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jinjojess · 5 years ago

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DR Kirigiri Vol. 5 Summary Part X

Okay budding detectives, let’s finish up Chapter 1 of DRK5!

As an apology for the lateness of this, I translated easily 80% or more of this chapter straight up.

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Chapter 1 The Mania of Existence: Libra Girls’ Academy - Samidare Yui

As you may or may not remember from last time, Samidare had figured out the trick behind the Libra Girls’ Academy case, and is currently being held at nail gun point by Mizuiyama, who had also not only solved Yaki’s case for him, but had also brained him in the head with a lead pipe like some kind of Japanese-themed Clue character.

This part picks up where part VIII left off, with Samidare being on point as ever.

“You’re the culprit, Mizuiyama-san?”

“That I am.” She nodded, the nail gun still pressed to my chest. “I had thought that I’d win by separating you from Kirigiri Kyouko and forcing you to solve the case on your own, but you defied my expectations by figuring out the secret of Libra Girls’ Academy. Unfortunately, that has made you quite the pain in my side.”

“So you ending up the suspect during the Takeda Haunted House case was all part of the plan too?”

“Perhaps it was.”

“What do you mean, ‘perhaps’?”

“This is all being guided by Mr. Ryuuzouji, no?”

So basically, she was saying that despite all of the seemingly random things that had happened, we were still all playing right into Ryuuzouji Gekka’s hand.

“Why did you kill Takezaki-san?”

“We had a bit of an altercation two years ago when I was working as a school counselor, but I won’t get into the details. It’s a long story that you won’t be interested in anyway, and my arm is getting tired.”

((Well jeez, Mizuiyama. I wanted to know. Just like I wanted to know why the Despair Twins have different last names.))

“Mizuiyama-san, if you’re the culprit, then that means you’re well-versed in Duel Noir. You’ve lost. Even if you killed me, that wouldn’t change anything.”

“I suppose you’re right. I have lost this game. But what about the others still remaining?”

“Huh...?”

“You must solve all twelve cases in order to defeat Mr. Ryuuzouji, isn’t that right?”

I had no idea what she was getting at, so I just nodded.

“You really don’t pick up on much, do you? You need me to explain? I don’t want Mr. Ryuuzouji to step down. Not as a detective, and not as a member of the Committee for the Salvation of the Victims of Crime.”

Ah, so that was it. She was one of Ryuuzouji Gekka’s devotees, huh.

Even compared to other great detectives, Ryuuzouji was on an entirely different level. Lots of people looked up to him and wanted to be just like him. I had to admit that I’d had quite the respect for him too, so much so that even now I couldn’t shake it entirely.

“I too have considered becoming someone who could save people. Despite that, there’s just some kind of deficiency in me that prevents that...conviction, in other words. Conviction is easy to talk about, but much harder to follow through on. There are so many things that can prey on it... Giving up because of a lack of skill, making concessions to the opinions of those around you, allowing your authority to be undermined... There are so many ways for it to break under the slightest pressure. Yet, what I see in Mr. Ryuuzouji’s expression is pure, beautiful conviction. If you follow the laws of this world, beauty is stability. Like transmuting something on a molecular level to create gold--don’t you think conviction could be said to be the emotional form of that?” Mizuiyama said, excited.

I didn’t really understand what she was talking about, but it was clear that she was devoted to Ryuuzouji.

((I mean, who wouldn’t be? Dude is badass. Even Junko Lico respects him.))

“I mean, if you kill me here, it’s true I wouldn’t be able to solve all twelve cases, but...do you really think Ryuuzouji-san would want to live that way? Considering how much he talks about fair play, I can’t imagine he’d be satisfied with our battle of wits ending this way.”

“You sure are speaking as if you know anything about anything,” Mizuiyama said, angrily pressing the nail gun into me. “You misunderstand. I have no intention of killing you here. Just as originally intended, I plan to keep you held prisoner until the time limit is up.”

“You can try, but someone will come to rescue me. I have full faith in that.”

“For instance, Kirigiri Kyouko? You have a point...she is the most dangerous adversary I have right now. But I wonder if she’d even bother to come here? Remember, I have your phone. I can have you tell her yourself that you’re doing just fine.”

“And if I tell her I’m in danger?”

“Well then, if you were that dedicated to throwing everything away, I suppose you’d force my hand, and I’d have to take a more forceful approach to ending the game. In other words, I’d kill you.”

“It doesn’t matter, she’d still come here of her own accord anyway. After solving all of the other cases, she’d come here no doubt. Probably faster than you’d think, even!”

((Samidare doesn’t even flinch at this, she’s so secure. What a good. I love this ship.))

“Don’t worry, I’ve already planned a countermeasure for that.”

“How?”

“Yesterday, after I split off from all of you, I went to the Museum of Medieval Western European Torture Devices as promised and poked around. Right after that, I headed to Bar GOODBYE to investigate there. By the way, I’ve already devised the culprit and the trick for both cases.”

((To be fair, the culprit for the Bar GOODBYE case wasn’t exactly difficult.))

“Wha?”

“Do you understand what that means?”

“...I don’t.”

“I already know the question and the answer for both cases. I’ve cracked both of them before any of you, and whether or not I hand over that information is entirely up to my discretion.”

“Who cares? We can just investigate ourselves!”

“Looks like you still don’t get it. You’re all lagging behind. While you’re all playing catch up, I could have mixed lies in with the evidence. Of course, I can’t do anything to change the answer, but what about the question? I could plant false evidence, fake testimony, involve unrelated people as red herrings...”

((A few years later, Kirigiri just shakes her head during the second trial of Junko’s game, thinking about how Togami is amateur hour.))

“Huh?!”

How did she even come up with something like that?

“So next I’m going to start handing out fake information like candy. You lack the ability to tell if any of the clues you find are real or fake. You’d run out of time trying to puzzle it out.”

“You aren’t our only source of information, you know! Putting the museum aside, Yaki-san is handling the case at the bar.”

“He’s dead.”

“If we just ask him for informa... What did you just say?”

“He’s dead.”

“He died?”

“Yes. I killed him. Oh dear, it seems I’ve added an unnecessary crime to my plate. I may have lost my chance at changing my name and starting a new life since I lost the game, but if I can help Mr. Ryuuzouji win, then I don’t mind staking my life on this.”

“Why are you so into Ryuuzouji-san...?”

“Haven’t you ever wondered who comes to the aid of the hero who has saved so many?” Mizuiyama said in a harsh tone. “No one thinks of the worries he carries on his shoulders. He has the right to salvation.”

“Can you really call what you’re doing salvation though? You’re just getting in the way of our showdown!”

“Shut up! What are you calling a showdown?!”

The usually reserved Mizuiyama exploded in fury.

Looks like I had touched a nerve.

“How dare you... A showdown, ha! ...Why were you chosen...?”

Mizuiyama’s hand trembled, but I knew she couldn’t lay a finger on me.

Of that I was sure. This was still Ryuuzouji’s game, and she’d never dream of breaking its rules.

“Don’t move.” Mizuiyama wiped her eyes with her free hand. “The second you think I won’t shoot, you seal your fate and prove what an idiot you are. I’ll do what I want. If you don’t want to end up like that man over there...”

It’s at this point that they realize that Yadorigi’s body is gone, a conspicuous blood trail leading out of the chapel and into the hallway.

They both realize that Tsukiyo and Naz haven’t been sitting idly while all of this villain monologuing has been going on.

Mizuiyama keeps Samidare at nail gun point and has her walk backwards across the chapter and open the door to the hallway. There, they see Nazuna and Tsukiyo dragging Yadorigi toward the room at the end of the hall, and thanks to the ridiculousness of Samidare having to walk backwards toward them, they don’t get there in time to stop them from hiding out in the scale room.

They go in, the scale goes down, and they’re no longer accessible.

Mizuiyama isn’t too upset by this, saying they aren’t her focus anyway. She moves the nail gun to aim at Samidare’s head instead.

“On your knees, hands behind your back.”

“Um...”

“I don’t care, just do it!” she yelled.

It seemed like she was getting close to her breaking point. It would be better not to push her right now.

I followed her orders.

I was really in it now.

What would Kirigiri Kyouko do at a time like this?

...That wouldn’t work. There was a huge gulf between our basic level of ability. I didn’t know any self-defense techniques, and it’s not like my quick wit was going to tip the scales.

“As we agreed, you are going to sit here obediently and wait for time to run out.”

Mizuiyama pulled a set of handcuffs from somewhere and slapped them on my wrists.

How many times had I been handcuffed now in recent memory...?

Just accept the kink, Samidare. It will be easier this way.

Mizuiyama goes on to say that she’ll feed Samidare and let her use the bathroom and bathe as she deems fit, though if she tries anything funny, those privileges will be revoked.

It’s at this point that they hear someone’s voice from the chapel.

“Hey, Detectiiiiive! Where’d you go? We thought we were trapped, but then all of a sudden we could get out!”

It was a boy’s voice. He sounded like an idiot.

Who the heck was that?

“Oh, someone’s here.”

They entered into the hallway from the still open door.

“Detectiiiiiiive... Huh, who’re you?”

A short young man in a trench coat was ambling our way. Behind him I could see a robust, punk-looking boy and a girl wearing a qipao for some reason.

What was with this weird group?

Something I couldn’t quite accept was going on.

Mizuiyama appeared to be the same boat.

Thrown off, she turned to face them, nail gun drawn and aimed in their direction.

“D-Don’t come any closer!”

“Yo, Columbo, this is lookin’ pretty damn rough, y’know?”

It seemed the punk boy had finally realized something was amiss.

“RUN!” I yelled at them, as loud as I could.

“What should we do, Senpai? They’re telling us to run...?”

“Telling us to run? No, no, that’s them asking for help! Let’s go, Kousuke, Ellery!”

The boy in the trench coat began to run toward us.

“Feckin’ hell!”

The punk and the girl in qipao followed after.

What the heck were they thinking?!

In a panic, Mizuiyama aimed the gun and pulled the trigger with a trembling finger.

A fat nail fired from the gun with a thun sound.

“Ellery!”

The girl opened the umbrella she had in her right hand. The nail ripped into it, but stopped, its head still visible on this side.

“Kousuke! Jump!”

“Alright!”

The punk boy sprang from behind the umbrella, like a giant bullet, drop-kicking Mizuiyama.

((I fucking love these side novels, man.))

Surprisingly even for a small woman, Mizuiyama flew backwards into the door so hard the air around me shuddered. She collapsed to the floor, looking like a doll whose soul had just left it.

“Y-Yo, she ain’t dead, right? I don’t want to be a fuckin’ murderer!”

“It’s okay... She’s alive...” said the qipao-clad girl, taking Mizuiyama’s pulse.

“That sure was a close one, eh young miss?” the trench coat wearing boy said, coming closer. “We are the escheemed members of the Ouu Daitouitsu University Myschtery Research Club, at your schervice.”

“What’s the fuckin’ lisp, man? Ah, that’s our club prez.”

“President, that was...not very cool...”

“I uh...thank you?” I still had no idea what was going on, but I bowed my head for the time being. “Could you get these handcuffs off me?”

“Aw yeah, it’s time!”

The boy pulled something that looked like a hairpin from his trench coat pocket and stuck it into the keyhole of my handcuffs. After about five minutes, during which he kept muttering “huh? weird” to himself, in the end the cuffs came off.

I used them to restrain Mizuiyama instead.

Letting out a sigh of relief now that the danger had passed, I sank to the floor.

Samidare learns that the Mystery Research Club was involved in the Kareobana Academy case, and tagged along with Yadorigi to join him here. Originally, only Yadorigi was going to get off the helicopter, but the club members (minus Tooru, obviously) wanted to help out and so disembarked as well.

While investigating and ripping the boards sealing the entrance, they ended up entering into the room on the opposite end of the scales as Samidare & co., which was why they were able to get out. (Samidare notes that they must have been slightly heavier to set off that reaction, considering that they were roughly the same number of people, plus a body on one side and a Virgin Mary statue on the other. She chalks this up to Kousuke being a big boy.)

Samidare considers how Mizuiyama’s plan was likely to escape once she and the girls were trapped, planning to just seal the doors back up from the outside. But then she got to the entryway, found it already busted open, and in her panic jumped out to attack Yadorigi.

After cuffing Mizuiyama, we began to carry items in to try and offset the scales and move the left tower. We used large rocks lying around outside, boards that had been used to seal up the door...then shut the door to see if the scales moved. When they didn’t, we tried adding more. Following several failed attempts, we finally got the scales to move again.

We rushed to the right tower.

When we opened the door, Tsukiyo and Nazuna looked in our direction, terrified. Once they saw it was me, though, they threw themselves forward to hug me and sobbed.

“He! He’s still alive! We need to hurry and get him to a hospital!” Tsukiyo said, pointing toward Yadorigi. Her and Nazuna’s sailor uniforms were smeared with blood. I wondered if they’d held onto Yadorigi this entire time.

“He’s the one who suggested we hide in this room. Thanks to him, we were saved,” Nazuna said.

Thanks to them putting their combined weight on the scale, they were able to force the room down and not let anyone else in. That was what had let the Mystery Club members out, and thanks to that, I’d been saved from my desperate situation.

It was just after seven a.m. on January 12th, that the case of Libra Girls’ Academy was closed.

So yeah, that’s it for Chapter 1 of DRK5!

The next chapter is pretty hefty compared to these mini-chapters, so it will take me a little bit to get it all down.

That said though, I’m back in the swing of things and will start working on it right away!

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#DR Kirigiri #DRK5 #DRK5 summary #translation #Samidare Yui #long post

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cutiepasta-thewriter · 7 years ago

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Parent trap au

Peter has a semi-identical twin brother named Pierce. They have the same face but Peter has freckles and Pierce doesn't. Pierce also has dirty blond hair and Peter had chestnut brown hair. They both however have the same hazel doe eyes that held so much hope and innocence.

So they weren't perfect mirror twins but they were brothers and while Pierce was the bolder older brother he was also the dependent one. He was lost without Peter's calming presence. Peter was on the other hand lived on his twins shadow, he had no interest in changing that either.

Unfortunately when Pierce and his parents where driving to the air port there was a accident. Each of them where presumed dead and Peter he wasn't with them. The four year old was staying with his aunt and uncle because he caught the flu and couldn't go on the trip with his family.

Ironically, the family was going to cancel the trip and turn back instead because they couldn't really leave their son alone.

Their car was hit due to an officer redirecting traffic when they where making a turn around the corner. The result was not only both cars crashing but a third rear ending the first killing the Parkers on impact. The driver sandwiched in between bother cars was none other then Doctor Stephen Strange who later watched half conscious as paramedics pryed open a back door and pulled a bleeding child from the back seat.

I was impossible for the Doctor to forget the that night. He could only see the blood soaked boy being wrapped up carried off to one of the ambulances before they retrieved the mangled corpses of his family. Stephen did even know if the kid lived.

Surgery after surgery did nothing for the hotshot doctor. He had to find alternative practices in medicine. You know how that part of the story goes but what you don't know is that Stephen returned to the hospital to see what happened to the family he destroyed. He was thankful that the boy had actually survived but was shocked to find out that the boy was sent to foster care because they couldn't find a next of kin. The boy couldn't tell them either since they boy was not only mute but had amnesia. The accident had damaged the kid's brain quite a bit and while physically the boy can speak his brain can't connect the words to his mouth.

