#Magic and Miracles and Beyond Chapter 13

[whimsicallyenchantedrose]

Christmas Reruns 2024–Day 3: A Christmas Miracle (3/3)

Merry Christmas if you celebrate it and happy holidays if you don’t!  One of the things I love about Christmas is watching reruns of all the old classic Christmas movies–Christmas is a big time for nostalgia.  A few years ago, I decided to incorporate that tradition into my fandom life and post my CS holiday reruns.  So here you go!  Enough holiday (mostly) fluff to get you to New Year’s Day. (With a new story posting on Christmas Day.)

Rating: G

Word Count: 2471

Other chapters: 1 2 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

Notes:  Here’s the conclusion of A Christmas Miracle.  Once again, it was written in 2013 and fits within my A Wish Your Heart Makes universe.

“If you hadn’t cast the curse in the first place, dearie, Pan never would have had the opportunity to curse us the second time.” Mr. Gold hissed.

“Oh, that’s rich!” Regina said with a sneer, “considering it’s coming from the imp who provided me with the curse in the first place!”

Emma sat in her favorite booth at Granny’s and watched her adversarial family members face off. She was rather impressed. They’d remained civil for nearly two hours.

“Come on guys,” Mary Margaret said, walking up to Gold and Regina, her hand extended in a pacifying gesture, “let’s not argue. It’s Christmas!”

Regina turned on her. “Stay out of it, Snow. It’s all your fault anyway.”

“My fault?!” Mary Margaret yelled, her hands coming to rest on her hips.

“Don’t play stupid,” Regina sneered, “Or maybe you’re not playing.”

“Just a minute! You can’t talk to my wife that way!” David charged into the fight.

Regina rolled her eyes and turned back to Mary Margaret.

“Yes, Snow,” Regina continued, “if it wasn’t for your total inability to keep your mouth shut, we wouldn’t be where we’re at.”

“Where we’re at? Where we’re at?!” Mary Margaret fumed, “That's…that’s not even grammatically correct, let alone accurate!”

Emma rolled her eyes. They were arguing about grammar? It was definitely time to go get some air…before the magic started flying. She got to her feet, and wobbled for a second on her high heels. Why had she let Mary Margaret convince her to dress up? If she had to come to this party, couldn’t she have at least been comfortable?

Emma turned her back on the argument, on Neal and Henry talking in a booth on the other side of the diner, on Hook who had gone up to the bar for another drink. Pushing the door open, she stepped outside.

Hook looked up as he heard the bell over Granny’s door chime. He caught a glance of golden hair and a soft blue dress before the door closed behind Emma. The lass had been rather quiet since dinner; he wondered what was bothering her. It was obvious something was; something beyond the obvious awkwardness of this party.

The voices rose behind him, everyone trying to shout down the others. Something crashed against a far wall. He shook his head. Snow White really did see the world through rose-colored glasses. How on earth had she thought this group of people would have a good time together?

Hook took a final swig of the beer he was drinking, and then headed for the door. He had no wish to remain in what was turning into an all-out battlefield. Of course, the thought of spending some time alone with the lovely Emma, might have played a part in the decision as well.

Pushing the glass door open, Hook stepped outside. There she stood underneath the awning, shivering. Why hadn’t she grabbed her coat before she’d stepped out?

“It’s a bit cold to be standing outside love,” he commented, stepping up behind her.

“Yeah, well,” she answered, turning toward him, “it beats getting caught in the middle of World War III in there.”

He laughed and shrugged out of his coat. He draped it over her shoulders and was rewarded with one of her rare smiles. They stood there for a moment watching the snow gently fall through the dark, evening air. Hook caught strains of music coming from the convent; it seemed the nuns were ringing in Christmas with carols.

“Joy to the world the Lord is come…”

“It doesn’t look like Mary Margaret is going to be able to get in all the Christmas traditions she was hoping for,” Emma commented. “We didn’t get to the Christmas carol sing-a-long.”

“It’s a shame,” Hook commented, looking over at her, “that was the part I was particularly looking forward to.”

“Really?” she asked looking at him with skeptical eyes, “You want to sit around singing carols?”

“And why not,” he asked with a grin. “Some of the songs I have heard here in Storybrooke would be particularly appropriate to the evening at hand.”

“Such as?” she asked with a matching grin.

“When we finally kiss goodnight,” he sang in a soft baritone, “how I’ll hate going out in the storm, but if you really hold me tight, all the way home I’ll be warm.”

She rolled her eyes, but he saw the smile that draped her face. A moment later, she turned back toward the street with a dejected little sigh. They stood in silence for a minute. “…And heaven and nature sing. And heaven and nature sing. And heaven, and heaven and nature sing.”

“It’s really coming down,” she finally said looking up at the streetlight across from them.

“Aye,” he answered with a smile. “We’ll have a fine blanket come Christmas morning.”

“Great,” she said with a grimace. “Just what I wanted for Christmas.”

“Oh come on love,” he said, turning her back toward him. “Surely there was a time you liked snow.”

He expected a witty retort, but instead she dropped her eyes and turned back toward the street. “I do remember one day,” she finally responded. “I was about six. I’d been living with a foster family for almost three years. They were great; I really thought they would adopt me. One day, it was close to Christmas, I remember, my foster dad took my foster brother and me out to play in the snow. We made the biggest snowman I had ever seen. We made snow angels, had a snowball fight, the whole nine yards. Later, we went in and my foster mom had made us a big pot of hot chocolate.”

Emma fell silent, and Hook waited. He heard the pain in her voice and softly began rubbing her shoulder. She leaned into his touch. “…holy infant so tender and mild. Sleep in heavenly peace. Sleep in heavenly peace.”

“What then, love?” Hook asked after a moment. He wasn’t sure he wanted to hear the answer.

“The next morning, my foster dad disappeared,” she answered, and he saw the tears in her eyes. “They never found him; no one knows what happened. Well, my foster mom kinda fell apart. She couldn’t afford to take care of two children, so it was back into the system for me.”

Hook closed his eyes. It must have been devastating for a little girl to lose the only family she had ever known. Turning her once more to face him, he wrapped her in a hug. She resisted for a moment, and then he felt her arms wrap around him.

“I think it’s time we make a new memory surrounding snow,” Hook said after a moment. She pulled away from him and looked questioningly up into his face.

“Yeah?” she asked, “and what would that be?”

Hook grinned. “Well, love. I propose we go play in the snow tomorrow.”

“Play in the snow?” she asked with a raised eyebrow, “Really?”

“Aye, lass,” he smiled at her, “We can bring Henry.”

“And what exactly would we ‘play’ in the snow?”

“First,” he answered, with a wicked grin, “We make a devastatingly handsome snowman with a hook. Then we make a beautiful blonde snow maiden looking adoringly up at him.”

“Are you sure the blonde isn’t rolling her eyes at him?” Emma asked with a grin. “Sounds more true to life.”

Hook put his hand to his heart and staggered as though mortally injured. “You wound me, lass.”

“Hmm,” she said grinning, “that might play to your advantage.”

