#you kept poking the bear girlie

[sweet-angeleye]

"and you got no idea how much that hurts me to say"

HE STILL CARES ABOUT ROMAN BUT REFUSES TO HELP HIM 😭😭

JUST HELP THEM OUT ALREADY DAMN GIRL

[parkjess]

Heyy, i saw you write for astro so could you do their reaction to you getting them couple rings and the other boys tease them about it??? And could you please do Sanha's a bit longer?? Thanks !!

Thank you for requesting!🥰

Myungjun:

You wanted to surprise your partner for his last musical show, besides the flowers you picked thanks to the other members that helped you. You woke up with the sunlight burning slightly your eyes through the curtains, Myungjun left earlier today for his final rehearsal, and you took this opportunity to buy him another small yet sentimental gift.

As the evening approached, you called the boys to come over and for all of you to go together to the show, not revealing the gift to them yet. The show ended quickly than you thought it will be, and you all waited for Myungjun to come to the backstage where he told you he’ll meet you in the end of the day.

“There he is!” Jinwoo says, Myungjun opens the door and within seconds your arms are all around his frame. -“Baby...” you mumble into the bear hug, having cheering sounds from the others, and the maknae line trying to imitate you both.

“We bought you something.” Bin speaks up, separating you from your beloved boyfriend, handing the bags of presents over to Myungjun. -“And here’s mine,” you say finally, you were the last one because you wanted it to be the most special, but it would be anyways since he loves you with all of his heart. You take his hand in yours, taking out the couple rings you bought this morning from its little box, Sliding it onto his finger and then on your own. The boys felt touched by your surprise, they started to make girly voices and call out both your and Myungjun’s names in excitement.

Myungjun smiled from ear to ear as he took a closer look at the ring. “Forever... with you.” He reads out loud, making your heart beat faster and the rest of the boys giggle and tap on his back teasingly.

Jinwoo:

“Babe?” You answer the phone, Jinwoo called you back since he couldn’t answer earlier. -“Hey~ I missed your voice babygirl, 21 missed calls, what’s up?” His husky voice heard from the other side of the phone.

“Can I come over? I have something to give you...” you say, holding the couple rings you bought earlier this afternoon. -“Uhm... yeah sure, I’ll be at the dorm in 15 minutes, but babe- Is there something wrong? Why did you call so many times?” He asks, as if he was suspencting something he shouldn’t have. “No no, everything is perfect, I just can’t wait for you to see what I got for you...oops- said too much, see you in 20, love you.” And with that, you were the first to hang up, your heart was beating fast as you ran to the closet to change and head out of your house.

Arriving at their place, you text Jinwoo you’re already nearby. -“Y/n! Come on in, it looks like it’s about to rain.” Dongmin calls out from the dorm’s window, closing it shut right after you smile and nod to him. “Hey~ baby... I missed you.” Jinwoo approaches you with a bear hug when the door opens by him, you actually were surprised to see them all there, thinking it will be just the two of you.

-“I missed you too...” you mumble into his embrace, while the rain starts to pour down the windows, covering it with a small amount of fog.

“I made you some tea, come have a seat with us.” He takes your hand and leads you to the table, where they all greet you with hugs and wide smiles. “Ah that... what were you so excited about to show me?” He says, taking a piece of your hair and placing it behind your ear. -“uh...” you stuttered, thinking about telling a white lie and give it to him when you two are alone since you feel embarrassed doing it in front of his friends, but they are your friends too.

-“I bought you a small gift...” you say quietly eventually, digging in your bag to find it, they were all curious about what you got for him. -“Here.” You say shyly and hand it to him, he glances at you with love in his eyes and opens the velvet sack. -“Mine is already here.” You show him your hand since you’re already wearing your ring, waiting for him to wear his. “Aww, couple rings.” Sanha squeals, looks a bit jealous.

“Thanks baby, I love it. I’m never taking it off from my finger.” Jinwoo says, kissing your forehead right after, causing the boys to get goosebumps and shout at both of you to stop the cheesiness.

-“This, was worth it.” You point at them and whisper to your boyfriend.

Dongmin:

Though he wanted to be the one to gift you couple rings, he was the happiest to receive it first.

It was on a Friday night, he was waiting for you near the company building since you were at work (/studies) all day, he decided to take you on a fresh air date to clean your head from the tough week you both had.

“Oh! Dongmin!” You wave at him from quite a far, but he could hear you almost clearly.

-“Hi baby~!” His lips stretch from ear to ear for a wide smile as he approaches you with his arms around your body, it’s kinda chilly so he warms you up.

“I got you something!” You squeal with excitement, taking it from the pockets of your hoodie. -“Ooh~ a gift from my baby.” He cups your cheeks and places a soft, quick kiss on your head. “Here.” You take his hand and slip the ring on his finger, putting the other one on yours right after. -“Couple ring? Baby, I love it. Thank you~” he ruffles your hair and says, hugging you again.

“Eunwoo-ya!” You hear Myungjun yell from afar, the others follow. -“Oh my...” your boyfriend mumbles, making you burst into laughter.

-“Hyung, look what y/n bought me.” Dongmin giggles, excited to show his friends the couple rings you got. “Oh! Y/n, do you read minds? Woah!” Myungjun replies as the other are curious just like you. You make a confused look and ask them both what is it about. -“Two days ago I told M hyung I want to get us couple bracelets.” You were shocked at your boyfriend and the fact he just didn’t tell you that but wanted to surprise you, meanwhile you did.

-“Aish you two are really soulmates.” Jinwoo adds, poking at Dongmin’s sides as a tease, he bursts into laughter that can’t be helped and the chaos starts.

Bin:

You are dating bin for couple of weeks now, he was your biggest crush and when he asked you out, it all felt like a dream coming true since he’s your first.

He took you out tonight on a date, the second one since the week had started. He’s that type of romantic, taking you out for dates he planned long ago, but never had someone to take to, and then finally god sent you to him.

He sends you roses every Friday since he has to stay at the dorms and you can’t spend the weekend together, he writes poems about you, and the dates with him are never boring.

“Y/n...” he calls you with his soft voice, rubbing his neck nervously. -“Yes?” You look up at him, one hand is still on his neck as he breaths heavily and his other hand is in the pocket of his jacket. You stop near the closest building, which is their dorms. “Let’s sit here for a bit, I don’t wan’t to leave you yet.” He says shyly, giggles his slight nervous laugh and looks down, playing with a little rock on the ground with his foot.

-“I’d love to!” You both take a seat on the bench nearby, moving closer to him as he takes your hand in his and puts it inside the pocket of his hoodie. “I have something for you.” He suddenly says, after couple of seconds he just stared at the night skies, cold air hitting his face. -“Really? Woah, I have something for you too.” You say excitingly, surprised he also brought you a gift. “Oh, you go first.” He says and leaves your hand for you to hand him your present.

-“I’m a bit embarrassed though, but please accept it, it means a lot to me.” He holds it and takes the two rings with your names on it and wears his. “It’s so cute, thank you baby. will you let me?” He offers to put the ring on your finger as you smile at him, appreciating his features as suddenly a voice comes out of his phone.

“Bin-hyung? Are you proposing already?” Minhyuk’s voice is heard and you recognize it and immediately take it to listen clearly, both you and bin. “Hyung, I think y/n gifted him couple rings.” You hear sanha whisper in the background to minhyuk and you both start to laugh.

-“Sanha I always believed you do have something in your little brain.” You joke and laugh along with your chuckling boyfriend. “Ohh bin hyung! Woah! Couple rings... I’m jealous.” Minhyuk screams into the phone, being sarcastic.

“Aish... I’ll see you later. I’m hanging up.” Bin says and clicks the red button. You could notice his slightly red cheeks at this point that he didn’t try to hide.

“Where were we?” He asks and takes your hand again. -“Where you were all normal and not red yet.” You answer sarcastically and giggle, teasing your own boyfriend. “Imma leave with your present.” He threatens, until you lean in and place a kiss on his lips.

-“I don’t need no presents, you are the best thing god gifted me.”

“You really want to see me like a tomato again, huh?”

-“Yep.”

Minhyuk:

It was Halloween night, your friends decided to throw a small party at their dorm and film the whole thing, the idea which you really liked since you wanted to gift your boyfriend a small present you ordered long time ago, and kept it a secret from him.

It was finally his turn to talk to the camera, explaining about his costume which was completely not understandable yet it looked so good on him.

You stood behind him along wish Bin and Jinwoo so he couldn’t see you. The boys noticed you’re looking for something but said nothing, you suddenly take the cope that rested on the chair the whole time, wearing it on Minhyuk’s back, and lastly tying it beneath his chin. Once it was perfect, you took out a little jewelry bag from the pocket of your costume, wrapping your arms around his shoulders again, making him look at you.

“Baby.” He mumbles, trying to make you pay attention to the camera, but you ignore him, though you want to crash your lips on his since he was so close to your face with his.

You just take his hand, it was soft to your touch. -“Oh, y/n what are you doing?” Jinwoo asks surprisingly, everyone were focusing on both of you. You took his empty finger, sliding down the golden ring you bought for both of you. You are able to hear his heartbeat, slight heavy breathing, and the wide smile he had plastered on his beautiful face.

Minhyuk takes a closer look at the ring, as you put on yours on the same finger as his and go stand infront of him so he can see you. “Y/n...” he mumbles as he reads your name that was carved into the gold ring, next to the date you first met.

He lifts his head to look at you with glistening eyes and a spreading smile, the one that made you fall for him. “I love you.” He mouths as everyone around starts screaming and cringing as Minhyuk pulls you closer when he stands up, glancing at the ring You’re wearing with his name on it, and a little heart on the side.

“AISH~~ why do you have to be so cheesy?” Bin cringes and hits your arm playfully, making a sour face. -“Heyy Hyung~ don’t touch my baby.” Both you and bin were shocked at the soft side of Minhyuk he usually doesn’t show comes out of him.

Sanha:

It is your one year anniversary with your boyfriend, Sanha, and for all of this time you have been thinking about buying you couple clothes, or couple jewelry, but you never found yourself going to buy something cute that will match both of you. He isn’t the cheesy romantic type, but he always knew how to mark your month anniversaries well and enjoy them together.

This day is the one you have waited for the most, since it’s also Sanha’s birthday and the first day you became a couple exactly a year ago, when everything in your world was about to fall apart, he came and held you, mentally and physically. You decided to put all your effort in this day, no matter how tired you will end up being.

As the sun rose, you picked up your phone to check up on social media, noticing the calendar’s reminder that immediately made your smile appear. Next thing you did was not wasting any more time but calling Bin, Sanha’s best friend. “Hey, I need your help for tonight, do you think you can handle this until 7pm?” You said as you sent him a list of things you wanted to be ready until the evening, and couldn’t handle all by yourself. Luckily, Sanha left early to work this morning so he didn’t know anything. -“Sure, goodluck y/n.” Bin replies with his soft voice, promising he won’t say anything to the birthday boy who was on his way to meet him.

You got off bed to get this day started, your nostrils immediately caught the sweet scent of fresh pancakes.

With furrowed brows, you walk slowly to the kitchen to check if your smelling sense isn’t wrong, and it wasn’t wrong. There was a small post it note beside the tower of golden, smooth pancakes, you take a step closer and grab the note to see what it says.

Happy anniversary my baby, Sorry I couldn’t make a whole breakfast, but this was made from the bottom of my heart like my love to you. I love you, Your birthday boy.

A smile took a second to appear on your face as you folded the note and kept it inside your wallet, taking a bite from the freshly made pancakes, that were slightly cold because he made them about half an hour ago.

As the sunset approached, you took your time to write a handwritten birthday card for Sanha, and attached it to the velvety, jewelry bag, taking one last look at the rings you bought for both Sanha and yourself.

“Oh hey, is everything ready yet?” You answer the call in the speed of light as you saw Bin’s name on the screen, taking a bite from the morning’s pancakes. -“Y/n... I-“ he stuttered, sounds a bit worried, feeling like everything is already messed up, and the voices of the others in the background didn’t make it better.

“I’m coming over.” You reply furiously, feeling the blood rushing while boiling in your veins. You grabbed the only few things you need and ran out. It’s been 15 minutes and endless calls you denied from the boys until you reached their dorm.

“It’s me.” You knock (knock knock) at their door, hearing whisperes from where you stand as footsteps towards the door approach. Not a second into Bin opening the door and confetti is flying all over you, and apparently the birthday boy, Sanha.

-“Happy anniversary!” The boys scream, making you jump into your boyfriend’s arms. “Ya-aish... you know how pissed I was?” You attack Bin for the little prank they pulled on you. You look up at Sanha, wasn’t expecting to meet him on this special day like this, but every way and its own advantage.

“Happy birthday baby,” you scan his face, and then his hair which he just had dyed today to full black, “oh! Your hair...” you run your fingers through it, gaining some cringed sounds from Jinwoo and Minhyuk at the sudden affection.

-“Sanha-ya, your gifts.” Jinwoo reminds, “and the cake!” You complete him, having all of their eyes directly at your direction. “there is a cake, right?” You furrow an eyebrow. -“Sure... I’ll bring it.” Bin says, pushing the boys to the kitchen.

-“Happy anniversary baby.” Sanha says quietly to you as you rest your chin on his chest and look up at your cute boyfriend. “Happy birthsary, babyboy.” You make him laugh with a word you just made up, while wondering why the others take so long to bring the cake. -“My gift for you.” He leads you to the couch and hands you a medium sized box, wrapped nicely and tied with a little bow. You were about to ask him if he rather wait to the boys but it seems he enjoys being alone with you, well, not completely alone but that’s enough.

“Let’s open it together, this one’s for you.” You hand him the small jewelry bag, he takes it with the widest smile he ever had on his face, letting out a soft, shy giggle.

He was the first one to open the gift since you asked him nicely to, pulling the thread that kept the bag closed, taking a look inside as you hear the boys giggling around the corner of the living room, probably peeking at the two of you getting overwhelmed.

-“Y/n...” he calls your name softly after he pulls the rings out the velvety sack, reading whatever it says on both of them. -“I love it so much, thank you baby.” He says and you reach out your hand to him, he looks confused. -“What...?” Sanha leaves a confused laugh, taking your hand in his. “Wear it on my finger, dummy.” The moment these words come out from you, Myungjun exposes their “hiding” spot with his laughter and they all hit him on his elbow playfully.

-“Aish... M hyung~!” They complain, -“Sorry, keep going Yoon Sanha...” Minhyuk approves and makes you laugh at them.

Sanha turns his head back to you, staring deeply into your soul through your eyes while slipping the ring down your finger, making it feel like you just got married. “I love you y/n, thank you for everything.” He whisperes, yet loud enough for the boys to flinch with excitement, biting their own fists (lol). -“Get you a room later, let’s eat the cake now.” Myungjun says, making you laugh in embarrassment.

