#fully ready to get that game over and reload

[swan2swan]

Virtual Reality vs. Reality Reality

[eldritchcreatureofwords]

People do not talk about TruthSeekers enough

Specifically the end fight. Not only is this some of the most gorgeous fucking animation I've ever seen, not only is the use of character's leitmotifs as a combined theme brilliant and clever, but the interactions between everyone and everyone and Blitz is just fucking fantastic.

Mox and Blitz of one fucking mind at the start. Blitz talking to everyone but twisted to look Moxxie dead in the eye when he yells fuck these fuckers UP and Moxx getting him instantly.

Loona protecting her dad, Blitz not even twitching when the chain blade is hurled at him because he knows it's not going to touch him. Her using her mouth as much as her hands if not more to wreck havoc.

Millie's sheer glee at getting to kick ass and take names, as if it's all a big game, not even having to break a sweat. The fact that she never stops being sweet and affectionate and silly even in the middle of this nonsense because she's still a little doll of a woman, but you started this shit and she's going to finish it. You fucked with her Moxxie and her Blitz. The fact that she uses an axe as big as she is and just lets it's momentum carry her around, throwing herself from one person to the next.

Moxxie's mob-kid little psychotic violent side getting to shine- the silly, goofy, shy little awkward buttmonkey reminding everyone why he's here and that he is just as capable as everyone else, thank you, with this feral gremlin streak just barely under the surface of his musical-loving, well spoken, well educated presentation.

Blitz's evil fucking laugh when he fires the "Pussy Destroyer" ( which made me laugh way too hard myself.)

The way Blitz scuttles across the fight interacting with his team, stopping at each and every person to make sure they are armed, they are doing well, backing them up and cheering them on, before blitzing (hahaha) off to have his own fun with these stupid little human fuckers. It's our first real look at how capable and deadly this silly, filthy little gay nerd is- he's agile, fast as fuck, vicious as hell, and strong. Guy used to be in the circus ok?

(Also the way he scrambles over and around Loona mid-fight which I adore.)

And what I consider to be the best (and maybe most important part)

the 'Mox, cover me!' moment.

These two are back-to-back, in the middle of a heated life-or-death fight, and not only does Blitz know roughly when they'll have to reload, he goes digging in his backpack fearlessly despite danger surrounding him and Moxxie firing just above his head, fully trusting Moxxie not to miss, to- well, cover him. On top of that, these two then perform not one but two blind weapon handoffs, swap to melee in almost perfect unison, and agree, wordlessly, when to split.

And the grins on the face of everyone (except poor Moxxie) when it's over, a moment of victory and connection.

Not even getting into the protective arms Blitz puts out across his team when it seems like they are cornered and trapped, teeth bared, ready to pounce, to use claw and teeth to defend them if he has to, if that's what it takes.

Not even getting into the fact that when Stolas first appears to save them, their shadows combine to make his, turning the four of them into one being just for a moment to make something significantly more powerful.

Not to mention the way reality seems to reassert itself as soon as the lights come back on, just the way it does when you wake up from a nightmare.

This got long fast and I'm sorry, but this scene just has so much character introspection, development, and explanation with barely a spoken word and I love it.

[verdantlights]

ZEN LOG: SIX

TIME: R O U N D T W E N T Y O N E

I can't breathe. It- It all happened way too fucking fast.

D-Daian... is fine! He's fine! He's alive and well, they just... took him away for... for...

"Five minutes, snap out of it. That boy won't be a hindrance to your performance. Play the game the way you're supposed to."

Fuck you, Scorpius.

They shove me in clothes that are too warm and thick to be comfortable. I'm not used to being fully covered up like this.

This is so fucking dumb- I need to find Daian. I can't do this without him. I need to find my Comet.

My arm is grabbed and I'm forcefully dragged to where I'm supposed to be.

"LET GO OF ME- GIVE DAIAN BACK TO ME!!"

"You saw the audience enjoy their meal, did you not?"

I look at the guard with abject horror.

"Sh-shut the fuck up... They didn't enjoy shit 'cause he's still fucking alive!"

"Whatever helps you sleep at night, mutt."

I can't fight back because before I know it, I'm on stage with Stas.

I look at them a bit frightened, knowing I probably look like shit right now.

Due to my own mental state, I can't get a read on them. It doesn't matter, I'll win and kill Kay myself.

.

.

.

This is not a game now, nobody can save you.

Spent up all your change, and now your turn is done.

We won't be afraid, 'cause we're the ones who made you.

Knock you out the frame, we won't stop until you're gone,

Game on.

.

.

.

The score goes back and forth, neck and neck. Stas is in the lead one second and I take over the next. Back and forth, back and forth. I was right in believing Stas would be wonderful competition, but I can't savor it.

All I can think about is Daian. He's alive. He has to be.

Everything is spinning. I'm dizzy as hell and I honestly want to lose just to be free from this fucking migraine, but that's just wishful thinking. I have something I want to do. I have something I need to do. I can't lose here.

I know you want to win, Stas, but I'm sorry.

I do too.

And I don't stop until I get what I want.

.

.

.

But I'ma be the face of a generation,

Kids wit' no patience or directions,

Never doubt or question my effort,

Game on, game on, hope you people ready.

I'm reloaded and my trigger finger steady.

.

.

.

Stas' song is interesting. And if it weren't for our circumstances, I'd think they want to die. I wouldn't blame them, but I know they want to win. I know they're trying to.

My dizziness and the migraine is only getting worse. This is nothing, though. I won't let my body stop me from winning. I was taught endurance. I was taught how to fight. I will fight to the very bitter end if it comes to that.

I won't go down quietly, they're gonna have to bury me face fucking down.

.

.

.

I've traveled plenty seas, spent many hours

To make myself be the best I can be,

So you gon' show respect when you talkin' to me.

That number one spot legacy I see is my hit.

And what you take, what you is, what you leave behind,

.

.

.

Here, at the last hook, I'm in the lead again. I'm pulling ahead more than I was before. I'm winning.

I'm winning.

Everything still hurts. It's getting worse. I can feel everything starting to shut down and give out. I can't pass out here. I can't, not yet.

.

.

.

This is not a game now, nobody can save you!

Spent up all your change, and now your turn is done!

We won't be afraid, 'cause we're the ones who made you.

Knock you out the frame, we won't stop until you're gone,

Game on!

Game on!

Game on!

.

.

.

My throat closes up and I feel sick. Panic is surrounding me from all sides and I can't see anything. I want to scream and cry and shout but I can't get my throat to work.

I'm angry, it hurts. I'm panicking, it hurts. I want my brothers, it hurts. I want my mother, it hurts.

A pistol is thrusted in my hands. I have to kill Stas.

I'm sorry, I'll try and be quick.

My feet are unsteady and I'm shaking. I can feel myself choking and hot tears falling down my face. I hesitate.

I hesitate.

For some reason, I see Kay. I see my brother falling into the crowd, and I scream as I shoot. It hurts, it hurts so bad. It feels like I'm tearing my vocal cords.

I miss their head. I hit their shoulder.

I shoot again.

I miss their head. I hit their thigh.

I shoot again.

And again.

And again.

And again.

I missed every single fucking shot.

I'm so sorry, it's not your fault, Stas.

Through my blurry vision, I can see them laying collapsed on the floor in a pool of their own blood. They raise their hand and point at me weakly with a finger gun, before bringing it to their head and tapping. I can't see what their face looks like, but I think I know what they're feeling now, what they want.

There's a small moment of clarity where the adrenaline tunes out all other pain, noise, and emotion. I steady my hands and my stance and aim for their head, pressing the trigger.

The pistol doesn't go off.

I press the trigger again, still a dud.

I try messing with the magazine but I can feel that clarity slipping away. I can feel myself slipping away.

No, I have to at least grant them death. It's the least I can do.

Fuck no I can't pass out now, this isn't-

I can't-

I feel myself swaying, before it goes dark and I hit the ground.

━☽【❖】☾━

Oh, my Lord, take this hand, save me from the gallows.

Hear this news, bear my gold, lay me in the shallows.

Evil'll come if you call my name, the wicked day shall rise.

The river's sins gonna wash me clean, the river don't run dry.

Oh, my Lord, take this soul, lay me at the bottom of the river.

The devil has come to carry me home, lay me at the bottom, the bottom of the river.

Stas: @billwasnot

Daian: @apple8ees

Kay: @imperfectnothing

@alien-til-i-stage @ivanttakethis @chevalperd @junebluues @friedclownshrimp @awaggaa @yunoftheclouds @subzeromoron @messengers-of-the-gods @apriciticreveries @paradisedisconcert @starry-skiez @bluemoonscape

[simgard]

🌿 Sneak Peek: Greenhouse Haven Reloaded CC Pack – Part I | BGC Sims 4 Custom Content 🍃

If you're looking for quality Sims 4 greenhouse CC, you're in the right place! After 5 intense days of full-immersion work, I'm so excited to finally share a preview of Part I of my very first custom content collection for The Sims 4: Greenhouse Haven. 🏡🪴

This project is a big milestone for me — it’s not only my first official release but also the result of countless hours spent learning and improving my skills. While this collection doesn’t feature fully original creations, I’ve poured my heart into extracting, optimizing, and reworking existing assets to create something special and unique for the community.

For the first time ever, I opened Blender, and over the past 5 days I’ve been working non-stop reworking models, retexturing, and optimizing meshes. This includes:

🛠️ Reworking and Extracting Assets: Extracting and reworking objects from Base Game, Seasons, and the Greenhouse Haven Kit for added depth and detail.

🧠 Mastering Conversion: Learning to convert EA decorative meshes into fully functional Sims 4 custom content.

🔨 Mesh Optimization: Using Blender to separate and optimize meshes, improving geometry and overall quality.

🌟 Detail Refinement: Rebuilding shadows, creating object slots, tuning behaviors, and reworking textures to ensure everything feels polished and functional in-game.

📚 Self-Taught Journey: Digging through tutorials and the S4S forum to perfect the entire CC workflow.

🎨 Fine-Tuning: Reworking specular and normal maps, tweaking object slots, and making those small adjustments that bring CC to perfection

✨ What’s in Part I?

The centerpiece of Part I is a functional flower arranging table — just like the one from Seasons, but remade with love and options!

You’ll get three versions:

🌿 Decluttered – clean and minimal for flexible builds

🌼 Semi-decluttered – slightly styled for realism

🌺 Full cluttered – detailed like the original, rich in atmosphere

And the best part? The table includes over 100 object slots, so you can decorate it endlessly — perfect for detailed storytelling and immersive gameplay.

But that’s not all...

You’ll also get a set of converted and enhanced build/buy objects, drawn from the Greenhouse Haven Kit and Base Game, including:

🖌️ All original Maxis swatches + custom recolors

🧱 Mesh edits

🍅 Bonus Content for Garden Builders:

This pack also includes 67 BGC custom plant markers covering all harvestables from:

🌱 Base Game

☀️ Seasons

🏘️ Eco Lifestyle

🐾 Cats & Dogs

🏞️ Get Together

🐓 Cottage Living

Perfect for organizing greenhouses, backyard farms, and market lots with clarity and charm!

All objects are Maxis Match, gameplay-tested, and designed to blend seamlessly into rustic, cottagecore, or traditional European builds. Cozy, detailed, and game-ready — just how I love it.

Stay tuned for the official release of Part I — this is only the beginning of a 4-part journey 🌸 Thank you so much for being here 💛

— Simgard

[kingdomkeykitsune]

KHOC WEEK DAY 3: CONNECTION

Okay, so, I only had time to fully finish one of today's art pieces for @khoc-week (and of course I chose the moody one) I might update later with the finished version of the other one, we'll have to see lol. Anyway! While she's friendly with most people there are a few connections C.E. has that really stand out, but I'm putting it all under a cut because this one's a bit long.

Luka (left) and Nao (right).

Relationship Theme: Here's to Never Growing Up by Avril Lavigne

Having known each other most of their lives these three are practically inseparable. Together they make up a group called the Twilight Guardians. Most people thing it's just the name of their skate group (Luka and C.E. skateboard, Nao rollerskates) and/or their garage band (C.E. plays bass, Luka plays guitar/keyboard, Nao drums, and Luka and C.E. both do vocals) but in actuality they call themselves that because they make up the newest incarnation of the Twilight Town protectors. Each unknowingly descended from the original protectors and their families, they unlocked their abilities to fight Creatures of Darkness when they were attacked by Heartless while exploring the Mansion in the Woods sometime prior to DiZ setting up camp there. Because this was such a formative experience for them all they decided to make the winged unicorns that show up all around the mansion their group symbol.

