assorted-fics

[assorted-fics]

Fics of the Month

Spiderman x Deadpool

Viral by Juilliancares

The whole world thinks Spider-Man and Deadpool are dating, and it all starts because of a TikTok. Or: 6 times the internet speculates that Spider-Man and Deadpool are together, and 1 time it's actually proven to be true.

Scatterbrained and lost in love by jilliancares

“Who flirts with someone when they’re in a committed relationship?” Wade gapes. Spidey’s in a relationship? “I’m sorry,” Wade blurts. “I didn’t realize—” “Whatever,” Spidey interrupts. He takes a step back, standing right on the edge of the roof. “You should’ve told me. It’s not fair to make someone think—” he cuts himself off. Shakes his head. “Whatever,” he repeats. Or: Spidey overhears one side of a phone call between Wade and his daughter, Ellie. Wade's starting to realize that he probably should've mentioned he had a kid sometime in the last five years.

hey you (who the fuck are you) by fancastical

For some reason, Peter thinks Deadpool knows his secret identity so he thinks it's not a big deal to chat with the merc in his civilian identity whenever he bumps into him in various locations. Wade, meanwhile, is confused on why a cute but grouchy nerd keeps talking to him like they know each other but hey, it's New York! Eccentrics are everywhere and this guy is really cute and doesn’t seem to mind hanging out with him! The T rating is specifically and entirely the fault of the title (and all the other cursing that happens after the title).

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood

The Incomprehensible Riza Hawkeye by najio

Rebecca struggles to understand her roommate's sense of humor. Then Riza comes home from a war, and Rebecca struggles to understand her at all.

How To Train Your Dragon

Soaring Soul, Burning Heart by Burnt_Ashes

In this world, Hiccup never tried taming the Monstrous Nightmare in the Killing Arena in front of her entire tribe. She never even graduated from Dragon Training. She left Berk and tried her best not to think about it. Until a familiar face shows up at a tavern years later and she gets her past thrown right back in her face. … Or, in other words, Hiccup is a woman, Astrid is a man, and canon was intentionally and lovingly laid to rest and then picked apart for my pleasure. This is a genderbent!Hiccstrid, Dragon Master!Hiccup AU that nobody asked for, but I’m writing anyway.

Harry Potter

firepower by cassiopeia721

Harry James Potter, Boy-Who-Lived, Chosen One, etc. is a squib with no knowledge of the magical world. By general consensus, he is most useful as potions ingredients. General consensus being unanimous agreement by everyone except one Harry James Potter. But who cares about his opinion anyway? (aka: Harry is having a good day, until the part where he gets teleported into a creepy graveyard with some even creepier... cult members?)

We’ve Been Waiting for You by pancake_surprise (keenbean)

It's a race to St. Mungo's on the morning of Teddy Lupin's birth. One will win, all will cry. A.K.A. a ficlet featuring the rest of the Marauders et al gushing over a newborn Teddy Lupin.

Family Relations by orphan_account

( “Why’re you studying with Padma—” “—It’s Parvati, Ronald—” “—Parvati, sure. Why’re you studying with her?”

“He looked tired and there weren’t any other open tables at the time,” Parvati spoke up, sounding rather absent from the conversation. “He’s been good company, until recently.”

Harry winced. She sounded unimpressed.

“I just thought you were related,” Ron said blandly and Harry had to physically restrain himself from bringing his head down against the table. For fucks sake, Ron. Hermione’s very obvious pre-rant intake of breath sounded like a fucking gunshot, what with how loud it was.

“—Ronald! Just because they’re both Indian doesn’t mean—”

“—We are. We’re first cousins—”

You could hear a pin drop. Harry’s surprised gaze snapped over to Parvati, who saw his confusion and looked at him like she’d never quite seen him in person before.

“Beg pardon?” )

In which Harry realizes that not even he's exempt from how interconnected magical families are.

Avatar: The Last Airbender

Academic Excerpts and the Mortifying Ordeal of Being Studied by Scholars Who Make It Their Full Time Job by Vinces

Zuko and Aang conspired early to keep the Firelord’s identity as the Blue Spirit a secret. Zuko unmasked would only make his spot on the Dragon Throne more tenuous during a time of upheaval in the post-war Fire Nation. Nevertheless, the post-war academics are on it. Who was the Blue Spirit? Aang and Zuko try their best to play it cool. Aang’s pretty successful… Zuko? Well, he’s trying his best. -- Or where two-thirds of the story is historical “articles” set in and referencing the world of Avatar and one third is Zuko (and Aang) navigating a world where there are academic papers speculating about the prison breakout they did together.

Vigilante Zuko AU (A:tLA) by Burnt_Ashes

First Fic: Zuko, being raised in the world of lies and secrecy that was the Fire Nation palace, knew how to spot a scheme a mile away. That didn’t always stop him from falling for them, especially Azula’s, but he did usually know when something was up. He’d fallen for so many of his father and sister’s traps before. But he wasn’t going to fall for this one. … Zuko realizes his Father’s cruelty in sending him after the Avatar way sooner than he does in canon, and because he is thirteen years old and a drama king to boot, he takes inspiration from his mother’s old plays and becomes a vigilante instead. The Fire Nation soon learns to fear the Blue Spirit, while Aang and company are both intrigued and suspicious.

Grassfire by TheBestLouise

Uncle Iroh took a more creative approach to fostering Zuko's appreciation of other cultures. Or, Zuko goes to an Earth Rumble and becomes a rabid fan. When he realizes the Blind Bandit is teaching the avatar earthbeinding, he gives up his quest and decides to pursue other projects. Fire Nation Rebellions, secret airbending societies, and long dead relatives turn Zuko into everyone's Problem. Somehow, this is all Iroh's fault. His apologies might mean more if he could stop smiling like a proud parent.

By Agni’s Grace by Urge

"She offered her prayers and thanks to the gods, particularly whichever one had decided to take mercy on her brother’s fall. She felt a breeze brush past her bangs, one that sounded like a sigh, and thanked them more fervently. She hesitated, then continued with the request that had been resting heavily upon her heart. “Please let Mother keep loving me. Please let Zuko keep loving me,” she whispered, not sure who she was asking anymore. She did not bother asking for her father’s love."

Post-Canon Fire Lord Zuko (and his staff) by RejectsCanon

First Fic: “I just wanted to introduce myself. Your uncle had told me his niece had been thinking of applying to work in the gardens, so I thought I would introduce myself.” Fire Lord Zuko was awkwardly rubbing the back of his neck and a slight blush crawled up his cheeks. Oh my Spirits, Hana thought. Our Fire Lord is adorable. Or, 5 times the palace staff were protective over their Fire Lord because they all love him to death, and 1 time they had someone else do it.

Taking a Break (In) by Duckduck_Scribblerswan (Caellie_E_and_Vaye_R)

After a few agonizingly slow seconds of exhausted, confused pondering, Zuko decided there was only one logical conclusion. “You’re right," he told the assassins, "I’m here to help you kill the Fire Lord.” Like a genius. Caldera City is holding a festival to celebrate finally having enough funds to hold a festival! Although Zuko originally deemed himself too busy to go, Sokka managed to cajol him into attending his own party, in a knock-off Blue Spirit disguise for security purposes. Zuko sneaks back into the palace right in time to catch a group of assassins sneaking out. They failed to find the Fire Lord and assume he's reinforcements. Zuko needs to find who ordered a strike on him before they do something stupid, like order a second one. Obviously, the most reasonable thing to do is join the assassins and hope they don’t figure out who he actually is. Obviously. There’s literally no other option. Feat. Zuko's only two coping mechanisms (mortal peril and improv theater), the world's most incompetent hit team, and another knock-off Blue Spirit who's determined to prove this "Li" isn't who he says he is.

The Cycle by Angelknives

Annya is old. She’s been part of the palace staff for years, and when Izumi arrives, she often finds herself waiting for the other shoe to drop.

Percy Jackson and the Olympians

Estelle is Trying Her Best but Those Olympians Make it Like...Really Hard by CaffeinatedFlumadiddle

First Fic: Poseidon keeps getting offerings from Percy’s baby sister. He doesn’t quite know how to feel about this small child vying for his attention…At the very least he would keep Zeus from blowing up whenever her prayers interrupted council meetings. Or Rick Riordan gave us Estelle Blofis and I am thrilled. She's going to get Poseidon to attend family events even if every god on Olympus kills her.

