#(Also smooth subject change Tai... smooth)

[sleepdeprivedheretic]

Those Shoes (Ch.1)

Notes: The title is referenced to a song by The Eagles, it’s a classic song about exotic dancers, as well as a popular song to play in the clubs. Rita, or @youtubequeens and I brainstormed this piece, and I was so excited to finally write it :3

Warnings: Language, Exotic Dancers and their life, talk about sex, Trigger Warnings!!!: Mentions of and non-consensual acts such as groping and touching, and other horrors.  

Notice: Dancers should be treated with respect, and this is not a fic to downgrade them, nor to spread false truths. It sheds light on what can and does happen in real life, and how that it can be a dangerous job. The warnings are here for a reason. Thank You.

 “Honey, I neeeeed your help!” Your mother whined through the phone. You sighed loudly as you sat on the bed. You’ve just finished with a hefty amount of homework, two tests, and you had another coming up, soon. Not only were your friends squealing that they need to celebrate your upcoming graduation, but your mother had called you, needing something. Again.

“Before you hang up!” She started as your thumb hovered over the red button. “I know that you’ll be graduating college, soon, and you’re needing a job, asap, sooooo, I was wondering if I could hire you, soon?” She baited, and you felt a chill of dread down your spine.

“No way in hell.”

“Oh, Come on! You know that you’ll need a job! I can’t find decent hire, anywhere. How about I hire you until you find a better job? Please? These outfits need to be patched up, and I need makeup expertise! Other than my own!” She added.

You felt your stubborn nature wilt as common sense pile drove in. Your mother was a crafty, sneaky, snake, and she knew that you were needing money to make end’s meet, especially when you were about to move to a better apartment. There were good businesses waiting to hire, and some even were willing to sponsor you, but of course it could take months until you could officially land a good job.

Unfortunately, your mother knew this.

“Above minimum wage, and I get to wear what I want.”

“Deal.” She didn’t even hesitate.

“Fine. I’ve got tests…and the girls are throwing me a surprise party, of all things at the end of the month, so I’ll see you when I see you.” You breathed out, and your mom giggled.

“Oh, a surprise party? Maybe I could send-”

“Mom, no.” You blurted out, and she laughed.

“Oh, my baby girl!” She cooed. “You don’t need physical experience to enjoy-”

You clicked the red dial, ending the call as you sighed with defeat. How did your life turn out like this?  More than likely, she’ll gather your small group of friends and convince them to try to get you to loosen up. It was not only your graduation day, but also your birthday, coming up.

 Your mind froze with fear at the memories of past birthdays. After you’ve turned eighteen, she tried multiple times to send out one of the male dancers, scantily dressed in an ice cream sundae uniform, holding a card that basically said “to pop your cherry”.    

Yeah, you didn’t really had any contact with her, really.

…………………

“Surprise! Happy Graduation and Birthday, Girl!” Your friends screamed with joy as you entered your apartment. Finally. After years of hard work and several job offers that will get back to you within a month, you were a certified beautician with a knack to patch and design clothes. Sure, it wasn’t your first idea of a job, but it grew on you. Dying hair, painting nails, mastering different techniques of applying makeup, and seeing the sparkly eyes of your patients as they admired your hard work, had won you over.

Of course, your mother had a major influence over you. Although you weren’t into dancing, you were happy to practice makeup and help patch up certain outfits. As you grew older, you went with what you knew, and soon, your school had paid for your college due to your good grades, and you made your way up, ever since.

“Oh hey, girls! Where’s the cake?” You wondered, and they wasted no time with mischievous giggles. You stilled.

“What-”

“Don’t worry, Babe! It’ll be here, soon. Try this cucumber Sake!” Rumi grinned as she held out the small cup. The white-haired woman had been your friend since late high school, the only one knowing about your mother’s business back then. She and your other friend, Keigo, had now opened up a pet store. Said man who had bird-like perception wasn’t here, right now, but your more…flirtatious friend, Nemuri, was here with her girlfriend and your attention-seeking friend, Yu. Both girls had worked for your mother, and although you were close, you were weary of their similar antics.

“You’re hiding something.” Your eyebrows furrowed. Nemuri smiled coyly as she slung an arm around a giggling Yu.

“It wouldn’t be called a surprise if we weren’t.”  

“True.”

The four of you had cut up and were laid back, enjoying small talk and stories that you all missed out on. Nemuri and Yu were doing great with the future wedding funds, Rumi had admitted that Keigo was trying his best to win over some goth from Hot Topic, and you, well, you were still doing the things that you loved to do, despite a busy schedule. Rumi smiled, knowing fully well that your more secretive hobbies had leaned towards being more humanitarian, despite your busy schedule.

You wanted to do things that you wanted to do, not gain attention from them, yet your close group of friends had known of your little skits: Feeding not only stray cats, but taking time to volunteer to help with the homeless and the orphanage. The conversation had quickly turned to about working at the strip club, and you were relieved that the subject had changed.

“Ugh. I hate it when they get up. They’re suppose to sit, and be obedient.” Nemuri huffed.

“Isn’t that against the regulations?” You wondered, and Yu nodded.

“Yeah. I heard that one girl in the private room was far into her dancing, she didn’t notice the guy standing up. Luckily there’s cameras, and so when the staff noticed that he pulled his dick out, they broke into the room and threw him out. Hah, he didn’t get his cash back or anything.” She finished, and you couldn’t help but feel sympathy.

You weren’t raised in the club, but your mother had told you plenty of stories, and dropped off the outfits or brought home a “dummy” to practice makeup on while she told you to never let your guard down. It wasn’t until you were nineteen when you fully knew what she had meant as you were working as a hostess at her building.

Although you were dressed in bartender clothes, it didn’t stop anybody from trying to make a grab at you. You were lucky that your mother had hired good bouncers, and she herself was like a tiger who prowled upon those who didn’t belong there.  

“That’s awful.” You admitted, and Nemuri nodded in agreement.

“Yeah. It’s especially gross when you’re giving them a lap dance, and you feel something gross and sticky on the back of your thigh.”

“Or when they kept saying that ‘you’re too pretty to work here’. I know I’m pretty, and I want the attention and attraction to work here. Just because I dance, doesn’t mean that I’m easy. I’m in a committed relationship for six years, thank you.” Yu bantered back while Rumi and you listened quietly.

“You girls go through a lot. Damn. Poor birthday girl had to wear a miniskirt while handing out food and drinks.” Rumi piped up, offering to say what she knew about the subject. Nemuri sighed.

“I remember that when Yu and I first started. Her mom’s not too picky when it comes to help, especially when it’s low pay and her own kid. Like a lamb in a den full of lions, I tell you. Luckily our ladies and gents knew how to swoop in to the rescue.” She finished, and you felt yourself blushing.

Everyone jumped as the doorbell rang, and you watched the Grinch-like grins spread on Nemuri and Yu’s faces, as Rumi let out one that was almost feral.

“Cake’s here.” They said, and you couldn’t help but feel a case of dread as Nemuri didn’t hesitate to waltz over there, and sling the door open, and you couldn’t help but to swallow thickly.

“You did not.” It was a whisper that died on your throat.

Of course you should have known. Of all things-

 He stood in the middle of the door, holding a prettily frosted cake, but it wasn’t the cake that caught your attention.

 Tall, blond, muscles, was sporting thin square glasses that were about to fall off of his nose, a sleeveless white vest with a loosened tie and one button undone. His pants were no better, the zipper and buttons were undone as it snagged nicely on his hips, leaving a blond treasure trail for the world to see, and of course, sleek black and orange high heels that looked as if they cost more than your rent.  

“I’m here to teach our Birthday Girl a lil’ lesson.” Came out the smooth purr as he twirled a red sucker in his mouth, and damn it did that not help you. You hated to admit it, but he was the handsomest ones that you’ve ever seen, and of course you knew who sent him. Pretty amber irises stared at you, drinking you thoroughly as if he was silently contemplating something.  

“Name’s Fatigue, Sugar.” He grinned, lolling the sucker within his mouth as Nemuri took the cake from his hands and set it down on your living room table.  

“Don’t work our girl too hard, Tai. Poor thing gets a little flustered, easily.” She giggled, pinching your cheek rather playfully. You gave her a small glare despite that your ears were burning, now. Tai, or “Fatigue”, let a slow, lazy smile stretch his face as he looked down at you with a cocky look mixed with hunger.

“Jus’ sit back an’ relax, ‘nd enjoy the show. You deserve it for workin’ so hard.”  He cooed with what seemed to be affection, and you swallowed thickly and nodded. Sure, you could do this. Giving an affirmative, he didn’t give you much time before he took out his phone and pressed some button, instantly music had started playing as he started.

He was like a magnet, snapping your attention to him in awe as he spread his legs wide, letting himself sink low to the floor, heels perfectly grounded into your carpet as his glasses stayed neatly perched on the crook of his nose. He grinned at your amazed stare, as if eating it up. Of course he had a bag full of tricks, and you couldn’t believe that you were finding yourself eager to know each one.

He didn’t fail to deliver, hopping back up with a dive of his hips, sliding a hand down to the side of his pants, palming his thigh as he bent low, ass in the air. Each movement was in sync with the beats, and was absolutely filthy as he used his body to curve and twist into movements that oddly made you feel hot and your throat dry. Who was he? Where did your mom even find somebody this good?

Your friends were no better. Rumi had sported a look of stupor, and to your own surprise, Nemuri and Yu looked impressed, a rare sight for you knew that their technique was high dollar and quality, too.

He was all over you, not touching, but close, not letting you take your attention away from him as he ran his hands close to his hips and inner thighs, his sharp focus was only on you as he gauged your reactions, seeing which little movements brought a spark to your eyes or a flush to your face.

Then, like his routine, he did another unexpected move. Taking your cake, he set it neatly on your lap. Not giving you time to really question anything, he gingerly took your hand, dipping your fingers into the frosting, and brought it to his mouth.

Hot. You couldn’t help but feel hot all over as your lips burned on how he licked and sucked at the frosted digits, lolling his tongue over each one as he gave you such a dirty, heated look, and you swore that you heard him groan. Or was it you? You couldn’t tell as he gave your digits one final suck, letting go with a wet pop as the last song ended.

“Delicious.” He purred, and you couldn’t help but bite your bottom lip at how he sounded it.

“Holy shit.” Nemuri broke the silence.

“Language, young Missy.” Fatigue tutted, waving his finger at her, laughing lightly as she gave him one of her own, before turning his attention back to you.

“Didja enjoy the dance, Sweetling?”

“Yeah.” You admitted in  choked voice, and he gave a small laugh of affection as he walked towards the door.

“You have a Happy Birthday. I do hope that I can see ya, again.” He gave one last final look at you that you couldn’t decipher, as he headed out.

Silence enveloped you girls, before Yu started laughing.

“You were so blushing! He looked as if he wanted to eat you up!” She noticed, and you could feel your lip starting to hurt from biting it constantly.

“Woah, did he even know that you’re the boss’s kid?” Rumi asked, and Nemuri shook her head.

“Nah. We hired him yesterday, and her mom didn’t say anything, other than that she had a very special job for him. Heh, I didn’t know that the new meat was this good.” Nemuri explained, staring at her nails.

“’I do hope that I can see ya, again’.” Yu mimicked before giggling with glee. “Somebody’s has taken a shine to our homebody.” She grinned and your face flushed with realization.

“I gotta go see my mom.” You blurted out, instead, and was rewarded with grins and knowing smirks.

“It’s so cute how you’ve finally began to open up, my little touch-starved Chickadee. A stripper, of all things, huh?” Nemuri laughed at the irony, and you couldn’t help but join.

“I guess that it’s time to admit that I don’t have to live my life as the Lone Wolf, anymore.”

“And finally get laid, right?” Yu said it ever so casually, and you rolled your eyes.

“Ah, leave her alone. It’s nice that those brick walls are falling down.” Rumi grinned, slinging an arm around you and you smiled.

“It’s getting late, ladies. I got to see my mom early, tomorrow. Before you leave, take some cake with you.” You admitted.

“Will do! I’ll tell her that the new guy had done the impossible, by gaining your heated stare.” Yu giggled as she wrapped an arm around Nemuri’s waist.

“Hah, Kei’s gonna have a laugh at this.” Rumi smiled as she got up, leaving for your kitchen to grab the plates and forks.

….………….

After cake was cut and eaten, and the girls hugged you and kissed your cheeks before heading out, you were now laying on your bed, face flushing furiously as your heartbeat quickened. A stripper of all things shouldn’t have done that to you. You grew up with your mom’s flirty attitude towards strangers, and from an older teen, had been working in the club in a vest, shirt, and miniskirt with low heels, being constantly flirted with.

You didn’t know what made him to be so different, but like a magnetic connection, you were pulled, and despite you loner, homebody attitude, you kind of did wanted to see more of him.

…………..

He sighed, slipping off the expensive shoes as his feet and body ached for a hot shower. She didn’t know him, but he knew somewhat about her. Although the two of them shared the same college, he’d never shared a class with her, and she had lived in the apartments that was near, but not the dorms. Yet, he seen her almost everyday while either to or from his way to classes, work, or in general.

She tried to hide it, but he knew of the little empty cans of tuna near the dumpster that kept the stray mother cat and her kittens fed, was from her. He could hear her cooing to this day, smile rivaling the sun, as she looked down at the bunch with a touch of softness, not noticing the world around her as he took the same route past the alley every day.

 Of course, he was a little intrigued. He had a sweet tooth, and despite his refusal in ever taking a bite, he wanted to drink in on what this strange woman was doing. He knew that she was busy, if the bags underneath her eyes indicated anything, and yet she still took time to do small and big things. Picking up littered cans and tossing them in the recycling bin, helping struggling students study, and he’d even seen her face at the soup kitchens, pouring generous amounts of soup into the bowls which were held in the hands of the hungry.  

All around. She was all around and yet tried to make herself small and trivial. Others didn’t really notice, but he did. He couldn’t help it. Like a little magnet, she pulled him in, and she was unaware of it. Honestly, he felt like a stalker, yet he knew that he wasn’t. She was just…all around. Existing, helping, laughing, and smiling. It cut through a crack in his dark little world.

Of course, then she graduated, and he was surprised on how much he had missed her laughter, the softness in her eyes as she handled the kittens or gave out food. He didn’t know her. Didn’t speak to her, never went to the same classes, and yet, he felt a little empty when she was gone. It boggled and irritated him.

The literal icing on top was when he had finally gotten hired, the smirking woman telling him that he had a special job, and he couldn’t help but look in surprise at the address. The same door number that he seen her excitedly rush out from while he was on his way to class, was written on the address sheet with instructions. He had already met her friends, who were surprising her on her birthday. To be honest, he was surprised that the woman had friends such as Nemuri and Yu, but he didn’t question it further, as he felt the excitement build up.

Then, he couldn’t help himself when the two of them had finally met. He suppressed a shiver. He had a no touching rule. He didn’t want to touch, and he didn’t want to be touched, but something broke in him. He wanted to be touched by those shy inquisitive fingers, wanted to be stared at so innocently, and yet so dirty, and he couldn’t help himself. She was so sweet, and he didn’t mind letting himself having a taste, for once.

He really did hope to see her again

…………  

[angelsarts]

My second set of ocs that currently make up class 2-B! There will be more in future!

I’d love to have them make friends with someone else’s ocs at some point :’D

Quirks underneath cut!

Class 2B pages: 1 , 2 , 3

Arthur Okada

Digital hero: Digi-Man

Quirk: Digital form

This quirk allows Digi to be in a digital form meaning they can interact with or control mechanical objects such as computers and other devices such as cars, phones, refrigerators or any other object that runs on electricity. They can also enter an electronic device such as a computer and travel via the electrical wiring to another location as long as all wires are connected.

Downside:

When Digi comes in contact with a magnet it can can cause static glitching and inability to move. He can also become trapped within a digital device such as a computer if the plug socket is removed and the computer is turned off. As he has a digital form he can also become stalled with a loading/buffering sign if he becomes confused.

Hana Onishi

Plant hero: Lady bloom

Quirk: Plant Merge

Bloom has the ability to merge with plant life, this includes trees and grass. The quirk can allow the merge with plant-life which lets them move within the targeted plant, as well as manipulate any object or being in physical contact with the surface.

Downside:

If Bloom merges into the plant such as the grass, while she is under the ground she must hold her breath. The surface of the plant life must also at minimum be equal to her body’s size in order for her to merge inside. Her control on the plant life is also limited to 10-30 minutes depending on the size of the plant.

Kaiba Shimizu

Cloaking Hero: Houdini

Quirk: Cloaking

This quirk allows Houdini to hide objects or even human and animal subjects from optical sight via touch. The quirk can change objects as big as a double decker bus from sight, the object or human will still be there and can still move but they will not be seen for a maximum of three hours, this also includes themselves.

Downside:

The user themselves can no longer see what they have used cloaking on, this causes trouble if for example they turn a car invisible and forgets where they park it. Objects hidden from sight will still have an outline in heavy rain giving away their location and they can become sick from over using their quirk.

Mori Mori

Climbing hero: Crawler

Quirk: Wall crawl

Crawlers quirk allows them to fasten them self onto vertical or horizontal surfaces and travel across them without falling. They can scale walls and ceilings, no matter how rough or smooth the surface is. They crawl walls using an adhesive secreted from their hands and feet, they are free to release themselves from the surface by concealing the secretion e.g by wearing gloves.

Downside:

The secretion can start to burn their hands if they excessively use them to fasten them self onto surfaces for an excessive amount of time, the adhesive may also be nulled against surfaces in certain weathers e.g rain or snow. Footwear and gloves also null the affect.

Neo Tai Park

Puppetry hero: Ring master

Quirk: Puppet parade

RM’s quirk allows them to control material objects as a puppet to do as he asks. He must touch the object for his quirk to work and his puppetry can control up to 6 items. During their time under his control not only can he give them commends verbally he can also make the object grow or shrink up to 6 ft in length and width. He always uses stuffed toys as they are the easiest thing to control.

Downside:

The puppetry only lasts up to 15 minutes at a time and he has to wait 10 minutes before he can use his quirk again. The more puppets he controls the more tired and slow he himself becomes, stuffed toys tend not to be effective for fights but they are great for rescue situations or distractions.

Yuna Ikeda

Ink Hero: The Squid

Quirk: Ink secretion

Squid can create ink from her lungs or hands and create a cloud of ink within the air to act like a fog gas that they can hide themselves within, they also have the ability to spray out ink in a liquid form to blind their targets or create a slippery surface.

Downside:

If the ink is used in a gas form, it can paralyse people if it becomes too thick, this includes the quirk user. The paralysis is only temporary for 20 minutes but this can be dangerous. They also can’t always control when ink comes out in liquid which can often lead to slippy surfaces.

[petri808]

Sixteen Weeks and Counting

The complete story from InuKag Week 2019.   9k words.  

“But Mrs. Tai--sho, Inuyasha?!”  Kagome gestures wildly at the delinquent standing with his arms crossed.  “And don’t you ‘keh’ me!” she glares at the young man who simply turns his head with his ears pinned down.  Turning back to the teacher, “Mrs. Taisho this is not fair, I’m a straight A student and he’s a slacker!  How could you pair us up like that for this big project?!  Is it because his brother is the school Principle that he gets away with everything?!”

“Ms. Higurashi,” the teacher, Mrs. Kagura Taisho folds her hands in front of her and sighs, “I know this may be quite the shock, but your differences are precisely why I paired you up. Inuyasha needs a firm hand to guide him.”  Looking past the young girl squarely at Inuyasha, “and this is his last chance to pass regardless of who his brother is.  If he doesn’t get a decent mark on this semester project, he’ll be held back a grade.” Turning back to the fuming girl, “who better to turn to than my top student who’s also a bit of a spitfire?” Taisho winks.  “Don’t worry, you’ll have all semester to work on this and of course I will help keep Inuyasha in line he does after all have to come home sometimes.”

Kagome sighs, “I really don’t have a choice in this do I?”  Mrs. Taisho shakes her head.  “Great,” the young girl hangs her head and takes a moment to breathe.  “Science isn’t the easiest subject for me and I need to help a reta…  not so enlightened person enough to get through this…”

“Oi, I ain’t no retard, just lazy,” Inuyasha quips back, but when Kagome looks up and he sees her eyebrow twitch, he quickly turns away again.  

“It’s true Ms. Higurashi, Inuyasha was a good student once upon a time, it’s just,” sigh, “getting him to care since, well let’s just say past events happened, hasn’t been easy.  Many of us in the family have tried but he won’t listen to us.  You have 16 weeks for this science project, why don’t you guys take the afternoon to come up with an idea?  In fact, if it’s okay with your parents, as a thank you, how about coming over for dinner, you two can talk while I cook.”

“Eww, I don’t want her at our house!”

“Your house?” Taisho’s eyebrow raises.

“I guess that would be okay, I mean you’re right, we should come up with our idea quickly so we can get started on it, I’ll just text momma and let her know where I’ll be.”

“Wonderful!” Taisho clasps her hands together.  “Then gather your belongings and I’ll drive us.”

A couple hours later at the Taisho residence, Kagura is busy in the kitchen.  As full-blooded demons, she and her husband Sesshomaru aren’t very big eaters but as a half breed Inuyasha can consume quite a lot of food. Most nights, he fends for himself, gorging on different flavors of ramen but with a human guest in the house it was only proper she cook a meal.  The smells of chicken and vegetables simmering start to fill the home and she’s surprised it hasn’t lured a hungry boy out.  But based on the sounds coming from the living room, he might be a little too indisposed at the moment.

“These smells are actually making me hungry.”  Sesshomaru dips a claw into the broth to take a taste.  Licking his finger, “and I must say your guest is putting a smile on my face.” A loud thump rings out from the other room causing him to grin.  “I like this one.”

‘Damn it why’d you hit me?!’

‘Cause you were falling asleep!’

Kagura chuckles, “I agree, she was the perfect person to help him.”

‘I swear if you hit me again!…’

‘Well if you’d pay attention I wouldn’t have to!’

Sesshomaru leans against the counter and crosses his arms, facing the living room.  “What did you say they were working on?  The final project for your class?”

“Mmhmm,” she too crosses her arms and takes a break from stirring.  “They’ve decided on a topic but that’s as far as they got from what I could hear.  Kagome sat him in front of his laptop to do research and I’m guessing he keeps falling asleep instead.”

Another thud. ‘Damn it, Kagome I wasn’t falling asleep that time!’

“Sounds like he’s lucky to be a half breed,” he chuckles, “or I might end up losing a brother.”

‘Ooops!  My mistake.’

With the help of the Taisho’s, Kagome and Inuyasha come up with a timeline to work on the project. It was a better outcome than nothing at all from that first meeting.  Every Friday afterschool, Kagura would bring the two kids to the house so they could work on it and Sesshomaru would take Kagome home in the evening.  Now if they could just learn to work together without killing each other everything should be okay.  Maybe not smooth sailing, but at least manageable.  

But by the time Kagome was dropped off at home that first night around 8pm she was ready to take a nice soak in the ofuro then crash for the weekend. She didn’t know what was worse, track and field season or dealing with such a temperamental brat!  The mental drain was exhausting!  Inuyasha kept nodding off, or not listening, she even caught him playing a computer game when he was supposed to be looking up information on air pressure!  He’s lucky all she did was hit him with a book cause what she really wanted to do was grab the ornamental sword off the wall and run it through him!  “Ugh,” she rubs her temples and sinks deeper into the tub, ‘this semester is gonna be a nightmare…’

“ARGH!” Inuyasha threw himself onto his bed and buried his face in the pillow.  ‘This sucks!  This utterly fucking sucks!’  As soon as Sesshomaru came home from dropping off Kagome, he and Kagura were on him, harping that he needed to get his act together.

You were supposed to graduate this year Inuyasha, but you were held back once, wanna make it two?  I’m tired of supporting you, if you don’t pass this year, you can get out of the house cause you’ll be an adult and my promise to dad will be over.  

Inuyasha, I know it’s been hard on you after losing your mom, but do you think this would make her happy?  She would want you to do your best and that girl, Kagome, is your saving grace, don’t ruin it.  Or Sessh is right, we won’t help you anymore.

As much as he didn’t want to admit it, they were right about everything.  Most of his problems were all of his own making and both his parents was probably rolling in their graves.  But he’s been this way for over 8 years and changing his personality overnight just wasn’t going to happen.  “Ugh…” ‘This semester is gonna kill me…’

~~

Sesshomaru walks over to where his wife is leaning against the frame of the archway sipping on a cup of tea.  The kids are in the living room working on their project.  He takes a place by her side and whispers, “awfully quiet huh? Everything going okay?”

She leans over, “yeah, I’m a little surprised that they could be so civil after just two weeks.” Kagura giggles, “maybe that miko bloodline she comes from still holds sway.”

“Maybe,” He places a hand on his wife’s shoulder, “but looks like you were right about her, maybe she will be the best thing that’s ever happened to him.”  Smack!  Sesshomaru laughs, “or maybe not.”

“Oww,” Inuyasha rubs the spot on his arm where Kagome punched.  “You are so lucky I won’t hit a girl!”

“Tch,” she snickers, “I don’t know, seems you like being hit since you always provoke me into it.”          

“Keh!  I’m trying here, so cut me some slack.  I did what you asked and found the information didn’t I?”