A little info on their abilities:

Luka is a magic user and healer, he can summon a staff weapon that doubles as a melee weapon in a tight spot and can use a few types of elemental magic, namely air and fire, in addition to having strong healing magic.

Nao is a little gremlin of a tank who can summon a giant hammer weapon. She can also technically use earth/stone magic, but she often forgoes it in favor of a brute force approach.

C.E. covers ranged combat, she can summon a revolver that fires magic projectiles. These projectiles are basically concentrated light magic, the upside to this is that she doesn't need to take time to physically reload, the downside is that how many rounds she can fire is linked directly to her MP, meaning if she doesn't take care it's easy for her to drain her reserves and end up in a bad spot.

Like I said, these three are thick as thieves and the very best of friends. Of course, not every relationship is so smooth.

Seifer

Relationship Theme: Not Another Song About Love by Hollywood Ending

It's been said that no one knows how to drive you crazy quite like the ones who know you best, and these two are a perfect example of that. Having grown up as next door neighbors in the same apartment block they've known each other since they were in diapers, and generally tend to get along about as well as the proverbial cats and dogs. They bicker about anything and everything, often to the point their respective friends will wander off together to hang out until they burn themselves out.

And yet... They find themselves drawn back together again and again. No one knows them the way they know each other, Seifer knows about the shelves full of photo albums and scrapbooks C.E. keeps in her room, C.E. knows about the movie that Seifer watches over and over even though he knows the script by heart. They know just what to say to set the other off like a fireworks show, and where they hide when they get lost in their head. If one is in real trouble the other is the first one to come running and when everything is just too much they know they can count on each other for a shoulder to lean on, no words needed. And somewhere along the way childish rivalry began to grow into something more, something deeper.

Not that either one is quite ready to admit it.

Bonus points if anyone can figure out what any of the blurred posters in the background are. Hint: They're all Covers/Official Art for Square games (They're also all things that have influenced the developement of C.E.'s character, but I doubt anyone but me can draw those connections lol)

[shephar]

It came to me in a vision (hah).

Furina (Genshin Impact, what else did you expect at this point) x Persona 3 (Reload, specifically).

It's under the cut, seriously what do you expect. Spoilers for P5's Black Mask, and P3 in general, and the end of P2

Warnings: Canon-typical suicidal imagery, death, the everlooming concept of death being inevitable and unstoppable even with supercool magic powers : )

"Come! Typhon!"

Furina's a special case in terms of Persona Users, she's much like the Black Mask in that she has two Personae, except she's not a Wild Card, Furina's just fucked up.

Her main, damage dealing Persona is Oceanus, the Greek Titan of Seas(hah) and Waters. This form mainly uses Aquas*, Mudo/Ei, and Buff skills. Oceanus favors Attack and Speed.

Her secondary, support Persona is Poseidon, the Greek god of the Sea. This one uses Aquas*, Hama/Kou, and healing skills. Poseidon favors Defense and SP, having higher HP and SP stats than Oceanus.

*Aquas is actually a damage type from the Persona 1 and 2 games, which was later taken out for reasons I didn't know.

Side note, the Bless and Curse skills are blatantly just in reference to the Ousia and Pneuma blocks in Fontaine.

"Well, I'm going to die anyway, so why not join SEES?"

Furina, because I hate myself, is basically just dying throughout the story of P3. In the story it's theorized that it's because she has the two Personae and that normal, non-Wild Cards normally aren't able to handle more than one Persona at a time*.

However, that's completely incorrect the player will learn during her S.Link, she has two Personae because she's just fucked up and possibly because she's dying**.

*I HC this came to be because of the world split after P2 and thus the people in general left their original souls behind, only leaving with unknowingly a fragment of themselves after the Split.

**I've thought about what would happen if a P3 Persona User was literally just dying, completely unrelated to their Persona, and I've thought that they just get stronger, in this AU it may or may not have affected her ability to summon two Personae.

Or, maybe, the knowledge that even if shooting herself with the Evoker doesn't kill her, she will die due to whatever illness she has anyway. Who knows : ).

"Furina, a third year at Gekkoukan High, suffers from an unknown illness."

Her ultimate Persona is Odysseus. I was going to do Focalors but that's obvious so I didn't. Odysseus, instead of having Bless or Curse skills, has stronger Buff and Healing skills, like P5R's Neo Cadenza but it also heals 15 SP.

Odysseus has a high SP stat but lacks HP, instead favoring hitting incredibly hard with Aquas skills and making sure not to die with their Dia skills.

"Things are getting interesting! Let the show go on!"

Her Arcana is The Actor, which is much like the Jester in P4 in that it's another name for the Fool, in this AU, at least. Or the Star, depending on which you like more.

Her Tarot card is meant literally in that she's putting on an act of being happy all the time, because, you know, she's dying and fighting literal monsters from hell itself.

She's putting on a Persona, you could say. I'll see myself out-

"So what! If the world ends either way, I'm going out fighting. I won't keel over like an animal!"

When the Choice during Christmas comes around, she's very vocal and ready to fight Nyx even before anyone else gets the chance to contemplate it. She's been fighting for a happy ending her entire life, so of course she's going to fight even when it's hopeless.

If the player chooses to kill Ryoji, even after she loses her memory the S.Link will be permanently reversed unless you reload (hah) or do NG+

To her, not putting up a fight when both outcomes are equally terrible makes not a lick of sense.

"Truthfully, I thought Nyx would be... A lot scarier?"

Choosing to fight Nyx Avatar is how her Persona is evolved, her will to fight is fully realized.

"I feel a little stronger, but I think it's the adrenaline talking?"

The Ultimate Persona of the Actor Arcana is Focalors.

"It's strange, it feels like this year flew by. What... What did I do this year, anyway?"

She doesn't remember the Dark Hour immediately, however she remembers quicker than most. This is because she is Just Like That, AKA her natural affinity for both Curse and Bless/Light and Dark elements and her dual Persona is what makes her just a little less susceptible to her mind being messed with than the others.

She remembers after the P3 Protagonist, but a day or two before the other party members, basically.

"Close your eyes, we'll be here when you wake up."

Extras:

She is banned from the kitchen.

Her S.Link is night time only, and it's unlockable fairly quickly, not requiring any Social Stats, even raising the players Social Stats so they're optimal playthrough for Orpheus Telos isn't interrupted.

If her S.Link is done before completing Akinari's, they have an interaction where they chat about dying at a young age. Teehee.

She dies like a week after the Protagonist.

This took six hours since I'm working and easily distracted.

[gamblingrewards]

BDG Game: Where Performance Meets Precision in Every Bet

In a world full of betting platforms that overpromise and underdeliver, bdg game stands out by doing the simple things right—and doing them fast. With a clear focus on user experience, real-time performance, and local relevance, bdg game is earning the trust of bettors who value consistency, clarity, and control over every wager.

From the moment you log in to bdg game, it’s clear the platform is designed for efficiency. Sports categories are easy to browse, odds are sharp and well-presented, and the bet slip is just one tap away from confirmation. Whether you’re betting on cricket, football, or a live event that’s happening right now, everything feels smooth, intuitive, and ready when you are.

Live betting is where bdg game really shines. Odds update in real time—no lag, no delayed data. You can react instantly to what’s happening on the pitch, whether it’s a sudden goal, a batting collapse, or a last-minute substitution. That level of responsiveness turns betting into a strategic extension of how you watch and understand the game.

The platform is also fully device-agnostic. Whether you’re using a smartphone in portrait mode, a tablet on landscape, or a laptop with multiple tabs open, bdg game adapts without any glitches. No app installation is required; it runs perfectly in your browser with the same lightning-fast performance across devices.

What truly sets bdg game apart is its rewards structure, which goes far beyond a one-time signup bonus. Users get access to ongoing cashback, leaderboard competitions, reload bonuses, and milestone-based incentives. These aren’t just flashy banners—they’re real benefits that keep players coming back and rewarded for their time.

Security is taken seriously, too. With bank-level encryption, secure logins, and transparent transaction history, your account and funds are always protected. Deposits and withdrawals are fast, with full support for UPI, Paytm, Google Pay, and other local payment options. Everything works, and it works fast.

One of the most appreciated features of bdg game is its local customization. The platform supports multiple Indian languages and adapts to local betting preferences, making it feel relevant and easy to use for players across different regions. Whether you’re in Delhi, Mumbai, or Hyderabad, the experience feels made for you.

To keep things engaging, bdg game also adds a community-driven angle. Through features like shareable bet slips, prediction contests, and public leaderboards, bettors can interact with others, measure their performance, and even pick up tips by seeing what strategies top users are applying in real time.

If you’ve been searching for a platform that’s as serious about your betting experience as you are, bdg game might just be the best decision you make this season. It’s fast, secure, locally relevant, and designed with performance at its core.

For users who demand more precision and less frustration, bdg game is the all-rounder platform that delivers—bet after bet, game after game.

[darkx-the-dragon-kn1ght]

Chapter 50- Part 13

Hmmmm…if Radomus really is a former member of Team Meteor, then it does stand to reason he’s got more skeletons in his closet than I first thought. I just hope this doesn’t mean his intentions with the Amethyst Pendant are more nefarious…I don’t think he was lying about not abusing Xera’s trust, but who the heck knows at this point?

Is it bad that I completely forgot about the plot point of the guards to Carnelia being asleep? Listen, a lot’s happened since Fern brought it up, there were more important things to deal with!

I mean, that’s not too far from the Nature Center, and the team could REALLY use a Recovery Machine, so…yeah, why not? Let’s have Xera and Cain take a nice little walk together!

Y’know…with all the talk of family and loyalty throughout this session…earlier, I was thinking of it largely in the context of Luna and the people she’s connected to, the found family with Radomus and Gardevoir, but…that really can also kinda apply to Xera too, can’t it? 

I mean- maybe “family” is a bit much at this point, but she’s become very loyal to a bunch of people throughout her Reborn journey, so it’s definitely approaching the found family status. Like I said earlier, I don’t think this realization has fully crystallized in Xera’s head yet, but…we’re almost halfway through the game I think (almost to nine Badges out of eighteen), she’ll get there soon, I’m sure.

Well, here we are again, after spending so much time surrounded by the blacks and grays of 7th Street and the…warm browns of Subseven Sanctum. Now I just need to get back to the Nature Center, because the party is looking very…

Healed?? Oh! Cain gave us a full heal! That’s super great, actually! Now I can go right back to the labyrinth to find the entrance to Iolia Valley! …Or, well, maybe I should restock on healing items before then…

But those plans will have to wait until next time. All in all, this session (read: these last two chapters) was quite the rollercoaster- lots of ups and downs, it was pretty touch-and-go at some points, the very definition of “it’s so over”/“we’re so back”, but we persist despite it all! I survive, Xera survives, we all survive! And very soon…we’ll be ready to take on the ninth Gym, get that Badge, and mark the Reborn League halfway done.

And of course, we’ve still got all the burning questions left by this latest adventure! What exactly is Iolia Valley? Is Xera truly ready to take on Luna and her Dark-types? Will Gardevoir have a new episode of her news program broadcasting? Will Radomus ever explain himself before things go completely off the rails? Will I decide if Xera has parents or not? 

All of these questions and more will possibly be answered, so join me next time to see! Until then, farewell!

CURRENT TEAM:

Riptide

Species: Feraligatr

Gender: Male

Level: 63

Ability: Sheer Force*

Item: Protective Pads

Brave nature; Alert to sounds.

Glare

Species: Arbok

Gender: Female

Level: 62

Ability: Intimidate

Item: Black Sludge

Naughty nature; Highly curious.

Bloom

Species: Roserade

Gender: Male

Level: 64

Ability: Technician*

Item: Big Root 

Docile nature; Alert to sounds.

Prong

Species: Vikavolt

Gender: Female

Level: 63

Ability: Levitate

Item: Zoom Lens

Rash nature; Loves to eat.

Crater

Species: Camerupt

Gender: Female

Level: 63

Ability: Magma Armor

Item: Quick Claw

Hardy nature; Often scatters things.

Kirin

Species: Girafarig

Gender: Female

Level: 63

Ability: Sap Sipper*

Item: Twisted Spoon

Quirky nature; Thoroughly cunning.

