#B-2 Operations Display

[nocternalrandomness]

B-2 Operations Display - Whiteman AFB - Missouri

[brunchable]

It's not a Meet-𝑪𝒖𝒕𝒆, it's a Meet-𝗨𝗴𝗹𝘆.

《 Chapter 5: Your Crying Shoulder. 》

Pairings: Bucky Barnes x f!Reader Themes: It's not a meet-cute, it's a meet ugly, Grumpy Meets ✨️Sunshine✨️, Opposites Attract, Sassy Pet Matchmaker, Enemies-to-Lovers (Lite), Destined to meet again, Bucky is a hidden softie. Summary: When everything falling apart, you found yourself in the arms of the person you least expected. A/N: This story will be OUTSIDE of MCU but Bucky's traits will be mixed comics/mcu. This will be updated every FRIDAY(AEST). I can't help but place a TikTok meme in here somewhere lmao. Credits to me for the Banner lmfao. credits to @ khaer for the divider.

Mission Report - J. B. Barnes To: N. Fury Subject: Family Dynamics

Key Findings

1. Family Structure

Y/N Y/LN: CEO of The Emporium NYC, handling New York operations, public relations, and key corporate responsibilities.

Jonathan [Half-Brother]: Oversees Miami branch expansions and operational strategies. Professional but distant relationship with Y/N, characterized by mutual respect and a clear division of responsibilities.

2. Operational Observations

Financial Irregularities: Offshore accounts linked to Emporium subsidiaries display significant fund transfers with unclear purposes. Investigating their potential connection to Hydra-related activities is a priority.

Board Affiliations: Certain board members are linked to political figures and tech firms specializing in advanced security technologies. Their involvement requires further investigation for possible ties to Hydra.

Employee Turnover: Leadership restructuring followed Y/N’s promotion. Several former executives now hold external consulting roles, potentially redirecting focus from Emporium’s internal operations.

3. Personal Relationships

Rhys: Y/N’s boyfriend and the son of a global luxury hotel mogul. While not directly involved in Emporium operations, his influential family ties and potential connections to Y/N's network merit attention.

4. Behavioral Insights

Y/N demonstrates dedication to her role but shows signs of frustration with corporate pressures. She appears unaware of financial irregularities within the organization, suggesting compartmentalization of information.

No evidence connects Y/N directly to suspicious activities. Monitoring her relationship with Rhys could provide additional context, as his background and resources may intersect with Emporium’s broader dealings.

Recommendations

1. Background Checks: Investigate board members, financial consultants, and Rhys’s family business for any links to Emporium's offshore holdings and potential Hydra connections.

2. Monitor Relationships: Subtly observe Y/N’s interactions with Rhys and board members for indirect insights.

3. Enhanced Financial Scrutiny: Deepen analysis of offshore accounts to establish potential links between Emporium funds and Hydra-backed projects.

End of Report

× × × ×

Figaro pranced confidently into Bucky’s apartment, his tail held high, a familiar item clamped between his teeth. Alpine looked up from her spot on the windowsill, tilting her head as she watched him strut across the room.

“Alpine,” Figaro greeted, setting down the item—a soft, worn scarf that unmistakably carried your scent.

Alpine sniffed at the scarf, then looked at Figaro, a glint of curiosity in her eyes. “Your human let you out with… that?”

Figaro settled down next to her, casually licking a paw. 

“Oh, she doesn’t know I took it,” he replied with a lazy flick of his tail. “But I thought you might appreciate a little reminder of her.” He gave her a knowing look, lowering his voice. “She was patching up your human’s busted lip the other night, by the way.”

Alpine’s eyes narrowed with amusement. “Did she now? And did you happen to notice the way he was looking at her?” she asked, her whiskers twitching.

“Oh, I noticed. He was all ‘I’m tough, but not too tough for you,’” Figaro said, imitating a dramatic swoon, then rolled his eyes with exaggerated flair. “Honestly, he’s got it bad. She was fussing over him, and he was eating it up like a kitten with a saucer of cream.”

Alpine purred thoughtfully. “Well, it’s about time. But he won’t admit that to himself.”

“Yeah, well, the issue,” Figaro continued, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial tone, “is that there’s another guy in her life. Rhys.” He spat out the name with as much disdain as a cat could muster. “Total bore. Calls her ‘baby’ like it’s some kind of magic spell. And he smells like cheap cologne. Honestly, his existence is an insult to felines everywhere.”

Alpine’s ears perked up. “So he’s competition?”

Figaro scoffed. 

“Please. He’s like the knockoff toy they keep at the bottom of the discount bin. My human doesn’t even smile around him anymore; she just tolerates him. But every time your guy shows up, she lights up like it’s Christmas morning.” He stretched, his claws extending as if to make his point. “I’m telling you, we’ve got to get rid of him. For the sake of all that is right in the world.”

Alpine let out a thoughtful meow, eyeing the scarf Figaro had brought. “You know, if we could just keep nudging them together, maybe they’ll take the hint. They’re not too bright, but they’ve got chemistry.”

“Exactly!” Figaro said, his eyes gleaming. “Our owners are hopeless without us. This is a mission, Alpine. A noble mission. A mission to save her from that pathetic excuse for a partner.” He gave an exaggerated shudder. “And frankly, if I have to listen to him call her ‘baby’ one more time, I might cough up a hairball on his shoes.”

Alpine let out a low chuckle, nudging Figaro with her paw. “Well then, Mr. Matchmaker. What’s the plan?”

“Oh, I’ve got ideas,” Figaro said, eyes narrowing as if deep in thought. “Plenty of ideas. After all, I’m doing the world a favor.”

× × × ×

There was cold silence since that tense encounter with Rhys, and though you’d pushed it to the back of your mind, his apology text had come through late tonight, begging you to talk. You decided, almost against your better judgment, to go. Maybe it was a habit, maybe just closure. But as you reached the hotel and made your way up to his office, a cold, uneasy feeling settled in the pit of your stomach.

The hall was dimly lit as you approached, your heels clicking softly against the polished floor. Then, as you neared the frosted glass door of Rhys’ office, you stopped in your tracks. Two silhouettes were visible through the blurred glass, close, intimate. You watched as Rhys pressed a woman—with a golden hair clip—against the glass, their forms locked together in a kiss that left little to the imagination.

Your throat tightened, a dull ache building in your chest as the weight of the betrayal hit you. To be honest, I felt like I already knew it, you thought, the silent admission somehow worse than the scene unfolding in front of you. But that doesn’t make it hurt any less. You tried to swallow down the emotions swirling within you—anger, sadness, and that unmistakable pang of disappointment. Being cheated on hurt, even when you’d mentally checked out of the relationship. It chipped away at something deeper, a quiet part of your self-worth you hadn’t realized still cared.

Water rimmed your eyes, but you blinked it back, refusing to let him take that from you too. You inhaled deeply, straightened your shoulders, and turned away from the office door, leaving as quietly as you’d arrived.

× × × ×  Fews days after

Bucky squinted, utterly baffled. 

“Why are you looking at me like that?” he muttered. He scratched the back of his neck, feeling absurdly judged by a cat.

Alpine huffed, letting out a short, dismissive meow, clearly unimpressed with whatever answer she’d decided on. She trotted off toward her food bowl, pausing just once to throw him a final, critical look before bending to eat.

“Alright, sure, just go back to ignoring me,” Bucky grumbled, watching her. But as he leaned against the counter, glancing down at the faint trace of your scent still on his sleeve, he couldn’t help feeling like Alpine had silently decided something about him that she wasn’t going to share anytime soon.

Bucky watched Alpine chowing down on her food, her tail flicking in satisfaction as she devoured each bite with gusto. He allowed himself a moment of peace, but then came the unmistakable sound of someone struggling with his lock.

“Oh, hell no,” he muttered under his breath, his mind flashing back to the night you’d drunkenly tried breaking into his apartment, mistaking it for yours. Swinging the door open, he was prepared for a repeat performance, only to be met with Sam, frozen in mid-action, his hand clutching a spare key. Behind him stood Steve, holding two large bags of takeout, and Nat, arms crossed with a smirk.

“Uh… hey, Buck,” Sam greeted, attempting a casual tone while quickly tucking the key behind his back like he hadn’t just been caught red-handed.

“Why are you trying to break into my place?” Bucky narrowed his eyes, crossing his arms.

Sam cleared his throat, glancing at Steve and Nat for backup. 

“We’re, uh… your backup! Sent by Fury.” He flashed a grin that looked anything but innocent.

“Backup?” Bucky repeated, deadpan, as the three of them filed in with the casualness of seasoned intruders. “Fury said it was a simple assignment. Barely a mission.”

Steve rolled his eyes, giving Bucky a pitying look as he passed by to set down the bags on the table. “You really believed that? Seriously?”

Bucky opened his mouth to argue, but before he could get a word in, Nat had already made her way over to Alpine, who blinked up at her with the smug satisfaction of a cat who’d been expecting her. Nat scratched Alpine’s ears as Alpine purred, looking even more at ease than Bucky had ever seen her.

Just as Nat leaned down to pet Alpine, her gaze flicked up, catching sight of Bucky’s busted lip. She raised an eyebrow, smirking slightly. “Nice lip, Buck. Trouble on the way to the door?”

Bucky’s hand instinctively went up to his mouth. “Oh, that? I… tripped over Alpine.”

Steve’s head whipped around, eyes narrowing as he tried to keep a straight face. 

“You tripped… over Alpine?” He looked down at the serene, not-at-all-menacing cat sitting contentedly by Nat’s side, then back up at Bucky, clearly struggling to hold back a laugh.

Bucky crossed his arms, his expression turning defensive. “It’s possible, alright? She’s tiny but lethal.”

Sam let out a snort. “Yeah, sure. I’m sure the Winter Soldier can handle a battalion of Hydra agents but gets taken out by a house cat.”

“Don’t you guys have anything better to do?” Bucky just rolled his eyes, muttering under his breath as Sam already raiding the fridge like he owned it. 

“Oh no, please, make yourselves at home. I’ll just find somewhere else to live, shall I?” Bucky’s voice was dripping with sarcasm as he watched the scene unfold. 

“Buck, you have got to keep better beer in here. This stuff is practically water.” He settled on a bottle anyway, taking a long swig before glancing back at Bucky. “We’re just here to help, man. Think of us as… extended housemates.”

Bucky crossed his arms tighter, a look of utter disbelief on his face. “Extended housemates?” He gestured at the room. “You act like you already live here!”

Steve, entirely unbothered, started setting out the food, carefully placing burgers on plates and arranging napkins. “We thought you might need a little company. I mean, it’s a Friday night, after all.”

“I’m perfectly fine alone, thanks,” Bucky replied, his gaze narrowing as he watched Sam polish off half a beer in one go. “How about you go keep each other company?”

Steve chuckled, handing a plate to Nat. “You said the same thing last time we showed up. Yet, here we are. Again.”

Nat, now comfortably settled on the couch with Alpine, flashed him a wicked grin. “Let’s not be dramatic, Bucky. Just think of us as… spontaneous visitors.”

“Visitors don’t usually come with their own keys,” Bucky grumbled, his gaze settling on Sam, who was busy rifling through his cabinets for snacks. “And they certainly don’t bring takeout to make themselves at home.”

Sam shrugged, unfazed. “You think of it as invading your privacy; I think of it as improving the vibe around here.”

Bucky let out an exasperated sigh. “I swear, one of these days, I’m changing the locks.”

“Good luck with that. We’ll just get new keys.” Nat smirked, scratching Alpine’s head as if she were orchestrating a coup. 

Bucky glared, but Steve was already setting a plate piled with ribs and a burger in front of him. “Eat up, Buck. Before Sam devours everything like the human garbage disposal he is.”

Sam waved his beer bottle, looking completely unbothered. “Hey, I resent that. This is strategic eating. Besides, with your ‘barely-a-mission,’ we need all the fuel we can get.”

“I’m starting to think Fury set me up.” Bucky rubbed his forehead, exasperated but clearly losing the battle.

Steve just grinned, popping open his own beer. “I’m sure Fury thought you’d appreciate the backup.”

“Or at least tolerate it,” Sam added, grabbing a handful of fries and popping them into his mouth.

With a resigned sigh, Bucky sank into a chair, shaking his head. “You guys are impossible.”

“Impossible is our specialty,” Sam shot back, raising his beer in a mock toast. “To back up, and to Buck finally admitting he likes having us around.”

“Let’s not get carried away.” Bucky snorted. 

Alpine purred louder, clearly pleased with the lively atmosphere, while Nat smirked at Bucky. “See? Even Alpine agrees. You’re just a grump with a soft spot for us, admit it.”

Bucky rolled his eyes, but there was a faint smile tugging at the corner of his mouth. “Fine. But next time, bring your own key.”

“Oh, we will,” Steve assured him with a smirk. “And maybe a couch, a pillow or two.”

Sam, now munching contentedly on fries, raised his beer again. “To crashing Bucky’s place—where every night is a mission, and the food’s free.”

Bucky took a reluctant bite of his burger, trying to ignore how comfortable his “guests” had made themselves. Just as he was starting to think the worst was over, Steve casually leaned over to Sam, as if sharing a quiet plan.

“We’ll grab the rest of our stuff from the car when Buck’s asleep,” Steve said, completely deadpan.

Bucky nearly choked on his burger, staring at Steve like he’d lost his mind. “The rest of your stuff? What are you talking about?”

Sam, without missing a beat, grinned. “Perfect. Nat can take the bedroom, and the three of us can crash in the living room. It’ll be like a sleepover.”

Nat raised her eyebrows, feigning delight. “I called dibs on the bed, anyway. I always knew Buck had the fluffiest pillows.”

“Hold on, hold on! This isn’t some youth hostel! You all have your own places!” Bucky’s face twisted in horror as he looked around the room. 

“Yeah, but none of our places have a view of you panicking about your personal space.” Steve looked unbothered, casually unwrapping another burger.

Bucky glared. 

“I’m not panicking! I just—” He waved a hand in utter frustration. “This is my place! You can’t just... commandeer my bed!”

“Don’t worry, Buck. We’ll all be snug as bugs on the floor, reliving those good ol’ days in the barracks.” Sam leaned back, looking way too comfortable for someone who’d apparently just broken in.

“Except Nat,” Steve corrected, “who will be enjoying Buck’s luxurious mattress.”

Bucky looked to Alpine, almost pleading. “You see what I deal with? Even the cat respects my space more than you three!”

Alpine simply blinked, looking rather indifferent to her owner’s plight as she happily settled on Nat’s lap.

“Oh, come on, Buck,” Sam said, reaching over to ruffle Bucky’s hair. “We’ll make it fun! Popcorn, ghost stories, some embarrassing truths about Fury… just like old times.”

“Yeah, Buck,” Steve added, grinning. “Think of it as team bonding.”

Bucky threw his hands up. “This isn’t bonding! This is trespassing! And I don’t want to hear any ghost stories or truths about Fury. I want my bed, my couch, and my fridge not raided!”

Nat sighed, patting Alpine who purred louder. “Look, Buck. Clearly, Alpine’s on board. You’re outvoted.”

“Traitor.” Bucky narrowed his eyes, looking at Alpine in betrayal.

Steve chuckled, leaning back with a smug grin. “Face it, Buck. Tonight’s already decided.”

Bucky let out a resigned sigh, shaking his head as he muttered under his breath. “Next time, I’m leaving the country.”

× × × ×

You strode into the dimly lit restaurant, greeted by a chorus of cheers and mock applause as Serena, Mei, and Jane raised their glasses, voices rising in unison. "Woooo, here comes the CEO!"

You shook your head, laughing as you took your seat, subtly glancing around the table. Your gaze caught on one unfamiliar face, though it took a split second longer for the memory to click into place. Carly. She was Rhys' new assistant, a realization that caused your brow to lift just slightly. You’d thought she looked familiar from somewhere else, but with her new polished appearance and newfound confidence, it was hard to tell right away.

Chloe, ever the instigator, nudged Carly forward with a smile that held a hint of challenge. 

“Ladies, meet Carly. You might remember her, Y/N. She used to work at The Emporium,” she said, her words smooth but her gaze pointed.

You kept your expression cool, a practiced smile settling on your lips. “Ah, that explains why she looks familiar.” You gave Carly a nod, and she responded with a forced smile, her eyes holding something less friendly beneath the surface.

The evening moved along, filled with laughter and a few rounds of drinks. Serena, Mei, and Jane offered congratulations, and Sarah, as always, played the role of your unwavering cheerleader, throwing a few enthusiastic compliments your way. But as the night flowed, it was Mei who leaned in, her voice dipping into a sympathetic tone.

“So, I heard Rhys de Armande cheated on you.”

You blinked, not expecting the topic to surface so bluntly. You forced yourself to keep your expression neutral, though a subtle flicker crossed your face.

“You forced a light laugh, though your jaw tightened beneath it. “Oh, it was probably because I told him to take his bare minimum and keep it out of my sight. Pretty sure he wanted to vanish into thin air after that, especially since his entire office got to witness it.”

Jane, Mei, and Serena burst into laughter, clearly picturing the scene as you animatedly relayed the story.

“Oh my gosh, that’s incredible,” Serena giggled, shaking her head. “He absolutely deserved every bit of that.”

You let out a faint laugh, flipping your hair back and letting it settle over your shoulder as you raised an eyebrow. “Ugh, I’m too busy with work to be hurt by this kind of stuff,” you replied, feigning a casual air as you took a sip of your drink, though the words had a hard edge underneath.

“Do you know who the woman was?” Serena leaned forward, curiosity gleaming in her eyes.

Chloe’s lips curled into a faint smirk.

“I mean, with Rhys’ type, I wouldn’t be surprised if it’s someone… eager to climb the ladder, if you know what I mean,” Mei said.

Sarah’s eyes flashed, and she opened her mouth, ready to retort, but you discreetly squeezed her hand under the table, keeping your expression smooth. You didn’t need her stepping in right now. 

“You should’ve grabbed her hair!” Jane piped up, half-laughing, her fist in the air as if she were ready to throw a punch herself, “I respect the way you’re so laid back, because honestly I would’ve gone apeshit.”

“Oh, forget it. He’s the one who cheated. I couldn’t care less about her,” you replied, rolling your eyes. “She’s probably no different from him—anyways! Enough about him!”

As the words left your mouth, Carly’s face visibly tightened, her forced smile slipping as she pushed back her chair, muttering under her breath as she walked off toward the restroom. Her eyes flickered with a glare that lingered on you as she departed, barely concealing the frustration bubbling beneath her cool facade.

Serena raised her eyebrows, catching the shift in mood. “What’s with her? She was glaring at you the whole time.”

“Oh, who knows,” Sarah murmured, watching Carly’s retreating figure with a slight smirk, her hand still entwined in yours beneath the table, a sign of solidarity.

Chloe glanced after Carly, a subtle, knowing smile playing on her lips. “Probably just adjusting to her new… surroundings.”

You glanced down at your phone, barely containing the irritation rising within you as you took in the image on the screen: Rhys and Carly, cozy on a beach, his arms wrapped around her as if he hadn’t been apologizing to you just days earlier. It was from an unknown number, but there was no doubt in your mind who had sent it.

With a measured breath, you slipped the phone back into your bag and stood, offering your friends a polite excuse before following the path Carly had taken. You found her just outside the restrooms, leaning casually against the wall with a smug smile, almost as if she’d been waiting.

“Why did you send me that?” You stopped in front of her, gaze steady.

She didn’t bother hiding her grin, crossing her arms as she looked you over. “Because I wanted you to know.”

“Know what?” You raised an eyebrow. “That Rhys cheated on me?”

“No,” she replied with a sickeningly sweet smile, crossing her arms tighter. “That I seduced your boyfriend. You seemed completely fine with it.”

A scoff escaped you as you let out a dry laugh, crossing your own arms. 

“Did you expect me to crumble just because I was cheated on?” You tilted your head, studying her. “Alright, let’s say you two ‘fell in love.’ Then you should be apologizing to me—”

Her smile faltered as she cut you off, her voice raising a fraction. “I felt guilty at first. But then you acted like it wasn’t a big deal. You weren’t curious about me, didn’t even acknowledge what I did. So my self-esteem? It just kept plummeting.”

You looked at her, incredulous, and chuckled coldly. “Wow—seriously? You’re such a loser—You’re blaming me for your self-esteem issues?”