[darkficsyouneveraskedfor]

Omertà👄5

Warnings: noncon sexual acts (sexual intercourse); tags to be added throughout series

This is dark!Bucky and dark! Loki and explicit. Your media consumption is your own responsibility. Warnings have been given. DO NOT PROCEED if these matters upset you.

Summary: Your father was a bookie and taught you everything you know about numbers. After his death, you were taken on as a bookkeeper for Loki Laufeyson, resident crime boss in Manhattan. But can you keep your place in the background when a man from Brooklyn threatens to drag you to the forefront?

Note: Stay positive and be healthy, y’all. Might have a surprise for ya later.

Hope you enjoy it. Thank you. Love you guys!

As always, if you can, please leave some feedback, like and reblog <3

Loki’s grimace was terrifying. You lowered the sparkling panties back into the box and the diamonds tinkled just a little. He watched you fold the tissue paper back over them and lift the lid. He raised his long index finger as he stood.

“No,” He breathed. “That’s no way to accept a gift.”

You frowned as you hovered the lid over the box. “What--”

“Well,” He smirked. “It would only be proper to make sure they fit.”

“I have no intent of ever wearing those,” You shoved the lid on. “I’ll have them sent back.”

“You will not do that,” He tutted. “Now, let’s see--”

“No,” You said staunchly. “I’m tired of this. It’s ridiculous. Childish!”

His nostrils flared and he pursed his thin lips. He reached beneath his jacket and pulled his gun from his holster. He didn’t hesitate as he brought the muzzle to face you.

“I rather dislike repeating myself but more, I despise your disobedience. Now, your life is mine and at this point it would seem more profitable to end it and this bounty. So I won’t say it again.” He snarled. “I’ll even be so generous as to close my eyes. I like a surprise.”

You stared at him and the gun twitched. He smirked and closed his eyes, his arm still extended, ready to pull the trigger. You shook the lid off so the box fell loudly onto the desk. You tossed the lid aside and hiked up your skirt. You pulled your panties down your legs and bunched them up atop the desk.

You took the diamond pair and bent to hook your feet through them and shimmied them up your legs. You stood and straightened your skirt over them. You smiled and leaned on the desk.

“They fit,” You said tritely.

He opened his eyes and his face fell. He marched towards you and pressed the barrel to your chest. You swallowed but held his gaze. He let out a hot breath.

“You know what I meant.” He pushed the neckline of our shirt lower with the gun. “Final warning, darling.”

This time he kept his eyes open. You gritted your teeth and reached to the hem of your shirt. You ripped it over your head and threw it in his face. He barely flinched as he caught it and backed away just a step. You found the zipper on the back of your skirt and pushed it down. You rolled it along your legs and stood straight as it pooled at your ankles.

He raised a brow as he tongue slipped out and he focused on your bra. You looked down and reluctantly grasped the back of your bra. You unhooked it and paused just a moment as you raised your head. He lowered the gun slowly and you let the bra fall. It slipped from your arms as you dropped them and stood in nothing but your heels and the extravagant panties.

“Divine,” He wisped. “Darling, you do continue to delight.”

“You’re disgusting.” You sneered.

“If I were so disgusting, I would drag you down to that repulsive club and have you show all those men what’s mine,” He slithered. “And you understand that you are mine. You will never be his. Ever.”

His face turned dark as his breath rose in his chest.

“But for now, you will sit and finish your work. Just. Like. That.”

His eyes roved over your body and you shuddered. You sat and pulled the chair closer to the desk. You acted as if he wasn’t there, as if you weren’t as good as naked, as if you didn’t feel entirely sick. 

You lifted your pencil and ran it along the margin. You sensed him as he came closer and his hand appeared in the corner of your vision. His fingers closed around your former panties and dragged them away. You bit down but said nothing and made no move. He snickered as he strutted the perimeter of the room and hummed.

“Temperance is kindred to pleasure,” He said. “Little tastes make the dessert sweeter.”

👄

You left work roiling mad. You’d never been so livid in your life, not even when your father had duped you into running bets in middle school. 

Yet you didn’t dare to goad Loki further though. He was a man of limits and he was almost past his. Each man insisted on raising the stakes higher and higher though you could not see anyone paying but yourself.

You stomped out of work, the heels of your shoes nearly bending beneath you on the pavement. You checked the time on your slender silver watch. He hadn’t returned your panties and you refused to keep the others on and so you felt even more exposed as you made your way down the street.

As you turned the corner, you nearly toppled. Your path was blocked by an unexpected obstacle. Rather a man who seemed to be awaiting you. He smiled down at you as his golden hair shone in the later blooms of sunlight. You scowled and tried to sidestep him. He moved with you and blocked your path.

“Ah, running away?” Rogers taunted.

“No, you’re in my way.” You hissed.

“I’m here to do you a favour,” He grinned. “My boss awaits your thanks.”

“Then he will be waiting for a rather long time,” You tried to evade him again and he moved once more in front of you.

“You don’t want to leave him waiting,” He warned.

“Get out of my way.” You huffed.

He considered you and shook his head. He rolled his tongue along his bottom lip and shrugged. 

“Alright, girlie,” He held up his hands and stepped aside. “Have it your way.”

You scowled and continued on. You were exhausted. You stormed around the corner and onto the next. You walked to work most days, lost yourself in the crowd in your moments to yourself. At that point, you’d love to just disappear altogether

A sharp honk sounded and a car pulled up along the curb, slowing to follow you as the window descended. You glanced over and went on as if you hadn’t seen the man within. The motor continued to mutter as the car rolled slowly along.

“Sweetheart, don’t do this to me,” Bucky begged. “And after such a lovely present.”

“You can have it back,” You snarled.

“Only if you're in it,” He said. “Come on. Get in. I wanna talk.”

“Well, I don’t,” You snapped.

“If I gotta get outta this car…” He warned.

“You don’t gotta do anything,” You countered. “Nothing but go away.”

He sighed and the window rolled up. The car pulled in entirely and idled at the curb. You heard the door open and close as you passed it entirely and the leather clad footsteps which followed you. You swung your elbow back as you were grabbed and you struggled with the man who had stopped you only a few blocks earlier.

The blond henchman gave no heed to the other pedestrians as he wrestled you over to the car and they pretended not to see him. You kicked out as he wrangled you with one arm and grunted as he opened the door. You nearly knocked your head as he forced you down and shoved you inside. Your purse drooped on your arm as you landed on the leather.

You cursed and shot your foot back at him as you fell into the seat. He caught your ankle and his grip made your blood turned cold.

“Steve, don’t,” Bucky ordered from behind you, “I’d like her in one piece.”

Steve clung to you as his eyes shot past you. He nodded and pushed your foot away. You barely pulled your legs inside before he slammed the door. You righted yourself on the seat and grumbled at the man beside you.

“So… did you like them?” Bucky asked as Steve climbed in the front.

“Not really my style,” You said evenly as the car pulled away from the curb.

“Well, neither is this,” He tugged on your skirt. “I kinda liked the suits.”

“What do you want?”

“I know you’re not that clueless.” He chuckled.

“And I know you aren’t either. How many ways can I say no?” You uttered.

“You can say it as many times as you like, sweetheart. It only adds to the fun.” He played with the hem of your skirt as he slid closer. “I know what he’s doing. I know this game. I know he hasn’t had you. He just wants to poke the bear.”

“Both of you are just--” You stopped yourself and peered out the window. “I’ve had a long day. Can we please not?”

“I wonder what he would do, hmmm?” He gripped your knee. “If we just--- if he found out that I got you first.”

“Why did you settle with him if you’re so eager to start another war?” You tried to push his hand away but it didn’t budge.

“Business is business. It’s not about personal feelings,” He slipped his hand from beneath yours and tickled up your leg. He pressed against the bottom of your skirt and edged it up as he groped your thigh. You squeezed your legs together as you tried to stop him. “He can talk himself up but I know he can’t afford another. Not so soon.”

“Bucky…”

“Oooh, say it again,” He tried to force his hand higher.

“Get off of me,” You punched his shoulder and then his chest. “Get--” You reached around and blindly dug your hand into your purse. You flipped the blade out and brought it to his chin. “Stop!”

“Think about this, sweetheart.” He purred and cold metal touched your thigh. You looked down as he dragged the gun to your stomach. “You’re not that interesting.”

You glared at him and slowly lowered the knife. He took it from you and replaced his gun in his holster. He admired the blade as he leaned back on the seat then dragged it lightly over your thigh.

“Now, I know what you’re gonna say because you’ve said it before. And you can keep it up and hold out and be miserable or you can give in and get your kicks.” He winked as he pulled the blade up beneath your skirt and split the fabric from crotch to hem. 

“I’d be miserable either way.”

“Maybe,” He flipped the knife up and pointed it at your nose. “Maybe you would but if your boss even thought you were truly sneaking around behind his back well, I hate to imagine the consequences for you, sweetheart. What a waste,”

You blinked at him as if he was stupid.

“Let me lay it out. You continue this little coy act and I let on that you ain’t so loyal as you pretend to be. See if you’re so useful to him then.” Bucky smirked. “Or you give me what I want and he thinks he’s got what he wants. He gets his pride. His empty victory.”

“He’d never believe you.” You said.

“I can be very convincing,” He hummed. “Those panties are just the beginning.”

You swallowed your revulsion and his eyes descended to your sliced skirt. You followed them and pulled the fabric back together as it threatened to bear your nudity. You kept your legs together as you shifted in the seat. You chewed on your predicament and let out a weak breath. 

Seeds of doubt sprouted easily, especially in this life. Suspicion was as good as guilt.

“Fine,” You muttered. “You bastard.”

He snickered and the car drew to a stop. You looked out the window to your building and blanched. He hadn’t even asked for your address. Well, you supposed he could’ve just asked his minion in the front seat.

“Good girl,” He purred. “Tomorrow, you should come see the club at night, it’s something else.”

You nodded as the bitterness choked you.

“Can I go?” You asked.

“Can you go…” He cupped his ear dramatically. “My men call me sir or Mr. Barnes. It’s a show of respect.”

“Can I go… sir?” You forced out.

“Eh, so demanding. I know you have manners, sweetheart.” He licked his lip.

“Can I go please?” You said. “Sir?”

He grabbed your chin suddenly and pulled you close. Your eyes rounded and he pressed his lips to yours. He devoured you with a messy kiss and parted with a nibble of your lip.

“You can,” He said softly. “Don’t forget the panties.”

He released you and you grabbed your purse. You held your skirt together as you opened the door and climbed out carefully. You closed the door without looking back and stepped up onto the sidewalk. You walked hunched over to your building, afraid your skirt would split at any move.

When you stepped inside, you felt as if he could still see you. As if his lips were still on yours and his gun to your side. You felt completely trapped. Entirely hopeless.

[faroutharry]

You feel, I feel

Hey guys, this is my first Harry writing, sorry if it is really shit, feel free to send me ideas for more writing, im very excited to get into this.

length: 2.7k

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Harry’s new album was coming out in less than a week and he was going crazy thinking about how his fans were going to react. “But baby what if everyone hates it?” Harry pouts at me from his spot on the bed, his eyes still puffy and his voice groggy from just waking up. “They aren’t gonna hate it H, they will love it because it comes from you and your heart” I give him a big smile through the mirror across the room. “Hmmmmp” He flops back onto our bed with a big grunt. “Maybe I would be more confident if you listened it to first…” Harry quietly says as he pokes one eye over the duvet. I spin around quickly looking at him as if he has two heads. “What?” He’s using those little puppy dog eyes and staring up at me with hope. “You really want me to listen to it?”

I can’t even begin to explain how tense I feel about his question, On one hand of course I want to listen to it, because he’s my loving boyfriend and he had already told me that there were certain songs that I had influenced. But on the other hand he had also stressed to me that certain songs have been influenced by “other people”. The second he said “other people” like that I knew exactly what he meant, and as heart breaking as it is to me that he has obviously had previous partners, I knew this day would be coming and as selfish as I am, I have been trying to put off listening to the album in fear that I would ruin it for him. I know I’m nothing compared to his pervious relationships and that’s something I need to work through and definitely not something he needs to worry about. Another reason for me avoiding the album is well, I just love him so much that even hearing him talk about his previous pains gives me pain, I can’t even begin to explain how sad it makes me to think that someone has broken his heart like that. Before we started dating we were amazingly close friends, and I cant even tell how many times I walked into his place to hear his strangled cries from shower or his angry yelling in the kitchen. I just want to cuddle him in a big blanket and shelter him from the worry and hurt.

“Of course I want you to listen to it, your opinion is one of the only ones I truly care about baby” He slowly rises from the bed and walks his way over to me, wrapping his hands around my waist and staring at me in the mirror. I try my absolute best to seem as excited as I can be, because I am excited, well for most of the songs. “I would be honoured to hear your album H” I wriggle around in his arms and kiss his lips briefly before hiding my face in his neck. I can hear his heart start beating faster as he says “Really? Thank you so much petal, I can go and get my laptop and show you now if you’re free?” With a pleading look on his face how could I possibly say no? “Yeah sounds good bub”. He runs off without another word into his office.

I try to prepare myself by focusing on my breathing and counting to 10 slowly. By the time I’m done Harry is racing back into the room with his laptop secured in his arms. He jumps onto the bed and pats the spot next to him. I carefully walk back over to my side of the bed and hesitantly get back under the covers, if I’m going to do this I’m gonna be as comfy as possible on the outside, because my insides are going to be a wreck. “You ready baby?” H looks over at me with his childlike grin and I shake my head yes “Just don’t interrupt though, I wanna hear it the whole way through”.  As the intro to Golden starts I breathe in quietly and silently pray it’s not about someone else. Harry stares at me intently as I try not to focus on him right now. I close my eyes and lie down to try to distract him from my anxieties. As Golden ends and Watermelon Sugar starts I start to calm down and juts enjoy his heavenly voice as I know the next 3 songs are ones I have already heard and, from what I think I know, they aren’t based on any ex’s of his. But then Cherry starts…

This is what I was worried about. As soon as I hear her voice I know I’m screwed. My heart is going crazy in my chest and I struggle to keep my tears to myself. I slowly look over to Harry and see that he is staring up at the ceiling and I am grateful he’s not looking at me right now, cause I know he would stop the music and ask me what is wrong. So I suck it up and try to listen to the song over my rapid heartbeat. Hearing him say he misses certain things about his ex is never easy and I swallow down my insecurities and try to focus on the guitars or backing vocals, so I don’t have to listen to the words. Just when I think the gut wrenching song is over, I let out a small sigh of relief. But then her voice fills my ears again, her gorgeous accent and girly laugh flow through me like an alarm, only I can’t wake up from this nightmare because it’s happening in real life.