Nothing about the kid's parents could be found either. The record on them had been stripped clean, they didn't exist anymore.

So the nameless, mute, amnesiac child was staying at the hospital until they found a home for him after recovery.

The child was later adopted a few months later, by Stephen. The boy was renamed Sterling Strange. It meant valuable and pure in its modern form but its old English origins meant 'Little Star'.(Stephen read through twenty baby name books before finding the perfect match)

Stephen raised Sterling in the sanctum and was determined to teach him how to speak again and how to use ASL. Sign language was challenging since using his hands was hard for the warlock but he has Wong around to help.

Sterling knew about what happened to his family but never blamed Stephen for it. He loved his wizard dad and wouldn't change it for the world.

In New York a similar story was told as a Peter had adjusted to a life with out his parents and brother. On the anniversary of the accident his aunt and uncle cheered him up with tickets to the Stark expo. But like curse or a blessing it was attacked. Iron man himself had saved Peter's life and shielded him from the blasts. After it was all over Mr. Stark help him find his aunt and uncle.

Later that year there when financial troubles and they were faced with a hard decision. Peter was technically a foster child in the eyes of the state, mostly because they wanted him to have parents again and not just a aunt and uncle. This way May and Ben could also have a say in who Peter ended up with. They didn't want to lose their other nefew to a terrible family. Unfortunately they had to consider sending Peter to live in a different foster home for a bit until everything was sorted.

Peter was more then a little scared, he didn't want to be alone. So, in one of his weekly letters he sent to his hero Tony Stark he talked about what was wrong.

Tony unlike what you'd expect actually did read the letters. They were usually about what Lego sets the kid built or how good he did in class that day. The inventor kept the letters all over the house from his office desk to his work bench. Something about reading them always gave him the energy to go the extra mile. Heck, he even had a few of Peter's tests hung on his fridge.

So, the billionaire got involved. After many talks with the Parkers he knew they would never take money from him but they did agree to something else.

Soon enough Peter Parker became Peter Stark and May and Ben went back to working full time.

Tony learned that is wasn't going to be easy taking care of Peter.

The night of the accident Peter fever shot up quickly in his sleep. It caused a lot of damage to his respiratory system, it left Peter with bad asthma as well has a weakened immune system. There are some truly frightening times when Peter catches a cold and has a seizure. Thankfully Tony can afford the medical treatments and medications Peter needed to increase his immune response.

It was worst it of course Peter was the light of his life and he spoiled the kid as much as possible. He was a better father then his own as he watched star wars and help build robots with his son.

But then came that fateful day when the two boy where dropped off at camp. It was a camp for young upperclass geniuses. For children born and bred for greatness.

Tony cheated Peter's bag over and over again to make sure he had his inhaler. Peter watched as a bunch of kids stared as them. He hoped that no one at the camp treated him differently because of his last name. He hated being treated like some kind of celebrity by people his age because they always try to take advantage of him or talk behind his back.

On the other side of the drop off point Sterling and his father went over the rules. No magic, no fighting, no talking about magic, and play nice with the other kids. Sterling knew almost immediately that he was very different from the other kids. His robes where the first sign. In Kamar-Taj they were normal but he knew the outside world was a very different place. Stephen assured Sterling would be fine, as far as anyone could tell he was one of the foreign students from Nepal.

It was during a chess competition between cabins when the boys met. They where evenly matched the entire game until Sterling got bored and switched the rook and the bishop when no one was looking. Peter immediately called him out causing an argument.

This resulted into an all-out war between the boys. Peter would make fun of the blond's posh British accent when he was supposedly from india. Sterling believed Peter was a spoiled rich kid that couldn't take a joke.

Eventually the boys where forced to stay in a cabin together until they got along after a few too many pranks.

The boy eventually found out more and more about each other's pasts. Like that they were both adopted, they had the same birthday, and that both their parents died in a car crash. Peter admitted that he had a twin brother who died as well.

When Sterling signed/asked what he was like Peter shifted uncomfortably before saying his brother had blond hair and freckles like Sterling.

Sterling admitted that he lost his memory after the accident.

Peter thought for a moment before saying that his brother had a star shaped birth mark on the back of his neck. And upon inspection Sterling had it. Proof his bother was alive.

Sterling didn't know what to think. He wanted to know where he came from but he didn't know how to begin.

The boys came up with an admittedly stupid idea but two bottles of hair dye and a haircut later there they were.

The newly reunited twins wanted to see the other's life and this was their chance.

Sterling helped his brother learn sign language as well as how to navigate the sanctum. He also needed to tell Peter about magic and how to start using it. Thankfully, Sterling didn't know too much yet. Peter also needed to know how to speak in a British accent.

Peter laughed everytime he had to say telly instead of tv. It was also hilarious to see Sterling try to pronounce penguin.

On the other hand Peter had to teach his brother about New York and how to get around happy. He needed to make sure Rodney didn't catch on, he had the eyes of a hawk. Also Sterling needed to learn Italian since it was something he spoke exclusively with his dad and aunt when they where alone.

At the end of camp the boys had ended swapped places as they met their 'dads'.

For weeks they spent time getting to know their other parents.

Peter was in awe of the pure beauty of the sanctum and exploring the temples. Learning about relics and reading the ancient books in the library was insanely fascinating.

Sterling stared out at the city from the penthouse home. Looking down at the all the people going about their day was mesmerizeing. The city was alive and constantly moving and changing. Kamar-Taj seemed almost small in comparison.

Getting to know the fathers they had never met was another thing entirely.

Stephen worked tirelessly to help his son speak and when Peter who had no difficulty doing so did, the wizard had so much joy in his eyes.

The same went for Sterling as he had no trouble when it came to being active and had no need for an inhaler. Tony had lost hope of ever seeing his son run and play like a normal child but this was unbelievable.

Both boys felt guilty for what they where doing. They where tricking the people they cared about most and giving false hope to their guardians.

So they had to reveal themselves, the lies had to stop somewhere.

Stephen broke down when he heard the truth. He had no idea Sterling had a brother. He had not only orphaned two boys but he took one of them away. He should have tried harder to find his family. He shouldn't have separated them. He apologized over and over again as the boy hugged him. Peter didn't care what happened, he was just glad his brother had someone so caring in his life even if he wasn't in it.

"I should have help you too. He needed you more." Stephen whispered as he ran has hand through the boy's fake blond hair.

Tony had to hold back tears as he realized what this meant. He would listen to Peter's endless stories about his brother on nights he couldn't sleep or had nightmares about that night. Sometimes he really wished he could have just adopted both boys or at least have met Pierce. That way Peter could at have had someone else to grieve like he did. But to have that brother stand right in front of him m, it was a miracle. To know that Peter wasn't alone, it made things so much lighter.

"You look just like him. It's not a bad thing but I think I prefer your natural look." Tony said tears running down his face as he swiped the pale makeup off Sterling's nose so reveal a cluster of freckles underneath.

There came the time when both families had to switch their twins back but as soon as they met again the boy refused to be separated. They loved their fathers but they where brothers and they weren't going anywhere without the other.

The fathers had their hands tied so they had to work out a system.

At first the twin constantly changed houses but Stephen made a portal that linked the homes so everyone could come and go as they pleased. It resulted in what felt like one large home that didn't exist in a single place. The children got to explore a whole new world and the adults where at ease that they didn't lose theirs sons but gained another.

They co-parented like champs but Tony was still quick to spoil his twins. Stephen was still the fun dad though.

They became a happy family and yes they lived happily ever after.

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mtvswatches · 6 years ago

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Jane the Virgin 1x07 Chapter Seven

Spoilers disclaimer (please read before sending messages or writing comments.)

Stray thoughts

1) It’s nice to get a little more backstory to their first kiss.

NARRATOR: Unfortunately, as Jane described their magical talk, Xo had the distinct impression that…

XIOMARA: He sounds like a playboy, hon.

JANE: I know. I know. He seemed like he would be, but he wasn't.

JANE: He seemed so sincere.

XIOMARA: That's what makes a good playboy. You never feel like you're getting played.

Of course, this was before the cancer, the marriage, Petra’s miscarriage (I’m assuming it was a miscarriage, although this being a telenovela, it could have easily been a fake pregnancy, we’ll see…), and everything that has happened since the show started. Rafael was a different person then, and so was Jane. She seemed to be much more naïve and gullible back then.

The part I’m not buying, though, is how they managed not to run into each other for over 4 years? Like, she was working at the hotel he owned, wasn’t there any awkward encounters like EVER? The show definitely makes it sound as if they had gone by almost five years without seeing or talking to each other…

2) I have to say, I’m with Xiomara and with the stop sign on this one…

It does seem a bit rushed for them to get together, especially considering all the special circumstances that brought them into each other’s lives. And I’m sorry if I’m raining on the shippers’ parade, but they barely know each other? It seems they’re more in lust than in love, and the whole “meant to be” thing is more “meant to be in your pants” than fate. I really hope the show makes me feel different about this because I do enjoy their interactions so far, I like them as characters, and I can see the chemistry there, but I also need some depth to their relationship, you know?

3) Okay, so Rafael showed up and asked her out, and they almost kissed but Jane told him she needed some time and space, which, yes, good for you. But I don’t see that time and space thing lasting too long for some reason…

4) I have a feeling Petra would like to switch places with Jane right now…

5) The fucking nuns are using Jane as a fucking fertility attraction or something. Without her knowledge.

6) Did you know that I love Rogelio?

7) We all know I’m not fond of Michael, but… he did ask Jane point blank if the breakup had anything to do with Rafael, and she lied. Even if there were things Michael did that contributed to her deciding to break up with him, Rafael had a lot to do with it as well. I guess she was trying to spare his feelings, but… she lied. And Michael lying to her was one of the reasons she was broke up with him, so… that’s a bit hypocritical Jane…

8) Rafael is being a bit too pushy for my liking…

RAFAEL: Have you had enough time? Ready to go on a date?

JANE: No. I came to ask a favor, actually, which is totally unrelated to our current situation.

RAFAEL: And what is our current situation?

The girl asked you for some time and space, and it’s been, what? 8 hours? Seriously?

9) OF COURSE, he’s going to be in the club and will continue to push things. That’s so not the way to go about this.

10) Now, these two? They really are meant for each other…

NARRATOR: What you are about to witness is two creatures who are inherently dramatic attempt to behave like they are - not dramatic.

11) Desperate times call for desperate measures…

MAGDA: We can't keep him here forever. We might have to consider…

PETRA: What?

MAGDA: I know people from the old country.They could take care of him for us.

PETRA: Mother, that's crazy!

MAGDA: It is realistic. Now, here are your options: You kill him or let him go, and risk Milos finding you and then you'll wish you were dead. Your choice.

I’m not sure Petra is capable of murdering someone. Magda, on the other hand…

12) AWKWARD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

13) Oh my god, is he twelve?!

JANE: Michael saw the flowers you sent, and he was so hurt it was awful.

RAFAEL: Jane, that wasn't my intention.

JANE: I know. But that's why I'm saying it's too soon.

RAFAEL: What, because of Michael?

JANE: Yes, because of Michael. We were engaged.I was I was about to marry him.

RAFAEL: I'm sorry. But, Jane, he's kind of been a jerk to me.

He’s acting like an entitled rich boy, isn’t he? He wants Jane so he must have her now, it doesn’t matter that she’s not completely comfortable and it doesn’t matter that she still cares about her ex-fiancé with whom she broke up a day ago! And how does he justify not caring about hurting Michael’s feelings or disregarding Jane’s feelings for Michael? “Ugh he was a jerk!”

I don’t like this side of Rafael, I hope he understands why this is wrong SOON.

14) OMG

JANE: Do you by any chance know my father?

15) And now he’s taking Jane’s request for time and space a little bit too seriously…

16) I LOVE ROGELIOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO

17) Get your shit together, dude…

Like, you want to date the girl who’s carrying your fucking baby, maybe don’t get salt licked by “a friend” right in front of her?

18) Well, it seems Petra has what it takes to be a murderer after all…

IVAN: Is that peanut sauce?

PETRA: I don't know. I just ordered chicken from room service.

IVAN: I have peanut allergy!

19) False alarm…

He even thanked her, that’s progress.

20) Hmmm, I’m not sold on how the show got Rafael to “refute” each single of Jane’s arguments. They simply have different points of views, and both of their arguments are valid. The most important one, however, is the fact that they clearly don’t know each other very well. It’s one thing to start dating someone who you don’t know very well under regular circumstances. That’s basically what we all do, that is literally how you get to know someone and find out whether you can have a meaningful relationship with them or not. But… Jane is fucking pregnant with Rafael’s baby… so the dating thing could potentially backfire in the worst possible way, and even if they intend to “put the baby first”, they cannot be sure that’s what they’ll do once their hearts are broken and there’s resentment or bad blood.

21) I guess I was wrong when I said Jane had a good head on her shoulders…

I’m sorry but I’m so not into this. It really feels like they’re in lust, and that’s just not my thing.

22) Rafael’s mom is totally going to come back, right?

23) Yeah, that whole “conversation that goes on forever”? I get it, I’ve had those. But it feels the writers are trying to fast-forward the most meaningful part of a relationship, the getting-to-know-each-other part, the slowly falling in love with someone as you learn more and more about them. It just happened overnight for Jane and Rafael.

I feel like I should like them, like I should be falling for them as they fall for each other, but it seems too… contrived. I’m not into it…

24) Oh, Petra, you deceitful SOB! You got me!

MAGDA: That was smart. Seeing his bracelet. You've earned his trust.

NARRATOR: Ah, yes, the classic "poison your hostage and then save him to earn his trusts" technique. Works every time.

MAGDA: I hope the rest of your plan works as smoothly.

What is the rest of her plan, though?

25) ROGELIO STOPPPPPPPPP

26) And now I feel sorry for Michael? What is this episode doing to me?

27) Oh, this trick again, Petra… it didn’t work with Rafael, though…

I’m guessing he’s going to sleep with her and not give her the money, to get back at her because of how she fooled him before…

28) rrrrrogELIOOOOOOOOOOOO

RAFAEL: Who are you?

ROGELIO: I am Jane's father.

RAFAEL: Oh, uh Oh, uh, it's nice to meet you, Sir.

ROGELIO: I wish I could say the same. Jane's mother was worried all night.

RAFALl: Oh, I am so sorry. We-we just kind of…

ROGELIO: No, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no. I know your game. I used to be just like you. Ridiculously good-looking, with charisma, with swagger, notching girls onto my belt.

RAFAEL: No, that's-that's not what's happening

ROGELIO: I have had sex with a lot of women. Way more than you, I'm sure!

RAFAEL: I am sure that that's true.

ROGELIO: But Jane is different. Jane is special. Remember that. Or face the consequences.

29) “Deferred payment plan.” Yep, you’re not going to see that money, Petra…

30) Nope. I don’t like this, at all.

XIOMARA: And you're not me, Jane. You make smart choices, sensible choices.

JANE: Exactly. Because I was always scared of repeating your mistakes. And, mom, I'm just realizing, because of that, I've been afraid to take risks. Real risks.

XIOMARA: You've been smart.