Her lips pursed in irritation. “Why shouldn’t I? Why do you think I can’t do what you do? I can seduce your man and be just as successful—be just like you. But you never gave me the chance. Not only that, you took my opportunity at The Emporium away from me.”

“Ah,” you murmured, amusement in your voice. “So this is about me firing you?”

Her jaw clenched, eyes narrowing. “You didn’t deserve to be in that position. You act so high and mighty, like nothing can shake you. You have it all, don’t you? The job, the influence, the respect. But guess what? I can take what’s yours. I already did, didn’t I?”

You laughed, unbothered, shaking your head slowly. 

“You really don’t get it, do you?” You stepped closer, gaze locked on hers. “If you couldn’t handle the job, that’s on you. Throwing this little tantrum only proves I was right about you. As for Rhys…” You shrugged, a smirk tugging at your lips. “You can keep him. My ex cheating doesn’t affect my work—but you? You do. So maybe I’ll have a word with his parents and see how your career fairs then.”

You turned to leave, but her voice came out sharp, dripping with venom. “You can’t pretend you’re not bitter about it. That’s why you’re here, right? To confront me?”

Pausing, you glanced over your shoulder, an icy smile on your lips. “Ever step on something nasty on the sidewalk? Hmm I don’t know like shit? It’s a pain, but you don’t let it ruin your day. You wipe it off and move on. That’s what you and Rhys are to me—Shit—something I’ll be glad to scrape off my shoe.”

Without another glance, you strode back to the table, your head held high. Your friends glanced up as you approached, a few eyebrows raised.

“Everything okay?” Sarah asked, eyeing you with mild concern.

You forced a polite smile, nodding as you picked up your bag. “Actually, I’ve got an early meeting tomorrow. I should get going.”

With a few quick goodbyes, you left, satisfaction settling over you as you stepped out, knowing you’d left Carly exactly where she belonged—behind you.

× × × × 

“Sarah! Open the noor! I know you're in there, Sarah! Open the noor!” Your drunken voice slurred through the quiet hallway, louder with every knock.

Inside, Bucky froze, instantly recognizing your voice. His eyes widened, and he shot a panicked look at the mountain of files scattered across his coffee table—the very files on you and The Emporium that he’d been piecing through with Steve, Sam, and Nat.

“Everyone! Gather the files, now!” he hissed, immediately jumping to action.

“What? Why? Relax, man, we’re not under attack or anything.” Sam raised an eyebrow, lounging on the couch with a half-eaten sandwich.

Bucky shot him a glare, practically yanking the files out from under Sam’s plate. “One of our ‘subjects’ is outside the door, Sam! Now MOVE!”

“Wait, you mean her?” Steve asked, eyes widening as the banging on the door got louder.

“Yes!” Bucky hissed, shoving an armful of files into Steve’s hands. “Now stop talking and start hiding!”

Nat rolled her eyes, stacking papers hastily. “Isn’t this a little dramatic? She’s probably just lost.”

“She’s not ‘lost,’ she’s drunk!” Bucky snapped. “And I’d rather not explain why I’m reviewing her life story with three nosy intruders!”

“Oh, we’re the intruders now?” Steve muttered as he clutched a bundle of files to his chest. “Could’ve sworn we were here for your mission!”

The banging grew even louder. 

“Sarah! Don’t you ignore me, woman!” Your voice was muffled but determined, sounding like you were one step away from kicking the door down.

“Go, go, go! Get in there!” Bucky herded them like sheep, arms waving wildly as he tried to push them toward the bedroom.

“Ow, Bucky, stop shoving!” Sam complained, elbowing Bucky back as he tripped over a rogue sneaker. “Seriously, why are you acting like we’re about to be raided?”

“Because she’ll see this mess and ask questions!” Bucky shot back, pushing him forward again. “Just get in and be quiet!”

Nat stumbled as Bucky prodded her toward the door, muttering, “Why are you so panicked? Did you do something wrong, Buck?”

“Would you all just move?!” Bucky whispered furiously, practically bulldozing them all through his bedroom door. “I’ll explain later. Just don’t make a sound!”

Steve stumbled, catching himself with a loud “Ow!” as Bucky finally got all three of them behind the door. He shut it firmly and leaned against it with a sigh, only to hear a loud “Shh!” from Nat, Sam, and Steve bickering in hushed whispers.

“Move your elbow!”

“Steve, that’s my foot—ow!”

“Could you three not sound like an entire stampede?”

Outside, your voice grew louder, slurring but stubborn as ever. “Saarah! Come on, I brought sushiiii!”

Bucky took a breath and opened the door, his expression calm yet barely holding it together. There you stood, wobbling slightly, hair slightly mussed, and an unmistakable grin on your face when you saw him.

“Oh! Sarah, you changed! You look so much taller… and more... Bucky-like.”

“Uh, hi,” he said as he steadied you. “I think you might have the wrong door, trash panda.”

You blinked, frowning, and swayed a little closer. “Wrong door? But I brought sushi! And, wait—” You squinted at him, leaning in. “Bucky?”

“Yeah, Bucky,” he confirmed, holding back a chuckle as you gave him a suspiciously scrutinizing look.

“Ohhh…” you drawled, clearly trying to process it all. “Well, if you see Sarah, tell her the sushi is... sushi-ing.”

He nodded, keeping his tone light, even though his friends were probably eavesdropping as best they could. 

“Will do. And, uh… maybe we should get you home?”

“Good idea. But you keep this. Looks like you could use some fish.” You nodded, albeit unsteadily, handing him a stray piece of sushi. 

You gave Bucky a wobbly smile, one that looked a little too determined for someone in your state. Before Bucky could stop you, you swayed forward, making a beeline past him and into his apartment.

“Wait, Y/N—this isn’t… Sarah’s place!” he said, barely catching up as you staggered into his kitchen.

“Close enough,” you slurred with a grin, swaying dramatically from side to side as you reached for the fridge handle. Alpine, sensing a new friend in distress, trotted over, rubbing against your legs with enthusiastic little chirps.

“Oh! Hey, kitty!” you cooed, reaching down to pet her, then looking up at Bucky with wide, innocent eyes. “Sarah’s cat never welcomes me like this. See? She gets me.”

Bucky ran a hand over his face, half-amused, half-panicked. “Right. Because Alpine just loves guests raiding the kitchen.”

You opened the fridge door, inspecting the shelves as if on a mission. 

“Where’s the… the ice cream?” you muttered, voice muffled by the refrigerator door. “Sarah always has chocolate fudge swirl, and I need it.”

“Seriously, you’re in the wrong apartment,” Bucky tried, sounding both exasperated and entertained as he reached out, but you sidestepped, one hand still on the fridge door, the other now waving vaguely in the air.

“Shhh, Bucky,” you chided, squinting as you leaned in further, peering deeper into the fridge with a sense of deep concentration. Alpine padded around you, her tail curling around your ankle, clearly thrilled to have you there.

“Listen, Bucky,” you slurred, not even glancing up, “all I want… is chocolate ice cream and maybe… maybe a good laugh. Do you have tissues? I feel like I’ll need them, like, a lot of them.”

Bucky couldn’t help the grin tugging at his lips. He tried his best to guide you away from the fridge gently, but you shot him a mildly annoyed look, shoving a stray pack of carrots aside as if they were personally offensive.

“Don’t you dare hide the good stuff behind the veggies,” you said, mock-scolding him as Alpine hopped onto the counter, watching the scene with wide, curious eyes, tail twitching.

“Really, Alpine?” Bucky muttered at his cat, who was clearly rooting for you and even pawed at Bucky’s hand as if to say, Let her have the ice cream!

“I knew you’d understand me, Alpine,” you cooed at the cat, as if she were your personal support group. “See, Bucky? Even she gets it. She knows.”

Bucky sighed, half-heartedly resigned. “You know what, fine. If Alpine says so, who am I to argue?”

Finally, you pulled out a random tub—yogurt, not ice cream—and peered at it in disappointment. 

“Greek yogurt? Bucky, are you… are you okay?”

He raised an eyebrow. “Yeah, perfectly fine, thanks.”

You blinked at him, still clutching the tub. “Well, clearly, you’re living a sad existence if this is all you’ve got.”

“Or I’m just not prepared for unexpected trash pandas who raid my fridge,” he replied, crossing his arms, trying not to burst out laughing as you clung to Alpine for support, who purred loudly, delighted with the chaos.

“Fine, then!” you declared dramatically, patting Alpine’s head. “Alpine and I will fend for ourselves.” You turned on your heel (or tried to, at least), your balance giving out just slightly as you wobbled with an exaggerated sway. Alpine gave an encouraging “mrrp!” as if saying, Yes! Go forth!

Bucky finally took pity on you, grabbing a pint of actual ice cream from the freezer, waving it like a peace offering. “This? Will this make you happy, your highness?”

You lit up, the joy on your face as radiant as if he’d handed you a crown. “Now that’s more like it!” you cheered, taking the tub, your steps still swaying as you made your way to his couch.

Bucky followed you over, shaking his head as you sat down, giving Alpine a spot next to you. He sat down nearby, stifling a chuckle as you dug into the ice cream.

“So… just gonna crash here tonight, then?” he asked, leaning back with a smirk.

You waved the spoon dismissively, barely even looking up. “Obviously. And you, Bucky Barnes, need to get more ice cream. Greek yogurt’s just… depressing.”

He shook his head, chuckling. “Noted.”

You tore into the box of tissues, your frustration boiling over as you whipped open the plastic bag for trash with the precision of someone handling a life-or-death task. In one hand, you wielded the spoon like a weapon, in the other, a tissue you’d already shredded halfway. Bucky sat a few feet away, wide-eyed, clearly out of his depth. Alpine perched on the coffee table instead, her tail swishing in judgment, shooting Bucky a look that all but screamed, Fix this.

“You good there?” Bucky asked cautiously, his voice hesitant, like he wasn’t sure whether he should move closer or start looking for an escape route.

You let out a short, sharp laugh—bitter, too loud for the small space. “Good? Oh yeah, I’m great! I mean, how could I not be? My ex-boyfriend cheated on me with his assistant, who, surprise, also happens to be the same girl I fired for being utterly incompetent.”

Bucky, sitting stiffly on the couch, could only blink as you laughed. Not a gentle laugh, but one that bordered on hysteria, punctuated by short, sharp breaths. It wasn’t the kind of laugh that came from something funny; it was the kind that cracked through the tension when words couldn’t quite hold the weight of everything you were feeling.

“Oh, my God!” you exclaimed, raising your spoon as if to make a toast. “It’s just perfect, isn’t it? Fired her for being terrible at customer service, and what does she do? Rebounds as my boyfriend’s personal assistant. Like, how poetic is that?” You gestured with the tissue, accidentally flinging it onto the coffee table, but you didn’t stop. 

“And then—get this—she blames me for her low self-esteem! Like, excuse me for not sending her a gift basket after she slept with my boyfriend. I mean—” You let out a bark of laughter, shaking your head as tears welled in your eyes, but you refused to let them fall. “You can’t make this stuff up!”

“And then tonight?” You gestured wildly with your spoon. “Tonight, I had to sit there, all smiles, pretending like everything was fine, because God forbid I let anyone think I’m not. And Carly—oh, Carly—had the audacity to act like she’s the victim. She felt bad about it! Isn’t that just hilarious?” You scooped another bite of ice cream, your laughter spilling out, sharp and brittle, filling the air like broken glass.

Bucky sat frozen, his jaw slightly ajar, his heart twisting as he watched you spiral. You leaned forward, still laughing, the sound echoing unnaturally in the quiet apartment. You looked absurd, sitting there with a tub of ice cream and tissues in hand, trying to force humor into something that was clearly tearing you apart.

“Y/N,” Bucky said softly, his voice barely above a whisper.

You didn’t seem to hear him, your laugh rising in pitch as you tilted your head back, wiping your face with the back of your hand. “It’s hilarious, really. Just the perfect little tragedy. I kind of saw it coming, you know? Rhys was always—”

“Y/N.” Bucky’s voice was firmer this time, cutting through the haze of your spiraling thoughts like a blade.

He moved off the couch, lowering himself to his knees in front of you, his steady blue eyes locking onto yours. The laughter caught in your throat as you met his gaze. There was no judgment in his expression, no pity—just an unwavering presence that felt like a lifeline. His gaze softened, like he was offering you something you weren’t sure how to accept.

“Just cry,” he said, his voice calm but resolute.

Your lips parted as if to argue, but the words wouldn’t come. The lump in your throat tightened, and for a moment, you thought you could hold it together. But the way he was looking at you—like you were the only person in the world—broke down every defense you’d spent the evening building.

“Don’t force yourself to laugh,” he added gently, his eyes never leaving yours. “It’s okay to cry.”

Your smile wavered, trembling at the edges before fading completely. You looked away, the dam bursting as tears spilled over, hot and relentless. A shaky breath escaped you, and your hands fumbled with the tissue box, but they were trembling too much to hold anything.

Bucky let out a soft sigh, running a hand through his hair as he glanced toward the closed bedroom door. He rarely, if ever, allowed anyone to see this side of him. Vulnerability wasn’t something he was used to sharing—especially not with his friends only a room away. But for you? He didn’t hesitate.

“Ah, screw it,” he muttered under his breath.

Alpine let out a soft “mrrp” of approval, watching as Bucky leaned forward, wrapping a careful arm around your smaller frame. He didn’t say anything, just held you close, letting you bury your face against his chest. His touch was gentle but grounding, the steady rhythm of his breathing anchoring you as you finally let yourself break.

He rested his chin lightly on top of your head, his other hand rubbing slow, soothing circles against your back. The weight of your head against his chest grounded him as much as he hoped it comforted you.

Alpine, perched on the coffee table, watched with what could only be described as smug satisfaction, her tail flicking contentedly.

Bucky’s awkwardness melted away bit by bit as he felt your breathing begin to even out against him. He let out a soft sigh, glancing down at you. Alpine’s watchful gaze was fixed on him, as if daring him to get this right. Bucky cleared his throat, searching for the right words, feeling more vulnerable than he’d admit.

“You know… you’re stronger than you think,” he said, his thumb grazing your shoulder without him realizing. “You take on so much, and you do it with so much grace. Even when you don’t have to.”

Your breath caught, and you lifted your head to meet his gaze, his blue eyes soft but unwavering.

“I know you don’t need me or anyone else to tell you how incredible you are. But, just… let someone see it, will you? Because you… you deserve that. And I mean every damn word.”

A smile tugged at the corners of your mouth, and you felt a rare sense of peace, your heart light in a way it hadn’t felt in so long. Bucky looked at you, his expression softening further as he took in the sight of your smile, his own heart skipping a beat.

Just as the warmth of Bucky’s words started to sink in, your phone erupted with an insistent buzz, breaking the peaceful moment. You glanced down to see Rhys’ name flashing on the screen. You groaned, but before you could even react, Bucky had snatched the phone from your hand, holding it up as it vibrated relentlessly.

On the fourth ring, Bucky pressed "answer," bringing the phone to his ear with a calm confidence that sent a thrill through you, his voice dropping to a dangerous calm.

“Rhys right? You know, she’s a little busy right now…” he greeted, the single word laced with a tension that could cut glass. “Here’s the deal: you’re gonna stop calling her. Got that?”

You watched, wide-eyed, as Bucky ended the call without waiting for a response and promptly shut off the phone. He set it down with an air of finality, his gaze meeting yours. Before you could form a coherent thought, a loud knock echoed through the apartment, making you both jump slightly.

“Y/N? I know you’re in there.” The voice outside was unmistakable—Rhys.

Your stomach churned as Bucky’s eyes flicked to the door, his jaw tightening.

“What the hell?” he muttered, standing up, his posture instantly tense.

“Bucky…” you started, but he raised a hand, silencing you with a look.

The knock came again, harder this time, followed by Rhys’ impatient voice. “Come on, Y/N, open the door! Let’s talk.”

Alpine, perched on the coffee table, let out an annoyed hiss, her tail flicking sharply as if she shared Bucky’s distaste for the situation. Bucky moved toward the door with deliberate steps, glancing briefly at the bedroom where Sam, Steve, and Nat were undoubtedly eavesdropping.

“Stay here,” Bucky instructed, his voice low and commanding. You watched as he reached for the door, every muscle in his body coiled like a spring.

The door creaked open, revealing Rhys standing in the dim hallway, his expression a mix of desperation and annoyance.

“What are you doing here?” Bucky’s voice was dangerously quiet, but the threat beneath it was clear.

Rhys crossed his arms, his gaze darting past Bucky into the apartment. “I’m here to talk to Y/N. This is between me and her, so if you don’t mind…”

“Oh, I mind,” Bucky shot back, stepping further into the doorway, blocking your view. “She doesn’t want to talk to you.”

“You don’t speak for her,” Rhys snapped, his voice rising. “Y/N!” he shouted, his voice cracking with frustration. “You can’t avoid me forever!”

The tension in the room was palpable, and you stood frozen, torn between staying put and stepping in. But before you could decide, Rhys’ voice dropped, and the words that followed sent a chill down your spine.

“I know what you’re hiding.”

Bucky’s entire body stiffened, his hand tightening on the edge of the door. His head tilted slightly, and though you couldn’t see his face, you could feel the shift in his demeanor. The calm before the storm.

“Excuse me?” Bucky’s voice was low, deadly.

Rhys scoffed, his tone dripping with false confidence, voice low while glancing shortly at you. “Don’t play dumb. I know about the Emporium. And I know about you.”

Your heart slammed against your ribs, your breath catching as Rhys’ words hung in the air like a grenade waiting to explode. Alpine let out a sharp, warning hiss, her tail flicking wildly.

“Y/N,” Bucky called over his shoulder, his voice steady but laced with coldness that made your blood run cold. “Go to my room.”

“What? Why—”

“Now.”

The finality in his tone left no room for argument, and with a wobble in your step and the slight haze of alcohol still clouding your mind, you retreated into the hallway. 

You staggered slightly, catching yourself on the wall as your eyes darted toward the only other door in sight: Bucky’s bedroom. Your curiosity—or perhaps your drunken instincts—propelled you forward. You weren’t sure why, but something about the tension in Bucky’s voice and the way he’d so urgently told you to leave made your heart pound faster.

The hallway seemed to stretch endlessly as you approached the door, your hand reaching out hesitantly toward the doorknob. You heard a faint shuffle from behind it—too faint for you to process fully in your current state—but enough to make you pause. Your fingers hovered above the cool metal, trembling slightly.

The voices from the other room grew louder for a moment before falling eerily silent, the tension almost palpable even through the walls. Your breath hitched as you gripped the doorknob tighter, the faintest click of the mechanism echoing in the stillness of the hallway.

The door began to give under your push.

Inside, Steve, Sam, and Nat froze mid-whisper, their eyes darting toward the door as it inched open.

tags: @winchestert101 @lomlbuckybarnes @lveegsoi @itsshellzy @almosttoopizza

@aami98 @hextech-bros @hzdhrtss @winterslove1917 @infqnitysblog

@ayayaeyato @blackbirdwitch22 @mostlymarvelgirl @bohoooitsme @crdgn

@yiiiikesmish @jae0515 @mrsbuckybarnes1917 @nikey-no-likey @aami98

@almosttoopizza @wisteriaandwafers @yiiiikesmish @marvelavengerspovs1 @xunquish-blog

@ppbhquinn @ziawbarnes @scott-loki-barnes @let-it-sn0o0ow @seven0714

@lostinspace33 @clockworkballerina @bonnie-bun

[borkunlimited]

Take Your Time, Miss Deer (Sylus x Reader) - Ch. 9

In a tailor shop tucked in the calmer side of the N109 zone is a little room where all clothes of many different designs come together under the delicate hands of an unassuming deer living in the den of all sorts of beasts and sitting on them is the dragon who wears your clothes.

Your many interactions with Skye, Mr. Sylus’ messenger or-

-Sylus is waiting for you to finally figure out he is playing his own messenger.

A Deer Hybrid! Reader x Dragon Hybrid! Sylus Fic

Tags: Sylus x Reader, Hybrid AU, Suggestive Themes, Fluff, Angst, Predator/Prey

Chapter Summary: Do dragons dream of wandering deer?