“Aye? And how is that?”

“Well,” she said with a grin, “if you’re injured you’ll need someone to take care of you.”

Was the lady actually flirting with him? His grin blossomed into a full blown smile. She smiled back for a moment and then turned back to the street. He heard a defeated sigh.

“What’s troubling you, love?” he asked. She didn’t answer for so long he thought she was deliberately ignoring him. The nuns started up a new carol. When blossoms flowered 'mid the snow…

Finally she turned back toward him. “It’s just…” she made a helpless little gesture with her hands. “I don’t know…Every single time it looks like things are starting to work out, like good is going to succeed, like the bad guys are going to get defeated, like we might get a bit of peace and happiness, something else happens. Someone casts a curse, or kidnaps a kid, or…”

“Or disappears sending you back into the system…or turns you in to the police for his crimes…or sends you off to another realm with no more protection than a seven-year-old lad so that you can come back and be the savior?”

“Yeah,” she said, and he saw the tears brimming in her eyes. One escaped and slid down her cheek. Raising his hand, he tenderly wiped it away.

“Emma, love,” he said, his voice going deep and gravelly, “I can’t promise you peace and happiness, but I can promise to always be beside you, helping you, protecting you and those you love. You need never fear I’ll abandon you.”

She whirled away from him and started pacing. The lass was seething. “Yeah?” she snarled at him. “I’ve heard that before. 'I love you, Emma.’ 'You’re like our own daughter, Emma.’ 'Let’s go to Tallahassee, Emma.’ 'We just wanted to give you your best chance, Emma.’ It’s crap! All of it!”

“You doubt me, lass? Even after Camelot?” he asked and was ashamed to hear the pain in his voice.

She stopped and looked back at him. The first Noel the angels did sing…

“No,” she finally answered, “the hell of it is that I don’t doubt you. You’ve proven again and again that you will do anything for me…even at your own expense. But Hook, you’re not indestructable. What if you disappear? Or are kidnapped? Or are killed?”

Hook’s heart swelled. That was real feeling in her voice. The lass was a lot further gone than she thought. He cupped her face with his good hand again.

“Love,” he answered meaning the word with all his heart, “as I said, I can’t promise you nothing terrible will happen, but for today, for this moment all is well. Perhaps, all one can do is create the good memories to be our solace in times of distress.”

She looked up at him for several moments and then slowly nodded, briskly swiping her hands across her damp cheeks.

“So about those snowmen…?” he asked playfully.

“Henry and I will be ready bright and early tomorrow morning,” She answered with a smile.

For the first time in nearly as long as she could remember, Emma felt hope. It was hope that she found shining out of Hook’s blue eyes as he smiled at her.

“I’ve got a gift for you, love,” Hook said, holding out a small, thin box.

“Oh,” Emma said ruefully, “Hook, I didn’t get you anything.”

He smiled gently. “It’s no matter, Emma. I have no need of gifts.” He held the box out to her again, and she reached for it automatically. Lifting the lid, she saw a silver necklace with an opal and silver swan pendant. Emma ran her finger over the jewel.

“It’s beautiful,” she said softly.

“Aye,” he answered looking at her. “It is beautiful, and strong and graceful. Much like you.”

She looked down and then met his eyes. “Is that really how you see me?”

“Aye, lass,” he said gently. “Indeed it is.”

Il est ne le divin enfant… It seemed the nuns had decided to venture into French carols.

“Thank you, Hook,” she said simply. “Well, I don’t hear any yelling, so that probably means they’ve either stopped fighting…or killed each other. Either way, I suppose we should go back in.”

“A moment more lass,” Hook said. That pirate grin of his was back.

“What?” she asked warily. She had come to know that tone in his voice, and it meant trouble.

“Well, love,” he said with a raise of his eyebrow, “I think it is only right that we follow holiday tradition.”

“Exactly what holiday tradition might that be?” she asked. He pointed to a spot over her head. She looked up and saw a sprig of mistletoe hanging right above the two of them.

“You’re terrible, you know that?” she asked with a smile and a slight shake of her head.

“Perhaps so,” he answered playfully, “but your mother has her heart set on her family following the traditions this year. What manner of a daughter would you be if you were to blatantly deny her greatest Christmas wish?”

Her breath caught and her heart began to pound. Well, why not?

“Well, in the spirit of Christmas tradition…” she said with a little wave of her hand.

He looked surprised for a moment, then the grin was back. She was determined she wouldn’t let his kiss affect her, she wouldn’t! Then his lips settled against hers and all rational thought fled. All that existed was this man and the sensations he aroused in her. Her arms wrapped around his neck. She tangled her fingers in his hair, pressing closer, closer. She could never be close enough. She blossomed for him like a flower in a spring rain. The kiss went on and on. It lasted forever; it ended far too soon.

Finally, with a groan, he pulled his lips from hers.

“Emma, love…” he breathed. She couldn’t say a word if her life were on the line. She was glad his arms were still around her because her legs felt like jelly. If he were to release her, she would melt into a puddle at his feet.

Hook took a deep breath and closed his eyes. When he opened them again, the charming rogue was back.

“Well, love,” he said gently rubbing her back. “I had it on good authority that the last time was a one-time thing. It seems I’ve just experienced a Christmas miracle!”

She rolled her eyes, but didn’t pull away. Though it scared her half to death, she couldn’t deny it any more. Being in his arms felt like…home.

“Well, don’t get too used to it buddy,” she said. Her voice didn’t sound convincing even to her.

“Oh, I wouldn’t dream of it, love,” he said with a raise of one eyebrow. “After all, I’d have to wait an entire year for another Christmas miracle.”

“Very true,” she said with a grin, “But there are a lot of holidays between now and then.”

He laughed. “I like the way you think, Emma. I like the way you think!”

NEXT CHAPTER->

[tammulberry]

MIRACULOUS GENESIS | The 1st Season of the Miraculous Dynasties AU by T.A.M. Mulberry begins

SYNOPSIS OF THE SEASON: Miracle Jewels were once widespread throughout the centuries as they traveled through worlds and through dynasties. However, when the rise of machines came, so did the fall of miracles. The new world had long forgotten the old ways as capital cities soon advanced to reach for the stars. After a mysterious rumbling was detected in Paris, a hopeless romantic with dreams of being a fashion designer and a famous teen celebrity collide the new world with the old world.

This is the return of the century. The return of the Yin and Yang. The origin of Ladybug & Cat Noir.

Years of the Yapping™ started in 2021 finished in ?

RATING: PG-13 WORD COUNT: 2.8k+

Copyright © 2024 by T.A.M. Mulberry

CHAPTER 1. The Invisible String

Long ago, before the rise of machines, there were miracles… 

For centuries, worthy heroes were given jewels that granted extraordinary magic from beyond this world. There are two miracle jewels, however, that stand on top of the hierarchy. The Ladybug of Creation and the Black Cat of Destruction. Juxtaposed for eternity — as one cannot live without the other. 

Legend has it — that when both these jewels are used at the same time, one will have the power to alter reality itself. 