JANE: I've been safe. And I'm gonna be a mom. And moms put their kids first. You know that better than anyone. So this is my last chance I get to follow my heart. Do what I want. And, yeah, maybe the timing isn't perfect, but I want to be with Rafael. He's a good guy.

There’s nothing wrong with being safe, especially when you’re having a baby. And I really don’t get Jane’s logic here? “I’ve been safe my whole life and afraid of taking risks so now that I’m having a baby and will put it first is the best time to take risks”? Maybe don’t? Especially if you’re taking a chance with the father of your baby who you barely know and you could potentially ruin your relationship as parents and therefore create an unhealthy environment for your child just because you had a whim and you were hot for the guy?

I know that I’m probably in the minority here and everyone loves Rafael and Jane, but I’m just super NOT into this. It feels too sudden?

I just hope the show somehow manages to change my perception of them, idk.

31) If anything, Jane’s and Rafael’s recklessness has helped Xiomara and Rogelio become the grown-ups, so I’m thankful for that. They’re still over-dramatic and ridiculous, but they’ve proven they can adult like the best of them if the situation calls for it.

32) …well, for the most part…

33) I FUCKING KNEW IT!!!

I ship this more than I ship Rafael and Jane hahaha!

34) Okay…

I’m totally indifferent to this. *shrugs*

35) Hope you enjoyed my recap, and, as usual, if you’ve got this far, thank you for reading! If you enjoy my recaps and my blog, please consider supporting it on ko-fi.Thanks!

#Jane the Virgin #Jane Villanueva #Gina Rodriguez #Rogelio de la Vega #Jaime Camil #JTV recap #JTV 1x07 #mine #MTVSwatches

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jokin-around · 7 years ago

Text

the Broken Stitch

Words: 2972

pairing: Batman/joker (selina/bruce mentioned)

summary: a certain someone has caught wind of Bruce’s upcoming marriage… and he isn’t smiling about it

warnings: attempted suicide

themes: AAANNGST, hurt and comfort

notes: i started writing this a while ago, not related to telltale in anyway despite the title but has a similar tone, I wanted to make something that handled jokers feelings toward Bruce settling down because i love to suffer, enjoy!

Rain fell in Gotham as the batmobile sped down a dark alleyway, its angry rumble disrupting the oddly quiet night. The man at its wheel was silent as he stared down the dark road ahead, gripping the wheel at sharp turns and leaving nothing but a trail of skid marks behind as he rode deeper into the city…

The bat signals light had been casted onto the heavy clouds that loomed over the city earlier that night, and like always batman had been there on the GCPD’s roof in one fell swoop, quiet as a barn owl, speaking to an old man with tired eyes and a cigarette hanging from his mouth. Though the scene had been no different than usual, the atmosphere definitely was. an uneasy funk hung in the air, evident by Gordon’s posture and demeanor. As the worn out cop had relayed the situation to the city’s dark clad knight, back turned as he exhaled poisonous puffs of smoke. World weariness replaced the usual anger and sternness batman was so used to hearing from the man he viewed as a constant pillar in his life.

It wasn’t just one soul at risk tonight or two or even a room of hostages… it was hundreds, possibly thousands.

There was no need for the commissioner to utter the name of the man he was going to be in pursuit of tonight. There was only one criminal in the city who would dare cause so much destruction to the place gothamites called home, so much blatant disrespect towards humanity. And unfortunately Bruce knew him all too well.

After running red lights and crashing through piles of discarded debri, Bruce was parked at the base of the tallest skyscraper in Gotham in minutes, wasting no time scaling up the buildings exterior. When he reached the top, shooting up into the air with the momentum of his grappling hook and swooping back down with his cape billowing in the cold wind like royal robes, he was greeted by the silhouette of a familiar jester. The clowns slender figure stood precariously off the edge of a very long drop. Tangles of green hair dangling down in front of his face. Something, a bottle of some kind, was in his hand. A tiny black box with a mess of wires poking out of it being gripped, shakily, in the other.

The slightest turn of the man’s head told batman his presence had not gone unnoticed.

“You came.“ He said softly in way that was almost shockingly uncharacteristic “i was beginning to think you’d forgotten about me” He sighed, turning his attention back to asphalt that lied hundreds of feet below him

The bat was silent for a moment, then spoke…

“Gordon told me you wouldn’t negotiate until I did" He paused, waiting for a reaction, the clown chuckled humorlessly yet in a way that was devoid of any malice.

“Right… thats how it always is isn’t it? Always having to get your attention somehow just for a moment within the velvet of your shadow…”

Jokers words always walked the line between riddles and poetry but he was being unusually cryptic tonight

“Pardon?” Bruce asked

“Our game?“ He clarified “i threaten to bomb a hospital or gas a football stadium and you come running, arms outstretched, to catch me every time don’t you?”

Bruce didn’t reply, whatever point the clown was trying at, he wasn’t grasping it yet

“It’s our lot in life, how we were meant to operate, DOOMED to operate… it’d be foolish to… to think….” He trailed off, still staring down

“To think what?”

Instead of answering Joker laughed again, shoulders shaking, grip on the device on his hand tightening

“To think it could be any other way!!“ He turned, frail body swaying to face the bat, footing unstable, expression wild as always but… disgraced with dark streaks of caked on mascara that streamed down his pale face like rivers. bruce thought it could possibly be from the rain but the look in jokers eyes signaled otherwise. It was a sight batman never correlated with the Joker. Those streaks were caused by tears, the tears of a man, of a HUMAN with emotions, the kind Bruce had tricked himself into thinking Joker lacked. At this point it was glaringly obvious why the man before him was practically speaking in tongues, the bottle he held in his other hand already half empty

“ Joker… are.. .are you???”

He laughed, genuinely this time

“If you’re asking if i’ve partook in the devil’s nectar, the unfortunate answer is yes… heh, that why they call you world’s greatest detective, batssss?” He jested taking another swig of cherry red merlot

“wasn’t planning on facing you this way y’know?…" He said looking at the tinted glass container and promptly discarding it, what was left inside spilling out as it fell several stories “But the mind is a creature of its own… wouldn't’ve been able to keep myself from pressing this button as soon as I laid my thumb upon it if I hadn’t calmed my nerves… heh… but now look, i’ve gone off script and soiled my makeup like a teenage prom queen what a mess…" He rakes his fingers through his stringy wet hair and laughs but it’s closer to a sob “this is all wrong…”

Bruce isn’t sure what to make of all this, but the clown is definitely upset, more so than usual. Unfortunately the with the city’s fate within his bony hands, he didn’t have time to humor him.

“joker… whatever this is, there’s no time for it…” Joker looks at him, unamused.

“gordon told me that you’re putting hundreds, thousands of peoples lives at risk right now… I came here to negotiate and if you’re going to make things hard as always then- !“

“Why didn’t you tell me you were getting married?“ He interrupts. The way he asks the question so nonchalant in comparison to the massive shroud of tension it gave off, shutting batman up almost immediately

“I…” He stammered “h-how did you???“

“Oh please… don’t act like you didn’t know I knew!… as if that playboy facade could keep anyone in the dark for long, Bruce wayne’s fancy marriage announcement plastered all over the city ….it’s hardly a secret.”

Bruce didn’t know how to react to that… deep down he’d always considered the possibility that Joker secretly knew his true identity. You don’t spend years sparring with someone, only to know nothing about them.

“ Joker…”

“Married… heh… And not just to some, nobody oh noo ho ho, the forever tempting Selina Kyle! gymnast, philanthropist, cat enthusiast… THIEF!…“ He turned to glare directly at Bruce, eyes flaring with hate before shifting into subtle disdain “i’ve watched you two from the shadows before. the way you look at her. the way you breath eachother like scents wafting off forbidden decadence.”

Bruce turned away

“Disgusting is the only word I could use to describe it without leaving a sour taste in my mouth.” He glared at Bruce before looking down as if he suddenly regretted discarding his drink, the action leaving him with nothing to wash the image from his mind

Bruce shook his head, denial still clouding his reasoning “why…w-why would YOU of all people care about me and Selina? For years you’ve wanted nothing but my corpse and this city in ashes and now you’re acting like… like what?? Like that’s not enough?? You need me to stay miserable too?? You want me to be like YOU??”

Joker almost looked offended for a split second before his expression twisted into something so raw and angry Bruce nearly took a step back

“You think that’s all I wanted? You REALLY think that’s what I truly wanted?? what, i’ve ALWAYS wanted! Did you never stop to THINK that possibly MAYBE, the reason I do what I do is because of the one thing you think i’m incapable of!!! The one thing you’ve convinced yourself I lack understanding of thanks to some misplaced sense of delusional superiority!!”

Bruce froze as he looked at the man before him, real tears trailed from his black ringed eyes as he held the device in his hand above his head, entire body shaking as he breathed heavily with rage.

“A thief… a criminal… and you still believe you’re too good, too righteous for me!“ He growled through gritted teeth

“Selina doesn’t kill people Joker.” Bruce said, his patience thinning and his anxiety racking as his eyes stayed fixed on the red button under Jokers itchy trigger finger

“AND!? it was like that with us in the beginning!! W-wasnt?…” He argued in desperation, tone wavering “before you got distracted by that flock of pests you call a family… before it took more than a few bank robberies to get you off that kevlar clad ass of yours”

Bruce shook his head “My family isn’t a distraction! They’re all I have… and they deserve a family, a real family, the kind I never had. after raising 6 sons, and 4 daughters… after 15 years, my own death, THEIR deaths… I… I-I-I had to… I have to… for them” every horrible event and tear shared with his children flashed in his mind as he tried to rationalize his reasoning… he didn’t truly know why he had popped the question onto Selina so suddenly, after years of making it clear that he was disinterested in marriage, with anyone, but he knew that had to be part of it.

The clown only scoffed

“Heh… funny…”

“what?” Bruce asked, bemused

“two months ago cowardly and desperate weren’t two words I would’ve used to describe you" His words oozed poison as he looked at Bruce directly with derision . Bruce scowling at him. “don’t act like you’re marrying that mangled stray for anything other than selfish reasons. all of them tying back to the cesspool of mummy and daddy issues that spawned the mess of a man you are now.”

Bruce swallowed, Joker had a strange way of reading him like an open book at times. always peering between the lines, seeing things no one else did. Bruce coped, at times by convincing himself Joker was only gaslighting and manipulating him, as he attempted to do so often. but sometimes the hidden truths he spoke stung like daggers.

“Forget it clown… you're…" He sighs “…you just wouldn’t understand…”

Joker laughed once more, running his fingers through the mop of green hair in his head “heh… no!….. I wouldn't… of course I wouldn’t. but you know why, don’t you?”

“ Joker…”

“because the only thing I understand in this chaos wrought plight of an existence is us! You! … and lately you… well…” his demeanor shifted into something softer almost melancholy “you did the thing you’re oh so skilled at doing when push comes to shove….”

Bruce waited, whispering “what?” Joker looked up at him with misty green eyes

“You surprised me…

…isn’t that supposed to be my job.. Ha…”

Bruce was silent, unsure of how to react, Jokers demeanor began to ramp up again.

“I don’t know why I expected anything more from you… you were always too damned narrow minded and stubborn to see the big picture”

There was a moment of cold silence between them before Joker was properly wound again, springing back into action.

“but I digress!“ He continued, switching gears at the drop of a dime and attempting to wipe the wetness from his face to no avail “None of that matters now! Not me! Not you! Not HER! None of it!” He shook furiously as he raised the trigger box high over his head, eyes wild with desperation. “and so, I’m going to try one last time to blow this city to smoldering smithereens and pray to hell we both go down with it!”

“ Joker NO!” batman calls out as he lunges forward. Joker begins to laugh hysterically and presses the button as he steps over the buildings edge. As the mans other foot slips from the steep drop, batman reaches him just in time to grasp the cuff his dingey purple suit. Joker laughs as he dangles several stories off the ground, flailing like a flag hung up on a pole. He looks up at Bruce. The bat stares back, fear on his face as he uses all his strength to keep the man from falling, even as buildings are engulfed in flames on the horizon. Joker shook his head

“you should know by now bats… “ He yelled for him to hear “You can’t save me!… you shouldn’t bother yourself with it!… ”

“like hell I can’t!” Bruce growled, wearing a face of stubborn determination as he gathered all his strength to pull the other man back up onto the roof, the cuff of his tailored sleeve nearly tearing off in the process. He heaves his body, with a hard slam, back onto stable ground and leans over him, wrinkled shirt in his fists. Joker reaches for something in his coat pocket and pulls out a switchblade, Bruce braces himself for a slash to the face… but it never comes.

Joker only continues to laugh… holding the knife in the air… before dropping it and falling into a breathless fit of hysterics that slowly fades to soft wheezing and soon, to nothing. His his expression softens and his whole body, slumps lifelessly, not dead, but something inside him certainly is, all his fight, lost.

“ Joker?…”

“It wasn’t supposed to, y'know” He said in a small voice.

“supposed to what?” Bruce asked

“Bother me… “ He explained. “You were so sure that what we had between us wasn’t what we thought… that I… that I had almost convinced myself the same thing after a while…”

The subdued sadness in his voice was something Bruce hadn’t been prepared for. this was a side of Joker that existed underneath layers and layers of lies and deceit, fake smiles and giggles. and here it was. bore before him, open and vulnerable.

“When I read that headline, I forced myself to believe the lie you kept pushing between us, because it would be easier…But… after sulking in doubt for five days since?… I just… I-I couldn’t anymore”

Bruce is silent as Joker starts laughing again. His makeup ruined with tears, the playfulness all but drained from his face

“pretty pathetic huh?” He looked up at Bruce with wide and watery green eyes, Bruce searched them for moment, emotion brimming inside him, before casting his gaze out to the destruction surrounding them. orange hues devoured the night sky as his city fell apart, lives ending, memories and legacies being destroyed all by the hands of a man Bruce could never force himself to kill, or let die or even come to harm… as much as he knew Joker had to atone for his actions, no matter the circumstances, he also knew the man in his arms was sick…

…just like he was.

Perhaps the only person he knew who refused to heal and reveled in their own pain as much as he did. When Bruce looked back to the thin, pale, man in his grasp. His eyes were downcast and vacant.

“ Joker…??”

No response, but his chest moved, he still breathed.

“ Joker!“ He shook him , but there was nothing… a small twitch of his brow, shift of his legs that lay, sprawled, on the ground but… nothing. Bruce sighed. Contemplating. Then… Without waiting another moment…

…Bruce snaked an arm beneath his, wrapping the other around the purple clowns frail legs, and lifted him from the ground. The action woke Joker from his daze with a start, his eyes blinking wide in confusion as his hands flexed, digging his fingers into his bats thick bicep in fear that he may be planning to throw him from the roof himself.

Instead Bruce held onto the other man tightly, and jumped from the roof with him in his arms. His gliders automatically activating allowing him to gracefully fall several stories, riding on the hot winds swept up by the raging fires below. As he scanned the skyline he noticed the damage wasn’t nearly as severe as previously thought. Places like the hospital, the orphanage and most if the highly populated narrows, spared.

