#well high pay and makes you sound smart but do that many people find it generally enjoyable

[playingonedchess]

well im bloody glad i didnt choose to study law anyway

[noirvette]

WE NEVER EXISTED

[band smau]

[FIFTEEN]

masterlist.

prev. | next.

Note: haha... it's a long one guys..

The concert had ended and you couldn't help but think it was the most fun night of your life. South Park certainly knew how to draw in a crowd and give a band their best experience ever. Endorphins running through your body at an all time high, you felt happy, light, floaty in a way. Like nothing could ever tear you down.

"What a night!" Clyde exclaimed, tossing his drumsticks in the air, doing some random juggling routine with them.

Nichole hummed a noise of agreement, "Right! I don't think I've seen so many people of South Park in one place before."

Everyone nodded at Nichole's statement.

"Well, I for one am beat," Stan sighed out, before taking a sip of his water, "I don't think I've sang that many high notes in my life before in one concert."

"You did a good job bro," Kyle slapped his hand on Stan's back, rubbing his shoulder a bit, "You all did."

Clyde stared at the scene in front of him before turning to you mouth open wide in shock before looking back at Stan and Kyle, "Oh my god they're making out in front of us guys!"

You stifled your laugh as Stan turns to Kyle make obnoxious kissing noises towards him, "Style will be real in 10 seconds."

Kyle scoffed and turned to find a place to sit down and Stan threw his arms around Kyle's waist, "NOOOO babe don't leave meeeeee."

"Oh my god you weirdo," Kyle rolled his eyes in mock annoyance, "Fine, fine I'll sit with you, scooch over."

Stan does so and Kyle sits besides him, "Well we've got some downtime before the truck guys come to grab our equipment, what do you guys wanna do?"

"FOOD. OH FOR THE LOVE OF EVERYTHING PRECIOUS TO ME, CAN WE PLEASEEEE ORDER SOME FOOD!!" Clyde falls to his knees, begging.

Kyle took his phone out opening DoorDash, "Yeah I'm feelin hungry myself, what you guys want? I'll start a group order but you all owe me back."

You patted your pocket, "Oh wait where's my phone?"

Kyle's face briefly shows one of panic, "I uh, put it on the charger you left it and I found it dead.. so I plugged it in for you."

"Oh! Thanks Kyle."

"No problem, I'll just pay for you for tonight."

Clyde scoffs, "What is THIS Kyle Broflovski? You pay for our dear bassist but not for your lovely Clyde THE Donovan?"

"Clyde."

"This is like........instrumentalism..Do you just like bassists? Do you hate drummers?"

Nichole looks up in confusion, giving Clyde a side eye, "That.. is definitely NOT a word meant for that use smart ass."

"Uh huh, it sure is, don't change the topic though Nicky.. the important thing here is that no one is paying.. for ME!"

Kyle sighs, "Clyde."

"Uh.. I'm not finished yet," Clyde holds a finger up, "As I was saying, why don't you pay for me too! Do you just hate me, Kyle? I thought we were besties..."

If emoticons could be used as tones... you swear Clyde would sound like exactly like the sad emotion right now.

"Clyde." Kyle tries again.

"Oh my god can you let me do what I need to do?" Clyde frowns in fake irritation.

"Did..are you quoting Tyler the Creator right now? Seriously?" Stan asks.

"Yeah."

You snort at Clyde's antics and Kyle rubs his eyes, "Dude.. You can pay for yourself.. your phone is right there.. and CHARGED. You literally just got an angry birds notification."

Clyde turns around and sure enough his phone sat lit up with an angry birds notification sitting on his home screen, "Oh well this is awkward.. but still! It's the principle of things.."

Before Kyle could utter another word, Clyde continues, "BUT! I'll let you off the hook.. I'll pay for myself; you win this time.. Kyle Matthew Broflovski.."

"NOT THE FULL NAME." Stan bursts out laughing hard and Kyle sits there with his head in his hands, face covered in a slight blush from embarrassment.

Nichole, having tuned the conversation out and scrolling on DoorDash herself, pipes up with, "Does Burger King sound alright? It's either that or McDonalds and I'd rather not have them again tonight."

"Sounds good with me!" You chirp and the other three give their own mentions of agreement.

Kyle sends the link out and then gets up to sit beside you, "What would you like?"

"Hmm.." You lean in to get a better look at his phone and Kyle stiffens a bit before handing his phone to you.

"Thanks," You add your order in and hand the phone back to him, "Hey Kyle do you think my phone's charged by now?"

Kyle hums briefly and without thinking says, "Yeah should be."

"Oh great, where is it?"

He pauses briefly, having realized what he said, "Uhhh... You know.. I'm not sure where I plugged it in, give me a second to place the order if everyone would FINISH," He gives Stan a harsh side eye who just shrugs in return, "And I'll help you look."

Nichole frowns and gives you a glance and you catch it and just shrug, "Alright works with me, just as long as my phone is still here and someone didn't take it.. because you'd be owing me a new phone mister."

Kyle places the order and stands up, "Yup, I know.. That's why I'm hoping it's still here myself. Alright well lets go find it."

Kyle starts walking off towards the trailers and you follow, the other three look at each other and immediately start gossiping once you two are out of ear shot.

"Alright, what the hell is going on between those two?" Nichole asks.

Stan shrugs, "Hell if I know, suddenly they just became like that!" Stan snaps his fingers.

"Okayy.. well they've always been relatively close, I mean not as close as recently but, they've always had an easier connection." Clyde points out.

"Right and this is Y/n we're talking about.. she wouldn't be stupid enough to cheat on Kenny right?" Stan questions and Nichole shakes her head.

"No, that girl is dedicated to him, she wouldn't dream of doing that to Kenny."

Clyde sits for a minute, thinking, "Well what if Kyle's manipulating her? To like fall in love with him? I mean he's liked her since.. how long now?"

Stan looks over at Clyde incredulously, "Dude! That's my best friend you're dissing right now and absolutely not, Kyle isn't that kind of guy."

Clyde shrugs, "Hey bro I was just throwin ideas out there."

"Yeah, shitty ones."

Nichole chimes in, trying to break the random argument that's about to start, "Uh guys."

"I don't hear any genius ideas coming from YOU, Stanley Randall William Marsh."

"WHY ARE YOU SAYING OUR FULL NAMES LIKE THIS." Stan raises his voice in exasperation.

"Cuz it's funny." Clyde simply states.

"Uhhh... Guys?" Nichole says with more urgency.

"Yes Nichole?" Clyde turns to look at her, batting his eyelashes.

"Have.. you two seen twitter?"

You turn to ask Kyle, "You sure you left it in here?"

Kyle scratches his neck and looks around the trailer room, "Yeah, it should be here."

"No it's not." You sigh.

"What?"

"You have a thing, you scratch your neck and refuse to make eye contact when you're hiding the truth."

"A...thing?" Kyle asks confused.

"Yeah like a tell, people have these quirks about them that they do.. when they're lying or if they're happy or you know something like that."

Kyle still stares at you with slight confusion, "And... mine is scratching my neck and refusing to make eye contact?"

You nod, "Yeah.. pretty much."

"So you're calling me a liar?"

"I'm not calling you a truther."

"Don't," Kyle holds a hand up, "Quote Drake and Josh when you're accusing me of lying."

You cross your arms annoyed, "I'm not accusing you of lying I'm stating you're not telling me the truth right now... about MY phone no less."

Kyle sighs in defeat, "Okay.. You got me, but Y/n, sit down."

"Wha?" You start.

"Please."

"Wow, okay.." You slowly start to sit down and Kyle sits down at the couch across from you, "What is this about.?"

Kyle bites his lip and refuses to meet your gaze, "Y/n.. I.."

"Oh my god," You nervously chuckle, "You're scaring me, Kyle."

Kyle runs a hand through his hair and stares at the ground, you can see his jaw is clenched.

He looks back up at you and wordlessly fishes your phone out of his back pocket and slides it over to you.

"You had it? Kyle what the he.." You trail off, meeting his gaze. His eyes tell you that he's nervous.. that he's serious.. and that he's sad.

You swallow nervous again.. you can feel the mood change in the room, really you think it changed a while ago but your nonchalance about the reality of whatever is happening prevented you from fully noticing it.

You're not sure what to be thinking, thoughts run through your mind at the speed of 120 miles per hour. Complete worry stains your body and covers you in a blanket of fear.

"Y/n." Kyle starts, in a full serious tone.

"...Yeah?" You answer apprehensively.

"Kenny's cheating on you. I found out during the set."

White noise. White noise filled your ears, the room was so silent that you could literally hear the noise of dust settling around you.. at least you thought you could. What you could be hearing is the blood draining from your head or is it the blood rushing to your head?

Your heart beats faster and you're pretty sure to Kyle you look as if you just had a heart attack. Frozen in shock... frozen in.. dread? You're not sure what to feel.

Your throat is dry, your mouth is dry, "How..? Who..?" You croak out.

"The podcast earlier released it, it uh, was Red.. They've been together since right after we left for our tours."

"Oh- Oh my god I'm going to be sick." You gasp out.

Kyle instinctively wraps his arms around your body, holding you tight. You know that if you were standing, you'd have collapsed onto the ground. He rubs circles into your back and rubs his hands along your sides to comfort you.

You can also feel Kyle whisper in your ear comforting phrases, at least you'd assume it's comfort. You can't hear anything, the shock of the situation hitting you even harder now you know everything.. or at least everything you need to know.. everything you want to know.

You can't feel tears.. you're not sure why, maybe a part of you expected this... no, no how could you ever expect something like this? Your body is in a catatonic state. You feel sick yet you feel fine. Almost as if your body is fighting itself in a way that you don't know how to deal with.

You feel hollow.. empty.. like someone just ripped a half of you away with no explanation as to why. Except you HAD an explanation.. a horrible, awful, shitty, excruciatingly painful explanation.

You hear the trailer door open and a few gasps, before feeling three pairs of arms circle your body. You felt cold, you felt numb, you felt broken. But above all?

You felt alone.

TAGLIST: @captivq @kimiesstuff @bwljules @the-cooler-kira @1one1person1 @kenny-the-ken @neenieweenie @n0tangeliccc @frogindisguise @revzxn @ryenwritess @mirophobic @gonefiishiing @musiclovebot @bootsieboo @bonez4brainz @s0l4riss @1996kj @sweetadonisbutbetter @scinclaitnoir @okarigold

[the-savage-garden]

Nitpicking ACOWAR Ch 20 *TW*

I noticed my notes for this chapter is short and I could've added in 2 more chapters but I had to isolate this one in particular because of the implications that are in it. Anyone that's read this book probably knows why. In this chapter Feyre and Rhys go to the library and they meet Clotho, then Feyre learns about Clotho's backstory, then Feyre and Rhys proceed to be horny right after a serious conversation. I only heard how bad this was but reading it myself... it's quite insensitive, so I'm including a trigger warning.

Chapter 20

-Feyre and Rhys go to the library. Look, I’m not saying that Feyre isn’t smart but I never really expected her to actively do research at the library, she always came across as someone that’s more street smart and having a hands on approach to problems so I can’t help but question this.

-[“I mean,” I clarified, “not counting the private libraries here and at the Spring Court, and my family had one as well, but not … Not a real one.”] Why does Feyre think private libraries are different from public libraries?

-They talk about how humans have free libraries, Feyre brings up that one of the human territories even lets anyone in regardless of status to their libraries.

-Infodumping about libraries for Fae and humans. Apparently people can learn to do magic from books, kinda inconsistent with previous worldbuilding but whatever. Scholars and librarians mainly refused to keep human slaves so they wouldn’t have access to books.

-In the past any libraries that were in the human lands when the Wall was put up were evacuated by the scholars, some were burned down to keep humans from getting the books. Feyre is bothered by this for some reason, not sure when she got an interest in books but whatever.

-“Prejudices aside, the fear was that the humans would find dangerous spells—and use them on us.” That’s still prejudice though.

-[“But we—I mean, they don’t have magic. Humans don’t have magic.” “Some do. Usually the ones who can claim distant Fae ancestry. But some of those spells don’t require magic from the wielder—only the right words, or use of ingredients.”] So, SJM has decided to make her magic system complicated for some reason. She really should’ve kept things simple, especially since this is a romance book.

-Feyre asks what happened to the half Fae-half humans when the Wall went up.

-[“It did not go well for the half-breeds,” [...] “Many were offspring of unwanted unions. Most usually chose to stay with their human mothers—their human families. But once the wall went up, amongst humans, they were a … reminder of what had been done, of the enemies lurking above the wall. At best, they were outcasts and pariahs, their children—if they bore the physical traits—as well. At worst … Humans were angry in those initial years, and that first generation afterward. They wanted someone to pay for the slavery, for the crimes against them. Even if the half-breed had done nothing wrong … It did not end well.” ] Question, how does Rhys know what happened in the human lands when the Wall was up? I know Feyre never went to school but her sisters did so wouldn’t they know this instead?

-The half-Fae that remained above the Wall were considered lower than lesser faeries, many had to sell themselves on the street to survive. Feyre asks if any of that happened in Velaris but Rhys says when his father was High Lord he hadn’t allowed any humans in their territory for centuries.

-[“And once you were High Lord?” [...] “By then, it was too late for most of them. It is hard to … offer refuge to someone without being able to explain where we were offering them a safe place. To get the word out about it while maintaining our illusion of ruthless cruelty.” [...] “Over the years, we encountered a few. Some were able to make it here. Some were … beyond our help.”] I wasn’t sure how to summarize this so I’m copy-pasting it, it honestly sounds convoluted to me, especially with the whole “illusion of ruthless cruelty” that Rhys decided was necessary for the NC to maintain.

-[Something moved in the darkness beyond the doors, but I kept my focus on his face, on his tensed shoulders.] I hate this, it serves no purpose. What’s the point of having Feyre just ignore something that had moved, it adds weird tension while they’re just talking for no reason.

-[“If the wall comes down, will …?” I couldn’t finish the words. Rhys slid his fingers through mine, interlacing our hands. “Yes. If there are those, human or faerie, who need a safe place … this city will be open to them. Velaris has been closed off for so long—too long, perhaps. Adding new people, from different places, different histories and cultures … I do not see how that could be a bad thing. The transition might be more complex than we anticipate, but … yes. The gates to this city will be open for those who need its protection. To any who can make it here.”] More stuff I’m keeping note of. I almost want to say this could be considered character development for Rhys since he seems to realize keeping Velaris closed off is bad but I have no idea if this’ll lead to anything yet.

-[(...) the hooded and cloaked figure (...)] Having both “hooded” and “cloaked” in this sentence is unnecessary.

-[Every aching sinew and bone locked up as I took in the pale robes, the hood crowned with a limpid blue stone, the panel that could be lowered over the eyes— Priestess.] Oh yeah, I guess Feyre would dislike priestesses because of Ianthe, I wonder if this will lead anywhere.

-Rhys introduces Clotho to Feyre, he also places a comforting hand on her back because he’s aware of her feelings on priestesses. Feyre seems confused why priestesses are outside they’re temples and Rhys explains that libraries are kind of like temples. Apparently Clotho might’ve been in darkness before they arrived. Rhys says the priestesses here are special. Clotho seems amused by what Rhys said, she’s described as silent but lively.

-[“Did you find the texts?” And it was only when she bobbed her head in a sort of “so-so” motion that I realized either she could not or would not speak.] Do Fae not have a type of sign language or something? Why is Clotho motioning with her head instead?

-[And I dragged my eyes away from the mute priestess long enough to take in the library. Not a cavernous room in a manor. Not even close.] Why is Feyre still comparing Spring and Night?

-Feyre then describes the library, how it’s at the base of the mountain underneath the House of Wind. It looks like it’s been “hollowed out by some massive digging beast” and around the hole there’s shelves and reading areas.

-[From what I could see of the various levels as I drifted toward the carved stone railing overlooking the drop, the stacks shot far into the mountain itself, like the spokes of a mighty wheel.] Confusing way to describe things.

-Feyre asks what lives at the bottom of the hole. Rhys says he once dared Cassian to fly down and look, whatever Cassian saw terrified him, about 200 years passed since then. This sounds like the worst place to put a library in.

-[I wondered if any of the priestesses had ever gone sledding down the spiraling path.] What? Oh, it gets worse. Rhys then mind-speaks with Feyre to tell her when he and Mor were kids they tried to slide down the sloping hallways, Rhys’ mother caught them on the 3rd level. Apparently they also oiled the floor that caused the scholars to slip. Look, I get kids do get into trouble but this is rather random to bring up.

-Somehow there are fireplaces in the library under a mountain, not sure how they can ventilate those but whatever (I know there’s magic but then why would they need fireplaces at all?).

-More mind-speak, Rhys tells her that he would go to the library to hide from everyone. [Poor baby High Lord, I crooned. Having to run away to find solitude perfect for brooding. Rhys pinched my behind, and I clamped down on my lip to keep from yelping. I could have sworn Clotho’s shoulders shook with laughter.] This is the worst thing I’ve had to read so far. Clotho is not privy to any of their mind-speak but witnesses Rhys randomly pinch Feyre but for some reason finds it funny?

-Feyre almost yelled at Rhys but got interrupted by Clotho leading them 3 levels down to some reading area with books. Descriptions on how cozy the reading area is, then Clotho hands Rhys a book. Feyre notices the scarred hands Clotho has and recalls what she had done to Ianthe. Rhys does the bare minimum and comforts Feyre. The way Feyre focuses on Clotho’s hands kinda comes across as rather ableist honestly.

-Clotho shows Rhys something in the book she handed him and gets dismissed.

-Rhys tells Clotho’s story to Feyre. He does some silent posturing over Clotho’s assault. He goes on to tell how he had read Clotho’s mind to find the guys that assaulted her and then told Mor to go after them. Info-dumping, it comes as rather insensitive. I almost think that Clotho’s trauma is just being used as a tool to make Rhys and Mor “better” and it annoys me.

-Rhys also explains why Clotho’s hands couldn’t be healed and that magic helps her move things.

-More info-dumping about the library and how it’s a refuge for women that have been assaulted.

-[Choice. It had always been about my choice with him. And for others as well. Long before he’d ever learned the hard way about it.] OMG not this again!

-Feyre simping for Rhys.

-[“It belongs to you, too, now.” And I knew he meant not just in terms of us being mates, but … in the ways it belonged to the other females here. Who had endured and survived.] I hate being hammered with this all the time.

-[I gave him a half smile. “I suppose it’s a miracle that I can even stand to be underground.” But his features remained solemn, contemplative. “It is.” He added softly, “I’m very proud of you.”] This book is driving me insane. It half acknowledges what happened to Feyre UTM but then ignores what Rhys had done to Feyre because they’re “mates” now. UGH.

-They move on and talk about Rhys’ terrible reading lessons. Now with all the heavy things out of the way they move on to being horny. Help me.

-This tonal whiplash upsets me.

-[He leaned in to drag a book toward himself, but whispered in my ear, “Or maybe I’ll spread you out on this desk and lick you until you scream loud enough to wake whatever is at the bottom of the library.”] Can I murder Rhys? They’re in the worst place to be doing this.

-Some heavy petting and finally this whole thing ends.

-Moving on to more info-dumping about the past. Apparently the Wall was formed when Rhys was healing at the cabin. The Wall was meant to be temporary. I don’t understand why the High Fae need others to do free labor for them, they have magic. For some reason territory needed to be redrawn, which is confusing because I thought the seasons and solar stuff was permanent for the Fae so how would they be able to change the borders?

-Reiterating how war is inevitable between Hybern and Prythian for some reason. I hope the King of Hybern kills Rhys at this point, it would make me happy. Feyre and Rhys get into an argument about the war.

-It ends with them talking about recruiting the Bone Carver.

[chrislaplante]

All the munday asks bye

from this meme...

i will now quietly plot my vengeance as i copy & paste this shit & snack on gummies...

When did you start writing on Tumblr? 2012-ish.

Who was your first muse? danny desai from abc family's short-lived show, twisted.

Who are your longest rp friends? darls & des. tho darls i seldom talk to nowadays. but we keep up with each other via instagram. then, once every other full moon we coincide while online & we chat for a bit. it's always very pleasant.

Favourite thing about roleplaying? it's an incredibly therapeutic creative outlet.

Least favourite thing about roleplaying? writer's block & some ppl in the rpc.

