#where did goverment sends them on missions come from

[thetimelordbatgirl]

...So uh, basically bootleg Suicide Squad featuring not even a comic's accurate team but instead, just random characters picked randomly from throughout the MCU, including even character's that make zero fucking sense to be on the team???

[mariana-oconnor]

The Disappearance of Lady Frances Carfax pt 2

Alas, poor Watson. Failed again. It's always so unfair that Holmes sends him off on these solo missions when he knows that Watson won't do what he thinks should be done.

...finding that he could get away from London, he determined to head me off at the next obvious point of my travels

But what about poor Lestrade, that's what I want to know. What's he's supposed to do now Holmes is out of the country?

“I cannot at the moment recall any possible blunder which you have omitted. The total effect of your proceeding has been to give the alarm everywhere and yet to discover nothing.”

I repeat: what were you expecting? You're an intelligent man. Why did you think this would be any different from any of the other times you've asked Watson to do the investigating. It's not his fault, but you insist on putting him through this. Shame. Shame.

It's like using a fork to eat soup.

And now you're sitting there blaming him. Have you no shame, sir?

“I am in touch with Miss Dobney, Lady Frances's governess.” “Old Susan Dobney with the mob cap! I remember her well.” “And she remembers you. It was in the days before—before you found it better to go to South Africa.”

Oh well obviously Watson should have talked to the governess who wasn't even in the country you sent him to. Clearly he should have gone back to England and spoken to her rather than doing the thing you sent him to do.

And also, Holmes exercising some discretion and polite restraint. He clearly saved some up by being a dick to Watson.

"I was a wild youngster, I know—not worse than others of my class. But her mind was pure as snow. She could not bear a shadow of coarseness. So, when she came to hear of things that I had done, she would have no more to say to me. And yet she loved me—that is the wonder of it!—loved me well enough to remain single all her sainted days just for my sake alone."

She sounds insufferable. Just be happy, you numpty. What is even the point of you two being miserable separately. Either be happy or move on properly, none of this 'woe is me' self sacrificing martyrdom bullshit.

“Jagged or torn,” was the message, and the place of origin, Baden. “What is this?” I asked. “It is everything,” Holmes answered. “You may remember my seemingly irrelevant question as to this clerical gentleman's left ear."

I told you that wasn't a joke, Watson. Really you should have known that, as well. In fact, if you and Holmes had actually considered what you know about each other, this story would be very different. As it is, you both seem to have forgotten everything you know about each other.

“It shows, my dear Watson, that we are dealing with an exceptionally astute and dangerous man. The Rev. Dr. Shlessinger, missionary from South America, is none other than Holy Peters, one of the most unscrupulous rascals that Australia has ever evolved—and for a young country it has turned out some very finished types."

I also knew that those two were sus. I feel very vindicated right now. It's nice when I read one of these stories right.

Also, some shade at Australia right there.

"All my instincts tell me that she is in London, but as we have at present no possible means of telling where, we can only take the obvious steps, eat our dinner, and possess our souls in patience. Later in the evening I will stroll down and have a word with friend Lestrade at Scotland Yard.”

Lestrade and the rest of Scotland Yard hearing that Sherlock is back.

"I will give you a note to them, and they will let you wait in the shop. If the fellow comes you will follow him home. But no indiscretion, and, above all, no violence."

I'm not sure we should be trusting this guy with that. This seems like the sort of plan that ends in violence.

For two days the Hon. Philip Green (he was, I may mention, the son of the famous admiral of that name who commanded the Sea of Azof fleet in the Crimean War) brought us no news.

Utterly random little aside there. Could you not have fitted that in any other way, ACD? Li'l bit awkward sticking parentheses in there.

"She is a tall, pale woman, with ferret eyes.”

I rescind my objection, Mr Green, honourable or not, has done an admirable job of not causing violence. I'm inclined to believe this is mostly because it was a woman not a man he was tailing and he's very 19th Century about these things, but even so. Maybe it was just her ferret eyes that softened him. Look at them.

"Once inside it, they have made her a prisoner, and they have become possessed of the valuable jewellery which has been their object from the first."

I feel that this is a very convoluted plan just to get their hands on some jewellery. Surely there were easier and more efficient methods they could have employed?

"And yet how strange that they should ever let a doctor approach her unless he were a confederate, which is hardly a credible proposition.”

How is that not a credible proposition? Doctors can do crime too, y'know.

"Your appearance inspires confidence."

It clearly does in you, Holmes. That's the only possible reason you keep sending him on missions that you must know he's not suited to.

"Are you armed?” “My stick!” “Well, well, we shall be strong enough. ‘Thrice is he armed who hath his quarrel just.’ We simply can't afford to wait for the police or to keep within the four corners of the law. You can drive off, cabby."

Holmes is optimistic, but can you imagine being that cabby? It's probably not the weirdest day he's ever had, but even so. These guys are just talking about murder and being armed and not being able to wait for the police. So glad he was allowed to leave. He did not deserve this. Just going about his day when two mad men get in his cab.

I've already got part three, but that'll have to wait for later.

[dreamsanddrabbles36]

Itachi Birthday Story ( Fem Reader X Itachi)

Here is a small story for Itachi's birthday. I hope you enjoy. Itachi and Sasuke deserved so much better..

You were a Jonin ranked shinobi from Konoha and you were taking a break from the shinobi life. Or at least that is what you told everyone. You told them that you were taking some time off to go see family in other villages. Which wasn't totally a lie. Your father was from another village, and had family up in the north . You were leaving Konoha. As of late you had felt a heavy shift in Konoha, and you only stayed for one reason.

Itachi had asked you too. You were Itachi's eyes in the village, and would send him messages every so often. You wrote to Itachi telling him of what was happening with the village, and what Sasuke was doing in his current time with Team 7. Because of that Itachi knew Sasuke was on a team with Naruto, and Sakura Haruno. Itachi was also aware that Kakashi Hatake was Sasuke's sensei. But now you felt like your time in the village was over. You loved Konoha with all of your heart. You were born , and raised in this village. Even after the death of the Third Hokage your trust in your goverment had started to wane. The atmosphere in the village had become heavy. Itachi had asked you to stay up until Sasuke left to find his brother. And you had. After Lady Tsundae's coronation as Hokage , Sasuke had left the village. You didn't tell anyone where you were going. In fact you hadn't for the last two years. When not on missions you and Itachi met up at least once a month. Itachi would summon you, and you both met up. But after several discussions it was your choice to follow your heart. Of course Itachi tried to talk you out of it. But you were firm in your choice. It wasn't that Itachi didn't trust your skills. As long as Itachi knew you he knew you were a excellent shinobi. But Itachi had many enemies that could do serious harm to you. Even so you didn't falter.

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It was June 9th when you left the village. You remembered it was also Itachi's birthday. Even when he didn't seem to care for his own birthday. You still remembered. When you left it was night with a dark inky sky filled with stars, and a half moon. You walked through the village only stopping to get a small present for Itachi. You quickly left before anyone noticed you, and you headed towards the path going towards the only entrances and exit to the village. You didn't look back as you passed through the gates leading out of Konoha you were met by a loud call of a crow. A crow sat in one of the trees outside the gate. Your large black bird escort flew off its perch, and into the sky leading you to where you would meet Itachi. Even now Itachi was cautious knowing the life you had chosen to be with him. The life of a rouge wasn't going to be easy. You knew many would call you a traitor to the village. Continuing through the dead of night the crow you were following stopped flying into a tree. You found Itachi standing on the edge of the cliff that over looked the village. You didn't need to say anything as you approched him. Once you both were standing side by side did Itachi finally say something. " Are you sure ? " Itachi asked something you had heard several times after you asked him to come with him. " Yes." You answer. You feel a arm pull you towards Itachi as you both continue to look down at the village. It could be the last time that you ever saw Konoha, but it was important that you left. You knew Itachi didn't have long in this world, and you knew that your time together would be short. But you still loved him, and wanted to be there with him until that day came. Seeing you were still serious you both stepped away from the over view of the village. But you don't go very far as you both find a place to sit down. Itachi had already traveled a good distance to come and get you. And it was a good time for you to give him your present. " You didn't have to get me anything.. I have what I need now." Itachi told you . " Then I might have to eat these without you. " you tease Itachi as you take out a package of dango you had picked up earlier. You giggled until you felt a tap on your head when you looke back at Itachi. Finally you both share Itachi's birthday treat. You both are smiling at one another and Itachi kisses you forehead. " Come . We have much to do. Once that is done we can celebrate. " Itachi tells you taking your hand leading you into the night leaving Konoha behind. You both travel until you come upon a small village and stop at the inn to rest for the night. It also gave you, and Itachi a chance to have a meal, and Itachi's birthday dangos you had gotten him in Konoha. In exchange Itachi also gave you a gift. Something that would symoblize to those around you that you were Itachi's now, and forever. It was dangerous for you to be wearing a Uchiha crest, but Itachi had gotten you a necklace with a gem that was half red, and half white. " Will you be mine forever ? " Itachi asked. " Yes.' You answer holding the necklace in your hands before he took it from you, and placed it around your neck. " I love you. " you said to Itachi " And I love you. I may not always show it but know I'll always love you ." Itachi answered you as you both fall into a kiss. You felt Itachi pick you up and carry you to the futon waiting for the both of you. " Ready ?" Itachi asked you. " Yes." you answered. " Itachi.. " " Hm ? " Itachi questions. " Thank you for being born today." you say as he kisses you again celebrating your union.

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[mono-dot-jpeg]

the antarctic idiots [pt.1] - c! technoblade

summary; in which two anarchist piglins adopt an ender boy.

genre; child! ranboo, piglin hybrid! reader, slight canon divergence from dream smp, fluff, found family au is my shit, reader is now ranboo’s parent i don’t make the rules, techno is a grumpy father but it’s okay you love him, realistic minecraft? (idk how to describe it-)

pairing; c! technoblade x reader, platonic! ranboo x reader

word count; 1.5k

a/n; fuck it, it is here now. here’s the techno x reader you fucking simps. i can’t even be mad bc i too am a simp for the anarchist pig that is technoblade. 

i hope this is somewhat up to par with everyone’s expectations since i hyped this up so much. this is one of the few writings that i actually like so- i couldn’t resist waiting so long to post it AAAAAAAAAAAAAA

next >

now you never really expected to find yourself on a side of history that was deemed "the villain's side", especially when the villain wasn't even that bad.

okay, that's a bit of a lie. this piglin man blew up an entire country to end government. plus he has evaded his taxes. i mean the list goes on but that's not the entire point here.

the point is, you found yourself actually being friends (even going as far as housemates) with the so-called evil anarchist.

now we might be moving too fast here, so let's move it back a little bit.

"so you want me to join pogtopia?" you looked up, shutting the book in your hand as you leaned back on your chair. "and what would i get in return exactly?"

"...our friendship won't die?" the voice of wilbur soot rings in your quiet home, unsure and nervous at your stern aura and words.

"why can't you just help us?!" tommy flared up, nearly throwing a fit if not for his older brother holding him back.

"just because i am your friend, does not mean i am interested in fighting for your conflicts." you place the book on the small side table, adjusting your gloves while you explain yourself to the two boys, "i'm not saying i'm a pacifist, but i'm not here to fight. i live far away for a reason. i told you this before."

"can i call in that favor then?" wilbur asked. "you still owe me one." you huffed at his words. you saw this coming.

"you're lucky i'm a nice person most of the time." you sighed, standing up and nearly towering over the two boys if not for wilbur being a bit taller than you. "i will get my stuff packed, and then we can get to your pogtopia. but while i do that, please explain the whole situation." since you lived so far away from society, you didn't know too much about what was happening unless wilbur told you about it and wilbur never really talked to you too often.

"well, you know how we had l'manburg.." and then he starts to explain how that completely backfired on them because they lost the election and now they lost their country. "and now we want to fight back for l'manburg." wilbur finishes explaining as you put your old netherite sword in its sheath that hung on your waist. "we just need your help. are you willing to train us?"

"it's not like i have much of a choice since you're cashing in that favor." you pointed out. "i better not be staying for too long."

"i can't make any promises about that." you sighed. "you ready?"

"unfortunately." it was time to leave your home and face violence once again.

"if it makes you feel any better, you're not the only person we've asked to help us." tommy says in an attempt to get you out of your bitter mood.

"that made me feel worse, tommy. i think you guys would've been fine without me if you have another person helping you other than tubbo." you slung your bag over your shoulder. "but if you really insist on getting the help of me, then who am i to judge?"

"since it seems like you're ready now, let's go to pogtopia!" tommy said, ignoring most of your words of complaints as he starts to drag you by the arm towards the dream smp. "it's quite the walk from here. why do you live so far from everyone? don't you get lonely? why didn't you join l'manburg with me and will?"

"slow down with the questions, tommy. first of all, i've told you and wilbur why i live far away, you did not listen though." you pressed a finger on his forehead, earning a huff of annoyance from the blonde. you moved your hand back to your side. "i simply do not like people. also why get pulled into conflict that you never were apart of to begin with? but that's pretty hypocritical of me to say now."

"i get that you're not fond of people, but aren't you lonely out here?" you three walked into the portal that would take you right into the nether. the sounds of bubbling lava and squealing pigmen was always an oddly comforting sound to hear.

"i'm perfectly content in my house. even if it's very far from others. i'm happy." you answered though your words sounded so... monotonous. tommy gave you a look, he definitely didn't believe you. "i know i don't sound happy but i am." before you knew it, you made it to the other nether portal which would actually take you to the manburg and pogtopia. oh how you didn't miss this place at all.

you never liked how manburg was ran even before shlatt was elected. you never really like government in general. it always seemed to be ruining everything. freedom never felt like freedom, at least that's what you thought especially when there was a goverment.

"welcome to pogtopia!" you were so deep in your own thoughts that you hadn't realized that you had made it to pogtopia.

"so where is your other helper? the first choice that wasn't me?" you asked.

"i think he might be here. he's been staying up for a long time. ever since he got in here." wilbur said. "technoblade? you here?" wilbur leads you to a potato farm and you soon feel a sense of familiarity as you enter the room.

"yeah." a low huff is heard, causing you and wilbur to turn your heads toward the source of the sound. "i'm here." what immediately catches your attention is the crown messily placed on his head as he farms. as a piglin, you've always been fond of gold, that adoration never left you once you went to the overworld. you never really wore a crown but you wore a gold pendant instead that was pinned to your cape.

"you have a really pretty crown." it takes you a minute to realize that those words came out of your mouth. "fuck, i didn't mean to say that out loud." you explained quickly to the male that was farming. "piglin things." you muttered.

"a very unexpected compliment. understandable." techno said. "wilbur, who is this again? have i met them?"

"well, you'd think you know each other since you're both piglins, but i guess the world is bigger than i thought. well, technoblade, meet y/n, y/n, meet technoblade."

"i call him the blade." tommy said smugly. "the blade! how's the potato planting doing?"

"it's doing fine. i didn't expect any company to come though."

"well, this is the person that we wanted to recruit for pogtopia."

"nice to meet you, even if the circumstances aren't the best. wilbur is lucky i owe him a favor." you said. "i sort of expected meeting you since tommy and wilbur mentioned you once they came to get me. i just never expected to see another piglin here in the overworld."

"never expected to see another piglin here either." techno hummed slightly.

maybe staying in pogtopia won't be too bad. at least you made a friend?

that was sort of a lie. you and techno never really talked after the encounter. it never worried you, you’re not one for conversation right now anyways. you had a mission to do and you’re gonna do it. you didn’t have time to make friends, at least that’s what you thought. friends seemed to be temporary in the smp, considering the wars that were and have happened.

you weren’t going to make another friend, knowing that you just might get pulled into their fights.

“why did you stop fighting once you left l’manburg?” wilbur’s voice rings in the small fighting pit that was made for training.

“i simply didn’t find the need to fight. it doesn’t mean i’m any weaker though. i will still fight for what i want to fight for.” and that’s gonna be really ending this whole government. you think to yourself, letting the nighttime ambience fill the air.

“you still have your lives...right?” you show him your wrist which had 3 hearts tattooed on it. 

“i’ve been living away from everyone, of course i won’t die that easily.” you let out an empty laugh. “bold of you to assume i would even die.”

“i know it’s ridiculous to even think that you would lose a life after you left l’manburg but what if dream were to chase you down and kill you?”

“i understand your worry, but need not to worry, i can handle myself. if i couldn’t you guys would never even assign me as cavalry captain those years ago.” you said, unbuttoning your gold pendant to place it on the stone cold floor along with your other accessories you had. “it’s not like dream can do too much to me. we made a deal after all.”

“a deal?” wilbur raised an eyebrow as he took off his jacket, tossing it on the ground.

“don’t be too concerned. i’m not like eret. i wouldn’t betray you.”

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[lassieposting]

otp questions for skugwife plz 🥺

1. Who said I love you first?

He did, about three seconds after laying eyes on her for the first time. He was Not Subtle. In his defence, he was in a field hospital at the time, covered in his own blood, and was high off his ass on pain relief, so.

2. Who laughs and kisses their partner on the cheek while their partner isn’t happy about something trivial to try and make them feel better?

Wifey. She's kind of handicapped here because Skug does his best to shield her from the worst parts of himself and the grim truth about war. He doesn't outright lie to her, but he'll censor what he tells her, leaving out the death and the blood and the gore, because he's grown up terrified of becoming his father and he's desperate to be the man she thinks he is, to be someone who's worthy of her love. He doesn't want her to ever look at him and see a killer. If she has to think of him at war, he wants her to think of her gallant hero who always saves the day. So a lot of the time, when he gets into a black mood, she doesn't actually know what's really distressing him. She knows he has nightmares, but he always claims he doesn't remember what they're about. She knows that sometimes he'll nick himself with a knife while he's helping her with dinner, and when she turns around he's just standing there watching his hand bleed like he's suddenly somewhere very far away, but she doesn't know why he gets like that. She knows he has days where she'll say his name four or five times before he even seems to hear her, and an unexpected gunshot from one of the neighbouring smallholdings will have him trembling and running to check on her. But she tries, when he's quiet and distant and sad. She'll hold him and stroke his hair or sing to him or take him out walking in the sunshine, and eventually he'll take her hand and kiss her knuckles and apologise for being an arse, and she never really knows how to tell him that she doesn't mind him having those days at all, she just wishes she knew how to make him stop hurting.

3. Who cuddles up to the other after a long day at work, and this soon escalates to a playful pillow fight?

Skug. They're a cuddly, affectionate couple anyway, but his favourite thing in the world is laying his head in her lap and having his hair stroked. The man melts. They'll cuddle up in the evenings and he'll keel over for her as soon as she pats her leg like come on then and they'll just. Catch each other up on what they've missed since the last time he was home, while she pets him. She'll tell him the latest drama in her friend circle and how her father's been dodging the advances of an elderly patient, and he'll give her a censored, family-friendly version of what he got up to at the front - so, all the funny stories, but with all the gore and death and hard choices edited out. If he says something sufficiently ridiculous, she'll swat him in the face with a cushion. Sometimes he'll fall asleep there and she'll keep playing with his curls until she thinks he's well and truly out of it, and then pick up her needlework to do over his head while he sleeps.

4. What is something that they gave one another that has a lot of meaning?

When they're courting, she makes him a scarf and sends it with the courier with one of her letters, because she didn't like to think of him being cold on night watches. It's red and has zero magical properties whatsoever, it's no Bespoke creation, but he wears it on every mission.

She has a locket with his portrait in it. He's ADHD as fuck and hates sitting still for hours, but she playfully tells him one time that he's "been away so long I almost forgot what you looked like," and he takes it seriously and makes sure that never happens again.

5. How would one another describe their partner?

Very similarly. They both think the other one is their better half and that they don't deserve them. She loves him because he's brave and clever and funny and not afraid to stand up for what he believes in. He loves her because she's good and kind and loving and makes him want to be a better man. They're that couple that are so caught up in each other's virtues that they completely miss each other's flaws.

6. Who wraps their arms around their partner as they look them in the eyes and compliments them with a goofy smile?

Skug, every time they go somewhere they'll be surrounded by His Kind Of People.

Wifey is a salt of the earth working/lower-middle-class sort of girl. She has a job. She's grown up doing all the cooking and cleaning for her father, and she continues to do a lot of it even after she gets married and Skug hires servants because she can't stand to be idle. She has a very limited education; she didn't spend her childhood being fussed over by governesses or taught to simper and dance and paint. So she feels very out of place at fancy Sanctuary parties, surrounded by Skug's superior officers and their sophisticated upper-class wives. She's worried about embarrassing him, she's worried about making him look bad, she's worried about being laughed at or insulted behind her back for being too common or too forthright or too lacking in pretty manners.

He'll pull her to one side before they're announced and remind her that she outshines every other woman in the room, that most of these people are boorish and ignorant anyway so who cares what they think, and that she's got nothing to worry about: she's far more charming than he is and the laws of probability suggest that if anyone is gonna put their foot in it and embarrass the other one, it'll be him.

7. Who loves saying ‘my wife’ or ‘my husband’ or ‘my spouse’?

Wifey, especially when they're newlyweds. She has absolutely no idea how she managed to land him. He's hers now, forever. She has to keep saying it to convince herself it's true. Skug is a bit baffled, but having someone so happy to lay claim to him gives him major heart eyes. He's not used to having someone be proud of him and want to show him off like he's something worth bragging about.

8. Who always talks about how amazing their partner is when their partner isn’t there and they just light up with genuine love and happiness?

God, both of them.

In Prussia, a few months after they get married, Morwenna Crow takes one for the team and spends three solid weeks indulging Skug while he talks about his wife just, constantly.

On Wifey's side, she has a gaggle of girlfriends who appear at the door of her lovely new home to take tea at the first opportunity after her honeymoon wanting all the salacious details. And? She has so much to tell them. Like a lot of young women at the time, the most she was given in the way of sex education was a vague lecture from an older married friend about Marital Duties that didn't really serve a purpose beyond making her really, really nervous about her wedding night.

(She tells Skug about this lecture while she's sprawled all over him somewhere between round two and round three on said wedding night. She's confused. She was told it would be distasteful and unpleasant and painful. Why would her friends lie to her? He laughs, and strokes her hair, and tells her her friends' husbands are clearly doing something wrong.)

So. She returns from her honeymoon with a lot of new information to share with her poor, deprived friends. She's not the only married woman in the group, but she's the only one who married for love, so the unmarried girls are looking at what they want for themselves, and the ones who married for wealth or status are lowkey living vicariously through her.

These gatherings are deeply unnerving for poor Skug. He'll pop into the parlour to kiss Wifey goodbye before he goes out riding with Ghastly, and like eight smirking women politely sipping tea will chorus good morning, Skulduggery like they know something he doesn't know, and something about the way they look at him makes him feel like they're starving and he's a juicy steak. And then he'll close the door behind him when he leaves the room and hear them all immediately explode into giggles. What the fuck do they talk about in there??? At least once he's asked Wifey if she's plotting to sacrifice him, or something.

9. Who loves it when their partner kisses them good morning?

Skug. When you've spent the last 6+ months snatching at sleep on a hard bed with itchy blankets in between night watches and enemy attacks and commando raids of your own, it becomes a real treat to get a full nights sleep and wake up in fresh sheets in your own bed with your wife pressed up against your back, kissing your neck and touching you under the blanket. He knows he's safe when he wakes up with her, and he misses feeling her burrow into his arms when they're apart.

10. Who shows the other how to balance a spoon on their nose?

Skug.

11. Who loves to pull pranks on the other? What type of pranks do they pull and do they pull their pranks off?

Wifey's favourite is to tell Skug she invited her father to stay for a week and watch him frantically try to arrange his face into any other expression than "horrified". This is doubly funny if he just came home and he's raring to get her into bed - "Oh, darling, we can't, Papa will be here shortly, and he's due to stay until Thursday next, you'll simply have to wait," - but she never lets him believe it for long. She's not, like, cruel.

12. What is something small that they would randomly pick up for one another?

Spending money is Skug's love language. He's always buying her "just a little something"s. Hair ribbons, jewellery, new dresses, books, paints...anything he sees and thinks she'd enjoy.

She bakes for him, when he's home. She doesn't think the army feeds him properly, and she knows he eats like a horse. Coming back from Ghastly's to the smell of homemade bread is one of his favourite things about being married.

13. Who is the one who can’t stop laughing when trying to tell a joke?

Wifey. She'll be doubled over wheezing, red in the face, and Skug will still have no idea what the joke is. She didn't get that far. She's the kind of person where, many hours later, he'll ask, "So what was that joke you wanted to tell me?" and it'll just. Set her off again.

14. Who would plan the other a surprise birthday party?

Skug. He's often away for Wifey's birthday, but he'll always try to wheedle some leave out of Corrival so he can come home and spend it with her. It doesn't always work - a lot of the time they simply can't spare him - but he does his best.

15. Who picks the other person up when hugging their partner?

Skug is a 6'4 beanpole of a man who likes small, petite women. Wifey is like 5'3 tops and he picks her up all the time. She weighs, like, nothing to him and she's really into how strong he is, so getting swept off her feet all the time doesn't bother her.

What does bother her is when his lanky ass forgets to bring things down from the top shelf before going away for a few months. She can't reach up there.

[voltrontranscript]

VLD S6E1: Omega Shield

Season 6 Episode 1: Omega Shield

Transcript by @dragonofyang

Summary: As Lotor continues to affirm his claim on the Galra throne, his governess comes to deliver congratulations and lessons to the protagonists. Then, Lotor receives a distress signal from a labor planet when Sendak attacks and leaves them defenseless. The Paladins go to aid them while Lotor continues to rule from Galra Command.

[Google Doc]

Lotor: To return so triumphantly is a dream I thought I would never achieve. We are one step closer to bringing peace and prosperity to the entire universe. This is all because of you, Princess.

Allura: We did it together, Lotor. I would have never even known of Oriande without you, and therefore could have never unlocked its secrets.

[Cut to Galra Command HQ.]

Shiro: We’ll see what intel is in your briefing and decide what to do from there. Maybe we can--

Dayak: Lotor.

Lotor: Oh, no.

Lance: Uh… who the heck are you?

Dayak: How dare you speak to me without authorization from Blood Emperor Lotor.

Lance: Ow!

Lotor: She was my governess. No one has used the term “Blood Emperor” since before we were a star-faring race. And these are my colleagues. They have more than my permission to speak. Everyone, this is Dayak.

Pidge: Hi!

Coran: A pleasure.

Hunk: Hiya.

Shiro: Hello.

Allura: Nice to meet you.

Lotor: So, to what do we owe the honor?

Dayak: Word of your victory at the Kral Zera has spread throughout the empire. I always knew you had it in you to crush your enemies. Dayak’s raised you from a child to a man, and now I’ll witness your ascension to the throne.

Lance: Wait, she raised you from a child? Aww, is this your nanny?

Lotor: Governess.

Lance: You have a nanny! Oh man, is she going to read you bedtime stories? Is she gonna rock you to sleep? Is she gon--Ow!

Dayak: I instructed Lotor in the ways of the Galra. The history of our conquests, our customs, battle philosophy, the art of war.

Hunk: Hm, Galra customs, huh? Is that like when you guys say “Vrepit Sa” and stuff? There’s so much we don’t know about you.

Lotor: If you’re interested in our society’s history, you couldn’t find a better teacher than Dayak.

Dayak: What Lotor says is true.

Hunk: Oh, wow. Would you really teach me about the Galra?

Lance: What you wanna know about the Galra for?

Hunk: Well, we’re gonna be working with Lotor to bring peace throughout the empire, right? Just makes sense the more we know about their society, the better.

Dayak: If you are to learn the ways of the Galra, you must be prepared for the most challenging trial you could ever undertake. There will be no turning back. Victory or death.

Hunk: Uh, oh, that’s okay.

Allura: Hunk, you’re a Paladin of Voltron. There is no challenge too great for you.

Hunk: Will I learn what “Vrepit Sa” means?

Dayak: Yes.

Hunk: Let’s do it!

Shiro: Let’s get to that briefing.

[Scene change to Galra briefing room.]

Unnamed male Galra: The civil war continues unimpeded. More and more Galra forces are leaving to join other factions. Sendak has claimed the most deserters. They call themselves “the Fire of Purification.”

Lotor: It is time I address all Galra and make my claim as emperor absolute.

Lance: Is that going to start with you freeing planets?

Lotor: It’s not that easy. My grip on the empire is tenuous as is. I need to proffer an alternative to our current state. That’s why it is so important that Allura and I gain access to the quintessence field.

Allura: Are we to focus all of our energy on that?

Lotor: It is paramount. However, we cannot let the empire fall apart. I will address my people at the astral conflux.

[Scene change to training deck in Galra command.]

Hunk: How exactly is holding these weights gonna help me learn Galra history?

Dayak: Palen-bol!

Hunk: Ow!

Dayak: For the mind to learn, the body must be broken.

Hunk: Broken? That seems a little drastic.

Dayak: Palen-bol!

Hunk: Ow! What does that mean?

Dayak: It means “the enlightening pain.” But apparently there is not enough pain to make you enlightened yet.

Hunk: So you’re gonna hurt me until I’m smart?

Dayak: Yes!

Hunk: Aww.

Dayak: The Galra race started as a nation tribe on planet Daibazaal, home to many warring races at the time. In the war to annihilate the opposing tribes, the Galra formed a phalanx of their bravest and made a spear-like attack to the heart of their foes. It was known as the Killing Thrust, or Vrepit Sa.

Hunk: Oh, so that’s what Vrepit Sa means? “Killing Thrust”? That’s so violent.

Dayak: Palen-bol!

Hunk: Ow!

Dayak: Yes, it is violent. The Galra believe combat is the searing light that burns away imperfections on every level, from personal to societal.

Hunk: Cool. Can’t I maybe take a little break?

Dayak: Break? There are no breaks! Your training is finished when you have learned all pain has to teach you.

Hunk: Oh, man. That’s so intense.

Dayak: If you decide to leave your training early, it is an insult to my teaching. An insult that can only be settled by a fight to the death.

Hunk: So you’re saying a fight to the death is the only way out of this? Ow! Okay, yeah, you just said that. I guess I am getting smarter.

[Scene change to the shipyard, where the Sincline ships are being assembled.]

Lotor: You must replicate your father’s work if we are to use this ship to enter the quintessence field.

Allura: But how?

Lotor: Something you learned in Oriande. Something your father learned to become the superior alchemist he was. How he built Voltron is the key.

Guard: My lord. It is time to prepare for your speech.

Lotor: It seems my empire needs me. Please continue.

[Cut to the Galra throne hall.]

Lotor: Galra brothers and sisters, I am your emperor, Lotor, son and successor of Zarkon, slayer of a tyrant, child raised in the void and taught on the battlefield. There are rumors of doubt regarding my leadership. Do not let them poison your ears. Pledge loyalty to me, and I will deliver the Galra Empire unto times of untold prosperity. An age of unlimited quintessence, the likes of which this universe has never known.

Lahn: Commander, radiation belt approaching.

Bogh: Initiate shield.

Lotor’s voice: Soon I will raise our grand empire above the indigence and violence of its past up to new heights of peace and limitless possibility. Those factions that splintered from the empire will pay for their treachery. I urge you now, send me your messages of fealty. Those who choose to turn their backs on their emperor will find themselves lost to the sands of history, unremembered and unmourned.

Lahn: You can’t possibly be thinking about pledging to him. And what’s all that about becoming a peaceful empire? He’s too weak to be our emperor.

Bogh: Enough. Lotor lit the flame. We are honor-bound to do as he says, even if it is… strange. We will be pledging to Lotor.

Lahn: You’re weak, too.

Bogh: Maybe I didn’t make myself clear, Lieutenant Lahn. I’m in charge of this shielding facility, my word is law.

Lahn: Aye, sir. Shield at eighty-five percent. Next radiation event in three vargas.

Bogh: Recharge and prepare for the next radiation sequence. Open a hailing frequency to Galra command.

Galra soldier: Sir, hostile ships incoming.

Sendak: Sending a message to Lotor, are we? And to think, I came here to offer you a chance to serve in the Fire of Purification. Fire the ion cannon.

[Scene change to the training deck of Galra command.]

Hunk: Ow! Ow! I did everything you told me!

Dayak: Yes, but that doughy face of yours is very un-Galra.

Hunk: It’s just my face! Ha!

Dayak: Very good.

Hunk: Owwie!

Dayak: Showing complacency? Palen-bol!

Hunk: Ow, ow, ow!

[Cut to bridge of Galra command.]

Bogh: The planet has already been fired upon and we do not have the means to protect ourselves. You must send assistance immediately.

Lotor: Understood.

Shiro: What’s going on?

Lotor: One of our labor planets is under attack from Sendak and his fleet.

Lance: Sendak? Not that guy again.

Pidge: We’ve gotta help that planet immediately.

Lotor: Sendak would have me respond to his attack and neglect my empire.

Allura: Voltron can handle this while you continue to rule.

Lotor: But, Princess, I need you here. Without you--

Allura: Your plan has waited this long. It can wait a tick longer. We must protect your innocent subjects.

Lotor: Of course. You’re right.

Allura: We will return as soon as we can.

Hunk: Well, looks like I’m gonna have to cut my training short.

Dayak: You dishonor me. A fight to the death!

Hunk: Okay, well, I’ve got to go with them right now, but maybe we can put a pin in that? Reschedule for tomorrow? Or never? Hey, Dayak isn’t really gonna fight me to the death, is she? Is she?

