#yes I know Vash is taller than that

[ebthanyyart]

Date Night! 💖 (Ref used)

[hiseternalmayfly]

Security Bets 💵

Written for @kendallroysmethpipe / @weirdgirlgf. I said I'd write out S/I's interacting and I meant it. The first of many. It doesn't matter how different the universes are. I can mash them together. Reminder that I'm open to fic/fic and fic/art trades as well as enjoy writing for my mutuals and followers!

Succession x Trigun anyone?

Characters: Seven (S/I), MJ (S/I), Vash the Stampede, Kendall Roy (Mentioned) Word Count: 1023 CW: Mentions of Alcohol Reblogs > Likes 💕

Somehow, the journalists were louder than the drunk patrons of the bar. All of it was enough to have their ears ringing. Their eyebrow twitched in frustration as a flood of invasive questions were hurled at them like hard rocks. "Can I enjoy my drink in peace?" Their teeth ground together hard enough to snap their teeth.

Their question was ignored as their persistent questioning continued.

This was a stupid idea; they should have known this was going to happen. The public latched onto gossip like a pack of starving animals. Even the smallest rumors would have them foaming at the mouth. Just need to slip out and–

The door of the bar was kicked open with enough force to nearly knock it off the hinges. It silenced the entire bar in an instant, the crowd turning to stare at the taller and slender stranger standing in the doorway, eyes shrouded by their orange glasses.

"You have 5 seconds to empty this bar before I level it to the ground." A deep male voice spoke. A gloved hand reached down at his thigh, pulling out a shiny custom revolver. His fingers strategically reloaded bullets into the chamber before clicking the barrel closed.

"One." He begins counting as he steps forward, and that single step was enough to send everyone scrambling for an exit. That one step exposed that signature red jacket that no one could mistake. The once noisy saloon is now dead silent. All that remains are them, the red-coated man, and the waitstaff? 

Why were the staff still there?

Heavy boots clicked on the ground as the man approached. Those glasses hid eyes that pierced directly into their soul, sending shivers down their spine. His spiky blonde hair was a striking feature. His pistol was raised, resting under their chin as he raised it with the barrel, making them look him in the eyes.

Oh god, they were so dead—he was going to kill them. This was the end, and–

"Okay, Vash. The people we needed out of here are gone. You don’t have to act intimidating anymore."

"Aw!" The blonde’s act was dropped immediately, and the pistol was quickly placed back into its holster. In that moment, his eyes were shining like a child being told it was bedtime. His hand rubbed the back of his head. "Did I do a good job? Do you think they were scared? How scary was I?" He leaned over towards them, getting in their face to ask them questions with excitement. "How would you rate your fear on a scale of 1 to 10?"

The blonde was jerked away from them with a loud, whiney yelp, protesting at the small, red-haired woman, who quickly hushed him like a dog.

She turned her attention to them. "MJ, right?" 

MJ was speechless. Their eyes shifted towards their drink momentarily, wondering if it had been laced while they weren’t looking.

"Sorry about him. He likes to play tough and scary sometimes." She slid into the seat next to them, a glass of whiskey on the rocks set in front of her. "You’re buying this, by the way. I’ll take it as a thank you for getting the journalists off your back."

"I’m sorry—who are you?" MJ finally got the words out.

"Not anybody too important, but my name’s Seven. Yes, that’s my actual name. Don’t think about it for too long." She slammed back the drink quickly, a satisfied sigh leaving her lips. "I already know who you are. Everyone does, after all. What’s it like dating a rich guy? Must be living such a lavish life. You don’t fit in at a place like this."

"Upper-class life is hardly enjoyable." They grumbled in reply, yet their muscles seemed to lose tension at the sight of the once-threatening blonde man now messing with a juke box like it was a new toy.

"I bet." Seven chuckles. "Listen, I’ll keep it quick. I just did you a favor, so I’d like for you to do me a favor in return." "Why should I? I’m thankful for the help, but I don’t see much benefit from striking a deal with a stranger."

"You know who that is?" Seven used her thumb to point back to the blonde, whose eyes were still glowing with glee. "Does a $60 billion dollar man ring a bell?"

MJ’s eyes shifted to the corner—a tack board with posters lined up neatly. In the middle? That dumb blonde man, fingers clutching his chin with a cheeky smile. 

"Wanted…dead or alive...$60 billion dollars... Vash the Stampede!" MJ was surprisingly calm about being in his presence, but seeing him clap his hands in joy when he was given a record to play made it clear there was a larger story at play.

"Bingo. He’s with me, and his name scares everyone who hears it. So I was thinking." She tapped her fingers on the bar. "You and your little boyfriend spare us some cash to let us get into your city without any problems, and I’ll have Mr. Stampede here keep unwanted press attention off you for a long, long time."

MJ glanced down at their drink, watching as the ice shifted around in slow motion. It wouldn’t kill them to spare some money; however, they felt a little used. At the same time…they wanted nothing more than to be left alone by the media.

Perhaps it was a buzz that they answered without even considering Kendall’s thoughts on the matter. "Deal." 

Seven offered them a thumbs up with a cheeky grin. "Perfect." She stood up from her seat, sliding the empty glass back towards the bartender, who seemed unphased by the entire situation. "We’ll be in touch. I think you and I could be great friends."

She clapped her hands, the blonde standing at attention. "Come on, Vash. Wolfwood is waiting for us." 

Vash reached his hand up at MJ with a bright smile, waving his hand in rapid fashion. "Nice to meet you! See you later!"

As MJ was now left alone in the bar, only one thought came to mind.

What the fuck?

[dapper-shipping-forever]

23 kiss edition! 👀 - arnabghost

Answering for Vash ! My love 🌸

Vash watched her try and get her balance, the stability of the box on top of their mattress was dubious. Despite that, she steadied herself by moving her arms.

"What is this?" Vash asked, an amused and cautious smile on his face seeing her.

"I'm giving you a taste of what it's like to have to get on your toes for a kiss." She said simply, arching her back as she rights herself after stumbling just a bit.

He's got his hand hovering around her hips, just ready if he has to catch her should she trip. "You're gonna fall, baby." He says, pouting.

"Nah, look, I'm totally balanced." She waves her arms in an arc, then places them on his shoulders to keep herself balanced. She grins victoriously. "See, pretty balanced !"

He chuckles softly. "Yeah, you're nicely balanced. Am I supposed to try kissing you now?" The box and bed made this height difference not exactly like what it actually is when she's standing, but close enough, he has to tilt his head back to be looking directly at her. He lets his hand actually settle on her hip since she's steady.

"Yes, you gotta see what it's like kissing you." She stands a little straighter, grinning at him.

He shakes his head, deciding to follow her lead. "Alright, I can do that. What a task." He gives her a bemused look, one eye brow raised. He gets on to his toes, reaching her lips.

It's just a quick kiss, then he's back to being flat on the floor. He carefully shuffles her a little closer, gazing at her.

She hums. "Just like that."

He chuckles. "Finally satisfied now?"

"Hm, after a single kiss? Definitely not." She presses her hands more firmly into his shoulders, leaning above him further.

