#yoshi no road hunting | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

wfagamerants · 2 years ago

Photo

When people talk about the Mario RPGs, the main talking point tends to be the unique settings, characters and ideas, separate from the usual Mario fare they provide. A very understandable thing to prioritize, but for this essay, I wanna give praise to something else.

To be precise, I wanna discuss why Paper Mario 64 is a genuinely beautiful example of how to translate Mario into the RPG world.

While not the first Mario RPG, PM64 is the first one to be released in the 3D era of the series and it takes advantage of that right away, by giving control to the player in a piece of recognizable iconography, Peach’s castle. The first floor, while not an exact replica, is styled to resemble its appearance in Super Mario 64, immediately hitting the player with a fuzzy sense of familiarity.

This feeling continues once Bowser arrives and the plot kicks in. It is a classic Mario vs Bowser tale, but adapted to suit the genre. Bowser has found a new source of power via the Star Rod, so Mario has to save the 7 Star Spirits spread across 7 different locations, to find a way to overcome Bowser’s new power.

The ‘’collect this many of this macguffin’’ set-up is very standard RPG stuff, but Mario by itself is no stranger to it either. Get the magic rods back from the Koopalings in SMB3, save all the Yoshi eggs in World and collect the six golden coins to face Wario in SML2. What really brings it together in Paper Mario’s case, is the Chapter set-up, which feels most inspired by SMB3, which is further supported by how the victory fanfare when saving a Star Spirit, is the same as when returning the kings back to normal in SMB3.

In SMB3, Mario and Luigi travel through 8 unique worlds, the final one being Bowser’s domain. Each of these worlds had a theme that would inform the gimmicks of the platforming challenges they face.

Paper Mario does something very similar with its 8 Chapters. All of them have a unique theme and task Mario to deal with whatever problems Bowser and his troops are causing in those locations. It is the same kind of set-up, except adapted to fit into a RPG. As if to drive that point home further, the game even starts off with a Grassland, while the second chapter is a desert, just like in SMB3 and something that, thanks to the New Super Mario Bros series, will ring even more familiar these days.

Chapter 1 in general takes what I said about the immediate familiarity of Peach’s Castle and does something very similar to it. You travel through a grassland, solving some light puzzles, visiting a Koopa Village and facing the more basic mooks of the game. This is capped off by you entering a large castle at the very end of the road and making your way through to that, until you face off against a Fake Bowser on a bridge, ala’ SMB1. Once he’s dealt with, you fight the Koopa Bros and the chapter is done.

This is the most blatant the game ever gets about it, the castle even has a multitude of SMB3 remixes to further emphasize it, but the basic idea remains. It does help that almost all the Chapters have something that could be considered the castle of the area, like the volcano in chapter 5.

Of course, when I say Chapter 1 is basically a Mario platformer World 1, adapted into the form of an RPG, I should clarify what I mean with ‘’adapted’’ on a greater scale.

Mario is no stranger to all kinds of genres and to me, one of the series’ strengths is its ability to have its elements worked into other kinds of games, in ways that make sense.

For instance: Mario Kart. Koopa shells, which you can kick to take out enemies in the platformers, are now the main type of projectile to toss at your opponents. Red and Green shells behave differently. because Red and Green Koopas behave differently in the platformers.

Similarly, Mario Party’s entire set-up of competitive star collecting, has its roots in hunting Power Stars in Super Mario 64, just now in the form of a board game, with the minigames providing bursts of action.

Paper Mario meanwhile, takes the basic structure of what would be a World in a Mario game and puts its spin on how that would look like as an RPG. The battle system with its Action Commands and small platformer obstacles and challenges, further compliment this approach, keeping the Mario factor fully in mind.

The big distinction here is that RPGs, unlike most other genres Mario has dabbled in, are by their nature, story driven, so the game has to tackle some unique questions in how to make that transition.

Instead of every world being framed as an obstacle course for Mario to traverse, they are now part of a grander world, with towns and people. Koopa Village in Chapter 1 to go back to that, is the home of two of your partners and even the Koopa Bros themselves.

This village and everything around it, give the Koopas a sense of place in this world, beyond just being mooks and not all of them work for Bowser. Many just want to live their lives normally and like Mario. It’s something you see through the entire game, with every new place having some different dominant species. It’s not just Toads everywhere, the many species found in Mario and the level themes become part of a world and not just elements of abstract platform obstacle courses.

You can see things like that even as recent as the new Mario movie. That one had to figure out how to convey the world of a platformer in movie form and still give off a sense of a proper world. A task that from everything we have seen so far, it greatly succeeds at in my eyes.

What also helps is how it works elements of other Mario games into these settings. The K64 that brings you to Dry Dry Desert, is modeled after the trains in Mario Kart 64’s Kalimari Desert and the theme while riding it is even a remix of the track’s theme from that game. Heck, Kalimari Desert (and Mario & Wario’s Karakara Sabaku too) even translates to Dry Dry Desert, so they may very well all be the same location.

Chapter 5 meanwhile takes the jungle island setting and makes it one big Yoshi’s Island love letter. You got Yoshi Village of course, but even Ravens are hanging out there and right before entering the volcano, even has you meet up with Raphael the Raven, a boss from Yoshi’s Island.

Moments like this are obviously nice fanservice, but they also do a lot to give the world a sense of history. I am firmly in the camp of ‘’No, Mario does not have consistent continuity '’’. the games are in a loose cartoon canon where things can be bent and twisted as needed, as long as it makes for a fun game. Personally, I think that approach is perfectly okay for Mario, since it isn’t a story centric series.

Even with that in mind though, those elements from other games, combined with how the game translates Mario platformer elements into the game, really make Mario feel like a proper, connected world. Luigi mentions Mario Golf, Tennis and Party in his diary and yeah, I can totally buy these games all happened in this world.

The Peach sections of the game, to me, also give some nice perspective on her side of things during an average Mario adventure, which is something we really don’t get in the platformers. It also allows her to have some welcome agency and ability to take part in Mario’s adventure, instead of being treated like more of a goal to reach.

These kinds of things don’t just adapt Mario’s world into the RPG genre, it inherently expands on it, in a way that fits the needs of the genre, while staying distinctly Mario. Another inherent part of that expansion is a particular can of worms, NPC variety.

Before getting into this I should stress I have no desire to get into Old vs New Paper Mario debates. I do think the first two games are the best ones, though I do consider Origami King the runner-up. At the same time, I consider them to be good at completely different things.

In most Mario media the different species have little variety in design and as with the continuity thing, I think that’s perfectly fine. There just usually isn’t really much that calls for differing designs because engaging with the NPCs and with a story isn’t a big part of the games, if a part of them at all.

Even then though, these other forms of media will go for unique designs if a prominent use for them comes up. Toadsworth and Toadette are both Nintendo EAD creations, we got King Boo instead of Big Boo in Luigi’s Mansion, Odyssey has a female Goomba for a set of returning missions and so on.

Heck, Mario Golf of all things created a unique Mr. Blizzard King character, instead of just a oversized generic one, for it’s story mode:

Mario does this stuff plenty and in an RPG, the need for it is much bigger, since you will interact with NPCs a ton and it does a lot for the world of the game. Mook Koopas being visually distinguished from the civilian ones is one of many small examples of this effort to give different parts of a species a distinct identity, that you wouldn’t really see in the platformers, since those have little use for that.

As a Toad fan of course, I am also gonna love the distinct Toad designs. Being able to visually identify traits like age, gender and even where they live like the Desert Toads in Chapter 2, not only makes for visual variety, but it also allows for different Toads to express different personalities. Something as simple as a Toad boy and girl looking at the water together and Goombario’s tattle giving you info on them, can give all the basis the game needs to establish character and what their personalities are, which is then reflected in their dialogue if you choose to talk to them.

I have seen some dismissiveness towards the Toads having basic male/female/child designs that are reused across NPCs and I mean yeah, welcome to RPGs, that’s a very normal practice. It’s not just in the designs, the Mario Movie Toads are also showing a surprising level of personality, despite being generic in design, while the generics in the new RPGs fail to win me over. It’s more nuanced than that.

Minh T. at her core is a basic female Toad, with an extra bit to her outfit to signify her being the flower girl. That theme alone though, along with some brief story relevance and her name in japanese (literally Lip) make her a walking Panel de Pon reference, with a simple, but defined character.

This is the same kind of reason Professor Toad and Captain T. Ode from Origami King work really well. Design-wise, they stick close to the standard Toad template, but what design they get informs their personalities and in T. Ode’s case, even his backstory. Those visual cues are what allows them to express character and set themselves apart from the flood of generic Toads in their game, who are extremely interchangable and samey in writing and looks.

To put things into perspective, my favorite character of the core Mario cast is Toad. Regular ol’ vanilla Toad. Being a fan of him can be an exercise in frustrations though, since Nintendo is pretty loose at times, so I gotta explain how he does indeed wear a red vest sometimes and is distinguished by other official materials:

Or how the claim him and Captain Toad are different characters has been contradicted in-game:

On top of them having way too many things in common. Prominent red Toads who throw turnips, give out stars, have Toadette as a partner, act as leaders to other Toads and have been depicted with fairy partners (though in Captain’s case only in concept art):

It’s a big reason Movie Toad is so exciting to me.

He’s got the backpack, his adventurous side as Captain, SMB2, Wario’s Woods and tons of 90s stuff, he is the only red spots/blue vest Toad in the movie and he is the only one voiced by Keegan-Michael Key. Toad is a composite of his whole history and for once, properly individualized from the rest of his species.

While me being a Toad fan obviously adds a lot to my excitement, I do really think this stuff matters, we cling to the concept of individual members of a species (Toad, Yoshi, Kamek, Birdo, Boom Boom) for a reason.

While some may say this is where the RPGs take strong liberties, I honestly think that limiting species to stick to the base design is a pretty shallow concept of being faithful, especially when seeing everything Paper Mario 64 does.