Author's Note: There is a reason why I wrote him falling asleep at the end of Chapter 8 hehe

I realized I work well during night. Very very fun sewing (and working) because no one bothers me so sometimes I stop and write when inspiration hits. Also, they are selling White Rabbit Milk Tea Sea Salt here and its very very good drink.

Enjoy reading! As always, thank you everyone for the support and because of this fanfic, I found a friend I can yap about lots of stuff!

Tagging: @phisen @wrimaira

AO3

Ch. 1 / Ch. 2 / Ch. 3 / Ch.4 / Ch. 5 / Ch. 6 / Ch. 7 / Ch. 8 / Ch. 9 / Ch. 10 / Side A / Side B

9: My Dearest, Awaiting

“What do you think?”

A brief giggle escaped your lips while you watched your reflection in front of the mirror, raising a branch with snow crocus blooms tied around it on the top of your head.

Daisy gazed at your reflections, the small chirp coming from it echoed across the small bathroom. In its feet are used bandages and medical supplies you used to clean up the wound left by your remaining antler shedding.

It shook its head, shifting through the branches with flowers tied on them laid in front of you then dragged a branch of red camellias to you, the same choice it always proposes to you every day.

“I am starting to think these are your favorite.”

It tilted its head, watching you inspect the petals and it let out a beep, pleased, when you tied the red good luck ribbon around it and then taped the branch on your head.

It is as if you never shedded your sole antler at all.

“What do you think?”

Your crow friend did a spin, letting out a caw then resting on your shoulders. It tried to perch on your ‘temporary antler’ as you called it once but it can never hold its weight so it settled on the next best spot.

“Let’s go check on him before we start the day,” you said, closing the bathroom door behind you and walking through the winding halls of your dragon’s many homes. Your steps are easy now, and sometimes you skip towards one of the many interesting things on display but careful enough to avoid spilling the tub of water with you.

A rare vinyl record.

(You ask if you can listen to it and the twins said it would be better if it is the boss who will put it on for you when he finally wakes up.)

An empty flower pot with an intricate design.

(Your crow friend scolded the twins before when they pretended to bump on it while they were showing you around.)

A snow globe.

(The little dragon doesn’t seem to mind the snow falling on its scales, asleep on top of the blanket of white powder.)

They said that your dragon is dormant.

It is a very kind term to use for someone who has been asleep ever since the beginning of early winter, for over half a month, and even the best doctors that the twins and everyone in Onychinus managed to find only shook their heads, his kind already a rarity making them difficult to study but their theories are almost the same after hearing what happened-

-His body was so exhausted that it decided to put him in a deep slumber.

Were you terrified? At first, before the doctors came in, especially when he had not woken up even when a day had already passed by.

Are you still terrified? It bothers you when you don’t see him that your father had you take a vacation, taking over the full operations of the shop after hiring temporary help.

Even then, you still find yourself sewing, to pass time while waiting.

“Good morning, Mister Dragon,” you greeted softly, opening the door to where your dragon is fast asleep, then announcing your name, “Your tailor in a holiday break is here.”

It took you five strides to reach his bedside and Daisy perched on top of the headboard, watching you set down the basin at the side table before pulling your chair quietly.

It is routine at this point, waking up, getting ready, checking if he is still fast asleep, and then doing chores before returning to his side when the sun sets.

“You must be having a wonderful dream,” you spoke softly, dabbing the warm cloth on his head, cleaning him up. Every now and then, he would stir and you noticed stray droplets bother him so you make sure to squeeze excess water from the cloth harder first, “I hope you remember them when you wake up so you can tell me.”

Of course, you never expect an answer from him but you were told speaking to him would help and from there, you and the twins explore creative ways to interact with him, hoping your words will reach your dragon soaring through the wide skies of his colorful dreams.

How many vinyl records have you put on?

You are almost through the first box but more are waiting to be played at the foot of his bed.

How many tapes of films have you watched?

Too many, sometimes you fall asleep halfway through and sometimes you don’t, pointing at the clothes of the characters you love to him.

How many times have you winded up your music box?

More than ten, every morning and evening and you wonder if he is also in the same field of red wildflowers, gazing at the blue horizon after a tiring flight.

“Are you having a long journey there?”, you continued, and you smiled when water clung on his hair and on his eyelashes, “I am sure you have many friends there. Dragons just like you.”

He never gave away his dreams, only soft breathing escaping his lips, sometimes a smile and then his slumber continues.

You always made sure to change the bandages wrapped around his shattered horn after, setting the used ones beside the small flower pot in the bedside table where you planted the antler you have shed but you haven’t quite decided yet which flower to grow beside it.

If you had enough time, you believe you would have been able to salvage those pots with your and your father’s antlers before the fire of your old shop.

Those plants would be taller by now and they would have been very lovely to look at once work day ends, towers of greens and colorful blooms thriving together with your old antlers.

Once your dragon wakes up, you will give him the choice which seed you should plant for this one.

A tradition among deer hybrids commonly reserved for close family and-

Just the thought of calling him your mate is making you blush.

“You should wake up before spring, at least,” you hummed, a lopsided smile on your face from your earlier silly thought while making sure the new bandages are secured and then fixing the good luck ribbon tied around his remaining horn, “Every creature wakes up when winter ends.”

The morning routine ends with you pressing a kiss on his forehead after brushing his hair and you make sure he is covered by his blankets and the curtains are closed before  leaving with Daisy to continue your work.

The twins and a few people from Onychinus are too kind when they give you a room where you can continue projects you have brought with you, ones where your clients are very specific that you should be the one making and not the temporary help your father hired.

You always start working on the request of the man you had always held close to your heart, his form always hidden from the shadows.

Mr. Sylus.

He has been very clear from the start that he wanted you to be the one tailoring his clothes when he requests a set from your shop and of course, you still abide by it.

Saying his name with an honorific sounds strange.

It was supposed to be a shot in the dark, a guess where your favorite visitor will just laugh off and pinch your cheek after.

“You should consider being a comedian, sweetie.”

Those are the words you were expecting to hear from him but even then, the red good luck ribbon that tied the wreath said otherwise, as if it was intentionally left there.

A clue.

A hint.

An answer already spelled out.

The man you clothed to shape the image he wants with your own hands.

(He is always the man of the hour in every party, your clients recount.)

The man who answered your notes with gifts, all wrapped in perfect bows.

(He doesn’t spare a single penny, does he?, a voice in your head whispers while you pull the ribbon to reveal the latest surprise.)

The man who sat beside you until the late afternoons, holding the spool while you gathered the yarn that Daisy accidentally toppled over.

(His lips seemed to always quirk slightly in amusement every time you called him ‘Skye’.)

The game is nearing its end and you can still recall your reflection on the mirror of your small vanity table the morning after your little adventure in the museum when you hang the crown of flowers together with all your trinkets.

Curiosity.

Surprise.

Finally, realization.

The last piece of the puzzle to complete the picture.

The events after confirmed everything. How every hybrid in Onychinus tended to him, tended to you .

A bodyguard wouldn’t get that much special treatment.

Sylus.

Two syllables. Easy to say, easy to remember. A sharp inhale for the first and a continuous release for the last, a decrescendo, a dropping beat. Sy-lus: A soft sigh ending with a hiss, reminiscent of a kiss, and of a postponed promise. Foreign to your tongue, yet rolls quickly for the rest. A name for a face, a name to be unique, a face to recollect.

To others, he had always been Sylus. 

Over his business meetings and the coat on his shoulders barely moved by the cold breeze, on the dotted line, an elusive creature that will show its face when called by its name and even then his appearance is a gamble, he will always be Sylus, distant, watchful, untouchable.

To you, he had always been Skye. 

Over his visits and his sleeves rolled up, his coat left hanging on the armchair, he is simply Skye, under the warm sodium lights of each sentries by the road that herald his come and go that reached your little paradise through the windows, your antlers grazing against his horns, he has always been Mister Dragon and you will always be his Miss Deer.

His real name ricochets through every four walls of every building you have stepped inside and even in this room where it is just you and your crow friend putting together clothes, his true name stayed, your mind repeating it, trying to overwrite the one syllable into two and every attempt, never a success, only one question stood.

Why?

“Oh, I didn’t realize-”, you blinked, the urgent beep coupled with the flapping of wings from your crow friend cut your thoughts short and you noticed that the bobbin had already been refilled.

Your gaze moved at the fabrics, already cut, waiting to be joined together and become a suit for the incoming Spring Festival that your dragon will attend but maybe, today is not the day their wish will be granted.

It's not good to use Mister Sewing Machine if your mind is wandering.

“How about we just do our wolf plushies today, Daisy?”, you suggested and you picked up the basket where your project is waiting and that’s how your day went, your crow friend plucking the polyester filling for you while you rolled it in your hands, the two wolf puppies finally taking shape.

“Do you think he will wake up soon?”, you asked the twins when you set the two wolf plushies near your sleeping dragon.

It was already evening when they have arrived back to check on you and the boss and even with your gentle smile, they always caught the scent of sadness-

-Of longing.

Slightly wilted wildflowers, waiting for the sun, for the rain, and of cotton gathering dust.

“He probably gobbled up so many bad humans that he needs to sleep to digest them,” Luke joked and that earned him a slap in the arm by his brother and a sharp peck from Daisy.

“I think we just need to give him more time,” Kieran answered, and if you ask him, the boss does stay up for days, perhaps this is also his body’s way of forcing him to rest, “He will be fine, miss.”

A warm embrace, and the two of them sit near your legs while you knit scarves for all of them until one by one, you all have closed your eyes, drifting off until only the embers of the fireplace and the sound of the vinyl player remain in the dragon’s chamber containing all of his dreams he is keeping for himself.

On Sylus’ bedside, his odd family awaits.

────────────────────

He was a very lonely dragon.

A sudden crash through the forest, ungraceful, and maybe that is because of the arrows and spears that managed to lodge themselves between his scales that he is very wary of every forest creature that tries to approach him, snapping at them, all of them cowering back in fear.

As they should, everyone does with his sharp teeth.

“Mister Dragon, that’s not a nice way to make friends,” a voice came in, gentle and polite, and his eyes immediately landed at you.

The only thought that came in his mind back then were three words.

“You are beautiful.”

A soft laughter escaped your lips, a sound he wanted to hear more, and he realized he might have blurted it out loud when he noticed the used to be frightened forest creatures giggling, whispering among themselves that this mean dragon isn’t so mean at all, making his large tail swished in annoyance, and maybe slight embarrassment.

It was an unlikely friendship.

You who almost look like a human but not really, not with antlers growing on your head, your soft deer ears and short tail, and he relished how you leaned against his body during your afternoon naps, after sewing little clothes for those forest creatures.

A cat wearing a bow tie.

A fox with a cape around its neck.

A goose with a bandana on.

These forest friends of yours frolicking about in human clothing.

“How can we make you friendly, Mister Dragon?”

It was a question you asked him once during those lazy afternoons and his snout pressed against the side of your neck, sighing softly as he took in the scent of cotton and wildflowers, before he answered.

“Are you saying I look hideous, little doe?”

Sylus does enjoy teasing you and you always misinterpret his words as you are quick to apologize, kissing his snout and he knows it is a very underhanded but effective tactic because you always grant him these little gestures.

“I think you are very good-looking.”

If you leaned closer, his body grew extra warmer on your words and he only chuckled at your compliment then you continued.

“Yet, I think a crown would be fitting for a magnificent dragon who worked hard in protecting our forest.”

“Precious metals would only weigh heavy in my head, sweetheart. It will make the knights who always mistake you for a missing princess more determined to cut my head off.”

“Oh, I have a different idea in mind.”

A flower crown worthy of his name, as you said.

Every forest creature brought the best flower across the land to your forest after you announced your plan, all of them unique, and you braid the wreath with him, day and night.

It is almost done with one flower remaining to be picked and only him can bring it back to you.

“Take care, Mister Dragon.”

“I’ll be back before the first flower blooms, little doe.”

His wings shook the trees, the flowers that spread across the grove as he pierced the skies with the air gradually getting thinner, the region becoming colder and colder but he is one to always push through all odds.

Relentless.

Determined.

Unwavering.

The flight was only half of his journey and Sylus had finally landed on the highest peaks of the harsh mountain ranges of this land. With his claws, he had scaled through the rough terrain and his sense of smell is useless for this particular flower native only to this land but his vision is certainly helpful, his eyes darting back and forth looking for the bloom his precious deer described to him before he left.

“Woolly, like a sheep,” you said, and you held up a sheep wandering close to you for him to see and the lamb let out an indignant huff before you let her go then you pointed at the twinkling night sky and the moon, “And silver, like the stars.”

The star of the glacier.

The lion’s foot.

The mountain flower, Edelweiss.

It was fragile, small, and when he was about to slowly uproot it with his large claws, he was met with blinding light and a surprise.

In place of his claws are hands.

Human hands.

The same hands he used to quickly check his face and then his body.

He is not very impressed with this prank but at least his horns and tail stayed, even when they seemed to also shrink to accommodate this new form and oddly enough one thought came to his head even if he should be certainly alarmed at the fact the journey back to your forest will be more perilous and longer.

You and him are almost the same.

With these arms, he can pull you closer.

With these legs, he can tangle them with yours every time both of you call it a day under the night sky in your endless field of red wildflowers.

With these hands, he can hold your face and brush his nose against yours.

A window of opportunity.

He can do so much with this body and with the flower he put inside a makeshift pot he had crafted from the rocks nearby he only then made his descent, his thoughts filled with you and him, dancing together, rolling on the grass together, and-

-He had to stop himself from his train of thought after a particular image came to mind, not when it drifted to the shape of your lips when you laugh, not when he remember the many times humans who passed by your forest often pressing theirs together under the cover of the tall trees when they thought they are alone.

Greed.

Sylus is all too familiar with what greed is and he knows he is one when his desire was also to do the same to you especially when he found out you do those gestures to people close to you.

Surely, you wouldn’t mind if he asks nicely, right?

He is already reciting his question, revising it many times while he follows the path down the cold mountain and the travel that should take him a week or maybe longer was cut in half, not when he is too eager to see you soon.

“Sweetie, we should do what the humans do.” 

(No, that doesn’t sound polite.)

“I am home and I brought it back, sweetheart. Can I have a reward?”

(Not that one either. He doesn’t want it to look like he does these little favors just so he can get a treat after.)

“Your kisses always land on the wrong spots, little doe.”

(That will just make you confused. Not like you can directly kiss him before when he was a dragon.)

His thoughts were cut short when he heard a sound nearby. It was faint, and he can say that he is fortunate he was able to keep his sharp senses because he can clearly recognize the sound a few distant away from the foot of the mountain he is currently standing.

He should have turned away but he chose not to, not when he heard barks, laughter and-

-Music.

You love those and since you do, he also loves it as well.

It should have been a quick look, just to see what the ruckus is all about only to be met by the most surreal sight.

If he looked closely, did the sky above him have a ceiling with a faint fracture?

Two wolf cubs, each covered with a white blanket and their pointed ears and tails poking out. Whoever made these little alterations, they kept in mind that the fabric will not drag to the ground every time these two rowdy cubs run around chasing butterflies or walk by the lake to take in the scent of freshwater and paw at unsuspecting fishes.

These two wolf cubs, running around, playfully snapping at each other’s tails, and-

-A wooden box with a spinning large disc on top and a golden horn that produces a pleasant sound yet, a voice, certainly his, points to him it is called a vinyl player.

Why does he know what it is called?

“Hey, what are you looking at?!”, one of the wolf cubs barked at him, his tail puffed upon noticing his presence.

“Mind your own business, mister! We found this first!”, the other cub exclaimed, and Sylus doesn’t need to see what is under the blanket to know they are baring their teeth at him.

Luke and Kieran.

Why did those names come to mind when he gaze at these annoying wolf cubs who accused him of stealing their loot?

Sylus doesn’t need that wooden box with a spinning disc (The same prideful voice corrects him again that it is called a vinyl player which he ignores) when you love his singing voice anyways.

“You can keep your box,” he answered and he turned around, a clear sign that is supposed to mean that his curiosity is satiated and he is done with the conversation but the two wolf cubs said otherwise.

“Hey, why do you look like that, mister?”

“That’s not how good and cool boys ask questions, Luke.”

“Right, Kieran. Hey, where did you get those horns and tails, mister?”

“That’s better,” the other wolf cub responded and Sylus doesn’t have to check that these two, who oddly wear the same names that came to his head,  is following him-

-No, stalking him.

“Did no one teach both of you manners?”, Sylus answered, and one of his eyes twitched when one of the wolf cubs tried to snap at his tail, the sharp teeth almost grazing his scales.

“Manners? What’s that?”, the more energetic of the two asked and Sylus shot that one a glare when he noticed he was midway on biting his tail again.

“Oh, I know that one, Mister,” the calmer of the two replied, and he seemed to get the hint that the odd human is not pleased with his brother’s antics so he gently shove his body against his twin chasing the tip of Sylus’ tail, “Those are set of rules good and cool boys follow.”

Why are these two very set on becoming something they don’t even exactly know how to be?

Sylus chose not to answer, his eyes forward and that should have been a clear indicator that he wanted to be on his way alone but these two wolf cubs have decided that he is more interesting over the wooden box they found earlier.

“So, mister, what brings you here?”

“Did you also come here to see the miss’ dragon?”

“We have been waiting for him down here but it looks like he is taking his sweet time up there.”

“We are planning to ask him if he can teach us to be good and cool boys!”, Kieran piped and every time they say those last words, their goal, Sylus noticed both of them seemed to vibrate in excitement just at the thought of becoming one, their tails wagging harder.

“Go find another teacher,” he said instead, making his strides longer but that didn't seem to deter the two despite their short legs who somehow managed to catch up on him.

“Hey mister this isn’t a contest. I am sure he can teach all three of us,” Luke huffed, keeping up with him.

“Yeah, no need to be so selfish,” Kieran added, who was panting as Sylus increased his walking speed.

“Teach the two of you,” Sylus corrected them both, rolling his eyes, “I don’t take students.”

He doesn’t have time for that, not when he has the entire forest to look after that needs him back as soon as possible, not when he has a lovely deer who he will devote his remaining free time to.

That made the two wolf cubs halt and they both looked at each other at this odd human with horns and tail of a dragon carrying a flower.

He was about to sigh in relief when he heard them bursted into laughter behind him.

“What’s so funny?”, Sylus asked, annoyed and his eyes narrowed at the two wolf cubs now rolling on the ground, their laughter mixed with barks.

“Just because you have horns and a tail doesn’t make you the miss’ dragon!”

“Yeah, who are you trying to fool here, weird human?”

“You aren’t her dragon. We’ve seen him!”

“Liar!”, they both said in unison.

Liar.

That word shouldn’t hurt as much but it did.

It certainly did when your face was the first that came to mind, your delicate hands with a bandage around one of your fingers, and your clothes rustling, the soft orange light bathing you in a room filled with the humming of machines and colorful fabrics.

“What brings you here today-”

Skye.

Why are you calling him by a different name?

“I am her dragon,” Sylus said, each word punctuated with his stride and he picked up one of the wolf cubs by the scruff of the neck gentle but firm, “I have never lied to anyone and never will so take that back.”

“Hey, put him down!”, the one still on the ground said, pawing at his leg and if he isn’t holding a flower, he would have lifted this one too just so they both get the point.

“T-the blanket!”, the one in the air exclaimed, horrified when the white blanket slowly slipped away, and his paws reached up to cover his snout, anything that would reveal his face.

“We take it back!”, the other twin cried together with his brother, “We take it back! We believe you!”

Scars.

Clearly inflicted by someone with something sharp.

Wounds that never healed, hidden by white blankets so both of them will still be identical.

Maybe he has been too harsh at these two wolf cubs without a pack.

“Now, Mister Dragon, don’t forget, we have small friends living here too.”

Your soft reprimand echoed in his mind when he accidentally toppled over a rabbit, breaking their leg by accident during a brief scuffle with bandits who thought they could come into your home and take you away.

Right, you wouldn’t be too happy when you see him being too harsh with these wolf cubs.

Sylus put down the sniffling wolf cub beside his twin, the two were quick to lick each other’s tears, and just so they understand that he is sorry , he tugged the blanket and made sure it covered the face the twin was so ashamed to show.

“Go home,” Sylus sighed, and he gave their ears a scratch, hesitant, trying to mimic what you do to your forest friends who end up crying over the simplest things.