"Ah, then guess there's no choice." He gets a cheeky idea. Stepping onto the mattress next to her, he negates almost all of the height she gained above him from it. "You need more kisses." He tugs her flush to him by his grip on her waist.

She gasps at him. Her expressions becomes a little frustrated, not seriously but she's definitely upset her little game was foiled. Not that she particularly minds he's taller than her either way, if anything there's a new thrill of excitement. "Awe, spoil sport !" She accuses him.

He chuckles. "But it's easier to give you kisses from this spot." He swoops towards her, planting a firm and lingering peck on her lips. "Mmm, and I think you can enjoy it just as well."

True, either way she's definitely not done being playful. "I can. But I do know another way to get taller."

He gives her a curious look. "How's that?"

"By doing this !" She jumps, springing right into Vash's arms, her legs clamping on his waist and arms securing herself on his shoulders again.

Vash makes a noise, quickly grabbing her to keep her safe. Caught off guard, he trips; as he's falling, he twists to land on his back on their mattress. They bounce a bit as the mattress absorbs their distributed weights. Gill now sits on his hips and Vash groans, his hands kept on her hips. "Yeah, that was effective." He says, shifting.

She straightens her back. "Told ya, baby."

"Though technically, if we're not standing I'm not sure if it counts." He tells her.

"Nope, totally counts !" She slaps her hand onto his mouth. She leans closer. "What're you gonna do now about this now, aye, pretty boy?"

He has a pretty decent idea. Faster than she's able to block, his fingers dig into her sides. She immediately jolts, laughing. He continues to tickle her relentlessly until he's certain she's distracted. Using the chance, he flips them both, landing himself on top of her and pinning her below him. Effectively having turned this around, he leans in close, teasing her with his breath on her lips. "Yknow, I think the prettier one is you, love." Then, he swoops in to the crook of her neck and takes a deep breath in to blow a big raspberry on her.

She shrieks, hands slapping at his shoulders as she laughs and wiggles around while pinned there. "You, ah ! You meanie !" She says, giggling.

He gives her a chance to catch her breath, laughing with his forehead hovering near her's. "May I kiss you now?" He asks her.

"Yes, you can." She says, breathlessly.

Their kiss is long; it's tender and slow as they enjoy each other. It's never mattered which of the two are taller, especially not in a position such as this here. They're free to kiss and express their love however they would like to forever.

[earlgraytay]

Thanks for the tag, @bakomglaset !

Get to know me

Share your wallpaper:

A pretty image of Beignon from Fire Emblem: Radiant Dawn.

The last song you listened to: SING by My Chemical Romance.

Currently Reading:  The Vor Game by Lois McMaster Bujold.

Last Movie: The Super Mario Bros Movie.

Craving: Chocolate. Specifically, Cosmic Brownies. :(

What are you wearing right now: Pink linen button-down, navy blue sweatpants.

How tall are you: Taller than Miles Vorkosigan.

Piercings: Used to have my ears pierced, but the holes closed up.

Tattoos: None.

Glasses? Contacts?: Yes, glasses.

Last drink: Coffee, three sugars.

Last show: Splitting my attention between Trigun (with my friend Lifa) and Oshi no Ko (with my partner).

Last thing you ate: Pizza with my bestie!

Favourite colour: Lavender.

Current obsession: Too many to count! Let's go with the kids's book I'm writing. Or the Vorkosigan Saga. or Bugsnax. Or Trigun.

Unrelated Obsession: The Sims (2 or 4)

Any pets: Do ball jointed dolls count?

Do you have a crush on anyone: Not sure how to answer this question, tbh!

Favourite fictional character: oh god there are so many

Miles Vorkosigan. Dairine Callahan. Vash the Stampede. Mina Murray-Harker. Jo March. Elizabeth Comstock.

The last place you traveled:  The last big vacation I took was to Montreal for CrossingsCon! It was really exciting.

I tag @yooniesim , @amairylle, @terrarkul , @fierceawakening, @ladyyatexel , @tabby-shieldmaiden , @tyrantisterror , @0koyote, and anyone else who wants to do this!

[vcshstampede]

LAYER ONE: THE OUTSIDE.

name: "Vash!"

eye color: "A sky blue, I guess??"

hair style/color: "It's sort of all over the place, but blond!"

height: "Etto.... I haven't measured myself in a while...? I-I'm not sure, but I do know I haven't gotten any taller! I'll take a guess. Let's see.... I'll say..... 5'9"!"

clothing style: "I love my red long-coat! It's very distinguished, hehe. Oh but, let's see what else... I guess I just wear regular pants, & boots too? My glove as well. Heat doesn't bother me too much."

best physical feature: "Aaah you're gonna make me all shy! Etto.... I don't know ahaha! I've never been asked this before.... Today I'll pick, my smile!"

LAYER TWO: THE INSIDE.

your fears: "Nai."

your guilty pleasure: "So you're asking what I enjoy that I think others would shun me for, huh? Etto..... let's see..... mmmn I guess I like Worms more than the average human would? Er I mean, that I find them fascinating! Even the bigger ones, though they're kinda frightening, I just wanna, learn more about them too."

your ambitions for the future: "I don't really plan that far ahead ahahaha.... etto... let's see... I just want to live my life! & Enjoy it with the ones I cherish. So I guess, travelling and meeting new people??"

LAYER THREE: THOUGHTS.

your first thoughts waking up: "I should stretch and have some water."

what you think about most: "Ahaha, that's very, etto, private you know? It's, a lot of different things! For now, I'll pick.... Nai."

what you think about before bed: "I hope I won't have any nightmares."

what you think your best quality is: "Eeeh this is an interesting question! Etto.... I guess it's my ability to.... hmmm.... actually, I don't know how to answer this ahaha.... sorry!!"

WHAT’S BETTER?

single or group dates: "Eeeeh a date huh? Ahaahaha~ Um! Let's see..... I-I dunno! I've never thought about that before~."

to be loved or respected: "Both."

beauty or brains: "A soul~."

dogs or cats: "I can't choose they're both so great... oh I know! Worms!"

LAYER FIVE: DO YOU…

lie: "Etto.... yeah.... I mean I think everyone does, to certain extents. I try my absolute best not to but sometimes little white lies have to be told. You know?"

believe in yourself: "I try my best."

believe in love: "1000%, I'll always believe in love. It's the greatest source of power there is out there!!"

want someone: "I want people to be happy."

LAYER SIX: EVER BEEN…

been on stage: "An actual stage? Etto... I guess! In a manner of speaking."

done drugs: "Oh I've taken medicine before yes."

changed who you were to fit in: "In subtle ways, yes."

LAYER SEVEN: FAVORITES.

favorite color: "Green!"

favorite animal: "Worms!"

favorite movie: "I used to make little movies with Nai when we were kids, do those count?"

favorite game: "Hide and seek, or tag!"

LAYER EIGHT: AGE.

day your next birthday will be: "Ahahaha, I actually don't remember my own birthday! Sorry! I don't really see a need to celebrate it anymore, you see? It's just another day, to me!" 

how old will you be: "Old, hehe, surprised?"

age you lost your virginity: "Huh?! Ahahahaha, never! No! Sorry! Next, please!!"

does age matter: "For what?"