Every single party member is from an existing Mario species. Same with every chapter boss except for Ch6 and Ch7 (Tubba Blubba is a Clubba, who are a subspecies of Spike).

Mario’s main weapon of choice besides jumping, is a hammer, just like in Donkey Kong 1981 and Wrecking Crew.

The Toad Town Sewer areas are based on the classic underground levels, just given context as to what they are in this particular world. The blue Goombas you encounter, called Gloombas, even are a direct reference to how Goombas look in underground levels in SMB1.

The prologue, after the impossible to lose Jr Troopa battle, has you face nothing but various types of Goombas to teach you various aspects of the battle system. This is very reminiscent of how SMB1 World 1-1 has 16 Goombas and only a single Koopa, to ease new players into how to interact with mooks.

Lava Piranha and Kent C Koopa are both expies of Yoshi’s Island bosses. The game in general takes a lot from that game, including several mooks like Bandits, many flavors of Shy Guy and a personal favorite of mine, Crazee Dayzees.

It has Ninjis. Nuff said.

On top of everything I mentioned above already.

Paper Mario 64 is a game that is intimately familiar with Mario and does a beautiful job reimagining it into a new genre, while also knowing where to expand.

The latter is one that will be subjective and that is perfectly fine, but I see it in the same light as a lot of elements from say, Super Mario Odyssey.

Stuff like vocal themes, the many different outfits to unlock, fun world trip set-up or New Donk City getting the lore bomb of being the city from Donkey Kong 1981 are the kind of things that aren’t technically needed, as is often argued with say, the RPG NPCs of old, but few to none would argue they were needless additions.

You could remove the costumes and little would change, but not being able to dress up in nostalgic outfits, enjoy the new ones or do goofy things like Mario in boxers and with a top hat, biking around New Donk City, would take something away from the game.

These things were added for a reason, because they make the game more fun, compliment it’s ideas and are simply put very charming.

That’s the word that to me describes PM64 the best. Charming. It’s a take on Mario I am happy we got to experience and that to this day, remains one of my favorite interpretations of Mario as a world and my favorite Mario RPG.

#paper mario #super mario

29 notes · View notes

jaketrix · 6 years ago

Photo

Yoshi’s Safari

#Yoshi's Road Hunting #Yoshi's Safari #Peach #Mario #Yoshi #Super Scope #gaming #SNES #Super Nintendo

113 notes · View notes

wizkiddx · 3 years ago

Text

your voice

angsty vibe, requested by @hollandlover19 than you for th rq and hop this doesn't disappoint too much :)))

summary: tom says something so stupid and has to deal with the consquences

warnings: a bit angsty, but ends in fluff! argumnts and raising voices, I guess could be associated with panic attacks tho not written with that intention

//////////////////////////////////

“Oh, Y/n er sorry.” Harrisons morning dulcet tones were what you were awoken to with a groan.

Everything was achy, and your head was pounding, making you grumble in discontent as you shifted uncomfortably on the technically too-small-to-sleep-on sofa.

This was not the morning you’d foreseen even 12 hours ago.

Lockdown had been difficult for everyone, even removing the tragic health crisis. Being locked in with your boyfriend and his brothers and friends was, for the most part, amazing. Lots of laughs, lots of beers and lots of quality time that you usually didn’t get. But it was also intense.

Without a doubt, since you first got together, this was the longest time you’d ever had with Tom. And it had been brilliant, your relationship getting so much closer and just learning the subtlest intricacies about the other. In fact, when lockdown had been announced, you’d never lived together (the most a week-long holiday).

Though it was also like a pressure cooker, Toms rented house. When one of you were in an understandable but stubborn lousy mood, it affected the whole house.

Yesterday night had been the perfect storm. The weather was unbelievably scorching; your work had announced that they had to let some staff go because of the financial implications of the pandemic; a ‘mole’ had released personal details of your relationship.

And it was like a pot on the stove; everything went from controllable to violently boiling over in a matter of minutes.

Honestly, you didn’t even know why you had started arguing - it was that pathetic. And yet you’d both said pretty horrible stuff - though it was Tom who had crossed the line. Frankly, the way he’d spoken to you was almost unforgivable.

You’d both known instantly too, all his anger at you had immediately evaporated when he’d realised what he had said. It took no time for him to become a grovelling apologetic mess, however even that- it was already too late.

It might sound feeble, but honestly, you’d run and locked yourself in the downstairs loo. You’d cried on the inside- whilst from the other side of the door, he had been begging and pleading with you.

After an hour though, Tom finally gave up - hence why you’d had a pretty uncomfortable night on the sofa.

This brings it back to Harrison, the early riser of the house, barrelling into the living room after his morning run. All bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, except also slightly terrified looking as he stood awkwardly in the doorway.

“I’m up now” You sighed, dragging yourself into a sitting position on the sofa whilst massaging your crooked neck.

“You er…. you fell asleep watching the TV?” Rolling your eyes, you sighed at the blonde, even if his poor acting was a little entertaining.

“Are we both pretending that you don’t know what went down last night?” Of course, Harrison knew. The walls were thin, you’d been screaming and he was Tom’s best friend. No doubt, Tom had immediately gone to him for help and advice last night.

Harrison held his hands up in response, caught in the act, and clicked his tongue. “What he said was bad. You shouldn’t be the one ending up with the sore back.” He wasn’t wrong.

“And yet here I am…�� With a sigh you smiled which he returned with a sickeningly empathetic one “Anyway, don’t let my sad self get in the way, did you come in here for anything?”

Now, because Harrison was mentally a five year old, that’s how you ended up sat crossed-legged on the floor, clutching a wii remote and angrily shouting at yoshi on the mariokart screen. The whole household was competitive as hell and you were no exception - so some rouge elbows were flying when he viciously knocked you off the track.

Slowly Harry and Tuwaine filtered in and picked up remotes too, so the quiet morning was very quickly switched into a tense atmosphere of yelps and shouts. None more so than Tuwaine, who was possibly the worst looser you had ever met.

Really, you knew all the boys were only doing this as there way of showing you they were with you. That they also thought Tom was a massive raging dickhead. And you appreciated it more than they would ever know. Locked down in Toms house, very much not mutual ground, having three stupid boys behind you meant everything.

Just as you got on to the 18th and final race of the house’s mario grand prix, another voice cut across the tense silence as you waited for the coutdown to turn into ‘go’. Naturally, you flipped round to see Tom, looking as though he literally just rolled out of bed with puffy eyes and messy hair and no top. The sight made your heart flutter, to the point you had to consciously check yourself - refusing to smile softly at him like you usually would, instead narrowing your eyebrows and looking back at the TV.

Tom had so desperately hoped that when he came down this morning, everything would be better. That all it’d take would be a quiet conversation for the two of you to make up - for him to have you in his arms again. Primarily as he had heard your excited laugh echoing through the halls in reactions to Tuwaines yelps of protests - it made him hopeful. Waking up to a cold and empty bed was almost soul-crushing this morning. He did not want it to ever happen again.

Which is why his heart sank so much when all you gave him was a scolding look, before turning your attention to the TV. Admittedly, he was naive to think that what he’d done last night would be an easy fix - he knew it too. So with dropping shoulders, Tom silently took a seat on the sofa, watching from afar. You spent the rest of the race more absent, not joining in with the Harrison or Harrys trash-talking, acutely aware of Tom’s eyes burning the back of your head.

Then came Harry’s celebrations as the overall winner (only just) and when Harrison suggested another game Tom piped up again.

“Give me a turn Harry.”

The three boys kneeling next to you all stiffened, looking immediately to you for what seemed like consent - as if they were engaging with the enemy. (At least it was good to know everyone was on your side).

“I’m gonna go prepare for my meeting anyway.” You spoke quietly, already placing the remote on the floor and standing up.

“Y/n I don’t mind swappin-“

“No. Thanks, H but no.” You weren’t being selfless and giving Tom a turn. You were running away from seeing him.

And Harrison was still really angry at Tom. He’d been so selfish and insensitive and had hurt you- someone who Haz also cared a lot about too. Yes Tom was his bestmate, that he’d grown up with and known for years - but Haz really liked you too, in fact all the boys did. So they were almost as pissed with Tom as you were.

So while you threw the cushion you were sat on back on the floor, Harrison shot Tom the filthiest look and practically shooed him away.

“come on Y/n … just one more? Then you can do your boring work.” You were about to refuse when Haz tilted his head toward the door, only then noticing that Tom had slipped out the room. Now that he was gone ,yes, just one more wouldn’t hurt. The meeting prep wasn’t time pressured; it was an excuse for an escape.

Tuwaine whooped a little when you nodded, planting back down and ready for the first race. Yet apart from that, the room was still a little awkward, you being the first to break the silence.

“Actually Haz, would you mind giving me a lift today?”

“What to the shops?

“Um no not quite.” Tuwaine laughed in his usual innocent and infectious style before asking more.

“Seriously? You know we’re locked down? Boris won’t be happy if you going mad and leaving the house.”

“Just to Y/f/n’s. She lives on her own so it’s legal.”

“She lives just down the road right? Can’t you walk?” Harry was confused, making him look away from the screen, ultimately leading to his ‘diddykong’ falling off the track.

“I’ll have my bags. I um… I think I’m going to stay with her till lockdown eases more.”

As soon as you said that, Harry pressed pause on the race, all three boys looking at you mouth-opened.

“For real?”

“Yeh I um… think me and Tom need some time apart and being locked in isn’t helping.”

“I’m not saying to forgive and forget what he said… but he is really sorry.”

“The twats literally kicking himself.” Tuwaine added, making you smile a little for calling Tom that.

“I know just… I need some space and-“

“Are you breaking up?” Harry almost announced, cutting you off. He would miss you too.

“No! Nono I … well I don’t know. I just- we both need this.”

The boys all nodded, looking at the floor for a moment before Harrison’s blue eyes were back on you.

