blackmissfrizzle]

Just Right (3)

Part 2

Characters: Angel Reyes x black!plussized!reader

Chapter Summary: Someone throws a wrench in the plans.

Chapter Warning: Footbal AU. Don’t hate me please 😬 angst, implied smut, and some very petty behavior.

If you want to read more here’s my masterlist and you want to be notified when I post here’s my taglist

Divider credit: @firefly-graphics

The next morning, you had a pep in your step. Angel left you in bed with breakfast and a note saying he went on a run.

Coming downstairs you heard Angel’s voice, you assumed he was on the phone and not talking to the devil herself.

“Adelita, this is a surprise.” Angel backed away from her when he heard your voice.

“Y/N,” she smiled and pulled you into a hug. Backing away she twirled your hair around your finger. “I see the drought is over. Who’s the lucky guy?” If Adelita wasn’t so damn conceited she would’ve smelled Angel on you. But of course, you wouldn’t be able to bag a guy like Angel.

Angel cleared his throat and stepped in between the two of you, grabbing onto Adelita’s hips. “Uhh, let’s leave Y/N alone. I’m sure she’s not the kiss and tell type.”

“Not around you.” She joked, patting Angel’s chest. “Once we’re done talking me and you can have some girl talk like old times. Just you’ll be the one sharing stories this time.”

The nerve. This is the second time in your life that you wanted to knock Adelita out. “Yeah sure.” You gave her a tight smile over your shoulder and went back to your room.

While walking you could hear the hushed whispers and the sounds of lips kissing. As soon as you knew you were out of sight you ran to your room and immediately started packing.

“What are you doing?” Right after Adelita left, Angel ran to you. “What does it look like Angel?”

Tugging your pants out of your hands, Angel stopped you. “You don’t have to leave.”

“And what?!” You screamed in his face. “Stay here with you and Adelita?!”

He tried to hug you, but you pushed him away. “You really must be crazy. How are you just gonna take her back?”

“She was my fiancée, she deserves the benefit of the doubt.” Angel explained like it was a one size fits all reason.

“Oh, the same fiancée that dumped you once your future was unsure.” You scrunched your face up. “The same fiancée that told you it was over through a letter? The same fiancée that was all over social media hanging out and partying while you were in rehab? The same fiancée that so happens to ‘coincidentally’ come back into your life after you just made the biggest comeback ever?” You brushed past him went out the door. “Yeah, you can miss me with that bullshit.”

Angel trailed behind you, hoping he could amend things with you. “Y/N, I’m sorry.”

Whipping around you shoved him. “Yeah, you are. You know honestly, I don’t feel bad for myself as much as I do for you. I pray to God that he never makes me as pathetic as you. Have a nice life, Angel Reyes.”

Opening the front door revealed a sympathetic Mr. Felipe and an angry EZ. They both tried to stop you, but you kissed each man goodbye promising to keep in touch.

EZ waited until he saw you drive away to attack his brother. “What the fuck did you do?” Angel blocked some of his brother’s punches, but EZ managed to get some in.

Felipe was able to pull his youngest off his eldest. “EZ that’s enough!”

“Nah, Pop! You saw her. She practically ran out in tears.”

“It’s none of your damn business, Ezekiel!” Angel tried to walk away from them, but Felipe stopped him. “Explain yourself, son.”

“Adelita.” Both his father and brother groaned at that name. Now they knew why you ran out like that.

EZ didn’t have time for whatever excuse that his brother had. “You two deserve each other. And I hope when you come to your senses it’s too late.” He slammed the door on the way out, too disgusted with Angel to stay.

A few moments later Felipe followed his son out. “Pop,” Angel cried out, hoping to gain some sort of sympathy. “Not right now, Angel.” He stopped at the door and looked back at his son. “Unlike your brother I hope it won’t be too late for you to come to your senses. When you stick your head out of your ass, you and Y/N are perfect for each other.”

Once he was alone, Angel sat on the staircase wondering if he made the right decision.

Losing Angel just wasn’t about your heart breaking, but also losing your best friend. Those months spent with him was probably the best time of your life. The only thing that got you through the days were work and Rio.

At first, he assured you that he could just be your friend but someway somehow, he wormed his way into something more. You told him that you didn’t want him as some rebound, but he cockily said, “Ain’t no way I’m a rebound.” So, you stayed and started dating him.

You were reading a book when Rio came and laid his head in your lap. “Mamaaaa,” he sung kissing the little bit of your exposed fupa. “What do you want?” He was only this adorable when he wanted something like that extra cookie that would mess up his diet. “Nothing extra. Just go to dinner with me.”

“That’s it?” You closed your book and set it down to look at him curiously. “Yeah, I got a dress picked out, hairstylist and makeup artist on the way.”

“Wait, what kind of dinner is this?” Dinners with Rio never required all the hoopla. “The league always hosts a dinner for all the teams in the semifinals.”

“I know, I know, I know,” Rio trampled over your words, not letting you get a word in. “I know that dumbass is gonna be there, but I think it would be the perfect place to show him what he’s missing out on.”

If you went this would be the first time you saw Angel and you weren’t sure if you were ready for that. Last time he made you look like a fool. “I don’t know Rio.”

Sitting up, Rio picked you up and sat you down in your lap. “But mama,” he attacked your neck with his lips, adding a little bite every now and then. “I’ll be bored without you. And who am I gonna shove in a closet and fuck her like a dirty girl?”

“You’ll be fine without me for a couple of hours.”

“Alright, time for the big guns.” Rio led you to his bedroom with a covered mannequin in the center. Unveiling the mannequin, he revealed the most beautiful dress. You would be crazy to not wear that dress.

“Ok, I’ll go!” Rio pulled you by your hips against him. “Good, I thought I would have to use my other negotiation methods.”

“Nah, I still need convincing.” Rio backed you into the bed and pulled off your shorts. “Okay, but you got 15 minutes to cum two times before the stylist gets here.”

Angel was doing his best at trying to keep his cool. Adelita was making her way through all the owners, sponsors, and players ‘networking’ to gain traction for her cause. It wasn’t that he didn’t support, actually he was very supportive of it, but this night was in celebration of him and the other players. And he couldn’t ask her to quit it without looking like a complete douchebag.

“Are you two seriously making bets?” Angel wasn’t paying that much attention to Coco and Gilly until they said Adelita’s name. They were betting on when she would corner their team owner, Miguel Galindo. “How else are we gonna pass the time? Ain’t like there’s scintillating conversation.” Coco collected money from Riz and put it in his breast pocket.

“Pendejo,” Angel ordered another drink and while waiting for it he heard Coco whistle. Turning around to see what made Coco speechless, Angel was glad that he already set his old glass on the bar top, because he would’ve dropped it. There you were in the most beautiful dress looking like a goddess, but his mood soured when he saw that it was Rio escorting you.

Bishop walked up beside him and smacked him in the back of the head. “Fucking dumbass. Now she’s with that asshole.” Angel opened his mouth to say something, but Bishop held up his hand. “I don’t wanna hear it. And you better leaver her alone, she looks happy.” His coach pointed his chin towards you and Rio kissing. Angel slammed back his drink and ordered another one. This was about to be a long night.

“I’m gonna go say hi to Bishop and the guys.” Rio looked for your friends and saw that Angel was right there next to them. “You sure? You want me to go with you?” It warmed your heart that Rio was so protective over you. It was unfamiliar territory for you. Usually, you were the one protecting others. “No, you stay here with your team, I’ll be okay.” Rio quirked his eyebrow, questioning you. He was trying to break you out of the habit of you masking your feelings, pretending you’re fine when you’re really not. “Rio, I promise. I’ll be good.” You patted his chest and started to walk away, but then he caught Angel staring at the two of you real hard and he couldn’t help but give him a show.

Spinning you around into his arms, Rio smashed his lips against yours. His still taste a little bit of yourself from when he wanted to make you his meal. Rio’s hands drifted to your ass and you did little to stop him. Ending the kiss, he tugged your bottom lip slowly releasing it and ending your connection. “Go say hi to your friends.” He whispered in your ear, fixing some of your lipstick that got under your lips.

Angel wanted to knock Rio the clean the fuck out. Who the fuck did he think he was practically dry humping you in public like that? “You better keep your mouth shut. You lost your privileges to be mad.” Coach Hank warned Angel as he saw you approach the group.

“Hey guys!” You were genuinely happy to see all of them. Since, you cut off contact with Angel you haven’t talked to any of them at all.

They all lined up to hug you, almost fighting each other to be the first one. But Angel waited his turn. He had a lot more to say than just hi.

It was a bit awkward at first. Neither one of you made the first move. Eventually, you threw yourself in his arms and you were almost a goner. You did not know that hugging him would bring back all those feelings you tried to bury deep down.

“You look beautiful.” He kept a hand around your wrist, his thumb stroking the inside of it. “Thank you.”

His eyes kept dipping to your dress. There were some cut out pieces revealing more skin than he cared for. “Where’s the rest of your dress?”

Snatching your wrist away, you crossed your arms over your chest to keep yourself from slapping the shit out of Angel. “Rio doesn’t seem to mind.”

Angel invaded your space and glared down at you. “Do I look like Rio?”

“Do I look like Adelita?”

Angel bit the inside of his cheek. He knew he had no reason to question you. You weren’t his, but damn it he wanted you to be.

“This was a mistake coming over here. Go back and talk to your fiancée.”

“She’s not my fiancée.”

Skrtt, you stopped your retreat. “Say what?”

“I said she’s not my fiancée.” Angel wasn’t able to explain further. Adelita finally came and graced you with her presence. She didn’t pay any attention to Angel. All her attention was on you. Adelita was actually pulling you away to talk to one of the other coaches about joining their staff.

This was almost as torturous as talking to Angel. Adelita barely let you get a word in. She was acting like she was your damn agent. Luckily, Rio came and saved the day.

“Where are we going?” You whispered as he pulled you into the hallway. “Don’t worry about it.” He jiggled each door until he found an unlocked door and pushed you through.

“Rio no,” you weakly protested clutching onto his tux. “What? You don’t wanna give daddy a little something something?” He pouted, knowing it was your weakness.

“Okay, but it has to be fast.” Rio kissed you some more knowing how turned you got by simply making out.

Due to your combined breaths getting heavier neither one of you heard the turning of the doorknob. It wasn’t until the light from the hallway shone on you and Rio, exposing your dirty deed.

“Oh shit, my bad dawg!” Angel lifted his head from Adelita’s neck and apologized to the other couple. He didn’t mean it all. Angel saw Rio lead you to the hallway and by the mischievous look he had on his face, he knew his opponent was up to no good.

The little smirk on Angel’s face told you that none of it was an accident. “It’s okay, I wasn’t feeling well anyway. I think we should go home.” You smirked back at Angel. He wasn’t the only one that can play games.

“C’mon Angel, they need to get home.” Adelita winked at you and led an unwilling Angel back to the party.

You were almost out until you got stopped by Mr. Galindo. He was the only team owner you hadn’t talked to that night.

With Miguel Galindo trying to convince you to join his staff and Adelita standing next to you patiently waiting for her chance, Angel and Rio were left alone with each other.

“I don’t know what you’re doing, but stay the fuck away from Y/N. You’re no good for her.” Angel had to refrain from snatching up Rio as he laughed. “You got jokes man.” Rio stepped closer to him, they were basically nose to nose. “At least when I make her cry it’s from my dick and not from being a dickwad.”

Out of the corner of your eye, you kept watch on Rio and Angel. Those two couldn’t be alone without trying to fight in the first 30 seconds.

The scene before you was getting to be too much, but you couldn’t do anything without being disrespectful towards Miguel. Thankfully, Coco and Gilly were watching them too and were able to pull Angel away.

Somehow Miguel talked you into staying for the entire dinner. And because the universe loved you so much you and Rio were assigned to the same table as Angel and Adelita.

After Adelita formally introduced herself to him. And you didn’t know if it was the alcohol or not, but it seemed that she was flirting with Rio. Not that you had anything to worry about. Rio wasn’t entertaining her at all.

“She take my money when I’m in need. Yeah, she’s a trifling’ friend indeed.” As soon as you recognized the notes, you tried to stomp Rio’s foot, but he was too quick.

“Huh, what was that?” Adelita didn’t quite catch what Rio was saying. “Oh nothing, I just got a song stuck in my head.  Now I ain’t saying she a gold digger. But she ain’t messing’ with no broke bro.”

Angel had to admit to himself that was funny, but ain’t no way he’ll let Rio know that.

“Stop it!” You whispered in Rio’s ear. Even if Adelita was oblivious to him making fun of her, everyone else surrounding them wasn’t. “Now you know you always tell me that but we both know you don’t mean it hear or at home.” Heat crept up your face and all you could do was hide your face in the crook of Rio’s neck. Rio slightly turned to kiss your forehead while fingering the bracelet he got you.

Once the glint of the bracelet caught Adelita’s eye she snatched your wrist from Rio. You didn’t mind though because you and Rio were off in your own little world. Not even the harsh stare from Angel could tear your eyes away from Angel.

“Ouch! What the fuck, Angel?” Adelita rubbed at her ankle. “My bad.” He frowned as Rio smirked at him knowing full well he was the intended target.

As the night went on, Rio’s and Angel’s antics went up. You don’t know what you did, but you had two petty kings arguing over you. And at times it was funny but also stressful.

The little innuendos concerning you flew over Adelita’s head but everyone else was getting them. They were getting so vicious that Coco and Gilly started another bet on who would swing first.

The event was concluding when things got downright ugly. Angel once again voiced his concerns of Rio dating you. Rio had enough and went for the low blow. “You’re just mad because I already took your girl and I’m about to take your city and your ring.”