OTP for your muse? riot's (YOUR) helena / @bornhngry.

NOTP for your muse? idk. don't have one yet.

What are some similarities between you and your muse/muses? shit. well. here's the thing. chris started off as a sort of therapy for me. using this character to explore things in my life i didn't want to touch. death of a parent, the shitstorm that came with that. finding yourself, many years later, mentally ill & having to deal with that & having to do it on your own bc you're also breaking a cycle in your family. facing personal demons, so to speak. of course, chris & myself became very different in a lot of ways once he began to gain a voice of his own. which he found pretty quickly (i'm very thankful for that too). but, at the core, there are some things we share. few.

What are some differences between you and your muse/muses? he was dealt a different hand in life than mine. in some ways better, in some ways worse. he has a very different perspective in life than i do, most times. i wanna shake some sense into him sometimes. he did one thing i will never do tho, make art my job. lol i don't think i could deal with that. it sounds terrible. as someone who likes to be creative, as he, i would suffer so much through a job like that. he somehow does it, i couldn't tell you.

Would you be friends with your muse if they were real? to be completely honest? no. lol he'd give me so much anxiety it's not even funny. he gets into some shit. nope.

Would you write with duplicate characters? How do you think your muse would react? i would if, and this is a very IF bc chris is an original character... IF my rp partner were writing some kind of entity (in chris' world, a "demon") which can take his form and fuck with him severely. that i would pay to see bc chris is smart, but his biggest fear is within himself (becoming like his father).

Have you any old muses that you’d love to bring back? there are a couple of them, yeah. but then i remember how poorly i was doing back then, mentally speaking, and lol i immediately pass on it. tho there is two or three who did lots for me as a writer, i would love to take on them again. just not right now. maybe later on. we'll see.

What’s one random headcanon about your muse that people mightn’t know? well, few people know the hc about how chris lost his virginity. which was essentially statutory r*pe (he was a minor, the other person wasn't). anyway, this headcanon i stole from a very famous author and one of his more infamous stories: rage by "richard bachman". charlie, the main character, loses his virginity this way. i simply modernized it a bit bc this story came out in the seventies. this boy holds his high school class at gun point and i think (it's been a while, let's ask alyssa @00sgoth, she used to write the guy - i was writing damien echols at the time lol) he shoots a teacher. so "richard bachman" (stephen king) decided to let the story die out and go out of print when school shootings began to occur more often. in the 90s, i believe. after kip kinkel.

Who is an author that inspires you? stephen king lol clearly.

What do you look for in a rp partner? someone who is willing to explore their muses. bc that's all i'm about with mine. exploration, getting to know them. and then putting them in different settings to discover new things.

i'm a firm believer that repetition kills creativity.

Favourite trope? the most innocent, endearing character can be the most dangerous in the room... thus, chris.

Least favourite trope? letting the hero become the villain. bc as fun as it is, in the end, what was the point of the story then?

Are there any AU’s you’d like to explore but haven’t had the chance to yet? yeah, but that's been my fault. lol i have yet to write out chris' alt. verses & how on earth am i to explore them with anyone if i don't even have them set to offer them?

Do you listen to music whilst writing? If so, what kind of music? well, chris has his playlist but it varies for me. lots of metal. a lot of sad songs. a lot of self aware songs.

How do you overcome writer’s block? i don't. like in therapy, i just i let it ride. let it happen. it'll pass, it's okay. then when it goes away i'm back on and writing. simple.

Are there certain characters that you gravitate towards? not really. or at least, not consciously. but i guess i do have a thing for the outcasts. lol

Short, medium, or long threads? see, i always say short or medium but end up writing fucken novellas here and there. so i guess i should say any length. lol

Do you ever get jealous when rping? How do you handle this? nope. i don't even get jealous of my partners when in a very real emotional relationship. lol i just can't.

What about your muse are you most proud of? that he's somehow defied all the odds and became his own self. i didn't mean for it to happen, it just sort of happened.

[informl-onthings]

Paris grew up being taught her worth was determined by how good of a caretaker she was, she didn't understand why she didn't get the same perks as the boys, not when she was just as smart and strong if not more then most of them.

She used to hate the sound of L's name, the way people praised him for just doing his fucking job sickened her to her core. If he didn't take half the jobs he got sent, why wasn't he home more? Why wasn't he, her supposed 'Savior' SAVING her?

One night, it clicked. She didn't have to spend her life waiting to be worth his time. She'd MAKE herself worth his precious fucking time. And so, she left.

Paris didn't bring anything with her except a laptop she stole from the library that was linked to Near's account, one that had the messaging system from Wammy's. She knew it'd probably take a few days if not weeks, but she didn't care. All she had to do was find out where he was. And that meant getting his attention first.

She was sitting in a café, paying with money from some of her many side businesses and hustles she ran back at the orphanage. Paris opened the laptop, clicked on the messaging app, and decided to send him a message, pretending to be Near after rereading previous messages and knowing him from the orphanage.

Paris had high-tech Spyware she herself created, using both the things Mello tutored her on when he had the time and her own coding experience she had before the Wammy house. So if he even opened the message it'd link his current ip to her laptop.

"Greetings, L. You haven't been home lately. Has something happened in your recent journeys?"

Paris pressed the send button, nibbling on one of the sour gummies she bought on her way over. She waited patiently for him to open it.

- Paris

*It was clear that the message did not come from Near, subtle choices in the phrasing of the words confirmed that. Usually, the albino boy was the only one, other than the rest of his successors, who would be given permission to communicate with him; and even then, it could not go past an hour… to think that someone else would gain access to the computer without any kind of supervision..*

*He should play along, if they would go to such lengths to initiate a conversation with him, he should listen; it was a given that they were a child from the orphanage, he just had to figure out who and why, which would take a bit of talking to find out.*

“Yes, hello. Everything is going well, how about yourself? How’s the drawing coming along?”

*Going by the boy’s last letter, he had been finger painting, but there’s no way that the intruder could have known that, considering Near reaffirmed his voluntary isolation from other children. It was a way of throwing them off, then he could start questioning them properly; patience is a virtue few possess.*

-L.

[archivxx]

✯[0.04]✯

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Note: my friends will find out and they will most likely hate me. For some reason, I don’t blame them.

“Is it a prank? It has to be a prank. Am I on national television? Where are the hidden cameras? How do I look?”

“It’s not a prank. There are no cameras.” You adjusted the strap of your bag on your shoulder and stepped to the side to avoid being ran over by an electric scooter. “But now that you mention it, you look great—especially for this hour.”

Nichole didn’t blush, but it was a close thing. “Last night I did one of those masks that you and Craig got me for my birthday. That one that looks like a panda? I also got a new sunscreen that’s supposed to give you a bit if a glow. And I put on mascara,” she added under her breath.

You could ask her why she’d gone the extra mile to look fabulous on a run-of-the-mill Tuesday morning but you already knew: obviously Tolkien would be here today therefore she would be seeing him.

You hid a smile. As weird as the idea of your best friend dating your ex sounded, you were glad that she allowed herself to consider Tolkien romantically. Mostly, it was nice to know the indignity you’d put yourself through with Donovan on The Night was paying off. That, all together, with Pete’s very promising potential business offer had you thinking things might be finally looking up.

“Okay.” Nichole chewed on her lower lip, deep in concentration. “So it’s not a prank. Which means that there must be another explanation. Let me find it.”

“There is no other explanation to be found. We just—”

“Oh my God. Are you trying to get citizenship? Are they deporting you back to Canada because we’ve been sharing Kyle’s Netflix password? Tell them we didn’t know it was a federal crime. No wait, don’t tell them anything, we’ll get you a lawyer. And, Y/N I will marry you. I’ll get you a green card and you won’t have to—”

“Nichole.” You squeezed your friends had tighter to get her to shut up for a second. “I promise you, I’m not getting deported. I just went on a single date with Donovan.”

Nichole scrunched up her face and dragged you to a bench. She forced you to sit down. You complied, telling yourself that had the roles been reversed you would have absolutely had the same reaction. Hell, if you had caught Nichole kissing Donovan you would have enlisted her for full-blown psychiatric help.

“Listen,” Nichole started, “do you remember last spring, after the album release party, when I held your hair back while your projectile vomited the five pounds worth of spoiled meat?”

“Yeah. I do.” You cocked you head, pensive. “You ate more then me and never got sick.”

“Because I’m made of sterner stuff, but never mind that. The point is; I am here for you, always will be. No matter what. No matter how many pounds of spoiled meat you projectile vomit, you can trust me. We’re a team, you and I. And Craig when he’s not pissing off the population. So if Donovan is secretly a extraterrestrial life-form planning on taking over the Earth that will ultimately result in humanity being enslaved by evil overlords who look like cicadas, and the only way to stop him is dating him, you can tell me and I’ll inform NASA—”

“For god sakes.” —you had to laugh—“it was just a date!”

Nichole looked pained. “I just don’t understand.”

Because it doesn’t make sense. “I know, but there’s nothing to understand. It’s just…We went on a date.”

“But…why? N/N, you’re beautiful and smart and funny and have excellent taste in clothes, why would you go out with Clyde Donovan?”

You scrunched your nose. “Because he is…” It cost you, to say the word. Oh it cost you. But you had to. “Nice.”

“Nice?” Her eyebrows shot so high they almost got lost in her hairline.

She does look extra cute today, you reflected. Pleased.

“Clyde “Dick” Donovan?”

“Well yeah. He is…” you looked around, as if help could come from the bushes or the people rushing by on their ways to work. When it didn’t seem forthcoming you finished, lamely. “He’s a nice asshole I guess.”

Nichole’s expression went straight up disbelieving. “Okay so you went from dating someone as cool as Tolkien to going out with Clyde Donovan.”

Prefect. This was exactly the opening you had wanted “I did. And happily, because I never cared that much about Tolkien.” Finally, some truth in this conversation. “It wasn’t that hard to move on. Honestly. Which is why—please, Nichole, put that boy out of his misery. He deserves it, and above all, you deserve it. I bet he’s here today, or we’ll I know he is.” You gestured to the building. “You should ask him to accompany you to coffee when he’s done with the other business meeting and to horror movie festivals so I don’t have to sleep with the lights on for the next six months.”

This time, Nichole was flustered. She looked down at her hands, picked at her fingernails and then she began to fiddle with the hem of her shorts before saying, “I don’t know. Maybe. I mean, if you really think that—”

The sound of an alarm went off from Nichole’s pocket, and she straightened to pull out her phone. “Shit. I’ve got a “meeting” with Stan.” she rolled her eyes. “To discuss vocals for some of the songs.” She stood up picking up her bag. “Want to get together for lunch?”

“Can’t. Already promised Kyle we’d go grocery shopping.” You smiled. “Maybe Tolkien’s free, though.”

She rolled her yes. But the corners of her mouth were curling up. It made you much more than a little happy. So happy that you didn’t even flip her off when she asked “Is he blackmailing you?”

“Huh?”

“Donovan. Is he blackmailing you? Did he find out that your an aberration and pee in the shower?”

“First of all, it’s time efficient.” You glared at her. “Second, I find it oddly flattering that you think Donovan would go to these ridiculous lengths to get me to date him.”

“Anyone would, N/N. Because your awesome.” Nichole’s grimaced before adding, “Except when you’re peeing in the shower.”

Tolkien was acting weird. Which didn’t mean much, since Tolkien had always been abit awkward. Having recently split from you to date your best friend was not going to make him any less so—but today he seemed even weirder than usual. He came into the coffee shop next door to the record company, a few hours after your conversation with Nichole. And proceeded to stare at you for two good minutes. Then three. Then five. It was more attention then he’d ever payed you—yes, including your dates.

When it got borderline ridiculous, you lifted your eyes from your laptop and waved at him. Tolkien flustered, grabbed his latte from the counter and found a table for himself. You went back to rereading your two line email for the seventieth time.

Not twenty minutes later, Tweek walked in and took a seat next to Tolkien. They immediately started whispering to each other and pointing at you. Any other day you would have been concerned and a little upset, but Pete Thelman had already answered your email, which took priority over…anything, really.

Yes! You had several days to convince him to take on your project, which was much better than the ten minutes you had originally anticipated. You fist-pumped—which lead to Tolkien and Tweek staring at you more weirdly. What was up with them, anyway? If Tolkien knew what you were doing he certainly wouldn’t be giving you that look, besides there shouldn’t be any bad blood between you and him. Did you have toothpaste of your face? Who cared? You were going to meet Pete Thelman and convince him to let the band do work with for the charity. You were going to help cancer research.

You were in an excellent mood until two hours later. When you entered the apartment and Kyle was sat on the couch. Upon hearing your entering, he paused the show he was watching and looked at you.

“You sneaky little monster.” He hissed his green eyes were almost comically narrow. “I’ve been texting you all day.”

“Oh.” You patted the pocket of your jeans then your front pocket. “I think I might of left it here today.”

“I cannot believe it.”

“Believe what?”

“I cannot believe you.”

“I don’t know what your talking about.”

“I thought we were friends.”

“We are.”

“Good friends.”

“We are. You, Nichole, and Craig are my best friends. What—”

“Clearly not if the had to hear it all from Tweek, who heard it from Bebe, who heard it from Tolkien, who heard it from Nichole—”

“Hear what?”

“—who heard it from I don’t even know who. And I thought we were friends.”

Something icy crawled it’s way up your back. Could it be…No. no, it couldn’t be. “Hear what?”

“I’m done. I’m letting the cockroach’s eat you. And I’m changing the Netflix password.”

Oh no. “Kyle, hear what?”

“That your dating Clyde Donovan.”

Masterlist

[cleverhottubmiracle]

Let’s talk about something that might be weighing on your mind – debt. It’s an all too common scenario, where the bills pile up and we feel like we’re drowning in a sea of financial obligations. But here’s the thing: you’re not alone and there’s always a way out. Let’s take a look at how to tackle overwhelming debt and where to find help when you need it most. The Debt Spiral: How It Happens First things first, let’s break down how debt can sneak up on us: The “Just This Once” Trap: It often starts small. Maybe you put that new mobile phone on your credit card, thinking you’ll pay it off next month. But then life happens and more expenses come along, and suddenly you’re juggling multiple payments. The Snowball Effect: As credit balances grow, so do interest charges. Before you know it, you’re paying more in interest than you are towards the principal sum. The Ostrich Approach: When things get tough, it’s tempting to bury your head in the sand. But ignoring bills only makes the problem worse. The Domino Effect: One missed payment can lead to late fees, which can lead to more missed payments. It’s a vicious cycle that can be hard to break. Recognising When Debt Becomes Overwhelming How do you know when your debt has crossed the line from manageable to overwhelming? Here are some signs: You’re using credit cards to pay for essentials like groceries or utilities because you don’t have the funds to pay for them outright You’re only making minimum payments on your credit cards You’re losing sleep over money worries You’re avoiding opening bills or answering calls from unknown numbers You’re considering payday loans or other high-interest borrowing options If any of these sound familiar, it might be time to seek help. But don’t worry – asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness. It’s a smart, proactive step towards taking control of your financial future. Reaching Out: Where to Find Help and Advice for Dealing with Debt When you’re ready to tackle your debt head-on, there are plenty of resources available. Here are some places to start: 1. Free Debt Advisory Services Non-profit debt advice organisations can be a goldmine of information and support. For example, they can offer: Free or low-cost financial education Help creating a budget Advice on how to get your finances back on track by managing your debt and spending more effectively in the future Such organisations are staffed by experienced financial experts who can give you personalised advice based on your situation. 2. Hire a Financial Advisor If you’re comfortable investing a bit in professional help, a financial advisor can: Analyse your overall financial picture Help you create a long-term plan for managing debt and building wealth Provide strategies for improving your credit score 3. Online Resources and Communities Sometimes, the best support comes from people who are – or have been – in your shoes. Places such as online forums and communities can be helpful resources to: Share experiences and get insight from others dealing with debt Learn about different debt management strategies Find emotional support and encouragement A great example of this is the MoneySavingExpert forum where you’ll find endless threads to read through, many of which may well resonate with your own situation. Just keep in mind that the vast majority of forum participants will only be speaking from personal experience and therefore won’t be qualified to provide financial advice so do take care to seek advice from an expert (such as those mentioned in the previous two points) before making any decisions regarding your finances. Taking Action: Steps to Tackle Your Debt Once you’ve reached out for help, it’s time to take action. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started: 1. Face the Music Gather all your financial documents and make a list of all your debts, including: Creditor names Outstanding balances Interest rates Minimum payments It might be scary, but knowing exactly where you stand is the first step to making a plan. 2. Create a Budget Track your income and expenses for a month. Be honest with yourself – every coffee and impulse purchase counts. Once you know where your money is going, you can start to make changes. 3. Cut Costs Where You Can Look for areas where you can trim your spending: Can you cut back on eating out? Are there subscriptions you’re not using? Could you switch to a cheaper mobile plan? Is that morning shop-bought coffee and/or takeaway lunch really necessary? Every little bit helps! It’s no good reducing your spending so much that your quality of life suffers, but it’s often easier than we first think to find cost-effective alternatives that will feel all the more worthwhile as they are not just saving money but also helping to repay the debt more quickly. 4. Increase Your Income Easier said than done, I know. But consider: Asking for a pay rise at work Taking on a side hustle Selling items you no longer need either online or in person such as at a boot fair 5. Choose a Debt Repayment Strategy Two popular debt repayment strategy methods are: The Snowball Method: Pay off your smallest debt first, then roll that payment into the next smallest debt. It’s great for motivation! The Avalanche Method: Focus on the debt with the highest interest rate first. It saves you more money in the long run. 6. Negotiate with Creditors You’d be surprised how many creditors are willing to work with you if you just ask. They might be able to: Lower your interest rate Freeze interest charges for a set period Waive certain fees Set up a more manageable payment plan 7. Consider a Debt Management Plan But what is a debt management plan? A DMP is a formal agreement between you and your creditors, typically arranged through a debt management company. It’s designed to help you repay your debts at a rate you can afford and it can be a lifeline for those struggling with multiple debts. Here’s how a debt management plan typically works: You make a single monthly payment to the debt management company. The company then distributes this payment amongst your creditors. Often, the company can negotiate with creditors to freeze interest and charges, making your debt more manageable. A DMP can be a good option if you have unsecured debts like credit cards or personal loans and you’re struggling to meet the minimum payments. It’s important to note that dealing with debt via a debt management plan is different from debt consolidation (more on that shortly) – you’re not borrowing more money, but rather restructuring your existing debts. Just be sure to do your research and choose a reputable debt management company if you decide to go down this route. Look for organisations accredited by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK. 8. Consider Debt Consolidation If you’re juggling multiple high-interest debts, consolidating them into one lower-interest loan could save you money and simplify your payments. But do be sure to look into this carefully as it can sometimes end up being a more expensive option due to additional fees and charges. 9. Educate Yourself on Money Management Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to your finances. Invest time in learning about personal finance to prevent future debt and build a stronger financial foundation: Read books and reputable online resources about budgeting, saving and investing Attend free financial literacy workshops offered by local community centres or libraries Use budgeting apps to track your spending and learn about your financial habits Follow reputable, independent financial experts on social media for daily tips and motivation (Martin Lewis is a good one!) Consider taking a personal finance course online or at a local college Learn about different savings and investment options to grow your wealth over time While you’re repaying your debt, instead of spending money it is a great idea to spend time learning about how to manage your money better going forward. Financial education is an ongoing process and the more you learn the better equipped you’ll be to make smart money decisions and avoid needlessly falling into debt again in the future. If you’re going to the trouble of getting yourself out of debt it’s important to also understand how to stay out of it for good and build a more secure financial future for yourself. The Light at the End of the Tunnel Dealing with debt is a marathon, not a sprint. There will of course be ups and downs and quite possibly some bumps along the way but with persistence and the right support you can absolutely turn things around. Here are some final points to keep you motivated: Celebrate Small Wins: Paid off a credit card? Treat yourself (responsibly, of course)! Learn from the Experience: Use this as an opportunity to develop better financial habits for the future. Don’t fall back into debt again after working so hard to get out of it. Be Kind to Yourself: Financial struggles don’t define you. You’re taking steps to improve your situation and that’s something to be proud of. Keep the Communication Lines Open: Whether it’s with your partner, your family or your creditors, honest communication can relieve stress and lead to solutions. Look to the Future: Imagine how good it will feel to be debt-free. Keep that vision in mind when things get tough. And when you do get to the point where you’ve paid everything off, remember that wonderful feeling of freedom and treasure it. Remind yourself of that moment anytime you’re tempted to run up needless debt and it will help you to take a moment to think again. Above all, don’t forget that you’re not alone in this. Millions of people have faced overwhelming debt and have come out the other side stronger, wiser and more financially savvy. With the right help, a solid plan and a bit of determination, you can join them.  Are you now ready to take a deep breath, reach out for the help you need and take that first step towards regaining control of your money? As always, thanks for reading! Source link