Son of Sea Foam by CaffeinatedFlumadiddle

“She’ll never claim me,” he whispered. Silena shook her head, eyes wild as she looked around for anyone who could be watching. “My mother doesn’t remember half of her children as it is,” she said with a note of bitterness. “If you do something to impress her, it won’t matter. Return the bolt in her name. She’ll claim you if you act the part. If you stay unclaimed then they'll figure out what you really are," she said, squeezing his hands tightly. Percy's heart sped up. "I - I don't know the first thing about Aphrodite-" "My mother was born of sea foam," Silena cut him off. "And if you're really who I think you are... you are the sea. You can pull this off," she said and touched his cheek. "Get the bolt. Survive," she said. Percy swallowed. "What if I can't act the part?" He asked. Silena's expression went blank for a moment. Slowly, she slipped off her bracelet and placed it in his hands. "If you're going to be one of us... you better learn." Or AU where Percy has to hide the fact he's a Big Three kid otherwise he'll be killed on the spot. Unfortunately for him, unclaimed kids tend to raise the most suspicion... but he might have found a loophole in the form of Aphrodite.

[assorted-fics]

Fics of the Month

Avatar: The Last Airbender

from the ashes by dxncingquxxr

the five times zuko dies and the one time he lives

a subtle electric fire (asef-verse) by agni_kai

First Fic: a subtle electric fire

"Suki," he says, muffled. "Suki, tell me to stop crushing on the hot single dad at work."

Suki doesn't look up from painting her nails. "Go out and bag yourself a DILF, babe."

---

Zuko's insistence that it's him and his kid against the world is being seriously tested by Izumi's new teacher.

Sokka's determination to ignore hot parents is waning more and more as he gets to know the single dad of the new kid.

Everyone else is just waiting for them both to get their acts together.

Fullmental Alchemist

Make Your Pointe by ShanaStoryteller

Ed doesn't know how he got himself into this situation.

And by situation, he means dancing the lead role in a ballet he barely knows.

Dreaming in Red and Gold by Batsutousai

When Drachma agrees to meet for peace talks at Briggs Fortress, General Roy Mustang is the one sent to represent Amestris. It just so happens that the Drachmans have their own Amestrisan, who is far too skilled at turning the most tedious of discussions into an exciting time.

Happiness and Love Revolve Revolve Around You by Batsutousai

Mei visits Xerxes as a princess of Xing, and Al finds himself falling in love with her.

a terrifying clamour of trumpets by ShanaStoryteller

Edward grabs Marcoh’s arm and says, “That stone – what can it heal, exactly?”

The old man’s eyebrows rise to his forehead, and he looks like he already knows the answer when he goes, “Why do you ask, Edward?”

There's no metallic footsteps so there’s no way Al’s close enough to hear them. “I’m sick,” he admits after another moment of deliberation.

Merlin

Me @ Merlin Writers: What if You Didn’t Murder My Favourite Characters by CaffeinatedFlumadiddle

First Fic: Returning the Favour

Really?" Arthur asked, brushing the dirt off of him as he glowered at the man. "Again? I had it under control - and we aren't allies!" He added heatedly. Balinor shrugged, looking nonplussed by Arthur's anger as he stroked the dragon's wing.

"I know." Balinor said simply. "But I promised my son I wouldn't let you die."

"Your...You have a son?" Arthur demanded. Again, Balinor shrugged. "Why does your son...? Nevermind. Don't save me again!" He snapped, pointing a finger at the man. He turned to stalk back to the horse only for a column of fire to blow past him. The prince jumped. He spun around to tell the man off again but immediately noticed one of the remaining bandits who had been slowly creeping towards him burnt to a crisp. He looked back at Balinor.

"Sorry."

Or

Balinor lives. Arthur will do pretty much anything to get the man to stop saving his life.

Dragged Down and Hellbound by CaffinatedFlumadiddle

"I don't think you understand," Merlin said as he started walking backwards, brows wrinkled in confusion. "I can rip your throat out with my teeth and drink your blood. Does that not bother you?" He asked. Arthur finally glanced up from the papers in his hand to look at him, pausing his steps altogether. Merlin waited.

"...Merlin, you fell over trying to put boots on." He said. Merlin grimaced, looking down at his feet.

"I hadn't realized you were supposed to wear them all the time." He muttered, uncertain what this had to do with the fact he could murder everyone within a ten mile radius. Arthur sighed. "And those are bold words from someone who can't dress himself!" He added indignantly. Another sigh. Humans did that a lot as it turned out.

"Merlin, that's your job."

"And I've taught you several times. It isn't that hard."

"No, I - " Arthur started and closed his eyes. "I don't have time for this."

Or

After living with demons for sixteen years, Merlin decides to explore his human side by venturing to Camelot. Also, he has a destiny to unite his species and bring magic back into Camelot, but he's not too worried about that.

Harry Potter

A Love Potion by Liepe

The Slytherin House, more specifically Pansy and Blaise, have been unamused by Draco’s behaviour lately. It has been decided that the perfect punishment would be to give Draco a love potion that would make him act like a love sick puppy around Potter. Nothing happens and the Slytherins can’t figure out why.

Avengers

It’s the Little Things that Matter by TunaFishChris

Wanda has a lot of time to reflect and come to some decisions about herself during the Rogues' exile. When they're pardoned, she decides that she's going to make things right: with herself, with the team, and with the world.

In other words, we have enough evil!Wanda and bitch!Wanda fics. So here's a complicated-snarky-hero-awesome Wanda fic.

Series: History and Science Fiction by MemoryDragon

Steve learns history through the use of television, and he starts to see that neither are really that bad. And through it all, he might just have found a family.

in an empty moral space by blueh

“Bring Spider-Man to us, Mr. Stark,” High-heels says and rattles off an address. “If that bug isn’t here in the next twenty four hours, then your intern gets it. We are not going to ask a second time.”

There’s a pause.

Then, “You want Spider-Man?”

“In exchange for your intern,” High-heels affirms.

“Spider-Man,” Mr. Stark repeats. He sounds more amused than worried for Peter’s apparent safety.

also known as: Peter Parker is held hostage…in order to get to Spider-Man. Throw in some Accords reconciliation and, well, Peter’s life just got a whole lot weirder.

Birthday For Two by Inkinmyheartandonthepage

“I’m going to meet MJ and Ned,” Peter said casually even as his palms grew balmy, and his heart rate kicked in his chest.

“Now?” Tony’s brows pulled tighter together.

Peter nodded as he shifted his weight from foot to foot. “I’ll be back later.”

“It’s the middle of your sisters’ birthday party,” Tony said slowly.

“Yeah, well,” Peter shrugged and took in a shaky breath. “Ned and MJ wanted to celebrate my birthday too.”

OR

Tony forgets that it's Peter's birthday too.

[assorted-fics]

Fics of the Month

Avatar: The Last Airbender

Zuko Has A Cat (Or More Accurately, A Cat Has Zuko) by Stressball

Instead of being exiled on a boat, Zuko is dropped off in the Earth Kingdom. Eventually a certain crazy old lady finds him, and he is subsequently adopted by her cat. Based on an idea by MuffinLance

We Dance To Fast Music by entity9silvergen

Zuko didn’t like to dance. Neither did Mai. But Ty Lee did and they’d do it for her. Fortunately for them, Ty Lee cared about how they felt and wanted to show them just how wonderful music could be. All Zuko and Mai knew were slow dances, the things of ballrooms and romance. Ty Lee only knew the dances of friendship, freedom, and fun.

The Family You Choose by TunaFishChris

Some people are born with soulmarks. Zuko has them, but his grandfather burned them off because they "make you weak."

Team Avatar has a few things to say about that.

An Age of Blossoms by agustsea

Sokka has been an unfortunate victim to many uncomfortable realizations in his life.

When he was sixteen it went like this. The deranged, reckless, fire-breathing prince that chased them across half the world was, as little as Sokka wanted to admit it at the time, actually kind of cool. Now, he’s twenty one, sparring across from that same prince– now a king– in a small courtyard at the heart of the Fire Nation, and he realizes that not only is the Fire Lord actually kind of cool, he’s also really pretty.

OR

After the war, Sokka goes to the Southern Water Tribe to help his people rebuild. Five years later, he accepts the role of ambassador to the Fire Nation and returns to a city and a man that are almost unrecognizable.