“Are you willing to pay the price of absolute power?”

***

Along the many dark alleyways of Europe, an old Chinese man walked swiftly as if he were being chased. He had a red hibiscus shirt and board shorts underneath the long coat he wore in the chilly evening. On his back, he had a heavy knapsack. 

“I can feel the tug, Fu! We’re almost there!” A small floating creature that resembled a ladybug whispered excitedly. 

A string was shown to be present in the eyes of the creature. It was vibrating towards one source. The source that the strange crew had been following for months. 

“Patience, Tikki. We must proceed with extra caution. We may never know who could be watching!" A floating creature similar in appearance to a turtle scolded. He seemed to be the same species as Tikki. 

Just then, the frantic running stopped. The string was connected to an old crusty mansion that led to nothing but forested grounds. On the outside, it seemed to be abandoned as the vines were left to grow, the fences had paint falling off and the tall gate was full of rust. Nevertheless, it had shown signs of being beautiful once and Fu stared in awe at the sheer size of the mansion.

“So, this is where the string leads to…” 

"After all these years … the Qiji of Destruction laid dormant here," said the small turtle creature in wonder.

Fu glanced at it with a knowing look, and the small creature bowed as Fu said, "Wayzz, Scute Down." 

A magical energy traveled down his entire body and he transformed into a suit with the attributes of a turtle. A circular shield was on top of his head for good measure. 

"Tikki, where does the string lead to next?" Fu asked.

"I think it's … I think it's inside the mansion!" 

Fu contemplated before he took action. It was a gamble on their part. While the mansion looked abandoned, there is no saying that there isn't someone in the small village that was on to them. They needed to be careful.

"If you can feel the tug — then Plagg should be there. We'll retrieve him, Tikki. I promise," he reassured her, and they prepared to sneak in from the back. 

Just as expected, the mansion was covered in vines, rust and dust. Luckily, Fu’s suit protected him from any dangers that lay ahead. 

But not only was it armor — it also granted him superhuman abilities. 

They stopped below a balcony that led straight to the string. Fu grabbed one of the vines and swung it with enough force for him to roll inside. Except, it didn’t go too well and his landing went wrong as he fell splat on his face. 

“OW!” Fu groaned. 

“Are you okay, Fu?” Tikki asked, concerned.  

Crack! "Why, of course Tikki. I may be in my 70s, but I'm still young— ! Ow… right in the tailbone…” he rubbed his back in pain, which completely contradicted his previous statement. 

“Don’t worry, I can still function. Good thing Wayzz is here to keep me safe.” 

And so the old man and Tikki continued their search. Not a sound could be heard with each step he took. Fu could assume that the mansion was from an era before the rise of machines. Ornate doors that stood as tall as small trees, covered in dust. Statues that were in ruins. Curtains worn and torn. Elaborate paintings from moments forgotten in time. 

As they shuffled through cobwebs and the occasional rat, they opened a door that was relatively smaller than the other ones they passed. They were in what appeared to be a storage room. It was dusty and cluttered. Much like the rest of the mansion from the outside. 

"For such a beautiful mansion, it's really filthy," Tikki said, as she flew into even more cobwebs.

“Nevermind that now, Tikki. Now, we must look for Plagg!” 

As they continued their search, Tikki felt a tug. This time, it was much stronger than the previous ones. She looked around frantically and discovered that the string led to the next room. 

"Wait, Fu! It's in the next room!" Tikki whispered. 

"Brilliant, Tikki!" Fu exclaimed. 

After all these years, he was excited to see Plagg, the Qiji of Destruction. Fu had heard many things about him and if the legends were true, then he’d be face to face with the universe’s most dangerous force. It was fascinating to think about. 

But … at the same time, it felt like a weight was lifted off his shoulders. To him, it meant freedom. To him, it meant the guilt he had been feeling for decades will finally be put to rest — 

CREAK! In his haste to get the job done, he moved recklessly within the storage room towards the door to the other side. The worn out wood of the floor squeaked loudly. He cringed at the sound in contrast to the almost heavy silence of the storage room.  

“WHO GOES THERE?” an unfamiliar voice boomed, and the both of them panicked. 

Fu and Tikki ducked beneath broken cabinets and cobwebs. Fu crawled as far away as he could from the voice. The latter was about to scold him for making that mistake but he shushed her. The two of them listened intently. Was someone following them this whole time? 

Yes, admittedly, he already knew that going into an abandoned mansion like this was a gamble. In fact, he didn’t want to go here in the first place. There were rumors that a kind old man would tend to it every now and then so he thought he could play the part, but… 

"They were here longer than us…" Tikki whispered in his ear.

The tension started to rise when they heard the doorknob twist. The two of them were hiding behind a grand piano and a curtain in one of the corners of the room. They prayed that they wouldn't get caught in a police search. Anything but that. 

Just then, it opened. With Fu still being transformed, his senses were heightened, and he heard two pairs of footsteps walk into the room. He tried to peak from where he was but all he could see were vague silhouettes. 

One of them seemed to be wearing a full suit with a tailcoat. The other looked to be in more casual clothing as he held a flashlight. And so the more sophisticated of the two spoke, "Has someone infiltrated the mansion?"

The other one surveyed the area more thoroughly, and Fu could hear his footsteps getting closer. He may not be in the best condition but he was still capable of defending himself through Wayzz. Fu tried to curl himself into a ball only for his back to betray him once again. 

I hope this isn't permanent, he thought to himself. 

As he braced himself along with Tikki, the man with the flashlight replied, "I can't seem to find anything." 

"Very well. It must have been a false alarm," said the man in a tailcoat calmly and he looked up. "Perhaps a light bulb fell…"  

Relief washed over Fu and Tikki as the former slumped down. He could hear the two men walking back to the exit of the other room. Fu peered over to get a better look at the two of them. Luckily, their backs were turned.

The refined young man coughed a bit as he walked into cobwebs. He swatted away at them and Fu couldn't help but feel amused. 

"We must really renovate this storage room. It is an absolute mess. Just like the mansion's exterior." 

"Agreed, sir." 

Tikki nudged Fu. "Now that we know there are people in the mansion, we need a new plan." 

"You're right, Tikki," replied Fu, as quietly as he could. "So — do you think we can sneak in from another route? 

"I'm not too sure. I can't make it that far without the Ladybug Miraculous near me." 

Fu observed Tikki as she concentrated. Her previous holder was not the most creatively adept person out there. A few moments later, Tikki jolted in the air. 

“Tikki, what’s wrong?” he asked 

"I don't understand — the movement is getting quite rapid," she said confused. “It's like someone is running and jumping.” 

At the same time, when the two men opened the door. They noticed another silhouette at the entrance. One that was shorter and resembled a kid. Fu had the height of one himself so who was he to assume? 

"Hey, boy. What are you doing staying up so late? And why are you here?" The sophisticated gentleman talked down to the silhouette. 

"I'm not sleepy. What's the problem with me staying up late anyway? You don’t even come and play with me.” 