LAYER NINE: IN A PERSON.

best personality: "Etto, I guess that depends.... I like a lot of different people for a lot of different reasons. For now, I'll say... determination!"

best eye color: "It's hard to choose, I guess I'll say... blue!"

best hair color: "Hair colour??? Etto... I don't really keep track... most people have brown hair, right? So I'll say that!"

best thing to do with a partner: "Smile."

LAYER TEN: FINISH THE SENTENCE.

i love: "humanity."

i feel: "like going for a run!”

i hide: "until things calm down."

i miss: "Rem."

i wish: "I could have stopped things before it got so bad."

[punisheye]

do they get hay fever? if so, how bad?

in a relationship, are they the ones stealing their partners' clothing? or are they the ones having their clothes stolen?

yes 🫶 nothing super severe but he definitely has spring allergies, which he did not know before since NML did not have a springtime.

and wolfwood's the one getting his clothes stolen. while vash is just a little taller than him, wolfwood's much broader and vash's clothes could not fit him. meanwhile, vash keeps stealing his shirts (and hoodies) until wolfwood's like why do i only have two left. where are you hiding them. but at the same time he's very pleased when he sees vash walking around in one of his shirts.

[captainsupernoodle]

listen, there's a hell of a universe next door by storm_petrel - star wars/the mandalorian, 12k, din/luke, M

As it turns out, no one ever taught Luke how to tie a little green baby to his back one-handed, but Luke thinks he's pretty gods-damned good at problem-solving under pressure, thank you, and the baby is at least semi-cooperative. When he's sure the kid is strapped in as tight as he can get, Luke pauses, and reaches back. His fingers graze the wide point of the baby's fuzzy ear. "Well, kid," says Luke, and his voice is a little rough, but not bad, all things considered. "Carrying you on my back while getting the absolute banthashit kicked out of me, at least this feels familiar."

Or: Luke Skywalker solves a number of life-or-death problems, makes some new friends, falls abruptly in love, and gets shot into space, all in the same day.

some ever after no one could predict by QueenWithABeeThrone - critical role campaign 2, 15k, T

“My tent,” said Una, “is spoiling the landscape.”

“Yes!” said the satyr. “It’s getting in the way of the view. Look, see?” He flipped the notebook around to show her a rather well-drawn landscape, with a much taller tent than the one she actually had poking up out of the grass like a rather majestic—

She covered her mouth, turning her laugh into a cough. “That’s a very flattering view of my tent,” she said, not quite able to keep herself from smiling.

or: over thirty years ago, Una Ermendrud went into the Feywild and met a satyr named Garmelie. thirty years later, Caleb reunites with his godfather.

Erinus alpinus by greymoores - critical role campaign 3, 6k, G

She hums, tuneless but thoughtful. “Can I have your name?”

Sally used to say she was stolen by the Fey. That she was a changeling who escaped. Ashton doesn’t know who she is or why they know this, but he knows that the correct answer to her question is, “No. But friends call me Ashton.”

He tenses, waiting for anger. He’s surprised when her response comes in the form of a twinkling laugh, bright like fireflies. “Clever.” Has he ever seen a firefly? “My friends call me Fearne.”

Ashton ends up in the Feywild after their fall

Gotham High by Unpretty - batman, 17k, WIP, T

Between freshman and sophomore year, Bruce Wayne had a growth spurt. He did not get any better at socializing.

standalone scenes of outsider pov of bruce wayne in high school

shine between everything by intimatopia - trigun, 2k, T, vash/wolfwood

A lot of things were technically real while being practically unachievable. True love was a pipe dream, the illusion that there was somewhere any of them could put down what they carried.

In which soulmates are real, but Wolfwood and Vash are something else.

[doodlebug-1-2-3]

Listen I know vash doesn’t *look* that alien, but he very much is. He’s not even half-human or anything he is 100% alien. He’s a member of a (presumably) single-sexed species called plants (because they’re used as living power plants) who get REALLY funky with the body horror.

I love them they’re my favourite alien species.

Vash is what’s known as an ‘independent plant’, where a dependent plant (the ones that look like really fucked up anime girls) gives birth to a human-looking infant, who can survive outside the plant bulbs. It is so far unknown how, precisely, this comes about, and what the physiological differences are between the two, but we know at least that plants are an aesexually-reproducing species.

Vash is not spared the body horror, in case you’re wondering. He’s still 100% plant, after all

My favourite thing about vash being an alien is the fact that he *looks* human. Or rather, he looks like a human with plant beauty standards imposed on him. That kind of uncanny valley range.

Look at him compared to the other humans here. His legs make up 70% of his body (this shot isn’t taken out of context btw he actually just looks like that). He’s a *lot* taller than most humans on the planet, with the average person coming up to around his chest (though the heights were pretty inconsistent in the original anime).

His proportions, while not nearly as extreme as his plant sisters’, are definitely enough for him to look Wrong at times, without being enough to fully identify him as ‘other’. I love it. There are several smaller details too, like his teeth generally being drawn sharper, a complete intolerance to alcohol (he throws up pretty much anything he drinks - joke, or underlying physiology? Could plants be unable to process alcohol like humans?)

I have like 4 more pics but I don’t have room to include them rip. They were all taken within, like, two chapters of each other, and are not nearly the best examples, but I didn’t want to pull the biggest ones and pass them off as standard, yanno? Basically, he’s very fun as an alien, especially *because* he looks so human (but very much isn’t).

He grew from an infant to the equivalent of an 8(?)-year old child in only on year, which I think is very cool. After he reached a certain age, his ageing slowed to a crawl before stopping altogether. This is standard for his species.

More fun and funky plant biology tidbits! In the manga, we occasionally see him cry a dark viscous liquid (blood?). I don’t have many pictures on my phone rn but you’re just gonna have to take my word for it. This isn’t the norm - he does cry real tears (frequently). Vash is fun because every now and then you’re just reminded, starkly, that he really only *looks* human.

Also the plants (because they don’t usually defined, separate ‘minds’) can all fuse together into hivemind-beings like this, which I think is very cool and sexy. Yes, vash can do it too.

Also seriously I am not exaggerating about his proportions those legs do not belong on a human.

Please vote for vash he’s my favourite alien. Sorry if this sucked i was just trying to get the words out more than anything. Hopefully this convinces some people. Byeeee

ROUND 1, PART 1

[simping-i-guess]

Shared Scars (Part 1)

          You remembered the first time you saw the legendary Vash the Stampede. He came to your little town, made a bit of a racket with the kids, and was soon carried away with the wind. You were young then, probably only 17- but he left a lasting impression. Being willing to give you, a poor beggar, the time of day was rare- especially for a non resident. His face burned into your memory, the sight of his bright smile always being present within your mind. You wanted to see him again... However, the next time you'd meet him, you had been hardened by the strenuous life you led in order to survive.