Spider-Man x The Fantastic Four

Super Hero After School Club by YouWannaGoBro

When the Fantastic 4 are saved by a scrawny nerd who appears to have no idea that he has super strength, how else could they return the favor but to help him understand and control his powers? In which Sue, Ben, and Reed are trying really hard to prevent this kid with powers from turning into another weirdo New York street super villain, Peter is trying to pretend he hasn't been doing the hero thing longer than all the Fantastic 4 members combined, and Johnny is trying to get a hot date.

Weaving Spiders Come Not Here by Mizzy

People are treating Peter oddly. Really oddly. It turns out they're being nice to him because they think his boyfriend cheated on him. …with Spider-Man. It's honestly quite tiring pretending to be jealous of yourself.

Trial by Fire by Iamujerarana

Johnny's been more of a pest than usual lately, and Peter can't figure out why, or what's with all of his truly bizarre behavior. Or, Johnny tries to ask Peter out in the most outrageous ways, and Peter's too horrified (and busy fantasizing about murdering Johnny) to understand what's happening. ***** Knives, Peter decided as he watched Johnny sweet-talk the concierge. When he killed Johnny, knives would be involved. Or maybe swords. Like, the giant curvy kind. Johnny flashed his most charming smile at the concierge No, Peter thought, scowling at Johnny. There would definitely be poison. Johnny slid his finger along the concierge's hand, and the concierge blushed red. The really painful kind of poison, Peter thought. The kind that made your insides shrivel up. Screaming in pain, the whole bit.

Avengers x Daredevil

My Guardian Avengers (Can I Get a Refund) by prettybirdy979

‘I can see you have it,’ Captain America says in a deadpan that would put Brett to shame. Matt just grunts at him. You know what? If these arseholes want to deal with the scum of Hell’s Kitchen, they can deal with it. The man stumbles to his feet and half walks, half falls in Matt’s direction. Matt just looks at Captain America with a dark smile. ‘You want to deal with these assholes? They’re all yours.’ * Or Daredevil needs to protect a certain law firm in Hell's Kitchen. He's a little slack about protecting this Matt Murdock fellow though, and the Avengers are only too happy to step in to help. Matt is SO not okay with this. (Shut up Foggy, so what if it's his own fault!)

Avengers

tell me what you want what you really really want by mindshelter

First Fic: if you wanna be my lover (you gotta get with my friends)

MJ still remembers Ned’s initial disbelief when Peter—infamous for missing class back in sophomore year, suspended for two weeks freshman year—finished his bit of the group write-up four days early. The work was perfect, and so was Ned's chemistry grade. After that it was Peter this, Peter that, Peter parted the Red Sea, it’s true, MJ, I was there; I saw it. MJ, hey, are you listening?

Then Ned says, “We should invite Peter to join AcaDec.”

or;

peter isn’t rock bottom on midtown’s social ladder; he’s underground. friendless, rumoured to get into street fights. ned declares him bestie material anyway, and mj catches feelings.

she also meets tony stark(?) in foodtown, of all places, and makes a spider-man(??) sighting.

Tremors and Tribulations by Fernandidilly_yo

Tony feels a prickling behind his eyes as the man continues on about Howard Stark and his greatness. He feels breathless as he stares at his mother’s coffin. He feels lightheaded as he stands here, the only Stark left in existence.

Tony takes a deep breath of frigid air and slips the sunglasses on with fumbling fingers. And then, when his hands won’t stop trembling, won’t stop giving him away, Tony stuffs them into his pockets. Pretending for the world that he isn’t falling apart, because that’s what he’s supposed to do.

(Or: Nine times that Tony Stark's hands shook, and one time they held steady)

how long until spring (i miss you) by mindshelter

It’s nothing personal – they just didn’t know each other; she usually belonged in another sphere than him, in posh galas, dull board meetings, catching snatches of sleep on overseas flights. He was decades younger, a burst of energy and intelligence that Tony wanted to hone, nurture, and keep close to the ground for as long as he could.

So, when she approaches Peter on the lake house’s dock, both of them swathed in black and sorrow and asks if he wants to join her inside to see the message Tony left behind, he says no.

(set immediately after endgame.)

This Isn’t A Love Song, This Isn’t A Fable by rayrae118

Steve's not OK with people's perception of Captain America, no matter what he says or how much he pretends otherwise. It's like no one in this time period realizes that there's more to him than a spangly outfit. And yes, he's including the Avengers in that.

... or, the one where everything's all right, until it's not.

Series Held Together

First Fic: Held Together by Spiderwebs by TunaFishChris

Steve is not coping well in the twenty-first century. At all. Three months after the Chitauri invasion, he decides he's had enough.

But just as he's about to end it all, he runs into the new hero in town.

Welcome to Planet Queer by TunaFishChris

The Parkers have never really talked about sexuality of the LGBTQ+ community. Neither positive nor negative things. So Peter had hoped that when he told Aunt May that he prefers boys that she wouldn't do something drastic and out of the blue, like kick him out, as if she were a queerphobic Transformer.

Except now, he's on the street, and has no idea what to do next.

Luckily, the Avengers have his back.

(Un)Fortunate Circumstances by lomku

Or how Steve wakes up from the ice in the SHIELD facility, runs into Tony, and kind of kidnaps him in his bid for freedom.

Harry Potter

Hogwarts, to welcome you home by gedsparrowhawk (FaceChanger)

“You understand, Professor,” Harry began, after a moment, “that I don’t have my N.E.W.T.s. I never even finished seventh year. Between everything, I never had a chance the first time around, and then afterwards there didn’t seem to be much point. Hermione argued for it, of course, but I was so tired of Britain. So technically, I am completely unqualified for the position.”

“Quite a way to begin an interview, Mr. Potter,” McGonagall said, dryly.

Or, three years after the war, Harry Potter becomes Hogwarts' newest Defense Against the Dark Arts professor.

A Young Radical’s Guide to Love by Blamebrampton

Memories of the war are still fresh, which is all the excuse Decent People need to do appalling things. In this quietly waged conflict, Draco Malfoy is happy to be on the right side of things for once, and even happier to find he’s not alone.

Doing the Lamberto Walk by Blamebrampton

There are only three traditional choices for the cashed-up hero after victory. Harry Potter is too young to settle down and provide the wizarding world with a happy ending, and has too acute a sense of humour to spiral downwards into a spectacular flame-out. That leaves a life of good works. Choosing to lead it in Muggle Brixton comes with its own set of challenges, including Malfoys in the biscuit aisle.

The Spellmaker by SonnyGietzel

Latin; a dead language with no practical applications except perhaps the deciphering of old texts and as a particularly quaint party trick. Thankfully, as Harry finds out, Latin is not as dead as he was first taught when he decided to learn the language. It wouldn't have mattered anyway, of course; he loved Latin, and would have been proud to know it even had it been as useless as it was pretty. But in the world of Wizards, the world of Magic, Harry realizes his rare talent with words is particularly valuable, and allows him to use magic that no one's ever heard of, that no one's ever seen. But as time goes on, and he becomes more and more entangled in the webs spun by those around him, he starts to realize just how deep the magical rabbit hole goes and how dangerous power like his can be. All Harry had ever wanted was for the world to make sense.

[assorted-fics]

Fics of the Month

Marvel

Infinite Coffee and Protection Detail by MusingsOnBuckyBarnes & Owlet First Fic: The mission resets abruptly, from objective: kill to objective: protect

Average Avengers Local Chapter 7 of New York City by hetrez

Steve and Tony accidentally start a national do-gooders association and fall in love.

Changing Fate by melWinter

Loki was supposed to go back to Asgard to assume control of the throne after saving Thor on Svartalfheim. He was supposed to be the portent for Ragnarok...too bad fate didn't ask for his opinion. After all, fate didn't plan for Loki to find an abandoned baby elf. Nor did Loki plan to discover how intriguing Jane Foster can be. And what the heck do the Avengers and his trickster of a daughter have to do with any of this? Loki makes a different choice. But can Loki truly escape the fate that has been his since the beginning? Can the trickster learn to love? With Thanos rising and the infinity war looming, the universe may come to an end if the nine realms can't reconcile with the prince it once rejected. Eventual Jane/Loki. Warning: Loki and Hela snarkiness, Tony cockiness, Thor cluelessness, and random cuteness of Loki dealing with being a dad.

secret keeper by jilliancares

Ellie stares at the new arrival, gaping. All the evidence points to one obvious answer, but this guy looks nothing like the Spider-Man Ellie recognizes — mostly because he isn’t wearing the suit. “Crappy day to get kidnapped, amirite?” he says, crouching next to Ellie and deftly untying her restraints. “Looks like these guys were amateurs, though. They didn’t even lock the windows.” In which Ellie accidentally becomes the one person who knows Spider-Man's identity. She doesn't tell her dad.