Coco and Gilly’s bet was long forgotten as Angel went for Rio. “Don’t be mad, Reyes. I’m just spitting facts. If I’m wanna keep it hunnid, if I threw the right amount of cash, I could have your other girl too.”

“RIO!” You scolded him trying to pull him away. Thank god, Adelita was nowhere near to hear that little bit.

“Nah, babe fuck that.” Rio shrugged you off of him and stood toe to toe to Angel. “You ain’t on top no more big dawg. Get use to it.”

Angel just shook his head and turned around like a wounded animal. “Coco, give Gilly his money.”

“What?” Coco asks too late because Angel threw the first punch at Rio. And once they started fighting it was hard to get them to stop. Even Gilly couldn’t hold Angel. It wasn’t until you did something that they stopped.

Bishop tried to stop you once he noticed what you were attempting to do, but you slipped right past him. The boys were in between blows giving you the perfect opportunity to step in the middle of them. As soon as you became an obstacle each man lowered their fist.

Angel actually started to cower some when he saw your face. This was like your training face but a thousand times worse. Rio never saw you this pissed and he was beginning to get scared to breath the wrong way. Either way both men knew to shut the hell up.

Facing Angel first, you shoved him in the chest. “Angel Ignacio Reyes, I know you were raised better than this.”

“I’m sorry.” Angel mumbled, his eyes downcasted.

“And you!” You faced Rio, pointing a finger in his face. “I’ll deal with you when we get home.”

“Next time leave your petty bullshit for the football field.” You told the both of them before heading out without even waiting for Rio. 

Damn, you knew you should’ve stayed your behind at home.

Tagging: @tashawar​ @ourlittlesecretsoveragain​ @starrynite7114​ @sambucky8​ @mygirlrenee​ @richonne4life​ @readsalot73​ @chaneajoyyy​ @enamouravecleslivresetlechocolat​ @jassydwill11​ @otomefromtheheart​ @miss-nori85​ @xsweetdellzx​ @cocogodess15​ @ljstraightnochaser​ @my-rosegold-soul​ @angrythingstarlight​ @brattyfics​ @lovebennycolon​ @langiinspirations​ @chibsytelford​ @trulysuccubus​ @spookys-girl​ @sesamepancakes​ @literaturefeen​ @brownsugarcoffy​ @thesandbeneathmytoes​ @fvckthisbxtchup​ @theartisticqueen​ @vsfavs​ @tomhardydallasstarsgirl​ @angelreyesgirl​ @woahitslucyylu​ @marvelmaree​ @blessedboo​

[fadiingstarliight]

( @qvietwhispers )

jayden

He barely knew Faye at all but she seemed like a lovely person and he was honestly eager to meet her and.. also then break up her old stuff. When he got there he saw a woman at the entrance but wasn't entirely sure if it was her.  "I was told to look for the enthusiastic shop owner, I'm Jade." he said with a smile on his lips.

faye

Faye wasn't lying, she'd definitely recieved weirder text messages in her lifetime, and if anything, Jade had only intrigued her. She'd been half tempted to text Declan about them, before realising Jade would walk through the door at any moment. She'd been fixing a mannequin by the entrance, draping a feather boa over it when the door charmed. "Hey! That'd be me," Faye chipped happily, a wide smile upon her lips. Her eyes scanned over the other, recognising him from a few odd times he'd been in the shop. She made a mental note to tell Mira later that he was definitely cute. "Ready to smash some shit?"

jayden

Faye was a lot more chirpier in person than he could guess over text but he didn't complain. Her smile was contagious and he grinned back at the other. He suddenly realized that the reason she seemed so familiar was not exactly his previous visits to the store but the video he had seen of her during the elections. This wasn't just any Faye, it was Faye Waters, but he didn't think it was remotely close to a good idea to bring that up. Now or ever if they stayed friends. "Nice to meet you Faye." he said before a small laugh left his lips. "Yes, I would absolutely love to do that as long as you don't write me off as the weird guy who came out of the blue and smashed shit." he chuckled.

faye

Faye had a lot of questions, but she figured he had enough going on without her hounding him about it. "Nice to meet you too, Jade," she told him brightly, the smile never leaving her lips. "I would never," she teased, "Though that certainly is an interesting title, don't you think?" She gave a head up to the other on shift, before gesturing him to follow out back.

jayden

"Interesting title?" he repeated before he got what she meant and a laugh left his lips. "The weird guy thing I said? Please do not." He chuckled and nodded in response to her question, following her to the back room where it was far more abundantly clear that this was the second hand shop with a bunch of old things lined up without any reformation done to them. "Do you do this often?" he asked as the other handed him a baseball bat and he took it from her looking down at it in mild amusement.

faye

"Yeah, weird guy who came out of the blue and smashed shit," She repeated, laughter leaving her lips. "Alright fine, just Jade it is," Faye grinned at him, practically skipping out to the back. She grabbed the bats she kept lying around, handing him one without hesitation. At his question, she laughed. "Fairly often. I used to live in LA, and they had this place called Rage Ground. You ever heard of Rage Rooms? You basically just go there to smash shit. I used to go with a friend of mine Landon, it was a great way to relieve stress." Faye admitted, shrugging her shoulders before pointing at one of the items with her bat. "Give it a try. Trust me."

jayden

Jade looked amused as the other called him the same weird guy thing again before she referred him by his name. "Thank you." he chuckled and listened as she spoke of the rage rooms back in LA, still looking down at the bat skeptically. "I have heard of them, never actually been to one." he told the other. "I mean, it's not often I go anywhere that's not work. I went to New York one time for a wedding, and then Vegas to get married." he shook his head a little as he spoke of his drunk wedding at Vegas. "And I did go on vacation to Miami but I suppose beaches and rage rooms aren't the same thing." He nodded and took a deep breath before he swung the bat with all the strength he could muster at the bunch of stuff, a deafening smash echoing through the room before he turned to look at Faye and laughed in shock. "You are right that does feel good." he said sounding rather startled by that fact. "Are you going to do this too?"

faye

"You're welcome," Faye laughed with him, shaking her head. "Oh they're so much fun," she told him before tilting her head as she listen to him speak. "Did you not want to travel? Or just didn't have time?" She asked him curiously. "You got married in Vegas?" Faye arched an eyebrow, before realising that was probably the divorce that was causing him to smash things. "Well, I went travelling after high school. Been here, there and everywhere. Settled in LA though, but I used to travel a lot with my previous jobs," she moved the conversation from vegas swiftly, shrugging her shoulders. "Oh yeah definitely not, beaches are fun, but a different kind of stress reliever to this," she admitted, pointing at the pile of junk. Faye watched as he swung the bat, laughter spilling from her own lips as he laughed in shock. "Right? I'm not entirely crazy," she teased, before nodding. "Well I can't let you have all the fun." Without hesitating further, Faye swung her bat at one of the cupboards she'd found no use for, grinning widely.

jayden

"Maybe one day. Or maybe there are those in Charleston, I don't know." he mused before he shrugged at her question. "Guess I've always been busy? So I never really thought of it but when I do go I have fun so maybe I should plan vacations occasionally." he chuckled. Not that he would anytime soon having had taken a few days off work to visit Nessa in Miami. Perhaps, next year or so. "Yeah, I did. Would recommend a Vegas wedding but not a Vegas marriage. The trip was actually a lot of fun." He didn't really want to talk much about it but then again he saw no point to keeping it to himself and not talk about it at all. It was a chapter of his life he can turn over and move on from but it was always gonna be there anyway. "Traveling for work doesn't sound like the worst thing." he smiled at her before raising his brows in amusement as she trashed one of the cupboards. He followed her lead, feeling his anger leave him little by little with every swing of his bat. "You're definitely not entirely crazy." he said as he laughed, looking down at the resultant mess.

faye

"Oh I've not actually looked in Charleston," She admitted, tapping her chin in thought. "That makes sense, but you should definitely plan more vacations. Hey, if you ever need a travel buddy, you know where to find me," Faye grinned, gesturing at the store. She wasn't sure he'd ever take her up on the offer, but she loved travelling, and hadn't actually left Wakefield since she'd come back. "So I just need to find someone to get married in Vegas so I can witness it," She joked, laughing. "I'm glad you had fun though." As he spoke of her old job, Faye shrugged. "Yes and no. Sometimes I didn't actually get much time to actually explore anyway." Pulling a face, she swung the bat again. "Somewhat crazy, but only enough that it's fun, and not horrifying."

jayden

"Maybe there is one and we can go." he suggested grinning at her before a laugh left his lips at her suggestion to travel together but he stopped abruptly on realizing she wasn't joking. "You're serious? Like actually travel somewhere together?" he asked her, his words coloured with disbelief at the offer. "That would be ideal." he said, that was a great conclusion to come to from what he had told her about his experience with a Vegas wedding. He simply nodded as she spoke of her old job, she was very vague and he didn't bother to dig more. If she left it and owned a shop here, there was probably a reason for it. "Yep, not completely horrifying." he said before he swung his bat again, this time a few times consecutively, channeling all the anger he felt at himself on the poor dresser which Faye seemed to think was of no use anymore. It went on longer than last time, longer than he realized and when he was done he dropped the bat and sat down cross-legged on the floor, hands in his hair and taking deep breaths to steady himself.

faye

"I'll have to look and find out," She agreed with a grin. At his abrupt stop to his laughter, Faye let out a giggle of his own. "Not used to strangers offering to go on holiday with you?" She joked, "but yeah, why not? You want to travel, I want to travel, could be fun." Shrugging her shoulders, Faye's smile never left her lips. She was pretty sure the other wouldn't take her up on the offer but she meant it all the same. Faye focused on smashing the offending objects, taking her recent stresses with worrying about Dean out on the poor furniture. Faye had finished before Jade had, watching him as he then dropped the bat and dropped to the floor. "You okay?" She asked softly, sitting down opposite him, concern lacing her features.

jayden

Jade chuckled in response and he definitely was not used to this. The last time this happened he had gotten married in Vegas so he wasn't entirely sure it was the best of ideas either. "It could. I would need to take time off work though which wont be happening for the next few months at least." When he finally let the bat fall to the ground and sat down himself Jade's head was spinning. He hadn't really given himself a moment to come to terms with the fact that his marriage with Nessa, if one could even call it that was actually over. "Yeah, yeah." he said distantly, barely focusing on the others words.

faye

"Well the offer's always open, and hey, at that point we may actually know eachother," she mused with a grin. However her cheerful nature faded as she saw how he was, her frown growing as she watched him cautiously. "Hey," Faye spoke softly, reaching out and placing her hand on his bicep. "Talk to me, come on, what's going through that head of yours?"

jayden

Jade hadn't even realized how angry he was about the divorce with Nessa. Not at her, but more at himself. Because it was so many years that he had hoped for something with her when a part of him had always known that they would never work out. She was too wild, different, demanding, and he could never keep up with her. He should have known. And the more he thought of it the angrier he became, and with an outlet for his anger right before him, he used it without holding back. He took a few deep breaths before looking at the other. "I fucked up my own life." he admitted out loud. "I just.. yeah, I knew this was going to be the end result and I dragged it out for years. It sucks."

faye

Faye frowned as he finally spoke, brows furrowing together at the admission. Her teeth tugged on her lower lip, before she shrugged. "Don't take this the wrong way, but people do stupid shit when they're blindly in love with someone. I would know. I've been there." She admitted, voice unusually quiet, it wasn't often Faye spoke about her ex. "You have every right to be angry. Even if it's at yourself. I was, for years. It'll get easier."

jayden

"Yeah, I suppose." he said quietly saddened on hearing that she had a similar situation. "I'm sorry to hear that. Sucks to be us, I guess?" he said, a small smile on his lips but it didn't reach his eyes. He hated how he felt, he hated the anger, he wished he could skip past of of this mess and go right to the moving on. "I hope so. I doubt you have enough things for me to break if it doesn't get better." he added, hoping to lighten the mood.

faye

"Yeah, I guess it does," Faye forced out a huff of laughter, shaking her head somewhat sadly. However, at his comment, the corners of her lips twitched upwards in amusement. "It will, but in the mean time, we should definitely try and find a rage room. Most of this trash I actually rescue," She admitted, "These were lost causes though."

jayden

"That's a good plan. But also, I don't really do this often, or ever. So, I don't know if I need a rage room." he chuckled. As much as he felt good, this shouldn't become a regular thing, right? He didn't know if it was good for him or not. "I think I'm all out of rage now though." he said with a smile. "Do you want to show me some of the things you actually rescued?" he asked the other, not really in the mood to be breaking things anymore.

faye

"Well no, but sometimes this is the healthiest way to get your frustrations out. Better a piece of furniture than snapping at someone you care about," Faye shrugged her shoulders. As he said he was out of rage, Faye grinned again, standing up. "Yeah of course, follow me." She told him, leading him back into the shop.

jayden

Jade nodded in agreement at the others words, she did have a point. He smiled a little as the other got ready to take him back to the front to actually see what she sold in her store. He silently followed the girl out of the room, leaving the destroyed remains of what she called the lost causes behind.

END

[sick-raven]

Aftermath - Jill/Female OC

Inspired by RE3 Demo and Jill’s note.

After Spencer mansion incident, Jill has trouble sleeping and she has nightmares about being infected. She just wants to rest for one night and get away from the all Umbrella problems.

Situated between the incident and Raccon city outbreak.

Warnings: It’s porn, as always.

You can also read on AO3

Aftermath

The streets of Raccoon city smelled of decay, smoke and gasoline. Jill Valentine ran through, dodging zombies and other monsters, looking for her way out of this hellhole. She was on another fetch quest to progress in breaking out of this concrete prison. Escape routes were blocked by barricades or monsters, changing once living city into undead one.