CURRENT BOXES:

NUMBER OF RELOADS: 44

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[oc-cinematic-universe]

Oooo okay so since u take asks here I would LOVE to hear how Eden kills Reverie and what the breaking point is for Eden to do so?? Reverie’s reloading causes so much pain to Eden so is it that and is the kill reluctant or desired, by that point what are Eden’s thoughts towards Reverie?? —music anon 🎶

MAN. I THINK ABOUT IT. OK, SO, THIS NEEDS A PROPER FULL EXPLANATION FOR YOU TO TRULY UNDERSTAND THE MINDSET EDEN WAS IN

it all came to a boiling point when they finally hit "the end" of the game. the final boss. they were getting ready to fight engel, with eden far past her limits before they had even started. she was dissociating hard because she hated every second of this but knew that she Had to do this. it was her role. reverie had made it so clear to her this was all she was made for.

she was dissociating hard enough she didn't think very hard about it when the menu for the save file opened up in front of her. in a daze, curious, she saved over reverie's file. and immediately it began to glitch. it was small, but it was glitching, but reverie (who hadn't noticed) was calling her over to start the fight, and she figured they could figure out what was wrong later, if it even mattered since there was a great chance the game was about to end anyways

eden began dissociating even harder than she already had been, feeling like she missed out on half the fight immediately. reverie was yelling at her to do Anything while barely dodging engel's attacks. eden could barely feel the sword in her hand as she held it up. she didn't remember moving closer to engel, and engel.... didn't seem to notice her at all. it was so. painfully easy. to lift up the sword. and cut off their head.

eden had never seen reverie so happy. they hugged her, spun her around, laughed, she'd never seen them so Genuinely Happy. so maybe it was ok... she was truly honestly just happy they were happy. she was so happy it was over and she could finally rest.

but the game didn't end. not the way reverie expected.

the menu that popped up only offered reverie 2 choices. continue. or start over. there was no option to leave. there never was an option to leave. reverie is just as part of this game as any of the npcs, they had just refused to see that until now. this game is the only reality they have and it was never going to let them go.

so. reverie began laughing. collapsed onto their knees laughing hysterically with no emotion behind it. and before eden could even begin realizing what happened, reverie pulled up handfuls of files of the code and Destroyed It.

the game started fully collapsing from the inside out. the room they were in began losing textures, they were falling and then they weren't, eden felt sick in ways she couldn't begin to describe, it felt as if the world itself was screaming in her head as it shook and flashed trying to keep itself together. all while reverie kept laughing and destroying more of the code.

somebody had to stop them.

eden needed to stop them.

she shoved her sword fully through their chest. she didn't have a choice. they seemed so surprised and confused, just for a moment, staring at her with bewilderment. but painfully, the laughed again, pulling her hands closer to them, shoving the sword even further through. It Didn't Matter. They Both Knew This Didn't Matter. the game would just bring them back. just like every other time. she knew that right? this didn't change anything.

so they kept laughing, eden frozen in place with panic, and they both Waited. and waited.

reverie coughed up blood and couldn't hold themself up anymore. nothing happened. they fell to the floor, sword still in their chest, as eden stepped back in shock. nothing happened. they desperately opened up their save file trying to figure out what was wrong (nothing happened) and they discovered exactly what was wrong (nothing happened) as they read the name on the file and found it wasn't theirs anymore

right as both reverie and eden processed what had just happened, the game exploded behind their eyes. it was trying to load a save that didn't exist anymore. it couldn't bring reverie back because they didn't have a save anymore. but it had to bring them back. but it couldn't. it caught itself in a loop and everything Screeched like metal on metal, or like a dying animal, as it began to completely unravel itself. then everything went black.

[linuxgamenews]

DROSS Demo Update 0.8.1: New Features and Improvements

DROSS Demo Update 0.8.1 for the epic FPS roguelike game adds new features for Linux, Mac, and Windows PC. Thanks to the creative team at Team_Derelict for making this all possible. Aiming for a release later this year on Steam. Team Derelict is eager to announce that DROSS is taking over with Demo Update 0.8.1. Bringing a lineup of new features — fresh weapons, new enemy types, and creepy Dross nest infestations. Plus loads of fixes and tweaks to make Linux gameplay smoother. So if you're into FPS roguelike games with a heavy dose of horror, you’ll definitely want to dive back in and see what’s changed. DROSS Demo Update 0.8.1 throws you into a derelict facility crawling with alien bugs—the Dross. As you explore this spooky, procedurally generated world, you’ll collect powerful weapons and gear to help you survive. Each run is different, keeping things fresh (and terrifying) every time you drop in.

The DROSS - 0.8.1 demo Update Features New Weapons

First up in Demo Update 0.8.1, we've brought back the Plasma Rifle and the Automatic Shotgun in DROSS. These bad boys are higher-level, so they’re a bit tougher to snag. You can grab them in the shop (for a price) or track them down in armories as you level up. Time to bring some serious firepower!

Armored Enemies

Now, some enemies are coming at you with face armor. This makes them spawn slower and move a bit slower, but also makes them a tougher target. As you progress and start landing more headshots, you’ll see these armored enemies pop up more frequently.

Nest Infestations

Things are getting creepier with nest infestations across levels. You’ll see more enemies around these areas, which are now visibly infested on your map. In the Demo Update 0.8.1, tThe higher the infestation level, the stronger the red marks on the DROSS map. So, if you see a red zone, be ready for action!

Improved Enemy Director

Our updated Enemy Director now keeps tabs on how you’re doing in-game – shots fired, damage taken, accuracy, all that good stuff. This should help balance the combat, giving you breaks and ramping up the action depending on your performance. It also affects which types of enemies spawn, so every run will feel more dynamic and suited to your skills.

DROSS Demo Update 0.8.1 Trailer

Polished Details

We’ve added tons of small touches. Locked doors now glow red, explosions add some smoke and light, grabbing items out of combat has its own animation, and time slows slightly when selecting grenades or switching weapons. These Demo Update 0.8.1 tweaks should add up to a smoother, more immersive DROSS game on Linux.

First-Person Animation Fixes

We ran into some issues with first-person animations, mainly with arm and hand rotations that caused…well, some wild spinning! It was quicker to rework animations from scratch, so things look a bit different. Now, switching from holding a weapon to guarding is smoother, and you can even guard without a weapon. Some animations aren’t fully polished yet, but they’re getting there.

Corridor Themes

To make each floor feel unique, Demo Update 0.8.1 has different themes for the DROSS corridors. It’s simple for now, but it adds a bit of atmosphere as you go deeper. This will continue to evolve based on feedback, so let Team_Derelic know what you think.

Player Luck & Shops

We’ve introduced a Luck stat that affects item drops and shop discounts. Higher luck means better chances for goodies in boxes and sales in shops. You can boost your Luck in subtle ways as you play, adding a nice layer of strategy to item hunting.

DROSS Demo Update 0.8.1 Bug Fixes and Adjustments

We’ve tackled a long list of bugs and issues based on player feedback. Here are a few highlights:

Fixed problems with some rooms not updating infestation visuals correctly.

Adjusted armored bug AI so they don’t get too close or start walking on walls unexpectedly.

Smoothed out the shotgun reload and grenade animations.

Addressed issues with vending machines not spawning ammo or grenades.

Added map icons for bigger machines to make navigation easier.

And a ton more!

DROSS Demo Update 0.8.1 Final Touches

Lastly, there is some polish around locked doors, item pickups, and ambient lighting. Due to make the whole experience feel more immersive. It's taken a lot of work – and more than a few all-nighters – but it's coming together very well. Remember, the DROSS FPS roguelike is still in development, so keep that feedback coming for Demo Update 0.8.1. Let the dev's know what you like, what you don’t, and they’ll keep working to make it even better. You can add it to your Steam wishlist now if you haven't already. Due to release in Q4 2024 on Linux, Mac, and Windows PC.

[newgames22]

Adversarial Marvels Unveiled - Atlas Fallen's Multifaceted Menagerie

In the captivating world of Atlas Fallen, players can enhance their experience by exploring expansive landscapes and confronting an array of over a dozen distinctive enemy variants. As they glide through the game's immersive environments, they'll encounter these adversaries organized into three tiers - basic, large, and colossal - each tier presenting escalating challenges. To fully immerse themselves in this epic adventure, players might also consider checking out ways to acquire and enjoy new experiences, such as looking into where to buy PS5 games. Large enemies function as mini-bosses, while colossal ones stand as bosses, punctuating the gameplay with thrilling showdowns.

Learning and adapting to each enemy's unique attack pattern is crucial, though Atlas Fallen's overall difficulty, while not excessively high, poses occasional spikes that demand strategic finesse. Upon inevitable defeat, players can swiftly reload from the last save point or retry boss encounters without relinquishing equipment or items. Cooperative play enhances the experience, as exemplified by the seamless partnership between a dedicated explorer and Gaming Nexus Editor-in-Chief Eric Hauter, highlighting the absence of technical issues commonly associated with online co-op.

However, a minor setback arises within this cooperative endeavor: Eric's progress, Essence accumulation, and items do not transition back to his solo game, leaving a poignant caveat that tempers the overall harmony. Despite these nuances, Atlas Fallen's combat gameplay exhibits promise, presenting a foundation poised for enhancement. While the introductory and concluding segments of the game may lack luster, the potential for a more compelling experience remains palpable. Thus, a hopeful aspiration emerges - that adventurers will persevere while exploring the immersive world, unlocking the game's potential, and embracing its intricate interplay of challenge and camaraderie, which might just inspire them to buy PS5 games.

A Breathtaking Chill Action RPG with Unforgettable Graphics and Co-op Excitement

Atlas Fallen might not be reshaping the gaming landscape like a mountain-moving spell, but guess what? When looking to buy PS5 games, it's got its unique charm that's worth checking out. Sure, it's got some quirks like limited fast travel and a world map that's like, "Hello, where's everyone?" But let's be real, the graphics are so breathtaking, you'll want to frame them as posters.

But wait, there's more! This game isn't here to stress you out – it's all about that chill action RPG vibe that's both exciting and laid-back. Imagine unleashing your skills in battles that are fast-paced, but not like, "Ugh, I need a nap" levels of hard. And if you're the kind of player who's all about teaming up with pals, guess what? You can co-op your way through this journey!

Now, we gotta be real, there's a bit of a rocky road ahead. Enemies might pull some sneaky moves, fast travel isn't as breezy as a summer breeze, and sometimes the map feels emptier than my snack stash after a gaming marathon. But here's the deal – the story is like a magnet, pulling you forward with each twist and turn. And the combat? Oh, it's like jumping into an action movie, but you won't need a stunt double.

So, if you're new to the whole RPG thing, don't even stress. Atlas Fallen is like your ultimate guide to the genre, with all the fantasy vibes and combat that's easy to pick up but crazy fun to master. 🗡️🔮

It might not snag the "Game of the Year" title, but trust us, Atlas Fallen is here to leave a mark. So grab your controller, team up with friends, and get ready for an adventure that's gonna make you say, "Who needs mountains when you've got Atlas Fallen?"

Atlas Fallen: Surfer's Paradise of Action

Step into a World of Wonders: Atlas Fallen invites you to an open-world adventure that's as beautiful as it is challenging. Picture a world covered in sand waves just waiting to be surfed, all while you face off against tough enemies. The folks behind this game, Deck13, are no strangers to intense action (think Lords of the Fallen and The Surge), but this time they've cranked it up a notch, using the latest tech to create a game that kicks the last-gen to the curb.

Battle the Evil God: Imagine a world where a mean ol' god is gobbling up all the planet's goodies to stay super powerful and oppressive. In Atlas Fallen, that's exactly what's happening. And guess who's here to save the day? You! You start as an "Unnamed," which means you're part of the underdog squad in this tough world. But hold up – things get mega-exciting when you stumble upon a magical gauntlet. This snazzy accessory becomes besties with your Unnamed self, and suddenly you've got the power to turn things around in this gloomy world of inequality. From the very first battle, Atlas Fallen's non-stop action keeps you on the edge.

Why Atlas Fallen Shines:

Next-Gen Awesomeness: This game isn't just a small step – it's a huge leap into the current-gen gaming universe. Deck13, the genius creators, have mastered the power of modern hardware, making Atlas Fallen a visual masterpiece that's leagues ahead.

Underdog Power: Atlas Fallen flips the script by letting you start as an "Unnamed," giving you a real taste of the struggles in this game world. It's not just about flashy battles; it's about rising from the bottom to make a massive difference.

No Slow-Mo Here: Once the action starts, Atlas Fallen keeps you hooked. The momentum never lets up, so get ready for a gaming experience that's as fast-paced as it is exhilarating.

Stylish and Savage: Deck13 knows how to make things look good while keeping the heat turned up. The visuals, the battles – everything's stylishly savage, making sure you're in for an eye-popping and heart-pounding ride.

So, if you're all about diving into an open world where you can ride sand waves, take down baddies, and turn the tables on an evil god, Atlas Fallen is your ticket to non-stop excitement. Get ready to rock the gauntlet and change the game!