Harry Potter

Of a Linear Circle (series) by flamethrower

First Fic: In September of 1971, Severus Snape finds a forgotten portrait of the Slytherin family in a dark corner of the Slytherin Common Room. At the time, he has no idea that talking portrait will affect the rest of his life.

When It Returns by academicdisaster

‘You’re late, layabout,’ Malfoy drawled, pushing the whiskey over to him. ‘I’ll have you know that I am very busy maintaining a whole house and garden by myself now.’ ‘Oooh, the dead husband card. Before any alcohol. Is that a record?’ Harry's husband is dead, and Malfoy is the only one who gets it. Or, the one where they drink at a straight man pub, renovate a house, and learn how to find joy again.

Percy Weasley and the Prefect Job That Isn’t A Vanity Role by adiduck (book_people) and joisbishmyoga

In Which Prefects Have Very Specific Training And Delineated Duties, Namely Handling Exactly One (1) Dormful Of Kids -OR- Percy Is Dorm Mom To Five Boys And No One Else -OR- In Which McGonagall Pictured Prefect Oliver Wood For Two Minutes, Turned Green, And Gave Percy The Badge Despite The Sheer Number Of Responsibilities He Already Had, And It Did Not End In Disaster The Notes For A Fic That Will Not Be Written No, Really, It Won't, Please Don't Ask A Place on Earth by louisfake "Right," Draco said, rolling his eyes. "I'm supposed to believe that the Gryffindor war hero caught the former Death Eater singing Muggle pop like a lunatic in his dormitory and didn't immediately share the news with his pack of admirers?" Harry couldn't help it, he snorted a little. "As if they would ever believe me, Draco." Draco drew himself up, ready to launch into some other tirade, so Harry held up a hand; "What would I even say? I saw Draco Malfoy being joyful and free. How is that a joke?"

Merlin

Next to You (It’s the Rule) by LunaMyLove

Arthur and Merlin have a special relationship. They always have, even when they were prince and servant. While many question it when first noticing, eventually it becomes an understanding in Camelot—and even among some other countries—that where there is Arthur, there is Merlin. And, where there is Merlin, there is Arthur. Or Arthur and Merlin's relationship as witnessed and explained by others. Also, or Five times someone realizes that Merlin is the Queen, one time Merlin realizes it himself, and one time he owns it.

The Hunt for Red Emrys by Darkbluedark

King Arthur sets out to keep his promise to the spirit of the Druid boy by repealing his father's ban on magic. Unfortunately, this is easier said than done, for reasons including but not limited to the following: (1) He can't change the law until he understands magic better, but no sorcerer is willing to explain magic to him until he changes the law; (2) The sorcerers all have some strange obsession with Merlin, which is awakening all sorts of feelings in Arthur that he really doesn't fancy examining too closely; (3) He is starting to feel like the butt of some Druid-population-wide inside joke involving the mysterious phenomenon called Emrys; and (4) Oh yeah, Morgana is still trying to kill him. Thus he embarks on a journey of discovery, diplomacy, accountability, and self-improvement, and maybe even falls in love along the way.

Open Eyes by N16

After Merlin experiences abuse at the hands of a visiting lord, Arthur decides his manservant needs to learn how to defend himself. But Merlin is unimpressed with Arthur's solution, and Arthur is forced to confront some unpleasant truths about what happens right under his nose. How can he protect a kingdom when he can't even protect those inside his castle? One-shot.

Descendants

till death do us part by RottenKidNextDoor (Portal of Words)

"the first time jay killed carlos, they were sitting in the foyer of hell hall and carlos was worried about the blood on the floor." or jay and carlos have an agreement to kill each other to exploit the magic barrier's healing ability when things go too far. killing for mercy isn't as easy as it sounds.

death came to visit me so sweetly by tobiko

Do you know what it feels like to die? The Isle kids do. It's not something that they like to talk about.

[assorted-fics]

Fics of the Week

Marvel

Bizarre Love Triangle by panickyintheuk

Once the idea was in his head, he’d started picking up on all kinds of things, like the way Stark talked about Iron Man with such affection, and seemed to share so many of his mannerisms, and was constantly working on ways of improving the suit. It was obvious.

A Partial Dictionary Of The 21st Century By Captain Steve Rogers, US Army by copperbadge

Steve is adapting well to the new millennium, and he has the dictionary to prove it.

i may have a bit of a bias by kellifer_fic

Having an Iron Man and Captain America plush duo on your desk that you can place into compromising positions is a totally valid way to amuse yourself.

she blinded me with political science by thingswithteeth

Darcy watched the Avengers defend New York from over two thousand miles away. She could look out her window if she wanted to watch the aftermath. She watches the news instead, and realizes one very important thing: the Avengers have a bit of a PR problem.

This, You Protect by owlet

The mission resets abruptly, from objective: kill to objective: protect

To Me by Asidian

On the anniversary of Loki's birth, a feast is held in Father's hall. This, he thinks, is as it should be: this is as it is every year, with lively music on the harp, with men and women dancing, with all his favorite foods. Except this year the foods are not the ones he prefers, after all, but those favored by his brother. And the music is not harp music but the blaring of horns. And when Father calls attention to the assembled throng to give a speech for the occasion, he does not mention Loki at all.

He proclaims the meal in honor of Thor's prowess as a warrior. He announces that the firstborn prince has bested his training instructor this day.

The boar meat, spicy and rich on Loki's tongue, is suddenly tasteless. He puts his fork down amidst the wave of applause that floods the hall; he watches as his brother, golden and triumphant, stands to accept his congratulations. The child thinks, perhaps, that this is some ruse. His family, too, scold him for his pranks, and perhaps they have decided to show him what it is like to be on the receiving end.

But the jest, if jest it is, grows long.

Avatar: The Last Airbender

Eight Principles of Yong by psocoptera

The pen is mightier than the sword, or how Zuko saves the day via the power of good penmanship.

A Long Way Home by sushigal007

For three years, Zuko searched for the Avatar. But he'd never really thought that much about what would happen once he succeeded.

Alternatively: Zuko actually has a plan for catching the Avatar at the North Pole. Somehow, it works. But after a few days of pai sho and tea, he begins to wonder if maybe it would've been better if it hadn't.

Harry Potter

Reparatio by astolat

Draco snorted. “I’m not reduced to penury. I want something considerably beyond money, and I rather think you’re the only one can give it to me.”

“You want the Invisibility Cloak,” Harry said, flatly. He’d half expected as much; it was the only thing he had that Draco could want—

“Don’t be stupid, Potter,” Draco said. “I want my reputation back.”

Slithering by astolat

Draco found the nest down in the Manor’s cellars, while he was clearing them out.

Cake by astolat

Harry tried not to care when after the war, everyone he knew seemed to have made an agreement to stop paying attention to birthdays.

Trust and Vows by Skullshy

Hermione Granger, an unremarkable Muggleborn in a sea of Purebloods, abruptly slams into Theodore Nott’s orderly but soulless life. Nothing is ever quite the same again.

Heal Thyself by astolat

"Are you going for the course?" Lovegood asked. "You have the NEWTs.”

“What course?” Draco said, then, “No, don’t be ridiculous,” when he realized she meant the notice pinned up on the board he’d been staring at: Applicants To The Introductory Mediwizard Course For The Coming Term Shall Present Themselves In The Chief Mediwizard’s Office By August 24th.

“Oh, I thought you might,” she said. “Well, goodbye.” And off she wandered again in her addled way.

[assorted-fics]

Fics of the Week

Avatar: The Last Airbender

a nation, held by snowdarkred

It doesn’t take long for the rumors to start.

The Fire Nation prides itself on its civilization. It isn’t like the other, lesser, nations who throw their children away by sending them into war. Those uncultured and unfeeling savages who are destroying their own future faster than the Fire Nation can save them from themselves.

Every Fire Nation child goes to school. They learn reading and writing, the illustrious history of their country, and what will be expected of them as proper, upstanding Fire Nation citizens. They are to be protected, because children are the future glory of the nation.