[norajworld]

Let’s talk about something that might be weighing on your mind – debt. It’s an all too common scenario, where the bills pile up and we feel like we’re drowning in a sea of financial obligations. But here’s the thing: you’re not alone and there’s always a way out. Let’s take a look at how to tackle overwhelming debt and where to find help when you need it most. The Debt Spiral: How It Happens First things first, let’s break down how debt can sneak up on us: The “Just This Once” Trap: It often starts small. Maybe you put that new mobile phone on your credit card, thinking you’ll pay it off next month. But then life happens and more expenses come along, and suddenly you’re juggling multiple payments. The Snowball Effect: As credit balances grow, so do interest charges. Before you know it, you’re paying more in interest than you are towards the principal sum. The Ostrich Approach: When things get tough, it’s tempting to bury your head in the sand. But ignoring bills only makes the problem worse. The Domino Effect: One missed payment can lead to late fees, which can lead to more missed payments. It’s a vicious cycle that can be hard to break. Recognising When Debt Becomes Overwhelming How do you know when your debt has crossed the line from manageable to overwhelming? Here are some signs: You’re using credit cards to pay for essentials like groceries or utilities because you don’t have the funds to pay for them outright You’re only making minimum payments on your credit cards You’re losing sleep over money worries You’re avoiding opening bills or answering calls from unknown numbers You’re considering payday loans or other high-interest borrowing options If any of these sound familiar, it might be time to seek help. But don’t worry – asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness. It’s a smart, proactive step towards taking control of your financial future. Reaching Out: Where to Find Help and Advice for Dealing with Debt When you’re ready to tackle your debt head-on, there are plenty of resources available. Here are some places to start: 1. Free Debt Advisory Services Non-profit debt advice organisations can be a goldmine of information and support. For example, they can offer: Free or low-cost financial education Help creating a budget Advice on how to get your finances back on track by managing your debt and spending more effectively in the future Such organisations are staffed by experienced financial experts who can give you personalised advice based on your situation. 2. Hire a Financial Advisor If you’re comfortable investing a bit in professional help, a financial advisor can: Analyse your overall financial picture Help you create a long-term plan for managing debt and building wealth Provide strategies for improving your credit score 3. Online Resources and Communities Sometimes, the best support comes from people who are – or have been – in your shoes. Places such as online forums and communities can be helpful resources to: Share experiences and get insight from others dealing with debt Learn about different debt management strategies Find emotional support and encouragement A great example of this is the MoneySavingExpert forum where you’ll find endless threads to read through, many of which may well resonate with your own situation. Just keep in mind that the vast majority of forum participants will only be speaking from personal experience and therefore won’t be qualified to provide financial advice so do take care to seek advice from an expert (such as those mentioned in the previous two points) before making any decisions regarding your finances. Taking Action: Steps to Tackle Your Debt Once you’ve reached out for help, it’s time to take action. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started: 1. Face the Music Gather all your financial documents and make a list of all your debts, including: Creditor names Outstanding balances Interest rates Minimum payments It might be scary, but knowing exactly where you stand is the first step to making a plan. 2. Create a Budget Track your income and expenses for a month. Be honest with yourself – every coffee and impulse purchase counts. Once you know where your money is going, you can start to make changes. 3. Cut Costs Where You Can Look for areas where you can trim your spending: Can you cut back on eating out? Are there subscriptions you’re not using? Could you switch to a cheaper mobile plan? Is that morning shop-bought coffee and/or takeaway lunch really necessary? Every little bit helps! It’s no good reducing your spending so much that your quality of life suffers, but it’s often easier than we first think to find cost-effective alternatives that will feel all the more worthwhile as they are not just saving money but also helping to repay the debt more quickly. 4. Increase Your Income Easier said than done, I know. But consider: Asking for a pay rise at work Taking on a side hustle Selling items you no longer need either online or in person such as at a boot fair 5. Choose a Debt Repayment Strategy Two popular debt repayment strategy methods are: The Snowball Method: Pay off your smallest debt first, then roll that payment into the next smallest debt. It’s great for motivation! The Avalanche Method: Focus on the debt with the highest interest rate first. It saves you more money in the long run. 6. Negotiate with Creditors You’d be surprised how many creditors are willing to work with you if you just ask. They might be able to: Lower your interest rate Freeze interest charges for a set period Waive certain fees Set up a more manageable payment plan 7. Consider a Debt Management Plan But what is a debt management plan? A DMP is a formal agreement between you and your creditors, typically arranged through a debt management company. It’s designed to help you repay your debts at a rate you can afford and it can be a lifeline for those struggling with multiple debts. Here’s how a debt management plan typically works: You make a single monthly payment to the debt management company. The company then distributes this payment amongst your creditors. Often, the company can negotiate with creditors to freeze interest and charges, making your debt more manageable. A DMP can be a good option if you have unsecured debts like credit cards or personal loans and you’re struggling to meet the minimum payments. It’s important to note that dealing with debt via a debt management plan is different from debt consolidation (more on that shortly) – you’re not borrowing more money, but rather restructuring your existing debts. Just be sure to do your research and choose a reputable debt management company if you decide to go down this route. Look for organisations accredited by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK. 8. Consider Debt Consolidation If you’re juggling multiple high-interest debts, consolidating them into one lower-interest loan could save you money and simplify your payments. But do be sure to look into this carefully as it can sometimes end up being a more expensive option due to additional fees and charges. 9. Educate Yourself on Money Management Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to your finances. Invest time in learning about personal finance to prevent future debt and build a stronger financial foundation: Read books and reputable online resources about budgeting, saving and investing Attend free financial literacy workshops offered by local community centres or libraries Use budgeting apps to track your spending and learn about your financial habits Follow reputable, independent financial experts on social media for daily tips and motivation (Martin Lewis is a good one!) Consider taking a personal finance course online or at a local college Learn about different savings and investment options to grow your wealth over time While you’re repaying your debt, instead of spending money it is a great idea to spend time learning about how to manage your money better going forward. Financial education is an ongoing process and the more you learn the better equipped you’ll be to make smart money decisions and avoid needlessly falling into debt again in the future. If you’re going to the trouble of getting yourself out of debt it’s important to also understand how to stay out of it for good and build a more secure financial future for yourself. The Light at the End of the Tunnel Dealing with debt is a marathon, not a sprint. There will of course be ups and downs and quite possibly some bumps along the way but with persistence and the right support you can absolutely turn things around. Here are some final points to keep you motivated: Celebrate Small Wins: Paid off a credit card? Treat yourself (responsibly, of course)! Learn from the Experience: Use this as an opportunity to develop better financial habits for the future. Don’t fall back into debt again after working so hard to get out of it. Be Kind to Yourself: Financial struggles don’t define you. You’re taking steps to improve your situation and that’s something to be proud of. Keep the Communication Lines Open: Whether it’s with your partner, your family or your creditors, honest communication can relieve stress and lead to solutions. Look to the Future: Imagine how good it will feel to be debt-free. Keep that vision in mind when things get tough. And when you do get to the point where you’ve paid everything off, remember that wonderful feeling of freedom and treasure it. Remind yourself of that moment anytime you’re tempted to run up needless debt and it will help you to take a moment to think again. Above all, don’t forget that you’re not alone in this. Millions of people have faced overwhelming debt and have come out the other side stronger, wiser and more financially savvy. With the right help, a solid plan and a bit of determination, you can join them.  Are you now ready to take a deep breath, reach out for the help you need and take that first step towards regaining control of your money? As always, thanks for reading! Source link

[ellajme0]

Let’s talk about something that might be weighing on your mind – debt. It’s an all too common scenario, where the bills pile up and we feel like we’re drowning in a sea of financial obligations. But here’s the thing: you’re not alone and there’s always a way out. Let’s take a look at how to tackle overwhelming debt and where to find help when you need it most. The Debt Spiral: How It Happens First things first, let’s break down how debt can sneak up on us: The “Just This Once” Trap: It often starts small. Maybe you put that new mobile phone on your credit card, thinking you’ll pay it off next month. But then life happens and more expenses come along, and suddenly you’re juggling multiple payments. The Snowball Effect: As credit balances grow, so do interest charges. Before you know it, you’re paying more in interest than you are towards the principal sum. The Ostrich Approach: When things get tough, it’s tempting to bury your head in the sand. But ignoring bills only makes the problem worse. The Domino Effect: One missed payment can lead to late fees, which can lead to more missed payments. It’s a vicious cycle that can be hard to break. Recognising When Debt Becomes Overwhelming How do you know when your debt has crossed the line from manageable to overwhelming? Here are some signs: You’re using credit cards to pay for essentials like groceries or utilities because you don’t have the funds to pay for them outright You’re only making minimum payments on your credit cards You’re losing sleep over money worries You’re avoiding opening bills or answering calls from unknown numbers You’re considering payday loans or other high-interest borrowing options If any of these sound familiar, it might be time to seek help. But don’t worry – asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness. It’s a smart, proactive step towards taking control of your financial future. Reaching Out: Where to Find Help and Advice for Dealing with Debt When you’re ready to tackle your debt head-on, there are plenty of resources available. Here are some places to start: 1. Free Debt Advisory Services Non-profit debt advice organisations can be a goldmine of information and support. For example, they can offer: Free or low-cost financial education Help creating a budget Advice on how to get your finances back on track by managing your debt and spending more effectively in the future Such organisations are staffed by experienced financial experts who can give you personalised advice based on your situation. 2. Hire a Financial Advisor If you’re comfortable investing a bit in professional help, a financial advisor can: Analyse your overall financial picture Help you create a long-term plan for managing debt and building wealth Provide strategies for improving your credit score 3. Online Resources and Communities Sometimes, the best support comes from people who are – or have been – in your shoes. Places such as online forums and communities can be helpful resources to: Share experiences and get insight from others dealing with debt Learn about different debt management strategies Find emotional support and encouragement A great example of this is the MoneySavingExpert forum where you’ll find endless threads to read through, many of which may well resonate with your own situation. Just keep in mind that the vast majority of forum participants will only be speaking from personal experience and therefore won’t be qualified to provide financial advice so do take care to seek advice from an expert (such as those mentioned in the previous two points) before making any decisions regarding your finances. Taking Action: Steps to Tackle Your Debt Once you’ve reached out for help, it’s time to take action. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started: 1. Face the Music Gather all your financial documents and make a list of all your debts, including: Creditor names Outstanding balances Interest rates Minimum payments It might be scary, but knowing exactly where you stand is the first step to making a plan. 2. Create a Budget Track your income and expenses for a month. Be honest with yourself – every coffee and impulse purchase counts. Once you know where your money is going, you can start to make changes. 3. Cut Costs Where You Can Look for areas where you can trim your spending: Can you cut back on eating out? Are there subscriptions you’re not using? Could you switch to a cheaper mobile plan? Is that morning shop-bought coffee and/or takeaway lunch really necessary? Every little bit helps! It’s no good reducing your spending so much that your quality of life suffers, but it’s often easier than we first think to find cost-effective alternatives that will feel all the more worthwhile as they are not just saving money but also helping to repay the debt more quickly. 4. Increase Your Income Easier said than done, I know. But consider: Asking for a pay rise at work Taking on a side hustle Selling items you no longer need either online or in person such as at a boot fair 5. Choose a Debt Repayment Strategy Two popular debt repayment strategy methods are: The Snowball Method: Pay off your smallest debt first, then roll that payment into the next smallest debt. It’s great for motivation! The Avalanche Method: Focus on the debt with the highest interest rate first. It saves you more money in the long run. 6. Negotiate with Creditors You’d be surprised how many creditors are willing to work with you if you just ask. They might be able to: Lower your interest rate Freeze interest charges for a set period Waive certain fees Set up a more manageable payment plan 7. Consider a Debt Management Plan But what is a debt management plan? A DMP is a formal agreement between you and your creditors, typically arranged through a debt management company. It’s designed to help you repay your debts at a rate you can afford and it can be a lifeline for those struggling with multiple debts. Here’s how a debt management plan typically works: You make a single monthly payment to the debt management company. The company then distributes this payment amongst your creditors. Often, the company can negotiate with creditors to freeze interest and charges, making your debt more manageable. A DMP can be a good option if you have unsecured debts like credit cards or personal loans and you’re struggling to meet the minimum payments. It’s important to note that dealing with debt via a debt management plan is different from debt consolidation (more on that shortly) – you’re not borrowing more money, but rather restructuring your existing debts. Just be sure to do your research and choose a reputable debt management company if you decide to go down this route. Look for organisations accredited by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK. 8. Consider Debt Consolidation If you’re juggling multiple high-interest debts, consolidating them into one lower-interest loan could save you money and simplify your payments. But do be sure to look into this carefully as it can sometimes end up being a more expensive option due to additional fees and charges. 9. Educate Yourself on Money Management Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to your finances. Invest time in learning about personal finance to prevent future debt and build a stronger financial foundation: Read books and reputable online resources about budgeting, saving and investing Attend free financial literacy workshops offered by local community centres or libraries Use budgeting apps to track your spending and learn about your financial habits Follow reputable, independent financial experts on social media for daily tips and motivation (Martin Lewis is a good one!) Consider taking a personal finance course online or at a local college Learn about different savings and investment options to grow your wealth over time While you’re repaying your debt, instead of spending money it is a great idea to spend time learning about how to manage your money better going forward. Financial education is an ongoing process and the more you learn the better equipped you’ll be to make smart money decisions and avoid needlessly falling into debt again in the future. If you’re going to the trouble of getting yourself out of debt it’s important to also understand how to stay out of it for good and build a more secure financial future for yourself. The Light at the End of the Tunnel Dealing with debt is a marathon, not a sprint. There will of course be ups and downs and quite possibly some bumps along the way but with persistence and the right support you can absolutely turn things around. Here are some final points to keep you motivated: Celebrate Small Wins: Paid off a credit card? Treat yourself (responsibly, of course)! Learn from the Experience: Use this as an opportunity to develop better financial habits for the future. Don’t fall back into debt again after working so hard to get out of it. Be Kind to Yourself: Financial struggles don’t define you. You’re taking steps to improve your situation and that’s something to be proud of. Keep the Communication Lines Open: Whether it’s with your partner, your family or your creditors, honest communication can relieve stress and lead to solutions. Look to the Future: Imagine how good it will feel to be debt-free. Keep that vision in mind when things get tough. And when you do get to the point where you’ve paid everything off, remember that wonderful feeling of freedom and treasure it. Remind yourself of that moment anytime you’re tempted to run up needless debt and it will help you to take a moment to think again. Above all, don’t forget that you’re not alone in this. Millions of people have faced overwhelming debt and have come out the other side stronger, wiser and more financially savvy. With the right help, a solid plan and a bit of determination, you can join them.  Are you now ready to take a deep breath, reach out for the help you need and take that first step towards regaining control of your money? As always, thanks for reading! Source link

[chilimili212]

Let’s talk about something that might be weighing on your mind – debt. It’s an all too common scenario, where the bills pile up and we feel like we’re drowning in a sea of financial obligations. But here’s the thing: you’re not alone and there’s always a way out. Let’s take a look at how to tackle overwhelming debt and where to find help when you need it most. The Debt Spiral: How It Happens First things first, let’s break down how debt can sneak up on us: The “Just This Once” Trap: It often starts small. Maybe you put that new mobile phone on your credit card, thinking you’ll pay it off next month. But then life happens and more expenses come along, and suddenly you’re juggling multiple payments. The Snowball Effect: As credit balances grow, so do interest charges. Before you know it, you’re paying more in interest than you are towards the principal sum. The Ostrich Approach: When things get tough, it’s tempting to bury your head in the sand. But ignoring bills only makes the problem worse. The Domino Effect: One missed payment can lead to late fees, which can lead to more missed payments. It’s a vicious cycle that can be hard to break. Recognising When Debt Becomes Overwhelming How do you know when your debt has crossed the line from manageable to overwhelming? Here are some signs: You’re using credit cards to pay for essentials like groceries or utilities because you don’t have the funds to pay for them outright You’re only making minimum payments on your credit cards You’re losing sleep over money worries You’re avoiding opening bills or answering calls from unknown numbers You’re considering payday loans or other high-interest borrowing options If any of these sound familiar, it might be time to seek help. But don’t worry – asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness. It’s a smart, proactive step towards taking control of your financial future. Reaching Out: Where to Find Help and Advice for Dealing with Debt When you’re ready to tackle your debt head-on, there are plenty of resources available. Here are some places to start: 1. Free Debt Advisory Services Non-profit debt advice organisations can be a goldmine of information and support. For example, they can offer: Free or low-cost financial education Help creating a budget Advice on how to get your finances back on track by managing your debt and spending more effectively in the future Such organisations are staffed by experienced financial experts who can give you personalised advice based on your situation. 2. Hire a Financial Advisor If you’re comfortable investing a bit in professional help, a financial advisor can: Analyse your overall financial picture Help you create a long-term plan for managing debt and building wealth Provide strategies for improving your credit score 3. Online Resources and Communities Sometimes, the best support comes from people who are – or have been – in your shoes. Places such as online forums and communities can be helpful resources to: Share experiences and get insight from others dealing with debt Learn about different debt management strategies Find emotional support and encouragement A great example of this is the MoneySavingExpert forum where you’ll find endless threads to read through, many of which may well resonate with your own situation. Just keep in mind that the vast majority of forum participants will only be speaking from personal experience and therefore won’t be qualified to provide financial advice so do take care to seek advice from an expert (such as those mentioned in the previous two points) before making any decisions regarding your finances. Taking Action: Steps to Tackle Your Debt Once you’ve reached out for help, it’s time to take action. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started: 1. Face the Music Gather all your financial documents and make a list of all your debts, including: Creditor names Outstanding balances Interest rates Minimum payments It might be scary, but knowing exactly where you stand is the first step to making a plan. 2. Create a Budget Track your income and expenses for a month. Be honest with yourself – every coffee and impulse purchase counts. Once you know where your money is going, you can start to make changes. 3. Cut Costs Where You Can Look for areas where you can trim your spending: Can you cut back on eating out? Are there subscriptions you’re not using? Could you switch to a cheaper mobile plan? Is that morning shop-bought coffee and/or takeaway lunch really necessary? Every little bit helps! It’s no good reducing your spending so much that your quality of life suffers, but it’s often easier than we first think to find cost-effective alternatives that will feel all the more worthwhile as they are not just saving money but also helping to repay the debt more quickly. 4. Increase Your Income Easier said than done, I know. But consider: Asking for a pay rise at work Taking on a side hustle Selling items you no longer need either online or in person such as at a boot fair 5. Choose a Debt Repayment Strategy Two popular debt repayment strategy methods are: The Snowball Method: Pay off your smallest debt first, then roll that payment into the next smallest debt. It’s great for motivation! The Avalanche Method: Focus on the debt with the highest interest rate first. It saves you more money in the long run. 6. Negotiate with Creditors You’d be surprised how many creditors are willing to work with you if you just ask. They might be able to: Lower your interest rate Freeze interest charges for a set period Waive certain fees Set up a more manageable payment plan 7. Consider a Debt Management Plan But what is a debt management plan? A DMP is a formal agreement between you and your creditors, typically arranged through a debt management company. It’s designed to help you repay your debts at a rate you can afford and it can be a lifeline for those struggling with multiple debts. Here’s how a debt management plan typically works: You make a single monthly payment to the debt management company. The company then distributes this payment amongst your creditors. Often, the company can negotiate with creditors to freeze interest and charges, making your debt more manageable. A DMP can be a good option if you have unsecured debts like credit cards or personal loans and you’re struggling to meet the minimum payments. It’s important to note that dealing with debt via a debt management plan is different from debt consolidation (more on that shortly) – you’re not borrowing more money, but rather restructuring your existing debts. Just be sure to do your research and choose a reputable debt management company if you decide to go down this route. Look for organisations accredited by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK. 8. Consider Debt Consolidation If you’re juggling multiple high-interest debts, consolidating them into one lower-interest loan could save you money and simplify your payments. But do be sure to look into this carefully as it can sometimes end up being a more expensive option due to additional fees and charges. 9. Educate Yourself on Money Management Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to your finances. Invest time in learning about personal finance to prevent future debt and build a stronger financial foundation: Read books and reputable online resources about budgeting, saving and investing Attend free financial literacy workshops offered by local community centres or libraries Use budgeting apps to track your spending and learn about your financial habits Follow reputable, independent financial experts on social media for daily tips and motivation (Martin Lewis is a good one!) Consider taking a personal finance course online or at a local college Learn about different savings and investment options to grow your wealth over time While you’re repaying your debt, instead of spending money it is a great idea to spend time learning about how to manage your money better going forward. Financial education is an ongoing process and the more you learn the better equipped you’ll be to make smart money decisions and avoid needlessly falling into debt again in the future. If you’re going to the trouble of getting yourself out of debt it’s important to also understand how to stay out of it for good and build a more secure financial future for yourself. The Light at the End of the Tunnel Dealing with debt is a marathon, not a sprint. There will of course be ups and downs and quite possibly some bumps along the way but with persistence and the right support you can absolutely turn things around. Here are some final points to keep you motivated: Celebrate Small Wins: Paid off a credit card? Treat yourself (responsibly, of course)! Learn from the Experience: Use this as an opportunity to develop better financial habits for the future. Don’t fall back into debt again after working so hard to get out of it. Be Kind to Yourself: Financial struggles don’t define you. You’re taking steps to improve your situation and that’s something to be proud of. Keep the Communication Lines Open: Whether it’s with your partner, your family or your creditors, honest communication can relieve stress and lead to solutions. Look to the Future: Imagine how good it will feel to be debt-free. Keep that vision in mind when things get tough. And when you do get to the point where you’ve paid everything off, remember that wonderful feeling of freedom and treasure it. Remind yourself of that moment anytime you’re tempted to run up needless debt and it will help you to take a moment to think again. Above all, don’t forget that you’re not alone in this. Millions of people have faced overwhelming debt and have come out the other side stronger, wiser and more financially savvy. With the right help, a solid plan and a bit of determination, you can join them.  Are you now ready to take a deep breath, reach out for the help you need and take that first step towards regaining control of your money? As always, thanks for reading! Source link