“Course I’ll drive, but… but I’ll miss you.”

/////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

You’d left merely an hour later, whilst Tom was holed up in the garden doing what looked like an almost unbearable work out. It meant he was also out your hair and you could throw all your stuff into two suitcases without him being any the wiser. It was probably pretty cowardly to leave without speaking to him, but you couldn’t. It would hurt too much and you didn’t want to break down in front of him. No doubt as soon as you had got to Y/f/n you did - into a blubbering mess of tears - but Tom hadn’t seen so it was okay.

Speaking of. Tom.

Tom was not in a good way at all. He’d been trying really hard to curb his’ short fuse’ lately- all of which had been well and truly blown in the past 4 hours. After finally being realised from meetings, which he’d not been able to concentrate on anyway, Tom had mentally prepared himself for a lot of grovelling. Once he’d vaguely hunted the house and not found you there, he naturally asked Harry and Tuwaine (both of whom were in the living room) if they’d seen you around.

It was a typical question, the answer he was expecting was that you’d just gone on your daily walk. And yet the response he got was… well a lot more confusing. Harry’s eyes widened whilst T did his awkward-uncomfortable chuckle, the two locked in an intense bout of eye contact. It was as though they were arguing with each, but through the powers of telekinesis... and it put Tom on edge. He was already stressed because you were so angry with him, so not getting a clear answer out of his brother and best mate - lets just say it tested his patience.

“You two need to tell me what the hell is going on right now.”

The two boys both looked panicked to speak to him, which was the opposite of the usual situation. They were some of the ONLY people in his life that would just say it how it is, no sugar coating. Like if he was away and being ‘famous’ was getting to his head; or if he wore the wrong pair of jeans. Even yesterday evenings events, they’d both called him out on what he’d said to you.

So why the silence?

Eventually, it was Harry who spoke up, but in doing so, practically just waved all responsibility on to another innocent party.

“Ask Haz.”

And then Tom knew. He knew this was bad. Immediately his heart was pumping at an alarmingly fast rate, taking the stairs two at a time and not bothering to knock before bursting the door open.

“Where’s Y/n?”

Harrison was reclined back on his haphazardly made bed, laptop balanced on his lap as he looked up with a sigh. He’d known this conversation was coming, but it didn’t make it any less easy. With a sigh, Haz closed the lid of his MacBook and sat up on the bed.

“Tom just-“

“Where. Is. She.”

“She’s gone to Y/f/n’s.”

“Oh… okay.” Suddenly Tom’s voice was muted, thinking he might’ve blown his top at nothing. This wasn’t weird - Y/f/n was in your support bubble and you went to hers often.

Tom was grossly underestimating the situation - and Harrison heard didn’t fancy stringing him along though.

“No like gone. She um… she took all her stuff. I think she’s going to stay there till-“

Tom was already out his room at that point, slamming the door as he did so. Making a beeline for his own room, Tom then frantically started to pull out the draws and rummage around the shelves, confirming what he already knew. Your clothes were gone, your toothbrush and toiletries were gone, you were gone.

It’s important to note Tom didn’t really cry all that much. Or if he did - it was more inconsequential, at a sad movie or one of the rescue dog stories from battersea. Actually, when it came down to it, he didn’t really cry.

Now though, it was impossible to ignore the burning of his eyes, as he sank down onto the bed that now felt twice the size. With ragged breath, he repeatedly fisted his eyes, not actually letting the tears fall - but it was impossible to not acknowledge their presence. Harrison stood wordlessly at the door frame, knowing it best not to interrupt - whilst at the same time knowing Tom shouldn’t be left alone. There was a delicate balance between the two, which he was walking on a knife-edge on right now.

After a short while, Tom looked up with red eyes and nodded at Harrison, effectively granting him entrance. With a sigh once again, Haz moved and sat next to Tom on the bed, clasping his hands together nervously.

“She said you both just needed a break from each other. Think lockdown and everything was just a bit too intense.” Haz had tried to explain, yet it seemed Tom had only managed to lock onto one of the first words.

“A break? Or breaking up?”

“I uhm… she didn’t explicitly say ending things. But I just… I don’t know to be honest mate.”

“You see the way she looked at me this morning? Like she hated me. Wouldn’t even acknowledge that I was there.”

“I don’t know what to say… she needs time and space I think.” Tom was silent for a beat, shaking his head as he cradled his forehead.

“I hate the fact you and my girlfriend are on better terms than I am.” Anddd his voice was back to scathing.

“I’m not on anyones side. But your both my friends and she… she needed some time.”

With that, Harrison made a quick exit out, getting Harry to take over the Tom supervision.

Ever since the atmosphere in the house had been tense. To say Tom was highly strung was an understatement, particularly towards Harrison. Deep down he was thankful Haz was looking out for Y/n: he was glad that Haz was checking she was okay. It’s not like Tom could, because Y/n was refusing to answer his calls, texts, whatsapps, even the slip of paper he’d slipped under Y/f/n’s door in the middle of an especially dark night.

So it was good to know Y/n was okay, but the fact she was going on socially distanced walks with the rest of his housemates was rubbing salt in the wound.

After a week and a half of complete radio silence on your end Tom had utterly worn down. He didn’t have the emotional capacity to be angry anymore, he was just tired. Tired of missing you with every breath, tired of the ten-tonne weight of guilt pressing on his chest, fucking exhausted with being angry at Haz and Harry and Tuwaine.

The best thing in his life and one of the very limited opportunities was quality time with the people he loved more than anything else. He had ruined it all.

And it was the small things. It was waking up to your soft, whispered voice in the morning; it was your infectious giggle when he surprised you with a hug from behind and gentle kisses to your neck; it was your quiet singing in the shower. Especially when he knew Haz, Harry and Tuwaine were all still seeing you and laughing with you. It hurt like hell.

Which is how he ended up hesitantly knocking on Harrison’s bedroom door at half eleven at night, with his tail between his legs. Having been so uber-healthy all lockdown, Haz was already in bed following his sleep cycle, though for Tom right now- he would be awake.

“I’m um… I’m sorry I’ve been a knob. There’s no excuse of anything I’ve just… I’ve been a knob.”

“You’re not wrong.” Harrison nodded in agreement with a sly smile, motioning for Tom to come into the room, after which he perched on the edge of the bed.

“I just… I need to speak to her but I… I don’t want to push her if she’s still hurting and I…”

“You absolutely promise not to blow your fuse? Because she couldn’t handle that.” Tom’s eyes widened, thinking this would be a much harder pitch than how it seemed to be going.

“Yesyesyes i- I promise. I just, I feel broken you know? Even if all I get is the time to say sorry, I-I really need to.”

Harrison released a deep breath, nodding slowly before throwing the covers off himself. Tom watched all his movements with a curious gaze, silently sitting as Haz pulled on a hoodie, then socks too.

“Well? Let’s go.”

//////////////////

Now, what Tom had not in the slightest bit been prepared for was this to happen tonight. Really, he hadn’t even thought Harrison would agree to let him talk to you… and even if he had, Tom not in hell thought it’d be at 11:30 that evening.

His heart was thundering in his chest, trying to hurriedly script how on earth he was going to apologise meaningfully to you - as him and Haz walked the short distance to your friends house. Honestly the whole situation was peculiar to Tom - finding it hard to believe that if you weren’t to answer his texts you wouldn’t be open to an in person conversation.

What Tom didn’t know, was how you’d been texting Haz at a similar point of desperation. You weren’t happy and even given everything Tom had said and acted - you missed your boy. No matter how infuriating he could be when trapped 24/7 - you’d quickly learnt this was the only way you wanted to spend these weird times.

So yes, Tom’s best friend knew you were hardly sleeping either, but needed that little push to interact with you boyfriend. No doubt, you’d still be awake to answer the door.

Once he’d arrived at the apartment block and walked up the stairs to the right floor, it still took some prodding and pushing from Harrison to get Tom to knock on the door. Plainly, because he was shitting himself. Haz hadn’t given him enough pre warning, enough time to work it all out in his head. So it took another encouraging nod from Harrison for him to knock on the slightly rough-round-the-edges flat door.

Y/f/n was single and young, starting her career in Kingston - so the flat she could afford was modest at best. When it was just occupied by a single person, that was manageable - two was a push. You’d only been living with her for a week and a few days but it was enough to know this flat was not ideal for two people in lockdown. You were already stepping on each others toes. It also wasn’t technically legal to move households but Y/f/n had always been in your support bubble as a single household otherwise. And so there was also a layer of guilt to it all.

Naturally then, sharing a bed with someone who wasn’t Tom meant you just were not sleeping. Even if you had both gone to bed early (just to kill some hours in the day) you were still wide awake at quarter to twelve - when a timid knock echoed through the minuscule apartment. Curiosity peaked at who the hell would be calling now; you silently slipped out of bed, managing to not disturb Y/f/n, and closed the bedroom door.

Now you weren’t an idiot. Even though this was southwest london, hardly the capital for crime, Y/f/n lived in a dodgy building with some questionable characters. And it was midnight. Hence why you approached the situation cautiously, tiptoeing to the door and waiting with your ear pressed against the wood.

“I told you she wouldn’t answer!”

“She will! Might just be in the loo or something.”

“Haz this is stupid-“

The air in your chest froze when you immediately recognised the smooth tone of his voice. It was him… and you’d missed that so much. Already there were tears in your eyes and you couldn’t open the door just yet. So no, instead you slid down the doorframe before calling quietly out into the night.

“Tom?”

The bickering on the otherside of the door was silenced, but you heard a quite tap on the door... and could envision exactly what was going on. Tom, pressing both palms and his ear to the door, as Harrison took a few steps back - sensing his work was done.

“Y/n? You there?” He sounded desperate, you could hear the emotion dripping off his voice. It was only when you tried to reply did you realise your own voice was having a harder time speaking.

“Yeh its-its me.” It felt as though this heavyweight that had been pressing down on your chest was slowly lifting, making your voice all cracky and low.