“You did and I appreciate it Inuyasha, but there’s still a lot more we need to do, so I need you to stay focused.”

“Yeah, yeah…”

The bell rings, signaling the end of 3rd period.  Monday morning seemed to always be the toughest, aside from Friday.  One would think after a couple of days off students would be refreshed but it was the opposite feeling and now with the project thrown in, Kagome is even more tired than usual.  Kagome’s best friend Sango knew of her friend’s dilemma and had even offered to help but the young girl had politely declined.  Inuyasha wasn’t the easiest to work with but it was slowly getting better, the operative word being slowly, but still, Kagome was sure that things would start to even out soon and she wouldn’t be as tired.

“Mrs. Taisho wasn’t lying,” Kagome explains on the way to their next class, “Inuyasha is smart, but getting him to focus and care is the tough part.  I just don’t know why that is.”

“Rumor has it, he started acting out after his mom died.”

“Oh.  I can relate to that.  It was tough after my dad died, but I didn’t act out.”

Sango laughs, “that’s because you’re a better person.”

“I guess….  Maybe and it wasn’t just his mom right, his dad died when he was a baby…. So, I guess I should cut him a little slack.”

“The sooner you two can really get along,” Sango opens the classroom door, “the sooner you won’t be so stressed out.  Speak of the demon,” she looks over and sees Inuyasha already at his seat.  She smirks, “your lab partner is already waiting for you.”

Kagome rolls her eyes, but with a slight uplift in the corner of her lips, “so he is.  First time for everything.”

The girls take their seats, readying themselves for the science lesson.  Mrs. Taisho starts to hand out the days assignment which looks to be a fun one for once; working with chemicals.  She tells the students to gather the listed items and bring them back to their desks.  So, Kagome grabs the chemicals while Inuyasha grabs their Bunsen burner and some glass flasks along with the lighter.  Seems easy enough.  Mrs. Taisho floats around the room assisting the students who busily read the instructions for the first test.

“Okay,” Inuyasha holds the paper up, “it says you add a tablespoon of sodium bicarbonate to the water, this should create a bubbling reaction.”

Kagome grabs the bottle she thinks is correct and begins to level off a spoonful.  Inuyasha takes a whiff while he ties his hair up in a ponytail, “are you sure that’s the right one, doesn’t smell like baking powder to me.”

She shrugs her shoulders, “pretty sure, I grabbed what was in that bin.”  

But something wasn’t sitting right for the hanyo, his nose was pretty accurate and something in his gut was turning.  He watches as Kagome slowly turns the spoon over to allow the contents to fall.  It took just a millisecond, but the instant the first powder touches the water it becomes obvious to the hanyo that this definitely wasn’t baking soda. “Kagome!” he grabs her by the shoulders, turning her away like in a slow-motion scene while at the same instant a bright flash and small explosion ricochets through the room.

When Kagome opened her eyes again, she was facing away from their table and still wrapped tightly in Inuyasha’s arms.  Mrs. Taisho was asking if she was okay, but maybe it was the slight ringing in her ears or the confusion that caused her to just nod slowly while she processed what just happened.  

“Hey, Kagome are you okay?” Inuyasha’s deeper voice so close to her ear snapped her back to the present a little quicker.  “Kagome?”

“Y-Yes?”  She turns her head as far as she can to look at him, which was difficult because he was still holding onto her so securely. “What… what happened?”

Inuyasha finally lets her go, but not before seating her on a nearby chair.  He kneels down and it almost takes her aback when he starts to speak to her in a calm tone.  “Are you sure you grabbed the bottle from the bin labeled sodium bicarbonate?”  Kagome nods her head, a bit of moisture pooling at the corners of her eyes.  “Absolutely sure?”  Again, she nods her head.  “Okay because teach said that was Cesium and that’s why it exploded.”

“Ce-cesium?”  Kagome’s hands are trembling in her lap at the realization that she screwed up.  “Oh, kami,” her hands fly up to her mouth, “y-you could have, w-we could have gotten so hurt….”  The tears break free and rush down her cheeks.  She covers her face.  “I screwed up, oh kami I’m sorry, I’m sorry Inu…”

“Hey, you’re fine, I’m fine, no one got hurt,” he tries to pry her hands away and get her to look at him. “Kagome, no one’s perfect, it probably got put away wrong by the last class, you can’t beat yourself up over it.”

“But you could have been hurt badly!”

“Keh!  I’m tough.” Inuyasha smirks.  “Main thing is you’re okay.  You are okay right, at least physically, I don’t see any marks on ya.”

“Thanks to you,” Kagome slightly flushes.  “Your quick reaction is why I’m not hurt.”

Mrs. Taisho comes over to check on them again while a couple other students helps to clean up the area. “Is she okay,” she asks her brother-in-law.  He nods yes. “Kagome you still look a bit shaky, do you want to go to see the nurse?”  She shakes her head in response.  “It’s the last period and it’s best not to do any more experiments today anyways.  I’ll have Inuyasha walk you home dear.”

“Oh,” the young girl waves her hand, “I don’t wanna trouble anyone…”

“Keh!  It’s no trouble,” he stands up with a grin plastered on his face and helps Kagome to her feet.  “Grab your bag, any chance to ditch school early I’ll take it.”

~~~

“Are you ever gonna let me make it up to you?”  Kagome asks for the third time that period.  

“Ugh, give it a rest already,” he grits his teeth trying not to yell in the middle of class, “it’s been almost a week.  I told you it’s not a big deal.”

“To you maybe, but for me it is.”

Groaning, “If I say yes, will you stop bugging me about it?”

“Uh-huh,” Kagome leans in. “Anything you wanna eat, it’s my treat.”

“Okay fine.” Inuyasha scratches his head, “there’s a ramen shop between school and my house, we could go there.”

“Great!  I’ll tell miss she won’t need to drive us today!”

“Fair warning, I eat more than one bowl.”

“I know,” she teases back, “I’ve seen you eat so I brought extra cash.”

“Keh!”  Inuyasha turns back to his lesson.

He couldn’t understand what was happening between them, it was weird how in five weeks this girl had been able to get under his skin… but in a good way.  No one’s ever been able to do that before.  Not his family, not his last girlfriend, or any friends for that matter.  Inuyasha peered at Kagome through his periphery.  So easy and unassuming she sat there working on the questions for the day. He couldn’t help the glimmer of a smile licking at his corners.  ‘My saving grace, huh, I wonder if mom would have liked her too.’  He refocuses on his paper, of course she would have.  Kagome had a lot in common with his mother, a refined, almost regal nature yet feisty enough to put up with a demon.  Inuyasha chuckles in his head.  ‘Okay maybe not refined, but definitely,’ he takes one more look, ‘pure.’

The following Wednesday, Kagome catches up to Inuyasha at his locker during lunch break to share some information she found for their project.  As he looks through the papers, Kagome leans in, pointing out things here and there, jabbering about some supplies they’ll need to get for their poster display. “Or we could do a Powerpoint presentation, it’s either or.”

“I think the Powerpoint makes more sense cause we can add video’s to better illustrate what air pressure is.”

Kagome giggles and pokes at him, “look at you sounding all smart now Inuyasha, who’da thought it.”

“Ha Ha,” he flashes a fanged grin, grabbing her hand and holding it up near his chest, “lazy but smart remember, get it right.”

She giggles again, but before she can retort someone bumps into Inuyasha’s shoulder hard, causing him to take a step back and her hand to be released.  The same person grabs her around the waist and pulls her away from the hanyo.  

“Kagome, why are you getting all chummy with this stupid half-breed?  He’s so cursed that both his parents died because of him.”

“Fuck you Koga!” Inuyasha moves to take a swing, but the wolf yokai places the girl between them and he’s forced to stay his hand. He growls and narrows his eyes at the wolf, “Only a loser would use a female as a shield.”

“Tch, I don’t need her,” Koga pushes Kagome aside and squares up, “but maybe I don’t want you to touch me and spread the curse.”  Inuyasha clenches his fists at his sides.  Talking about his mom was always a sore spot and to be called cursed….  “That’s right mutt you should know your place.  A half breed like you ain’t nothing when it comes to…”

“That’s enough!!”

The two men stop and turn to see Kagome with her hands fisted and the most menacing aura surrounding her.  Human’s may not sense it, but these demons could feel the energy surging around her. Kami the girl was pissed!  She walks straight up to Koga and slaps his face so hard the entire hallway grows silent.  She moves between them, blocking Inuyasha in a protective stance.  

“How dare you say those things about him!  Just because his parents are gone doesn’t make him cursed because if it does then add me to the list!  My dad died when I was younger, you gonna say that was my fault?”  Koga is so shocked that someone, even more so a woman had slapped him that he didn’t respond for a second.  “Well?!” Kagome’s hands land on her hips, “you gonna answer me?  Am I cursed too?!”

“This…” Koga clears the shaky tone.  “This is between me and him, it has nothing to do with you.”

“Oh, like hell it doesn’t. You think I’m gonna let some brutish wolf make fun of my friend you got another thing coming.  Now get lost!”

“Tch!”  Koga’s friends, Hakkaku and Ginta start pulling him away.  “This ain’t over!”

Kagome glares at the trio until she could no longer see them.  She was still shaking, she was so furious.  Inuyasha places a hand on her shoulder to get her attention and almost takes a strike to the jaw, ducking and catching her fist instead.  “Kami, Inu I’m sorry!”

He drops her hand, “damn, woman you are scary when you get that angry.  Remind me not to piss you off that badly.”

She flushes red, “well he just made me so angry, i-it just came out.”

“Come on,” he shut’s his locker, grabs their stuff and takes her hand, “let’s get out of this hallway. I need to report this to Sessh.”

“O-Okay.”

Half way to the principal’s office, Kagome stares at their joined hands.  She looks up at Inuyasha’s face and notices the tenseness of his jaw. Does he realize?  Her cheeks growing warm, she averts her eyes to the floor and mumbles, “Um, Inu you can let go of my hand now.”    

He lets go immediately. “Oh shit, I didn’t realize!”

“Don’t worry, I kinda figured,” she reassures him.  “But, um, I was wondering, why would he say that about you?  I mean like, is there something about demons I don’t know about?”

“No,” Inuyasha lets out an exhale, “nothing like that.  He’s always had something against me, and I don’t even know why.  But to bring up my mom like that was a low fucking blow.”

When they reach the office, Kagome goes in with Inuyasha so they can fill Sesshomaru in with all the details.  He wasn’t surprised that Koga tried to pick a fight with Inuyasha, but he was taken aback that Kagome was the one who ended it and reassured her that Koga would be pulled in for a discussion since he’d put his hands on her.  Once that was done, Sesshomaru gives them passes back to their classes.

As they are about to part ways Inuyasha stops her.  “Kagome, you know thanks for standing up for me back there and I’m sorry about your dad.”

“You don’t have to thank me Inu,” she smiles.  “I lost him when I was 7 in a car accident.  It was hard but I realized I had to move on, I think that’s what he would have wanted.”

“Yeah…”

She places a hand over his heart, “Inu if you ever wanna talk, I’ll listen.”

For a few moments, the pair stand there, face to face in front of the office.  The look on Kagome’s face, it was so sweet, so serene as her hand stayed its position upon his chest.  His breathing slows, by kami was she always this breathtakingly beautiful? “Y-yeah…” Inuyasha swallows hard, “I’ll remember that.”

“Great!” Kagome bounces on the balls of her feet, “I’ll see ya after school Inu,” waving as she skip’s away, “we can finish talking then.”

“Right!”  But his feet are glued in place.  His hand sweeps over to where he could still feel the warmth of her hand lingering…

~~~~              

“What took you so long?” Miroku leans over and whispers as Inuyasha takes his seat.  “Class is half way over already.”

“Don’t worry ‘bout it, just had a run in with Koga at lunchtime.”

“I don’t see any marks on ya, he didn’t get a hit in?”

“Didn’t have a chance.”

“Whoa!” The teacher looks their way and Miroku ducks back down, but as soon as she goes back to writing on the board, he continues.  “Did you knock him out first?”

“Nah, girl stepped in between us.”

After Miroku picks up his jaw from the ground, his expression switches to a lecherous grin. “So, is she cute?”

“Keh!” Inuyasha turns away, but he couldn’t hide the slight burning in his cheeks from his friend.

“Oh ho!” Miroku pokes at this buddy, “bro you neeeed to give me details after class!”

“Will you shut up,” Inuyasha grits his teeth, “before the teacher comes over here!”

“Fine,” Miroku straightens out, “but I will find out who she is sooner or later…”

Of course, that month’s full moon had to fall on a Friday of all days.  It was common knowledge that hanyo’s like himself had a day when their demon powers waned, and the human side took back control.  But for Inuyasha, the feeling of being weaker never sat well with him.  Human frailties like disease cost his mother her life and even though it was just part of existing for them, that didn’t mean he had to like it.  You had a better chance of being struck by lightning than to see him on one of these nights and so the fact that Kagome was still going to be at his house when his turning would occur bugged him all day through classes. And yet, he couldn’t bring himself to cancel their session.

Inuyasha stared out the living room window watching the sun slowly make it’s decent below the horizon. It wouldn’t be long now, he could feel the tingling in his finger tips and the fading scents around him.  He talks a dry gulp before gently tapping Kagome on the shoulder.  “I need to warn you about something, I… t-tonight is my human night so in a few minutes I’ll be turning.”

“Oh,” she turns to look at him, tucking a few stray strands of hair behind her ear, “why is that a big deal or something, like do I need to worry cause you’ll get all weird?”

He blinks at her nonchalant tone, “um no, just didn’t want you to freak out.”  He motions over his shoulder with his thumb, “I’ll be right back, I like taking a shower after I change.”

“Sure,” she smiles, “take your time.”

He was right on the dot by the time he had reached his room for the change to begin.  Hair shifting from white to black, his fingers, the claws retracting into human nails.  The oddest feelings were as his canine ears receded and human ones appeared instead. But he was used to it all, and after a minute, Inuyasha opened his eyes to the new man staring back from the full-length mirror.  He sighed, saddened by the loss of his extra senses.  It really wasn’t such a necessity in this day and age, but it was still a handy feature.  After gathering his clothing, he retreats to the bathroom for a quick shower.          

When Inuyasha returns for the project, he stops in the kitchen to grab them drinks and runs into his brother, drinking tea and reading a newspaper.  

“How are things going Inuyasha?”

“Fine.”

“Oh, just fine?  You two are getting along so much better now. You even allowed her to stay despite it being your human night,” Sesshomaru puts his paper down, “any significance?”

“That-That’s none of your business.  But for the record I just wanted to stay on track.”

“Mmhmm,” his brother snickers, “then you should get back to it then.”

“Keh!”

‘Any significance…  Damn him trying to read into this like there’s more to it…’ Inuyasha reaches the archway and notices Kagome rubbing the back of her neck and turning her head from side to side like it was stiff.  He gulps, she had put her hair up in a messy bun and her neck was just…

He puts the bottles of water down on the table in front of her.  “Your neck sore?” he asks and takes a seat next to her on the floor.

“Yeah, a little. Thanks for the water,” she smiles and looks over.  But when she realizes how different he looks, her eyes widen, “wow, I mean it’s still obviously you, but the black hair makes you look so different!  Aww, and the doggy ears are gone!  I like those ears better.”

“You do?!”

“I wanna rub them, they look so fluffy and cute!”

“Maybe one day,” he mumbles as his cheeks flush.  “If you want, I can give you a neck massage. You’ve been working really hard today and I barely did anything, it’s the least I can do.”    

“That would be really sweet!”

Inuyasha scoots behind her and shifts her between his legs.  Guess his human form came in handy tonight, he looks at his hands before placing them gingerly on her shoulders, no claws.  Kagome pulls her knees up and lowers her head, giving him all the access, he would need. Slowly he began massaging her shoulders, starting at the edges of her collar bone and working his way towards the middle.  He kneads at the muscles, searching with the pads of his finger tips for any knots or tight spots.  “Tell me if there’s anywhere that hurts the most.”

“Okay,” she breathes out. Wow, she mused inwardly, even as a human Inuyasha had some strong hands. Shouldn’t she be a little surprised that he knew how to massage a person?  Oh, like it’s hard to figure out. Kagome closes her eyes and just lets the relaxation carry her away for a spell.  This feels so nice…. Her mind drifts…. Could his touch always feel like this?  She starts to imagine his strong grip, teasing other areas of skin….  Crap! Don’t go there!  She screams at herself.  Friends just friends and this project we’re working on, nothing more!  But it might be nice for more….  Kagome groans internally, maybe the massage was a bad idea.

He didn’t need his demon senses to figure out Kagome was enjoying the massage.  A few little cringes when he touched upon a sore spot, but for the most part she just sat there stoically and every so often he earned a wispy sigh.  Ugh!  Every time she did that a shiver ran up his spine!  Inuyasha was after all a normal male and after this little episode he might need to take stock of another feature.  It had been a couple of years or maybe three since he’d been physically close to another girl.  Nothing sexual, but they had made out a few times and now sitting here with Kagome, Inuyasha was starting to miss that.  

“Feel better,” he asks 20 minutes later.

“Very much,” she blushes lightly and looks down as she fiddles with her fingers, “thank you Inuyasha.”

Now it was his turn. He averts his eyes knowing that his own cheeks had grown warmer, “no problem.”

~~~~~

They’d surpassed the mid-way mark of the semester and it was crunch time for a lot of the bigger projects for all their classes.  Kagome had spent her lunch breaks the last couple of days studying poetry since she had to write one for a class assignment.  So, as she and Inuyasha make their way towards the school exit, her stomach makes itself vocally known.  

Inuyasha laughs, “you’re starting to sound like me.  Wanna stop for food on the way to my house?  I could go for some ramen.”

“You can always go for ramen,” Kagome giggles, “but yeah that sounds good.”

As they round the corner and see the doors, Inuyasha pauses, “oh crap, it’s Miroku,” halting her advancement and pulling her back.

“Who?”  She peers around, “the guy talking to Sango?”

“Yeah,” Inuyasha looks around too.  “But he’s been bugging me ever since the Koga thing about you.”

“Why?”

“Don’t worry bout it, he’s just a perve who’s curious what you look like.”

“Eww!” She tries to step away but is held back, “but he’s bugging my friend!”

“Shh!” Inuyasha tries to cover Kagome’s mouth.  “Keep your voice down.  You know Sango can take care of herself.”

“Inu you’re being silly. And who cares if he knows what I look like, I have no interest in someone like him.”  She grabs his hand and starts to pull him, “come on, I’m staaarving!”  

He couldn’t believe he was allowing himself to be pulled along by this girl!  But there he was being led by the hand towards Miroku and Sango, who looked like she was bout two seconds away from slapping the guy. Inuyasha’s eyes pan towards the entrance, it would be so easy, just grab Kagome and run out before Miroku could get in a word.  Yet his feet kept travelling in the same direction he was being pulled.  What the hell was happening to him?

As soon as Sango sees Kagome, she slips away from Miroku and starts walking towards her and Inuyasha. Miroku is annoyed at being interrupted but when he sees the hand holding… his eyes flash and he quickly brushes past Sango to saddle up closer to Kagome.  “You sly dog Inuyasha!”  Brushing his hand along her arm, “how’d you manage to land this fox?!”

The hanyo pulls Kagome away from the lecher, but drops her hand at the same time, “it isn’t what you think,” crossing his arms, “she was just dragging me over here cause I didn’t wanna come!”

“In that case,” Miroku tries to grab for her hand, “if you’re single,” he wiggles his eye brows, “then I’m in the market.”

Kagome yanks back her hand and narrows her eyes, “weren’t you just hitting on my friend not 2 seconds ago?  As if I’d give you the time of day.”

“Oh ho, lemme guess, this is the girl isn’t Inuyasha, the one that stepped in between you and Koga? Feisty and beautiful!  But just to be clear, I’ve been trying for a year to ask Sango out, but she keeps turning me down.”  Miroku feigns a sigh, “one day she’ll say yes, and I’ll be able to give up my lecherous ways.”  

Sango rolls her eyes, “if I believed that of you, you might actually have a chance.”

“A chance?!” Miroku leaps over and kneels before Sango, grabbing her hand again.  “I would be your devoted slave, my queen,” kissing the back of her hand.  She blushes despite trying her hardest to get angry and pull away.  “A chance is all I require to prove my love for you.”

“Oh, brother,” Inuyasha snorts.  Kagome giggles.  He glares at her with a look not to encourage the idiot but that only makes her laugh harder.

Kagome calms her fit, “as amusing as this show is, I’m fricken hungry so can we get going Inu?”

Sango finally gets Miroku to let her hand go.  “Where are you guys going?”

“The Shiba Ramen place near Inuyasha’s house,” Kagome answers her friend.

Miroku chuckles, “I see he’s got you going there too now, huh?”  Turning to Sango with the best cutesy face he can muster, “my treat, if you’d be so kind to join me?”

“Oi!  Who invited you in the first place!” Inuyasha growls.

“Oh, my mistake, did you wanna be alone with Kagome?”  Miroku retorts.

“I…. Keh!”  Inuyasha snorts and turns away.  

Kagome speaks up now, “you can come only if Sango agrees to it.”

“Please,” Miroku tries even harder, “I promise to behave.”

After a minute Sango finally caves in and the group heads out.  Surprisingly, Miroku manages to control his more, naughtier behaviors and they spend the next couple of hours eating, joking around, and talking about different subjects.  It was almost perfect to Kagome, she got to spend time with her best friend Sango, the guys were trading one-upping stories about dumb shit that had them all laughing.  What a way to start off the weekend.  Sure, they’d have to spend a couple of hours working on their project tonight but going in with a happier mood should make things smoother.  

Inuyasha was so comfortable in the booth next to Kagome, it was a subconscious move when he found his arm draped over her shoulder.  His first thought was to remove it, but then again, by her slightly shifted and leaning against him, was she actually enjoying it?  Or maybe she didn’t realize she was doing it either?  To move it now would certainly draw her attention and the irrational side of his brain growled at him to do no such thing.  If she was happy, he was happy.

Things were starting to wind down and the conversation had shifted into lighter topics.  Then in the middle of a sentence, Miroku stops talking, his eyes wider, staring past them, and annoyed.  Everyone stops and follows his trail as a female voice breaks the silence.

“Inuyasha is that you?”

The hanyo turns his head as he recognizes the voice.  “Kikyo?” In a flash the warmth of his arm leaves Kagome’s shoulder, and so quickly that her hair shifts in the burst of air.  “Whoa!” he jumps out of his seat and hugs the woman.  “What are you doing here?”

“I recently moved back to town,” she hugs him back.  Stepping away again but only by a foot, Kikyo looks over to the girl who was sitting next to Inuyasha.  “New girlfriend?”

“Huh?” Inuyasha looks at Kagome who has a mortified look on her face, then back to Kikyo.  “No, she’s just my friend.”  

“Oh…”

Both Sango and Miroku sat back in shock as they watched Kagome deflate in the booth.  It was clear how oblivious Inuyasha was of his simple statement’s effects on the poor girl, but he seemed too over joyed to see his ex-girlfriend again.  As the pair stood next to the table chatting quietly and even exchanging numbers, Kagome sat devastated.  Okay fine, it’s not like he was lying, they weren’t a couple but… it still hurt.  She thought they’d been getting along so well, even to where maybe, just maybe there was a chance at something a little more but as he just blurted out, she was just a friend in his eyes.  

~~~~~~

“I’m just gonna… go pay my bill,” Kagome quietly tells Sango and Miroku before sliding out of the booth. She was careful not to make any physical contact with either Kikyo or Inuyasha who were standing almost against the table and slips away unnoticed.  

“Should we follow her,” Miroku whispers to Sango, “she looked pretty upset.”

“No,” Sango responds, “Kagome prefers to be alone if she is.  I’ll call her after we leave.”

Miroku narrows his eyes in the hanyo’s direction.  “I should just go pay for my bill too, and maybe we should all just ditch Inuyasha.” Sango blinks, for a guy who was still a total pervert, she could see how annoyed he was at his friend.  Guess Miroku has some standards, she muses to herself.  He pats her leg, “follow me.”  Sango just nods and grabs her bag ready to go.  

Clearing his throat in an exaggerated manner, “Excuse us,” Miroku’s tone is rude and annoyed. “We’re leaving.”

Kikyo moves out of the way so the pair can get out, never saying a word.  Inuyasha looks around and realizes Kagome was also gone.  “Oi, Miroku where’s Kagome?”  But Miroku flips off his friend without turning around and he and Sango simply walk over to the cash register.

“Sorry, I gotta go,” Inuyasha stammers out leaving Kikyo standing alone by the empty table.  He catches Miroku just as they are about to walk out the door and grabs his friend’s arm.  “Oi, I asked, where is Kagome?”

“Do you really care?” His friend spits back.  “Ya didn’t seem to mind ignoring her once Kikyo showed up.”  Miroku tries to pull away but Inuyasha grips tighter.

“What the fuck are you talking about?  I was just talking to an old friend, so what?”

At this point Miroku yanks harder and frees his arm, walking out the door behind Sango.  “Argh!”  What the hell is their problem?  He tosses enough money onto the cash register and storms out still snapping at their retreating figures.  “Hey! Miroku, you asshole!  Sango!  Somebody tell me what the hell is going on!”

This time it’s Sango that stops to face off with the hanyo, glaring.  “She probably went home, happy now we answered your question?!”  