Streets she walked every day became unrecognizable. Places she shopped at now looked eerie with blinking lights, mannequins in the windows, glass broken as monsters broke in to eat whoever was hiding among the shelves. What she once knew has become just a ghost.

So did people.

God so did people.

Brad dying in front of her brought back memories of Spencer mansion. She could take those. But others – civilians, friends, people she met once – those hurt her more. Officers went into their jobs knowing the dangers, but these people? She hated Umbrella for what they’ve done. She needs to survive only to make them pay.

But seeing them rotting, decaying…

She entered some building. Just few days ago it was bakery, today it was smelling mess of blood and moaning. Normally she wouldn’t risk getting into tight spaces with zombies waiting behind doors and in dark corners, but she could cut most of the way going through. Plus, she still had that giant stalking her, it’s better to get out of plain sight.

The smell in the backroom was terrible. Just few months ago she would joked: “Something died here or what?” She knew better since the mansion incident. She knew better since the virus spread through the city. Her heart was racing, but her movements were precise and calm. She was glad – she didn’t want to get used to this. She felt like she would lose part of her humanity if she did. She can be professional and still hate this and be sick to the bones.

Shuffling. Jill turned her light to see in the darkness. Back there, behind table with moulding bread, dead lady was walking. Jill aimed. She learned to not hesitate – there was no help for these people. Only thing she could do was either avoid them or shoot them. If she had the means, she would kill this whole city just so the people stopped suffering, their bodies stopped doing this!

But this time, she hesitated.

It hurt her when she saw friends walking dead.

“I’m sorry, Rachel.”

***

Being in Raccoon city after the incident was hell. Not only did nobody listen to the surviving S.T.A.R.S. members, they did everything to shut them up. And to all what was happening, Jill still had trouble sleeping, waking up several times every night drained in sweat, heart beating and the fear that this is it. She is turning. She will look in the mirror and see her face, decaying. Her skin always itched like crazy and she regretted the minute she read the diary of one of the mansion workers. The itching was just her brain playing tricks on her.

Unless it wasn’t. And she will scratch her meat off and go wandering to the city in search for snack.

She needed break. Leaving her apartment now when they suspended her felt like playing with fire. They never approached her, but she saw them – people watching her closely, checking whether she is causing trouble for Umbrella again. She and Brad investigated what they could, but since the start of the August she was never alone for a minute. If her flat was wired, she would just shrug and say: “Oh, I thought so. They are following me all the time and they think they are being subtle.”

No investigation today. No care for people on her back. She was on the case daily, worked hard to the point of regretting being so thorough. No, she needed to ease up, get few drinks, meet new people. Free evening. She just wanted to forget everything for at least few moments. And if the jerks Umbrella set on her want to stop her, she will get mean.

She got to the bar without interruption, however, she saw two men watching her suspiciously. Normally she would think they were checking her out, but at this moment, the world had zero perverts just many stalkers. She sat at the bar and ordered beer. Getting out of her apartment felt good, even though her brain kept going back in loops to the incident.

She didn’t know how long she was sitting there contemplating, but it took her one and half beer when a woman sat next to her. “You know, hon, if you plan to drink for sadness you need something better than beer.”

“It’s that visible?” she asked.

“If your face was any longer, it would touch the floor.”

Jill laughed shortly. The woman dressed in short dress was nice, with long hair slightly darker than her face. She had a cute smile. “And to think I came here to have fun. I’m doing terrible job.”

“The pool table is empty right now.”

“Is that invitation?”

“Sure thing. I’m Rachel.”

“Jill.”

When was the last time she just went out to play pool? She realized it was too long. Since July she was on her feet dealing with Umbrella’s shit, she didn’t even consider just having fun. So now, playing with Rachel, finally made her stop thinking about all of that and she just relaxed.

“See, that’s better, now you are smiling,” Rachel noted after few rounds.

“Yeah, I had few rough weeks,” Jill smiled.

“Drinking your problems away here?”

“Never,” Jill scoffed. “That’s what men do when they can’t deal with their shit.”

“And what do we do?” asked Rachel curiously, while focusing on her next strike.

“We deal with the problems; we think them through and then we need to just turn off for one night. Like a weekend, except it’s one day in very long time. Drink, fuck, wake up with regrets.”

“Amen to that. Aaaand that’s three for me. You suck at this game.”

“I’m rusty.” That was a lie. She was the worst pool player from S.T.A.R.S. Even Rebecca kicked her ass. When they went out to play, she played one round to make everyone happy and then just drank at the bar or danced. Jukeboxes all over the Raccoon city knew her name.

“Well, Rusty, you are buying the drinks. Again.”

“Are you going to bars kicking peoples’ asses just to get free drinks?”

“All the time.”

Rachel drank gin so Jill joined her. It wasn’t her favourite, but currently, she didn’t care. She forgot all about her trouble for a minute, was already a bit tipsy. When the bartender gave them the glasses he winked at Rachel. “You behave, young lady.”

“You come here often?” asked Jill.

“My parents used to bring me here for lunches when I was a kid. We have a bakery just two streets away. This old geezer works here whole life and loves to make fun of me,” Rachel explained looking into the glass. “And his gin still sucks!” she added louder, and bartender answered with laughter while attending to other customers. “What about you?” Rachel asked.

“I don’t. I am a bar traveller; I just enter whatever building strikes my interests while on a walk. But I think I came here before.” Jill looked around. Most of the bars looked the same in the long run. Tables, menus, pin-up girls on the walls. “Maybe, I really don’t know.”

“Sad and mysterious,” Rachel joked.

“No, I am not. I just don’t have favourite bar,” Jill smiled. “I just go where my co-workers go, and when alone, I avoid those places like plague. I don’t need them to know what I am doing when drunk.”

“Oooh? What do you do?” Rachel leaned bit closer.

“You really want to know?” teased Jill.

“I am all ears.”

Jill leaned to her. “I cry a lot,” she whispered.

Rachel burst out laughing and Jill joined her. It felt good to just joke around, no care in the world. When the laugh stopped, she opened her eyes. Rachel was still there, leaning so close, and closer, Jill’s heart almost stopped.

“No, wait,” she drew back away just a second before a kiss. Rachel straightened up now looking surprised and maybe a bit hurt.

“Ah, sorry, I thought… I don’t know what I thought.”

“No, no, it’s, uh…”

“I get it, there is someone waiting for you at home, that’s fine.”

“No, no,” Jill breathed in and waved her hand. “It’s just that… I think I am sick.”

Rachel raised her eyebrows. “So, you have germs down there or what?” she asked silently.

“No,” Jill smirked partially amused. Germs from what? The last guy she fucked tried to kill her by sending goddamn monster on her. Oh, she hoped Wesker is roasting in hell. “No, I think… I think I have a cold; I don’t want to spread it, you know.”

Rachel drank her gin looking suspiciously at her. “You don’t look ill. Maybe except those bags under your eyes.”

“I don’t sleep well.”

“I can tell when someone has a cold, you are lying,” Rachel smirked and asked for another glass. “I am a doctor you know.”

“I thought you worked in bakery.”

“I am a bread doctor.”

Jill laughed again, running hand through her hair desperate. “I think I am sick; I don’t know. It’s uncommon cold.” She couldn’t say anything. Rachel would call her crazy and then, as she would leave this bar, Umbrella employees would catch her and take her away because she knows too much.

“So what? Your head hurts?”

“Yeah. May be the lack of sleep though.”

“Do you cough or have fever?”

“No.”

“Runny nose? Sore throat?”

“Neither.”

“So how can you tell you are sick?”

Jill shrugged. She couldn’t. She just had that feeling, the fear that soon, very soon, she will wake up destroyed. She will shuffle around, meat barely holding on her bones, muscles so shortened she won’t be able to walk stairs without falling. And for the worst of it, she will be aware – aware of everything, her behaviour, her helplessness, taste of the blood in her mouth as she kills.

“When did you catch this uncommon cold?”

“Like a month ago.”

“A month!” Rachel said louder than necessary. “You are a hypochondriac.”

“I just…” Just what, Jill? “I am cautious.”

Rachel had to notice the tone of her voice, or maybe her face again showed how horrible she feels about everything that happened. Her friends died. The survivors left. She was alone in this, sure, she had Brad, but let’s face it. He was worried too much, afraid of everything. In Raccoon city she was the one with target on her back, she was the one fighting, and the constant fear on her shoulders didn’t help anything. How many times has she woken up in the middle of the night from the dream where she ate Kenneth alive? Where she tore the meat from Forest’s bones? How many times was the blood actually Chris’?

“Hey, you know what helps against germs?” Rachel asked.

“No?”

“Vodka. Hey, Timothy, can you give us two?” she finished the new glass of gin in one swing and then slid vodka in front of Jill. “This shit kills everything. Trust me.”

“Trust you as a bread doctor?”

“Trust me as a germ killer, once you drink this, you are healthy. Not even those herbs people chew here are so potent.”

Jill smiled a little. “Sorry if I made this weird. It’s all getting to me.”

“Wanna talk about it?”

“Yeah. But I can’t. Let’s just say I had rough month at work and with friends and all. It’s all horribly shitty, I hate my life and if I continue, I will actually cry, and we don’t want that.”

“I’ll drink to that. I hate seeing beautiful ladies cry.”

Jill emptied the glass and gasped. “God, I hate this, that’s strong. How many of these do I have to drink to take back control of my life?”

“For germs? One. For control? At least three,” Rachel grinned.

The simple joked made her realize a lot. Yeah, she felt her life spun out of control. She could deal with stress, tons of cases, paperwork… but this time around, things got destroyed, world turned against her and she felt she is losing the firm ground under her feet. She was not in control. And that stressed her more than anything.

“Three would kill me,” Jill shook her head. “I know better ways to take back control.”

Rachel rested her head on her hand looking curious. “Care to tell me?”

Jill knew she shouldn’t do this. She is supposed to be the responsible one. The cautions one. But maybe she really is just stressed. There was no evidence of her being infected, just the horrible dreams and fear. She was fine! That’s why she is here, right? To fight that fear for one day and then regret. She is not sick! She will think different tomorrow, but right now, she is good old Jill Valentine, ass-kicker, officer and good-looking at that!

She leaned right next to Rachel’s ear. She didn’t even have time to become nervous, she was too drunk and too self-loathing for that. “You will now go to a toilet; you will take down your panties and you will come back here, and we will just continue our talk.”

Rachel was taken aback by this request. She didn’t say anything, just tapped the glass slightly. “Excuse me,” she mumbled and got up. Now there were only two choices and Jill watched her. Either she will go out of the bar and they will never see each other again and Jill will become weird story for Rachel’s friends, or…

Rachel went to the bathrooms.

Jill smiled shortly and ordered new drinks. She also moved her stool closer to Rachel’s. Now she just waited, smiling to herself, because this felt good. This is what she was looking for when she left her apartment today.

Rachel came back after a while. She sat at the stool, uncomfortably tucking her short dress. She shuffled a bit and looked around in fear someone watches her. Jill loved to watch her suffer like this. It was adorable.

“This is…” Rachel said and grabbed her glass. “Weird.”

“This is hot,” Jill said still looking at Rachel. The dress hid everything just fine, but the knowledge, the little secret between them, made it that much more fun.

Rachel gave her sheepish look. “You do this to all people you’ve just met?”

“To be honest, it’s very hard to pull this on guys,” Jill grinned. Then she lay hand on Rachel’s tight. The skin was soft and warm. “You often go around just kissing strangers?”

Rachel shuffled again but leaned closer. Jill felt the hem of the dress and fought the urge to slide her fingers under. “They call me the best kisser around here.”

“I don’t believe you.”

“You lost your chance,” Rachel grinned teasingly.

“Is that so?” Jill moved her hand to caress the inner thigh. Rachel shivered a bit and looked at the bar quickly. Nobody was watching them. Timothy was dealing with drunk guy talking about his divorce. Everyone else cared about their own conversations. Jill used this hesitation and moved her hand deeper under the skirt.

Rachel caught her wrist with both hands, looking around nervously. “Stop,” she whispered. Her voice sounded serious. Jill backed off, back to her drink, still amused by all this. Rachel next to her tucked her dress again and straightened her back.

Jill felt Rachel’s hand as she took her chin and pulled her in. Then they kissed. Jill felt the little fear inside her, but it was too late anyways. She shunned it and enjoyed the moment. Rachel was hungry, she tasted of alcohol. She didn’t hesitate to use her tongue and Jill appreciated the force. She ran her fingers through Rachel’s hair, so soft and nice smelling.

Rachel pulled away, but stayed close, Jill felt her breathe on her face. “You know, I have keys to the bakery, it’s just five-minute-walk.”

“I don’t know I can wait five minutes,” Jill grinned.

“Hey, I want to come back to this bar,” Rachel stood up, carefully, so her dress doesn’t roll up. Jill loved every careful movement she made. “You coming?”

Jill paid Timothy extra and walked after Rachel. She was standing out, enjoying August warm weather. Once Jill got out, Rachel welcomed her with another kiss, this time deeper and more passionate than before.

“You will make that walk much harder,” Jill said.

“We better hurry then.” Rachel took her hand and lead the way. Just by corner of her eye, Jill saw a shadow watching her. Well, have a good show, assholes, she thought.

They got to the bakery in less than five minutes. Rachel opened the glass door and locked firmly behind them. She didn’t even turn on the light, in the dark she walked to another door behind the counter. “This way.” Backroom was the real bakery, with ovens and big tables and fridges. Rachel turned the light here and looked at Jill. “Welcome to my humble kingdom.”