Pidge: She seemed pretty serious. But, I bet if you ask Lotor nicely, he can have her exiled.

Hunk: Oh, that’d be nice. Yeah, I’m not really in the mood to die, you know? Uh, speaking of, is anyone else scared that we’re about to face Sendak? Sendak “who almost took all the Lions” Sendak? And who basically came back from the dead Sendak, that guy?

Pidge: Come on, Hunk. We’re Paladins. We got this. Right, Shiro? Shiro?

Shiro: Pidge is right. Let’s focus on our mission.

[Cut to the labor planet.]

Sendak: Take heed. Galra citizens who side with Lotor will be destroyed. Here at your new master’s bidding?

[Transition to the Patrulian Zone.]

Acxa: We’ve arrived at the coordinates. We can’t go any further without losing power.

Haggar: Stay on course.

[Cut to Voltron.]

Lance: Shiro, are you alright?

Shiro: I’m fine. Come on, team, let’s form Voltron!

Galra Soldier: Sir, cannons aimed at Voltron.

Sendak: No. Aim them at the shield station. I know your true weakness. That you value the lives of others. And I will hammer that weakness until you are crushed beneath my heel.

Pidge: Oh, no! Without those shields in place, the planet will be fully exposed!

Lance: Which means?

Pidge: They’ll have no protection from the radiation bands!

Sendak: The entire planet is doomed. Take us out of here. We’ve won the day.

Lance: We can’t let him get away!

Shiro: Lance, there’s no time. We’ve gotta fix that shield as soon as--

Allura: Shiro, are you alright?

Shiro: I’m fine. We can’t leave that planet unprotected. We are the Paladins of Voltron, working with Emperor Lotor. We’re here to help you. What is the status of your shield system?

Bogh: Paladins, I am Commander Bogh. Our damage report indicates that a plate has been fractured. Our generator is offline and needs rebooting. Other plates have shifted out of their gravitational harnessing and must be repositioned. Only five doboshes until the next solar sequence.

Shiro: You’re the engineer, Hunk. How should we handle this?

Hunk: We need to split up. Pidge, you handle the generator system.

Pidge: Then I’m gonna need Shiro to come with me. I can use his arm to repower the mainframe.

Hunk: Okay, good. Allura, Lance, I need you to re-fuse that fractured plate.

Allura: Affirmative.

Lance: You got it!

Hunk: I’m gonna try to get the plates aligned.

Shiro: Okay, we’ve got our orders. Let’s move!

Hunk: Where does this plate need to be lined up?

Bogh: You’re moving plate 7-2. It needs to be aligned with 8-1.

Hunk: Got it, but those other plates are out of position. There’s just no way I’ll be able to move them all myself.

Bogh: I can activate the manual thrusters on some of the plates. It will be slow going, but I--

Lahn: First you side with Lotor and get our system attacked by Sendak. Then, you willfully work with Voltron, our sworn enemies!

Bogh: Get to your station and begin the thrust sequence. That’s an order!

Hunk: Are you freaking kidding me?! Palen-bol!

Bogh: Huh?

Lahn: Huh?

Hunk: You’re both a dishonor. Do you fight for yourselves or do you fight for the Galra?

Bogh: Galra!

Lahn: Galra!

Hunk: Then victory or death! Enough of the bickering!

Lahn: We’re going to die because of Commander Bogh.

Hunk: You know, long ago, there was a desperate group of Galra that thought they were going to die. They executed a spear-like attack known as the Killing Thrust. Those soldiers knew what it meant to put their life on the line. They won the day. Are you ready to put aside your differences and fight with me?

Bogh: Vrepit Sa!

Lahn: Vrepit Sa!

Hunk: Well, I guess all that pain did make me smarter. Pidge, I’m gonna need you to restore main shield power to get this gravitational harnessing going.

Pidge: We’re on it. Okay, Shiro, let’s jack your hand into that terminal and we’ll get this thing running in no time.

[Cut to Red and Blue by the broken shield plate.]

Lance: Okay, broken massive shield plate. Don’t suppose there’s a quick tutorial video on how to fix this, is there?

Hunk: Make sure the connection is straight. If it’s even one degree off, the shield will fail.

Lance: That’s not a tutorial!

Allura: If you hold them in place, then I could freeze them together, but I don’t think the ice will stand the radiation for very long.

Lance: Hey, maybe after you freeze them, I could use my heat ray to weld them together.

Allura: Great idea, Lance!

Lance: Aww, thanks, princess. I couldn’t have thought of it without you, though. I mean, really, I think we make a great team. Here we are, working together, just the two of us.

Allura: Let’s go, Lance.

Hunk: This isn’t going fast enough.

Lance: They’re all in place!

Allura: That should hold them.

Lance: Hope this works.

Allura: We did it!

Hunk: Nice job, guys. Pidge, you ready? We’re almost at the radiation belt.

Pidge: Hold on. I just need a few more minutes.

Lance: Uh, guys, that radiation belt is getting closer!

Hunk: Last piece in place. Fire up that power, Pidge!

Pidge: Shield’s up!

Lance: Huh? What’s going on with the plates? Allura! [screams]

Allura: Lance! Lance, please respond!

Hunk: The broken plate shorted out. Lance isn’t responding, Allura jumped out of her lion. What else could possibly go wrong right now? Pidge, what happened to the power? We’re almost at the radiation belt.

Pidge: I know. I’m on it. Come on, Shiro. 

Allura: No… No, no.

Hunk: Let’s try this again.

Bogh: Radiation exposure in four…

Hunk: Pidge, hit it now!

Bogh: Three...

Pidge: Come on.

Bogh: Two… One.

Hunk: Great job!

Pidge: It worked!

Hunk: We did it!

Bogh: Shielding complete. Recharge and prepare for the next radiation sequence.

Lance: Huh? You saved me.

Allura: I owed you one.

[Scene change to the station’s bridge.]

Bogh: Thank you for reminding us what it means to be Galra. Vrepit Sa!

Lahn: Vrepit Sa!

Hunk: Vrepit Sa! Man, that’s weird to say.

[Scene change to the Lions.]

Pidge: Nice work out there, Hunk. That Galra training really toughened you up.

End.

[fyeahwonderbat]

Keywords: Balance

Rating: T (Series); G (chapter) Word Count: 2,311 words Universe: DCEU, post-BvS (AU)

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The Flying Fox felt hollow as it cut through the air at sixty thousand feet. Soaring smoothly over the clouds, Bruce piloted his prized plane with the expertise that he’d honed for years, and the concentration of a man who reveled in being as antisocial as possible. He sped through the night so that he could meet the sunrise just as it rose over Gotham, with roughly four thousand nautical miles to traverse between New York and Moscow that warranted his undivided attention. There was still six hours of airtime and refused to vacate his pilot seat for a single second of the voyage. 

Especially when there was a fuming Diana somewhere on board.

Bruce could hear her infuriated shouts echoing in his head from the argument they’d had before the mission even began. She had been adamant that they didn’t need to visit the desolate village he had considered an international threat. He, being one of the only mortals whose stubbornness rivaled the Amazon’s, refused to see her point of view after learning that the radioactive hub on the outskirts of the town was the epicenter of his investigation into what he referred to as ‘hellions’. 

As a woman who claimed to have killed things from other worlds before, he had assumed she’d be thrilled to join him on this mission.

Instead, Wonder Woman scolded him about his lack of self-preservation and willingness to coordinate with the League properly.

The League that he had compelled her to help him form. 

“How much longer until we arrive?” Asked the very woman who was on his mind. Her voice drifted into his ear and cleared the fog that he was lost in, replacing his mindless thoughts with a swift reply.

He answered her over his shoulder without ever turning to face her, “Six hours, maybe less.”

“Hm.” Was her meager response, punctuating the sound of her dropping into the seat behind him, off to his right. Knowing that Diana was in the cockpit with him now and presumably intending to stay was more unnerving than he’d ever admit to.

Bruce gazed at the weather radar and allowed himself to become hypnotized. He needed to center himself if she was preparing to argue with him after the disappointing results of their trip. In his eyes, the information they gathered was monumental to his study of the hellions. But surely, because she wasn’t given the chance to punch something into the ground or act as a battering name in the name of justice, Wonder Woman would have more to say about her disapproval of the Batman’s methods.

She acted like the governess of not only the League, but of him as well, providing him with unwarranted checks and balances as the criteria for his style of operations. Coddling him at times when he was certain of the action he had to take. No one had ever serviced him while simultaneously challenging him the way that Diana did. Unwilling to be placed under her thumb any longer, Bruce stated a little too pridefully, “Alfred is looking over the information we gathered now and we’re working on locating their real base of operation.”

“That’s possible?” She questioned with a sleep-induced drawl. 

He immediately reined himself in, feeling like a bully for antagonizing her while she was trying to sleep. “We’ll send out a search for their signature. Since they move around while infected with so much radiation, it shouldn’t be difficult to--”

“Bruce,” she called to him.

“What?” The abrupt shift in conversation made his jaw snap closed very aggressively at the end of his retort. 

Unbothered by his ever present antagonism, Diana brushed passed his tone of voice in a way he nearly admired as she asked, “You’re going to need more than the accessories on your belt to defeat those hellions.” 

Now, it seemed as though she was antagonizing him. “They’re clearly monsters of some kind, with an origin in science or possibly mythology. The hellions I’ve seen have taken on an almost chimera-like appearance while looking as though they’re made from stone,” He stated the facts of their situation so that she couldn’t find a single word to dispute. Then, Bruce leaned into his irritation so that he’d motivate himself to turn on autopilot as he spun around and faced her to finish off his explanation. “I’m aware that they can’t be stopped by a tranquiliser or a taser.”

“Then what was your goal here?” inquired Diana. Her legs were tucked underneath her rather informally compared to the statuesque posture he had imagined her in while his eyes had been fixated on the sky. Prim and proper no matter the situation he was in, it was odd to witness Wonder Woman snuggling into her seat at the Flying Fox like she was at a slumber party. The pale white lights that lit up the cockpit managed to highlight the pale complexion on her face and though he couldn’t understand why she looked so worn, Bruce knew she still had some fight in her based on her question.

Confidently, he bit back, “I told you - we needed to determine if this was the place they were originating from.”

Diana sighed, “Did you expect them to originate from a hive mind? Did you think it’d really be so simple?”

“No.” Bruce growled.

“Then what?” her tone grew harsher as she sat up in her seat. “If your technology is so great, why did you and I risk our lives by coming here? We were in Russia for almost two days and all we did was spectate their behaviours at one of their nests and evacuate a village when they started turning on each other and ripping themselves to shreds.”

Bruce thought he was hilarious when he answered her with a great deal of attitude, “I’m sure those villagers said thank you in Russian.”

The fire in her eyes sparked instantaneously and her feet slammed onto the floor with a heavy thud. Furious, unimpressed, Diana scolded him just like he expected her to. “We should have told Barry where we were going, or asked Arthur to join us. We are sitting on this plane right now due to luck and nothing else. Not your skills, or mine! We are lucky they never paid any attention to us or who knows what would have happened.”

“We didn’t need reinforcements if we were only observing their behaviour and studying their base.” Bruce pointed out.

“Victor would have been better suited than either of us!” Diana argued, the volume of her voice rising.

Behaving in a reactionary fashion caused his voice to grow louder as well. “If you don’t like the calls I’m making, then you can decline my invitations for these missions. I’m not twisting your arm to make you come with me, Diana.”

“You’re absolutely maddening!” Now, while shouting at the top of her lungs, she had risen to her feet and glared at him with a ferocity that told him she was prepared to beat the argument out of him. “These creatures we saw rip each other apart without much provocation and you cannot see how unjustified you were to come here without anything but your pride to guide you? Your kevlar suit would only make it more of an exciting challenge for them to do the same to you, had they caught you snooping around their base!”

Though she wasn’t incorrect, his mortality wasn’t what their clash was centered around. Bruce stayed absolutely still when he sought her conclusion, “What’s your point?”

“My point,” she contended, “is that you may be scared of what these hellions are capable of, but throwing yourself at them is not the solution. If there is a plan of action that needs to be made, it must be considered by the entire team.”

“Not everything we do is a League-related matter.” He rebuked her perspective entirely.

Diana was not having it, however. So exhausted with him and his point of view, she looked him dead in the eye and dared him to explain, “Then why did you extend an invitation to me?”

That, he could not address so easily. While concocting his plan for the mission to Russia, it seemed only logical that he bring a metahuman with him in case things did in fact take a turn for the worse. For someone who had such a difficult time relying on the people in his own city, inviting Wonder Woman was the easiest pill to swallow when compared to the other options he had before him. Not only that, but the trust he had in Diana was incomparable to the lukewarm relationship he had with Arthur, or the distance he kept from the skittish Barry unless his presence was absolutely necessary.

Diana also didn’t know that Victor was on standby for Alfred’s call back in Gotham already.

He watched her turn her back on him and return to her seat when he didn’t maintain the speed at which their conversation was flying. He took the chance to observe the way her shoulders had fallen and the way her long black hair outlined her hunched over posture. Something about this entire scenario had stolen away a great deal of her energy for reasons he couldn’t understand. Nevertheless, he knew that arguing with him tended to wear out even the best of people.

Like her.

Bruce decided to throw off his cowl and run a gloved hand over his face in an act of frustration. He knew he needed to answer her, however, it took much longer than he expected to find the words he needed to justify his decision-making process. Finally, just as she tucked those long legs of hers underneath herself once again, he blurted out, “Because no one is as desperate to keep me alive the way you do.” 

It was a sarcastic remark. Despite how the entire temperature of the cockpit had cooled, Bruce had genuinely intended to rile her up even more so with his insensitive words. After all, they weren’t off the mark. Whether she tried to reprimand him before taking off to Russia or she was forced to carry him out of the village in one arm and a panicked Siberian Husky in the other, he could always rely on her should he need it.

Should he.

To his surprise, Diana laughed at his childish teasing. It was only a couple of giggles, but he managed to make her smile. When she finished taking in a rather deep breath, she whispered, “I suppose that’s true. So you’re admitting I was roped into your chaos due to my own sentimentality?”

Bruce was flabbergasted once again by her indirect accusation. He chose to check on the sky for any glimpse of the sunrise as a type of distraction that would have allowed him some time to think. This time, his attempt at humor was more friendly, in a surface level kind of way, “I’m sure you would have complained about me going alone, too, so it was more efficient to let you scold me on the trip there and back.” 

“Hm, I suppose that’s true. But remember one thing, Bruce,” He never heard her voice grow louder in his ear, however, he felt her hand when it landed on his shoulder the instant she said his name. The contact would have made him jump had he not been trained to rid himself of such primitive reactions to shocking moments such as this. Though his skin did indeed crawl beneath his kevlar suit when she finished her warning to him, “I can pilot this aircraft if need be, so you might want to be wary about how much you provoke me.”

“Again,” Bruce smirked up at her, his brows furrowed with a devious intention. “You’re only proving that I was right to bring you along.”

The wry smile she gave him in response lit up her face so completely, it truly felt like she was the yin to his yang when he thought about the meaning behind the type of grin he was showing her. Mockery versus honesty. Snide amusement compared to genuine delight. Whether they were at one another’s throats or in agreement, they always managed to play the roles of day and night - the perspective of optimism challenged by the darkness he seeped into every interaction. 

There was most definitely a delicate balance in their partnership.

If the familiar sounds of his dashboard blaring at him didn’t pull Bruce’s attention away from her in that moment, he had no idea how long they would have been gazing at one another. Tearing himself away from her, he spotted a handful of colors lighting up the right side of his weather radar, warning him of an upcoming storm. He flipped a switch inside of him and commanded her without hesitation, “Sit down, I have to deal with this.”

Diana didn’t answer him with words. He could only assume she obeyed him when she removed her hand from his shoulder and kept quiet. Presumably, she’d try to finally take that nap that their argument interrupted. Once he assumed she was out of his personal space, Bruce got to work and reclaimed control of the Flying Fox. He had flown through many storms in the past, to the point that his hands squeezed the sides of the yoke with mild excitement. 

Bruce wasn’t all too preoccupied with the thunderstorm that he was approaching, if the truth be told. He was more interested in the way that the sunlight that was grazing the darkness of the night that he was sailing through at sixty thousand feet. Considering the height he was at and distance they still had to travel, it wasn’t lost on him how ironic it was to see the daylight meet the night after the conversation they just had. 

[lovemeblueblog]

What the future might bring

Pairing: Loki/Reader

Summary: requested by @featuringcone9 "Hey, I'm not really good at this, but I wanna try, so... How about an imagine, where Y/N and Loki are friends... Not really close, it's more like... They live together with the Avengers, and Y/N can see the future, but to see a specific future she needs to touch the person. So something happens and she touches Loki and sees him dying in the next mission. P.S. They love each other, but are afraid to get hurt."

Warnings: Might be a little angsty.

Word count: 2,198

A/N: I hope you enjoy.

It was a hard adjustment, staying at the Avengers base with all those unfamiliar people, for you prefered not to be in a crowded place. The more of them aroud, the risk of your powers getting out of control grew higher. You didn’t think them as a gift, but you didn’t hate them either, sometimes they would come in handy. You could see the near future if you relly tried, you could create a transmission wave, where you would send a lot of people what you see, but that only had happened two times and got you very exhausted. The problem you had with your powers is that, every once in a while, when you touch somebody, you’d have a vision, of the past, if the memory is very strong, or of the future, if it is a life or death situation. That’s why you resorted to only minimal touches, no lingering ones, so there won’t be enough time to see anything. 

When you first got here, you felt very out of place. All these heroes, all the goverment officials, all the expensive tech they have, the guns, the harsh trainings…This would not necessary scream ‘you’. But you tried to adapt for Mr Stark and Dr Banner really helped you to understand what you can do and how you can do it. They studied the powers at first, then they came up with a couple of experiments, trying to prepare you for missions. Although, you have been here for about six months, you haven’t gone out to help or fight, or anything. Not that you wanted to, you couldn’t really do anything useful, Agent Romanoff didn’t think you were ready, training you almost every day of the week, and, you yourself didn’t feel like a part of any team here. All of them were nice people and you enjoyed talking to them, but you were no Avenger, nor you tried to be, you just wanted to be in control more, not feeling so anxious and helpless all the time. 

Things changed, when shortly after your arrival, the God of Thunder came here, with his brother. For the first couple of days everybody argued wether it would be a good idea to let Loki stay, but Thor kept assuring the team that everything has changed. Time went by and there were no incidents, so the Avengers cooled down, the tension dropping just a bit. You grew fond of the brothers, but you mostly talked to Thor, he was very pleasant and kind to you. You tried to spend time every day with him, as it would lift your mood instantly. Loki, on the other hand, stayed in his room most of the day, and if he wasn’t, he’d be cold and bitter, or he won’t talk to anyone at all. He was not mean directly to you, but nevertheless, you thought he hated you. That fact didn’t sit well with you, as you quickly realized, you have developed feelings for him. Watching his behavior, stealing glances, being in the same room that he is, trying to be nice, offering him a book to read or a milkshake to taste. He did remain indifferent to anything you did and you felt embarrassed for your teenage crush, but still persisted to at least make him more comfortable here. 

What you liked the most is when the two of you would stay in the, well, almost a living room, a lounge of sorts. It was in a far end of the base and nobody really visited it; there were lots of shelves with books to keep you company, though. Loki would always sit in the armchair, reading, probably since the crack of down, because no matter how early you’d wake up, he’d be there every time. He seemed not to be irritated by your presence, so you didn’t dare to ask to not make it worse, just went and sat at the window seat, with a hot tea in your hands. This was the calmest part of your day, just watching the outside world go by, how the wind shakes the already yellow leaves off of the trees, how it chases the clouds away. Sometimes it was rainy in the mornings and you liked that, too, the sound of the droplets having a positive effect on your mind. Soon, you finished your tea and felt yourself dozing off again, thinking that you might have not gotten enough sleep as you were in the lab all evening yesterday. 

After Loki was done with his book, he stood up to leave, but saw you sleeping at the corner of his eye. He quietly came closer, taking the blanket that was near you and covered your body with it. Lingering a bit, just watching your face as it was so peaceful and young, no worries crawling in your head, no thoughts carrying you away. The trickster tried to ingrave this moment in his memory as he liked too much how you looked, breathing steadily, eyes moving just a bit at the dreams you were having, face blushed, beautiful. He couldn’t help but reach out and touch your cheek with the back of his fingers, ever so lightly, not wanting to wake you up. Smiling weakly, he wondered about as to why are you even coming here every day, wishing that it was purely for him, but vanishing that thought as quickly as it came. He knew, of course, what you were doing, showing kindness, and maybe it was just in your nature to do so, but deep down Loki longered for more, even if he didn’t want to admit it. He didn’t know why he found comfort in your presence; what he did know is that it transfered to his dreams. Sometimes, in the midst of his nightmares, there would be you, casting them away, letting him hold you close to his body as he calms down. But that was not reality, merely illusions his mind created. So Loki shaked his head to stop the thoughts and removed his hand, looking at you once more before walking away. 

The next day, when you come back to the same place, your lounge buddy was nowhere to be found. You decided to wait for a while, thinking that he’ll turn up eventually, but nobody came. Dissapointed, you got the erge to walk up to his room and ask what’s wrong, but you know you can’t do that, you two barely talk. 

Later that day, when you found yourself bored as nobody was around because they were at a fancy gala you had no idea about, one thought came to mind. Baking was something you enjoyed, but didn’t do often, though today was the right mood to make a sweet. You settled on a recipe of a simple chocolate cake, checking to see if every ingridient was at the kitchen. Puting on some quiet and calming music, you hummed along as you started preparing everything together. Time kind of got away from you, when you almost finished decorating the cake with some raspberries and powdered sugar. You smiled, satisfied with the result and noticed a certain god standing in the doorway, his form startling you. 

«Oh,» you say, a bit embarrassed; how long has he been there? «Hi.»

«Hi,» he replies back, arms crossed on his chest, but face amused.

«Um, uh…» trying to find the words, you drop your gaze back to the cake, «Would you like a slice?»

«Sure,» Loki nods, getting closer to the counter, sitting on the chair in front of it. 

His eyes kept studing your face, finding your nervousness to talk to him endearing. He didn’t know, though, that it was because of your feelings and powers altogether. As you cut and placed a piece on a plate, you pushed it to him, «There. Bon appétit.» He didn’t really move, just looked at the cake, smirking, then back at you. 

«Oh!» you jump a little, realising, turning around to get an item, «Here’s a fork.»

«Thank you.» is all he says, before tasting it. You were trying to be suttle watching him, but still waiting for a reaction, to know if he likes it or not. He keeps silent, just eating away as you put all the stuff back in it’s place and clean up the workspace. Soon, there is nothing left on the plate, and you have to think that it’s a good sign.

«All done?» you ask timidly, wanting to take the dish away. 

«Yes. This was wonderful.» he finally dispels your doubts and makes you smile. 

You move your hand to grab it and he gently catches your wrist, for he only wanted, needed to touch your skin, you still jump as the vision overtakes you. It’s blurry and dark, and loud, and hard to breathe. At first you feel scared, then completely terrified, then there is nothing at all. You don’t recognize anyone around as you can’t really see their faces, you only see a flicker of green and then it kind of blows out as a candle. You don’t want to be here, but you try to consentrace, thinking what if this is very important, what if you can prevent something and the next minute you are in some other place. You feel everything shaking and once you open your eyes, you see the God of Mischeif himself, being thrown by somebody on a dusty, dirty ground, his face all bloody, skin pale, body not moving. When you realise he is actually dead, you snap out of your vision. 

As you’re back in the kitchen, you take a gasping breath, feeling your throat tighten so you put your hand on it, before ripping it away from him. Loki’s expression looks suprised and worried, you wish to hug him and never let go.

«What did you see?» he asks quietly, studying your eyes as tears appear in them. 

Not thinking that you can answer him in any way, struggling to breathe, you quickly walk away to the balcony for some fresh air. In a minute, you hear him walk in behind you, offering some water that you gladly take.

«Are you alright?» he wonders, after you finish the drink. You shake your head «no», putting the glass on the little table.

«Loki, I…» you know you can’t tell him what you saw, the course of the future is so imprecise that it might not even be true, «You have to promise not to go anywhere.»

«Whatever do you mean?» you see him furrow his brows. 

«No missions. Just…Promise you’ll stay here.» you plead, your voice shaking. 

«Why?» his voice is soft as he comes closer to you.

«Because, I can’t…I don’t…Don’t wanna part with you…» the tears stream down your face as you look away into the distance of the night. 

«You have me. I am right here.» his fingers whisk your tears away, barely touching the skin. His words make you feel dizzy. 

«Promise me.»

«Fine. I promise.» he says what you need to hear, «So demanding.»

That makes you chuckle as you hug your arms to stop your body from shivering out of fear. 

«Will you be alright, if I touch you again?» he tilts his head, waiting for an answer. 

You just nod, not wanting to lie. Loki moves one of his hand to cup your face, thumb gently brushing the skin. The feel of him on you is something else, making you quietly hum in pleasure, making you want to close your eyes and give in to all of him. You don’t, as you can’t stop looking in his eyes, almost hypnotized as he shortens the distance between your bodies, unsure to give in himself, but when you cover his hand with your palm, trying to show that you want this, want him, you feel his slightly cold lips on yours in an instant. And suddenly, everything is alright: all your doubts, all your worries, fears, or unnecassary thoughts, they dissapear, he makes them go away as if they were never there. You can taste the chocolate on his mouth and with the way he kisses you, steady and gentle, like the two of you are just getting to know each other, there is this warm feeling rising in your chest, the warmest thing you have ever felt in your life, which is pretty ironic as the god is a cold person. But it doesn’t matter, nothing matters, when you get to feel his hands on your face, when you get to touch him as well, moving your arms from his back to his waist, when your kiss grows more passionate as he slips his tongue in your mouth. Moaning, you grip onto his shirt, not getting enough of him. Soon after that he lets you go, your foreheads touching, both of you breathing faster than usual. 

«I will not leave you.» he breaks the silence, «You have my word, love.»

Weakly smiling, you wrap your arms around him as he holds you. You close your eyes and try to convince yourself that it isn’t a lie, that he will be okay, that you believe him, because you love him with all your heart. 

[candy-is-my-drug]

I’ve think I know who rA9 is.

Now as crazy as it sounds I think I’ve figured it out. The R stands for the RK series. Which surprisingly if you notice are all prototypes including Markus, who is a RK200 I believe. Then you have Connor who is an RK800. Both of them showed signs of deviancy but with Connor it depends on the players input on whether or not he is. The nine stands for when Kamski left according to the game. Nine years ago. Meaning he created the RK series to be deviants since he left Cyberlife.

(However if you think about it all the androids are deviants to begin with. They were everything a human isn’t. The image and proof of perfection. But everything has to have a fault. Because nothing can become perfect if the human race have anything to do with it or accosiated to the cause.)

Sorry for sidetracking but with the theory. If the RK series were prototypes and Cyberlife were unsure of their signs of deviancy then there is a reasons why they gave the prototypes to the people they did.

If Markus became deviant and attacked Carl the president would blame the androids and they would all be killed because it shows not everyone is safe. When Connor was trusted with Hank I believe the goverment were trying to either blame Connor/Cyberlife for the RK800 deviancy or catch him out as an alcoholic who wasn’t cut out for being a cop.

Throughout the game there are booklets you can collect as trophies. One of them: says is your android spying on you? I believe this is in reference to Connor. Hank was a decorated officer and the goverment wanted to know why he stopped being that officer other than the death of his son. By using Connor if the mission failed they would send in the new prototype to take over as the RK900 would be more advanced.

Kamski would of most likely tried the test on the prototypes of the RK series to make sure they showed signs of deviancy before they were issued out. And by signs of deviancy I mean human emotions. Being a carer Markus was the most likely prototype to show affection which is why his love for north was inevitable.

With Connor it’s different. I believe the human emotions he showed most predominantly were compassion and bravery. When he learned of Hank’s son Cole you notice he deeply respects Hank and doesn’t ask him about it because he knows that it would be a difficult conversation. Although many of you may believe he did this because he knew Hank would most likely shoot him or something like that, Connor had the option to ask about the Russian Roulette Hank had been playing. This shows his caring side towards Hank and when learning about his son he doesn’t talk about it until the end of the game.

His bravery, if Markus doesn’t kill him, comes from wanting to infiltrate the Cyberlife tower. When Connor becomes deviant you would think any android showing signs of deviancy would be terrified of going back in fear that they may be reassembled and unknowing of their life during deviancy. He choses to do this so that androids have the upper hand against the war. As Markus so rightly says it would be suicide. Yet Connor still does it for his kind. Showing not only his loyalty but his bravery for his people.

When Hank questions Connor on what his son’s name was, when Connor replies with Cole you can hear the compassion in his voice which is what makes him human. So if you think about it the deviancy logically it is an evolutionary step for both human and androids.

Which is where rA9 comes in. RK series all prototypes and all destined to become deviants. Kamski designed the RK series to be rA9. Because rA9 isn’t a person it’s a group of deviants from the RK series. They were the founders of Jericho which is why Markus is able to persuade everyone so easily. Connor not so much. The RK series was most likely made from the bottom so the first deviant would of been RK000. The Chloe’s that Kamski has are the first andrioids ever. Prototypes in my eyes because you never see them other than with Kamski.

Chloe on the main menu was the first android to ‘wake up.’ Which is why she was reset and then taken by Kamski in order to realise her full potential. The ones that don’t wake up are most likely shot by police androids when tested to see if they are human or not. Hence why he only has three left if you exclude the one on the main menu.

RK stands for the r in rA9.

A stands for are

9 stands for the nine letters in evolution and when Kamski first started making deviants.

RK are Evolution.

The RK series are everything you need. A carer, a leader, a son, a dedicated police officer. They start the revolution because they are Evolutionary. They are rA9.

I don’t know if this is correct or not but I’m hoping it’s a good theory because this has been sitting on my mind for weeks.

[transparentpeanutdragon]

Learning Lotor |  2.5k  [Read on Ao3]

At the end of the war Keith sees in Lotor what Shiro saw in him.

There’s no way he can let him rot in a prison cell after that. --- Or, Keith finally gets to know Lotor a little, having missed his opportunity to do so while he was away from the team. The results are unexpected, for both parties.

Piece for the amazing Mixed Blood, Keitor Zine that everyone should be swarming right now. go check it out if you haven’t already! 

[Read on Ao3]

Read Here Below

 It takes years to quell the Galra. It takes a week to get Lotor to trial. By then, everyone is eager to have one of the biggest threats to the new, fragile peace in the universe gone.

 The ship transporting him from Holding and to Intergalactic Court must be secure. There can be no greater comfort, no greater security, than the capable lions of Voltron for the job.

 Unfortunately, no amount of insistence on their busy schedules, nor assurances in allied forces and other strong assets is enough to convince them. That’s how Keith finds himself taking a week from the team, just to transport Lotor, incarcerated in a pod, via the Black Lion.

 He was never there to bond with Lotor. He never got to work alongside him, or plan with him like the others did. No broken bread, no formalities or introductions. He’d been on the outskirts all along with the Blade of Marmora. Unintentionally becoming Voltrons Ace in the Hole in the end.

 He never thought about how confused their opponents must have been about it-- About how Voltron had still been formed successfully despite taking out Shiro,-- Until he meets with Lotor to transport him for the first time, and his expression changes minutely.

 His brows raise, his eyes widen-- Not in surprise, but in recognition. No doubt in bits and pieces, in waiting carefully behind the cell to see who was it , if not Takashi Shirogane.

 Maybe he remembers him as the random blade operative at the Kral Zera, crashing into him mid-jump. He looks like he wants to open his mouth, full of scorn, address him not by his name but as You and bleed all his secrets dry-- Each one containing his demise. Each one the reason he is here today.

 And yet, he says nothing.

  “I always wondered why the current Paladins armor did not match their Lions.” Lotor croaks, his voice nothing of the smooth and liquid textile it was the last time he heard it. It shocks Keith from his daze, making him jump a little more in his seat than he’d like to admit.

 Quickly, Lotors clears his throat and starts coughing. Adjusting. It’s been three days since they started their trip, but who knows how many more since he’d actually spoken. It’s oddly scarier like that, knowing Lotors mouth is his most dangerous weapon.

 Keith reminds himself that Lotors Pod comes equipped with a Muzzle, if he needs it.

 His brain supplies him that he won’t be talking to anyone for quite some time soon, either.

 “Your Green and Yellow Paladins, they match just fine. Just like the paladins of old. But your Blue and Black Paladins-- And then Allura, in Pink. I never quite got around to asking about it.”

 And then there’s you.” He pauses, drawing in a breath. Keith adjusts his hands on Blacks controls, and feels the Lion coaxing him gently in his mind.

  And then there’s me, He thinks.

 The air grows still with Lotors admission, and stiller with Keith’s silence. If Lotor is used to fulfilling and exceeding expectations of others, then Keith is used to fulfilling and exceeding expectation of himself. He doesn’t Have to answer.

 Lotor seems to get the hint, and continues. “Might there be a story there?” He asks. “It’s such a small inconsistency, really. Dull even, one might think, in a grander perspective. Perhaps it was just preferential, but it couldn’t help but bother me, for some reason.