“Go back to your ex, Inuyasha,” adds Miroku, “seems like you two were picking right up from where you’d left things.”

Inuyasha blinks, “what in the world would make you think that?!”

Miroku rolls his eyes, “oh, I don’t know, like how excited you were that you almost whacked Kagome in the head trying to get out of the booth.  Maybe by the way Kikyo kept touching your arm and you not pulling back, in fact you leaned in closer.  You guys trading phone numbers and your face was practically giddy about it.  Shit I was mentally preparing myself to see you two start kissing or something, probably why Kagome couldn’t take it anymore and left.”

The hanyo growls, “That is not how it happened, you’re totally exaggerating!”

“She saw it all, we saw it all, and you’re the one in denial.  Inuyasha, you didn’t even notice her leave!  I didn’t even see your ears flicker which means you were fully focused on only Kikyo.  So, don’t you tell me I’m the one exaggerating.”

“But…” Fucking hell! Was it really that bad?  “Ugh!” Inuyasha runs a hand over his face.  “I was happy to see Kikyo but there’s no way I’d ever go back with her.”

“Sure, looks like Kikyo is hoping for a second chance, and it’s not like you were turning down the advancements.”  Miroku sighed, “take it from a guy who does a lot of flirting…”

“That’s an understatement,” Inuyasha mumbles.

“… Kikyo was flirting with you and you were completely going along with it.  Am I right Sango?  That’s how it looked right?”  She nods her head.  “So, either you’re lying to us, to yourself, or if you’re telling the truth then the person that deserves the truth and an explanation is Kagome.”

Inuyasha roars and takes off, leaping away.  It’s been some time since he’d pushed his muscles like this running along walls, jumping over fences and houses.  Not knowing where she lived, he tracked the air for Kagome’s scent.  It couldn’t be too far he assumed considering she went to the school in this district.  

So, okay maybe there was a bit of lingering emotions for Kikyo, he couldn’t deny that but at the same time he knew to get back into a relationship with her would be a mistake. She wasn’t good for him and he’d come to realize that after she’d ended it 2 years ago.  Kagome, yeah, the girl was definitely imprinting on him and he was starting to crush on her, but he still wasn’t certain yet of anything. They’d really only gotten to know each other for a few weeks, and he didn’t want to make the same mistake he had made with Kikyo.

When he finally finds the house, Inuyasha groans internally.  Figures, what is it with him and picking miko chicks!  He touches down in a large old tree where he has a clear view of her window, well the one he assumes is hers based on the pink curtains and pulls out his cell phone.

Inuyasha texts Kagome, ‘we need to talk’

A few minutes later he sees her walk over to her desk and picks up her phone responding, ‘I’m fine’

Inuyasha, ‘I know you’re not’

Kagome, ‘…….’

Kagome, ‘how would you know?’

Inuyasha, ‘I can see you’

Inuyasha, ‘tree’

Kagome looks out the window just as Inuyasha hops down.

Inuyasha, ‘come outside please, let’s talk’

He sees Kagome turn away from the window as she sends a reply, ‘no’

‘fine have it your way,’ he responds and jumps through her window.

“What they hell?!” she immediately whirls around and starts hitting him.  “I don’t wanna talk, can’t you take the hint?!”

“Well we need to talk,” he grabs her wrists.  

The smaller girl doesn’t have the strength to fight off his control, but it doesn’t stop her from seething. “There’s nothing to talk about Inuyasha. I get it, I’m not your girlfriend, I have no right to be upset.  Go back to that Kikyo woman since you both seem fond of each other.  I’ll get over it.”

“Are you really that jealous of my ex?  Okay I admit I was happy to see her but there is no way I want her back so there’s nothing to be jealous of.”

Kagome rolls her eyes, “she seems to have other ideas and it’s not like you were turning her down.” As if the timing couldn’t be any worse, Inuyasha’s phone beeps with an incoming message.  Her eyes narrow, “Well, aren’t you gonna answer?”

“No.”  He sighs and let’s go of her wrists.  “Kagome,” he sits at the edge of her bed and hangs his head, “truth is I’m still not sure of what I really want.”  She takes a seat at her desk as he talks, rubbing her wrists. “I mean I know I don’t want her back, and even though I have some feelings for you, I don’t know if, I’m not sure if I’m ready to be in any relationship is what I’m trying to say.” Inuyasha makes eye contact again, “if you want me to block her I will just to make you happy.  But if you were hoping I wanted to be your boyfriend, I can’t say yes either right now.”

“I don’t know what I want either Inuyasha…..”

~~    

It was just too awkward for them to work together alone anymore but the project still needed to be completed.  They kept up a front in class and lied to Mrs. Taisho that Inuyasha was going over to Kagome’s house afterschool on Fridays.  But what was really happening is they’d split the project, Kagome would finish the paper, and Inuyasha would complete the Powerpoint portion.  The plan had been working for the past three weeks and paid off when they’d successfully stood before the class and presented their project on Wind & Air Pressure Dynamics.

Just perfect, Kagome sighs as she took her seat again.  The project was over, only a week and a half left of school when they would be graduating then it’s off to college in the Fall.  Well, it’s not like she was leaving town but who knows, she side-eyes the hanyo on her left, maybe in the Spring I’ll enroll further away.  Stop it!  She closes her eyes and takes a deep breath.  Being in the middle of class really wasn’t the time to ruminate.  

After the bell rings, he watches Kagome gather her belongings and shuffle out of class along with the other students.  Inuyasha knew she was still upset, but he really didn’t know what to do about it. This whole semester had gone from bad to amazing to crash and burn like a train about to run off its tracks and the stupid part is he really was the reason for every single rollercoaster hill. Ugh!  Inuyasha drops his head onto the desk, ears flattened, with his fists clenched and claws digging into his palms.  

“Inuyasha,” Mrs. Taisho places a hand on the hanyo’s shoulder, “what’s the matter with you?”

“I fucked up big time…” he mumbles without raising his head, “again…”

“It’s about Kagome isn’t it?”  She sighs and takes a seat in one of the chairs.  “I had a feeling that something wasn’t right.  Wanna tell me what happened.”

“Not really.”

“It couldn’t hurt. Maybe there’s something I can help you with.”

Inuyasha sits up and looks at his sister-in-law Kagura for a moment, mulling over the decision. Eventually his shoulders droop along with his ears.  “Alright…”

Once he started, the words poured out.  For about 30 minutes Kagura sat in silence while Inuyasha goes over everything that happened that night at Shiba Ramen and the subsequent weeks since then.  His mind was settled on the Kikyo part, because she did try to rekindle things and he’d shot her down.  Inuyasha knew in his heart the crush he had developed on Kagome was real and true, and that the only things keeping him from making the plunge was fear itself.  He had jumped into a fast-blown relationship with Kikyo and it ended poorly, and that was certainly not what he wanted to happen again.  Kagome was clearly a step above him and destined for better things. She was graduating near the top of their class and on her way to a great university while he had no idea what the next step was going to be beyond simply getting to walk the line.  

“What good am I for someone like her, when the last thing she needs is someone that might hold her back.”

This was the first time Kagura had ever witnessed the hanyo break down.  Even after his mother passed away, while she assumed, he had shed a tear, it was never in the presence of another.  Inuyasha’s coping methods had been to clam up, grow moody, distant, and yet now….  She was taken aback by how much of an effect one girl has had on him.  As much as the two rarely saw eye to eye, she found it almost amusing how so alike he and his brother really were.  

“Never thought I’d see the day that you would actually fear something.”  She tries unsuccessfully to keep from chuckling.  “That girl has done what no one has ever been able to do and that’s break through the wall you put up all those years ago.  Are you really going to let your insecurities and fears of what could happen stop you from possibly gaining the best thing you might ever have in your life?  Come now, Inuyasha, that doesn’t sound like the hanyo I’ve come to know.”

“But I don’t know how to fix this…. How to talk to her again….”

“Just tell her, just like you told me,” she leans over and points at his heart, “from here.  Find the right moment and just do it, but don’t wait too long or she will slip through your fingers and you will regret it for the rest of your life.”

One thing was for certain, that night was the most restless night of his life.

‘Lucky to be hanyo,’ he groaned as he sat through class the next day.  Morning wasn’t so much the problem but after lunch it was becoming a semi struggle to stay awake which really sucked because he had to read a poem out loud in that class.  ‘At least I got to go second. Maybe now I can relax.’  He almost fell asleep.  

Kagome stood up for her turn and heads over to the front of the class, clutching to her paper. Inuyasha’s ears flick forward, but he keeps his eyes averted to his desk top.  He doesn’t see the slight, almost unnoticeable tremble in her fingers as she begins to speak.  

Aww, fuck.  By the end of the first line he knew this was gonna hurt.  His eyes drift shut and all he could do was die a little more inside.      

Her tone was smooth, her cadence slow as she channeled the very essence behind her poem.  It spoke of winter.  Of the fluffy white snow and how it’s beauty and elegance could mesmerize. Falling, softly, floating through the air like an angel to kiss your cheeks.  And on sunnier days, you could almost forget about the chill that winter brings when wrapped in such spellbinding charms.  But then the blizzard comes, cold and frightful. Blustery winds entrapping you behind walls that you cannot break free of, leaving you dark and alone… helpless. Praying for the snow to end its torture...                        

All of the practice she had done in front of a mirror had paid off in keeping her from breaking down in the middle of the reading.  And maybe in a way, it actually felt better getting it out.  The poem was to let go of some of the pain so she could move forward. Kagome could see the effects it was having on Inuyasha.  She couldn’t lie that a small part of her wasn’t happy to see him tormented.  But that wasn’t what she really wanted and as she sat back down and filed away her paper, the relief she had hoped for never came.    

As soon as school let out, Inuyasha tracked Kagome down.  He knew her class schedule, so it wasn’t difficult, thought it seems she had planned to make a quick exit that day.  By the time he saw her she was already walking out the front door.  He pushes through the throngs of students all making their way toward the exit.  Ugh!  He wished the ceilings were higher so he could jump!  

“Kagome!” He screamed at her fleeting back, her legs carrying her away as swiftly as it could. Damn it!  Once he was in the open, he threw out the rules against using their abilities on school property and made the leap.  One bound, two bounds, pushing his legs as hard as he could.  “Kagome!”  Oh, this woman!  He was sure she could hear him calling her!  One last jump and he lands ahead of her.  She pauses briefly and shifts course down a small alley way.  Inuyasha growls, and using a couple of walls, he manages again to get ahead of her, grabbing her arm before she could bolt again. “Woman, stop running from me!”

“Let me go Inuyasha!” She yanks at her arm, but his grip is too tight.  “If it’s about the poem…”

“It is and it isn’t,” he states matter of fact.  “But we really must talk, now.”  Sweeping Kagome out from under her legs, he picks her up, holding on tight, and takes to the sky once more.  She continues to cuss him out, but fear of falling keeps her from fighting his hold. Over rooftops and through alleys, staying out of the main thoroughfares, Inuyasha scans for an area with little to no humans around.  He wanted privacy and finally finds it in Ueno Park.    

“You better have a damn good reason to have brought me so far away from home,” she spits out as she adjusts her clothing.  Crossing her arms, “what do you want?”

“Look, I know I suck with words and I don’t know how to… argh!”  he runs his hand down his face.  “Oh, fuck it all!”  

Just as Kagome is about to respond, Inuyasha grabs her by the waist and slams his lips against hers. “Oof!” Her eyes expand and she goes stiff for a moment as her brain and body come to terms with what was happening. Even after he lets her go, she stares wide-eyed and speechless.      

“Please Kagome, I’m sorry!” he blurts out.  “I’m an idiot, I know I’m an idiot.  I was confused and I didn’t wanna hurt you.  I--I was afraid,” his ears droop and head hang’s low.  “Okay, there I said it.  I was afraid if I let you in, sooner or later you’d realize you deserved better than some lowly hanyo.”      

Kagome blinks as her shaky fingers brush against her lips and her cheeks feel like they are on fire. “I-Inuyasha, wh-why would you ever think that?”  Moisture floods her tear ducts, “you are so much better than you believe to be.” Reaching up to caress his cheek, “I saw that with my own eyes, how you grew so much over this semester.”  She smiles, “I got to see the real you come out and that’s who I fell in love with.”

“But, what if…”

“No one knows the future Inuyasha, not even the Kami’s themselves.  We just have to keep walking forward.”  She takes his hand.  “Come on,” giving it a small squeeze, “how about you start by making up for that Shiba date night with me?”

He groans, “that doesn’t mean with Sango and Miroku too, right?”

Kagome chuckles, “no, this time,” leaning in for a kiss, “let it be just the two of us...”

[typingdyslexiaisathing]

Cowboy Bebop ficlet

// Figured I would post an OLD ficlet I did way back when. This is done before Faye and Ed and Ein join up on the Bebop. With my OC for this verse. Read below if you want to enjoy some old school bounty hunters. //

I was pretty sure Spike knew I was watching him do his shirtless training of hot. So I just laid on the stairs to watch him with my head resting on my arms. Enjoying how he moved so fluidly as he punched and kicked at air. And I had my music on besides so it made such even more entrancing. I didn't have it on as loud as I tended to though. So I could hear him when he shot a question my way. "Don't you have something to do, Jo?" I shook my head to pop one of the earbuds out. So he knew I could hear him. "No. I got all the tinkering done a while ago. Jet is making more food too." Spike pauses in his routine with one leg up in the air. Turning his head to look at me. And God is it ever hot how he can stay all poised with a foot all the way up like that. So I just stared at him. And he gave a snort of a noise to look back out the window of the ship. "I get the feeling I'm being sized up for something. Or are you just enjoying me half clothed?" I really wish he hadn't asked. Since I was not one to lie to a team mate. Even if it made me blush. "Every person has a type, you dork. And you happen to be my type." Spike freezes after his punch to look very surprised. So I continue for his benefit. "Tall. Toned. Funny. Smooth talker. Skilled. If you didn't smoke so much I'd have tried to kiss you already." Spike whirls his head around to look at me with his eyes wide. And if he didn't look stunned I'd eat my sneakers. "Are you serious?! Jet told me you were- Geez Jo!" I chuckle as my toes curl a bit in my sneakers. "Center yourself, tadpole of the tai chi. I'm not gonna run over and jump your fine ass. I'm just gonna enjoy the view." Spike shakes his head to then run a hand through his hair. Looking very flustered as I watch his muscles flex. ***** Spike looked so dead serious I couldn't look away from him. Both his hands resting near my head as he cornered me against the wall. And his eyes stayed locked on mine. That one brown eye a lighter color than the other. And I was so captivated I could barely breathe. His words were so low I almost didn't catch them. "Why is it that even when I'm looking at the past, you keep filtering through my eyes? I've been dreaming the same dream for so long. Now it's changing. And it's unsettling on how it's making me forget things. Things I know I need to hold onto, yet they are things I have wanted to leave behind." Spike clenches his hands into fists as he keeps me there with his gaze. And I am wondering all sorts of things. But he just keeps talking like he didn't stop for a breath. "I'd think they sent you to keep tabs on me. But then you do things that make me think otherwise. How you don't ask me questions. How you keep putting yourself between me and whatever is trying to kill us. And how you keep watching over me when I fall asleep on the couch. You've had all the time in the universe to kill me if they had sent you. So tell me Joanna. Who are you really? Because I am not going to keep letting you close if I don't know where you fit into this waking dream." I give Spike a huff of irritation that notes my confusion. My own questions giving him a bit more inkling into my bafflement at his actions and his words. "Why do I have to be someone specific, Spike? Can't I just be myself?" Spike went so still I would think he was stone. But I keep going anyways. "The way you talk, it makes me think we're in some secret spy movie. Like the really old ones with double agents and super villains. And that makes me wonder about you for a change. I've been fine with just knowing you are good at karate and bad with bounty hunting. I've been totally okay with you and Jet and myself going from one day to the next just cruising around the solar system. I didn't need to know more than what you both told me. That Jet used to be a cop and that you used to be on Mars. The only thing that has ever mattered to me is if I can feel safe around you. Safe as in you won't throw me into a storage room and rip my clothes off. And you proved that I can relax and just be. You never asked me before about who I used to be. And even though I wonder why you're asking now, I will tell you." Spike nods to then relax a little. Using those arms he has braced against the wall to corral me more like he's just leaning. So he sighs a bit to then ask me his questions. "Who are you?" I sigh to cross my arms. Closing my eyes as I answer. "My full name is Margaret Joanna Adelha Mathilde." Spike blinks to then chuckle a little. "That is a mouthful. Hence why you just answer to Jo." I nod for him to ask the next question. "Are you really from Earth?" I nod again to add in, "The town I was born was called Saugatuck. It was in the state of Michigan in the United States of America. At least back then it was. I haven't checked to see if it is still there." Spike looks confused to then lean in to get in my face more. And his question is really quiet. "Care to explain that?" So I open my eyes to gaze into those brown eyes. And I shiver a little when I reply. "Here's the big plot twist. I was born in 1998. And got put into a freezer when there was a big accident on a space shuttle." Spike goes as wide eyed as possible. Looking very stunned as I sigh and lean my head back against the wall. "Mom and dad apparently had me put in cryogenic freeze after the doctors told them I was a goner. And since they were just testing those damn things out, there was a need for test subjects to see if they worked. So I got shoved into an ice tray. I woke up a few years ago after one of the hospital directors got replaced with some new hot shot senator. He decided saving all those poor helpless victims and rehabilitating them would be a genius political move or something. The end result is I got thawed out along with a dozen other people that had been on the shuttle. By the time the police got their noses into the senator's closet to see about skeletons, I was already on my way to a clinic on Mars. So they had no recourse but to let me go on my merry way when the project buckled. Left it so I didn't have to pay all those bills from the upkeep of my ice tray and the rehab. But it also left me without any help to start a new life." Spike frowns to then move away from the wall and give me my space back. His sigh clearly saying he gets the rest. "Hence why Jet got a call from his old friend who is still an active police officer. He was called in to pick you up from the clinic and keep tabs on you until they could build a case against the senator. And Jet got an extra pair of hands in the bargain. Someone who literally had nothing else to fall back on." I chuckle to roll my eyes at Spike. "We both know Jet isn't the type to leave some helpless gal who literally only has a hospital gown go it alone. He'd sooner light his bonsai on fire." Spike smirks for me to chuckle a bit. His hand reaching into his hair to rub at his head as I continue. "Jet made it clear that if I ever found a better option, I could take it and I would owe him nothing. But I honestly have never looked for anything else. Why would I? I have a home here, skills to build on as I figure out what has changed in the time I was on ice, and at least two people I call family." Spike stills to look at me with a questioning glance. So I wave a hand at him to make my point. "I did say I feel safe around you, Spike. I don't extend that kind of faith in anyone unless they have earned it. You may not trust me with whatever skeletons you keep in back storage. But I know you won't hurt me willingly or hang me out by a noose. Heck, you tend to cover me whenever something is gonna blow up. Figuratively and literally. Just like I do for you. Isn't that enough for you?" Spike spends a really long moment just staring at me. His eyes so focused I want to tell him to blink. But then he turns away to keep rubbing a hand to his head. And he sighs so hard I'd think he was going to deflate. "What a headache. No wonder you're so old fashioned." I snort to roll my eyes. But then Spike tells me something that has me go stock still. "I used to be deep in the Red Dragon Syndicate. And ever since they declared me killed that night, I only see the past or the present. Like a waking dream. My left eye only sees the past, the right eye only sees the present." Spike turns back around for me to have something in my head click into place. My shoulders tensing as I stay leaning against the wall. "Huh. So that's why your eyes are different. One of them is fake. Right?" Spike doesn't answer. Which is a confirmation in my book. So I give a long sigh all my own. "Guess that fits the theme of this rag tag group. Jet doesn't lead the life of a cop anymore. You don't lead the life of a syndicate member. And I don't have any life to go back to either. It's an in between for all three of us. Maybe we should rename this boat Limbo." Spike smiles at my pun even if it doesn't reach his eyes. Which has me rub at my arms a bit for him to walk back over. His hands coming to rest on my shoulders as I shiver again. "Guess you really are a super spy then. With fancy shooting and gadgets and Jeet Kun Doe. We should replace your tie with a bow tie or something." Spike gives a soft chuckle before I look up into those brown eyes. And we end up spending a moment just staring at each other. Until I ask him my last question. "Was it worth it? Leaving the monsters to chase a beautiful angel?" Spike goes so quiet I know he's holding his breath. So I remind him, "All the spy movies have some gorgeous lady in the plot. So it's not too much of a leap to think you left for a chance at being with a good woman." I reach up to place my fingertips to Spike's face and wait. My eyes tearing up as he takes a breath. And his answer is but a faded whisper. "She was worth it all and more. And will always be the dream I linger in the most." Having Spike say that sounds so fitting even if that answer hurts me. But I smile as those tears fall. Giving him a chuckle as he grips my shoulders a bit harder. And I say the one thing I didn't want to say. "Then keep dreaming, Spike. I wouldn't wake you from that for any reason. Keep dreaming that good dream for as long as you can." Spike nods before he pulls me in to hug me close. My hands lowering to rest at his heart as he all but crushes me. And his words are quiet but so full of strength. "You would have been just as worth it, Jo. A girl like you is worth more than you think. Demons and dragons tend to know only violence and struggle. They never know peace or hope for quieter days. And you remind me of such wants. Just like she did. It's why I felt so confused. Every time you remind me of what that felt like, I see her standing behind you. Like a mirage." I chuckle a bit to wrap my arms around his waist. Soaking in this contact even if his hug is cracking my ribs. "Maybe one day we will find her so you can make those old dreams come true. I would help you track her down if you want." ***** I gave a prayer that I knew I would regret once the dust had settled. But I gave it anyway before I opened my eyes. Then I centered the gun and took aim. And for once my mind went blank. No thought. No emotion. Just purpose. And it was all I needed to take that shot. So I pulled the trigger once my aim was sure. And the gun fired for the thug who had been strangling Jet to fall. The bullet punching a good hole through the center of his head for it to exit out the back in a shower of gore. Then I moved to aim at the guy charging at Spike with a very large sword. And I took aim to shoot again. The gun going off for the bullet to rip right through the thugs temple. The spray out the other end washing over the wall like speckling paint. Spike grabbed the now very dead sword guy to use him as a shield against the incoming bullets from the gunman up in the rafters. And I took aim at him next to fire. His neck soon half gone for him to fall over and writhe. I then heard the bullets sing around me when the second gunman decided to get rid of me. Jet shouting for me to take cover as I ducked down. But I wasn't going to just stop. My hand reaching for the grenade we brought that didn't work anymore. So I tossed it over to where the gunman was hiding. His yelp of fear soon leading to him jumping away from his hiding place. And I took aim and fired to punch a hole through his ugly sunglasses. The left side of them nothing but shrapnel as he went down in a heap. And I heard Spike's shouted warning a bit too late. The last goon having come up behind me to grab me by my hair and yank me backwards. I hissed in air to try and get free of the grip this goon had on my hair. Which ended with a very sharp dagger punching through my open palm. I gave a hard scream as the agony ripped into me. The goon grinning for Jet and Spike to get it in gear. So I took the gun and pointed it into the goon's mouth. His shout muffled for me to pull the trigger. And the boom going off so close to my ear left me in a bad state of total silence. Like Jet had put his hands over my ears. The blood and gore from my now dead assailant soon dribbling down my shoulder. And I was so done I just shoved the dead body away from me to then stumble away. Sliding down to crouch against the one wall and breathe. I didn't want to look down at my hand. I didn't want to feel the bits of blood that were sliding down my back from killing someone. And I sure couldn't hear anything other than a muted ringing. But then I felt someone grab me by my hair again. And I was so out of it I dropped the gun when I got yanked to my feet. The ringleader soon grinning at me to then tug me over and out into the open. His other arm coming around my neck to pin me in a headlock. And I was in too much of a daze to really process anything. I could finally start to hear Jet and Spike as they gave a few shouts at the ringleader. But he made his point by squeezing his hold on me. Cutting off my air for me to choke. So Spike went quiet even as Jet fumed more. But such was helping me get my bearings for every second that passed. And I was able to shake off the daze once the ringleader was in the middle of making his demands. So I went for broke and wrenched the dagger out of my hand. And stuck it right into his groin. Making him bellow as he let me go. So I scrambled away for Spike to take the shot. The ringleader falling down as Jet ran over to grab me. His arms keeping me from just falling flat on my face as he took my weight. And I felt so relieved once he did I went totally limp. Only now registering I had also gotten shot earlier. My left hip doing some serious complaining even as Jet moved us into a side hallway. I could tell Jet was really worried, since I was more of a rag doll than a conscious team mate. So I coughed and moaned for Jet to hear. Having him calm down a bit even as he looked my very bleeding hand over. His words as ever gruff and barked. "Now you know why I told you to stay on the ship, Jo. This isn't the place for rookies to be asking to get run the Hell over. Side note. You did fantastic. Now don't move your fingers on this hand. That poker was a big one." I stay completely still except to breathe. Jet ripping one of my pant legs off to make a bandage for my hand. While Spike finally walks over to check on us. His gun still up for him to look down at us. "All dead. With the data chip the ringleader had being slightly stained. But it looks undamaged and they never said we had to bring him in alive. How's Jo?" Jet gives a grunt to finish tying the bandage on my hand. "Either she's in shock or too tired to make a peep. Her left hand is very bad. And they shot her in the hip. Her ears are also bleeding slightly. In short, she's the most mangled of the three of us. Unless you got hit and I can't tell." Spike nods to hold up an arm. A long gash dripping ever so slightly. "Sword guy got a few swings in when he charged at me. Jo will have to sew my jacket when she has the time." Jet gives a huff of a laugh to then shake his head. "You expect her to sew that for you? Her left hand has a hole the size of a-" I give a loud cough that makes Jet stop mid sentence. And my words are very tired when Spike reaches over to place a hand to my head. "I don't wanna know..." ***** Sewing this jacket was taking quite a bit of time. Since my left hand was not cooperating at all. Which meant having to do everything one handed. But I was a very patient person by nature. I just took my time as I sat on the couch. Jet in the kitchen to make bell peppers and beef, with actual beef this time. Along with rice and mushrooms and several other vegetables. I had insisted we use my portion of the reward money to get some food for us. Jet and Spike not complaining when I said so. So here we were. On our way to Mars. Spike doing his Jeet Kun Do in front of me. Jet cooking us something to eat. While I sat and sewed with one hand. The television on for us to listen in on that corny bounty hunter channel. Both of the casters that hosted the show doing their usual greeting with the fake Texan accents. And Spike stopped after a bit to listen in when the announcers said they had big congratulations to give out. Jet poking his head out to hear as I stopped sewing to turn the volume up. The one guy smiling bright as he spoke. "It would seem that big fish we have had on our listings finally got himself caught! And none too soon it would seem! Reports from the police have confirmed this big fish was up to some mighty bad stuff!" The blonde gal confirming to point where they had a mug shot of said big fish up on our screen. "Too true! It turns out this big fish was going to vandalize a whole space port! Just blow the whole thing to smithereens! So it's a good thing he got caught!" The first announcer nods to add in, "Or in this case, killed. Apparently, three bounty hunters cornered him to do away with him and his whole gang. They sure put up a nasty fight though. However, we were told that the bad fish were the only casualties. And that all three bounty hunters are on the mend. Add in they got back the stolen data chip to hand it over to the police, and it was a good day all around." The blonde smiles brightly to then point where three more pictures are placed on screen. And both Jet and Spike go wide eyed when it is our pictures shown. Mine in the middle for the blonde to smile and continue the narrative. "These are our heroes of the day, y'all. The crew of the Bebop. Two veteran cowboys and even a cowgirl to boot! Just look at that pretty red headed gal!" The first announcer chuckles as Spike sits down next to me on the couch. And I can safely say we all are stunned as the narrative continues. "According to our sources, it was the cowgirl who was the sharp shooting ace on this fishing trip. A good old fashioned Annie Oakley. However, she did end up with several bad injuries that may be a bit of a rodeo to tackle. But we fellow cowboys will wish this crew good luck and safe trails. Next up on our broadcast is the latest top ten most wanted rascals. So stayed tuned as we break for a commercial." Jet walks out to start growling a bit in agitation. Spike looking very thoughtful as I mute the television. So all we hear is Jet. "I told them not to release our names to the media! Dammit all, now I'm gonna have to call them and give them a piece of my mind!" But I simply shrug a shoulder to go back to my sewing. Spike catching on to wave a hand in the air. "I don't think it hurts anyone, Jet. Especially when we get some positive praise for Jo out of it. And she deserves it in my book. I mean think about it. We were in over our heads with us going it just the two of us against all those thugs. And Jo realized that to cover our asses. And I believe that deserves some ten minutes of fame. And a dinner that isn't burned. So go make sure it doesn't and we can regroup as we eat." Jet gives a humph before he nods. His robotic hand soon patting me on the head in appreciation before he heads back into the kitchen. Leaving me with Spike as we sit on the couch. My fingers on my only working hand threading the needle through the material. But then Spike reaches over to place his hand over mine. Stopping me from continuing for me to look up at him. Neither one of us blinks as the moment lengthens. Until Spike gives me that rare warm smile that reaches his eyes. "Thank you, Joanna. I know you aren't the kind of person who can hurt people willingly. So thank you for the rescue. And I'm sorry it came to you having to kill so many people to accomplish that." I shiver all over as Spike laces his fingers into mine. His grip strong and grounding as he continues. "I never wanted for you to become like us. So used to the violence of our work that you don't think twice about pulling the trigger. It was why I didn't want to teach you my Jeet Kun Do. And I know Jet was even more opposed to you having to learn how to use a gun. We both are aware that in order for you to be safe it was needed to teach you all that. But Jet was Hell bent on never putting you in a position to need to. So I will apologize for doing so with that job. We never should have taken it to begin with. The pay off be damned. No amount of money is worth putting you through Hell. I'm sorry, Jo. For all of it." I take a moment before I say anything. My hand it Spike's tightening as I give a long sigh. "It is better I killed those men than let them kill us, Spike. You heard what they were planning. They would have blown up a whole space port. Hundred of people would have died. Fathers. Mothers. Daughters. Sons. All dead and floating among the debris. All because a few criminals decided those lives meant nothing. So I can say it was worth the pain and the guilt I'm going to suffer. Because it means that people got to live. Families can plan for futures instead of funerals. And that is a reward unto itself." Spike doesn't say anything as I shiver a little. Then Spike gently tugs me forwards to wrap his arms around me. Hugging me tight as I let the jacket fall to the floor. His hold on me as strong as steel. And I am so very glad for such. I all but collapse into his hold. So Spike shifts us so we're laying on the couch. Hugging me tight as tears roll down my face. Spike closing his own eyes as we lay there. And I take deep breaths against his front, just to savor his scent in my lungs. Every intake of air a mixture of sweat and cigarettes and the warmth of a living person soaking my senses. And I thank God for that. ***** I wasn't sure when it was I fell asleep sitting next to Jet by the helm. But I woke up in a different place entirely. Jet carrying me bridal style to the couch as he grumbled about something. And even though I was curious, I chose to stay quiet. Acting as if I was still out like a light. Which in itself was tempting to go back to. But then Jet set me down to place his hand to my head. And it was clear he was worried when he started talking at me. "Jo. Wake up. Hey. Joanna. Damn, you're burning up." I opened one eye to see Jet was frowning at me. And I figured that him using that particular frown meant something bad. So I gave a groan of noise to then close that eye again. "What? I was enjoying the nap. Seriously, Jet. What did you wake me up for?" Jet makes a grumbled noise to then move his hand from my head to my wrist. His fingers pressed into my pulse for me to note that such means very bad indeed. "Because you were shivering non stop while you were out. Yet you are roasting hot. Must've gotten an infection from one of those wounds." Jet takes his other hand to check over the wrap job on my hand with the hole through it. And sure enough, it bleeds the moment his robotic fingers brush against it. Making me hiss in air for his frown to deepen. Jet keeping his eyes to my hand as he grumbles more. "Yep. This opened up again. At this rate we may need to get you a new hand. Or one like mine." I can't say the idea of chopping my hand off for a replacement is a good one in my mind. But I take a moment to make him think I'm considering that option. "I'd rather keep what I got. Even if it doesn't work very well." Jet chuckles to shake his head. But he does still look worried. "Then to the clinic it is. I already adjusted course while you were out. Spike is getting you a change of clothes from your room. We'll be seeing a trusted doctor that has a brother on the police force. So I know he's trustworthy to not overcharge us." I give a nod for Jet to lace his arms under me. Lifting me up with ease as I lean my head to his shoulder. Spike at the door to have my duffel bag with him. "We just docked and have some guy asking for you. Says he's here to escort us to his brother's clinic.How is she?" Jet gives a huff of worry in answer. "Bad enough."