“Is this hygienic?”

“I will clean here tomorrow, don’t worry,” Rachel grinned happily. “So…”

Jill was faster, this time she grabbed Rachel by the chin. “So now, let me see.” She ran her fingers on Rachel’s thigh while keeping eye contact. Up, under the dress, to the sweet spot. Rachel gasped, but this time, she didn’t protest. Jill teased her a bit, caressing her legs and her crotch. “I see, you didn’t want to ruin the stool in the bar, did you?” Jill commented feeling the wetness.

“M-maybe.” Rachel bit her lip, she tried to avoid the eye contact being a bit embarrassed and Jill enjoyed that small hesitation. The purity was always fun to watch. And even more fun to break.

“No, Rachel, look at me,” she said while sliding her finger on Rachel’s clit. “Come on. That’s a good girl.”

Rachel had beautiful brown-green eyes and her gaze said everything. How she loved to be touched, little flickers of eyelashes showed when Jill hit the sweet spot. She moaned only a little, but her expression revealed everything. Her skin was hot and wet. Jill stopped and took a step away from Rachel. Her hand was wet, and she licked the sweet juice, making Rachel more flustered.

“Mmm, you taste great,” she concluded. “I bet you look even better.”

“You think I’m pretty?” Rachel asked and she sounded innocent, but her face showed anticipation.

“You are very pretty,” Jill answered. She found a chair and she sit on it comfortably, watching Rachel.

“How pretty?” Rachel asked running fingers on her cleavage.

“You have beautiful eyes and soft lips. I could kiss you whole night and never have enough. Your skin is flawless and so nice to touch. But…”

Rachel stopped. “But?” she repeated.

“I still can’t praise the body I can’t see.”

“Clever,” Rachel concluded and walked to Jill. “But you have to help me, nice stranger.” She turned around. Jill unzipped her dress slowly as if opening a present. She ran finger on Rachel’s spine, and she shivered.

As the dress was on the floor Jill enjoyed Rachel slowly turning at her. She was beautiful. Small breast, nice hips and wet thighs. “Wow,” Jill commented. “You didn’t tell me you are a queen.”

Rachel chuckled. Jill reached for her and pulled her closer. She kissed the naked skin on her stomach, traced every inch with her tongue. Rachel gasped and this close Jill could hear her heart beat faster. She ran fingers on her back, touching her butt. Then she moved to the front and squeezed Rachel’s breasts.

There is something fascinating about women’s bodies. Jill loved to play with them. With men, the only thing she wanted was to get fucked fast and hard and she enjoyed that too. But with women, it was different. She wanted to touch them, play with them, tease them until they go crazy and beg her for releasing them of their tension.

She rubbed Rachel’s nipples and Rachel sighed silently. Looking up at her, Jill saw her eyes looking down, still biting her lip. Yes, just keep watching. See what I can do.

Jill pulled Rachel down to sit on her lap. Like this he had those beautiful pointy breast right in her face. She traced her tongue between them to Rachel’s collar bone. Then she teasingly licked around her nipple. When shivering of Rachel’s body got stronger, Jill finally took the nipple into her mouth and sucked. Rachel covered her mouth as she moaned. Jill sucked and licked the breast and played with the other, squeezing and rubbing. Rachel moaned some more. “Jill,” she pleaded.

Jill looked at her with smile. “Yes, Rachel?”

Rachel had begging expression on her face, hand still over her mouth. She just whimpered like a puppy.

“What do you want me to do? Tell me,” Jill said running her fingers around the hardened nipple.

“Come on,” Rachel shuffled the wetness on her thighs flowing stronger.

“I don’t understand,” Jill kept smiling and pinched Rachel’s nipple.

“Ah- finish me.”

“I see. What’s the magical word?”

“Y-you…”

“Hm?”

“Please,” Rachel said her voice shivering with embarrassment and need.

“Why didn’t you say so?” Jill said innocently and slid her fingers to the wet pussy without any hesitation. Rachel moaned loudly, biting her fingers. Jill ran her fingers on the inner walls, feeling the warmth, slipping deep, while teasing her clit with her other hand. Rachel was shaking, she bended down for a kiss. Jill obliged, but she felt how hard it is for Rachel to stay still. The need for moans stopped the kiss.

Rachel hugged Jill tight, kissed her neck and rubbed herself on her hand. Jill fastened the tempo as Rachel hungrily moved her hips. With every stroke her hold became firmer, as she was reaching the climax.

“Y-yes, more, please,” Rachel begged moving faster and faster. Jill moved her fingers just slightly adjusting the spot and Rachel screamed and shivered all over her body, clenching her fingers to Jill’s shoulder, biting her neck to silence pleased screams.

Jill froze, teeth clenched. She fought every inch of her body not to shake the woman off. Rachel’s wetness spilled all over her hand, but the bite, ever so small and gentle, awakened the memories, the fear, everything. Jill swallowed, carefully removed her hand and ran her fingers on that perfect skin. Rachel, breathing heavily, let go and slowly straightened up.

“That was amazing,” she gasped and caressed Jill’s face. Then she frowned. “Are you okay?”

Jill forced a smile. “Yeah, of course. I was taken aback about how wild you are.”

Rachel smirked; she obviously didn’t believe a word. But what could Jill say? “It’s fine, I was just worried you will eat me.” Try again, Valentine.

“It’s the same expression you had in the evening. I know how to get that off,” Rachel smiled.

“More alcohol?”

“This is bakery, not liquor store.” Rachel grabbed Jill’s boobs. “See, better.”

Jill sighed, comforting herself again, but it felt hard. Rachel kissed her shortly again, moved to her neck and cleavage, giving her kissed everywhere. Jill started to relax, but then stopped Rachel by touching her face.

“Just no teeth, okay?” she said.

“As you wish, princess.” Rachel focused on her cleavage. She slowly took down her shirt and bra. Jill enjoyed the touches and teasing, she let the soft kisses bring her excitement back slowly.

“That’s better, you know how stiff you were?” Rachel said massaging the boobs. Jill smiled and nodded, she had nothing more to say, she just wished to get away, be washed by pleasure.

Rachel stood up and Jill took the time to get out of her jeans and panties. Rachel got on her knees and slowly, carefully and nicely she licked Jill’s thighs. She caressed her body and skin with soft touches. Jill watched Rachel tasting her skin and wetness off her legs and she smiled. This is what she wanted. Just relax and enjoy pretty lady.

Rachel moved to her crotch and sucked her clit, looking up to see Jill’s reaction. Jill closed her eyes to enjoy most of the sensation. The tongue on her sensitive places, licking, moving up and down teasing every nerve on her body. She sighed pleased, played with her own breasts as Rachel slid inside her vagina and rubbed the walls with her fingers, while still sucking. Rachel was pleasing her slowly, with long strikes and care she hasn’t felt for a long time.

Jill relaxed completely and let the waves of pleasure ran through her, purring, enjoying what was going on. Rachel took that as a sign, she licked the clit harder, started moving faster and sucked like a goddess. Jill moaned ever so slightly as the waves got faster and stronger.

“You are so beautiful and so good,” Jill whispered. “I could look at you whole day.”

Rachel flustered and that was the last drop. Jill moaned loudly as the pleasure caught with her. She felt her crotch get wetter, making Rachel’s face even more beautiful with all her juices. Jill grabbed her breast harder as the tremble went through her body. And then she sighed, released.

Rachel caught her breath and tried to clean her face with just as wet hand. She grinned. “So, what do you say, am I good?” she winked.

Jill laughed. “You are great.”

Rachel stood up, no shame in her naked body, and she leaned in for the last deep kiss. When she straightened up, she looked Jill in the eyes. “Hey, Jill. You will be okay.”

“Thank you, Rachel.”

***

Jill Valentine wasn’t okay.

But Rachel was dead.

What in all hells brought her this way, Jill could only guess. She was too tired to look where she is going. She never forgot their meeting, but it was long in the past by this point. Almost a month and the stress grew only worse.

But she remembered the good lady. She said Jill will be okay.

Jill pulled the trigger. With loud bang body of Rachel fell on the ground, not moving anymore. She released the poor woman from the prison of her own body. Jill felt her hand tremble.

It’s good she will never get used to this.

But once she survives, Umbrella is going down.

And she will be fucking okay.

[sagi-andherthoughts]

A Night to Remember

Summary: The event of the year is here! And as preparations, uninvited guests and dancing ensues, sparks will fly and certain feelings will be revealed (maybe). 

Pairing: Bill Weasley x Female!OC

Word Count: 2.7k

A/N: I know I know I’m very very late with this part 2 and I’m sorry!!! I’m just such a procrastinator and things have been so hectic lately. Anyways I’ve left the ending on the cliffhanger, and I’m sure if I’m gonna continue or not because I’m actually (maybe) planning on doing a series inspired by my MC’s adventures. I’ll let you guys know. 

Link to Part 1

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Viviane’s Dress:

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

After successfully inviting Rowan to the ball as my date, I was summoned back to the Great Hall by Andre, who was excited to show me my clothing options. I owned a couple of dresses and skirts in my wardrobe, but none seemed fitting for what would be the grandest event of the year. And after seeing what Hogwart’s Style Wizard could do, I was looking forward to what he came up with.

The Hall was empty except for myself and Andre, and even from the entrance I could see three mannequins in the front, each with a different dress on them.

“Andre, how did you get everyone to leave so fast?”

“A little magic perhaps?” He joked. “Just kidding, once everyone heard it was for you, they cleared out pretty quickly.”

“Well that’s nice of them. So what are my options?” I looked over to the mannequins and was immediately stunned by the beauty of the dresses. One was a dark blue with stars and constellations woven into the fabric, sparkling and twinkling as if they were real. The second one was a deep maroon with a ruffled tiered bottom and white patterns running across the neckline. The final one was a green cold-shoulder dress with a short slit opening in the middle, and pink petals running down the dress to make it seemed like they were falling.

Seemingly satisfied by my reaction, Andre smiled and waved a hand about dramatically like he was presenting.

“Take your pick Curse-Breaker.”

I walked over and touched each of the dresses, feeling the softness of the fabric under my fingertips. “They are all gorgeous Andre. But…I just feel like they still lack something.” I bit my lip, afraid that my comment had upset him, but to my surprise he had a smile on his face.

“I thought you would say that Viviane, so that’s why I saved the best for last.” He walked over to the corner of the room, where a room divider was set up to form a makeshift changing space, and wheeled another mannequin out.

I gasped as soon as I took a look.

The dress on the mannequin was simply stunning. It was an A-line grey tulle dress with delicate lacing on the bodice. It was also off-the-shoulder and had a sweetheart neckline, helping to show off the right amount of skin without being too risqué.

“Oh Andre.” My hands covered my wide open mouth. “This dress is beautiful.”

“What are you waiting for then?” He was practically pushing me towards the changing space. “Go put it on.”

I quickly changed out of my uniform, and as soon as I put on the dress, I knew that it was the one. I didn’t know how Andre found out my measurements, but it fitted me perfectly, flaring out at my waist and hugged my chest just right. He must truly be a style wizard.

I walked out, cheeks slightly reddening. “So? What do you think?”

“Wow Viviane, you’re going to turn a few heads tonight.” He whistled admiringly. “Twirl around a bit would you?”

I did as he asked, giggling when the dress twirled in a perfect circle, making me feel like one of those ladies in a Jane Austen book going to a soiree.

“You’re a miracle worker Andre, how will I ever thank you?”

“Do the dress justice Curse-Breaker, and that will be enough.”

I went back to change, and as I hugged the dress close to my body to go back to my room, I’ve never felt more excited for the ball.

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The 4th year girls were all scrambling around like mad, screaming and shouting every time someone occupied the bathrooms for too long. The girls’ dorm was a mess of makeup, dresses, shoes, and jewellery flying about, and I coughed as some powder flew into my face.

Rowan was in another bathroom getting ready, and we both agreed to meet at the Great Hall instead of going together to keep the surprise, even though I had already seen her dress. I wiped the powder from my face and dusted them off my dress, then proceeded to put my black hair up into a chignon bun that brushed the nape of my neck. For the finishing touch, I also put on some light lip gloss.

While looking at my reflection in the mirror with satisfaction, I also had to fight the urge to run my hands through my hair and untangling them as a mix of nervousness and excitement started to pool in my stomach. I took a few deep breaths, calming down enough to step out of the bathroom, allowing another girl to race through me and go inside.

I exited the Hufflepuff Common Room and started to make my way to the Hall, catching a few glances and looks on the way as my silver sandals clacked against the floors of the castle. My face began heating up as the looks continued as this was the first time I dressed up this much.

The Ball was already at the full-blown level of activity when I entered, a cacophony of laughter and noises and endless twirls of satin and silk and cotton filled the entire place. Some were standing and chatting, some were munching on the food and refreshments, while others were already swaying to the lively music.

“Viviane!” From a distance, I heard my name got called. When I turned, it was Rowan who was walking towards me. “You look absolutely brilliant! I’ve been telling everyone that you’re my date, I hope that’s all right? I’m just so excited!”

“Of course it’s ok! And you look smashing as well. But I got to see your dress beforehand so I knew you would.”

“Just look at you two.” This time, it was Ben who appeared, more confident thanks to the “Maximus Confidencia” charm. “I’m afraid you might be too adorable for your own good.”

“I’m so glad that you talked us into going to the Ball Viviane, and thanks to Andre, I’ve been getting compliments from everyone.”

“I’ll second that, everyone wants my hat!”