[oliviajoyice21]

Let’s talk about something that might be weighing on your mind – debt. It’s an all too common scenario, where the bills pile up and we feel like we’re drowning in a sea of financial obligations. But here’s the thing: you’re not alone and there’s always a way out. Let’s take a look at how to tackle overwhelming debt and where to find help when you need it most. The Debt Spiral: How It Happens First things first, let’s break down how debt can sneak up on us: The “Just This Once” Trap: It often starts small. Maybe you put that new mobile phone on your credit card, thinking you’ll pay it off next month. But then life happens and more expenses come along, and suddenly you’re juggling multiple payments. The Snowball Effect: As credit balances grow, so do interest charges. Before you know it, you’re paying more in interest than you are towards the principal sum. The Ostrich Approach: When things get tough, it’s tempting to bury your head in the sand. But ignoring bills only makes the problem worse. The Domino Effect: One missed payment can lead to late fees, which can lead to more missed payments. It’s a vicious cycle that can be hard to break. Recognising When Debt Becomes Overwhelming How do you know when your debt has crossed the line from manageable to overwhelming? Here are some signs: You’re using credit cards to pay for essentials like groceries or utilities because you don’t have the funds to pay for them outright You’re only making minimum payments on your credit cards You’re losing sleep over money worries You’re avoiding opening bills or answering calls from unknown numbers You’re considering payday loans or other high-interest borrowing options If any of these sound familiar, it might be time to seek help. But don’t worry – asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness. It’s a smart, proactive step towards taking control of your financial future. Reaching Out: Where to Find Help and Advice for Dealing with Debt When you’re ready to tackle your debt head-on, there are plenty of resources available. Here are some places to start: 1. Free Debt Advisory Services Non-profit debt advice organisations can be a goldmine of information and support. For example, they can offer: Free or low-cost financial education Help creating a budget Advice on how to get your finances back on track by managing your debt and spending more effectively in the future Such organisations are staffed by experienced financial experts who can give you personalised advice based on your situation. 2. Hire a Financial Advisor If you’re comfortable investing a bit in professional help, a financial advisor can: Analyse your overall financial picture Help you create a long-term plan for managing debt and building wealth Provide strategies for improving your credit score 3. Online Resources and Communities Sometimes, the best support comes from people who are – or have been – in your shoes. Places such as online forums and communities can be helpful resources to: Share experiences and get insight from others dealing with debt Learn about different debt management strategies Find emotional support and encouragement A great example of this is the MoneySavingExpert forum where you’ll find endless threads to read through, many of which may well resonate with your own situation. Just keep in mind that the vast majority of forum participants will only be speaking from personal experience and therefore won’t be qualified to provide financial advice so do take care to seek advice from an expert (such as those mentioned in the previous two points) before making any decisions regarding your finances. Taking Action: Steps to Tackle Your Debt Once you’ve reached out for help, it’s time to take action. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started: 1. Face the Music Gather all your financial documents and make a list of all your debts, including: Creditor names Outstanding balances Interest rates Minimum payments It might be scary, but knowing exactly where you stand is the first step to making a plan. 2. Create a Budget Track your income and expenses for a month. Be honest with yourself – every coffee and impulse purchase counts. Once you know where your money is going, you can start to make changes. 3. Cut Costs Where You Can Look for areas where you can trim your spending: Can you cut back on eating out? Are there subscriptions you’re not using? Could you switch to a cheaper mobile plan? Is that morning shop-bought coffee and/or takeaway lunch really necessary? Every little bit helps! It’s no good reducing your spending so much that your quality of life suffers, but it’s often easier than we first think to find cost-effective alternatives that will feel all the more worthwhile as they are not just saving money but also helping to repay the debt more quickly. 4. Increase Your Income Easier said than done, I know. But consider: Asking for a pay rise at work Taking on a side hustle Selling items you no longer need either online or in person such as at a boot fair 5. Choose a Debt Repayment Strategy Two popular debt repayment strategy methods are: The Snowball Method: Pay off your smallest debt first, then roll that payment into the next smallest debt. It’s great for motivation! The Avalanche Method: Focus on the debt with the highest interest rate first. It saves you more money in the long run. 6. Negotiate with Creditors You’d be surprised how many creditors are willing to work with you if you just ask. They might be able to: Lower your interest rate Freeze interest charges for a set period Waive certain fees Set up a more manageable payment plan 7. Consider a Debt Management Plan But what is a debt management plan? A DMP is a formal agreement between you and your creditors, typically arranged through a debt management company. It’s designed to help you repay your debts at a rate you can afford and it can be a lifeline for those struggling with multiple debts. Here’s how a debt management plan typically works: You make a single monthly payment to the debt management company. The company then distributes this payment amongst your creditors. Often, the company can negotiate with creditors to freeze interest and charges, making your debt more manageable. A DMP can be a good option if you have unsecured debts like credit cards or personal loans and you’re struggling to meet the minimum payments. It’s important to note that dealing with debt via a debt management plan is different from debt consolidation (more on that shortly) – you’re not borrowing more money, but rather restructuring your existing debts. Just be sure to do your research and choose a reputable debt management company if you decide to go down this route. Look for organisations accredited by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK. 8. Consider Debt Consolidation If you’re juggling multiple high-interest debts, consolidating them into one lower-interest loan could save you money and simplify your payments. But do be sure to look into this carefully as it can sometimes end up being a more expensive option due to additional fees and charges. 9. Educate Yourself on Money Management Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to your finances. Invest time in learning about personal finance to prevent future debt and build a stronger financial foundation: Read books and reputable online resources about budgeting, saving and investing Attend free financial literacy workshops offered by local community centres or libraries Use budgeting apps to track your spending and learn about your financial habits Follow reputable, independent financial experts on social media for daily tips and motivation (Martin Lewis is a good one!) Consider taking a personal finance course online or at a local college Learn about different savings and investment options to grow your wealth over time While you’re repaying your debt, instead of spending money it is a great idea to spend time learning about how to manage your money better going forward. Financial education is an ongoing process and the more you learn the better equipped you’ll be to make smart money decisions and avoid needlessly falling into debt again in the future. If you’re going to the trouble of getting yourself out of debt it’s important to also understand how to stay out of it for good and build a more secure financial future for yourself. The Light at the End of the Tunnel Dealing with debt is a marathon, not a sprint. There will of course be ups and downs and quite possibly some bumps along the way but with persistence and the right support you can absolutely turn things around. Here are some final points to keep you motivated: Celebrate Small Wins: Paid off a credit card? Treat yourself (responsibly, of course)! Learn from the Experience: Use this as an opportunity to develop better financial habits for the future. Don’t fall back into debt again after working so hard to get out of it. Be Kind to Yourself: Financial struggles don’t define you. You’re taking steps to improve your situation and that’s something to be proud of. Keep the Communication Lines Open: Whether it’s with your partner, your family or your creditors, honest communication can relieve stress and lead to solutions. Look to the Future: Imagine how good it will feel to be debt-free. Keep that vision in mind when things get tough. And when you do get to the point where you’ve paid everything off, remember that wonderful feeling of freedom and treasure it. Remind yourself of that moment anytime you’re tempted to run up needless debt and it will help you to take a moment to think again. Above all, don’t forget that you’re not alone in this. Millions of people have faced overwhelming debt and have come out the other side stronger, wiser and more financially savvy. With the right help, a solid plan and a bit of determination, you can join them.  Are you now ready to take a deep breath, reach out for the help you need and take that first step towards regaining control of your money? As always, thanks for reading! Source link

[reieducationcentral]

Strategies for Achieving High ROI with small properties 

Many people may think that real estate investing requires significant capital or an extensive portfolio to make a decent profit. However, the fact is that small properties can yield substantial returns if you use the right strategy. 

Some of the most successful real estate investors started by investing in small, manageable properties. 

Whether you are a beginning investor or would like to learn more, this guide will show you how to get a high ROI with small properties and how to access even more valuable insights by purchasing the detailed e-book "Rental Riches: Strategies for High ROI in Small Properties."

Why Small Properties Are a Goldmine for Real Estate Investing

Small property usually flies under the radar when beginners consider real estate investing.

Yet, they offer enormous opportunities for high returns with lower risk and manageable overhead. The key lies in strategically planning and making the most of every square inch.

Small properties are more financially manageable to investors new to the game. They can get you into real estate investing without the high price tag. 

Secondly, if you know how to manage them, small properties can provide better cash flow and quicker appreciation than larger, more cumbersome investments. 

These aspects make them an excellent starting point for beginners who are eager to learn real estate and build a portfolio from scratch.

The Magic of Strategic Property Investment

Your goal as an investor is to invest in a rental property that creates predictable cash flow and appreciates in value. In our e-book, "Rental Riches: Strategies for High ROI in Small Properties," we take a closer look at some tried-and-true methods for accomplishing just that.

Among the core strategies to consider are:

Focus on Emerging Communities: Perhaps the most significant secret taught by the best real estate investment courses has to do with learning to find emerging neighborhoods. 

You'll be able to purchase a small property in an area still developing yet take advantage of higher-priced home values without paying a high entry price.

Smart Renovations: Because small properties are less expensive to renovate, each dollar you invest in improving your property stands a better chance of increasing its overall value and rental income. Learn how to make smart, targeted renovations to attract quality tenants and increase ROI.

Real Estate Investing Courses for Beginners: Your Roadmap to Success

If one wants to succeed, there is a real need to invest in one's education on the go. Real estate investment courses for beginners will help you understand the basics, while others for more advanced investors can further refine your strategies toward even greater results.

Our e-book, "Rental Riches: Strategies for High ROI in Small Properties," is a learning implement and practical guidebook. With expert advice, examples from the field, and step-by-step methods, it will help you sidestep common pitfalls and take your rightful place as a confident property investor.

Think of this e-book as a course in real estate investment without all the tuition and stress involved in going to class.

You'll find actionable information herein, something you can immediately apply no matter how long you have been investing.

Whether you plan to buy a rental property for the first time or expand an existing portfolio, this resource will help you maximize returns.

The Importance of a Strong Real Estate Investing Strategy

Plunging into real estate investment without a well-contemplated plan would be a recipe for disaster.

Successfully investing in property is more than buying your house and hoping the price appreciates.

It would help if you had a granular plan that includes market research, number-crunching, and knowing what the tenants actually want or need.

Through "Rental Riches: Strategies for High ROI in Small Properties," we take the necessary steps to create a sound investment strategy. You'll learn how to identify the best place for small property investment, calculate your cash flow to ensure that you make a profit, minimize your risk through diversification, and much more to understand what tenants want and where the market is going.

Following these steps will always ensure a good ROI with small properties, ensuring long-term success in real estate investment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the advantages of real estate investing in small properties?

A: Small properties involve lower entry costs, manageable overhead, and high potential for returns. Moreover, they require less maintenance, so they are ideal for both new investors seeking stable income and capital appreciation and experienced ones.

Q: Isn't investing in real estate complicated for a beginner?

A: Real estate investing sounds daunting for a beginner, but it is not impossible once appropriately guided. Our e-book simplifies general advice into actionable tips for the beginning investor to equip you better in your first investment.

Q: How will I learn real estate investing if I can't afford those expensive courses?

A: Regarding real estate investing, learning comes best through research and hands-on experience. Our e-book, "Rental Riches: Strategies for High ROI in Small Properties," provides in-depth information that rivals the many expensive courses on real estate investing offered. It is ideal for both beginning and seasoned investors alike.

Unlock Your Path to Rental Riches. Change your financial future now. Buy the e-book today and begin the journey to high ROI in small properties!

[raincitygirl76]

I was thinking of possible career paths for Sara after Hillerska, and I could totally see her as an equine veterinarian. Then she could get paid to be around horses all day long. I’m not sure how long veterinary school takes in Sweden. I presume in order to specialize as an equine veterinarian, you’d need to do a postgraduate followship working in an equine-centred veterinary practice.

So it would be a number of years before she was qualified, but it would be her dream job, I suspect. And we know Sara’s smart and a high achiever. That’s how she got into Hillerska. She totally has the drive to become not only a veterinarian, but a specialist.

I was talking to my colleague J. recently about her and her family’s trip to the UK this summer. They stayed a few days with her first cousin, who is a specialist equine veterinarian just outside of Newmarket. Newmarket being the centre of British horse racing. I’m sure there’s a similar town in Sweden.

Racehorses are very expensive toys for very rich, very bored people. Owners will spend a lot of money on veterinary care for their investment. And the trainers (since the owners don’t actually train the horses themselves, they farm them out to professional trainers) are more than happy to get the equine vet out, and pass on the bill to the owner. They need to make sure the owner’s investment doesn’t lose its value.

J.‘s cousin also helps out when he can with a horse sanctuary near Newmarket. Because people who are into owning or training horses as a business often don’t give a fuck about what happens to a horse that’s too old or too injured to compete any longer. I don’t think he gives the sanctuary his work strictly pro bono. They have to pay for the medicine and other supplies, but he doesn’t bill them for his labour.

Apparently when J. and her family were visiting this summer, her cousin said the people who run the sanctuary are a nice change of pace from trainers and multimillionaire owners. The staff and volunteers at the sanctuary are all horse lovers who are trying to make the final years of broken-down horses peaceful and happy. They’re not in it for glory or money, because the horses who end up with them can’t compete.

And yeah, I’m sure there are good racehorse trainers who aren’t just in it for the money, who love horses and want to make working with horses their career. But it sounded like from what J. said like there are some less noble trainers as well. And apparently her cousin has never met a race horse owner he didn’t take an instant dislike to.

But equine veterinarians make excellent money, charging whatever the market will bear to ensure some Saudi prince has fun with his new toy racehorse. And of course, the trainers don’t mind calling out the vet at the slightest hint of ill-health or injury, because the owners are paying the bills.

So the racehorse owners and trainers are inadvertently subsidizing J’’s cousin’s work with the horse sanctuary. Because if he wasn’t charging them through the nose, he couldn’t afford the pro bono work with the sanctuary.

I could totally see Sara Eriksson as a specialist looking after the veterinary needs of racehorses or show jumping horses, and charging the owners and trainers vast amounts for her formidable professional expertise. Then spending lots of time pro bono at a horse sanctuary. Because she doesn’t love winning, she just loves horses.

[vecnasrevengerp]

welcome home LUCAS SINCLAIR (donald glover fc)

hope you brought your tissues with you! be sure to check in at home or to your hotel and don’t forget to always look over your shoulder. this is hawkins, after all.

[DONALD GLOVER, CISMALE, HE/HIM/HIS] When’s the last time anyone heard anything about [LUCAS SINCLAIR]? Old friends remember them as [LOYAL & ATHLETIC] but also [HEADSTRONG & SENSITIVE], no wonder they’re still known as [THE RANGER] around town. Today, in 2006, they are [35] and some people say they remind them of [COZY SWEATERS, BLACK COFFEE, EARLY MORNING RUNS, RED MARKS ON PAPER, THE SOUND OF A BASKETBALL BOUNCING ON A HARDWOOD FLOOR, SCUFFED BASKETBALL SHOES, HALF DRUNK BEER BOTTLES WITH PEELING LABELS, CAT FUR EVERYWHERE EVEN THOUGH HE’S NOT A CAT PERSON (ALLEGEDLY),]. [dani, 23, she/her/hers, est].

biography

make new friends. step out of comfort zone and try new things. be yourself. that was lucas sinclair’s to-do list to surviving his freshman year of high school. 1986 had different plans for him. lucas did all of those things. he joined the basketball team over hellfire club, much to mike and dustin’s chagrin. he made a lifelong friend in jay demario. and, ultimately, he ran right back to the party when they needed him. he got his ass kicked by his team captain, watched helplessly as the first girl he loved cared for had her bones broken in half, and lost two of his best friends to the upside down.he failed. and that failure stuck with him for years. he was not going to fail anyone else like he’d failed to protect will and el. he was going to make sure his people were okay. and he was going to finish what he started in high school even if it killed him.so lucas sinclair went from benchwarmer to starting point guard, led the hawkins high tigers to back-to-back state championships, and earned himself a scholarship to notre dame so his parents wouldn’t have to worry about paying for his college just because he wasn’t as smart as erica, all while keeping tabs on dustin and mike and writing a bunch of letters he didn’t have an address to send to max that might still be shoved in the back of his closet.

he was an athlete and he played d&d with the hellfire club on the weekends. he dated a pretty girl who followed him to college. he was going to bring the fighting irish to the tournament, get noticed by scouts, and get a shoe deal. maybe he’d become an agent…or he’d play a few years professionally if he was lucky!

but lucas rode the bench his freshman year of college. he worked out all summer to earn his spot on the court and had a fantastic sophomore season…until a new year’s day tournament led to a torn acl. he had surgery, but the rehab was difficult. he fell into a pretty bad place, mis-using his pain pill prescriptions and eventually getting hooked. he made rash decisions including dropping out of school and heading home. he worked at family video while rehabbing his knee and saving up cash to…do what exactly? run off to california? very funny. 

he spent two gap years in hawkins, going through the motions, occasionally hanging out with his old friends and and feeling trapped by the four walls of his childhood bedroom. a combination of reconnecting with mr. clarke while trespassing in the hawkins middle school gym and a good therapist that his mom definitely didn’t force him into seeing made things clearer to him. (marian tried, but it was honestly finding some of the old photos of the four of them in his classroom…and all of their old projects still taped up on the walls in mr. clarke’s classroom that gave him the nudge to return to school.)  he’d probably never play in the nba. not on a bum leg, anyway. and if he couldn’t do that, well, keeping the curiosity door open wasn’t a bad trade off.

he returned to notre dame two years and many lifetimes wiser, got a teaching degree, and walked back on to the basketball team. he helped the irish into the big dance and had a pretty successful athletic career while earning his degree. lucas even married his high school sweetheart while on a spring break trip to las vegas (which his mom is still pissed about, by the way!)