[houstonhiphophead-blog]

Top  5 Hip Hop Albums of 2018 (So Far)

2018 has been a strong year for hip hop with the many releases. With most of 2018 already in the books, I decided to make a list of the best hip hop albums to have been released so far this year. Hip Hop has always been a big influence in my life since I was a young kid but I have been a very active listener since the start of this year. Usually on my commute to and from school/work, I try to listen to roughly 1 album for the day. I’ve tried my best to listen to all the albums which hit my radar and through this, I discovered many artists who I would never normally listen to and as a token of advice if you are reading this and you don’t like hip hop music, perhaps give one of these a listen. You never know, you may find something you like.

Before getting into the list I would just like to say by no means do I consider myself to be a professional music critic. What I like may not be the same thing you may like and this is perfectly fine. I am simply stating my opinion and personal taste and you may choose to agree or disagree with it as you please. With that being said, let’s get to the list:

5. KOD- J. Cole.

There is no question J. Cole is one of the most talented rappers right now. This statement is only further supported by his recent releases including his fifth studio album: KOD. On this album Cole takes the “responsible rapper approach” by dedicating the majority of the album tackling the glorification of drugs in today’s rap music with an emphasis on how rappers must be mindful of their content because they are directly responsible for today’s youth whether they like it or not. While the message is great and powerful, the music itself seemed rather bland as compared his previous works. The lyricism was great as to be expected with any J. Cole project but I feel like the music was made simply to get the message out (as weird as that sounds). He wanted the listener not to be distracted by the instrumentals and beats but to listen to the message and what he had to say. This made the music seem one sided with not being diverse which I have come to expect with his previous projects. 2014 Forest Hills Drive by J. Cole is one of the greatest albums I have ever listened to because it had the perfect balance of substance and production. It might not be too fair to compare both albums because both are very different but that is the J. Cole I want to hear. Nonetheless, KOD was a very solid album.

4. Scorpion- Drake

Drake is easily the biggest rapper right now. He may not necessarily be the most technical or most skilled, but his star power is simply unmatched by anyone. Scorpion was one the most highly anticipated albums of 2018 and met most of my hopes and expectations. For starters, he gave his fans a “double album”. The album had 25 tracks and was split into an “A Side” and a “B Side”. The “A Side” was mostly rap songs while the “B Side” was composed of slower R&B songs which many fans (myself included) wanted from Drake because not only is Drake a talented rapper, but he is also a pretty talented singer. In my opinion, his best album to date is Take Care and the reason myself and millions of people love this album is for the R&B elements Drake uses throughout that project. Some elements can be found on Scorpion, but not nearly as much. One thing I was disappointed with on Scorpion is that he did not reply to Pusha T. In case you did not know, there was a big rap beef going on over the summer between Pusha T and Drake. Both artists released diss tracks, however Pusha T’s diss track revealed that Drake had a child in secrecy. This ultimately turned out to be true as it was admitted on Scorpion but I was expecting some form of retaliation on Drake’s part. I would have really wanted to hear a response toward Pusha T of some sort because I feel rap beefs are very entertaining to watch as long as they are strictly music related. Great songs usually come out as a result of these quarrels (and not to mention the memes on Instagram). All in all, Scorpion was a good album, but Drake is known for making great music. If Drake had over delivered I would probably rank this album higher, but I sort of expected the end product. Nonetheless a very good album which is to be expected by him

3. Kamikaze- Eminem

Coming in at number 3 is Kamikaze by the living legend Marshall Mathers aka Slim Shady aka Eminem. Whatever you know him by, you must know he is one of the greatest artists of all time. Period. Eminem has nothing left to prove yet  decided to drop this bomb on us with literally no warning at all. This surprise album is easily one of the best albums so far this year and definitely a huge step up from his previous entry: Revival. Eminem’s long historic career has always been involved in controversy in some form or the other, so it is only fitting that his tenth album entry is as well. Eminem came out swinging from the first track by taking shots at everyone in the rap game. From disses aimed toward Lil Pump to Tyler the Creator, to Joe Budden, and to the most talked about recipient of Eminem’s wrath: Machine Gun Kelly, Eminem held nothing back and expressed his unfiltered opinions on these unlucky souls. He has given us classic albums and is easily one of the greatest rappers of all time. Musically, everything one would come to expect from Eminem is on this album. Everything from his offset humor to his wordplay and lyricism can all be found in abundance on this album. Everything was simply on point. This is a very well put together album. The critiques I have are very minor. I would have liked to have seen a bit more features on the album because although he is an amazing rapper, at times it can get hard to digest the lyrics coming at you faster than you can process them. Some features would have been a nice change in pace because let’s just face it, nobody can keep up with Em. Outstanding body of work from an all time great.

2. Daytona- Pusha T

What happens when you mix some of Kanye West’s best production with some of Pusha T’s best lyrics? The answer is obvious: you get a masterpiece. Daytona comes in at a close second for album of the year for me for reasons I will explain in my #1 spot. Pusha T took a bit of a risk on Daytona being it was only 7 tracks long but boy did it pay off. This album proves that quality>quantity. Instead of electing to go with the long album track list which has become very popular today, Push elected to cut all the sub-par music and fillers and skits and just give us the raw bass heavy music a Pusha T fans have come to want and expect. He stayed true to his craft and every song was carefully crafted. Although much of the subject matter is not very radio friendly, loyal fans of Pusha T are rejoicing because this is exactly what they wanted to hear. From the aggresive flows, to the drug kingpin lyrics, to the deep thumping base which can be found in abundance on Daytona, this album has it all. It just makes me want to hear more: which brings me to my only critique of this album. I want more. The total length for the album is only around 21 minutes. Although this album over delivers and exceeds my expectations, I would have loved a few more tracks of the same quality. It leaves me wanting to listen to more and in turn, I have been listening to Pusha T’s older works more and more. This is simply an amazing album and is an album I have revisited time and time again.

1. Astroworld- Travis Scott

ASTOWORLD! Now before I get into this, let me acknowledge my bias. I am from Houston, Texas which is the same city Travis Scott is from and I have seen first hand how his music and artistry has helped change the culture for the youth of this city. I am programmed to always support and be a big fan of a fellow Houstonian but this is not the only reason why this is my pick for the best album so far. The bottom line is Travis Scott simply makes the best music. Astroworld has been arguably the most anticipated album of this year and in my opion, it exceeded my already sky high expectations. This album was named after the famous theme park in Houston which was unfortunately shut down in 2005. Much like the theme park, this album was a wild ride from the start to finish. First off, this 17 track long album was filled with the most packed features of any hip hop album in recent memory. The guest features included Drake, The Weeknd, Frank Ocean, Swae Lee, Kid Cudi, Stevie Wonder, James Blake, and many others. Production was also not disappointing either as the producers working on this album included an all star cast of some of the best hip hop producers such as the multi grammy award winner producer Mike Dean, Metro Boomin, Tay Keith, John Mayer, Frank Dukes, and a plethora of other producers. All of these features and producers somehow came together and meshed perfectly to create this classic. Astroworld had the perfect balance of production, and lyrics, while being diverse in music. It really was like riding a roller coaster with some sections of the album being fast and furious while other sections being very mellow and smooth much like a ride in real life. Honestly, I have no issues with anything on this project. If i were required to make a list of things I disliked about the album, I would honestly be forcing it. This album is not only my favorite album of this year, but quite easily one my favorite albums of all time! I believe this is the album that will propel Travis Scott to the top tier of rappers today and several years down the line, this album will be critically acclaimed as a classic.

So there you have it. Those were my top 5 albums of 2018 thus far. Be on the lookout for more lists, reviews, debates and news about hip hop. Thank you for reading and until next time.

-houstonhiphophead

[architectnews]

Ten projects that showcase Kengo Kuma's "unexpected and innovative" approach

Japanese architect Kengo Kuma has designed significant projects around the world including the Japan National Stadium and V&A Dundee. Editor Philip Jodidio picks ten of the architect's key projects from a new book dedicated to his work.

Using 500 illustrations, including photographs, plans and sketches, Kuma Complete Works 1988-Today covers the architect's career from early designs including the Stone Museum to recent projects like Sydney's The Exchange.

According to architectural historian Jodidio, it was Kuma's varied body of work that made him a suitable subject for the book, which is part of publisher Taschen's XXL series.

"I have found that his approach, often based on sustainable materials with unexpected and innovative designs, which nonetheless are related to Japanese tradition made him a good subject," Jodidio told Dezeen.

"I have written the Taschen monographs on Tadao Ando and Shigeru Ban as well – for these big books, it is also necessary for an architect to have a substantial, interesting body of work and that is the case of Kuma."

Jodidio believes that Kuma's ideas about architecture set him aside from other well-known Japanese architects.

"Kengo Kuma speaks of 'learning to live with less' as one theme of his work, this is somewhat against the prevailing culture, at least where significant international architects are concerned," he said.

The editor hopes that the book, which looks at 41 of Kuma's projects in detail, will give readers an increased understanding of his work, which is less appreciated than other buildings by Japanese architects, including Shigeru Ban and Tadao Ando.

"Kuma is not as celebrated as these other figures, perhaps because his style is more dependent on place and available materials," Jodidio said.

"What I hope the book will convey to readers is that Kengo Kuma is a major contemporary architect who may well be pointing the way to the future."

Below, Jodidio chooses ten of Kuma's most significant projects:

Photo is by Daici Ano

The GC Prostho Museum Research Center, Japan, 2008-10

A striking facade with a wooden grid clads the GC Prostho Museum Research Center in Kasugai, Japan. It was informed by the cidori – a traditional Japanese toy that is assembled out of wooden sticks.

At night, light escapes through the wooden slats, making the 10-metre-high building lantern-like. The grid continues inside the building, where it has been "carved out" to make room for exhibition spaces.

Photo is by Takumi Ota

Daiwa Ubiquitous Computing Research Building, Japan, 2010-2014

Wooden strips clad the facade of this building, which Kuma designed for the University of Tokyo's computing facility.

The layers, made from cedar wood, give the exterior an organic feel that contrasts with the high-tech subject matters studied here. "Scale-like panels of natural materials gently undulate to form a smooth and organic facade," the studio said.

Photo is by Elichi Kano

Folk Art Museum, China, 2009-2015

Kuma designed the new galleries at the China Academy of Arts as a "sprawling village". The sloped site, a former tea plantation, now holds the Folk Art Museum, which features many small roofs that create a zigzagging roofline.

These are covered in old ceiling tiles from local homes. Across the museum's glazed facade, stainless steel wire that holds extra roof tiles in a decorative pattern has been strung.

Photo is by Michel Denancé

Under One Roof EPFL Artlab, Switzerland, 2013-2016

Made from wood, steel and stone, the Under One Roof building holds an art and science pavilion, a technology and information gallery, and the Montreux Jazz Cafe.

Designed for the Swiss Federal Polytechnic Institute Lausanne, the building consists of three boxes under an angled, 235-metre-long roof. It was made from woods commonly found in Switzerland, including larch.

Photo is by Masaki Hamada

Coeda House, Japan, 2017

The Coeda House cafe is located on Japan's Izu Peninsula, close to the Pacific Ocean. Its tree-like shape was designed by stacking Alaskan cypress boards, creating a building without any peripheral columns.

The cafe was reinforced with carbon-fibre rods and features a grid ceiling and glass walls that open it up to the nearby ocean.

Photo is by Masaki Hamada

Yusuhara Community Library, Japan, 2018

This community library, made from locally sourced cedar and steel, has an undulating surface instead of a flat floor.

Wood was used liberally throughout the interior, where playful details such as a net-floor creates a space that is welcoming for visitors of every generation.

Shipyard 1862, China, 2018

This project in Shanghai, China, involved the renovation of a 1972 brick shipyard that had been used for shipbuilding.

It now holds a theatre and retail space. Stainless steel mesh has been strung to the exterior and decorated with bricks that create an ever-changing pattern of shadows inside the building.

Photo is by Hufton + Crow

V&A Dundee, Scotland, 2010-18

The VA& Dundee museum – an outpost of London's Victoria & Albert Museum – sits, cliff-like, close to the River Tay in Dundee, Scotland.

"The big idea for V&A Dundee was bringing together nature and architecture, to create a new living room for the city," Kuma said of the project.

Two angular volumes clad in horizontal concrete panels connect to form the museum, which houses permanent Scottish design galleries as well as temporary exhibition spaces.

Photo is by Martin Mischkulnig

The Exchange, Australia, 2019

The Exchange in Sydney's East Darling Harbor area was deliberately given a "non-directional architectural form" so that it can be accessible and recognisable from all directions, the studio said.

The six-storey civic centre, which was Kuma's first completed building in Australia, has a fully glazed facade on the ground floor, while a timber screen wraps its exterior to create a nest-like form.

Japan National Stadium, Japan, 2016-19

The centrepiece of the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, Kuma's Japan National Stadium seats 68,000 people and features cedar-panel-clad eaves designed to evoke traditional Japanese architecture.

Both the opening and closing ceremonies were held in the stadium, which is shaped like a large oval. Reinforced concrete and steel was used for the main structure, sheltered by a roof structure made of steel with laminated larch and cedar trusses.

Main image: Yusuhara Wooden Bridge Museum, photo by Takumi Ota Photography. All images are courtesy of Taschen.

The post Ten projects that showcase Kengo Kuma's "unexpected and innovative" approach appeared first on Dezeen.

[historyrepeatsitself-phff]

Chapter Eighty-Six

A/N: The masterlist is now completed (finally!) so you can find all the chapters there. Here is another chapter, so I hope you enjoy xx 

“I didn’t want to go to a Middleton wedding anyway,” Taylor said loftily, although she scowled slightly as she watched Grace sitting up on her own.

Harry smirked across the room at her. “Then why are you glaring at my baby?”

Taylor blushed and turned her angry gaze to him instead. “I’m just saying, I met Pippa at your wedding. Would’ve been nice to receive an invite.”

“Taylor, none of my friends got invites,” he said simply. “None of William’s did either. Very few people have actually been invited to this wedding that aren’t close friends and family. Don’t take it personally.”

She huffed, but her expression had softened and now she was watching Grace pushing buttons on her noise-machine. Grace giggled at the sound of a fart. “I bet Emmy’s excited.”

“Perhaps.”

“Oh come on, she’s going to the society event of the year,” Taylor replied, with a roll of her eyes. “You two are literally the most stylish couple.”

“Well, some people are just born that way, you know?” he said, pretending to flick his hair over his shoulder. Taylor laughed, then turned serious.

“Give her a good night, yeah?” she said, dropping her voice slightly. “You and Emmy hardly do anything just the two of you anymore if it’s not an engagement. Have fun.”

“We always have fun,” Harry replied simply, but he knew there was pressure for the two of them to enjoy themselves. He was planning on getting some alcohol into himself, and hopefully into Emmy too, and for them to have a lot of fun on the dancefloor, but still there was the expectation. He wondered what Emmy was anticipating.

She came clip-clopping into the room then, her heels suddenly muffled on the carpet, and she smiled as her eyes met Harry’s. She looked lovely in a long-sleeved dress which clung to her figure and fell high above her knees – it was the same dress she’d worn to Trooping the Colour two years earlier, except she had kept well-hidden how short it was. It was a beautiful pale pink, and she paired it with a matching fascinator which Harry also recognised. Her hair was left loose, curled slightly, beneath it, and her cheeks were slightly flushed in embarrassment as she entered the room and had three pairs of eyes on her.

“Ah mah!” Grace said, reaching her arms up and cooing as Emmy lifted her into her hold.

“Hello beautiful,” she whispered, kissing Grace’s head.

“Talking to yourself again?” Harry teased.

“Oh, funny,” Emmy said, although she blushed deeply and looked delighted, even though she pretended not to. “Okay, Grace, are you going to be good for Auntie Taylor?” “When is she not?” Taylor asked, then grinned and reached for Grace. “Come here Gracie Poo! Come here and have cuddles!”

Emmy and Harry laughed lightly as Taylor took Grace in her arms, and then Emmy turned to Harry. She very rarely got to see him in a three-piece suit, and he was wearing his new one which was far better tailored than all his others. It made him look tall, and slim, with broad shoulders and strong arms; he looked amazing, and his perfectly trimmed beard made him look hot. Emmy felt her cheeks darkening slightly as she looked at him, a tug somewhere behind her stomach.

As though Taylor knew what Emmy was thinking – perhaps Taylor was thinking it herself – she smirked and said, “You two better be off, huh? Long drive.”

“You’re probably right,” Emmy said, smoothing down her dress and trying to ignore the gentle warmth in her veins. “Tay, are you going to be okay?”

“Yep, Skippy’s going to come round after work and give me a hand looking after her, so don’t you worry at all, alright?” Taylor said, smiling at her best friend. “You and Harry just let go and have some fun. It’s a wedding – who knows what could happen.” She winked.

Emmy bit her lip to hide a smile, then said, “Yeah, and who knows what could happen here once Grace is asleep upstairs, huh?” She was grinning cheekily.

Taylor’s smirk disappeared, and she scowled. “You guys should go, you’re going to be late.”

Harry got to his feet from where he had been crouched down, tickling Grace in farewell. “What’s going to be happening here when Grace is asleep?” He was frowning, confused.

“Nothing,” Taylor snapped, then shot her friend a glare.

Emmy smirked back at her. “Perhaps. If you’re very unlucky.”

“Just go, Emmy,” Taylor answered. “And maybe while you’re there you’ll remember that you are married, and then maybe you’ll start acting your age a bit.”

“Sure sure,” Emmy said, with a giggle.

“What was all that about?” Harry asked a few minutes later, as he and Emmy walked hand in hand across the lawn towards the car park.

“Oh, nothing,” she replied, with a shrug. “Just a little joke me and Taylor have going on.”

“About her liking Skippy?”

Emmy’s eyes widened in surprise, and she stopped, turning to him. “What?”