26. That's how old you were when you ran into Vash again. Within a small bar, far from where you'd originally met him, far from the village that you hailed from- the village that was wracked with poverty and death. Far from your least favorite place... You remembered to thank you lucky stars that you made it out of that town with your head on straight.

You took a seat beside the taller figure cloaked in crimson, buying him the same thing you had seen him drinking many years ago- whiskey. With only a brief moment of confusion, Vash's expression became one of shock.

"Hey, do I know you from somewhere..?" Vash asked, a hand coming to his chin. "You look awfully familiar..."

You stifled a laugh behind your gloved hand. "Yes, about nine years ago now. You happened to stumble into a little town for a drink- but I never forgot your face." You smiled, leaning against the bar. "I'm surprised you remembered me, though. You must see a lot of people."

"Ah, yeah." Vash chuckled, the sound filling your ears. How pleasant. "I'm pretty good at recognizing faces, though, and I certainly remember yours. How is everyone from the town doing? All the little tykes grown up?" Vash asked, taking a swig from his whiskey. You shrugged.

"No clue, haven't been there in years. Last I heard, one of the old folks controlling the water supply died, and the whole town fought to take control of the estate. Glad I wasn't there for that."

"That's... unfortunate." Vash commented, face falling only briefly. "Well then, what about you? You seem well."

The two of you spent the night talking, sharing the stories you'd both gotten over your years of wandering. Vash hung on to every word you said, even the mundane. He... he cared. That was strange, but it was what you remembered about him from all those years ago.

How you then ended up tagging along on his travels was, a bit fuzzy in your mind. A few drinks could make you do and say some crazy things, seemingly. But it didn't matter much... you were happy to go along with him, allowing the wind to blow you both wherever it desired.

However, things grew more complicated as your feelings for the gunman emerged, and your desire to hold your secrets even closer intensified.

...

"Vash, I can't wear that..." You frowned at the garment that was being presented to you.

"What? Why not? Is it the wrong size?" Vash flipped the shirt over in his hands, looking for the inner tag.

"No, it's... it's the right size, that's not the issue." Your eyes drifted to the sleeves, examining their short length. "But, ah... it looks like it might be a little short... for my torso..."

"Well, I think it's supposed to be that way. It's cool and breathable, and I mean, you don't need to always wear that sweater- it's so hot out!"

"Vash, you're always in a jacket."

"Yeah, but its fabric protects me. Yours is just hot for no good reason."

Vash made a valid point, but you didn't want to admit it. No, you just didn't want to put on anything more revealing. You were much too nervous.

"C'mon, just try it on?" Vash insisted, giving you a pleading smile. "I'll even get on my knees and beg!"

"No no no- stand back up!" You caught Vash by his waist, not allowing him to finish his kneel. "I'll- I'll wear it-"

"Yes!" Vash pumped his fist in the air.

"...but not right now."

"Oh." He deflated. You sighed, your hands coming to your hips.

"... a date." You mumbled.

"Hm?" Vash tilted his head, questioning.

"A date. I'll wear it if you take me out on a date. Does that sound fair?" You raised a brow, waiting to see if Vash would accept the proposal.

"A date..? Oooh..." Vash elbowed you softly, a mischievous expression overtaking his features. "Have you just been trying to get me into your bed his whole time? Ow-" Vash rubbed his cheek, trying to will the sting from your pinch away.

"Look, is it a yes or no? If you're not interested-"

"I'll take you out, that's no problem." Vash answered, a nervous chuckle escaping him. "I'm just a bit surprised that you'd want that. Dates don't seem like your thing."

"Hey, dates can be fun. Plus, I like food. There's usually food on dates."

"Are you just trying to get me to buy you dinner again?"

"Shhh. Don't think too much about it, you already agreed."

...

Vash decided to meet you at a nice diner. You insisted that you two meet there rather than go together, because you had to get ready first. In truth, you were just giving yourself ample time to psych yourself into actually going.

"C'mon... I don't look that bad..." You muttered to yourself as you looked in the mirror, wearing the shirt Vash had gotten for you. It was a comfortable form fitted shirt in a color that was flattering on you. But, the lack of long sleeves, the fact that it revealed a lot of your back, and its length on your torso wasn't favorable for you.

It showed off the myriad of scars laden across your body, both shallow and deep. Most you had gotten from minor scuffles, or when foraging for scrap to sell. However, a few long slashes on your partially exposed back were clearly an intentional infliction, having gotten them while being robbed many years ago. You shook your head, urging the returning memories from your mind.

Even if you had seen Vash's scarred body before, it didn't change that you were still nervous about revealing your own scars, especially to someone you wanted to seem appealing to. So, before you could talk yourself out of going, you threw on a jacket and left to meet Vash at the diner you had agreed on.

...

"Hey, (Y/n)!" Vash called you over, waving exaggeratively. You gaped, looking at your shadow in an attempt to gage the time. Were you late, or was he just super early?

"Yoohoo, (Y/n), can you hear me~?" Vash called again, hopping up. He was probably scaring off potential customers, bouncing around so boisterously right near the entrance of the establishment. You hurried over to him, trying to get him to stop making a scene.

"Vash, people are gonna look at us funny!" You complained, grabbing hold of one of his arms.

"Aw, what's the problem with that? Are you embarrassed to be seen with me? Hey, aren't you supposed to be wearing that shirt I got you?" Vash asked, jumping from one topic to the other faster than you could fully comprehend.

"I am wearing it, I'm just also wearing a jacket." You explained, crossing your arms.

"Oh, well then allow me to get that for you-" Vash moved to stand behind you, ready to help remove your jacket.

"No!!" You stepped out of his reach, glancing away from him. "N...not here. Let's go somewhere a bit more private."

"Oh~? Well-"

"No funny business." You pointed a finger at Vash, trying to muster up a scowl. "We're just stepping aside for privacy, no getting handsy."

"Hey hey, I won't! I'd never do something without a lady's permission first." Vash put his hands up, his palms bared in a defeated way. You sighed, waving Vash over to the side of the building.

The town wasn't particularly busy at this hour, so just moving away from the entrance minimized your chances of anyone stumbling on you two. With one final glance around, you began slowly undoing the clasps on your jacket. Vash hummed, watching with anticipation.

"I'm sure the shirt'll look good on you! I have an eye for that sort of stuff. Here, let me." Vash again reached out, helping to pull the jacket off of your shoulders. He took it, folding it over his arms and ensuring it'd not get wrinkled in the position it was in. "Ookay, well~" Vash grinned as he looked over you, though you could tell he was a bit surprised at what he was seeing. His eyes mostly stayed on the shirt, seemingly examining the way it fit you, but you knew he was just being courteous. "It-" Vash was quickly cut off, and he leaned back to dodge your swift movement.

"Don't say anything yet!" You exclaimed, having put a finger up to his lips. You felt your face heat up as Vash watched you, seemingly confused at your display. You pulled back, crossing your arms protectively over your chest. "I know it must seem a little dumb... getting all embarrassed over this." You bit the inside of your cheek, refusing the intense urge to look away from Vash's expression.

"Dumb?" Vash raised a brow. "Why would it be dumb?"