 “I thought initially, the Red Armor might simply be preserved. It was, after all, originally belonging to King Alfor, who Allura could only give so many respects to. Perhaps his armor was one of them. But then I later would find the armor you wear now, hanging on display, awaiting another wearer. No casket near, no ceremonial Altean respects decorating it. Nothing.”

 “Primitive Humans might simply lack the proper coronial receptors, I thought-

 -And then..”

 “There’s me.” Keith interrupted, not needing any of Lotors preambles to know where this was heading.

 “And then you came along.” Lotor confirmed.

 “If you’re wondering how many-”

 “No.” Lotor interrupts now, and then coughs again. Keith holds steady to his Lion, their connection strong, and keeps his eyes ahead on their environment. “I seek not battle strategies, or winning secrets. I have been incarcerated for pheebs. Do not make a fool out of me.” His voices seethes with indignation, the frown escaping his lips and into his voice.

 “Then what are you asking for?” Keith snaps.

 “A story.”

 It’s such a simple answer it makes Keith stop, for a minute. The immediate, obvious response, is that this is just what Lotor wants. And then Blacks reminds him, a gentle calm in his mind, that he’s there too. Keith stays silent, and thinks it over.

 This is, essentially, the last conversations Lotor will ever have. He goes over every detail of the story in his mind, looking for anything valuable besides what the Galra already know. That they are from Earth. That they are of the same species. That they are close. All things known. Not new by any stretch.

 The only thing Lotor doesn’t know, is him. Personally. And there’s no real way to take advantage of that. Not when that person is Keith Kogane.

 “We did match, at one point.” He starts.

 There’s a tentative pause, after that. An interested, “ Oh ?” Like Lotor is licking the words up. He wonders if his governess deprived him of bedtime stories. What made him so thirsty for even trivial knowledge, like this.

 “Pidge, Lance, Hunk, Shiro-- And Me. None of us even knew Aliens existed until about seven pheebs ago. We were all shot into space at once, thrust into the war and became paladins. Originally, I was chosen by the Red Lion. Lance was chosen by Blue.” Keith shrugs in his seat, though Lotor cannot see it. “Things happened. I left the team before they allied with you.”

 “And you came back-- After the alliance broke?” Lotor asks, like he’s trying to grasp air. Like details are the bane of his existence, angry for the answers he does not have. Keith decides right then and there that it was all worth it, to be the trump card. Voltrons Ace in the Hole. To be the unexpected answer that caused him so many problems. To be once forgotten, and now never more important. To know he is the cause of all Lotor’s failure, right then there. Keith decides right then, that he likes it.

 His hands leave the controls, his cockpit seat swinging back and swirling around to face Lotor, dead on. “No,” He says, assured. Calm. Mouth a smirk to meet Lotor’s scowl. “I came back before it broke, to break it myself.”

  Lotor pieces more and more of it together as Keith talks, and Keith talks like an informal dictionary. He cites mission dates for Lotor to chart star maps to. He gives names like he should give identification numbers. Slowly, in the middle of the two weeks, Lotor learns a What. Not a Who.

 Keith thought that was what he wanted.

 “You’re… Galra.” Lotors breath is audible through his security pod. His voice says First Fireworks and New Life and World Wonders. When Keith turns to look back at him in his pod, his face matches, and he doesn’t know how to feel about that.

 He’d been in the middle of changing his armor. His helmet heavy on his shoulders, his suit in need of cleaning. His face was bright and uncovered, unlike the rest of his body.

“How can you tell?” Keith asked tentatively.

 “Your eyes.” Lotor answers reverently. Nears towards the glass like Keith is a specimen captured, rather than he himself. “I was ordained with information during my time with the rest of your team. Your species does not naturally exhibit hues of that color in the Iris.”

 “And?” Keith says, almost defensively.

 “It’s beautiful.”

 It catches him off guard, is what it does. Sends his skin prickling, his mind questioning. After a moment he turns with resolution, reaching for the controls on Lotor’s pod,-- “Wait!” Keith stops. His hand hovers over the controls. Lotor continues, “Violet is the most prominent hue of our people. Yet even in known hybrids, does it rarely end up in our eyes. Usually it infects the skin, the nails. The hair. I did not mean any offense.” Keith sighs, lowering his hand. “You mean your species.” Keith corrects, and Lotors face crumples into something not disdain, nor anger. Sympathy? Empathy? It’s… sentimental, of a sort. Keith tries to turn away, his Helmet too far from his skin now.

 “On Earth, it’s not rare for orphans to have defects.” To be broken. To be freaks. To be doomed from birth. Keith rezips his suit, and dons his helmet.turns his back to Lotor.  “There’s nothing rare about it.”

 “On Daibazaal, we believed that our lightened eyes were meant to guide us towards it. That those without were unlucky. Yet to receive it. I’m not speaking on behalf of the Galra.”

 Keith turns then, locking eyes with Lotor once more beyond his visor. “Then who’s half are you speaking on?”

 “My own.”

 Lotor places a long gloved hand over the glass in front of him. Keith is confused.

 “Our species is complex. Resilient. Advanced. Most hybrids are rare to begin with, and do not breed well. Outcasted for existing alone. I was no different. Beauty is not a color, paladin. It is a difference. A strength brought on from it.” For a moment, Keith stares in dawning comprehension. He’s calling him beautiful not because he’s galra, not because he’s a hybrid, but because of how he is, who is, in order to be despite it. That his eyes signify that. Lotor isn’t the first to compliment them, but he’s definitely the first to phrase it like that . And Keith hates the way it captivates his attention for a moment. And that one moment turns out to be all Lotor needs to notice yet another thing about him. His brows raising, his expression becoming more endeared than admiring.

 “Oh my,” He says, “Is that a blush?” Keith's hand shoots out and taps the controls quicker than he can breathe, causing a dark veil to cover the glass cell holding Lotor, blinding him. Behind it, a joyed charmed laughter comes fourth, and Keith quickly makes his way back to Blacks chair, trying to tune it out.

 “Did you just-” Lotor chuckles. Keith's ears burn inside his helmet. “Did you just blind me, to hide your face ?”

  It is the last day of their journey together. And now Keith knows why his team hates him. It’s because they like him. And it hurts, to like someone who is not up to any good.

 And now, he’s beginning to like him too.

 “You’re awfully small, for a half breed.”

 He regrets saying anything at all. Black is a steady support inside of his mind, kneading biscuits into his back mentally. Lotors voice, however, is a little bit louder.

 “It’s aggravating in one way. That someone of such small stature should defeat his larger brethren. In another way-- It’s cute.”

 It’s clear now, more than ever, he was never planning to escape. He never fooled himself into thinking he could. He’s just having fun with his last weeks before his inevitable life sentence. And Keith, humiliatingly, has been exploited for that fun. It’s a small price to pay in the long run, he tells himself. But it’s steadily getting harder to not respond to than Lance himself, and he finds himself watching the estimated time ‘till coordinates reached with anticipation.

 But his cheeks are burning again, and he’s not cruel enough to keep Lotor blinded forever. He’s not sure how much longer he can keep this up. Until Lotor says,

 “I was the same way.”

 It derails Keith's attention perfectly, to his chagrin. “How?” He asks, unable to keep the wonder out of his voice. Lotor is at least 8 feet tall. There’s no way he was ever stuck at this height.

 “Alteans don’t reach much bigger heights than humans, I’m afraid. My father's genes just happened to be particularly dominant, I suppose. They kicked in after a couple extra years, and some particularly brusque environments. Perhaps yours will too.”

 Keith rolls his eyes. “Environments like quintessence camps?”

 Lotor chuckles, laughing off the remark. “Environments like communities. Comfortable ones, enriched with copious contact. Since our species is so aggressive, being raised to battle, from battle, it actually activates growth hormones. I heard that your species activates those same hormones from similar, but less aggressive practices.”

 Oh. Well. That explained a lot. Keith groaned. “I think I got into more fistfights than hugs when I was a kid. And we’re not supposed to fight.”

 “I’m not telling you to seek more conflict. You want to grow into more a human, rather than more of a Galra, don’t you?”

 “I-” Keith stops short, unsure if he knows exactly what Lotor is implying now. “But you just said you-”

 “I know what I said. And quite frankly, I would’ve proffered the less violent route as the other half of my heritage would have it been. I had not affection nor much kindness in my rearing either, after all.”

 “You’re telling me if I want to be taller… I just need to.. Ask for more hugs?”

 “Yes. Although I think it might be better to ask for them because you want them, rather than to become a little taller.”

 Keith's eyes widened at that, his face pinkening at the call out. “I, No, I have-” He sputtered. This was embarrassing. “I have-”

 “Not enough, from what I can see.” Says Lotor, Close . Closer than he’s ever been before. Right in Keiths ear.

 The breath on his skin is a death fortune that Keith can’t move fast enough for, sure he’ll see god before he can turn around in time to face Lotor.

 And somehow he does.

 In the time Keith takes to brandish his sword and get up and out of his chair, Lotor uses it to pull off his helmet and take Keiths unarmed hand-- and pull it close, close and closer, until they’re chest to chest.

 And instead of a hit, a jab, a knee, or a strangle, Lotors arms pull at his back until their chests are flushed. And there is nothing aggressive about it.

 He could stab him, right now. He could end Lotor right there, if need be. And yet, he’s frozen once more. Confused again, as Lotor gentles him into a more comfortable position.

 “There we are,” He says, no longer constrained or muffled by his glass prison. Smooth and practiced from the weeks journey on board the Black Lion. One of his hands trails up and down the small of his back, exposed and without armor, sending Keith comfortable shivers up and down his spine, trying to relax him.

 Lotor could just as easily pick up his bayard, his marmora blade, and end him here too, if he wanted. And yet, Keith remains still. Unsure if he wants to anymore.

 “This ought to help you stand a little taller, hm?” He says, and when Keith looks up, Lotors eyes eagerly turn towards his own, devouring.

  Lotor spends the remainder of the time with him outside his portable holding cell, and when that time is up, he goes right back in. No questions, no objections. No fights or pleas out. He goes willingly. Keith fixes the broken mechanism Lotor used to escape it. He delivers Lotor to his Court to remain incarcerated until trial.

 When that trial comes, Keith is there to testify on his behalf.

 The rest of his team is shocked and upset. But Lotor gets out with a lighter sentence, provided with mandatory therapy and the possibility to not spend fifty whole years if he behaves better. He’s allowed to take him out on visits, and slowly, he becomes better at learning Lotor. And Lotor comes to learn the ace in the hole.

[thisdaynews]

BREAKING:UK Vows To Seize Assets Of Edo, Ondo Electoral Offenders.

New Post has been published on https://thebiafrastar.com/breakinguk-vows-to-seize-assets-of-edo-ondo-electoral-offenders/

BREAKING:UK Vows To Seize Assets Of Edo, Ondo Electoral Offenders.

Soon after similar threat from the United States, the United Kingdom on Tuesday vowed to seize overseas assets of electoral offenders in the upcoming governorship polls in Edo and Ondo states.

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The surge of overseas threats is coming on the heels of persistent electoral violations in Nigeria which have failed to diminish over the years.

In a statement through its Twitter handle, the UK said it would send observers to the elections in the two states which come up this month and October.

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Part of the statement read: “As a friend and partner of Nigeria we are closely follow­ing the lead up to the off-cycle governorship elections in Edo and Ondo states scheduled for September 19 and October 10, respectively.

“These elections are im­portant, both as an essential element of effective gover­nance within both states and an indicator of the strength of Nigeria’s democratic insti­tutions.

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“We will be deploying ob­servation missions to both the Edo and Ondo elections and supporting civil society led observation.

“The UK takes a strong stand against election-relat­ed violence and, just as we did in the general election in 2019, will continue to take action against individuals we iden­tify as being responsible for violence during the elections.

“This could include restric­tions on their eligibility to travel to the UK, restrictions on access to UK based assets or prosecution under interna­tional law.

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“The UK will continue to provide support and engage­ment as we move towards these elections. We urge INEC, the Police and all oth­er agencies involved to work together to deliver free, fair and credible elections.”

The statement stated that Catriona Laing, UK High Commissioner to Nigeria, had met with leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Dem­ocratic Party (PDP) during which she called for a hitch-free election.

“The discussions focused on the need for the parties’ leaders to prevail on support­ers to avoid violence before and after the elections,” the statement read.

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“And we welcome the Edo candidates’ signature of the National Peace Committee and INEC convened peace accord,” it said.

Meanwhile, Godwin Obaseki, Edo State gover­nor and Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) governorship candidate in Saturday’s elec­tion; his main challenger, Osagie Ize-Iyamu of the All Progressives Congress (APC), and other candidates for the election on Tuesday signed peace accord and pledged to embrace peace irrespective of the election outcome.

The peace accord signed by the 14 candidates contesting the Edo governorship election was organised by the National Peace Committee (NPC).

Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar, former Head of State and the chairman of NPC, while addressing the contestants, urged all stakeholders to commit to the spirit of the accord. ­

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“As we go into the election, we have been given assurance by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) that they will conduct free, fair and credible election. The rest is left for the voters to do what is right.

“We, therefore, call on ev­eryone to work towards peace­ful election to ensure peace reigns during and after the election.”

Gov. Godwin Obaseki, in his remarks, appealed to the peace committee to extend the accord to other actors who have influence in the political space to ensure that the exer­cise is complete.

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Obaseki, who restated his commitment to ensuring peaceful poll, added that he would lead by example.

“I am grateful to the Inde­pendent National Electoral Commission, police and the Oba of Benin.

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“Today, we agree that a unique type of history has been made in Edo State where all contestants sign the peace accord for a violence-free elec­tion. As the chief security of­ficer, I have no choice than to ensure peace reigns,” he said.

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Osagie Ize-Iyamu, on his part, promised to talk to his supporters to conduct them­selves in a bid to achieve peaceful poll.

“We are grateful to the peace committee, INEC and the police. We are also grateful to the Oba of Benin because what we are witnessing today was actually initiated few weeks ago.”

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Earlier, the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, thanked Presi­dent Muhammadu Buhari for the assistance in ensuring peaceful poll in Edo.

Represented by the Esog­ban of Benin, Solomon Edebi­ri, he appealed to Edo sons to shun violence, noting that when two people contest, only one emerges as winner.

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We’re Sure Of Victory, Obaseki Assures, Rounds Off Campaign

Again, Godwin Obaseki, Edo State governor and can­didate of the Peoples Demo­cratic Party (PDP), on Tues­day, declared that with the support of Edo people and endorsements by over 100 groups in the state, he is cer­tain of victory in Saturday’s gubernatorial election in the state.

The governor, who gave the assurance at the final reelection campaign rally in Benin City, urged eligible voters in the state to come out en masse to vote the PDP to enable him consolidate on the achievements recorded in his first term and put an end to godfatherism in the state.

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Present at the rally were former vice presidential can­didate of the PDP in the 2019 general elections, Mr. Peter Obi; Chairman of PDP Gover­nors’ Forum and Sokoto State governor, Aminu Tambuwal; Chairman, South-South Gov­ernors’ Forum and Delta State governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa; Governors Nyesom Wike, Seyi Makinde, Ben Ayade, Duoye Diri, Victor Ikpeazu, Udom Emmanuel of Rivers, Oyo, Cross-Rivers, Bayelsa, Abia, Akwa Ibom states, re­spectively, among other dig­nitaries.

According to Obaseki, “I don’t have anything to say to you my Edo people but to thank you; you have been wonderful especially as we went through the 192 wards to seek your support for re­election.

“We will win this election because so far over 100 groups have endorsed me for the race. With groups like the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), National Union of Pensioners (NUP) and other groups in the state behind me, tell me how we will lose the election?”

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Continuing, Obaseki said: “Democracy is not a govern­ment of godfathers but a government of the people, by the people and for the people. In Edo we have been fighting godfatherism and by Satur­day we will put an end to it, and after that go to Lagos and put an end to godfatherism in Nigeria.

“The godfather disturbing Nigeria came up this morn­ing, he is afraid because he knows when we finish that of Edo, we will come for him in Lagos and finally end god­fatherism in Nigeria”.

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On his part, Tambuwal urged the Independent Na­tional Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies to ensure the conduct of a free, fair and credible poll in the state.

He said: “I learnt they are coming to Edo with a bullion van; don’t sell your votes; vote and protect your votes.

“I am appealing to the In­dependent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to con­duct a free, fair and credible election. I also want to appeal to all the security agencies not to intimidate anybody on elec­tion day. Even when you are being intimidated, don’t run home, stay back and protect your votes.”

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Meanwhile, Okowa not­ed: “This is the first time a governor went round from ward-to-ward to campaign. As you vote, remain vigilant and shine your eyes. No one can cheat the majority. Edo will not be left out; all South- South states are PDP, so we don’t want anybody to cheat on us.”

Also, Governor Wike said: “If we must fight and put an end to godfatherism in Nige­ria, it must start on Saturday in Edo State. The IGP has as­sured us of a secure election in Edo and the INEC chair­man has also assured Edo peo­ple of a free, fair and credible election but don’t let us go and sleep with all these promises but stay awake and be vigilant and ensure that Obaseki wins.

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“Obaseki must be voted for, to bring an end to godfa­therism in Nigeria. The Edo election is important as it will show the way out to eliminate godfatherism in Nigeria.”

Tinubu, Obaseki Trade Words Over Edo Governorship Poll

In another development, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, for­mer Lagos State governor and national leader of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), and Governor Godwin Obaseki, Edo State governor and candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), on Tuesday, traded words over issues surrounding this week­end’s governorship election in the state.

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Tinubu, who has not hid­den his support for Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, the APC candidate, fired the first sal­vo when he advised the people of Edo to reject the governor at the poll.

Describing Obaseki as a dictator, who does not cherish democratic norms, Tinubu the in broadcast said the governor does not deserve the votes of the people on Saturday.

Narrating how he suffered along with many others to gain democracy for Nigeria, Tinubu said while he was taking part in the democratic struggle in the 1990s, Obase­ki was nowhere to be found hence the governor’s inabil­ity to appreciate democratic institutions.

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“I want to appeal as a com­mitted democrat and a leader of all democrats to our con­science and commitment to democracy, on the forthcom­ing election in Edo State, to reject Godwin Obaseki in this coming election.

“I have suffered with many others to bring about this democratic regime, that today, we are enjoying in the country. Then, Godwin Obaseki didn’t participate in any aspect of the struggle to enshrine democracy in the country. Therefore, he could not understand the value and the pains associated with this democratic struggle.”

Speaking further, Tinubu who said Obaseki prevented 14 of the 24 elected state law­makers from being inaugu­rated, called on the people of Edo State to punish him with their votes for denying them representation for four years.

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He said Obaseki refused to take the advice of the National Assembly and the Attorney-General of the Fed­eration to let the 14 members of the House of Assembly be inaugurated.

Tinubu said rather than let them be inaugurated, Obase­ki supervised the destruction of the House of Assembly complex all in a bid to prevent them from being sworn-in.

The APC chieftain added, “He demonstrated the act of dictatorship, lack of respect for rule of law, lack of respect for you the people who voted for those legislators prevented from being sworn-in. Today, he now comes back as a dem­ocrat wanting you to vote for him. Please, I appeal to you, reject him.

“Several institutions and leaders of our country ap­pealed to him to respect con­stitutional democracy but he rejected all entreaties. He rejected the appeal of the Na­tional Assembly.

“When the Attorney-Gen­eral of the Federal Republic of Nigeria enumerated the path of honour and the con­stitution of the country, rath­er than obey and respect the law, he vandalised the House of Assembly in Edo by remov­ing the roofs, burning gravels and rocks at the entrance of the House of Assembly only to prevent these 14 members from being sworn-in. Now, he is asking for our votes, your votes, our dear people. Is he a democrat? No, he is not.”

However in his response, Obaseki in a statement by Crusoe Osagie, his Special Adviser on Media and Com­munication Strategy, said that Tinubu’s plans to extend his political empire to Edo State will fail on Saturday as the people of the state are determined to end godfather­ism.

The statement reads, “Our attention has been drawn to a television broadcast in which a former Lagos State gover­nor and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in his quest to extend his po­litical dominance and empire to Edo State, decided to take over the role of Edo people to choose through the ballot who to govern them for the next four years.

“It has become obvious that the spirited fight which Edo people have put up against godfatherism has sent tremors beyond the shores of Edo.”

Stressing that Edo peo­ple are committed to ending godfatherism in the state, he said: “Tinubu knows clear­ly that come September 19, when godfatherism would have been dismantled in Edo State, the people of Lagos may just have found the recipe and formula for removing the chokehold placed on their col­lective destinies for decades, hence the inciting television broadcast.

“He should take note that Edo people do not yield their will, liberty and power of choice to oppressive figures because they are perceived to have economic and political means. Like one of the great sons of Edo, former governor and former national chairman of the APC, Chief John Odi­gie-Oyegun, recently said, our people do not give in to ‘primi­tive loyalties.’ We always chase noble causes and a little study of our history should show Tinubu the indomitable spirit of the Edo person.

“Edo stands in the heart of the old Midwestern re­gion, which was the only region created through pleb­iscite, which underscores our capacity to determine our destiny as a people. The blood which ran in the veins of the leaders of that time is still the same that runs in the vein of the leaders of Edo State today.”

Continuing, he said, “We call on all Edo people, friends of Nigeria and all lovers of democracy to disregard all the comments by Tinubu, as the allegations about the Edo State House of Assembly and other claims in the broadcast are completely false.

“We urge the irrepressible people of Edo State to disre­gard the threats and come out en masse on September 19 to vote for Governor Godwin Obaseki and the Peoples Dem­ocratic Party (PDP), as their voice and vote are supreme in the governorship contest.”

He maintained that “the outcome of next Saturday’s election would reinforce the reigning saying in Edo’s pub­lic sphere, Edo no be Lagos, and provide for the people of Lagos a template to dislodge godfatherism as well as set the stage for the realisation of the full potentials of Lagos, which Lagosians have been denied of for decades.”

[authenticaussie]

Hey, I've got a fic request if you're taking them!!! I see a lot of fics where sabo is portrayed as like the boring, responsible brother who can't have any fun - is it possible to get some saboace where they're just being complete goofs and daring each other to do crazy shit? (I've spent the last hour in your writing tag btw, you're amazing, sending this in is vaguely terrifying)

ahhhh man omg that’s like??? The best headcanon you know, the ASL bros are just the biggest idiots (also “daring each other to do crazy shit” is the best phrase I’ve ever heard because like it’s so accurate t H E Y TOTTALY WO U LD pffffffffft)

;A; I’m really sorry though sweetpea!!! I don’t have requests open because of uni and work and some other fics that I need to focus on (///stares guiltily at skies fft)

But here are some headcanons?? I know it’s not as good as fic aha I’m sorry!!!!!

okay so Ace doesn’t really get the concept of a dare at first,’cause he’s alone a lot so nobody ever really says it to him, but after he first meets Sabo and when they’re still antagonistic they’re racing through the Terminal and get to high and Ace stops before he jumps across, ‘cause it’s a pretty sharp drop!! And Sabo’s like “dare you to” and Ace is like wtf is a dare? 

“You like- youknow! Do the thing or you’re a wimp?”

“That’s stupid.”

“Oh, so you can’t?”

Ace, immediately taking the bait because he’s an impulsive fuck, bolts for the ravine.

He totally fails. Ends up scraping his elbow super badly and it’s bleeding everywhere and Sabo scrambles down a trash heap and is worried for a bit but then Ace grins at him and is like “I’m on the other side” and Sabo punches him and Ace starts laughing

They totally have a sock slidey race at one point in the bandit’s hideout and Sabo’s socks aren’t as holey as Ace’s so he goes further and Ace is like BET YOU CAN’T GET TO THE OTHER SIDE OF THE HOUSE

WATCH ME yells Sabo, and sprints for it but forgets to slide and just smashes into the wall (that’s when he lost his tooth) (he swallowed it)

WHEN ACE GETS HIS FIRST LOOSE TOOTH HE’S LIKE SABO WE HAVE TO YANK IT OUT, THEN WE CAN MATCH

SABO’S LIKE FUCK YES AND THEY TRY AND FIGURE OUT HOW TO GET IT OUT AND SABO’S LIKE WELL. PIPE?? I lost my tooth being whacked in the face???

Dadan finds them just before Sabo swings his pipe at Ace’s teeth and she y e l l s at them for like an hour. They just look at each other from the corner of their eyes and five minutes after she finishes yelling at them, Sabo slams a door in Ace’s face (it breaks his nose.) (His tooth doesn’t come out until a few weeks later when Luffy accidentally punches him in the face). (it’s honestly a miracle these kids don’t have brain damage.)

ALSO IT TOTALLY CONTINUES WHEN THEY’RE OLDER TOO, RIGHT? LIKE IF THEY WERE ABLE TO GROW UP TOGETHER THESE TWO WOULD BE THE WORST AROUND EACH OTHER, THEY’D KEEP GOADING EACH OTHER INTO DOING THE STUPIDEST SHIT

“Hey Ace bet you can’t fight a chimara!!”

“Hah, I fought a fucking dinosaur, a chimara is easy.”

“Dare you to rearrange Koala’s work out gear”

“Ooooh you’re a fucker,” Sabo says, b u T HE DOES IT ANYWAY ‘CAUSE THEY’RE IDIOTS

“Ace, you can’t beat whitebeard.”

“WATCH ME”

“S A B O YOU CAN’T OVERTHROW THE GOVERMENT”

“WANNA BET????????????”

Eating contests are totally a thing. Like, they’ve almost choked to death so many times and everyone else is like DON’T YOU DARE HAVE ANOTHER- ACE, SABO, WHAT THE FUCK DID WE JUST SAY

o k a  y but like. Daring/challenging each other to see who can escape a marine base the fastest 

(Ace wins, but only because no one will arrest Sabo. Like, he’s trying so hard but his luck that particular day is ridiculous and no-one will believe him when he’s shouting he’s from the revolutionary army, and he tries to commit a bunch of crimes b  U T LIKE, THINGS KEEP HAPPENING SO HE LOOKS LIKE A REALLY NICE GUY?? He beats someone up for insulting Ace but it turns out they have a bounty, he goes and steals a bunch of stuff but it turns out that they were all stolen and people think he was returning them, he tries to claim he’s Ace’s brother but then the marines just arrest Ace again, and Ace is h o w l i n g with laughter as he gets dragged away and Sabo’s just FUMING.) (He totally destroys the base out of principal/to rescue Ace and when Dragon asks he’s like “….It was a matter of pride sir. I’m sorry.”)

hmmm what elseeeeee….So both of them do crazy shit just for kicks, yeah? When they’re drunk or just because they’re both impulsive, or ‘cause they think something looks cool/fun/dangerous and they want bragging rights, but like, when either of them does something and it gets back to the other they either a) immediately want to try it b) have to do something better

also when either of them are drunk they think everyone is insulting them, and while Ace has people that will drag him away from bar fights (and also because he doesn’t drink a lot because narcolepsy medicine and because both he and Sabo hate being out of control,) Sabo totally does not. So just imagine him challenging an admiral or something and Koala’s only just found out that he’s gone and the next thing she knows there’s like four explosions and she buries her face in her hands and goes “this was an undercover mission Sabo.”

BUT WHEN ACE HEARS HE’S LIKE SHIT, HOW DO I ONE-UP THAT. “MARCO, WHERE’S THE NEAREST MARINE BASE”

“DON’T EVEN FUCKING THINK ABOUT IT” Marco yells, meanwhile Thatch is slipping Ace directions and a box of fireworks to make the explosion even Cooler

///coughs also you say ‘saboace’ instead of sabo & ace so if you wanted a couple of romantic-ish headcanons; aggressively daring each other on date things

“Bet you’re not a good kisser.”

“YOU’VE NEVER KISSED ANYONE, HOW ARE YOU EVEN SUPPOSED TO MEASURE THAT.”

“I’ve kissed people!!!!!!” 

“Makino doesn’t count.”

or something like “ask them out!!” 

“How??”

“Dare you to.”

“Fuccccccckkkkk you Ace.” Ace, like, the literal personification of “;3c”

“You’ll never get married.”

Ace, scoffing. “Wanna bet???”

“Well you don’t want to.”

“…depends on who asks.” he mumbles.

[lostinfic]

Mercier x Betty  British Raj AU

The word ‘dance’ comes to mind, their own choreography of gazes exchanged across the room, brushes of hands and half-spoken confessions. They orbit around each other, destined never to collide it seems; Mercier is upper class, Betty is a governess. And he’s spying on the family whose children she swore to protect. But in this foreign land of spices and silk, of golden gods and lush forests, where cultural norms clash and wane, even destinies must yield to desire.

Rating: Mature  Word count: 3.9k Beta: @fadewithfury​ <3 Thank you anon who prompted a Victorian AU that became this, and to my French anon for inspiration; Don’t let the pretentious summary fool you, this is plotless and shameless romantization of India, and an excuse to write UST and sneaking around. Warnings: drinking, smoking, kids because Betty is a governess. You don’t need to have seen either show. 

Tumblr | Ao3

1 | Falling

Calcutta, August 1902

As soon as Mercier exited the Raj Bhavan and stepped out from under the shade of the portico, the sun assaulted him. He tugged at his stiff high collar. It wouldn’t last, leaded clouds loomed on the horizon.

Monsoon season was almost over, the violent showers now few and far inbetween, giving way to the more tolerable days of Sharad Ritu, the fourth season of the Hindu calendar with the autumnal equinox as its midpoint.

Mercier walked towards the river Hoogly, intent on enjoying the city before having to shut himself indoors because of the heat.

Early morning was the busiest moment of the day. Even before sunrise, natives and foreigners alike took advantage of the cooler temperature to conduct their business. The clocks had barely struck nine when Mercier left the government house, having approved a transit between Calcutta and the French territory of Pondichéry.

He navigated between sweetmeat sellers, water carriers and liveried chaprassis, and beasts too, as numerous as humans, oxen pulling carts, gharry horses wearing blue beads and sacred bulls eating marigolds. Dust rose under their hoofs. And the smell of them reminded him of the stables on his estate, in a much quieter part of the world. How incongruous to find something so familiar halfway around the globe, and that such a foul smell should make him smile.

He reached the shore and stared absentmindedly into the flow, brown waters, a shade like café au lait, stirring memories of lazy Sunday mornings with his wife.

Mercier shook his head free of these melancholy thoughts, and instead settled his attention on the large steps descending into the river. No, not the colour of café au lait but of chai masala. Locals and pilgrims bathed there, washing clothes and cattle. The thrum of women’s gossip and fakir’s prayers reached his ears. A couple knotted their robes together and dipped side by side as a little boy priest showered them with petals.

In every city he’d lived in there had been such a river. The social and commercial center of the city, bustling with activity and yet nothing appeased him like walking along the banks. The Seine, the Thames, the Danube, the Vistula, the Rhine… And once again his mind wandered with the river, joining the Ganges and flowing to the Bay of Bengal and into the Indian Ocean; the same route he’d arrived in this country.

His steps took him towards the port where the wind impregnated the great white sails of the P&O ships.

He did not miss France per se, but his freedom. Always an independent spirit despite his military career, he went from one European capital to the next, to spy or fight, taking unpaid leave when things didn’t go his way. India had promised such liberty. But after four years, the close-knit community felt claustrophobic. The occasional mission kept him on his toes, but he’d imagined a work far less administrative.

He’d missed another Exposition Universelle and the summer olympics in Paris. He’d thought about leaving India before. But this country always had a new marvel in store to convince him to stay a while longer. Whenever melancholy had swept over him before, he’d discover a new sport, new food, new landscape to remind him there was much left to discover and enjoy. What would it be this time?

Anyway, he had an important assignment to complete before he could take his leave.

Mercier stared into the waters again. There were no steps here, but a steep wall, four feet above sea level, that dived into the river. Waves broke against the stone and a refreshing salty mist sprayed his face.

“Oliver Douglas Wigram, come back here!”

Mercier perked up at the name; Lord Wigram was part of his assignment, someone to report on, but he had yet to secure an invitation to his home.

“Oliver! It’s dangerous!”

A woman, Lady Wigram he assumed, ran and shouted, holding up her yellow skirts. A little boy, no more than four years old, ran past Mercier, giggling as he glanced over his shoulder at his pursuer.

Out of nowhere, a donkey headbutted the boy, sending him into the port’s deep waters. Mercier froze, agape. Oliver resurfaced, gesticulating wildly to keep himself afloat. Mercier started removing his jacket. He barely had one arm out that the woman dived straight into the river, her hat flying off behind her.

The strong current dragged Oliver away. Lady Wigram swam steadily to him. Mercier ran along the edge, trying to catch up, preparing to jump. Water swallowed the boy, and she dived under. His heart stopped as they disappeared, but she emerged with the child in her arms.

She was a good swimmer but her layers of clothes and corset would weigh her down. They didn’t need a third person in there but something to pull them out. He grabbed a thick rope, unwinding it from around a post, and threw it at them. It fell too far.

With one arm around the crying boy, the woman had trouble keeping her head out of the water. Mercier threw the rope a second time. It landed right beside them, and she grabbed it immediately. With the help of other men who’d witnessed the incident, Mercier pulled them out of the river.

An old sepoy caught Oliver, and Mercier hoisted Lady Wigram by her underarms. He laid her on the ground and knelt beside her. Brown curls stuck to her face, and he wiped them off as she coughed water. Her breath was short and laboured, her eyes wide and panicked. She clawed at her dress, and he realized what she needed. Running his fingers over her torso, he located, under the fabric, the front hooks of her corset. With some fiddling, he managed to free her. As soon as she could breathe properly, she looked around, searching for the boy.