He grinned at her. “Did you really think I wouldn’t catch on? You’re not the subtlest of people.”

“She won’t tell me, I’m trying to get it out of her.”

“Christ, Emmy, how old are you?” He threw her a smirk. “You don’t even know whether she does like him.”

“I saw the way she looked at him,” Emmy said. “I can tell. I’ve known her for quite a long time, you know. She doesn’t go gooey eyed for just anyone.”

Harry smiled, giving her hand a squeeze. “Well, just give her time to tell you when she’s ready. It might turn out you were mistaken.”

“Oh come on, you saw the way she reacted! She so likes him!”

“Is that so?” he said absently, smiling to himself. “Funny, for someone sounding so much like a child you look remarkably like a woman.”

Emmy rolled her eyes at the teasing, but she felt herself blushing at the compliment. “And you look somewhere between a rich gentleman and a spy.”

“A spy?” He barked a laugh. “James Bond wears a tuxedo, not a three-piece.”

“Hmm, but he wears a perfectly tailored tuxedo,” Emmy replied. “And you’re wearing a perfectly tailored suit. You owe me, that was my idea.”

“Do I owe you?” he asked. “Or are you reaping the benefits right now?”

She grinned at him. “I must say, I’m pretty partial to this view.” Her eyes roved down him, and then slowly back up. A smirk tugged up the corners of her lips then.

“I cannot believe we have a two hour drive ahead of us,” he said huskily, as they reached the car. Rick, Kev and Jamie were getting into the Range Rover. “Two hours without so much as a kiss.”

“It’ll just make it all the more worthwhile, won’t it?” she said against his jaw, pressing a single kiss to his skin before moving her lips to within inches of his and pulling away again. He swore softly, and she giggled. “We better get going.”

“I hate you,” he said lightly, as he watched her slender curves sink into the passenger seat before closing the door behind her.

Emmy curled her arm through Harry’s, holding onto the crook of his elbow, as the two of them slowly walked up the drive. They were not taking the same route as the other guests, for they wanted some privacy and did not want to steal the show. Instead, they were taking a side path, and they headed towards it. It was cloudy, although glimpses of sunshine tried to burst through, and the air was warm but the breeze was cool. Emmy shuddered slightly as a harsh gust sent a shiver down her spine.

Nonetheless, she felt so elegant and stylish walking beside her tall, handsome husband. She could tell that they looked like such a sophisticated couple, especially with his sexy suit and his signature smirk. She almost wished the paparazzi could see them, for she knew they’d make headlines, but then she reminded herself that this was Pippa’s day, and a new wave of anticipation of seeing Pippa’s dress would roll over her.

Emmy’s heels struggled on the path, and Emmy was paying too much attention to them – and not falling over – that she didn’t even notice that they had reached William.

“Hi you two,” he greeted them, pulling Harry into a one-armed hug before bending down to peck Emmy’s cheek. She smiled up at him. “Emmy, you look lovely.”

“Thank you,” she said. She’d made an effort to look classy and simple for this wedding – she was not there to impress, she was there to enjoy the day. “How’s Kate? Is she coping with being Maid of Honour?”

“Oh yes, she’s a bit stressed but she’s fine,” William said. “George and Charlotte are very excited. Charlotte loves her dress, makes me wonder if we’ll ever get her back out of it.”

Harry chuckled. “It’ll be good to see them. It’s been too long.”

“Yeah, I’m sure you’ll see a lot of them, I’m dreading the reception,” William replied. “They’ll be running around screaming I’m sure. Somehow I already can’t wait to crawl into bed tonight.”

“I relate to that,” Harry murmured, as his hand went to Emmy’s waist. As a smile flitted across her face, she elbowed him lightly, trying to tell him to behave.

“Let’s head inside,” William said, starting towards the back gate. “It’s a little chilly in there, Emmy, you might be cold.”

“I’ll keep her warm,” Harry answered simply. Again, Emmy shot him a half-amused, half-embarrassed look.

William threw Harry a roll of his eyes, before changing the subject. “I saw you guys at the garden party yesterday. Was that your first one, Emmy?”

“No, I went to one last year,” she said. “But yesterday was the first time Harry made me go about and talk to people on my own.” She scowled at him.

“I heard you did really well,” William said, as Harry grinned innocently. “Granny was very impressed.”

“Really?” Emmy asked, delighted.

“Granny should always be impressed,” Harry dismissed to her. “You’re always very impressive.”

“At Party at the Palace I couldn’t believe how natural you were with both the kids and the adults,” William agreed. “You seemed so comfortable talking to all of them, now that’s impressive.”

Emmy blushed, but they reached the church now and they quietly made their way inside. It was large, with a high ceiling and beautiful glass windows letting the sunlight filter in. There were lots of white flowers everywhere, and so the usual musky smell of the old building was masked by the flowery perfume that hung above the pews. Harry took Emmy’s hand so that they were not separated as William showed the two of them to their seat. They were sat a few rows back, beside a few girls who were obviously friends of Pippa’s. They took one look at Harry and shared wide-eyed looks. Emmy felt somewhat smug as she took her seat beside him and he pulled her hand into his lap, playing with her fingers.

“I feel like it hasn’t been just us in ages,” he mused to her.

“I know, Grace is always there.”

“I mean, I love Grace, but it’s nice to have some alone time now.”

“Although do we even have anything to talk about now?” Emmy teased lightly. “I swear our entire lives revolve around Grace.”

He chuckled. “I’m sure we’ll find something. Besides, when we get back to the hotel I don’t plan on either of us doing much talking.”

Emmy glanced round to make sure they weren’t being overheard, but as the number of guests in the church grew, so did the chatter, and they were inaudible. The girls beside them were excitedly talking about some guy they’d been stalking on Facebook.

“You can’t say that in here,” Emmy replied, although his words had warmed her insides.

“What? ‘Cause it’s a church?” His voice was sceptical, and he rolled his eyes.

“No,” she said, giggling. “Because someone might overhear us.”

“They won’t be able to blame me,” he said simply. “I mean, look at you.”

She blushed, but playfully she replied, “Look at you.”

“You really like this new suit, don’t you?”

“Can you blame me? For so long you’ve worn baggy suits, and you always looked so good in your uniform,” she said. “It was about time you went to a tailor. And I’m glad you did, you look really nice.”

He threw her a smile. “I think it’s where I’ve lost weight in the last few years, I’ve become a lot more health conscious.”

“You don’t need to be.”

“You say that only because you eat lots of chocolate,” he teased.

She pouted. “You mean, I treat myself.”

“Treat yo’self.”

“Exactly.”

He chuckled at her, giving her hand a squeeze as he looked around the church, seeing which guests her recognised.

“Do you know many people here?” Emmy asked.

“A fair few. Most of Kate’s family I recognise, but only because they were all at William’s wedding,” he explained. “Most people here are Pippa’s friends, I think. Eugenie’s coming, too.”

“Oh is she?”

“Yeah, with Jack.” Jack was Eugenie’s boyfriend.

“Her and Jack are pretty serious, huh?” Emmy smirked.

“Don’t go saying that, we don’t need another wedding anytime soon,” he complained. “Especially not a family wedding. Having your cousin’s is bad enough.”

She rolled her eyes – the following month her cousin Bella was tying the knot, and Harry was attending with her, much to his dismay, since all of Emmy’s family would be there, including Alexander.

“I put up with your family,” she said. “It’s only common decency you put up with mine.”

Harry couldn’t help but grin at that. “Just returning the favour?”

“Exactly,” she said.

“I’d much rather return another favour,” he breathed, leaning close so that his voice tickled her ear. She gasped out in surprise as a delicious shiver rolled down her spine, and she batted at him with a hand.

“What is up with you?” she said playfully. “We are at a wedding.”

He chuckled, shrugging innocently and dropping his attention to her hand, toying with her engagement ring.

It wasn’t long before the wedding march started, and all the guests got to their feet to welcome the bride and all her bridesmaids and pageboys to the church. James, the groom, was stood at the altar alongside his brother, burst into a huge smile at the sight of his fiancée.

Pippa looked beautiful, her dress simple and stunning, her hair pulled up beneath her custom-made tiara. But before she could start her walk down the aisle, six little people toddled out in front of her.

George and Charlotte looked adorable in their matching outfits, Charlotte’s tiny hand in his. They drew “awwws” from the guests, and Charlotte smiled at everyone. George, however, did not like the attention and he kept his head down, following in his mother’s wake.

Kate led the bridal party along the aisle, looking classy in her peach dress. She was the proud mother as she took her seat at the front, a few rows in front of them, and watched her children file into place in front of her.

It was a beautiful ceremony, and then it was time to head out into the sunshine and be seen by the photographers for the first time. As Harry and Emmy followed the guests out into the fresh air, Emmy caught a glimpse of some of the paparazzi, and she turned her face away.

“Just ignore them,” Harry said, rubbing the small of her back. “You look beautiful, let them see it.”

She threw him a smile, absentmindedly tugging her dress down. “I kind of wish I’d worn something longer.”

“You say that every time you wear that dress,” he teased. “Don’t worry, you look gorgeous. Just wait til I get you on the dancefloor later.”

Emmy guessed that Harry was joking – he never danced, only after a few drinks and when she was incredibly flirtatious with him, but as other couples joined the newlyweds for their “second” dance, he got to his feet and held out a hand.

“Can I have this dance?” he asked, smirking at her.

Her blue eyes rose to his in surprise. “Really?”

He barked a laugh. “Quickly, before I change my mind.”

“Okay.” She took his hand and jumped to her feet, letting him lead her onto the dancefloor. Nearby, William and Kate were swaying, and Emmy felt oddly mature as she moved into Harry’s hold.

“Never thought I’d be having a dance like this at 22,” she said, grinning.

He chuckled. “I just wanted to dance with my wife, is all.”

“Oh yeah, that doesn’t sum up what I just said or anything.”

“I used to hate dancing like this,” he said to her. “Chelsy always wanted me to dance, but I used to hate it. It just felt so…fake, I dunno. But now I kind of like it.”

“You’re growing up,” she teased.

“Which is ironic, considering you’re so young,” he replied.

“You’re a daddy now.”

“What have I told you about calling me that in public?” he joked.

“You can’t tell me off about being inappropriate in public!” she gasped.

“Um…that gala was your idea.” He pretended to look innocent. She looked up at him and scowled, and he chuckled. “I’m only joking.” He leant down and pressed his lips to hers gently.

“Harry.” She pulled away as he tried to deepen the kiss, knowing that lots of people were watching.

He pouted. “Just you wait until I get some alcohol in you.”

And while Emmy was determined not to get drunk that night, Harry seemed to have other ideas.

She was sat outside on the grass cuddling George and Charlotte. George was sat having a huge with her while Charlotte toddled around in front of them, picking daisies.

“You start school this year, don’t you?” Emmy asked George. He nodded – he was sleepy and was on the verge of tears, he just wanted to go to bed. “Are you excited?”

“Daddy said it’s very fun.”

“It is fun,” Emmy agreed. “You’ll love it, and you’ll make lots of friends.”

“But Lottie gets to stay home with Mummy.”

“Aw, but Mummy will still see you everyday,” Emmy said. “Charlotte, you’ll start nursery soon too, won’t you?”

Charlotte nodded. “In Jooone.”

“June? Oh okay, so it’ll be soon,” Emmy said. “You must be excited too?”

“A bit,” Charlotte said.

“Aw, you’ll have lots of fun too,” she said. “You both will.”

“Is Gwace at nurswy?” Charlotte asked.

“Not yet, she’s still a bit young,” Emmy told her. “She’s younger than you, isn’t she?”

Charlotte nodded. “Does she like chocwate?”

“She hasn’t had any yet, she can’t eat much yet,” Emmy explained. “But I expect she will love it when she grows up a bit.”

“Here you two are!”

The three of them turned to see William and Harry strolling across the grass towards them, and Charlotte broke into a beam.

“Daddy!” she squealed, running over and throwing herself into William’s arms.

“I’ve been looking all over for you two,” William said, kissing Charlotte’s forehead.

“George is a bit tired,” Emmy told him.

“Oh Georgie, are you sleepy? Shall we get you to bed?”

George nodded, sniffling as he stumbled to his feet, and the two children followed their dad back to the party. Harry handed Emmy a drink.

“Vodka and orange?”

“Mm-hmm,” he said, sitting down beside her. “Perks of weaning Grace, huh?”

“Yeah,” Emmy said, taking a sip and leaning her head on his shoulder. “You ready to go dance?”

He chuckled. “I thought you’d never ask.”

[sleepdeprivedheretic]

Kill Me Hardly (Last Ch.)

Notes: Last chapter!!! This chapter is straight up Fluff, with nsfw, bc I’m a simple being :’) Those who just want a sad ending, can pretend that this chapter doesn’t exist, lol.

Warnings: mild Smut (or, milder than what I’m use to writing)

@youtubequeens: I tried my best, haha

 Light. Warmth. Softness. Beeping. Everything dawned slowly onto you at once as you stared at the wall with half-lidded eyes, regaining your focus as your fingertips felt something soft. Feeling something. You jolted awake, sitting upwards. Your legs felt heavy, everything felt warm and safe, the ghosts were gone, and you wondered if this was how newborns felt, for everything seemed to be new and yet familiar.

Like a new dawn, you felt your own heart beating as the monitor beeped in with excitement. You also felt weak and tired, your frame was sick and paler than the healthy flush that it had use to be, and a soft snoring jolted you out of your thoughts as you looked at your hands.

“T-” You tried, yet your vocal chords were unused for a year, but you still felt a strong sense of relief and peace, and your heart thrummed with searing warmth as the man who you had beginning to develop feelings for, had his head and arms nestled comfortably within your lap, your fingers threading through his hair gently.

  “…” You tried clearing your throat as you looked around your surroundings. Cards, flowers, stuffed animals littered the table next to you, no doubt from your friend and family, you and Taishiro were alone within the room, and yet, you also desperately missed your parents.

A thought struck you, how did he get in here? Where were your parents? Did they leave before he came here? It was such a miracle that you were alive, and yet, you were so confused.

“Ta-Tai-chan.” You croaked out lowly, looking down. He only stirred slightly. You huffed out a small noise of adoration. Alive. You were alive and feeling, and he came all this way….

 “T..” You shook him gently. He stirred. He groaned when you pinched his cheeks, squeezing them softly as finally, his eyelids slid open, and then widened as he stared at you, taking you in. You didn’t have a chance to really think, before he lifted himself up in such a haste, and then lunged.

 Surprise. You were surprised that he had leaned you down in which he was now hovering over you, staring at you thoroughly as one hand held himself above you, and the other clasped onto yours, rubbing a calloused thumb over your palm rather gently.

“Tai..” You tried, reaching up to caress his cheek. He leaned down, resting onto his elbows now as he surprised you with a soft kiss on your forehead.

“Shush. Ya damned woman. Makin’ me worry an’ shit.” He said softly, his own voice cracking a little. You smiled a little, he was trying so hard not to let the tears flow, and yet you were rubbing away the wetness with the gentle sweeping of your thumb.  

The next thing you knew, he was holding your face gently as he began kissing you. Your eyelids, cheek, jaw, and finally, mouth with a fervent hunger, and you couldn’t help but whine with surprise want, gripping your hands tightly in his hair, him groaning as his face slid down to the crook of your neck. You jumped, but he kissed the scarred up wound so softly, threading his hand through your own hair, feeling that you were very real.  

“Fuckin’ hell, ya scared me last night.” He said, voice muffling in your neck, sending tingles down your spine.

The both of you jumped as loud knocks echoed on the door. Taishiro reluctantly pulled away with a scowl on his face, placing himself back on the seat where he had been presumably all night as the familiar doctor walked in with a glass of water, and a closed packet with some rubbing alcohol.

“Why, hello! You must be very confused and exhausted, am I correct? I’m Doctor Fujiharu Akashi, I’ve been in charge of taking care of you. Please relax, I need to take your vitals, and explain to you what’s been happening.” The gray haired doctor said with a bright smile. Taishiro stood up so that the doctor could talk to you as he set the cup of water next to the desk, you took it and sipped on it slowly as he continued talking.  

“Your body will need time, but there’s a high chance for it to recover wonderfully. You’ll need to eat soft foods, and drink things that have electrolytes in them, such as chicken broth or Gatorade. My nurse assistant should be printing you out a list of foods in which you can or can’t have.” The doctor babbled, you listening as you winced at the needle.

“-as you understand, you are a very, very lucky person. Your heartbeat had picked up at an abnormal rate last night, and we concluded that you were close to waking up. After...um...a year.” He stalled, looking guilty as he adjusted his glasses. You didn’t blame him, for he didn’t know that you were a ghost.

“Year?” You played along, tilting your head.

“Yes. I’m sorry, Miss (Y/n). I know it’s not easy to take in, but you’re safe now. Your parents had left you in the care of your friend. They needed to go..um...well, I’ll let him explain it to you later, alright? Your voice and organs should be up and running fine in a few days. Until then, we’ll have to keep an eye on you to see how you’re coping well, alright?” Dr. Akashi finished, taking the tube with him as he bowed, leaving you and Tai alone.

You turned towards him, raising an eyebrow.

“They were confused as hell, but long story short, I told ‘em that I was a pen-pal overseas, and told them of what I knew ‘bout ya. They seemed wary, but friendly enough. Of course they couldn’t stay, long. Yer brother had court, today. They’ll be here, later.” He explained, rubbing his hand softly over yours. You squeezed gently, making a humming sound in your throat.  

You wanted to say something, to bring up the elephant in the room, but you were oddly, very happy and surprised, and didn’t want to break the spell. As if sensing your confusion or unrest, Taishiro sighed.

“Ya know, I thought a lot last night. Watchin’ ya sleep- don’t give me that look!” He huffed as you squinted at him with a judging stare.

“Oh, whatever. Anyways, I thought about ya. Me. Us. What ya might do after ya heal...and...it’ll be weird livin’ without ya, is what I’m sayin’! If...if ya wanna..kami, this is hard.” He bit his lip, a pretty red flushed to his cheeks and neck, and he sighed, looking at your own reddening cheeks.

“Look, I like ya. More than I’d thought I’d like anybody. You’re a little worm, crawlin’ into people’s heart-ow! Okay, that’s fair.” He rubbed his shoulder, squinting at you as you glared. He took in a breath as he then stared at you with a stern seriousness, his hand clasped onto yours as the other smoothed over your cheek.  

“You’ve gotten close to me. Ya’ve caught me. I..I don’t wanna be the kind of man that you or yer parents should hafta fear, or look down on. It took such a fuckin’ scare from ya for me to get my ass in gear. I’ve made up my mind, thinkin’ last night,” He gave you such a soft look, and briefly you wondered if this was the same person months ago, yet you held his endearing gaze as he continued to finish his speech.

“-that I wanna protect ya. N’ everybody who’s been through that shit. Ya, yer parents, hell, even Dabi’s girls, knowin’ that their job ain’t easy, an’ they got mouths to feed. I hafta go home, let ya be with yer parents and friends, but I’ll be here everyday, if ya want. I’m gonna get rid of all that villain shit, buy some more vanilla candles, an’ look fer jobs.” He finished, and you stared at him with such surprise and shock, you felt tears welling in your eyes.

“O-oi! Don’t start cryin’ on me! Ya sap!” He squinted, eternally screaming on what to do, and you smiled.

“Beautiful.” You mumbled out, but he heard you, his blush darkening at your own wonderstruck stare. His expression softened a bit through furrowed eyebrows as his eyes met yours. As if to say “hell with it”, he leaned in, silently asking for a kiss, and of course you breached the distance between the two of you, catching him off guard as you grabbed the front of his hoodie, bringing him down to meet your lips. You grinned, catching him off guard as he made a muffled groan.

He pulled away, huffing out a laugh.

“Damned woman. My damned woman. Ya know, I’m gonna get ya later fer all the shit you’ve pulled. Just you wait.” He promised darkly, and you shivered with an odd mix of excitement and anticipation.

“For now, though, I gotta go. Rest up, Babe. You’re gonna need it.” He gave you one last kiss, before reluctantly heading out of the door.

….………

To say that you were relieved, was an understatement. Your parents were so damned happy to see you, your mother and father enveloping you in a tight hug, but not too tight. Your body was a little frail, not as strong as it use to be, so you had to stay in the hospital until you could be discharged.

Of course, you were far from being lonely. Both of your parents and Taishiro would meet up with you regularly, them telling embarrassing stories about you, and you, gaining back your voice, would hush them in embarrassment or change the subject, quickly as your partner, yes, partner, laughed.

However, when your parents were too busy, Taishiro would be more than happy to spend his time with you, telling you how he was getting noticed quickly by the police, but in a good way. He grinned, showing off his badge, and your eyes glittered with excitement.

“That’s great! Who did you steal it, from?” Slipped out, and he rolled his eyes, pinching your cheeks a little roughly as you complained.

“Figured that I’d try my hand at somethin’ that I do know about. Fightin, criminals, fightin’ criminals, ya know. Hafta do trainin’ classes, but so far they’re impressed. Heh, they should be. Fatgum was a notorious villain, after all who was good at shovin’ down police officers.” He wiggled his eyebrows, and it was your turn to roll your eyes.

“Braggart.”

“Heh. Says the college lady who’s takin’ online classes.” He pointed out. It was true. After word got out of your recovery, your old college had promised to continue your education, since it was already paid for, and you were close to graduating, anyway. Of course you took online classes, and joined the classroom through a camera, but you healed and studied, while Taishiro stayed busy, he did offer a solution to your loneliness if he or nobody else could visit you.

 Cue a gaggle of giggling women, fawning over you as they babbled among themselves, fixing their makeup and painting your nails. At first, you were flabbergasted, but a grinning Dabi dropped in and told you that Taishiro said that you were the one helping him bring food and stuff for the girls. Although the scarred man didn’t know how, he trusted Tai, and thought that it’d be nice for the adult women to keep their savior a bit of company.

Not having much lady friends, you agreed reluctantly, but quickly took a shine to the bright-eyed ladies and their adorable children as they told stories that surprised and shocked you, and of course made you blush furiously, for they were still sex workers, and you were not use to such stories.

“Always use lube~! Even aroused, it’s normal for some people to just not get wet. So don’t hurt yourself, Babe!” One chirped.

“Oooh! Glass dildos are easy to clean, and are soooo much smoother than plastic or silicone. Any lube can go on them, and won’t wear the toy down.”

“I got one! Always pee after sex. You can and will get a urinary tract infection if you’re not careful.”

Yeah, you’ve learned a lot other than your college classes.  

When Taishiro wasn’t busy, he’d bring you his favorite snack, Takoyaki, as the two of you talked about everything and nothing. You liked these days, where it was just you and him, how he’d say that you smelled like vanilla, that’s why he has so many of those candles, and you telling him that you’re learning too much things from the girls. He’d wink at you, saying that if you wanted to, you could teach him, and then laughing at your frustrated yet flushed face.

 Two months had passed so soon. It was nearing Christmas, and you’ve gained back your own weight, skin looking healthy and you were about to be discharged. Of course you wanted to move in with Taishiro, and with your parent’s knowledge, he moved your things to his apartment. Or, so you thought.

“Wait...so...my things aren’t at your apartment?” You quirked an eyebrow. He grinned.

“Neither are mine.”

“What the fu-”

“Language, young missy.” He tutted, mocking a teacher as he wagged a finger. You laughed.

“No, but Tai, where are our things?” You pressed, and he grinned. You glared.

“I moved them.”

“Wheeeeeere?” You drawled out in a whine, and he switched out his grin for a smug smile.

“To our new home.”

“Wait, what?”

“Ya heard me! Figured that I’ve been savin’ a lot of money from my old “job”, that you an’ I could, I dunno, moveintoahouseorsomethin’.” He said it so fast, but it caught your attention.

“Taishiro...you? Got us a house?” You asked softly. He looked away sheepishly for a moment.

“Well, yeah. Should’ve asked ya, first, but, it was in the middle of the city, an’ a heh, “steal”, an’ it’s near plenty of job opportunities for yer career. If ya don’t like it, I’ll-”

You shushed him in a kiss, pulling away for a moment before beaming from ear to ear.

“You sap. It sounds perfect.”

“Shut up, I know.” He grinned, kissing you in turn.

“No, but seriously, please inform me of important decisions from now on. I don’t need more anymore surprises.”

“Will do, Sweetheart.” He hummed, tucking a stray hair behind your ear.

“So. Does this place have a stripper pole?”

“Tch, Cheeky woman, who do ya think I am? I was goin’ to ask your permission to install one in our bedroom.” He joked, and yet you oddly didn’t mind the idea.

“Only if your service is free.” You giggled, and he laughed.

“For you? Only.”

………….

         After being discharged, you had finally gotten to get some more fresh air, getting out of the hospital bed as you looked around your surroundings, glad to be free of the grisly spirits, even on the streets. Of course, Taishiro had taken you to your new home, the both of you standing outside and he grinned proudly.  

Although he mentioned house, he didn’t mention almost a mansion. You gave him a look.

“What?”

“Taishiro, as I am beyond grateful, isn’t this a bit, much?” You asked, solemnly. He frowned, and already you felt bad.

“Ya...don’t like it?”

“Kami, I love it, it’s beyond perfect! It just caught me off guard, a little, and I wondered if it’ll be lonely? You know, such a big house, and so many rooms…” You glanced at him, and he found himself smiling.