In response, there was a short and sharp exhale. It sounded relieved before some fidgeting as you imagined him crouching down beside the door - mirroring your image.

“Fuck, it… it feels so good to hear your voice.”

“Yours too… I’ve-i’ve missed you.”

Tom snorted at that, a gentle bang allowing you to realise he’d just whacked his head on the back of the wood.

“You have no idea how this week felt.” He was wrong though, you did.

Yes, maybe without the insurmountable guilt that Tom was rightfully feeling, but it didn’t mean that the time apart wasn’t easy.

“I do. This hasn’t been a nice holiday for me you know?”

He sighed, knowing that yet again he’d said the wrong thing. This time though, he didn’t rebut instantly (which surprised you), instead his response was more measured and calculated.

“I am so sorry. And of course, I know because I was the one that hurt you too. I don’t think I’ll ever be able to forgive myself for that.” You nodded but given this conversation was happening through a door Tom didn’t see your gentle agreement - opting to fill the silence.

“I um… I’m not good at this whole um… speaking my feelings. But I’ve hated myself ever since I picked that fight with you. It was stupid and uh it-it was all my fault. I’m so so sorry for hurting you.”

“‘Why?” You tried to ask, except the words were stuck in your throat, making you have to clear it before asking again. “Why did you say it?”

“To get a rise out of you. It’s stupid and petty and fucking-fucking dumb. I said it not because I’ve ever thought it, I never ever have, but I knew it’d hurt you. I was preying on your insecurities because I was angry at the world and that was so unfair. “

“No shit.”

Silence reigned as you fiddled with your fingers - specifically with the promise ring he’d bought you a year ago.

“You-you think you could ever forgive me?”

“Thats the annoying part. I want to hate you because you literally stabbed me then twisted the knife but… but all I’ve done this week is miss you. Even when I saw Haz or Harry or Tuwaine. I just fucking missed you.”

“Can you open the door please love?”

Clumsily you scrubbed the tear tracks off your face, scrabbling to your feet so you could thrust open the doors. Because you might still be bloody pissed at him, but at the same time - you needed your Tom. Thrusting the door open, the first thing you registered was being pressed into Tom’s chest. His arms slinked around your waist and held him tight, which you reciprocated, squeezing tightly round his neck. Your senses were all being assaulted by one thing and one thing only. Tom.

He smelt like usual, except maybe the slightest bit stronger than usual - you figured he hadn’t showered in a day or two or bothered with cologne. The top of your forehead was pressed up against his chin, and as he readjusted his grip on you, you felt the scratchy feeling of his unshaven stubble. He kept whispering apologies against the top of your head, almost desperate and religiously.

Arching back, you brought both hands to cup his cheeks, looking into his glassy brown. eyes, which looked so lost and confused.

“I’m still angry.”

“Of course-“

“I’m still angry but I’m going to kiss you okay?”

Safe to say Tom didn’t require a verbal response, taking it upon himself to nudge his lips against yours, yet waiting for you to initiate the kiss. And that you did, everything else about this godforsaken week and a half. His index finger traced the angle of your jaw, whilst he held your lower back tight, pressing himself as close as physically possible to you. Needing you.

Eventually arching back, your thumb ran over his deep and sunken under-eyes, which added so much age to his face.

“You look tired Tommy.”

“Can’t sleep without you telling me goodnight.” That was another tradition you had had. Even when he was away, you’d even set an alarm for whatever bedtime was for the other across the world. Just so you could send a little message or voice not saying goodnight. Was it cringey? Yes. Did either of you care? No.

But since you’d been away all the evening wishes were absent from you. Which hurt Tom more than you may ever know.

“I know you’re still angry but will you please come home to me? I need you to be the last thing I hear at night and the first thing in the morning.”

would love to hear any feedback <333 (but think this is a bit of a shitter so im sorry!!!)

tagging: @lovehollandy12 @pandaxnienke @thegirlwiththeimpala @msmimimerton @hollandfanficlove @hollandlover19 @hunnybunimdun @crossyourpeter @thefernandasantana@hallecarey1

#tom holland x you #tom holland angst #tom holland x y/n #tomholland #tom holland x reader #tom holland fluff #harry holland

472 notes · View notes

darkmindsthinktwistedthoughts · 5 years ago

Text

Devil’s Trust pt2

Warnings: Strong language, Moblord styling warlords.

Masterlist

---

Chapter 2

Rumour mills were in full production. The gossip circles were tapping out messages on the underground jungle drums throughout the city and word was out … The Ghost was here!

“Beware the shadows and its moving shade. Be mindful of your actions and the repercussions made. Judgement comes to those who don’t. Beware the Ghost.”

Every family with ties to the underground knew the stories. They were told and passed on generation to generation. Tales the grown-ups told the children the same way the ordinary everyday people would recite a fairy tale. Except these were different.

Fairy tales were edited narratives, sugar-coated and glossing over the gory details to give the next generation growing up in the world a little moral guidance. When it came to the stories about the Ghost there was nothing sweet about them. Even in the dark underbelly of the world, there were lines you didn’t cross, rules you obeyed and when that was ignored it was the Ghost that took you.

It was because nothing about it was hidden and all of it was true that is struck fear into the hearts of all those living in the underworld. The Ghost was the avenging angel in their world. The Judge, jury and executioner at your final supper. They were responsible for making the unrepentant pay the price owed. Every detail behind the stories of the Ghost could be easily found in the lines of text written by the coroner; if they found the body at all. The question hanging in the air… who was the Ghost targeting now?

---

Two minutes, it was all he could claw back from the time given to him by Sasuke. He had to get out of the main flow of traffic. The road opened up after a few sharp turns, the wheels of his car were smoking as he pulled hard on the handbrake and went down some roads that were so narrow, they could take the wing mirrors off the car had he not been more aware of the space provided.

His engine as it raced through the old cobblestone routes of the old city filled the air with a monstrous roar even as the vibrations threatened to shake the chassis from the rest of the car. The other vehicles had not given up the pursuit but were now forced to follow him in single file. He wanted to get them out of town but that would be asking for too much. He followed the labyrinthine roads following a map in his own head and decided drawing them out to the dockyard was the best option. You’re in my playground. Don’t presume you can back me into a corner when I know all the short cuts.

The smile on his face grew deeper as his focus on the road ahead cleared. He was not so much the vision of a man being pushed in a murderous pursuit through the twisting veins of the city but that of one that was simply out for a drive on a long weekend. Yes, this was his city. The dark side streets and alleys were his bread and butter, all the old roads the jam that just served to make his nightlife all the sweeter for his hunt.

As the front of his car exited the alleyway like a bullet from a shotgun. The cobbles under his wheels gave way to slick dirt. The moisture from the water in the air here meant the ground was never what you could call dry. The natural clay content of it meant it was like skating on an icy pond. The other cars exited behind him and began to separate up to cover as many routes behind him as they could.

It was laughably predictable and he couldn’t avoid the dry chuckle that left him as he glanced in his rear-view mirror and once more pulled on his hand brake causing his car to spin on the ground under it so he could come face to face with his pursuers. The salt clogged mud slick sprayed in arcs by his rear bumper before falling still on the ground once more. He could almost feel the hesitation from them as he changed the game from cat and mouse into one of chicken.

Mitsuhide put his hand up to the handle on the roof clicking a hidden button that slid back a small compartment there revealing a primed and loaded gun. Now then, who’s first?

---

Stepping foot back into HQ Nobunaga was almost immediately accosted by a highly strung Hideyoshi. The man had been sitting in a chair by reception and practically pounced the second he saw his Boss’s highly polished shoes touch the tiles.

“You’re back!” The man blurted out as if in shock. Warm caramel brown eyes searched Nobu from top to toe as if he were expecting some sort of mortal wound to be present.

“Naturally.” Nobu replied rather lazily as he fixed his right-hand man with a nondescript look. He was a little amused but mostly thankful that it was past office hours and there were no clients that would be in need of explanations as to why the Vice President was acting like someone had put itching powders in his boxers.

“You didn’t answer your phone. I was worried.” Hideyoshi spoke with panic still clear in his voice and slightly shaking. You really would make someone a fine wife one day Yoshi. Still, for all your fussing I can’t deny you have been a dependable ally during some of the darker times.

“When are you never worried?” Nobu replied in exasperation failing to suppress the sigh that was building inside him.

“Why didn’t you answer?” Hideyoshi appeared hurt by being ignored and it was obvious it had been yet another thing he deemed life-threatening or at the very least major enough that could yet again bring down the foundations of their company that were already standing on rocky terrain.

He didn’t know if it was the lingering effects of his time at the Birdcage or if he had simply found the eye of the emotional storm that had been raging inside him. He was reluctant to dwell too long on such a thing but he couldn’t keep his newfound amusement from escaping him.

Nobu smirked slightly and replied. “I left for a few hours. I fail to see what disasters could have befallen during that time that could not be easily handled by the men I left in my place. A fact that was confirmed when I turned my phone back on and was bombarded with several messages one of which was our new resident tech expert informing me that the matter was in hand.”

Hideyoshi stood where he was mouth agape at the succinct rundown of events. A surge of satisfaction washed over Nobu as he succeeded in rendering the other man speechless. The doors to the underground car park opened revealing a spectacled arrival carrying a bag printed with a grocery store logo.

“You fixed that?” Having found his voice again Hideyoshi stated more in shock than as a question as he turned his attention on the new arrival. Sasuke quickly looked between the two men noting that they were both showing polar opposite levels of the emotional spectrum and made the connection to the only incident of interest for the day.

“Yes. It did take a little bit of creative hacking to do it but I was able to shut down the news drone and have the incident written off as a scene being filmed for a new movie. Hardly something out with my skill set.” Sasuke pushed up his glasses causing them to glint in a way that made him look even more like a casual superhero than normal.