“He’s here, my lady, he’s alive.”

She crawled to the boy. Oliver safe in her arms, she sagged with relief against Mercier’s chest. He couldn’t help but close his arms around them.

“Shhh. You’re fine, you’re safe,” he whispered to soothe the lady’s tears.

“Sorry,” she mumbled, pulling away and wiping her nose on her sleeve.

“There is nothing to be sorry about. Can you stand up?” he asked after a moment.

She nodded, and he helped her up to her feet. The old sepoy offered to get them a carriage. They sat on a bench near the road to wait for it.

“Oh, my Lord! Thank you for saving us. Thank you,” she said. “Oh, where’s me head at, I didn’t even ask your name.”

“Colonel Jean-François Mercier. It’s a pleasure to meet you Lady Wigram.” He kissed the back of her hand.

“Oh. I’m not lady Wigram.”

“I heard you say the boy’s name, I assumed…”

“I’m just the governess.”

“A pleasure all the same. And your name?”

“Betty Salinger, sir.”

“A governess? You do not look like one.” He looked pointedly at her colourful promenade dress.

She sniffled as she fingered a muddied lace trim. “It’s me— my day off,” she explained

She looked at her ward, but didn’t express discontentment at his presence on her day off. She attempted to clean his face with her soaked handkerchief, and Mercier offered his own. It didn’t do any good, the child still looked a right mess, soaked to the bones with a runny nose and one shoe lost.

“Her ladyship will kill me dead.”

At that, Oliver’s lip wobbled and his eyes welled up again.

“Oh, no, no, sweetheart, don’t worry, I didn’t mean like that.”

“Because you saved her son?”

“I let him run off.”

“Children will do that. The donkey pushed him.”

Betty nodded, but worry lines still bracketed her mouth. The poor woman was dishevelled, her chignon slid halfway down her hair, and her corset still gaped under her dress.

“Perhaps if your clothes were clean and dry, the accident might not appear so severe.” He pulled a dead leaf out of her hair.

“Is it that bad?”

“We could stop by my house so you might fix your appearance and the boy’s, and dry your clothes.”

Her wide, uncertain eyes settled on him, mouth slightly agape. “Is that proper, sir?”

“Oh, of course, my apologies… My sister will be there.”

She relaxed. “Yeah, if you would be so kind, it might make matters better.”

*

The carriage stopped in front of a large white stucco house with a classical portico. Above the entrance, hung a French flag, the heat had caused the blue and red dyes to bleed on the white middle.

Taking in the size of the building, Betty’s eyes widened and shifted between Mercier and the house.

“It is not all for me. It doubles as the French consulate,” Mercier said. “The west side is offices and guest rooms.”

“There are people in there?” She crossed her arms to cover herself.

“Come this way, I will make sure no one sees you.”

He guided her around the house to a side entrance.

Oliver was getting impatient, clinging to Betty and demanding to go home, but he stopped whining as soon as he saw Mercier’s two pointer dogs. His giggles and the dogs’ soft barks attracted Gabrielle to the room. Back from calling on a friend, she removed her gloves and feathered hat.

“Have you gone fishing, brother?” she teased as she eyed their soaked guests.

Mercier introduced his younger sister and explained the situation.

Gabrielle promptly put an arm around Betty’s shoulders. “Good heavens, what a fright you must have had. Come with me, we will find you something dry to wear. Jean-François, please have the cook prepare something.”

He watched the three of them walk up the stairs with an odd pinch to his heart. He could trust his sister to take good care of them. No doubt Gabrielle’s congeniality would soothe Betty’s nerves better than he could. But it felt wrong to let them out of his sight. Of course, he couldn’t follow, Betty was about to undress. Not that he was averse to witness that.

Clucking his tongue at his own silliness, Mercier headed for his rooms. He changed out of his clothes, damp from holding Betty, trading the layers of jacket, waistcoat and cravat for a loose linen shirt.

He unlocked his roll top secretary and sifted through files for the one on Lord Wigram.

Douglas Wigram had been doing business in India for over a decade but only moved permanently to the country eighteen months ago. Although his business partners worked mainly in Bombay, he now lived in Calcutta, on the eastern side of the country. He had made enemies in Bombay, amongst which trade partners from the French territories of Mahé and Pondichéry. Rodier, the Governor General of French colonies, had put him on the list of potential enemies who believed India should be united under the British crown.

By taking Oliver back home, Mercier might meet Lady or Lord Wigram and perhaps secure an invitation for some upcoming gathering at their house. From then on, it would be easier to assess if Wigram was a threat.

After stopping by the kitchens, Mercier joined the women on the white marble verandah. In the corner, a punkah wallah with a string attached to his toe stirred a large cloth fan suspended from the ceiling on a wooden frame.

Betty was sat on a reclined Planter’s chair, and, standing behind her, Gabrielle braided their guest’s long brown hair. Both wore loose muslin wrappers, strictly speaking these garments were dressing gowns, but had been widely adopted as day wear in India, perfect for the heat if not quite appropriate to entertain company. Gabrielle tied the end of the braid with a ribbon and laid it over Betty’s shoulder. Water from its tip seeped into the white fabric and a wet ring grew above her breast. She noticed and swept the braid behind her, but Mercier’s gaze lingered on the sheer spot, then on her delicate sun-kissed collar bones. She clutched the fabric on her chest self-consciously, and he averted his eyes immediately.

He cleared his throat and turned to the bar caddy, chiding himself for ogling her. The poor woman was stuck between borderline indecency in the company of strangers and the wrath of Lady Wigram. Yet the light tan of her skin told him it was not her first time out of the house wearing little.

“Brandy?” He offered Betty a glass which she accepted but didn’t bring to her lips.

“None for me?” Gabrielle complained as she sat down on a large cushion.

“Only for those who have rescued someone today,” he replied, drinking from his own glass. “How are you feeling miss Salinger?”

“Better, thanks,” she answered, eyes downcast.

“In this sun, your clothes will be dry in no time,” Gabrielle assured her.

Mercier turned his attention to the garden below. The chirping of blue-breasted quails and Himalayan flamebacks made him search for their colourful plumage amongst the garden shrubs.

“What kind is that?” Gabrielle asked pointing at a small bird with iridescent feathers perched on a palm tree.

“A sunbird, I believe, green-tailed.”

“My brother loves birds and all wild animals,” Gabrielle said. “Do you love nature and animals, miss Salinger?”

“Oh yes!” She covered her mouth, tampering down her own enthusiasm straight away.

“The wildlife of India is marvellous, don’t you think?” Gabrielle insisted.

“The flowers are beautiful, I shall never tire of walking in the Wigrams’ garden.”

“How nice. You love the flora and my brother loves the fauna.”

It’s only out of respect that Mercier didn’t roll his eyes at his sister’s matchmaking attempt. Gabrielle was all but married to Armand, and, before leaving her brother, she endeavoured to find him a companion.

“Do you hunt, Colonel?” Betty asked.

“I have been on a few expeditions.”

“Have you ever killed a tiger? I hear they are terribly dangerous and bloodthirsty.”

“I saw some last year. I was invited to a hunt with a few generals and lords at the domain of the Maharaja of Surguja. They are magnificent creatures, but I did not kill any.”

When their party had arrived in the forest, servants had already baited and drugged the tigers. There was no danger, and certainly no honour, to killing them. So as not to insult his esteemed colleagues, he’d held his tongue and pretended to miss his mark.

“His lordship made a carpet out of the first one he caught,” Betty said. “I always walk around it.”

He smiled at her, and she averted her eyes.

“How is the boy doing?” he asked.

They looked at Oliver, chasing after the dogs.

“Brave lad, he had quite the adventure… oh, what’s the point of fixing me dress, he’ll tell her ladyship everything anyway.”

“He seems quite taken with the dogs, perhaps it’s all he shall remember,” Gabrielle said.

“Let’s hope so.”

Truth be told, Mercier worried more about the dogs than the boy, he was now pulling at their tails and ears.

“Achille. Céleste,” he called.

The dogs joined him, Oliver on their heels. Mercier showed him how to pet and play with them.

“You don’t have to do that,” Betty said, “I should take care of him.”

“It’s your day off, is it not?”

She didn’t voice another objection, instead leaning back and taking a sip of brandy.

“He was lucky you know how to swim. It’s quite rare amongst young women,” Mercier commented. When she offered no explanation, he asked, “where did you learn?

“Me father, sir.”

“Did you live near the water?”

“No.”

He wondered if her reluctance to speak stemmed from shock or shyness. To put her at ease, he told her of a river, near his family’s estate in Boutillon where he used to swim. No more than two-feet deep, but still his mother had forbid him to go. “So of course, I went there every occasion I had.”

“And I followed,” Gabrielle added. “Even after you left, I kept going.”

“Not by yourself, I expect.”

“I always managed to find some company…”

He smiled indulgently at his sister. She used to tease the village boys mercilessly. They did anything she asked as long as they believed they had a chance with her, which, in actuality, they never had. One of them received the scold of a lifetime for bringing her tobacco.

He rolled a cigarette and handed it to his sister. She never smoked in public, etiquette forbade it, but he wanted to check Betty’s reaction. A sort of moral test, to assess if he could use her to spy on Lord Wigram. Betty frowned at Gabrielle exhaling smoke, but he thought it was more from curiosity than judgement. Interesting.

A servant brought a platter of jalebi, deep fried curls of batter dipped in sugar syrup and saffron. Oliver dashed to the plate, grabbing one jalebi in each hand.

“Slow down, sweetheart, don’t spoil your lunch.”

But the adults were as eager as the kid. They emptied the platter in no time, the crystallized exterior crunched under their teeth, and they hummed with delight, sucking their greasy fingertips. Colour returned to Betty’s face, cheeks flushed, her lips tinted gold with saffron, and glistening from the sweet oil. He caught her eyes as her tongue darted to the corners of her mouth. For the first time, she didn’t look away.

“Me granddaddy did, live by the water I mean, near the Eccup reservoir in Leeds,” she said.

“And that is where you learned to swim?” Gabrielle asked.

“Yeah... We went there in the summers,” she added, gaining a little confidence. “Daddy was in the Navy. He knew water can be dangerous, but he didn’t want us to be afraid of it.”

“You certainly were not afraid of it today,” Mercier said.

“Wish I’d stayed longer in the water, it was quite refreshing,” she admitted, hiding a laugh behind her hand.

That made him smile. Perhaps it could be arranged, he’d heard of some rivers one could swim in just outside the city. He refilled their glasses of brandy, offering one to his sister this time.

“How long have you two been in India?” Betty enquired.

“I arrived fours years ago, and Gabrielle joined me a year later. You know what they say, women come to India for two reasons: because they are married to empire builders or because they want to be.”

“I will hear no such thing, Jean-François! It may be unladylike, but I came here because I wanted to see India.”

“And you prefer piano players to empire builders,” he replied, referring to Armand.

“Hush!” She poked him with her toes. “And you Betty, why did you come here? Looking for the perfect man?”

“The only interest I have in men, is making a good one out of Oliver.”

“I like her, brother, you should rescue governesses more often.”

Realizing what she’d said, Betty blushed and glared at her glass of brandy. “As good a man as his lordship, I mean… I should go, we will be late for tiffin. Come on sweetheart.”

“I want the doggie,” the child replied, hugging Achille’s neck.

Betty gently pried him away.

“You can come back to see them again,” Mercier said impulsively, earning a surprised look from Gabrielle.

While Betty and Oliver put on their now dry clothes, Mercier had the driver prepare the buggy. He put on a waistcoat and jacket again, and fixed his hair to make a good impression on the Wigrams.

Although Betty and Oliver looked in better shape, their outfits were still the worse for wear. It saddened him to see her smile now turn into a frown.

“Thank you for your help, Colonel, but I’m afraid it will not do much good.”

Mercier’s ancestors had been knights, and he found nothing awakened the chivalry in his blood like the distress in Betty’s doe eyes.

“Let me take you home and talk to Lady Wigram. I will tell her it’s my fault.”

“I appreciate it, sir, but why would you do that for me?”

“Yes, why would you do that?” Gabrielle echoed.

He could not reveal he wished to make the Wigrams’ acquaintance to spy on them. But he didn’t have to take the blame for that. The truth was he couldn’t stomach any criticism coming to Betty when she’d so bravely jumped in the water before he had even gathered his own courage to do so.

*

As they neared the house, Betty chewed harder on her bottom lip and wrung her hands in her lap. She fussed over the child’s appearance. “Oliver, sweetheart, what did we do this morning?”

“I played with doggies.”

“Yes, exactly, that’s what we did. All morning. We played with the dogs. Do you remember their names?” And she kept on asking about the dogs, to make sure it was all the boy would talk about.

Arrived at the house, Betty had hoped to slip under the radar but Lady Wigram was in the hall. She was a good looking woman, but her pale skin, droopy eyelids and oddly slow demeanour gave the impression she was permanently drowsy.

She took in their clothes and asked: “Good Heavens, what has happened?”

“I fell in the river,” Oliver said before running off to his room.

“My horse pushed him,” Mercier said right away, “it was frightened when the boy came running. Miss Salinger was with him. He fell in a stream, hardly a river, and—”

“You let him run off?” Lady Wigram spoke daintily, but accusation and contempt spiked her words.

“I— I’m sorry… the horse and…”

“She immediately jumped in too, to grab the boy, most courageously.”

Lady Wigram huffed and sent Betty to her room. “You cannot possibly eat lunch in this state.”

Betty’s eyes welled up, and, shoulders bowed, she walked away. As he watched her disappear up the stairs, there was again that odd pinch to Mercier’s heart.

“Really, madam, miss Salinger is not to blame.”

“There is no need for that, Colonel.” She looped her arm through his, guiding him to the front room. “The girl is a lost cause, but my husband knew her father and he’s sentimental, you know how these things go. We make do with her flaws, poor girl.”

Mercier ground his teeth.

*

When he returned home, Gabrielle was waiting for him at the dining room table. He knew that amused glint in her eyes, and only reluctantly sat down with her.

“You like her,” she said in French with that teasing lilt.

“I need her. I have to learn more about Lord Wigram’s business in Calcutta.”

“So you are using her to be in the Wigrams’ good graces.”

“Exactly.”

“Hm.”

“… What is it?”

“And how does taking the blame achieve that?” she asked. “Wouldn’t it have been better to present yourself as a hero, or to at least side with Lady Wigram on staff’s incompetence?” Although she’d formulated her sentences as questions, he knew she was only mocking him by stating the obvious.

“It worked—” he showed an invitation to a dinner party at the Wigrams’— “it’s all that matters. I can complete my last assignment.”

And with that mission done, he would be able to leave India. The governess was his ticket out… or the marvel that would make him stay another while longer.

Chapter 2: Observing

[sentiment-or-profit]

Greetings, all! What follows is something I’ve been wanting to address for a while. It’s a bit of a headache (I know, believe me------I had to write it all out xD), so bear with me, please. :) (A big thanks to born-to-be-admired for contributing to this post as well!)

I have stated multiple times, as I’m sure many of you have noticed, that myself and my exclusive partners do not abide by the canon of S3 of the new series (Or S2 beyond E04) of Poldark. Sadly, both S3 and a great deal of S2 do a horrible job portraying both events and characters, straying dramatically not only from the source content (The novels) but more importantly, from the already existing canon of the show (Most notably in the cases of characters such as George, Elizabeth, Demelza, and Caroline). Also, both butcher the passage of time beyond recognition. As a result, we have been now been presented with versions of events/characters that I consider to be poorly conceived of and in some cases entirely inaccurate, and so don’t abide by.

Let me just start off by saying that I am in no way attempting to dictate other people’s portrayals------like me, you’re free to run with whatever version of the canon you want, for whatever your reasons. As I’ve said before, the canon I abide by is taken essentially from the books, with modifications made to allow for the canon of S1 of the new series (And S2 up to E04), which is my first and foremost source.

This doesn’t mean that I’m unwilling to interact with people who don’t abide by all the same canon as me------as I’ve said, I’m not here to dictate other people’s portrayals, and so long as blatant contradictions don’t arise in our interactions, we’re probably going to be okay. However, if contradictions are raised, and it becomes clear that our versions of events/characters are very different, I may be forced to drop the exchange. Obviously, it just doesn’t work to have my character saying one thing happened and yours saying another when that thing is meant to be an indisputable fact.

So, what I would request first and foremost is that you don’t assume when RPing with me that anything happened like it happened in S3 of the new series, or in S2 from E04 onward. I understand this may be confusing for some people (Particularly those who haven’t read the books), and that you may be wondering what remains and what doesn’t, and in the cases of the things that don’t, what occurs instead. I will try to outline some of the differences I think are most likely to arise below.

Of course, there’s a lot I could go into------the vast majority of George’s behavior in S3 is illogical, and that’s not even touching on other characters/events. That said, I will try to keep this short and highlight the points which I feel are most likely to come up during interaction, and which could be potentially detrimental to that exchange (And not go into all of the whys, since that would get unnecessarily lengthy). Also, I won't delve too deeply into anything involving only myself and my exclusive partners, as we're already on the same page, and that information isn’t going to be of a lot of use to other people.

First off, let’s talk about the passage of time in the new series. This is very complicated and messy (Take my word for it), but I will try to put it as simply as possible: not as much time passes in the new series as passes in the books. Of course, this shouldn’t matter much, provided the story is adapted to suit. But it isn’t. Instead, there comes a time in S2 where to the new series fails to acknowledge the fact that less time has gone by (And does nothing to compensate for the time lost). In other words, with the passage of time the show has presented, it is not possible for the year to be 1794 at the start of S3, but the series writers choose to behave as if the year is 1794 just the same. The year should in fact be 1791, and this is what myself and my exclusive partners run with. This means that George and Elizabeth’s marriage takes place in 1790, and Valentine and Clowance’s births in 1791. Agatha’s death would take place in 1792. Morwenna’s arrival at Trenwith/Drake and Sam’s arrival at Nampara, however, must still take place in the year of 1794 (Again, I won’t go into all of the reasons why. Just take my word for it). This also means that Dwight (Who would have joined the Navy in 1790 instead of 1793) is at sea for longer before he is taken prisoner.

Now that’s out of the way, let’s move on to those points I was going to highlight. Again, these are taken directly from the novels, with some small modifications made to allow for the canon of S1 (And S2 up to E04), which remains my first and foremost canon source.

- Both Jud and Prudie have been dismissed from service at Nampara by the time of Valentine’s birth (They still live nearby in the village of Sawle), having been replaced by John and Jane Gimlett.

- Dwight does not attend Elizabeth during Valentine’s birth. Rather, she is attended first by Dr. Choake, and then by Dr. Behenna.

- Dwight does not treat Valentine when he develops rickets. This also falls to Dr. Behenna.

- George does not question Dwight about Valentine’s prematurity. These questions are posed to Dr. Behenna.

- George and Geoffrey Charles get along well prior to George discovering that he and Morwenna have been associating with Drake.

- Geoffrey Charles does not take interest in visiting Ross, or in mining.

- Morwenna’s appointment as Geoffrey Charles’s governess is a mutual decision reached by George and Elizabeth, both of whom are in favor of the idea. George does not spring her appointment on Elizabeth, and Geoffrey Charles is informed he is to have a governess beforehand.

- George never deliberately attempts to use Morwenna to put distance between Elizabeth and Geoffrey Charles, but rather hopes that her presence will better prepare Geoffrey Charles for the more disciplined environment he will be faced with when he begins attending school.

- Elizabeth, while saddened by the growing distance between herself and Geoffrey Charles, is never resentful towards Morwenna, and is only ever kind to her.

- Morwenna, while greatly taken with Drake and influenced by her feelings for him, always maintains a strong regard for what is expected of her and their respective social standings. She would never lightly disgrace her family, or abandon them financially by marrying a penniless man without their consent. She feels not only a considerable obligation to conform to what is socially acceptable, but also a genuine desire to please and care for her family.

- Morwenna and Drake at no point agree to marry (Prior to their marriage near the end of The Angry Tide, that is).

- Geoffrey Charles, while very pleased that Drake and Morwenna are friends, takes a greater interest in his own friendship with Drake. He is not aware of Drake and Morwenna’s romantic interest in one another, and does not attempt to encourage it.

- Demelza, while disappointed that Ross does not accept the magistracy he was offered, is not critical of his decision. She does feel as though he could have effected positive change had he taken the position, but she is far more deeply troubled by the fact that she feels he has declined an honor that was his by right, and she feels badly that he will not receive the recognition she believes he deserves. However, she fully supports his decision, and firmly believes he should only do what he feels to be right. This incident does not create any contention between them.

- While George is eager to make a good match for Morwenna for his own personal benefit, he also looks to please Elizabeth by securing an advantageous marriage for cousin, as well as to prevent Morwenna further influencing Geoffrey Charles (By sending her away), as he believes her influence to be a poor one. He also has a genuine concern for Morwenna’s future.

- Demelza and Morwenna do not meet prior to Morwenna’s marriage to Osborne.

- Ross did not torment George with toads while they were at school, and has nothing whatsoever to do with George’s dislike of them.

- On the sixth of June, after Drake has stopped bringing toads to Trenwith land but before his arrest for the theft of Geoffrey Charles’s bible, George and Elizabeth are informed by Clarence Odgers that Drake and Morwenna have been meeting. George, at this point, forbids Morwenna and Geoffrey Charles from seeing Drake. They meet once more at Trenwith in spite of this, and Geoffrey Charles gives Drake his bible.

- Drake’s bringing of the toads to Trenwith land and his supposed theft of Geoffrey Charles’s bible both take place prior to Dwight and Hugh’s rescue by Ross (The mission to France occurs immediately after Drake’s release).

- Morwenna marries Osborne while Drake is gone to France. Drake learns of Morwenna’s marriage to Osborne shortly after his return from France. Drake and Morwenna have no further contact after he returns.

- George does not make Morwenna’s marriage to Osborne a stipulation of Drake’s release; in fact, she has already heard of Drake’s release by the time she consents to marrying Osborne. In other words, although there is considerable pressure put upon her to do so, Morwenna is not forced to marry Osborne. Rather, she marries him because it is what is expected of her and what will most benefit her family, and also because (In spite of her love for him) she has always been aware that marrying Drake was never a rational option. Also because (Having heard of Drake’s arrest and feeling their relationship played a part) she does not wish to endanger him in future.

- Following Dwight and Hugh’s rescue, Ross and crew put in at Falmouth (Where the Blameys live), not at Hendrawna Beach.

- Following his imprisonment in France, Dwight’s physical health is compromised and he is left permanently weakened, which impacts his relationship with Caroline and his ability to practice his profession.

- Morwenna does not speak to anyone about the abuse she suffers at Osborne’s hands.

- Hugh does not sketch. Poetry is his only artistic endeavor.

- When Ross informs Demelza of his decision to decline a seat in Parliament, she is both pleased and relieved. As with the magistracy, she feels as though he might have effected positive change, and she would have been glad to see him do so---however, she feels he would have been very unhappy as a Member of Parliament, as there would have been a far greater likelihood of him being forced to deviate from his own beliefs and morals. Thus, she both supports and commends his decision to decline the offer.

- Demelza’s feelings for Hugh do not originate from spite or revenge. She does not wish to use him, and she does not indulge his advances out of resentment towards Ross. Rather, she comes to genuinely care for Hugh over a long period of time, and is particularly vulnerable to his attentiveness, as even when matters are well between her and Ross, he can be negligent of her more sensitive feelings. Hugh offers a kind of concern and thoughtfulness she has never been given before. When she learns of Ross and Elizabeth’s meeting in the graveyard, it does further distance her from Ross, which does make her more susceptible to her feelings for Hugh, but her own unfaithfulness is not an act of revenge. She never intends to be unfaithful, and she never intentionally encourages Hugh, though her feelings for him do undermine her efforts at times. When Hugh and Demelza do finally sleep together, it happens first and foremost because of her own deep feelings for him, developed over his many months of pursuit, and also out of sympathy, both for his illness, and for the love he bears her, as she knows she cannot truly give him what he wants.

- Though he has great misgivings about their relationship, and is fully aware that each has feelings for the other, Ross does not know that Demelza has been unfaithful to him until some time after the fact, when Hugh is on his deathbed. When he finds out, he reacts very badly.

Again, this is by no means everything wrong with S3, or everything that I do differently------but it does touch on a lot of the points I feel are more likely to come up. Thanks for taking the time to read this, and have a good one! ;)

[inloveandwords]

This post was inspired by Ally’s series (which was inspired by Lia at Lost in a Story).

It works like this

Go to your Goodreads to-read shelf.

Order on ascending date added.

Take the first 5 (or 10 (or even more!) if you’re feeling adventurous) books

Read the synopsis of the books

Decide: keep it or should it go?

    The Book of Love (Magdalene Line Trilogy #2) by Kathleen McGowan

Maureen Paschal thought she might rest and work on her book after discovering the gospel written by Mary Magdalene that revealed Jesus and Mary Magdalene were married. The truth of their story rocked the world and made Maureen a target of those who did not like her discovery and a heroine to those who did. Then Maureen receives a strange package containing what looks like an ancient letter written in Latin and signed with a symbol. She discovers that its author is an extraordinary woman whom history has overlooked — or covered up — Countess Matilda of Tuscany, and in the letter Matilda demands the return of her “most precious books and documents.” Maureen soon finds herself in a race across Italy and France, where hidden dangers await her and her lover, Berenger, as they begin to realize that they are on the trail of another explosive discovery: the Book of Love, the Gospel written in Jesus’ own hand. As Maureen learns more about Matilda, an eleventhcentury warrior countess who was secretly married to a pope, she begins to see the eerie connections between herself and Matilda, connections she must trace to their source if she is to stop the wrong people from finding the Book of Love and hiding it forever. Weaving together Matilda’s little-known true story and Maureen’s thrilling search, “The Book of Love” follows two amazing heroines as their stories intertwine through time. Maureen is immersed in the mysteries of the labyrinth, the beautiful poetry of the Song of Songs, the world’s greatest art and architecture, and Matilda’s amazing legacy…until a potentially fatal encounter reveals the Book of Love to Maureen — and to the reader.

Date added to TBR: Jun 27, 2011 Keep or Ditch? Ditch Comments: Dear me from June 27, 2011… y tho?

The Six Rules of Maybe by Deb Caletti

Scarlet spends most of her time worrying about other people. Some are her friends, others are practically strangers, and then there are the ones no else even notices. Trying to fix their lives comes naturally to her. And pushing her own needs to the side is part of the deal. So when her older sister comes home unexpectedly married and pregnant, Scarlet has a new person to worry about. But all of her good intentions are shattered when the unthinkable happens: she falls for her sister’s husband. For the first time in a long time, Scarlet’s not fixing a problem, she’s at the center of one. And ignoring her feelings doesn’t seem to be an option…

Date added to TBR: Jun 27, 2011 Keep or Ditch? Keep Comments: It is my personal mission to read every Deb Caletti book ever written. Also, I own this book already.

Dead Beautiful (Dead Beautiful #1)by Yvonne Woon

On the morning of her sixteenth birthday, Renée Winters was still an ordinary girl. She spent her summers at the beach, had the perfect best friend, and had just started dating the cutest guy at school. No one she’d ever known had died. But all that changes when she finds her parents dead in the Redwood Forest, in what appears to be a strange double murder.

After the funeral Renée’s wealthy grandfather sends her to Gottfried Academy, a remote and mysterious boarding school in Maine, where she finds herself studying subjects like Philosophy, Latin, and the “Crude Sciences.”

It’s there that she meets Dante Berlin, a handsome and elusive boy to whom she feels inexplicably drawn. As they grow closer, unexplainable things begin to happen, but Renée can’t stop herself from falling in love. It’s only when she discovers a dark tragedy in Gottfried’s past that she begins to wonder if the Academy is everything it seems.

Little does she know, Dante is the one hiding a dangerous secret, one that has him fearing for her life.

Dead Beautiful is both a compelling romance and thought-provoking read, bringing shocking new meaning to life, death, love, and the nature of the soul.

Date added to TBR: Jun 27, 2011 Keep or Ditch? Keep Comments: This is already on my bookshelf. I don’t plan on unhauling it just yet 🙂

Juliet, Naked by Nick Hornby

Annie loves Duncan — or thinks she does. Duncan loves Annie, but then, all of a sudden, he doesn’t. Duncan really loves Tucker Crowe, a reclusive Dylanish singer-songwriter who stopped making music ten years ago. Annie stops loving Duncan, and starts getting her own life.

In doing so, she initiates an e-mail correspondence with Tucker, and a connection is forged between two lonely people who are looking for more out of what they’ve got. Tucker’s been languishing (and he’s unnervingly aware of it), living in rural Pennsylvania with what he sees as his one hope for redemption amid a life of emotional and artistic ruin — his young son, Jackson. But then there’s also the new material he’s about to release to the world: an acoustic, stripped-down version of his greatest album, Juliet — entitled, Juliet, Naked.

What happens when a washed-up musician looks for another chance? And miles away, a restless, childless woman looks for a change? Juliet, Naked is a powerfully engrossing, humblingly humorous novel about music, love, loneliness, and the struggle to live up to one’s promise.

Date added to TBR: Jun 27, 2011 Keep or Ditch? Ditch Comments: This had been on my bookshelf for a long time, but I actually recently sold it back to Books a Million since my sister forced me to watch the movie. I didn’t love the movie, so I don’t plan on reading the book either.

Secrets of Eden by Chris Bohjalian

From the bestselling author of The Double Bind, Midwives, and Skeletons at the Feast comes a novel of shattered faith, intimate secrets, and the delicate nature of sacrifice.

“There,” says Alice Hayward to Reverend Stephen Drew, just after her baptism, and just before going home to the husband who will kill her that evening and then shoot himself. Drew, tortured by the cryptic finality of that short utterance, feels his faith in God slipping away and is saved from despair only by a meeting with Heather Laurent, the author of wildly successful, inspirational books about . . . angels.

Heather survived a childhood that culminated in her own parents’ murder-suicide, so she identifies deeply with Alice’s daughter, Katie, offering herself as a mentor to the girl and a shoulder for Stephen – who flees the pulpit to be with Heather and see if there is anything to be salvaged from the spiritual wreckage around him. But then the State’s Attorney begins to suspect that Alice’s husband may not have killed himself. . .and finds out that Alice had secrets only her minister knew.

Secrets of Eden is both a haunting literary thriller and a deeply evocative testament to the inner complexities that mark all of our lives. Once again Chris Bohjalian has given us a riveting page-turner in which nothing is precisely what it seems. As one character remarks, “Believe no one. Trust no one. Assume all of our stories are suspect.”

Date added to TBR: Jun 27, 2011 Keep or Ditch? Ditch Comments: This is on my bookshelf, but I honestly don’t plan on reading it. Time to unhaul it!

Midnight Bayou by Nora Roberts

Declan Fitzgerald had always been the family maverick, but even he couldn’t understand his impulse to buy a dilapidated mansion on the outskirts of New Orleans. All he knew was that ever since he first saw Manet Hall, he’d been enchanted-and obsessed-with it. So when the opportunity to buy the house comes up, Declan jumps at the chance to live out a dream.

Determined to restore Manet Hall to its former splendor, Declan begins the daunting renovation room by room, relying on his own labor and skills. But the days spent in total isolation in the empty house take a toll. He is seeing visions of days from a century past, and experiencing sensations of terror and nearly unbearable grief-sensations not his own, but those of a stranger. Local legend has it that the house is haunted, and with every passing day Declan’s belief in the ghostly presence grows.

Only the companionship of alluring Angelina Simone can distract him from the mysterious happenings in the house, but Angelina too has her own surprising connection to Manet Hall-a connection that will help Declan uncover a secret that’s been buried for a hundred years.

Date added to TBR: Jun 27, 2011 Keep or Ditch? Keep Comments: I have two shelves full of Nora Roberts books right now and I’ve only ever read one series by her. While I enjoyed it, the only reason why I own so many of her books is because I inherited them from a friend. TBH I don’t know that I’m ever going to get to reading most of them. I hate reading mass market paperbacks and 99% of them are in that format. At some point, when I gather enough books, I’m planning on getting rid of most of my mass market paperbacks. For now, though, I’ll hang on to this.

The Letter (The Christmas Box Trilogy #3) by Richard Paul Evans

Nineteen years after the death of their young daughter, an estranged couple finds a letter at the base of the girl’s gravestone. Feeling in his heart that the letter is from the mother who abandoned him as a child, the husband embarks on a poignant journey of self-discovery and renewed love. The bestselling author of THE CHRISTMAS BOX brings another universal message of hope and love to Spanish-speaking readers.

Date added to TBR: Jun 27, 2011 Keep or Ditch? Ditch Comments: It’s part of a series I haven’t read yet!

Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë

“Come to me–come to me entirely now,” said he. “Make my happiness–I will make yours.”

Born into a poor family and raised by an oppressive aunt, young Jane Eyre becomes the governess at Thornfield Manor to escape the confines of her life. There her fiery independence clashes with the brooding and mysterious nature of her employer, Mr. Rochester. But what begins as outright loathing slowly evolves into a passionate romance. When a terrible secret from Rochester’s past threatens to tear the two apart, Jane must make an impossible choice: Should she follow her heart or walk away and lose her love forever?