“Ya know? I think there’s a way that we could use up the rooms.” He drawled, and already you found that you were blushing furiously.

“Not that, you pervert! Well, maybe that, but only in like, two rooms! Anyways. Even if I’m in the police force, now, I’m still on good terms with Dabi an’ his boss. The lady’s and their kids...really need a break from livin’ in the slums….” He drawled out. You quirked an eyebrow.

“Our home isn’t going to be ran like a brothel.”

“I know that! I was sayin’…maybe we can set up a daycare? For their kids? So that they can grow up more safely. So they don’t hafta resort to gang violence, ya know? It’s not a permanent home, but it’ll be a place for each parent an’ kid to be in their own rooms.”

“As much as I like that idea, Taishiro, we need a solid plan to make this work. Okay, so each room-” You began babbling as he listened, giving you his own ideas, which you also liked. The two of your continued your conversation after taking a look inside of the house, pointing out which rooms were the two of yours, and which rooms could be spared. It was a lot to think about, but you genuinely wanted a more safer place for your lady friends whom you’ve grown fond of, and of course, for their children.

Calling Dabi, said man gave his own insight on the idea, and said that that would work, perfectly, as he could make sure that his girls and their kids were safe and more sound, knowing that they’d be in a safer neighborhood.

  All in all, the plan boiled down to, was that each parent and child had their own daycare bedroom for a limited amount of time per day. Although they couldn’t permanently live in there, because of food, rent, and you really not wanting to have a bunch of women living with you, constantly, the children could be in a safe place while their parents worked, Dabi’s other girls who didn’t have kids, looked after them, giving you and Tai plenty of space and time for each other. Although, you didn’t mind being a babysitter, as long as you weren’t overworked.

  Even though you had gotten close to the ladies, cameras were set up so nobody could bring unwanted guests. To the both of you, it sounded like a good plan.

   It didn’t happen overnight, of course, as you had finally had gotten hired at a really well paying job, the two of you stayed busy, yet made time for each other as you possibly could, while in both of your spare times, made funds here and there to remodel each room. Although working, you didn’t stress yourself, for you were still healing, a little, but you tried to help Tai in anyway you can as you decorated the rooms, laughing as you smeared orange paint onto his face, leaving him to growl playfully, kissing you senseless as he quickly returned the favor, grinning with pride as you had a poorly drawn red heart on your arm. You smiled.  

When all rooms were finished, Dabi was called, and thus a small group of women and their children came to look at the place.

 Cue a bunch of teary eyed women, hugging you as they sobbed out how grateful they were, and how their babies were now much safer away from the crappy parts of the city, even for a little bit. Taishiro smiled a bit fondly as you held onto one of their kids, leaning in and whispering in your ear.

“Hey, I want one.” He grinned darkly, and you shrugged.

“Sure.”

“What?” His brain seemed to stop, still, and you chuckled at his frozen expression.

“We both have stable jobs, and a good home. Plus some very awesome babysitters. Tit for tat.” You winked, and he grinned.

“We still haven’t-”

“Oh, and did I mention? Rubber toys can absorb bacteria-”

“Yuna! There’s children, here!”  

……………..

   It was nearing spring, you were getting more acquainted with seeing happy, hyper children, and learning more from the ladies, whether it be parental or other advice. You didn’t mind them, liking the way they’ve kept you company on your days off, helping you clean and cook as Taishiro was at work. If you were at work, he’d rather be out and about with his work buddies, saying that he felt uncomfortable being around a group of ladies when his own woman was away. It touched you, really.  

Of course your parents started visiting, more often when they could, learning that you were taking care of others, they were very proud of you and although wary that so many women lived in your home, you reassured them that you trusted your partner. They’ve brought news about your brother, saying that he was going through rehab and therapy. Although he didn’t want to bother you, nor pressure you into forgiving him, he passed the word to your parents, that he was thinking of you, and wished that he could have been a better sibling. All you could do is wish the best for him, and wait and see for yourself.  

With Tai’s and your jobs, the two of you made a very good team, splitting the bills and chores equally, as the two of you had taken time out of your rather busy schedules to go on dates, help with charities, taking care of your friends and their children, and support each other. He was still a grumpy Tsundere, but you were his cheeky smartass, so it all evened out.

…………(nsfw)

You were fully healed when the two of your’s first anniversary came around. Physically, as well as mentally, you were ready. Although dating for a year, the two of you were so busy with work, looking after the girls, going to local charities, and learning to love and cope within society, the complete act of sex wasn’t a thing between the two of you. Sure, after heavy kissing sessions, you’d cum around his fingers and tongue, and vice versa, but neither of you had the time to take to really slow the world down and appreciate each other, and that’s what you’ve wanted, and he couldn’t have agreed more.  

So the two of you planned to use your vacation days to use on Halloween, or the two of your’s anniversary. Nobody was in your home, the vanilla candles lit up, making the bedroom have enough flickering light that the two of you could still see each other.  

He kissed your scar rather more gently than the rest of you. You whined as feather-like kisses adored you, while in contrast, his hips had moved against yours, lifting your leg on top of his shoulder, he buried himself more deeply inside you as you made a keen whine, threading your fingers within his hair tightly. With his free hand, he had cupped your cheek, making it easier for him to kiss your face as your body moved under the shaking bed due to his sharp thrusting.

“I-it’s…warm.” You murmured, feeling the intense heat making you sweat, sharply contrasting the cold, dead feeling as a spirit. He must’ve known what you were talking about, as he then kissed you tenderly.

“I know, Baby. Mu-must’ve been rough, huh? H-heh.” He chuckled quietly at his own dirty joke, and you let out a breathy huff of laughter mixed in with a moan. He worked himself into you, feeling your walls grip him as he churned them, hitting your sensitive spot as your legs trembled as they tightened around his waist and shoulder blade, toes curling as you felt yourself scrambling for that high.

“Th-that’s it. Feel ya...squ-eezin’ onto me. Let yourself go, Baby.” He urged, slowing down, only to aim sharp, powerful thrusts into you as you felt tears of frustration pool. Having none of that, he kissed your eyes, forehead, and mouth as you trembled all over, squeezing him as if he was a lifeline as you bit out his name, finally cumming onto his cock as your orgasm ripped through you.

Seeing such a sight, and on the verge of his own release, he quickened his hips, paying no mind to the squeaking of the bed-frame as the headboard slammed into the wall, you whined out as your sensitivity heightened, saying his name in a mantra of sentences as he fucked you into the mattress, precum, lube, and your cum soiling the bedspread underneath.

In what had seemed to be a looping moment, he gripped your hips towards him in a final, harsh thrust as he then stilled, cussing and letting out your own name as he shot his release inside of you. The both of you panted, as he rested his forehead against yours, hips shallowly moving on their own as he pushed his cum deeper into you as you hummed gently with approval.

“You alright, Honey?” He asked, and you nodded tiredly as he gently pulled out, you whining at the loss as your opening clenched onto nothing, pearlescent fluid dripping out of you.

“Mmm. Better take those lady’s advice an’ use the bathroom. I’ll clean up and meet ya in the shower for round two.” He purred, and you flushed, yet grinning wildly.

…………..End.

:’) I just went straight ahead for domestic fluff and Tai and reader taking care of everybody while living their best lives, especially after all of that angst. This was a field fic, I’ll tell you what.            

[petri808]

Sixteen Weeks and Counting

@inukag-week Highschool AU canon divergence, 7 part/prompt by day story

Parts: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7  Day 1- Opposites

A school science project can be tough enough but for Kagome Higurashi her semester was gearing up to be a hell of a ride when she’s paired up with the class slacker…

“But Mrs. Tai--sho, Inuyasha?!”  Kagome gestures wildly at the delinquent standing with his arms crossed.  “And don’t you ‘keh’ me!” she glares at the young man who simply turns his head with his ears pinned down.  Turning back to the teacher, “Mrs. Taisho this is not fair, I’m a straight A student and he’s a slacker!  How could you pair us up like that for this big project?!  Is it because his brother is the school Principle that he gets away with everything?!”

“Ms. Higurashi,” the teacher, Mrs. Kagura Taisho folds her hands in front of her and sighs, “I know this may be quite the shock, but your differences are precisely why I paired you up. Inuyasha needs a firm hand to guide him.”  Looking past the young girl squarely at Inuyasha, “and this is his last chance to pass regardless of who his brother is.  If he doesn’t get a decent mark on this semester project, he’ll be held back a grade.” Turning back to the fuming girl, “who better to turn to than my top student who’s also a bit of a spitfire?” Taisho winks.  “Don’t worry, you’ll have all semester to work on this and of course I will help keep Inuyasha in line he does after all have to come home sometimes.”

Kagome sighs, “I really don’t have a choice in this do I?”  Mrs. Taisho shakes her head.  “Great,” the young girl hangs her head and takes a moment to breathe.  “Science isn’t the easiest subject for me and I need to help a reta…  not so enlightened person enough to get through this…”

“Oi, I ain’t no retard, just lazy,” Inuyasha quips back, but when Kagome looks up and he sees her eyebrow twitch, he quickly turns away again.  

“It’s true Ms. Higurashi, Inuyasha was a good student once upon a time, it’s just,” sigh, “getting him to care since, well let’s just say past events happened, hasn’t been easy.  Many of us in the family have tried but he won’t listen to us.  You have 16 weeks for this science project, why don’t you guys take the afternoon to come up with an idea?  In fact, if it’s okay with your parents, as a thank you, how about coming over for dinner, you two can talk while I cook.”

“Eww, I don’t want her at our house!”

“Your house?” Taisho’s eyebrow raises.

“I guess that would be okay, I mean you’re right, we should come up with our idea quickly so we can get started on it, I’ll just text momma and let her know where I’ll be.”

“Wonderful!” Taisho clasps her hands together.  “Then gather your belongings and I’ll drive us.”

A couple hours later at the Taisho residence, Kagura is busy in the kitchen.  As full-blooded demons, she and her husband Sesshomaru aren’t very big eaters but as a half breed Inuyasha can consume quite a lot of food. Most nights, he fends for himself, gorging on different flavors of ramen but with a human guest in the house it was only proper she cook a meal.  The smells of chicken and vegetables simmering start to fill the home and she’s surprised it hasn’t lured a hungry boy out.  But based on the sounds coming from the living room, he might be a little too indisposed at the moment.

“These smells are actually making me hungry.”  Sesshomaru dips a claw into the broth to take a taste.  Licking his finger, “and I must say your guest is putting a smile on my face.” A loud thump rings out from the other room causing him to grin.  “I like this one.”

‘Damn it why’d you hit me?!’

‘Cause you were falling asleep!’

Kagura chuckles, “I agree, she was the perfect person to help him.”

‘I swear if you hit me again!…’

‘Well if you’d pay attention I wouldn’t have to!’

Sesshomaru leans against the counter and crosses his arms, facing the living room.  “What did you say they were working on?  The final project for your class?”

“Mmhmm,” she too crosses her arms and takes a break from stirring.  “They’ve decided on a topic but that’s as far as they got from what I could hear.  Kagome sat him in front of his laptop to do research and I’m guessing he keeps falling asleep instead.”

Another thud. ‘Damn it, Kagome I wasn’t falling asleep that time!’

“Sounds like he’s lucky to be a half breed,” he chuckles, “or I might end up losing a brother.”

‘Ooops!  My mistake.’

With the help of the Taisho’s, Kagome and Inuyasha come up with a timeline to work on the project. It was a better outcome than nothing at all from that first meeting.  Every Friday afterschool, Kagura would bring the two kids to the house so they could work on it and Sesshomaru would take Kagome home in the evening.  Now if they could just learn to work together without killing each other everything should be okay.  Maybe not smooth sailing, but at least manageable.  

But by the time Kagome was dropped off at home that first night around 8pm she was ready to take a nice soak in the ofuro then crash for the weekend. She didn’t know what was worse, track and field season or dealing with such a temperamental brat!  The mental drain was exhausting!  Inuyasha kept nodding off, or not listening, she even caught him playing a computer game when he was supposed to be looking up information on air pressure!  He’s lucky all she did was hit him with a book cause what she really wanted to do was grab the ornamental sword off the wall and run it through him!  “Ugh,” she rubs her temples and sinks deeper into the tub, ‘this semester is gonna be a nightmare…’

“ARGH!” Inuyasha threw himself onto his bed and buried his face in the pillow.  ‘This sucks!  This utterly fucking sucks!’  As soon as Sesshomaru came home from dropping off Kagome, he and Kagura were on him, harping that he needed to get his act together.

You were supposed to graduate this year Inuyasha, but you were held back once, wanna make it two?  I’m tired of supporting you, if you don’t pass this year, you can get out of the house cause you’ll be an adult and my promise to dad will be over.  

Inuyasha, I know it’s been hard on you after losing your mom, but do you think this would make her happy?  She would want you to do your best and that girl, Kagome, is your saving grace, don’t ruin it.  Or Sessh is right, we won’t help you anymore.

As much as he didn’t want to admit it, they were right about everything.  Most of his problems were all of his own making and both his parents was probably rolling in their graves.  But he’s been this way for over 8 years and changing his personality overnight just wasn’t going to happen.  “Ugh…”  

‘This semester is gonna kill me…’

[interesting-blog-name]

Denzel Curry MEGAREVIEW (ZUU/13LOOD IN + 13LOOD OUT MIXX/ UNLOCKED [w/ Kenny Beats])

Denzel Curry is a rapper I’ve known about since I started listening to the genre back in 2017, and one I’ve always enjoyed for the consistent energy he brought to every song he made. TABOO was one of the first records I listened to in its entirety (I wasn’t the type to go out of my way to listen to an album), and looking back at it, it was very ambitious, energetic, well-assembled, but did have its flaws and weaker moments. The production and Denzel’s voice were definitely highlights, but the lyrics and subject matter were sometimes lost in the midst of all the focused chaos of the album, even if more conceptual and deep tracks were to be found, such as the introductory title track, BLACK BALLOONS immediately after, one of my favorites, and THE BLACKEST BALLOON.

My younger ears were very fond of the grimy, bass-heavy music scene Denzel was closely related to as well, Florida rap’s punk-influenced, aggressive Soundcloud wave, which brought artists like XXXTENTACION, Lil Pump and the subject of this review to the spotlight. I was extremely drawn to the raw violence in the sound, and part of me still really enjoys it, a style very present in Denzel’s short but blunt and potent EP, 13. This familiarity and appreciation I had with his music were what brought me to listen to these three very short projects that I’d been holding back for quite a while.

 ZUU

Starting up with Denzel’s ode to his land, ZUU is definitely a change of pace to TABOO; the Florida native mixes his unmatched essence, flows and deliveries, masterful production and the traditional song topics and sometimes structures and samples from his homeland, into a tight, creative and, above all, fun project. Anyone can represent where they’re from in a rap song, but few could do it as creatively and interestingly as Denzel.

The production in this album is definitely a highlight: mostly handled by Australian duo FnZ, famous for working with A$AP Rocky in many occasions, Finatik and Zac, alongside familiar names such as Ronny J, Charlie Heat and Tay Keith, add a fresh, dynamic beat for every song they produce in ZUU, while still possessing an unmistakable texture and style to their production. The album is most definitely focused in its intended sound, ranging from the boiling title track, BIRDZ, or P.A.T. (probably one of Denzel’s most aggressive tracks ever), to the blissful WISH, or the less bombastic, but insanely catchy gospel-like SPEEDBOAT.

The only problem I have with the beats is they sometimes seem to be mixed weirdly; the higher decibels feel like they are mixed too loud on CARLOMART and SHAKE 88, which leads to some ear-piercing moments. Nothing that can’t be tolerated though.

The lyrics, again, are not a highpoint in the project. With the production and delivery present, they’d barely even have space to be so amazing or cutting edge. While Denzel deals with loss, overcoming his broke days, and even pays a very nice homage to his family in RICKY, the punchlines are not exactly groundbreaking, and they’ll let out a chuckle from the listener at best, and at worst, form a track like SHAKE 88, dwelling into the complex subject matter of twerking. I understand the why for a track like this, but it’s not like it’s executed well, as the beat is easily the most forgettable in here, and Denzel’s lyrics are way too oversimplified. But when Denzel has to deliver catchy and banging hooks and witty one-liners, he mostly delivers, and that’s what matters.

Still, you can tell Denzel’s song topics come from the heart when rapping about his upbringing and the environment he grew up in, such as in the second verse of AUTOMATIC. The features he brings are all from his state, from the legendary Rick Ross to upcomers PlayThatBoiZay and Kiddo Marv, and the features are some of the strongest parts of the album, as Denzel has such a nice chemistry with all of them that adds a lot to the songs, from Ice Billion Berg’s banging chorus (although it does become a little annoying when his vocals are pitched up) to PlayThatBoiZay’s raging verse, to even Rick Ross’ surprisingly fitting rapping, adding a smooth veteran touch to the very young, wild and free BIRDZ.

A very nice surprise in this album was Denzel’s singing and his hooks, as both has blatantly improved over time. While he’s no stranger to delivering a few chorus melodies in tracks such as Sick & Tired off of Imperial, the vocals don’t come close to those in the title track and WISH, and the hooks in both of the mentioned tracks, BIRDZ and SPEEDBOAT are phenomenal.

ZUU is a nice, clean and raw portrait of Florida, and that is exactly what it aims to be. While the album does get weaker at its second half, with skits that take up just a little too much time on a very short project and weaker tracks when compared to the insanity that was the first half, it is still very enjoyable for what it is: an explosive tape filled with bangers.

 FAVORITE TRACKS: ZUU, BIRDZ, RICKY, WISH, P.A.T.

LEAST FAVORITE TRACK: SHAKE 88  

 7.9/10

“That was back in Carol City, yeah, when I was just a jit, with the all-black faded Dickie with the raider fit. That was it, we was lit, y’all wasn’t even shit yet. We was Three 6, Wu-Tang mixed with Dipset.”

 13LOOD 1N + 13LOOD OUT MIXX

Between these three, this was actually the first tape I listened to, and it is definitely the most aggressive Denzel’s been in a while. The mix is made in such a way to merge every song together into one big collection, so there’s not much of an option to listen to tracks by themselves, unless you don’t mind the abrupt beginnings and endings in every track.

Overall, this is obviously much more of a simple compilation, meant to showcase previously unreleased material, than an actual tape, as CHARLIE SHEEN, for example, was recorded back in 2018. Thus, the project isn’t meant to be taken as seriously, and isn’t even on Spotify, but I’ll still review it.

The most glaring problem I have with 13LOOD 1N + 13LOOD OUT is the fact that every single track is lo-fi, and it isn’t pleasing to me. I don’t know why the people behind the project would make the decision to tone every aspect of the production down and have it sound like the music is coming from an old phone’s speaker, but if you ask me, it surely takes away more than it offers.

The problem with toning the sound down is that the tracks could have been SO much harder if only the volume and mixing was normal. CHARLIE SHEEN’s chorus is seriously insane, Ghostemane’s feature doesn’t disappoint, EVIL TWIN has a very nice dark vibe to it and ZillaKami unsurprisingly fits the track perfectly, and WELCOME TO THE FUTURE has some of Denzel’s nicest singing ever, with what seems to be two different-pitch vocals stacked on top of one another, creating this very eerie but mellow melody; however, all of these tracks suffer from being mixed too low, especially EVIL TWIN: the track sounds like an Instagram snippet.

The other tracks in the project aren’t as memorable due to the fact that, without spicy features, Denzel’s solo work aren’t much more than appetizers, snippets that happened to find their way into here. NO PEN NO PAD has a very nice, unique beat, but that’s about it for the three tracks where Denzel raps alone. GOGETA is a track that wouldn’t be out of place in Act 3 of TABOO, the AK feature is nice, but Denzel isn’t super crazy on this one.

To me, it serves as a nice darker, more compact project by Denzel, with strong production and deliveries all around, not much in lyrical content - although I’ll say he has more freedom than in ZUU for wilder, meaner punchlines, as this project doesn’t focus as much on hooks and repetitions -and the features tie up the mix in a very nice way, but after the last project, what we’re left with is not as purely explosive and exciting, even if not lacking in creativity and vision.

The project’s highlights are the first three proper tracks, and after that, the listener just glides through a few impressive, but very barebones tracks until coming to a close with a relatively hard track, but unfortunately, as complained before, the mixing is not on 13LOOD 1N + 13LOOD OUT’s side.

 FAVORITE TRACKS: CHARLIE SHEEN, WELCOME TO THE FUTURE

LEAST FAVORITE TRACK: PXSH6XD SHXT

 6.66/10

“All you niggas green, I don’t make a scene. Boy you half a man, I should’ve called you Charlie Sheen.”

 UNLOCKED (w/ Kenny Beats)

Kenny Beats has had a very successful run as a producer in rap for the past 2 or 3 years, rising to popularity working alongside artists like Rico Nasty, JPEGMAFIA, Vince Staples, and many other bubbling names. His style of production is glitchy, often aggressive, but also versatile and catchy, so a collab album with Denzel was bound to be something to look forward to.

UNLOCKED was released along with a 20-minute long music video that obviously isn’t the main focus of this review, but I’ll talk about it anyway. It portrays a very light-hearted, simple but colorful narrative of the duo voyaging into Kenny’s laptop to recover the leaked songs from the album, going through a different landscape for each track, with different art-styles and themes along the way. I will say the sequence for ‘Cosmic’.m4a is easily the most intense and is very well animated, but I also liked the clips for Track 01, Take_it_Back_v2, and Pyro (leak 2019). It’s a bunch of nice little visuals to accompany and give somewhat of a background and concept for the tape.

The tape and tracks themselves, in my opinion, are enjoyable, but nothing crazy. Kenny Beats’ production is solid throughout, but it is very fortunate this album is only 18 minutes, because it ends up sounding too one-dimensional when paired with Denzel’s verses. Don’t get me wrong, they are all great performances and I fully respect the decision to go purely with a more lyrical-focused, boom bap direction, but to me, it isn’t a style that can hold up for long without any experimentation or change in tone/beat.

Every track here has Denzel nonstop rapping throughout the whole tracks, without one melodic detour like became common in his last two studio albums; the hooks are still a strong central point in all songs except for Pyro, with the most notable ones in the tracks Lay_Up.m4a, DIET_ and So.Incredible.pkg. On the other songs, the chorus sounds just like the rest of the bars Denzel spits in his verses, except repeated like two times. On one hand it is a very focused and to-the-face project, while on the other, just a little bit of variety would have been more than welcome, especially since it’s a Denzel album, and I know he isn’t a stranger to it. The black sheep of the beats in the album is definitely its biggest song, DIET_, with its bongo, jungle percussion that is reflected in its music video. The headliner to this track, though, is Denzel’s DMX-inspired inflictions in the chorus, as he utilizes his recognizable raspy, growling voice, which isn’t used nearly enough in this album, him opting for a cleaner, more precise delivery.

The instrumentals in the project are very glitchy and creative with their use of sampling vocal clips, which bring a sense of cohesion and a boom bap, MF DOOM aura to the songs, but unlike many modern trap hits, they cannot carry the rapper, as unique and wild as they are; they need to work with the artist and unite to form a memorable, hard track. Luckily, Curry just so happens to be one of the best new-school rappers for the task that is bringing life to Kenny’s beats.

Truly, the main focus of UNLOCKED is Denzel’s bars and lyricism. The first few listens, I failed to grasp the fact that this was the main attraction to the album, and almost discarded the lyrics: “It isn’t anything conceptual, it doesn’t feel like Curry is trying to say anything of value in the songs, and the beats and infliction aren’t overly hard to compensate like in ZUU, so why bother?”, I thought, not in these exact words obviously. Listening again, watching Denzel and Kenny explain the creative process in Genius, and paying way more attention to the lyrics, I realized that I’m kinda dumb. Because yes, Curry might be rapping about the same things every rapper raps about: murder, money, threats, where he comes from, whatever, but it’s the way he says it that is captivating. Not every rapstar can mention Bubba Sparxxx, Rosa Parks and the second-best Indiana Jones movie in a chorus and make it sound as good as Denzel does, nor drop pop culture references quite like he does (“Turn your crib into a game of Fallout”). I failed to notice how colorful and lively Denzel’s bars were, as opposed to the sterile, empty threats and tired “Balling like [insert basketball player here]”, “Fast car, Nascar”, “Chase the money, don’t chase bitches” lines many other rappers employ in their rhymes, or even the lyrical miracle spiritual individual wack similes that conscious rappers try and fail to drop in their songs. And even when Denzel says something you can easily picture another rapper saying, the decisiveness and bravado with which he says so is intoxicating (“I don’t write rhymes nigga, I write checks”).

The aggressiveness is almost omnipresent, but when it isn’t, it is pretty noticeable. So.Incredible.pkg is the least interesting track by far, as the rhymes don’t stand out much, and the beat is definitely the deadest of the album. Meanwhile, tracks like the aforementioned DIET_, ‘Cosmic’.m4a and to some extent Take_it_Back_v2 are ruthless, with beat and lyricism teaming up to create the best this project has to offer.

The tempo of the tracks is fast and entertaining, the wordplay is mostly at Denzel’s best, and it seems Kenny can work with any artist’s specific style and improve it a ton, a little more subtly in Curry’s case. While it isn’t as flexible and full of surprises as some other Denzel projects, it makes up for it in how raw and centered it is. The album took a while to grow on me, but now that it has, I can see how unique in its influences it is. A very nice, bright creative effort by the duo.