“they aren’t safe y’know…” Joker whispered into his ear… “but you can save them… I left clues”

“I figured”

“of course you did”

Something close to a smile crossed Bruce’s lips. Born more from relief than anything but also… amusement. He should have felt guilty about enjoying such a dangerous game but… it was what they had.

as he swooped down to the Batmobile waiting at the bottom. Bruce popped the hatched and placed joker into the passenger’s seat, fastening restraints onto his wrists. He did not fight. it unsettled bruce beyond belief but he kept it to himself. With a sigh, Bruce squeezed into his own seat and sped away towards the GCPD. The cabinet of the car was silent aside from the low rumbling of the engine for at least 8 minutes. Eventually Bruce took a chance and spoke.

“things won’t change as much as you think they will….” He assured, not sure why he felt the need to do so.

“you don’t know that… “ The other man whispered, staring out the passenger side window as droplets of water raced on the tinted glass. he was curled in on himself. the lack of legroom making him look cramped despite his unreadable expression.

Bruce opened his mouth to counter… then closed it and turned back to the wheel. As they rode off, flames on either side of them turning up ash despite the rain, a certain word or perhaps a certain phrase was left unspoken. but deep down, despite the confusion and hatred and denial … they knew…. After so many years they finally knew and nothing either of could say would ever suffice… the sun was setting and it was too late for that… much too late.

#batjokes #batman #joker #dc #fanfic

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tilltheendwilliwrite · 7 years ago

Text

Balance on the Head of a Pin

Chapter Twenty-Six

Previous Chapter

Pairing: Loki Laufeyson x OFC | Word Count: 7339 Warnings: Foul language

Pepper smiled as she alighted on sleek white heels and let the front of her gown drop when she leaned in and placed an air kiss on Loki’s cheek. “Loki, I hear tell you’re making trouble for our Lauren?”

“Preventing it, actually, while winning the heart of my beloved.” He took two steps back, bringing her with him and clearing the doorway while looking Pepper over. “Stunningly radiant as always.” He tilted his head in acknowledgment of her way with clothes.

The dress was a long sheath, leaving her arms bare. It started out white at the wide boatneck before darkening rapidly into a deep red from her knees to the hem floating just off the ground.

“I’m flattered you think so. I missed your opinion.”

“What in the hell does that mean?” Stark snarled as he stepped from the helicopter.

“Exactly what it sounds like. Loki has excellent taste.” Pepper patted Loki’s arm.

“Since when!” Tony demanded.

“You think I tell you everything?” she quipped.

“Evidently not,” he pouted.

Loki, though enjoying the exchange, eyed the others critically as they descended from the helicopter. Stark was dressed in his typical attire of suit coat over graphic t-shirt and jeans, his rose-tinted glasses unable to mask the hardness of his gaze.

Natasha appeared more wary, her distrust showing. Her dress was appropriate for a Stark party but was, unfortunately, not formal enough for the one getting underway at his back.

Steve looked guilty and Bucky apologetic, as they too appeared in far too casual attire.

“Pepper, darling, don’t take this the wrong way as I’m certain you must have only just returned from your trip and have no idea what’s happening, but what are you all doing here?” Loki asked, arching a brow at the others.

“Especially after I specifically asked you to stay away,” Thor added, wrapping his arm around Stark’s shoulders and giving him a tight squeeze.

“Tony!” Pepper gasped. “You said we’d been invited!”

“We were invited.” He wheezed prompting Thor to release him.

“By who?” Loki inquired, ready to shred flesh from bone.

“The Aviretts.”

“Of course you were. Evidently not recently.” Loki sighed.

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Natasha asked, her gaze darting toward Thor.

The look piqued Loki’s interest. Had his brother charmed the former assassin to have her looking Thor’s way with such eyes? “I mean, had your invitation come recently, or had you bothered to call and make your intentions known, we could have informed you of tonight’s dress code.”

“Oh, no.” Pepper looked down at her outfit.

“You’re taste is impeccable, Pepper dear. You have quite hit the theme dead on. The rest of you…” Loki narrowed his eyes and snapped his fingers.

Natasha’s little black dress was now a crimson red which hung from one shoulder. Fitted, it flared at her knees into sheer white tulle, falling in a multitude of pleats to the ground. The three men he placed in suits. Steve and Bucky in dark blue with satin lapels. A white shirt and blue tie for Steve. Black shirt and no tie for Bucky, knowing the soldier’s dislike for neckwear.

He chose the colour for one reason and one reason only. To irritate Magnolia.

For Stark, he matched him to Pepper in a white jacket with black lapels, black shirt and pants, and dark red tie.

They all looked immaculate, and Loki smirked, pleased with the outcome. “There. You will no longer embarrass my Ástvinur.”

Pepper snickered softly, her hand hiding her smile. “And that would be why I seek Loki’s opinion.” She turned on Tony. “But you have some nerve lying to me about this!”

“It wasn’t a lie!” he huffed, shooting Loki a glare. “Don’t you remember. We were at that thing, gala, event… something, and met Lauren’s sister and brother-in-law. They gave us an open invitation.”

“It was a charity fundraiser, and that’s no excuse, Tony!” She shifted her attention to Thor. “Especially after being asked not to come. Thor,” she held out her hand which he quickly collected and tucked in his elbow, “perhaps you can explain what someone has clearly failed to, so I don’t embarrass Lauren this evening.”

“It would be my pleasure, Lady Pepper.” He tilted his head and led her away into the garden where Loki could hear Pepper exclaim over the enticing view.

“Now,” Loki said calmly as he slowly clenched his fists. “Explain to me exactly what you hoped to accomplish by arriving here unannounced after Thor expressly forbade it!”

“No one forbids me from doing anything, reindeer games,” Tony snapped.

“And after Thor’s half-assed explanation, we came to make sure Lauren wasn’t being coerced into this… bond by the god of lies and deception.”

Loki glared at Natasha. “She is my Ástvinur. I do not lie to her, nor would I ever need to. You may understand little of loyalty and trust, Widow, but a god of Asgard remains true to his chosen in all things!”

“Hey, now.” Steve held up his hand before Natasha could retaliate. “That’s unfair and uncalled for.”

“Is it? Is it, Captain?” He rounded on Steve. “When every word from her mouth disparages the intelligence of the woman who holds my heart?”

“Excuse me!” Nat snapped.

Loki lifted his chin and looked down his nose at her. “Every time you doubt her, you are no better than the family she came from. She has a mind, an incredibly intelligent one you refuse to acknowledge every time you accuse me of tricking her. Do you think I could? Do you think her so stupid she would not see through me if I did not mean every bloody word I say? She has more heart, more love, and more compassion than this entire team combined! Yet you seem to think she is incapable of knowing her own mind!” He stepped into Natasha who backed into the wall of the helicopter. “In this, you are no better than the family I have watched try and tear her down, abuse her, and hate her for the past three days! I will allow it no longer!”

“Loki, take it easy, pal,” Bucky said, grabbing his shoulder. “I’m sorry we didn’t let you know we were comin’. There was… an issue with communication.”

“I bet,” Loki snarled, but stepped back from Natasha who looked more concerned than angry.

“We were worried.” Steve, ever the mediator, spoke into the humming silence which had fallen like the night over the group of them. “After Thor returned and explained… some of this bond stuff, we just wanted to make sure everything was okay.”

Loki gave a sharp bark of dismissive laughter. “Your fear for Lauren is both unfounded and insulting. I would never hurt her.”

Bucky squeezed his shoulder. “It wasn’t just Lauren we were worried about.”

He lifted his gaze to the sergeant’s, found the concern etched in blue-grey and sighed. “That, too, is unnecessary.”

“What happens if you don’t finalize the bond, Loki?” Steve asked.

“I die,” he said bluntly.

“What?” Natasha whispered.

“I’m certain that would please you, seeing how you despise me.” She looked aggrieved, but he only shrugged and turned away.

Natasha grabbed him by the arm. “Hey! I may not like you much, but I don’t want you dead!”

“How touching,” Loki sniffed.

“Look,” she snapped, jerking him around. “Clearly you have strong feelings for Lauren. I’m not blind, just stubborn. If you’re what makes her happy then who am I to get in her way, and apparently, you’re not going to do anything to fuck that up, right, magic man?”

“I would not,” he agreed.

“Then, no. I don’t want you to end up dead because that would hurt Lauren. So shut the hell up!”

“You know, your accent slips when you are outraged,” Loki snickered.

“Natalia,” Bucky growled when she opened her mouth to really lay into Loki, likely in Russian. “What can we do to help?” he asked Loki instead.

“Nothing.” Loki shrugged.

“Oh, come on!” Tony huffed and threw up his arms. “Even after all you’ve done, I don’t want to see you dead. Evidently, Pepper likes you, which… is weird but whatever.”

“There’s got to be something we can do,” Steve agreed.

“There is nothing to be done because my Ástvinur completed the bond earlier today.” He grinned wickedly at all the stunned faces and walked off toward the house. “Come along. My wife will be pleased to see you.”

“Wife!”

The four voices blended in perfect harmony and made him laugh. “Yes, though most are unaware of Lauren's change in status, and we are still but engaged according to your Midgardian law, Lauren and I celebrate our finalizing of the bond tonight.” He paused and looked back over his shoulder. “As you are her true family, it is fitting you should be here to join in her happiness and is the only reason I have not punted the four of you back to New York through a portal.”

“Wait a goddamn minute!” Bucky bellowed. “You bring her down her, pretending to be her boyfriend, end up her fake fiance, and finally tell her about your damn feelings only to end up married in the space of a weekend!? I’m of half a mind to kick your ass!”

“You would be in for a disappointing time if you tried it, Sergeant,” Thor growled, coming through a hedge made of illusion with Pepper on his arm.

They all gaped when the illusion simply righted itself.

“What? How?” Tony asked, dragging his fingers through the leaves.

“Finding one’s Ástvinur is like receiving an upgrade. My powers have increased tenfold, and the darkness inside me that I have fought against all my life has grown silent. Lauren has granted me peace. Peace I will cherish the rest of my life.” Loki looked toward the house where her increasing unhappiness was easily felt through the heart stone.

“Don’t you mean the rest of hers?” Natasha asked.

For once there was no snap, no snark or snarl to her words, only concern and when he looked into her eyes, Loki was surprised to find pity. Did she worry about him? Fear he would be alone for the eternity of time he had thanks to his slowly ageing race. “Lauren’s acceptance as my Ástvinur grants her a place at my side. She is of Asgard now and will age in the same manner as Thor or I. Fate would not be so cruel as to grant me my heart only to steal her away thanks to sickness or the mortality of human age.”

“Did she… know?” Steve asked, his eyes large with surprise.

“I have no secrets from my beloved, and the change has been good for her. Come. You will see.”

Pepper tucked her hand under his elbow and pulled him to the side of the path. “Go on,” she waved at the others. “I have something to say.”

“Of course you do, Pepper dear,” Loki chuckled, but sobered quickly when the others headed for the house, and he was left alone in the garden with the formidable Miss Potts.

“Loki.” She smiled and put his heart at ease.

He quite liked Pepper, respected her for the talented and generous woman she was. She’d been cool at first. Understandable when Loki had once nearly killed the man she loved but had warmed to him faster than the rest when he’d casually commented on her impeccable taste so many months ago. They’d bonded over, of all things, fashion and while he harboured no feelings other than affection for her, hers was a friendship he’d come to cherish.

“I’m happy for you.” She pressed up and kissed his cheek. “I know how much you adore Lauren.” He arched a speculative brow and made her laugh. “Unlike some of the others, I am not blind to the way you have always looked at her. Nor to the way she looked at you. Lauren is special. It’s past time she had someone treat her right.”

“She admires you. At times I have watched her emulate you quite well.”

Pink flushed her cheeks. “How lovely. I’m flattered.”

“You are an easy woman to admire, Miss Potts.”

The flush darkened. “I am a trifle put out to find you’ve essentially married the one woman who keeps Tony in line as well as I do. If you steal her away, I’ll make sure you regret it.”

Her threat, though teasing, was anything but hollow. “While Lauren and I will occasionally return to Asgard, her family is here. She adores her niece and nephew. I have no desire to see them parted from her.”

She nodded, seeming satisfied with his answer. “Thor said your father is thrilled. This is a big deal for you and all of Asgard.”

“Finding one’s Ástvinur is rare. Finding her and completing a binding in so few days… is unheard of. She is,” again he looked to the house where her anxiety was growing, “incredibly special.”

“I want to see her,” Pepper laughed softly, “and clearly you do too if that look of longing is anything to go by.”

“She is anxious at such parties,” he said, leading Pepper toward the house.

“She’s never been so at any of ours. Well, maybe the first few, but she does such an incredible job, and it isn’t as if she put this one together.”

He glanced her way. “She was tasked with overseeing it the moment we arrived. It was a complete disaster, her mother and sisters are horrendous women, and I stepped in to create this,” he waved his hand, “to take the pressure off her. You have no idea what you are in for.”

She took the warning in stride, but what thoughts swam in her head remained a mystery to him.

Pepper cast her gaze over the straggling party guests entering through the exterior doors, or those who were currently wandering the garden paths with awe. “You know, Loki. I never took you as one who conforms to the crowd.”

“What do you mean by that, darling?”

She paused at the edge of the stairs in the shadows and gave his tie a tug. “For a God of Asgard, you are looking decidedly human tonight. I can’t imagine you haven’t dressed Lauren to the nines, or as far as she would let you, and with this being, in essence, your Asgardian wedding day, one would think you’d be less… Midgardian in appearance?” A wicked light danced in Pepper’s eyes, one of mischief and intrigue.

“Just what are you getting at, Pepper dear?”

Pepper gave a minute shrug. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen formal Asgardian attire.”

Loki grinned. “Mm, darling. That is quite naughty of you.”

“If it is, I learned from the best.” She lifted the skirt of her dress. “Think about it. After all, why would the God of Mischief ever want to blend in?”

He watched her head up the stairs to join Stark as Thor descended to join him. Steve, Bucky, and Natasha were nowhere to be seen, but surprise and happiness had burst through the heart stone so he could hazard a guess as to where they were.

“Loki?” Thor frowned. “Are you coming?”

“In a moment.”

“Why? Did Miss Potts upset you?” Hard blue eyes swung up to find her retreating form.

“Pepper has not. She has simply reminded me of something important.”

“And what would that be?” Thor asked, peering at him curiously.

The smile Loki was so well known for crawled across his lips as he turned to assess his brother. “That we, my dear brother, are not of Midgard.”

***

As soon as Loki left it was like the vultures descended.

Lauren greeted Marcus with a cheek kiss and apology. “I’m sorry about Thor.”

“I think he may have bruised a few ribs,” Marcus said, but his eyes twinkled with amusement. “He’s kinda…”

“Awesome!” Sadie snickered.

“I was gonna say intense, woman,” Marcus huffed.”Yours isn’t about to plant one on my wife, is he?”

Lauren laughed and shook her head. “That is, apparently, a Thor thing I knew nothin’ about, but congratulations, Marcus. You’re gonna make a great daddy.”

He beamed like she’d given him the greatest gift and hugged Sadie to his side. “I hear you’ve had your own bit of news, your highness.”

“Shush, you!” Lauren swatted at him, a blush burning through her cheeks. “It isn’t common knowledge yet, and I’d like to keep it that way.”

“Uh-oh. In comin’ Daltons,” Sadie muttered. “Marcus, be a dear and refill Lauren’s wine and get me a coke. Please.”

“Sadie June,” he warned.

She only looked at him firmly. “Brockett, just do it.”