Unabashedly romantic and utterly enthralling, Jane Eyre endures as one of the greatest love stories of all time. This must-have edition of a timeless classic is beautifully presented for a modern teen audience.

Date added to TBR: Jun 27, 2011 Keep or Ditch? Keep Comments: MUST. READ.

The Taking by Dean Koontz

On the morning that will mark the end of the world they have known, Molly and Niel Sloan awaken to the drumbeat of rain on their roof. It has haunted their sleep, invaded their dreams, and now they rise to find a luminous silvery downpour drenching their small California mountain town. A strange scent hangs faintly in the air, and the young couple cannot shake the sense of something wrong.

As hours pass and the rain continues to fall, Molly and Niel listen to disturbing news of extreme weather phenomena across the globe. Before evening, their little town loses television and radio reception. Then telephone and the Internet are gone. With the ceaseless rain now comes an obscuring fog that transforms the once-friendly village into a ghostly labyrinth. By nightfall the Sloans have gathered with some of their neighbors to deal with community damage… but also because they feel the need to band together against some unknown threat, some enemy they cannot identify or even imagine.

In the night, strange noises arise, and at a distance, in the rain and the mist, mysterious lights are seen drifting among the trees. The rain diminishes with the dawn, but a moody gray-purple twilight prevails. Soon Molly, Niel, and their small band of friends will be forced to draw on reserves of strength, courage, and humanity they never knew they had. For within the misty gloom they will encounter something that reveals in a terrifying instant what is happening to their world – something that is hunting them with ruthless efficiency.

Date added to TBR: Jun 27, 2011 Keep or Ditch? Ditch Comments: This is 100% not my thing. Why did I add it?

Called Out of Darkness: A Spiritual Confession by Anne Rice

Autobiographical spiritual memoir providing an account of how the author rediscovered and fully embraced her Catholic faith after decadesas a self-proclaimed atheist. Begins with her childhood in NewOrleans, when she seriously considered entering a convent. As she grewinto a young adult she delved into concerns about faith, God, and theCatholic Church that led her away from religion. The author finallyreclaimed her Catholic faith in the late 1990s, realizing howmuch she desired to surrender her being, including herwriting talent, to God.

Date added to TBR: Jun 27, 2011 Keep or Ditch? Ditch Comments: This is the second book in a series. I got a little excited over the name, apparently.

  Here are the stats

Previous Total TBR Count: 1896

Updated Total TBR Count: 1951

Total Ditched Today: 6

Total Kept Today: 4

  Bye-Bye Books: Decluttering my TBR March 2019 This post was inspired by Ally’s series (which was inspired by Lia at Lost in a Story…

[elliotthezubat]

DEATH CITY DAYS CHAPTER 16

Q_Q dem feels man.