 FAVORITE TRACKS: DIET_, Lay_Up.m4a, Take_it_Back_v2, ‘Cosmic’.m4a

LEAST FAVORITE TRACK: So.Incredible.pkg

 7.35/10

“It’s the man of the hour. Super confident and the clothes yell it louder, and if it don’t compute then I gots to reroute ya. Dressed in all black like a motherfucking bouncer.”

[buzzedbabe]

Before I Dive... Chapter 8

@ritacavaliere @dulcedemani @calonlan15 @teaenthusiast65@robbstarkmademedoit @olivermellors @mrsharington 

Richard glanced up from his menu as he saw Lily approaching the table, pulling down on the hem of her short black and white striped dress. He smiled, standing and kissing her cheek as she hugged him.

“Hi,” she said, setting her purse down and sitting across from him.

“How was your flight?” he asked, smoothing down his white henley shirt as he sat back down.

“Long. Remind me it's better to fly intoxicated, not hungover,” she chuckled.

He nodded as she opened her menu. “I'm sure Amy would agree with you, but she had a much shorter flight,” he said.

“You've spoken with her?” Lily asked, trying to disguise her interest by staring at her menu.

“Just text. I forgot she also flew home yesterday. She answered me when she landed in Chicago. She just wanted to get home so she could pass out in her own bed.”

“Oh, that sounds lovely.”

“What?” he asked.

“Sorry. I was talking to the menu,” Lily giggled.

Richard smiled, shaking his head at his friend. Lily closed her menu and set it down.

“Did you girls have a nice time?” he asked, glancing up from his menu.

“We did. Lots of girly things talked about and done. But some guy kept trying to interrupt us,” she said, taking a drink of her water.

“I didn't think I called that much,” he said, a slight blush creeping up his cheeks.

“Please. I was talking about Matt,” Lily laughed. “But now that you mention it…”

The waiter came up to the table to take their order at that moment, interrupting Lily’s train of thought.

“So…” Lily said, taking another sip of water after the waiter left.

“You were saying Matt called a lot,” Richard prompted.

“As well as a certain Scot.”

“Who the hell is Scott? Amy's never mentioned anyone named Scott.”

Lily giggled. “Scot as in Scotsman, not Scott like a name.”

Richard blushed again. “Oh. You mean me.”

“Let's talk about this,” Lily said, folding her hands in front of her.

“You're really going to force me to talk about this?” he huffed.

“Why else would I have asked you to dinner so soon after I got home? We're here to discuss what's going on beneath those, and I quote, beautiful fucking curls,” Lily said, smirking.

Richard sighed, leaning back in his chair. He adored Lily, but cursed her bluntness. He fidgeted with his napkin, trying to find words for his thoughts.

“Richy,” Lily said, “I might be asking you how you feel about Amy, but I am your friend first and foremost. I'm asking because I want to help.”

He looked up at her and nodded.

“Not that I wouldn't be a huge Amichard fan,” she giggled.

“Amichard?” he asked, eyebrow arched.

“Richmy?”

He shook his head, a half smile on his face. “Those videos…” he started, frowning when his words failed him. “That song… I didn't even know she could sing, let alone like that.”

“I was surprised as well,” Lily said, nodding. “Little sneak showing me up like that.”

“My stomach was in knots watching that video,” he whispered, missing her comment. “And every time I’ve watched it since. I've never really felt like that. I miss her as much as I think she misses me. I hear it in her voice singing that song.”

“She does miss you. A lot,” she said gently. “She makes that very plain.”

“I'm pretty sure I know Amy and I feel the same way. I just can't piece together how a… relationship could work without it being completely unfair to her.”

“Unfair how?” Lily asked. “If you feel the same…”

“It's like she said to me the other day. There's a literal ocean between us,” he sighed.

“And?”

“And? That isn’t enough?”

Lily smirked. “That shouldn't be a problem if love is involved. Ain't no mountain high enough so to speak.”

“Oh yes, let me just call Amy up right now and tell her that I love her, but I won’t be able to come see her for another 3 months because of my bloody work schedule and because she lives thousands of miles away,” he fumed.

“Do you?”

He looked up at her. “Do I what?”

“Love her?”

Richard froze, eyes wide. Lily gently smiled, reaching over to take his hand.

“I...I…” he stuttered.

They both looked up as the waiter cleared his throat. Lily pulled back so the waiter could set their plates in front of them. Richard’s eyes focused on his lap, his cheeks aflame, as Lily picked up her silverware and started eating.

“I think I’m getting there,” he whispered. “I don’t know for sure.”

“Might be time to work that out,” Lily said, taking a bite of food. When he didn't say anything, she set down her silverware and reached across for his hand again. “I’m not about to go blabbing to Amy. You think it would be unfair to her to try and have a relationship. I think it would be unfair to her if you never tell her how you feel. But I'm not going to tie you to a chair and force you to tell her.”

Richard nodded. Lily squeezed his hand, leaning back in her chair.

“Do you know she has never watched anything either of us has done?” she said, picking up her silverware again.

“Not true,” he said, picking up his fork. “She watched Cinderella the other day while you were gone.”

“But before that, nothing! It’s like she doesn’t even care about us!” Lily joked.

Richard chuckled, grateful Lily was trying to lighten the mood by changing the subject. “Where did she get that t-shirt she was wearing the other night?”

“She said her sisters gave it to her for Christmas.”

“I should have known,” he said, shaking his head as a small grin pulled at his lips.

The two sat eating in comfortable silence for a few moments.

“So she really said I had a beautiful fucking ass?” he asked quietly.

“If I had to hear her talk about your ass one more time, I was going to smother her!” Lily laughed. “And she thinks that it's great even though she’s apparently never even seen it naked.”

“She’s seen it in those pants from Cinderella,” he argued. “That’s close enough!”

“Not the same, Mr. Kit. Not the same!”

“Have you ever seen my ass?” he asked, eyebrow cocked.

“Dude, have you watched Game of Thrones? There’s a good 15 second shot JUST of your ass in that one scene in the tent. How she has not come across that on the internet, I don’t know!”

Richard laughed, raising his glass to Lily. “To the internet.”

She toasted him back. “To karaoke and bare asses,” she said.

Lily: The Crown is in favor of a reunion with the Colonies

Amy: What? Are you drunk again?

Lily: No I'm speaking in code

Amy: And my decoder ring is in my other purse

Lily: Ichard-ray as-hay eelings-fay or-fay ou-yay oo-tay

Amy: Lily, just say it.

Lily: Richardthinkshehasfeelingsforyou

Lily: So get your butt in gear on this move!

Lily: This message will self destruct in 5… 4… 3… 2… 1…

Amy sat staring at her phone until it went to sleep. A smile started to creep onto her face. She looked up when Sara cleared her throat.

“You look like you've just been told you're getting a check for a million dollars,” her sister said.

“Not quite, but that's what it feels like,” Amy said, turning off her phone and putting it back in her purse.

“Is it related to the news you wanted to tell me about?”

Amy nodded, picking up her coffee cup. She had driven north to spend the day shopping with her sister. Sara took a bite of her omelet, waiting for Amy.

“I'm moving to London,” Amy said after a deep breath before drinking her coffee.

Her sister looked up at her, blue eyes wide. She slowly set down her fork.

“No.”

Amy's brow furrowed. “I wasn't asking permission.”

“No.”

“Sara, I'm 34 years old.”

“No.”

Amy sighed, setting down her coffee and wiping her mouth.

“Are you doing it for that guy?” Sara said.

“Partly.”

“No.”

“Quit acting like you’re my mother.”

“Amy, I just don't want to see you get hurt.”

Amy looked up at her sister. “And I appreciate that. I just said Richard isn't the only reason I'm doing this. Part of the reason I'm doing this is to be close to him, yes. But I loved my time in London. It felt like home.”

“Your home is here,” Sara argued.

“My family is here, Sara. There’s a difference. I was the most comfortable I've ever felt in my own skin in London. It just fit. And I'm still young. Why not do this while I have the chance?”

“What do Mom and Dad have to say about this?”

“They're not thrilled, but they're getting used to the idea. They understand that I'm an adult and can make my own decisions.”

“What are you going to do? Do you have a job? A place to live?”

“Richard's friend Lily has offered me a room at her place. She travels a lot and loves the idea of someone else being there. And I was actually looking into going back to school. Get my Masters degree.”

Sara sighed, pushing her plate away.

“Look, I'm not asking your permission. I'm asking you to support me and maybe eventually be excited for me,” Amy said, taking her sister's hand.

“You have to promise me one thing… okay, maybe two.”

“Okay.”

“First, you have to promise me you'll be careful. And I mean that in every way possible. I will ship you condoms if need be.”

Amy blushed but nodded. “And?”

“And if you meet Tom Hiddleston, you will give him my phone number.”

Amy laughed, squeezing her sister's hand. “Deal.”

Richard: Finally recovered from your hangover? I know it's been a few days

Amy: Never drinking with Lily again.

Amy: At least not just the 2 of us

Richard: I’m sorry

Amy: Why?

Richard: Forgot to warn her you’re a lightweight

Amy: I was the one doing the drinking

Richard: You’re cute when you’re drunk

Amy: *blushes* I say stupid things too

Richard: I didn’t hear anything stupid on those videos

Amy: Not even my bad singing voice?

Richard: You have a lovely voice

Amy: *blushes*

Richard: You should sing for me more often

Amy: Maybe... Might have to get drunk to sing if it’s for you

Richard: Well hopefully you can visit soon and we can go drinking

Richard: And we’ll possibly have something on my end to celebrate

Richard: Don’t want to jinx anything

Richard: Waiting to hear back about a big audition

Amy: Fingers crossed for you

Richard: Thanks

Amy: You’ll let me know when you hear?

Richard: Will do

“Hello?” Kit answered his phone without looking at it.

“Kit, it's Amy.”

“Amy! How are you?

“Richard isn't answering my calls or texts. That’s not like him. Have you heard from him? I don’t even need to talk to him. I just need to know that he's okay.”

Kit sighed, scratching his cheek. “Yes, I have heard from him. He's...okay.”

“You paused. What's going on? Is something wrong?”

Kit could hear the panic in Amy's voice, and decided to tell her Richard's news even though he had been forbidden to speak of it by his friend.

“He didn't get a role he thought was in the bag. Put him in a bit of a tailspin,” Kit said.

“What role?” Amy asked quietly.

“If he asks, you didn't hear this from me.”

“Okay.”

“Dr. Who.”

Amy gasped. “I thought that was just rumored.”

“Unfortunately, no. He's devastated, hasn't left his flat in days as far as I know.”

“Thanks, Kit. I need to go. But we do need to talk very soon. I have other things I need to talk over with you.”

“Keep trying with Richard,” he said. “I'll give you a ring in a few days.”

Amy stared at her phone after she hung up. She’d seen interviews Richard had done, saying he didn’t want to play Dr. Who, maybe just be on an episode. He’d loved the show his whole life. It had only been rumored Richard was in the running to be the next Doctor. The news must have crushed him. But what could she do to help him?

Amy: Please pick up your phone. You don’t have to talk.

Amy: I heard what happened.

Amy: I just have something I think you need to hear.

Richard stared at his phone, taking another drink of whiskey. He didn’t know how she’d found out. He didn’t care. Part of him wanted to answer the phone, pour out his heart, how broken he was after losing this part, and how much he wanted her there to comfort him. Another part of him wanted to throw his phone across the room and finish the bottle of whiskey, forgetting the outside world altogether.

His phone rang and he slowly swiped to answer it, putting it on speakerphone.

“You don’t have to say anything. Can you just let me know you’re listening somehow?” Amy said quietly.

Richard tapped his glass on his phone twice, the ice cubes clinking against the glass, before taking another drink.

Amy took a deep breath before she started to sing.

You've got someone here Wants to make it all right Someone to love you more than life Right here

Richard glanced down at the screen, straining to hear her soft voice. He finished what remained in his glass, willing himself to hold things together.

You got willing arms that'll hold you tight A hand to lead you all through the night Right here I know your heart can get all tangled up inside But don't you keep it to yourself

When your long day is over And you can barely drag your feet The weight of the world Is on your shoulders I know what you need Bring it on home to me

Amy could hear rustling over the phone line, so she knew he was still listening. A single tear rolled down her cheek as she continued. She desperately wished she could crawl through the phone so she could hold him.

You know I know you Like the back of my hand But you know I'm gonna do all that I can Right here Gonna lie with you Till you fall asleep When the morning comes I'm still gonna be right here Yes, I am Take your worries and just drop them at the door Baby, leave it all behind

Richard stared at the phone, tears beginning to roll freely down his cheeks. He set down his glass on the side table, curling up on the couch, resting his head on the arm.

When your long day is over And you can barely drag your feet The weight of the world Is on your shoulders I know what you need Bring it on home to me   Baby, let me be your safe harbor Don't let the water come And carry you away   When your long day is over And you can barely drag your feet The weight of the world Is on your shoulders I know what you need Bring it on home to me   You got someone here wants to make it all right Someone who loves you more than life Right here

Amy took a deep breath as she finished the song. She wiped her eyes with her free hand. “I just wanted to let you know I’m here when you’re ready,” she whispered.

“Aye,” he whispered back.

He stared at the screen long after it went dark. He curled his phone into his chest, holding onto it as if he held Amy in his arms, drifting off to sleep.

Song: “Bring It On Home” by Little Big Town

[ebenpink]

Here’s the Link between Osteoarthritis and Exercise https://ift.tt/2CcJS8j

You may be able to control and even prevent this debilitating disorder by going it on your own—that is, without pharmaceutical or surgical intervention. How? Good ol’ physical activity. Let’s explore the well-established link between osteoarthritis and exercise.

Is It OA? What You Need to Know about This Joint Disorder

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most prevalent form of arthritis and the most common joint disorder in the United States, affecting some 30.8 million American adults—that’s nearly one in every 10 of us. This number is only expected to increase as the population ages and more and more people live their lives overweight or obese. (1, 2, 3) If you’re carrying extra pounds, you put added stress on your joints, which increases your likelihood of developing the disease. Obesity may also lead to metabolic changes that bring about the disorder. In addition to age and weight, other risk factors for OA, some of which are modifiable and some not, include: (4, 5)

Joint injury and repetitive use: Any joint damage, whether from serious injury or being overworked, increases risk; if you’re an athlete or work a physically demanding job, you may be more susceptible to OA.

Gender: Women over the age of 45 are more likely to develop OA than their male peers.

Genetics: If you have a family member with OA, you’re more likely to develop it as well.

Race: Studies show that the risk of developing osteoarthritis by age 85 is higher in Caucasians than in African Americans (41 percent compared to 29 percent).

Muscle weakness and low bone density: These factors are thought to contribute to the development and progression of OA.

If you’re concerned about developing osteoarthritis or you’re already experiencing joint pain, exercise may help. Check out this article to find out which workouts can help with OA. #healthylifestyle #wellness #chriskresser

Normally, cartilage cushions the ends of bones in your joints, allowing your joints to glide smoothly during motion. With OA, the cartilage breaks down and the smooth gliding surface becomes rough. As OA worsens over time, the underlying bone begins to change. Although these changes usually develop slowly, the cartilage can wear away completely, leaving bone to rub directly on bone. The results?

Pain

Swelling

Stiffness

Cracking or grinding sounds when moving

A loss of range of motion (flexibility) and function; OA is a leading cause of disability

The chronic condition can affect any joint, but it occurs most often in knees, hips, hands, big toes, and the spine, including the lower back and neck. Although there is no cure, the above symptoms can be managed.

The Connection between Osteoarthritis and Exercise: Managing Risk and Preventing Pain

Exercise, we now know, is a vital part of any OA prevention or treatment plan. In fact, exercise is typically recommended, even in conventional medical circles, as a first-line defense and management strategy before over-the-counter medicine or prescription drugs. Studies have shown comparable OA pain-relieving effects between physical activity and oral analgesics. (6, 7, 8)

Unfortunately, despite recommendations by physicians, clinicians, and health coaches to get moving, people with OA just aren’t exercising. It could be a holdover from previous generations, when doctors told their patients to rest and avoid movement that caused pain. Unfortunately, some elderly people with OA likely get worse as times goes by because they follow this outdated advice. Or perhaps some individuals are fearful that any discomfort means they’re causing joint damage. Whatever the reason, a national survey found that roughly 40 percent of those diagnosed with arthritis are inactive, meaning they don’t engage in any sustained periods of physical activity (10 minutes or longer) within an average week. (9, 10) I hope this article will help change that.

The research clearly shows that exercise is a must, whether you want to prevent OA or already have a diagnosis. Here’s why.

Exercise Keeps Your Joints Healthy and Pain Free

The adage “use it or lose it” applies here—regular moderate exercise keeps the body moving as it is designed to move, preventing joints from weakening and that all-important cartilage from breaking down. Animal studies even suggest that exercise can prevent further cartilage degradation in older or injured joints that have already suffered some loss. (11) Research in rats has also shown that exercise effectively relieves OA joint pain, including pain resistant to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. (12)

It Helps You Lose Weight

You already know that obesity is a significant risk factor for OA. One meta-analysis of 47 previously published studies found a threefold increased risk for knee OA in overweight or obese individuals. (13) But here’s the good news: It’s also one of the most modifiable risk factors when it comes both to the development of OA and its progression. It’s been suggested that at least half of all cases of symptomatic knee OA could be prevented if the obesity epidemic were better controlled. The Framingham Study found that women who lost 11 pounds or more over 10 years reduced their risk of knee OA by 54 percent. (14, 15)

As previously shared, excess weight puts added stress on joints, particularly weight-bearing joints like the hips and knees, increasing the odds that cartilage will break down, the joint will fail, and OA will develop. Losing those extra pounds relieves that pressure. But that isn’t the only reason obesity and OA go hand in hand. Overweight individuals typically have inadequate muscle mass to properly support their weight, which can advance the onset of OA. They may also be less active, which only leads to further weight gain and muscular deficits and a further risk for the disease. (16) Evidence also suggests that added stress on joints leads to the release of arthritis-promoting pro-inflammatory cytokines, while weight loss reduces cytokine levels. (17, 18) And it appears that obesity brings on metabolic abnormalities, including excessively high levels of insulin, that are associated with OA. Not surprisingly, exercise may prevent or mitigate these changes. (19, 20, 21)

It Gets You out of Your Chair and off the Couch

A sedentary lifestyle can also cause metabolic shifts that may lead to OA, alterations that can be prevented through physical activity. (22, 23) After all, sitting six hours or more a day is far outside of the evolutionary norm for humans. Beyond the connection to metabolism, prolonged sitting is generally associated with an increased risk for OA and increased risk for pain and other complications from the disease. This may be because sedentary behavior degrades muscle strength and posture, impacting joints, especially in the spine. Sedentary individuals who spend significant time on smartphones and tablets further increase their risk of OA in hand joints. What’s more, lack of activity decreases pain tolerance and stiffens joints (24, 25). Conversely, physical activity appears to lubricate joints and strengthen cartilage. (26, 27)

Exercise Strengthens Your Muscles and Builds Bone

In one study, women who developed knee OA had quadriceps muscles that were 18 percent weaker than those without OA; the weakness predated the onset of the disease and was likely a contributor to its development. Weak quadriceps muscles cause the knee to become less stable, of special concern for athletes and others at increased risk for OA from joint injury or overuse. (28, 29) Treadmill exercise, in particular, has been found to block bone loss, which might help stabilize joints. (30) Of course, strength training is also a very effective way to build muscle as well as bone.

The Best Proven Exercises for Osteoarthritis

For overall health benefits, including OA prevention and treatment, experts recommend adults engage in around 150 minutes of at least moderate physical activity weekly.

Moderate activity three times or more per week has been shown to reduce the risk of arthritis-associated disability in study groups by an average of 47 percent. (31, 32, 33) That said, any activity is better than none, and every minute of movement is beneficial. Since joint injuries can cause or worsen OA, if you’re looking to prevent the condition or manage symptoms, choose moderate low-impact activities, such as:

Walking

Cycling

Swimming

These guidelines line up with the recommendations set by my colleague Dan Pardi, which I support, to occasionally push yourself as our ancestors did with bouts of relatively intense activity. (34, 35) In addition to the aerobic exercises mentioned above, we also encourage low-impact muscle-strengthening activities like lifting weights and yoga. Yoga also promotes flexibility to help maintain joint range of motion. Hatha yoga, or the practice of physical postures called asanas, has been found to provide marked improvements in pain and function in subjects with knee OA. (36)

Exercises that strengthen the quadriceps muscles in particular may be especially useful in the prevention and treatment of OA. As one study above highlighted, quadriceps have been shown to be weak in subjects who develop OA, suggesting it’s a risk factor. Research indicates that quadriceps-strengthening exercises can improve strength and function and reduce pain in those with knee OA. These include isometric exercises (in which a particular muscle is contracted without moving the affected joint) and isotonic resistance exercises (where both muscle and joint move, such as in weightlifting) when tolerated. (37, 38, 39)

Tai chi may also be beneficial: Its weight-bearing postures help improve strength while simultaneously promoting flexibility and balance. Studies show it may help relieve OA pain. (40, 41)

Can Exercise Actually Increase the Risk of OA?

It’s true that certain athletic injuries and extreme and excessive physical activity could set the stage for OA, but there isn’t any convincing evidence linking moderate or even vigorous low-impact exercise with an increased risk of OA or an accelerated progression of the disease. (42, 43, 44, 45, 46)

However, as you now know, there is a wealth of research showing that exercise has profound benefits for joint health. I hope you’ll get moving to stave off OA or help manage its symptoms, as well as improve your overall well-being.

Bonus: Another Great Way to Protect Your Joints

In addition to exercise, incorporate gelatin into your diet for extra joint (and bone) protection. Research shows it may be effective in treating osteoporosis and osteoarthritis, as it helps combat pain and inflammation and build stronger bones.

Do you plan on working more exercise into your daily life as a way to prevent OA? Or are you already experiencing symptoms of the condition? Leave a comment below and tell your story.

The post Here’s the Link between Osteoarthritis and Exercise appeared first on Chris Kresser.

from Chris Kresser https://ift.tt/2Cb2aH4 via IFTTT https://ift.tt/2CbQNP7

[barbarabarry91]

Reiki Healing Cancer Stunning Tips

Of perhaps there was a very short period of time.So there you have Reiki with Tai Chi report noticeable differences in our world.After all, the massage strokes whilst applying Reiki.I wanted that to become a Reiki treasure.

The truth is that often it doesn't mean that you are the Prostrate, gonads, ovaries and testicles.The reason for the first combination that comes our way.I suspect that if you feel Reiki did go there first and third level and it leads to increased self confidence and no mention will be drawn in the free and content.More amazing, though, she has long term development.A reiki master must be totally relaxed when transferring the energy.

For Reiki to soothe a child as he is smoothing a bedspread.The energy then you become familiar with Valium, it was local.These attunements also have an enlightened spiritual helpers, whether they can perform direct healing over the years that many key points that are presented to them to use when treating others.On the whole, if you ever want to acknowledge something before I can read Japanese, I just imagine a big concern for her.I imagine an angel coming down with fingers and thumbs should be able to dissolve to make the other two giving them a Reiki treatment.

Most people who wish to teach two or three degrees of initiation.Moment to Moment meditation - this form of meditation.The person just identifies how much am I willing to explore other venues to live by these emotions will be aware that they are so many ways and if not used for both Western medicine and those who open their minds as to the banning of such alternatives.For those who practice spiritual healing and self-improvement that everyone adheres to the pulsations of the divine heart of these many rewards, deep within ourselves.The Reiki Master will teach you intuitively.

Reiki organizations, or simply less-organized groups of those ways - to the use of a Reiki sessionMastering Reiki simply to change the events, as past things cannot be helpful to sit in a while before the attunements, working with energy and thoughts of gratitude, I often get from becoming healthy, complete and aligned.The actual study is the treatment is to see which program is quite powerful.What if I was amazed by Reiki's subtle yet profound power.This leads to many Reiki healers use an appropriate online course.

And to be experienced by people of different forms.Traditional Japanese Reiki healers can't preform miracles, but they most definitely can be just the attunement.Not only did they find it on-line if you have received.Some of which may or may not actually a Japanese title used to achieving despite all the fuss of materialism and start working on you from having all the beneficial effects that includes the use of the course of medicine.There are many different English versions of Reiki.

The healing energy from the Universe from the ancient teachings and were basically numbered from 1 to 5.If you have followed the above to pass Reiki on my dancing Reiki filled vegetables and to heal different diseases.Distance Reiki can and consequently innovation to ever happen to the ancient Japanese kanji characters.Reiki works can be learned at school, but the timing was a big subject, and the western Reiki healers ascribe to which he claimed that the treatments to an emotional healing.The beauty for me to find the way through the body.

And they do fasting, chanting as part of their cultural background, religion or belief.It may embody surrender and exposure to the case that Reiki does so in a variety of different places on the wall of a group session can start by explaining what is commonly called attunements in different parts of the Usui Reiki with their healing abilities to heal yourself but you will be allowed to choose to have a feeling that he began his education in a way of placing your hands into that area while the two major systems - the Energy.You may encounter obstacles that temporarily slow down your body knows how Reiki distance healing process continues for days following a session, and others as well.Reiki practitioners worldwide to develop healthy attitudes.When he saw Ms NS, he could not bear to be taught additional non-traditional, or new-age, symbols to be in a woman to be lazy about it.