That was most definitely a young boy, Fu thought. 

"Do not question my rules, brat. Know your place. Now go on, shoo and return to your mother." 

“Fine!” the young boy sneered and he slammed the door on the other side of the room shut. 

Something seemed to click in Tikki as she tried to rush towards him. 

"Wait a minute, the ring! It's on that child!" she whispered frantically.

“Tikki! Stop, they're going to hear us!” He yelled as he tried to grab onto her but immediately clamped his mouth shut as the two men looked around the place and at each other. 

"We should call a medium to this place soon. I believe it’s haunted," said the man in the tailcoat. 

"It's twelve in the morning, sir," the other man replied. 

And so the door slammed shut once again. Everything was dead silent. The swaying of grandfather clock’s pendulum was the only sound Fu could hear as his ears started to ring. 

“There’s still a chance to retrieve Plagg!” Tikki said but she was immediately stopped by an invisible force. The force that prevented her from going far from the jewels she was bound to. 

“If we follow this string then maybe we can—”

CLAC! 

��Oh, this was such a fun game of hide and seek," said the man from behind the other door’s entrance. 

Fu wasted no time as he felt his life flash before his eyes. 

“CARAPACE!” 

He broke the window and part of the wall with the expanded circular shield as he hastily grabbed the box. Tikki’s trail followed suit. He landed on one of the bushes and rolled out. A spherical shield had formed around him. A shield that no mortal machine can penetrate. 

As he rushed to the entrance, he looked around and noticed that there were more guards coming from the ground floor from both sides. 

Did they already know someone was breaking in? Where did they come from? 

“Fu!” Tikki yelled. “We can still go back there! The carapace can take on a thousand bullets! You have to fight!” 

An unpleasant memory flashed in Fu’s mind but the adrenaline from the sound of gunshots kept him focused on running away. 

“Nevermind that now, Tikki!” He answered back. “We need to keep running! They might track me down if I show my face!” 

They were nearly out of the mansion. All he had to do was bulldoze through the gate and he can detransform somewhere safe enough to look like an innocent bystander. 

Fu thought it was futile for the guards to continuously fire their ammo, but little did he know that there was a crack in the carapace. It was like time slowed down the moment he saw the first hole on the shield. The look of horror on his face as he wondered how that was possible. 

I’m sorry, Tikki…

His desire to be free from the guards overrode anything else and he managed to break through the gate. He ran, and ran, and ran until he reached a forest outside of the mansion’s territory. It was guarded by thick trees and bushes that light couldn’t pass through. He kept himself transformed in case they used their weapons again. Fu could hear the guards as they walked in the direction that he escaped, his ears muffled by the intense ringing. He hyperventilated and prayed that they would stop looking. 

He didn’t want to die. Not like this. Not in a state so pathetic. 

He overheard the man in the trenchcoat talking to what seemed to be the head guard of the mansion. “We need to issue a search party. What did the man look like?”

“I wasn't able to see his face clearly, sir.” 

In the brief silence, Fu thanked the universe for Miànshā—the veil that managed to keep the identities of jewel holders hidden.

“However, I suspect he is one of those people.”

That silence was broken as he flinched at the light. “We need to issue a search party. We don’t know just how much that man saw. But if he is what you think he is, he can’t be left alive.” 

The color left his face as the men walked in the other direction. 

He can’t be left alive… 

If he’s caught… then he’s going to die…

***

Four hours had passed since the fiasco at the mansion. Fu had detransformed. He, along with Tikki and Wayzz, found themselves in another dusty old shed in the countryside. They were able to hitch a ride on a train far from the mansion. 

They were safe, at least for now. 

Fu was afraid. Something wasn’t right about that place. Even a fool like him could tell. It seemed like no one was there when they snuck in but once the man in the trenchcoat knew, it was like the guards on the ground floor appeared out of nowhere. 

“You understand the situation, right? You’re a wanted man now, Fu,” his Qiji, Wayzz reminded him. 

“I am aware of that, Wayzz,” said Fu, agitated. “What I don’t understand is how those guards managed to damage carapace. It’s supposed to be impenetrable to machines and technology, and—” 

“Fu. Those guns they were using had Mogui energy in them. Those weren’t just ordinary mortal weapons,” explained Tikki. 

“But that’s impossible…” Fu got up from the haystack he sat on.

“Do not tell me what’s impossible, Fu. I know what I saw and I know for a fact that the mansion is hiding something more sinister than we realize. And you ran away.” 

“I know! I know…” Fu said as he tried to calm himself and Tikki looked at him intently.  

“How long are you going to run, Fu?” She asked him sternly. “How long are you going to keep up this act of bravery? Feeding us false hope? It has been decades.”

“I’m afraid I agree with Tikki on this matter, master,” said Wayzz ruefully. “Perhaps if you stayed and pursued Plagg then—”

“That’s easy for you to say!” Fu snapped and they stayed quiet. He couldn’t bear to hear the words of Wayzz or Tikki any longer. 

"A hundred years to both of you is like a blink in time. You cannot die but I can! You don’t know what it’s like to fear dying! If I didn’t have to die then everything could have stayed the same as it always was!” 

Wayzz and Tikki did not answer back anymore and Fu let out a deep breath as he slumped in front of the haystack, his hands on his face. 

“We cannot go back there. I don’t think we can stay in this country any longer,” said Fu, more to himself than to the two of them. “If we manage to escape outside their borders, we will be outside their jurisdiction.” 

Wayzz and Tikki looked at each other, as if they pitied him. 

Fu started to regain control over his own emotions as he remembered something that made him smile again. Even after all this time. 

“Wayzz,” he started as he looked at both of them. “Tikki.” 

He looked at them half-heartedly. A million questions, a million memories, a million regrets flooded his mind but there was one that resounded in his head the most. 

“Are you going to run away again?”

“It is time for us to go to Paris.” 

Perhaps he had ulterior motives. Perhaps it was born from the primal desire of not wanting to die. There were many things Fu feared but to die without atoning for his mistakes terrified him the most.

TO BE CONTINUED...

Author's Note:

I'm so excited to share my passion project with everyone. I've been working on it for over 3 years now and it's about time that it got published.

This isn't really a rewrite of the show per se but the beginning does follow the origin slightly before completely going off the rails in the next few chapters. This is just an exploration and my attempt at trying to make a living, breathing world for these characters because I really enjoy the quantic universe and I guess this is my take on it if it focused on one magic system specifically.

Some notable differences will be the age range and the target audience. This AU is not really for younger kids like the original show and that is why the main cast's age range in Dynasties is 18-20 as the story starts with them in their last year at Lycee Francoise Dupont.

There will also be some changes in terms to keep it consistent with the Chinese mythology that the magic system is based on (ex. Kwami is changed to Qiji) and a lot of changes and additions to the magic system like the powers or weapons to fit with the lore of the Dynasties AU better.

Hopefully, there will be people who can enjoy this silly little fanfic series of mine and I thank you so much if you do!

[legendsofmotown]

Discover the vibrant world of Motown with Legends of Motown.