“But we don’t have a home.”

“We just followed you here.”

Would you leave them here?

No, he doesn’t think so, not when you welcome every animal that finds your forest, no matter how fearsome they are, with open arms.

“I don’t want to hear you two complaining on my way back,” Sylus answered and their ears perked up, their tails wagging and suddenly, the little incident earlier is forgotten at the fact that the dragon turned odd human is letting them tag along.

“Really?!”, Luke asked, he and his twin back on their feet, “Does that mean you will teach us too?”

“No.”

“If you won’t teach us, then we will be your henchmen, boss,” Kieran piped in, matching his stride. “Learn on the job!”

“Don’t call me that.”

“Come on, boss, we’re really good at a lot of stuff! Sniffing, biting, you name it!”, Luke added and his brother joined in, listing down their other abilities (Peculiar ones too. Fixing burnt rice?)

Perhaps Sylus is wrong.

This journey is going to be more than long.

────────────────────

“This is really difficult to do.” 

Luke complained and you chuckled softly when he let you take a look at his progress, his brother hard at work beside him, focused on knitting the cuff of the sock he is working on.

“It doesn’t look promising at first but it will all come together,” you smiled, adjusting the slight gaps between his stitches before handing it back to him who eagerly examined your fix before picking where he left off.

It is getting colder, the neck scarves that the twins used to wear for you are now replaced by red woolen scarves you have knitted yourself, the fabric tied around their necks like a bow and every person who dare tell them they look silly always earn a good shower of threats from them, not when it was you who put it on to them before they leave during the mornings.

You watch over Luke and Kieran huddled together, sitting on the floor by the foot of the bed where your dragon is currently sleeping, all three of you opting to come closer to the fireplace to have a better view of your little projects.

The usual energy they brought with them becomes more tamed when they are focused, only speaking when exchanging notes over their progress or asking for your help. Maybe, winter has a special effect on hybrids like you with all of you being at your most docile self, conserving energy once spring arrives.

The red yarn you are using stretches through the entire mattress, moving by a centimeter every time you put one loop through your knitting needles and then repeat. There is still one last scarf you are working on and its owner is right beside you, still in a deep slumber.

Every now and then, the chimes you and the twins hang on his bedpost sway gently, making faint little notes and earlier, it was an orchestra with Daisy pulling all of them in rapid succession, a little mischief recently it does believing your dragon would wake up due to annoyance.

Anything, just to wake him up before spring arrives.

“Feeling sleepy, Daisy?”, you asked, noticing that your crow friend is huddling near the plushies lined up on the other side of your favorite visitor, and if it stayed still, it is almost similar to the crow plushie it is sitting next to.

It only lets out a beep and perhaps mechanical crows also need to rest when its eyes slowly close but you watch it stand up, fixing the yarn for you and you know it doesn’t want to miss out on anything especially when the twins are around.

“That’s right, fall asleep so all the kisses supposed to be yours will go to us, bird.”

“All the pats, all the hugs, hey-”

Your odd little crow was quick to retaliate, their words waking it up and it tried to peck at them, chastising them and the twins ran around, ducking across all the furniture and jumping over boxes scattered inside the room while you clap, cheering for both sides, the projects you are working on set aside.

Does your laughter reach him in his dreams?

The list of your questions grows as day turns into night, the twins making themselves comfortable at the foot of the bed, tired, all curled up and you set aside the socks they are working on in your basket of yarn.

“Perhaps we should make yours longer,” you mumbled, still awake even when the rest is already asleep, wrapping the scarf around his neck to check.

This silly, silly liar.

This silly, silly dragon.

This silly, silly hero.

Making plans with you, bringing maelstrom upon those who hurt you, and then falling into a deep slumber, here but not quite.

“You lie so gently,” you laughed softly, brushing your nose against his and your tears began to fall into his cheek that you are quick to remove, remembering stray droplets of water bothers him, your fingers grazing his cheek.

Nice and friendly dragons don’t lie yet maybe they do, if that is what it takes to be held close, to be loved and maybe it was greed, selfishness, that drove him to wear such a flimsy mask that took you time to see through.

“Wake up soon,” you said, and this time, perhaps it is longing, a sadness, that you nuzzled your nose against his hair, taking in the scent of fresh blankets and faint cinder.

“I’ll forgive all of your silly, white lies.”

Your soft sobs slowly quiet down, all of you falling asleep at any space around him and you hold the almost finished scarf close to your chest and it might be a cause for celebration but everyone has fallen asleep at this point, failing to notice the subtle sign that the dragon soaring through the skies has finally heard your voices all the way down.

Still unconscious, Sylus’ finger gently hooked itself around the thin red thread of the yarn.

On Sylus’ bedside, his odd family awaits.

────────────────────

He was a very lonely dragon.

At least, that was before and this journey isn’t so bad with two little wolf cubs following you around, making interesting observations and watching them come up with different ways to entertain themselves is something he is looking forward to telling you when he sees you again.

“I spy with my little eye,” Luke hummed, his gaze roaming up towards the sky and then added, “A sheepie!”

“But I don’t smell one right now,” Kieran answered, his snout raised up in the air to take in the scent of the forest.

Good noses.

These two have ridiculously good noses that actually impressed him.

They also make for good compasses, being in this form made Sylus realized that the terrain is much more different on the ground than up in the air and there are many times he almost made a wrong turn but the two are quick to steer him back to the right direction.

“Hey boss, that way is going to the desert.”

“The world is a bit different now that you aren’t flying, huh?”

“I’ll map everything out once I get back,” Sylus answered, giving them a brief nod and their tails wagged faster because of the acknowledgement, the game they were playing earlier now forgotten.

“Can we help?”

“We will carry your things for you!”

He doubts those small bodies can take on much weight and again, you wouldn’t be too happy when you see two wolf cubs used as horses.

If anything, he had a foresight that these two will always be at your side any chance they get.

“Come on, boss, say yes,” Kieran said and the two started to do this tactic again where they would weave between his legs.

“We’re very strong.”

“You’re still way stronger than us though.”

There they are again with this self-promotion that would have worked if they weren't unintentionally making him trip and he secured the flower pot on his arms closer to him, the woolly petals still vibrant despite the long journey, its color brighter under the sunlight passing the leaves of the tall trees scattered on the borders of your forest.

Every now and then, small creatures pass by, barely making a sound, and even the breathing of larger ones are overwhelmed by the rustle of the fallen leaves carried by the gentle breeze, the chorus of birds, all familiar except a particular faint sound.

No, collection of sounds, resounding.

If he looked closely, did the sky above him have a ceiling with a growing fracture?

“Hey boss, that’s not the right way,” Luke pointed out, noticing Sylus turning in a different direction but they followed him, curious why the dragon who is very insistent on getting to you as soon as possible is deviating from the road where you are waiting.

Sylus just had to check, every unfamiliar sound is a cause for action. A ringing, tinkling, even harmonious as it could be, means swords being sharpened from a distance.

Did those humans think they could come for you just because he isn’t around?

Only, he is met with the strangest sight.

Chimes, hanging on every branch, and they all grow in number as they venture deeper, the road leading to a cliff and at the edge, a small belfry.

Of course, the two wolf cubs did not find this odd at all when they are sounding each chime they can reach one by one and with all this ruckus, he is sure that all the forest creatures are making their way to you already to file a complaint, even if they have to take a long journey to the heart of the forest.

“Must you two ring every single one of them?”, he asked, slightly exasperated, and two wolf cubs wagged their tails, the wet snowflakes from the trees’ branches falling on his cheeks but faded away just as fast.

“Not really, but they make the nicest sound!”, Luke said, jumping over his brother’s back to pull the rope of a chime hanging on a particularly higher branch.

“You should ring the ones you can reach, boss,” Kieran suggested, and this time, he rang one of the chimes beside him, “We might get a prize!”

Then, he knew that the small belfry certainly is the most enticing among all of them because the two immediately went for it, running towards it and he had to put the flower pot aside just so he could hold both of them under his arms.

“Oh, we get it!”

“You want to ring the most important looking of them all!”

“All yours, boss!”, they said in unison.

Sylus rolled his eyes but it only took him a few strides until he was standing in front of the small belfry and while turning away is indeed an option, he knows the twins would pester him with all their might.

“I wonder what that bell would have sounded if you rang it.”

Your possible words echoed in his head if he recounts this story to you after his return and he would hate to disappoint that one of his stories doesn’t have a definite conclusion.

“Fine, let’s see if this one will get you both a prize,” he sighed and he reached out to ring the lone bell by the edge of the cliff.

If this grove of chimes is an ensemble, then this bell is certainly the conductor because the rest stop making a sound, the toll of this one resonating across the trees and further beyond the boundaries of your forest.

It continues its solo, the clapper hitting the lip in an equal interval until finally, it comes into a halt.

Then, silence.

“Where’s the prize?”, Luke asked.

“Maybe the prize is the friends we make along the way-”, Kieran replied only for his words to be cut off, the ground shaking, and Sylus stepped back further from the small belfry, closer to where he left the flower pot.

Might as well see this until the end.

A rumble, the finale of the bell’s overture, and then-

-A loud aria akin to a songbird.

The singer perched by the edge of the cliff, a giant crow carrying a red thread on its beak that it dropped to caw at them loudly, certainly annoyed at being summoned.

“Since when did Mephisto grow so large?”

The same prideful voice, certainly his, mused in his head (and thoroughly finding the strange sight hilarious) and the crow tilted its head side to side, studying him and the two wolf cubs before letting out a loud caw once again, shaking the trees and sounding all the chimes at the same time, as if telling them it is clearly busy and if they need anything, they should get on with it.

“See, I told you!”, Kieran exclaimed, wagging his tail and still under Sylus’ arm.

“I never thought I would see such a large chicken,” Luke said, awed and Sylus had to take another step back because clearly, Luke’s way of inspecting new discoveries is by snapping his teeth at them.

The crow let out a series of beeps and caws that oddly enough, Sylus managed to piece together, begrudgingly telling them if they need a ride to the home of the deer and her dragon living in this forest, then it will give them just that.

“She is clearly busy knitting a scarf for her beloved but if you want to disturb her like the rest, then go ahead.”

Yet, those words lingered in Sylus’ mind and his eyes landed on the red thread that the giant crow was carrying.

It was helping you put together the scarf you are making for him, expecting him to indeed return before spring, at least in the last days of winter.

“I am her beloved,” Sylus corrected the crow, letting the two wolf cubs hang on his shoulders while he picked up the flower pot, the mountain flower swaying gently against the cold breeze, “And I intend to fulfill my words to her.”

The giant crow just cackled, letting Sylus hold on to its feet before picking up the red thread on its beak.

“Right, odd human, try telling that in front of her dragon.”

With its large wings that almost covered the winter sun, it took flight and the two wolf cubs hanging on his shoulders huddled closer to him for warmth against the cold breeze, howling in excitement.

This journey is finally nearing its end.

────────────────────

“Sylus.”

How many times have you repeated his name in front of the bathroom mirror of this home only to end up blushing?

Addressing him without the honorific sounds impolite despite you and him spending so much time together.

You mostly do these little ‘practices’ as you called it by the balcony, not by his bed because it would be embarrassing for your favorite visitor to wake up and see you using the deer puppet to talk to the dragon puppet acting as his stand-in.

There were already hints, breadcrumbs left behind just for you.

Expensive watches with various designs.

Leather shoes crafted by artisans.

Vehicles with sleek exterior imported from other countries.

Every visit, they change, all of them unique but you always pass them off, convinced that Mr. Sylus is an extremely generous employer and an understanding one too because there are many times that your favorite visitor stayed longer than he should inside your studio.

“You’re a funny man, Mr. Sylus,” you sighed, gazing at the dragon puppet sitting on a chair across from you then you shook your head, correcting yourself, “I mean, Sylus.”

The two syllables tumbled out of your mouth haphazardly, not when a lopsided smile is forming in your face every time you say his real name.

His intentions had always been pure, his actions are clear and you can never harbor anger towards the man who started this charade.

Mr. Sylus’ life has been foreign to you but you are aware he is a very powerful man and he could have everything in the world and more, his tower of treasures reaching the heavens yet your simple question of ‘why’ is much complex.

Why choose an ordinary seamstress? 

(You only know how to sew clothes. The fabric scissors are a tool to cut through clothes, not enemies. The needle to repair tears, not inflict pain.)

Why did he lie? 

(Afraid. Perhaps predator hybrids are all too familiar with all kinds of fear, the fear of rejection always so common, and he, the strongest of them all, is most likely expecting you to flee if you know his real name.)

Why is he afraid? 

(He has always been brave in your eyes but his request, no, a plea, for you to close your eyes on that fateful day says differently.)

“Miss Deer, we’re back!”

Luke’s voice carried all the way to the balcony from the entrance hall and you stood up, brushing your apron and then pointing your puppet at the dragon puppet.

“Let’s talk more later,” you said and then you added, the syllables as always, a little lopsided, “Sylus.”

You picked up the dragon puppet, removing yours and walking towards the living room to find the twins setting down all the shopping they have brought with him the usual stack of papers pending your dragon’s signature, the pile growing larger as each day passes by in his deep slumber.

“Your husband is still asleep?” Louis greeted you and you immediately grew red, covering your face with the two puppets and looking away.

Aside from the twins, a few select members of Onychinus, the doctors, Louis, and the older lion hybrid are the only people allowed to come by and visit this place, dropping off important items, often for him, but sometimes for you.

“Now, Louis, Mr. Sylus wouldn’t be too happy if you are the one making the miss blush and not him,” the older lion hybrid chided the young male deer hybrid who only rolled his eyes, and your eyes darted at the familiar package he left at the counter.

That package is certainly from your favorite bakery and you are also sure your father had them sent it to you on his behalf.

“What do you think the two of them are doing when alone in her studio?”, Louis pointed out while you slowly inch closer to check the contents of the box, recognizing the scent of strawberries, not minding his remarks.

“Hey, our boss is nothing but a gentleman!”, Luke exclaimed.

“They talk, that's what they do!”, Kieran added and Daisy also beeped in agreement.

“Right and oddly enough they both carry each other’s scents,” Louis replied and then you only halt your step when he turns his attention to you.

Maybe you should retract your newest impression of him because you are finding him quite rude.

The male deer hybrid had been counting days, of course, and while N109 zone is still in the same state (A state of chaos that’s its default by now) several of the prey hybrids expressed concerns to him that Sylus laying dormant means a temporary power vacuum and while everyone is still cowering on the dark, he is sure they will step out one by one and fight over his empire.

That dragon really had to wake up soon because all of his allies can only handle so much.

“You,” Louis said, looking at you as if you hold the key to this current dilemma.

“Me?”, you asked, tilting your head.

“Yes, you,” Louis started, frowning,  “Who else? Anyways, have you exhausted all of the possible options of waking your husband up?”

Why does he keep referring to your favorite visitor as your husband? You can’t even call him by his real name yet.

“I-”, you opened your mouth but the twins were quick to intervene.

“She talks to him day and night if that’s what satisfies you.”

“She’s taking care of him and even the doctors said to wait it out.”

“Louis, you are putting unnecessary pressure over the miss here,” the older lion hybrid added, standing at your side but the male deer hybrid shook his head, in thought.

Talk. These two are claiming you talk to Sylus but he believes that the dragon hybrid might need a more potent medicine than that.

“I also sing to him,” you said softly, looking down on your feet and your ears drooping slightly.

Perhaps there are other options you haven't tried but your favorite visitor’s room is overflowing with trinkets at this point with the number of ideas you and the twins are coming up with.

“Hear that?”, the lion hybrid chuckled when he saw Louis sighed in frustration while the twins comforted you, telling you to not mind the grumpy deer, “Everyone is doing their best. The next step lies with Sylus.”

These people throw around his real name so easily it is making you slightly envious and your eyes lingered at the package with a handwritten note clearly from your father.

Once your favorite visitor wakes up, you and him should have tea and cake just like you always do.

“If all options fail, perhaps you should take a page of how fairy tales are written,” Louis grumbled, setting the rest of the boxes with your name in it on top of the counter, clearly gifts from your neighbors.

“Fairy tales?”

“I think the boss misses your voice. It is time for his evening music anyways,” Kieran is quick to cut, shooting a glare towards the male deer hybrid before he and his brother guided you gently towards the room where your dragon is sleeping.

Your eyes lingered at the pastry box but followed them anyway and you hope they don’t forget to put it in the refrigerator later or else the icing might not be as good if left out overnight.

“Don’t mind him,” Kieran said when you stepped inside the room, always very diligent as he already pulled the usual chair for you to sit, “You shouldn’t be forced to take unnecessary measures.”

“We can still handle it even without the boss,” Luke added.

They don’t need to tell you but you count the number of tears their clothes have every time they return here, steadily increasing, how their sleeps are deeper, how they stayed longer than usual inside the bathroom fixing their wounds, and you know that the N109 zone will need more than two wolf boys to keep everything at bay.

“You’re nice boys,” you smiled, your hands reaching up to pat their heads. “Both of you have always been.”

Their tails wagged in delight, stooping slightly so you wouldn’t strain yourself.

Your approval is more than enough for them to keep going.

“You think so?”

“I think so.”

You scratched their pointed ears and they hugged you tight around your waist, their tails wagging faster and your eyes wandered to your sleeping dragon.

His eyes still closed, yet every now and then it flutters.

His remaining horn, pointed as ever, and you look forward where you and his grows back.

His forehead, his cheeks, places where you have gifted him many kisses hoping he will receive it in his field of dreams.

And then, his lips,-

-You have finally understood Louis’ suggestion.

Naive as you can be, you know there are kisses that shouldn’t be granted without the other person’s permission.

In Sylus’ bedside, his odd family awaits.

────────────────────

He was a very lonely dragon.

Hitching a ride with a giant crow certainly cut his journey short and in the distance, he caught a glimpse of the clearing, the endless field of red wildflowers now covered with a thin layer of snow.

An oasis, a paradise and ahead is his precious deer, always so patient.

Dealing with the two wolf cubs was bearable but a bird who constantly pokes fun of his identity? If they weren’t so high up and if it wasn’t helping you knit, he will certainly show this bird he is indeed your dragon who went on a journey.

All Sylus wants to do now is to hand you the mountain flower, take a long rest with you in his arms, and-

-Right, the question .

These three have been bothering him that he hasn’t even been able to reword his request, aware that he can’t hold your face and press his lips against yours.

He is a fiend but he is better than that.

“You live here, boss?”

“There are so many new things I don’t know which one to sniff first!”

The moment they landed, the two wolf cubs already had their snouts pressed against the ground, taking in the new scents and it is not difficult to miss them even when they are wearing white blankets because of their dark tails poking above the snow.

The giant crow cawed at him for one last time, snobbish before it wagged its tail feathers in a flourish, before picking up the red thread it was carrying, looking for you.

Even with the different surroundings, Sylus knows where to look for you and with the mountain flower but perhaps the long red thread of the scarf you are knitting for him helped.

That scarf could have been a blanket now considering he isn’t technically a dragon anymore.

Snowflakes clung on his hair, his lashes and those that fall into his cheeks melt quickly and it is home.

Home is where the red wildflowers grow.

Home is where you and him stand in the field of flowers, listening to the voices of this land.

Home is where your soul is.

There you are, huddled against your forest friends, bears, deer, foxes, and even that giant crow managed to beat him on finding you first, your arms already wrapped around it.

Your deer ears flick the falling snow, and your breathing was easy.

The sacred deer of the forest, waiting, always waiting, for her dearest to return from a far-off land.

He is home.

His hand, his human hand, reached out to brush the small braid you always wear by the side of your face and you stirred, leaning against the warmth of his palm.

Then, he leaned down, brushing his nose against yours before pulling back, gazing at you fondly as you slowly opened your eyes.

There was a moment of silence, your eyes studying his face and you smiled.

“Now, why are you going around with a new face without telling me?”

“You are the one person who is yet to call me your false dragon, little doe.”

His eyes lingered on the shape of your lips when you laugh, soft and careful not to awaken your friends as he helped you stand up, on your hands is a scarf certainly for him.

“You came home just as you promised.”

Of course he did, and he reached out to hold your hand while you walked through your grove. From a distance, he can hear the two wolf cubs running around, barking happily.

Contented.

Secured.

Safe.

He has always been at peace here and yet-

-The sky above him has a ceiling and slowly, the fissure grows larger.