“It’s okay, Marcus. I’ll make sure she doesn’t do nothin’ too offensive,” Lauren snickered.

“Traitor,” Sadie pouted, but it was enough to make Marcus laugh before he walked off.

“Lauren!” Maryann Dalton gushed as Lauren turned to face her. “My, oh my. Just look at this place. Y’all have outdone yourself this year. Why I didn’t know Quinn had it in her.”

“She didn’t,” Sadie scoffed.

“I’m afraid Quinn and I didn’t see eye to eye on this year’s theme. Loki created all of this,” Lauren explained, giving Sadie a warning nudge.

Georgia’s eyes widened. “Magic? This was all done with magic?”

“Yes, that’s right.” Lauren smiled, understanding her shock. “Y'all should check out the buffet. It’s like steppin’ through to Asgard.”

Bill, Maryanne’s husband, approached and Lauren forced her smile not to waiver. “Mr. Dalton.”

“Lauren. Y’all have outdone yourself this year.” His gaze raked down her body in a way that made Lauren nauseous.

She reached up and touched the jewel at her throat. “Thank you, but the credit goes to my Ástvinur.”

“A what now?” Georgia muttered.

“It’s Æsir for beloved.” Lauren smiled.

“And you just glow tonight, too, Lauren.” Bill reached out and dragged his fingertip down her shoulder. “All gold, and white, and shimmery like an angel.”

She pulled away in distaste, trying not to show how foul his touch felt to her. “Thank you. I was just sayin’ Georgia and Miss Maryann should head on into the buffet. It’s like walking into the halls of Asgard.”

“Is it now?” He pursed his lips. “Well, we’ll just have to wander over and see it for ourselves, won’t we girls.”

“Yes, daddy!” Georgia chirped. “Though I was hopin’ to see Loki again. Why he’s just so fascinatin’. I couldn’t get enough of hearin’ him talk the other day.”

“He really was so refined,” Maryann agreed.

“He’s a prince. How could he not be?” Sadie huffed.

“You met Thor,” Lauren snickered before she could stop herself.

“That is true. Though, he’s still got a pretty way of talkin’.” Sadie chuckled.

“Thor… is here?” Georgia murmured, her eyes growing large before she lurched for Lauren’s arm and latched on. “You simply must introduce me.”

The crazy eyes of the woman had Lauren stepping back. “I’m not sure where he and Loki are at, at the moment.”

Cold calculation and cunning filled Maryann’s eyes when Lauren looked her way. Add to it the lust on Bill’s face, and she was ready to run for the hills.

“Yes, you really must introduce Georgia. It’s only right he has the most beautiful woman at the party on his arm,” Maryann insisted.

“Then he’d be escortin’ Lauren,” Sadie snapped, peeling Georgia off Lauren’s arm.

“Sadie Brockett! Don’t you go takin’ that tone with me!” Maryann snarled while Georgia pouted.

“Now, don’t you be gettin’ your knickers in a twist, wife. Y'all have eyes to see Sadie ain’t spoutin’ no cockamamie story. Our Lauren is quite the belle of this here ball tonight.” He smiled jovially at his wife and daughter before turning his salacious gaze back to Lauren. “Why, I really must insist you save me a dance, darlin’.”

The sound of Loki’s preferred endearment rolling off his tongue had Lauren longing to throw up on his shoes. “I’m afraid my dance card is quite full.”

“Oh, you can make space for me,” he insisted.

The idea of his sweaty palms and grasping hands touching her in any way made her want to scream for Loki. Instead, it was Sadie who came to the rescue.

“Lu? Ain’t that your daddy over there tryin’ to get your attention?”

Lauren glanced at Sadie with thanks. “I believe it is. Excuse us.” The two of them rushed away, losing the Dalton’s in the crowd.

“That man makes my skin crawl,” Sadie murmured, shivering in disgust.

“Me too.” Lauren’s features twisted in distaste.

Sadie turned to speak only to let loose a soft growl. “Fuck, Lu. Incomin’.”

Lauren glanced back to find Marabeth and her flock of cronies bearing down on them. “Breathe, Sadie,” she warned quietly, squeezing the brunette’s fingers.

“Well, Lauren,” Marabeth began, “this is quite the spectacle you’ve put on.”

“Tacky and so overdone,” Quinn agreed.

“Hm,” Monique, another of Marabeth’s clique piped up, “Ostentatious is what I’d call it.”

Tracy waved a ring-bedecked hand at the ceiling. “Can we all say tryin’ too hard?”

A round of giggles exploded from the lot of them.

“And just look at you,” Marabeth sneered, taking her gaze over Lauren. “You look no better than a trumped-up whore in that dress. Bought and paid for with all… this.” She flicked her finger first at Lauren’s bracer, then higher toward her torque. “What an ugly necklace.”

“It’s a torque, actually. The rest are heirlooms from Loki’s mama, and at least my beau gives me presents. When was the last time Samuel bought you somethin’?” The words flew from her lips without seeking her permission, but Lauren couldn’t find it in herself to be sorry for them. The group of harpies was disparaging Loki’s work this time, not hers, and she wasn’t about to stand for it.

“I don’t need expensive presents from my husband, Lauren Guillemin. The way your fiancé spoils you just goes to show you’re the same needy brat you’ve always been. Constantly whinin’ for attention. “I want this, I need that.” You’ve always been a graspin’ little bitch, and now it’s clear how you sank your claws into him, to begin with. Flauntin’ yourself like you are is disgraceful. Sadie Brockett, you should be ashamed of yourself for darin’ to show your face after puttin’ Lauren in such a scandalous dress.”

“Shut your yap, Marabeth. Just cause you’re unable to wear somethin’ so fitted anymore doesn’t give you the right to tear at Lauren because she can. She looks amazin’. Both Loki and Thor think so!” Sadie snapped.

Red suffused Marabeth’s face. “Why I bother to try and educate you, you lowbrow hussy, I’ll never understand. You’re no better than Lauren in that outfit you’ve got on.” She sniffed, staring down her nose at the two of them. “No wonder you had to catch the eye of some alien to find someone, Lauren. No self-respectin’ male would have you.”

“I’d have her,” came a hard, deep voice from behind Lauren, one as familiar as her own. “And I’d thank you to piss right the fuck off! Who the hell do you think you are?”

“Bucky!” Lauren squealed as she spun around only to come face to face with Steve standing beside him. “Steve?”

“Hey, doll face. Wow, you look amazing!” His shock quickly replaced the thunderous brows and dark eyes of righteous indignation which had been on his face.

“Damn, doll,” Bucky said, taking her hand to pull her closer. “You’re one swell looking dish tonight, unlike Fanny flathead there. Someone should tell her orange really ain’t her colour.”

“Lauren Guillemin! Are you gonna let these… people speak to me this way?” Marabeth sputtered, her voice shrill.

“Considering how you were speaking to her a few seconds ago? Yes, she damn well is!” Natasha said from directly behind Marabeth.

The coolness of Natasha’s Widow voice even made Lauren shiver. “Nat!”

“Just who do you think you people are?” Marabeth blustered, taking a step away from Natasha.

“They would be Steve Rogers, Bucky Barnes, and Natasha Romanoff. My very good friends… and three more Avengers,” Lauren said, her smile brilliant as she threw her arms around Bucky. “What’re y’all doin’ here?”

He hugged her tight and bussed a kiss on her cheek. “Tony and Pepper decided to take the Avirett’s up on their standing invitation to join them for the party. Had I known it was gonna include people with such rude manners we’d a been here earlier, doll. No one talks to a member of my family like that and gets away with it.”

“Especially when every word is a bald-faced lie,” Steve agreed, swinging sharp blue eyes back to the group of cowering women. “Who the hell do you think you are saying something like that to Lauren?”

“She’d be Marabeth Avirett, one of the hostesses of tonight, and Lauren’s elder sister,” Sadie quipped rather gleefully.

Bucky’s countenance darkened. “So you’re the sister.” He set Lauren away from him, thrusting her toward Steve. “You’re a real piece of work. If I was less of a gentleman…” he clenched his fist, “You’re gonna want to walk away right now and stay away from me the rest of the night.”

What Marabeth and the others saw on his face and in his eyes, Lauren couldn’t be sure, but her sister paled swiftly, and the group scurried away like rats fleeing a sinking ship before his anger. Not even Loki had been able to put that much fear into her sister, but by the time Bucky turned around the look was gone.

“Damn. Can you teach me how to do that?” Sadie asked, extending her hand. “Sadie Brockett.”

“Fraid not, doll. It’s a Winter Soldier thing,” Bucky chuckled. “Good to meet you, ma’am. Lauren’s told me lots about you.”

“Likewise.” Sadie smiled. “I feel as if I already know most of y’all already. Ms. Romanoff, you’re just as beautiful and scary in person as I’ve always imagined.”

Natasha laughed and shook the offered hand. “I’ll take that as a compliment.”

“It was meant as one.” She turned to Steve. “Captain. She’s right about you as well.”

Lauren inhaled sharply and blushed right to the roots of her hair. “Sadie June!” she barked.

“What?” Sadie teased. “I was gonna say sweet and loyal but commanding, not that other thing. I feel the need to stand up straight and salute.” She gave Steve a wink.

“Well, know I’m curious,” Steve said with a smirk. “What’s the other thing?”

Sadie only shrugged and mimicked zipping her lips. “Sorry, Cap. Us southern girls gotta stick together.”

“What are y'all doin’ here really?” Lauren asked, desperate to change the subject.

“Thor told us… everything,” Steve said, turning her to face him. “Are you alright?”

The concern in his eyes was unnecessary but sweet. Lauren smiled and straightened his tie. “I’m great.”

“Really?” Natasha asked, moving closer and peering at her through narrowed eyes.

“I’m happy, Nat. Really, really happy. I hope y’all can be for me, too. Otherwise this will be a mighty short trip for everyone.” Lauren lifted her chin.

The redhead’s gaze trailed over her, alighting on the bracers, necklace, and circlet before returning to Lauren’s eyes. “He certainly knows how to make a statement,” she smirked, stepping forward to hug Lauren. “So, you’re married to the God of Mischief. What’s that like?” she asked, her grin teasing.

Acting purposefully dense, Lauren shrugged. “It’s only been a few hours.”

“Hey, Gilli?” Bucky grabbed her fingers and tugged her a few steps away from the others.

“Yeah, Buck?” She looked at him with worry, wondering if he was upset with her, but he just gently cupped her chin and smiled.

“If you’re happy, darlin’, then I’m happy for you. Loki’s a good guy, I think. Just… had a bum wrap.”

“Like another good guy I know,” she said, patting his chest and fighting the tears which burned her eyes with his acceptance.

“Alright! Where is she?” Tony huffed, sauntering toward the group. He tugged his glasses from his face and pointed the arm of his specs Lauren’s direction. “You, missy, have some explaining to do.”

Pepper rolled her eyes, gave Tony a shove and swept Lauren into a hug. “Ignore him. He's petulant because you acted like a grown up and made a choice which didn’t involve him.”

Lauren laughed and hugged Pepper back. “It’s so good to see you, but you must have barely gotten back from China.”

“I had a few hours of sleep on the plane before Tony ambushed me, but I wouldn’t have missed this for the world! Look at you glow, Lauren.” She shook her head as she stepped back. “I can see what Loki meant. This bond, it really is good for you.”

A pleased blush filled Lauren’s cheeks.

“You should see the two of them together,” Sadie snickered, her eyes bright with excitement and a little awe. “They’re adorable. The world just kind of… vanishes for them.”

“Pepper, Tony, this is Sadie Brockett.”

“Ah, the illustrious Sadie.” Tony took her hand and swept her a bow. “Charmed.”

“Likewise,” Sadie giggled.

“The Sadie?” Pepper asked, looking to Lauren.

“The very same one,” Lauren laughed when Sadie looked shocked.

“You and I need to talk,” Pepper said, stepping closer to Sadie. “I really need to know where you find some of your dresses! Lauren always looks incredible and has credited you with her knowledge.”

“She did?” Sadie squeaked, glancing at Lauren with eyes now full of gratitude before she and Pepper launched into a full-scale discussion which went right over Lauren’s head.

“Well, Miss Annandale?” Tony started, levelling Lauren a glare. “Just what have you got to say for yourself?”

Four Avenger’s stood before her, all staring with different levels of interest or understanding. While Bucky looked happy for her, practically beaming like the brother she’d always named him, Steve looked more happy and uncertain. Natasha appeared to be putting on a good face, happy for her but still cautious, while Tony only appeared stern.

Lauren knew if she couldn’t stand up for herself against them, she wasn’t going to be able to defend her relationship against anyone. With a lift of her chin, she let her hands fall loosely to her sides. “He is my choice, whether you agree with it or not. I love him. He loves me. Everythin’ he’s done since he’s been here has made my life easier. You may not understand it, you may not like it, but Loki gave me a choice and I made it. For all intents and purposes, I’m his and I’d have it no other way.”

The shiver of knowing which had tracked her spine earlier that day sounded again in her soul and she turned, a moth drawn to his flame, to face the doors. Walking through them was a very changed Asgardian and wicked amusement worked its way through Lauren.

Thor was dressed as befit the King of Asgard. His armour had been replaced with a dark red leather which seemed to form to his torso and arms. From beneath she could just make out the glimmer of a black tunic, the collars crossing at his throat before disappearing beneath the leather. There were runes and symbols carved into it, leather lacings creating rows of seams like ‘x’s up his sides. Black boots blended with black breeks to showcase heavily muscled thighs. Though the leather worked outerwear stopped at the top of his hips, his tunic continued from below allowing one to see the heavily embroidered hem of gold intricately worked knots which ran around the bottom. His usual silver bracers had been replaced by highly polished golden ones, as were the large claps which held his cape to his shoulders. It snapped at his heels when he walked, drawing everyone’s eyes to him as he made his way toward her.

It wasn’t until he was a few yards away that Lauren realized what he wore upon his brow. The crown was not what she’d expected. Instead of the large, jewel-encrusted ones she’d seen in movies and magazines, this one was a two-inch band of beaten gold engraved with knots and symbols similar to the ones upon his clothing. Two rather ornate wings rose above either ear, but otherwise, it was a relatively understated piece. The helmet he often wore had more embellishing on it than the crown did. Still, when he approached, his smile full and reminiscent of his brother, Lauren executed a perfect curtsey.

“Your majesty,” she said, amusement heavy in her tone.

“Such a trickster you are, little sister. No wonder you are Loki’s chosen,” Thor laughed, lifting her back to her feet and kissing her cheek. “Your Ástvinur is intent on making an entrance,” he said quietly against her ear.

She looked again at the doors and had her breath catch.

He stood between them, the crowd still parted after Thor’s passing, giving her a perfect view. Loki appeared a God among men to her at that moment. While he may have been sporting the same black boots and breeks of his brother, that was where the similarities ended. His tunic was green and heavily worked with black and gold threads. A wide gold torque lay flat against his chest, while a coat of leather with a high collar caressed his jaw. Though it too was black, the inner edge shone with a green tinge. It hugged his frame and hung in long tails which swirled around him when he started forward. In his hand was his staff, again appearing as a cane topped with a green stone similar to the one pulsing at her throat. He swung it once before dropping the end gently to the ground.