he and tracy probably would have moved to chicago if not for charles’ heart attack. lucas had to go home and, thankfully, his wife seemed content to follow him back to hawkins.

honestly? lucas got married because that’s what he thought he was supposed to be doing at twenty-three. some of his friends were married, most of them had kids, and his mom was dying to join the grandma train. lucas was (and is) still searching for something to fill the massive gap left when will and el died. he’s been trying for years: first with athletics, then his romantic relationships, then  with the pills and the weed and the booze he definitely didn’t get from jonathan or steve, but nothing ever makes him feel whole anymore.

the closest thing that does? seeing the spark a kid’s eyes when they finally figure out a difficult science concept. or the pure joy on every face when the girls’ basketball team he coaches finally wins a game. but as soon as he goes home to an empty apartment? he’s fucking lonely. 

and he was lonely even before the divorce. he told tracy as much, and it…didn’t go over well. they fought, which was kind of…exhilarating, actually? they’d had a superficial spark that had burned hot and fast but died quickly and they both had just been going through the motions for years by the time lucas admitted that he just didn’t feel like it was worth it anymore. 

his life is fine, if boring. he found some joy in coaching and substitute teaching at hawkins middle. when mr. clarke passed away, he stepped in automatically. if mr. clarke wasn’t there to guide the next generation, lucas sure would. 

oh, and he’s also an uncle. which is pretty fun. 

time capsule

in 1983, lucas put the demogorgan figure into the time capsule. at the time, he thought he and his friends would have a good laugh at an inside joke when it was opened.in 1984, he left candy corn from halloween in there. firstly, because candy corn sucks. secondly? halloween was when everything felt like it started for him at the time. 

in 1985, he put his favorite bandana in the time capsule. he was trying out this new thing where he tried to be popular once high school started -and erica said they made him look stupid. (not that he listens to erica…)

lucas was going to put the tickets to the championship game he’d bought his friends into the time capsule in 1986 but ultimately that just seemed so…fucking trivial. he put in a yellowing polaroid instead. the six of them, summer ‘85. it used to live on the mirror above his desk but…well, it hurt too much to look at after that.

stats

Athletics (How Athletic are they?): 3

Burglary (Can they swipe stuff?): 1

Contacts (Do they know people with information?): 2

Deceive (Are they a good liar?): -1

Drive (like, actual driving ability): 3

Empathy (On a scale of 1-10 how much of an empath are they?): 0

Fight (Do they have hands?): 2

Investigate (Can they sleuth?): 1

Lore (Kinda like knowledge): 2

Medicine (First Aid Essentially): 2

Navigation (How good are they with a map/getting around?): 2

Notice (Is your character observant?): 1

Perception (Do they notice things others might not?): 1

Provoke (Are they a shit stirrer?): -1 (although in certain company……)

Rapport (Are they charming? Can they do it on command?): 2

Resourcefulness (MacGyver scale): 2

Stealth (Are they sneaky?): 1

Will (Tenacity): 3

[soulsuccessunleashed]

Soul Alignment: What It Is & Why It Matters

Alignment is one of those words that people use a lot but need to learn what it means. This post is for you if you like the sound of "soul alignment" but don't know what it is or how to do it. We'll talk about everything there is to know about soul alignment and why it's important.

So what is soul alignment, exactly?

Alignment is putting things in the right place, so they are in a straight line or the right place. It's important because the system crashes if the parts don't work well together. Like the parts in clocks and watches from the past. Or the pieces of a car. If one part is out of place, the whole system stops working.

When we talk about alignment in the context of being soul smart, we are adjusting parts of you. Soul alignment is when your human self, the person you think you are, is in sync with your soul or higher self. You are so much more than what you see in the mirror. 

Working with the "other" part of you, your soul, means you'll finally be able to face the world as a whole person. It will give you more knowledge and power to change your life to live the life you've always dreamed of.

So, soul alignment means ensuring that your human and soul selves are in sync. These two parts don't always work well together, so they must be put in place and back in place often. It is normal! Misalignment is a normal part of life and doesn't mean there's something wrong with you. 

It happens because the soul has a certain path to take, but you aren't aware of it. Paying attention to alignment regularly ensures that what you're doing in your life aligns with what your soul wants. You'll be living out your soul's purpose for this lifetime.

How to get closer to your soul?

Soul alignment is getting your energy vibration to match your soul's energy vibration. Being high vibration is the same as being in soul alignment. It is because when you align with your higher self or soul, you align with the high frequencies at which the soul vibrates. What's this? The waves of happiness, love, and peace.

It means you must find and do things that put YOU in the vibrations of joy, love, and peace to get in touch with your soul. Not all at once, of course, but as often as possible. Aligning with your soul means doing what makes you feel GOOD. It sounds so easy, but many of us have trouble with it. We've been taught to put hard work, getting things done, and other people's needs first, so it's hard for us to do things that make us feel good. 

How to keep in line?

It is probably the most common question: "How do you stay aligned when you start worrying or when things go wrong?" We all know it's easier to get into a state of high vibration where we feel good than to stay there. It's so easy for things outside us to throw off our energy!

So what can you do? I've found that the most important thing is to make alignment a regular practice and to take care of your energy all the time, not just when you feel your vibe dropping. When your energy is high and strong, it will be harder for things in life to bother you. You may still feel something, but it won't be as strong or last as long.

Just like with your physical health, if you take your vitamins and eat your greens, your body will be better able to handle any germs that come its way. Your energy works the same way. If you strengthen your core muscles, they will hold you up and carry you when needed.

[no-droids]

Ask Me Again Tomorrow

gif credit @pedros-pascal​

Part Sixteen of the Rough Day Series

Rating: Explicit

Word Count: 16.3K

Warnings: SMUTTTTT, following/stalking, some fluffy moments but mostly just a lil action and interaction, I don’t think there’s any other warning besides language and the smut (comm sex WITH A TWIST YALLLLL) but if you happen to find something else that warrants a tag, please let me know and I will do so accordingly!

A/N: The response to this story has grown beyond anything I could’ve ever imagined and I genuinely thank you all from the bottom of my heart for the privilege of writing for you.  Hope this one ends up being okay and I’ll get to work on the next chapter soon!

***

Headstart—12:17pm:

The sky is so pretty.  There isn’t much to look at on the surface—rolling hills and plains, grassy but with dry bare spots breaking up the green stretches, but the sky.  It’s an oil painting above you, pastel swishes of yellows and pinks and purples with an enormous ringed planet taking up half the horizon and another sizable moon hanging high.

You should probably be running.  Like, for real sprinting, but you can’t push yourself to go faster than a brisk walk.  It’s so… free out here, more hills springing up every time you get to the top of the next, warm air filling your lungs.  Even though you know realistically that the beginning will likely be the hardest—where you need to focus most on running and putting distance between you instead of hiding—truth be told, you’re not foreseeing making it more than a full day.  You’re going to try, obviously, but in the grand scheme, you wouldn’t be surprised in the least if he finds you tomorrow.  So, instead of wasting all your energy going as fast as you physically can right out of the gate, you just decide to stroll and think for a little bit.

You know what your goal is.  Obviously, to last as long as you can, but more specifically… well, if Din is going to chase after you, then he’s going to try to think like you.  Anticipate your movements, if he can’t already see the tracks you leave plain as day.  Very soon, he’ll be walking this same exact pathing, following the footprints you’re leaving behind, but if you’re ever able to shake him or throw him off course, he doesn’t have a tracking fob.  He doesn’t have any mechanical device that points him in your direction—if you can lose him with the footprints, then he’ll have to rely solely on predicting you. Which means you need to think… exactly the opposite of yourself if you want to outsmart him.

That’s harder than it sounds though, because… is he going to predict you predicting him?  At what point does it stop?  You somehow have trouble seeing this as an advantage the way he said it would be—you almost wish you had someone else chasing you, someone you didn’t know and someone who didn’t know you if only so this paradox could end before it begins.

You’re walking for about ten minutes before spotting a dirt road in the distance.  There’s a person following it in the direction of the sun—you don’t know this planet’s magnetic field but you do know it��s after noon and the sun would set on Arvala-7 in the west, so that’s what you’ll call it for now.  You call out to them as soon as you’re in range, and the stranger turns to you.

“Excuse me!”  It’s a woman, you see it as you get closer.  “I’m so sorry to bother you, but can you tell me where this road leads?”

She removes a sheer yellow shawl covering her dark hair and gives you a friendly smile.  “Hello,” the lady greets, before spinning around and pointing back the way she came.  “Osiruu is a few hours that way.  There’s not much there, but it will take you to G’ila, a transport hub with many opportunities for drifters, or Nariss, the capital.  I’m on my way to Shabeth,” she points in the other direction.  “It’s far—a day’s walk, but it’s a holy place and offers quite the view.  I would be glad for the company, but I understand its lack of practical appeal.”

So this place is safe enough to be inviting strangers along on your travels, noted.  You’re going to have to make the decision right now, then.  Which path should you take?

Something deep inside you tells you that you want to see this holy place, and just from a few sentences, you already like this woman and feel safe with her.  But then all of a sudden, you remember something.

Last known locations tell you a lot about a quarry, Din’s voice drifts back to you, sounding soft and distant from the dark forests of Naboo.  Smart ones go to populated planets, planets like Coruscant, planets that make it nearly impossible to find people.  Brave ones go to dangerous planets, suicidal ones try their luck in the Unknown Regions, idiots continue to go about their business on their homeworld without caring.  But planets like this—like Naboo… those are the pacifists.  The ones that don’t ever put up a fight.

You suppose you should decide what kind of quarry you want to be.  Friendly company and a view is something you normally crave—it’s something your soul speaks to after going without it for so long during your previous life.  You never pictured yourself as the fighting type.  When Din first asked you, you told him you wouldn’t run from him if he was chasing you, and choosing to accompany this kind stranger to her destination is essentially just that.  Sacrificing a chase for a pretty view.

“Does Shabeth have a sizable population?”  You ask her, and she shakes her head.

“It’s the sight of an annual pilgrimage that happens in a few months, but it’s beautiful there and I like to go whenever I can,” she tells you with a soft smile.  “But there’s nothing for miles outside it, I’m afraid.”

Your footprints will lead directly there.  He’ll find you easily.

“It sounds very nice, but I need to find somewhere with a lot of people,” you give her an apologetic smile.  Truly, you think she would’ve made for a nice friend.  “Thank you for your help, though, and good luck with your journey!  I hope we meet again.”

“Do you need any food or supplies?”  She asks you, and you stop short of passing her by.  “I don’t have much with me, but know what it’s like to be a newcomer to Sanctuary II.  I’d be glad to help.”

Good Maker, is this how everybody is here or did you just hit the jackpot with this lady?  She seems like… you, almost.  Her voice is gentle, she looks like she’d give nice hugs.  You’re about to politely turn her down, but then you realize the brilliant opportunity that’s presented itself in her image.

“Actually, this might sound like a really strange question, but…” you tell her, before looking down at her feet.  “Wanna trade shoes with me?”

***

Headstart—6:12pm:

You don’t think it’ll work, but as you walk into a small settlement a few hours later in a unfamiliar and worn pair of sandals, you decide that you’ll need to do this as often as possible.  You can’t come up with anything else that’ll throw him off your physical trail besides constantly switching shoes—is that bad?  Are you just an idiot with no hope?  You’ve had—you check your watch—like, five hours to think of a game plan, and all you’ve come up with is shoes?  You’re screwed.

At least there’s food here.  Plenty.  There’s vendors stationed along the street, multiple people passing by and going about their business.  Osiruu, that nice woman said—not much here, but you think she was wrong.  There’s children giggling and jumping rope on the corner, a shopkeeper sweeping her storefront, a graying man with an empty cup plucking an unfamiliar melody on an unfamiliar instrument—and while your tummy growls and you know you should quickly buy supplies and be on your way, you still stop for just a few minutes to listen.

It’s a lovely tune.  You drop a few credits in his cup after he finishes and find yourself humming it as you look at the plethora of goods being offered by the vendors.  Water, food—you buy enough of everything to sustain you for at least a couple days, not wanting to go hungry but also feeling realistic over optimistic.  The cuisine is foreign and you just point to things that look appetizing since you’re not sure about the name or pronunciation, but after paying and taking a bite into a rather large piece of purple fruit, your eyes nearly cross at how sweet and tasty it is.  Holy Maker, that might just be the best thing you’ve ever tasted.  You ask for two more after you finish the first, tucking one in your backpack next to your blaster and munching on the other as you keep browsing.

Suddenly you see shoes—yes.  Fucking shoes, your salvation.  You take a good look at all your options, of which, there aren’t many.  Generic men's, women's, and children's, all in the same color and design.  It’s good in a way—you see most people walking around in the same type of clothing here and you pray there’s not a way for him to track your gait or the whole thing is a bust, but truthfully, what you’re most worried about is the fact that you’ll create a brand new set of footprints wherever your old ones disappear.  Unless you trade with someone else, you won’t ever have a back pathing, you know that Din will probably be able to easily spot it.

“Three pairs of these, please,” you point to the correct shoes and tell him your size, but then—“Oh wait, actually, can I actually have one of them that’s the next size up?  And another that’s the same but in men's?”

The man behind the counter gives you an odd look but acquiesces, measuring the size of your preferred pair to multiple men’s shoes to find one that looks roughly the same—you doubt he’s ever had a request like this, but you’re also a generous tipper.  His smile is grateful when you tell him to keep the change and then you’re stuffing the new shoes into your backpack and moving onward.

Would there be some kind of map here, you wonder?  One that shows distance so you won’t waste time trying to reach a place you won’t be able to walk to?  That lady said a transport hub and the capital are through this settlement, but she didn’t provide much information beyond that.  You don’t want to be in the middle of nowhere when he finally catches up to you, you’ll need some place to hide.

When you stop to ask an elderly gentleman as he passes by, he freely provides you a basic gist.  There’s a large forest beyond Osiruu—after it will be a road that passes through a few notable places, with a town called Sijua to the west that leads north to G’ila, and Devain to the east that leads northeast to Nariss.  Both are within walking distance, though it may take a couple days to reach your destination.

Alright then.  Through the forest, you suppose.  You probably should’ve asked which way is east, but he’s already leaving and you don’t have the nerve to ask him to stop again.  You have a finger point, that’s all you need.  Making sure to use one of the small restrooms near the square before heading out, you eventually decide to make your way towards the direction he said this forest would be.

***

Headstart—6:58pm:

A bus.

You’re not going to take it, of course, but it’s the perfect solution to the problem you’ve been mulling over.  It’s at the very edge of the small settlement, and you quickly speed up into a half-jog as soon as you hear its engine running.

“Last call for the seven o’clock!”  A large man stationed near the doors yells as you approach.  “Last bus to G’ila until tomorrow!”

The sun is setting and you have to extend your hand out in front of you to not be blinded by it.  “Hello,” you give him a smile, before grabbing one of the handles on the side and stepping up onto the metal platform.

“Ah!”  The man quickly stops you, moving to stand in front of the open doors.  He’s as wide as he is tall, big enough that he blocks the entire exit.  “That’ll be ten credits, miss.”

“Oh,” you say, patting your empty pockets and pulling your eyebrows inwards, trying not to move too much in case the sizable amount of credits you have stashed in your backpack happen to rattle.  “Oh, no.  I think I lost my wallet.”

He sighs.  “Off the bus then please, miss.  Come back tomorrow if you find it.”

You nod, leaning your forearm against the paneling and beginning to take your shoes off.  “Will it be parked in the same place exactly?”

The driver looks curiously at you, clearly confused at both the strange question and your strange actions.  “I’m sorry?  Please—off the bus.”

“One second,” you tell him, now barefoot on the platform and digging into your backpack for the slightly larger sized shoes you bought earlier.  The sound of credits clink against your blaster, but you hope he takes your lead in purposefully ignoring them.  “Does the bus to G’ila park in this spot every single day?”

“Yes,” the man tells you impatiently, eyeing the way you’re stepping into the new pair with a subtle look of distaste.  Everyone is polite here, it seems.  “It will arrive back at seven am sharp with passengers from G’ila, in the same exact place.  Please get off the bus.”

“Thank you, sir,” you tell him with a smile, watching him step to the side to allow you to drop down into the dirt again and continue on your way.

Brilliant, if you do say so your fucking self.  Eliminate the need for a back pathing.  All footprints facing this direction are going to be the first footprints, and all of them facing the opposite way are going to be the last; if Din manages to figure out you didn’t take the bus, then he won’t be able to tell which new set are yours and which belong to the other passengers.  You pray the helmet can’t track gaits, but while you’re still paying enough attention, you make sure to keep your steps just slightly longer and even try placing more weight on the edges of your feet to make it look like you have a slightly higher arch than you actually do.  You’d put a pebble inside of them or something, but you know you’re going to be walking through the night and you don’t want to commit to having your feet hurt more than you already know they’re going to.

Eventually the quaint shops and small houses disappear behind you, and the sun setting over the horizon turns the clouds above turn more dusty green and brown than yellow and pink.  You hope Din opened up the ramp after you left.  You want him to see the sky.

***

Headstart—9:34pm

The forest here is different from Naboo, too.

Maybe it was because you only saw it while you were in crisis-mode, but that forest seemed much scarier and darker than this one.  The vegetation there was thick and overgrowing, but these trees look like they’ve never had leaves on them at all.  No twigs or small branches that sprout from the trunks—the branches are all thick and gnarly, criss-crossing with each other with how close they’ve grown together.  You bet their roots are practically one at this point, stretching for miles and miles but all sharing the same system.

Because there aren’t any leaves, there's nothing to block the moonlight shining clear and crystalline through the twisting maze of branches.  Sanctuary II appears to have a sister moon—Sanctuary I, perhaps?—that’s likely a similar size, because it’s the same one you've seen all day and it’s barely moved a few degrees that you can tell.  It must orbit incredibly close and be tidal-locked with this one then.  Two massive satellites swinging around each other as they circle a ringed gas giant, but it makes a stunning view and reflects more than enough light to see.

The sky is deep blue and maroon and you’ve been walking in a straight line for hours, using the stationary moon overhead as your guide.  The only issue with this plan that you’ve been able to come up with is that there’s no widely traveled path through the trees—even you can see your footprints and the clear trail you’re leaving behind.  You’ve been trying for a while to figure out another clever evasion tactic, but it’s harder than it sounds.  Can’t just change shoes again, that’ll be a dead giveaway.  How do you lose him?

You stop for a second, reaching into your bag to grab some water and stay hydrated.  Looking up once more at the beauty of the swirling colors peeking through the branches above you, you find yourself pausing after returning the bottle to your pack.  There are… an atrocious number of branches up there, and all of them are long and tangled and thick.  Sturdy.

You’ve… never climbed a tree before.

Without thinking much beyond that, you decide to bend your knees and jump, grabbing hold of one of the strong wooden tubes over your head and then swinging your legs up.  Ouch—the bark scrapes against your palms and you have to hold on tight with your thighs while you shimmy yourself upwards, but at least the wood is solid as fuck.  It takes you a minute or two, but you’re eventually able to shuffle yourself around so you’re straddling the thick branch, and then you look out to see the large collection of them criss-crossing in every direction around you.

Oof, this is dangerous.  You know it even before you start.  The gaps leading to the ground are bigger and more numerous than your potential pathing forward, but the only thing that gives you reassurance is how thick the wood is—you’re almost certain the branches aren’t going to break as long as you’re careful.

Okay.  Shoes, these are too big for the kind of dexterity you’re going to need.  You take them off slowly, being extra careful not to drop them, and then exchange them with the better-fitting pair you bought earlier, making a mental note that the sandals and the larger shoes are the two you’ve already worn.  If your pursuer manages to catch on to the multiple footprint changes, your most recent ones should ideally just… disappear right there, shouldn’t they?

You grin, before struggling into a low crouch and looking around your wooden cage for a safe way forwards.

***

Headstart—11:37pm:

Water.

A blessing, and not because you’re thirsty.  You have clean water in your bag and decades of habits formed in the desert to ensure you’re taking breaks and drinking enough—what you need is a way to disguise your footprints once you get back on the ground again.  This was good; scuttling your way along thick and twisting branches for as long as you have was time-consuming and exhausting, but it allowed you to avoid touching the ground for at least a mile or so, which means he’ll have to comb that entire radius to look for your drop.

And it was fun.