“I’m so happy to hear that. And Rowan?” I turned to my best witch. “I’m sorry that I forced you to go at first and not listen to how you feel. I’ve never seen you so crossed with me, I should have been a better friend.”

In response, she put a hand on my bare shoulder and gave a reassuring smile. “Hey, it all worked out, so there’s no use living in the past yeah? Let’s just enjoy tonight.”

At that moment, Penny in her white and yellow ensemble walked over, looking as beautiful as ever. “Apologies guys, I need to steal Viviane for a moment.” I followed her with a promise that I’ll be back shortly, and we ended up near the night sky dance floor.

“It may sound corny, but I feel like you’ve been part of my Celestial Ball journey from the start!”

“Of course Penny! You deserve to be the head of the committee, you did a fantastic job.”

At that moment, Professor Dumbledore took to the front and cleared his throat, gaining the attention of everybody.

“Students, may I have your attention please? I would like to recognize Professor Flitwick for stepping in to lead the Celestial Ball committee’s decorating efforts. Also, I would like to recognize Penny Haywood, head of the decorating committee. The Great Hall never looked as stellar! Enjoy the ball, everyone!”

“Look at that.” I turned to Penny. “You got mentioned in front of everyone.”

“Oh I could explode with joy right now!” The blonde next to me was practically smiling from ear to ear.  She then turned her head around to take in the atmosphere, abruptly stopping when her eyes went to the large front door. “Merlin’s beard, is that Bill?”

My head whipped around faster than a lightning crack, and indeed entering the hall was the handsome Weasley that had been plaguing my mind since the day I found out I have feelings for him. My eyes were drawn to his figure, which wasn’t in his uniform as usual, but in a classic suit with a deep red shirt. As he approached, I also noticed that he had on a grey waistcoat, the same shade as my dress.

‘Andre you sly wizard.’ I began to blush as I realized that he must have deliberately colour-coordinated our outfits, and couldn’t help the erratic beating of my heart as he walked closer.

He came to a stop in front of Penny and I, widening his eyes when he looked at me. I started to become even more self-conscious under his appraising gaze, and had to mentally stop myself from reaching up and tugging at the loose hair strands brushing my neck.

“Bill! You came by after all.”

“I promised Rowan I would after all.” He smiled. “You look absolutely fantastic by the way.”

I fingered a hair strand as the butterflies came. “Thank you, Andre helped with me with the dress. You looked handsome too.”

“Andre insisted I changed into something nicer. Something about the outfit making the wizard.” He weaved a hand through his fiery hair sheepishly. I wondered if he realized we were basically matching. Penny must have, because as she stood next to us, she kept looking at us back and forth and had a knowing smirk on her face.

“Oh no.” Penny groaned as a flash of pink caught my eye. “What are you doing here?”  

Emily Tyler, that bloody witch, sauntered over in her usual horrendously pink outfit and smug face.

“I came to see if your decoration theme turned out better than mine would have. It didn’t.” She eyed the hall in disdain, making my blood started to boil a little. “But mostly, I was looking for Bill and saw him walk in here.” At that, my blood immediately went from hot to cold.

“Looking for me? Why?” Bill was as confused as we all were.

“To rescue you from these kids so we can spend some time together.”

“Kids?” I didn’t try to hide the sarcasm in my voice. “We’re not that much younger than you, Emily.”

Bill looked back to her, still having this confused and incredulous look on his face. “You want to spend time with me, Emily?”

“Yes, I made a mistake rejecting you, Bill. And I don’t make mistakes often. So let’s get away from this Celestial Ball nonsense you’ve gotten involved in. We can go to Three Broomsticks for Butterbeer. What do you say?” Emily looked at him up and down, definitely realizing how handsome he was.

“I say…” My eyes kept darting between them both, and as I saw Bill mull over the idea, my heart began to sink. Of course he’s going to say yes, how could he not? Emily is gorgeous and feisty and Bill used to have the biggest crush on her. I was wrong to even hope that there was something more between us, he probably said what he said when I was struggling to find a date to encourage me.

I hung my head and bit my lip in anticipation of his sure reply, one which will definitely break my heart.

“Not if you were the last witch on the planet, Emily. You’ve been too rude to my friends and to me.”

Wait…what?

I flung my head up, totally shocked by his reply. And I wasn’t the only one with a wide-open gape.

“If you’ll excuse me, I see Rowan.” He gave us one last satisfying smile, and proceeded to walk briskly to the girl in the blue dress standing by the fireplace. All three of us followed his figure, still surprised by what he said, but this time I had a wide smile on my face.

“Bill would rather spend time with Rowan Khanna than me? Even if I were the last witch on the planet?”

“Wasn’t ‘Planets’ your decorating theme?” I couldn’t help but added. “I much prefer Penny’s stars.”

“I’ll walk you out, Emily. And by the way, nice hair.” Now Penny was the one with the smug look on her face, completely enjoying the event that just happened.

The pink witch was visibly taken aback by our reaction, and she wasn’t sure how to respond. “Now I’m the one not sure if you’re being sarcastic or not.”

After the Emily Tyler debacle, the night went on without a hitch. We enjoyed the food and chatted before going to the dance floor and dancing to the music. Rowan and I danced to some Celestina Warbeck, and our whole group joined together when “Livin’ On A Prayer” came on. Thanks to some of the Muggleborn and Half-blood students lending their several records, we were able to enjoy both Wizard and Muggle music.

After a while, I felt myself breathing hard from dancing and laughing so much, so I decided to retire to the refreshments table, sipping a cup of chilled Butterbeer and munching on mini Cauldron Cakes. I was in the middle of stifling a laugh seeing Ben trying to do the Moonwalk when out of the corner of my eyes I saw Bill walking towards me with a wide smile on his face.

“I never thought dances can be so fun.” He leaned back on the table trying to catch his breath.

“I know, it’s a welcoming change from the usual.” We stood there for a while, simply talking about anything and everything, when I heard the music change into a slow and mellow song. People on the dance floor began pairing up immediately, and after the first few notes I recognized it to be Endless Love by Lionel Richie and Diana Ross.

“This is my favourite song.” Already I was humming along and tapping my foot silently.

“Oh? Then,” Bill suddenly turned to me, bowing and offering his hand. “Can I have this dance?”

I was motionless for a second before my brain finally caught up. I smiled and took his hand in mine. “I would be delighted.”

We were on the dance floor once more, but this time his hands were circled around my waist while mine wounded together on the back of his neck and we were so close that I was afraid Bill could hear the erratic beating of my heart.

It took a moment for us to learn each other’s rhythms, but once we did we soon found ourselves lost in our own world, a world of starry skies and twinkling lights. This was my first time dancing with Bill, so inevitably I was very nervous, and found myself avoiding his gaze.

“A galleon for your thoughts?” It was his voice that drew me back to the blues of his eyes.

I shrugged my shoulders. “Oh you know, the usual: classes, Cursed Vaults, Emily Tyler.” I might have whispered the last part under my breath, but he heard me nonetheless.

“Emily Tyler?” He raised his eyebrows. “Why?”

“Well,” I momentarily released one hand from his neck to play with the loose strands of my bun, trying to act nonchalant. “I was just wondering why you turned her down earlier. You used to fancy her a lot.”

“The keywords in that sentence is ‘used to’ Viviane.” He chuckled. “I fancied her once, yes. But ever since I found out her true nature and how she treated people my feelings for her began to fade. Besides,” Bill leaned closer to me, so close that our foreheads were almost touching. “There’s someone else on my mind now.”

I would have choked and died if I had not reminded myself to breathe. Would it be too absurd, too unbelievable, for me to think that he might be referring to me? To think that William Arthur Weasley, the coolest Prefect and skilled dueller of Hogwarts who I’m sure most girls fawn over, fancies Viviane Themis Albion, the troublemaking Curse-Breaker in search of her missing, possibly mad brother?

“Oh?” My throat suddenly became very dry, and I had to swallow several times to try and form coherent words and sentences. “And do I happen to know this person?”

Bill didn’t answer my question immediately, opting to give me a smirk instead, his blue eyes alight as if he enjoys keeping me in the dark. He quickly turned around to scan the room, and once satisfied he raised a hand to stop my fingers from playing with the hair strands, and tucked them behind my ears, making my cheeks heat up.

He leaned down and whispered into my ear. “Why don’t we get out of here and find out?”

The song stopped.

[killervibe]

The Snow Project

Notes: So I’m late for Day 3- Time Travelling, but the good news is that this means you’re getting two fics from me today!!! Here’s yesterday’s theme! I really liked this idea...Enjoy! Also, I’m having WAY too much fun with the abundance of fic. I wish EVERY week was Killervibe week!!! 

@killervibedaily

The Snow Project 

Cisco was in the middle of sketching a prototype for the Quantum Electric Multiplier Gun when Barry sped into the Cortex. 

“Hey,” Barry said, “Can I talk to you for a minute?”

Cisco looked at his garbage drawing and gladly pushed it away. “Yeah, What’s up?”

“Joe just told me about a really puzzling meta case at CCPD.”

Cisco looked intrigued. “Why is it so puzzling?”

Barry’s face lit up. “So this pedestrian, Nolan Fisher, about 50 years old, gets into a car accident, right? He was walking across the street with his eyes glued to his phone so he didn’t realize he was walking into ongoing traffic.”

“Okay…”

“Get this,” Barry said, getting all excited. “He loses an arm!”

Cisco’s mouth dropped in horror, “That’s terrible!”

“No, it isn’t!” Barry objected, “Because he gets in the ambulance and the paramedics realize they can just,” Barry made a funny gesture with his hands, “Pop!  Attach his arm back where it was just like that! No blood no nothing! Just like that he gained complete motion of his arm!”

“What?” Cisco screeched. “You mean like a mannequin?” Cisco paused. “Mr. Mannequin, that’s a good one.”

“Uh huh,” Barry nodded, “And it gets crazier. This guy claims he had this from birth. And not just that, his whole family can do it. His mother, father, maternal cousin…”

Cisco frowned, “But how is that possible? Metas only started appearing due to the particle accelerator or Devoe’s bus metas.”

“And the similarity in both were the dark matter,” Barry agreed. “But this guy’s medical tests show none.”

“There are more metas out there,” Cisco said. It’s not a question. It would’ve been, two years ago, but not anymore. Not since Cisco vibed with Caitlin her repressed memory where she had turned into Killer Frost as a kid. Caitlin asked him not to tell anyone, so he hadn’t. He kept quiet, but now he wondered if maybe he should be speaking up.

Barry threw his hands in the air, “Maybe there were other types of metas this whole time!” He looked around the room, realizing it was quieter than usual. Ralph was away in Wisconsin but... “Wait, where’s Caitlin?”

Cisco sighed, “She’s sick. She caught a cold so she’s staying home. Ha! That’s ironic.”

“Okay,” Barry said slowly, and you could tell he was calculating something in his mind. “Okay, that’s good actually.”

Cisco scrunched up his face in confusion. “You want Caitlin to be sick? That’s not being a good friend…”

“No, there’s a reason.”

Barry sat down next to Cisco and explained to him that apparently there was a doctor who researched into the possibility of superpowered humans about seventeen years ago with several examples. It was pretty much ignored by academia and dismissed as a joke paper, buried away. It was obvious however, based off descriptions of abilities, that one of them was a relative of Nolan Fisher. The problem? The contact information on the file was an old phone number and home address for the doctor, which was great. Except for the fact the research was published posthumously after the doctor’s long battle with multiple sclerosis.

“Who was the doctor?” Cisco asked.

Barry looked down at the brown folder. He opened it, then silently slid the papers across the table to Cisco.

Mr. Ethan Snow.

Cisco’s eyes widened. “Caitlin’s dad?”

“Yeah. Does Caitlin ever talk about him?”

“No,” Cisco admitted, “I know his death hit her hard, it inspired her to become a doctor, but it was also the driving force that put a wedge in the relationship Caitlin had with her mom.”

Barry worried his bottom lip into his mouth, giving Cisco a look.

Cisco knew where this was going.

“You want to go back in time and meet him, don’t you?”

Barry at least had the audacity to look sheepish. “Before you freak out, I asked Jay Garrick. If we meet him several months before he dies, Jay said us being there shouldn’t have much impact if we’re careful.”

Cisco mulled it over. He was still stunned. Caitlin’s dad. That was really interesting. It seemed too coincidental, for this to not have anything to do with Killer Frost. The more he thought about it, the more bothered he got. If Caitlin’s father knew about her, he should’ve told her. Maybe it could’ve helped, if Caitlin was prepared…

“I’m in,” Cisco said. “But we’re not telling Cait.”

Barry nodded, “I know you don’t want to keep secrets from her, but I think that’s the wisest choice.”

Cisco started to get excited. He heard all of Barry’s adventures from time travelling and after the Flashpoint fiasco. Unless he quit Team Flash and joined the Legends, he always thought it was something he’d never get to experience.

Cisco took a deep breath. “When do we leave?”

~.~

It’s 2004, and the first thing Cisco does is pull a Diggle and puke into a public garbage can.

“I’m sorry man,” Barry said apologetically as Cisco gagged.

It took a minute for Cisco’s stomach to settle. “I’m usually good with your speed travels but we were going really fast.”  

Barry found a map somehow and located Caitlin’s old home address. They were using the face morphing tech made for H.R. so to not alter anything should they run into Caitlin.

Hopefully they won’t. It’s the middle of the day and she should be in middle school.

Cisco flexed his fingers and opened a breach. They ended up right in front of Caitlin’s house.

To use the word house was being modest. It was a mansion.

They both took a minute to soak it in.

 Cisco whistled softly, “Damn, I knew Caitlin’s family had money but this house is…”

“Bitchin?” Barry joked, nudging him forward, “Come on, let’s go.”