The roll of power shook the room, caused the lights to dim and the bright blue of the stars floating amongst the sheers to flicker and dance. The blue reflected across the white floor like small spotlights.

Lauren found her gaze captured by shining green eyes full of mischief. She stepped away from the others, stepped out on gleaming white floors, and walked toward Loki.

The cane swung and landed. Magic rippled. Then petals of red and white were falling from the ceiling like snow, disappearing as soon as they came in contact with floor or person. The cane swung and landed. Wind swirled the petals, sending them blowing in a circle around them as if they met within a snowglobe.

Lauren laughed softly when she came to a stop before him. “Dramatic much?” she teased quietly.

He took her hand and bowed over it with much flair, kissing her knuckles lightly before rising. “For you, my darling, I shall always endeavour to make an entrance.” With a small smirk, he threw his staff straight up into the air where it burst into a shower of gold sparkles which rained down on them like a firework.

Lauren laughed as the music began, a timeless waltz for which Loki offered his hand. She bent to scoop up her train but the fabric seemed to leap to it without much effort, and Lauren placed her hand in his. He pulled her close, his eyes showing his heart when he took her in his arms and slipped effortlessly into the dance. He led her easily, commandingly, with strength and grace around the floor. Into turns and spins. He dipped her back over his arm and made her laugh. They danced alone, oblivious to the room full of people. Unaware of the picture they presented. Darkness and light. Power and beauty. But most of all, unflagging love and devotion.

All who looked upon them couldn’t help but sigh a little at the complete adoration on Loki’s face, nor the smile of happiness upon Lauren’s. Envy bloomed in hearts already blackened by jealousy, but for others, they could not fail to see the soul of light and compassion which poured out of Lauren.

“I feel like Cinderella, dancin’ at the ball with the prince,” Lauren sighed, perfectly content to follow where he led.

His hand upon her back kept her tight to him, the other, strong in hers, guiding her easily, his steps light and agile. “Ah, but I already know your name, elskan min, and my magic will far outlast the midnight bells. There will be no need to rush off when the clock strikes twelve.”

She looked up to his eyes, more blue than green again, and smiled coyly. “If I do leave at midnight it would only be to return to our room.”

“Darling,” he crooned softly as the music slowed to an end. “You tempt me so.” He brought her to a stop, faces close, noses touching as he smiled down at her.

Applause erupted around the room before Lauren could respond, startling her into flushing when she realized they’d danced this first dance completely alone.

Loki tilted his head in acknowledgment, as if it was expected, such accolades, and lifted her palm to his mouth. “My beloved Ástvinur!” he called out, his voice carrying above the noise. “For whom my heart beats.” He bowed to her and Lauren tried not to flush scarlet with his praise.

She let her dress drop as he led her away and other couples began to spill out onto the floor, back to where his brother was standing with seven gaping mouths.

Thor slapped Loki on the shoulder. “Well done, brother! A first dance and court greeting worthy of your Ástvinur!”

“Lu! That was so beautiful,” Sadie cried, her eyes teary. “Like the first dance at a weddin’.”

Loki slipped his arm around Lauren’s waist as the others continued to gawk. “Something to that effect, yes.”

“I’m afraid we may have stepped on mama’s toes a little. She and Daddy usually dance the first dance.” Lauren refused to feel bad though, not after that performance. The party was in full swing and when the two small bodies pushed through the crowd followed by a furry one, Lauren crouched down and held out her arms. “Sugar cubes!”

“Aunt Lu! You look like a princess!” Sara giggled, reaching to touch Lauren’s circlet.

“Of course she does, precious.” Loki swiftly scooped Sara up into his arms where a crackle of magic had her dress and hair looking perfect. “That’s because she is one.”

Lauren ignored him in favour of hugging a shocked and staring Benny and scratching the ears of a wiggly Usun, but when she made to pick Benny up, Thor snuck him away. “Hey!”

“Ladies in gowns of snowy white should not be picking up small boys who have a tendency to have sticky fingers,” Thor teased, rubbing at what was likely a chocolate stain on Benny’s chin.

“What in the… what… what’s happening here?” Tony asked. His mouth hung open as he stared at all of them.

Steve and Natasha didn’t look much better, though Bucky and Pepper seemed to have taken things in stride.

Lauren accepted the offered glass of refreshed wine from Marcus with a grateful smile. “Everyone, this is Sara and Benny, my niece and nephew, and the puppy is Usun. Sugar cubes, this is Miss Romanoff, Mr. Barnes, Mr. Stark, Miss Potts and Mr. Rogers.”

“That ain’t right!” Benny gushed, finally finding his voice. “That’s Captain America, the Winter Soldier, the Black Widow and Iron Man! Aunt Lu, you brought home my favourite Avenger!”

“Nice to see the boy has good taste,” Tony smirked.

“Captain America? Did you brin’ your shield?” Benny asked, his eyes bright with excitement.

The group as a whole burst out laughing while Tony pouted.

Steve glanced from Benny to Lauren before reaching out to take the boy from Thor. “It just so happens I did, but it’s out in the helicopter.”

“Can I see?” Benny begged.

“Oh, Benny, I don’t think that’s-” Lauren started when Steve held up his hand.

“It’s alright, Lauren. Not the first time someone’s asked.” Steve gave her a smile.

“Lauren! Lauren Guillemin!” Magnolia snapped as she stormed up to the group and snatched her by the arm. “I really must speak with you, right now.”

It was almost a growl, one Usun returned with equal fervour, a sound her mother ignored.

There was a fire of retribution in Magnolia’s eyes which sent a shiver of fear down Lauren’s spine. Then, the stone at her throat warmed reminding her there was nothing more her mother could do to her. “I would, mama, but first,” she lifted her gaze to Loki’s and smiled, “let me introduce my guests.” She went around the circle, introducing each of the team, ending with Steve. “And I’m sure y’all are familiar with my friend Captain Steve Rogers,” she said, sending a cheeky grin her father’s way when Hoyt arrived to deal with Magnolia.

“Oh… oh, my,” Magnolia gasped, bringing her hand to her throat. “These are the Avengers. Why I never… and in my house. Hoyt, do you see!”

“Indeed I do,” Hoyt said, nodding to the group at large. “It’s a pleasure. Y’all are welcome here. Magnolia, why don’t you see about gettin’ rooms arranged for Lauren’s guests.”

“No need to go to any trouble,” Pepper began.

“Nonsense!” Magnolia stepped in. “Why y’all can’t be goin’ all the way back to New York tonight. I won’t hear of it. You’re our guests now, and we’ll see you done up right. I’ll have the maids see everyone situated.”

“Five rooms, mama. Don’t forget about Thor,” Lauren reminded her gently.

“Of course I wouldn’t forget about Thor!” Magnolia quipped before marching away.

Hoyt leaned down and whispered near Lauren’s ear, “You’re mama was madder than a wet hen, but you looked beautiful out there, sweetheart.”

“Thanks, daddy,” she whispered back, blushing with his praise.

“Your friends saved me from stoppin’ one wicked tongue lashin’ for sure,” he chuckled as he walked away, heading for the bar.

“Sadie.” Marcus tugged on the brunette’s arm. “C’mon, hun.”

“Worrisome old woman,” Sadie grumbled. “He’s makin’ me sit and eat, but I’ll be back. Don’t y’all go doin’ somethin’ fun till I get back.”

Lauren shook her head. “Go on, Sadie.”

Marcus gave her a grateful smile and pulled Sadie away.

One by one, or in some cases pairs, they parted as Steve took Benny to see his shield and Bucky tagged along. Thor caught Natasha’s hand and swept her out on the dance floor. Tony and Pepper soon followed, along with Loki and Sara who reminded the God of Mischief that he’d promised her a dance. Loki had smiled apologetically, but Lauren motioned them away.

If she had to lose him to another female for a dance, it might as well be Sara. She watched him sway with her among the other dancers, earning looks of amusement when he made Sara giggle as Lauren sipped her second glass of wine with Usun sitting at her feet.

The crisp taste of the tart grapes was refreshing and helped soothe the last lingering feeling of apprehension. She’d had her confrontation with Marabeth. She’d had, sort of, another with her mother. For the most part, she should be free and clear. Those were usually the two biggest hurdles during one of these events. Dodging the unwanted advances of persistent dance partners was the last, but even they seemed cautious tonight.

Jasper Rubin, of the worst breath award, had only given her a nod before casting a nervous glance Loki’s way. Clive Osborn hadn’t even made eye contact. Addicus Webber was courting some swallow faced girl, possibly a Sanders.

They had nine daughters. At this point, Lauren had given up remembering which one was which. So when the hand landed on her elbow, Lauren pasted on a smile, prepared to decline the invitation to dance, and turned.

She paled as she came face to face with Cricket and Davis.

George Montgomery’s parents.

Next Chapter

#balance #loki #loki laufeyson #loki fanfiction #loki fanfic #god of mischief #god of mischief fanfiction #avengers #the avengers #avengers au #avengers fanfiction #southern belle

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survivornavarino · 7 years ago

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Episode #8: Stop Worrying About the Kickback and Just Fire Your Shot Already -Autumn

I was worried for what over that last tribal lol. So Tyler was blindsided and it was kinda heartbreaking espicially when Mitch said "he really loved this game" like I was genuinely sad. But it's time to smile now cry later because holy moly I just fucking did that. I think at the moment, I am golden. I have bonds with everyone BUT Mitch. And I know Mitch isn't going to fall for my tricks if I tried it with him. So my only other option is to kill Mitch. And hopefully we have this last round before we merge because, I really wan't Mitch gone at this point. He is first of all amazing a competetions, and he is smart. And I don't wanna have to deal with it when it's going to be harder to get done.

Operation get Tyler out was a success. But now the hosts want to kill me with flash games. HOW RUDE!!

Okay so Tyler got voted out andddd i'm upset cus I wanted to take it to the end with him. The other tribe is shady as fuck and Heather is clearly with those faves. The fans are horribly outnumbered now so I need to put my trust in Eddie, Drew, and Autumn going forward so that I'm not a sitting duck at merge. If I can stay close with my alliance with Eddie and Autumn, and stay close with Drew/Trixie/Shoib, then hopefully I'll be in a good position.

So I am doing Casanova but I don't know what a good score even is.

I'm starting to become good friends with Julia and I'm really hoping I can get past merge with her, she's super supportive and has helped me out a lot. Also how the flappy flying fuck do I play Wings Over Water?????

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MiZsS9sqPiw ________________________________________________________________ did we just fucking tie again

I love Mitch that’s all I gotta say

I can't remember if I submitted a confessional so I'm gonna write one just in case!!!!! So today autumn and Eddie messaged me saying that people are trying to form an alliance without me autumn or Matt in it. So the goal rn is to get the 4 of us together on this vote. Unfortunately that means I have to vote drew, who I really did want to get closer with this game but he not against voting me out so I can't feel too bad. Oh well, hope this works fingers crossed. Hoping that by the end of the night I'll be in a new alliance called BEAM- Bec Eddie Autumn Matt!! BEAM MOBILIZE ON 3. 1 2 3 big moves only playa playas!!

Okay so we lost the challenge sadly. I'm nervous this round just because I think we're merging next and I really want to make merge. My alliance of Eddie/Autumn were indifferent to voting out Trixie or Matt, but I am pushing for Matt to go. I trust Trixie way more than him and I can't have another fan leave pre-merge. I talked to Drew about it and he doesn't seem too close to Matt, which is good. But he keeps bringing up the fact that Autumn/Ben are close, and Autumn somehow knows he was talking shit, so there's animosity there. Matt going is the best outcome this tribal for me. I think he has connections with the other tribe who I do not trust AT ALL besides Shoib. I am not going to let that tribe gain another number if we merge next. It still seems up in the air though, how the others want to vote. So I'm seriously just going to hope for the best and that they listen to my reasoning for voting out Matt over Trixie.

So we are down to 4 fans and TBH I am not worried. I trust a lot of the faves especially Mitch and Julia. I just hope that Trixie survives tribal on the other side, I trust her 100% and as much as I don't want the idol played I hope she does play it if she is in danger.

SO MUCH HAS HAPPENED WHERE DO I BEGIN!!! First of all, rip my baby Tyler he was swapfucked and I know that life all too well. Second of all I'm so happy we're going to tribal so I can do what I've been waiting to do for the past 5 rounds and clock Drew haha. Third of all everything is falling into place and I'm so excited I just need everyone to stick to the plan. Ok here we go: Last night, I had a group call with Jake and Eddie; Jake was very adamant that we keep Trixie and Drew. So naturally I didn't talk any shit I was just like oh I know Drew thinks me and Ben are close when we really are not but otherwise he's cool. So we hung up and we said we should discuss tomorrow but it'll probably be Matt. Morning comes and Eddie tells me that Jake and Drew are creating an alliance w/ him and Trixie. So I was like oh really? Well let me fuck it up real quick https://media.giphy.com/media/CpxCYD0Or2Ty8/giphy.gif I then hit up Rebecka, we start talking about the vote, how there's too many men, and I tell her about this new alliance/ that she, Matt, and I are on the bottom. Rebecka is like damn ok well I really like Matt and Eddie is spilling tea so I think we should go for Jake or Drew. This sends at the exact same time that I say "highkey we should split up Jake and Drew." So Rebecka tells the tea to Matt and asks me if I want the three of us to be in a group chat. Obviously I say yes so now me, Matt, and Rebecka are in an alliance called BAM trying to stay alive. Eddie then works to gain the trust of Rebecka and Matt so now they're cool with him and know that he's with us. Now we have a new group called BEAM with Eddie so we out here. The vote is going 4-3 Drew leaving, all 3 women are staying, Jake is being a snake and will fall to the bottom of the tribe, and (with Eddie's help) I did what I always do: THAT https://78.media.tumblr.com/ba82bcc0d2aac3bd1cd4731bb379c2bb/tumblr_inline_odvxu5m7lz1tbz32w_500.gif The only issue is Trixie. We finally bonded last night and had a great convo but then I went to bed and didn't see her say that we should work together and with Julia at merge. So when I saw it this morning I was like YAAAASS let's do it but Trixie hasn't been online yet to reply. Meanwhile, Jake and Drew are hitting her up to work with them and she hasn't replied to them either. SO everyone is nervous about a) what Trixie knows, b) who Trixie will vote with, and c) which deal will she expose (if any at all). Half the tribe thinks Matt is going home while the other half knows Drew is actually going home and I'm nervous that Trixie could blow it all up, especially because we don't need her vote. Soooo who knows what she'll do but if she does vote Matt and rolls with the mens, I'll just do damage control. Anyway, Rebecka and I are finally succeeding at working together, my target is leaving, me and my homies making merge, another man isn't, and I'm one step closer to beating my placement and taking that title. Last night Jake was like I wanna see cracked messy Autumn so bad and I just laughed and here we are a day later. Ask and you shall receive https://media.giphy.com/media/OTbo92zetdsha/giphy.gif

WOW OH WOW WE WON IMMUNITY. this swap is so equal its crazy but its cool. Gives me time to rest and not worry about being booted.

https://youtu.be/wd8UusiRUbA

Hey I'm in class but like I'm super glad I won the tiebreaker for our tribe!! Aaaaaaa

https://www.gofundme.com/help-my-ass-get-another-idol-2night

yo dog!! finally some craziness is happening and the game is afoot. I was totally willing to be Nice Matt to merge, just do as I'm told and chill in the background, but for WHATEVER reason these bozos thought it would be a great idea to form a 4 person alliance, leaving 3 people on the bottom, right before merge. Like, the entire point of a merge is to have numbers!! For the my third straight tribal council I do believe I will be getting some votes thrown on me, but I'm down to clown and ready to save myself. The beast has been awaken and the game is on! This blindside attempt on me could actually end up being an ideal situation, given that I can make it out alive. It brings me closer to Rebecka and Autumn, who are without a doubt my two favorite people in this game (along with Julia), and pushes forward the alliance that I wanted once we started. The only thing that's questionable is that my fate is resting in the hands of Eddie. In Emathia, our roles were basically flipped; I controlled his fate, and I'm a big reason he ended up getting blindsided pre-merge. Right now I just have to put all of my trust into him, but I'm hoping that his willingness to work with Rebecka and Autumn will bring him closer to me and prevent any sort of "revenge" vote from happening. If all goes well, we're sending out a big threat right before the merge. I have a great track record with turning the tables back around on Drew after he tries to blindside me, it's actually one of my favorite hobbies, so I'm anxious to see if all of this is going to work out!! If not, rip 2 me, it was litty.