"Because you've let me see your scars before, so it's not... it's not like I've been under the impression that you'd be repulsed by mine or anything..." You shifted your weight, swaying nervously under Vash's gaze. "A-And even if you did find mine ugly or whatever, I knew you'd be nice about it. Even then, I was still too nervous... I just feel silly..." You shook your head slowly and held a hand out to Vash, now giving in and averting your gaze. "C...Could I have my jacket back now..?"

You heard Vash approach you with a few steps, and then felt your jacket being draped over your shoulders where Vash's hands settled as well. You glanced up at him to see his soft smile, which made your legs feel like jelly.

"You're beautiful, (Y/n)." Vash said simply. "You don't have to be embarrassed about your scars, especially not in front of me. But you don't have to show them off if it makes you uncomfortable or self conscious- I understand how that feels." Vash's knuckles softly stroked down your cheek, and he gave you one of the most breathtaking smiles you had ever seen. "Your comfort is the most important thing to me. I'm sorry if I made you feel as if you had to reveal this before you were ready to."

You sighed, feeling silly again. "You always know what to say, don't you?" With a little shrug of your shoulders, Vash moved his hands, and your jacket fell onto the sandy ground. You tried to match Vash's smile, though yours was a bit more forced.

"Can I touch your arms?" Vash asked, his thumbs rubbing idly on your shoulders.

You answered Vash in a small voice. "Yeah, that's fine."

With hesitant movements, Vash slowly smoothed his hands down your arms, his smile never faltering. "I'm surprised, you're more muscular than I thought you'd be." Vash commented, his fingers barley ghosting over the prominent scars.

"Hmf, I coulda said the same about you. You look real lanky until your jacket comes off." You tugged on the front of Vash's red jacket, wanting to busy your hands.

"Yeah, you aren't the first person to tell me that." Vash said, his hands stopping at your elbows. "Now... I think maybe it's time we actually start our date. Here, I'll grab your jacket-"

"No, it's... it's okay." You smiled hesitantly, grabbing your jacket up off of the ground. "I... I think I'll just hold it. I mean, it is hot out..."

Vash hummed. "It is, isn't it?" His hands quickly found the buttons on his jacket, undoing them swiftly. "I think you might have the right idea."

"Vash, you don't have to do that." Despite your words, you smiled as Vash's jacket was removed, revealing a bit more of his toned body to you.

"I don't, but I also don't feel like sweating right now. Plus, I don't see anyone getting handsy with their guns here, so I think I'm fine. Now," Vash draped an arm over your shoulder. "Shall we go inside?"

You chuckled, leaning your head against the side of his chest. "Yeah. I hope they have some good food, here."

[luckymeryl]

Outlaw Insider Chapter 6

At long last, I have a new chapter. So sorry it took so long. For the rest of the story please check AO3 or the blog. So picking up where we left off. The girls and Vash are in town, and a fire breaks out. Tadah

Outlaw Insider synopsis: After a successful interview of Vash the Stampede, Meryl and Milly are now journalists who interview No-Man’s Land’s most terrible bounties. Vash decides to keep an eye on them only to find out just how capable the girls are. 

Even with the help of her megaphone, speaking over the crowd seemed to be more trouble that Meryl had anticipated. Milly was lost in the mass of people enjoying the festivities, trying to encourage them to evacuate as the smoke came near. Few paid the girl any mind, assuming she was drunk, or perhaps they were too drunk themselves to listen. Meryl yelled through the speaker, pointing at the smoke while standing on a table, some laughing at the woman as if she were part of a one-woman show.

With a growl, she stepped down. "How do none of them see it?" She huffed, holding onto Milly for support on the last step to the ground. "We have to get them out of here before it's too late."

"Senpai, do you think we could use that?" She pointed up to the speakers at the church, probably meant for town announcements but currently playing festival music.

Meryl glanced up where her partner pointed. "Yes… yes Milly that's genius. Come on, we have to find the festival headquarters." She grabbed the other girl's hand, dodging through the crowd of people, towards a booth covered in flags marked "INFO" on all corners.

A teen boy sat behind the counter, eating foods from a nearby booth. "Yes?" He looked almost confused as to why anyone actually needed any help.

"There's a fire." Meryl was out of breath, she leaned on the counter with one hand, pointing toward the smoke with the other. "You have to use the intercom and evacuate the city. Everyone needs to get to safety. Now."

"Fire? Whe-" The teen stood, looking to where she pointed. The black smog had only grown thicker in the distance. Now the smell of burning wood and plaster was wafting through the air. "Fire!" He picked up a radio, calling over it to others. "Boss there's a fire in town! Evacuate the city! It's coming from the west end!"

The crowd was in chaos, pushing and shoving one another to get as far away from the smoke as they could. Meryl glanced from the rising glow and back to Vash. "We—"

"Get out of here." His voice was stern, his order strict. "I need you out of the way." He climbed on the table, looking out across the mass of people, inspecting for some kind of opening to make it around them and towards the disaster.

"Vash wait—"

"I mean it, Meryl!" He turned his head toward her then. "Get out of here!" With that he was off, jumping from table to table to avoid the stampede before disappearing past the festival area.

Meryl stood there for a long moment, watching after him before looking back towards the edge of town, considering his advice and whether to merge into the crowd. "Meryl?" The dark-haired woman turned her head to her partner. "Do you think he can still take that kind of damage? Without his power… he can't really heal up like he used to, can he?"

Meryl's eyes widened. Milly was right. His power was gone. He was…practically human. "We have to go. We have to help him."

"Meryl?"

"Let's go Milly." She was off, fighting her way through everyone running against her. She wasn't even sure if her friend was following, all she knew was who she was heading for. She had to think. How was she even going to help him? Guns can't fight fire. She shook her head. There had to be something. She just had to get there. She had to see the surroundings…

"Vash?" The smoke was almost overwhelming. Meryl covered her mouth and nose with her sleeve, trying to ignore the stinging in her eyes as she searched for the mess of black hair among the flames.

"Senpai I don't think it's safe for us to be here."

"It's not safe for him." Her voice was firm. She wasn't leaving until she found him. "Milly, you should get out of here. I'll find him and I'll bring him back. I promise." She didn't wait for a response. With that said, she was off into the flames, calling out once more.

Turning down an alley, she kneeled below the smoke best she could. Smoke rises, she remembered. To catch somewhat of a clean breath, she kneeled low, pulling her collar up over her face before standing once more. A few more yarz in, she heard it, a sign of life in the flames.

The heat was suffocating in itself. Meryl couldn't fathom how much worse this could have felt under sunlight. Under the crackling and roar of the fire, a cry rang through the air. A child, crouched down outside the burning building, covered his eyes from the smoke. Meryl kneeled beside him. "Are you okay? You need to get out of here. That way back through town. Keep going straight." She pointed, even turning the boy around towards the street in case he couldn't see.

"But that man!" He cried, sniffling. "He went back in. He went to find my cat. My cat ran off already but that man hasn't come back." Meryl looked around them, half a dozen unconscious men and women lying out of the way of falling debris. "He got us all out and went back for my cat. I'm so stupid for mentioning it."