Was the horizon always like that?

Yet, you were so calm as you examined the mountain flower he had given to you, your delicate hands brushing against the petals.

“Darling.”

He called out softly, and his eyes did not move from you when you tuck the bloom, the prize he had brought all the way from the mountains, behind his ear.

“Yes?”

It was your voice, he is certain and yet when you wrap the thick scarf that pooled on his feet around his neck, your hands lack the certain familiarity when you guide his hand when cutting the fabric.

No words formed, not when he is slowly coming into terms that this is but a distant dream, one of the many, longer than usual and he had overstayed.

All the fragments, his wishes, his desires, his emotions, always converge in one place and in his mind, they always take form of-

You.

“I always have to remind you many times that I am not her.”

You held both of his hands, laughing softly and even with the realization, hearing such a sound always brings a smile on his lips.

“You can’t blame me for that, sweetie, you always make the wait difficult sometimes.”

“You have told me several times.”

“Even then, I can never be angry at you. Not when I am too selfish to end the game.”

“You have always been scared that I would look at you differently if you do.”

A pause.

A hope.

A longing for reassurance.

“Would you?”

“You simply need to hear my answer.”

He was never the guardian of this forest.

Yet this dream, this dream is the most pleasant he has that it convinced him so well, so well of the role he never took and then, perhaps it was the long journey that when you lead him back to the rest of your forest friends, still asleep, he knew he only had a few moments to say goodbye.

The wolf cubs, tired from playing, finally have friends.

The giant crow, content, rests its body beside you.

The dreaming dragon, on your lap, is now ready to return to his true home.

For the finale of his dream, a pleasant awakening awaits.

────────────────────

Was it that Sylus always longs for?

You have never been in his bed, you have never stepped foot on any of his many houses, yet the scent of cotton and wildflowers had always followed him, subtle, gentle, comforting.

When he opened his eyes, everything almost overwhelmed him.

The colors, the sounds, and the scents, all blending together that he had to close his eyes to steady his breath and his heart racing too fast, not when your scent had taken reign among the rest.

“Sy-”

He froze.

“Sy-”

It was a second attempt, trembling but he will always recognize the gentle pitch belonging only to one very special person.

“Sy. Lus.”

A third attempt and he turned around to the source of voice who is once again, trying to pronounce his name, to be more continuous this time.

There you are, sitting by his bedside, clearly aware now that he is awake and you are holding on your apron too hard.

The red dusting your cheeks has always been a wonderful color on you.

His precious deer, too sweet, always trying her best, and his sunrise, the light above your head like a halo.

“There’s my darling.”

Perhaps he had held on your arm too hard, only wanting to look at you closely and maybe brush his nose against yours, just to check if this is the waking world but you stumbled towards him, your chair falling against the floor and were you always this light? Yes, you have always been and only the sense of parting with you, even for just a few hours, have made everything too heavy, too hard to let go.

Here you are, finally taking the place he had reserved just for you.

You were quick to lift the hem of your apron near your face, not when he is too close, hovering above you and the first thing you have thought about is you certainly have not practiced for this outcome with the puppet.

Yes, Sylus is certain this is real and even with his mind still hazy, he knows he still owes you an appointment.

“You sounded almost confident there, sweetie,” he laughed, his voice slightly hoarse, and he rested his forehead against yours, “Let’s try again.”

“Sy-”

You paused, looking at the chimes above his head and lowering your apron.

Your lips have never been this inviting.

“Come on.”

He gently coaxed, his tail flicking in excitement and his smile grew.

“Sylus.”

You said softly and you gasped when he pulled you close, hugging you tight and perhaps his laugh was so infectious that you can’t help but do the same, both of you rolling against the white blankets.

There are many things you want to say, questions you want to ask but with him wide awake, all you want to do is also make sure he is here, talking, laughing.

“Mister Dragon?”

He didn’t say anything, playfully smiling at you as he took your wrist, taking in that familiar scent and the warm touch, making sure this isn’t one of his too pleasant dreams.

“Sylus?”

“Yes, sweetheart?”

“Will it be too much to ask if you keep your eyes open for a bit longer today?”

“Was I asleep for that long?”, he asked but he doesn’t need a confirmation, not when the clock by the bed already answered it for him.

Midnight.

Here you are, still clinging to the waking world, not wanting to miss a moment if he wakes up.

It was a weak nod but Sylus knew you have been waiting patiently, and the many trinkets scattered in the room finally explained the odd elements of his long dream.

“I’ll keep them open for you, little doe.”

“Thank you. I would like that very much.”

“Are there any requests my precious deer wants to ask from me?”

Your deer ears perked up upon realizing you might be imposing on him especially he just woke up but maybe, there is nothing wrong being selfish for once, just for a little favor.

“Will you keep them open even if I fall asleep?”, you asked slowly, trying to keep your eyes wide open, “I am afraid you might take a long nap again.”

“You’re so silly, sweetheart. I had a long rest. I’ll be awake before you”

“But why?”

“Well, I can’t have a guest in my home starving when she wakes up,” he answered, pulling the thick blanket above your heads, “She might not come back anymore to an inhospitable dragon.”

“Oh-”

How could you forget? He was asleep for so long that you haven’t thought that he might be hungry right now.

His eyes widened, watching you slowly unbutton your blouse.

“Now-”, he chuckled, strained when he held your wrist gently to stop you and his gaze may have lingered at the slope of your exposed neck and then at the strap of your bra barely covered by fabric of your blouse, “You don’t need to offer yourself up to me, sweetie. I feel just fine.”

He carefully buttoned your blouse again, taking one last look at the fading mark he had left on that fateful night.

Even with your clothes slightly crumpled, you were true to your word and he has a suspicion you dress up nicely everyday, waiting at his side.

“Are you sure?”

“I have never been sure.”

You hummed in thought and he pressed a kiss on top of your head, chuckling softly.

“You can rest easy now, sweetie.”

“Then you will still be here?”

“I couldn’t fall asleep now, not when you are here beside me, little doe.”

The soft exchange, the little reassurances that he won’t be taking a long nap anytime soon, and all it took was a pinky promise sealed with a kiss when your eyes drooped slowly, tired from your vigil.

His thumb brushes against your bottom lip but that is the closest he can have for now.

When you wake up, it might be his turn to be a little selfish in the morning.

Afterall, would it be too much to ask you to repeat his name a couple more times?

.

.

.

In Sylus' bedside, his family waits no more.

────────────────────

Author's Note: I honestly wanted to write a dream sequence ever since with a mix of surreal undertones (You know how trippy dreams can be.) and I wanted those parts to also be a reflection of Sylus' perspective of this odd game of charade he started between our Miss Deer and him. Did lots of foreshadowing prior to this and here we are!

I am now off playing BG3!

As always, see you in the next update!

AO3

Ch. 1 / Ch. 2 / Ch. 3 / Ch.4 / Ch. 5 / Ch. 6 / Ch. 7 / Ch. 8 / Ch. 9 / Ch. 10 / Side A / Side B

[thecreaturecodex]

Swordkeeper

Image © Paizo Publishing, accessed at Archives of Nethys here

[First new monster of 2025! Which is kind of a shame, because January is almost over. But I have been doing some writing. I'm hoping to get a regular posting schedule going from now on, of twice a week. Key word is hoping]

Swordkeeper CR 10 N Construct This vaguely humanoid construct is made of metal and stone, with four arms and stout legs. Its head is shaped like a helmet and set atop a wide torso. Inside its chest is a blade, chained in place and surrounded with crackling energy.

Swordkeepers are constructs created as both a display case and security system. Each swordkeeper has a component where a weapon can be placed, and the swordkeeper can create force projections of that weapon to use in combat itself. One handed weapons are commonly placed in swordkeepers, the better for the creature to use all four of its arms, but swordkeepers dual-wielding two-handed weapons are not unheard of. Despite the name, a swordkeeper can be used to store axes, hammers, and even polearms. Most swordkeepers store +2 weapons or those of similar levels of enhancement, but even a mundane weapon may be kept in a swordkeeper if it is of particularly significance.

Although they are not sapient, swordkeepers are capable of surprisingly sophisticated tactics, the result of their magical construction. They can respond to changing battlefield conditions by switching from melee to ranged combat, use their raise guard ability to fight defensively if enemies are capable of injuring them, and create a temporary colossal echo to crush massed enemies. Most swordkeepers are given instructions to fight to the death, but some will stand down if badly injured, activate alarms, or even intentionally surrender their central weapons under particular circumstances.

Construction A swordkeeper’s central chamber requires rare crystals for its construction, worth 3000 gp.

Swordkeeper CL 13th; Price 63,000 gp Requirements Craft Construct, geas/quest, mage’s sword, shield, transformation; Skill Craft (metalworking) or Craft (stoneworking) DC 16; Price 38,000 gp

Swordkeeper CR 10 XP 9,600 N Large construct Init +5; Senses darkvision 60 ft., Perception +2

Defense AC 23, touch 14, flat-footed 18 (-1 size, +5 Dex, +9 natural) hp 107 (14d10+30) Fort +4, Ref +9, Will +6 DR 10/adamantine; Immune construct traits Defensive Abilities raise guard

Offense Speed 20 ft. Melee +1 keen longsword +21/+16/+11 (1d8+8/17-20 plus 1d8 force), 3 +1 keen longswords +21 (1d8+4/17-20 plus 1d8 force) Ranged 4 +1 keen longswords +19 (1d8+8/17-20 plus 1d8 force) Space 10 ft.; Reach 10 ft. Special Attacks colossal echo, project echoblade

Statistics Str 25, Dex 20, Con -, Int -, Wis 15, Cha 1 Base Atk +14; CMB +22; CMD 37 Feats Combat Reflexes (B), Improved Vital Strike (B) SQ central weapon,multiweapon mastery, undersized weaponry

Ecology Environment any land and underground Organization solitary, pair or armory (3-6) Treasure double standard (+1 keen longsword)

Special Abilities Central Weapon (Ex/Su) A swordkeeper’s torso houses a single weapon sized for a Medium creature. When the swordkeeper is operational, the chamber can be opened with four Disable Device checks (DC 35), each made as a full round action. A creature that fails this check by 5 or more takes 6d6 points of force damage (Reflex DC 19 halves). If the swordkeeper is grappled, prone or stunned, the DCs of both the Disable Device check and the Reflex save are reduced by 2. If the swordkeeper’s weapon is removed, its echoblades vanish, and it cannot use its colossal echo or project echoblade abilities. The save DC is Wisdom based. Colossal Echo (Su) As a standard action once every 1d4 rounds, a swordkeeper can create a giant force weapon shaped like its central weapon. All creatures in a 30 foot line take 10d8 points of force damage (Reflex DC 19 half). The save DC is Wisdom based. Multiweapon Mastery (Ex) A swordkeeper does not take penalties to attack rolls when fighting with multiple weapons. Project Echoblade (Su) As a swift action, a swordkeeper can create a replica of its central weapon in one of its hands. This weapon acts as its central weapon, including duplicating its magical properties, except that it deals an extra 1d8 force damage and gains the thrown property (range increment 30 ft.). A swordkeeper can have as many as four echoblades at once; echoblades disappear one round after they leave a swordkeeper’s grasp. Raise Guard (Ex) On any round when a swordkeeper makes a full attack action, it can choose not to attack with a echoblade in order to gain a +1 shield bonus to AC (maximum +3). This does not work in conjunction with Vital Strike or similar feats.

[hometoursandotherstuff]

This 1910 home in Springfield, NY is pretty reasonably priced. The large 6bd, 7.5ba house is $539K, but it is soooo maximalist, and it's currently a bed & breakfast. You know how I always wonder about the owner being able to pack it all up and get it out of there. Plus, the millions of holes in the walls. It will continue to operate as a B&B until it is sold.

In the hall they've got an office. Not something you see everyday, even in a bed & breakfast.

Here's one of the sitting areas.

And, it has a dining room.

Cramped 1/2 bath under the stairs.

I'm wondering if this is supposed to be the dining room, b/c it's outside the kitchen, but it's filled with the owners stuff.

From what I can actually see of the kitchen, it's large and has a lot of vintage features like where the cooktop is, the open pantry shelving, and some of the cabinetry.

Another sitting area. Look at the display in the fake grass on the left.

This is the owner's primary suite with outdoor access.

One of the baths.

So, this looks like a kitchenette for guests, at the top of the stairs. Look at all the stuff on the ceiling.

One of the guest rooms has a little pedestal sink in the corner.

Plus, an en-suite shower room.

This bedroom has a wood burning stove in the corner. This place would make me nervous w/all the clutter.

Plus, a shower room.

And, this room has the tub and shower in the room, itself. The sink is in the corner and the toilet is in a separate room. Each room has a theme- this is India.

Here's an African themed room.

The neatest room in the house is a guest suite on the 3rd level.

It has a private sitting room.

The large wraparound porch must accommodate all the guests.

The garden looks overgrown.

Here's a hot tub in the gazebo.

Another porch behind the house.

The lot is 1 acre.

https://www.zillow.com/.../619-E-Main-St.../30316263_zpid/

[pamicakery]

You're not trapped in one reality - Part II

This is my last post before my hiatus!

Okay so this post will be a little bit long because I have some stuff to explain :

1)You're not your identity

If we look at it, all our life is an assumption. From our name, to our origins, or family and even the planet we live in. For exemple : My name is Pami, being Pami involves having Pami's past and Pami's future.

All your life before now is a memory and you bring that memory into the present and you are assuming this as true. The future you predict is an assumption and you are assuming it as true.

2)You can choose who you are :

So... If I choose another name like.. Sumi :

Sumi and Pami are different version of me. But they are me. When I'm running that blog, I am not me trying to be Pami. I am Pami. Pami is me.

I am not affirming, changing my thoughts, denying the 3d, I'm just being.

This reality is just a reality among other. It's your choice to be aware of this reality.

(As someone who live with toxic parents it helps a lot because this is not my reality by default nor my true reality. I am embodying the version of me who is living with my toxic parents, but this is not the canon version of me)

What's make me lives here, it's assuming that they are my parents, I'm living in this house. My past memories '' confirming '' that they always were my parents and the future assuming they always be.

Is like choosing a cake in a pastrie display. Your current identity isn't your Canon. It's a version of you among many.

3)Embodying a new identity

For example I want to manifest my appearance and I am not satisfied with this one I currently have. If I want to shift from this appearance to another, I have to consider that both of those appearance are mine. But my consciousness is choosing the one I don't like.

And also manifesting, it's not changing my current appearance. It's shifting from the '' I am '' that have this apparence. The version of me who doesn't like this appearance is not canon, it's a choosed state. So I have to choose another.

How!?

-Scripting

-Affirming

-Visualizing

The methods are here to help you Realize that you are embodying this state.

So it's not :

- Going from state A from State B

But

- Be B.

4)Stop waiting start receiving

When you are waiting, you are not creating. You are putting the version of you having your desire in the future.

You have to know that there is a version of you, who have it right now. Embody that state. Don't wait for the 3D to conform, it's like you are considering that the 3d is an independant entity who have its own will.

You are the 3d, the 4d, the mind and the operant power. Again it's not : Affirming to get.

You are embodying a version of you who have it. It's not shifting from the version of you who don't have it to the version of you who have.

You have to be the version of you who have it. And don't go back, don't waver. Persist in it. Persist in that state. No matter what you see, what you hear, persist. You are God, the operant power, the game master!

When you are persisting you are instructing and telling the different world how the world is.

So what's next?

Step 1 :

Who are you? Or.. Which version of you are you embodying now? Make a page about your past, future, assumption.

Step 2 :

What do you want to manifest? What having that desire will bring you, what feelings? What experience?

Step 3 :

Embody the version of you who have it. Remember that both (the version of you who doesn't have it and the version of you who have it are both different version of you. You can be both and neither of them at the same time)

Step 4 :

Don't wait for it. Be it in the now. Don't envision this as '' I wish my reality were this '' NO. '' This is my reality rn '' YES. S.A.V method (Scripting - Affirming - Visualizing.).

Happy manifesting everyone and glad to help!

[vavuska]

Elon Musk is threatening a Brazilian Supreme Court justice after the court issued a summons to him which threatens the suspension of Twitter if he does not comply within 24 hours.

To combat disinformation, Brazil gave a Supreme Court justice sweeping powers to order social networks to take down content he believed threatened democracy. Here's how the experiment led to a ban on X, the social network owned by Elon Musk.

https://www.nytimes.com/2024/08/31/world/americas/brazil-x-ban-free-speech.html?smid=threads-nytimes

Elon Musk claims this is a censorship, because previously he was ordered to ban and close a lot of far-rights account that spread fake news and hate online by that same judge. As protest, Musk closed X offices in Brazil - which means people losing their job or their income.

When free speech is interpreted as anything which matches the law (and viceversa). Under Elon Musk's Leadership, Twitter has approved 83% of censorship requests by authoritarian governments globally. The social network has restricted and withdrawn content critical of the ruling parties in Turkey and India, among other countries, including during electoral campaigns.

Since Musk assumed control in October 2022, the platform has received a total of 971 government requests, a significant increase compared to the 338 received between October 2021 and April 2022.

Prior to Musk's takeover, Twitter had agreed to 50 per cent of such requests, as indicated in their last transparency report. However, no transparency reports have been published since October 2022, making it challenging to assess the current situation. Nevertheless, data from the technology information portal Rest of World suggests that the compliance rate has risen to 83 per cent following Musk's leadership, which again contribute to detect what Elon Musk REALLY think about free-speech: this right is granted only if comply to what oppressive governments and far-right politician approves. Discrimination and criminal behavior are allowed and protected under Musk's Leadership, because targets minorities, immigrants and political oppositors. Musk is a conservative and apply censorship, he isn't the victim of a 'woke' complot lead against him. Musk is receiving the payment for his unlawful action.

Source: El Pais English

As far I can understand, without having many clues here, this order of summon says that Elon Musk refused to appoint a legal rapresentative for X Brasil. For some typology of corporates Brazil require a % of residents in management or a legal rapresentative, with power to vote and deliberate in meetings, to operate online in the country. Yeah. Law apparently seems to be applied to everyone except him.

Summons with translation.

https://www.nytimes.com/2024/08/28/technology/brazil-x-ban-elon-musk.html

Edit: A legal rapresentative is more a managerial position than what do you think of. Yes, it could be an attorney or a lawyer too, but still isn't simply the guy who defend the corporate's interests in court. In Brazil you need a % of residents in management position to operate. This was a problem issued also with WhatsApp and Telegram.

Edit 2 - 31th August 2024: I was curious about the consequences of Musk's decision to close X's offices in Brazil for his employees. Have they been fired? Suspended with or without salary? I didn't find anything. However, I found this article that adds some informations, like Musk declaring he did this to "protect his staff". However, his legal rapresentative is impossible to be found.

Edit 3 - 31th August 2024: Another article of NY Times that analyzes the matter.

https://www.nytimes.com/2024/08/18/world/americas/elon-musk-x-brazil.html

Update - 31th August 2024: Brazil has turned off Twitter. Musk’s genius is again on glorious display in losing the 7th most populous country in the world. Oh well. At least the Cybertruck is doing awesome.

Another Update - 31th August 2024: Musk is freaking out right now. He knows if he gets blocked in Brazil it is just a matter of time before other countries follow suit.

However, someone forgot to tell Musk that you get fined for using VPNs to access Twitter in Brazil before he posted this.

Also seems that for a tech genius Musk isn't very smart though, doesn't he know using a VPN will worth the same with apps as it does with a browser?

However, The Brazilian Supreme Court has moderated its first rule. First, even the VPN apps were targeted and should be banned from App store and Google Store to prevent people getting access to Twitter exclusively. Now, the Court realized that banning VPNs is too extreme, so they will only apply a 50k (about $8,900) fine for those caught accessing the platform.

Basically, you don't get fined for using VPNs, that would be too 1984. You might get fined if they FIND OUT that you're accessing X via VPNs, and this is exactly the kind of thing VPNs are designed to prevent.

Just a reminder, you can always access better platform than X, even on your phone. No app is needed.

VPNs are great tools to use worldwide to get around authoritarian and abusive government surveillance and blocking. Zero to do with Musk. And they can only catch you if you aren't savvy.