They ring the doorbell and a middle aged nurse opens the door. Barry told her they’re visitors for Dr. Snow and the nurse beamed delightedly.

“It’s been a long time since he’s gotten any visitors from young people like you. Sickness scares people away, you know. It’s a shame, really. How about I go for my lunch and leave you with him for an hour? He’s having a good day. If you need anything, you can ask Meyrielle, the cleaning lady. She’s in the basement. Mr. Snow is in the living room.”

She stopped after she grabbed her purse.

“Who did you say you were, again?”

“We used to work with him when we were residents,” Cisco made up on the spot.

“Oh, that’s nice!” The nurse gave them another sunny smile and left.

Barry and Cisco shared a look. That was ridiculously easy.

They walked down the luxurious hallways with mahogany wooden floors and walls lined with what looked like expensive original paintings.

“Caitlin’s mom has an interesting taste of interior design,” Cisco mumbled as they made their way to the living room.

Barry knocked on the side of the door and peered in.

There was Dr. Snow, the Mister Dr. Snow, on the couch watching television.

Cisco marvelled. Caitlin looked a lot like him. He was very thin in places people only were when they were chronically sick, and he hunched over himself in an awkward angle. But he still had a full head thick of Caitlin’s brown hair. They had the same complexion, and a very similar face shape as well. A wheelchair was next to him and there were many pills in a pouch on the adjacent coffee table. Cisco was rather surprised, he was bracing for him to appear a lot worse.

“Hello, Dr. Snow? I’m Barry Allen and this is Cisco Ramon. We came to ask you some questions about something sensitive regarding your research and we were wondering if you had the moment to talk with us about it.”

Dr. Snow perked up immediately. “Oh, I’d love to discuss medicine with you. I miss practicing.”

Barry glanced at Cisco who nodded. They agreed to just go ahead and tell him everything. The man only had two months left to live and it was unlikely he would deny their story if Barry and Cisco could show him their powers to prove it.

“Bear with us,” Cisco warned, “This is going to sound crazy.”

Barry retold the entire tale. The time travelling, him being struck by lightning due to the particle accelerator explosion, his job at CCPD, including the particle accelerator explosion and being best friends with Caitlin. Finally, Barry asked about the Fisher case and what Dr. Snow thought about genetically hereditary powers.

Dr. Snow listened carefully throughout and explained his theory of mutant genes being a genetic possibility for having powers from birth.

“You mean like the X-Men?”

Dr. Snow nodded. “Maybe Stan Lee’s comics aren’t so fantastical after all. I believe although rare, there might have been...Metahumans as you say...Since the beginning of time.”

Barry was leaning forward absorbing every word that came out of Dr. Snow’s mouth, reminding Cisco a lot of how he used to act around evil Wells.

“How on Earth did you get so involved with this?” Barry wondered outloud.

Something twisted in Cisco’s gut. No matter how awesome Caitlin’s dad seemed, he was still hiding this from his daughter. How could he say all of this to two people he just met but not Caitlin, who should know?

“Because of Caitlin!” Cisco blurted out, and Barry turned to Cisco, wide-eyed.

Dr. Snow was so shocked he began to  cough and he shouted out in pain.

“I know that you know about Caitlin’s secret,” Cisco confided. “I understand you want to protect your daughter, but keeping her in the dark about this isn’t a good idea—”

“That’s enough, Cisco,” Barry cut him off, immediately apologizing to Dr. Snow, and tending to his side.

“I’m fine boys,” Dr. Snow waved off, but Barry asked Cisco to get him some water from the kitchen anyways.

“Please, let’s keep this secret between us,” he requested, his voice a little horse, as Cisco left the room.

Cisco was glad for the excuse to leave. Being here felt wrong. He was sorry he came. Cisco had to do something. He could feel it in his bones, there’s no way that he’s leaving 2004 without altering the timeline in some way. He realized these were a dying man’s last wishes to respect, but it also went completely against everything he stood for when it came to Caitlin: Doing what was best for her.

Cisco had his hand on the fridge handle when footsteps went thundering down the stairs.

Cisco froze.

A young girl shy of fifteen made her way through the house. She wore blue jean shorts and a yellow spaghetti tank. Her hair was in a ponytail and she looked downright frazzled.

It was Caitlin. Oh god. It was fourteen year old Caitlin. Cisco couldn’t breathe.

“Daddy?” She called, rushing past Cisco so fast she didn’t even notice a stranger was in her kitchen.

“Daddy are you okay, what’s the matter?”

Cisco could hear Dr. Snow reassuring her from the living room that he was alright but it was clear she wasn’t taking no for an answer.

It went quiet for a while, undoubtedly her father and Barry diverting questions about who Barry was and what he was doing.

“I’m getting you water,” she informed, and marched into the kitchen.

Cisco knew he was wearing a different face but he still felt utterly exposed.

“Why are there two strangers in my house?” Young Caitlin snapped.

“I’m also visiting,” Cisco told her. She opened a cupboard for a glass. Cisco opened the fridge and handed her a water bottle, trying not to stare at her like a creep.

He glanced at the time on their fancy electrical stove. “Shouldn’t you be at school?”

Caitlin’s face was very matter of fact as she poured the water from the bottle into the glass. She added some vitamin tablets and said, “I can stay home sometimes when Dad is having a good day. We don’t know how many of those he’ll have left.”

“You don’t seem to be the type to miss school,” he couldn’t help but say. Caitlin, his Caitlin, who managed two doctorates and a PhD in what…? Five years? She must’ve skipped some grades in high school. Cisco skipped two. That rigorous work ethic made even taking an early dismissal for a dentist appointment in eighth grade sound impossible.

Caitlin shrugged, “I don’t mind not going as long as I get the homework.”

Ah yes, there she is.

Caitlin continued, “Besides, there’s this girl, Lexi, she torments me at school for who knows why. Why would I want to spend my days there when I can be with him, right?”

No wonder Caitlin didn’t talk much about her life before college. This all just seemed so sad.

Cisco rested his chin on the palm of his hand and leaned his elbow against the marble counter, fascinated by this version of his best friend.

“You seem like a smart girl. What do you want to be when you grow up?”

Caitlin lit up, “A zoologist!”

Cisco snorted. The glare Caitlin shot him was a fetus compared to some of the ones he receives at Star Labs now.

“What about a doctor?” Cisco asked.

“Eh,” She sounded disinterested, “we’ve got enough Dr. Snows around here. If you’ll excuse me, I’m going to give this to Dad.”

Cisco watched Caitlin go.

Barry walked into the kitchen as Caitlin walked out. He swiveled around her awkwardly in the doorway looking down at her and then up at Cisco repeatedly mouthing out Cait! and So Freaky! accompanied with many weirded out facial expressions.

“I got what I needed,” Barry said out loud, pulling out a high stool from the kitchen island to sit on.

“That’s great,” Cisco told him, sounding a little flat.

“I’m really confused,” Barry admitted,  “How does Dr. Snow know anything about KF?”

Cisco took a deep breath. “I vibed it with her the day we defeated DeVoe. It turns out...Caitlin’s first encounter with KF in fact happened four years ago, as in 2000. Not 2017,” he whispered. “She’s been repressing the memory.”

Barry’s eyes nearly bugged out of his head, “What the hell?”

“He knows Barry, he knew this entire time and just let her go on by herself.” Cisco was so anguished. Barry patted his shoulder sympathetically.

“It sounds like he’s trying to do the right thing. He really doesn’t want her to be burdened with this fear. Can’t you imagine how scary that would be for a teenager?”

Cisco knew to some extent that Barry was right. Still, it didn’t sit well with him. It would be so easy to fix it all right there and then. If Killer Frost is triggered psychologically, wouldn’t being mentally prepared for her arrival actually work to keep her at bay?

“Can’t we do something?”

Barry sighed. He got up quickly, looked left and right and then flashed Cisco out the house.

Barry started scolding Cisco in front of the Snow’s peonies.

“You know the answer to that already. We should be going. Now.”

“Please, Barry,” Cisco pleaded, “She’s had so much pain in her life. What if we could change that?”

“You’re not getting it,” Barry cried, “It’s because of me time travelling to try and save my mom that I screwed up the timeline! If it wasn’t for my interference, Caitlin never would’ve been Killer Frost to begin with!”

“And if we don’t do something now, she’ll run away terrified of Killer Frost in sixteen years because we kept our mouths shut instead of helping our best friend!”

“Anything dealing with Killer Frost is too risky!”

“Maybe it’s a risk I’m willing to take,” Cisco replied stubbornly.

Barry crossed his arms across his chest.

“Like Dante?”

The hurt on Cisco’s face was so evident Barry could’ve slapped him and it wouldn’t have looked any different.

“I’m sorry,” Barry apologized genuinely.

Cisco sat down in the grass, stunned into silence.

“That’s what happens when you tamper with fixed events,” Barry explained softly, ridding the patronizing tone from his voice this time.

“I know how much you care about Caitlin,” he continued, “I should’ve known this would be incredibly hard for you to stand back and watch. I shouldn’t have asked you to come with me.”

“I wanted to see a slice of Caitlin’s life when I assumed would’ve been a happier time. But when I spoke to her...She’s had it so hard, man. Since the beginning. All I can think about when I’m in this house is how she’s going to lose her father and then she’s going to fall out with her mom and then she’s going to lose Ronnie and her career. Her entire life has been like this.”

Barry kicked some fancy fertilized dirt. “I know.”

“I just wish we could do something.”

“I know,”  Barry said again.

Cisco squinted at the 2004 sky. “Hey,” he said, an idea forming in the back of his mind as a Ferrari blasting Usher’s Yeah!  drove by. “Maybe we can.”

~.~

They went back inside. They waited for Caitlin to go to the bathroom for Cisco apologized and promised Dr. Snow he’d keep the secret for Caitlin to find out—-If she ever does—In 2018 and not 2004. They also showed him some pictures of Team Flash and their Caitlin from their phones and reassured him that, all in all, Caitlin was happy and successful. He should be proud.

Dr. Snow brushed away tears, eternally grateful.

He really was a nice man. Cisco had to turn away for a moment to collect his emotions. If only Caitlin could have one more moment with him. Cisco shook his head, clearing his thoughts. He couldn’t even tell her about it.

They waved goodbye to Caitlin as she returned with blankets and snacks to cuddle  up with her father and watch a VHS.

“Hey,” Cisco said to Caitlin, who looked up from the television to him.

“Don’t give up, okay? Promise?”

Young Caitlin smiled a little, intrigued if not slightly confused.

“Promise the young man,” Dr. Snow nudged at his daughter, teasing her.

“...I Promise?”

Cisco hid his smile. “That’s all I wanted to hear.”

They left the house as the nurse came back from her lunch. “Aww, leaving already?” She pouted.

“Yeah, we’re pressed for time,” Barry told her, and they quickened their paces down the Snows cobblestone walkway.

“Come again!” The nurse called cheerfully.

~.~

Central East Middle School was just beginning their after school cheerleading practice of the day when Cisco breached right in front of Lexi Laroche and her stupid clique gossiping under the bleachers.

The girls all screamed.

“Hi!” Cisco enthused, “Which one of you little snakes is Lexi Laroche?”

The leader of the group stood up on wobbly legs. “Me.”

“I’m a superhero from the future,” Cisco said, “And I got informed that you bully Caitlin Snow.”

Lexi Laroche turned white. “I wouldn’t call it bullying…” She stammered. How quaint, Cisco thought, she had a french accent to accompany the French last name.

Cisco threw a vibe blast at a soccer ball. All of the air exploded out of the ball. The girls jumped, then huddled together. “Yeah,” Cisco said sarcastically, “And I wouldn’t call that exploding a soccer ball with my bare hands.”

Lexi gulped.

“This is what’s going to happen. You’re going to read this pamphlet about the dangers of bullying. It has a whole list of ugly things nobody wants to be called or have done to, but guess what? You did those. And you said that. There are far better things to do with your life. Like, say, expand your wardrobe beyond hot pink juicy couture sweatpants and bubblegum pink tube tops.”

Cisco pulled out the bullying pamphlet from his Vibe Jacket and gave it to her.

“Next, you’re going to stay away from Caitlin. I don’t want to see you behaving despicably like that to Caitlin or any other girl. Is that clear?”

Lexi Laroche nodded her head so fast she looked like a bobble head.

Cisco put his hands on his hips, satisfied. He seemed to have caught their attention well enough. He didn’t want to traumatize them.

“Good.” He opened a breach. “Bye.”

~.~

Barry brought them back to 2018.

As soon as Barry was certain Cisco wasn’t going to get dizzy and faint, he went straight to CCPD with his new information.

On the other hand, Cisco breached to a certain sick friend’s apartment.

Cisco walked down the hall towards Caitlin’s room. The lights were shut off and she was fast asleep.

He turned on her bedside table lamp and knelt on the floor next to her sleeping form. He whispered for her to wake up, placing a hand on her forehead.

No fever, that’s good.

She opened an eye and mumbled a groggy hello at Cisco. He waited for her to get her bearings and sit up in her bed. Cisco would’ve normally sat on her bed if she was injured or upset in the past, but she’s sick and he really doesn’t want her germs so he pulled up a chair instead.

“How are you feeling?”

Caitlin swallowed purposely and blinked a few more times, obviously attempting to come up with an adequate self-evaluation. “Better.”

“Good to hear,” Cisco threw a paper bag onto her lap.

She raised an eyebrow. “What’s this?”

Cisco bounced in his seat, “Just open it!”

Caitlin emptied the bag and out fell a box of cookies.