I look to the computer screen as I now see Harry has also closed his eyes next to me, and see the next song if Falling. If the song title is anything to go by, I think I’m in for a sad time. Harry’s phenomenal vocals distract me long enough to not really listen to the words, but I get the gist and it makes me sink further into my miserable state. I can hear Harry slightly sniffling and so I take that as an okay to silently cry myself. I get through the rest of the songs relatively easy, my heart gets a break during Sunflower Vol.6 and Treat People With Kindness, and right when I think it’s over, Fine Line comes on.

As I’m listening I slowly start to piece things together and realise that, hopefully, this one is about us. Our relationship had a rough start with mixed communication and missed opportunities, but I very clearly remember rocking him in my arms as his drunken tears covered my shoulder, and I repeated the words “We’ll be alright” until he fell asleep in my arms on his kitchen floor. I can’t help the tears flowing down my face anymore and Harry finally notices as I feel his arms pull me onto his chest and he kisses my forehead. As the song fades out I sniffle back my tears and turn to shove my arms around him in a giant bear hug. I push all my feelings aside and look him dead in the eyes as I say the one sentence I know he really wants to hear. “I am so proud of you H”

The next week Harry was super busy leading up to the release of Fine Line and, as I promised him, everyone loved it. His fans were going crazy about it and about a certain song as well, clearly I was not the only one shocked to hear her voice on Cherry. The fans quickly figured out what it translated to in English and though it was a pretty meaningless conversation it still kind of hurt that Harry kept it.

Being the loving supportive girlfriend that I was obviously I played the album around the house, mostly when Harry wasn’t around so that I could skip a few songs to save me the heart ache. But a certain night, when Harry wasn’t due home till late, I was washing the dishes whilst singing to Lights Up and I didn’t hear Harry sneak in the front door. He stood by the doorframe behind me so I couldn’t see the smug look on his face as he watches me sing and dance slightly to his song. When I heard that the song was ending I spoke up. “Alexa, skip 2 songs”. I am a little grateful that I didn’t realise Harry was there cause the look on his face would have shattered me. He slowly turns back to the door with a dejected look on his face. He re opens the front door and shuts it louder in hopes that I will hear it. I turn around with a smile on my face and call out to him. “Hey baby, I’m in the kitchen”. He walks into my line of vision and I can see he looks upset. “You okay H? Bad day?” He shrugs slightly at my question and he quietly states, “Yeah it was alright, I’ll just be in the shower”. His usual loving self is nowhere to be seen and I start to worry. He should be happy, his album is amazing and all his fans love it. So I hurried to dry my hands and race up the stairs after him.

I can hear the shower already running so I open the bathroom door quietly and stick my head in. “H baby are you alright?” I can hear him whimper gently and I waste no time in opening the shower curtain and hopping into the shower fully clothed to hold him. When I do I see he didn’t manage to get his clothes off either and it makes me seriously start to panic because Harry was always the stable one holding me usually. He cries are like daggers to my heart as I plead with him to tell me what’s wrong. “H are you alright? Are you hurt? What’s happened?” He just sobs louder and can’t even get his words out. So I just hold him tightly and slowly try to get him out of his clothes while he cries in my arms. Once I finally get both our clothes off I quickly reached down to plug the bathtub so we can have a bath, because all the crying and water is making it hard for H to breathe.

Once the tub is full, I slowly move Harry down into the water, situating him in from of me so I can wrap him in a giant bear hug. After a while his crying subsides and I ask him again quietly “Harry you wanna talk about it now?” My quiet voice startles him and he slowly lets out a big sigh as he whispers, “I knew this would happen” His voice sounds so broken I just want to take all his pain away. “Baby what are you talking about? What happened?” He gently turns around in my arms so he is facing me. “Cherry” he huffs dejectedly, my breath catches in my throat and I look at him confused. “I know I should of warned you about her being on the song and I swear I was going to I just didn’t know what to say and I know how awful it must have been to hear me sing about her and then hear her at the end and I even…” His rambling is making me confused and he’s starting to speak faster and I can barely understand him towards the end. “H” I try to cut in on his outburst but he can’t even focus on me as I see him start to crumble again. “Harry… Harry!!!” I grab ahold of his gesturing hands and get him to look at me. “It’s fine baby, it was a shock but it’s fine I promise you, it’s a great song”. He looks at me like he knows I’m lying and says, “You don’t mean that” I go to open my mouth to rebut him but I can’t get any words out. “I heard you skip my songs when you were in the kitchen before…” The look on his face makes me hate myself; I quickly shake my head as I feel tears start to escape from my eyes.  “Baby I only skip those songs because it makes my heart hurt to feel you sing with such emotion and pain. I physically can’t listen to you sing about your heartbreak because it breaks mine right back. I can’t even explain to you how mad and upset it makes me that she ever made you feel that way and I don’t ever want you, or me for that matter, to ever feel that way again because my heart can’t take it.” He slowly looks up from the bubbles in the bath to meet my tear filled eyes. “I just love you so much H that I don’t want to ever hear or see you in pain, I swear I think it’s a great song, almost too good, because it makes me feel so emotional” Before I can continue Harry cuts me off with a kiss so deep I cant even think straight. He slowly leans back and pulls me on top of him so im straddling his hips. His hands move around my waist as I grab hold of his neck. I can feel all our love in this kiss and even though both of our tears and some snot is mixed in, it’s the best kiss we have ever shared.

As I pull away, I look into Harry’s eyes and I see his smile start to come back as he kisses my forehead before I place my head onto his chest. And for that moment we just sit there in a comfortable silence and bask in out love. After a while I slowly pull myself up out of bath and with my pruned fingers I grab ahold of Harry and help him out of the tub too. We both dry off and get each other into our pyjamas. As we both get in bed we lie facing each other and I give him a small nose kiss as I say “ H, I so sorry I didn’t tell you about your song, I didn’t wanna upset you about it because its only my opinion, not every ones” Harry pulls me into his chest as he rests his head on top of mine. “I know baby it’s okay, I just love you so much that I couldn’t stand you hating my songs, I know it sounds stupid but I just adore you and your opinion is so important to me, and I know I should of told you about her but I knew it would make you upset and I promised myself I would never do that” I can feel his tears falling onto my head and I lift mine up to look at him. “I just can’t live without you petal and I couldn’t stand to see you mad at me, I’m so sorry” I kiss his tears away and then plant one on his lips before I say “I love you too much H, you could never say or do anything that would make me want to leave, and I know how pathetic that sounds but I just think you’re my soul mate and I couldn’t live without you either baby” His eyes spew more tears, this time of happiness and his grin spreads to his cute little dimples. “Just incase you were wondering Adore You and Sunflower are about you, about how happy you make me and how you make me feel.” I smile up at him with a shocked look on my face; a cheeky grin spreads across my face as I giggle to him “What? You mean Watermelon Sugar isn’t about me?” Hearing his infectious laugh warms my heart and he starts tickling my sides. “Of course its about you petal, im addicted to your taste you know that” And with that he starts sucking on my neck making me laugh as his prickly bread tickles me. I may never be able to go back in time and un-break Harry’s heart, but I can always ensure it doesn’t happen again.

THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR READING THIS!!! LOVE YOU ALL VERY MUCH, IF YOU COULD PLEASE SHARE THIS OR LIKE IT, IT WOULD MEAN ALOT TO ME!!!! Don’t forget to send me ideas pleaseeeeee!! :) 

[ordonianhero]

Painfully Delicious

CW: mention of insects-bees to be exact.

Humor/comfort/angst type story

Author's notes: I haven't done much writing for Hyrule. So I really hope I do him justice. Also thanks to those on Discord ( @thankyourluckystars13 @galactic-fire-dragon​ and others) for helping figure things out. wheezing still 

The characters in this story are based on Linked Universe by @jojo56830​

You know, maybe attempting to wrack a hive down with a stick is the lease wise thing to do.

  The group were pretty much tuckered out. The weather had been a bit unpredictable. One moment sunny, the next it was raining. Slugging through mud, slipping at times. The group was absolutely worn out. Their leader upon looking at them all, finally came to the decision they would set up camp early. They picked a spot that seemed fairly dry and not far from a stream. They could one, get cleaned up a bit, rest and then get something to eat. The ranch hand removed the saddle for his mare's back and Removing the Then giving her a good brush down. Then leading her towards the stream, where she dipped her head down to drink. He could hear the ringing of ilia's voice in his head, as he got a cloth and started wiping her down, getting the grime and muck off her legs and coat. Epona's a girl too you, so you have to treat her nice like one! Twilight chuckled at that memory as he rubbed down her neck. Epona's head perked up as Wild, Wind and Hyrule approached. The rancher looked over. What were those three up too? he wondered. "Oi, what you guys doing?" hollered at them.

They seemed to be looking for something. The captain also then arrived, crouching down and splashed some water onto his face. He then stood up and made his way over. The three didn't reply, they seemed to go off on their adventure of looking for something. "They said they were looking for some sort of ingredient for a meal." The captain replied, walking his way over to the farm hand. Giving Epona a rub down on her snout. Twilight sighed and rolled his eyes, "Great. I just hope they don't get lost or anything." Getting the rag wet and then gently washing the sweat off of Epona's back. where the saddle had once sat. The Captain lovingly pat Epona on the side of her face, "Sure they won't go off too far. Plus the chef is resourceful." Twilight saw the smirk on the Captain's face. "That is what I am afraid of."

Wild, Hyrule and Wind kept going through the forest. On the hunt for a bee hive. Wild wanted to make up a dish that was both sweet and savory. Giving the group a little extra energy they may need for whatever comes. "so how do we find the bees?" ask wind. The young sailor wanted to be at least helpful in some. Swinging a stick slightly in his hand. In his own Hyrule. Bees were not very common. "well, we need to be quiet and listen to a humming sounds. That's how we know." The champion explained very quietly. "oh" whispered the young hylian.  They kept close to the water as they walked on. Hyrule eyes wander about. For the most part all he could see was a few little tiny birds hopping about. When Wild said he was going off to find some ingredients for the food, he volunteered to join. Followed by Wind. The rest of the campers were going to set up camp. The forest was teaming with sounds. It was a happy wooded place. Hyrule spotted even a few fairies dancing along the water. where some fish was leaping up and snatching their meals. Along with a few frogs happily croaking.

The three didn't have to go far till they finally came across what Wild was looking for. There not to far off the ground, hanging from a tree was a bee hive. The bees happily humming. Now came the tricky part. Getting the hive down. Hyrule knew that the best way probably get the honey was by smoking the hive down. Calming the bees. However, How would they go about that? They didn't exactly have anything to do that with. Could use it a weapon to shoot it down at a safe distance. That would be the wise idea. However, none of them had thought to bring something of that sort eithe. Throw a Rock at a safe distance? Nah, that would anger them. "So how we going to do this?" Wind finally asked finally. "Whack it." The champion point blankly stated. The two looked at the champion. "Now, wait on a minute. I don't think that is a wise idea. That could cause them to get angry." explained Hyrule. "I think that's what I would do." chimed in the young sailor. "No. they would give us chase."The Traveler stated facing the young sailor. "why? we can out run them." The sailor argued back. While Hyrule went on explain how that is not possible The champion quietly made his way to the hive with a stick. WHACK!

Meanwhile back where Twilight and Captain were, the two were sitting beside the water. In a deep conversation. Epona, took to munching on some nearby grass. Her head shot up. Both the Farm hand and Captain saw her change in Posture. Her ears turning. Horses were one of the most perceptive when something was not right. Both of them got to their feet. The only thing they could currently hear was the trickling of the creek water and the soft croak sounds of the frogs. Epona then begin the rear up and snort. "whoa girl." Twilight said, holding on to a lead he had on her. "what got you spooked?" he asked. Warriors stood beside the farm hand. Epona snort again, pulling. "You don't think-" The Captain was about the ask, when suddenly what they hear is the screams of Wind and Hyrule, "RUN!" Warriors and Twilight Looked at Each other puzzled. Then Twilight dead pan gave The Captain a look. Wild. Out of the Woods came Hyrule and Wind screaming, "Run, BEES!" Oh for Fuck sake, wild, you hit bees? you moron. Twilight thought to himself. Hyrule and Wind ran past them, not soon after came Wild being follow by a swarm of angry bees. As Wild ran past carrying the hive like a crazy hylian he was. The bees begin to also start up after Warriors. Who took to fleeing Screaming in the most girly way ever. Twilight would of laughed, but Epona and himself were also being assaulted by the bees. Buzzing and stinging them. Twilight took to running Epona away the assault through the water, where the water got deeper. The Bees seem to then fly off and head back to chasing the rest. Twilight stood in the deep water soothing and calming his mare down. Ignoring the sting feeling he had gotten.

Wild had mange to run past camp where the bees seem to go after almost everyone there. That is until Legend, of course of all of them Legend had something for this, stuck on his Bee badge. Basically leaving him alone. Time was using his hands to fight of any that came his way. "Why Would you think that was a good Idea?" could be heard coming out of Fours mouth. "You all should know me by now-I think outside the box." Screamed the Champion. "Well it was a very stupid one!" The smith Replied. As Twilight walked up on the camp in shambles, "I was just explaining to the sailor why you shouldn't and he went for it." Traveler was explain as he went about gathering up some ointment to help soothe group's injuries. Twilight soothed Epona once more giving her a little bit of a loving pat. He looked Up and saw Captain climbing out of a tree. There was a sharp look on their leader's face. "I had no part in that." the Rancher explain, pulling out a stinger. Time shook his head and let out a sigh. Sky, who had never seen bees before, seem to be suffering a bit more from the experience. Twilight could tell. He went over to him and tended to him. He knelt down and begin helping remove a few stingers off of him. Once everyone had regrouped, everyone seem to be giving the Cub a cold look. Twilight made his way over and stood over him, glaring. "what, didn't have a sling shot to whack it with at a safe distance, so you poked it? what next? Sneak up on a bear and poking it and hoping it won't kill us all?" Wild shot Twilight a glare back. "NO! I am not that Reckless."

"OH REALLY?! what do you call poking a bee hive?"

The Cub didn't reply and went about cracking the hive open, but not before smoking out the last of the bees who calmly flew away. The camp Stayed quiet. Twilight turned and walked off. He went to go Patrol and also cool down before he felt he would say something he'd regret. He was sometimes a bit Brash at a fault. Hyrule went about after some time helping put bug bite and sting ointment on everyone effect. He then made his way to over to Wild after some time. "we should of thought that one out better." The champion said nothing. He just focused on his cooking. Hyrule was puzzled by the chef. Had he really just not think it through or what? The traveler then made his way over to Sky, "Here this will help." he rubbed the ointment on the sting sites. "Thank you." sniffled sky. Hyrule then sat beside them, to comfort them.