Introduction

Motown Records, originating from Detroit's "Hitsville U.S.A.", nurtured some of the most iconic artists in music history. Their contributions during the 1960s era have become the stuff of legend.Unravel the stories of Motown legends, shedding light on hidden chapters and intimate details of their musical odysseys.

Marvin Gaye: Beyond the Romantic Ballads

He was a trailblazer, fusing social commentary with rhythm in tracks like "What's Going On." Delve into his discography with the Motown cast, offering:

- A rare glimpse into Marvin Gaye's inspirations.

- Exclusive behind-the-scenes stories.

- Authentic renditions capturing the essence of his classics.

- Limited-time engagements, ensuring a unique experience.

- A chance to relive the Motown era's magic, coming closest to a moment with Marvin Gaye himself.

Stevie Wonder: A Prodigy’s Path

Stevie Wonder's introduction to Motown Records at a mere 11 years of age marked the start of an illustrious career. But one achievement stands out early in his journey, setting the stage for his global recognition.

Youngest Billboard #1 Achiever

At just 13, Stevie became the youngest artist to secure the top spot on the Billboard Hot 100 with "Fingertips, Pt. 2". This live recording wasn't merely a song—it was a groundbreaking musical statement. An unexpected improvisation during the recording resulted in a raw and authentic track, capturing the hearts of listeners everywhere.

Stevie's accomplishment with "Fingertips" was but a hint of what was to come. Over the decades, he has gifted the world with numerous hits and has been a beacon of inspiration for artists worldwide. His evolution from a child prodigy to a global music icon underscores the essence of his talent and Motown's timeless magic.

The Temptations: More Than Just Harmonies

The Temptations weren't only about velvety harmonies. They were trailblazers in choreography, introducing precise and captivating dance routines. Their innovative approach set the stage for many R&B groups to follow. Dive into their legacy with Legends of Motown's collections.

Signing The Icons: Motown’s Stellar Roster

Beyond these legends, Motown Records signed a plethora of talent, and each artist brought a unique flavor to the Motown roster. For instance, The Jackson 5, led by a young Michael Jackson, exploded onto the scene with their youthful energy and infectious hits, adding a new dimension to Motown's legacy. Smokey Robinson, often referred to as the "King of Motown," contributed his poetic songwriting skills and velvety voice to the label, creating timeless classics. The Miracles, on the other hand, enchanted audiences with their smooth harmonies and chart-topping songs, solidifying Motown's reputation as a powerhouse in the music industry. These are just a few examples of how Motown's diverse talent pool justified its enduring legacy.

Conclusion

Motown's essence remains as vibrant today as in its heyday. Legends of Motown stands as a beacon for enthusiasts to revisit and relive the timeless tunes that have left an indelible mark on music history.

[yourcoolfriendwithallthecandy]

Magic and Miracles and BEYOND Chapter 13

ok, I didn’t mean to take...(doesn’t bother to look at how long since it’s been since I’ve posted anything for this story because the guilt will kill me) however long (feels longer than forever) to update this story. I literally had it all planned out in my head. And then when I went to write it my brain went “fuck you, I am on fumes, I need a break, I’m done.” and it didn’t matter how much I tried to restart or jump it- no go. So I moved on. I went back to school, I’m getting my licence to be a massage therapist, I’ll be doing that until July of next year which I’m currently on break with until Tuesday. But GOOD NEWS. I was going through my tumblr and I still find all these RaeLena pictures and when I went back to this- I found, lo and behold, FUEL. So I started this back up and this baby is running! Wooo! @the-immortal-marshal​ and @warnjai-17​ hopefully you’re still here to enjoy this 

AO3

Magic and Miracles and BEYOND

Chapter 13

The morning of Crowe’s wedding day was bright and brisk and the trees around the farm seemed to have come into spectacular color just for her. The sunrise was especially beatuiful and Prompto and the photographer got some outstanding pictures of it. 

The horses had been washed the day before and kept in their squeaky clean stalls so they didn’t get dirty right before the ceremony. Crowe woke up feeling so happy and excited because today was the day her and her best friend were getting married and Chelsea had worked overtime in making sure every detail was perfect and to make sure Crowe only had decisions to make in a timely manner but no actual work to do through the whole process so it had been a breeze. The girls had all stayed at Sylva’s house and she had had another caterer come in and make everyone breakfast and a team of hair and makeup artists to make sure each girl shined like the jewel she was as Luca and Lilly and all the other little sisters of the those in the wedding party got to get glammed up too. 

Meanwhile Libertus woke up with the worst hangover and felt like death warmed over. He had stayed up half the night, him and his friends around a campfire on Craig’s farm and drank and just talked, some of it was casual, most of it was deep though while Tredd did manage to keep his mouth shut about Ada being pregnant. But he sure did hint at it to Luche which Ravus and Nyx picked up on as Ravus was suspecting that the reason his mother favored Tredd as much as she did was because he had the gift too. 

Craig Sr. and his wife Charla were already hard at work making a mountain of food for the boys and they chuckled to themselves as they watched all of them wake up to the smell of food and come in, each one’s hair crazier than the last as they all did the zombie shuffle to get the food before sitting down at the table as the guys downed pot after pot of coffee and ate in relative silence as bottles of Tylenol, Advil and Aleve were passed around. 

“You boys alive over there?” Craig asked before there was a chorus of groans as an answer which cracked Craig Sr. and Charla up. 

Meanwhile Hazel was sleeping blissfully away in Titus’ bed before the smell of her own breakfast woke her up only moments before Titus came in with their breakfast on a tray. 

“Good morning Beautiful.” Titus cooed to her as her eyes fluttered open before she smiled adoringly at him as she stretched. 

“Good morning, what do you got there?” She asked as she sat up, keeping the blankets up to cover her nakedness but moved the pillows to the headboard so she could sit up comfortably. 

“Breakfast.” Titus beamed. 

“Aww,” Hazel fawned as he gave her the tray and then got back into bed before they cuddled together with the extra large tray over Hazel’s lap. 

“This is really sweet,” Hazel gushed as she started to dig in to the bowl of berries before she pulled the lid off of the plate to see an engagement ring sitting on top of some french toast and gasped as Titus’ heart beat so hard in his chest he thought it was going to break his ribs as his mouth felt like it was full of cotton all of a sudden. 

“So, I was thinking, I know you really like your apartment and I really like the peace and quiet and space of the country, but I thought we could find a happy medium if we built a house together, Oak Creek Estates still has a bunch of lots available and if…” Titus was cut off by Hazel quickly attaching her mouth to his and kissing him as deeply as she could from her spot under his arm as his arm curled around her before his other hand went up to gently caress her gorgeous face, hoping she could understand what he was trying to say because words were failing him but actions never would.  

“Yes, that’ll be perfect, a fresh new start for both of us.” Hazel beamed happily as she had already slipped the ring on before Titus moved the tray over to the floor before he really got to enjoy his fiance for breakfast which is what he really wanted. 

As the clock ticked down Libertus went from hungover to happy to nervous and by a surprise, Luche was too. 