Caitlin gaped, “Choco-Hearties!? I thought they don’t make these anymore! Cisco!!” She slapped at his arm excitedly, “These were my favorite cookies growing up. How did you find them?”

Caitlin busied herself with opening the flaps and stuffed two in her mouth right away.

“I don’t even care that this hurts my throat,” she mumbled happily around her mouthful.

Cisco laughed, very much proud of his accomplishment. Also very glad that Caitlin was still too tired to notice Cisco blacked out the expiry date.

“Hey,” Cisco said casually, three Brooklyn-Nine-Nine episodes later. Caitlin was getting drowsy and her cookie box was three-thirds eaten. Cisco tried one and he too now understood why she wrote a letter of complaint to the company in ninth grade. Good thing he bought two more.

Caitlin hummed in response.

“I ran into one of my childhood bullies today, it reminded me of what you said about that girl who put gum in your hair, what was her name? Alexis?”

Caitlin frowned. “Lexi? She picked on me for maybe three months in eighth and then stopped bothering me. I heard she moved to France...Cisco I’m sorry I’m really tired.” 

Cisco ran his hand through her hair and tried to keep the silly grin out of his voice. “That’s alright. You sleep. I’ll check on you tomorrow.”

FIN.

[mazurah]

Lost in Time Ch. 13: Preparation - An Elder Scrolls Fanfic

Chapter Summary: Ma’zurah and Fayrl attempt to prepare for a trip to High Hrothgar.

Cross posted from Ao3. Chapter Rating: T for language.

First Chapter - Previous Chapter - Next Chapter

Lost in Time Chapter 13: Preparation

Fayrl wanted nothing more than to go to a tavern and have a few glasses of something stronger than ale. Perhaps he could go and finish his payment to the stablemaster. He wanted to get his mind off of everything.

He ran into Irileth as soon as he exited the kitchens. Right, they were to go with her to the armory. “Hello again, I take it you are here to escort us to choose our rewards?”

Irileth eyed the other Dunmer in front of her, and raised her eyebrow at the Khajiit emerging from the kitchens behind him. “Yes, if you will follow me. The Jarl has allotted you one weapon or armor piece each, enchanted if that is your wish.” She waved the pair forward to a set of stairs on the left of the Jarl’s throne, leading down into the armory, jail, and guard quarters.

Fayrl gave Irileth a pleasant smile and followed her lead to the armory. It was a room filled with weapons racks, chests, and mannequins of armor. Mostly the items on display were heavy armor and broadswords, not the sort suitable to Fayrl’s skills. He spotted a pair of boots in the corner that looked to be of good leather. His own boots had been ruined by the Dragon blood and a good pair of strong leather boots would be perfect for him. He eagerly went and tried them on.

Truth be told, they were slightly wider than his feet, but shorter in the toe. Surely he could find a cobbler to adjust the stitches to fit him better, there was leather enough to spare. If not, he would just can to hope they would stretch for him.

Ma’zurah blinked at the room full of weapons and armor. She had no need for any of these things! She felt a sudden sympathy for Julan’s impatience during shopping trips. She started looking for something Fayrl might find useful instead. She dug into a chest and discovered a set of thick leather armor, complete with warm fur trimmings, and an enchantment to resist frost. She gave it a critical glance and turned to Fayrl with a grin. “Hey! This would fit Fayrl!”

Fayrl turned to look at the very typical Nord armor. “It might indeed. But I have already made my selection. After the Dragon ruined my boots, I am going to take these instead,” he informed her, and by extension Irileth as well, lifting a leg to show off the boot. “I am sure we can find you something that would fit you.”

Ma’zurah glanced down at her own canvas wrapped paws and wished the armory had some boots that would fit them. “Ma’zurah has never worn armor. They do not have Khajiiti boots, and Ma’zurah uses spells instead of weapons. Fayrl can have Ma’zurah’s piece. This one has an enchantment to resist frost. That might be good on a mountain.”

“Will you not suffer from the cold if we are on a mountain? If you are barefoot you will surely get frostbite. The cold here is unlike anywhere back in Morrowind.” Fayrl wondered if the same cobbler that might fix his boots might be able to modify some boots for Ma’zurah as well. He would have to check and see if his cache was still hidden away at the back of town. He had the key and knew the passwords if the bank still stood and hadn’t been emptied. Would anything still be good after so many centuries had passed?

Ma’zurah nodded, her face serious. “Ma’zurah has a natural resistance to frost, even more than most Khajiit get from their fur because Ma’zurah is moon cursed. If the cold is as serious as Fayrl says, even in high summer, then he will need the protection more than Ma’zurah will. Ma’zurah will have to see if the Khajiit caravan has any boots. There is nothing to be done here about it though.” She held out the armor to Fayrl.

Fayrl took it in hand and turned to Irileth. “Is it alright if we take these two items, then?” he asked. He didn’t feel it was fair. He had done less work, yet he was getting all of the reward. He would have to make it up to her somehow. He only needed to figure out how.

Irileth gave them a bored nod and waved them out of the room. Ma’zurah smiled at Fayrl and held out her hand. Fayrl took it, unsure of why it was offered to him. Still, there was a comfort to it. Yet that did nothing but make him feel guilty. Did she offer him her prize to placate him somehow?

She squeezed his hand and led them out of the Jarl’s hall, waving to Nelkir still swinging his feet over the edge of the balcony. The boy flashed them a huge grin.

Ma'zurah paused at the top of the tall stairs down from Dragonsreach, and took in the view. Behind the temple of Khenarthi and the nicer houses of the city, there was a small open space. Ma'zurah pointed it out to Fayrl. “Ma'zurah would like to practice this Shouting thing. Can we go over there?”

“Certainly. I should take these to be fitted soon though.” Fayrl indicated his boots. “And perhaps we can see if we can’t have something custom made for you?”

“Really?” Ma'zurah broke into a grateful smile. “Ma'zurah has not had proper shoes since shortly after she left Elsweyr!”

Fayrl nodded. “Of course. In a couple of months there will already be snow the ground. You already know how incapable I would be at magically warming you. And if you get that exhausted by expending magic constantly, then it’s best we avoid the necessity as much as possible.”

Ma'zurah snorted and waved dismissively. “Ma'zurah does not get fatigued from the Shouting! That was the silly wizard making assumptions because Ma'zurah could not ‘remember’ the date.” She led them down the steps. “Ma'zurah is not even sure the Shouting even expends magicka. And Ma'zurah only gets exhausted by casting when she drinks five magicka potions in a row and casts restoration spells without stopping after a battle with a Dragon and a full day of travel. It was an unfortunate concurrence of events.”

Fayrl nodded. “It was a joke, my dear. But I am glad to know that I do not have to get in the habit of always carrying you. Though you’ve only to say the word and I will happily oblige.”

They stopped in front of the Hall of the Dead. “Try not to shout in my direction, okay?” Fayrl asked. “I want to keep my face looking as good as possible now that I’m technically over a millennium old.”

“How old are you then?” Ma'zurah cocked her head at Fayrl curiously.

“In my time I was almost nearing my second century. Why do you ask?”

Mazurah stopped and blinked at Fayrl. “Ai… Ma'zurah keeps forgetting how long mer live. Ma'zurah is almost twenty four now.”

Fayrl kept forgetting how young non-mer races so often were when they looked the same age as he. She didn’t act particularly young; in fact she acted around his own level of maturity. If he’d had to guess, he would have thought she was around his own age--and in a way he supposed she was. They were both somewhere around a third of the way through their natural lifespan. “Well, you’ve skipped ahead, so welcome to the start of wiser living, as my father would have said.”

"Mmm… Well, Ma'zurah will be this age until something kills her. Divayth Fyr tells Ma'zurah she will never age, now that her symptoms of Corprus are cured.” Ma'zurah's face bore a troubled expression.

Corprus, wasn’t that incurable? Fayrl felt suddenly anxious about having her so close. And yet she had no symptoms. A cure must have been discovered. “Did something happen with the illness?”

“Oh, sure. Plenty happened!” Ma'zurah’s voice turned sarcastic. “It turned out Corprus was actually a way for the Sharmat to convert followers, and then control them through dream sendings! If they survived the testing process of the illness they became immortal and mutated into these horrible ash creatures, and slowly sprouted tentacles from their faces! It was awful. The Blight got so bad they were quarantining all of Vvardenfell.”

She sighed. “But as for this one, Voryn realized that this one was Nerevar reborn and sent one of his ‘priests’ to infect this one. And that was before Ma'zurah recovered the memories of Nerevar, so it was even more terrifying to be called Lord Nerevar. Actually, Ma'zurah was pretty sure her boyfriend was the Nerevarine at the time. Poor Julan…”

She pulled herself out of her memories with a shake of her head. “But anyway, Julan and Jasmine and Constance took this one to Tel Fyr, and Divayth Fyr gave her an experimental treatment to remove all the awful symptoms of Corprus. As far as Ma'zurah knows, she is the only one who ever survived the curing process, before or after. It was a miracle of Azurah, and was necessary for this one to fulfill part of the prophecies--the second trial of the Incarnate. ‘Neither blight nor age can harm him. The Curse-of-Flesh before him flies.’ Ma'zurah was just glad to be alive, and no longer a danger to her friends. She still can hardly believe they did not leave her behind. But, um… yes. Ma'zurah is functionally immortal now.”

Fayrl stared at her in disbelief. “You really are something else. I can’t believe I am with the Nerevarine.” He laughed. “It’s hardly a wonder I am a Champion of my god and fighting Dragons if you think about it. How could I not when I am standing by someone so important?”

Fayrl was starting to feel a little like he had lost his mind. Maybe he had lost it in the Shivering Isles. Or maybe all this time he was lost somewhere in Sheogorath’s Tongue. Had he been poisoned when eliminating his last target? It made more sense to him than happening across a hero of so vast a variety of legends. “Tell me about your companions; about this boyfriend of yours who was thought to be the Nerevarine. I am curious about what mighty warriors have fought by your side.”

“Oh! Julan is a great warrior!” Ma'zurah snickered. “Ma'zurah met him getting eaten to death by three clannfears by himself outside of Ghostgate. Ma'zurah and Constance had to rescue him and heal him. He was a rude little ungrateful guarshit to us too. He said he was just playing with them because he was training to be a great warrior in preparation for a sacred mission, which, of course, he would not tell us anything about.”

“What made you decide to stay on with him after that? Was it to learn his secret?”

“Well, when Ma'zurah pointed out that he was being an ungrateful little guarshit, he was mature enough to be able to actually swallow his pride and apologize and ask for healing before he bled out. Ma'zurah is pretty sure we were the first people he met other than the people who he had known since childhood who were actually nice to him ever. He was impressed with Ma'zurah’s magic and asked if Ma'zurah would train him. He was very rude about that too! Said his tribe would be horrified if they ever found out he was asking an n’wah for help. Ma'zurah could tell he was lonely though, and she thought he was amusing, so she said he could come along for a while. It worked out.”

“Sounds like he was very lucky to have you indeed. Such stubbornness. Was he very young when you met him?” Something about the story reminded Fayrl of his brother Ervis. Now there was a stubborn and ungrateful mer.

“Ma'zurah met him almost two years ago now. He is actually four months older than Ma'zurah, but being a Velothi outcast, he did not have much of a chance to interact with people.”

“An Ashlander! I suppose to be considered Nerevarine he would have been.” Fayrl thought of those who had helped him who had taught him among the tribes back home. He could only hope that they had indeed managed to keep struggling and surviving after the incident with Red Mountain.

Ma'zurah smiled proudly with a soft, faraway expression in her eyes. “Now he is in line to be Ashkhan of the Ahemmusa. He has come such a long way…”

“Oh, he is young indeed. Though why am I not surprised that you ended up with an Ashkhan? I imagine it would take quite the person to be able to steal your heart.”

“Hah!” Ma'zurah laughed. “Fayrl is making Julan sound like some grand figure who is dignified and heroic all the time! He is probably one of the silliest mer Ma'zurah has ever met!” She snorted. “Eh… well… he tried to be a hero for so long, and it nearly killed him. It might have killed Ma'zurah if it had not been for her friends. It was not easy. Angst and betrayal and extortion and conspiracies and nearly dying all the time… but we all survived.”

Fayrl, smiled as he listened to her. It was always exhilarating to hear about the lives other people lived, but even more so when they were new friends. And Ma’zurah’s life was like something out of the ancient epic tales. It made sense being the reincarnation of one of his people’s greatest heroes. She was in the epic tales in this time most likely. And here he was, an ordinary Dunmer standing besides the reincarnation of his hero ancestor. What could be more thrilling than to learn of her life and those who had been with her.

“Sounds very harrowing.” He sighed longingly. Even though he was an adult, there was always that young and idealistic part of him that longed for adventure. Of course, his own experiences with adventure were far less fun than the ones he read in books or heard in song. He would have to make his own songs to make the journey they were on more fantastic for those who would come after them.

“If you have the time, I would be fascinated to hear all about your adventures. I am completely unspoiled by the histories and getting the truth from the source is rare when it comes to even living legends and their deeds.”

“Sure! But… right now we have to do things to get ready to climb a mountain.” Ma'zurah made a face and glanced around. “Ma'zurah will tell you more on the road. We came down here so Ma'zurah could practice this Shouting thing.”

“Of course,” Fayrl said and sat back to allow her space to practice. He took a spot on the ground and pulled out the Ebony Blade, glancing at the length of the edge, checking carefully with his finger for any dullness. There was none. Even after hacking away at a Dragon’s tough hide, there were no nicks or dulling of the blade. He resheathed it and pulled it close against his chest.