[prettyflyshyguy]

Teehee what if I was to drop most of the C Virus AU Fanfic CH3 right now at 12:28AM... Unless.

Unedited/draft Ch1, Ch2 first half, Ch2 second half, for your perusal, and here’s a very unedited first chunk of CH3 that isn’t quite finished because I have work tomorrow but it involves interaction with Ada and I’m sitting here all :)))))))))) while writing so I hope you enjoy!

Perched atop a building, he scanned the area below. As he was making his way towards the area where Simmons should be, he had heard gunfire. Despite his grizzly appearance, if someone was in trouble he could still find a way to help, surely. A street facing door was suddenly kicked open and a figure stumbled out, with a crossbow of all things in their hands. 

‘No. Way.’ he thought as he carefully descended from the roof, wanting to get a clearer look. 

The survivor fired a shot at something inside the building, before ducking back. A small explosion occurred and a BOW, screaming and flailing stumbled out. It was more grotesque than the other C-Virus monstrosities he’d seen so far, and it looked like it had a chainsaw for an arm. It screamed in agony while the survivor readied another shot. Carefully maneuvering himself behind some rubble, the light from another small explosion from the crossbow’s bolt illuminated the survivors face for a brief moment, fully confirming his suspicions. 

It was Ada, for sure. At least he thought so. She was wearing the same clothes as when he and Helena saw her in the catacombs. The mystery was still there however; which one was the real Ada Wong? Was there even a singular one? Was she just switching outfits and motives in some twisted game?

Flicking a glance back in her direction, she was staring down at the body of the BOW lying smoking on the floor, inert. He shuffled, ever so carefully, avoiding making any noise so he could tactically reposition to try and make contact. He stiffened as he felt the vibration of rubble shift under his foot, a small amount of dirt and rocks crumbling. 

“Now what do we have here.”

Hoping if he kept still enough, she’d think no one was there, he held his breath. His heart rate increased as he heard the soft clack of her boots on the concrete approaching at a gentle pace, a bolt being loaded. No time to think.

Placing his hands on the ground, crouching back, he launched himself over the rubble, ignoring the sound of a bolt  whizzing just past his ear. Spotting a broken window one floor up a building, he leapt into it and backed up against the wall panting, just as another bolt narrowly missed its mark.

“Honey I didn’t have the time to deal with this overly enthusiastic fellow,”

He heard the sound of another bolt being loaded.

“So how about you help a girl out and make this quick and easy for both of us.”

The ‘thwip’ of a bolt pierced the air and one landed on the other side of the room. It bounced off the wall, fell to the floor and rolled slowly towards him. The head of the bolt looked large and blunt and had a small blinking red LED. He didn’t need to guess what it meant as the rate increased, and the bolt exploded in a flash of light and smoke. 

Ada stared at the cloud billowing out of the window, preparing another round for good measure. Her eyes narrowed as a few seconds passed, with no movement. She raised her weapon and aimed at where the window was, but it was barely visible now as the smoke had spread. 

Suddenly the creature leapt through the smoke with frightening speed, grabbing her arm and pushing it away as she shot the loaded bolt in a random direction. It ripped the crossbow out of her arm and backed up as she spun around to face it, reaching for her holster. 

Feeling nothing, her eyes widened as she noticed it was holding her handgun and crossbow. It tossed the bow aside gently, and with elegance she’d never seen from a BOW removed the magazine from the gun and dropped both parts either side of it. It maintained eye contact with her the entire time, its eyes were piercing and displayed a terrifying degree of human intelligence.

Covering up the fear in her head, she smiled.

“I can’t say I’ve ever met a man who’s tried this hard to get my attention.”

She started to pace slowly around as she drew a knife from her belt, the creature mimicked her pace as they circled. 

It began to raise its arms, she dove in with the knife and test jabbed to check its reflexes. It was fast, faster than her. 

Her expression turned stern. It backed up a few paces, eyes focused on her as she furiously walked closer brandishing the knife.

“I’m a very, busy, woman.” she grunted while slashing. “And I don’t, have the time, for stalkers.”

Whatever the hell she was dealing with, it clearly knew the basics of CQC. Dancing and ducking around her every swing and jab, although it made no attempt to hit her back. Suddenly its eyes flicked to something behind her, a distraction and an opening. She thrusted the knife forward but something grabbed her by the ankle and almost toppled her, one hand slamming into the ground, the other with the knife at the ready. Flicking her head to the source, the charred and burnt BOW with the chainsaw arm simply refused to die, it and had a vice grip around her right ankle. The sound of bone and flesh grinding louder and louder as it lifted its twisted machination of a chainsaw arm up as the teeth and bone started spinning again. 

She looked back to the creature in front of her only to find it gone, suddenly turning back to the one grabbing her ankle, her eyes widened as she saw the second creature holding the chainsaw-arm back, with one foot on the BOW’s back. The charred living corpse let out a chilling howl as the creature pinning it down pulled its arm further back, dislocating the mutated tendons and bone, ripping muscle. The bone-tooth blade stopped spinning and the vice grip loosened. Ada sprung back up and turned around to face the creature that by all intends, spared her. It was panting while staring at the charred corpse, seemingly ensuring it was truly dead this time. She took the opportunity and sprung towards it, holding the knife in both hands.

At almost the last second before the knife hit its chest it flung one arm up to push hers back, and grabbed one of her wrists with its other, stopping her completely in her tracks. She grimaced and stared up at its face, meeting its eyes. There was almost a pleading look to them. Its grip on her wrist was firm, but not painful, she kept the knife pointed at its chest but shifted her weight so not as much force was pushing her into its arms. Despite the overcast sky, a small break in the clouds shifted and moonlight illuminated the scene and the creature's face. That’s when she noticed its unmistakable hair, the soft blue eyes. The fact it didn’t even lay a scratch on her. 

“...Leon?”

His face softened and the concern was replaced with the beginnings of a warm smile, he loosened his grip on her arms and started to relax-

Her knee struck his stomach with frightening force, he stumbled back with a grunt.

“That’s for almost breaking my crossbow.”

He smiled slightly as he cocked his head to one side, probably deserved that. He gently collected her sidearm and magazine, grateful to find out despite his hands shifting he was still able to comfortably reload the gun with ease. She collected her crossbow, a pleased smile graced her face as she examined it and found it was not damaged.

“So, cat got your tongue?” her playful tone hid a mixture of contradicting emotions. 

She turned back to Leon who had a hand extended, holding her sidearm out. Taking it back, she took a moment to actually look at him. He always ‘stood tall’ around her, she noted he was even taller now and actually towered over her with an air of confidence after managing to disarm her so carefully. It was hard to maintain a certain level of composure, he had hardly changed and the thought was warm but looking at what had happened was painful. His eyes were exactly the same but she could barely return his gaze without her composure breaking. 

He shuffled slightly, then opened his mouth. Hoping something normal sounding would come out. 

“Aa…” 

The more he tried to force it, the more it hurt his throat. His shoulders shrunk inwards slightly as he turned his head to face away from her, the embarrassment and shame of the situation returning. He didn’t want to face her like this, he was regretting even trying to talk to h-

“Did Simmons do this?”

Giving up the vocal option, he shook his head. He shifted towards a wall, leaning comfortably facing her, with a flick of the wrist he pointed a finger briefly towards her, then folded his arms.

“... It was the bitch in the blue dress, wasn’t it.”

He tilted his head to one side slightly, his expression stern. 

“After everything I’ve seen, it’d be pretty cold of me to just say ‘it’s complicated’ don’t you think?” she joked with a forced smile.

No one was laughing. Leon had a very high level of tolerance for her usual manner of speaking, cryptic and tangential, not today however. His entire life changed the day they met in Racoon City but this blows that experience well out of the water.

“I don’t know who she is, but Simmons made her using the C-Virus. Starting off as a bootleg version of me but it seems like she’s got big plans of her own now.”

His stare was piercing. 

“I’m sorry.” 

His face softened as he raised an eyebrow in surprise.

“Simmons became… A little too attached to me. I wasn’t interested in playing by his rules, let’s just say he took it a little personally when I didn’t reciprocate his feelings.”

She paced around the courtyard as she spoke.

“I don’t know how he did it, but his obsession resulted in him using the C-Virus to create a very imperfect clone of me. A bootleg Ada Wong if you will.”

Leon snorted in amusement, but he maintained his stance. Closely watching as she stood still and looked back at him.

“I’m not working for Simmons. We’re on the same side, I promise.”

Then who do you work for?

The question echoed in his mind. The one time Ada talks with him at length, he can barely say her name. He looked away, frustrated and ashamed of the circumstance. Hearing her walk closer he turned slightly only to feel the warmth of her hand brush up against his cheek, his eyes flicking towards it and back to her as they widened slightly. His arms fell to his side as her other hand gently rested on his arm. Despite the transformation he still felt the temperature of his face increase, not expecting anyone he knew would even be able to accept what happened to him and be so gentle, especially not Ada. 

“I came here to clean up the mess Simmons started but now… Now it’s personal.”

[ephyla]

March of Dragons ‘21 : Fan content prompt: Flying Free

Flying Free

WARNING: Violence

So, this prompt gave me the idea of how Astrid met Axewing. He’s a dragon that appears in the Rise of Berk game. I find this dragon absolutely beautiful and who doesn’t like a dragon with wings that act like axes? That dragon suits Astrid perfectly, after Stormfly of course. 

I couldn’t help myself, I had to add a pinch of Hiccstrid at the end because I love them so much.

Enjoy!

oOo

Astrid was on night patrol duty tonight. It was supposed to be the twins’ turn but Tuffnut has gotten himself injured during their last raid against the dragon hunters. She volunteered to take their place. Unlike Snotlout or Fishlegs, she enjoyed patrols to have some time to herself and would take any opportunity to fly with Stormfly. They were a match made in Valhalla; a pair of warriors with a sense of duty to match.

She scouted all the areas and ticked them off her map, completing her round. Normally, she would be flying back to her hut and get a good night's sleep so she can wake up early and train her stealth skills with Stormfly. Tonight, however, she felt the need to remain in the sky a little while longer. She patted her dragon’s head, gaining her attention. She seemed to be happy gliding through the sky. They were blessed with a warm night, a clear sky, and a full moon; one would be a fool to remain indoors.

“What do you say we take a small detour and enjoy this beautiful night a bit more girl?” Her Nadder squawked in reply, as in to say yes.

Stormfly changed the course of her direction and headed north, opposite from where the Edge was. The gang rarely ventured north, they would’ve but the war against the hunters was most often waging south, not letting them have too much time on their hands to explore much anymore. Saving the dragons and getting rid of the hunters were their main priorities. Occasionally, to save themselves from being overworked and from the constant fear of a new attack, they would go into small groups to explore the nearby islands close to the edge; unless they have a breakthrough with the Dragon Eye, revealing a new species.

The pair were flying over a couple of islands they’ve already discovered before. They practiced some tricks that could be used in battle, but they were also having fun. They started to let their guards down a bit, fully aware that the hunters rarely treaded those waters...Rarely...

Stormfly stiffened, her quills stood upright. Astrid observed the area, fully trusting in her dragon’s instincts. She sensed danger in one of the two islands in proximity.

“What is it, girl?” Before Stormfly could react, a loud roar resounded at the large island to their left. The Nadder waited for her friend’s orders, ready to defend her at a moment’s notice.  

Astrid took out her spyglass to observe the island and frowned. She spotted two ships with the hunters’ insignia. She looked back and knew she was too far from the Edge for a distress call. Not only that, but it would also alert the hunters of a rider’s presence. Right now, she had to assess the situation and only had the element of surprise as an advantage.

“Let’s go Stormfly. We need to be as stealthy as possible for now.” She said as she patted her dragon’s shoulder. She made a noise of acknowledgment and flew in the direction of the distressed dragon.

They made sure they weren’t spotted as they landed close to the source of the sound. They moved within the bushes as Astrid counted the number of hunters. The roars were getting louder but were followed by the hunters’ yells, tormenting the poor dragon. Astrid couldn’t identify it by the sound it made, meaning it was either an undiscovered dragon or a dragon she rarely saw. Curiosity took over and signalled Stormfly to stay still and lay low, to which she complied, eyeing her trainer’s surroundings.

Astrid got closer to the last bush coverage and delicately separated the leaves to spy on the little clearing within the thick forest. Her eyes widened at the sight. The dragon wasn’t just an ordinary dragon. It was a titanwing Timberjack. It donned the radiant red and yellow colours of autumn. The moonlight reflecting on those vibrant scales. She couldn’t imagine how mesmerising would that dragon be under the sunlight, flying high above the clouds. It was beautiful.