You even found yourself giggling as you ducked and scooted, ignoring the bark scraping your skin and your panting breaths, the way your face got sweaty and hot.  You had to do some brave maneuvers at tricky spots—jumping, balancing, hugging—but it almost just felt like an exciting little obstacle course for you and you’re honestly having a fucking blast right now.

Water, though.  Water is an unexpected beauty, even more than you’ve always considered it to be.  Water is an eroder.  Not only powerful enough to smooth down the rough edges of strong elements over time, but it will hide your footprints as soon as you create them and leave no indication that you were ever there.

Eventually you see it—a babbling stream cutting a considerably wide line through the trees.  You creep forward and hang tight to a branch above you to make sure you won’t fall, wiping the sweat on your brow with your other hand as you study the terrain.  The water is… a considerable distance below you, maybe about ten or so feet, and there’s quite a few branches on either side that extend and hang out over it.  You could probably find your way to the other side somehow, but something tells you to avoid the road beyond the forest if you can.  It leads to multiple places, it would be better to follow the stream until you can eventually merge with it later.

That means you’re… fuck.  You’re going to have to jump, aren’t you?

It’s the only way—you can’t leave footprints which means you’re going to need to land in the water.  The trees clear too far from the shoreline, so you can’t shimmy down the trunk of one for a shorter fall.  You’re going to have to climb out on one of those long branches until you’re suspended over the stream, and then you’re going to have to lower yourself as far as you can and then let go.  With your height already accounting for at least half the distance plus the length of your arms as you hang, you should only have to drop two or three feet before reaching water, and then maybe another two feet to the floor under it.  It looks forgiving enough—the moonlight shines and the stream is clear and you can mainly just see sand at the bottom, no sharp rocks or other potential dangers to be found.  This… this is doable.

Okay.  If you pull this off, you’re a badass.  If you don’t break any bones or seriously injure yourself in any way, you deserve some kind of commendation.  This is probably kiddie shit to Din, who keeps literal rockets strapped to his back and jumps out of ships flying thousands of feet above the ground, but this is a challenge for you and you’re feeling just excited enough to be up to it.

You’re eventually able to climb onto the thickest, sturdiest branch you can see that happens to hang over the water, straddling it and beginning to scoot.  Your thighs are killing you at this point but you’re holding deathly tight to the wood, your movements becoming more and more cautious the further away from the trunk you get.

You’re directly above the water now, but you need to go out a little further.  Aim for right in the middle so you don’t accidentally leave any tracks or prints on the shoreline if you need to catch yourself.  The unfamiliar wood in this forest is admittedly sturdy, but the branch begins to subtly sag with your weight as you keep slowly scooting forward, and you’re just about to the correct spot when—

Day 1–12:00am:

“Sweet girl.”

—You nearly fucking fall.

“Maker,” you gasp, suddenly scrambling to catch yourself on the branch before you can plummet.  It creaks and groans under your weight but supports you nonetheless, and when you’re one hundred percent certain it isn’t going to break, you jerk your head down to the communicator and see that it’s midnight, on the dot.

Shit.

Your heart slams against your ribs and your arms shake with adrenaline while you study it for just a moment longer, trying to calm the fuck down.

“Hey,” Din’s voice comes sharply from your wrist, crackling and tinny through the comm, nearly scaring you again.  “Answer me.”

You don’t want to sacrifice your grip right now, but you have no doubt he’ll fly the Crest out to you if you don’t respond.  So you quickly let go to press a button on the front face and then latch onto the branch tight once more, raising your voice because you can’t risk bringing your wrist up to your mouth to speak.  You hope he’ll be able to hear without the microphone picking up the sound of the stream below.  “Uh.  Ahem.  Hello.  Yes?”

“You’re too quiet,” Din’s disembodied voice immediately informs you.  “Or something on your side is too loud.  There’s an earpiece built into the side of the communicator, take it out and use it instead.”

You study the wrist brace without moving, until you finally see what he’s talking about.  It’s a small, wireless piece of machinery hidden on the left side of the electronic display, and you quickly pop it out and stuff it into your ear just in time to hear the sound of hydraulics clanging through the speaker as you clutch the branch again.  You’d know that sound anywhere, it’s the ramp of the hull closing.

“Are you already on the move?”  You ask him incredulously, your thighs starting to go numb with how deathly tight you’ve been squeezing this tree.

“Can’t sleep,” Din murmurs, sounding so much closer and deeper than before.  Does he have his earpiece on under the helmet or something?  Stars, is that why his voice sounds that good?  It’s like it’s coming from inside your own head, bassy and rough.  “Ready or not.”

You huff, your tummy going warm.  Of course he can’t sleep, of course he’s going to look for you as soon as he’s allowed to.  If he waited until morning, you’d probably be slightly offended.  You try to slow your heart rate into something acceptable, but being this far above water and hearing his baritone murmur directly in your ear make it difficult.  “But I’m… sleepy.”

“You’re always sleepy,” he tells you, and though you can’t actually hear him walking, the sound of his footsteps shake through his voice just slightly as he speaks.

“Hang on,” you huff, ducking your head to drag it against your shoulder, keeping the sweat from your eyes without using your hands, “you’re gonna make me stay up all night just because you do?  This isn’t fair—”

“Fair wasn’t part of the rules.”

Well.  Fair.

Stars, you can’t stay here.  You don’t know how long he wants to check-in for, but you’re also not confident with this branch’s ability to hold you for an extended time when you’re this far out from the trunk.  You need to get in that stream one way or another, but now that he’s here, you have an extra problem.  Din is going to hear you no matter what.

“Um.  Can you give me a second?”  You ask him, glancing around to make sure there’s no better way of doing this.  Nope, you realize very quickly—this is the best idea you’ve got, and you don’t really know what that says about the quality of all your other ideas.

“What?”  Din grunts shortly, but you just clear your throat.

“I need to… mute myself.  Give me like… five minutes.”

“What are you talking abou—”

“You of all people cannot be upset about asking for five minutes of quiet,” you return testily, looking down at the distance to the stream once more.  That’s a long way.  You… you can’t swim obviously, but again, the water doesn’t look too deep.  Just a couple feet likely, shouldn’t go past your knees.

It’s fitting that he doesn’t say anything, which you eventually take as disgruntled acceptance, so you quickly press the proper button on your wrist to silence the mic and then take a few deep breaths.  You have a time limit now, you have to do this.

With incredible patience and precision, you eventually slide until you’re clutching the branch upside down like an only slightly quicker and less coordinated sloth, before slowly dropping your legs and hanging over the water.

It’s… admittedly a bit further down than you anticipated, or maybe that’s just you making things worse than they actually are, but you’re committed at this point and there’s no going back.

You close your eyes, count to three, and then you let go.

The sandy floor meets your feet with considerable force and you make a hell of a splash doing it, nearly falling but just barely managing to keep yourself balanced and upright at the last second.  The water is cool and comes up just over your knees, your backpack miraculously didn’t get wet and all your limbs remain shaky but unbroken.

Okay.  Okay, fucking success.  It feels… thrilling, accomplishing a dangerous feat, and you quickly let out a loud whoop before clearing your throat, trying to sound normal as you press a button on the communicator’s face once more.

“Mando?”  You ask, slightly out of breath.  “Sorry about that, I’m back.”

Okay, now which way do you go?  Downstream seems like the easier path after getting in so much unexpected exercise, so that’s the one you go with.  As soon as you lift your foot from the sand bed, you watch your footprint almost immediately disappear through the moonlit water, and you bite your lip at just how well everything turned out for you.

After a moment though, you realize he hasn’t answered you.  You look down at the communicator again to make sure you pressed the right thing.  “Hello?  Shiny?”

“Did you trade shoes with someone?”  Din’s voice suddenly comes through the earpiece, sounding absolutely incredulous.

“Shit,” you tell him, trying not to smile.  “Hoped that was gonna buy me more time.”

“It… might’ve, if you kept walking in the same direction as they were,” he informs you after a moment.  “Your shoes went south, but this other pair got all the way out here just to turn back around again?  Good idea, but the execution needs work.”

Maker, he’s smart.  It was the first attempt at a footprint change so you weren’t thinking much beyond tricking the tracking mechanism in his helmet, you ignored his logic completely.  Essentially, the exact opposite of what he told you to do.  You like to think you’re getting better at it by this point, thinking beyond just the original exchange, and you’re hoping you’ll be able to trick him with at least one of the other fifty times you changed shoes today.  You’ll have to see tomorrow night, if you can make it that long.

Also, the road you were on apparently goes north-south, that’s important information you make sure to take note of.  The man in Osiruu said Devain and Nariss are to the east, and that Sijua and G’ila are westward, right?  Remembering that you thought south was west earlier, you do some quick calculating and immediately come to a stop in the moving water as soon as you figure out your positioning, turning around and walking upstream instead.

You want to go to Nariss.  The capital, and the biggest city in walking distance.  Smart quarry go to populated places, places that make it nearly impossible to find people.

“Alright.  Mando: one, Me: zero,” you finally acknowledge, swinging your backpack around and unzipping it to dig inside for another piece of fruit.  You’ve been hungry for hours but had to use both hands to stay safe and far above the ground, it’s the perfect time to eat.  “How’s the baby?  Behaving himself?”

“He kept trying to follow you after you left,” comes Din’s response, and you stop with just your teeth piercing the flesh, wondering if you heard him right.  You actually open your jaw and pull the fruit away with just a bite mark in it.

“You’re joking.”  No fucking way, not that little demon.

“Wish I was,” he tells you solemnly.  “Made a fuss, tried to open the ramp a few times.  Didn’t cause any trouble after, just… pouted.”

That’s… that’s exactly how he responded the very first time Din left the kid on the ship with you instead of bringing him along.  He threw a fit, tried to ditch you for his dad multiple times, and then ultimately just looked cute and mopey with his limp ears until Din came back.  Do you think it’s just him rebelling against change?  That has to be it, right?

“He better not be giving you any hints about where I am,” you warn his father.  “I’d tell you to put him on but I don’t want the earpiece getting lost forever.”

You hear it.  The softest laugh—barely a breath, coming after years of learning to make it just quiet enough not to be registered by the helmet.  It gets picked up by the communicator in all its understated beauty when normally it’d be silent, and it’s just jarring enough to make you careless.

On your next step, you accidentally lift your foot too high and make a splash, and you already know you fucked up before he can say a single word.

“What’s that sound?”

You immediately stop moving, allowing the cool water to move as silently as possible past your stationary knees.  Shit.  “Uh.  What sound?”

You think he purposefully doesn’t say anything.  Probably because it feels a little like cheating, doesn’t it?  It’s to your disadvantage, having him be able to catch hints from your environment when he’s the one who made check-ins mandatory, but then again… how smart do you think he is?  Something tells you that he might not need to track you at all—what are the chances he stumbles upon this little stream and just naturally assumes you were clever enough to use it to hide your trail?  Did you waste time trying to engineer a vanishing act when it’s not going to matter regardless?

Oh well, too late now.  You quickly decide to change the subject.

“You should try the big purple fruit that one vendor sells when you get into Osiruu, by the way,” you tell him pleasantly, taking a big chomp out of it and then letting out an extended hum of delight that only really fucking good food or sex causes a person to make.  “I’m eating one right now, it’s so good.  Be the best thing you’ve ever tasted.”

“Mm.  Doubt it,”  immediately comes his low response.  Fucking immediately.

“Mando,” you gasp, scandalized and giddy enough that juice dribbles down your chin a bit.

“Are you having fun?”  Din asks, instead of pushing the conversation any further in that direction.  You don’t know if you’re thankful or disappointed with how quickly he decided to abort, but you take a moment to consider his question while swallowing and wiping your mouth.  Not the answer, you know the answer—but why he bothered to ask.  Did he know you were going to enjoy yourself as much as you have?  Your only possible lament is how you’re talking to him through a communicator instead of having him next to you.

“I am,” you say warmly.  “Be… be better if you were here, though.”

“Give me your coordinates,” Din proposes, and his voice is just low and rumbly enough to make you pause.

You’re really, really proud of yourself for only considering it for a few seconds before scoffing.  “Psh.  Nice try.”

“Was worth a shot,” he sighs through the earpiece, and you smile, taking another bite of fruit.

“Ask me again tomorrow,” you offer, grinning at the implication.

“We’ll see,” you hear him return, and though his tone doesn’t really change, you know he’s probably rolling his eyes.  He won’t have to ask for your coordinates because he’ll already be there, but it’s nice to pretend for a while longer.

And then you both walk all through the night, sharing casual banter with each other for hours.  He never once implies he wants to disconnect, even when you hit him with more nonsensical questions—

“What’s your favorite food?”  (“I don’t have one.”)

“Okay, well what about just a food that you like?”  (“I don’t like food that much.”)

“What do you mean?  Everyone loves food.”  (“Not me.”)

“Alright, well um.  What’s your favorite color, then?”  (“I don’t have one, either.”)

“Come on, you must have some kind of color you like.”  (“What’s your favorite color?”)

“…Brown.”  (“Then that’s my favorite, too.”)

—until the sun rises and you both say your goodbyes.

***

Day 1–6:15am:

You resolve to waiting until you see another person to allow your feet to touch dry land, figuring the longer you stay untraceable, the better off you’ll be.  Your toes are wrinkly and your pantlegs and shoes have been drenched for hours, but then you finally spot a few fishermen standing upstream with their backs to you, speaking to each other in the dawning light.  Two look to be full-grown, but there’s a smaller one in the middle, maybe a teenage boy, and you pause for a second, looking at the riverbank next to them.  All their valuables—water, food, bait, extra rods, but also… their shoes.

Quietly, you reach into your backpack and remove the pair of men’s shoes you bought earlier.  The ones closest to you on the shore seem to be the smallest, so you sneak over as silent as possible and rapidly make an exchange, fitting the new ones on your wet feet before allowing yourself to touch dry land and then speed walking away.

The ones you left him are newer and roughly the same size anyways—yikes, maybe slightly smaller now that you’re thinking about it—but at least you have a back pathing.  If that kid decides to take your offering and the shoes fit, Din will follow him, and if he decides to go barefoot instead, he should still follow him, right?  You’re not really aiming to trick him outright, mostly you just want him to waste more and more time.  This likely wouldn’t work if there wasn’t a time limit attached to this hunt, but you’re going to do everything you can to disappear while he’s still far enough behind you.

***

Day 1–7:06am:

You get to Devain remarkably quickly after finding the correct road.  The pit stop is much bigger than Osiruu, big enough to call an actual town instead of just a settlement, but still not large enough to feel concealed.  You want a city.  This place at least has cars and ships moving about and overhead respectively, but you’re looking for somewhere with lines.  Somewhere that feels as cramped and busy as possible.

Still, you find a restroom to use and then decide to grab some more food for your trip, happily spotting your new favorite purple fruit in one of the shop windows.  As you’re reaching out to hand the storekeeper the appropriate amount of credits, Din’s gruff voice comes through the earpiece so suddenly that you jump, nearly dropping them all on the counter.  “Hey.”

“Holy shit, what?”  You gasp, earning a confused look from the lady in front of you.  You quickly shake your head at her and mouth an apology while Din grumbles in vexation.

“You were supposed to stay on foot.”

Ah.  So he got to the bus, then.  Okay.

“Oh,” you answer ambiguously, exchanging the money for your bag of food and giving her a polite smile.  Din stays completely mute while you grab your snack, stuffing the rest of the goods in your backpack and then turning to leave—mute for so long that you have to double check you didn’t accidentally do it yourself.

“…Smart girl,” you finally hear him say.  Quietly muttered under his breath, half proud of you and half frustrated for making his job more difficult.  “Which one of these is yours then?”

“I have no idea what you’re talking about,” you announce, before taking a large bite as you leave the establishment and talking with your mouth full.  “You really gotta try the purple fruit, it’s great.”

The communicator abruptly clicks to silence on his end without anything else and you laugh so unexpectedly that a few pieces of it fly out of your mouth.

***

Day 1–1:32pm:

Somewhere miles away from you, Din jerks to a halt in the middle of a forest.

He looks around the dirt floor, walks a few paces and hears the kid coo gently from his cradle.  Behind the visor, the red footprints he’s circling are the last ones around for hundreds of meters, as far as his display can read.

His helmet slowly tilts upwards, and follows the endless maze of thick branches overhead.

With the beskar hiding his face, no one can see the way he slowly breaks into a beautiful grin.

***

Day 1–9:51pm:

Oh.  Oh stars, you’re tired.

You’ve been walking all day without really seeing anything, not having any place to disguise your tracks in the wide open plains.  You could’ve stuck to the road, but you started to feel the exhaustion creep in during the early afternoon and you wanted to be far away from other travelers and potential danger if you needed to rest.  You knew this would be a long journey when you left Devain earlier—over a day’s walk, a group of children told you—you even tried skipping or jogging a bit to see if that would inspire more energy in you, but it didn’t help much.

The large cup of caf you bought while in town was drained hours ago and it didn’t help much either, probably because your exhaustion is more physical and not necessarily mental.  It just felt like a sweet warm drink to sip before you go to sleep, that’s how much the caf helped.  Still, you kept walking, kept moving forward even as you squinted in the setting sun, your feet aching from traveling for this long wearing unfamiliar shoes.  The last time you changed them was hours ago, pulling another bus maneuver but with an air shuttle instead.  Still, you don’t think it’ll be enough.  You don’t even know where Din is but you already feel like you’re losing ground just knowing that he’s the one in pursuit.

You feel it—the hair standing up on your neck, the tingles in your hands, the stirring of your tummy—whatever the incessant gogogo that your instincts happen to scream when you’re in first place but you know the person behind you is quickly closing in.  It’s day fucking one, it’s day one and you feel him in the wind as it brushes through your hair, you can’t even pause to rest because nobody knows better than you that he’s an absolute fucking machine when he wants to be.  The kid may have powers beyond that which can be explained by the laws of nature, but Din is a force all his own.  He drives you forward when everything inside you is telling you to stop.  He keeps you awake and determined when you just desperately need to rest.

But that only goes so far.  You’re bordering on two full days without sleep, and though you’d normally be able to suffer through, the constant movement is just brutal after being confined to a stationary ship for so long.

There’s a lone tree in the distance, you think.  It’s hard to see.  Not because it’s dark—well it is, just a bit darker tonight compared to last, but mostly because your eyelids have grown heavier and more burdensome than the bag around your shoulders.  That looks like a good place to just sit for a second, right?  Maybe eat some more food, try and wake yourself up?  Yeah, that’s a good idea, you’ll head towards the tree and just… sit…

***

Day 2–12:00am:

Completely dead to the galaxy and sitting on your ass with your back against rough bark, the comm clicks and Din’s voice comes through the earpiece.

“Wake up.”

It startles you enough to make you lurch forward and jerk your head around in a panic, looking for any flash of beskar so you can instantly break opposite to it.  You scramble on all fours to look around but you don’t see anything, not even behind the trunk when you crawl, and then you take a deep breath and use the bone of your wrists to rub your eyes vigorously after a moment, knowing your hands are filthy.  “Fuck, how’d you—”

“You’re always sleepy,” Din repeats, and you collapse back into the tree with an exhausted groan, not entertained but not even having the energy to get mad about it.

“I… I gotta sleep,” you tell him, already feeling your body let go of its tension and search for the darkness of unconsciousness once more.  “Shit.  How d’you… mm.  Stay awake all the time…”

“Sleep,” Din encourages, you can still hear him walking.  “You need rest.  I’ll see you soon.”

No—

“No,” you whine like a child, moaning and shoving yourself upright.  Maker, you’re trying to focus, but asking that of yourself is almost impossible right now.  Everything swims—you were dreaming, you think, but you can’t remember and it’s not important other than to emphasize how woozy you are.  Things still feel like a dream, somehow.

You think he can hear your struggling through the comm, because the sound of his footsteps pause.  “Go to sleep.”

“You go to sleep,” you tell him bluntly, giving your head a violent shake to try and wake you up.  You want to slap your own cheek but you don’t want him to hear it.  “I can’t sleep if you don’t.”

“I’ve have at least a couple more days in me before that happens,” Din murmurs, and you bet he knows exactly what the fuck he’s doing to you.  You start to slouch, hearing the voice he uses when he’s curled around your body in the darkness of the hull.  So warm, so gentle.  If you use your imagination, you can feel his fingers drawing slow circles on your back, the vibration of his low voice rumbling against your ear as you lay your head on his chest.  “If I hunt you the way I’d hunt a quarry, I’m going to find you before you wake up.”