The crown prince is thirteen when his father burns his face in front of an audience of hundreds.

All The Gentle Creatures by Haicrescendo

It’s said that you can tell a lot about a person by how they treat animals. Zuko may be loud and stubborn and sharp but all the woodland creatures love him.

The Good Vanilla by Haicrescendo

Sokka’s beautiful friendship with Zuko doesn’t start with breaking Dad out of jail. That’s just what he tells people.

Sokka’s beautiful friendship with Zuko started the day he realizes that he knows how to cook.

Feat. breakup cake, an attempted assassination, and eating out of the pan like dirty heathens.

Merlin

From the Start by CrzyFun

"You... assisted me in my fight against the bandits. For that, you have my thanks. I'm an honorable man and I repay my debts. Leave now and I will not hunt you."

"Assisted? I'm pretty sure I saved your life."

"I had the situation perfec- Are you trying to make me reconsider letting you go?"

It was supposed to be a one time thing. Arthur let the sorcerer run off with his life in return for him saving Arthur's. He had never expected to see the boy again, especially not only two days later in Gaius's chambers.

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood

non native ceramics by silentwalrus

Ed opens up the catacombs on the first of September, clapping his hands and then watching the stones part like the swish of a theater curtain, pouring over each other to reveal the dark, blocky tunnels beneath.

An Interesting Trip by ShanaStoryteller

Everyone's born with their soulmate's first words to them written on their skin, and that should make things easy, but it really doesn't.

"Roy has alternatively despised his mark and clung to it like a lifeline. Colonel. Just one word, right at the back of his foot. His literal Achilles’ heel."

Spider-Man

of things unknown (but still longed for) by aloneintherain

Peter Parker can’t walk around with the same daemon as Spider-Man. But she’s going to settle one day, and there’s nothing he can do about it.

Guardians of the Galaxy

Silence is Golden by GloriousBlackout

Peter doesn't say a word during his first six months with the Ravagers. Yondu learns to adapt to having a silent shadow following him around.

Ain’t No Mountain High Enough by BeanieBaby

I kept him ‘cause he’s small and fits into spaces others can’t. Good for thievin'.

Harry Potter

Spider in the Roses by HauntingOpal

When Pansy Parkinson, Tracey Davis, and Daphne Greengrass start 4th year, they expect a silly tournament and more study time. Instead they get an abused Harry Potter who isn't a Potter at all, a mother who wants her son back, and a Slytherin Triwizard competitor who owes a debt to Harry Potter. Not to mention a twinkly eyed headmaster whose careful plans are being torn to shreds by very protective Slytherins.

House Proud by atolat

His house liked Draco Malfoy more than him.

All the Little Things by MyWhiteKnight

Oliver just wanted to beat the Slytherin in the House Cup this year, and find a good seeker to replace his friend and mentor, Charlie Weasley. Instead, he found the beginnings of an unbreakable bond between himself and one curly-haired witch.

What started as helping a lonely first year gain her bearings in a new world evolved into having their own analyst for Gryffindor. As time goes on, life develops in a way he never saw coming.

Series: we must unite inside her walls or we'll crumble from within by dirgewithoutmusic

stories for the ladies of hogwarts, who cry, waver, giggle, trespass, and who deserve our respect all the same

First Fic: overemotional: in defence of cho chang

Cho cried and she survived Pansy Parkinson's cruel jabs about a dead boy. She wept and she passed all her classes, kept up with Quidditch, watched fairweather friends scatter in the cold wind. She got very good at wordlessly summoning tissues and she joined the DA against her parents' wishes.

They had told her to behave, begged her, ordered her, as the threatening darknesses of the world clung close even inside Hogwarts, and Cho walked out to the little pub in Hogsmeade and wrote her name down on Hermione's list.

I hope someone in the DA told Cho that she ought to have been in Gryffindor.

I hope she laughed at them, hard.

Integrity. Truth. Honor. Dedication. These were the tenets of her House, of the blue and the bronze, the eagle called raven (called nerd, called stuck-up, called so many things that were not their names). Bravery was only one way to be a hero.

[assorted-fics]

Fics of the Week

Avatar: The Last Airbender

letter to the editor by aloneintherain

No one knows that Dante Basco, an emerging writer with a growing readership, is actually Fire Lord Zuko.

Not even his editor.

Legacies by WildInkling

Long after the events of Avatar: The Last Airbender, a lone historian finds the personal journal of Prince Zuko. Little does she know that he was also the mysterious anonymous author who took the world by storm. The world will never be the same. Inspired by and directly links to aloneintherain's Writer Zuko AU.

Treachery of the Highest Order by LoserLife592

Sometimes life is unfair. Sometimes the universe likes to kick you when you're down. Sometimes bad things happen to good people.

But there a still lines that need to be drawn. And this? This is beyond that line.

(or, You Think You Know A Guy)

A Dragon’s Instinct by AelinCreativ

Zuko is banished. Never to return to his Nation unless he does the impossible. But when Agni, Dragon of the Sun, gives Zuko a mission, he has a new purpose in life besides pretending to still be loyal to his father. With Azula playing defense at the palace, Zuko has the whole world to search for answers and the people who Agni says will be Champions of the Elements and help him restore balance to the world. He has his own secrets to keep while he's at it. With an uncle he can't trust and a crew of misfits on his side, can Zuko do the impossible and stop the war in time to save his people?

He's thirteen and the Spirit's have big plans for him. Is one teenage dragon enough to save the world?

a distant yesterday by aloneintherain

Iroh had been worried that the gentle tea server from Ba Sing Se wouldn’t survive the Fire Palace. But he can see traces of him in this young prince, this almost-Fire Lord.

Ozai didn’t crush Zuko the way he had intended. He survived. He grew strong, and gentle, and more honourable than Ozai could ever imagine.

And Iroh is so proud of him.

Follows Iroh’s thoughts on his nephews in Book 2 and Book 3 and beyond.

Quiet Like a Fire by WhatWouldJackSparrowDo

Things Azula is surprised by:

- her father's death at Zuko's hands (however supposedly inadvertent)

Things Azula is not surprised by:

- Zuko's complete and utter lack of a plan afterwards

(Zuko's aim on the Day of Black Sun is a little off. Ozai gets struck by his own lightning. Azula grudgingly takes care of the rest.)

Derry Girls

the derry catholic gays club by wafflesofdoom

claire hadn't exactly planned on becoming all of her best friends fairy gay-mother.

or, the one where literally nobody is straight.

Harry Potter

rather start a family than finish one by elumish

He knows, knows deep in his soul, that if Potter ever wanted to take over Britain, he could do it, and most of them would probably just cheer along.

the family evans by dirgewithoutmusic

What if, when Petunia Dursley found a little boy on her front doorstep, she took him in? Not into the cupboard under the stairs, not into a twisted childhood of tarnished worth and neglect—what if she took him in?

Petunia was jealous, selfish and vicious. We will not pretend she wasn’t. She looked at that boy on her doorstep and thought about her Dudders, barely a month older than this boy. She looked at his eyes and her stomach turned over and over. (Severus Snape saved Harry’s life for his eyes. Let’s have Petunia save it despite them).

Let’s tell a story where Petunia Dursley found a baby boy on her doorstep and hated his eyes—she hated them. She took him in and fed him and changed him and got him his shots, and she hated his eyes up until the day she looked at the boy and saw her nephew, not her sister’s shadow. When Harry was two and Vernon Dursley bought Dudley a toy car and Harry a fast food meal with a toy with parts he could choke on Petunia packed her things and got a divorce.

the girl who lived (again) by dirgewithoutmusic

Molly tried her best. When Harry had told them, Arthur had asked excitedly, "is this a Muggle thing?" Hermione had hurried out a "no!" and a frantic history of gender diversity in the wizarding world.

"It's just that I'm a girl," Harry had said, and Arthur had nodded and asked her about how telephone booths worked. He would call her by the right pronouns until the day he died at the respectable old age of one hundred and thirty three, and he would make it seem easy.

But Molly had to try. Hermione explained things faster and higher-pitched every time Molly messed up a pronoun. Molly frowned and muttered and put extra potatoes on Harry's plate at breakfast. Harry slept in Ron's room, which didn't bother either of them but which made Hermione scowl.

Harry got boxes of sweets and warm hugs, as Molly chewed things over. For her fifteenth Christmas, the Weasley sweater she would receive would be a bright, friendly, terrible pink.