A whipping sound resonated followed by the Timberjack’s agonising cries. Astrid frowned at the hunters’ cruelty. The dragon had chains wrapped around his snout, neck, and tail, keeping him grounded. She noticed a couple of dragonroot arrows stuck in his side, but it seemed that being a titanwing helped him not succumb completely to its effects in one shot. She reached behind her back and grab her axe’s handle, ready to attack.

Before she was able to do anything, the Timberjack frenziedly struggled, his razor-sharp wings cutting all the trees in proximity, some falling on the hunters. She saw in the corner of her eye Stormfly dashing towards her, projecting her in the clearing. Astrid landed ungraciously in front of the Timberjack, who suddenly stopped to look at the peculiar Viking.

Astrid got up and looked back at Stormfly and saw her crushed under a large tree. The same tree that was going to land on her. Her heart wrenched. Stormfly just saved her life.

“Stormfly!” She ran towards her dragon but was surrounded by some of the hunters. She took a battle stance and gripped her axe as if her life depended on it.

“Kill ‘er!” She heard.

An arrow flew towards her but she managed to parry it with her blade. She launched an attack, slicing her axe across one of the hunter’s chest. A couple of arrows flew towards her again, and used the injured hunter as a shield, killing him. When the hunters at the back had to reload their crossbows, Astrid saw an opportunity to launch herself towards the sword-wielding hunters with a battle cry that made them look at her in fear.

She was trained her whole life to kill dragons, she was always first in her class until Hiccup showed the tribe a brighter future. A couple of hunters wasn’t going to faze her. She was a fearless warrior, while she depended on the rest of the riders to watch her back during their many raids, she was very capable of fighting on her own.

She parried the many swords coming for her, never letting them have the upper hand, and slashed through the mass with ferocious dedication.

The riders did their best to not directly kill unless necessary. They didn’t enjoy having their hands soiled in blood, especially Hiccup and Fishlegs. They were too soft-hearted, always trying to find another solution to their problems. Astrid, however, doesn’t hesitate. If a loved one was in danger, she will not back down from an enemy and isn’t afraid to slice them down with her trusty axe. She is fiercely loyal like that. It doesn’t mean she enjoys it, but she will handle the guilt and nightmares without any qualms if it meant that she doesn’t get to see the people she loves die because of her hesitance.

With some of the hunters out of her way, she managed to create a passage towards Stormfly. She tried to lift the tree, but it was obvious from the start that she needed the strength of ten Vikings to be able to do so.

“Yer not goin’ anywhere little girl.” One of the hunters sneered at her as another wave approached her. “Nice of ye to bring us another dragon though, Viggo will surely be pleased.” He said as he looked at Stormfly.

Astrid wiped some blood off her forehead and stood in front of Stormfly, ready to defend her with her life. She was covered in blood, mostly from those scums, but she could feel the stinging from a couple of shallow cuts. It wasn’t enough to deter her as she glared at the approaching enemy. She quickly stole a glance at the Timberjack, who laid still as a rock. It was observing her with curiosity. It looked like it didn’t associate her with his tormenters. Clever boy. Her eyes went back to the hunters. Some of them released the chains to provide backup as they seemingly couldn’t bring one Viking warrior down.

“Bring it on.” She jeered at them.

They all charged at her. Astrid managed to avoid their attacks and sent a coupled of them to the ground, ending them with an accurate slice to the throat or a classic chop to the skull. The hunters were heavy on their feet and attacked clumsily. While she was alone, Astrid was quick on her feet, all her moves were calculated; she looked like she was dancing on the battlefield, avoiding a sword here and parrying a rogue arrow there. She never let the hunters land a fatal blow. Her focus was impeccable.

It wasn’t until she heard Stormfly’s distressed cried that she lost her focus. She turned around to look at her and saw a hunter approaching the vulnerable Nadder. Astrid was knocked to the ground, dropping her axe in the process. A heavy boot on her chest held her to the ground. She squirmed and tried to pry the leg off, but she wasn’t strong enough. She looked at the hunter and glared at him with all her might. If she was going to die, she will not die with fear written on her face. She was a warrior through and through and stared at Death in the eye, challenging it.

A strident cry distracted her and the hunter above her. Astrid suddenly felt the weight being lifted from her chest, letting her breathe properly again. The Timberjack managed to partially free himself from the chains since less hunters were holding him down. With a quick swipe of his tail, he knocked the men down as well as the large trunk that crushed Stormfly.

Astrid rushed towards her dragon and looked for injuries. Unfortunately, the Nadder seemed to have a broken leg from the impact and she sported a couple of scratches all over her body. Astrid lovingly caressed her beak.

“I’m so sorry girl, I should’ve paid attention.” Stormfly nuzzled her as if to say it wasn’t her fault.

“Thank you for saving my life, I owe you one.” She hugged her tightly, rubbing her nose against her warm scales. The Nadder purred.

A series of yelling brought Astrid back to reality. She looked at the source of the noise and her eyes widened. The hunters have grown in numbers, probably back up from the ships. She desperately looked at the Timberjack struggling to set himself free from the new invasion back to her injured dragon.

“Stormfly, you need to go back to the Edge, get back up.” Stormfly croaked and nuzzled her. She didn’t want to leave her friend here. “Please Stormfly. This is our only chance for all of us to survive. Do you trust me?” Astrid asked as she raised her hand towards her dragon, she felt the gentle touch of her beak. The rider smiled at her Nadder, giving her a quick hug, silently thanking her.

“Go.” Stormfly took off with difficulty, flying back as fast as she could. Astrid thanked the Gods that her dragon didn’t get her wings or tail too injured.

She turned around and dashed towards her axe, avoiding more arrows. She looked at the Timberjack, hoping it would look at her. To get out of here alive, she needed his complete trust. To her luck, his eyes landed back on her. She nodded at him, almost trying to signal him something before dashing towards the hunters holding the chains. She knocked them down one by one, they were easier to kill as their hands were holding the chains.

The Timberjack felt the grip loosen up and checked the Viking warrior’s surroundings. He spotted a line of archers aiming at her. He swiftly swiped his wings at the tree behind the archers, cutting them down in one fell swoop, sending the large trees tumbling down on the helpless archers.  

Astrid ran closer to the dragon and beckoned him to lower his head, which he did, trusting the girl to help him. She pried the chains off his snout, hoping he had enough firepower to get rid of the remaining hunters. The dragon noticed some men rushing towards them, he did not hesitate to finally use his fire to burn them and deter the ones reimaging on the side-line. They didn’t look so tough anymore. Losing to a chained dragon and a girl with an axe was a major hit to their egos. They had all the advantages on their side and yet they were helpless. Viggo was not going to be happy.

The Timberjack nudged Astrid with its snout. She looked at him, he didn’t seem to have an aggressive personality, which is probably one of the reasons he was captured in the first place. She raised her hand towards him and let him close the gap between them. She heard him purr.

“You’re absolutely extraordinary.” She said, her eyes filled with wonder. The dragon seemed to like her from the start and hoped he liked her enough to let her climb onto his back.

“Yer not getting away with our prize, girl.” She heard an annoying voice sneer. She rolled her eyes and turned around. The remaining hunters regrouped and were ready for another round. Astrid was already tired after fighting alone and she assumed the Titanwing was too. She glanced back at him and then at his flank where two arrows were sticking out. She hastily grabbed the arrows, looking at the dragon for confirmation. He just stared at her, not doing anything. She considered this enough and pulled. The dragon roared in pain but didn’t attack her. She was surprised at how fast he trusted her despite having a bad time with humans.  She just hoped he trusted her enough for her to climb on his back. They were tired and outnumbered and their best option is to fly away from this wretched place.

Astrid placed her hands on his shoulders, ready to jump on, but the Timberjack was a smart one and lowered himself enough for her to climb on with ease. He spread his wings and took off with a bit of difficulty, probably due to his injuries. Astrid held on tight as he cut through the surrounding trees, falling on some unfortunate hunters. With a mighty beat of his broad wings, they flew towards the sky, finally free.

While they enjoyed nesting in forests, Timberjacks were known for flying at a considerably high altitude, to which Astrid wasn’t accustomed to with Stormfly. She felt a colder wind blow through her hair, her cheeks reddened, but she didn’t feel the cold. The dragon produced great heat underneath her as compensation and she felt completely at ease sitting on a wild dragon. It wasn’t often that she rode a dragon that wasn’t her Nadder, it felt strange. While she had to constantly lean forward and keep ahold of her saddle as a Nadder’s back curves downwards, the Timberjack didn’t have legs pulling itself down, keeping a straight back in flight. Astrid had more stability and his gigantic wings, bare of spines provided more room for her to sit. She felt the powerful beat of his wings as they soared majestically through the air. She felt so light. She felt free.

Astrid spread her arms, savouring the cool air, and let out a laugh as the dragon playfully cut through the clouds for fun.

“Oh my Gods, this is amazing! You’re amazing!” She blissfully shouted, giving the dragon a pat. “What I wouldn’t give to have wings acting as axes.” She joked. Her eyes widened, “Hey, that’s what I’ll call you. Axewing! How about that?” Axewing let out a shrill roar, expressing his approval. Astrid laughed again. “A fitting name for a warrior. Gods, for a moment I thought we were done for.” She admitted.

They soared for a while, enjoying their newly found freedom. Despite not knowing each other for very long, Astrid knew that she found a connection with this dragon. Of course, Stormfly will always be her dragon soulmate, her best friend, but she saw a fighting spirit in him that reminded her of Stormfly. She was sure they would get along great.

Suddenly, she heard the familiar strident whistling sound of a fast-approaching Night Fury. Toothless blended with the dark sky, so she was thankful that Hookfang was accompanying him, he was easier to spot thanks to his fire-coated scales illuminating the sky. Astrid beckoned Axewing to fly down and join them as the riders haven’t spotted her from up high.

They blocked their paths, forcing them to abruptly stop. The riders’ eyes widened as they saw who was riding the Titanwing Timberjack.

“What took you so long?” Astrid mused.

“Astrid! You’re okay!” Hiccup exclaimed; relief evident in his voice. “We were so worried something bad happened to you when Stormfly came back without you and a broken leg.”

“How is she?” She asked, a worried look etched on her face.

“Fishlegs is tending to her. He said she’ll be fine as long as we keep an eye on her recovery.” Hiccup answered. Astrid let out a relieved sigh.

“Ugh, by the way, who’s this and why are you covered in blood?” Snotlout pointed at the Timberjack and then back at the bloodstained Viking warrior.

Astrid patted her new friend, “That’s Axewing, and long story short we ran into a large group of hunters capturing this poor fella, I’ll explain more to you once we’re back at the Edge.” She nudged Axewing to resume their flight back home, Hiccup and Snotlout following on their tail.

Astrid turned around and asked, “By the way, how did you find me without Stormfly?”

“I saw you flying north while I was on a flight with Toothless. We’ve flown there a couple of times in the past and there aren’t a lot of islands nearby, so our best bet to find you was to check them all.” Her betrothed responded. Astrid nodded, facing forward again.

“Hey, Astrid?” She saw Hiccup guide Toothless next to her in the corner of her eye. She looked at him with a raised eyebrow. “I’m glad you’re safe.” She smiled at him and nodded, still gazing at his beautiful green eyes.

“Ugh, enough eye-fucking already. I’m still here, do you have no sense of decency? Gods!” Snotlout’s voice resonated from behind the couple, who simply ignored him.

oOo

I don’t know if it completely fits the prompt, but that’s the idea I had. Hope you liked it!

[yoongi-sugaglider]

Daegu Quarantine

Jungkook x reader

Gang/ zombie apocalypse au

Warnings:

Gore, violence, zombies, mention of drugs and drug dealing, weapons discharge in self defense, main character death, zombies, course language, zombies, drinking, did I mention zombies?

Summary:

They were the top of their game, known throughout the city as the smartest and most dangerous crew to ever hit the Daegu streets. But what’s going to happen when this group of young men encounter something right out of a horror film?

Word count:2282

Part 11===Part 12===Part 13

“There’s no way we’re making it there on time.” Namjoon grumbled as those of us that’d volunteered to go suited up.

“I mean you’re welcome to stay behind.” Having tucked the last of my ammunition clips into my belt loop I glanced up at him, a bit of challenge in my eyes as I looked him up and down.

“Now, now children, no arguing. We haven’t got time for this. Joon if you don’t want to go, stay here with the others and hold down the fort.” Despite his words Jungkook’s voice left no room for argument.

Namjoon grunted, crossing his arms over his chest and leaning his weight into the door frame. “I’d rather we all went. It’s not safe Boss.”