“Cut it out, they’re all gonna think you’re playing with yourself.” Tredd teased as he sat down next to Luche after he came back into the house from helping the firework guys set up all the fireworks for the night before he sat down on the couch as Luche frowned over at him. 

“Cut what out?” Luche tried to deflect. 

“You keep fingering that engagement ring thing in your pocket, it looks like you’re trying to jack off.” Tredd chuckled as Luche frowned. 

“How…” Luche began as Tredd gave him an unimpressed look. 

“Really? You really wanna play dumb? Come on, let me seee.” Tredd questioned as Luche humphed before he pulled it out and handed it to Tredd. 

“I do, I will marry you.” Tredd gushed in an overly feminine way. 

“Oh my God, stop.” Luche rolled his eyes as Tredd opened the fancy slim ring box to see a paper flower fold out holding the ring. 

“Aww, this was one of Victor’s rings for Ravus wasn’t it?” Tredd asked as Luche sighed deeply. 

“Yes, I bought it off of him.” Luche admitted. 

“Of course you did, you spent what? A whole dollar?” Tredd teased. 

“Ravus gave me a price and I paid it, no negotiations needed.” Luche defended. 

“A whole five dollars because you don’t cary singles anymore blue blood.” Tredd grinned triumphantly. 

“I hate this about you.” Luche sarcastically quipped as he tried to take the ring back but Tredd pulled it out of his reach. 

“Hey, hey, don’t get all huffy. I think it’s nice- a whole 20 carats just on the center diamond and that has to be...another 5 carats in the bezels and blue diamonds are coming back into fashion again, platinum?” Tredd appraised as Luche just frowned deeper and deeper. 

“Since when do you know anything about jewelry?” Luche asked.  

“Since mom adopted me too and has been taking me under her wing and teaching me the same shit she’s teaching you but I get the super fun hands on versions, and she is paying me in stock options now and recognizes that I have a good eye and can spot a fake a mile away.” Tredd answered casually as he gave it back. 

“Wait paying you? Paying you for what?” Luche demanded. 

“You didn’t think you were her only eyes and ears did you?” Tredd grinned smugly. 

“How much is she paying you?” Luche pressed. 

“Eh, it started off as 5k here, 10k there, now it’s stock options and percentages and 401ks and trust funds and all that which I find I like much better, especially since I’ve been reinvesting that money in said stocks. Project Recovery alone has quadrupled my money in just the last couple of months alone and Sylva says I have the same gift she has in that oracle shit. I see things with my special eyes that you don’t.” Tredd teased as he poked his finger near Luche’s ear as he batted his eyes suggestively at Luche.  

“Stop,” Luche batted Tredd’s hand away. “What do you see that I don’t?” Luche questioned. 

“I knew before anyone else did that Crowe was pregnant.” Tredd grinned. 

“You got lucky.” Luche countered. 

“Did I? Did I also get really super lucky when I knew Ada was pregnant over the summer on the cruises?” Tredd revealed. 

“What?” Luche blinked. 

“Yeah, I saw that before Sylva did, And that fifteen grand? That was to keep you two from fucking so you wouldn’t lose your mind when she lost that pregnancy. Which sucked by the way, but hopefully it doesn’t happen again.” Tredd revealed. 

“You…” Luche didn’t know if he should laugh, cry or just go bang his head against a wall. “How? How did you know?” Luche demanded. 

“There’s just a lot of subtle changes that most miss but to me they just all add up for some reason.” Tredd shrugged. “But looking back, aren’t you happy you didn’t fuck her senseless on the cruise?” Tredd asked. 

“...yeah.” Luche ducked his head with a sigh. 

“Well I knew the moment those two got together that it was gonna crash and burn in a matter of months. She’s always been your girl, she was just the last one to realize it.” Tredd offered which made Luche and Tredd both grin lopsidedly at each other. 

“Thanks.” Luche thanked him. 

“You’re welcome. By the way, I want to be a groomsman.” Tredd insisted which made Luche snicker a laugh. 

“Oh do you?” Luche returned. 

“Hell yeah, am I or am I not the Bro who was purposefully a douche to save you from that clusterfuck?” Tredd prodded. 

“You are that douche.” Luche laughed. 

“So I’m a groomsman?” Tredd prodded. 

“You are the douchiest of my groomsman.” Luche chuckled. 

“Good,” Tredd grinned victoriously as Ravus and Nyx came up. 

“Oh is that Ada’s ring?” Nyx asked. 

“Yeah, I was thinking I was gonna pull a Rae.” Luche admitted as he handed it to Nyx as Ravus smiled proudly. Happy that the ring was going to go to a “brother”. Besides that still left a few to save for his children to use when they would get engaged. 

“Awesome,” Nyx smiled happily before he gave it back. 

“Shower is clear.” Craig called out after he got out of his since every shower was being used on the property to get all the boys ready as Luche got the ring back as he got up and claimed the empty shower. 

“So what else do you see with your special eyes?” Ravus asked Tredd once Luche was well out of earshot. 

“Jesus, you have the ears of a rodent Beavus.” Tredd rolled his eyes. 

“Ada’s pregnant again isn’t she?” Ravus grinned. 

“Sssshhhh!” Tredd shushed him as he quickly looked around to see if anyone else had heard that. 

“See? Told you.” Ravus put to Nyx who gave him an unimpressed look. 

“Does he know?” Nyx gestured to where Luche went. 

“No, absolutely not, and none of us can tell him either, we gotta let Ada find out on her own and have her be the one to tell him, we can’t spoil this for him. I mean you know me, I’m all for spoiling shit but that’s the special shit you don’t spoil.” Tredd urged them. 

“So what do you think it’s gonna be?” Ravus put to Tredd curiously. 

“Pppfff, boy.” Tredd snickered. “Watch they’ll name him something super British, like London or Oxford or something so English the Royal Family will be like ‘calm it down now’. “ Tredd predicted. 

“London.” Nyx and Ravus grinned. 

“Any other girl preggers?” Nyx asked Tredd. 

“Right now? No. About to be? Oh yeah,” Tredd laughed. 

“Who?” Ravus and Nyx asked as Tredd looked at them unimpressed before he looked over to Gladio pointedly before turning back to them. 

“No way,” Nyx shook his head. 

“A hundred bucks, they’re going to be expecting in the next say...four months?” Tredd offered as he offered his hand for a shake. 

“Deal.” Nyx agreed as he shook Tredd’s hand as Ravus just shook his head, knowing Tredd was right and knew that Tredd had the same gift he had. Which instead of denying it or downplaying it or getting jealous, he felt a sense of relief that he wasn’t the only one with it. 

Once all the girls arrived the boys got the horses saddled and ready to go as the guests started to arrive and take their seats. The weather couldn’t be more perfect, small, almost cartoonish puffy clouds rolling in the sky, it was warm enough to be comfortable but not chilled enough to be cold but that message didn’t seem to get to Libertus who was sweating buckets so much so that everyone thought he was going to lose 10lbs in sweat alone and Chelsea was grateful she had extra shirts for Libertus to change into and basically bathed him in deodorant and antiperspirant and loaded him up with anti-nausea meds as his own mother and Crowe’s mothers gave him the pep-talk of the century as Chelsea was copying that down for future use. 