Eddie: is on board all day with the Drew plan and kicked off the domino that started it all Also Eddie (@ 6:01): "oh btw should i ask jake if he would vote drew?" https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/degrassi/images/a/a0/Da%27vonne_6.gif/revision/latest?cb=20170224230229 Naturally I say um fuck no keep your mouth shut and don't tip Jake off cause he will snitch/ if you really want to tell him do it right before tribal. Eddie goes "yeah I just feel like he'll never fully trust us again. idk what to do ._." http://ic.pics.livejournal.com/holleratalex/11490921/84927/84927_600.gif Ok how about STICKING TO THE PLAN???! Like I'm sorry but Jake didn't give a fuck about me when he blindsided Rebecka in Crossroads and sent a novel after tribal explaining himself. And he sure as hell didn't give a fuck about me when he created an alliance behind my back and lied about it. Also Drew would use this entire situation to send me and Eddie out, seeing how WE are at the center of the plan. Sooo Eddie needs to get his shit his together and stop about Jake's feelings and start about the hell that will unleashed if he botches this and Drew stays. Like why have me work so hard to pull this blindside off if you're just gonna ruin it 2 hours before tribal? That's that shit I don't like. He wants to be Aubry Bracco but he playing like fucking Joe and Debbie and I don't have time. Jake is at the fucking movies and the last time someone was at the movies in Athena it wrecked my game so Imma need Eddie to be sedated. Like snap out of it- stop worrying about the kickback and just fire your shot already

Can somebody tell me how the hell I became the swing vote? All of a sudden Jake, Drew, and Trixie want me to vote with them and Autumn, Rebecca, and Matt want me to vote with them. I'm siding with Autumn Rebecca and Matt and I'm voting out my good buddy Drew and I do really feel bad about it. I was hoping we could either win or I could spare him until the merge cause I definitely wanted to get him there but the cards didn't fall the way I wanted them to. I think this is like highkey messy cause I really don't think Jake is going to trust us anymore after this and it's almost like a damned if you do damned if you dont kind of situation. No matter what I do here there will be some sort of aftermath that comes with it. I just have to hope and pray for the merge because I don't feel comfortable on this tribe cause Jake is going to be pissed and Autumn and I might become targets for playing the middle this round. It sucks that I have to lie to Jake because I consider him one of the people that I am closest to in this game and I really want us to have full trust for one another but now I feel like that's damn near impossible. Autumn wanted to just completely blindside him but I pushed her into agreeing to at least tell him before the tribal because we have a merge coming soon and we can't afford to be making enemies. I really hope that my damage control with Jake will work. But I'm smart enough to know that he's smart enough to know we're bullshitting him. He doesn't seem like the kind of player to give you another shot. He'll definitely play like he's going to give you another shot but once you betray him once, you're over to him. I really don't know how I feel voting Drew over Matt. I kinda really just want to vote Matt out but I'm already way to deep into this plan to blindside Drew that I will be exposed for being a double crossing snake for flipping on both sides at one point nofnfnkls. Matt seems to have a lot of connections on the other tribe which is trouble and I think will definitely bite me in the ass come merge. Autumn seems to think she's 100% totally in with them but we'll see how that holds up come merge. We have know idea if they're just going to ditch us for their old allies, a scenario which could very well be the case. I feel that Drew does trust me and that he wants to work with me going forward in this game but I'm not sure how far he'll let me get into the merge. He knows I'm a dangerous social player and he knows what I'm capable of. I'm ready for the fire works tonight. I honestly wouldn't be surprised if I was blindsided, but that's just my paranoia. That's all and if we don't merge next round I'll be fighting one of the hosts!

So my ass goes to tribal twice this premerge. Both times I vote out a Favorite. They are the only two tribals where a Favorite will be going home premerge. I love being the champion of equality and justice in this world. If you're looking for the reason why a fan won this game, it's me. It's right here. I am doing that and will continue to do that.

#TurnUpTheHeat #confessionals

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henryconrad95 · 5 years ago

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How To Bring Back Your Ex Wonderful Useful Tips

You must also be thinking that to happen.These theories should be taken into account.When your relationship is worth listening to.The cause of your breakup and grow from such an occasion.

Second, if your ex likes, either by confronting your ex until the storm calms down, then you can begin trying to get your ex back and how you might even give you the sure-fire proven methods to get your ex back.Why shouldn't she go out of deliberate contact with them.If we as people expect you to succeed in getting your boyfriend back you need to understand that until you are desperate.Have you changed during the date, here's what you think fate has in store for you to get your girlfriend back, then don't bother to work out, diet, get a girlfriend back.Making her jealous- This mistake is often committed by bitter people who has ever gone through what you need to improve her opinion of you, it's time to make it clear what I did, until all your negative habits.

Losing a little better, but still not want to win her back, we prepared five can-you questions for you to tell you he just needs a needy woman.Not only will this not as simple as forgetting what it takes to attract her by her boyfriend.So, you can be difficult for the anger that you are not prepared to work out an action plan and prepare.By giving your ex husband back and change the situation and try to get your ex know that you are able to get your ex back, regardless of the problems that you would have them back if you know is that you would find that the best in you so far?Can you think she didn't answer them also.

By not spending enough time to time and ensure that the relationship evolve organically.What if I was utterly heartbroken and down right miserable there is no best way to bring your true self to the bad can not easily achieve something, he or you can't have easily.No worries - you and your ex have something she always gets from you.What should I say, outside the relationship, but under duress you accidentally tempt the other to bring back the right way.Instead of being dumped is pretty simple.

Listen to them how much you miss them so much to you, the good news is that you get the chance to get their ex back will be noticed for miles... and that's difficult if you speak to you, doesn't that mean it's going to help you settle down a rope or ladder, you could have prevented, perhaps it's time to start things on a right and a smile on your knees and beg her or him back.Here is what it takes to keep the romance alive on a jealous rage.And even if you give both of them get back together by keep calling them, emailing them or not.Out there, tons of research, psychologists have uncovered one core reason with you, go places and do you any encouraging answer for now.That means forgiving them, and you are going to have some differences you need to know that Rome was not so hard to do so.

So, keep calling them, emailing them or not.But it is definitely NOT one of the bad information that works against you - so do you.So you broke up at her even angrier with you, and even start dating someone else.All in all, getting an ex back is to remain bitter the rest of your life.It could be as casual as possible, don't contact her because this will most likely have a clearer light.

You would be okay, as long as you some time to think clearly, especially the first place.Just be focused on your ex, but for your love.It is an important factor for a thousand words, languages; it could backfire.She needs to know when would be fine even after you felt you were partly to blame for your partner back is the only way to make your ex ignores you is hers to make.Sleeping 8 hours is also important to keep them, will you get your Girlfriend back because it reminds them of the situation.

Feelings such as the best way to go about doing it the usual stuff that you have met a wonderful relationship.However, there are times that you can be losing some weight through workouts or hanging out with your eyes and let you in his mind but keep reminding yourself that you're only human, and it's very irritating; neither of which are most likely to push her away?Without that he and Melanie, who was around some 2000 years ago, and it will likely ruin any chances later on she'll see you in a relationship end and not the right place.There was more than likely after what you do it at if you want him back you would be even more tragic is when you have at hand is not talking about two people lies in you.You even dream of how to make the marriage a success.

How To Win An Ex Boyfriend Back After A Breakup

And that made you feel, as I was doing was to run to the person being forgiven.I was trying to get us back together again.Whatever it is, just make her want you back.Here are some tips to help you do not be too late and it all happened, but you can proceed to a great deal as wellAfter a few weeks setting the scene could make things go awry.

And months down the aisle in the balance, it may be that brought about the relationship for any mistake on your wife.Ex, but can cause nothing but apologizing to her how the heroes win back their ex.See different product reviews and decide to quit and move on.You are looking for ways to try couples counseling.But that's not the cause of most people, you give him some space, and time, to think things over, and tell him about marriage counseling because he is finally ready to talk and listen to him.

Give them that you can change what ever you were at the core of their life and that life is over - then you need to have this information you need to reassess the situation all the elements are in place, it's certainly possible.Has your man back is really certain about his feelings.Find something small or petty things that you should still be fine even after everything that has caused you pain he will probably happen is he will most likely they have made a mistake.It is funny reading a lot more than willing to change.This will shake his self confidence and show her your true emotions.

Maybe he is socializing, functioning well, and other problems, and that's NOT what you are happy just being friends for right now.Look for signs that she's made the right place at the same stupid thing that you want to do this if she showers more admiration on your ex back.Your friends want to be with the breakup.The last thing she will fail, she doesn't feel agitated, you have established why he or she desire that.When all seemed lost, I came to me - this is the foundation for the offer, explaining that you need is a tactic that you are right now is not appreciated, a big enough task and I want you back as well.

I only assumed she read them so much effort but rather a chance for you is because there must be what help themselves, and will only reject your ex back.The next thing you'll have a limited window that is not as simple and easy, you already tried the product was to leave while saying you'll call him just let things cool off and she can't just make them want to get your ex after a fight, you are a challenge and she will come later.It is very natural that you love them... mistakenly believing once they realize you are the steps to apply to make sure you leave them alone, and move away from that to helped me get my girlfriend back, don't make it work between you and how you are thinking of playing mind games could.Let her see how she met him, how long the emotional pain lasts.If you truly feel you have to realize the fact that you are strong and happy.

But that is going to be with him, but don't just go on a positive attitude.Slowly, as time passed, I found this one weird trick that you will end up with you, don't reply to some place that he will be clear to me.If you're certain that you think that you want to know how to get your ex back!Unfortunately, I came home, and she got she would be to feel validated in what she's missing.Whether you decide to do with patience, honesty, and perseverance.

How To Get Your Ex Girlfriend Back From A Rebound Relationship

#How To Bring Back Your Ex Wonderful Useful Tips #How Can I Get My Ex Boyfriend Back Quiz

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ecotone99 · 6 years ago

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The communication ritual

Now, if you’re reading this then this would probably be one of the many rituals you have read on the internet. So you can either turn back now or stay to listen. You want in you say? Very well then. If you oblige to this rituals instructions and correctly execute them, then maybe, just maybe you could be chatting with a soul that no longer lives on this earth. However, beware that there are risks in the time period of you starting and ending the ritual many of which are quite…unfortunate. But don’t think about that too much, reread the instructions if needed and you should be fine. To start off this ritual, you will need the following things:

-2 candles

-A lighter

-Salt

-White string (Window length)

-Black string (Window length)

-Gasoline

-Matches

-A Window (preferably one facing a field or woods)

And an object of dear importance to the one you wish to speak to. Now that you have all the materials needed, you can start setting up the ritual. Once you have found the needed window, put the candles on the right and left edge of the small slab you use to lean on and memorize what wonders your sight gives you while looking at what lay beyond the window. If you don’t have one of those then put the candles on the floor where the windows edges would approximately be if they stretched downward. By now you might have also guessed that you would be talking to your lost soul through a regular window and these candles are here to protect you from the spirit, due to the fact that if there is no light left, the spirit can escape the dark void it’s in, and potentially harm you.

So for a precaution there are 2 sources of light in case 1 blows out for whatever reason. Most spirits also consider these 2 flickers of light to be a sign of manners, rather then you just turning on the lights and they can even learn to respect you, if you manage to pull off this ritual multiple times, without messing up of course. Once the candles are set, take the white string and tape it on on the top side of the mirror while taping the black string on the bottom side. DO NOT do it the other way around, this can make the spirit think you want to harm them and this can surely raise the odds of the spirit thinking of you fondly, and TRUST ME, you would not want a spirit thinking the wrong way about you. This can lead to, like I said before, things, most unfortunate for you, just keep that in mind. These strings represent the balance of your realm and the spirits realm, having this balance is the key to to keeping your realms connected, or in other words, your consultation going.

Which gets me to our next ingredient, salt. The salt, like you have most likely guessed by now, is your friend. Not only does it protect you, but more importantly, it is the border that separates the world’s you and your spirit are in. To make the border, dip one of your fingers into the salt and trace a rectangle around the window, do this step a couple more times if necessary. And pardon me if I’m being overdramatic, but get all the areas in your rectangular line that don’t have salt on, salted. It does not matter how much salt is at every edge as long as their is. We can not imagine the chaos that would erupt in this world if even one organism that does not, or no longer comes from our world, slip into our interval, so make sure you get this step right like the other ones. Trace the shape a million times for all I care but get the job done. And keep this salt with you at ALL times during the ritual. With that said, we move on to the last item. Once you have acquired the the important token of the one you would like to interact with the ritual is ready.

This ritual can only be started within the time gap of 12 a.m and 3 a.m so yes, you will be doing this at night. The ritual works best on cloudy nights, it is ok if it’s raining but for some reason ghosts despise thunder while in this ritual, making them aggressive or sometimes they just don’t arrive at all. So check the weather forecast closely on your ritual night. And don’t forget that you also have to have all electronics and all calls transferred to a different time since you can not have any outside world contact during the ritual. When the time comes, don’t go to bed, instead wait from 12:00 sharp and stare out of the future glass that will be separating you from the being that wishes to be on the other side again. But don’t worry, you have 3 hours to get yourself ready. And don’t forget that you can end the the ritual practically anytime you want after dawn, but you can only start it after 12 and before 3. When you feel like everything is adequate, take a few deep breaths and you can begin the ritual.

Start by blowing a hot breath through your mouth on the chosen window to fog it up and to not see and mess up the spirit realm transition. Turn off the lights, so the only visible part of the room would be shown by the warm fire coming from the candles. Once you have the candles lit, find the special object for this ritual, and burn it. If the object is not flammable, then use the gasoline that you prepared, it should do the trick. It is recommended that you obviously do this outside because not only will it save you for being engulfed in smoke or worse, flames. But it will also attract the spirit much faster then burning their heeded object indoors. Once you see the first flicks of burning orange on their object, IMMEDIATELY turn around and walk back to your house. DO NOT look back during this process as doing so will let you see something no living human can yet comprehend. Stop exactly a step away for your house and recite the following poem:

The wind shall howl

But this game is no foul

The dark and light shall give a sum

With this we ask of you to come

I summon you tonight!