While the meat was searing over the fire in a cast-iron pan, wild combined some of the honey along with various of other ingredients to make a sauce. once that was finished, he bushed a bit on to the searing meats. saving some and pouring it into a sauce pan. letting it boil a bit. Then pulling it off to cool and thicken. In the last pot he had some rice being steamed. The way he cooked always seem to amaze the group. The Smell that was coming from the cooking wash over everyone, seemingly washing away whatever resentment they held against him. He then took up a bowl and poured a bit of rice into it, next putting a bit of the meat on top. Followed by drizzling the thick glaze over it, which consisted of Sugar, mustard, ginger, garlic honey and balsamic vinegar. Finally topping it off with fresh scallions. He handed the first Bowl to the Leader of the group. One by once he did that to everyone bowl. Only one left was his mentor's and his own. He made it up, though he hadn't returned yet  and then himself.

Everyone wait, for a bit. It became clear, it may be a while that Time just said, "dig in." which then everyone did. Wild took to sitting away from the group. As each and everyone took a bite. There was this resounding sound of the group letting out a pleasant enjoyment of the dish. The Sweet, and yet also slightly bitter taste of the glaze on the meat was sensation all to itself, followed by the melting of the tender meat and filling rice which soaked up some of the juices. It was one collective foodgasm as the glaze dripped off the meat and into their mouths as they bit into it. despite all that chaos that occurred before, it made up for in this dish. Which also amazingly seem to rejuvenate them all. The ranch hand had returned. he seemed fairly calmer now. Time Held out his bowl. "I think after you eat this, I think you'll forget about What happened. I have to say, It's Painfully Delicious." Twilight sighed, slumping down beside the old man and taking the bowl and took a bit. His eyes grew wide with all the flavors dancing in his mouth. He took another bite, The old man watched him and smiled. The Cub then Looked over watching him closely. well one thing for sure, it was well worth the reckless way of getting the ingredient. Twilight chuckled, "And what is this dish you made cub?"

The cub smirked, "Energizing Glazed meat. Painfully delicious." and with that the group all chuckled. that it was.

-fin.

Authors note: here is a picture of the dish they ate. A recreation from the game by your’s truly. Also Please, let me know your thoughts on this story.

[imagine-loki]

The Slutty Webs one Weaves

Title : The Slutty Webs one Weaves

Chapter NO. 5 of 10?

ORIGINAL IMAGINE: Imagine Loki’s Asgardian wife learns women write fanfiction about him on a trip to Midgard. She’s edgy for the duration and lets him have it when they get back.

Author: lokilover9

Rating: M

Thor agreed Brianna going to Asgard a good idea as Loki presumed and shielded her from Heimdall's sight as a precautionary measure. Before leaving, the brother's sat observing Little Warrior lead Tony and Pepper to the couch and hand him a usb stick.

"What's this?" He asked.

"A computer virus. My revenge plan was to disembowel Jarvis if you hadn't kept your promise."

Stark eyed Loki who shrugged a shoulder. "Don't look at me. I only learned of it this morning."

"It's my creation, pretty nasty and should be destroyed." Said Brianna.

"How nasty?"

"It bears the potential to wipe out most of New York's power grids."

Tony was momentarily speechless. "I'll do that and am overjoyed you two became friends."

"Me too and sorry for being so rude when you touched my stuff."

"It's alright." Said Pepper.

"No it wasn't. You deserve to know why. Loki mentioned the homeless people right?"

"Yes."

"Dory was the first one I met. Taught me handy street smarts and helped shop for my boy clothes. Ran away from home because her moms boyfriend was a jerk. I encouraged her to call one day and when she learned they split up, convinced her to go home. Really smart person. Dreams of becoming an Astronaut. Anyway, she had a big crush on Captain America and gave me her favorite hat as a gift. Then I met Muriel. A mean looking older lady who was actually super sweet and protected me something fierce. Beat this guy up one night for trying to steal my blanket while cursing him sideways. She loved Chinese food and taught me self defence techniques, like how to poke a hole in someone's brain by shoving a chopstick up their nose."

Everyone's ears and attention piqued as Tony wondered if Muriel was a distant cousin of Sasquatch's. "Hopefully not on live subjects."

"No, silly. On a plastic skull she molded a face onto with clay. I paid for the supplies. Helping police identify people used to be her job in Arizona. Great way to kill zombies though. Best to behead them like with vampires and guarantee they've bit the bullet." Brianna then pulled a gold bracelet with a four leaf clover charm from her pocket. "Muriel was Irish and gave me this for good luck. It's too big so I carry it in my pocket. Before meeting you guys, they were the first people who were super nice to me. I fretted their gifts ruined in the wash."

"I'm sorry." Said Pepper.

"It's okay. I was just a little freaked."

'And nearly built a cave for the abominable snowman.' Thought Stark. "We were more worried about you after the fact."

"I could tell by your happy dance when I woke."

"Hey, badass did one too. In the hall. You didn't see."

Brianna giggled. "Thanks to you both for everything and I'm sorry for lying."

"Meh, we understand."

"I meant about not having a favorite Avenger. It's you uncle Cootyoodles. That's why I sought your help first. The Black Widow was my next stop."

Tony pictured Nat teaching her how to yank teeth out with pliers and felt twice as relieved for keeping that promise. "Nat's eccentric and hates zombies. I'm way more fun." Brianna suddenly hugged him tightly and kissed his cheek. "Awe, Little Warrior. Friends forever?"

"Damn straight!" Then she did the same to Pepper. "I forgot to explain why you're a badass role model. Working so hard to become CEO of a massive company like Stark Industries and executing all that embodies? You rock! I hope to grow up as astute, diligent and athoritative. Maybe I'll run a company one day."

"You already possess those traits and will exceed my achievements."

No one knew that better than Loki who cleared his throat. "Grandmother and Grandfather go to bed early, Min Lille."

"One more minute, please?"

"Alright."

She studied Stark, pondering the best way to implement her request. "You don't have to do this, but… Not all homeless people are bad or crazy like others seem to believe. Many hit hard times and the world is so expensive, they couldn't keep up. No one I met lived on the streets because they wanted to. There just aren't enough shelters or resources available. You're rich Tony and could help them. Will you try?"

As Loki had succeeded with Frigga, those beautiful pleading eyes won her case. "You really know how to pull a guys heart strings, kid. I promise."

Loki wasn't aware she'd intended to ask this, yet was so proud of her. "Min Lille?"

"I know." She politely replied.

"You have to go." Tony suddenly stood and darted for the hall. "Be back in a jiffy."

"Meet him by the elevator, or you'll never leave." Suggested Pepper.

He returned and handed Loki a loaded Iron Man backpack. "More things? Shall I conjure a crate for the bifrost?"

They'd already given her an overstuffed suitcase of clothes and toys and Stark held a gift bag in hand. "Be quiet, you. It's a peanut butter stash. Does Asgard have bananas?"

"Yes." 'Thank the Norn's.'

Tony knelt before Brianna. "I would've packed some tater tots, but you ate them all again."

She smirked. "My goof."

"Rascal. Try to ignore a wee, bitty smidgen, you aren't into girly stuff? We couldn't help ourselves with you off to Asgard."

Brianna pulled from the bag a pink baseball cap that said Warrior Princess in tiny diamond gems and proudly adorned it. "You sure know how to pull a girls heart strings."

"I put some Motown CD's in there too. Teach Dad to moonwalk." Loki sighed, pushed the elevator button and Tony playfully whispered. "From a distance. In case he trips over his own big feet." He hugged her again and summoned Jarvis.

"Yes, sir?"

"Our friend is leaving."

"Goodbye, Little Warrior." Said the AI.

"Bye. Sending you a virtual hug."

She joined Thor inside while Loki shook hands with Tony, his expression saying everything. "Any time. Now get the 'bleep' out of my Tower before I thieve your Daughter."

Brianna shouted as it closed. "There's presents on your bed! I'll miss you!"

Peppers was a black t shirt with gold letters that read Badass Role Model and Tony's was a monsterous box filled with tater tots.

"Don't do it, Butch. If you cry, I'm gonna cry." ***** Loki had purposely slowed the elevator allowing her time to give Thor a drawing.

"Mjolnir in a field of flowers? Thank you fair maiden."

"It's a scratch n' sniff."

"A what?"

Loki picked up Brianna. "You scratch the flowers, then sniff them. The effect is most appealing the stronger you inhale."

Thor took a whiff and wriggled his nose. "Quite the nostril tickler. What should they smell like?"

"Try harder." 'Doofus.'

He took another, looked cross eyed at Loki and began swaying. "...Brother..you…" Then down he went striking the floor with a thud the tip of his nose covered in sparkly dust.

"Sorry, uncle Thor."

Loki chuckled at her wince. "The spell is mild and shall soon wear off."

"Is he hurt?"

Loki let her down to hurle the hefty Thor over his shoulder. "Us God's are resilient. Your uncle once endured a skirmish with the Hulk." After escorting them through a portal and delivering Brother oaf to his bed, he lead Brianna through a second into some woods.

"That was awesome! Will you teach me how to do it?"

"Not in the near future. It's very complicated, darling and I'd hate to think you lost in another dimension." 'Or vanishing one day as an angry teen with a troublesome suitor I dream of throttling.'

"Okay." Brianna nervously scanned the area. "Now what? Carnivores hunt these woods."

"Northern Alberta is home to many. Never go outside without me and none will harm you."

"But wolves hunt in packs and grizzlies are bigger than you."

He booped her little nose. "I'll smell them before they smell us and neither possess deadly weapons in interdimensional pockets."

"Where our luggage is? I tried hiding bigger items in them and the darn things wouldn't come back. Hannah was furious, but I didn't care."

"What did you hide?"

"The back wheels of her Lamborghini, Gallardo. I overheard my Mother tell Claudia she got it from her rich boyfriend."

Loki recalled from spending time with Stark this wasn't a billionaire's vehicle, yet financially unattainable to the average Midgardian. "I see. Did she mention his occupation?"

"Plastic surgeon."

Brianna deserved that minor victory and although he wouldn't encourage it, one cannot preach vengeance a negative path when mapping their own. 'Perhaps he'll be useful to the sluts after I'm done.' "Ah. Care to see what I did while you slept last night?"

"You left me?" She confusedly asked.

He picked her up again. "It was necessary and I returned, yes? I won't abandon you, Og Min Lille."

"Never?"

"Never, darling. "Loki headed for a shack nearby nestled amidst some bushes. With its crooked roof, faded wood and door minus a hinge the structure looked ready to collapse.

"We're staying there?"

"Why not? I'll conjure an outdoor toilet." He teased. "Sheltered of course."

"Ewww."

"Come now. At night we'll have heated beds and during the day, roast squirrels on an open fire."

She scrunched her face in disgust. "Blech! I'd rather eat tree bark."

"You'll get an awful tummy ache."

They entered the dingy space and Brianna instantly focused on the filthy floor covered in forest debris. So intently, she didn't notice the sturdier frames of the structure only visible from within. "How will we keep the door closed and is that poop?"

Loki rolled his eyes at some turds in a corner. "The cabin is made of Brazilian Ebony."

"One of the strongest woods on earth." She commented.

He arched an intrugued brow. "Stained to appear aged, it's also bulletproof in light of human hunters. Consider the other materials deceiving movie props. The 'raccoon' poop is genuine." It vanished with a wave of his hand. "Now, did you mean that door?" It closed and he conjured a deadbolt onto the surface with a panel directly above. "Place your hand in the center?" Brianna did and it glowed green, spreading magic from the center throughout every surface like glowing, emerald fireflies. As they dimmed, Loki turned around. "Or this one?" The floor, suddenly cleared of debris had a sliding glass door in the center.

Brianna gasped in wonder, glancing between him and the mystery beneath. "Where does it go?"

"Did you think a sorcerer Prince would allow his Princess daughter to dwell in a shabby old shack?"

"Ancestry aside, I sincerely hoped not. Even an RV would've been better."

He chuckled at her frankness. "And you worried of uncle Thor bumping his head? The shacks purpose was added safety should a need arise and to keep our secret entrance hidden. "Once the outer door locks, only the interior alters. To outsiders, nothing changes." It opened and he carried her down a mutedly lit spiral staircase, each step progressively illuminating the space below.

At the bottom, she slid from his arm in awe. "Shut the front door! You 'definitely' have to teach me how to do this."

Min Lille was referencing conjuring. Another ability Loki thanked the Norns she didn't yet possess, having confessed so before requesting Tony and Pepper's gifts. "In time. Beyond that archway, another surprise awaits." Loki followed and suddenly pondered Brianna conjuring a future dwelling for herself and that troublesome suitor. 'Lessons commence when your forty.' ***** Thor woke to find two notes in his shirt pocket. One for himself the other, Astrid; 'Sleep well, Brother? We won't be returning to Asgard just yet. Please give this to my wife? I recommend waiting several days, discreet delivery and a hasty exit. A visit will follow and when interrogated, lie. Tell her Brianna came to you and don't mention her ice concoction. Unless you enjoy Father's company when several fries short of a happy meal. As I planned our escape without Tony's knowledge, do avoid his unnecessary panic and Pepper seeking our demise, by not telling our dear friend? Min Lille is safe.'

"That shyster." He grumbled. Jane returned in six days as would Astrid to a missing Loki. Waiting risked a molotov cocktail interrogation. His beloved and coronary inducing sister-in-law, banging down their locked bathroom door while the mighty Thor coward behind a shower curtain. Plus Maxi Waxis training schedule ended in two days. Bribery assured those lips zippered, but Heimdall would think his hastiness suspicious. He called to the trainee in the middle of the night, snuck into the palace and raced back to the observatory like the looney tunes road runner. "Spend it well nincompoo..eh he, Max. Asgard is lucky to have you."

Guilt ridden over her outburst and already missing Loki, Astrid returned in the morning to find the note.

Frigga was preparing to join her belly dancing instructor when she barged into the foyer and flung herself at the Allmother.

"Bwaaahahaa! I want a divorce!"

"Hells bells and bilgesnipe testicles. What has my shameless son done this time?"

"Frigga, your language." Scolded Odin.

She patted Astrid's back. "Oh shush. As if your cursing hasn't scarred the servants ears."

[stormcrawler75]

What about virgil finds a kitten and asks remy to help him hide it from their landlord?

Remy woke up to the sound of fast and desperate pounding on his door. He blinked his eyes open, pushing himself up on his elbows and patting the carpet beside the couch for his sunglasses. “Coming!” The knocking kept coming and Remy groaned, finally finding the glasses and pushing them on clumsily. 

“I said I’m coming! Hold your damn horses!” He got off the couch and stumbled over to his apartment door, blinking the sleep from his eyes as he did so. Remy yawned, taking his sweet ass time because whoever was at the door had woken him from a nice nap, and opened the door.

On the other side was the cutest sight Remy had ever seen. Virgil Shae, Remy’s Darling little kitten, was cradling a tiny little black kitten with white patches of fur under their eyes. Virgil’s hoodie was off and wrapped around the kitten, most likely to shield the kitten from the rain from which Virgil was soaked from head to foot.