In a perfect world you shouldn't need to download any VPNs to access innocent contents, because democratic countries will never block a platform that gives informations and entertainment to people. In a perfect world you won't be stuck with platforms that are not free from disinformation and neo-nazi posts.

3rd Update - 31th August 2024:

Musk owns more of SpaceX than Zuck owns of Meta or Bezos owns of Amazon, fwiw. For all intents and purposes, Musk is Twitter, SpaceX, Neuralink and X.

I'm gonna add some technicalities here:

In Brazil there is something called "Corporate Personality" that protects the shareholders patrimony from the company's debts.

But... If you hide behind legal shenanigans in a fraudulent manner, "corporate personality" is bypassed and thus the court moves into your personal patrimony.

Elon is, personally and fraudulently, removing X office from Brazil so they don't obey Brazilian laws.

So the judges target him on his other shares: SpaceX and Starlink.

[todaysdocument]

Position Description for Mercury Astronaut

Record Group 255: Records of the National Aeronautics and Space AdministrationSeries: Reference Files of the Special Assistant

[underline] SS - 6.3 [/underline] [Stamped: Space Task Group] B

NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION

1520 H STREET NORTHWEST

WASHINGTON 25, D.C.

TELEPHONE: EXecutive 3-3260, TW: WA 755

IN REPLY REFER TO -

[Stamped: RECEIVED NASA SPACE TASK GROUP JUN 19 2 01PM '59]

[manuscript] 3

[underline] S S- 6.3 [/underline]

SO-14

SP - 2.6 [/manuscript]

Lt. Paul P. Bennett, Jr.

BuPers - A3122

Arlington Annex, Rm. 2603

Washington 25, D. C.

Dear Lt. Bennett:

In accordance with our telephone conversation of June 15 the following is a resume of the position description for the Mercury Astronauts.

[underline] Position Title [/underline]: Mercury Astronaut

[underline] Duties [/underline]: Participates in indoctrination, developmental research, and pre-flight training programs under conditions simulating flight profiles of the type expected to be encountered with Project Mercury. Operates and/or observes fixed-base and moving-base simulator tests, serves as subject-under-test, and assists in the analysis of data for the evaluation and development of various boosters and of communication telemetry, display, vehicle-contol, envirornmental-control and other systems involved in launch, atmospheric escape, orbital flight, re-entry, landing and recovery. Participates in specialized training exercises such as centrifuge programs to build up tolerances to motions and forces associated with launch, flight without gravity, and atmospheric reentry, and to develop proficiency and confidence for vehicle operation under such conditions.

Sincerely yours,

/s/

Clotaire Wood

Technical Assistant to the Deputy Administrator

[Stamped Routing List]

BLAND

BOND

DONLAN

FAGET

GILRUTH

HAMMACK

JOHNSON [initialed: lwj]

KRAFT

KYLE

MacDOUGALL

MATHEWS

MAYER

MEYER

PRESTON

PURSER

RICKER

[strikethrough] TAYLOR [/strikethrough] [initialed: G]

ZAVASKY

ZIMMERMAN

AERO MED [initialed: HBf]

[initials: ATS]

SPACE FILES

[manuscript] COPIES TO:

SHEPARD

SCHIRRA

CARPENTER

GLENN

[shadeops21]

New Sideproject - "What If" aircraft liveries

Got bored.

Downloaded AC7 aircraft models and retexture templates.

Made a thing.

Figured I'd share.

"F/A-23 Redback", of 75SQN, Royal Australian Air Force

[Lore/Story behind the aircraft below the cut]

When Lockheed Martin won the Advanced Tactical Fighter (ATF) program with their YF-22 Raptor demonstrator, Northrop & McDonnell Douglas placed their contender, the YF-23 Black Widow II's, into storage pending dismantling for static display.

However, fortune would come calling from an unsuspecting source: Australia. The Royal Australian Air Force had recently completed delivery of 75 brand new F/A-18A/B Hornets to replace their aging fleet of Mirage III's. However, planners within the Department of Defence and Australian Defence Force recognised the shifting landscape of aerial warfare, and payed close attention to the US's ATF program.

Initially, the RAAF wanted to purchase the F-22 after it won the program in 1991 and had expressed tentative interest, though didn't commit due to the high initial operating costs at the time and recent budgetary issues the ADF faced due to other concurrent modernization programs taking place. By the time the RAAF were ready to order the aircraft, the US had marked the aircraft as unavailable for export sales.

Lockheed Martin did offer the RAAF the opportunity to buy into the Joint Strike Fighter program, which would be the precursor program that resulted in the development of the F-35 Lighting II series of aircraft, however RAAF leadership turned to McDonnell Douglas and Northrop, recalling how well their YF-23 performed in the program demonstrations.

The two testbed aircraft, Spider and Grey Ghost, were shipped to Australian on loan for use by the RAAF's Aircraft Research & Development Unit (ARDU) for evaluations in the mid 1990's, as the operating environment in Australia was different to that of the United States. While the aircraft performed well, some modifications were suggested including the use of more fuel efficient engines, an adjusted cockpit panel layout, and provisions to mount external stores much like the F-22 had (primarily for long-distance ferry flights across Australia, but also for use in low-threat or permissive environments where stealth is not a concern).

Northrop & McDonnell Douglas accommodated the upgrades, and in 1999, an initial purchase of 24 F/A-23A stealth fighters was made to equip two squadrons with the modified design. The airframe was given the designator of Redback in reference to the small but dangerous spider that called the continent home, whilst also showing homage to the original name of Black Widow II.

No 75 SQN and No 77 SQNs were the first recipients of the new F/A-23As, operating as composite squadrons comprised of both the new Redback and the older F/A-18A+ Hornets. As the Hornets aged, they were transferred to No. 2 Operational Conversion Unit for training and adversarial use.

There was talk of purchasing more Redbacks to augment a strike gap left behind pending the retirement of the venerable F-111C Aardvarks, however the decision was made to purchase Boeing's F/A-18F Super Hornets (with Boeing having bought and merged with McDonnell Douglas).

F/A-23A Redback was the initial version developed in the late 1990s and early 2000's, with upgrades and enhancements introduced over time to incorporate newer technologies and extend the life of these aircraft. Upgraded aircraft were unofficially referred to as -23A+s, similar to how F/A-18As that were upgraded to match the capability of the newer F/A-18C/Ds were referred to as A/B+

In the late 2000's, the RAAF (under license from Northrop/Boeing) introduced a variant featuring new engines, a new radar and updated avionics to incorporate newly released weapons systems, designated F/A-23B.

With the F-35 coming into service with the US and other JSF partner nations, and the older legacy Hornets retired out of service, the RAAF were looking into how to compliment their fleet of Redbacks. The F/A-18F Super Hornets operated by No. 1 and No. 6 Squadron were due for upgrade, and Boeing proposed the "Advanced Super Hornet" as a upgrade package.

To sweeten the deal, components from ASH were splintered off for use to update the fleet of F/A-23Bs, now used by all three former Hornet squadrons (3, 75, & 77) as well as 2OCU and the ARDU. Forming the B+ 'Mid Life Update', components borrowed from the ASH included it's new IRST and AESA radar package, compatibility with the Enclosed Weapons Pod, and a fully glass cockpit display.

By 2020, both the Redback and Rhino finished their upgrades, and formed the backbone of Australia's air warfare component, with No.'s 3, 75, and 77 operating F/A-23B+ Redbacks, No. 1 operating the F/A-18F+ (informal designation for the Advanced Super Hornet) and No. 6 operating as a composite of F/A-18F+ and EA-18G+ (EA-18G Growlers given the Advanced Super Hornet upgrade package).

Australia remains the only operator of the YF-23 platform, though not for a lack of trying on the part of Northrop & McDonnell Douglas (later Boeing).

---

If you made it this far, good on 'ya.

This YF-23 "What If" concept livery is dedicated to my friend @kaitaiga, who I know is fucking obsessed with the YF-23 Black Widow II. The livery came first, and then of course my 'writer' brain had to think up a background as to how the RAAF got their hands on an F-22 equivalent aircraft and maintained its service instead of buying into the F-35 program.

I have nothing against F-35 (anymore) though I am still salty that we haven't gone full-send into the Advanced Super Hornet. The CFTs along the spine just look sleek as fuck.

Thank you for reading!

[gasgasdaily]

On the continuing topics of rallying, we're gonna talk about one of the most successful teams from Japan (technically not Japan but let's just let it slide as the manufacturer is from Japan), Toyota or in actuality, TTE/Team Toyota Europe.

Cars serving TTE/Gazoo Racing top to bottom in zigzag pattern: TE20 during the Acropolis Rally in 1975 -> RA63 Celica -> TA64 Celica on display -> MR2 222D -> ST165 Celica at work -> ST185 at work -> ST205 Celica -> '97 Corolla WRC -> Yaris WRC -> Yaris Rally1

Toyota initially didn't get involved in rallying but Europeans were mad about rallying and when Toyota started to sell like hotcakes in Europe, its a matter of time that someone used it for rallying and someone in Sweden did just that. Ove Andersson, a Swede, had used a Toyota KE20 in 1972 and liked it alot thus he started to create a company and team, called "Andersson Motorsport" by 1973 and fielded a bunch of Toyota KE20s. The KE20 was equipped with the 1.6L inline-4 2T engine with 105hp and despite it being smaller in displacement than its contemporaries like the Escort who was at that point already using 1.8L engines, the KE20 did rather well and same goes to the upgraded version, the KE30 which uses the same engine. Andersson also proved that he could handle big operations and thus, with Toyota's full support, he became the main handler of all Toyota's efforts into the coming WRC efforts and thus his company started to change name to TTE and moved its operation to Belgium.

Throughout the middle of the 1970s, TTE had tried to use a bunch of Celicas starting from the TA22 and the RA40 for their effort in Group 2 and 4 but TTE didn't fare very well unlike their early 1970s effort with the KE20 and 30. Andersson liked the car when Toyota asked him to test it in Japan in 1976 but he also lamented that the 1.6L that was in the Celicas of that period would not work for the whole season of WRC as the others were using bigger engines than those in the early Celicas. Despite that, TTE's hands were tied as that was the car that they were given so they had to make do with it. The RA40 wouldn't win all the time but it did very well consistently in the years it competed in Africa and thus helped cement Toyota's toughness to take abuse and also its reliability status.

By 1982, Group B ruling came into effect and Toyota quickly changed their strategy also and thus, built a new car for the new Group B ruling and introduced the RA63 Celica but as they had no clue on how Group B would really do, they slotted the car into Group 4 regulations then modify from there for Group B. With the RA63, it has a 1.8L inline-4 engine that's an improvement from the 1.6L that was in the Corolla and with the 1.8L engine, the EA63 makes approx 110hp but in race trim could make about 160hp. The RA63 would also bag a win in Rally New Zealand, a win that TTE had hoped for after not getting one for over a decade. Despite being underpowered yet again against its rivals, its ruggedness once again proved vital in the tough rallies like the Ivory Coast rally/Rally Safari which was killing other cars but apparently not the Toyotas.

By 1983, TTE and Toyota finally were prepared to compete in Group B proper and to make it happen, they took the chassis of the Group 4 RA63 Celica and stuffed a new engine in there. Unlike the NA variant, the new Group B TA64 used an all-new 1.8L, dual-cam turbocharged engine coded as the 4T-GTE and was capable in making 320hp im race form. However, yet again, Toyota like many others were straight out beaten to the punch and lost out against the newest tech in rallying, Audi with their Quattro. Toyota would flounder in Group B for a long time with no aim at all as whilst the others like Lancia was busy making AWD models to combat Audi's dominance throughout Group B, Toyota didn't and stuck with the TA64 till Group B's cancellation in 1986. Despite that, Toyota and TTE would once again proved that they are the masters of reliability and also the "sultans of Africa" as Toyota clean swept the entirety of the African rallies by winning the Rally Safari, the most brutal rally in the calendar from 1982 to the end of Group B in 1986.

Unbeknownst to alot of people, Toyota actually built an AWD machine for rallying during the Group B era just that the whole series was canned and the car was also canned in the process and that's the 222D. Watching how AWD was the way to go and knowing that their turbocharged engine was working, Toyota quickly built a car for the newer branch out of Group B rules, Group S which essentially was an even "no bars hold" regulation. Toyota took the already tiny and light AW11 MR2, strip of all the metal and replace the bodywork with plastic, dump in an AWD system and a new engine, the 503E in there with a massive turbo and let it eat. However, before Toyota can test the car for the 1987 WRC season, Group B abruptly ended in 1986 and with Group S following Group B's death, Toyota and TTE got no use for the car anymore so they canned the project and mothballed the car also.

With Group B being canned, the FIA issued the Group A regulation where cars now are capped in hp to compete in the class and they must be normal production models sold to compete and not just homologation models. Toyota just nice had the new ST160 in 1985 so for Group A, they just need to slightly modify it and it'll work which became the ST165. This time, they slotted the soon-to-be legendary 3S-GTE engine into the chassis which could make 250hp due to new power restrictions rule, added AWD to it and named it the ST165. TTE would field the car in 1988 WRC and initially, it didn't do well by by 1989, it picked up pace and was doing well. By 1990, TTE got the car working and had kept the teething problems they faced the last two years to a minimum which helped their star driver, Carlos Sainz Sr in winning the WDC and cementing Toyota's name as the first Japanese manufacturer to win a WDC and WCC.

Continuing the success found with the ST165, Toyota took what they knew and stuffed it into the new chassis and made it work but this time, cranked the power to 290hp and it was a success winning the WCC from 1992-1994 and also winning the Rally Safari 4x in a row.

Onwards to 1995, Toyota yet again pushed out a new Celica, the ST205 and it kept everything the ST185 used. This time however, the game in WRC has changed. Mitsubishi and especially Subaru had now also switched from large barges to smaller sedans for their rallying effort and was showing progress to succeed. Terrified of their immense progress, TTE decided that they had to do something and they did something drastic. It cannot be seen with the naked eye but what TTE did was that they tempered with the internal of the intake to the turbos that each time the driver stepped on the accelerator, a small valve would open resulting to more air pushing into the engine from the turbo making 50hp more to the engine. That's an immense boost when your competitors were making just 300hp max. During the pre-season exhibition match, TTE "accidentally" showed their cards when their cars were way faster than both Ford and Subaru vehicles thus making Prodrive, the team that handles Subaru's WRC effort, made an official complaint against Toyota for cheating. Initial FIA test shows that the car was fine. By the 4th rally, the suspicion grew stronger as the ST205 was gapping everyone at alarming rate each rally thus the FIA had realized that Subaru's concerns and complaints were not unfounded thus instead of just checking the car at the rally stages like normal, the FIA seized the cars back to France and tore it down completely and to their shock, Subaru was right in their accusation as they finally found the air restrictor tempering system and thus, Toyota had all their points deducted in the 1995 season, got their team banned for the season and also for the following season.

At the end of 1996, the regulation changed again and for rallying, the WRC has their own specification standard following the series name but its just a small tweak of the Group A rules and Toyota, together with TTE, started to build a new car to compete in the new WRC regulation. TTE and Toyota took the E110 Corolla hatchback and transferred both the drivetrain and engine from the old ST205 Celica GT-Four and launched it at the Rally Finland in 1997. It would compete in the 1998 season also and performed rather well for itself but competition was fierce this time as both Subaru and Mitsubishi has become more stable across the years and their cars were also getting better, especially Subaru with their new Impreza WRC based on the GC8 platform. TTE would shine with the car in 1999 when despite not winning the WDC which was won by Tommi Makinen yet again for Mitsubishi, Toyota's steady fight and reliability shines again as their consistent results nabbed them the WCC/manufacturer's title. However, Toyota itself has ambitions to compete in F1 thus they left rallying and kept TTE dormant and shift their focus towards F1 proper.

Fast forward to the 2010s, Toyota hasn't been racing as a full factory support team in international motorsport since they left F1 in 2009 and Toyota hasn't been building anything sporty for a long time also. Not only that, Toyota's in-house support tuner house, TRD/Toyota Racing Development was doing well in the US but in Europe itself, there was nothing there. Somehow, someone at the top brass of Toyota's HQ had also realized that Toyota was losing its mojo and thus decided to take some cars, modify it and go racing thus he remembered that the company, TTE was still around in Belgium so he went there and started to tinker with the cars. However, he liked racing cars but didn't know how to so he started to learn the ropes from the beginning by entering in grassroots events across Europe then slowly building the team into a professional level, even changing TTE to the name, "Gazoo Racing" and that legendary man would be Akio Toyoda.

With the experiences gained along the way, the team started to gain traction and notoriety thus the company moved from the old grounds in Belgium towards Cologne, Germany and Akio had decided that they would compete in rallying again as their stepping stone like the past but once again, they were out of depth as they've been out of the sport for soo long that they didn't know on how to start but luckily, help was just round the corner. Just as Toyota was building the Yaris WRC concept back in 2013, they needed help and just nice, an old rival had opened shop himself and decided to get some chassis and engine from Toyota for his own team and that's Tommi Makinen. Hearing of that, GR straight up bought out Tommi Makinen and his entire company to churn it into the Gazoo Racing umbrella. With Makinen's help, they built the car around the XP130 Yaris "Vitz" platform, made it AWD and with the turbocharged 1.6L inline-4 making approx 300-320hp. Car would be completed in 2017 and would go under testing which by 2018 would bear fruit as it won the WCC in 2018, WDC in 2019, 2020 and both WDC and WCC in 2021.

With the success of the WRC efforts with the Yaris, Toyota built a special model of Yaris under the GR badge and with the new GR Yaris, it came with a smaller inline-3 G16E-GTS engine displacing 1.6L turbo and pushing 300hp. Toyota had initially wanted to push the car into WRC service as early as 2021 but decided not to as they heard that the rules for WRC would change again and thus, they held back and redesigned a new car based on the GR Yaris for the upcoming new classification, Rally1.

With the new regulation for the 2017 season, it allowed hybrid technology and being one of the pioneers for hybrid technologies with the Prius, it was in Toyota's wheelhouse and they got straight to work. The engine was the same as the previous WRC car being the same turbo inline-4 but this time upboosted to make about 350hp and the hybrid system making another 150hp with a combined hp figures approx 500hp, highest Toyota and GR has ever seen in rallying. GR straight up dominated the debut season with the Rally1 GR Yaris and won both WDC and WCC the very same year and yet again in 2023. However by 2024, the rule in Rally1 had changed yet again as the hybrid system has been removed now and GR quickly moved it and following the regulation, kept the car which now doesn't have the EV element to it from 500hp to a "mere" 370hp. Not that it derailed Toyota and GR's efforts anyways as the new car went on to win the WCC the very same year.

Toyota has proven itself to be reliable and strong in taking abuses and its multiple WCC titles, 2nd most besides Lancia's 10 WCC titles (Toyota is tied with Citroen also with 8 WCC titles) and also, the only Japanese team with that many wins.

[kesouu]

Blue Star☆｡⁠*✯ﾟ+*⁠.⁠✧

(⁠☆) Narumi Gen x Oc

(｡⁠*ﾟ⁠+ CHAPTER 4 +ﾟ⁠*｡⁠)

(⁠｡⁠•̀✧) SORRY I TOOK TOO LONG TO UPLOAD THE NEXT CHAP HUHU This also has spoilers for the b-side manga but next chapter I'll start straying from it i think🤌

6 Years ago...

It had been a year since Narumi and Hoshiko had joined the defense force and Hoshiko was getting dizzy from going around the large headquarters looking for Narumi, knowing him, he was going to get himself into all sorts of trouble. He had almost been kicked out multiple times for misconduct and no way is Hoshiko letting the reason she joined in the first place get kicked out. Even if she didn’t want too though, Vice captain Itami had spoken to you about Narumi’s behaviour, threatening to kick him out if this continued and that he wanted the girl to look after him as his closest friend but no matter how hard she tried he always managed to slip out of her sight. Hoshiko was looking for him rather frantically this time, all the division captains and platoon leaders were having a serious meeting on a kaijuu that emerged in Saitama and Narumi might cause a scene during it. She decided to make her way to the meeting room that was nearly on the other side of the building to check if he was anywhere nearby, the girl could only sigh at the distance as she started walking.