“Then I’ll jus’ have to… not let tha’ happen,” you slur.  Even this close to unconsciousness, you try your best to throw in a misdirect.  “Already… paid for the bed an’ everything.”

“Sure you did.  You in another tree?”

You immediately frown even as your eyes drop closed, too tired to fight but still managing to sound upset.  “You makin’ fun of me?”  You ask him with a harumph.  Genuinely, you’re not smart enough to figure it out right now.

“Not hardly,” Din sighs, sounding… you don’t know.  Is that displeasure or not?  It’s not immediately clear.  Does it sound that way because you’re just dumb stupid right now?  Or because Din can’t actually decide how he feels about it?  “Lucky I heard water over the comm last night, I would’ve wasted hours in that forest.”

“Noooo,” you whine in response, trying to push yourself off the tree but tipping sideways in the process, “that’s not fair—”

“Fair wasn’t part of the rules,” he repeats himself again and… nope, you don’t even have the energy to snark something back.  You just grumble your best imitation of him while you do everything you can to heave yourself upright.  It’s pitiful, you lose your balance not even halfway through and just plop on the grass for a second and groan.

“Stop,” Din eventually orders through the earpiece, tired of it.  “What’s sixteen times itself?”

You’re loopy to the point where you don’t even question why he decided to ask you that.  You just furrow your brows for a second and try to think about it, before suddenly realizing you… don’t know, you can’t remember.  Multiplication tables and squares up to twenty are elementary to you, you know them by heart.  Sixteen times sixteen.  One forty-four.  No… no that doesn’t sound right, is that twelv—

You take way too long answering what would’ve been an immediate response two days ago.

“I’ll stop here for tonight,” Din tells you with a resolved sigh.  “I won’t move until you wake up.  Go to sleep.  You’re putting yourself in danger, you can’t even do the basics.”

Later, this moment will come back to you.  That problem isn’t basic, not many adults would be able to tell you very quickly that the answer is two fifty-six.  You don’t even think Din would.  You would, though.  On Naboo, you used rapidly applied trigonometry in your head to find his location, and that was barely two minutes after waking up.  You should know this.  And he knows you.

But for right now, you don’t pay it a single lick of attention.

“You promise?”  You ask quietly, voice incredibly small as your head tilts back towards the sky, already feeling yourself beginning to fall back into the darkness again.

“I promise,” he vows in return, gentle but a promise nonetheless.  He doesn’t have to do this.  You wouldn’t be able to keep going even if he didn’t offer up this temporary truce, but knowing he isn’t currently gaining ground on you makes the idea of sleep so much more welcoming, something you want to seek out instead of fight.

“Will you, um…” your expression furrows.  How do you say this?  You sigh, giving up before even trying to figure it out.  “I’m… not in a bed.  I’m outside.”

Din doesn’t say anything when you pause, and even through the haze wanting to take over, you know it’s going to sound needy.  You want him to stay.  Even in the midst of an adventure, you want him to stay, you want to hear him breathe as you rest, but there’s not really an integrous way to ask.

You don’t need to ask.

“I’ll keep the comm open and wake you when the sun rises,” comes his lulling baritone before you can elaborate anymore, enveloping you in comfort in this dreadfully uncomfortable bed of grass and dirt.  “Sleep, sweet girl.  I’m right here.”

***

Day 2–5:34am:

The sun shines over the hills and you lift your head up to squint your eyes at it, confused as fuck.  Looking down at your wrist to check the time in the warm rays, hands and clothes dirty from laying on the ground that long—you stay groggy and clueless for just a moment longer, before your heart lurches when you remember Din’s promise to you.

You open your mouth to address him but then catch yourself just in time.  Wait.  Don’t panic.  Listen.

Breathing.  Slow and relaxed through the earpiece, a rhythm now branded into your memory from months of nights spent in pitch black.  He’s… asleep.

Din is asleep?  Seriously?

You can count like… twice that this has happened, and one of those was because he got you to touch him just right after closing up a wound on his back, and his body couldn’t handle the strain and passed out.  You’re never awake when he’s asleep—you’re just not, it doesn’t happen.  Din… sleeps like it’s just a choice for him, he doesn’t ever really need it.  Almost like how he used to eat before he started sharing meals with you, he said he doesn’t even like food that much.  You think he just severed all of those things long ago, things that are basic fundamentals of survival and operated like a bounty droid that lost its voice box.  It’s… nice, feeling like you’re somehow giving back some of the things he lost.  Unintentionally encouraging him to find sleep again.  Making sure he eats more, listening to him speak.

You struggle to your feet as quietly as possible, hearing him continue to breathe slow and relaxed through the communicator.  This isn’t purposeful, you don’t think he actually allowed it.  He promised you, and Din doesn’t take shit back.  If he tells you he’ll do something and he doesn’t follow through, it’s either out of his control or a mistake, it’s never been purposeful.  He didn’t mean to fall asleep.

And, in other circumstances, you most definitely would not find some way to take advantage of this.  You’d let him sleep and do other things in the meantime—make some food for you and the kid, find something on the Crest that isn’t spotless and clean until it is, or just… lay there next to him until he woke up.  But… these circumstances are their own.  You have to capitalize now, this is your chance.  You passed out last night around… ten pm, you think it was, and then he promised to stop at midnight.  That means you have to walk at least two hours before he wakes up if you want to prevent any loss of ground—you don’t know where he stopped, he could be a few miles back even.

You have to find Nariss—you have to.  It’s your only option, if you keep trying to run, it’s just going to make it so much easier for him.  Now is the time to hide.  You know it hasn’t been long, it’s barely been two days since you first left the Crest but it feels like you’re already in endgame, already making moves in self-defense instead of actually planning your maneuvers ahead of time.

The capital should be half a day’s walk from here, then.  As long as you get there, you think you’ll be okay.

***

Day 2–8:28am:

Din’s groan suddenly comes through your ear.

You immediately stop, seeing a busy road in the distance and glad you haven’t quite made it there yet, before trying to disguise your voice as drowsy.  “Mm?”

“Shit,” he breathes, and you hear him get up, the sound of beskar moving as he grunts.

“Mpph,” you groan back, squinting your eyes to see if that’ll help sell the act.  “I thought you… Mando, fuck, y’said you’d wake me when the sun came up.”

“I… fell asleep,” he admits, voice rough with it, sounding just as confused as you felt earlier.

“You said you had days in you before that happened,” you murmur, taking a deep breath and stretching your arms up above your head.  Stars, your back hurts, how does he possibly manage to carry a fucking jet pack around all the time?

“Yeah, I…”  He pauses for a moment and you bite your lip, not liking the quiet as soon as you hear it.  “How long have you been up?”

Op.  Not good.  “Wha?”

He’s not falling for it.  “How long?”

How in Maker’s name?  This is impossible.  How can you hope to hide from him when you can’t even manage to hide the smallest fucking truth from him?  Can you salvage this somehow?  “…Like ten minutes.”

“Least a few hours, then,” he sighs, and you get ready to hit him with the same line he used when you complained about his leg-up, opening your mouth as soon as you hear him speak.  “That was smar—”

“Fair wasn’t part of—”

Oh.  Well.  Apparently you didn’t have a reason to feel shitty about deciding to haul ass while he was passed out even though you kind of ended up doing so anyways.  There was no agreement besides that he wouldn’t move until you woke up.  Reason is on your side, but it still feels a bit like you fucked him over.  Is that valid or are you just so used to being nice that putting yourself first feels like a wrong you’ve committed?

“Don’t feel bad,” Din tells you, and you hear a soft coo in the background.  It makes you smile the smallest bit, your shoulders relaxing even as they ache from carrying your pack around.  “You should feel bad about stealing that poor kid’s shoes, though.  He walked home barefoot.”

You smack your forehead.  “It was just….”

“Yeah,” he scoffs when you don’t finish your sentence, and you can’t keep back a giggle.  “Alright, I’m up now.  See you when you get here.”

And then the communicator clicks, and you’re…

Uh.  What the fuck was that?

No.  Nope, you’re not going to get played.  That was a brilliant attempt at fucking with you, but you’re not falling for it this time.  You’ve grown since that night on Canto Bight, you know him, he can’t just say shit to fuck with your head and then smile at your flailing response from under the helmet anymore.  You normally would stew in that last comment until it got to you, made you make a mistake most likely, but the more you think about it, the more certain you are that he has nothing.  He was just trying to see if you’ll abandon your entire plan just by implying he already knows it.  That’s beginner shit, you’re not falling for it.  Din wanted to leave the conversation with the upper-hand since you gained at least an hour of extra ground while he slept.  You’re certain of it.

***

Day 2–12:35pm:

Nariss is big.  Nowhere near the size of Coruscanti sectors of course, where billions of people are packed from surface to exosphere and require oxygen recirculation towers to breathe at the very top, but just slightly bigger than you expected.  It’s bustling and you haven’t even made it through the city gates yet—you’re approaching them and the large number of people waiting in line, seeing buildings stretch out for miles in front of you and grinning.  Yes, this will work nicely.

As you peek over shoulders in the sizable crowd, you see only two or three people allowing people to enter one at a time… is that a biometric scanner?

Oh.  That looks good and it also doesn’t look good at the same time.  If Din’s safety meant nothing to you, you’d have no trouble whatsoever getting in line and waiting to do a retinal scan, but you immediately pause and consider the potential consequences.

Your dumb ass almost weighs the option of clicking the communicator on and asking his opinion.  You’d give away your location in a heartbeat (if he doesn’t know it already) just because you’re worried he’d… what, exactly?  Stand in line for an hour, take his helmet off in front of a crowd of people, have the system ping his scan, and then hang out and wait for New Republic reinforcements to show?  You have to stop worrying about him.  He’s not a baby, he can handle himself and you need to stop considering the possibility of taking a loss just so he doesn’t have to, even if the self-destructive sentiment feels ingrained in your nature to do so.

So you wait in line, moving at a slow pace but at least moving.  While you’re standing there quietly, a man in front of you decides to strike up a conversation.  You don’t come from a place with an excess of people, but the ones in your sector were friendly and did this kind of thing often, so perhaps for that reason, you decide to chat.

“Do you have some place to stay?”  He asks at one point.  So far the conversation has revolved around him—every time he asks about you, you deflect.  He doesn’t need to know.  “Nariss isn’t kind to drifters.”

This catches your attention, though.  This is relevant.  “What does that mean?”

“It’s expensive?”  He scratches his blonde hair, giving you a soft smile.  “Food, housing, all of it is way out of my price-range.  I stay with my uncle and work overnights at the eastern docks.  It’s not much, but it’s enough to keep a roof over our heads.  We used to live in Gibrath, but then we moved to the city because he’s a good architect and they’re always expanding.  It’s nice, of course, but really expensive.”

He’s handsome, you think… in kind of a boyish, charming way.  Blonde hair, sparkly blue eyes.  He doesn’t look much older than you, and maybe in another lifetime you would’ve found him appealing, but… you like darker features, you think.  Someone a little less expressive.  This guy… talks a lot.

“I thought this moon was a safe world for people displaced by the Empire,” you offer, taking a step forward as the entire crowd shifts.

“Sanctuary II is,” he comments.  “The capital is safe, too—what, with all the orangies walking around,” he tilts his head to two jumpsuited guards trying to organize the glob of people so the line can move faster, rolling his eyes as if they’re some kind of joke.  “But not… welcoming, not if you’re looking for a place to settle.  You would’ve been better off in G’ila.”

“Is there anywhere you know that would take me for free?”  You ask.  You have quite a few credits left, but you don’t think it’s a good idea to stay in an inn.  It’ll be the first place Din checks.

“Are you a virgin?”  He returns, and you immediately pull back at the unexpected question, your heart thudding at the possibility of danger.  The man’s sandy eyebrows shoot up at your response and he quickly apologizes—“Heavens, I’m so sorry to ask like that!  It’s just… the only place I know is the Holy Keja Orphanage on the northern outskirts.  Their signs say they only house children and teenagers, but I’ve heard from other girls your age that they’ll accept any woman as long as they’ve stayed pure in the eyes of the Maker.”

“Oh,” you say after a moment, leaning sideways to see just a few people standing in front of him.  Good, this is almost over.  “Um.  Yep.  That’s me.”

He smiles at you once more, giving you a nod.  “When you get to the city, just go straight through.  It’s about a mile outside of the gates, no more than a day’s walk from this side of town.”

Okay, that’s… interesting.  You think about it while you thank him and begin to exchange polite goodbyes, moving up another step until he’s next in line.  That might actually be a good move.  Din could spend a long time in the city without ever finding you.  Smart quarry go to populated places, but… smarter quarry defy the expectations placed upon them, right?  He knows you’re smart, and even though you’re confident his “See you when you get here” was purely psychological fuckery, that also implies… at the very least, that he’s assuming there is a here to get to.  Meaning, he knows you’re not going into the wilderness to evade him.  He’s not going to comb the outskirts when there are so many places to hide within the city gates, with an entire perimeter of New Republic guards stationed around it.  Even if he does, the signs will say only children and teenagers—categories you do not fall into.

The unnamed man is soon ushered forward but you stop him quickly.  “Oh, by the way.  I doubt this will happen, but if a man in a big metal suit with a tiny green baby happen to ask you the same thing, please don’t tell him what you just told me.”

He furrows his eyebrows at you and cocks his head, but smiles and agrees nonetheless.

***

Day 2–5:43pm:

You have an idea.

You’ve been working on it all afternoon, but you were hit with it the second you were looking for another pair of shoes to buy and find a clever way of putting on.

The cheapest ones were ridiculously overpriced, blonde dude was right.  You blinked down at the tag and asked the salesman where the cheapest shoes in this part of town were, and then he just wrinkled his nose at you and shooed you out of the store.  Granted, you slept in dirt and spent two days walking—you bet you reek, but he didn’t have to be like that.

Though, the man’s displeasure with you had an upside.  You were holding a possible pair of pants and a shirt to buy when he threw you out, not yet having checked the atrocious pricetag on them, but it appeared as if he’d rather let you have them for free than rip them from your… admittedly, pretty filthy arms.  Oh well, you weren’t complaining.  Fancy clothes for free, score.

But now you’re here, and you have the best idea.  You don’t need to change shoes, not yet.  Why?  Because you’ve figured out how to turn your incessant detriment into an advantage.

You’re in the middle of downtown, you think, maybe just some random crowded square, and there’s an inn in front of you.  It’s fucking enormous, and you already know it’s gotta be incredibly expensive just looking at the sheer number of stories.  It’s an eyesore, it sticks out.  But that’s okay, because you’re only planning on staying for a night.

It’s also… right next to New Republic headquarters.  Or fuck, at least a station of some sort, because they’re swarming in and out of the constant crowd, passing by the valet doors.

At first you naturally wanted to steer away from the jumpsuits, since you know they’re bad news for Din, but then you remember what he said before you left.  I’m only telling you so that you’ll know your advantage and find a way to exploit it.  I can’t be seen by any officers, or they might arrest me.

It’s to your advantage, he said so himself.  Everything lines up perfectly—the street is bustling, the inn is well protected, it’s nice—it’s everything you’re looking for.

And there’s another upside, see.  An omnipresent, omniscient ghost in the form of a communicator clipped to your wrist right now.  If Din is always going to be able to predict you, he’s always going to know when you’re lying, always be able to read you… then you’ll just have to let him.

Let him know.  Let him know exactly where you are.  Right in the middle of the most populated street you’ve seen thus far, a constant barrage of people walking by and New Republic officers patrolling.  If you were planning on staying in the city, this would probably be your best option to hide.  He could waste days here if you’re smart about it.

The concierge doesn’t appear too pleased with your lack of cleanliness and neither do you, honestly, but at least he allows you to book a suite for the night.  It’s… not as bad as you were originally assuming, credits-wise, but it’s worth more than half your stash and you’re going to have to conserve from this point on.  It shouldn’t be too bad—your destination is a holy orphanage, you’re sure they’ll have some extra food and a bed for you even if it won’t be ideal.  Still, you think you’re going to enjoy some lavish experiences for once in your life before you go.

***

Day 2–11:54pm:

Alright, so this was the best idea ever.  This is the shit.

You’re leaning back against a fluffy stack of pillows, squeaky clean from an absolutely glorious bath and watching the flickering drama on the large holonet display in front of you.  You don’t have any idea what’s going on, as it’s being broadcast in Rodian, but you haven’t been able to change the frequency because it’s so fucking intense—somebody’s sister is their mother, you think?  No, that must be a mistranslation, right?

You’re also in a robe.  Yes, there is a motherfucking robe in here.  And… and slippers, it’s like a dream.  Do people normally wear slippers in bed?  You do.  Hell, maybe you should stay here, screw the credits and the chase.  This mattress is even better than the one on Naboo and you’re basking in the luxury after being outdoors for so long.

The lights are off other than that and you’ve opened the drapes wide, knowing you’re on something like the fifteenth floor and nobody would be able to see you anyways.  You just like being able to turn your head and look out at the sky.  Violent and periwinkle tonight.  You wonder if he’s looking, too.

Luckily, you snap yourself back out of it and glance down at the time on your communicator, quickly pressing a button on the remote to mute the Rodian show and then opening the line the moment the hour changes.

Day 3–12:00am:

“Hiya, Shiny,” you say before anything else, laying back and running a few fingers through your damp hair.  Your eyes close against the flickering light, taking a slow, relaxed breath.  Maker, this feels nice.

“You sound happy,” Din comments.  Astute, you feel happy.  Well… you’d obviously feel happier if he was here.  Your eyes flick over to the open bathroom door, still steamy from your bubble bath earlier, imagining him walking through it completely naked and then climbing over you on the covers.  You can only really picture it from the neck down—no, hang on… you can see his shaggy brown curls, that one spot on his forehead you know, how his facial hair would be dark and frame his mouth.  No face, though.  Missing just one fraction of him from your imagination, feeling incomplete but also somehow… complete in a way.

“I feel better after sleeping last night,” you tell him, purposefully leaving out the softness of the sheets underneath you, the sheer comfort of all this extravagance.  You don’t need it, you’ll never need it, but it feels nice to have for once.

“I do, too,” he replies quietly, and your eyes flutter closed.  You… miss him.  This mattress would feel softer with him next to you.  He’d probably be able to translate this show for you, even though you already know he’d fucking hate it.  You can imagine it—you with your eyes closed, him propped up on an elbow next to you and grumbling vague descriptions of the nonsense happening on screen just to hear your chuckles.  Adventures are great, but maybe they aren’t as great by yourself, you think.

“You should sleep tonight, too,” you encourage, but he scoffs.

“Not a chance,” Din mutters.  “Oh, before I forget, we need to charge the communicators today.”

“How am I supposed to do that?”  You ask him, glancing at all the multiple wireless charging outlets stationed around you.  “I’m in the middle of nowhere.”

He doesn’t even take a fucking second before responding.  “Good one.”

You grin up at the ceiling, warmth flooding you.  You love him.  Literally every single time, he just knows.  Your curiosity is too overwhelming after this happening so often.  Your plan to distract him relies on him being able to read you, but that doesn’t prevent you from wondering how he does it so accurately, time and time again.  “How do you know?”

“You slept outside last night,” he immediately tells you, like that should mean anything to you.

Does he… does he truly know you well enough to know how much your back and shoulders hurt today?  How much you were aching for a shower and clean clothes?  A bed to sleep on that isn’t dirt or metal?  You give into the accurate prediction with shameless honesty, not caring if he knows it’s the truth.

“This bed is soft,” you murmur gently, dragging your hand across the mattress next to you.  “You should be here.  I’d make you feel good.”

Admittedly, your comfort is making you a bit drowsy and you said it in the easiest way possible, but you didn’t necessarily mean it sexually.  Well… you sort of did—you’d make him feel so good in this bed—but what you meant was more… comforting.  He could take a bath, or a shower, and get all the grime off him.  He could feel clean and unburdened, take a break instead of constantly moving around.  The baby could have a whole bed to himself if he wanted, though you know he’d probably want to be on this one instead.  You could all look at the sky together.

Din is quiet for a little bit, before his voice comes back through the earpiece.  “Are you in an inn?”