“I’m well aware, Namjoon. But one of our own needs us. Family doesn’t leave family hanging. No matter what.” The finality in Jungkook’s voice rang through the room, instantly sobering all of us and causing us to subconsciously straighten our spines with pride.

Jeanette walked into the room at that moment, eyes going wide at the tactical vests and weaponry being distributed between us by Seokjin.

“Uh...I was going to ask if there was anything I could do to help but…”

Jungkook shook his head, giving her a soft smile. He smacked a fully loaded clip into his gun and after ensuring the safety was on he tucked it into the holster attached to his bulletproof vest. “No, Tae’s gonna hang back here with you and Jimin and Namjoon are gonna be here to watch the place. Unfortunately you’d just be a liability if you came along.”

“Yeah...I figured. I’ll uh...do laundry or something.” She shrugged, brows creased with worry as she turned to Yoongi who was finished loading up and was now approaching her silently.

I turned from them, giving the quiet assassin a moment to speak with her in private.

“Hobi, you’re sure you’re ready to go out there?” I tried hard to keep the uncertainty out of my voice but I could tell a bit of it leaked through. The inflection alone seemed to hurt his pride as he scowled in my direction.

“I’ll be fine.” His curt words were cut short by Jungkook striding towards the front door.

“Let’s get this done.”

***

It didn’t take us long to get to the main street that ran through the middle of town. Thanks to our last excursion we’d learned to scale the roofs of buildings as often as possible to avoid the chatterers wandering in loose packs throughout the city. When it came down to it, they were the least of our worries with what we were about to walk into.

“Building coming up at 9 o'clock Boss.” Taehyung’s voice crackled to life in our ears, slightly startling us but not enough to throw off our concentration as we lined up in the alleyway across from the massive hotel.

The street was filled with motion from what I could see over Jungkook’s wide frame. Flames licked at the cars and bodies littering the road from the explosion we’d heard through the video call. Small clusters of the chattering monsters ambled about, having been drawn by the noise but without motivation to do more than move about like cattle without a purpose.

“Rose says the bottom three floors were pretty heavily booby trapped since the place emptied out the other day during all the chaos. The people that were left alive are huddled up in the floors above and below her but nobody’s on her floor….yet.”

I sighed, acknowledging Tae’s information through the tiny hidden speaker in my earpiece. I knew Jungkook had heard him but he was too busy formulating a plan to get us in and out safely to answer at the moment.

“Is there a backdoor in?” Yoongi’s voice was clipped, evidence of either his nerves at being down on the ground and exposed or at the situation in general. I wasn’t sure which and was too busy watching our surroundings to ask.

“Yeah but it’s a single entrance exit situation. No roof access either...but it looks like the building next door might just be close enough for you to window hope to the fire escape. It’ll be a floor below Rose’s but it’ll get you in without having to worry about any East side surprises.”

Hoseok groaned. He hadn’t had any issues keeping up so far, but jumping from a window to a fire escape, let alone one that was 8 stories above street level seemed like it would end up being a struggle for him.

“You’re welcome to stay behind if you think it’s going to end up being an issue.” Jungkook glanced back to Hoseok, having read the man’s frustration before he could even speak a single word.

“Nah, you’re gonna need all the fire power you can get. I’ll manage, gimp leg be damned.” Hoseok grinned, a strangely maniacal expression that did not suit his usual sunshine demeanor in the least.

Seokjin, who’d been quiet through most of this, shifted the massive bag on his shoulder and cleared his throat. “If we’re gonna do this we need to move now. That woman isn’t gonna have too much longer if we keep pissing around like this.”

Jungkook nodded, shouldering the shotgun he’d taken with him and nodding towards the building beside the hotel.

“Y/n take point. Hoseok and Jin, I want you two center and Yoongi and I will take up the rear. We move fast, no hesitation. We don’t have much for obstacles and Tae’s got his eyes on us from the sky so we should be able to get there pretty quick.”

We nodded our affirmation at the orders and after taking a last moment to check that our safeties were off we moved.

A rush of adrenaline flooded my body as I darted out into the open, dodging a burning pile of clothes and taking down two moving figures that’d spotted my movement. I tried not to think of what the burning mounds could be as I pushed past an overturned car and moved towards the middle of the four lane street. That was something I would have to unpack later, once I was safe.

My mind barely registered the shots being fired behind me, knowing that the bodies dropping before me that I wasn’t taking down were being handled by the boys behind me. 

I made my way into the second set of lanes, grimacing when a body stumbled in my direction. I could barely resist the urge to throw up. It’s entire left arm was missing, nothing but a tangle of flesh left behind though the creature still seemed determined to swing that side of its body around as if the limb was still there.

I fired at it, growling when my own forward momentum caused the bullet to go off target and hit it in the one good shoulder it had instead of the glistening gore covered expanse of its forehead.

“Mother f…” I swore, finger squeezing the trigger twice more and missing once again. It continued to come towards me unabated. It afforded me a moment to take in its glazed , almost milky eyes that seemed manic despite being empty and void of any semblance of a soul.

Instinct took over as the creature came too close for me to safely fire my weapon and not get covered in gore. I couldn’t risk catching the infection. I raised my foot to chest level, using every ounce of my forward motion to thrust my leg into the creature’s chest. It stumbled backwards, uttering a series of what could have been described as very desperate chitters and clicks before falling into one of the questionable piles of clothing and fire.

The thing set on fire almost immediately. It would have been very satisfying and cathartic to watch one of those things be consumed by the fire. But I had other things to focus on, namely surviving this.

Moving past it I rushed to cross the last of the wide road, sweat pouring down my arms in waves of stress as I shot two more creatures making their way towards me.

The second shot didn’t come though and I cursed once again. “I’m out, cover me while I reload!” I shouted behind me. A shadow crossed over me, blocking out the sun as I released my clip and fumbled with my vest for a second round of ammunition while still rushing towards the office building beside the hotel.

The shadow eased some of my panic, stilling the shaking in my hands as I heard Seokjin’s windshield wiper of a laugh cascade over me from between the shadows wide shoulders.

“Come on Boss Lady, we got this.” He chirped, sending me a reassuring grin when I glanced over my shoulder at him.

Finally the clip clicked home just as I ducked beneath the overhang of the office building. I breathed a sigh of relief as the shade cooled the panic glistening on my skin. Though the feeling didn’t last very long. 

The building’s expansive lobby was empty of living souls. Shattered glass and flickering shadows filled it, lending it a foreboding aura as I crunched over debris. My head was on a swivel, darting here and there as my eyes followed the barrel of my weapon in search of threats.

“Clear!” I tried to keep the volume of my voice controlled, not wanting to alert anything hiding around any corners. I turned back to the front door, breathing a sigh of relief when I counted all of my boys filing into the building safely.

“Tae? We got schematics on this place?” Seokjin moved ahead of me as he spoke, weapon forever at the ready as Hoseok switched with me to take point.

I couldn’t help but eye Hoseok, noticing that his limp was slowly getting more noticeable from the amount of moving we’d been doing. He paused at the escalator that took up the center of the lobby, leaning forward in an attempt to catch a better view of the second floor.

“You should have an escalator ahead of you. Non operational due to power loss but still effective.” Came Tae’s reply after a moment of silence on his end.

“So...you’re saying we’ve got stairs right?” Seokjin chuckled at his own joke, ever at the ready for a pun or two. Even if the situation didn’t call for one.

“Yes hyung...you’ve got stairs.” Tae’s voice came out exasperated, clearly the stress of having his friend in enemy hands was getting to him. “Up the...stairs and down the hall to the left should have a line of offices. About half way down there’s a set of emergency stairs that’ll take you to the right floor.”

Jungkook nodded, signalling me to take point once more. We pushed on, never breaking formation as we headed up the stalled escalator and onto the next floor. It was relatively plain. Some of the office doors were open, peeking in revealing that they were filled to some extent with paper covered floors and chairs and sometimes whole desks that’d been overturned in the officer worker’s haste to get out during the initial wave of panic.

At the fire door that led to the emergency stairs I paused, ears trained to the expanse of metal in the hopes that there would be no sound coming from the stairwell.

“There’s no point, door’s too thick babe. Just get it over with.” Jungkook had ended up behind me, a reassuring presence as I steeled myself to open the door.

“The alarm should be disabled, but I can’t guarantee it. Just be careful.” Tae’s voice crackled over the ear piece, though it sounded far off due to the signal being partially blocked in the building we were in.

After taking a few calming breaths I raised my weapon, bringing my free hand up to press the door open. There was no alarm, though there wasn’t any light either so the entire stairwell was cast in some pretty serious shadows.

Our steps were quick as we made our way up and up and up. Landing after landing flew by in a blur, each thankfully empty so we could move with relative safety. At the 8th landing we all paused, catching our breath and taking time to rest our legs.

Seokjin pressed forward from the group, shooting me a bright grin as he handed off his massive back and hefted his favorite weapon into position. 

“Jin...really?” My jaw had dropped as I recognized the bright pink wrapped automatic rifle in his hands.

He snickered, slapping a banana clip into place and posing with the AK on his shoulder like some sort of Columbian drug lord. “Baby girl needed some breathing time so I thought I’d take her for a walk. Better to get her out now than to have to struggle around with the bag once we’re in the hotel.”

Jungkook shook his head, a quiet chuckle forming on his lips as he took the weapon’s bag from me and slung it over his shoulder. After reloading his shotgun he glanced around at us.

“We’re gonna have to move fast. Once we’re in the hotel we’ve got to push with everything we’ve got. Rose will be waiting for us at the elevators so once we’ve got her we get down and out as quickly as possible.” He looked to Hoseok, glancing down at his leg for only a moment before motioning for Jin to open the door.

The stairwell flooded with light.

For only a moment there was silence. And then Seokjin started firing.

[swanqueeneverafter]

The Once & Future Queen Pt.23

Smuggler's Camp. (Having woken both Ella and Henry, Lancelot is searching for answers.) Lancelot: "Has anyone heard from Guinevere?" Henry: (Shaking his head:) "No, the last I saw of her was after we freed Merlin." Lancelot: "Damn. We were set upon by Morgana. I told Guinevere to run while I tried to hold her off, but she got by me." Henry: "I'm sorry, Lancelot. Did you manage to get anything useful from your mother?" Lancelot: "Yes, but Morgana's already retaken Camelot. I'm afraid all is lost." Ella: "You can't know that. You mustn't give up hope." Lancelot: “Agravaine and his men have been sent to find me. In all the confusion I got turned around. Where are we now?” Henry: “We’re heading north towards Lot’s kingdom." Lancelot: (Nods:) “With Camelot in Morgana’s possession, that’s as good a safe haven as we’re likely to find. I can only hope the knights who escaped will meet us there. (Looks around the camp:) Who are these people?” Henry: “They’re, er…smugglers.” Lancelot: “Smugglers?!” Henry & Ella: “Shhh!” Ella: (Whispered:) “Yes and they’re not too thrilled about Camelot’s laws either. So if I were you I’d try and keep my true identity a secret.” Lancelot: (Nods:) “I spent years moving from place to place avoiding those who’d like nothing better than to see me dead. Compared to them, these smugglers shouldn’t be a problem.” Henry: (Pats him on the back:) “I wouldn’t count on that.” Elsewhere In The Woods. (Agravaine rides along the forest path, the soldiers bearing torches follow behind him on foot.) Storybrooke. Swan-Mills House. Morning. (Emma pads downstairs towards the kitchen. Hearing Regina speaking to someone on the phone, Emma leans on the door frame and waits patiently for Regina to finish her conversation.) Regina: (Agitated:) "Oh all right. But if they ask my opinion on you, don't expect me to hold anything back!” (Regina tosses her phone across the counter.) Emma: "Wrong number?" Regina: (Scoffs:) "I wish. Your mother, in her infinite wisdom, has agreed to allow that idiot reporter to cover the search for Storybrooke’s next Mayor." Emma: "Well, I guess it would be in the public interest?" Regina: "Really? And what do you call agreeing to have that same reporter follow us around all day? Because I call it bullsh-" (The doorbell rings.) Emma: "That'll be them now, I guess?" Regina: "So much for enjoying a nice lazy morning, huh?"