“You think people will buy that?” Hideyoshi stammered at the unbelievable ease with which Sasuke replied. Nobunaga stood silently watching the two converse. He plunged his hand deep into his trouser pocket his fingertips finding the edge of his key that would allow him to escape to his rooms.

“They already have.” Sasuke flashed his smartphone with a still image of the street view below the drone and the new headline “High-Speed preview of new action movie – was the Director’s choice of using the real world refreshing or irresponsible?” Nobunaga’s lips tugged into a large satisfied smile and chuckled with the amusement of the audacious plan as well as the apparent effect, it had on Hideyoshi.

“You don’t exactly look shocked by any of this.” Hideyoshi stated trying to figure out why he seemed so lax about the events. Ever since the companies had merged, he had to confess he had a hard time getting a read on this young man. His expressionless face gave nothing away and it was unsettling to not even be able to detect a real shift in tone as he spoke. Hideyoshi was a people person or as Mitsuhide had pointed out on more than one occasion a people pleaser. To be unable to get even subliminal guidance from someone as to how to assist them or what they are even thinking unnerved him.

“Kenshin is my Boss. Being asked to shut down a few cameras and changing a few things on the city grid to redirect attention is nothing.” Sasuke replied in a calm manner with a little shrug that only seemed to frustrate Hideyoshi even more.

---

The sound of tape being pulled from a roll and placed over cardboard almost seemed to echo in the almost empty rooms as the last of their things was finally packed. Her cat sat by the window where it had claimed a place for itself the second Mitsuhide had retrieved it from Takahiro’s loft space. Swishing its tail unhappily, as its blissful time enjoying the sunlight was being disturbed by the sounds of moving.

It had been a whirlwind experience coming back to Azuchi HQ after everything that happened. She had thought to try to explain everything at the church about her living arrangements but it seemed Mitsuhide already knew that she no longer had her apartment. He could have left her to return to Takahiro’s apartment but it seemed that was not an idea he wished to entertain. All of the familiar faces welcomed her regardless of the tension that was present in the air. Something had clearly been happening but it was going to be a few days before anyone explained the current situation to her.

Staying in his rooms at Azuchi was only ever supposed to be temporary. He was pulling strings and taking late-night phone calls trying to secure somewhere new. He wanted her to be safe it was key and his number one priority. Whilst it was safe at HQ Mitsuhide hadn’t felt entirely comfortable leaving her there on a permanent basis. [Name] was effectively a magnet for danger, as far as he could work out. Whilst they had survived a lot, he had no liking for the idea of leaving her in a place where she could easily become embroiled in yet another “plan”. On top of that if the others discovered [Name] was related in some distant way to the enemy he really didn’t like the idea of what might happen to her.

She took another look around the room just in case she had missed something they needed. Thinking that it looked just as empty as it had done when she first came here. Mitsuhide wasn’t exactly minimalist by choice it was something to do with his work. The less you have the fewer things people can use against you, but the lack of luxury items or things you might expect as a common standard of living somewhere were also not present in the apartment. He was never really at home to notice that an electric kettle or a microwave might actually help him a little in the mornings or late evenings. The longer she stayed the more she noticed little things she had taken for granted, like a hairdryer. She had taken to picking up these missed items on her way home from work.

Mitsuhide said nothing to the accumulation of objects appearing in his apartment. He knew what they all were and how to use them just had never seen a need to have them. They were together and would be for a long time. His small isolated little hole had been filled with something far closer to a kind of peace than he ever thought someone like him would even have a hope of seeing. It was a form of culture shock that was not entirely unpleasant. Despite his home being taken over with progressively more acquired bric-a-brac and miscellaneous goods, he felt comfortable and at ease. She had turned his place into the same warm and inviting area her apartment was, and he found he sort of liked it.

“Hey Kitten, you got any more ready to go?” A lively voice called out before the person attached to it had even managed to make it into the room.

“Think this is the last one.” [Name] called back turning to smile at the men who had been helping shift most of the belongings.

“Good because I’m not making any more trips.” Ieyasu huffed cracking open the lid on a bottle of mineral water and chugging half of it in one go.

“It was nice of you to help out Yasu.” [Name] smiled sweetly unaffected by the salty blonde’s attitude.

“I’m only doing it to shut Hideyoshi up and to get you and the body collector out of my hair.” Ieyasu hastily started to make an excuse desperate to hide the redness he felt breaking out on his face. He wasn’t exactly a stranger to interacting with women but there were certain types of them that seemed to trigger him to fluster badly. Masa often teased him that it looked like he was a teenager having a short circuit because a pretty girl spoke to them.

“Body collector?” She inclined her head a quizzical expression replacing that beaming smile.

“Best not to ask Lass. Yasu’s still a little salty over having to deal with what is left of your fella’s… whatever he does.” Masa chuckled and put his hand on her head. [Name] pulled herself back swatting the hand from her and met his smile with a brief glare that was rendered powerless by the man’s lack of concern.

“It’s strange to think I’m leaving here again.” She rolled her eyes and glanced about again.

“It’s not too late you know Kitten. Just have to say the word and I could steal you away…” Masa moved like a cat sliding up closer and leaning over to whisper in her ear. Failing spectacularly as his volume control was definitely off.

“My-my, someone is feeling confident despite his lack of depth perception.” A teasing voice came some somewhere behind them carrying a chilling edge to it. All three of them turned to see Mitsuhide propped up against the doorway, one hand in his trouser pocket. The smile on his face at first glance appeared pleasant but didn’t reach his eyes at all, it could send a shiver up anyone’s back.

---

It had taken some time to secure a residence for them but after conducting some final checks he was finally back at HQ. That little diversion from earlier had been interesting but he was still thankful for it to have reached its conclusion swiftly. He parked his car alongside the van that stood there with its loading doors wide open revealing box after box piled up methodically, each one labelled in her delicate handwriting. Looks like I’m a little late to the party on this one. I wonder who got the job of assisting the Princess. I could see Hideyoshi doing that, the man never knows when to stop smothering.

Moving from the car park to the elevator in the lobby he was hit with a feeling of something a little nostalgic. He had never really taken the time to appreciate the building. It was a base of operations, somewhere to work out of and run back too. It was also naturally a legitimate business and on a weekday was as busy as an anthill at a picnic. Today though it was quiet and as he stepped into the lift, he realised that the significance of the place was about to shift for him. He would be here but it was only going to be for work. He would maintain a room but it would only be for use on occasion. Is this what a normal life feels like? Working and then going home somewhere else?

The closer he got to his rooms the more he was aware of activity. And then just before he entered, he heard the unmistakable voice of Masa.

“It’s not too late you know Kitten. Just have to say the word and I could steal you away…”

“My-my, someone is feeling confident despite his lack of depth perception.” He stopped in the doorway adopting an air of nonchalance when he was, in fact, feeling anything but. The familiar tease in his voice didn’t manage to cover for him either. Of all the people why him? It’s not as bad as Shingen I suppose but still…

“I knew you were there.” Masa snorted meeting Mitsuhide’s smile with a knowing grin of his own. It was like watching a cat and dog in a face-off about to have a scuffle.

“Then you are also lacking in your sense of personal preservation.” Mitsuhide slowly moved closer to [Name] pushing himself between her and Masa forcing the other man back. Masa was chuckling and looking at Mitsuhide as if he had just found something brand new and shiny to play with. Don’t try to play games with me. You can only imagine what I will do and even then, I would easily surpass your delusions. Wait a minute why am I so annoyed right now?

“Have you met Masa? The guy is a walking disaster who is basically a pain in my ass.” Ieyasu spoke up disrupting the atmosphere enough to dissipate some of the friction.

“Haha, I’m going to miss you guys.” Her laughter from behind him snuffed out the last of his rising turmoil. She was a miracle balm to his fraying nerves. He was still not used to this thing called “love” they shared. It still threatened to be an all-consuming fire he would happily die in.

“No need to pull that face [Name].” Masa adjusted himself and pulled back. He had amused himself enough and didn’t wish to upset Mitsuhide further. It was so easy to see the emotions playing in the usually unreadable man. He had seen them clear as day in his friend after that fake funeral incident and the only one oblivious to it was apparently the man himself.

“He’s right, not like you are going so far away you can’t visit. I will probably be busy but you will no doubt find a way to disturb me.”

“Wouldn’t hurt you to be a bit more honest there Yasu.” Masa laughed and roughly rubbed his knuckles over the top of the fluffy blonde’s head, before picking up the last sealed box. “Anyway, I’ll take this down to the van.”

“I’ll hold the door for you.” Ieyasu leapt forward and barged past Masa nearly knocking him over in a rush to escape the room.

“Being awfully friendly today aren’t you Yasu?” Masa looked a little shocked at the sudden show of enthusiastic helpfulness.

“Not really I just don’t want to stay around here and play gooseberry.”

“Those two make a good pair.” [Name] said wistfully as she watched the others leave. It made him feel like he wanted to make her look at him.

“They do have an extraordinary ability to make up for each other’s deficiency.” He turned around locking her small frame in his arms. “Now then little one whatever shall I do with you?” I never had myself pegged for a possessive man. You really do have a curious power little mouse. The things you do to me.

“Me? What did I do now? I haven’t done anything.” [Name] startled and her blue eyes began to flicker around wandering the room attempting to remember anything that might have incurred punishment.

“You are very guilty my dear, you just haven’t realised it yet.” He dipped low and sealed her lips shut with his. I will never get bored with watching you, my love. If this is a dream I don’t want to wake up.

“Mmfph… Mitsuhide! Don’t tell me you’re jealous.” She placed her hand on his chest pushing him back. Her upturned eyes looking at his searching for answers he didn’t wish to give. Jealous? Ah, so that’s what that was…

“Alright… I won’t tell you.” His lips curved into a wolf-like grin as he claimed her mouth again.

---

The stars in the sky were obscured by that sickly glow from the city. He could only very faintly pick out one or two points of light above him. The air felt heavy but he was unsure whether that was an omen of rain or the echo of his own discomfort.