“I need help,” Virgil gasped. The poor dear was shaking and had an unhealthy flush to his cheeks, his makeup running down his cheeks from the rain. Oh, Remy just knew that he was going to be caring for his sick friend soon. “Please, I found her behind Patton’s bakery and, and she was gonna get wet! I-I now that our apartment doesn’t a-allow pets but,”

“Get in here,” Remy hissed, grabbing Virgil’s arm and pulling him inside. He poked his head out and looked both ways, only closing the door when he was sure that no one had seen Virgil or his new friend. He turned back when the kitten started mewling and gave Virgil a fond and exasperated look. “Gurl, I knew that you were a softie but I never would’ve taken you for the type who goes running through the rain to save baby kittens.”

Virgil glared up at him, though the fact that he dripping on Remy’s carpet lessened the effect. “She was going to die if I left her there! And she was all alone and I think that she was abandoned!” His angry expression melted away and he was looking up at Remy desperately. “Please, help me hide her from the Landlord. I’m not going to give her up, I can’t!”

Remy sighed and reached out, gently taking the kitten from his friend’s arms. “Alright, Darling. You go into my room and change into my pyjamas, okay? They’re in the bottom drawer of my dresser, go on then.” He gently pushed Virgil in the direction of his bedroom. “I’ll get some tuna for your new girly here to eat. Go on, you’re getting my carpet wet.”

Virgil almost went limp with relief and beamed at Remy. “Thank you,” he breathed. He rubbed a finger on the kitten’s face and smiled when the kitten bumped her head against it with a soft mewl. “I’ll be right back, Lilith.” With that, he scampered off to Remy’s room.

Remy sighed and held the kitten, Lilith, up to his eyes. “You’re gonna cause a lot of trouble,” he said sagely. The kitten placed a damp paw against Remy’s nose and Remy narrowed his eyes. “You know that, don’t you?” He sighed. “It’s just right for my troublesome little kitten to find another troublesome little kitten.”

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[girlactionfigure]

Sometimes it's not what you are known for, it's the little things that no one even knew about.

Jerome ("Jerry") Lester Horwitz was born on October 22, 1903, one of five brothers born to Lithuanian-Jewish parents in Brooklyn. His full formal Hebrew name was "Yehudah Lev ben Shlomo Natan ha Levi."

He, and one of his brothers, and a friend would land on Adolf Hitler’s death list.

Jerry was known as a "knucklead" - but, there were other sides of him that very few people knew about.

His older brothers were very protective of their baby brother - they called him "Babe". He was supposedly a quiet child, some even say he was an introvert. He kept to himself, and he idolized his older brothers.

When he was 12, he accidentally shot himself in the leg while cleaning a rifle. His oldest brother rushed him to the hospital, saving his life.

From then on Jerry would walk with a limp, sometimes exaggerating it, like a shuffle.

His two older brothers and a friend would get into show business. The brothers decided then to change their name from "Horowitz" to "Howard".

The two brothers and their friend would make a name for themselves, but after the second brother left the group, Jerry would join them. Their boss wasn't sure about Jerry because he didn't stand out, so Jerry excused himself, then returned with a completely shaved head.

The boss laughed at Jerry and called him "girly".

Jerry's older brother misheard their boss, and instead of calling him "girly", he started calling his younger brother "Curly". The name fit.

Curly had no formal training like his more experienced brothers and would often forget his lines. But, when he did, he would start improvising, such as getting down on the floor and spinning "around like a top until he remembered what he had to say" or barking like a dog - "Ruff, ruff". He also made up other phrases such as, "N'yuk, n'yuk, n'yuk" or "Woo, woo, woo".

The rest is comedic history - Moe, the older Howard brother, Larry Fine, the friend, and, Curly, the younger Howard brother - known by many as "The Three Stooges".

The Three Stooges, despite their simple slapstick humor, became one of the most popular comedy teams in history. They were so popular that other comedy teams started copying some of their mannerisms; Moe even accused Lou Costello of Abbott and Costello of trying to copy Curly.

Others disregarded the Stooges' talents and criticized their brand of physical humor.

Some, however, believed their social commentary and satire was overlooked, pointing to their anti-hero status and their poking fun of class divisions, much like the Marx Brothers.

One movie buff, James Thompson, thinks the Library of Congress should recognize the Three Stooges' satires "You Nazty Spy!" and "I'll Never Heil Again" - which mocked Hitler's Germany. Both films were released before the U.S. entered World War II and despite an industry rule to avoid social and political issues.

At that time, the industry did not want to offend foreign countries, especially Hitler's Germany. The United States was still neutral and the public held predominantly isolationist views.

This was also 11 months before Charlie Chaplin’s critically acclaimed “The Great Dictator”, which was named to the registry in 1997.

It was also important because all three actors, the director and writers — were Jewish.

According to writer Simon Braund, "the immense popularity of the Three Stooges was deemed such a potential threat to the credibility of The Third Reich that Adolf Hitler added them to his personal death list."

Braund added, "The image of The Three Stooges as fearless, anti-fascist crusaders, willing to put their livelihoods and their lives on the line in the noble cause of liberty, will come as a shock to anyone who thinks of them — if they think of them at all — as a fifth-rate Marx Brothers knock-off whose principal contribution to the art of comedy was the twin-fingered eye-poke."

Curly Howard became the most popular and outrageous member of the Three Stooges. Comedy legend Steve Allen called Curly one of the "most original yet seldom recognized comic geniuses."

But, he wasn't always a wise guy, eh. He was also a sensitive fella.

Although he was known during his popularity to be wild, "Soitenly!" zany, and very unpredictable, there was one consistent thing in his life - (other than the love of his brothers), he loved dogs - "Ruff, ruff."

Whenever he found a homeless or abandoned dog while the Stooges were traveling, he would go out of his way to rescue the dog. He just could not bear to leave the dog alone in the world.

He would take the dog with him, he would care for it, and he would search for a home for it.

As the Stooges toured, he would take the dog from town to town, until he could find a good home for the dog.

And, when he was able to find a good, loving home for one, he would find the next homeless dog and do the same.

Curly and the Stooges had a remarkable run and became comedy classics. But, the constant touring, intense work schedule, and the hard work of always trying to be funny would take a toll on the Stooges, especially Curly. On January 23, 1945, he was diagnosed with extreme hypertension, a retinal hemorrhage and obesity. He would eventually suffer several strokes, leading to a decline in the quality of his work.

"Half-Wits Holiday" was Curly's final appearance as an official member of the Stooges. During the filming on May 6, 1946, Curly disappeared. When Moe searched for his baby brother, he found Curly, his head dropped to his chest, unable to move or speak - all he could do was cry.

In 1951, Moe was contacted by the North Hollywood Hospital and Sanitarium, where Curly was now at. He was advised that due to Curly's mental deterioration, he needed to be placed in a mental hospital. Moe refused.

Moe instead relocated his younger brother to the Baldy View Sanitarium in San Gabriel, California. On January 18, 1952, Curly died of a massive cerebral hemorrhage. He was 48, the shortest-living of the Stooges.

Curly was given a Jewish funeral and was laid to rest at Home of Peace Cemetery in East Los Angeles.

Curly's and Moe's other brother, Shemp, who was actually the original Stooge who was replaced by Curly, would in turn replace his younger brother, but the Stooges were never the same again.

Steve Allen would say in 1984, "Although they never achieved widespread critical acclaim, they did succeed in accomplishing what they had always intended to do - they made people laugh."

Many still remember The Three Stooges. The Simpsons is known for their Stooges references. Michael Jackson, a huge fan, supposedly based his famous moonwalk on the Curly Shuffle, a move invented by Curly that made it look as if he was walking backwards.

Yes, Curly and the Stooges were known as knuckleheads. But, there was more to him and the Stooges that many never knew about.

Indubitably.

The Jon S. Randal Peace Page

[ice-cream-beat]

Title: Calling

Author: マサラ Circle: うたかた日和。

Series: Tales of Zestiria Main characters: Sorey, Alisha, Mikleo, Rose, Edna Ships: Sorey/Alisha; Mikleo/Alisha; Mikleo/Edna (these are the author’s listed ships, but they’re all super light and can be taken platonically)

Content rating: G Warnings: None Pages: 36 Ease of reading: you don't even need to read | super easy | know some grammar first | tricky | advanced | this was really heckin hard

Summary:

This one’s actually made up of five short stories! Separated by ships, basically, so I’ll also break up the summary accordingly.

Story #1: Calling

This is set right after Alisha first becomes Sorey’s Squire, as she finds herself too tired to sleep after all the excitement that’s happened. She gets up for a drink of water, reflecting on how eerily quiet the inn is, when she’s suddenly grabbed from behind and screams.

Skip ahead a couple minutes and Sorey’s laughing at having spooked her, but he quickly apologizes when she acts miffed and admits he didn’t think he’d scare her that badly. Alisha, being Alisha, feels ashamed as a knight for scaring so easily and admits as much, but Sorey admits that he likes seeing a different side of her--a side that’s more relaxed, a “normal girl” instead of the Dignified Princess behavior he’s used to. She gets a bit flustered and starts to say that she’s concerned about her dignity as a knight, but Sorey interrupts and tells her “It’s not about dignity--because I know that who you are as a knight and princess has no bearing on the Alisha I want to know as a normal girl.”

She’s surprised at being thought of as a “normal girl.” Sorey suggests that, even if it’s just in front of himself and the others, she might enjoy letting her guard down more often. He mentions that he previously had a similar serious mindset, and once said out loud that he needs “to act more like a Shepherd,” which only made Mikleo angry. Alisha’s amused by the thought since it’s easy to picture.

Sorey asks her what she thinks of Mikleo and Lailah, since she saw them for the first time today. She fawns over them quite a bit, saying they’re as beautiful as she imagined, like angels, just like the tales she heard as a child depicted them... She really goes on and on about it, lol. Even Sorey finally cuts her off (”That’s too much praise, Alisha”).

She asks if all seraphim are as lovely as those two, to which he says no and explains that Gramps is an old man. They start talking about Elysia and Alisha’s surprised to learn that there were a lot of seraphim whom she couldn’t see. As honored as she feels to have been to their village, she also feels guilty for disrespecting them with the way she “ignored” them at the time. Sorey assures her that his family took no offense, and then offers that they go there together again one day so she can meet them all properly, as his Squire.

“And this time, I can introduce you to Gramps!”

She says she’s afraid of being a nuisance, but he promises that he and Mikleo will vouch for her.

And then they promise to return together via another pinky-swear, right in my feels, thanks

Story #2: Dreaming Girl

Alisha confronts Sorey and admits that she’s been wanting to try on his Shepherd’s mantle just once. She apologizes for being so selfish, since it is his gift and all, but he of course agrees and tells her she can wear it as much as she wants. She’s excited and grateful and promises to clean it after she’s done, but he tells her not to worry about it.

She tries it on, asking if she looks like a Shepherd now, and he tells her she looks fantastic and that it suits her--but he also points out that it’s pretty baggy on her, and can’t help laughing at the way the back drags on the ground. When it makes her self-conscious, Sorey just points out that she’s small and dainty--which makes her more self-conscious, and she tries to argue that she does in fact have some muscle on her. Sorey humors her and asks to see, so she lets him feel her arms while the two of them sit on his bed (in an aside comment, he’s impressed by how toned her arms are lol).

Naturally, that’s right when Mikleo walks in. He of course gets the wrong idea and starts yelling at Sorey, Alisha tries to explain that this was all her fault, and Sorey finally realizes what he’s implying and everyone’s just yelling and embarrassed.

"You’ve got it wrong, Mikleo!”

Story #3: Show some more!

Mikleo and Alisha are in a library, wondering when Sorey and the others will return from shopping, when she catches a glimpse of his circlet through his bangs. He explains that he’s always worn it since he was little, and when she asks if it’s a memento, he admits he doesn’t know since Gramps never told him anything about it. He just knows it’s important, so he always keeps it close. Alisha likens it to her armor, and they both agree they would like to know the truth one day.

She wonders why he always hides it behind his bangs, especially since it’s so pretty, and Mikleo admits that, as a guy, he thinks he’d be laughed at for wearing something girly. (whispers also his blush is the cutest thing)

“Important or not, you don’t think I’d be laughed at for wearing something made for a woman?”

Alisha decides to try and cheer him up by asking to see it, but he refuses, and they go back and forth a bit until she finally pushes his hair back herself to look at it. There’s an awkward pause as they both blush now, with Alisha realizing how much she’s encroached on his personal space--although he’s puzzled as to why she’s embarrassed.

Story #4: 3:00 snack for you

Edna pokes Mikleo and tells him to go make her some snacks since he’s not doing anything else.

“That’s not how you use an umbrella!”

He yells at her for half a page, ultimately telling her to go make it herself, but she says it’s too much trouble and that her cooking efforts aren’t super great, anyway. That surprises Mikleo, who points out that she just admitted in a rather roundabout way that his cooking is good--which annoys her, and she barks at him not to keep a lady waiting. He gives in, but not before sarcastically addressing her in an obnoxiously formal manner, which gets him smacked again.

Cut to later and he sets a dessert in front of her. She’s surprised that he can make something other than ice cream (he tells her it’s bad to have cold snacks all the time) and that it’s marron glacé. Mikleo awkwardly explains that he figured he should make her favorite dish to be sure she would actually eat it. Edna admits that it was a (surprisingly) clever idea and tries it--and tells him that even though he has a ways to go before he can compare with Eizen’s cooking, it’s still really good.

Mikleo: “As honest as ever, huh.” Edna: “Aren’t we both?”

Story #5: Wonder

Alisha bursts into Rose’s room and asks if she’s seen a notebook anywhere. Rose gets curious and wonders why she’s so distressed over it, and teases her by asking if there might be a picture of the person she likes in there. (Alisha’s hilarious response is just “Oh, be quiet! It’s nothing like that!”)

Alisha leaves and runs into Sorey, who happened to pick the book up earlier. Before Alisha can feel too relieved, Rose pops up and takes it from him, wondering again what’s inside it and admitting that she knows that Alisha’s been writing in it every night. After some curious-but-respectful prodding from Sorey, Alisha finally admits that she’s been keeping a diary of the party’s journey, and that she thought it would be embarrassing if someone read it.

But Sorey is excited and proudly shows her his Celestial Record, which he’s also been using as a diary on their journey.

“Here’s mine, too!”

Rose proposes that instead of Alisha writing about everyone else on her own, they all pitch in on the writing effort and eventually exchange diaries. She starts thinking of good titles that would sell (”A Record of the Lord Shepherd and His Party”), and Sorey points out that she’s going to make Mikleo mad again. (the “again” made me laugh, ngl)

This cheers Alisha up and she thanks them both, saying she’s looking forward to seeing everyone’s diary after the journey’s over. Rose teases her some more, saying she’ll want to sneak peeks at her diary from now on; when Sorey says that he will, too, Alisha objects and confuses him, while Rose seems to catch on to something she isn’t saying.