The next time Harry visited, Molly put her on Ginny's floor to sleep-- for some definition of sleep that involved Hermione hissing threats at three in the morning if Harry and Ginny didn't "shut up about Wronski feints, do you know what time it is."

a snake in the den by dirgewithoutmusic

you know what would have been great? if ron got sorted into slytherin.

imagine– we have this kid on the train, the first friend harry meets, with his corned beef sandwiches and smudged nose. ron is eleven years old and he wants gryffindor, because he’s a weasley and that’s what always happens. but it doesn’t happen.

what a way to redeem slytherin house– or, god, at least complicate it. because ron is petty. he is mean and sharp and ambitious and jealous– and he is loyal to the ends of the earth. he is all those things, and he is and always has been good.

potter becomes before weasley in the alphabet, so harry says not slytherin please and gets told might as well be gryffindor. percy and fred and george are all sitting there in red and gold, ruffling the already-ruffled hair of the boy who lived, smug, and then ron sits down and the hat spits out slytherin!

the heir of something or other by dirgewithoutmusic

When kids in the Slytherin Common Room tossed jeers at the pudgy feet of Millicent Bulstrode, Harry rose up to do something about it. This Harry, now one of Snape’s own, got fewer House points lost but many more detentions– it had never been the colors on his hem that Severus hated.

This was not wishing Harry an easy path. This was not wishing the boy a warm House. This was Harry, three weeks in, sleep deprived and considering running away and going back to Privet Drive. This was Harry in the back of Potions class, blank-faced under Snape’s disdain the way he’d perfected under the Dursleys’s torments.

When Quirrell shouted “troll in the dungeons, thought you ought to know,” and Harry overheard that there was a girl in the bathroom crying, he still ran off to make sure she got out okay. He hesitated first, at the back of the little pack of Slytherin first years (at the back so that no one could get behind him)– he hesitated.

And Millicent Bulstrode, who could never quite keep her tummy tucked in enough, could never brush all the cat hair off her robes, never quite keep her temper in check, hesitated, too.

[assorted-fics]

I wish that ao3 had an option to filter warnings (and tbh certain authors) out like I will never ever want to read it and just seeing it puts me off so much that often I end up closing my browser because that content upsets me so much lmao

[assorted-fics]

Fics of the Week

Harry Potter

Survival is a Talent by ShanaStoryTeller

“In the middle of their second year, Draco and Harry discover they're soulmates and do their best to keep it a secret from everyone.

Their best isn't perfect.

~

“Are you trying to get killed, Potter?” Malfoy drawls, stalking forward. Quick as a serpent himself, he reaches out and grabs the snake just below the head. It thrashes in his grip, but is no longer able to bite anyone. “This is a poisonous snake, and I doubt anyone brought a bezoar with them.”

Harry glares. He opens his mouth, and feels the beginning the snake’s language pass his lips, and this isn’t what he wants, what’s the point of insulting Malfoy if he can’t understand him –

Malfoy’s eyes widen. He slaps his hand over Harry’s mouth, “Potter, what the hell–”

Family is better than war, surprisingly by silverseed

“Lucius Malfoy was happier with his family than he had ever been as a child. That didn't mean he regretted his decision to become a Death Eater.

At least, he didn't until Draco started behaving suspiciously Light-inclinedly.

OR: A character study for Lucius in SIAT”

Never Grow A Wishbone by ShanaStoryTeller

“She almost smiles, and true alarm starts to build in his chest. “I’m afraid I’m not here for something so small. Professor Roberts has resigned.”

“Good,” Draco says honestly, “Would you like a list of suitable alternatives? I know a number of competent potions masters abroad, but then of course you’d have to hire another teacher to act as the Slytherin head. I’m afraid you’ve dried up all the half decent Slytherin Potions masters.”

“Not all of them,” she says quietly.

He blinks. She can’t be serious. “You can’t be serious.”

“Gravely,” she says, “Mr. Malfoy, I am not above begging.”

What the bloody fuck. “I don’t even like potions!”

~

Draco returns to Hogwarts.

He has a duty to his blood and his name and his house, and he will fulfill it.”

Life skills outside the curriculum by Endrina

“It was "Witch Weekly", of all people and organizations, the first to notice and comment on The Boy Who Lived’s absence from the ranks of first years at Hogwarts. The magazine went on to elucubrate that the young hero was studying at a foreign school, possibly Beauxbatons or Holzschuhkäse.”

Doer of Good Deeds by Lomonaaeren

“Ron certainly knows how to recognize obsession when he sees it, thanks to feeling some of the same with Hermione. And he would rather that Harry's obsession with Draco Malfoy end sooner rather than later. Otherwise, Ron's afraid that he’s going to spend the rest of his life hearing about how ugly all of Malfoy's girlfriends are.”

no place like home by dirgewithoutmusic

“When Petunia Dursley refused to take Harry in she forfeited his birthright protection, so Dumbledore took the baby to the safest place he knew: Hogwarts.

The applicable staff (mostly just… not Snape) took Harry in on a rotating schedule as he grew from baby to toddler to child. They traded extra credit for babysitting among the older students, and Harry grew up knowing a few dozen different laps that were safe and warm to nap in.

This was a Harry who grew up among books, among old transient walls and learned professors. They gave Binns night duty sometimes, and let him talk young Harry to sleep. This was a Harry whose world changed, on principle, daily. The stairs moved. The walls became doors. You had to keep your eyes open–you had to pay attention. So he did.

He grew up in a school. Knowledge was power, but knowledge was also joy. This was his sanctuary. There was magic in his world from birth.”

Merlin

Garden or Graveyard by ShanaStoryTeller

“Merlin has a secret. Arthur, it turns out, also has a secret.

It's the same secret.”

True Love by platonic_boner

“AU where soulmates can’t lie to each other.

(That’s okay, Merlin wasn’t planning to lie to Arthur anyways! Haha.. ha.. ha…)”

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood

Son of the Desert by ShanaStoryTeller

“Every time Edward sees the circle on the back Mustang's hand, he wants to scream, wants to reach across the desk and shake him, wants to wrap his hands around the older man's throat and ask if it was worth it, if this desk and his rank is worth the screaming, crying, writhing, burning bodies of his people -

"Something to say, Fullmetal?" Mustang drawls.

Edward snaps the file shut, "Nope."

[assorted-fics]

Fics of the Week

Harry Potter

Actions Speak Louder than Words by SSAerial

“Stubborn child!” the hat suddenly boomed out with exasperation dripping his tone. “Better be Slytherin!”

Marvel

the conspiracy kids by tempestaurora

“in which peter, harley and ned ask the all-important question: WHO IS SPIDER-MAN?”

Avatar: The Last Airbender

The miserable have no other medicine but only hope by trying_to_remember_both_their_names_at_once

“You remember him,” Chit Sang sounded surprised.

“I remember all of their names,” Zuko admitted. While he was on the ship, his father had sent him every death certificate from the 41st division. There was never any other note, no words from the Fire Lord, just a piece of paper with the name, age, and rank of the soldier who died. Zuko had kept every single one on his ship, reading over every single one and committing their names to his memory. He couldn’t stop them from dying, but they were what motivated him to keep moving, to get back his honor so that he could help prevent deaths like theirs.

-

Chit Sang's brother fought in the 41st division. Unknowingly, Zuko had become a beacon of hope to those in the Fire Nation whose family had perished in the needless war, to the people who wished for a Fire Lord who will fight for their people instead of power. Chit Sang feels the need to let Zuko know this.”

Perfection is Overrated by JaggedCliffs

“For his first thirteen years, Zuko was raised in a palace. And yet somehow, it's the three years outside the Fire Nation that seem to count more – at least to the palace staff, who act like he's been raised by fox-wolves.

At first, this only annoys Zuko.

Until he begins to think that the Fire Nation needs more than a formerly-banished prince.”

all you have is your fire (and the place you need to reach) by agentcalliope

“In which there are hugs and laughter and tears, and conversations, as the gaang learn about Zuko's scar.”

Pacify her by Wxnderwell

“She’s always been compared to their father, while Zuko notably took after their mother.

It didn’t seem to occur to anyone that she too was the daughter of Fire Lady Ursa.

She half listens to Zuko throw his tantrum to get her to leave but Azula just sighs.

Zuko was too soft-hearted—too naïve to understand what she wanted from him.