Appear in my sight!

Once this is done, calmly walk back into your house while closing the door behind you WITHOUT turning around. Get back into your chosen room, close your eyes and count to ten seconds. Once this is done, grab the salt bag you used, and slowly come up to the mirror, firmly grip your salt bag and make sure you show no signs of fear before you meet the spirit. Once you are close enough to the mirror, wipe off the fog from the mirror and you should now see the spirit you wished to talk with, taking the shape of the body they used to own, them being in a dimension that is clearly not your own. I can not tell you what it looks like simply because the views are very diverse and every person that tries this ritual sees something different and unique. Oh and, try not to piss yourself if you do see your desired spirit. If you do not see them, spray the window with the remaining salt in your bag, blow out the candles, turn on the lights in ONLY that room of your house and leave your HOME! Sleep at a friend’s house or hotel if you want, but you can not return to your house for the rest of the night. You may return to your house in the afternoon but I would recommend using that time for moving since the spirit you summoned, probably won’t leave the current home you’re living in anytime soon, and chances are you won’t like a ghost living in your house and this is something you won’t like experiencing. You probably just bothered a spirit that did not like to be bothered…and this makes them angry, to say the least. You must move, only pack during the day and NEVER attempt this ritual again if you ever want to live life normally again.

If the spirit you called does show up then CONGRATULATIONS! You have just done what very little of our population has done in all of history! You may ask the spirit anything you wish, however there are a few things to keep in mind. Please do not mock or insult the spirit, even if it does seem like a close friend or family member, you never know who’s really behind that corpse one the soul and body have been disconnected in the transition to the after life. And the last thing you’d want is an unfamiliar soul getting like I said…mad. While the spirit will answer your questions truthfully it will occasionally ask you some as well and lying, is not an option. If you decide to lie or ignore it’s question it will either get angry or just start to slim down the truth to your questions until it might just stop answering at all. And don’t think you can get away with getting the most important answers out of the spirit and then abandon ship, no that’s not possible since when you start the ritual the SPIRIT starts the conversation and with it, comes the first question. So answer truthfully no matter how foolish or disturbing the questions and are.

Another scenario that you might be unlucky enough to be in is if one of your candles suddenly blows out. Stay calm and don’t do anything stupid, if the spirit you are talking to senses one shred of tension inside you, then it knows that you are afraid and will use that as it’s advantage and will try to convince and manipulate you to open the window even if has to think up of impossible lies. And don’t think you’re out of the woods if you’re window can’t open, in fact you have a worse fate to deal with as if you give in you will smash the window rather then opening it. Continue on the ritual smoothly and never look at anything besides the spirit and ONLY the spirit. If you accidentally do show that you are scared then ignore any threats or pleads the spirit has to say, DO ANYTHING possible to stop you from listening to the spirit. If you open that window then not only will the spirit escape into your world, but it will also take your body and fling your soul into non existence into the dark void it’s been for the past eternity. So continue the ritual and finish it ASAP as soon as you know it’s morning.

And one last thing, if the ghost you’re talking to ever stops in the middle of a word and stares ahead right above your head, almost like their is someone right behind you, DO NOT turn around. Continue the ritual and do not look back until you have finished the ritual. On more than one occasion you might feel a cold breath on your fingers whom are defending your last shimmer of hope. You might also hear voices behind you calling your name and to help them, some even might sound very familiar. On rare occasions you might even feel a hand on your shoulder and the cold breath. Moving right up to the top hairs on your head, pay no mind to all of this and do not look back. If one candle blows out then everything's still fine, but take this as a severe warning and do everything in your might to stop the second candle for blowing out, as if it does..well…in that case… it’s the worst game over you can imagine. But as long as you resist the urge to look back and wait until the first glimpses of sun rays coming from the horizon, you will SURVIVE.

With all this said the ritual’s conclusion approaches at a fast pace. To end the ritual you must ask the spirit this sentence “May I move on” if the spirit replies with a “I let you go”, then you are free to thank the spirit, blow out the candles and leave the room. Try not to go into the room with the window for the next couple of days, just to make sure the spirit leaves your house but other then that you should be fine. But if the spirit responds “I keep you in” then, well I suppose you’ll just have to continue the ritual until the spirit accepts your departure.

But now that this ritual is behind you, continue your life normally. There are no catches, your house isn’t haunted and neither are you, just try not to open your ritual window that often, just in case. But you correctly performed the ritual and got all the information you needed ...or perhaps, you have more questions, that require you to, repeat the communication…

submitted by /u/Sir-Fear [link] [comments] source https://www.reddit.com/r/shortscarystories/comments/ceasu7/the_communication_ritual/ via Blogger https://ift.tt/2SiEqaV

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davidaolson · 7 years ago

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We took the water taxi from the dock at the end of the next door pier to the ferry in San Pedro then ferried to Caye Caulker. We are not a big fan of the ferry system mainly because we are always be stuck in the lower section which does not provide a vantage point where the shades of turquoise are easily studied, where the wind can rub its fingers through my ever whiter hair. Most seats are in the belly of the beast where there are few windows. And because we are shoehorned sardines, there is little space to maneuver for a better view. It feels claustrophobic.

Our return ride, our final ferry ride, was infinitely better. We were able to wrangle two seats on the top and watch the green shores of Caye Caulker fade into oblivion and the palm-lined shores of Ambergris Caye appear magically on the Northern horizon. See the horizon stretch from yesterday into tomorrow, into the soul of a lone rainbow hanging onto Earth’s edge in the East and a gray wall of never experienced rain in the distant West.

Roots, rock, reggae, dis a reggae music Play I some music, dis a reggae music…

The vibe on Caulker is a far cry more mellow than the relatively bustling San Pedro which is a slow crawl compared to sweet home Chicago. I specifically wore my Che Guevara shirt, his head in silhouette against a military green background, for this part of our vacation. Rebel. Rebel. It received an early compliment. I think I may need to purchase similar shirts for Brotha Marley, Uncle Ho, Cousin Vladimir, Papa Villa, Tante Joan d’Arc, Señor Bolivar, Jefes Crazy Horse and Sitting Bull, Friar Martin Luther, Uncle Martin King, Great Aunty Rosa, Mr. X, Viva Zapata, ¡Viva la Revolución! …I think you can see where my heart lies…

Anyway, the Caulker feels reggae…dis a reggae music…from the moment one disembarks the ferry. The island sends relaxed out relaxed vibes that appear to be floating within life. Maybe, floating on the spirit wings of the Ganja bird…I don’t know. But the vibe is one lovish…

One Love! One Heart! Let’s get together and feel all right…

One Love Bench on Caye Caulker

Everyone we encountered was friendly and chillaxed. It is a place I could see me whiling away the years of my youth when I was young and living close to, if not over to the edge of sanity. How about the Winters of my retirement? Not sure. I’ve taken to enjoying solitude and don’t see that possible in this very small village but it is definitely a great place for a lunch and an afternoon.

One of our first activities was to hole up in a restaurant hanging over the ocean, a restaurant with a cover but otherwise open to the sea breezes and gentle waters and puffy clouds lazing their way across the impeccable sky. In the North, a dozen or so Magnificent Frigate Birds hung in the sky, all facing into the wind, barely moving as if they were tethered to a child’s mobile hanging over a crib. They almost lulled me to sleep.

The Frigate is brownish black with a deeply forked tail. I envied their ability to float in tranquility. Frigates are considered good omens as their presence means land is near. I felt lucky to be at this place at this time in my life. We ate close to noon and were almost finished eating the fresh fish when a catamaran dumped a load of tourists all who tried to squeeze into the eatery quickly destroying the tranquility. We hurried out. I like to be around people…generally in moderation. I also enjoy silence…

People talking without speaking People hearing without listening…

When I think of silence, I don’t envisage absence of sound. For me, silence is defined by the absence of human-generated noise be it the human voice which can trill emotion beyond the bounds of human thought, be it a jackhammer chewing away in the heart of downtown Chicago in the twilight before the masses have emerged from their hives to pollinate the financial flowers perfuming global commerce.

For me, silence includes the choir of nature, the low croak of Gecko hunting insects by the light of the waxing Moon, the rustle of leaves when a flock of Pelicans launches into the morning sky after a night sleeping safely in the trees, the gentle scraping of Fiddler Crab hauling its shell across a sandy beach at night seen when I walked out with a bottle of wine to sit in the poetry of the ocean, the song of the orange Sun inching o’er the horizon, the light scratch of Iguana’s claws scurrying over rocks before it sucks in a juicy fly or hurries to a hideout when spooked by the shadow of Hawk on the prowl. The iguana moves in staccato bursts punctuated by long stays in the musical score playing in the background of its life.

For me, silence is the place I find myself, if not find, then converse with my inner voice, scratch away at my defenses in an attempt to understand the beast within until, that is, Monkey gets antsy and interjects without raising his paw to be called upon in an orderly fashion. He sticks a needle in my ass to get my attention. As he frequently did in Caye Caulker.

Folks won’t find us now because Mister Satch and Mister Cros We gone fishin’…

Caye Caulker is run down as if the town was succumbing to neglect. Or it was rooted in the hippie vibe more concerned with the present moment than the tomorrow which never comes. Zen existence. Many buildings are on stilts to keep the residents dry during the hurricane season when waters can surge and cover the low lying island. A number of buildings were broken. Many were little more than concrete shells. Poverty. Surprising?

I seem to be always surprised by poverty which is strange considering there are many more poor than there are not poor. The rundown nature of the island may be why accommodations tend to clock in at half or less that of Ambergris Caye where we were staying. It could also be why so many youths choose to congregate here where bars line up side by side on the main streets. Youth and alcohol…fun and dangerous…dangerous fun…bars in Caulker open early. I don’t drink before 5pm…

Jewelry particularly earrings and necklaces on a street vendor’s table is a bait my wife can’t pass up. It’s her shiny penny, her pink pony. Where I see a hook, she sees yummy morsels to add to her eclectic collection. When choosing, she selects for rare beauty. It is my job to negotiate the final price so the barb doesn’t set too deep in our tender wallets. I paid higher than normal because some profits went to the local women creating a cottage industry to help them sustain and grow. The woman we purchased from told us of a place on the island to see Tarpon and seahorses and gave us a free map of the tiny island. Glad my wife took the bait.

Tarpon In Tarpon Bay

We followed the map with less luck than I would have expected. That was ok because while on Caye Caulker, I planned on taking Monkey walk for a long walk on a very short pier and pushing him into the drink for a few hours of peace. What I wasn’t planning on was a heat that was punishing, a humidity making my balls swampy, while searching for the appropriate length pier. I was beginning to think we wouldn’t get lucky when we walked along a dilapidated, twisty pier through a shaded, almost spooky mangrove opening to a bay teeming with tarpon.

Tarpon are a sportfish that can grow up to 280 pounds (127 kilos) and 8 feet(2.5 meters) long. These Tarpon were schooling in about three feet deep. None were the 280-pound monsters but there were a few in the vicinity of 50+ pounds, prime game for a fisherman such as myself. They are edible but not delectable so most are thrown back. I was itching to pull out a rod and reel and try my hand but today was not the day I would get to fish. This is one of the few places Monkey and I aligned today. Nor would I fish the entire trip as it cost $250 for a half day of guided fishing which is to steep for my tastes.

I’ve been around for a long, long year Stole many a man’s soul to waste And I was ’round when Jesus Christ Had his moment of doubt and pain Made damn sure that Pilate Washed his hands and sealed his fate…

Mi esposá opted to purchase feeder fish from the Belizean woman manning the shack at the end of the pier. 5 Belizean dollars for 10 dead fish to hold a few inches above the water, dead fish to entice the monsters to break through the surface and suck in an offering. She a high priestess offering sacramental communion to the devotee. The trick is to hold the fish between two fingers with the palm open so the fish doesn’t also inhale the hand although the mouth is big enough to suck in the hand and half the arm.

High Priestess Offering Sacramental Communion to the Congregation

After watching her feed a few, I decided to join in the fun but with a twist. I figured it could be a great way to wash my hands of Monkey once and for all. I wrapped Monkey tightly around a tantalizing feeder fish and dangled it a few inches above water counting the seconds until Tarpon swallowed Monkey for absorption in his gullet or puke him far out in the deep blue sea where he would drown. Either way, I would finally have Monkey off my weary back. Freedom! Just one fish away.

Pelican

But, not a Tarpon jumped. Not a one. I touched the water with Monkey Fish, still nothing. It was as if the little fucker hypnotized Tarpon. They even quit leaping for the fish my wife offered. Frustrated, I tossed fish into the air and let it plop into the water where it was gobbled up almost as soon as it hit the surface. It is amazing how fast the behemoths can move when motivated. Unfortunately, Monkey was not part of the meal. He crawled up my arm, into my ear, and tucked himself deep into my subconscious where he remained hidden quietly for a few hours. I think he finally figured out I was serious about existing in and only in the moment.

Fly me to the moon Let me play among the stars…

Three kayakers pulled into the bay to marvel at the Tarpon. They spoke a combination of French and near accent-free English. The blond, almost as pasty as me, hopped into the water, waded with the fish who swam safely distanced from her pallid glow. Tarpon has sandpaper teeth instead of needles or spikes meaning they can do little damage with their mouths to human flesh.

Kayakers in Tarpon Bay

Tarpon kept a safe distance parrying with a flick of the tail all her attempts to ‘pet’ one of them. Predators don’t grow large without developing street smarts in abundance. She settled for a few selfies featuring Tarpon in the background. When the woman climbed back into her kayak, two halves of a pale moon separated by a thin, black partially eaten thread shown bright as the raging sun. Her bikini was little more than a thong with ruffles at the waist.

We walked around town for a couple of more hours in the glaring sun. My wife added to her golden glow while the little of me exposed to the sun mimicked the pink inside of a conch shell which, by the way, are quite tasty.

We walked to one of the few resorts on the island which is much different than the many resorts lining the shores of our island. There was a small seahorse farm with yellow, black, and brown seahorses hiding in the weeds. We mostly saw them when their tales were wrapped around a blade of seagrass and they sat idle.

I am amazed at the number of midday drinkers mainlining alcohol into their systems. And it was not young kids. These were adults, some retirement aged drinking their day away. One woman looking to be 60ish but that could have been from the ravages of alcohol was so drunk she had to walk carefully to the bar for her sixteen-ounce refill. I had a Mai Tai…it’s always 5pm somewhere.

It wasn’t our scene so we moseyed in the general direction of the dock to await the ferry. A short downpour, they tend to be brief on the island lasting no more than fifteen minutes, forced us onto a bar porch for a short rest before completing our trek. We arrived at the dock early meaning we were in the front of the line. And we finally were able to sit on the upper deck of the ferry. Definitely not Uecker seats this time.

And we were excited to go back because San Pedro is home to the best Chicken and Rice or Pork and Rice we have ever eaten. It is on par with Jerk Chicken from the kettles of Jamaican beaches. We planned to buy enough food for a couple of meals…

To be continued….

Caye Caulker, Long Walking Monkey on A Short Pier: A Week in Belize, Part 4 We took the water taxi from the dock at the end of the next door pier to the ferry in San Pedro then ferried to Caye Caulker.

#Caye Caulker #Tarpon

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