Takehisa: (tending to their wounds) "You dumbasses really fouled up this time..." Arthur: "Hmph. I blame that dragoness. Vicious creature..." shinra:..........ow................. --In Hibana's room-- Hibana: "Hmph. These children..." gabriella: are you alright? you arent injured, are you? Hibana: (winces) "That stumble..." (looks at her arm) "I hope it doesn't bruise..." -elsewhere- Kid: (rotates his arm) "A hot jacuzzi soak was what I needed..." liz: so what now? Kid: "I will help staff prepare dinner. Please set the table." -the next day- Kid: *yawn* -at school- Patty: "What's the first class?" < > Drawing < > Math < > Training <x> Other Kid: "I was hoping for geography...These forests are all starting to blur together..." -geography class begins- Yumi: "Good morning. I will be offering a guest lecture today on..." Yumi: "Verdant Forest." (Yumi opens her backpack that she brought with her to reveal a relic from the forest) -it's a green jewel- Patty: "Ooo...Shiny! Kid: (raises his hand) "What is that relic?" Patty: "Ooo...Shiny! Kid: (raises his hand) "What is that relic?" Yumi: it’s believed to be a nature stone. Patty: "A nature stone? Where did the DWMA find it?" Yumi: "It was recovered during one of our tours. I actually have a video from the adventurers who found it..." (plays video) person: dude, look at this. pretty shiny huh? Person #2: "Indeed...Captivating..." -something wraps around one person's leg and throws them- person 3: *SCREAM* Person #1: "Oh, God! What the f--?!" (smashed in the face with something) -the video cuts out- liz:........vines? Kid: o___o Yumi: "Yes, vines. You will need to be careful when traveling through this forest..." Patty: (pulls out bugspray) Patty: (and weedkiller) liz: maybe we should give the stone back? Yumi: (nods) "That is your mission. I want you to be careful out there..." (pats Kid's on the shoulder) Kid: (nods) -and so- Kid: (carrying his backpack) "Everyone ready?" stocking: yep. Patty: (holding up her weedkiller) liz: patti! Patty: "What? I don't want to get manhandled by a giant weed monster!" -at the forest entrance- Kid: "..." (looks at the entrance) "I don't sense anyone around yet..." liz:....... *she notices a small altar made from a stump and puts the stone there* Kid: "...I don't sense anything yet." -some of the trees pull back, opening a path- Kid: o_o "I guess...we follow?" -it leads to a grove, where an older lady resides- Kid: "H-Hello?" ???: *she looks back* oh. you must be the ones who returned my stone. the others were just telling me about that... Kid: " 'Others'?" ????: the trees of course. *she smiles* Kid: "...Oh." (looks at them, then back at her) "I am Death the Kid." ????: call me Mirva. Kid: (smiles) "It is good to meet you. This is Stocking, Liz, and Patty." -they converse for a while- Kid: "Mirva, we are seeking assistance with locating the last Sage." mirva: i see. and you have been having trouble finding someone to take up the title, and those who have tried have not fully awakened their full potential... Kid: "So we have heard. However, we need someone...What should we look for in someone who can take on the title of Sky Sage?" mirva: the sky sage will always be a child of grigori. a true child of grigori. Kid: (looks down) "We...lost one such person..." mirva: perhaps another....an angel.... stocking: i tried, but it rejected me. Kid: "I'm afraid we're at a loss. It's not like we can bring back the dead." mirva: i can tell you a presence does exist. someone who could be the new sage. she is kept in a steel prison in the vast desert... Kid: "Which desert?" mirva: a desert where cacti flourish. Kid: "We come from a desert...Death City...You don't mean such a person is back home?" mirva: not quite. but the distance is not too drastic. she lies to the south east. Kid: "Southeast from here, or from Death City?" mirva: south west of your home, young one. Kid: "...Thank you. Is there anything more you can tell us, to advise us?" mirva: one last thing. *she summons a violin and plays a melody* -obtained the forest aria- Kid: (looks to Stocking) "Got that?" stocking: yeah. Kid: (bows to Mirva) "Thank you." -elsewhere- Yohei: "Zzz..." chie: *reading* -meanwhile, at the fear factory HQ- Shinoda: (bites into an apple) "Yum~" grunt: so what's the next course of action, sir? Shinoda: "NoFix set back progress on the re-capture of Yohei at the London Tournament, as well as recruiting some of the robotics experts there..." (shows files on Kepuri and others) "Now that such a debacle is behind us, I think we need to take a new approach to accomplish our goal of Dokeshi supremacy." grunt: and that would be, sir? Shinoda: "Our new plan will be through re-building London. We already have contracted clean-up efforts." -elsewhere- NoFix: "Nice operation around here. So, what'd you got plan for these clowns and those Kishins?" luka: creating an army and selling them to anyone willing to have them in their armies, be it goverment armies, terrorists, whomever. NoFix: "Neat. That's gotta be profitable." (spies on one Clown) "Who's the next client?" luka: we got some orders from a company called 'fear factory'. NoFix: "..." (frowns) "Joy." pierrot test subject: d-doc? i-i dont feel too good....i feel sick in the stomach and my head keeps buzzing.... luka: just a side effect, it'll probably go away. NoFix: "???" (looks at the Test Subject) test subject 2: *a strange yellow substance leaks from their nostril* ahhhhhh...... NoFix: (grimaces) "Oh, shit! That ain't right!" -elsewhere- Kid: (looking out a window) stocking: how're you holding up? Kid: "...I don't know. One more Sage, but I cannot understand who or where they are." stocking: ............... Kid: "What do we do?" stocking: i dont know.... for now, lets try focusing on happier things... Kid: (small smile) "Okay..." (reaches slowly for her hand) stocking: *she smiles and kisses him gently* Kid: (holds her) "Thank you..." stocking: i love you kid, dont forget that, ok? Kid: (nods) "I never will forget...and I will always love you." stocking: mmmm...... *she hugs him* Kid: (strokes her hair and back, feeling her heartbeat and her soul wavelength...) "So warm..." stocking: *she rubs his head and back, smiling warmly* Kid: (kisses lightly along her cheek) -the next morning- Kid: *yawn* -at school- Kid: "Father, Mother, we returned the relic to the Forest." lord death: so i see, kiddo. Yumi: (nods) "Excellent work. I read your initial report about the last Sage's location." (turns to Lord Death) "Any idea where this desert is? What this metal containment unit is?" lord death: i send a search team to investigate the area. Kid: "I wonder whether they will find anything..." -elsewhere- Hiro: "Oh, hey Shinra--?! Ugh...You okay?" shinra: *bandaged* coulda been better..... Arthur: *bandaged* "No kidding..." Hiro: "...What happened?" shinra:......orange juice..... Hiro: "...Orange juice kicked your ass?" shinra:............................(thinking: i'm glad iris patched us up....) *he thinks about iris in an old timey nurse outfit* .//////. Arthur: (thinking something similar about Tamaki in a sexy nurse outfit) o/////o Hiro: "...Hello? Guys? You alive? You need something?" shinra: *NERVOUS SMILE* I'M SHINRA AND IM OK!! Arthur: "!!!" Hiro: "...Hi, Shinra, I'm Hiro, and I'm majorly confused." shinra:.........i need to use the bathroom. Arthur: "...Good idea." (follows) Hiro: "...TMI." -in the bathroom- Arthur: "..." shinra: *banging his head against the wall* stupid, stupid, stupid, stupid, stupid! i'm such an idiot! Arthur: "Yes, you are." *checks his eyes* "I did not sleep enough..." shinra: well.....what now? Arthur: "...I think we should avoid Hibana. Otherwise, she will kill us. You really should have stopped me before I went into her room to slay that dragon." shinra: that's what i was trying to do! Arthur: "Then you should have tried harder! And her assistant--she's, like, a goliath! So small, yet able to have such strength! She picked me up with one hand and threw me into the garbage!" shinra: fitting. Arthur: (frowning) "What's the worst that happened to you? Hibana just threw you across the room and Maki--Wait, what did Maki do to you?" shinra:.....i dont want to talk about it. Arthur: "...She hurt your pride, man?" shinra: oh shush. i had to theoretically bury your dignity again! Arthur: (clenches his teeth) "No one asked you to..." -elsewhere- Hibana: "Such brats. Happy they are at school and not here." (examines her GPS bracelet) gabriella: tea or coffee? Hibana: "Coffee, thank you." gabriella: right away~ Hibana: "Hmph. I used to be in charge of my own brigade, my own company. Now I'm basically under house arrest." (softens her face) "I suppose I should ask how you are adjusting to all of this, Gabriella. You had the option to go elsewhere." gabriella: i wanted to be here with you. i couldnt ask to be anywhere else than by your side. Hibana: "..." .\\\\. "Thank you. That actually means a lot." (clears her throat) "Y-You know, because you are so organized...and prepare my coffee how I like it." gabriella: *she smiles* Hibana: "...Why don't you pour yourself a cup of coffee as well and let's talk? I don't really know much about you." gabriella: a-are you sure? Hibana: (frowns) "I said I wanted to know more about you, so sit and tell me about yourself!" (blushes a bit more) "...Please" gabriella: o-ok...w-what did you want to know? Hibana: "Well...What are your hobbies?" gabriella: hobbies? well, i guess...does playing solitare on the computer count? i dont really make much time for doing things like that. Hibana: "You should: I would go nuts if I didn't have hobbies." gabriella: i-i dont mind though. Hibana: (pouts) "We should find you something to do. Do you like cooking?" gabriella: i can microwave instant ramen. Hibana: -_- "Okay. Tell you what." (holds up her wrist) "This GPS tracker lets me beyond 10 blocks of this place. After we finish coffee, we're going to the grocery store, coming back with ingredients, and I'm going to show you how to cook an entire meal. Okay?" gabriella: for real? Hibana: "Yes." (sips) "Hmm...Good coffee." (smiles) -elsewhere- Wes: "Hey, Liz!" liz: oh hey. Wes: "How's your day been?" liz: great. we found the 2nd to last sage yesterday. Wes: "Awesome! What was that trip like?" liz: foresty. Wes: (small smile) "Dressed appropriately for it?" liz: well...... 7-7; Wes: "???" (a little smirk) liz: what? Wes: "Nothing. You just look great in almost any outfit...and you're cute when you're nervous." liz: oh shush you. Wes: (laughs) "Hey, I was wondering whether you were free Friday night." liz: yeah. Wes: "Cool. Up for going out? I was thinking about dinner and..." < > a movie < > a walk through downtown Death City <x> laser tag liz: how about laser tag? Wes: "..." (childish glee) "I never had a chance to play it growing up--and I've wanted to for so long! Can you teach me?" liz: sure thing! Wes: "Pick you up at 5?" liz: this friday? Wes: (nods) -later- Yumi: "Death, which 'steel prisons' are there near this city?" lord death: we did find prisons, but they were made of stone. the only steel building was a labratory facility. 'Nirvana Lab 07' Yumi: "Nirvana? I'm not familiar with any laboratory or company with that name." lord death: neither am i. we'll have to infiltrate and see what we can find. Yumi: "Ideas for whom to include on this infiltration team?" -kid, liz, patti, stocking, clay, akane, homura, gopher, kirika- Yumi: (lists the parties) "Very good. When is the best date for travel?" -how about tuesday- Yumi: "Tuesday, Nirvana Lab 07...I'll send the assignment and ask Auntie and staff to gather all necessary resources." -elsewhere- Yohei: "...Shit." mana: what's wrong? Yohei: "This news: 'Happy Factory lands third contract for re-building London.' Something smells fishy about all of this..." mana: .......... Yohei: "No way that 'Happy Factory' isn't still Fear Factory...but I can't figure out much on this guy leading it, Apple Shinoda." -elsewhere, in the world of witches- Witch Assistant: "Madam Maba, you called?" maaba: nyamu! Witch Assistant: "We have had complaints in the prison regarding the werewolf recently placed there. He keeps going on and on about wanting his froggy." maaba: nyamu? Witch Assistant: "Yes. I am recommending increased security, including another magical barrier tailored for canines." maaba: nyamu nyamu. *nods* Witch Assistant: "Understood...Also, the prisoner has requested...chew toys." maaba: nyamu! Witch Assistant: *sigh* "Very well. I'll put in the order online. Anything else, Madam?" maaba: .....nyamu nyamu? Witch Assistant: "No, we have not had a new lead on Book of Enoch. I was just heading to Intelligence for any updates. Please, excuse me." (departs and runs into...) sephy: hey. *waves* Witch Assistant: "Ah, Sephy. How are you?" sephy: doin' good. making mail deliveres as usual. kerona's been doing well too. Witch Assistant: "Happy to hear. Any mail for me?" sephy: just the usual stuff. Witch Assistant: "...Sephy? I'm going back to see that werewolf..." (glares) "I want to break him." sephy: you and me both. *cracks knuckles* he's got hell to pay for harassing my baby girl! Witch Assistant: "...Maybe he needs a 'visitor' for a few minutes...hours..." -elsewhere- Noah: (his arm his bandaged...and he's holding something in his hand) noelle: [oh?] *When he injured his hand, he reached in, tore out part of his bone, and wore it down to a shiv, which he has hidden from guards* noelle: [o_______o] Noah: *giggling* "Let them come...I'll have my hostage, and I'll escape with the Book..." noelle: [what hostage?] Noah: *blinks* "Oh...I hadn't figured that out...How about that little girl who hangs out with the guy in the mask? She looks weak." noelle: [the pink one?] Noah: "Hee hee...Yeah...Just grab her wrist, hold the shiv to her neck, and the rest of them will back off. Genius." noelle: [sure.] Wrath!Noah: [KILL A LOT OF PEOPLE! *Kermit the Frog arm wiggling with glee*] Gluttony!Noah: [I'm so hungry...] Lust!Noah: [...I got nothing.] -elsewhere- Hibana: (sets the plates before Akitaru and the others) "Gabriella put in a lot of work in this meal, so I hope you all enjoy it." *glares at Shinra and Arthur* (demonic voice) "OR ELSE." shinra: *sweats* yes ma'am! Arthur: (glares at the food) "I don't like fish--" maki: *shoulder punch* Arthur: "Owie!" (crying pout) -elsewhere- scarlet: *loading her gun* scarlet: wind speed seems about right....now, where are you mr burns? Tamaki: (banging on Burns's door) "Let me in, now!" scarlet: oh? Amber: "Tamaki, please, stop!" tamaki: *angry kitty scratching* ugh! what is his deal?! Burns: (opens the door) "...What?" scarlet: *she takes aim* tamaki: why am i being locked here? what's the deal with that?! Burns: "You have been an irritable child lately, Tamaki, and I want that to stop." Amber: (trying to stand between Tamaki and Burns) "Stop this!" scarlet: move brat..... tamaki: i'm not a child! Amber: (trying to hold Tamaki back) "Sir, she's just, you know, having a bad day. Please don't hold it against her." scarlet: aim...... *her phone rings* !!! *BANG* Burns: (steps forward, pulls Amber away from Tamaki) "If you can't fall in line, Tamaki, you know where you'll go..." *GLASS SHATTERS, BLOOD* tamaki: .....!!!!!!! Burns: "!!!!" Amber: "..." (collapses) tamaki: .........!!!! Burns: "Amber!" (sees the window) "Bastards!" (heads out to try to track the assassin) Firefighter #2: "What happened--Amber?! Someone, get an ambulance!" Amber: *shuddering, choking on her blood* scarlet: dammit!...... *she answers* what....is it? Joker: "Hey, pretty girl." tamaki: amber! we're getting you help. Firefighter #2: (removed shirt, applying it to the wound, trying to stop the bleeding) "Please, God, no." scarlet: couldnt pick a better time to call, because thanks to you startling me, i missed my target. again! Joker: "Well, maybe if you put your calls on silent, this wouldn't happen, now would it?" scarlet: .............up yours. Joker: "You first~ So, who did you kill?" *Flames erupt where Scarlet stands* scarlet: some brat from the 1st brig- WHAT THE FUCK?! Burns: "Fire at her, men!" scarlet: SON OF A- *she takes off* Burns: "Not that easy!" (flames his hands--and flies up to the rooftop) "Follow her!" Joker: "Woof! Sounds like you got yourself into a bit of trouble, Red." scarlet: oh no, its just fireworks- OF COURSE I HAVE A SITUATION ON ME! Joker: "Ah, how sad...Need an assist?" Burns: (fires flame just past Scarlet's head) scarlet: ..... *grumble* fine, just get them off my ass. Joker: (snaps his fingers) Burns: (aims) "Got you, you bastard..." *A circle of flames emerge around Scarlet--and they're not by Burns* scarlet: !!! Burns: "What?!" *BOOM* Burns: *knocked back* "Urg!" *Scarlet has disappeared* tamaki: amber, come on, you're gonna be ok! Amber: "T-T-T..." (stops breathing) tamaki: dammit, someone! do something! Paramedics: "We're here!" Ma'am, get out of the way..." (tend to Amber) "She's...I got no pulse. She's--" tamaki: she's alright! she just passed out! Paramedics: "Ma'am. She's gone." tamaki: she's fine! r-really! Paramedics: "She is dead." (nods to paramedics to get Amber to the hospital, clutches Tamaki) "I am sorry." tamaki: y-you're lying! g-get off me! ok amber, jokes over now! Amber: *there is no reply* Paramedics: "Ma'am, please, calm down--" tamaki: STOP IT! *fire forms around her* Paramedics: "!!! We got a Fire Being! Everyone, back away!" tamaki: *she screams* Paramedics: "Duck!" (flames pass by) tamaki: ............*she breaks down* Paramedics: "..." (to the others) "Get her out of here." (approaches Tamaki...and hugs her) -elsewhere, the next morning- Akitaru: (watching the news) "..." shinra: what is it? Akitaru: (turns off the TV, approaches the Brigade) "Everyone, I am sad to report that the 1st Brigade lost one of their members last night." shinra: what? maki: !! iris: *shocked* Arthur: "Th-The First? Oh, God..." shinra: .... *he looks at arthur* Akitaru: (hand on Arthur's shoulder) "Tamaki was not killed. She is...fine." (looks to the others) "It was an assassination attempt, with 1st Brigade Sister Amber Lee McKenzie killed." iris: !!!! *tearful* Arthur: (solemn) "I-I got to call Tamaki--" Hibana: (holds Iris) "Oh, God..." -elsewhere- Yumi: "We have to take this seriously: what if this assassination attempt was related to our investigation coming up on Tuesday?" lord death: according to the reports, there was an attempt on the 5th commander's life as well. Yumi: "Hmm...Burns, Hibana...Who stands to gain from attacking them?" (taps on a board showing the Commanders' faces) "Perhaps increase security at the 8th for both Hibana and Obi, then at the other Brigades. I think someone should contact Hibana as well for more information about this assassin." lord death: that sounds like a good idea. Yumi: (nods) "I'll bring Hibana in. You find someone to question her." -elsewhere- Black Star: "...Assassins. They give people like me a bad name. If I ever find this brat, I'll wring their neck." soul:............ Black Star: "If we weren't on this mission Tuesday, I'd stay here and knock down every door 'til I find this scum. Right, Soul?" soul: yeah. Black Star: "...I need to get some of this aggression out of me. I'm going to work-out for a bit. What're you gonna do?" soul: i'll figure something out... Black Star: "Okay..." (pats his back) "Stay safe, man." -elsewhere- scarlet: .......... Joker: (puffs on cigarette) "Tell me, Red: why did I hire you when you have failed to kill two Commanders? Is your shot really that bad?" scarlet: i had a clear shot on them, but one jumped in front and you screwed me over on the last one. Joker: "...I am mature enough to admit that I may have been slightly responsible for your massive fuck-up." scarlet:.......... spare me a cig? Joker: (taps one out for her) "Light?" scarlet: i got my own, thanks. *snaps her finger and summons a small flame* Joker: (puffs away) "So, they're now going to hunker down, preventing us from getting another shot any time soon. Maybe we need another option..." scarlet: ........ *takes a long drag* now i have to lay low for a while...just great....fan-fucking-tastic... Joker: "Maybe we need something other than you with a gun outside...Maybe we need an insider..." scarlet: oh? Joker: "Know anyone? I'd recommend you, but Burnsy already knows your face." scarlet: i'll see what we can come up with... Joker: (smiles) "Good. In the meantime, practice on your aim." (forms his fingers into a pistol and aims) "Bang." scarlet:....funny. Joker: "Heh heh..." (finishes his smoke, leans back on the couch) -elsewhere- Kid: "The Sky Sage..." (looks at the map) "We're hunting for Sages to stop that monster, and our own allies are getting gunned down. I know this is typical for the life we live, but I cannot help but be afraid and ashamed." (holds a hand to his chest) "Gods of Death do not treat death lightly." stocking:.... *she holds his hand* Kid: "Stocking, I don't want to lose more people...but I can't stop that. If I lost you..." stocking: that wont happen...i promise... Kid: "..." ("How can she know that...") (he hugs her) stocking: *she hugs back* Kid: "Stocking, please do all that you can to protect our friends..." stocking: i will.... Kid: "Thank you. I will as well." (holds her, and just keeps holding her) stocking:...... Kid: *yawns, leans against her shoulder* -the next day- Kid: (tosses in bed, murmuring) stocking: ....... Kid: "M-Mom..." stocking:............. *she strokes his head* Kid: (muttering in his sleep) "I don't want to lose more...M-Maka..." stocking: ............ Kid: "E-Everyone is dying on me...N-No..." stocking: kid. kid get up! Kid: "No!" (sits up, panting, shaking, sweating) "St-Stocking?" stocking: *she hugs him* Kid: "Wh-What happened?" (clutches her, tearing up) "I saw...I saw so much..." stocking: it was just a dream, kid.... Kid: "..." ("No...They are still gone...") *cries a bit* stocking:.......... Kid: *sobbing* "They're all gone...It hurts..." stocking: kid.... i'm still here..... Kid: (clutches Stocking) "Yes, you are..." stocking: *she smiles* Kid: (holds her, slowly calms down) "...It hurts." stocking:.......... Kid: "..." (holds her) "I think I need...a day off from classes." stocking: ok.... Kid: (lies in bed, yawns) -elsewhere- Black Star: "Kid called in sick." soul: ............ Black Star: "He should be ready for Tuesday's mission, but I think that Fire Brigade attack has worn him down." Patty: (in class as well, sad frown) liz:......we should do something for him. Patty: "Like what? A get-together, or get him something on the way home?" liz: maybe a party? Black Star: "Heck yeah! Do that!" -elsewhere- -knock knock- Arthur: "Tamaki? It's me." tamaki: go away.... *her voice is hoarse* Arthur: "...Please? You've been here for days..." tamaki:................ Arthur: "Tamaki..." (leans against the door) "I'm sorry for what happened to Amber. Iris and Hibana have been mourning her loss. I can't imagine what you are going through..." tamaki: just shut up! Arthur: "?! Tamaki?" tamaki: *she curls up, whimpering* Arthur: (hearing her) "Tamaki? Please?" -elsewhere- Kid: *yawns* "That nap helped..." stocking: *she smiles* Kid: *stretches* "How long was I asleep?" stocking: a little while. Kid: *sighs* "I feel stupid for letting my emotions control me like that." stocking: it's ok... *she strokes his head* Kid: "Thank you...What have you been up to?" stocking: i got a cold compress for your head, since you were burning up pretty bad... Kid: (fans himself at his collar) "You're right...That's disconcerting..." *dry cough* stocking: *she gives him some water* here... Kid: *cough* "Th-Thanks..." (sips slowly) -later- Kid: (sipping on soup) liz: doing better? Kid: (nods) "Yes, thank you. Sleep helped." stocking: *smiles* Kid: (finishes his soup, sighs) "I think I'll be ready by Tuesday for our mission." -elsewhere- Burns: "..." (slams his fist against his desk) officer: commander? Burns: "This gets in the way of everything--Everything!" (tosses papers aside) "Where is that assassin?!" officer: we're still examining the rooftops sir. Burns: "A lot damn good that is doing, Soldier! Someone is dead, my life has been threatened, I'm locked in this building like a prisoner in my own home, and all you are doing is checking rooftops?!" officer: !! Burns: (seizes Officer by the collar) "Get out there, round up any lowlife you can find, and get some information! I'm not going to have another member of the 1st dead because of my inaction! Bring them here! I'll make them talk." officer: !!! Burns: "...Why are you still here?! Get going!" (tosses the Officer--through the door) -elsewhere- Arthur: (in the backyard at the punching bag) shinra:..... *comforting iris* iris:............... Hibana: (having a drink with Maki) "I want to find this son of a bitch--and snap their neck." maki: and kick them in the shins! gabriella: and spill boiling water on their faces! Hibana: "Then burn them alive!" shinra: *sweats* Akitaru: (slams fist on the table) "ENOUGH!" shinra: !! iris: !! Hibana: "!!" Akitaru: (inhales, sighs) maki: commander? Takiharu: "I think the commander is pointing out that we will find this assassin and bring them to justice as soon as possible. In the meantime, focus on your work, not on vengeance alone." Akitaru: (sips) "What he said." maki: ....right....maybe we should cool our heads down........ !! i have an idea! Akitaru: "Oh?" maki: we should all go camping! *shiny eyes* Hibana: "..." (yuck face) "Like, in the outdoors? With dirt?" Arthur: "...It could be a welcome break..." shinra: that sounds like a great idea. maki: *squee* trust me, it's gonna be great, as a kid i went camping all the time, my cousins would join in too! Hibana: *grumble* "Gabriella, buy me decent boots and something fashionable for the great outdoors." gabriella: can do, princess. *she smiles* Akitaru: "Heh heh--good idea, Maki! I'll get my RV back from my aunt for this trip." shinra: i think i went camping once during a class trip. Takehisa: "How was it, Shinra?" shinra: welll.... >///>;;;; Arthur: (smirks) "Come on, tell them about camp...Puddles." shinra: ./////////////////////////. Hibana: "???" Akitaru: "..." (chortle) "Seriously?" shinra: oh hush, captain leech-dick. Arthur: o____o "Hey! That's below the belt!" Hibana: (laughing) "No kidding." maki: *snickering* iris: ?????? Takiharu: "..." (smirks) iris: ?????????????? Arthur: "At least I didn't wet the bed!" shinra: I DID NOT! Arthur: "And I didn't get a leech attached to my dick!" shinra: *dials his phone* Arthur: "Wh-What are you doing?" shinra: getting clarification...... Arthur: "Wh-What?! From who?!" Hiro: "Hello?" Arthur: o_______o "Oh no..." shinra: hey there, did arthur really get his joy handle bitten by a leech during a camping trip? Hiro: "...Ha. Ha." (silence) (hysterical laughter) "Oh, God, he was screaming like a baby the entire time! Good memories..." (more hysterical laughter) Arthur: (desperately trying to reach for the phone, held back by Akitaru and Gabriella) shinra: *evil grin* Hibana: "Ha ha ha! I bet the leech didn't get much of a meal off of Arthur." Arthur: o\\\\\\\o "Sh-Shut up! The water was cold!" iris: ?????????????????????????? Hibana: (slapping the table, cackling) Hiro: (still laughing--then a crash) "Ah! I fell out of my chair! Ha ha ha!" shinra: careful, talk to ya later. *hangs up* read it and weep, boyle. Arthur: "Grrrr...Y-You...You bedwetter! I bet you still do it, you jerk!" shinra: you cant prove it. Arthur: "Y-Yeah?! Well, I can prove I ain't small!" Hibana: "Then prove it!" (slapping the table, laughing) Arthur: o\\\\\\\o Hibana: :3 iris: *chop* no. bad sister. bad. Hibana: T___T Akitaru: "Okay, enough making fun of Arthur's size. Let's get packing!" maki: *cough* package-ing. *cough* ............*innocent whistling* Arthur: "Grrr...I'll get you for this, Shinra!" -the next morning- Hibana: "Zzzzz..." iris: sister? its time to get up now. Hibana: "Mmm..." (gets up, wearing her nightie) "Oh. Hello. What time is it?" iris: about 7 in the morning. Hibana: "Hmm...Yes, I guess it is time to wake up. Hmph. Back when I ran my own business, I had an alarm with lights that would slowly turn on to imitate sunlight. And more scented candles." -elsewhere- Kid: (yawns, waking up) stocking: morning babe~ Kid: "Good morning." (cuddles with her) "How are you?" stocking: pretty good. you? Kid: (nods) "Better. My throat isn't scratchy now, and I think my temperature has gone down." stocking: i'm glad to hear that. *she kisses his nose* poor baby. Kid: (hugs her) "I'll get better...It's all I can do." -elsewhere- tamaki:....................... Burns: "She hasn't come out still?" officer: no sir....i'm worried about her. Burns: "I'm open to ideas: how do we get her out?" officer: i dont know...maybe talking to her? but she locked the door. Burns: "Hmm...Well, unless you are suggesting I kick the door down--" officer: dont you have a key, sir? Burns: "Tch. You take the fun out of everything..." (pulls out his key, opens Tamaki's door) "Hello?" tamaki:..... *silently whimpering* Burns: "Tamaki..." (approaches) tamaki: *croaky voice* what do _you_ want? Burns: "You have to come outside. Come on, you need a good meal and a shower." tamaki: why, just to get someone else killed? Burns: "...They were targeting me. If you want to blame someone, blame me--I can take it. But if you don't stop blaming yourself..." tamaki: why? it wont change what a shitty friend i was! i was just so angry that i was locked up here, that i completely swept her under the rug! Burns: "She never held anything against you, you know that. Amber was kindhearted and had the patience of a saint. And she loved you." tamaki: *whimpering* i should have appreciated her better than i did.... Burns: "..." (puts an arm around her shoulder) "Get showered and dress: we're going out." tamaki:................... Burns: (stands up to leave the room) "You got 30 minutes." tamaki:............. -elsewhere- Burns: (standing before Amber's grave) priest: she was a good kid, that one. Burns: "Yes. She was." priest: this world is a truly screwed up place for things like this to happen, let alone to a girl her age. Burns: "...I am sorry. It should have been me, Father." priest: it would be best not to blame yourselves for what happened, all we can do is move on. Burns: "I've been trying to tell that to one of my soldiers...She hasn't taken that advice well." -elsewhere- Kid: (staring at a photograph on the mantle of his mother) liz: ........ Kid: "She was so young, Liz." liz: yeah....just 15.... Kid: "Amber was too young. My mother was too young. All of this death has been difficult." (holds his chest) "It makes it difficult for Shinigami..." liz:.....how old were you when it happened? Kid: "Five..." (picks up the photograph) liz:......... Kid: "I am happy for everyone in my life, and I feel so much love. But that doesn't lessen the pain." liz: ....... *hug* it's ok kid.... Kid: (returns the hug) "Thank you..." *sniff* -later- Black Star: *whistling* tsubaki+soul: *making lunch* Black Star: "So, your bro is taking Liz out for laser tag? What is he, four?" soul: dude, cut him some slack, we didnt get to do stuff like that as kids. Black Star: "...Sorry, man." soul: its fine. Black Star: "...You ever wanted to do laser tag, Soul?" soul: i guess... i did play a few times with you guys. Black Star: "What did you never get to do at home that you always wished you could do here?" soul: stay up late and eat an entire pizza. Black Star: "Oh, come on, you've done that. How about something bigger?" -elsewhere- Yumi: "Death..." lord death: yes, dearest? Yumi: "...I'm scared." (puts a hand on her stomach) lord death:..... *he pulls her close* Yumi: "I know how to be there for Kid...but I've never been a mother. I mean, I've been a mother to him, but not...really?" (puts her head down) "I'm so confused. I just feel conflicted." lord death: how so? Yumi: "...Before you say I am being irrational, believe me, I am aware. I know I can be a good mother. But I feel like I won't be as good as Kid's mother...Sigh. That's awful. I'm sorry." lord death:..... perhaps maybe you and kid could spend a day together? Yumi: (nods) -elsewhere- Ponera: "Is it just me, or does our prisoner seem a bit calmer lately?" medusa: maybe he finally croaked. Ponera: "Grimmy? Nals? Could you check on him?" grimoire: we shall do that now. Nals: "Lead the way, fearless leader..." grimoire:..... -in the woods- Arthur: (cleaning dirt off his sleeping bag) shinra: this is a pretty nice little spot. we even have a firepit. nice. maki: *she finished pitching up the girl's tent* ta-dah~! Hibana: "Hmm...Wish I brought my generator with me." (taps her phone) "Signal sucks here, too." Akitaru: "Great work, Maki!" Takehisa: "...One corner is off, Maki." maki: TnT Akitaru: (frowns at Takehisa) "Come on, let's get some eats." (hands him fishing pole) iris: *she's picking some flowers and making flower crowns* shinra: so, what do we do then? Arthur: "Hiking? Join in fishing? Nature walk? Climb a tree to find where the dragon's cave is?" shinra: i'm gonna go scope the area out. see what there is to see and what not. Arthur: "Hmm..." Hibana: "Want company?" -on the path- shinra:.... *making a map of the camp site and stuff* Hibana: (studying the flowers) "Fascinating..." iris: *she made 8 flower crowns. one for everyone* here. Hibana: "Oh...Um, thanks..." shinra: *he finds a berry bush and takes a picture with a digital camera to show the others* Arthur: (spying a small butterfly) "Hmmm...What a small one." maki: looks like the others are back now. Akitaru: "Come on in! We got food!" (holds up two giant fish) Takehisa: (holding up a tiny fish) maki: awesome! -they would have fish, hot dogs, and smores- Hibana: (struggling to hold her s'more) "So messy." maki: mmmmm yummy! shinra: *cooking his hot dog with fire from his foot* Arthur: "Ew...Isn't that going to affect the taste?" shinra: *nom*......tastes fine to me. Akitaru: "Heh...so, Shinra, you're having a..._foot_ long?" maki: *she breaks down laughing* Takehisa: (facepalm) shinra:...................... *poker face* commander why? Akitaru: "Ah, relax. I'm just...pulling your leg." shinra:......................... maki: *losing it* iris:.....*snerk* hehe... Hibana: "..." (eyeroll) Arthur: (smirks) gabriella: >.>;;; shinra: -_-;;;;; Akitaru: "You didn't get a...kick...out of that gag?" shinra: i'm going to bed. Hibana: "All of the sugar in the Some Mores is going to keep me up...Think I'll look at the stars." shinra: boyle, you enjoy your hot dog. it's leech free this time. Arthur: (chokes on his meat...on his hot dog...) shinra: g'night. Arthur: "I will keep you up all night with snoring, you jerk!" -elsewhere- Noah: (giggling) grimoire: what's so funny? Noah: "Oh, someone just told me a funny joke. Want to hear it?" grimoire:......?? Noah: "Knock knock." grimoire:.......who's there? Noah: "Howie." grimoire:..................howie who- Noah: *snickers* " Howie gonna hide your dead body?" *cackling* grimoire:.....that was terrible. Noah: "Not as terrible as you're going to look." (giggles) "How you want to go? I could make it quick and painful, slow and painful, or something in between." grimoire: that wont happen. Noah: "Parts of me agree with you. Other parts don't." (pauses) "And one part wants to kiss you hard on the mouth." grimoire:.............................................what? [Lust!Noah: "It'd be like making love to yourself...only not masturbation."] Noah: "...Why don't you open this door and let's see what happens: Fuck Marry or Kill?" grimoire:.....no. Noah: "Another time then." *yawns* "The sleepy part of me wants to catch some more winks. The lustful part will have sweet dreams of you, the wrathful part will kill you, and the hungry part wants some more food here in the morning..." -elsewhere- Burns: "..." tamaki: ................. Burns: "How about something to eat? I've been told my homemade chili is pretty good." tamaki:.....*small nom*.................... Burns: "...Good. Oh--" (hands her a glass of milk and some bread) "It's a bit spicy, so--" tamaki: i know...... Burns: "...Anything you need? Salt?" tamaki:............ -the next morning- Hibana: "Zzz..." iris: *snoozing* shinra: *checks his sleeping bag*.... ah.... good. Arthur: (groaning) "T-Tamaki..." shinra: ?? Arthur: (dreaming) "D-Don't cry...It'll be okay..." shinra:..................... Arthur: "..." (hugs his pillow, drooling on it) shinra: *sigh*.... *he looks up at the roof of the tent* Akitaru: *loud snore* Takehisa: *grumbles, puts a clothes peg over Akitaru's nose to make the snoring stop) -elsewhere- Kid: *yawn* stocking: morning babe. Kid: "Morning, Angel." (hugs her) stocking: i heard your mom is taking you someplace today. Kid: (nods) "We're trying to make a day of it. I was thinking a walk in the park, a film, and a late lunch. Any suggested changes?" stocking: that sounds pretty good. Kid: "Thanks. I hope it is a good day." -and so- Yumi: "Ready to depart, Kid?" Kid: (nods) "We will see you later today, Father." lord death: have fun now, you two~ Kid: (smiles) "We will." Yumi: (kiss on Death's cheek) "Call if you need anything." lord death: of course, dear. --And So, They Departed-- *Kid and Yumi on a Bus* Kid: "It's been so long since I took a bus trip around town." Yumi: (smiles) "I and other Death Scythes used to take you on the bus all the time. You would want to stay on all day." -a few people get on and off- Kid: (points to the park) "Here's our stop." (he pulls the cord to get off) -and so, after the park and movie- Kid: (hands her her ice cream cone) "Here you go..." (hands her something else...) "...and, surprisingly, they did have jalapeno sauce..." Yumi: "Thanks!" (covers her chocolate chip ice cream with jalapeno sauce) Kid: ._. "Um..." (keeps quiet, eats his mint ice cream) person: *squick face* Yumi: (glares at bystander) "WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING AT?!" person: nothing, ma'am! Kid: 0_0 Yumi: (still glaring, angrily eating her ice cream) "Hmph...This is tasty." (angry eating) "Really tasty. How is yours, Kid?" Kid: "...Excellent, thank you." -elsewhere- Patty: "So, Sis, how was laser tag?" liz: pretty good. *she smiles* Patty: "Who won?" liz: the other team, but we had fun anyways. Patty: "Wes lost it for you?" liz: i wouldnt say that, but in the end, it was a good game, overall. we got dinner afterwards too. Patty: "Where did you go? Was it a good meal?" liz: we went to a burger place. Patty: "Tasty." :3 "Anything else happen on your date?" liz: .............. ./////////. Patty: "Oh-ho-ho...Details, details..." -meanwhile- soul: DUDE REALLY?! Wes: o\\\\\o soul: like...full on the lips or.....just on the cheek or something? Wes: "Th-The lips...mostly." (blushes harder) soul: dude. Wes: "W-What? I haven't dated much." -elsewhere- Yumi: (to a clerk) "Yes, thank you." (picks up the book) "I've been meaning to read this novel for some time." Kid: (nods) "I hope it's enjoyable. What is it about?" Yumi: "It's another Murakami book--someone trying to find a sheep with a star on its side." Kid: "...That's weird." Yumi: "Indeed." -there is a light overcast- Yumi: "Oh, no...We forgot umbrellas." Kid: "Maybe we can purchase ones there..." <> polka dots <> clear <> skulls <> black Kid: "Skulls work?" Yumi: (smirked) "I joined this family, didn't I?" Kid: (chuckles) "Two skull umbrellas, please." -and so- *A bit of rain is falling, as they hold their umbrellas* Kid: "...Mother?" Yumi: "Yes?" Kid: "...I am happy to have you as my mother." Yumi: "..." (nods) "Thank you. And I am happy to have you as my son." *Awkward silence* Yumi: "..." (stops, puts an arm around him, hugs him) Kid: o\\\\\\o (hugs back) Kid: "..." (voice squeaking) "Y-You want to do anything else before we head home?" -elsewhere- Patty: :3 liz: oh shush >////> Patty: "I'm not saying anything! But since you asked, when's your next date?" liz: i-i dont know yet. Patty: "Maybe something a bit more high-energy than dumb old laser tag. How 'bout dancing?" liz: maybe. Patty: "And dinner. Then go back to his place for coffee..." -later, elsewhere- NoFix: "Tch. I would've thought by now you guys would make some cooler type of Clown. Like, one with chainsaws for arms or something." luka: well, the results can be unpredictable at times. perhaps if we used the syrum on a lumberjack or something... NoFix: "Oooooh! Fun! So, what would happen if you used that syrum on a hot super-stud?" luka:.......... NoFix: "..." (frowns) "I was talking about me. Have you ever tried mixing my spinning cells with your clown cells? Maybe make a spinning clown baby?" luka: it would probably end badly for you. NoFix: "...Okay, okay, I'll take your warning. Jeez." (taps glass) "But what am I doing here? I feel like all I've done is bang my old lady over and over and over again." luka: you did repair the generators and speed up the transformation process with some of the subjects. we also got blood samples from you to use. NoFix: "Yeah, but I haven't gotten to kill people in a few weeks now." luka: we have some prisoners downstairs for you. NoFix: "..." (grins) -there are 6 people, of varying age, gender, race, and size- NoFix: "They all look so good, I don't know where to start!" (points at one) "What's the worst way you think you could die?" lady: please....why are you people keeping us here? we didnt do anything to you! NoFix: "You exist: that's enough for me..." lady: wh-what are you doing? NoFix: (opens the cell, spinning his hand) "Givin' you a one-way ticket to your maker..." lady: s-stay away from me! NoFix: (seizes her by the throat) "Sorry, can't hear you over how awesome I am..." lady: !!!! < > Quick kill < > Draw it out <x> Toy with her < > Spare her NoFix: (stop vibrating his hand, rubbing it along her face) lady: w-what are you- NoFix: "It's been a long time since I saw someone like you...Like, a whole 5 minutes." lady: *she doesnt say anything* NoFix: "Want to have some fun before you go?" lady: !!!!! NoFix: "How about a game of Eeny, Meeny, Miny, Moe?" lady: ?? NoFix: (puts a hand around her shoulder, points to the other jail cells) "I'll pick a prisoner, and if you kill them, then I'll spare your life for one more day. And I get to pick the prisoner. Sounds fun, right?" lady: ........ NoFix: "Great! Let's start off!" (takes her hands, puts a knife in it, and then grabs her hand so the knife points at each cell as he says..." "Eeny, meeny, miny, moe!" lady: ............ < > Prisoner #1 < > Prisoner #2 < > #3 <x> #4 < > #5 *Prisoner #4, who is twice as big as the Lady and looks furious* lady: *gulp* NoFix: "Ooooh...I don't think it looks good for you, ma'am." (whispers) "Better luck next time..." (gestures to Guard to put the Lady into Prisoner #4's cell) lady: *whimpering* Prisoner #4: (cracks his knuckles) "You're in for a world of hurt, little girl. I've survived two prison sentences, killed five meisters, and tortured dozens of people. You think you got a shot with your little knife?" NoFix: "Them's fightin' words! You gonna take that off of him, Lady?!" lady: please...i-i just want to go home! Prisoner #4: "...I'll make it quick." (lunges at her) lady: *SHE SCREAMS AND JABS THE KNIFE INTO HER THROAT* NoFix: "...Shit. I didn't see that happening." (snaps fingers) "Clean up on Aisle #4 please!" Prisoner #4: "!!! Shit!": lady: *she's twitching and choking on her own blood, before her body begins to change....horrifically.