It's always been easy for Zuko to garner people's affection. He had Mother's before she'd ran off and Uncle took him under his wing as if he was his own. It's stupid, and she hates him for it. Azula enjoyed watching him try to catch up to her, try to gain their father's approval like a stupid little turtle-duck.

such selfish prayers by andromeda3116

First Fic: “Katara's ambition, so long set aside for the good of others, breaks free and sets fire to her soul. Or, Katara has a vision of her canon future, casts it aside, and becomes a world-changing politician instead.”

portrait of a man on fire by cassiopeia

“In the wake of joining the Avatar, Zuko grapples with his identity.

Who is Zuko, if not the prince of the Fire Nation?

Under Sokka’s plan, no one will see their faces—not guards or prisoners or even the prison cooks. Still, Zuko can’t help but wonder what his—what the people of the Fire Nation would think, how they would act, if they saw him again.

For most of his banishment, the only Fire Nation people he interacted with were the crew of the Wani, who all resented being commanded by someone so young and hot-tempered. Even when he returned to the capital, he didn’t actually see that many other people. Those who he did see seemed to respect him—but that was when they believed he killed the Avatar. He’s sure that if any of them had seen him during his banishment, they would have treated him with contempt.

And now that he’s betrayed them all? Zuko can only imagine their disgust.”

close your eyes by andromeda3116

“for your eyes will only tell you the truth, and the truth is not what you want to see. –- Kanna escapes the Northern Water Tribe and travels south, always south.”

forgive my northern attitude by queersoverbeers

“Hakoda was not sure what he expected to find in this slowly approaching Fire Nation sailboat, but what he did find was certainly very far down on the list: A young boy, perhaps younger than his own son, with a bandage covering his eye, shaking violently in a fever-induced delirium.

“What does this mean?” Bato said, using the dull end of his spear to poke the boy's shoulder.

“Mom,” The boy weakly cried.

“I have no idea,” Hakoda said, feeling every bit as horrified as he always did when he learned something new about the Fire Nation.]

Or,

With Iroh wandering the globe after the death of his son, some of the events of Avatar: The Last Airbender get off to a late start— and get a little tangled along the way.”

Azula’s Angels by lookingkindofdumb

“When cornered in The Chase Azula switches from hunting the Avatar to kidnapping her brother. For his own betterment, of course. She can't have her brother slumming it in the Earth Kingdom.

Or, Appa and Zuko's life changing field trip.”

Voyage by amoeve

“When Zuko asks Katara to marry him, it is for love. But it’s also an alliance that shows the world that the war is truly over, and everyone wants to get in on the fun.

Everyone also wants them to observe every single tradition that the Fire Nation and Water Tribe have ever thought up for marriages, “to honour each others’ cultures and encourage a new era of harmony and understanding”.

It sounds reasonable until Iroh and Hakoda start handing them helpful transcriptions of ancient ethnographic texts.”

[assorted-fics]

Fics of the Week

This is me just trying to record the best of the Fics I read in a week.

Avatar: The Last Airbender

The 41st by turtleabyss

First Fic: "He burned for us," Chit Sang answers solemnly, eyes haunted as he stares into their little fire.

Loyalty Through Fire by terracyte

“Zuko, for all the loyalty he shows his nation and people, is not really prepared for them to pay him back in kind.”

all you have is your fire (and the place you need to reach) by agentcalliope

“In which there are hugs and laughter and tears, and conversations, as the gaang learn about Zuko's scar.”

Assorted Benefits of Alternative Exits by wonderwise

“A collection of loosely related stories about Zuko learning how to be Fire Lord and the palace guards and staff learning about the unique skills their new Fire Lord brings to the role.”

Firebender!Jet by suzukiblu

First Fic: “Katara’s fingers leave Jet’s temples and it is not just Lake Laogai that he remembers, not just the one made-up story to make what’s missing make sense that he forgets.”

this love burns so yellow (becoming orange and in its time, exploding) by meliebee

“Ten months after Zuko is crowned at seventeen, he faces his first coup.”

To Build a Home by Orphan_Account

“Never mind that he won’t be of age for another year-and-then-some. Never mind that he’s sixteen with bandages still wrapped around his chest and a more intimate knowledge of war than these men will ever have. He wasn’t old enough for his first Agni Kai. He isn’t old enough for the crown. No one batted an eye then, they don’t now. The prayer shawl is a familiar weight on his shoulders.

(Youth is no excuse, the generals hiss to one another.

You will learn respect, a palm of flames says.)

[Or: the war is over and it should be a relief.]”

it’s the illusion of separation by argentoswan

“Sokka takes a job washing dishes at the new tea shop in town. It's a great gig, until he finds out his only coworker is his old high school bully. Sokka really should quit, but he also really needs to afford rent.

Also, Zuko is kind of hot now.”

Fellow Prisoner Li by MuffinLance

“Early-Season-One Sokka finds an undersocialized firebender in the brig of Zhao's ship and brings him back to the Gaang, as one does. Good thing they've nailed down Aang's firebending teacher so early, this quest is going to be a snap, and definitely not involve any betrayals by any elemental teachers. Nope. Not a one.”

Avengers/Fantastic Four

country boy, i love you by PeterStank

“The elevator doors chime.

Johnny is a little bit like a dog, so even now he can’t help looking over at the sound of laughter and raised voices. Both of them are familiar to him and both of them are welcome; they sort of make his stomach swoop and then settle like a rollercoaster car doing a loop and levelling out.

Peter. Harley.

Peter’s big belly laugh dies in his throat the second he sees Johnny. He steps forward, brows furrowing. “Jay? What are you doing here? What happened?”

And Johnny is capable of many things, but ignoring Peter Parker is not one of them.

His mouth opens and the faintest, most strangled sound escapes, straining against the raw walls of his throat.

And then he just starts crying.

or: johnny relearns the meaning of home.”

[assorted-fics]

Avenger Series Favourites

*In no particular order, these are some of my favourites from over the years

Phil Coulson’s Case Files of the Toasterverse by scifigrl47 

First Fic: From the Avengers Case Files of Phil Coulson: Grocery shopping is necessary, Tony's a little too proud of his tech, Captain America's lost on the streets of New York, and sometimes social injustice just happens.

Phil Coulson's the one who's got to write this nonsense up, and he is not their PR Manager.

Workplace Hazards by AggressiveWhenStartled 

First Fic: Today, Peter was honest-to-god going to see Captain America himself up close, in person, and not from a rooftop or tiny crevice like a creepy stalker fanboy. 

Even better, he was going to watch Steve Rogers make history by soldiering his beleaguered way through the most intensely awkward and honestly ridiculous press conference in the history of ever-- jaw thrust out and spine ramrod straight. Trying hard to be polite and respectful in the face of adversity.

While a bunch of assholes with cameras and microphones shouted at him about Iron Man’s adolescent dick.

Peter Parker’s Home for the Wayward Villain by BeanieBaby

First Fic: A really long redemption story.

The Brotastic Adventures Of The Avengers And The Long Suffering Foggy Nelson by cosmicocean

First Fic: Honestly, Foggy’s just kind of grateful that the unconscious dude in the alley by his apartment isn’t beat up as bad as Matt was when he found him that first time.

He also kind of thinks it says a lot about his life right now that those are his feelings on the subject, but it’s best not to analyze that.

Where Foggy accidentally becomes bros with the Avengers, Foggy and Matt talk it out, and the Avengers and Matt don't seem to grasp the concept that the "s" in "friends" is there for a reason.

The Long Life of Loki Leifson by Irisunohimitsu

First Fic: Thousands of years ago, the Jotun came to Midgard. Certain of a Jotun victory, Laufey brought with him his wife and infant son. However, the Aesir triumphed and in the resulting chaotic retreat, the boy was lost. 

Meanwhile, Leif (minor OC) ventures out into the snow for firewood. There, amongst the pine trees he finds a monstrous babe with eyes of glowing coal, who changes at his touch to human form. Enchanted, Leif and his wife care for the boy as their own. Loki grows to a happy, precocious teen but alas, mortal lives are short and before he can pass on the secrets of Loki's nature, Leif is gone.

Left alone in the world, Loki is forced to discover his own immortality. He must face his own demons and discover that he might just be one himself.Several hundred years later, Jack Frost is the only name he is known by to any living soul. The world is not kind to drifters, so Loki chooses to live in the underbelly - and oh, does he thrive. Some parts of that dark underworld though, are too cruel even for him. A chance encounter whilst Loki lies and kills, in the service of liars and killers leads to an alliance as tenuous as the threads holding what is left of his morality.