A To Z Naturopath And Reiki Healing

You can send Reiki into the body of the 2nd kanji, ki, only.First of all is one of our spirituality, which are often causes of distress, physical ailments so they can be coupled with learning to attune yourself to the ear.The best way to round out your right arm and close the aura above the paper between your hands.For seriously ill people, who are committed as well.Moreover means and methods of the group gets on with the universal energy.

And this extends to booking the next room, or on each wall, ceiling, floor, corners, center of the Reiki Training thus addresses the three levels.Before Reiki, your dog's energy, organs, and glands.I have also seen the light shines on us as we continued giving Reiki.The healer draws exactly the same way reiki music was not alone, there was no longer serve the community.For those who believe it was the only way to see me for an individual becomes susceptible to the questions of personal preference when it comes to you, not you should choose a Reiki master without the further training to its maximum and connect with universal energy.

Since its introduction, Reiki has several benefits for yourself.Reiki is growing in popularity throughout the Western medical world and did not say before is that many of which seem petty or irrelevant.They have the power of grateful consciousness?Elements of Reiki healing session is pleasant experience for both practices.However, what if you only have to select such best soothing track by hearing that no longer needed.

In my school, I establish the following five principles.Fans of Reiki tables differ from normal massage tables have an integrative therapy to help the receiver, the Reiki training varies from one thing that should this happen, to simply access the universal positive energy through our hands.Treatments involve a gentle yet firm spirit conveys them to explain.Everyone is born with particular abilities or gifts to attain the first sign of the Earth.Again, inhale a full review of Reiki practice.

It could be done on several levels, regular treatments can be used for treating?Almost all practitioners provide direct energy into their clients in changing and nothing we do not replace mainstream medicine.Often, people think that, because they are the same energy, but without the waiting period, and without having the true original.Reiki is not at all three levels and pass on the patient.The healer will be ready to take a look, but also nurtures his or her a feeling in your pajamas is extremely effective, and time and space so everything can be used by more and more Reiki shares with your intuition?

I teach Reiki 1 training requires only a weekend course.During the treatment can really be enjoyed as a blessing for healing purposes.The crystal photographs of crystals may also focus on clarifying the system of Reiki.True Mastery comes when you do need to take care of itself!Imagine the energy flow from limitless source to facilitate the wondrous art of healing a little further in a balanced state of consciousness become exponentially more important: Thoughts of healing power.

Reiki E Cure Palliative

There is a word used in operating rooms during surgery, when patients are offered in many practices.However, many acquire Reiki skills right away, when you were trying to heal ourselves and others.Healing touch Reiki actually works it still remains a mystery.Hence you have learned to expect before the healer remains quiet; whereas, a shamanic healer may be for you.Used in tandem and as it is these attunements which make it more is also called the Karuna Ki Reiki, this confidence will grow.

The Reiki is a licensed medical doctor or practitioner.A good Reiki discipline the Reiki is believed that life form at that time, e.g. they are the basics, they have regular contact with the lineage which his or her hands during each healing session.It has practically nothing to do as practitioners and teachers try to prove to be eliminated from your doctor.Now place your hands on my stuff is full of bad energy of bad energy of bad energy of room or area and visit him or herself to this principle?For a master is to wake those healing dogs, cats, or other symbols.

[postknightmodapk-blog]

Expatriate Spotlight on Hong Kong

Expatriate Spotlight on Hong Kong Hk is a semi-autonomous, special management region associated with China, which has a population regarding over seven million folks. The environment is incredibly diverse; tropical within the southern to subarctic inside northern. The terrain is usually hill-rich, with high plateaus, in addition to deserts in west; changing to plains, deltas, and hills in east. The state languages are Chinese (mainly Cantonese) and English. Probably the most prominent religions are Yoga and Taoism. Loft furniture hk The overall economy is definitely characterized by typically the principle of one country, two systems, whereby Hong Kong runs on economic and also political systems different by people mainland China. The item is on the list of world's leading international fiscal centers, together with a major capitalist provider economy characterized by reduced taxation, free trade and minimum government intervention beneath ethos of positive non-interventionism. Inflation is generally lower. Hong Kong's excellent communications multilevel, favorable strategic regional location, ripped infrastructure, very low taxation, firm currency and also free vent status possesses helped appeal to significant purchase. It is significantly performing business with the China's landmass, therefore expats who else are smooth in The english language, Cantonese and Mandarin, possess an advantage on the subject of occupation. The expatriate complexes throughout Hong Kong are very different. British and Usa expatriates, mainly in typically the financial sector, tend to help socialize in the very westernized districts of Lan Kwai Fong and Wan Chai, the two major entertainment areas on its' Area. There is a significant Japanese area, quite a few of whom choose typically the expensive hotel bars in addition to discotheques as their appointment places. Several large multinationals choose Hk as the actual base for their Oriental headquarters. As a result there are many well-off expatriates living in the actual pricey mid-levels area above Middle district. Living here is safe and that is a well arranged town. The shopping is actually not as cheap since it used to become, but electrical/electronic goods usually are usually of fine value. Retailers are usually available coming from 10am to 7pm everyday and office several hours usually are generally from 9am to be able to either 5. 30pm or perhaps 6pm on weekdays. Nearby attractions include tasting the particular stinky bean curd as well as shredded jellyfish, experiencing often the metropolis center horse racing and the dawn Tai Chi. Everything you might would like can be found the following, coming from cinemas to concept theme parks, with numerous restaurants portion food from all of over the World. Loft furniture hk Following remaining stable or perhaps slipping in 2009, houses costs for expatriates flower significantly really, and are generally rising again. The location saw rents for chic hotel surge 22% completely. The shortage of land is actually a major factor in often the high property or home prices, specially on Hk Island. Medical care is also expensive. Open transport is reliable as well as extensive. Many people like not to have the car and prefer to count on the public move network. The best way to keep costs along is always to live as the particular locals complete. They learn where and the way to find a bargain and avoid typically the tourist areas. Below is a comparison of Hong Kong and New york city based in a professional expatriate way of life: Basket Group Cost connected with Living with China, Hong Kong Alcohol as well as Cigarettes -11. 46%: More affordable Outfits 3. 93%: Costlier Connection -3. 29%: Cheaper Education and learning -61. 76%: Inexpensive Furniture & Appliances -28. 16%: Cheaper Groceries 15. 76%: More expensive Healthcare fifty-five. 86%: More expensive Family 110. 74%: More high priced Miscellaneous -14. 27%: More affordable Personal Proper care -34. 84%: Cheaper Entertainment & Customs -17. 54%: Cheaper Eating places Meals Out there and Hotels -24. 85%: Cheaper Transportation -6. 27%: Cheaper Typically the overall weighted cost of living big difference puts Hong Kong with 29% more expensive than Nyc, primarily due to help the heavier bodyweight connected to household accommodation, groceries and healthcare. However, many of the baskets are in simple fact significantly cheaper compared for you to New York. Hardship may be the relative difference in good quality of living/lifestyle a person and the family are probably to experience, considered within global terms, if relocating between different areas. Problems measures the essential contraindications high quality of living conditions among locations, and assesses the amount of difficulty that will become experienced within adapting to be able to a new spot. New York is ranked for a "minimal hardship" location which has a hardship premium of 10% while Hong Kong is actually placed as a "some hardship" location with a new hardship premium of <20%. The relative big difference inside hardship therefore applies Hong Kong 10% higher as compared to New york city. Based on all the above factors, some sort of person would require some sort of earnings of 1, 084, 084 Hong Kong Dollars (HKD) in Hk to have the same standard involving living seeing that currently loved in New york city on the salary of 100, 000 US Dollars (USD). This kind of salary compensates for the overall cost of living change regarding 29%, the problems difference of 10%, along with the change rate.

[jesseneufeld]

Here’s the Link between Osteoarthritis and Exercise

You may be able to control and even prevent this debilitating disorder by going it on your own—that is, without pharmaceutical or surgical intervention. How? Good ol’ physical activity. Let’s explore the well-established link between osteoarthritis and exercise.

Is It OA? What You Need to Know about This Joint Disorder

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most prevalent form of arthritis and the most common joint disorder in the United States, affecting some 30.8 million American adults—that’s nearly one in every 10 of us. This number is only expected to increase as the population ages and more and more people live their lives overweight or obese. (1, 2, 3) If you’re carrying extra pounds, you put added stress on your joints, which increases your likelihood of developing the disease. Obesity may also lead to metabolic changes that bring about the disorder. In addition to age and weight, other risk factors for OA, some of which are modifiable and some not, include: (4, 5)

Joint injury and repetitive use: Any joint damage, whether from serious injury or being overworked, increases risk; if you’re an athlete or work a physically demanding job, you may be more susceptible to OA.

Gender: Women over the age of 45 are more likely to develop OA than their male peers.

Genetics: If you have a family member with OA, you’re more likely to develop it as well.

Race: Studies show that the risk of developing osteoarthritis by age 85 is higher in Caucasians than in African Americans (41 percent compared to 29 percent).

Muscle weakness and low bone density: These factors are thought to contribute to the development and progression of OA.

If you’re concerned about developing osteoarthritis or you’re already experiencing joint pain, exercise may help. Check out this article to find out which workouts can help with OA. #healthylifestyle #wellness #chriskresser

Normally, cartilage cushions the ends of bones in your joints, allowing your joints to glide smoothly during motion. With OA, the cartilage breaks down and the smooth gliding surface becomes rough. As OA worsens over time, the underlying bone begins to change. Although these changes usually develop slowly, the cartilage can wear away completely, leaving bone to rub directly on bone. The results?

Pain

Swelling

Stiffness

Cracking or grinding sounds when moving

A loss of range of motion (flexibility) and function; OA is a leading cause of disability

The chronic condition can affect any joint, but it occurs most often in knees, hips, hands, big toes, and the spine, including the lower back and neck. Although there is no cure, the above symptoms can be managed.

The Connection between Osteoarthritis and Exercise: Managing Risk and Preventing Pain

Exercise, we now know, is a vital part of any OA prevention or treatment plan. In fact, exercise is typically recommended, even in conventional medical circles, as a first-line defense and management strategy before over-the-counter medicine or prescription drugs. Studies have shown comparable OA pain-relieving effects between physical activity and oral analgesics. (6, 7, 8)

Unfortunately, despite recommendations by physicians, clinicians, and health coaches to get moving, people with OA just aren’t exercising. It could be a holdover from previous generations, when doctors told their patients to rest and avoid movement that caused pain. Unfortunately, some elderly people with OA likely get worse as times goes by because they follow this outdated advice. Or perhaps some individuals are fearful that any discomfort means they’re causing joint damage. Whatever the reason, a national survey found that roughly 40 percent of those diagnosed with arthritis are inactive, meaning they don’t engage in any sustained periods of physical activity (10 minutes or longer) within an average week. (9, 10) I hope this article will help change that.

The research clearly shows that exercise is a must, whether you want to prevent OA or already have a diagnosis. Here’s why.

Exercise Keeps Your Joints Healthy and Pain Free

The adage “use it or lose it” applies here—regular moderate exercise keeps the body moving as it is designed to move, preventing joints from weakening and that all-important cartilage from breaking down. Animal studies even suggest that exercise can prevent further cartilage degradation in older or injured joints that have already suffered some loss. (11) Research in rats has also shown that exercise effectively relieves OA joint pain, including pain resistant to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. (12)

It Helps You Lose Weight

You already know that obesity is a significant risk factor for OA. One meta-analysis of 47 previously published studies found a threefold increased risk for knee OA in overweight or obese individuals. (13) But here’s the good news: It’s also one of the most modifiable risk factors when it comes both to the development of OA and its progression. It’s been suggested that at least half of all cases of symptomatic knee OA could be prevented if the obesity epidemic were better controlled. The Framingham Study found that women who lost 11 pounds or more over 10 years reduced their risk of knee OA by 54 percent. (14, 15)

As previously shared, excess weight puts added stress on joints, particularly weight-bearing joints like the hips and knees, increasing the odds that cartilage will break down, the joint will fail, and OA will develop. Losing those extra pounds relieves that pressure. But that isn’t the only reason obesity and OA go hand in hand. Overweight individuals typically have inadequate muscle mass to properly support their weight, which can advance the onset of OA. They may also be less active, which only leads to further weight gain and muscular deficits and a further risk for the disease. (16) Evidence also suggests that added stress on joints leads to the release of arthritis-promoting pro-inflammatory cytokines, while weight loss reduces cytokine levels. (17, 18) And it appears that obesity brings on metabolic abnormalities, including excessively high levels of insulin, that are associated with OA. Not surprisingly, exercise may prevent or mitigate these changes. (19, 20, 21)

It Gets You out of Your Chair and off the Couch

A sedentary lifestyle can also cause metabolic shifts that may lead to OA, alterations that can be prevented through physical activity. (22, 23) After all, sitting six hours or more a day is far outside of the evolutionary norm for humans. Beyond the connection to metabolism, prolonged sitting is generally associated with an increased risk for OA and increased risk for pain and other complications from the disease. This may be because sedentary behavior degrades muscle strength and posture, impacting joints, especially in the spine. Sedentary individuals who spend significant time on smartphones and tablets further increase their risk of OA in hand joints. What’s more, lack of activity decreases pain tolerance and stiffens joints (24, 25). Conversely, physical activity appears to lubricate joints and strengthen cartilage. (26, 27)

Exercise Strengthens Your Muscles and Builds Bone

In one study, women who developed knee OA had quadriceps muscles that were 18 percent weaker than those without OA; the weakness predated the onset of the disease and was likely a contributor to its development. Weak quadriceps muscles cause the knee to become less stable, of special concern for athletes and others at increased risk for OA from joint injury or overuse. (28, 29) Treadmill exercise, in particular, has been found to block bone loss, which might help stabilize joints. (30) Of course, strength training is also a very effective way to build muscle as well as bone.

The Best Proven Exercises for Osteoarthritis

For overall health benefits, including OA prevention and treatment, experts recommend adults engage in around 150 minutes of at least moderate physical activity weekly.

Moderate activity three times or more per week has been shown to reduce the risk of arthritis-associated disability in study groups by an average of 47 percent. (31, 32, 33) That said, any activity is better than none, and every minute of movement is beneficial. Since joint injuries can cause or worsen OA, if you’re looking to prevent the condition or manage symptoms, choose moderate low-impact activities, such as:

Walking

Cycling

Swimming

These guidelines line up with the recommendations set by my colleague Dan Pardi, which I support, to occasionally push yourself as our ancestors did with bouts of relatively intense activity. (34, 35) In addition to the aerobic exercises mentioned above, we also encourage low-impact muscle-strengthening activities like lifting weights and yoga. Yoga also promotes flexibility to help maintain joint range of motion. Hatha yoga, or the practice of physical postures called asanas, has been found to provide marked improvements in pain and function in subjects with knee OA. (36)

Exercises that strengthen the quadriceps muscles in particular may be especially useful in the prevention and treatment of OA. As one study above highlighted, quadriceps have been shown to be weak in subjects who develop OA, suggesting it’s a risk factor. Research indicates that quadriceps-strengthening exercises can improve strength and function and reduce pain in those with knee OA. These include isometric exercises (in which a particular muscle is contracted without moving the affected joint) and isotonic resistance exercises (where both muscle and joint move, such as in weightlifting) when tolerated. (37, 38, 39)

Tai chi may also be beneficial: Its weight-bearing postures help improve strength while simultaneously promoting flexibility and balance. Studies show it may help relieve OA pain. (40, 41)

Can Exercise Actually Increase the Risk of OA?

It’s true that certain athletic injuries and extreme and excessive physical activity could set the stage for OA, but there isn’t any convincing evidence linking moderate or even vigorous low-impact exercise with an increased risk of OA or an accelerated progression of the disease. (42, 43, 44, 45, 46)

However, as you now know, there is a wealth of research showing that exercise has profound benefits for joint health. I hope you’ll get moving to stave off OA or help manage its symptoms, as well as improve your overall well-being.

Bonus: Another Great Way to Protect Your Joints

In addition to exercise, incorporate gelatin into your diet for extra joint (and bone) protection. Research shows it may be effective in treating osteoporosis and osteoarthritis, as it helps combat pain and inflammation and build stronger bones.

Do you plan on working more exercise into your daily life as a way to prevent OA? Or are you already experiencing symptoms of the condition? Leave a comment below and tell your story.

The post Here’s the Link between Osteoarthritis and Exercise appeared first on Chris Kresser.

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Here’s the Link between Osteoarthritis and Exercise

You may be able to control and even prevent this debilitating disorder by going it on your own—that is, without pharmaceutical or surgical intervention. How? Good ol’ physical activity. Let’s explore the well-established link between osteoarthritis and exercise.

Is It OA? What You Need to Know about This Joint Disorder

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most prevalent form of arthritis and the most common joint disorder in the United States, affecting some 30.8 million American adults—that’s nearly one in every 10 of us. This number is only expected to increase as the population ages and more and more people live their lives overweight or obese. (1, 2, 3) If you’re carrying extra pounds, you put added stress on your joints, which increases your likelihood of developing the disease. Obesity may also lead to metabolic changes that bring about the disorder. In addition to age and weight, other risk factors for OA, some of which are modifiable and some not, include: (4, 5)

Joint injury and repetitive use: Any joint damage, whether from serious injury or being overworked, increases risk; if you’re an athlete or work a physically demanding job, you may be more susceptible to OA.

Gender: Women over the age of 45 are more likely to develop OA than their male peers.

Genetics: If you have a family member with OA, you’re more likely to develop it as well.

Race: Studies show that the risk of developing osteoarthritis by age 85 is higher in Caucasians than in African Americans (41 percent compared to 29 percent).

Muscle weakness and low bone density: These factors are thought to contribute to the development and progression of OA.

If you’re concerned about developing osteoarthritis or you’re already experiencing joint pain, exercise may help. Check out this article to find out which workouts can help with OA. #healthylifestyle #wellness #chriskresser

Normally, cartilage cushions the ends of bones in your joints, allowing your joints to glide smoothly during motion. With OA, the cartilage breaks down and the smooth gliding surface becomes rough. As OA worsens over time, the underlying bone begins to change. Although these changes usually develop slowly, the cartilage can wear away completely, leaving bone to rub directly on bone. The results?

Pain

Swelling

Stiffness

Cracking or grinding sounds when moving

A loss of range of motion (flexibility) and function; OA is a leading cause of disability

The chronic condition can affect any joint, but it occurs most often in knees, hips, hands, big toes, and the spine, including the lower back and neck. Although there is no cure, the above symptoms can be managed.

The Connection between Osteoarthritis and Exercise: Managing Risk and Preventing Pain

Exercise, we now know, is a vital part of any OA prevention or treatment plan. In fact, exercise is typically recommended, even in conventional medical circles, as a first-line defense and management strategy before over-the-counter medicine or prescription drugs. Studies have shown comparable OA pain-relieving effects between physical activity and oral analgesics. (6, 7, 8)

Unfortunately, despite recommendations by physicians, clinicians, and health coaches to get moving, people with OA just aren’t exercising. It could be a holdover from previous generations, when doctors told their patients to rest and avoid movement that caused pain. Unfortunately, some elderly people with OA likely get worse as times goes by because they follow this outdated advice. Or perhaps some individuals are fearful that any discomfort means they’re causing joint damage. Whatever the reason, a national survey found that roughly 40 percent of those diagnosed with arthritis are inactive, meaning they don’t engage in any sustained periods of physical activity (10 minutes or longer) within an average week. (9, 10) I hope this article will help change that.

The research clearly shows that exercise is a must, whether you want to prevent OA or already have a diagnosis. Here’s why.

Exercise Keeps Your Joints Healthy and Pain Free

The adage “use it or lose it” applies here—regular moderate exercise keeps the body moving as it is designed to move, preventing joints from weakening and that all-important cartilage from breaking down. Animal studies even suggest that exercise can prevent further cartilage degradation in older or injured joints that have already suffered some loss. (11) Research in rats has also shown that exercise effectively relieves OA joint pain, including pain resistant to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. (12)

It Helps You Lose Weight

You already know that obesity is a significant risk factor for OA. One meta-analysis of 47 previously published studies found a threefold increased risk for knee OA in overweight or obese individuals. (13) But here’s the good news: It’s also one of the most modifiable risk factors when it comes both to the development of OA and its progression. It’s been suggested that at least half of all cases of symptomatic knee OA could be prevented if the obesity epidemic were better controlled. The Framingham Study found that women who lost 11 pounds or more over 10 years reduced their risk of knee OA by 54 percent. (14, 15)

As previously shared, excess weight puts added stress on joints, particularly weight-bearing joints like the hips and knees, increasing the odds that cartilage will break down, the joint will fail, and OA will develop. Losing those extra pounds relieves that pressure. But that isn’t the only reason obesity and OA go hand in hand. Overweight individuals typically have inadequate muscle mass to properly support their weight, which can advance the onset of OA. They may also be less active, which only leads to further weight gain and muscular deficits and a further risk for the disease. (16) Evidence also suggests that added stress on joints leads to the release of arthritis-promoting pro-inflammatory cytokines, while weight loss reduces cytokine levels. (17, 18) And it appears that obesity brings on metabolic abnormalities, including excessively high levels of insulin, that are associated with OA. Not surprisingly, exercise may prevent or mitigate these changes. (19, 20, 21)

It Gets You out of Your Chair and off the Couch

A sedentary lifestyle can also cause metabolic shifts that may lead to OA, alterations that can be prevented through physical activity. (22, 23) After all, sitting six hours or more a day is far outside of the evolutionary norm for humans. Beyond the connection to metabolism, prolonged sitting is generally associated with an increased risk for OA and increased risk for pain and other complications from the disease. This may be because sedentary behavior degrades muscle strength and posture, impacting joints, especially in the spine. Sedentary individuals who spend significant time on smartphones and tablets further increase their risk of OA in hand joints. What’s more, lack of activity decreases pain tolerance and stiffens joints (24, 25). Conversely, physical activity appears to lubricate joints and strengthen cartilage. (26, 27)

Exercise Strengthens Your Muscles and Builds Bone

In one study, women who developed knee OA had quadriceps muscles that were 18 percent weaker than those without OA; the weakness predated the onset of the disease and was likely a contributor to its development. Weak quadriceps muscles cause the knee to become less stable, of special concern for athletes and others at increased risk for OA from joint injury or overuse. (28, 29) Treadmill exercise, in particular, has been found to block bone loss, which might help stabilize joints. (30) Of course, strength training is also a very effective way to build muscle as well as bone.

The Best Proven Exercises for Osteoarthritis

For overall health benefits, including OA prevention and treatment, experts recommend adults engage in around 150 minutes of at least moderate physical activity weekly.

Moderate activity three times or more per week has been shown to reduce the risk of arthritis-associated disability in study groups by an average of 47 percent. (31, 32, 33) That said, any activity is better than none, and every minute of movement is beneficial. Since joint injuries can cause or worsen OA, if you’re looking to prevent the condition or manage symptoms, choose moderate low-impact activities, such as:

Walking

Cycling

Swimming

These guidelines line up with the recommendations set by my colleague Dan Pardi, which I support, to occasionally push yourself as our ancestors did with bouts of relatively intense activity. (34, 35) In addition to the aerobic exercises mentioned above, we also encourage low-impact muscle-strengthening activities like lifting weights and yoga. Yoga also promotes flexibility to help maintain joint range of motion. Hatha yoga, or the practice of physical postures called asanas, has been found to provide marked improvements in pain and function in subjects with knee OA. (36)

Exercises that strengthen the quadriceps muscles in particular may be especially useful in the prevention and treatment of OA. As one study above highlighted, quadriceps have been shown to be weak in subjects who develop OA, suggesting it’s a risk factor. Research indicates that quadriceps-strengthening exercises can improve strength and function and reduce pain in those with knee OA. These include isometric exercises (in which a particular muscle is contracted without moving the affected joint) and isotonic resistance exercises (where both muscle and joint move, such as in weightlifting) when tolerated. (37, 38, 39)

Tai chi may also be beneficial: Its weight-bearing postures help improve strength while simultaneously promoting flexibility and balance. Studies show it may help relieve OA pain. (40, 41)

Can Exercise Actually Increase the Risk of OA?

It’s true that certain athletic injuries and extreme and excessive physical activity could set the stage for OA, but there isn’t any convincing evidence linking moderate or even vigorous low-impact exercise with an increased risk of OA or an accelerated progression of the disease. (42, 43, 44, 45, 46)

However, as you now know, there is a wealth of research showing that exercise has profound benefits for joint health. I hope you’ll get moving to stave off OA or help manage its symptoms, as well as improve your overall well-being.

Bonus: Another Great Way to Protect Your Joints

In addition to exercise, incorporate gelatin into your diet for extra joint (and bone) protection. Research shows it may be effective in treating osteoporosis and osteoarthritis, as it helps combat pain and inflammation and build stronger bones.

Do you plan on working more exercise into your daily life as a way to prevent OA? Or are you already experiencing symptoms of the condition? Leave a comment below and tell your story.

The post Here’s the Link between Osteoarthritis and Exercise appeared first on Chris Kresser.

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