His time at the club had been a welcome distraction even if he hadn’t been able to completely let go. The carefully crafted world of his was becoming more unstable. Voices carried in the wind, not wanting to openly admit the facts. They were concerned once more and it all had a negative impact on the trust, they had in Azuchi. A trust they had in him. The firm hand he once held the city with was being pried open and he could feel it slipping like sand through his fingers. But who the hell is it? Who is still pulling strings?

He sighed and lowered himself down onto the bench in the pavilion. His gaze moved from a fixed point in the past to the present and he frowned. Nobody liked change, but that is exactly what was happening. Esshu should have collapsed but didn’t. There was one reason for that, the only one that made any logical sense and it was that there was more than one head running the show. Wheels and cogs began to turn in his mind as he thought through various proposals and suggestions that he could use to secure a foot in the door at the other company. Anything I offer would be much harder to refuse if I could just find the focal point. That weak link in the chain that holds all the strings. Who do I know that could find that?

---

14 notes · View notes

starryburglar-archive · 5 years ago

Text

Donatello Info

Full name: Donatello Hamato

Species: Mutated turtle ( verse dependant )

Age: 18 ( verse dependant )

Sexuality: Heterosexual

FC(s): Keito Hasumi ( Ensemble Stars )

Bio: Donatello is the third eldest/second youngest of 4 four brothers, all named after famous Renaissance men by their master and father, Hamato Yoshi—currently known as Splinter. The four brothers were once ordinary turtles; when they were infants the benevolent Hamato Yoshi purchased the four as pets. When their soon-to-be father walked passed a strange man, he felt something odd about him and followed.

Unfortunately, Yoshi gave away his position when he accidentally stepped on a brown rat’s tail. The Kraang, an alien race that looks like medium-sized brains with like 6 or 8 tentacles, found him and attempted to kill him, but Yoshi fought back hard. During the scuffle, the aliens dropped a container of mutagen, Yoshi, having to have stepped on that rat, thus mutated into a humanoid brown rat by the name of “Splinter”, While Donnie and his brothers, after having been in contact with Yoshi and the clerk of the pet store where they were bought, mutated into humanoid turtles. Yoshi raised the turtles as his own children and to train them in Ninjutsu.

Many years have passed since then. Not only did the boys have grown up and become very talented and skilful ninjas, but they have gone through many hardships due to the vengeful spirit of Splinter’s rival, Shredder. Unfortunately for them, at the end of the road, even after doing everything to prevent it, their father was killed by their mortal enemy. The four brothers avenged his father and finally put an end to Shredder’s wrath.

New York City may be safe from the Foot Clan ( for now ) but evil never rests. Donatello, along with his brothers and human friends—April O’Neil and Casey Jones—continue to watch over the city from the shadows and fighting anyone who disrupts its peace.

Note: Follows show canon up to season 4. Season 5 is hit or miss and will pick what is part of my canon as I go along.

[ MAIN || INBOX || HEADCANONS || VISAGE || MUSINGS ]

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

V001: Does Machines

Default main verse. Takes place post-season 4, after the definite defeat ( and death ) of The Shredder. The four brothers, plus April and Casey, and now live in peace in NYC. They will honour their father’s memory by continuing to be the protectors of the city, heroes from the shadows.

V002: tba eldarya

tba eldarya verse to be written in detail at a later time when im not lazy but some notes.

he and his brothers were orphaned when they were babies, not too long after they were born. their parents were murdered by demons

coincidentally, the baby turtles—or kappa if you wanna be technical about it—were found by an anthro rat, who used to be an elf long ago. he decided to raise them as their own children, and named them after four men from a funny book about human art during an era called “The Italian Rennaissance”.

this rat, called splinter, also was a skilled warrior and personally trained his sons so they would be able to defend themselves.

currently in their end-stage of their teenage years (kappa don’t age the same as regular turtles, so the brothers would be at least 118 years old in this verse), the four brothers mainly do mercenary work for others, going on hunts or escorting people to places where danger is high.

V003: tba human modern

tba human modern verse

V004: HeroAca

HeroAca verse. to be written in detail at a later time when im not lazy but some notes

he and his brothers are originally from the united states, born from two mutant parents from whom they inherited their shared quirk: turtle. however, their parents died not too long after they were born; they didn’t even get to name their children.

to their fortune, a japanese man found them while he was on a business trip to the country. this man, hamato yoshi, or also known by his hero name “splinter”, took pity of the orphan boys and decided to adopt all 4 on the spot. due to the lack of names, hamato yoshi went outside of the box and named his new sons after 4 famous renaissance men: leonardo, raphael, donatello and michelangelo.

their quick alone makes the brothers stand out since they look 100% turtle. they are able to hide in their shells for self-defence and are quite the herbivores, and to their luck, they are not slow like regular turtles are. quite the contrary, they are quite fast.

their father not only raised them but also trained them in ninjitsu. he knew mutant quicks can only get you so far if it’s not something that can grant you many unique abilities, like a frog, for example. that was his case as well, being born with the rat quirk – just like his father did with him, he personally trained his children to fight like warriors from the shadows.

currently, the four brothers are second-year students at u.a. high school and are all in the same class ( for better or worse ). leonardo’s hero name is “purple brainiac”

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

CONNECTIONS

Hamato Family

:: Donatello ♣ The perfect chemical reaction ( Hamatos ) ::

2 notes · View notes

wrestlingisfake · 6 years ago

Text

Wrestling Dontaku preview

The Wrestling Dontaku tour runs from April 13 to May 4, culminating in two main shows at the end. (“Dontaku” means “holiday,” although that doesn’t really explain why the tour is called that.) The tour includes several dates with their own show titles, and I won’t pretend to know why--you kinda just have to roll with it until you find a Reddit thread that explains this stuff.

Like most New Japan tours, there are enough title defenses and special matches to fill out a single big show, but they’re spread across multiple dates. Normally there’d be two or three dates with most of the key matches, but this time the important stuff is scattered all over the tour. I’ve picked out the major highlights.

April 20 - Sengoku Lord in Nagoya

Kota Ibushi vs. Zack Sabre, Jr. - Ibushi is defending the IWGP intercontinental championship. Sabre is the RevPro British champion, although that title is not on the line. At G1 Supercard, Sabre successfully defended his title against Hiroshi Tanahashi, while Ibushi captured his title to fulfill a quest to emulate Tanahashi. So Ibushi requested Sabre as his first challenger, in order to face he man who, in Ibushi’s words, “defeated a god.” It’s also worth noting that Sabre is the one that knocked Ibushi out of the New Japan Cup, so he has the momentum going into this match.

These two always have a good match, so that’s no problem, but there’s little chance of a title change. Ibushi will likely retain.

Juice Robinson vs. Bad Luck Fale - Juice is defending the IWGP United States championship. On March 24, Juice defended the title against Chase Owens, but Fale attacked him after the match. Mikey Nicholls made the save, so this tour features Juice and Nicholls facing Chase and Fale in various combinations. I suspect the winner of this match is going to end up defending against Nicholls down the line.

Juice is a classic fired-up babyface and Fale is a classic monster heel, so this should be a clinic for hope spots and he’s-just-too-fat moments and size-of-the-fight-in-the-dog comebacks. I’m not confident it’ll be a three-star wrestling match but it should be good pro wrestling, if that makes sense. I could dig Fale as champion for a couple of months but I think Juice will retain.

April 22 - Road to Wrestling Dontaku

Ryusuke Taguchi & Toru Yano & Togi Makabe vs. Tama Tonga & Tanga Loa & HIKULEO - Taguchi’s team is defending the NEVER openweight trios championship. The champs won the title from the Guerillas of Destiny and Taiji Ishimori, but now GOD is teaming with their brother Hikuleo, who is like two Ishimoris tall.

The confusing thing here is that GOD and Yano/Makabe have spent much of 2019 fighting over both the NEVER six-man tag team championship and the IWGP tag team title. Taguchi/Yano/Makabe won the NEVER title, but then Yano/Makabe failed to win the IWGP title, and then GOD also won the ROH tag title, but Yano stole the IWGP tag belts. So we’ve got a tag title match about stolen tag title belts, but the stolen belts aren’t the ones on the line, and the victims of the theft still have tag title belts. It’s kind of ridiculous, and I wish they’d figure out something else to do with the trios title.

The Taguchi team should probably retain, if only so Yano can continue to taunt GOD about how they still can’t get their stolen belts back.

April 26 - Road to Wrestling Dontaku - Aki no Kuni Sengoku Emaki

SHO & YOH vs. Shingo Takagi & BUSHI - Roppongi 3K won the IWGP junior heavyweight tag team title from Shingo and Bushi back in March, so this is the rematch. These teams have been fighting over the title for months, and if you include the Bushi/Hiromu Takahashi team, it’s more like a full year. What’s really frustrating is that, no matter who wins, the next contenders for the title will likely be El Desperado and Yoshinobu Kanemaru, who have also been embroiled in this never-ending feud. I’m begging New Japan to create some new junior tag teams. I no longer care who wins.

April 29 - Wrestling Hi no Kuni

Jay White vs. Hirooki Goto - White lost the IWGP heavyweight title at G1 Supercard, so it looks like this match has been set up as the first step back into the title hunt. Goto has really not done anything of note since November, which makes him convenient to feed to White. I suppose a win a for Goto would be a huge statement to push him towards the top, but I think it’s more likely we’ll see White make a small statement to nudge him away from the bottom.

Tama Tonga & Tanga Loa vs. Toru Yano & Togi Makabe - The Guerillas of Destiny hold both the IWGP heavyweight tag team title and the ROH tag team title, but Yano and Makabe are only challenging for the IWGP title. Yano stole the IWGP tag title belts shortly after GOD became double champions on April 6. One of these teams will have momentum coming out of the trios title match mentioned earlier, but let’s not even get into that here. After going to all the trouble of making GOD double champions, I don’t think they’ll just drop one title here like it’s nothing. Hell, they haven’t even had a chance to pose with both sets of belts yet. So the Tongans gotta retain.