A thought dawned on him. “I will be right back,” he said, standing once again, a grin on his face as he tied the sword to his belt and pulled the lute from his back. “I need to repay a favor.” He wondered if the Imperial that helped him might be at the Drunken Huntsman still. He had seen the place, near the front gate of the city.

Mazurah paused in her attempt to create a good visualization of a miniature hurricane, like those off the coast of Senchal and around the Topal Bay. “Hey! Wait! We should stick together! If something happens, like, you know, another Dragon, and we are not together, we might get separated for good!”

“I’m going to a shop. It’s called the Drunken Huntsman, right by where we came into the city. I owe the gentleman who gave me coin for our clothes. I told him I would play him a song to repay him. Besides, if I stay here, I’ll just be in your way. If a Dragon shows up, I am sure I can follow the sound of your shouting to find you. No way I could mistake such a lovely voice.” He winked at her and began to head off.

Ma'zurah huffed in exasperation and grabbed Fayrl’s arm. “You should have told Ma'zurah you needed coin! Ma'zurah has plenty of coin! And who knows? Your coin might be worth a lot more now to collectors! You should probably refrain from spending it until we can get it assessed. We will just share resources. And this will not take long, Ma'zurah just wants to see if this does what she thinks it does. So just sit down for a minute! Okay?”

Fayrl was surprised by the touch. He wasn’t used to people actually stopping him from doing what he wanted.

“I didn’t spend any coin, my dear. I gave the poor fellow a sob story about being a bard with all his possessions stolen by bandits and he handed me a purse of coins in exchange for playing him a song. Why should I spend any of my few precious coins when I can spend someone else’s? Still, I was merely trying to spend our time wisely so we could get you to these Shout masters sooner.”

He sat down to watch her. “It’s not as if it is any great treat to listen to me play. You’ve already heard my music. And if I were to visit him alone, I could garner more coin. I simply was trying to gather us more resources.”

Fayrl took out his dagger and checked it for damage from the Dragon attack. There were a couple of places where the blade had gotten scratched and the edge was completely dulled. He could add a blacksmith to the list of services he needed.

Ma'zurah shot Fayrl a look, turned toward the wall of the city, finished imagining her hurricane, and Shouted at the wall. “VEN NOS GAR!”

There was a thunderclap, though Mazurah did not seem to register the noise. She grinned as the whirlwind she had pictured materialized from her mouth and slammed into the city wall with a shudder. “Ma'zurah got it!” she crowed over her shoulder at Fayrl. “Now Ma'zurah has to figure out what in Oblivion the last one does!”

He met her look over his shoulder. “I’m still here,” he huffed and flung himself dramatically to the ground. “Just as you asked, sera.”

Ma'zurah rolled her eyes. “Oh do not be so melodramatic. Ma'zurah has no idea where to start visualizing a Shout that just means ‘Earth.’ Ma'zurah found out what she wanted to know, and now she is done. Where should we go now?”

“Earth, hm? Perhaps you are meant to visualize Nirn itself?” he shrugged, jumping to his feet. “I’d like to drop off my weapons to be sharpened while I play. Perhaps the blacksmith also does cobbling work, so we can try and get you some sort of shoe there as well?” He tried to be positive. She had not been amused by his dramatics.

“Ma’zurah would appreciate that. Lead on then?” Ma’zurah smiled and looped her arm around Fayrl’s.

“This way, m’lady,” Fayrl said and led them down towards the entrance to town.

They began walking and Ma’zurah spoke up again. “What would visualizing Nirn do actually? Control all earth?”

Fayrl laughed. “I’m not entirely sure, but I hear visualization is important with magic, so it seemed the thing to do.”

“Well the Shout only worked when Ma'zurah visualized the effect she wanted before, so she is not sure how to make it work when she does not know what the Shout is supposed to do. A shout that means armor or whirlwind is obvious, but earth? Ma'zurah will have to ask these Greybeards.” She followed Fayrl’s lead.

“It seems our only option to unlocking your new powers,” Fayrl agreed, arriving to the blacksmith. There was a woman outside and he flagged her down.

“Hello there,” she greeted them. “A new face in town I see. We’ve got some good pieces out here if you're looking to buy. More inside.” She wiped her face, smearing ash across her cheek.

“Thank you,” began Fayrl, pulling out his weapons. “But I was mostly looking to have the edges of my blades maintained.”

Adrianne took them in hand and gave them a look over. “They’ve taken a nasty bit of damage here. Looks like you were practicing against the wall.”

Fayrl nodded. “It was about as bad as a wall.”

“Well, I just got a big order in, but they shouldn’t take too long to get to. How’s about the end of the week sound?”

Fayrl balked. “I’m afraid I’m on a bit of a time constraint, sera. Is there no way to have them done today? I’ve got coin if it helps.”

Adrianne looked them over once more while deciding. “Alright. You’re a first time customer, so I will put these on priority. If you like my work though, I urge you to look at some of the pieces I’ve got inside. Some really beauties.”

“Do you do custom leather work at all?”

“Sure do.” Adrianne nodded to the door. “Speak to my husband, Ulfberth, inside. He can take all the information for your order.”

“Thank you,” said Fayrl and opened the door for Ma’zurah.

Ma'zurah grinned at Fayrl and entered the shop. The interior smelled of new leather and steel, and Ma'zurah glanced around at the displays of weapons, shields, armor, farming tools, and horse tack. The large man behind the counter was sitting on a stool, tooling what looked like one of a pair of leather vambraces. The man had a huge black beard, and wore a set of sleeveless armor that put his well defined biceps on prominent display. Ma'zurah gave him a small wave.

“Good day, sera,” called Fayrl. “Your lovely wife bade us come to see you about having some custom shoes made. It’s something of a rush order.”

“Oh! Welcome to Warmaiden's . I’d be happy to size up a fighting man like yourself for some better boots,” Ulfberth said, gesturing to a stool.

Fayrl smiled and offered the seat to Ma’zurah. “Go on, dear.”

Ulfberth seemed a bit confused for a moment before he seemed to catch up. “Oh, a pair of shoes for the little lady! I am sure we can put a nice pink or blue stain on them. Blue is Adrianne’s favorite color, so I have a nice stock of blue dye if you’re interested.

Ma'zurah snorted. “You know, this one would have thought a shop called ‘Warmaiden’s’ would be a little more respectful to anyone who would appear to be an actual warmaiden.” she muttered to Fayrl.

She stepped up to the counter and took the offered seat. Her tail hung off the edge of the stool and flicked behind her. “Ma'zurah needs a pair of winter boots that are suitable for mountain climbing. Ma'zurah has not had a set of shoes that fit her since she was seventeen and her last set of boots from Elsweyr broke. She does not care what color they are, only that they are warm and sturdy, and preferably waterproof, and will not break even in a fight with a Dragon.”

“I agree. After the pleasant reception we enjoyed outside, I was expecting, well… more,” Fayrl said mildly disappointed.

Ulfberth grumbled. “My apologies.” His voice seemed a little strained to be genuine, but he set about taking measurements and pulling out samples of fabric for them to choose from. “Would you like to choose what leather and fur you would like?”

“Guarhide, if you have it, and shaved beaver or otter would be lovely. If not, Ma'zurah does not care particularly much so long as they are sturdy.” Ma'zurah unwrapped the canvass from around her feet.

She paused. “Ma'zurah could also use a few waterskins and a waterproof scroll case. She does not need to ruin any paper in snowmelt.”

Ulfberth blinked as he took in the full shape of Ma’zurah’s feet. “I have a good horker leather if sturdy and waterproof is what you need,” he said. He reached out toward Ma’zurah’s paw and hesitated. “May I?”

Fayrl watched the Nord carefully. One wrong move and he would take action.

Ma’zurah shrugged and lifted one foot across her knee, exposing the road roughened pad of her paw and the four unretractable claws. “It is almost the same as a human who walks only on their toes,” she offered, “Except Ma'zurah’s heel would be up here.” She gestured. “And horker works fine.”

Ulfberth scratched his head. “Yes, I see. Hmmm.” He made a measurement and marked down a few numbers. “As far as fur goes, I have some nice rabbit. Not as warm, but twice as soft. Or there is some sabre cat or snow bear.”

“Snow bear would probably be the warmest and most waterproof. Go with that. If you have it in winter coat, Ma'zurah would prefer that.”

“Snow bear it is, little lady. I should have something ready for you to try on the fit before we close tonight.”

Ma'zurah watched the man finish taking her measurements, and rewrapped her paw, then hopped off the stool and went to investigate a sturdy rectangular leather box. It had a separate lid with a tight fit, and appeared waterproof. She opened it and discovered it fit her new journal passably well, and Ma'zurah decided she could seal it with beeswax to make a functional scroll case. She took it and three waterskins to the counter. “Ma'zurah will purchase these as well.” she declared.

Fayrl reached into the coin purse he had gotten earlier and leaned onto the counter. “How much for all of this?”

Ulfberth made a calculation. “173 gold. That’s with a discount for visiting the first time. Fierce prices for fierce warriors.”

Ma'zurah retrieved her coinpurse, and began counting out the required sum, ignoring Fayrl’s protestations. “Ma'zurah can buy her own damn boots!” she laughed, “And Fayrl should save his money for his own needs. Besides, he got breakfast and the things from this morning. This is nothing.”

Ulfberth finished taking down the details of their order and accepted the coin. “Pleasure doing business with you.”

“Now,” Ma’zurah turned to Fayrl, “where next?” She tucked her journal into her new scroll case, and hung the three waterskins across her shoulder.

“I owe a friend a performance just across the road. It is up to you if you want to join me or not.”

“Ma'zurah will come with you. She wonders if it would be a good idea to see the Khajiit caravan outside the city though.”

Fayrl wavered at the door of The Drunken Huntsman. “If you want to see the caravans, I will only need a few minutes to play a couple of songs. I can come meet you outside when I am done. I don't want to impose.”

Ma'zurah smacked Fayrl’s shoulder. “No splitting up, remember? Does Ma'zurah need to recall all the reasons splitting up is a bad idea?” She began ticking off points on her fingers. “If something happens, like a sudden Dragon attack, this one does not wish to become permanently separated; also, if, by some miracle of Azurah one of us were to find a way home, this one does not wish the other to become stranded; and finally, Nords are racist shits who do not like Khajiit inside of their cities, and Ma'zurah is less likely to have to deal with that guarshit if obviously escorted by someone of a different race! That is not to mention that when the gods provide a companion, it is probably best not to appear to scorn their generosity by taking their continued presence for granted! Besides, Ma'zurah enjoys Fayrl's company and would like to get to know her new companion better.” Ma'zurah smirked at Fayrl’s expression and crossed her arms. “So no splitting up. Stop asking.”

Fayrl put his hands up. “My apologies. I was merely trying to use our time wisely. Though I see your point.”

He was torn between feeling flattered and feeling as though he were on a leash. It was rare when he had to follow someone else unless he was being paid for it. “I shall stay by your side. I shall be the blade up your sleeve. Merely point me in a direction and I shall be there in a flash to eliminate whatever blocks your path.”

He pressed open the door to the shop, relieved to find the interior dimly lit, but well spaced for a musical performance. He immediately began searching for the Imperial who he had met earlier.

Ma'zurah lowered her voice as they entered the dimly lit tavern. “Fayrl makes it sound as though this one is going to control Fayrl’s life as his master or something…” She frowned, uneasy about his obeisant attitude. “Fayrl is the Lady’s Champion, and Ma'zurah is her Mother’s. If this arrangement were within my army, we would be of equal rank. We should collaborate as partners.”

Ma'zurah's eyes adjusted quickly to the dim interior, and she assessed their surroundings. There was a Bosmer cleaning mugs behind the bar, and several customers seated at tables around the room. In an alcove to their right, Ma'zurah spotted a leather clad Dunmer sharpening a slim knife of the sort used for quick assassinations. She was on her guard immediately, though she tried not to let it affect her body language. Further observation revealed that the Dunmer carried herself with the kind of lythe and subtle grace that Ma'zurah had, with her two lifetimes of experience, come to expect from skilled professional assassins. She nudged Fayrl and gestured subtly.

He made a quick glance in the Dunmer’s direction. He could tell immediately what sort she was. Though if she were hanging out in a place like this so casually, she was not on assignment. She was looking for work.

“Are you worried I am not enough to protect you?” Fayrl asked, a look of mock hurt across his face. “I doubt there is anything she can do that I cannot. Unless you need a female body for it.”

“Ma’zurah can protect herself, usually. This one just finished eliminating the Dark Brotherhood from Mournhold because they just would not give up, even after months. Ma’zurah did not expect to see any assassins again so soon.” She glanced at Fayrl. “Excepting present company.”

Fayrl adjusted his hair tie so that if, by some slim chance, this assassin was Morag Tong, she would recognize his connection with Mephala. It was too soon after their arrival for a writ to have been taken out on them, which meant she would not be permitted to assassinate them. It was for the best, just in case the Morag Tong in this time were as prominent as they once had been.

Ma’zurah walked forward and chose a table in the corner of the room, relatively close to the mysterious assassin so she could keep an eye on her, and sat with her back to the wall. She was wary of being in the presence of an unknown assassin after all the attempts that had been made on her life.

Fayrl turned to the barkeeper when he saw Pavos walking down the stairs from the tavern’s lodging rooms.

End Notes:

Fayrl’s tumblr: @talldarkandroguesome

Lore and characterization for Ma'zurah significantly inspired by the White Senches race mod for Morrowind.

Screenshot of Fayrl Screenshot of Ma’zurah Check out my art tag for more pictures of Fayrl and Ma’zurah.

Constructive criticism is welcome. We also really like it if you leave comments on Ao3.