Impressions:

I love this art style!! It’s so clean and pretty and expressive! And looks better than some of the official artwork if I’m being totally honest, lol. The stories are super cute, and even though it’s SorAli focused, I really like the screentime that other characters/relationships get. The way each ship is kept pretty light so you can take them as either shippy or platonic is pretty neat, too.

The first story is adorable with Sorey being his usual supportive self, + yassss more Elysia family talk, even if it makes me sad for several reasons :C

The second story is so cute I could die. It’s just so wholesome and precious and happy and I love?? these two?? so much??? I would take a bullet for their relationship it’s so pure

I wish the Mikleo/Alisha one had been longer!! I do have what few MikAli doujinshi exist, sans the lone R18 one which appears to have been lost to time, so I can’t really complain BUT STILL Also I am 110% accepting the headcanon that he hides his circlet because he’s embarrassed by it. (first impressions: he wore it openly as a kid because he didn’t realize/care it was “girly,” and then cared as a teenager because Awkward Years, and then got over it after meeting Muse 👀 )

The Mikleo/Edna one is cute! I don’t actively ship it, but I can get behind it, albeit more so as an epilogue thing. (I do have a few doujinshi for them, since they’re more back-and-forth tsundere humor than real “romance,” which I can definitely appreciate.) Otherwise their grudging friendship is ridiculously cute and I love it.

Sorey and Alisha stood out the most in the fifth story, imo. (ngl I am really hard-pressed in finding accurate fan depictions of Rose; I’ve seen some good ones in gen-based and Rose/Dezel doujinshi, but in Sorey/Alisha and even the few Sorey/Rose ones I’ve come across, she tends to be... ehhhnotsogood.) It was still a cute three-way friendship to show off, though! gimme those double Squire AUs pls

[jpat82]

101 Ways To Kill Bucky Barnes

Date With Death

"Fernando!" You called out upon walking into the car shop, your car was already partially dismantled. You didn't bother to glance over at the crumpled hood as you passed by heading to the office. The man in question poke his head out, his olive colored face lit up when he saw you.

"Aya, girl, what did you hit exactly?" He asked in a heavy accented flamboyant voice, pursing his lips together raising both his eye brows. "Cause lemme tell ya, that thing is useless now."

"The guy my client wants taken out." You replied walking up to him, he stepped back into the small office.

"Oh, you mean tall, dark, and hello gorgeous." He shot back, giving you grin wiggling his eyebrows at you, rolling your eyes in response as you flopped down in the rolling chair with a huff.

"Didn't notice." You shot back, leaning you head against the back of it.

"He still alive?" Fernando asked walking back to the computer as he started scrolling through the multiple pictures of other cars.

"Hopefully not now." You told him, looking at the ceiling.

"And what does that mean?" He asked, bringing up a Cadillac.

"Ended up putting cyanid in his coffee after breakfast this morning, and it was enough to take a horse out." You explained shaking your head to the car on screen.

"Breakfast?" He asked, as he pulled up a dodge neon on the computer.

"Yeah, he took me out cause of wrecking the car." You replied tilting you head at the plain old car on screen. You nodded, you didn't need anything fancy for the next day or two.

"He took you out after you attempted to kill him? And then you tried to poison him?" He asked, his eyes widening at you, mouth dropping a bit.

"Yeah, I was hired to kill him, remember." You stated standing abruptly. "Not date him."

"I didn't say anything about date, just shocked." He remarked tilting his head and raising an eyebrow at you. You rolled your eyes again, walking over to the office window and look out at your car that was going to get scrapped. "Seems like you got more to add to that there girlie."

"No, I don't." You replied tersely.

"Hmm, let's see. That I know of you've tried poisoning him twice, attempted to run him over and he's taken you out for breakfast cause you, my dear, hit him with your car." He relayed back to you, you looked over your shoulder at him.

"As I said, I gave him enough cyanide to kill a horse, doesn't matter." You sighed, looking back out the window. "And I'll know for sure at five tonight that he's dead."

"Why five?" He asked.

"Cause I'm supposed to meet up with him for dinner." You said softly, looking down at your arms that were crossed.

"Hang on, you.. you are or were.. actually you agreed to go on a date and you still killed him?!" Fernando shrieked.

"I'm doing my job, and the amount I'm being paid is enough to get out of this life." You sighed, looking over at him again.

"No I get that, but girl, couldn't you have at least waited till after a little bit of fun time to kill him? You ain't been out in... like ever!" He all but yelled this time.

"He's a hit, that's it, and hopefully a dead one. I'd like to get paid and leave this city, too many people." You stated, walking out of the room. "How long till that car is ready?"

——

Bucky rummaged through his closet looking for something that wasn't too beat up or stained. His nerves were starting to get to him, making his stomach tie up in knots. He finally spotted a navy sweater and pulled it out, he checked over for wholes before looking for a pair of jeans that weren't tattered or bullet hole ridden and preferably one not covered in motorcycle oil.

    "Dude, you still haven't found something for this date? Taking longer then a chick." Sam remarked from the doorway.

    "Shut up, its been a very long time since I went out on date." Bucky responded with out looking finally pulling out a pair of dark denim.

   "Obviously." Sam chuckled. "Surprised you ain't putting on a suit and tie, that's how you folks did it back in the day."

    "Not entirely true." Bucky shot back looking over at the other man, he turned and walked over toward the doorway. Sam backed up a bit his arms still crossed. "Just cause we wanted to dress nice and presentable doesn't mean we always wore a suit and tie."

    Bucky closed the door and took a deep breath.

——

     Five o clock rolled around and you stood just outside the coffee shop door. You weren't overly dressed, there wasn't going to be a need for it anyway. Simple black pants and lilac top, you waited, biting your bottom lip. Then you heard the unmistakable sound of a Harley coming down the street, you nodded to yourself as you pulled your phone out and saw the minutes tick by. Mission completed.

    The sound of the bike shutting off in front you didn't even register as you took a deep breath.

    "Hey doll." Bucky spoke up, your snapped upwards, eyes widening. He sat on the bike, black helmet in rest on his thigh, you blinked hard a couple of times. "Sorry I'm a bit late, there was a traffic jam down the street."

    "That's.. okay." You breathed out, your heart skipping a beat as you stared at him. His hair was loose, something you had never seen on him.

    "So, I know a really good Italian place but it's either you drive or we take the bike. It's the only mode of transportation I have besides my own two feet." He smiled, you nodded as you walked up to the motorcycle. He reached back and unfastened the second helmet.

    "Bike it is." You smiled, taking the helmet from him as you swung your leg over the back and pulled the helmet on buckling it down. He better know what's he doing, you thought to yourself as you wrapped your arms around him.

He turned the bike back on, and you felt the purr of the motor reverberate through the machine. Gently he nosed it back out into traffic and sped off away from the coffee shop. Being this close to him you couldn't help but notice that the man was made of solid muscle, even through the leather jacket he wore you could feel how hard his muscle tone. You tried to push that thought to the back of your head, and Fernando's voice that kept telling you to have a little fun before you killed him.

   It didn’t take him long to wind through the streets before stopping at a run down looking restaurant just titled Mama's. He killed the bike and pulled his helmet off as you did the same. He got off the bike and you followed suit, Bucky gave you a lopsided smile, running his hand across the back of neck looking back at the building.

   "I know, it looks like crap but.. the foods is great and so are the people that run it." He stated looking back at you. You nodded with a big smile.

   "You know," you sighed walking toward the building, Bucky falling in step with you. "I always found little dives like this to have the best food."

   Bucky grinned as he opened the door for you just as you were about to reach it. It threw you a little to have someone open the door for you, a simple gesture, but it was something you couldn't remember anybody ever doing.

    "Bucky!" An older woman with a thick Italian accent yelled as she came across the restaurant floor. You looked around, the lights in the building provide ample light, but not over bearing, they hung from chain light fixtures with stained glass settings. Booths lined the walls, plush red leather seats and mahogany tables each with a single lit candle. Pictures of Italy, no doubt taken by the woman who embraced the other assassin, lined the walls all in black and white. "We weren't expecting you tonight!"

    She grinned up at him, holding the man by his arms before her gaze shifted past him, her honey brown eyes landing you. She raised an eyebrow, and then looked up him.

    "And you brought a girl." She chuckled, shoving him to the side slightly as she approached you, the woman wrapped her arms around, catching you off guard, your body instinctively stiffened.

    "Angelina, she's a friend." He stated, giving you apologetic look. All you could do was give him a tight smile as the woman finally released you, running her hand down your arm taking your hand in hers as she did the same with him. She walked you both to the table.

    "Well either way, it's nice to have you both." She smiled, both of you took your seats. Angelina hand you both a paper menu from the apron she wore before walking off to get you both something to drink.

    "Sorry, she's one of those people that hugs everyone." He stated taking a deep breath.

    "Really it's fine, just wasn't expecting it, that's all." You replied, settling in for what you would assume would be the most awkward date ever.

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[juliez0812-blog]

Papa Bear

           Mum had been shouting at her again, all because of that man, she hated her stepdad and how he thought he could take over their lives. He couldn’t take the place of her dad and she didn’t know why he thought he could. Who’d he think he was telling her what to do?

           “You should know better than that Beatrice, how could say such rude things about your dad,” her mum yelled, hands on her hips.

           “He isn’t my dad so don’t call him that, my dad’s dead nobody can take his place, so there,” Beatrice yelled back her face contorted into a snarl.

Her mother turned back to the sink her back straight as a rod and continued to angrily wash the dirty dishes banging and clanging them onto the draining board. She wore that stupid apron with big red hearts all over it that he had bought her for Valentines’ Day. That man who thought her mother should be at home all day doing the housework and cooking.  

Who the heck did he think he was?  Before he came along they used to do things together mum and her. They’d go into town on Saturdays, on the new yellow trams that would throw them into each other as it turned the corners too fast. The’d look in all the shops, trying on girlie things, new clothes and bags n stuff. Sometimes they’d even go get their nails done in crazy colors like shocking pink or electric blue, at that little Filipino nail place, that stank of that stuff they used to remove old nails. After that they’d go to the Bolero café in the new shopping mall, the one with the big three D cinema inside and stuff themselves with cream cakes. Now her mum was always too busy running around after him to do anything with her. She didn’t care anymore, Beatrice thought.

           “Oh I have to get the dinner on he will be home soon,” her mum would say, running around like a headless chicken.

What on earth had happened to her real mum? Her friend Jackie’s mum never ran around like that after Jackie’s dad.

           “Lazy sod,” she would say, “let him get his own slippers out,” pointing to the cupboard under the stairs.

Why couldn’t my mum stand up for herself she was more like a maid, she thought as she looked out of the window at the grey clouds hanging low like a shroud over her world.

           “Mum,” she said almost pleadingly, “you’re like his servant.”

Mum spun around and glared at her again, she was never happy these days, maybe she would be happier without me around, Beatrice thought to herself. Staring at the green scuffed tiles on the kitchen floor.

           “You don’t know anything do you? You’re only twelve years old for goodness sake,” mum said sadly shaking her head as she wiped her wet frothy hands on the front of her apron. “Why can’t you just do as you’re told”?

Beatrice spun around her long thick braid swinging out as her body turned, and sped out of the house into the darkness, streetlights were just blinking one by one as she ran down the street, breath catching in her throat as she tried to run and breath at the same time, tears mingling with the snot running from her nose into her mouth, it tasted salty but Beatrice didn’t care.

           “I’ll teach them, they’ll miss me when I’m gone,” she whispered under her breath panting as she ran, she wiped her mouth and nose on her sleeve just like her mum always told her not to do. “See, I can do whatever I want, you can’t tell me what to do anymore,” she said under her breath. She kept on running, passed the small school shadowy in the deepening gloom, then further down the road she ran past the working men’s club. The light pouring out making it look like it had two sets of windows, one in the walls and one on the sidewalk. Yeah her stepdad was probably in there having a few beers before going home. His dinner would be ready, the smell of meat and onions floating through the house. Always served at 6pm on the dot, every night.

           Beatrice came to the cemetery and ran through the rusty old iron gates racing down the gravel path, the sound of her feet scrunching on the small pebbles echoed into the twilight. She only stopped when she reached her dad. She stood looking down her chest rising and falling trying to catch her breath, and knelt gently down beside his grave. As she sank into the softness of the ground she leant her arm on the cold granite stone resting her head on her arm Smelling the soft wet earth and grass reminding her of when he used to cut the grass on a Sunday afternoon.  

 “Oh dad, why dya have to leave?” she sobbed, her voice cracking like the dried branches of the trees she sat beneath, “nothings the same now, she married that awful man, how could she?” she hiccupped, “how could she put someone else in your place dad? I miss you like crazy, nothings ever gonna be the same. Why dya you have to go?” she spat angrily punching the soft earth beside the grave. “He doesn’t read me stories like you use to, or tell me stuff about when he was little like you did. He doesn’t take me to the pictures on a Saturday morning to watch the funniest movies ever, letting me stuff myself silly with popcorn. You used to laugh at me when I felt sick and say, ‘that’ll teach you’!!! I’m not going back dad, I’m not, I’m gonna go to grans house,” she sobbed into her arm, shoulders heaving and shivering in the cold. After a while Beatrice stood up wiped the tears and snot again on her cardigan sleeve, thinking how much her mum would disapprove of that and not caring. She blew her dad a kiss and started walking.

She walked steadily out of the silent cemetery, turned left and kept going, marching with a purpose past the shops. All closed now their shutters down, looking like blank faces staring indifferently at her as if to lock her out, just like her mums blank face didn’t see her anymore. She thought, how will I get to grans? Its miles away I’ve got no money on me for a bus, I’ll just have to walk. She left the town behind and carried on through the now dark countryside, darkness closing in around her like a giant cloak. It was spooky for a young girl on her own, she kept looking into the trees that lined the side of the road. Imagining shadows moving around in the darkness as the trees swayed in the cool night breeze, she had never felt so scared.  

           She heard an engine in the distance and as a big truck turned the corner it caught her in its headlights, her heart beat faster and shrank in her chest as if someone was squeezing it into a little ball. She couldn’t move, frozen to the spot like an ice sculpture, fear closing her throat. A little girl alone on a dark country road .The truck stopped and she was actually relieved to hear her stepdads voice.

“Beatrice, come on get in what are you doing way out here by yourself? your mums worried sick, she sent me out to look for you. Come on get in,” he said again, in a concerned voice his head and arm poking out of the window, white hair gleaming in the moonlight.

Slowly she walked around the tall truck and clambered in shoulders hunched, frowning because she was half angry and half ashamed for worrying her mum, the familiar smell of the red leather seats gave her a safe feeling as it assaulted her nostrils.

           “You know your mum is beside herself with worry,” he looked at her sideways. “I know it’s not easy for you, but it’s not easy for any of us to try to make a new family work,” he said, as he started to drive the truck into the darkness, the headlights catching rabbits in its beam as they raced this way and that in the road trying not to get run over by the truck.