Emma: "I'll get the door, you go upstairs and take Maria her bottle." Regina: "All right." (She leaves.) Emma: (Calling after her:) "And change into your happy pants while you're up there! (Attempting to put on a brave face, Emma walks across the hall and opens the front door. However, upon being blinded by the Reporter's camera flash and bombarded with questions before she can even manage to fully open the door, Emma's relatively good mood falters. Forcing a smile, she stands aside:) Won't you come in?" (The Reporter enters and continues to chatter excitedly as Emma rolls her eyes and closes the door.) Smuggler's Camp. (Lancelot stands talking with Henry when he's spotted by Tristan.) Tristan: “You. (Lancelot turns around:) Do I know you?” Henry: (Thinking on his feet:) “Er... this is our friend... Jack. We were supposed to meet up yesterday but he got lost.” Tristan: “Simpleton are you, Jack? (Before Lancelot can reply:) We leave as soon as the horses are watered. Explain it to the simpleton, would you? (Tristan walks away while Lancelot looks at Henry who smiles sheepishly. Lancelot readjusts the sword he acquired from the Lady of the Lake and this catches Tristan and Isolde’s attention:) Simpleton.” Henry: “He’s talking to you.” Lancelot: “I don’t answer to that name.” Henry: “You’re not you, remember?” (Tristan looks down at the sword.) Tristan: “Impressive piece.” Lancelot: (With a slight accent:) “Thank you, sir.” Tristan: “May I? (Lancelot allows Tristan to handle the sword. He examines the blade. Scoffs:) Magnificent. Usually the only place you find workmanship of this quality is the royal forge of Camelot. (Tristan puts the sword to Lancelot’s throat:) Tell me, how did you come by it?” Lancelot: (Without flinching:) “I won it in a card game.” (Tristan narrows his eyes suspiciously then hands the sword back to him.) Tristan: “I hope for your sake that’s true. (Lancelot takes the sword:) I’d hate to think that I was riding with a knight of Camelot.” (Isolde giggles.) Isolde: “Knight of Camelot? Look at him.” (Henry chuckles as Lancelot plays along and pretends not to know how to put the sword in his belt.) Tristan: “You’re right. Their knights may be stupid, but they’re not that stupid.” (Lancelot puts on a big smile and chuckles with the rest of them until suddenly a man walking past them gets shot with an arrow. They turn and see soldiers charging the camp. Henry grabs Ella and pulls her out of harms way. An arrow lands in the tree next to Lancelot’s head and they run to take cover behind the wagon with Tristan and Isolde. Lancelot takes charge.) Lancelot: “Head for those trees, we’ll cover you. (Tristan and Isolde exchange a confused look:) Do you want to live or not?” (Tristan steps forward to question Lancelot, but Isolde grabs his arm and they run off. Lancelot, Ella and Henry fire crossbows at the soldiers through the wagon. Henry tosses Lancelot another bolt and reloads his own crossbow.) Henry: “Now what?” Lancelot: “Now it’s our turn.” Henry: “Who’s going to cover us?” Lancelot: (Smirks:) “Don’t be a simpleton, Henry.” (They take aim and hit another three soldiers, but more keep coming. Lancelot grabs the sword from the wagon and they run off. They take cover behind a fallen tree with Tristan and Isolde. Agravaine directs the soldiers by the wagon.) Isolde: “They haven’t found the cargo.” Tristan: “They will. Besides, they weren’t after the cargo. They were after you. Who the hell are you?” Lancelot: “My name is Lancelot.” Tristan: “The bravest knight in all of Camelot!” Lancelot: “At least I was.” Tristan: “I’ve lost everything I’ve worked for because of the Queen’s good for nothing consort!” Lancelot: “That’s quite something coming from a smuggler.” Tristan: “Well, I wouldn’t have to be a smuggler if it wasn’t for your damn taxes, would I?!” Lancelot: “Those taxes help protect the people of this land.” Tristan: “My people are dead. You call that protection?”

Ella: “Excuse me, sorry to interrupt, but…” (Ella directs their attention to the soldiers charging them from behind. Lancelot and Tristan charge the soldiers and fight side by side. Ella, Henry and Isolde fight more soldiers. One soldier elbows Isolde in the head and slashes her sword arm, kicking her to the ground. The soldier poises for the final blow, but crumples as Lancelot stabs him in the back. Tristan runs to Isolde and holds her. Henry and Ella watch over them ready to defend them from attack.) Tristan: (Whispered:) “Isolde. We had a deal. Partners for life, remember?” Isolde: “When have I not kept my promises?” (Tristan kisses her forehead.) Lancelot: “We need to keep moving. There’ll be more coming soon.” Tristan: “Then go. There’s nothing stopping you.” (Lancelot rolls his eyes.) Henry: “We’ll be safer if we stick together.” Tristan: “I’m choosy about the company I keep.” Isolde: “He saved my life, Tristan. (To Lancelot:) Thank you.” Tristan: “None of this would’ve happened if it wasn’t for them.” (Isolde sighs at his stubbornness.) Lancelot: “She’s injured. She needs shelter and rest.” (Tristan sighs, looks at Lancelot, then back at Isolde. Isolde nods.) Tristan: “Very well. But know this, Lancelot, I do this for her. You and your kind bring nothing but misery to this land.” Camelot. Council Chamber. (Soldiers shove Xena into the middle of a fighting circle where Morgana stands. She smiles at their rowdy enjoyment.)

Morgana: “Behold! Xena, the Warrior Princess. Famed as the greatest warrior to ever live. (Morgana grabs Xena’s face:) Let’s see if that fame’s deserved, shall we?” (Xena scoffs with a smirk and glares at Morgana who walks to sit on the throne. A soldier steps forward, brandishing a couple of weapons while Xena looks around at the braying mob.) Storybrooke. Daycare Centre. (Speaking with the Reporter, Regina talks about a typical day in the life for herself and Emma.) Regina: "Aside from the occasional witch or warlock attempting to take over the world, our days are pretty normal. As Mayor, one of my duties is to ensure that all aspects of the community are catered for. Luckily, we have some very conscientious people in this town. A prime example of that can be found here, at Ashley's Daycare Centre. Now Ashley's story is one you should definitely take the time to explore. A young mother herself, Ashley saw a need within the community and brought people together to share their experiences. What you see here today is all down to her hard work and dedication. Ashley's joy for what she provides to the community really shines through." Reporter: "Are Emma and yourself members?" Regina: "We were for a short time. Emma thought it would be a good idea to get opinions from other 'first time' mothers. Of course, while Maria isn't Emma's first child, she did miss out on raising Henry herself." Reporter: "That's interesting. Having raised Henry alone, did you see the need to attend Ashley's classes?" Regina: (Smiles:) "Initially I didn't quite see the point, having already been there and done it, but I knew it was important to Emma. So we came for the first few weeks and it was actually a lot of fun." Reporter: "So what happened after those first few weeks?" Regina: (Hesitates:) "Apparently I was a little too forthright in giving my own opinions on how to raise a child and I was quietly asked to leave." Reporter: "I see." (Writing some notes.) Regina: (Hastily:) "But, during Emma’s absence, I made a request to return for Maria’s sake. And for myself, if I’m being honest. So today is the first time all three of us are attending in quite some time.” Reporter: “So you would recommend the daycare centre?” Regina: “Absolutely. I highly recommend the centre for all first time mothers." (Regina smiles, a little uncomfortable at how much she’s just shared.) Camelot. Council Chamber. (Xena fights one of the soldiers, dodging blow after blow until finally she is shoved backwards into the surrounding circle of soldiers. Upon being pushed back towards her opponent, Xena is knocked to the floor. Spinning her legs in the air to gain momentum, Xena jumps to her feet and avoids catching a mace to the face. Disarming her opponent of one of his weapons, Xena taunts him.) Xena: “That all you got? I was promised a decent fight. (The man pulls out another weapon from his belt and disarms Xena:) You’re a very angry man, I can see that. Must be hard being so ugly. (The man swings wildly at Xena as she continues:) Children crying, women screaming. (The man attacks again with an overhead swing but misses:) Come on, you can do better than that.”

(Completely unarmed, Xena knocks the soldier to the ground. Her opponent rises to his feet with one weapon left. Xena lets out her battle cry and climbs on his back after punching him in the stomach. The soldier rams Xena into a column, but she dismounts, punches and kicks the soldier against the column. Xena picks up the mace and knocks out her opponent with it in the now silent council chamber. Morgana stands, clapping slowly.) Morgana: “Congratulations, Xena. An admirable display. You’ve earned your reward. (She indicates to someone and they toss a half-loaf of moldy bread at Xena’s feet:) But you’re going to have to do better if you want some more.” (The gathered soldiers chuckle darkly and Morgana motions for two more warriors to step forward. The chanting begins again as Xena prepares for their attack.) Storybrooke. Daycare Centre. (At the end of the day's session, Ashley talks with Emma.) Ashley: "So it's true, you and Regina are really retiring?" Emma: (Nods:) "As soon as we can find a candidate for Mayor, yeah. Maybe you should think about it?" Ashley: "Me? Mayor? I wouldn't know where to start." Emma: "I don't know, look at what you've done with this place. I think you'd make an excellent Mayor." Ashley: (Smiles:) "Thanks, Emma. But I don't think people see me as the City Hall type." Emma: "Hey, remember what I told you the day we met?" Ashley: (Nods:) "People are going to tell you who you are your whole life. You just gotta punch back and say, 'No, this is who I am.' I remember. (Considers:) All right, I'll think about it." Emma: (Smiles:) "You'd get my vote."

Abandoned Farmhouse. Village. (Ella checks on Isolde who is sleeping on the bed while Tristan and Lancelot eat.) Ella: “I’ve cleaned the wound. There’s no sign of infection. So as long as she gets plenty of rest, she’ll be fine.” Tristan: “Thank you, Ella, for everything you’ve done for her.” (Ella nods and leaves.) Lancelot: “I’m sorry I brought this…misfortune upon you.” Tristan: “Well, I may have lost my cargo, but I still have my beloved Isolde.” Lancelot: “Then you’re richer than you know.” (Tristan considers Lancelot and then looks to Isolde. Lancelot watches them sadly, his thoughts turning to Guinevere. In another room, Ella tends to Henry's injuries.) Henry: (Watching her:) “Where did you learn that?” Ella: “Ah, books. I read a lot about medicine in my father's library as a little girl. The books would always stress that a good bedside manner was very important, so whenever some of the local bards would visit the castle, I'd try and remember some of their stories." Henry: (Smiles:) "A writer and a storyteller huh? Well aren't we the pair?" Ella: (Laughs:) "I wouldn't go that far, but there is one story I do remember." Henry: "I'd love to hear it." Ella: "Hmm, okay. Once upon a time, a young woman went into the woods to hunt, but lost her way. For days she wandered in the forest, disorientated and confused, desperately trying to find her way out. She was hopeless. After some time, she saw a man approaching in the distance. At last, she thought to herself, ‘Someone who knows how to get out of this forest.’ When they met, she asked the man, ‘Kind sir, can you please tell me the way out of this forest? I have been wandering for days, but have been unable to find the way.’ But the man answered, ‘I’m sorry. I do not know the way out either. I, too, have been wandering about these woods for days. Let us journey on together. Perhaps, side by side, we can figure a way out.’ After that, the woman was no longer hopeless.” (Timing her story to finish with her ministrations, Ella looks up at Henry who is smiling at her in complete adoration.) Storybrooke. Daycare Centre. (Emma sits down with the Reporter.) Reporter: "How does it feel to be back here after what you went through? I suspect there were times when you thought you'd never attend one of these sessions again?" Emma: "It feels great. That's what most people don't understand about the seemingly mundane aspects of their lives. To be able to have a routine, to have that consistency is something people take for granted. Growing up in the foster system, I was constantly trying to follow someone else's rules or guidelines in order to fit in with the latest family. Now that I have a family of my own, I realise that having that stability is what we're all searching for. Regina and I have always been the outsiders, that's part of the reason we get each other so well. But now that we have everything we've ever wanted, it's time to really enjoy it." Reporter: "My sources tell me that retirement was your idea. Is this true and was there a particular moment that lead you to your decision?" Emma: "Well I don't know who your supposed sources are but yeah, it was my idea. As far as one particular moment goes? I think what really made me decide was watching Regina in situations like this. I mean, look at her. (Emma and the Reporter turn to watch Regina talking and laughing with the other mothers in the group:) A few years ago, that would never have happened. Regina would never have felt comfortable enough to just sit and chat with people without feeling as though they were saying one thing to her face and something completely different behind her back. I love that she's finally at peace and is able to open herself up to new friendships. That's why I suggested we step back and let someone else take the reigns. So that last remaining barrier can come down and she can just be herself. Not Madam Mayor. Not the Evil Queen. Just the woman I love, Regina."