“Now then, I will brief you on the kaiju that emerged in Saitama Prefecture’s Koshigaya City. Please take a look at this.” The operator showed them an image of a the large kaiju on the meeting room’s big screen “A plant-type kaiju? The fact that it showed up in an urban area is worrying.” Vice Captain Itami comments as the operator continues with his discussion. “It broke through the asphalt and sprung up between the buildings at the crack of dawn. It seems that it hid underground and stored up on nutrients. Then it’s pod fruit pemerged on the portion of the plant above the surface.” Captain Igarashi’s face grows into a puzzled one as she questions “Huh? Wazzat? What’s a “pod fruit”?” the operator then explains in return “A pod fruit is a form of seeded fruit. It splits open, shooting seeds into the air.”

The screen shows a close up image of the kaiju’s pod fruit and the operator points at it “This was the pod fruit when it first emerged this morning.” Then the pictured changed into one of the kaiju where it’s pod was opened way more that it was in the one previously shown “And this is it’s current state” Hasegawa speaks up at the sight of it “It appears to have opened up more since this morning.”

“Once the fruit gathers enought nutrients, the sunlight triggers the fruit to split open casuing it to release and disperse it’s seeds.” Pictures of old disasters that had occured were being displayed on the screen that were similar to that of the situation now. “ For a well-known example of the damage caused by plant-type kaiju, we can refer to the specimens found in Hibiya back in ’66 and Sendai back in ’96. In particular, I’d look to the cataclysm in ’96 which saw the fruit split and spread it’s seeds. An incident that required time to effectively manage.” And with that the operator finishes his explanation “And this one is even bigger than the one in Sendai? If it splits open, we’re in for trouble.” Vice captain Itami asks “How much time do we have?” Captain Shinomiya follows up the previous question “By outr calculations, based on the solar radiation, temperature, and other factors, we estimate that it could occur as early as 2 p.m” the operator states their findings “So basically, we need to eliminated the fruite by then.” Hasegawa summarizes as the operator nods.

“What if we were to snipe it from the air via chopper?” Captain Ashiro asks “I’m afraid that might prove difficult as well. Take a look at this if you would.” The operator then switches the pictures to the current state of Koshigaya city with raging plant yoju growing everywhere along with the honju leading them “These are the emerged honju and its yoju offshoots. They are deploying around the fruit and growing a a rapid pace.” The pictures switch one after another showing more and more of the damage the kaiju had currently done in the area “Their roots extend deep into the ground, while their tentacle-like trunks reach high into the sky. Any copter that approaches will likely get swatted down.” Vice-captain Itami sighs at the information “Taking to the sky is too risky...it seems attacking by land is our only option.” “If we can find a way to secure a line of fire, then i have no doubt we can eliminate the fruit.” Captain Ashiro exclaims “The density of the kaiju is the issue here. Not to mention their speed. I doubt dealing with them will be so straight-forward.” Hasegawa retorts.

The crowd begin to argue on their course of action till a yawn was heard from behind “You sure have some boring meetings” Narumi states, the noise of his console could be heard at the sudden silence of the people in the room. “The gist is simple, isn’t it? Just cut through the kaiju’s emergence point and destroy the fruit. Charging in guns blazing is the only solution. That is, unless you’ve got any better ideas?” the boy says uninterested as he looks to the crowd from his relaxed position in his chair “Narumi?! How did you get in here?! You weren’t invited to this meeting!” Hasegawa yells at Narumi who angrily shouts back “Where I go is my own business. This room’s got air-conditioning and a huge monitor. It’s perfect for gaming.” The door of the meeting room slams open as Hasegawa quite literally kicks Narumi out of the room with him landing at the feet of a bewildered Hoshiko who had just arrived.

Hasegawa briefly apologized to the people of the room as Narumi got up from the floor. Hoshiko turns to Narumi who was staring at the tall man, annoyed at the fact he was kicked out. “Gen, seriously, you can’t keep doing what you want!” the girl says firmly as she stood in front of his face as he let out a sigh of his own. “And another thing! This kaiju has a wide emergence area. Even if you were to deploy the entire first division, you wouldn’t be able to cover it all. Face it, you need my help.” Narumi says as if it were a matter-of-fact to which Hoshiko was quick to cover his mouth with her hand to prevent him from saying more but it proved to be futile as he struggled against her grip and managed to free his mouth “Well, what do you say, old man?” both Hoshiko and Hasegawa were fuming at this point, ‘This boy really doesn’t know when to quit, does he?!’ Hoshiko thought trying to cover his mouth again while Hasegawa put him into a headlock.

Captain Shinomiya stays silent as Vice-Captain Itami answers in his stead “Yes, this operation will require number of soldiers. That naturally means you’ll be on the front lines as well, Narumi. But bear this in mind. We receive a notice from headquarters yesterday. It stated and I quote “Officer Narumi’s problematic behavior has been picked up by the media and we simply can’t take it any longer.”” The boy mentioned could only widen his eyes and mutter out “What?” a scowl appears on the Vice Captains face as his tone turns cold sending chills down Hoshiko’s spine “If you cause any trouble on this mission, we’ll be forced to consider you formally discharged from our ranks.” Hoshiko lets out a gasp and Narumi stills in Hasegawa and Hoshiko’s hold. “Narumi.” Captain Shinomiya finally speaks up after his long silence “Manners, appearance, diligence, grace – none of that matters to me. I Have only one demand. Show me results and skill.” She could hear the boy chuckle as he held her hand out of the way of his mouth “I just gotta show results, right?” I might as well be playing on easy mode.” Narumi smiles as he says that.

Hasegawa’s platoon arrives at their positions later that day as Hasegawa stands tall in his full battle armor “I’ll give an overview of our mission once more. Were in charge zone F. we’ll be moving toward the fruit in the center region while striking down threats from the perimeter in tandem with other platoons. The honju’s core should be in this vicinity according to the estimate provided by the analysis team. I’ll advance and-“ Hasegawa was cut off by a loud yawn and Hoshiko of course knew who the culprit of that was “NARUMI, ARE YOU LISTENING?!” Hasegawa yelled at her friend while she could only deadpan ‘The damn mission hasn’t even started yet but Gen has me exhausted…’ “Ah, hold on a sec! I’m at the best part! I’m about to beat my best time-“ Narumi replied as he focused on his console but it was his turn to be cut off as Hasegawa kicked him for the second time that day for misbehaving and Hoshiko grabbing the console out of his hands keeping it in her pocket so he wouldn’t be able to use it again “GAAH!!! WHAT’RE YOU TWO DOING?! ARGH…YOU’RE MAKING ME LOSE LIVES!!” the girl scoffs as she glares at the boy that was kneeling on the ground “You can do this later. Right now, we have a job to do Gen.”

The platoon leader ignores his complains as he gives the boy instructions “She’s right. Now Narumi, give me backup along with the other officers.” The mentioned boy gives Hasegawa an uninterested stare as he questioned him “Me? Back you up? You’re kidding, right?” the man’s expression turns grim as he turned to face him completely “Have you forgotten that the upper base threatened to discharge you? The stipulation was that you don’t cause any trouble. Headquarters isn’t expecting you to produce spectacular results. What they want to see from you is teamwork. Refusing to work with other officers that isn’t Mitsuba isn’t going to cut it. You only need to perform as well as an average officer, so behave yourself and provide backup as you were ordered.” To the threat Narumi stretched in boredom and complained once more “Not even co-op play. Just regular old support, huh?” to end his statement he yawns out once more “What’s the matter with you? Sleep-deprived” Hasegawa comments so Hoshiko grabbed him by the collar and looked right at his face “You pulled another all-nighter on that new game you bought, didn’t you?” the girl interrogated as the one in her grasp lowered his head and removed her grip on his collar and started walking away.

“Platoon leader, are you sure it’s okay to let him do as he pleases?” a platoon member asked To Hasegawa as the man turned to the member of his team “He stayed up all night playing games. Theres no way he’s taking this seriously. I don’t want him dragging us down. Not to mention he already has a history of disrupting our missions.” The platoon member finished to which Hasegawa reassured them “Just let him be. Either way, his future is riding on this mission.” The man sighed and look at Hoshiko who saluted, knowing exactly what that look on the mans face was saying. He may show it through anger most of the time but he cared to at least make him stay, he did after all, have very promising potential. The look Hasegawa gave to the girl told her ‘Take care of him if he goes too far.’

-☆☆

[usafphantom2]

B-2 Gets Big Upgrade with New Open Mission Systems Capability

July 18, 2024 | By John A. Tirpak

The B-2 Spirit stealth bomber has been upgraded with a new open missions systems (OMS) software capability and other improvements to keep it relevant and credible until it’s succeeded by the B-21 Raider, Northrop Grumman announced. The changes accelerate the rate at which new weapons can be added to the B-2; allow it to accept constant software updates, and adapt it to changing conditions.

“The B-2 program recently achieved a major milestone by providing the bomber with its first fieldable, agile integrated functional capability called Spirit Realm 1 (SR 1),” the company said in a release. It announced the upgrade going operational on July 17, the 35th anniversary of the B-2’s first flight.

SR 1 was developed inside the Spirit Realm software factory codeveloped by the Air Force and Northrop to facilitate software improvements for the B-2. “Open mission systems” means that the aircraft has a non-proprietary software architecture that simplifies software refresh and enhances interoperability with other systems.

“SR 1 provides mission-critical capability upgrades to the communications and weapons systems via an open mission systems architecture, directly enhancing combat capability and allowing the fleet to initiate a new phase of agile software releases,” Northrop said in its release.

The system is intended to deliver problem-free software on the first go—but should they arise, correct software issues much earlier in the process.

The SR 1 was “fully developed inside the B-2 Spirit Realm software factory that was established through a partnership with Air Force Global Strike Command and the B-2 Systems Program Office,” Northrop said.

The Spirit Realm software factory came into being less than two years ago, with four goals: to reduce flight test risk and testing time through high-fidelity ground testing; to capture more data test points through targeted upgrades; to improve the B-2’s functional capabilities through more frequent, automated testing; and to facilitate more capability upgrades to the jet.

The Air Force said B-2 software updates which used to take two years can now be implemented in less than three months.

In addition to B61 or B83 nuclear weapons, the B-2 can carry a large number of precision-guided conventional munitions. However, the Air Force is preparing to introduce a slate of new weapons that will require near-constant target updates and the ability to integrate with USAF’s evolving long-range kill chain. A quicker process for integrating these new weapons with the B-2’s onboard communications, navigation, and sensor systems was needed.

The upgrade also includes improved displays, flight hardware and other enhancements to the B-2’s survivability, Northrop said.

“We are rapidly fielding capabilities with zero software defects through the software factory development ecosystem and further enhancing the B-2 fleet’s mission effectiveness,” said Jerry McBrearty, Northrop’s acting B-2 program manager.

The upgrade makes the B-2 the first legacy nuclear weapons platform “to utilize the Department of Defense’s DevSecOps [development, security, and operations] processes and digital toolsets,” it added.

The software factory approach accelerates adding new and future weapons to the stealth bomber, and thus improve deterrence, said Air Force Col. Frank Marino, senior materiel leader for the B-2.

The B-2 was not designed using digital methods—the way its younger stablemate, the B-21 Raider was—but the SR 1 leverages digital technology “to design, manage, build and test B-2 software more efficiently than ever before,” the company said.

The digital tools can also link with those developed for other legacy systems to accomplish “more rapid testing and fielding and help identify and fix potential risks earlier in the software development process.”

Following two crashes in recent years, the stealthy B-2 fleet comprises 19 aircraft, which are the only penetrating aircraft in the Air Force’s bomber fleet until the first B-21s are declared to have achieved initial operational capability at Ellsworth Air Force Base, S.D. A timeline for IOC has not been disclosed.

The B-2 is a stealthy, long-range, penetrating nuclear and conventional strike bomber. It is based on a flying wing design combining LO with high aerodynamic efficiency. The aircraft’s blended fuselage/wing holds two weapons bays capable of carrying nearly 60,000 lb in various combinations.

Spirit entered combat during Allied Force on March 24, 1999, striking Serbian targets. Production was completed in three blocks, and all aircraft were upgraded to Block 30 standard with AESA radar. Production was limited to 21 aircraft due to cost, and a single B-2 was subsequently lost in a crash at Andersen, Feb. 23, 2008.

Modernization is focused on safeguarding the B-2A’s penetrating strike capability in high-end threat environments and integrating advanced weapons.

The B-2 achieved a major milestone in 2022 with the integration of a Radar Aided Targeting System (RATS), enabling delivery of the modernized B61-12 precision-guided thermonuclear freefall weapon. RATS uses the aircraft’s radar to guide the weapon in GPS-denied conditions, while additional Flex Strike upgrades feed GPS data to weapons prerelease to thwart jamming. A B-2A successfully dropped an inert B61-12 using RATS on June 14, 2022, and successfully employed the longer-range JASSM-ER cruise missile in a test launch last December.

Ongoing upgrades include replacing the primary cockpit displays, the Adaptable Communications Suite (ACS) to provide Link 16-based jam-resistant in-flight retasking, advanced IFF, crash-survivable data recorders, and weapons integration. USAF is also working to enhance the fleet’s maintainability with LO signature improvements to coatings, materials, and radar-absorptive structures such as the radome and engine inlets/exhausts.

Two B-2s were damaged in separate landing accidents at Whiteman on Sept. 14, 2021, and Dec. 10, 2022, the latter prompting an indefinite fleetwide stand-down until May 18, 2023. USAF plans to retire the fleet once the B-21 Raider enters service in sufficient numbers around 2032.

Contractors: Northrop Grumman; Boeing; Vought.

First Flight: July 17, 1989.

Delivered: December 1993-December 1997.

IOC: April 1997, Whiteman AFB, Mo.

Production: 21.

Inventory: 20.

Operator: AFGSC, AFMC, ANG (associate).

Aircraft Location: Edwards AFB, Calif.; Whiteman AFB, Mo.

Active Variant: •B-2A. Production aircraft upgraded to Block 30 standards.

Dimensions: Span 172 ft, length 69 ft, height 17 ft.

Weight: Max T-O 336,500 lb.

Power Plant: Four GE Aviation F118-GE-100 turbofans, each 17,300 lb thrust.

Performance: Speed high subsonic, range 6,900 miles (further with air refueling).

Ceiling: 50,000 ft.

Armament: Nuclear: 16 B61-7, B61-12, B83, or eight B61-11 bombs (on rotary launchers). Conventional: 80 Mk 62 (500-lb) sea mines, 80 Mk 82 (500-lb) bombs, 80 GBU-38 JDAMs, or 34 CBU-87/89 munitions (on rack assemblies); or 16 GBU-31 JDAMs, 16 Mk 84 (2,000-lb) bombs, 16 AGM-154 JSOWs, 16 AGM-158 JASSMs, or eight GBU-28 LGBs.

Accommodation: Two pilots on ACES II zero/zero ejection seats.

[tmwcs]

S E 7 E N : B E E Z L E B U B P A R T 1 N E

SMUT/MDNI18+ M A S T E R L I S T

Yay! Chapter 2! "B E E Z L E B U B" is here! so excited to hear what you guys think of the series so far. I feel bad because i didnt get to proofread this since i typed majority of it on my phone while i was away from my computer, eventually i'lll go in to read through it and correct any mistakes, but for now, please ignore them.

Warnings: just one main one...fingering. of course there's kissing, issuing of pet names, and references of the bible, Heaven and Hell terminologies, death, cults, angels and demons. So please be confident as you continue to read, if religion is a touchy subject for you, prooooooobably not a good read for you.....but it is a good read. it really is (at least i think so)

Enjoy!

You decided to walk back towards the map and see if you can make out which trail would be closest to your home.

‘I have to go back….I’ll need to settle some things before I die…I only have seven days.’

The tears immediately started to build back up. You suddenly felt lonely, much more than you had since Lily died.

‘What’s going to happen? How are they going to….’

Dying is never a pleasant thing to look forward to, however, to die wasn’t what feared you, it was the manner of how the angels were going to carry out the deed. After witnessing such horrible methods of death issued by their hands, your body trembles at the thought of either being burned alive, your body disintegrating, there was even one where a man was chopped up to bits, almost like he went through a meat grinder, your eyes widened as your heart felt punctured at witnessing the events on the news, watching as multiple angels mutated their arms into sharp blades of cutlery that operated as machines, all of them going at the man simultaneously.

Pausing in your steps, you cupped your cheek as you sobbed for a minute or two, yet it was uncontrollable and vigorous in nature as you dropped your shoes from your side and commence to crying into your hands.

Recollecting yourself, for the thousandth time, you’d think that this on and off crying business would get old and tiresome, yet the moment you think about the terrible event that will come in seven days, you started back up all over again. It got to the point where your chest became sore each time you breathed, all due to the trembling gasps and sniffles you issued out.

Finally, you were reaching the large wooden display board of the map…along with the blood-stained message that had your name gruesomely spelled out.

‘I don’t know if I should look at it….my God….I’m so scared.’

You stared at the ground as you continued walking, unable to look up to view the message…not yet. You needed a minute to take deep breaths and build some fortitude in order to read it once more as you look at the map in the background.

Using your peripherals, you could see that you were nearby the board, and yet, there was something else by the board…or someone rather.

“Hey.”

Looking up, your saddened and tearful gaze views the man dressed all in black. Like the man from before, this one was also very handsome, though he didn’t wear a mask like the other one…Helel, this one had his face fully exposed. With his back leaning against the board in the farther side, he had a relaxed stance as his arms remained firmly crossed. In his mouth, he had pinched between his teeth, a guitar pick as he flipped it around using a combination of his lips and tongue. He had on a black vest that remained open, bearing his bare chest with a series of silver chains that rested against it. Reaching to his knees, the vest had flared in a trail as he moved, much like an overcoat did.

His body looked toned and firm, and his long legs were elegantly matched with a pair of black trousers and boots. He was nowhere near as formally dressed as the man from earlier, and while this one was tall, the one that dawned red and black was taller, much taller.

He had jet black hair that was primarily combed yet the front was spiked up, he resembled a punk rocker or one of those heavy metal goth singers. Surely if any of the members of Voia Domnului saw him, he’d be labeled as someone who worships the Devil, and executed on the spot.

Responding back, you hesitated for a moment, yet issued one out as he stared at you.

“…H-hey….”

Shifting his gaze over to his side, he eyeballs the message that he had his back leaned on.

“This you?” he nudges his head slightly towards the board.

You looked at him somewhat confused, until you shifted your gaze at the message, right where your name was written.

“…yeah…”

“Hmph….well that sucks. It’s a shitty time to be human.” He speaks out so carelessly as he locks his fingers together and extends them forward, performing a back stretch as you hear minor cracks and his groans.

“So….y/n is your name.” he re-crosses his arms as he looks at you, tilting his head as he admires you and performs a half smile.

“You know…when Heeseung told me he was obsessed with some mortal girl…I couldn’t figure out why. I thought he had been going dry and lonely for far too long…six thousand years is a long time to go without getting your dick wet. Ya know?” still looking your way, you frowned your brows as you looked down at the ground.

‘Another idiot talking nonsense…what’s with these guys? Why am I have this stroke of rotten luck in getting hit up by handsome guys dressed abnormally? Is this a trap? Did the senator send them here? Do they work for Voia Domnului?’

Snapping you out of your thoughts, the man continued.

“But now that I get to see you for myself, well….fucking aye….guess I was wrong. You must be a reincarnation of one of the angels or an Ekron Goddess…..you’re too pretty to just be a mere mortal.”

Upon finishing his words, he walks over to you, you hear the dangling of chains as he takes each step.

Gently placing his fingers on your chin, he raises your face just slightly, turning it left, to right, and then back to center.

“I guess the wait was worth the while…he must have foresaw that someone like you was going to be in his future…maybe that’s why he displayed such self-restraint….hehehe. Fucking Heeseung…good one bro.”

You raised a brow as the man mentioned the name for the second time.

“Heeseung?....who-….you mean Helel?” you responded confusingly.

‘Who is Heeseung?’

“Oho! So…he lets you call him by his real name huh?....Well…makes sense, I mean…I’d let you call me by my real name…I’d let you call me whatever you want….angel face.”

Your brow tweaked upon hearing the pet name he called you by.

“So….Heeseung is Helel then?” you remarked, trying to gain closure.

“Yup. But only a select few can call him by his real name, and aside from you, no mortal has ever gained permission to call him by that. Just us, his brothers, and him.” Pointing his index finger up to the sky, his fingers still cradling your chin, you look up before shifting your view to him with confusion.