Her eyes narrowed. Of course he went back in. He'd save anything with a heartbeat. Anything that ever had a heartbeat. "Get out of here. I'll take care of him. Okay?" Her voice was calm, but stern. She put a hand on his shoulder and looked him in the eye. "Go straight. Don't stop until you reach the others. Milly, will you—"

"I'll help carry his family." She nodded, giving her partner a thumbs up before lifting one body over each shoulder. She turned to the child, smiling brightly through the smoke. "I'll make a few trips but we'll be okay. Let's hurry now, okay?" The boy nodded, wiping his nose before standing to his feet, running back towards town.

Meryl watched them leave as a battle plan ran through her mind. The cloak would be too heavy, too easily caught on too many things, and too much gunpowder in all of those derringers to be safe to carry inside. Her fingers pulled at the strings on her neck, and it fell behind her as her feet began to move. She was running on pure adrenaline as she navigated the lower level. "Vash! Where are you?" She called out, making her way through the rubble, making mental note of the beams and walls that looked weakest, where the windows were.

He was lightheaded. Smoke burned his longs as hot as the fire that surrounded him. He almost thought he heard his name, but no. She was smarter than that…wasn't she? Perhaps he'd found the last person left in the building after all. He was certain that he'd circled back to that spot before. It was time to leave. He had to get the survivors as far from the smoke as possible and into the fresh air.

Vash stumbled toward the exit, not even a wall to lean on as he made his way out. He could still hear a voice calling out to him. At first he wondered if it was the smoke getting to him, causing the lightheadedness to finally take a toll on his awareness. Then he felt an arm around his waist, and another pulling his over a set of shoulder, much lower to the ground than his own. His eyes widened as he looked down. "Meryl?"

"We have to get out. This place is going to collapse." Her voice was hoarse and she was still covering her mouth, now with the collar of her dress as she pulled Vash through the rubble.

"Are you an idiot?" Those words, for once, fell from Vash's lips, followed by a fit of coughs as his body fell more heavily against her shoulders.

"Just shut up and help me get you out of here!" There was black on her sleeve, soot on her face, and ash in her hair. Never in all the years he'd known her, however, had she looked so determined. "We don't have time for you to insult me."

"The others…The survivors. Go help them."

"We will together. Don't fight me, Vash. Please." She was already walking, dragging him along beside her with a wince. "Cover your mouth. We're almost out."

He'd never been so happy to see darkness than when he was out of those flames. The fire had stopped at the sandstone buildings next door. He was in no shape to search for the culprit, and besides, he had other priorities.

He glanced over towards the area he'd left the people he'd pulled from the building. There were six he'd found, but only three remained. Was it possible they were able to wake up and get away?

"Senpai?"

Vash turned his head sharply to the larger woman. They had both followed him? Did they have no sense of self-preservation at all? He blinked slowly as he took in what he was seeing. Milly held an unconscious man draped across her back. "Milly… where are they? The other survivors?"

"I carried them out of the smoke. It was all I could do to help…" It was more help than she could possibly know. He didn't even know where he would find the strength to carry them all. As much as he hated the girls bringing themselves into danger, he had to admit, he was grateful for their help. They'd not only saved his life, but others as well.

"Thank you." His voice was tired. "Lets get them out of here. This place isn't safe." With a strength he wasn't even sure he had left, he lifted another body from the ground as Milly lifted a second to her other shoulder. The last three, as Meryl grabbed her cloak from the ground, following behind them as she tied her cape around her.

The walk back through town was slow and long. Clean air seemed iles away from them and each step seemed to take them nowhere near closer to it. At long last they saw the crowd of people at the city's edge, the smog cleared, and they were able to take a breath. The taller two gently laid their wards on the ground, town doctors coming to their aid, the young boy smiling through his tears and waving from his family's side. It seemed while retrieving Vash and the other survivors, a woman had woken up and was now holding the boy close.

Meryl sighed, relaxing into the safety of clear sky and fresh air. "I wonder how long until the cavalry arrives." She said, leaning gently on a bus, happy for anything that could help hold her up.

"The sooner the better. They need to start building the sand barriers to prevent it from spreading." Vash sat on the ground. His voice still sounded scratchy. With any more energy, Meryl might see him trying to build the barriers himself, but he was in the business of saving people, not buildings. She knew that from experience.

"That probably means you need to leave, though, too. Doesn't it, Mr. Vash?" Milly asked. For once, her voice was quiet as she said his name.

He nodded. "It does." He stretched. "That's the joys of being the most wanted man." He smiled, winking at the two of them as he stood back up. "It's a good thing you girls aren't in insurance anymore. I bet that'd be a ton of paperwork."

Meryl couldn't help but laugh. "I don't even want to think about it." Pushing herself off the bus gently she commented. "But we can't leave yet. That's just proof that our work isn't done here. In fact, our work has just begun. As far as I'm concerned, our target is out here in this crowd somewhere."

A frown crossed the gunman's face. "You can't possibly be saying you're still going to hunt this guy down. You could have died in there."

"I just want to ask him why. That's the only question. It's all I need." Meryl wasn't looking at him, her arms were crossed, her eyes closed, focused on her thoughts. "I feel like any answer he gave would be enough for our listeners. No one knows anything about him after all and people are interested—"

"Screw their dark interest in these murderers and sadists." His voice broke. Whether it be from anger or the smoke damage, neither he or Meryl was sure. "Screw the popularity of criminals. Stop taking on these jobs that could kill you. One day one of them will. You do realize that don't you? Nothing good can come from putting your life on the line for money."

"You did."

Blue-green eyes widened. "What?"

"You came from putting my life on the line for money. I met you. And Wolfwood. I got closer to Milly. I saw the world and just how terrible and beautiful it can be." She thought back on all the places she'd seen on those adventures. From the dirty saloons, to the geoplant of flowers she'd never seen before. She wouldn't trade those memories for anything. "I don't want to live life behind a desk. I don't want to settle down as a home maker. I don't want a normal job. I want to see the world again. I want to run. I want to live. I don't want to have regrets. Is that too much to ask?"

He shook his head gently. It wasn't. She'd made her choice and with good reason, and he couldn't fault her for that. It was the opposite actually. It was everything he loved about humanity in what she'd said. The way she found beauty and terror in the same world. The way she found excitement in life. The fight in her. It was everything he loved about her. "No it's not." He said gently. "It's just… worrying. You always have me running. I've always fought for someone else's life. I want to fight for yours too."

"You don't have to." She smiled, brightly through the soot. "Fight for your own happiness. The war is finally over. It's time you live for yourself now. So what do you want to do?"

He laughed gently. It was a simple question that he couldn't even begin to answer. The first thing on his mind however, "I want to stay with you two for a while," surprised him, as it slipped past his lips. "Is that okay?"

Meryl seemed to think it over for a moment. "Well…I don't think we can stop you. You are pretty good at chasing us down." With a glance to her friend, who stared teary eyed between the two she added, "Besides, I think Milly might never forgive me if I say no." She held a hand out to the man. "Welcome to the team, Vash."