When it finally came time for the actual ceremony, the horses suddenly decided to shit where they stood at the back of the aisle before Chelsea and her team tried to hurriedly clean it up, the horses then tried munching on the flowers on the sides of the aisle, there was practically a whole hive of bees there to collect the nectar from all the flowers even though Sylva had a case of Epipens which thankfully didn’t need to get used but thankfully, at least- there were no mosquitoes and Libertus was thankfully laughing too hard at the horses being horses to cry too much because the sight of Crowe in a wedding dress coming down the aisle to him was overwhelming to him. 

Because Crowe’s smile shamed the sun. She was radiant and beautiful and practically glowing and Libertus had never seen her look so beautiful in his life. It was perfect and after the vows, Libertus finally seemed to ease up and become himself again. 

At the reception Sylva went ahead and practically glued herself to Linda, Luche’s mother as Luche was slow dancing with Ada because she had caught the bouquet in the bouquet toss, thanks to Sylva organizing her girls to guarantee it and thanks to Sylva also organizing her boys- Luche caught the garter belt and now they were dancing together, the rest of the world falling away. 

“I really like the fairy lights.” Ada noted at all the twinkle lights around them. 

“Would you want fairy lights at our wedding?” Luche asked and Ada didn’t give a second thought to his choice of words before she began telling him all about what she would want for their wedding. 

Meanwhile on the sidelines-

“Linda, you better get used to the idea of them being together.” Sylva urged as Linda gave her a side eye. 

“Look, it’s very simple, it’s either Ada or this cum guzzling gutter trash.” Sylva continued as she pulled up a video of Beth on a porn site that had Linda choking on her winecooler and looking particularly aghast. “That could have been your daughter in law who by the way flirted and eye fucked before she actually did fuck Chinese billionaires trying to get the best deal possible while Luche was sitting right next to her and would have been way more unfaithful to him than Ada ever will be again, Ada is allowed to sow a wild oat or two in her youth, and now that she’s done that and seen that the grass is indeed not anywhere near as green as it is with Luche and I can tell you that she won’t be making that mistake again.” Sylva assured Linda. “Now, count your blessings as you read this.” Sylva furthered before she pulled out a prenup and it had Linda grinning from ear to ear as she read it.  

“You see the line we have to walk as mothers is to let our children enjoy life and live it how they want to, but that doesn’t mean we can’t put them in some safety gear, I’ll have Ada sign this before we go wedding dress shopping but here’s the deal-” Sylva lowered her voice. “You and Luke will be nothing but nice, happy and supportive of Luche and Ada from here on out. I have already talked with Luche and he’s ok with me paying for a bulk of the wedding expenses, all I’m asking you and Luke to pay for are the invitations and Ada’s parents will be buying Ada’s veil, fair enough?” Sylva put to her. 

“That’s more than fair.” Linda nodded in agreement with a thankful smile to Sylva. 

“Good, now, watch your son propose and be happy about it.” Sylva nodded to the dancefloor where Luche had gotten down on one knee and proposed to Ada as Sylva was smiling brightly while Linda plastered on a smile, happy that her son was at least protected and grateful that Sylva had adopted him and cared for him as her own because the Lord knew she wasn’t willing or ready to pay for much of anything else as Sylva offered her own winecooler over to Linda to clink with a knowing smile when Ada said yes. 

After that, that’s when the party seemed to get into full gear, the moment the sun began to set they lit the fires in the fire pits inside the bale circles so people could sit on the bales and make smores since the wedding had been catered by a competition BBQ joint that had all the BBQ and steaks anyone could ask for. There was a mountain of throw blankets to keep the guests warm as they did this and then at the finale- that’s when Tredd- being a fireman and pyromaniac- set the fireworks off which everyone fully enjoyed before the party sent Crowe and Libertus off on their honeymoon which Sylva got them a cabin and a hunting excursion out in the northwest. 

Luche and Ada barely made it home and in the door before they were on each other and removing the remainder of their clothes and made it to the bottom of the stairs before Luche had pinned her to the wall and started fucking her hard up against it, Ada’s engagement ring nearly getting snagged in his hair as Ada scratched his scalp roughly as the loudest and longest pleasured moan left her throat. 

“Oh Luche!” Ada keened as the back of her head hit the wall behind her, knocking the picture of them hanging next to her head slightly askew as Luche’s hips pounded into hers. 

Luche proposing to Ada after she caught the bouquet came as a surprise to Ada but not really to anyone else, but that was all that mattered to Luche. Ada was completely wrapped up in wedding fever and the joy and excitement of the moment to notice anyone outside of Luche. Their relationship was better than it had ever been since she came back to him and together they both worked exceptionally hard to make the other happy. 

Ada was blown away by the drop dead gorgeous ring Luche proposed with.

Luche had wanted his proposal to be more eloquent but in the end, he just went for simple and straight to the point. 

When Ada had said that she liked something about the decorations for the wedding, Luche found himself asking her what she would like for their wedding and Ada had answered it without a second thought and before Ada realized it she revealed what she had always wanted and fantasized about as a little girl and Luche was grinning ear to ear and when she was done Luche didn’t hesitate to just get down on one knee and offer to give her everything she had just said and pleaded for the chance to make all her dreams come true as everyone quickly gathered around them with eager eyes and ears to hear her answer and Ada didn’t even get to see the ring before she said yes and when she did see the ring, her eyes nearly popped out of her head and her jaw fell and rolled away on the floor. But she readily had him put it on her finger. 

From there, it was like they were velcroed to each other and receiving all the congratulatory wishes before Chelsea made a point to make sure they had her business card and to give her a call when they wanted to set a date and get things in motion before Luche repeated, almost verbatim what Ada had just said to her as Chelsea quickly made notes, using up the last half of her notebook since the first half was already full of notes for Hazel and Titus’ wedding plans that she had gotten earlier before she left Luche and Ada to enjoy more congratulations since Ada was the last to be engaged and didn't notice how Chelsea had then gone to Sylva, Linda and Luke as well as Ada's parents who Sylva had gathered together to force a congratulatory toast between them all before Sylva informed them that she would be paying for the bulk of it if Luche's parents were willing to buy the invitations and if Ada's parents would pay for Ada's veil since wedding dresses could be so expensive, that she would take care of the rest since Luche was like another son to her and brother to Ravus which she received very little argument to. 

Luche felt he smiled more that night than he had in the previous year combined. But he was so happy. Finally things were coming together. He had the dream job, had fantastic friends, supportive family and the girl of his dreams and everything was perfect and he couldn’t ask for more. 

[mareenavee]

Fanfic q&a - 12 and 13!

Hello!! :D Thank you for these!!! 🤩 This whole set is awesome.

The ask game itself is here.

Fanfic asks regarding my fic, The World on Our Shoulders!