Beatrice looked out of the window, arms crossed not knowing what to say. So she just watched the trees go by in a dark blur.

           “I can understand how you feel Beatrice, really I can. I know you think I’m trying to take the place of your dad but I could never do that, I understand he was your dad,” he said, talking softly as he stared straight ahead at the road.

Beatrice slunk further down in her seat, feeling her face go pink with embarrassment because he knew how she felt.

           “I can’t replace your dad, and I know that you will feel guilty if you let me into your heart a little. But you know I feel guilty too, when my little girl died I thought I would die as well. It’s just as hard for me to get close to you too, because no one could ever take her place in my heart.”

Beatrice frowned and she chewed on her bottom lip the way she always did when she was concentrating hard. Thinking how it must feel to lose a small kid, she couldn’t imagine how that would feel she was just a kid herself. How would her mum feel if something happened to her? Beatrice’ heart sank. His heart must have broken into zillions and zillions of pieces, she thought. It must have horrible to lose a kid.

           “Maybe we can try to make a new place in our hearts for each other,” he said softly, “like a separate place, and grow from there, you know. Get to know each other and let ourselves start to love again without the fear of losing that love.”

Beatrice turned to actually look at her stepdad, and sat up a bit straighter, she had never thought of that.

“You can come up with a name for me that you’re comfortable with if you like,” He said, glancing over towards her briefly, “Did you ever notice how my friends call me papa?  It’s because they think of me like a big fat papa bear who cares about everyone. And I care about you too Beatrice, I just didn’t know how to reach out to you,” he said calmly, shrugging his shoulders.

She had never realized before what a nice voice he had, and that, yes all his friends and their kids did call him Papa.

           “Papa,” she said, whispering under her breath.

           “Yes, papa,” he repeated.

           “Ok,” she said, as her little twelve year old voice waivered, “Let’s try that.”

           As they drove towards home, they reached out to each other slowly, and he clasped her small hand in his big warm papa bear hands. Beatrice continued to stare out of the side window a warm feeling hugging her heart. Her stepdad staring straight ahead as he drove, both of them with small smiles of hope on their faces and an atmosphere of optimism in the dark cab of the truck.

At�

[stan-punches-blog]

@tmrixvii

Screaming was not an altogether uncommon occurrence at the Mystery Shack, which was unfortunate. He could handle children (and even adults) screaming and running away from him upon sight of him in the morning or on his bad days, but screaming from somewhere else in the house was something he was so unused to, it tended to bother him. 

But he was getting accustomed to it. Certain times of the day, whether it was preceded by loud giggling, when Mabel’s friends were over (he kept his hearing aid turned off)... There were a lot of reasons he didn’t need to be bothered by screaming.

Today was different, however. Today, it was high-pitched screaming that wasn’t Mabel-related (he had gotten so accustomed to Mabel screaming he could almost pinpoint the reason why she was screaming based on the loudness and pitch of the scream), which meant Dipper. And it was not a scream that included the words “Grunkle Stan” and last he checked his brother was gathering something or other out in the woods and Dipper didn’t scream nearly as often as Mabel which meant-

Stan shot up out of his seat, grabbing a baseball bat from underneath the chair. He rushed up the stairs and burst through the door, ready to take on whatever or whoever might be threatening his great nephew. His eyes landed on Dipper first who appeared unharmed, and then he looked out for any threat.

And there. He spotted it. On Mabel’s bed. He didn’t even think he just ran up to it and swung his bat knocking the atrocious thing into the wall. “TAKE THAT! AND ONE OF-” 

It laid there, unmoving. Stan lowered his bat and eyed the “thing” warily. It looked... vaguely bear-like? Holy Moses, it was hideous, though. Had he just knocked the stuffing out of it or had it looked like that before? Why did he feel like those dull, lifeless eyes were peering into his soul? He poked at it with the bat, then gave a shudder. Creepy. Clearly, whatever it was, it belonged to Mabel. Hopefully, she wouldn’t find out about this.

He was breathing a little heavily from his haste in getting up the stairs and into the room, but he crossed his arms and tried to look casual. “Seriously, Dipper?” He raised an eyebrow.

“I thought ya were being murdered, kid. Sheesh. What are you doing screaming like a little girl for? And over what? This, uh, this... whatever it is. You see something scary, you should be punching it in the face.”

He stroked his chin a moment. “Not that it isn’t hilarious.” He chuckled.

“Ha! I’ve heard some girly screams in my time, but that’s gotta be the girliest. I’m surprised you didn’t shatter a window! Ahahaha.” 

[yukiwrites]

Where Your Loyalty Lies [6/??]

Summary:  Kamui’s kidnapping didn’t go as planned – She managed to get away and ended up at Silas’ doorstep. They were raised as siblings, but she has always felt different; her fangs and red eyes and urges to run amok, what did they all mean? Will going to the castle as the Crown Prince’s retainer help her find more clues? Will the war between Nohr and Hoshido be the answer to everything?  

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Chapter 6: Choosing her own path

Kamui had received the first aid necessary for her ribs as well as a good dose of healing magic. If she took good care of it, she would heal in time to get home for their official Knighting ceremony.

Her injury didn’t stop Gallhard from bear-hugging both of his pupils once they met again at the reception desk. “I KNEW YOU COULD DO IT, LAD AND LASS!” He twirled them around and only stopped when Kamui protested under laughs.

“Ahaha-ouch, M-master!” She giggled, feeling her insides turning into mush by his strong grip.

“Whops, yer ribs.” He put both down and aggressively patted their backs, “yer injured but not dead, eh? WE PARTAY TONIGHT!”

Silas smiled proudly, the corners of his mouth hurting. “And it’ll be on me!” He lifted the gold bag he’d gotten as a prize for winning.

“Bahaha!” Gallahard threw his head back in laughter. “My secret plan worked!” He joked before turning to the exit. “Le’s go, le’s go! I know a place with the tastiest mead ‘round here in the underground.”

Despite her injury, Kamui accompanied her master in chugging down one or two mugs while her brother let out worried noises every time she took a sip. “You can’t drink while hurt, Kamui! Your wounds will take longer to heal.”

“And how does it feel to be the one paying for that?” She giggled (if she let out anything louder than a chuckle, her insides would hurt) and poked at his ribs, where he was very ticklish. “It’s okay, Brother, I won’t overdo it. Tonight we celebrate! You should be happier for winning, Mr. Champion!” She teased, poking him even more.

“H-hey, cut it out! I’m being serious here—” He tried to scold, but ended up snorting because of the tickles and couldn’t hold a laugh in. The night was just starting and they had much to talk about now that they had their master’s approval.

Between mugs, Gallahard hiccupped how he had planned their knighting ceremony and how he had already sent pre-invitations to his chevalier acquaintances from his time at the army. All of them would bear witness of Gallahard’s approval of his squires and would serve as patrons to the newly knighted duo.

Seeing that the Lantanoir family was one of knights, the accolade ceremony at the royal castle wasn’t a requirement – and, in times of war, it was a cumbersome formality. Since a few years back, there were only two times a knight was to be brought before the king: If they performed an act of extreme bravery on the battlefield so they would be deemed a hero of war or; if His Majesty the King were to appoint a new retainer for himself or the royal siblings.

Immediately after the public ceremony to a collective of veteran knights, a written pledge would be sent to the castle anticipating the newly knighted’s arrival. Only then they would receive their orders, ranks, badges, uniforms and lodging depending on how many seasoned knights vouched for their skills.

And Sir Gallahard knew his fellow warriors well. He served under the King himself during his days, making his vouch a tremendous weight by itself.

They would return in seven days – their master needed to confirm the presence of the acquaintances that lived nearby before taking the five-day trip back home. He would also send a letter preceding their arrival so the Lantanoir household could start the preparations for the festivities.

“I can’t wait to see Father’s reaction to our knighthood.” Silas scratched the side of his mug after a few hours of drinking, already feeling sleepy and rather drunk.

“Wanna bet that he’ll cry?” Gallahard snorted. “He was a hardworking young lad when I ‘as training ‘im. He got really frustrated when his leg didn’t heal well.”

Kamui kept turning her mug around, finding it amusing. “We gotta do well on the ceremony. To make him proud.”

“Mhm.” Silas agreed, slouching on his seat beside Kamui’s, exhaustion weighting his eyelids.

Their master snorted. “Ya’ll boring drunks, lemme tell ya.” He had drunk at least five times more than both siblings but apart from his rosy cheeks, he was mostly sober and always ready for more mead. “Le’s head back ‘fore I hafta carry you both on me shoulders. The first night as a knight! Fancy pun, eh? Bahahah!” He threw his head back, surprising the half-asleep Silas into waking up.

The extra week they had to stay was a great help in Kamui’s recovery as well as a blow into her curious nature. She wanted to explore the capital and, most of all, its libraries. She was at the center of knowledge of the entire Nohr and had to house sit due to being over-confident.

“And even if I were to look into the books regarding mythical creatures, most of them aren’t for take out.” Silas informed her one evening after taking a tour at the Records Hall, the largest athenaeum second only to the Royal Castle. He took his pouty sister’s hand on his, “we’ll have all the time of the world to read them once we’re stationed at the castle, right? Cheer up.”

She pouted more, though remembering about their knighthood made a smirk grow on one side of her mouth. Kamui might’ve be more used to her own body, yes, but that still did not explain what she exactly was nor what to do to completely control it. However, what Silas spoke was true, or at least half-true. “All right, I’ll stay put and I promise not to worry about that anymore… for now.” She huffed, squeezing his hand. “Though we won’t have all the time of the world, Brother. We’ll be working.”

“Ahaha, that’s true!” He chuckled, getting up from his crouching position by Kamui’s chair and sitting on the one opposite of hers, waiting for the tea that was being brought in. “But as long as we’re here, we can absorb the information anytime.”

“Alright, Brother, you’ve convinced me. Let’s hope time passes by fast so we can quickly come back and finally start our lives as knights.”

Their Knighting Ceremony was scheduled to happen a month after the battle at the Pit, so they actually could stay a bit longer, but even though the Lantanoir siblings would love to bask in knowledge, they wanted to present themselves as knights before their parents as soon as possible. Thus they went home after Sir Gallahard was done with his visits.

“We coulda stayed more, girlie. Yer not completely healed from those ribs yet.” He said on their first day of travel, inside the carriage. Beside him, his youngest pupil scoffed.

“Psh, Master. You broke way more bones than just these and I recovered from them just as quickly, right? I think they’re thicker than they should by now.”

Silas and Gallahard both laughed, albeit in different volumes. “With THAT, I can’t argue!” The master said, still laughing. The trip back was filled with these much-needed light-hearted moments. Kamui and Silas both would need the memory of those days for the news waiting for them at home would be sure to change their lives once and for all.

Both youths started to fidget on their seats once the carriage entered the Lantanoir property. They talked about how they would present themselves for their parents and how they needed to rehearse for the ceremony, all under Sir Gallahard’s proud laughs.

“I bet if ye salute even before talking wid them, yer pop’s gonna crack! Bahaha!”

Kamui’s eyes glittered with the prospect of making her beloved family proud and the short minutes it took the carriage to reach the mansion’s front gates were filled with the siblings’ plans for entrances.

Eleonore and Leopold, alongside the butler Winston and the handmaid Clara were expecting the carriage outside of the open gate; Lord and Lady’s faces plastered with proud and eager smiles.

Before the coachman had a chance to reach the carriage’s door, it was kicked open by a grinning Gallahard. “Miss me?! Bahaha!” He guffawed, jumping out without using the steps. Lady Lantanoir’s shoulders sagged visibly while Leopold snorted.

“Welcome back, friend. I hear our children did well on the tournament.” Lord Lantanoir said, doing a half bow in acknowledgement to his former master.

“If they did well?!” He asked, curving his body forward before throwing his head back in laughter. “They did GREAT!” After saying that, he pointed to the still open door at the exact time Kamui followed by Silas jumped out in their training uniforms and immediately saluted.

“Sir Silas, reporting in!” The young noble said, his face a bit flushed with embarrassment. Beside him, his sister’s smile shone with pride.

“Dame Kamui reporting in!” The corners of her mouth almost hurt due to the size of her grin as both of them puffed their chests. 

Leopold had to press his lips into a thin line in order to suppress his emotion; his eyes as watery as they could get. The pride in his heart! Look at how those two young and inseparable children grew into!

Eleonore’s reaction was a bit more conflicted, albeit still overjoyed in the end; she had the issue about Kamui’s actual roots, her motivations and, of course, the letter they had gotten a few days before Gallahard’s. It was sealed with the Royal Stamp.

Nevertheless, she still brought one hand to cover her mouth in emotion, her eyes shining with tears. How proud they were of their newly acquired title! She felt her heart bubbling with emotion as she opened both arms to embrace her children.

“Welcome home, my darlings.” She managed to say despite the lump in her throat, walking towards both newly knighted youths.

“We’re home, M-mother.” Kamui stuttered as Eleonore’s warmth embraced her, snuggling her face into the Lady’s shoulder. Silas did the same, though he wasn’t able to speak due to the emotion.

After their welcoming at the gates, the finally-reunited family went to a tea room in order to report all of the happenings at The Pit as well as to ensure both Lord and Lady about Kamui’s recovery. “Ah, it will always pain me to hear about any wounds you suffer, my children.” Eleonore held Kamui’s hand while looking at Silas, her mind glaring at Sir Gallahard. “To watch my young children being hurt and not being able to aid them...” She murmured, squeezing the young woman’s hand.

“Forgive me for worrying you, Mother. I was careless.” Kamui apologized, lowering her gaze to their hand hold. “I cannot promise it will not happen again, though.” She suppressed a laugh, excited about her new life as a knight.

“Posh, this is not a joke, my dear.” Eleonore reprimanded, but the frown on her brow was fainter. “Regarding that, Kamui; Silas.” She looked from one child to the other before exchanging glances with Winston, who was obediently on stand by close to the door. “Winston, if you please.”

“At once, milady.” The butler swiftly took a letter out of his vest with one hand, a letter opener sliding through his left cuff at the same time. With five graceful steps he was beside her with the already open envelope -- it had the Royal Stamp over the sealing wax.

“We received this letter with the Crown Prince’s seal three days before we’ve heard the news about your triumph at The Pit.” Eleonore handed the paper to Kamui as Silas reached for the envelope -- it was addressed to ‘Sir Silas Lantanoir & Dame Kamui Lantanoir’. “It has made us extremely anxious since it had both of your names and titles despite the lack of news from your part.” She added as Kamui skimmed through it.

“Strange,” Sir Gallahard crossed his arms, glancing at the paper from behind his apprentice. “I know I sent the news on the followin’ day so it shoulda arrived four or five days later, as usual.” Something caught his attention on the letter and he stretched his neck towards it, stealing it altogether from Kamui’s hands. “Wait a minute.” He got up and quickly reread the entire letter, frowning at the end. “HEY CLAUDE, YA THERE?” He yelled to the door’s direction, surprising everyone in the room.