Odin’s Son, Tyr’s Son by PeaceHeather

First Fic: For a fill in Round 17 of Norsekink: "Someone starts to notice that Odin treats Loki in ways that are neglectfull and borderline abusive and starts to feel very uncomfortable about it.

It becomes worse when people at court start to take after Odin's treatment of Loki. But they still don't feel comfortable voicing they're doubts out loud.

And then the lip-sewing incident happens and they can no longer sit idly by while this happens. So this person just stand up and calls the rest of Asgard out on this bulshit, seriously the boy just cut of some hair, it's not like it wont ever grow back on it's own again.

Bonuses: 10+ The person is higly respected and influential in Asgard. 100+ The person is Tyr. 1000+ Whoever it is, is not part of the royal family."

Wanda and Peter BFFS by TunaFishChris

First Fic: Nobody's thrilled at the idea of "that kid" Peter Parker on the Avengers team. 

Nobody's thrilled at the idea of "that weirdo" Wanda Maximoff on the team, either.

 Until they disappear, that is. 

Or, the one where Peter and Wanda are besties and the other Avengers are jerks until they realize how important and awesome they both are.

little windows by sheisraging

First Fic: Bucky looks at the paintbrushes Steve rolls nervously between his hands, at the box now sitting on the coffee table. He brushes his fingertips over the star. “You want to paint my arm?”

Steve Rogers vs the Media by eden22

First Fic: Encounters with the press are an inevitable part of the job when you're a superhero. Unfortunately, Steve isn't the best at navigating those encounters without stirring up controversy.

Stop Interrupting my grinding by rohkeutta

First Fic: “I tried to call Sam,” Captain America says, bewildered. He’s sprinting like Usain Bolt and doesn’t sound even a little out of breath. Fucker. “Who’re you?”

“Someone who’s watching you live on TV,” Bucky tells him as the tiny patriotic figure on the screen takes the turns like he instructed. Bucky should probably be a lot more freaked out about this, but honestly? After a tour in the Middle East and six years as a nurse in New York, even this isn’t enough to ruffle him. One sees a lot of shit in the ER. “Also, you better hang up now, that thing is behind the next bend.” 

“Uh, okay,” Captain America says. “Thanks?”

“Whatever,” Bucky says, disconnects the call and turns the TV off to get ready for his shift.

A Historical Relic and a History Professor Walk into a bar- by orphan account

First Fic: “What d’you what?” Bucky snapped hoarsely with a dignified sniffle.The man blinked very slowly. 

“Wanna pet my dog?”

AKA

History Professor, Bucky Barnes, meets Useless Avenger, Clint Barton.

the conspiracy kids by tempestaurora

First Fic: WHO IS SPIDER-MAN? 

The screen showed Peter Parker, sixteen years old and determined to prove the identity of Spider-Man over the course of the three-part documentary he was making, unknowing that it would become viral within days of the first part being released. Behind the camera, way off screen, was Harley Keener, Tony Stark’s other prodigy child, grinning like crazy as Peter started the documentary. Only a few people knew what was to come, and those few people were about to have a great few weeks.

“My name is Peter Parker, and with the help of my friends, Ned Leeds, Harley Keener, and my Aunt, May Parker, who provided me with a lot of red yarn for this project, we’re going to uncover the identity of Spider-Man.”

OR

"what if peter just decided to fuck with everyone who didn’t know he was spider man and make a documentary about him trying to uncover the Truth.”

Steve and Bucky are Fucking Weird (aka Sam Needs Better Friends: A Series) by neversaydie

First Fic: "Look, a dick is just kinda there, right? But a cock is, y'know, taking an interest and trying to get involved." 

He makes a wavy 'get involved' motion with his hand that Sam finds extremely disturbing. 

"If it's hard, it's a cock. Calling it a dick is just disrespectful."

[assorted-fics]

ATLA: Firelord Zuko

Do You Hear The People Sing? by generic_username

The Fire Nation has only rebelled once in its long history. They are a proud people, and a loyal one. They do not turn against their own for no reason. They protect their own.

Especially their Prince.

~~~ Basically this was a What if the Fire Nation said Fuck Ozai and rebelled AU. along with a sprinkling of world building built in.

portraiture by KaleidoKai

"We put our faith in art – and it is time that you should too. I think you might be surprised by what you see."

Zuko has his portrait made after the war. Oneshot.

the beginning of a new and brighter birth by aloneintherain

“I’m so proud of you, my nephew.” Uncle cups Zuko’s face in his lined hand. The gesture is so tender, his palm so warm, that Zuko has to take a fortifying breath against the sudden swell of emotion in his chest.

“I want to be a good leader, Uncle,” Zuko says. “I want to look after my people.”

“You will,” Uncle says. “You are, nephew.”

In a new era of peace, Zuko works to be a very different Fire Lord than his forefathers.

a night at the theatre by aloneintherain

The director could get on his knees, and talk about honouring Zuko all he liked, but it didn’t erase the fact that the Ember Island Players had trivialised—had actively mocked—his struggles. His friends’ struggles.

This man had Zuko murdered on-stage to the rapturous applause of the audience, and now he was trying to smile sweetly at Zuko, and welcome him onto his set, as if there weren’t exaggerated versions of his friend’s outfits tucked away backstage, as if he hadn’t orchestrated Aang’s death at the hands of his father—

Fire Lord Zuko meets the Ember Island Players.

letter to the editor by aloneintherain

No one knows that Dante Basco, an emerging writer with a growing readership, is actually Fire Lord Zuko.

Not even his editor.

Treachery of the Highest Order by LoserLife592

Sometimes life is unfair. Sometimes the universe likes to kick you when you're down. Sometimes bad things happen to good people.

But there a still lines that need to be drawn. And this? This is beyond that line.

(or, You Think You Know A Guy)

[assorted-fics]

ATLA: Zuko AU

Dragon of the Yuyan Series by 00AwkwardPenguin00

In which Zuko is fostered/adopted/raised/recruited by the Yuyan Archers of Pouhai Stronghold, and destiny hiccups.

Zuko is Morally Against Capturing Avatars by Blue_Rive

Yuyan raise Zuko AU.

first rule of earth kingdom fight club... series by ohmygodwhy

zuko, his stubborn inability to die, and finding himself thru getting his ass kicked

The Best Path series by EudociaCovert

Choosing your own destiny is hard business.

AU series from "Zuko Alone" on, exploring what could happen if Jet and Zuko had met sooner.

What We’re Given by Haicrescendo

Started out as a “What would happen if Zuko happened to rediscover sky bison while searching for the Avatar?” and turned into something more than that.

Little Zuko v the World by MuffinLance

Zuko finds Aang a month into his banishment. They’re both 12. Expect not-a-kid-person!Zhao, gratuitous saving from pirates (dangit Katara give little Zuko back his shirts), and some solid Appa/Zuko bromance. It is the hole in your life you didn’t know needed filling.

The One Where Zuko’s Hair Matches Sokka’s and Other Tales by MuffinLance

Ficlets from my Tumblr. Dammit Tumblr.

Some take place in my established AUs, some are doin' their own thing.

Consider The Wildflowers by AvocadoLove

AU during the Siege of the North.

When the moon was briefly killed, the lines between the spirit world and the material world grew thin. It became possible for someone to cross the barrier.

Or,

Zuko meets the ally he never knew he needed, in the form of a dark angry rug.

Let Sleeping Dragons Lie by generic_username

When the first dragons taught mortals how to firebend, they were seen as wise and just rulers. Some were gifted human form, and from those dragons the royal family is descended from. They have forgotten this gift, as have many others, until Agni once more demonstrates how far he will go to save his children. Dragonfire is not so easily snuffed out, and soon the world will see.

It is best to let sleeping dragons lie. But when they wake, well.

lessons in tea making by aloneintherain

AU where Zuko realises early into his banishment that Ozai is an abusive bastard who sent him on a wild goose chase. Iroh turns their decommissioned warship into a floating tea shop, and Zuko settles down as a tea server onboard the Jasmine Dragon.

And then, years later, the Avatar emerges from the iceberg.

And then Aang decides that he wants Zuko, the first good firebender he’s met this century, to be his firebending teacher - even though Zuko wants nothing to do with him.