Mikey Nicholls vs. Bad Luck Fale - This is the first singles match for Nicholls since starting with the company in the New Japan Cup. A victory over Fale would put him into the mix for the midcard championships, especially if Fale wins the US title on April 20. A loss for Nicholls would establish him as a prelim guy at the level of YOSHI-HASHI, David Finlay, or Chase Owens. I personally think there’s no sense not pushing Nicholls, and it would make a ton of sense for him to win here and challenge Juice for the US championship at Dominion, so I’m predicting that.

May 3 - Wrestling Dontaku Night 1

Dragon Lee vs. Taiji Ishimori - Lee won the IWGP junior heavyweight title from Ishimori on April 6 in a three-way match, but Ishimori wasn’t involved in the fall, so he’s getting a one-on-one rematch here. This will be the final junior heavyweight title match before the Best of the Super Jr. tournament; the winner of this match will be the champion going into the tournament, which will determine his next challenger. The only reason I see to put the belt back on Ishimori this early is if Lee is headed back to CMLL after this tour. But I’m very certain Lee will be booked for BOSJ and Dominion, so you might as well keep the title on him through those shows.

Jeff Cobb vs. Taichi - Cobb is both the NEVER openweight champion and the ROH television champion, but only the NEVER title is at stake. Taichi earned this shot by pinning Ospreay in a tag match back when Ospreay was champion, and then Ospreay lost the title to Cobb on April 6. I don’t have any confidence in Taichi, so this match feels like a waste of time, except to test Cobb’s ability to get a good match out of a stall-tastic choke artist. Cobb will retain.

May 4 - Wrestling Dontaku Night 2

Kazuchika Okada vs. SANADA - This is Okada’s first defense of the IWGP heavyweight championship since regaining it in Madison Square Garden on April 6. The title has not been successfully defended in a one-on-one match since September, so I think the goal here is to put Okada over someone who doesn’t need to be kept very strong. Sanada, who lost to Okada in the New Japan Cup finals, fits the bill. The real intrigue will be about what happens after Okada retains, and who might issue a challenge following the match.

Tomohiro Ishii vs. EVIL - This would be a fairly notable match if not for the fact that there’s no championship or tournament involved. The winner will presumably get a push--although a push for what is anyone’s guess. Under the circumstances, I can’t even guess who would win.

Dragon Lee & Will Ospreay vs. Taiji Ishimori & X - Ishimori is teaming with a mystery partner. “X” is presumably a new member of Bullet Club, and probably a new junior heavyweight since the Best of the Super Jr. tournament is coming up. The obvious candidate is El Phantasmo from RevPro, since he appeared in a Bullet Club hype video that aired throughout the last tour. Regardless, you don’t book a mystery partner in a match for the team with the mystery partner to lose, so Ishimori’s team should get their hands raised.

#njpw #wrestling dontaku

1 note · View note

thecrimsonsageofgaia · 6 years ago

Text

Dissidia Final Fantasy - style quotes against the cast in Smash Bros. Ultimate (Logan’s Intro to the fighters)

Himself - “Time to see how far my training has gotten me.”

Mario - “I hear you are regarded as a natural-born hero. I look forward to this match.”

Donkey Kong - ”You think your huge fists will slow me down? Time to prove you otherwise.”

Link - ”You would be an excellent warrior of light with your courage and willpower this strong.”

Samus - “Don’t think your armor and attacking from a far will help, because two can play at that game.”

Yoshi - “Heh, you may not be a chocobo, but you seem like you’d be fun to ride on.”

Kirby - “You have such potential as a strong warrior, my friend. Time to put it to the test.”

Alternately - “You still require a bit of practice if you hope to master my craft you copied.”

Fox - “Don’t think your speed is going to be enough to overcome me.”

Pikachu - “Hehe, you seem to be enjoying yourself a bit, huh little guy?”

Alternately - “If you were traveling with me, I’m sure we could do much in together when it comes to shocking the opposition.”

Luigi - “You need to feel more confident in yourself. Try not to be so doubtful within your heart.”

Captain Falcon - “Huh, never knew you could spellbind your punches and kicks with fire. That’s a new one.”

Ness - “Heh, I was young once too. Keep up with your skill and you could make a fine mage one day.”

Jigglypuff - “I won’t be put to sleep that easy, I’ll just knock you away.”

Peach - “You seem like an easygoing ruler, but I won’t go easy on you.”

Daisy - “Haha, you have a pretty spunky attitude. Let’s see how this goes, shall we?

Bowser - “I’ve encountered more fearsome monsters than you.”

Zelda - “Your light and wisdom is bright, yet gentle. Much like another princess I know.”

Sheik - “Don’t think hiding in the shadows will protect you.”

Ganondorf - “This overwhelming power... this darkness. I better tread carefully with this one.

Young Link - “Takes me back to my earlier days as a novice. You have strong courage within you... it will take you far indeed.

Falco - “Time to clip those wings of yours, and your gab.”

Ice Climbers - “The bond you two share is something to commend. It will certainly get you far in the long run.”

Marth - “Let’s see which one of us has the fastest sword-arm.”

Mr. Game & Watch - “Your very existence... it’s an enigma, and it is blowing my mind now...”

Dr. Mario - “So, I get the idea that medicine you have is not the healing kind, huh?”

Pichu - “Hehe, you shouldn’t try to overexert yourself, little one. Pace yourself, take it slow, and you will surely master it.”

Mewtwo - “Your mental powers are nothing to scoff at. Show me what you got.”

Alternately - “You are just very lonely... that is what I feel deep within your heart.

Roy - “Your bravery and pride is very befitting of you, like a young lion...”

Pit - “It isn’t often I get to fight a messenger of the gods.”

Diddy Kong - “A chimp with a wooden firearm that fires peanuts... That is something to write home about.”

King Dedede - “So... are you really of royalty?”

Meta Knight - “To challenge a knight of your skill... This will be fun.”

Zero Suit Samus - “Your suit maybe off, but do you think your agiliness will be enough to win?”

Wario - “Why do I get the foreboding feeling of dread and regret in this upcoming battle...?”

Ike - “I can tell you are a strong and dedicated leader who will be there for his allies.”

Olimar/Alph - “Strength in numbers, no matter the size, can often make a difference in combat.”

Snake - “Quite an arsenal you have there. That’ll surely keep me on my toes.”

Pokémon Trainer - “Well now, never thought I’d fight a Beastmaster here.”

Alternately - “The creatures you command... they really do believe in you, huh? The bond you four share is strong, indeed...”

Lucario - “A natural class Monk... Don’t hold back on me.

Alternately - “I wouldn’t be against have you as a traveling partner.”

Toon Link - “I sense a strong resolve within you. There are those you wish to protect, right?

Alternately - “You’re an older brother too? Do me a favor, and keep them close to your heart, no matter what.”

R.O.B. - “You look like a toy... a rather cool looking one.”

Alternately - “It is strange, but why do I feel sorrow when I’m near you?”

Sonic - “What would be better? Hastega on myself to keep up or Slowga on you to make it even?”

Lucas - “I know what it is like to lose those close to you. Just try to keep a chin up and move forward.”

Wolf - “You mean business... but doesn’t mean I can still try to clip those claws of yours.”

Rosalina - “The fact these creatures are willing to sacrifice themselves to protect you goes to show how much they care about you...”

Alternately - “Your powers... are you able to travel in the Rift too?”

Greninja - “A ninja that uses water made shurikens is rather impressive. But will it be enough?”

Robin - “Your skills in sword and magic are to be respected. You have the makings of an adept Red Mage.”

Palutena - “To be able to fight a goddess with your radiance is a true honor. I’ll show you that my light is as bright!”

Villager - “You seem like a good individual... yet I can’t help but find something unsettling about you at the same time.”

Little Mac - “Well, was it mistake to bring a sword to a fist fight, or a mistake to bring gloves to a sword fight?”

Wii Fit Trainer - “Huh, maybe I should try doing more than meditation to achieve better mind and spirit.”

Shulk - “That is very impressive blade you have there. Good thing an individual I know in the Rift isn’t here, or he would want it for himself.”

Alternately - “Even a seer can make their predictions of the future wrong.”

Mii (Gun/Sword/Brawler) - “Perhaps three more of you and I have a good party set.”

Mega Man - “One doesn’t need to know that you likely continue to fight for everlasting peace... Do what you can.”

Pac-Man - “You have a rather strong appetite do you not?”

Bowser Jr./Koopalings - "I guess even young minds want nothing more but power.”

Lucina - “A princess that takes action head-on… much like her.”

Alternately - “Prove to me that you have the power to change your own fate.”

Dark Pit - “Well, aren’t you a real ray of sunshine?”

Duck Hunt - “Well, if moogles and chocobos are capable of battling well together, can’t see why a dog and a duck would be any different.”

Ryu - “We both appear to have wandered around a lot. Show me what you learned along your travels.”

Ken - “Heh, with your energy, I can’t help be feel fired up going against you. Let’s go.”

Corrin - “The road to conquest or the road to one’s birthright… Only you can decide what path you go, for it will eventually lead to the true revelation.”

Alternately - “You are not half Eidolon, are you?”

Cloud - “Haven’t seen you since the conflict of the gods. Let’s see how far we both have come since then.

Bayonetta - “With a skill with being able to control time, I’d mistake you for a Time Mage.”

Inkling - “Wonder how well water spells will work against someone like you...”

Ridley - “You may be menacing and intimidating, but I think Bahamut is much more of a threat than you.”

Simon - “Do you require the services of a sage for the battle against the undead?”

Richter - “With confidence like that, be wary of being manipulated against your will.”

King K. Rool - “This blade will cut through that tough hide of yours, you big lizard.”