“No,” you say, a little too quickly.  Perfect, that sounded just right for a lie.  You are lying, you absolutely are in an inn, the only difference is that you want him to catch on that it’s a lie, so… why does he take way too long before responding?

“Hm.”

What the fuck—why… how is it even physically possible?  He read you that deeply from one single word?  You’re not sure if he’s somehow psychic and figured the whole fucking thing out or if he just knows there’s something off, but it’s still enough to blow you away.

“Are you doing this on purpose?”  You blurt without thinking.

“Doing what?”  He grunts, sounding like he’s stepping over something, his breath changing intensity as he walks.

“If I look out this window right now, am I gonna see you standing out there just messing with me?”  You don’t even know what to believe anymore.  How do you beat this?  If you don’t want him to know the truth, he’ll figure it out, and if you do want him to know the truth, he’ll still figure it out.  His perception is unbelievable.

After a moment of silence, he murmurs gently through the comm.  “I thought you said you were in the middle of nowhere.”  It sounds like he’s smiling.

“I…”  your eyes shift around awkwardly, “am…”

Din lets out a deep sigh.  He’s right, that was bad, even for you.  “I found your bed a few hours ago,” he admits.  You close your eyes as you listen to him make his way closer to you, step by step.  “I’m nowhere near the city yet.  You have time to sleep.”

Your expression furrows and you frown.  “Why are you helping me?”

“Why do you want me to think you’re in an inn?”  He tosses back, and you huff.

“Because I’m trying to outsmart you but you make it really fucking difficult,” you grumble, not happy about him catching on so quick.

“You’ve also gained about four hours on me since we started.”  His voice is gruff.  You don’t know if he thinks it’s a good thing or a bad thing.  “You should give yourself more credit.  I thought I would’ve found you by now, never expected you to get all the way to Nariss.  It’s… not good for me.”

The honesty creeping in makes you go soft.  It makes you want to reciprocate, even if it’s dumb and you haven’t thought it all the way through.  “Wanna know a secret?”

“Tell me.”  His voice is a bed all its own, deep and gentle and safe.

You say it before you lose the nerve.  “I might just turn around and walk back.”

His footsteps stop and you hear a small sound in the background, a quiet little baby noise that suddenly makes your heart ache.  You’re comfortable but incredibly aware of how alone you are.  People pass by on the streets below, cars and hoverbikes honk in the distance and you’re by yourself.  For the first time in over a year, like you have been for years, you’re by yourself.

“Sweet girl,” Din sighs, and all of a sudden… you can feel his arms around you with it.  You feel so… known, somehow.  Every sentiment you could’ve possibly given in your last sentence, he relays his understanding back with his.  He makes you feel loved with it.  “Never wants to run.”

You don’t say anything, because you suddenly realize you’re totally fucking whipped, up down and sideways for his metal ass and the little floating grimlin that follows him around, and you would throw away the fifth quarry, adventure, the sky—literally everything if you could be with the both of them right now.

But again.  You don’t have to say anything, he already knows.  “Give me your coordinates.”

Your eyes pop open and you bite your lip.  Oh, stars.  You hate that you do genuinely consider it.  He could be here, and very soon.  With the jet pack, both of them could be here in less than an hour, probably.  He could take a shower.  Watch these stupid shows with you all night without needing to be on the move, help you build a bed of pillows for the kid on top of this one.  You could be with both of them again, even if it’s only for a little while.

“Ask me again tomorrow,” you finally whisper, looking down at the soft white fabric of your robe, the way one of your slippers is falling off your foot as the holonet program continues to play on mute.

Din’s footsteps eventually start up again, and you both relax in silence together.  You, squinting at the screen because your eyes are getting heavy; him, continuing to travel step by step and gain ground on you.  Let him come.  You’ll be long gone by the time he even makes it to the gates.

It’s been about ten minutes of shared, quiet existence before you hear him bite into something and chew, and your face suddenly lights up.

“Are you eating the purple fruit?”  You ask, your slipper falling off with excitement.  You don’t know why, but it’s like… you’re stoked for him.  Just as proud of him for doing normal things as he does when you step out of your own comfort zone.  You like to think you’re both better that way.  Balanced.

“Mm,” Din replies with his mouth full, and you grin down at your bare legs peeking through the robe while he swallows.

“Is it not the best thing you’ve ever tasted?”  Your voice goes a little breathless with it, and you hear his footsteps stop once more.

“Close,” Din murmurs lowly, sending a small shudder through you.  It suddenly feels a bit warm in here, doesn’t it?  This morning was one of the rare times you were awake while he was asleep… it’s almost always the other way around, and just from the implication in his tone, you’re reminded of the thing he likes doing most when you’re resting.  Maybe he’ll let you do it to him, next time around.  The thought gets you hot enough to warrant the other slipper falling to the floor.

“You’re alone, right?”  You whisper, knowing he must’ve pulled the helmet up to take a bite of the fruit.  He must still be following your path through the hillside, then, not yet reaching the road.

“The kid is awake,” Din tells you, sounding like he’s trying to stop everything before anything starts.  His words are short and clear in their meaning, but…

This has a very small chance of success, you already know.  “…Do you want to—”

“No,” he responds quickly, already way ahead of you.  “We can’t.”

Something in his voice… you don’t know, there’s just something there that makes you feel just a little reckless.  Should you push it?  You’re by yourself in this suite, what can go wrong?

“You can’t,” you correct him quietly, shifting around on the bed just a bit and biting your lip.  It’s a thrill—being able to tease him without having him in front of you, drive him crazy knowing you’re just out of his reach.  “But I can do whatever I want, can’t I?”

There’s a pause, a tense and knowing silence suspended between you before he eventually speaks.

“I’d be real careful,” Din mutters low in warning, but what is he gonna do?

“What are you gonna do?”  You whisper to him devilishly.  Quiet and breathy, beginning to snake your hand down.  Stars, your heart is already pounding.  You’d only likely mouth off like this in person just to see how hard he’d fuck you, but this feels extra dangerous for some reason.  He’s stuck, he can’t do anything about it right now, and you know it’s playing with fire.  “You could hang up if you don’t want to hear me.  Or you could find me before I’m finished.  Come make me stop.”

Din doesn’t say anything but he very much does not hang up, nor does he come busting into your room like you imagine he’d like to.  The sheer fact that your door is still closed and locked tells you for sure that he isn’t just hanging out in the hallway, just letting you have your fun.

You start pressing your fingers against your robe at the apex of your thighs, humming at how nice the pressure feels.  You don’t even spread your legs or push the fabric away, you just sigh into it and wiggle your hips a bit, pressing hard against your clit and listening to him breathe.

“Do you want to listen?”  You ask quietly after a moment, and Din still doesn’t respond.  Likely because there’s not a real answer, both yes and no would imply the wrong thing.  “I’ll talk.”

Still, nothing from him.  Dead silence through the comm.  You’re starting to understand.  For two days, you’ve felt like he could read your every thought just by the cadence of your voice.  He’s staying quiet so you can’t even attempt to do the same to him—if he doesn’t talk, you can’t find a weakness and pounce on it, you can’t feel any more confident or reassured about your own ability to read him.

You’ll just have to push a little harder, then.

“Hm.  If only this fancy communicator could…” you pause to look down at your wrist for a second, studying the menu.  You don’t think you’ve ever really looked at it, you never had the time.

Din’s growl is sudden and sharp through the earpiece.  “No, don’t even think—”

“Ah,” you smile, tapping the face and immediately finding the correct screen.  “Take pictures.”

He’s deadly quiet for a moment, and you bite your lip with excitement.  When he does speak, his voice is a pure threat, chilling you to the bone as much as it burns deep in your tummy.  “…You wouldn’t.”

Ignoring him, you suddenly locate a menu option that sounds phenomenal right now.  “Oh shit, does this holocall?  Or is it a video option?”

“Holo,” he says very seriously while you study the lack of complexity of the built-in camera in skepticism, “and the kid is awake, so you can’t—”

“Oh, it’s definitely a video,” you unclip it from your wrist and he curses as you sit up, and then you press a button and wait impatiently for him.  “Pick up.”

Din takes forever before responding, and you hear the continuous beeps as it attempts to connect, before his quiet baritone rumbles in your ear.  “What if I don’t?”

You feel your mouth pull down at the corners, not so much frowning as you are dubious.  He’s going to turn down the opportunity to see you and your surroundings when his whole goal is locating you?  Really?

“You sure?”  You ask softly, raising an eyebrow.  “You’d get to see me, where I am.  What I’m…” your eyes dip down to the loose robe riding your curves, your skin glowing against the white fabric, “…wearing.”

The beeps continue on for a few more seconds, until they finally stop.  You frown down at the black screen of the communicator, not seeing anything at all.  Did he decline the transmission request?  No… there’s a little red light next to the small lens that wasn’t there before.  Why can’t you see him?

“Why can’t I see you?”  You ask.  You want to look at him looking at you, you don’t want to always be stuck on the other side of a one-way mirror.

“I… have it linked to my helmet, but it only has a front-facing camera,” Din tells you after a moment, and he sounds… slightly out of breath.  “Easier to see, the watch is useless now besides the controls.”

Wait, does that mean you’re… being shown on the inner-display of his helmet instead of his wrist?  Right in front of his eyes, as if he were actually here with you?

“Nobody can see me but you?”  You clarify, and when he doesn’t respond, you bite your lip and lean back into the pillows.  You lift the watch up slightly, extending your arm out until you can get the angle as wide as possible.  “Can you see… this?”  You ask softly, before hooking your fingers in the collar of your white robe and slowly pulling it open for him.

“Where are you?”  Din asks instead, and you hear his footsteps through the earpiece, as if he’s walking away from something very quickly.

You don’t answer him, parting the soft fabric until your breasts are completely exposed and you sigh, closing your eyes and snuggling back into the pillows once more.  “I’ll tell you where I am if you keep watching me.”

“Why?”  Din grits in frustration, coming back around to the same dangerous question he had earlier.  “Why would you do that?”

“I don’t know.”  You slowly tilt the camera down until you can spread your legs and the robe falls open with the movement, letting him see your pussy peeking through in the flickering light of the muted screen in front of your bed.  “Can you see that?”

“Yeah,” he says shakily on the end of a breath, and you feel yourself get wet.  Fuck, he sounds so fucking tempted, the sight making his voice come without any of the self-assuredness as it usually has, but… he could also just be saying that.  How do you know he’s telling you the truth?

“What am I doing?”  You test him, lifting your knee just the slightest bit so you really give him something to look at.

“Spreading your legs for a camera,” Din responds without hesitation, voice scraping against your ear, making you shiver and your nipples harden.  Fuck, the way he says it, like it’s wrong and bad even though he’s the only one who can see or hear you do it… it makes you feel even more naughty and emboldened.

You bite your lip and reach your hand down to spread your lips for him, too, hearing his breath immediately catch on the other end.  Already your pussy makes your fingers slick against your soft skin, the sash of your robe still holding the fabric together on your body but also loose enough to allow it to part in the right places and reveal everything you want him to see.

“I am in an inn,” you whisper teasingly, letting your finger drop to brush against your clit and then sighing in soft delight.  Oh stars, that feels nice, it feels so good to treat yourself after being completely nomadic for two days, getting to be clean and soft and comfortable while you feel this pleasure, and Din’s voice growls through your communicator like you’re doing something painful to him.

“Fuck,” his breathing picks up while you begin circling your clit.  “Where?”

“Nariss,” comes your quiet moan, turning your head on the pillow to blink slowly at the camera.  Wanting him to see your eyes as well as your finger slowly dip into where you’re the hottest, caressing the sensitive skin there knowing he’s watching.

“Where in Nariss?”  Din’s voice is as pleading as it is sharp, desperately trying to keep either you or himself on track.

“I don’t know,” you say again.  Truthfully, you don’t—you don’t know the cross streets, you don’t know the part of town, you don’t know much of anything at all besides physical descriptors.  You quickly move the camera to the side as far as you can hold it and let him see you from a different angle with the window as a backdrop.  “But the window is open.  And there are lots of people outside.”

“Can they see you?”  Din immediately challenges.  Of course they can’t, you’re fifteen stories up and the room is darker than it is outside with all the city lights and swirling colors of the sky, but you suppose he doesn’t know that.  You think he just needs to relax—if this is what he’s always like during hunts, you now know exactly why he comes back to you all riled up and tense.

“I don’t know,” you murmur back, starting to rub your clit a little faster, trying to make it feel like him.  It doesn’t—your fingers aren’t large or strong enough to give you those perfect circles; you just feel like you’re meandering yourself towards ecstasy instead of picking you up and hauling your ass there like he does, but it’s okay.  Hearing Din’s rough breathing come through the earpiece, knowing his hands are probably clenched tight into fists, wondering if he’s hard yet… all of it culminates into a power trip unlike any you’ve experienced recently.  It makes you bold, tells you to open your mouth.  “Does it matter?  I’d still let you fuck me against it if you were here.”

“Stop it,” comes his growl, but what is he gonna do?

Your leg lifts a little wider so you can slowly slide your fingers down and push two of them inside yourself, and Din swears as you moan, “Come find me.”

“Give me your coordinates—”

“Are you giving up?”  You offer breathlessly, lifting your eyebrows and your hips up slightly at the question, but you’re… not expecting the extended silence following.  You assumed a growled no would immediately come next, or just another empty threat said with enough force to make you tremble with excitement, but not… nothing.

The response makes you pause just for a second, easing your fingers out and dragging them across your thigh to clean some of the wetness off before extending your arm out towards the communicator.  Din stays quiet while you navigate through the menu with trembling fingers, eventually finding your coordinates and hovering over the unchecked share location box.

You wait with your lip bit, confident he knows what you’re doing and you don’t have to narrate or repeat yourself.  Fuck, you knew you were considering abandoning this entire adventure just to be next to him again, but you had no idea.  No fucking idea that it could ever be a thought in his own mind as well.  You… assumed he likes this, hunting is what he does for a living and he’s the one who conceived of the idea in the first place.  Is he just that aroused by you?  Or is there something more?

“No,” Din eventually murmurs, and you immediately navigate out of the menu so you don’t accidentally press anything catastrophic, before pulling your hand away from the communicator with a resolved hum and settling back into the pillows again.  Making sure to look directly into the lens even if your eyelids are heavy with heat and desire, you slowly lick your fingers and then reach down once more.

His deep, shaky breath is so telling.  Exhausted after all this, but still not hanging up, still doing his hardest to tough it out when he’s only miles away from you and has jets attached to his back.  You don’t want to drag it out but you also do, you want to be kind but something about Din makes you also want to be as formidable as possible.  You’ll never be able to threaten like he does, you’ll never have anyone cower just because you walked into the room, you’ll never be as powerful or strong as he is, but you can still put up a fucking fight against him in your own way.

You whimper softly, your breathing beginning to find a quicker pace as surely as your fingers do.  It begins to spark and build, a red hot flame being kindled by the knowledge that he’s as close as possible without actually being close, right here with you when he always seems so far away.

“Mando,” you whisper, though your expression pulls inwards just slightly because it… in a scenario as sensual and intimate as this, it almost doesn’t sound righ—

“Din,” he whispers back, so quiet you almost don’t hear it, like he almost doesn’t want to but has to anyways, and then you just start to fucking burn.

“D-Din,” you whisper instead, trying to keep your voice as quiet as possible through the rising swell.  He’ll be able to see it, you think.  The way your tummy and chest start to heave, how your body begins to brace for it—and yeah, Maker, he sees it, because his voice suddenly changes.

“Stop,” Din growls roughly, knowing exactly how you cum—knowing exactly what it looks like, the way it sounds in your breathing, what it tastes like, how it feels on the inside.  It’s been so long since you’ve touched bliss without him, months and months since you brought yourself to completion on the floor of the Crest by yourself, and though he’s rarely ever denied you, your own high on newfound control causes it to slip.  He barks your name and tells you to stop once more, but it’s too late.

“I’m gonna cum, Din,” you breathe out—

“Don’t—”

It tears through you, rapid and surging, and he snarls a curse, something loud snapping and thudding and… did he just punch something?  You can’t think, it’s delicious and hard as fuck and everything you needed after two days of near constant movement and thought with little rest, and you bite your lip to keep quiet but a pained whimper still shoves its way out of your tense vocal cords regardless.  It sounds like it hurts because it does hurt; the orgasm shatters your body into pieces and you’re left trembling by yourself on this soft bed, wishing he was with you on a metal one.

You sink into the mattress in the moments following, sluggish and exhausted and just conscious enough to keep the watch facing you.  You bet the camerawork was terrible, shaky at best, but you can’t find it in yourself to care right now.  You just lay there and listen to his harsh breathing while you work to slow your heart rate, reveling in the filthy little show you just gave him and wanting to finish it out properly.

“Come find me,” you breathe out once more, lazing soft and naked for him, blinking dazedly at the watch as you pan it over you.  Your thighs are still twitching and there’s a thin sheen of sweat clinging to you, but you drag a finger through your swollen lips and carefully wipe the wetness across one of your nipples.  “Clean me up.”

“Fuck,” Din suddenly spits through the earpiece, furious.  “You think—y-you think—”

“What?”  You hum, basking in the afterglow and so, so curious.  Truly, you’re dumb as fuck, you have no clue what you’re thinking, but if anybody would be able to tell you, it’s him.

There’s a moment where his breathing stops.  It’s completely silent on the line, before you hear another few heavy footsteps on his end pick up and then halt just as quickly.

“You think you can taunt me?”   He murmurs, dangerous and deadly quiet.  “Show me exactly where you are, disappear and then make me waste forever trying to get there?  You think that’s gonna work?”

Your eyebrow lifts, considering.  He… may or may not have predicted your strategy perfectly, but his insight has stopped surprising you by now.  “Maybe…”

“Maybe you shouldn’t fall asleep tonight.”

Ooh.  That one sends goosebumps down your arms, but you’ve gained four hours on top of a twelve hour headstart.  He can’t scare you with that tone, not when you’re still woozy with pleasure and he isn’t right in front of you.  Instead of wilting beneath the hard threat, you just blink gently at the communicator, finding strength in being the only one to get him this mad when he’s always so composed, this talkative when he barely says a word.  “Maybe I’ll just stay here then?”

“Maybe you wanted me to know you’re in an inn because you already found someplace to hide that isn’t one,” Din reasons very, very adeptly.  Stars, your heart subtly begins to pick up, your legs continuing to tremble as the small red light next to the lens stares you down.  “Can’t be planning to stay with someone you just met because you’d already be there, can’t be going to a hostel because you found the one city on this moon built for commerce and not aid.  Not staying in another inn, you can’t afford it—the view looks high up, that robe is expensive, and you already bought food and at least five pairs of shoes in two days.  I don’t think the place you found is even in Nariss.  You think you can outsmart me, sweet girl?”

The chill down your spine doesn’t reach your eyes, you won’t let it.  You just feel yourself smile, tilting your head at him and licking your lips while your finger brushes one of your nipples, but Din doesn’t accept your silence the way you’ve always accepted his.  He wants an answer from you, right now, and it’s clear in the dark rumble of his voice, the danger slowly brewing beyond what you originally planned for.

“Tell me,” he orders, unamused and leaving no room to disobey.  “How long do you think you can keep running?”

Your eyelashes flutter, suddenly deciding… why not?  What have you got to lose?  Nothing that you didn’t already go into this situation completely expecting to lose anyways.  What’s the worst he can do?  Find you?

You close your eyes, pinching one of your nipples and wondering if you might just go for another one since he’s still here.  “Ask me again tomorrow.”

But then, instead of immediately responding, you just hear Din’s footsteps suddenly pick up, faster than any pace you’ve been able to keep over the past few days.  You don’t think it sounds like a run necessarily, but you know that his legs and strides are far longer than yours and it’s probably pretty much equivalent to a run for you.  You hear the rhythm of your demise speeding up, coming closer and closer, and everything in you both fears it and welcomes it.

“We’ll see,” he tells you, and then the red light vanishes and your earpiece clicks to silence.

***

Day 3—2:23am:

Even though it takes you much longer to do so than it normally would on a bed so large and comfortable, after such an exciting interaction and not being used to flickering light when you try to sleep but wanting to experience the rarity anyways, you’re eventually able to pass out.

But, not even a few minutes into a restless dream, you turn over and accidentally knock your communicator off the wireless charging station on the side table.  It blinks with four percent battery life.

***

To be continued!!