[severalspoons]

Liveblog: Rewatching Trigun, Episode 19

I like this episode even though the villains here are a real letdown after the Gung Ho Guns. I’m sure none of you are surprised.

Poor Meryl is still having nightmares about the hole in the fifth moon. It’s affecting her performance at work.

Of course Meryl’s obnoxious coworker’s name is Karen. 

There’s a very 1990s contrast between our smart, brave, somewhat androgynous looking heroine and this Barbie-doll-pretty, makeup and high-heels wearing, and of course much taller lady. “That attitude gets all the dangerous jobs...there’s no way you’ll ever achieve womanly happiness.” Just pretend to be incompetent and then you’ll get a man and be happy ever after. ::retches into the closest receptacle:: 

“How did it make you feel?” ...Really?

Millie sounds so excited about being punished by cleaning the window. I’m telling you, she’s a literal ray of sunshine.

Late 20 times in a row? Millie must have the worst case of ADHD and no way of waking herself up in the morning. Someone get that girl an alarm clock.

Meryl, your fake anger is even less convincing than usual. 

Karen: “It’s no use...there’s just some girls who’d risk their lives.” What’s it to her? Does she actually want to “help” Meryl, or just act superior?

Wolfwood is awful at desert travel. Vash was either brave or suicidal to journey with him. Wolfwood blames Vash, of course. 

Okay, I can see why @badwolferosewrites​ thinks they’re fighting like siblings. If said siblings were on a synchronized swimming team or something. Great comic relief.

Vash says he wants to go to a different town than their ultimate destination. A town where trouble is about to be brewing. This is why I think Vash has the plant equivalent of a “spidey sense” for trouble. How? Headcanons welcome.

Meryl sounds almost proud of Vash and his reputation.

“That’s ridiculous! When I saw him, he was weeping and eating piles of donuts at the same time.” Classic line. Vash must have been miserable. Why was he eating his feelings this time?

The radio announcer sounds like Vash did when he was trying to run everyone out of town a few episodes back.

“It’s not like it’s anything new, this kind of thing happens all the time. Even the most peaceful folk take up arms all the time if someone happens to threaten or kill a family member.” Wolfwood describes Gunsmoke in a nutshell. Being only human, he just accepts it and moves on with life. Considering that this happens in every town, pretty much all the time, and Vash takes responsibility for all of it, how does he decide where to intervene, and how does he make peace with the fact he can’t be in multiple places at once? (Or does he?).

“I’ve always had my suspicions you were no mere mortal, but I never imagined you were actually...a cat.” XD And of course Vash runs off and leaves Wolfwood with the tab. Rude.

“Let’s enjoy the peace while it lasts.” Famous last words. Millie knows it. But even for dramatic irony, that was fast.

Vash is such a sweetheart that even the Grumpiest Old Man is glad to see him. <3

I love how everyone gathers around the site of the sandsteamer crash and hostage situation as if they couldn’t be pelted by stray bullets any time. As if it were just a show to them. Wonder how often they’ve observed scenes like this?

lol at Wolfwood still eating that pasta he couldn’t afford, and yes he 100% deserved that punch in the head.

Did Meryl just shoot Millie’s gun with her foot?! Badass. When/where/how did she learn how to do that? Now there’s a fic I would read.

I love this SpiderVash moment:

Vash certainly hasn’t skipped working out his back muscles. 0.o

I love how utterly blase Vash’s voice sounds while singing about an ocean of blood and genocide. It’s more intimidating than if he were screaming and growling about it.

...OK Wolfwood, you can eat that noodle now. 

Nice rocket launcher, but don’t you think that’s overkill?

Best Wolfwood quote. Actually, one of the best quotes in the anime. I think he’s right. That said, this only supports Vash’s idea that we shouldn’t be the ones to decide who lives or dies.

You know Wolfwood’s troubled by the way he looks like he’s smoking, but the cigarette just dangles out of his mouth. We saw him do this in Episode 11 while deciding whether to go after Milly and the runaways.

“You people aren’t human!” That sounds like Steve... (Even on Earth, dehumanizing people like this is one of the most common ways we justify killing people, or locking them away permanently).

TBH, I don’t think Vash is very convincing. No moral or emotional arguments, just pleading. And letting himself be beaten up. I don’t get it, why does that work?

“You could never understand how I feel?” Wanna bet? In some sense, Vash feels responsible for everyone on Gunsmoke almost as if they were his children, and he watches them kill each other every day.

“The twelve idiots, myself included, were set free.” Ha.

“You’ve got to learn to take care of yourselves. Luck and persistence won’t last forever.” Then you’d be pleased to know how the insurance girls got themselves out of trouble this time. As for Vash, he additionally relies on cleverness, reflexes, using his reputation to manipulate people, and gunslinging skills.

...Um, Wolfwood, surely your mission isn’t over. Where are you going?

Aw, Meryl actually being nice to Vash for once. The ensuing conversation is pretty awkward, though. Not even a friendly greeting? Poor Meryl.  There continues to be 0 visible chemistry between them.

[lajulie24]

I’ll know you

A follow-up to Calling her bet; Leia and Han go on the mission to the casino on Akahista. I think this might be turning into an actual fic with more story in it, but for now…here you go.

“Y’know, Sweetheart, if you keep staring at me like that, people are going to get ideas about us.”

Leia rolled her eyes. “Well, I should hope so, since Nateva and Vash are supposed to be…together.” She drew herself up taller in the seat beside him, turning her gaze to the view of the spaceport where they were waiting for clearance. “Besides, I wasn’t staring.”

“Uh-huh,” said Han, with a slight smile.

“I was trying to decide,” she said, turning back to him, “how I feel about the beard.” To mask the telltale scar on his chin and give him a new look for their mission, Han had grown a full (albeit well-groomed) beard, and both his hair and beard had been darkened to a deep brown.

He stroked his chin thoughtfully. “Didn’t grow it for you, Your Worship. But I’ll bet Nateva loves it.”

Leia’s gaze turned to a full-on glare. It was still a bit startling to be confronted with her doe eyes in a bright blue instead of brown, and with about twice the amount of makeup she normally wore. He had to admit, the hair was throwing him off a bit, too. Leia’s neat dark brown braids were nowhere to be seen at the moment, covered with a shoulder-length red-haired wig.

Sitting next to her felt like a throwback to his old life, before he’d started doing jobs for the Rebellion. But then she’d give him that exasperated look or speak to him in her familiar alto voice and he’d realize where he was.  Who she was.

It was weird.

He shook himself out of his thoughts as Leia’s expression changed, a smug smile now blossoming on her face. “Now who’s staring?” she asked.

He was about to protest when they were hailed by ground control. “Starship Yuxa, you are cleared for landing. Proceed to docking bay 16.”

“Acknowledged,” Han said into the comm, gladly turning his attention to the landing cycle.

When they were docked, Leia was still smiling at him, her fake blue eyes twinkling. “I just hope your sabacc face is better at the tournament,” she said.