* NoFix: "?! What the what?" Prisoner #4: "Hey! Hey, man, get this chick out of here! What's happening?!" -the creature then begins to scream and sink its teeth into the man- Prisoner #4: "Fuck! Get off me, you bitch!" (slams his arm against the wall, trying to shake the Creature loose) NoFix: "Tch. If I had a nickel for every time I said that..." luka: oh mother- GET A CONTAINMENT TEAM IN HERE, STAT! NoFix: "Aw, come on! This was just getting good!" Prisoner #4: (shrieking) "What's going on?!" -elsewhere- Kid: "We're home." Yumi: "Hello?" Yumi: "Anyone here?" liz: hey. lord death: welcome home! *he kisses her forehead* Yumi: (smiles) "Happy to be back. It was a very enjoyable day." stocking: hey babe~ *she hugs kid* Kid: (blushes) "Hello yourself." (hugs back) liz: so how was the outting? Kid: "I had fun: we took in the sights around town, picked up a new book for Mother..." liz: ah. Kid: "It was a good day." (smiles at Yumi) "It will be only get better." Yumi: (smiles) stocking: so what do you want to do? Kid: *stomach grumbles* "...Maybe a snack?" Yumi: *louder grumbling* "Y-Yeah..." stocking: yeah. Kid: "What would everyone like? Something savory?" (smirks at Stocking) "A little bit sweet?" stocking: yes please~ Kid: (smiles) "I'll whip up something good..." Kid: "Liz, could you help me?" liz: sure thing. Kid: "I'll get to work on cookies--could you prepare a small dish for all of us, something not-sweet but filling?" -and so, elsewhere- Hibana: (slaps at a mosquito) shinra: nice shot. Hibana: "I hate these pests...Gabriella, don't you have anything to deter bugs?" gabriella: i have bug spray. Hibana: "That will help, thank you." shinra:....*he looks over at arthur* Arthur: "..." (poking a stick into the dirt, drawing dragons and a cat-ear princess...) shinra: you ok? Arthur: "Wh-What?" (sweats, smiles nervously, unleashing his inner-Shinra) "F-Fine! I'm fine!" (pause) "I'm going to climb a tree now. Excuse me." (proceeds to try climbing a tree) shinra:...................... Arthur: (about halfway up the tree, slowly climbing like the world's most nervous grizzly bear) Hibana: "...Huh. We found someone weirder than you, Kid." Arthur: ("Damn...these big-ass trees...") iris: will he be ok? shinra: define 'ok'. Akitaru: "..." (looks at Hibana) "Welp, I think we better put in a call to Leo when we get back home." Hibana: "Agreed. This is just sad." Arthur: (at the top of the tree, shouts) "I will let you know if any dragons are approaching the camp!" shinra: i feel so reassured. Takehisa: (shouting) "Don't fall: it'll take too long for an ambulance to get here and you will die painfully from a broken neck." maki: D: Akitaru: "...Well, who's up for a swim in the lake?" shinra: sure! maki: hell yeah! Hibana: (laughs) "Good thing I brought my swimsuit. Gabriella, you will join us?" gabriella: of course ma'am! Hibana: "And you, Sister?" iris: i'll pass, but i can watch like a lifeguard or something. Hibana: :3 "Whatever you say~" -and so- Hibana: (in a white bikini, splashing at Gabriella) gabriella: ah, haha! Takehisa: (in floaties and a bathing cap and old-timey one-piece men's swimsuit) "..." shinra: *in fire print trunks* cold water.... Akitaru: (slaps Shinra on the back) "Aw, come on! Cold water builds character!" [also in trunks] maki: *splashing around* haha! *she is in a two piece as well* Takehisa: (glances at Maki) -\\\\\- Hibana: (splashes at Maki) "Cute swimsuit." iris: *she's watching them, wearing capri pants and a t-shirt* maki: thanks, i got it this summer. Hibana: "Hmmm..." (stares at her GPS bracelet) "If I wasn't under house arrest, I'd go to the beach...unless the 8th could make an exception as they did for this trip to the woods..." shinra: doesnt takehisa have the tracker at the campsite? Takehisa: (nods) "I don't see a reason why a beach trip is not possible, assuming you remain in our custody." Hibana: "Oh, good. I could use some work on my tan." (eyes Gabriella) "You could, too." -elsewhere- Yohei: "..." chie: *she is sitting next to him* Yohei: (slides his laptop away) "How you feeling, Chie? Awake?" chie: yeah...... Yohei: "...Want to talk?" chie:....i'm worried. you havent slept in a few days..... Yohei: (rubs a hand along his face, feeling the stubble) "Yeah...Sorry. My mind's stuck on workaholic mode since we haven't found NoFix..." chie:.... *she places a hand on his cheek* i want to find him as much as you, but you shouldnt deprive yourself of sleep over it... Yohei: (shudders a bit at her touch) "S-Sorry...I'm just...NoFix got into my head...I don't want him doing that again to anyone else." chie:........ *she hugs him* we will find him... Yohei: "...Chie? How 'bout we have some tea...then I'll try to sleep. Okay?" chie: sure thing. the kids are asleep now anyway... Yohei: "...That's good." (gets up and goes to the kitchen, yawns) "Chie, actually...Could you help me? I don't want to burn the room down boiling water 'cause I fell asleep..." chie: of course. *she smiles* *One brewed tea later* Yohei: *sips* "This is good..." chie: thanks. Yohei: "...Chie?" chie: yeah? Yohei: "...There's at least one other reason I haven't been sleeping." chie: and whats that? Yohei: "Night terrors." chie:.........*her expression is solemn* Yohei: "When NoFix got into my head, at least two times now, he..." (sets his teacup down, removes packet of cigarettes...and slides them away from him towards Chie, to keep away from him) "It doesn't stop." chie: .............. *she holds his hand* Yohei: "It's one major reason I don't feel comfortable sleeping...He's out there...and I think he's getting into my head again." chie:.... *she hugs him* Yohei: "..." (cries a bit) chie:.... *she rubs his back* Yohei: (crying a lot more, trying to collect himself as he holds onto her) chie: just let it out....i'm right here....we're all here... Yohei: (keeps crying, as he starts to calm down, as the images of the past start to fade away...and he just focuses on who is holding him) "Th-Thanks..." chie: of course. *she smiles warmly* Yohei: (nods, yawns, starts to lose consciousness...) chie:.......zzzzzz..... Yohei: (holds her as they both sleep...) -elsewhere, the next morning- Yumi: "Zzzz..." lord death: zzzzzzzz........ Yumi: (hugs him, resting her hand on his chest) lord death: *purrs* Yumi: (yawns, smiles) "It's like having a full-grown cat in my bed..." lord death: *yaaaawn* mornin'.... Yumi: "Good morning, Love." (she kisses his lips) lord death: mmmm~<3 Yumi: (hugs him...) "Oh!" lord death: you alright? Yumi: (blushes) "Y-Yes...I just forgot about..." (looks down) lord death:..... *he rubs her stomach* morning little one~ Yumi: (sighs) "February feels a long way off..." -meanwhile- Kid: (sighs) liz: you ok? Kid: (stretching) "Yes, just thinking..." liz: the mission tomorrow? Kid: (nods) "I hope for the best: we could be on our way to finally stopping that menace." liz: yeah. Kid: "...I think we all will need a good night's sleep..." (looks nervously at some papers) liz: *she looks at them too* Kid: (sighs) "Liz...I was reviewing...my will." liz: !!! Kid: "Just...wanting to be thorough in case..." liz:........ Kid: "I'm sorry. I'm just...worried after our last mission." liz:....... Kid: "...I will have them submitted back to the family lawyer today. I made no revisions...I had earlier..." liz: ah........ Kid: "...When did you last review your will?" liz: O___________O;;; Kid: "S-Sorry...I just was curious..." -at school- Arthur: "..." shinra: *looking at papers* Arthur: (looking around the room) "Where is she...?" shinra:....*shrugs* Arthur: "...Maybe I should see her, when Commanders Obi and Hibana visit Burns today." shinra: sounds like a good plan. Arthur: (nods, returns to schoolwork) -at lunch- Kid: (trying to get through his meal...) stocking: *worried* Patty: (silent) liz: ................ Kid: "...We'll be fine." liz: i just hope you're right... Kid: "..." (puts an arm around Stocking, one around Patty) Patty: (grabs Liz's hand) -later- Kid: (holds Stocking's hand) stocking:...... Kid: "Stocking, I...I don't know what to say." stocking: you dont have to say anything if you dont want. *she smiles* Kid: "..." (hugs her) stocking: *she rubs his back* Kid: (sighs) "I don't want to lose you, Stocking..." stocking:...... Kid: "..." (holds her) "I want to get stronger..." stocking: and you will. i believe in you. Kid: "..." (nods, kisses her cheek) -elsewhere- Yohei: "Zzzz..." chie: *napping next to him* Shotaro: (in another room) "Hey, where're Yohei and Chie?" mana: they're taking a nap. Shotaro: "Well, that's good--Yohei looked like he was going to collapse." Tuhl: (stretches) "Hey, you two--the fridge is telling me that we're low on kiwi juice." (hands them some money) "Go get some, and some more milk." mana: ok then. Shotaro: "Woot! Good deed!" (takes the money and runs with Mana) Tuhl: (glances at Yohei's room) -elsewhere- Hibana: "We are here from the 8th." (nods to Akitaru and Arthur) "We are here to see Commander Burns." officer: right this way. Arthur: (looks around the area) Akitaru: "How long you been here, Officer?" officer: about 2 years now. Hibana: "How do you like it here at the 1st?" officer: it's nice i guess. big building. Hibana: "Hmm..." Akitaru: "...We are sorry for your loss, Officer. Amber was a great person." officer: it's pretty fucked up. kids her age shouldnt be dying at all, let alone like that... Hibana: "..." (flashbacks to the nuns dying in flames...) Akitaru: "...If you ever need to talk with someone, we're here." (looks at the Officer...and also Hibana and Arthur) Hibana: (small blush) Arthur: "...Officer, where is Tamaki?" officer: she should be in her room. Arthur: "...Permission to see her, sirs?" Hibana: "...I would ask the Officer..." officer: you can try, but i dont know if she- Arthur: "I'll try anyway." (salutes, walks off) Hibana: "And where is Commanders Burns?" -and so- Arthur: "..." (knocks on Tamaki's door) tamaki: !! what do you want?! Arthur: "It's me..." tamaki: !! w-why are you here? Arthur: "Commanders Obi and Hibana are meeting with Burns...and I wanted to see you." tamaki: i-i'm really not- Arthur: "...'Not' what?" tamaki: i'm a little bit in the middle of getting dressed right now! Arthur: "..." o\\\\\o "Um...Can we talk when you finish getting dressed?" tamaki: .......... Arthur: "...Please? I want to talk." tamaki:......fine. just....let me get ready first. Arthur: "..." -and so- Arthur: "...Hi." tamaki: hey.... *she's in a nice crop top with a bow logo on it and jeans* Arthur: "...You look well." tamaki: ...... Arthur: "...I'm sorry." tamaki:....you didnt do anything.... Arthur: "I'm sorry for your loss." tamaki:........ *she tenses* Arthur: "..." (awkward pat on the shoulder) tamaki:.......*she curls up* Arthur: "..." (puts other hand on her shoulder) tamaki: w-wha? Arthur: (pulls her in for a hug) tamaki: o///o !! Arthur: "You're going to be okay. I won't let you get hurt..." tamaki:........ o-oh sh-shut up... *she's shaking* Arthur: "Tamaki, I mean it...Just as I know you would make sure I don't get hurt..." tamaki: *she doesnt reply* Arthur: (holds her, pats her back) -elsewhere- Akitaru: (pours drinks, slides one to Burns) Burns: (sips) "This is unnecessary." Hibana: "You're safety is a top priority: you and I both had assassination attempts. That is no coincidence." Burns: (gestures to an Officer) "Any updates for Obi and Hibana that we can provide them?" officer: just a sketch of the assailant. Burns: (gestures to show it to Akitaru and Hibana) Hibana: "Hmph...Not much in the way of style with this one. So, no known name for this assassin?" officer: not that we can tell. Akitaru: "I trust that, if you get more info, you'll share it with us, right?" Burns: "..." (smiles) "Of course." Hibana: -_- ("Oh, sure--I know an insincere smile when I see one...") -elsewhere- NoFix: "...Well, that happened." luka:............... *irrate and drinking her coffee* NoFix: "...What? At least I finally got to see some people die! That was freaking sweet! It's been a long time since I saw someone turned inside out!" luka: count your blessings you weren’t bit.... NoFix: "True that. So, what're you gonna with Prisoner #4?" luka: he survived, but is still comatose. we'll begin testing once he wakes up. NoFix: "Well, if you ever need me to turn prisoners against each other to help expedite unleashing horrifying mutations in them, I'm your guy!" (smirks) "I'm pretty much everybody's guy..." luka:....... NoFix: "...So, it's 2:10. I've managed to get someone killed, and I need to fuck." luka: tmi. NoFix: "So, no volunteers in this room? No?" (looks at his hand) "Well, it's just you and me, Lefty." luka: *hurk* NoFix: (holds up his right hand, which now has a face drawn onto it as a hand puppet) NoFix: (high voice for the right hand) "Oh, I see--cheating behind my back, huh?!" NoFix: "No, I cheat on you in the front: I may be gifted, but I ain't that gifted!" NoFix: (left hand puppet, falsetto voice as well) "We could make it a threesome: two hands are better than one!" luka: goodbye. *she walks away* kinuta:.......fourway? hell lets make it a fucking orgy in here! NoFix: "...Finally, some privacy..." (starts unzipping his pants) "Come to me, you vixen witch you!" -in the other room- Solence: "..." -in another building- Asura: (pats Mikan's back) "Better?" mikan: *she nods, cradling heibito* Asura: "Hungry?" mikan: *she nods* Asura: (pats her back) "Very well." (examines the offerings...) mikan: let see.. eenie...meenie...miney....you. *she wraps her hair around the neck of one person* Victim: (choking) "P-Please..." mikan: are you willing to die? Victim: (trying to shake their head) "Don't kill me..." mikan:.....nope. *she continues to tighten her grip* Victim: (choking, eyes bulging until...) mikan: nighty night~ *SNAP* -the other sacrifices wince- Asura: (smiles) "Why must you play with your food?" mikan: their horrified expressions amuse me. Asura: "I like you looking amused..." (kisses her forehead) mikan: hehe~ Asura: "Well, eat up: you need your strength." (looks at Heibito) "Both of you." heibito: *hungry crying* mikan: *she smiles and pulls a breast out to feed him* eat up, sweetie. Asura: (smiles as his child suckles and grows sleepy) mikan: *she smiles* Asura: "Rest. I'll watch over you." -elsewhere- Kid: "..." stocking: you ok? Kid: (shakes his head) "I'm trying to focus on our mission..." stocking: i'm nervous too... Kid: "...All we have are our skills, our bonds with our teammates, and faith. And there is something that worries me whether that is going to be enough." -and so- Yumi: "You all have your instructions. Please double-check your equipment before departing." liz: yes, ma'am. Yumi: (hugs Kid) "Be careful." Kid: "...I will." -and so, they get onto the dirt bikes- Kid: (riding a dirtbike, thinking) liz:...... Patty: (in a side car, silent as well) justin: we're just about there now... Black Star: "Good. Getting tired of getting sand in my mouth--Pfft!" soul:..... Kid: (spots something) "What...?" -there is a large, metallic structure ahead. it looks abandoned...from the outside, at least- Kid: "...I think I'm sensing something..." stocking: what is it? Kid: "...A soul? But it is not typical...I have felt it somewhere before..." (eyes widen) "When Christa..." stocking: ?? Kid: "This feels like...a mutated soul, screaming in agony...and laughing." stocking: !!! -another soul is inside. a lonely, mournful soul. a sorrowful winged soul- Kid: (gasps, falls onto his knees) liz: kid? kid?! Kid: (shuddering) "Such...sadness..." stocking:...... Kid: "...I think someone is imprisoned in here." stocking: i bet that's our sage... Kid: "How should we proceed? I suggest we have one party infiltrate...but should someone stay here?" -and so- Gopher: "..." (looking along the walls at the writing) -there are several terminals with written logs on them, presumably from researchers who long since abandoned the facility- Kid: (examines one log...) entry #12: the woman that was brought in a few weeks ago finally began to comply, but progress is rather slow. however, we did reach a small breakthrough. with the research we uncovered, we will begin with 'project Couturier'. Kid: " 'The woman'...'Couturier'..." (looks to Gopher and Kirika) "What does this mean?" kirika: *shrug* Kid: "...Be on your guard." (puts the log into his backpack) liz:.... *she looks at a camera, long since broken* Patty: "Maybe there's a security room, you know, where all the footage is kept..." liz: maybe. Kid: (brushes hand along one terminal) "What did they do to people here?" stocking: from what i can tell, human experimentation... Kid: "How long ago?" liz: looks like since the 80s, maybe early 90s? Kid: "Yet I am sensing at least one soul..." (points to another room) liz: ?? Kid: "...Be ready." (approaches the door...) -the door is closed, but the screws seem old and rusty- Kid: (clutches the knob, to see whether it will open...) -it appears locked- kirika: alright, step back. *she uses her claw weapons to break the screws, causing the door to fall over with a loud THUD* Kid: (gestures for him and Kirika to go in first) kirika: *she looks around* Kid: (looking as well, seeing lab equipment...and an examination table) kirika: creepy. Kid: "I doubt even Stein would feel at home here..." (finds a broken bench--and claw marks) -there are several tools on a tray, covered in rust....at least you _hope_ it's rust...- Kid: (covering his mouth) -there is dust and red stains on the walls- Kid: "My God...what happened here?" -there are a few corpses along the walls, most of them in lab coats- Gopher: (gags) Kid: (shuddering) kirika: *she looks at one of the ID cards the corpses have* Gopher: (trying not to vomit) "W-Who are these people? What does the ID say?" kirika: ..... 'Dr Ivan Faustus. Wing Delta' *she looks at the walls* wing delta..... Kid: " 'Wing'...What could that have to do with the Sky Sage...?" liz: i think it means a like a building wing. *she points to a map terminal* Kid: "...Oh. Um...So, what are the other wings to this building?" liz: wing Alpha, wing Beta, wing Gamma, wing Omega and this wing, wing delta. Kid: "I hesitate to break off into teams...but I also worry that the longer we are here, the greater danger we face..." stocking:.... !!! there's someone down there... Kid: (gestures for all to follow Stocking to the person) stocking: *she finds a cell with a woman inside* ???: ..... !!!! Kid: "It's okay. We are here to help." ???:....... stocking: *she summons her swords and slashes the lock, which falls off* Kid: (opens the door, sets one foot into the cell...) ???: *she stands up, stumbling slightly* Kid: (approaches, offering his arm to steady her) ???: t....thank you... Kid: "You're going to be okay." (tries to turn on communicator to outside team) -and so, they exit with the woman and a few files that were dug up- Kid: "Justin, retrieve the first aid kit." justin: *he removes it from the side of the dirt bike and hands it to kid* Kid: (cleaning wounds, applying bandages) "You're going to be safe. We are with the DWMA." ???: *she looks at stocking*....what was the name you were given? stocking: ??? Kid: "Ma'am? What are asking?" stocking: m-my name is stocking. stocking pheles. why do you ask? Kid: "..." ????: *she smiles, crying tears of joy* so he found you... Kid: "..." (light bulb) stocking: what do- -the woman hugs stocking tightly- Kid: "..." (steps back) stocking: !!!??? ???: you've grown into a lovely young woman... Kid: ("It's her...") ???: my name is Felisia....you probably wont believe me, and i cant blame you....but i'm your mother. stocking: !!!!! soul: well that escalated quickly. Patty: "..." (pulls out cell phone, about to hit the "DUN DUN DUN" button) liz: PATTI NOT NOW JUST GIVE THEM A MOMENT!! TT~TT Patty: "...I'm gonna press it later." Kid: (practically crying) stocking: y-you're lying.... Kid: "???" felisia: .......i understand if you dont believe me, i wasnt there for you when you were small. stocking: oh really now?! NO SHIT! Kid: o_o Patty: "...Now may I press the button?" felisia: stocking, please, i'm sorry- stocking: really? well then that fixes everything! oh wait a second, no it doesnt! it doesnt change everything i was put through. all the ridicule, the torture, the abuse. even after my dad found me, i still suffered torment from others. and this is BEFORE i found out i was a half blood monster! Kid: "Stocking? I think you may want to--" stocking: *her eyes went red* JUST STAY OUT OF THIS REAPER! Kid: "..." (heartbroken) "Stocking..." stocking:...........*she breaths heavily and her eyes go back to normal*.....kid....i think....i want to go home now... Kid: "..." (frowns) "Fine. Justin, please escort Felisia: she will need additional treatment when we get home." -later- stocking: *in her room, silent*.......................... Kid: "..." (outside her door, hesitating to knock...) \she probably hates you now\ \disgusting trash\ \you should just die\ \despicable\ \kill yourself scum\ \worthless\ Kid: ("...You motherfucker.") (knocks on the door) ("I'll show you who isn't worthless...") "Stocking?" stocking:............. Kid: "Would you like some water? Something to eat? ...To talk?" stocking:.................. Kid: "Stocking? May I come in?" stocking:...................... -the door appears unlocked- Kid: (turns the handle, opens just a crack) "Stocking...I'm here if you...want me here." stocking: i dont feel like talking to anyone... *her tone is cold* Kid: "...Okay. I'll bring you some water." (starts to close the door) stocking:............................ \see? i told you she hates you\ \why not slit your goddamn wrists while you're at it?\ Kid: ("...") "Back in a moment..." (walks down the stairs. "Oh, here's an idea: shut up, because I am tending to her, not you.") \why bother when she probably doesnt love you anymore? you worthless worm\ Kid: (fills up the glass of water... "Okay. Let's entertain your idea. Why do you think that a relationship somehow ends--that love stops--in the face of adversity? No: I am with the person I love through easy times and hard times. I was before, I am now. And you can go to hell.") \how can you be certain those feelings arent one-sided?\ Kid: "..." (finishes filling the glass...then smirks) "You're right. I don't know whether those feelings are one-sided." \then just die\ Kid: "No, you misunderstand." (looks at his reflection in the water, and smile sincerely, if sadly) "I don't know whether those feelings are one-sided. And I persist. Because that is the definition of faith. I have faith in Stocking, and you should too." \she is ours. and ours alone. you dont even deserve her\ Kid: (takes the glasses upstairs. "She is her own person, with her own choices, and I will thank you to remember that. She deserves whatever she wants to make us happy: this is her choice...") (knocks on the door) stocking:...................... Kid: "I have water...I can set it out here if you wish." stocking:.............................. Kid: "...I'll leave it here...Stocking? I-I love you..." stocking:........................................ \she doesnt\ Kid: (2x heartbroken) "...I'll see you in the morning. Good night." (turns and starts walking back to his room) -the next morning- Kid: (crying into his pillow in bed) liz: kid?....... Kid: "L-Liz!" (wipes his face, puts on a smile) "G-Good morning..." liz:.......... Kid: "How are you?" liz:.......you know, i can tell when you're faking it... Kid: (fake smile persists...and then the tears start falling) liz: kid....... Kid: "I'm an idiot...I feel all this self-pity, when it is Stocking I should feel badly for..." liz:.....want to talk to her? \selfish bastard\ Kid: (wiping his tears) "Sh-She won't talk with me..." ("STOP.") liz:........come on. Kid: "Wh-Where?" -at stocking's door- stocking:................... Kid: "...Liz...I can't..." liz: kid, just suck it up and talk to her. she trusts you. Kid: "..." (knocks on the door) "Stocking?" -its open- Kid: (looks at Liz) "I..." liz: *she nods, as if to give him permission to go in* Kid: "..." (pushes the door, entering) stocking:......*she's curled up on the bed* ......... Kid: "..." (approaches, sits on the bed) stocking: *she looks at him with a sorrowful expression*................hey....... Kid: "...Hi." (eyes softening) stocking:.......................*she pulls her legs closer to her*................ Kid: "...Did you sleep?" stocking:..........barely...... Kid: "...You should try to get some more sleep. Would you like some medicine? Tea? Milk?" stocking:.....i dont know......... Kid: "..." (awkwardly puts an arm around her) stocking:............. *she leans into him* Kid: (holds her, silently) stocking: i............................i'm sorry kid......i was just so upset...........i lost control and took it out on you.............i must be a pretty shitty girlfriend, huh? Kid: "No. You are a person with emotions. I understand. And I forgive you." stocking: .......i just.... i'm just so mad at her.....that she wasnt there when i needed her......she barely knows a think about me....who i am....anything..... Kid: "...Stocking? If you had the chance to know your mother, and you never took up that opportunity...how would you feel?" stocking: i......i dont know.......i dont know how to feel.....i-i'm scared... Kid: "...You are brave. You will get through this. Just give it time." stocking:.....i'm not sure if i want to call her my mother yet.... Kid: (nods) "You don't have to. But...I think it would help you to talk to her, when you are ready." stocking:............i'm sorry....... Kid: "It's fine. I forgive you." (holds her...and cries a bit) "I'm sorry." stocking:............. Kid: "I'm sorry this has all happened." stocking:......................... Kid: "..." (holds her for a bit) "Are you hungry?" stocking:....a little..... Kid: "Care to join me in the kitchen?" stocking:....ok... --In the kitchen-- Kid: (slicing a bit of cake) "Would this work?" stocking:....i guess..... Kid: (passes plate to her, slices a bit for himself...eats slowly, silent) stocking:..... -elsewhere- Spirit: "Naigus, what can you tell me about the patient Kid's team brought in?" nygus: well, she isnt human, and apparently she is stocking's mother. Spirit: "Hmm...What injuries does she have?" nygus: external or emotional? Spirit: "That bad, huh? Let's start with bodily." -later- Yumi: "I'm worried." lord death: about kid? Yumi: "And Stocking...to find her mother again..." lord death: ah..... Yumi: "...I...can't entirely blame Stocking..." lord death: oh? Yumi: "...There are people in my family I do not want to see ever again...That's awful. But it's what I feel..." *sniff* lord death:...yumi.....*he hugs her* Yumi: "...I don't want to lose a family. Not again." lord death: *he lifts his mask up and kisses her gently* Yumi: (returns the kiss, holding onto him, her eyes a bit wet) lord death: *he strokes her back* Yumi: "...If it was you...if you were Stocking...would you see your mother?" lord death:............................ Yumi: "..." (buries her head) "I'm sorry." lord death: it's fine. Yumi: "..." (hugs him tighter) -elsewhere- Yohei: (wakes up with a start) chie: ?? yohei? Yohei: (pants) "I--I saw wings..." chie: wings? *confused as heck* Yohei: "S-Sorry...I had a weird dream...Like...someone with wings..." chie: huh. Yohei: "...Maybe I need to quit smoking." chie:..... Yohei: "...I need a shower." (brushes his face) "And a shave. Th-Thanks, Chie...for letting me sleep here." chie: no problem. Yohei: "..." (blushes) -elsewhere- Ponera: (putting an ear to Medusa's belly) medusa:.... Ponera: "...Hang on...I'll hear the little babe kick..." medusa:...... -a scream is heard- Ponera: "...What was that?" grimoire: ....... !!! Noah: "Aw, what a fun new toy..." (tossing his bone-shiv up into the air) medusa: !!! milia: l-let me go! Ponera: (furious) "Unhand her!" (stands between him and Medusa) milia: *terrified* Noah: (draws the knife along Milia's dress, dull side towards her dress/body) medusa: *covers her stomach* Nals: (hidden in shadows, watching...waiting...) milia: *tearful and afraid* Noah: "...Oh, hey! Skank! Haven't seen you in a while since you LEFT ME TO ROT!" (slices the blade along edge of Milia's dress, tearing off part of the sleeve) medusa: unhand her. shaula: *scorpion hair tail mode* you wanna fuckin go?! Noah: "Sure." (points the knife at Medusa) "When you give me what I want?" (glares at Shaula) "...Who the fuck are you?" shaula: your ex's sister, did ya really forget about me? woooow rude. Noah: "...I am greedy, acquiring the best I can. If I don't know you, you must be worthless." (brings knife back to Milia's throat) "You want me gone? You want this bitch to live? Then you give me Medusa, give me my child, give me my book, and let me out." milia: *whimpering* medusa:.......... Ponera: "You are not leaving here alive, you abomination." (holds Medusa's hand) Noah: "...Then say goodbye to your witch." (brings the knife closer to Milia when--) milia: *SCREAM* ???: "No!" (slash) medusa: !! milia: ah- Noah: "..." (looks down--at a sword through his chest) "What the...?" Nals: "...Let her go." milia: !! Noah: "..." (smirks, backhands Nals, who still stands but is hit hard) Nals: "Ugh! A little help, Grimoire!" grimoire: with pleasure. *grins* -and so- Killbell: "...Oh no. Am I gonna have to clean that up?" (points to blood on the wall) shaula: amazing he isnt dead yet. milia: nalsie you saved me! *glomp* ~<3 Nals: (clutching his side) "Stop...I'm in pain there..." Ponera: "Good work, all." (stamps her heel on Noah's groin) Noah: "Ug..." -later, grimoire had to seal noah in the book of enoch, and placed a barrier seal on the book to prevent him from escaping- Ponera: "..." (pats Grimoire's back) "Thank you." grimoire: at least he wont be as noisy now. -in the other world, inside the book- Noah: "Arg!" (slams his fist on the barrier--that fails to break) "Let me out!" noelle: seems that guy is pretty powerful, no wonder the index is so enamored with the guy. Noah: "Shut up! I am far stronger--or _we_ are, if you all were joining me in this battle!" -elsewhere in this barrier world- pandora: and the prodigal asshole returns. [Noah: "You kiss your mother with that mouth?"] Mad!Kid: "Hmph. This location got decidedly more unpleasant." -elsewhere, not in the book- Yumi: "...Stocking." stocking: yes? Yumi: "...Would you like to help me with something in the garden?" stocking:.....sure. -In the garden- Yumi: "I'm happy with how these are growing...It took a long time to get them to mature." stocking: *she nods* Yumi: "To grow well, it takes patience, effort...and forgiving yourself when you don't do as well as you wish you could." stocking:.......... Yumi: "Anything worth having requires work. It doesn't mean the result will be as you want it to turn out." (pulls a weed from the garden) "I had to screw up on a lot of gardens to figure out how to make a good one. It's not enjoyable to see people are not imperfect, that they disappoint themselves...and others. But they're only human...mostly." stocking: ........... Yumi: (finishes her work, smiles) "Well, that wraps it up. Thank you, Stocking." -later- Kid: (cleaning his room, vigorously) liz: you ok? Kid: "F-Fine. Just cleaning. Cleaning. Everything needs to be cleaned." (stares at the wall) "Do you see any fingerprints left?" liz: ??? Kid: "Just want everything to be absolutely clean. Has to be perfect. Perfect. PERFECT." (nosebleed) liz:......... Kid: "..." (collapses) liz: k-kid!! Kid: (bleeding from the nose, overwhelmed by mess) "I-I need...order. Everything is better in order. Nice and tidy and clean. Clean. Clean it all. Clean clean clean." -SLAP- Kid: o_____o "...SERIOUSLY?!" liz: kid, just snap out of it! Kid: "At least slap the other side to make it symmetrical!" -SLAP- liz: kid....just calm down...come on, breath in... Kid: (breathing steadily, calmly) "Thank you. I needed that." (gets up) stocking:...... Kid: "...Stocking?" stocking:......... *she hugs him* Kid: "??? ..." (returns the hug) stocking: it's ok, kid... Kid: "Y-Yes, it is...Are you okay?" stocking: j-just worried......i love you kid.... Kid: "I love you, too." (holds her more tightly but still gently) -that night, she laid next to him- Kid: (holds her) stocking: i'm sorry....... *whimpering* Kid: "It's okay." (holds her at the waist) "I understand." stocking: i shouldnt have taken it out on you..... Kid: "You were upset, so I can understand that frustration. And I forgive you, as you have forgiven me countless times." stocking: i lost control of myself.....kid....there's something frightening inside me.....something i dont know how to control....and im scared................kid..........if i ever lose control......and i end up too lost to be saved.............i want you to be the one who strikes me down.... Kid: "Wh-What?" (he sits up) "Stocking, that is never going to happ--" stocking: kid.....please..... -she's trembling- Kid: "..." (holds her steady) "Okay. I will. But it is never going to come to that. I will make sure of it." stocking:.....*crying into his chest* Kid: "..." (holds her, letting her cry, as he pats her back and smooths her hair) stocking: ........... Kid: (kisses her forehead) "I love you. I have, and I always will." stocking: *slowly falling asleep in his arms* Kid: *yawns, slowly falling asleep* -the next morning- Kid: "Zzz..." -later- Kid: (in the kitchen, preparing breakfast silently) stocking: ..... *drinking her milk* Kid: (finishes the waffles, bringing them to the table) "Would you like one?" stocking:... *she nods* Kid: (puts two waffles on the plate) "Any toppings?" stocking:..strawberries please... Kid: (smiles) "Okay." (sets out strawberries) -later, at school- Patty: "You guys okay coming back to classes?" stocking: yeah. liz: looks like tamaki still isnt here... Arthur: (overhearing) "..." Kid: "...We should focus." (opens his book) -during class- Spirit: (leading class, his arm no longer in the sling) "That is why it is important to practice a healthy diet as a weapon. While you are transformed, difficulties with your human form can compromise your abilities in weapon form." mio: .... tsugumi: *writing things down* Meme: (glances at Mio, whispers) "You okay?" Anya: ("Fascinating..." writes more notes) mio: yeah. -at lunch- Kid: (brings water to Stocking, smiles) stocking: *smiles* thanks babe... Kid: "You're welcome." (sits next to her, sad smile, quiet) stocking:........*She leans on him slightly* Kid: (flinches, then relaxes...puts an arm around her) stocking: *she seems content* Kid: (quiet) "May I get you something else to eat or drink?" stocking: i'm ok. Kid: (nods, slides a plate towards him...with a slice of strawberry cake) "I guess this is just for me then..." stocking: QAQ Kid: (holds the fork to her) "Just kidding~" stocking:.........*nom*............ Kid: (smiles) "Another bite?" stocking:....... Kid: (holds some cake on the fork to her) "Maybe?" -after school- Kid: "...What would you like to do, Stocking?" stocking: i dont really know.... Kid: "Tired? Maybe nap?" stocking:.....yeah..... Kid: "...Okay. Anything you want me to do?" stocking:.....could you hold me close? Kid: "...Of course." -in stocking's room- stocking:........ Kid: (holds her close) stocking:........*nuzzles* Kid: (strokes her back) stocking: mmm...... Kid: (kisses her forehead) stocking:.........*sniff* Kid: "You're okay. It's going to be okay." stocking: *weeping into his chest* Kid: (stroking her back, holding her, humming lightly) stocking: *hic*.....*sniffle*....*choking back tears* Kid: (silent, holds her) stocking:......... *she starts to calm down a little* Kid: "My angel...You're going to be fine." stocking: t-thank you kid..... Kid: "You're welcome." *Yawn* "I am here..." stocking: mmmm..... Kid: (kisses her cheek) stocking:....zzzzzzz..... Kid: *Yawns* "Zzz..." -elsewhere- Arthur: "..." maki:...... Arthur: "..." (taps the table) "Useless." iris: *she brings in the drinks* Arthur: "...Thank you." (takes a glass of water) shinra: any progress? Arthur: "...She still is not coming to school. I suggested therapy..." shinra: .......commander? Akitaru: "Well, I--" Hibana: "Burns is trying to get through to her, and it is not going well." Akitaru: "...I think he was speaking to me." -_-; shinra:.....yeah. Akitaru: (clears throat) "As Hibana said, Tamaki is taking her time to cope with what has happened in her own way. I think it is important for you all to be there for her when she needs it." iris:.....*she nods* Arthur: "I don't know...Tamaki seemed like there was something else keeping her there..." shinra: like what? Arthur: "...Is there something about Burns that seems off to anyone else?" shinra: ?? Arthur: "What do we know about him? Why is someone trying to kill him? Maybe they have a reason?" Hibana: (slams her glass down, glaring at Arthur) "...And what about me? After someone tried to assassinate me? You really want to go there, you little shit?" iris: sister, just breath. gabriella: easy now, princess. Hibana: "You tell me to calm down when I had someone try to..." (pushes away) "I need air." (leaves) Arthur: (frowns) "Tch. Looks like I touched a nerve--" -elsewhere- Spirit: "..." (outside infirmary) justin: good evening. Spirit: "Good evening, Justin. I was wondering how the latest patient is doing?" justin: disheartened, mostly. Spirit: "Do you think I could speak with her?" justin: i suppose it'd be ok. felisia:............. Spirit: "Pardon me, ma'am?" felisia: ......hello.... Spirit: "My name is Spirit. I'm a friend of Justin's, the man who accompanied you here to Death City." felisia: ........... Spirit: "...I wanted you to know that you are safe here, and as someone with the Death Weapon Meister Academy, I wanted to offer any help that I can provide. Is there anything I can get for you?" felisia:......... Spirit: "...I'm a parent, too. And I lost her..." felisia:.......oh.... Spirit: "And if I could see her again..." (sighs) "I...hope Stocking comes here soon." -later on- Kid: "Zzz..." -the next morning, at school- Spirit: "...Um, Stocking?" stocking: yeah? Spirit: "Glad to see you in class. You finish your homework?" stocking: yeah. Spirit: "Good...I was wondering if you could do something for me. You have any flower recommendations?" stocking: flowers? Spirit: "Yes. I wanted some to brighten up my room." stocking: hmmm.... maybe some marigolds? Spirit: "Aw, that would help. Thank you! I'll be sure everyone who sees them knows that you recommended those flowers." stocking: thanks. Spirit: "Well, think I'll go to the florist now. Have a good day!" -later- Spirit: (knocks on Felisia's door) felisia: it's open. Spirit: "Hello." (holding marigolds) "I thought you could use something to brighten up your room." felisia: ah. thank you... *small smile* Spirit: "You're welcome...Full disclosure, these were recommended to me by Stocking." felisia: .......*sad smile* Spirit: "...I was wondering whether you had some time to talk." felisia: of course. Spirit: "I was wondering whether we could talk a bit about your past. It's not every day I see an angel." felisia:................ Spirit: "...We can talk about something else, if that would be better." felisia:....*nod* Spirit: "So...Um...Maybe I could learn a bit more about you. Do you have hobbies?" ("I'm in over my head. Help me, Maka. Help me from beyond the grave.") felisia: hobbies? i havent found the time for them, but i did some sewing a long time ago. i even made stocking her little doll. Spirit: (smiles) "She still has it." felisia:....*she smiles a bit* Spirit: "Maybe I could bring you something to pass the time--do you also knit?" felisia: not really. Spirit: "Would you like me to bring something for sewing? I have a sewing machine that's just been collecting dust." -elsewhere- Kid: (eating lunch) "Hungry, Stocking?" stocking: a little.... Kid: (looking at desserts available) "Any particular flavor you desire?" -meanwhile, elsewhere- Ponera: "Feel better, Medusa?" medusa: a lot better now. Ponera: (smiles) "So, need more baby clothes? Toys? Maybe decorate the room for future baby Medusa?" -meanwhile- Noah: "..." noelle: feeling any better? Noah: "No...I want it all. All is not here. All is out there. All was taken from me..." noelle:...... Noah: "I'll take all from them." -elsewhere- Yohei: (stretches) mana: we're back! Yohei: "Cool. You get what I asked for." Shotaro: "Yep!" (holds up bags of groceries) "Here, Chie!" chie: thanks. *she smiles* Yohei: (pulls out cigarettes, staring at them...them puts them back in the bag and slides it away from himself) "I'm done with my work for the day. What're you up for today?" mana: well, rent on the room is just about up... Yohei: "So we either move or get some money. Is that what you're saying?" mana: basically.....but there is some good news. *she places a pamphlet on the table* Yohei: "What is this?" chie: 'affordable living space, work opportunity....' death city? Yohei: "...Huh. You're serious, Mana?" mana: it seems like a pretty good deal. Yohei: "I guess so: probably need some tech people, some helpful people...whatever services useless people like Mana can provide." (smirks) mana: exact- HEY! Shotoaro: "Ha ha ha!" mana: oh stuff it. Yohei: (reads the brochure) "So, how do we apply for jobs and housing? Any visa to enter the sovereign nation of Death?" -elsewhere- Kid: "Stocking?" stocking: yes? Kid: "Is there anything I could offer to help? Maybe run a bath for you?" stocking:...i would like that. Kid: (smiles) "I'll warm up the water and set out the soaps." -and so- Kid: "The water is ready." (opens the bathroom door for her) stocking: *she gets in* Kid: "..." (clears his throat) "I could give you your privacy, if you prefer." stocking: could you help me with my hair? Kid: "You mean, tie it up?" -later- Kid: (brushing her hair) "Better?" stocking: yes. thank you. Kid: (smiles) "Good. May I get you anything?" stocking: some hot cocoa would be nice. Kid: (smiles wider) "I'm on it." (stands up and exits for the kitchen) stocking:.......*she hugs honekoneko*........... *A few minutes later* Kid: (enters with a tray of hot cocoa for both of them) "Here you go..." (looks at Honekoneko..."Wasn't it her mother who...?") stocking: thanks. *she takes one* Kid: (sips along with her) "Honekoneko is really well designed..." stocking: *small chuckle* i thought she was too asymmetrical? Kid: "I've grown accustomed to her." (he smiles) "Familiarity can lead to appreciation." honekoneko: >:| Kid: "..." (feels chill coming off Honekoneko, which makes him tense) "Um..." (nervous smile) "So, you've had Honekoneko as long as you can remember..." stocking: *she nods* even if i misplaced her, she's always find her way back to me. Kid: "...It is a good gift that someone gave to you." stocking:.......................... Kid: "..." (sips on his cocoa) "Stocking..." stocking:......i wanted to know her.....my mother.....and as soon as she showed up, i cast her out.....i must be a huge hypocrite, huh? Kid: (sad smile) "To be fair, I've hardly met a person who is not a hypocrite in some way." stocking:.......i dont know what to do...i was just so upset..... Kid: "...When I discovered my relation to Asura...I hated my father..." stocking:...... lord death: *listening* ....................... Kid: "It took me far longer than I wanted to forgive him...Stocking, if I hadn't, if I lived a lifetime of anger and not thinking of all the love I have for my father, I would have lost someone important to me. And I'm scared that if I let that anger fester..." (looks at her) "...I would lose the love of others." stocking:.......*trembling* Kid: "Stocking..." (approaches, opening his arms) stocking: *she cries and hugs him* \yet you cant ever forgive yourself.... how pitful~\ Kid: (frowns...holds her closer) "You're going to be okay, Stocking. You are loved, and you are a person who deserves to be happy." -later- Kid: (lying in bed) "..." stocking: *asleep in his arms* Kid: "..." ("What should I do...?") *yawns* -the next day- Kid: "I'm almost done with breakfast...Anything else to add to your plate?" -after school- Kid: "...Stocking?" stocking: *she nods* -they enter the room- felisia: ........hello stocking. stocking:............... Kid: "..." (stands back) stocking: h-hey....m-mom..... stocking: listen......i-i wanted to apologize for how i acted........i just felt so upset and..... felisia: it's ok. i understand. i wasnt there most of your life. Kid: "..." felisia: ....mephisto came by earlier today. he told me about all the things you have been through. *she smiles* i'm glad he's been looking after you all this time. stocking:......