Abandoned Farmhouse. Village. Night. (Henry and Ella hear screams as they sit talking. Henry stands and sees the soldiers’ torches surrounding the village.) Henry: “Agravaine. He’s found us.” (Lancelot, Henry, Ella, Tristan and Isolde watch as Agravaine and the soldiers harass the villagers.) Tristan: “Any suggestions?” Henry: “I might have something. Ella, you with me? (Ella nods:) Everyone else, round the back.” (Henry waits for the others to leave, then he and Ella run towards a cart at the top of the hill. Grabbing a torch and holding against the cart, they start rolling it towards Agravaine. Turning, Agravaine and the soldiers dash out of the way of the flaming cart just in time, but Agravaine looks up to see Lancelot’s party escaping.) Agravaine: “There! Get them!” Forest. (Soldiers chase Lancelot’s group through the woods, Tristan supporting Isolde as they go.)

[spiltscribbles]

211 please! Any ship!

Notes: Thank you bubby! This actually helped me get out a slump lol, i really really hope you enjoy this fluffy mess and I would love to hear your thoughts!<3

A Reblog saves a life!  |  Send Me A Prompt

.-

Annabeth is a fully fledged adult now, honest.

She subscribes to the New Yorker, listens to podcasts in the morning while getting ready for her crummy, right out of college internship in one of the most prestigious architecture firms in the city. She votes even in the primaries  and remembers to reload her metro card before it’s out and has even got a God forsaken schedule that she relies on like a lifeline.

All this to say, Annabeth had really once thunk that becoming an adult meant your life turns stale and your days become monotonous. But that was before she began boarding with three literal definitions of spitfires in a Bushwick apartment way too small for four girls, and way to run down for the countless prank wars waged between them and the boys across the way. 

Annabeth tries telling Piper this one Thursday afternoon while she’s loading her Nerf gun with the water balloons that Rachel’s preparing with such precision that it kinda terrifies Annabeth shitless, if she’s being frank.

“’s too late to surrender now Chase!” Piper bellows, cocking and then setting down the toy gun in a neat row  for the next to be prepared. “It’s about honor now.”

“Honor?” Annabeth repeats in a voice that’s flat enough to cut.

“They’ve won the last two rounds Annabeth,” Rachel tells her, point blank as she ties the next water balloon to be passed off, alabaster skin freckled with paint like always when she comes back from one of her classes. “They’re getting too big headed over this.”

“Yesterday Leo offered to buy me a latte! The little fuck.”

Annabeth’s fair brows knit  together, totally confused to Piper’s sudden flash of anger, but reckons that it would be impossible to understand the perceived slight even if she asked Piper to explain.

“You guys are off your rockers,” Annabeth informs them instead, flickers her gaze over to Hazel for some support from someone who is actually sane. She in turn only shrugs, endeared looking as she returns to her sketches. 

“Et tu Brute?”

“it’s fun,” Hazel says in her southern drawl, which Annabeth once thought was sweet because it reminded her of venturing outdoors in the Virginia foothills when she was a tot. Though now Annabeth has decided  that the accent is actually a ploy  to make her sound welcoming for her pray  before she killed them off. Knows it for a fact that she’s done it with that friend who visits enough that he’s practically living with the guys too, which obviously means he was roped into all this ridiculousness.

“You’re either with us or against us baby doll,” Piper winks Annabeth’s way, starts a new round of ammunition with Rachel. “This one’s for Mama Fisher in the stars!”

“Insane! Fucking insane! Annabeth repeats emphatically before storming out there apartment to grab the mail, suddenly feels accosted with unwelcome nerves when she steps into the elevator only to be met face to face with one of the aforementioned boys across the hall, the objectively good looking, but impossibly kind one.  All ebony locks and crooked grins and eyes the color of sea glass.

Oh fuck.

“Annabeth,” he crows, positively gleeful sounding, which only makes it so her cheeks begin to redden, and her chest contracts.

“Percy, hey how’s it been.”

“Fine,” he says with a one armed shrug, begins scratching the back of his head sheepishly. And God fucking damn it, he doesn’t also get to be cute! That’s not fair! “You headed to work?”

“oh, ah yeah, I mean just for some overtime. We got commissioned for this new thing in Germany of all places, and they kinda need all hands on deck.”

He whistles, low and impressed. 

“Why do I get the sense that they’d crumble without you?” He asks with a quirked brow.

“Because flattery is a great way to make friends,” Annabeth smirks, strolls out towards the back row of mail slots  to get the inevitable pack of bills and adverts that’s waiting for them.

“Oy, I take offense to that Annabeth,” he sniffs, leans against the wall besides her, one leg crossed over the other, effortless in the whole CW pretty boy with a mysterious past shtick he’s got working for him. An even more hilarious thought on account to Annabeth knowing how his ma sends him a basket of homemade, blue cookies every Sunday afternoon, and that he spends most of his free time protesting for action against  climate change with his best friend from literal childhood, a scruffy, adorable dork named Grover.

“Is that right?” She snorts as she shuffles through the letters, tosses away the offer for a free garden gnome from some Lady named Aunty Em, crams a  coupon for a free panty from Victoria’s Secret into her bra, and texts the group chat for Rachel to pick up a letter from her dad and Hazel one from her older brother. 

“Course,” Percy sulks, big eyes glittering a thousand shades of green that it kinda takes Annabeth��s breath away. “I thought we’ve been friends, at least for a while now.”

“You know what they say about assuming Perseus,” Annabeth snorts, hip checking him as she makes the track down to the nearest subway stop, at least a five minute walk. She totally is not utterly elated over the fact that he’s still walking besides her, dimpling down like there were no where else he’d rather be.

“You know I didn’t even think you could allude to curse words,” Percy guffaws, impossibly bright and impossibly real. “I thought you were too prim and proper for that sorta behavior.”

“Shut up seaweed brains,” Annabeth laughs, can’t help the smile that breaks her face in half whenever he’s around.

“No deadass Chase!” he defends, emphatic. “I even bet Jason that you were related to like Grace Kelly or some shit, that it’s like illegal in your familial bylines to present yourself as anything other than perfect in public.”

“You are such a pain in the ass.”

“Oh my God! You did it again! It’s like it’s  Christmas!”

Faux aggrieved, Annabeth rolls back her head in exasperation, eyes alone definitely not enough to emote the proper level of feeling.

“Hey don’t blame me,” Percy raises his hands in concession. “You’re the one who refuses to have fun, like you were a forty year old lawyer.”

Annabeth hikes up her brows, affronted. 

“i have fun!”

“Right,” Percy snorts. “I’m sorry babe but Friday night board games don’t count.”

“Those are fun Percy!” Annabeth argues.

“You wouldn’t know fun if it hit you in the face!” Percy insists, stopping outside the stairwell. 

“And what? Pelleting one another with water balloons like we were Freshman’s in college again, that’s fun to you I suppose?” Annabeth charges, glare firmly set and weight slung to her left hip.

“Why yes Grandma, it is,” Percy tells her, words hugged in a playful cadence that really could entice anyone to commit a felony with him. The bastard.

“You are a prick,” Annabeth informs him waspishly.

“And you don’t always gotta be so stressed. I mean I respect the hustle Chase, but you’re allowed to just chill once in a while, let down your hair and all.” 

“You couldn’t handle that,” she sniffs, pulls out her card to swipe. “If I actually tried me and the girls would ruin you fools.”

“Is that right?”

“Wipe the floor with you,” Annabeth assures.

“Well then, looking forwards to the challenge Chase,” Percy beams, softly tugs on her high pony before walking back to the apartments. It feels like a legion of butterflies are swarming down deep in Annabeth’s stomach over the small contact alone.

“Damn you Percy Jackson.”

.-

“Remind me again why you’re helping? Hazel asks for the third time that Saturday morning as the four sum are crowded around the makeshift map Annabeth had sketched out for them to follow, fully determined now.

“Shh,” Piper swats at her arm, as if physically trying to shoo the question away. “Annabeth we don’t care as long as you explain the plan just one more time.”

“Slower,” Rachel tacks on, gnawing on her thumb nail nervously. 

“Right, well just listen closer ladies, this is a one and done deal, okay?” She’s met by a chorus of nods before she repeats her game strategy, one where each girl takes one of the four main hotspots around the building, skulking in the shadows until the predicted guy ends up there, surprised and defenseless when met by the water balloons of doom.

“I’ve already casually told both Jason and Leo that my parents were throwing us a brunch up state, so they don’t even know that we’re here.”

“God Annabeth if I didn’t think it would ruin our friendship I’d kiss you right now,” Piper sighs dreamily.

“Focus that pretty little head McLean,” Annabeth instructs, elbowing her side caustically. “You’re position is by the gym, Jason always goes there Saturday afternoons cause he thinks it makes it alright for him to get plastered that night.”

“You’re fucking a nerd,” Rachel tells Piper and both Annabeth and Hazel can’t help but nod along.

“No judgment zone!” Piper demands petulantly.

“Whatever,” Annabeth waves her off.  “Hazel you’ll be in the front, waiting for Frank to  come visit, and Rachel you’ll be waiting in the garden area where Leo comes to build one of his freaky gadgets.”

“Totally, you can count on me babe.”

“And what about you Annabeth?” Hazel asks.

“I’ve got Jackson,” Annabeth tells her, tone mock grave as she cocks her own toy weapon determinedly.

“So sexy,” Piper marvels.

.-

Their building rents out a corner on the bottom level to a small bistro with friendly smiles and tasty enough brew that it keeps them coming back. It’s where Annabeth and Percy had first met when he had moved in with the others nearly six months ago. It’s also the first place Annabeth heard his laughter, and where Percy listened when she went on a tirade about her crazy parents and their crazy expectations and how sometimes she just needed space away from all of it. It’s where Percy told her that his mother is the most important person in his world and how he thought he never cared what his father thought of him until he had to make a decision on what he’d major in, and of course he followed in Poseidon’s footsteps. It’s where they stayed up late trading stories about their complicated childhoods and dreams for their futures and the place that Annabeth knew for sure that if she let herself, she really could fall for Percy. For the candor in his brilliant  eyes. For the pretty smile he sports for the sake of his loved ones over himself, and for  the conviction in his beliefs.

Annabeth tries not thinking of any of that when she crouches down deeper in the dark nook behind one of the decorative plants as Percy gets up from his table, tossing out his latte and shouldering his work bag.

It’s now or never.

The moment Percy steps through the threshold Annabeth pounces up and aims. What she doesn’t expect is for him to keel over to block her, and instead of hitting his insanely chiseled pecks, the water balloon hits straight in his face. Close enough and hard enough that the water suddenly darkens to red, mixing with the blood pouring out his nose.

“Holy shit!” Percy cries, pinching his nostrils shut.

“Oh my God!” Annabeth yells, frantically grabs for a pile of napkins from the counter besides her— toppling over a mess of straws and sugar packets in her wake— and then dashes over to press them into his grasp. “I’m so so sorry! I didn’t in my wildest dreams imagine that would happen! I swear!”

Annabeth expects at least for Percy to bemoan the injury, but instead she’s answered by a frankly terrifying boom of cackles.

“Percy? Have you cracked? Did I knock your brains out permanently?”

“When you said you’d ruin us, I didn’t think you’d literally cause physical harm Chase,” Percy retorts, still fighting down bubbles of laughter.

“You’re manic,” she pouts, long suffering.

“And you’re terrifying.”

“Bet it works for you though,” she preens, can’t help but be boastful over the way a blush touches  the tops of his cheeks.

“Talk about adding harm to humiliation,” Percy grouces. 

“Poor baby,” Annabeth mock croons, thinks that today actually might turn out pretty amazing.

.-

She brings him upstairs to properly clean off the blood from his face and to come up with the conditions with at least a temporary truce, definitely not so she can finally trade a totally thrilling snog with him in privacy.

“You drive a hard bargain Chase,” Percy tells her, settling into the sofa as Annabeth unfolds her game of monopoly for them, having proclaimed that it’s a perfect time for her to prove how much fun board games can be.

“Oh hush,” she cuffs him on the back of the head playfully. “You’re just mad I won.”

“More like you committed battery,” Percy contends, pouting moodily, is only consoled when Annabeth leans forwards to kiss him again.

“You looked pretty bleeding— Oh God! Did I just say that out loud?”

Percy dissolves into a peals of laughter once more, and Annabeth tries her damndest to melt into a puddle right on spot.

“I can’t believe I’m so into such a maniac,” Percy tells her, eyes and smile glittering.

“SO rude,” Annabeth sniffs, arms crossed against her chest. 

“But accurate Chase.”

Annabeth doesn’t bother to argue anymore because Percy’s already slanted their lips against one another again, and he’s doing this insane thing with his tongue that it makes her toes curl.

Yeah, today turned out amazing indeed.