“What was the paper about, Kamui?” Silas nudged his sister and whispered close to her while an unamused butler entered the room. The young woman had stayed silent the whole time, as though in shock.

“An invitation... to the next royal ball.” The words outpaced her actions as her unfocused eyes slowly met her brother’s. “The Crown Prince took notice of us at The Pit,” her expression started to brighten, “and invited us to the next royal ball!” She almost screamed, happy for actually being able to catch the Prince’s attention as she had planned.

Eleonore visibly gasped as Leopold gripped at the chair’s armrest. Haven’t they forgotten about the hunt they were making all those years ago?! Before either noble could interject, Gallahard handed the letter to Claude. “Hey, ‘member that one invitation I got some twenty or was it thirty ‘ears ago? Darlin’ was still ‘live and kickin’ an’ all.” Without even flinching, the butler nodded with his characteristic smile, as though they were speaking of a recent event. “Indeed I do, Sir.” How old is he?! Immediately ran through all four nobles’ heads as they widened their eyes to the young-looking butler. He hasn’t aged a day ever since Kamui and Silas met him. “Right. Write it up for me, will ya? Same calligraphy an’ all.” The Lantanoirs turned their flabbergasted faces to the knight before Claude’s response made them all turn to him. “At once, milord.” Eleonore took one hand to her mouth so as not to gap it, while Leopold and the young adults had theirs wide open. With a swift movement of his hand, Claude made it seem as though a paper appeared out of thin air alongside an inkpot. He soundlessly reached out for Winston who promptly gave him a feather. Both butlers had been used to working together as the head of the staff of the neighboring mansions and almost never needed words to communicate. Claude set off to a desk in order to write as Gallahard turned to the stunned nobles, as matter-of-factly as possible. “This ain’t no simple invitation to a ball, see.” He started, not noticing or not caring about their surprised looks, hitting the paper with two fingers. “You musta noticed, offa course, that the usual invitations take the Lord and Lady’s names on the envelope, contrary ta this ‘un.” They all turned to the Master, listening closely as he went on: “If the Lord’s from a fam’ payin’ the shield money like yourselves,” he pointed to Leopold and his two apprentices, “they’ll put an honorary title or soma that jazz, too. But here,” his smirk grew with a clear idea of the Prince’s intention in mind, “here they specified not only the girlie an’ the boy’s names, but their status, even though they weren’t out in the chevalier ranks yet. It’s like the Prince’s demanding them to be properly knighted by the time o’ the ball.” “Lord Xander wants them to present themselves as knights before him?” Eleonore almost stuttered, her heart beating wildly inside her chest. Gallahard pointed to the lady and nodded. “Yah. An’ tha’s not all.” He reached out for something behind him, as though he had it timed: Claude handed the copy of the letter at the exact time his liege moved. “If ye check here,” the knight placed the copy and the original side by side, “ye’ll see that some lines ar’ different around her’ and her’,” he pointed with his chin to the lines, Claude gracefully using a presentation baton to pinpoint the location. “And that’s the prince’s signature on yours, but tha’s not the most interesting part.” He let the suspense sink in all the while Claude returned to his resting position to make them look again at the calligraphy. “The best part is tha’ usually it’s the Master of Ceremonies, some Abbington fella or somethin’, that writes the letters. Tha’s his writin’ here tha’ Claude’s mimicked. See tha the one you guys got’s a lot different?” He looked at both apprentice’s eyes before turning back to the paper. “This here was either written by the prince himself or by his stuck-up retainer,” he looked up, trying to remember the name, “some Rich-somethin’.”

“It is not unusual to have the Prince’s or even the King’s signature on an invitation.” Winston commented from behind Claude, who concurred.

“Yah.” Gallahard nodded, “’s why the best part is that he ordered it all special for the girlie an’ the boy AN’ signed it.” He handed one letter to each apprentice and crossed his arms, a proud smile on his lips. “This all can only mean one thing: He wants to put ye both under his command, and his IMMEDIATE command at that. Prolly a retainer or somethin’.” The Master placed one hand over his chin, in thought, “if I ‘member correctly, stuck-up’s partner kicked it some one or two ‘ears ‘go.”

Kamui momentarily forgot her original plan of finishing wars in order to find out what she was due to Sir Gallahard’s speech. Serving under the Prince himself!

Suddenly, the Master threw his head back in laughter. “Bahaha! Now le’s just hope that this Princeling’s better than ‘is dad, eh? So he won’t pit you two ‘gainst each other to have the survivor serve ‘im and all that.”

He truly meant it as a joke. However, having Kamui’s past and secret roots ever present in the back of their minds made both Lord and Lady Lantanoir flinch with the idea. King Garon was indeed capable of doing such a thing, even though they knew that Crown Prince Xander wasn’t.

Or was he? Was he aware of the hunt the nohrian army started right after the Battle at Cheve? He was their commander now, there was simply no way he didn’t know. What were his motives in calling both Kamui and Silas instead of just one?

Eleonore’s heart and face fell somber with these dark thoughts and Leopold turned to Winston, his frown deep and serious. “Winston, could you fetch that, please?” He asked, then hurriedly looked at the knight and his butler.

“At once, milord,” Winston complied, bowing. “Sir Gallahard and Lord Claude, if you please,” he moved one hand towards the door, “allow me to escort you to the wine cellar in order to choose a good drink for tonight’s toast.”

“Muh? Seein’ me out already?” He raised a brow, confused at the change of the atmosphere around the room -- father, mother and brother were pale-in-the-faces while daughter carefully read the letter again. He shrugged. “’kay, but don’t ya go refusing a royal invitation like that, eh? Capital crime and all.” He said before leaving, adding more worry to the family’s heart.

“Kamui, my daughter,” Eleonore touched the young woman’s hand, diverting her attention from the letter.

“Is something wrong, Mother?” After averting her gaze from the words, she met Eleonore’s worried frown and felt her heart fall. “You look pale!”

“My dear, do you remember what I told you three years ago? About the truth of your adoption.”

She had forgotten. How could she?! Even if she had been focusing only on The Pit for the last year it still didn’t meant that she could have forgotten her mother’s words from that day. How good they made her feel! And now... Eleonore’s somber gaze brought uneasiness to Kamui’s heart.

The young noble adjusted herself on the chair and put the letter over the table before squeezing her mother’s hand. “Forgive me for my earlier outburst, Mother. I am ready.”

“I know not of easy ways to say this,” Leopold started, making Kamui shift  her attention from the Lady to the Lord, “so we chose to speak of the happenings you remember first: You recall the day we made you travel inside the hidden compartment?”

“I do, Father. I was told to stay close to Mother the whole time after we left the carriage, then I had to look at a very scary man after we came back home.”

Leopold’s lips twitched in pain, remembering not only that day but everything Lord Ixyan’s made them go through before that. “Yes, my child,” he nodded, then proceeded. “Let us go further back. Do you remember the day you first woke up here?”

That was a trick question. Kamui had woken up a number of times before completely sealing away the memories of the Battle of Cheve. She replied with the same tune as before, closing her eyes so as to make a mental picture of the day: “Yes. I woke up startled by something and saw how surprised Brother was before he grasped my hand again.”

Lord and Lady exchanged quick glances. “And before that...?” He asked, but received a slight shake of head as response.

“It is a blank; forgive me.”

“Do not apologize, my dear.” Eleonore rubbed her thumb over Kamui’s hand. “You do, however, remember your history classes, correct?” She asked and received a nod in response. “The Battle of Cheve -- could you tell me about it?”

“Hmm...” She raised her eyes to search her memory, “His Majesty Garon set out a trap for Hoshido’s King, Sumeragi, and decimated the hoshidan envoy in battle at Cheve.”

A double, careful knock at the door interrupted before Kamui could open her mouth again. “Milord, milady, I have returned.” It was Winston. Leopold authorized his entry while Eleonore turned to Kamui.

“The story we’ve always spread about your past was that you were orphaned at that battle, you are aware of that.” The Lady affirmed, receiving yet another nod of agreement. “What you are not aware of, however, is the side of the battle you were on.”

Realization sank in before Kamui could shift her gaze to the small box Winston brought with him and started opening as his lady spoke -- it contained a golden and seemingly expensive hoshidan hairpin.

“I’m... hoshidan?” She widened her eyes at the pin, looking from it to her parents.

“We do not know whose child you were or if there were more children with the envoy apart from you and a servant boy -- the one who brought you to our lands.”

Eleonore’s words hit Kamui with a pang of pain in her head, making her flinch. “Gkh!” A boy who came with her? She was with the hoshidans? Why... why that all sound so distant yet so familiar? That hairpin... she remembered a warm hand putting it on her head...

“Kamui!” From beside her, Silas touched her shoulder, his face the most pale out of the nobles in the room. The young woman’s ears were deaf to any outside sounds.

“-is it rea- wise to bring- along?” Voices from a distant past tried to make their way into her head, flooding it with incomplete memories. “Besides, he s-ld be brin-as well--’ll -Hoshido and Nohr -amui.” 

“Who... are they?” She brought one hand to her face, the other clutching her heart.

“Did you remember him?” Silas’ mouth spoke before his mind could accompany, “did you remember the green-haired boy?”

“Green...?” Kamui repeated the word, using it more as a chant to bring her memories rather than remembering it per se. “Green... K-Kaz...? Akh!” Her head hurt again and, with the pain, a waterfall of memories.

Four playmates. Two red-haired girls and two long-haired boys. A warm yet sad embrace -- the letting go of hand whose warmth still lingered on her until they left. A warning before a shout. The smell of burning flesh alongside the grazing and piercing of arrows.

A voice pleading forgiveness.

“Kaze!!” Kamui shot up altogether, almost knocking down the chair she sat previously. “What happened to him?! Kaze, oh no; he was so hurt!”

“We did all we could to save him,” Winston said with grief; it was his staff which worked on the boy at first, “but his wounds were too grave...”

Before the butler could finish the sentence, Kamui’s eyes welled up with tears, her hand unconsciously grasping Silas’ poofy sleeve. “He did so much for me...” she huffed, feeling the strength of her legs fail as she sat back on her chair, the hand now gripping at her brother’s shirt. “I remember a volley of arrows and a man... and Kaze taking the hit for me. Then pain,” she reached for the scar at her forehead, thinking of the ones on her back, “then apologies.”

Kamui’s lips trembled, not able to finish the sentence before she threw herself on Silas’ chest -- the one who has always welcomed her tears -- so she could finally grieve her servant and friend’s death.

“Kaze...! Oh, Kaze!” She cried, sniffling as she remembered his voice always making sure that she was awake and well. ‘It’s going to be okay, Lady Kamui. Even if I have to give this life of mine, I will take you to safety!’ He’d said while her consciousness drifted in and out during the night.

He was so much more hurt than her -- he carried her small and certainly heavy body for hours in an unknown terrain and land; to collapse only when he knew he’d found someone who could take care of her.

Silas hugged his sister, remembering the day he made his promise, tears also falling from his eyes. Finally he could let his friend rest in peace. Finally he knew his name! “He made me promise, Kamui.” He whispered amidst her sobs. “He made me promise I would protect you in his place and now you can f-finally... finally pay your respects to him.” His voice cracked.

“Brother...” Kamui lifted her head to meet his eyes, then pressed her lips into a thin line so as to muffle a sob. “Oh, Kaze...!”

Eleonore sniffled with the display, using a handkerchief to dry her tears before they fell. Beside her, Leopold’s mien was grave. “I’m afraid that is not all, my child.” It broke his heart to add more grief into the scene, but Kamui needed to hear the truth.

“Pold, maybe we should wait--” Eleonore touched her husband’s shoulder, but Kamui raised her eyes to the married couple and sniffled before drying her cheeks with the back of her hand.

“Mother... please. I-I need to know everything.” She gulped, tears unshed on her eyes and hands by her brother’s chest. They trembled as much as her speech and she needed a few seconds to blink so she could set her unwavering gaze again on Eleonore.

The Lady frowned, but resigned herself into respecting her daughter’s wish. “Very well,” she glanced at Leopold before nodding.

He took a deep breath. “Right after we found you both in our lands, we discovered that the nohrian army was hunting down any hoshidan survivors. If it weren’t for Silas making Clara carry you to his room, they would have found you in the room they found the boy... He was already gone when Lord Ixyan’s soldier, Hans...”

The significant pause made Kamui understand. And Loathe. “Go on, Father.” She encouraged, her tears dry.

Leopold cleared his throat and loosened his cravat. “After that, the hunt continued for weeks and months.”

“It’s made us fear to ever making you show yourself in public lest they recognized you by your unique features, my dear.” Eleonore finished the sentence, her lips trembling. “Oh, just the thought of letting you out in society one night only to wake up to the nohrian army demanding your head on the next day!” She sobbed, hiding her face under the handkerchief. “I simply could not bear it.”

Surprise. Regret. Disgust... and now love. In the span of a few minutes, Kamui’s heart has been through so much. Once again her eyes welled up, one hand finally leaving Silas’ shirt and covering her mouth in emotion. They couldn’t be her birth family, but they loved her just as much.

Look at what they’ve gone through just to protect her! They almost entirely disconnected from their family, friends and court altogether just so she wouldn’t be in danger. They made her train under their wings so she wouldn’t be recognized in Gallahard’s main mansion.

They treated her as a daughter from the moment they decided to take her in. She felt terribly bad for misunderstanding their love for distrust during the early years of her life; but most of all, she felt thankful. “Mother... Father...” She sobbed. “Thank you so much for taking care of me for so long...”

Leopold felt his eyes itch with tears and had to cough a smile before taking his wife’s hand. “Know that we would do it a thousand times over, child.”

“We mustn’t be happy yet,” Eleonore choked a sob before finally raising her tear-stained face from the handkerchief. “Now that you know the truth, my dear, we can express our concern: You are going right into Nohr’s heart; where the first order to hunt down the hoshidan survivors came from.”

Lord Lantanoir nodded, sniffling away the tears which previously sprang in his eyes. “If they were looking for you specifically, your outward appearance will be a giveaway from the moment you step into the castle.” 

“And if it is not,” Eleonore continued from where her husband stopped, “you will still be fighting for the King who ordered your fellow countrymen dead.”

Kamui furrowed her brow, her eyes focusing nowhere in particular, her mind a clutter of information. Hoshidan. Kaze. Training. War. Hunt. Her beast. The Prince’s call.

“I... need to be alone for a while.” She said after a few minutes of silence. Silas hesitated in taking his arms away from her, but respected her decision. The knight-to-be got on her feet and silently exited the room after Winston opened the door to her.

She headed to the place she had her first thoughts of choosing knighthood: Outside the servant’s home, at the forest’s entrance. Perhaps being at a place so important as that could help clear the fog in her mind.