Isabelle - “I’m sorry, but even if you are a pure and gentle little soul I can’t hold back… Forgive me, miss...”

Incineroar - “You gotta admire that strong spirit.”

Joker - “Try as you might, but I’m only one that will be stealing this victory.”

#ooc

2 notes · View notes

cyrelia-j · 7 years ago

Text

[Ficlet] The Hunted (minor Garak/Bashir)

A twisted prompt fill for @dayoldhakarl Don’t say I didn’t warn you ;)

garashir for Sir Sly’s “Gold”

Summary: Everyone knows to fear the Hunters. Miles O’Brien is no different. And then he meets a man travelling alone in the English countryside.

Warnings: Horror

“Are you Elim Garak?” The man asks the question as the two of them stand stopped at the overgrown roadside. He’s tall, slim, almost frail looking with a head of dark curly hair cut short, and hazel eyes that look out from dark circles. The man that he’s speaking to is older. His face is ruddy and pinched, eyes narrowed suspiciously as he regards the other. He’s heavier, the frayed flannel shirt layered over a dusty T shirt that says “Zombie”. The slender man has a few days’ stubble. It’s clear the older man with the light brown hair hasn’t shaved in weeks. He regards the slender young man with suspicion.

“Not as I can tell. The two of you supposed to hook up here?” He speaks with a Dublin accent.

“I don’t know,” the slender man answers. He’s looking out into the field past the tilted stone wall and chicken wire along the top. There aren’t any sheep in the field any longer.

“S’not a good time for a fella to forget himself. Dangerous, you know?” The older man looks around furtively. The sun is starting to hang low on the horizon and he shifts from one foot to the other. He’s carrying a backpack and the barrel of an old rifle is visible behind it. The slender man is silent a moment then blinks at the statement.

“Well, you’re a long way from home, aren’t you?” The slender man speaks more deliberately and his accent is more Southern English. He’s wearing a Smiths T shirt and jeans. His hands are tucked into the pockets, the bottoms hanging over red Converse that appear quite clean in comparison to the older Irish man’s brown work boots.

“Family vacation,” the older man answers more tersely “Haven’t made it back home yet.” It’s suspicious to see a lone figure carrying nothing with them.

The Hunters are everywhere.

“Right,” the slender Englishman says, looking past him discreetly. “Do you think I might walk with you a bit? I think I saw an old cottage off that way and well, you can see I’m not really in a position to defend it.” He gives a shrug, an apologetic smile. The Irishman barely relaxes.

“What about this Garak fella? He comin’ ‘round any time soon?”

“If he’s late, that’s his loss I suppose,” the slender man says with a small quirk of his mouth. “You know it’s not safe to wait around out here and I’d miss him terribly but ah… he can take care of himself.”

“I don’t have nothin’ here ‘cept this old huntin’ rifle.”

“I don’t have anything either. Just my company if you don’t mind a spot of chatter. I’m afraid I don’t always know when to keep quiet.”

The older man snorts.

“Maybe once upon a time I’d be cheesed off by a fella not knowin’ when to shut his gob but… S’pose it don’t matter so much now. Keep a little in front of me though, will ya? Yer leadin’ the way and all besides…” He steps back carefully into the road as the man walks slowly past him. Neither of them have a concern for vehicles. The cars attract too much attention to use. The slender man pauses as an afterthought and holds out a hand.

“I’m Julian, by the way. Julian Bashir.” When he says that the other man rubs at his eyes and the tension goes out of his shoulders considerably.

“Julian Bashir… Christ, I know you! Took second place in the Nationals that last year before…” He pauses here, that brief moment of respite. “Yah, ‘fore the world went to Hell.”

“Would’ve been first if I hadn’t hit the wall,” Julian answers with a grin.

“Yeah, literally, mate, bit of a tough break there.” He shakes Julian’s hand firmly. “Miles O’Brien. Honored. I used to play a little myself. Maybe coulda given you a run fer yer money too in my day.”

“Well, the honor’s mine, I promise,” Julian says as he starts walking. “I haven’t seen another soul in I don’t know how many weeks. I was starting to worry that I was the last man on Earth or something.”

“You and the Spoonies,” Miles answers falling into step beside him.

He doesn’t see Julian’s step nearly miss at that.

“The Hunters. They’ve done a thorough cleansing. The last I heard, Wales was nothing but ash after The Fire.”

“Makes ya wonder what they’re even saving this shit for.”

“Hunting,” Julian answers finding a break in the stone wall and stepping through it. “The house is this way. I don’t think anyone else would have found it since I passed it earlier. It was pretty well hidden from the road. I… don’t mean to pry but are you alone or is your family-”

“Gone,” comes the strangled reply. “Gone quick,” Miles continues with a whisper. “Keiko, Molly, Yoshi... You?” He picks up his pace after answering that question, as if now just becoming aware of how exposed they are in the open field.

Julian matches his paces but doesn’t seem particularly hurried.

“My mother and father. It wasn’t quick for my father.” There’s another small quirk of his mouth at that one. “It shouldn’t be much further- just on past the tree here.” He walks closer and looks at it a moment. “Right, this is it then.” He turns his head, hands back in his pockets. “It’s a left here back a ways.”

“Sure we’ll make it ‘fore dark? Ya know their eyes in the dark… like bloody pit vipers.”

“I thought all the snakes got driven out?” Julian teases.

“Apparently not all of them,” Miles says with a snort. “Hear they can smell ya too. I try and keep clean, try and mask it with dirt otherwise. Don’t eat anything too fragrant. You ever see one of those fuckin’ lizard monsters they got?”

“Riding hounds,” Julian corrects automatically as they walk deeper into the forest.

“Hounds is it eh? Not like an yhound I ever seen and my da’ kept plenty fer huntin’. Ya sure we’re goin’ the right way?” Miles asks as the thick tree covering casts darkness over them both. Julian shrugs unconcerned.

“There’s a tributary running around up ahead. We can burn the bridge after we cross it.”

“Sorry mate, ‘fraid I don’t have a light. ‘sides, the fire might attract ‘em this way....” Julian reaches into his pocket and takes out a lighter in response.

“For my cigarettes,” he explains with another shrug. “I know it’s an awful habit and there’s not really anywhere to find them anymore. I like to be prepared when I can though.” Miles snorts.

“Christ you patio people and yer fags. Nothin’ on ya but yer fags and a lighter. My da’ used to smoke the damn things. S’probably what killed ‘im.”

Julian doesn’t immediately answer him, searching around, finally pausing and raising a finger.

“Right, there it is.” He indicates a bridge far off in the distance though Miles doesn’t seem to be able to see it. Still, he expresses relief as Julian leads him closer to the fast rush of water and the old wooden bridge over it. “But I suppose you’re right. The fire would attract them, wouldn’t it?” he murmurs softly, looking back out into the darkness across the water.

“Jeez, ya think? It’s a wonder they haven’t got ya before now. Gotta figure this Garak fella must be lookin’ out right good for ya. Bloody Spoonies… You ever seen one up close? Nasty looking buggers, they-”

“There it is,” Julian interrupts him, gesturing again through the dark woods. “It’s been overrun with ivy but I think that’s for the best. It makes it more difficult to find.”

Julian takes the lead, Miles carefully walking behind him. He walks faster through the brush, the path long overgrown and Miles curses as the ground grows uneven and he nearly trips.

“Oi, look, I know we gotta take cover ‘for long but I’d rather not break a leg in the process.” He’s breathing heavier from the extra weight of hit kit. Julian stops so that he can catch up but he doesn’t turn around.

“Ah, sorry. I don’t know what I was thinking. Right, break a leg that’d make it pretty hard to run, wouldn’t it?” he says with a soft nervous laugh.

“We can’t all be Racquetball champs, ya know,” Miles says clapping a hand on Julian’s shoulder.

“No… we can’t all be… there it is now, do you see the path?” Julian follows a few more steps, brushing Miles hand off him.

“Can’t say that I…” He trails off as Julian stops in front of what appears to be a massive ivy wall. “Well I’ll be damned.”

Julian pushes the door open and for a moment the pitch back of the inside makes the dark woods look almost bright by comparison.

“What’d I tell you? Watch your step.” Miles follows him quickly.

“Think ya might make use of that lighter, mate?” he asks as he shuts the door behind them. “Not all of us are bloody English owls here. S”funny. Used to think the bombings were the worst thing I ever lived through.” Miles sets the backpack down by feel, hand lingering on the rifle a moment before takes it up. “Never thought it’d come a day when I’d miss The Troubles.” His hands have a faint tremor to them. “Shoulda been in Monaghan in ’74…” He stops at the sound of footsteps.

“Shit,” he swears under his breath as he raises the weapon. “Julian get back,” he whispers under his breath, reaching out in front of him. Mile’s hand on Julian’s shoulder turns him around.

It’s then that he realizes Julian’s eyes are glowing green in the darkness of the room.

“Oh God… yer one of them,” he chokes out as the gun is snatched from his shaking grip and thrown back into the house, firing off with a loud bang and a flash of light. He takes a step back going for the door, blinded when Julian flicks the lighter on. There’s a figure behind him. The door won’t open. The shadows bounce off the cruel ridges if its face as that scant light illuminates the Hunter. Miles nearly trips over his bag as he steps sideways. The Hunter smiles at Julian wickedly before seizing his mouth in a long kiss, a stream of red swapped between the both of them.

“God, that’s bloody brilliant,” Julian gasps as the Hunter takes the lighter, letting it go out. There’s a crash as Miles blindly stumbles towards the direction where the gun was thrown. The Hunter takes Julian’s hand in the darkness.

“Such a thoughtful gift, my dear,” it purrs against his mouth. “Perhaps there’s hope for you yet.”

#star trek ds9 #star trek deep space nine #au #garashir #but it's minor #horror #Julian Bashir #Miles O'Brien #fanfic #prompt fill #cyrelia-j

25 notes · View notes