As expected, the Daystar casino on Akahista was something of a madhouse, with gamblers and their sponsors from dozens of worlds on-planet for the tournament. While the Imperial presence wasn’t as obvious as it was on other occupied worlds—an overabundance of stormtroopers would only scare away the wealthy leisure class, after all—Leia noticed at least a dozen Imperial agents from the time they left the spaceport to the time they reached the casino lobby.

Han must have noticed them, too; she felt him tighten his hold on her arm, which was linked with his. “Lot of…old friends in town,” he said quietly.

If they focused on the Imperials, they’d never get what they came for here. “Don’t worry,” Leia said, smiling up at him and batting her lashes in a way she would never have done back at base. “I only have eyes for you.”

He smiled back, and she felt him relax a bit. Another day, another mission, another planet infested with Imperials. We’ve got this. She felt herself relax as well.

Even Leia was a bit surprised by the opulence of the room they were given, though she managed not to react when the manager opened the door. The parquet floors were polished to a shine and covered with plush throw rugs; there was a sitting area furnished with a tiny bar and white velvet loveseats; the spa ‘fresher was approximately the size of Leia’s current quarters back on base; and the floor-to-ceiling windows in the main room had a spectacular view of the city.

“Yes, this should do, thank you,” she said to the manager in the lofty tone she had started thinking of as her Nateva voice. Han had made a similar adjustment to his Corellian drawl, she’d noticed, dropping his contractions and clipping his words. There was something familiar about his tone, but she couldn’t quite put her finger on what it was. Maybe she’d ask him about it later.

The manager left. Han and Leia exchanged a look, nodded at each other, and immediately began to search for bugs. It’s so nice, Leia observed, not to have to say anything to each other. No code words, no signals, just a look and they both knew immediately what to do. It was a big part of why she had wanted Han on this mission with her in the first place. She didn’t have to babysit him; he didn’t try to babysit her. Despite their frequent—and loud—disagreements on strategy and protocol, in the field she could trust him with her life.

The fact that he was a crack sabacc player, more than capable of holding his own in a high-stakes tournament like this one, was just icing on the cake.

“Nateva!” Han called from the other room, obviously taking care to use their mission names until they were confident any bugs had been found and disabled. “C’mere! You’ve got to see the size of this bed!”

Leia—no, Nateva—was delicately sipping her martini, watching Han’s—Vash’s—game from one of the spectator tables. He was playing his part perfectly, one part dashing scoundrel, one part refined nobleman. At the next break, she’d go to the bank to collect the cash from her father’s secret account for the Alliance, then “Vash” would return to the tournament long enough to keep from raising any red flags. Later, they’d slip out quietly for their trip back to base.

“Your boyfriend is cleaning up,” said a voice beside her. She looked up to see a tall, red-haired woman holding a drink identical to hers.

“Fiancé,” Leia corrected, affecting the aloof languor of an Elder House noblewoman. She stirred her drink gently.

“May I join you?” the woman asked.

Leia gave a small smile. “Of course,” she said, gesturing to the seat beside her. The woman sat down, and the two watched the game in silence for a few more minutes.

“If you don’t mind my saying,” the woman continued, eyes still on the game, “he is an attractive man.”

Leia smiled indulgently over her glass. “I have good taste.”

The woman mirrored her smile. “That you do—Leia.”

Something inside Leia froze, but she maintained her calm, laughing softly as if this woman had made the silliest of mistakes. “I’m sorry. I’m afraid you have me confused with someone else.”

The woman was now looking directly at her, with a piercing stare that seemed oddly familiar. “Oh, no, my dear,” she said, cupping Leia’s chin in her palm. “I’d recognize this charming face anywhere.”

Leia suddenly realized that she was no longer in her Nateva disguise, but in her white senatorial dress, her hair styled in the traditional Alderaanian side-buns she’d worn when—

“You chose the system, and now you’ve chosen the man,” a voice mocked, and Leia blinked to see the sneering visage of Wilhuff Tarkin, clucking as he held her chin. “You may fire when ready,” he directed, and Leia screamed as an Imperial agent aimed directly at Han Solo’s head.

Han and Leia had shared beds before on missions, but normally that decision had involved a fair amount of discussion and negotiation beforehand, and occasionally a line of pillows down the middle that was not to be crossed.

There was no need for a pillow line on this bed. “Wow,” Leia had said when she’d responded to Han’s call to check it out. “We could both sleep here and practically be in different systems.”

They’d gone to bed relatively early, given the long flight earlier in the day and the need for both of them to be on their game the next day. Han had done one last check for bugs or security breaches before heading to bed, only to find Leia already asleep on her side. Good, he’d thought. She sometimes had trouble sleeping on missions.

He’d been in the middle of dreaming Gods knew what himself when he heard Leia crying out, “No!” and woke up. She was thrashing around, obviously in the throes of one hell of a nightmare.

The bed felt even more enormous as Han hurried over to Leia’s side. He shook her gently, wanting to help her wake up but not wanting to scare her even more. “Leia,” he said softly. “Leia, it’s okay. It’s just a dream. Leia.”

She opened her eyes—brown again, now that the contact lenses were out—and touched him as if she couldn’t believe he was real. “Han?” she said.

He grinned at her, relieved. “’M right here. Not goin’ anywhere.”

She threw her arms around him, hugging him so tight he could barely breathe. He hesitated, then put his arms around her as well.

[mostunclean]

85 questions

tagged by: @interstellarsam thanks bro~.

- the last

1. drink: water 2. phone call: doctor’s office  3. text message: @samtheboyking 4. song you listened to: vampire smile by kyla la grange 5. time you cried: a week ago 6. dated someone twice: nope 7. kissed someone and regretted it: no 8. been cheated on: no 9. lost someone special: yes  10. been depressed: currently my life 11. gotten drunk and thrown up: no

- 3 favorite colors 12. neon yellow 13. red 14. gray

- in the last year have you

- more general 53. eating: lemon oatmeal 54. drinking: water 55. i’m about to: read or watch more outlander and write 56. waiting for: OC-TO-BER and I guess August. 57. want: a better fucking job  58. get married: not really 59. career: the one I want is vet tech or working in a lab - which is better 60. hugs or kisses: hugs 61. lips or eyes: both 62. shorter or taller: either 63. older or younger: older 64. nice arms or nice stomach: arms, man. arms. 65. hook up or relationship: relationship 66. troublemaker or hesitant: hesitant. troublemaker would just get annoying in reality. - have you ever 67. kissed a stranger: nope 68. drank hard liquor: yes 69. lost glasses/contact lenses: funny you should mention that…. 70. turned someone down: yes 71. sex on the first date: no. no sex, thx. 72. broken someone’s heart: yes 73. had your heart broken: yes 74. been arrested: nope 75. cried when someone died: yes 76. fallen for a friend: yes - do you believe in 77. yourself: no lmao  78. miracles: open to the idea 79. love at first sight: no 80. santa claus: no  81. kiss on the first date: no 82. angels: i believe in my dad satan. (no) - other 83. current best friend’s name: i suppose haley even though i hate that loser.  84. eye colour: blue 85. favourite movie: there’s several. rocknrolla, pride and prejudice, interstellar, the fifth element, deadpool, the eagle, constantine, the dark night, scream 2, logan, ect.