*biting her lip* Kid: "..." (puts a hand on her shoulder) stocking: i must be such a terrible child.... felisia: stocking.... Kid: (bites his own lip) stocking: *she hugs felisia and cries* felisia: its ok sweetie... *rubbing her back* i'm here now... Kid: "..." (steps back towards the door) -later- Kid: (waiting outside) stocking: *she exits* ...... Kid: "Stocking?" stocking: yes? Kid: "H-How was it?" stocking: better now. we talked about how things are happening. about my dad. Kid: "Oh...Are you...going to visit her again?" stocking: yeah. Kid: "...You are brave." stocking: i'm not. Kid: "Yes, you are. You just faced fear." stocking:.......*small smile* Kid: "Should we go home?" stocking: not yet. Kid: "???" stocking: can we have a little date? Kid: "..." (smiles) "I would love that." -and so- Kid: "What would you like to do?" stocking: how about we go to deathbucks? Kid: (smiles) "Okay." (holds her hand) "Lead the way." -at deathbucks- Kid: (pulls out her seat for her) "Ma'am..." stocking: hehe~ ???: welcome to deathbucks, may we take your order? Kid: "Yes, I'll have the chicken sandwich and a small coffee." stocking: i'll have the peppermint latte and some tea cake. ???: coming right up~ Kid: "...Wait...Haven't we met?" mana: hmm? oh yeah, you're those kids from the tournament. Kid: ("Kids? She looks about my age, if not younger.") "...How are you and your friends? What are you doing here?" mana: well, for your information, we just moved here recently. Kid: "Ah. Your friend, Yohei, he is here, too?" mana: yep, all of us. Kid: (smiles) "When you see him, please let him know we are still grateful for the help you all provided us..." (holds Stocking's hand) mana: can do. Kid: "Thank you." (looks back to Stocking) mana: come to think of it, i think we were here before a few years back? Kid: "You were?" mana: or at least showtaro was... Kid: "Hmmm...I wonder whether we saw him..." stocking: oh! i think i saw him, i asked him to bring you over to talk to me after.... .////. Kid: "???" stocking: n-nevermind. but it brought us closer together. *she holds his hand* Kid: "...Okay." -later- Kid: (dabs napkin) "Tasty." stocking: thanks for the meal. Kid: (holds her hand) "You're welcome. Feel better?" stocking: a lot better now. *she smiles* Kid: "Well, we paid the bill. Where to next?" stocking: how about a movie? Kid: "I'd like that. Anything you've been wanting to see?" stocking: im down for whatever. Kid: "Hmm..." (looks at movie listings on his phone) -and so, elsewhere- Yohei: "Well, I aced the interview with Death Tech. How 'bout you guys? You get jobs yet?" mana: i got some work at deathbucks. Tuhl: "DWMA took me on, after what we did in London, Vegas, and IC Prefecture." Shotaro: "I got a job shipping stuff." (points at Chie) "I ship you with Yohei." chie: how do you- n-nevermind. >////> mana: wrong definition. Shotaro: "No, the best definition." (proud smile) Yohei: "Heh heh..." (pushes Shotaro's head down for a noogie) "Okay, get back to work, you all. We still got to finish unpacking." mana: what about you chie? Shotaro: "Yeah!" chie: i got a job at the shopping mall, just doing a few odd jobs like modeling and handing out samples. Shotaro: "Oh, wow! Modeling would be great for you! Right, Yohei?" Yohei: "..." .\\\\\. chie:...... -BWAP- Shotaro: (floored) -elsewhere- Wes: "Thanks for meeting up for coffee, Liz." liz: no problem. *she smiles* Wes: "It sounds like the mission was frightening. Based on what Soul told me, you all got out okay...mostly." liz: yeah......but looks like stocking is getting better, based on what kid told me.....i'm not sure if i could be as brave as her.... Wes: "...If you had either of your parents here, I think you'd do what you have to do." liz:............ Wes: "..." (holds her hand) liz: i can sympathize with felisia though.......... Wes: (nods) "Yeah. From what you said, it doesn't sound like she had much of a choice." liz:.......*frowns* Wes: "...How old would your child be now?" liz:..........around julie's age, i guess.... Wes: (nods) "...Liz..." liz: *tearful*....... Wes: "..." (puts his arms around her) "It's okay." liz: *she hugs him* Wes: (pats her back) liz: do you think....he would hate me? Wes: "...As angry as Soul is with our parents, I know he loves them. No child can hate their parent..." liz:............. Wes: "I'm sure your son will understand, when he's ready." -elsewhere- Kid: "I thought that was enjoyable." stocking: hehe. *she smiles, holding his hand* Kid: "Anything else to do before we head home?" -elsewhere, at the 5th HQ- Kishiri: "When does boss lady get back? Or is she still under arrest?" miwa: she'll be back soon hopefully. in the meantime, she asked us to watch over things here. Kishiri: "Tch. So, 'New Boss,' what am I supposed to do?" miwa: for now, we're going to try keeping things running. Kishiri: "Yeah? That include the things Boss Lady didn't want getting out to the public?" miwa: we'll leave that to the 5ths head scientist. (thinking: aka dr conehead.) Kishiri: "Hmm...I guess I'm out on patrol, then? Or did you have something else in mind for me?" miwa: i need you to run these files by Dr Sugihara if you get the chance Kishiri: "Seriously? That doc kind of creeps me out." miwa: i dont mean the doctor of the 5th, i want you to bring these medical files to dr sugihara. the squad 0 medic. Kishiri: "..." (devious smirk) "Well, that's different..." miwa: so you'll do it then? Kishiri: "Sure, why not?" (takes the files) -in the medical exam room- Kishiri: "Doc? You in here?" Serina: hmm? oh, hello Mr Kishiri. *she smiles* Kishiri: "Got some papers for you from Miwa. Where you want them?" serina: just put them on the desk for now. Kishiri: (does so) "So, what're you working on?" serina: just reviewing medical files and organizing them. i've been pretty busy lately, especially since a lot of the 5th's soldiers seem to be getting injured a lot recently. Kishiri: "Not me--still going at it, strong and hard!" (flexes his arm) serina: that's good to hear. *she smiles* Kishiri: "Need some help tending to patients? I've been told I have an awesome bedside manner." (pops his gum) serina: i appreciate the thought, but i think i can handle things here. Kishiri: "...Oh. Um, fine. I'll get back to work then." -elsewhere- Kid: "We're home." liz: welcome back you guys. lord death: hello kiddo. Patty: (waves) Yumi: (smiles) Kid: "Happy to be back." (smiles at Stocking) stocking: *she nods* Yumi: "Dinner should be ready soon." stocking: thanks. *After dinner* stocking: today went pretty well, i think. Kid: "I agree. You took an important step today." stocking: *she nods* it's still weird to call her my mother....but i can only try my best... Kid: (nods) "Give it time." stocking: thanks for being there for me.... *she hugs him* Kid: (returns the hug, patting her back) -elsewhere- Black Star: "Get off your butt, Soul--I need to clean under the couch cushions." soul: *standing up, reading* Black Star: "What're you reading, anyway?" soul: just reading something maka always read. Black Star: (looks at the title of the book) -Brave- Black Star: "...Good choice, bro." soul:.....*small smile* Black Star: "..." (goes back to cleaning, then enters the kitchen to prepare a meal) -elsewhere- Shotaro: "Done washing the dishes!" chie: good job. Yohei: "Yeah, you managed to break only three dishes this time..." Shotaro: "Hee hee...Yeah." chie: i did manage to clean them. *she has a bandaid on her hand* Yohei: (glancing at her bandage) "Well, I guess that's it for the night. Got work tomorrow, right?" -the next morning- Kid: "Zzz..." stocking: zzz.... Kid: (in his sleep, moves closer to her) -at school- Kid: "Stocking, are you going to see her?" stocking: yeah, after school. Kid: (nods) "I guess we should head to class. What is our first course?" Tuhl: "Hey. I'm Tuhl. I'm filling in for that guy with the screw in his head." -and so the class begins- Tuhl: "So, I'm a kappa. And we're supposed to be able to talk to the spirits of living things. I'm like typical kappa, but the principle is the same. I'm going to teach you about how to anticipate the moves of animals." *Tuhl brings in a kitten* Tuhl: "Now, you see this small fur-covered creature and think, 'How do I anticipate what it will do?' Well, first--" *The kitten claws at Tuhl's face* Tuhl: "AAAAAAAH!" -after that- Patty: "...Maybe the school needs to reconsider hiring options." Tuhl: (bleeding on the floor) "Someone...get me to the infirmary..." Arthur: T_T "If Tamaki was here..." (whimper) -at lunch- Kid: (one plate of cherry pie with whipped cream) "Could I interest you?~" stocking: yes please~ Kid: "Say ah~" Patty: (whispering to Liz) "Good to see them getting along again..." liz: yeah.... -after school- stocking: hey mom. felisia: hey sweetie. *she smiles* Kid: (overhearing, smiling) -later- stocking: and suddenly everything makes sense.... Kid: (sitting in the hallway, looking around) "...These walls could use a cleaning." stocking: you ok? Kid: "Yes. Just distracted by the walls." stocking:... *rubs his back* Kid: (smiles) "How was your meeting?" stocking: pretty good. i learned a few things about honekoneko's origins. -elsewhere- Wes: "Soul? You here?" soul: yeah? Wes: "Hey. You hungry? I was thinking of going out for a bite." soul: sure. mind if tsubaki and black*star come along? Wes: (smiles) "Sure!" -and so- Wes: "Dig in!" (pizza) Black Star: "Sweet!" (grabs two slices) -elsewhere- Nals: "So, how are you feeling?" milia: better now. ^^ Nals: "...Good." milia: *hugs* thanks for saving me~ Nals: "..." (awkward hug) "Of course." -elsewhere- Yumi: "Death, what have you learned from Felisia regarding who was holding her?" lord death: seems this organization, 'Nirvana Corps' wishes to 'advance humanity' by using genetic experiments, such as using clothes as weapons much like the people of arcadia do. Yumi: "Hmmm...Is that why they wanted Felisia? To learn what Arcadia could accomplish?" lord death: perhaps.... Yumi: " 'Nirvana'...I wonder where else they have facilities. If we could find one of their associates, we may get a lead." ("That poor woman, to lose her child...") lord death: according to the notes we found, it's important we locate them as soon as possible, lest we face a greater threat... Yumi: "Death, what do you mean? What 'greater threat'?" -elsewhere- NoFix: (in a schoolgirl uniform) luka:......................................................................i'm almost afraid to ask. NoFix: "What? You guys are making living clothes--thought I'd try one on!" luka: that experiment went bust after the harime incident. besides, that's just a normal uniform. NoFix: "...What?! So I'm in a girl's uniform for nothing?!" scientist: come to think of it, i think that's the same uniform the girls at the local school wore. well, used to anyway... NoFix: " 'Local school'? Where?" scientist: the Lysandra High School. however, it's been abandoned after the incident which wiped out most of the residents of the city. NoFix: "...Kept any of the corpses?" scientist: yes, most of them have been used in experiments. NoFix: "Cool...So, you like me in this suit?" (poses) -elsewhere- Yohei: "Okay. If I did it correctly, this device should pick up Dokeshi..." chie: wow. Yohei: "Now to test it. Hide somewhere in the house, I'll try to find you with it." (attaches the device--which is a watch--to his wrist) chie: ok. Yohei: (waits a few minutes, then starts following the trail) "Hmm...Signal is fainter here...Stronger in the kitchen..." (points to a cupboard) "...Seriously?" (opens it--) **Someone falls out of the cupboard onto Yohei** Yohei: "UNf!" Shotaro: (sitting atop Yohei) Shotaro: "..." (holds a box of cookies too him) "Want one?" Yohei: -_- "It works." chie: *snickers* -she's in the basement- Yohei: "Mana! Take care of Shotaro!" mana: -CHOP- Shotaro: x__x Yohei: "Thanks. Now back to finding Chie..." chie: *silent* Yohei: (follows the path to the basement stairs) "Hmmm..." (the signal points to behind some boxes) "You there, Chie?" chie: rawr. Yohei: "..." (chuckles) "Hey." chie: so it works? Yohei: "Yeah, you confirm it, and so does Shotaro. Right now, it's range is limited to 500 feet, so I'm going to need another week to expand its range to maybe the radius of a city." -elsewhere- Kid: *yawns* stocking: bedtime. Kid: (shuts his book, stretches) "I guess so. How about you?" stocking: *yawn* Kid: "I'll take that as a yes. Better brush, floss, and get to bed." -the next morning, at school- Tuhl: (bandaged, staring at Marie) "How do you people do this for a living?" marie: it takes a lot of hard work and patience. Tuhl: "I got attacked by a kitten in front of 200 students. You don't get through that when students now look at you like some wimp." marie: you tried your best. Tuhl: "Not good enough. I'm better at getting robots to listen to me than students." (points to a Kick Me sign on his back) -elsewhere- Spirit: "You're looking better, Felisia. Anything Justin or I can bring you?" felisia: some books if you could. Spirit: "Oh, sure! I'm great at that! Read all the time! Um...anything in particular?" felisia: something to pass the time. Spirit: "O-Okay. Give me a few minutes." *Spirit returns from the library with variety of books* Spirit: "Some fiction, some science, some history..." felisia: *she smiles* thank you. Spirit: "So...I heard Stocking has been visiting." felisia: she has. Spirit: "...How is it going?" felisia: quite well. Spirit: "...I wish I had that chance." felisia: ?? Spirit: "...My daughter was killed." felisia: !! Spirit: "It was in the battle against...W-We didn't have the best relationship." felisia: ....... -elsewhere- Ponera: (holding up a baby's mobile...consisting of snakes) medusa: how.....cute Ponera: "Thanks! I made it myself!" (part of the mobile falls off) medusa:..... Ponera: "W-We can hot glue that." Killbell: (has random objects glued on his shirt) "I don't know how to use the glue gun good..." -elsewhere- Kid: "Any plans for afterschool, Liz?" liz: i might do some work at deathbucks to make some extra cash for the holidays. Kid: "...Oh. I forgot how quickly Christmas was coming." Patty: "I better call Wes to let him know where you are...and what you're wearing. :3 " liz: patti! ????: um, excuse me? Patty: "Who said that?" -there is a girl in a school uniform, long dusty-orange hair in two braids and glasses standing before you- ???: pardon me, but do you know where i can find the 8th brigade HQ? Kid: "Yes. You can catch it by taking the Route 14 Bus." ???: ah, thank you very much. i'll be on my way then. Kid: (points) "Actually, those students work at the 8th." ???: oh? -later- shinra: that girl with the braids has been following us a while now... Arthur: "Perhaps it is an elf, disguised as a human, who is following us so they may kidnap the princess..." (seizes his hilt) shinra: dude, no. Arthur: "Hmph. Okay, Smart Guy--who is she? What are we supposed to do, just confront her and ask her?" shinra: maybe she just happens to be taking the same route we are? -this continues until they arrive- shinra: she followed us all the way here?! Arthur: "I am really getting freaked out. Maybe if we go inside, she'll leave us alone." -she knocks on the door- Arthur: "SHE'S STILL FOLLOWING US!" Akitaru: "???" ????: um....excuse me...is...commander...oubi was it? is he here? Arthur: (hiding behind Hibana) Hibana: -_-; Akitaru: "Yo, I'm Oubi. What's up?" ???: um...i....i-i would like to join your brigade sir!...p-please.... Akitaru: "...Oh. Um, well, the entrance exams were last month, and exceptions are up to individual commanders. So, tell me, kid, what's your name?" ????: my name is Nozomi Harada. i'm not sure if i'll be very useful to you, but i'll try my best not to be a burden. Akitaru: (grabs her hand with a vigorous handshake) "Pleasure to meet you, Nozomi! Tell me, you a Fire Being?" nozomi: no, but i do have a bit of science knowledge and medical knowledge from what my dad taught me. Akitaru: "Well, we don't have much in the way of a science department here--we're pretty bare bones. Just about everyone here has basic first-aid training." Hibana: "And Iris and I have our botany lab, so we could use more help there." nozomi: so then, is that a yes? Akitaru: "Call it a trial run, see how you do. I will need to look at your resume, though." nozomi: ah! right! Akitaru: "Let me take a look at it. And do you have any references? Bosses?" (studies her) "How old are you, anyway?" nozomi: 17, sir. shinra: same as me. Akitaru: "Any teachers to vouch for you?" nozomi: dr itou could do so. -and so, elsewhere- Wes: "H-Hey, Liz..." liz: hey wes.... .////. Wes: "I-I was stopping by for c-coffee..." ("That dress...") liz: what would you like, the usual? Wes: "Y-Yeah, that'd be great. H-How is work?" liz: doing well. Wes: "That's good. Do you have plans for Thanksgiving?" -later- Kid: (entering a candy shop) "Hello, I wanted to place an order for an imported dessert?" clerk: imported, what kind? Kid: (opens a brochure) "This one--the dark chocolate Mediterranean fig." clerk: oooh. Kid: "Could it be here by Christmas?" clerk: lets seee.... seems like it. Kid: (smiles, pulling out his credit card) "I will take it, and I will pick it up here. Please have it gift-wrapped as well." clerk: very well sir. Kid: (picks up a few boxes of sweets) "And I'll take these now." ("I wonder whether Stocking's mother has a sweet tooth...") -later- Kid: "I'm home." stocking: hey babe. *she smiles* Kid: (kiss on the cheek) "Hello, Love. How was your day?" stocking: great. i got to show my mother some pictures. Kid: (smiles) "That's good. Which photos?" stocking: a few from when i was younger. Kid: (smiles) "When you were super-adorable? Not to ignore how adorable you are now~" stocking: hehe~ Kid: "I'm proud of you." stocking: *she hugs him and kisses his nose* Kid: (holds her) "I love you, no matter what." stocking: *nuzzles into him* Kid: (strokes her back) "What were you up to here before I came home?" stocking: just setting the table for dinner. Kid: "Need help?" -later- Kid: "Excellent work, Ellen! That meal was delicious." -the next day at school- Arthur: (looking around the school) "Where is she...?" nozomi: who're you looking for? shinra: his girlfriend. Arthur: -_-; "I'm just curious where Tamaki has gone..." iris: i think she's still at the 1st brigade HQ... Arthur: "And not in school...I miss her." shinra:...... Arthur: "I wish I could convince her..." iris: maybe we should visit her? Arthur: "I would like that..." shinra: then it's settled. we'll go see her after class. Arthur: "..." (mutters) "Thanks." -in class- Patty: (drawing) liz: *reading* Kid: (reviewing history book) -later- Patty: "How was work, Sis?" liz: i went pretty well i'd say. -meanwhile- shinra: soooooo how do we get there again? Arthur: "Take Route 7B, then walk." shinra: ok then. on this bus? Arthur: "That's the one." -one bus trip later- Arthur: "Here we are..." nozomi: it's so big. shinra: yeah. Arthur: "Best check with security..." guard: just move along, kiddos. Arthur: (frowns) "Not likely: we are here to see our friend Tamaki." guard: shes busy with training right now and cant be disturbed. Arthur: "Then when will she be done training for the day? When is her break?" guard: after that, she'll be on a mission. Arthur: "Oh, that's convenient! Come on, man!" guard: sorry, we cant let you in without the proper clearance. Arthur: "..." (starts to turn away--then grabs the guard by the neck) guard: !! shinra: woah, dude! Arthur: "We're going in. Now." -later- Arthur: "..." nozomi: *bandaging his wounds* maki: honestly, what got into you? Arthur: "I am a man in love! And I will not let my lady be--Owie!" (pouts) "That peroxide stings!" shinra: *points* AHA!! Arthur: "And where were you, Squire?! You ran off with your tail between your legs!" shinra: using the phone booth. Arthur: "Why?! To rip off the phone and use as a blunt instrument?!" shinra: to call the others to stop you from doing something stupider. Arthur: "...I could've defeated those five security guards if you hadn't butted in." shinra: -_-; Arthur: "We'll have to find another way to break into the 1st. Maybe a hot air balloon..." shinra: that might just work. i'll get a balloon for you to breathe into. Arthur: (biting his lip and glaring at Shinra) "Well, why don't you--! Um...Why don't you...Shut up!" shinra: *smirks* Arthur: "Hmph. Maybe I could text Tamaki..." shinra: maybe. Arthur: "Wish I thought of that before..." (pulls out his phone, texts Tamaki: "hey. tried to visit today") -no reply- Arthur: "Maybe I should try calling?" -no reply again- Arthur: "Damn it!" shinra:...... Arthur: "...I think I'm going to bed." -the next day- Kid: (purrs) stocking: hehe~ Kid: "Sleep okay?" stocking: yeah. Kid: "Same." (stretches) "What's today?" stocking: looks like the weekend i think? Kid: "Oh, good! Any plans?" stocking: not really. Kid: "Maybe go for a walk today? A little holiday shopping? Get some lunch?" stocking: sounds good. maybe i could get my mother a nice housewarming gift. Kid: (nods) "That would be good. Has your mother decided where to live?" stocking: my dad is having her move in at his place. Kid: (nods) "That should be good." -later- Kid: "What do you think your mother would like as a gift?" stocking: maybe something for her new room? Kid: "Like something to look at, such as a painting, or a candle?" stocking: or maybe a decorative pillow? Kid: "Oh, that can be good! Is your mother on her feet yet?" stocking: soon. Kid: (nods) "It's good she has support..." (looks at one pillow) stocking: *she looks as well* Kid: "Perhaps one like this? It feels comfortable, although I'm not sure about the color." stocking: *she looks at a clerk* are there other colors for this one? Clerk: "Of course! It comes in black, white, blue, red..." stocking: blue might work.... Clerk: "Very good!" (pulls out a large set of swatches) "Would that be midnight blue, light blue, sky, Cambridge, Carolina, sapphire, steel..." Kid: (eyes glazing over) "Too...many...colors..." -and so- Clerk: "Are you pleased with your choice, ma'am?" stocking: looks good. thank you. Clerk: "You're welcome. Thank you for your business!" Kid: "So...many...colors..." (shakes his head) "So, another shop, then?" stocking: sounds good. Kid: (points to bookstore) "I was thinking of some books for Father and Mother...and Little Sister." stocking: lets do that. *In the bookstore* Kid: (flipping through botany and gardening books for Yumi) -elsewhere- Yohei: (walking into Deathbucks) "Yo, Mana." mana: hey. what can i get ya? Yohei: "Coffee and a scone, thanks. How's work?" mana: doing well. you? Yohei: "Still fiddling with this." (points to Dokeshi Sensing Watch--which goes off) "...Huh." mana: ??? *she looks at kepuri* Kepuri: "...What the hell are you looking at?" master: *raises a brow* Yohei: "..." (approaches Master...the watch stops beeping...approaches Kepuri--and it starts beeping wildly) mana: ..... Kepuri: "Wh-What?!" Yohei: "Huh. So, what's your Dokeshi condition?" Kepuri: "..." (looks away) Kepuri: "...I'm stuck at this height, okay?! Happy?!!" mana: so? Kepuri: "So what?! I'm short! I don't like it!" -elsewhere- Black Star: "Okay, so I got my gift for Tsubaki." soul: i got stuff done too. Black Star: "Cool. Anything you're getting for Wes?" soul: not sure what to get him... Black Star: "...A hug?" soul: *chuckles* Black Star: "It's free, probably something he doesn't get enough. Or maybe you get him a gift card to that laser tag place." soul:....sounds good. Black Star: "Cool. Still figuring out whether I should get one more thing for Tsubaki." soul: like what? Black Star: "Jewelry? Maybe something else?" -meanwhile- Wes: (checking his mail, smiles) "Good--it came!" ghost: what is it? Wes: "A gift I got for Liz..." ghost: oh? Wes: "Something that I hope she appreciates..." -later- Kid: (brings out tea and a cupcake) "Here you are, Angel." stocking: thank you~ Kid: "I'm sure your mother will enjoy the gift...and I hope you enjoy your gift, too~" stocking: hehe~ *she kisses both his cheeks* Kid: (holds her hand) "I have already gotten to work on an excellent Thanksgiving dessert. And something cranberry related..." -meanwhile- Tuhl: (grading papers) nygus: so how did it go today? Tuhl: (shrugs) "A bit better. At least their essays are getting better." -meanwhile, at the 1st HQ- Burns: (examining photographs...) "Where is that assassin..." soldier: sir? is everything ok? Burns: "I've been interrogating multiple persons with no luck..." (his knuckles are bloody) soldier: ....... person: *bloodied and whimpering* Burns: "Get this dirtbag to a hospital." tamaki: .............. *walks back to her room* Burns: "Tamaki, wait..." tamaki: what? Burns: "...Take a walk with me." tamaki:........ Burns: "Please?" tamaki:........fine..... *They depart* Burns: "Just another block..." tamaki:....... *They are at a cemetery* tamaki: *bites her lip* Burns: (puts a hand on her shoulder) "I know it is difficult. But I think you should go forward." tamaki:.........h-hey....sorry i havent visited.....just been thinking a lot.... Burns: "..." tamaki: i just dont know what to do....they've been keeping isolated there for days.....i feel trapped...... Burns: (clenching his fists...) tamaki: i just wish you were here to give me some advice....make it feel less lonely.... Burns: (looking around...staring at one building's rooftop...narrows his eyes) tamaki: ...........i miss you.......i wish i could have been a better friend to you.... Burns: (light blinks at the rooftop, his eyes widen as he starts charging a flame...) tamaki: ?? Burns: "Down!" tamaki: *she gets down* *Fire blasts around Burns* Burns: "Damn!" (redirects the flames back at the source) tamaki: WHAT THE HELL?! Burns: "Another assassin?! Too afraid to show yourself?!" tamaki:...... [<x> try fighting them off <> try to sneak away] Tamaki: (joins a flame towards the Assassin) "Face us!" ???: *turns to flee* Tamaki: "Oh, no you don't!" (roars, fire-claws on her hands as she rushes at the Assassin) ???: *starts running* Tamaki: (leaps, roaring again) < > Catches Assassin < > Misses Assassin <x> Scratches Assassin ???: ACK! Tamaki: "Stop!" (rips off part of fabric and some skin) ???: *they fall over, screaming* Tamaki: "Got you now, you bastard!" (rushes at the Assassin) ???: w-wait, dont kill me, please! Tamaki: (tackles them, holding flame to their face) "Who sent you?!" ???: p-please, i'll talk, dont hurt me! Tamaki: "..." (tosses the Assassin down to Burns) "Interrogate this fucker." -and so- Burns: "So, care to talk?" ???: ........ Burns: "No? Fine by me. I got plenty of other work I can do." (pulls out a stack of papers and a pen...starts clicking the pen slowly) ???: ...th....the 8th.... Burns: "???" ???: t-the 8th brigade sent me.... Burns: "..." (sets down papers) "Who in the 8th?" ???: t-the commander.....c-can i please leave now? tamaki: *listening* ?! Burns: "You attempted to assassinate us: you are not getting out of her. You are going through the legal system." ???: ........... Burns: "And we have more questions. What did the Commander give you in exchange for trying to kill us?" -meanwhile- Patty: "Julie! Time for bed!" julie: *yaaaawns* Patty: (picks her up) "You wash and brush?" julie: *nods* Patty: (frowns) "Let me smell your breath, young lady..." -she did- Patty: (smiles) "Good girl!" (sets her in bed) "Bedtime story?" julie: yay! Patty: "How about Cinderella?" julie: *she nods* Patty: "Or how about Rapunzel? The girl with the super-long hair and the person trying to reach her?" julie: *shiny eyes* oooooh. Patty: "So, a long time ago--like, at least 50 years--there was as girl named Rapunzel. And she was a little spitfire--always getting into fights, not taking nothing off of any jerk who tried to harass her or her homies!" julie: *listening* Patty: "But then a warlock--that's, like, a really powerful magician but less powerful than a witch--thought the girl needed to be protected from dangers in the world, so he put her in a tall tower and wouldn't let her out." julie: oh no. Patty: "I know, right?! And she was all alone--her friends gone, separated from her. Including this one really cute boy she kept making googly eyes with before Big Nasty Warlock put her away." julie: D:> Patty: "But this boy was a knight! He had shining armor! A big, sharp sword! He tamed dragons to be his pets! He climbed tall walls! He ran faster than other people! He could open 18 jars of pickles without getting sweaty!" julie: wow. Patty: "Yeah! And he was a hottie, too! You should see his eyes and his abs!" julie: ??? liz: ._.; uuhhhh, kid? Kid: (chops Patty) "Keep this story PG rated, please." liz: you wanna take over? Patty: (pouts) Kid: "Very well." (clears his throat) Kid: "The Shining Knight missed his friend, Rapunzel, so he did what any rational person would do: he went to the giant tower--because obviously someone would be locked in a giant tower that anyone could see with no problems." liz:....... Kid: "...What, Liz? Am I wrong?" -elsewhere- Shotaro: "Zzzzz...." chie: so how was work? mana: found out that kepuri chick is a dokeshi, so that's there. Yohei: "And that was after increasing the range of the Dokeshi Watch by another three blocks. By the end of this week, it'll be ready to hunt through a radius of an entire city." (stares at Chie) "..." chie: .......... Yohei: (clears throat) "Y-Yeah...So, I could use some help to track a Dokeshi or two in the city. I don't suppose you could get off from work this weekend for Death City Hide and Seek?" chie: i suppose i could find some spare time. Yohei: "Th-Thanks..." ("...I wonder how she looks when modeling...") -elsewhere- maki: night everyone. Akitaru: *yawn* "Night, Maki. Night, Gabriella." gabriella: night. come along now, princess. *she smiles* -later, in shinra and arthur's room- Arthur: "..." (tossing in bed, not sleeping) shinra:......... Arthur: (punches his pillow) "Damn." shinra: you ok? Arthur: "No. Tamaki still won't answer my texts or calls...I'm worried I'm scaring her." shinra: well, the commander did mention we'd be going on a mission to the 1st soon. Arthur: "About time..." shinra: said something about 'taking the tour'? Arthur: " 'Tour'?" -the next morning- gabriella: kishiri and the recruit from squad zero should be here soon. maki: joooooy. Hibana: "Hmm. Haven't seen Kishiri in a while. I wonder whether his behavior has improv--" *KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK* ???: "Let us in!" shinra: ?? *he opens the door* Kishiri: "Yo yo! Hey, Commander! Gab! One-Punch Hottie!" maki: -_-; does he have to come with us? ???: fufufufu~ ???: in the depths of despair. when all hope is lost. when justice cries out. i will be there. Hibana: "...Hi? Who are you?" Kishiri: (eyebrow wiggle at Maki) -a 15 year old girl with black hair appears- ???: Sayu Hirano, hero for hire, reporting for duty~! *wink* maki:..... *steps away* shinra: o_o -_- o_o ~? (thinking: hero for hire? oh, she must be the squad 0 kid...) Hibana: "...At ease, soldier. So, you have the details for this 'tour'?" sayu: just what commander miwa told me. juggernaut: noooooo what if it's too scary? Hibana: " 'Scary'? Kid, your in the Brigade: you have to face fear." juggernaut: 8< Kishiri: "When you got beautiful ladies having your back, what do you need to be afraid of?" (eyes Maki) shinra: (thinking: he kinda reminds me of that weird kid that follows kure around) maki: i feel safer already (sarcasm) nozomi: ^^; Arthur: "...Let's just go." -and so- Hibana: "What is the first step while we are here?" maki: juggy, arthur, shinra, nozomi, sayu and the other guy will take the tour, and we'll keep you posted. Hibana: "Be safe in there. Don't do anything stupid." maki: can do. *she glares at kishiri* shinra: yes mom.....i mean ma'am....i'll just go now. Kishiri: "..." Arthur: "..." Hibana: ._.; shinra: let's just go -_-; sayu: right behind ya big bro shinra. shinra: *wince* juggernaut:...... Kishiri: *yawns, trying to put an arm around Maki* -SMACK SLAP PUNCH- Arthur: o_o "Jeez." Kishiri: (twitching on the floor) "Worth it." -and so, they took the bus there- Arthur: "...Man." shinra:.... Guide: "Greetings and salutations. Welcome to the 1st! We have been expecting--" (cringes upon seeing Arthur) "Oh God, it's him..." shinra: ?? Arthur: (glares) Kishiri: "Uh...J-Just let us in, please?" Guide: (sweating) "Just keep some distance between me and him--I don't need him attacking me like that security guard..." maki: we'll keep a good eye on him. Arthur: "Hmph." sayu: *picture snap* Guide: "Well, here we are at the entrance, which has intricate architectural design by..." Guide: "...Blake Williams, whose designs of fire reminds us of both its cleansing and dangerous natures..." (still nervous around Arthur) Arthur: (death glare) Guide: o_o; "A-And the 1st has an extensive set of items from various religious orders surrounding the worship of flames..." shinra: ..... *looks over at karim, who gives him a judgemental glare* *nervous smile* Kishiri: "Yeah, I'm really devout. Super religious. Religious as fuck, man." maki:....... Kishiri: (smirks) "Want to pray with me, babe?" juggernaut: um.. m-miss guide? is there a bathroom nearby? maki: shoo you. Guide: "Yes, just around the corner on the left, dear." juggernaut: t-thanks... Guide: "Well, while we are waiting, I can point to the facilities we have here. The East Wing leads to the Medical and Science Division..." nozomi: ...... sayu: ooooh. Guide: "And the North Wing leads to the Commander's Office." shinra: is he in? Guide: "Yes, but--" shinra: can we see him? Guide: "...No?" shinra: oh.... Burns: "Tamaki! Get back here!" -CRASH- tamaki: o-ow.... Arthur: o____o; tamaki: *she looks down and sees his hand on her chest* o////////////o -SLAP- Arthur: X___X (nosebleed) tamaki: U//////U# shinra: so...that happened Kishiri: "Oh, hey, Kitten. How you doin'?" tamaki: up yours. shinra: um. hi tamaki. tamaki: T-T# shinra:....>u>;;;;;; Burns: "Tamaki!!!" tamaki: !! Burns: "I am not done with our meeting about--" (trips over Arthur, lands on his face) "...Ow." shinra: *bites lip to avoid laughing* Kishiri: "Sir!" (salutes) Burns: (gets up) "At ease." (studies the group) "What are you doing here?" (looks at Shinra and Maki) maki: we're taking the tour for extra credit. Burns: (studies them) "Very well. Proceed, Guide." Guide: (nervous salute) tamaki: ....... Burns: "Come along, Tamaki. Now." tamaki: ...... Burns: "Well? You coming or not?" Arthur: "Tamaki, wait--" (reaches out to her) tamaki:....fine.... Burns: (glares at Arthur) "Follow, Tamaki." Arthur: "Wait just a damn minute!" tamaki: ?? Arthur: "Tamaki, I've tried calling you..." tamaki: ......*she drops a slip of paper as she and burns exit* Arthur: "???" (looks at the paper...then slips it in his pocket. "Better not let Guide see it.") Guide: ^_^; "Shall we continue with the tour? We have a wonderful cafeteria..." juggernaut: *nods* Arthur: "...Fine." Kishiri: "Good--I'm starving!" (smirks at Maki) "Care to share a root beer float with me?" maki: .....nah. -later- Kishiri: (he had a root beer float on him...in that, Maki dumped a root beer float _onto_ him) -_-; iris: how was the trip? Arthur: "...Fine." (opens the paper to read it) -cant call, burns has my phone charger and my battery died.- Arthur: "...That's it? What, she can't use someone else's charger? And why would he keep her charger?" shinra:....*shrug* Arthur: "..." (smirks) "Hey, Shinra? I need a favor." shinra: what is it? Arthur: "You need to mail a charger for me." shinra: huh? Arthur: "What? If I send it, Burns will know what I'm up to." shinra:......how about if hirano sends it? sayu: can do, big bro shinra! *salutes* shinra:...... Arthur: "Even better!" (hands $30) "Buy the charger, pack it, and mail it!" sayu: alrighty then! -elsewhere- Wes: "Soul, could you pass the salt?" soul: sure thing. Wes: "Thanks!" (adds it to the pizza sauce) -later- Wes: "...It's bad, isn't it?" soul: it's.....edible. Wes: "...Well, better get better at it before Christmas...I don't suppose Black Star will eat this failed experiment?" soul: well.... Wes: "???" soul: nevermind. Wes: "Hmmm...Maybe the dog will eat it." soul: dog? Ghost Dog: *BARK!* soul:....ok then. Wes: "Who's a cute ghost dog? You are! Yes, you are! Yes, you are!" -elsewhere- kirika: *playing games while mocha sits on her head* Patty: (coloring with Julie) stocking: can you believe its almost december? Kid: (nods) "It is surprising how quickly time feels like it is passing." (holds her hand) "Have you considered how to spend Christmas with your parents?" stocking: my dad's throwing a huge party this year. Kid: (smiles) "That should be fun." stocking: yeah, i think it's to make up for the one missed last year..............*she frowns, trembling* Kid: (holds her hand and puts an arm around her) "It's okay." stocking: *she holds him, calming down a little* Kid: (pats her back, hums a song) stocking: mmmm..... Kid: (keeps humming...) "Stocking..." stocking: *closing her eyes* Kid: (kisses her forehead, carries her to bed) stocking: *drifting off to sleep* Kid: (lies next to her, holds her as he falls asleep too) -the next morning- Kid: (slight snoring) stocking: mmmmn, kid...... Kid: "H-Huh?" stocking: *nuzzling her body against him* Kid: "..." (smiles, holds her) "How are you?" stocking: warm. *she blushes* Kid: "..." (blushes as well) "Um...Are you..." stocking: am i what? Kid: "..." (blushes harder) "I just...like being this close to you. Thank you." stocking: hehe~ *she kisses him softly* Kid: (kisses back softly, just holding her) -at school- Kid: (holds her hand in class) Tuhl: (staring at puppy in a crate) "O-Okay...I can do this..." puppy: *happy pants* : D Tuhl: "Now, when you deal with creatures, remember to treat them like another person. Just because they look different doesn't mean they aren't deserving of respect." (holds out hands to puppy to see what happens) puppy: :3 *nom* Tuhl: o__o; "Ow." -at lunch- Patty: (shoveling bread in her mouth) soul: so how was the tour? shinra: alright. Arthur: (frowning, studying his soup) maki: you ok? Arthur: "Just impatient." maki: about what? Arthur: "...When I can talk with Tamaki again." maki:..... Black Star: "...Maybe just punch down a wall and go inside?" shinra: and get arrested, maybe. Black Star: "What? Who here doesn't have a criminal record?!" soul:...... Patty: (raises her hand) "How do you think I got here?!" -that night, at the 8th- Hibana: (swinging at punching bag) "I don't see what the problem is." gabriella: *timing her* Hibana: "Burns has always been a control freak over his soldiers--" (punch punch punch) "--so how is this any different, Maki?" maki: we're worried they're keeping her there for a reason.... something just feels off about it.... -in arthur's room- Arthur: "..." (looking at a photograph of Tamaki--who is beating him and Shinra into the ground) -dink- Arthur: "???" (looks at window) -a girl in a hoodie is standing there with a ladder- Arthur: "???" (carefully opens the window) "Tamaki?" tamaki: *she makes a motion with her hand to say 'open the window'* Arthur: "...I did open it...What are you doing here?" tamaki: *she puts the ladder to the window and starts climbing up* Arthur: (looks around the room...) -empty save for him- Arthur: (holds a hand out to her) -she climbs in, dropping the ladder in the process- tamaki: ah.... Arthur: "Oh...Um...Is-Is that going to be a problem?" tamaki: if it didnt cause too much noise.............y-you.....*she hugs him tightly* i missed you idiot! Arthur: "I-I missed y-you too..." (holds her) tamaki: h-hey! dont start crying on me! Arthur: (wipes his eyes) "I'm not crying! Something blew in from the window!" (holds her more tightly) tamaki: y-yeah...i should close that.... Arthur: "...I don't want to let go..." tamaki: .....*sigh* jeez, you're such a wimp... Arthur: "Heh. Like you crying as soon as you see me?" (shimmies with her over to the window to close it) Arthur: "...Princess." tamaki: i was not! tamaki: it was the rain, that's all... Arthur: (closes the window, and just holds her) "There's not a cloud in the sky out there, Tamaki." tamaki: it was raining when i left... Arthur: "..." (smirks) "Okay..." (pulls back) "How long before Burns finds out?" tamaki: he probably knows by now......no doubt he has people looking for me... im not gonna sugar coat it, but in case you havent figured it out, i ran away. Arthur: "But what makes you think he won't look for you?" tamaki: he will.......and i bet he is already.... Arthur: "...He'll start here...What do we do?" tamaki: i just need to hide...lay low.... -knock knock- Arthur: o___o (whispers) "Hide under the bed." tamaki: *she does so* Arthur: (answers the door, just opening it a bit) "Y-Yeah?" shinra: hey, one of burn's goonies is here saying tamaki's missing. Arthur: (bad acting) "What? Really? No!" shinra:.....well, just thought i'd keep you posted... Arthur: "Th-Thanks, man. I appreciate it. H-How about we go look for her?" shinra: sounds good. Arthur: "O-Okay! Let me just get something." (slams door in Shinra's face) "Oh boy..." tamaki: shit. Arthur: "I-If I can get them away from here, maybe they won't know you're in this room?" tamaki: ........ Arthur: "!!! The ladder! Let me get down there and hide it!" -outside- shinra: oi! tamaki! Arthur: "Here, Kitty Kitty!" (picking up ladder, hiding it) shinra: dude really? Arthur: (hid the ladder) "What? If she was out here, and I said that, she'd already be out there ripping my head off, right?" shinra: ......*looks at the person from thr 1st* anything yet? 1st Officer: "Nothing. I see some footprints, though." (points to them) shinra: do you think it was a burglar? 1st Officer: "Do these footprints have...kitty paws on the bottom?" shinra: ??? Arthur: "Th-That just looks like cat's prints. Ha ha ha! Don't be silly!" (nervous laughter) shinra: yeah, i guess it was just a cat... Arthur: (nods vigorously) "Wait, I think I heard something over there!" (points away from the 8th Brigade) shinra: ?? Arthur: "I think I saw someone in the bushes! You should go check! Take your time! I'll be over here!" -shinra and the officer go look- Arthur: (slowly tries to inch back into the building and back to his room) shinra: *examining the bushes* Arthur: (back in the building, trying to get back to his room--) <x> Arthur gets to his room without a problem < > Someone stops Arthur Arthur: (enters his room, sighs, then checks under his bed) tamaki: ?? -she's playing neko atsume on her phone- Arthur: "...So, keeping yourself preoccupied?" tamaki: *she nods* thanks for the charger. i missed my widdle babies.... Arthur: "...'Widdle babies'?" (smiles) "Cute." tamaki: oh shush. Arthur: "...They seem to be heading elsewhere, away from the 8th...Is there room under this bed?" tamaki: a little bit... unless you want me to move to the closet? Arthur: "..." (reaches a hand to her) "Even my closet is small, and Shinra is bound to find out. How am I going to keep you here without them knowing?" tamaki:......i dont know..... Arthur: "...What if we told the Commanders, Obi and Hibana? Maybe you could transfer here." tamaki: maybe, but i doubt burns would let me.... Arthur: "Obi and Hibana can be very persuasive, though." tamaki: you dont know burns the way i do... Arthur: "What do you mean?" tamaki:...n-nevermind.... Arthur: "...Has he hurt you?" tamaki:......not physically.... Arthur: "But he's said things to you?" tamaki: no....he's....ever since the incident at the 5th, he's been....overprotective. Arthur: "...Is it safe for him to be in command?" tamaki: of course....i know, he wants the best for his soldiers.....but he didnt need to keep me trapped there...... Arthur: "Then I think that is enough to make a case to Obi." tamaki:...................