“…you mean….God?” you asked.

He laughs.

“Yeah…yeah angel. God.”

Releasing your chin, he continues to admire your face.

His attitude was a lot spunkier and outgoing it seemed like, though you could tell by the stern look in his eye, the man eluded a vibe that he had a temper. Maybe it was the way he spoke or just the way his brows were fixed, something told you that it wouldn’t take much for him to resort to anger.  

“Something the matter?” he tilts his head as he softens his tone to you.

“N….no…..i just…I need to get home….and take care of some things before I…” there it goes again. Your breath hitches out of nowhere as the tears started to build back up.

‘God…why? Why do I keep crying? Just accept it already, y/n.’

Watching you, the man places both hands on your arms.

“Hey…..why are you crying?”

As soon as he asked, you heard the voice of Helel echoing in your head as you recount the same question he asked of you, with the same vibe of softness and sincerity in his tone.

‘Why are you crying?’

For some odd reason, it had only been a split second, but the thought of the masked man from earlier this morning flashed through your mind, and you found yourself longing to see him again….though you don’t know why.

‘I’ll come get you and take you home, does that sound good? Pretty?’

You really had thought everything was a dream, yet with the other mysterious man in front of you, displaying similar traits as the man from before, you realized quickly that you indeed, had an option…or rather, you had an escape route, since you had seceded to the man and told him that you’d be his, that you’d take his death over the one you were selected for…and be his for all eternity. In exchange, the world would be saved.

Upon recounting of the deal, you made, and realizing that this was a for sure thing, you felt the urge to gain more closure.

“…..what….is your name?” you asked the man, your eyes clearing up at the prospect of escaping the angel’s death sentence.

“Well, just like the rest of my brothers, I’ve got two. Well….Heeseung technically has three, but that’s bedside’s the point. I’ll tell you my real name within due time, don’t want to scare you. For now, you can call me Jay.”

“So tell me….why are you crying? You’re not doing it because of that…” he points to the board with the bloody message on it. “are you?”

You merely looked at him with a sense of hopelessness in your expression.

“Didn’t you tell Heeseung that you’d be his?”

Looking up at him, he gives you a half smile as he strokes your arms. “He’s not going to let a thing happen to you, promise….and neither am I.”  Leaning in, he pecks your forehead, leaving you wide eyed and somewhat shocked.

‘Am I turning into some rock band’s whore? What’s going on? What kind of deal did I get myself into?’

“Um…Jay?”

“Yeah angel?”

You slightly winced at the petname. ‘First pretty and now angel?...’

“what….i mean…who are you? and who exactly is Helel?”

Jay smirks as he cups your cheek.

“I promise we’ll tell you. Just…you had already gone through a lot…” glaring over at the message on the board, you could have sworn you saw a faint snarl of his upper lip as he viewed the message with your name written in blood.

“I don’t want you to get overwhelmed…neither does Heeseung. I promise we’ll tell you when the time is right, okay? Angel?” leaning in, his sharp nose grazes against yours.

“But I-“

“Hey-no, shhhh…..be a good girl and listen.”

“…..sorry.”

“Aww…it’s all good angel. You’re so well behaved….you’re a keeper, so happy for my brother.”

They’re definitely brothers, alright. They displayed numerous similarities, yet the biggest attribute was their dominance as Jay hushed you, which made you think back to Helel’s stern tone when he issued those words in a snappy manner.

“I said….to keep moving….pretty. Or do I need to teach you how to listen?”

“So….lets take you home then.” Jay says in smirky manner as he takes you by the hand.

Maintaining his hold on you, he sticks both your hands in his pocket as you both walked the path.

“….Is it alright to ask where you’re from?” you asked, trying not to push any buttons since he hushed you when you asked who he was, yet the momentum of his affection displayed made you feel comfortable and somewhat bold, as if you had a privilege that no one else did.

“Well….that’s another thing I’ll elaborate within due time…for now, I’m from a place that’s faaaaar, far away. Really far.”

“oh….”

“what else?” you look up as he issued out his encouragement of giving you favor to ask more.

“What other questions do you have?”

‘Six thousand years is a long time to go without getting your dick wet. Ya know?’

“….how old are you?”

“really old. What else?”

‘he couldn’t have seriously meant six thousand like he stated earlier…..but somehow…I get this feeling…’

“what do you like to do for…fun?”

“aaaah…that’s an excellent question. Actually, I’m very fond of observing how you people study dipterology.”

“….’you people’?”

Laughing, he scoffs. “yeah…you people.”

Maintaining the pace of the walk, he continues.

“Sometimes I get entertained or fascinated by how wrong…or right you guys are when it comes to the scientific study of flies.”

You nod as you shift your gaze to his pocket. His hand was warm as it fully envelopes your own, his fingers interlocking with yours as he occasionally squeezed it from time to time.

“What else?”

……………..

The entire walk was spent with you asking random questions as Jay answered each one. Amused by your curiosity and finding you adorable, he continued to flatter you with compliments.

‘You know, your face is truly immaculate. The women where I'm from, don't even look like you…or up there.’

‘You got really pretty eyes. I should make a new species named after you.’

‘You like the color black? I feel like black is your color….or red.’

‘I can speak all languages, here….’  mu-ti-in aj2-ze2-ze2-ba du5-mu-u8-ak’ you know what that is? It’s Sumerian, it means ‘you are man’s precious sweet.’

A lot of his showering words confused you, it didn’t make sense, and when it did, you wondered how in the world he knew of such things such as an ancient language, or references verbatim of the bible….all 1500 pages of them.

Reaching the suburbs of the city, your heart started to rush in a beating tempo as you grew nervous. The time had gone by so fast, and it was already past 5pm, the walk was taken slowly as Jay relished your company, often pausing and taking breaks just so he could sit and admire you.

‘Lets take another break, I like looking at your face.’

‘Why aren’t you wearing your shoes? Ah…they have heels. Poor thing, let me warm your feet up.’

He was so kind to you. The way he would touch your feet and feel them instantly become warm and soften as the soreness disappears, he’d always look at you and ask ‘better?’ which you nodded silently at his unusual talent.

Noticing your hand shaking, he looks over to you with just a slight bit of concern…and amusement.

“Angel…whats wrong? You’re shaking. What is it?”

“n…nothing….i just….we only have four hours left until curfew but….the regulators come out two hours prior to start ushering people back inside their homes….and they might recognize me and try to take me away…to….to the senator.”

Raising an eyebrow, his expression grew stark and somewhat aggressive, though fortunately, it wasn’t directed at you.

“Senator?”

“Yes…he’s the leader of Voia Domnuluiand…last night….last night he…he um…”

Grabbing onto your waist, he turns your body, flushing against his as he cradles your chin once more with his gentle fingers.

“What did he do?....did he put his filthy hands on you?”

You nodded with a glaze of tears coating your eyes.

“Yes…but I was able to get away before he….he could um…” you felt uncomfortable as you recalled the events that occurred between you and Forras. The feeling of his hands groping you as his mouth was plastered on your neck made you shake with disgust. Watching as you dipped your head slightly and covered your eyes as you gasped from the traumatic experience at the hands of that man, Jay pulls you in and embraces you.

“Does Heeseung know?” he gently asks.

“mm…no…I didn’t even tell him anything about it….i just…I found the message right after it happened and ….i just…” you started to sob, and for a moment, you needed comfort like no other. Lily had you, yet since seeing your name after what had transpired with Forras, you reach up and grabbed onto Jay’s vest, crunching in into your palms as you bury your face into his bare chest and wept.

“Oh God……I didn’t do anything….he was trying..he was trying to-….to……”

Watching as you wept, he pulls his head slightly back as he noticed the partially torn buttons on your blouse and the black scuff marks on your shoes, which indicated a man with fine leather footwear had stepped on them.

Hugging you back closely, clenching his jaw, he comforts you…just as you needed it.

“Shhh…it’s okay. When you have the chance, you really should tell Heeseung….” Grinning, he continues with a dark tone. “I’m sure he’ll have a good idea on just what to do with that man…trust me.” He plants a kiss on to the side of your head.

“You wanna see something?”

Peeling your face away, drenched in tears, he lifts his hand and uses his index finger to clean the streams off your cheeks.

“watch…”

Observing, he snaps his fingers in the air, and coming forth out of nowhere, a beautiful, bright green butterfly appears. It fluttered around his fingers in delicate notion, resting atop of his hand. Presenting it to you, he softly issues out his words.

“Here, you can pick it up.”

Looking at him, you saw the gentleness of his face as he looks at you from above with his height towering over you.

Picking the beautiful creature from his hand with your own, you watched as the butterfly rested atop your delicate fingers, fluttering its vibrant emerald-colored wings.

For the first time in a while, you genuinely smiled as the tears kept streaming down. You were touched, the moment the butterfly danced atop your index finger, you were felt your heart warm up.

It was clear that there was something about Jay and Helel, and your gut feeling told you that it may have been sinful to take to them, but you couldn’t help it. They made you feel special, loved, and made you feel good. There was a sinful pleasure in their manner of romanticism, and you couldn’t help but start to yearn for more.

“What do you want to call it? You can name it anything you like. I personally like your name the best.” He issues as he smiles against your hair.

You chuckled at the thought.

“My name?.....if that’s what you like….we can call it that.”

“Well, sounds like a new species is established then.” He smirks.

Just as you felt his gentle grip tighten around your waist, a loud voice from behind shatters the moment.

“Everyone! Everyone it’s almost time! The sun is going to set in half an hour! The angels will come to kill the sinner!”

P A R T 2 W O

Taglist: @deobitifull; @solstramaii; @iamliacamila; @lisaaannna; @nikstrange; @jaehaki; @luv-enhy-skz33; @silcry

[special-toons-au]

Special-Toons Introduction

Hey! Been a bit! Decided to type up a proper introduction to this AU. I do have an intro over on Tiktok, but I feel that it doesn't do the story justice. Without further ado, let's get into it!

In this AU, every toon has been created with a power tailored to them, known as "specialties." These specialties manifest themselves in a multitude of ways, being specific to and behaving around the nature of each toon.

While most openly display their specialties, some prefer to keep theirs hidden or use them when the time calls for it. Most toons starting out are unaware of what their specialty is, but by the starting point of this story most already have theirs figured out.

Before the events of Special-Toons, GardenView was a multipurpose establishment that experienced a sudden rise and fall in popularity, especially in the 1990s. Founded by Arthur Walton and Delilah Keen, the GardenView Entertainment Center hosted a variety of different attractions including a theater, diner, pool, and gift shop that was open to the public as well as a production studio, warehouse, and labratory further underground away from public eye.

In 1994, Arthur discovered the first instances of toon specialties and decided to report these findings to Delilah. With this newly-obtained information, Delilah would manage and oversee for the next 2 years a series of tests and experiments known as the Ichor Operation.

The fall of GardenView occurred in summer 1996, mere weeks after a disagreement between Delilah and Arthur. With an unstable entity breaching containment and wreaking havoc, an evacuation attempt (appropriately named "Doomsday") was made of all the staff and personnel though the success of said evacuation is still unclear.

The toons beyond this day were left to fend for themselves within the remains of the GardenView Center.

In this story, we follow the rookie toons Razzle & Dazzle as they attempt to navigate their way through the toon-refurbished GardenView Center in the year 2011. Being fairly new to the world they've been placed in, they must rely on each other as they interact with various toons to try and make sense of how their wacky world works. As their story progresses, they'll uncover dark mysteries and unveil deeper secrets whilst guarding their lives from perilous foes.

Though the story is mostly centered around the twin masks, the perspective will sometimes shift to show the viewpoint of other toons (ex. Glisten, Sprout, Astro, etc.).

I'll admit it: I'm a sucker for romance and some good fluff/comfort (I'm also a multishipper sue me-). Below is a list of ships that are/will be canonic to Special-Toons (subtle or overt) that I will reference time and time again:

Definitive Relationships (throughout ST):

MoonlitTheater (Razzle & Dazzle x Astro)

AngryCuddleFish (Shrimpo x Goob x Finn)

GlitterHugs (Glisten x Goob)

JewelryBox (Glisten x Boxten)

FruitCake (Sprout x Cosmo)

GhostBubble (Connie x Poppy)

TeaCase (Teagan x Rodger)

WingCollection (Flutter x Gigi)

CleanBrowserHistory (Tisha x Vee x Shelly)

Implied/Discontinued/Broken Relationships (before ST):

MoonFlower (Astro x Dandy)

RainbowCase (Rodger x Dandy)

PetalVision (Dandy x Vee)

MoonBerry (Astro x Sprout)

ShrimpTea (Shrimpo x Teagan)

Character Sheets: I'll post character sheets I have here for reference. Links will be down below!

Standard - Commons||Uncommons||Rares||Mains Event/Other - Yuletide||Ostara

Comic: If you guys are interested, I could start to transfer comic parts onto here. NOTE: Some of the comic parts do/will contain trigger warnings, so be wary of those particular parts (as of writing this, parts 16 and 22 are the only parts with actual TWs). You can view the parts early on my discord!

Comic Dub from Mcj Productions - Parts 1-3

Questions: I'll happily accept questions about the AU! If I am able, I can try to answer them!

Alright, I think that's all. I hope you guys enjoyed this intro post, and I hope to do more! Be sure to check out my personal blog as well!

[hometoursandotherstuff]

This is interesting. The 1867 Jones Mansion is a Second Empire style home. It's original to the point of being a bit shabby, but it's currently operating as a venue for weddings, parties, etc. Located in Findlay, Ohio, it has 5 bds. on the 2nd level, and 3ba. $659,900. In the back of the house there's parking for 21 cars, so the events it hosts must be fairly small.

Look at how original and timeworn it is.

This room would be the main sitting room. Look at the patina on the walls. This room is empty, so it must be one of the rooms they rent out. Beautiful marble fireplace.

Look at the mantle in the reception room- it's a glass display case. They must rent this room out also, b/c they put lights in the beams.

The dining room has a lovely ceiling and a marble fireplace.

They've got coffee and a bar set up in here.

Nice pedestal sink in the restroom.

Well, they gutted the kitchen and put in a commercial setup. So, the new owner has a blank slate but would have to invest in a new kitchen.

Now, we're on the 2nd fl.

This is a bedroom. It's very large and has a great fireplace.

Bedroom #2, also spacious. Beautiful ceiling and fireplace.

Looks like the baths are combinations of vintage and modern.

The description does say that each bedroom has a fireplace. This one is different and it's beautiful, too.

This is another hall with stairs to the 3rd fl. The description says that it's not finished, but it has potential.

Beautiful sunporch on the 2nd floor.

The back of the house is so pretty and it's a fine brick home with a mansard roof. You can see by the shape of the roof and all the windows that there's potential for a finished 3rd floor.

https://circaoldhouses.com/property/the-jones-mansion-a-magnificent-second-empire-home-or-venue-space/

[houseofbrat]

So, what’s your honest opinion of the full #picturegate drama?

I’ve seen many people believing that KP used The PoW as scapegoat and she doesn’t did the photoshop. But what are your thoughts? In case some are correct, why do you think they are blaming Kate? Why not blame the ‘real’ responsible (some suggested it’s her staff)

As we have discussed, their PR team is awful, but this new nonsense takes the cake

The situation leading up to the "photo kill" I've already described here:

That basically summarizes the situation leading up to the photo and its very public dismissal.

2. One of the other problems is the staff they have working for them. Clearly the KP communications department is not up to par. It should have been the communications head/chief taking the blame for this instead of Kate. Instead, he thought that a statement from Kate would quell the drama, when all it did was pour more gasoline on the fire.

So Kate can take the blame for the photo but couldn't make any comments about any messages she received from well wishers in the previous weeks? WTF?!

But then there's KP spokesperson giving statements to People magazine today!

A palace insider downplayed the PR crisis, telling PEOPLE exclusively that although the situation is a "bump in the road, it's not an earthquake." "[Kate] has apologized and graciously so," the insider says. "She has done something that 99% of us do — and we don’t have the scrutiny that they do." "Think of the level of scrutiny of pictures of her, as people pore over them," the insider continues. "You’re always on display and always got to be perfect." The insider adds, "She might be a member of the royal family, but she’s also a human being. If you've just had an operation, you want to look your best with the first photograph that’s published for the outside world."

I'm sorry but why is this person still in the employ of Kensington Palace and why are they speaking to People magazine? "We don't have the scrutiny that they do." FUCKING DUH!! That's why all sorts of people who don't pay attention to the BRF are like, "What the actual fuck is going on over there right now???"

So the KP comms people are continuing to dig the hole they are in. They haven't stopped digging and are unlikely to do so as long as they are calling up People magazine to give them exclusives on their professional fuckups!

3. Guess who hired and continues to employ the professional fuckup?

William!

William is an emotionally damaged, thin skinned, control freak with a privacy fetish. And William found his perfect YES MAN to accede to his control freak nature and his unhealthy demand for privacy with Lee Thompson.

YES MAN + Control Freak - connection to reality = the mess we have today

And the mess we have today continues to roll on. And will continue to roll on. Just as it has since he was hired in 2022...

There was the fuckup at Boston in 2022 when William issued a statement throwing his godmother under the bus when all he had to say was "This is an issue for Buckingham Palace." Except he didn't.

There was the bizarre photo op of Andrew being driven to church by William last August (2023), when everyone with a working, long-term memory knows that William has never kowtowed to his father.

Kate's stretch of wearing thirteen pantsuits in a row, 'cause she was all about "the work." Somehow, she didn't go on a crusade about wearing pantsuits when she was only The Duchess of Cambridge.

Announcing Kate had "planned abdominal surgery" the day after said planned abdominal surgery. If it was "planned," then wouldn't they have said something at least the day of rather than the day after?

Then there's the timeline of fuckery that's happened from Christmas until 09 March 2024 that I collated before The 2024 Mother's Day Photo Disaster.

And it's going to keep going on and on because the root of the problem is William!

4. Then there's The Princess of Wales, aka Kate or Catherine. She is the woman with likely more sense than either Lee or William put together. Do those two fuckups listen to her? Doubtful. Did they listen to any concerns or feedback she gave these two last summer? Or fall/autumn? Also doubtful.

So there's a woman who is a globally known public figure that does not have an easy way out of the mess the two men created, and also she may share some of the blame for decisions made last summer and fall?

And it's a very depressing situation being trapped with a husband who won't listen to you and takes you for granted, yet your husband will listen to the YES MAN at his employ. Because the husband is a emotionally damaged, thin skinned, control freak with a privacy fetish.

A very depressing situation when she knows that her reputation of twenty plus years in the public eye is about to go down the drain as a result of the choices these two men have made. (And no, I'm not talking about the Mother's Day photo.) Gee, what kind of situation could that lead to over the holidays?

5. Then you have Charles, Camilla, and the officials working at Buckingham Palace.

They know about all the communications problems taking place at KP since last summer. Oh, they know. BELIEVE ME. They know.

Charles is someone who believes people should learn from their mistakes and isn't going to interfere in his sons' lives and mistakes. Charles resented his parents interfering in his dating life long before he ever dated or married Diana. (Sabrina Guinness, anyone?) He also resented them interfering in his marriage to Diana.

Basically, Charles won't do what one of my friends from college did: write about her college roommate's pregnancy and due date in a Christmas letter. Yup. Charles isn't that man.

So, yes, BP's communication and pr about Charles's BPH treatment and cancer treatment veers toward being over the top. They have been very transparent with the press for a reason. They know there is a metaphorical nuclear bomb about to go off due to KP's lack of transparency and accountability to the UK public. The monarchy cannot be seen as complicit in it. It is KP's problem. Always has been a KP problem.

This is why Queen Camilla made so many visits to the front entrance of The London Clinic. Transparency. Proper communication with the UK public. The public can trust that The Crown is being honest with them. Kensington Palace clearly not so much.

It's why King Charles has been photographed doing mundane things such as greeting cards and going to church.

And yes, BP communications team is undoubtedly shading the KP comms team when King Charles got photographed in a car at Windsor last week, four days after Kate's pap shot with her mother.

So yeah, we're about to get the biggest scandal since the 90s when Diana died or the War of the Waleses. Pick your throwback reference. Get your popcorn. Because it is going to be that bad.

And the reputations of Will & Kate will never be the same.

Ever.