12. What do you hope readers will take away from this work?

First and foremost, my hope is that anyone who reads this fic gets some enjoyment out of it, even if the themes miss them or they don't have the spoons to read super closely. I just want people to be invested in the stakes of the story, and to be invested in what happens to the characters.

Outside of that, I really love when people read closely, too and see the work I'm trying to put into the story beyond the surface level -- picking up on threads as they go through it and saying so makes my day, really :D

I do also like to write hope into stories, especially in fairly bleak settings like TES/Tamriel. For instance, even though the hero of the story makes mistakes, it doesn't mean she can't redeem them. Also it shows that being a hero isn't always cut and dry, that there is nuance to the kind of upheaval destiny might bring onto someone who just wanted to live a normal life. And perhaps maybe most of all, no matter what has happened, no matter what one's path looked like before, no matter how much one had been through -- people have the ability to move forward with the support of people who love them.

13. Are there any cut lines/scenes from this work? Why did you cut them? 

Ohhh man. SO many cut scenes and fragments. This thing has gone through so many revisions at this point, even to the point of ground-up editing what I had originally posted. There's ideas that I had cut out of the first posting that have since made it back in, and original draft ideas that I decided not to include. I was actually just talking to someone about a whole POV character I decided to cut because it took away from the close character dynamic I was building with the three I already do have.

To close this post, I do have a fragment to share, which would have occurred between chapters 5 and 6, during the funeral up at the Skyforge:

If not for the crowds, he wouldn't have dared come to Whiterun. Tragedy, in this case, allowed for some kind of anonymity; a blending with the crowd. It was his fault she'd stopped here, though. He'd been too weak at the time to restrain those he traveled with. He'd been stuck in his own mind, hunger replacing every sense. That he'd come to at all was a miracle, and that he'd managed to regain any semblance of control so quickly was another gift from...something, anyway. He dared not think of it.

He pulled the hood of his travel cloak closer over his face, and stared up at the Skyforge. She sat there, entwined with some unfamiliar Dunmer. A Companion. A Warrior. Someone else who could keep her safe, though for how long was unclear. His sources had told him already of her strength, and that she'd been excelling at magic. There was a hint of fear under his skin about this. There was too much at stake. As far as he knew, she sat on a precipice, one foot in the flames. Either she'd quench them or become them, and nobody knew exactly when the tipping point would be reached. Something about her blood. Part of him railed against all of it, and wished she could have a normal life.

But he had to trust the visions. Never once had her path been normal. There was a melancholy there, because if anyone deserved peace, it would be Nyenna. If he could grant anyone in the world reprieve from the coming darkness, it would be her. She didn't deserve chaos. Not for the last time, he wished things hadn't gone so far awry.

(: Mysterious, eh? But yes, this view had been cut. He's an important voice, but not in the dynamic that is at the front of World, unfortunately. So we'll have to see when he makes he grand debut later as a side character.

[methylsalicylate]

The Madrigals and The Beast Ch 2

AO3 Link | Story art by @waokevale | Tag: #Madrigals&Beast

Chapters:

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20

Summary:

In the Kingdom of Encanto, there was only Light magic, while the Dark surrounded the forest beyond the mountains. Everything had been prosperous for them, but recently the Dark has been seeping through in the form of disease, less harvest, and dead livestock.

Mirabel, the only giftless princess of the Madrigal Royal family, wants to prove her worth by making it her mission to eradicate Dark magic and restore the full power of the Light.

Starting with defeating the hideous seven-foot tall half human half rat monster hiding in the depths of the dense forest.

______________________________________________________________

“I’m leaving the Encanto.”

Right after this sudden declaration, princess Pepa’s oldest son Camilo choked on a piece of bread. He vehemently coughed for a few seconds, while his younger cousin rolled her eyes at how dramatic he was being.

Cough Cof KAF cough!!

Five seconds passed. “Are you done suffering?”

The shapeshifting teen shushed her cousin, holding up a finger. “Wait, let me cough some more to show how ridiculous that sentence was. Cough KOUgH!”

Mirabel rolled her eyes a second time. She grabbed his arm and pulled him towards the road outside their house. “I don’t know why I put up with you.”

“Wait where are we going?”

She looked back at her cousin and motioned a hand towards her ear.

Oh Dolores, thought Camilo.

When they were far enough (which probably doesn’t help since Dolores can hear things from miles away), Mirabel placed her cousin on a log near the entrance of the town.

“I said, I’m leaving the Encanto.”

“Yeah, I heard that the first time and sorry for being a bit dramatic but WHAT?!” her cousin shot up, and waved his hands around. “That doesn’t make any sense! There are at least 48 bedtime stories on why we are absolutely not allowed out there! Do you want to get eaten by the Rat monster?”

“No, but we need to defeat him!”

“What? What are you talking about?”

“Listen!” Mirabel whispered, closing the distance between her and Camilo’s ear, trying to avoid onlookers from hearing her. “Last night, after Antonio’s door party, I noticed cracks in Casita.”

“Yeah, but they were gone when -”

“SHUSH! Yes I know they disappeared, but I overheard abuela talking to her picture of abuelo Pedro last night. She says that something is happening beyond the forest and it’s affecting the Light magic within, and that she is at a loss at what to do.”

Camilo gave her a confused look. “So… so you think that defeating the Rat monster would help?”

“Yes, exactly!” Mirabel started pacing back and forth, hand on her chin and eyes full of focus. “I also talked to Luisa earlier, she told me that she does feel the Light magic disappear for a few seconds at a time. There are also problems around the kingdom; the rat infestation on our fields has gotten worse, and more people are needing Mama’s food for some unknown contagious disease… Don’t you see, something is happening to the magic!”

Mirabel felt her cousin grab her by the shoulders, putting a stop to her thoughts. He looked her in the eye and motioned for her to sit beside him on the log.

“Prima, we need to think about this, ok? Don’t just jump to weird conclusions like that.”

“But you do understand, right?” She sat down heavily next to him, resting her head on her hands. “Camilo, the Dark magic feels stronger these days. I’m not sure what’s causing it, but I know that it could be trouble if we don’t do something about it.”

“Yes but why does it have to be you?”

There was no doubt about how Mirabel felt about the magic. Unlike her sisters and cousins, she was the only one who was not blessed by the Spirit of Encanto with a miracle. On the day of her ceremony, the magical door disappeared before her and most of the kingdom. Her Abuela looked concerned and she knew that the adults talked about it often. Over time, the lack of a magical talent made her feel as if she was not a Madrigal.

“You don’t have to prove your worth, Mira.”

“But! I just want to do something for the family, in my own way. I know I haven’t been of much help - “

“Not true.”

“- and I think that this might actually get me somewhere! I don’t want to see my family lose their magical gift… and I am afraid of what might happen if we let the situation get worse.”

She turned to her cousin, using her ever powerful puppy dog eyes.

“Oh no, that no longer works on me Mirabel.”

“Camilo please!” she begged. “I need you to cover for me, just for like, two to three days? I’ll be back right away, in one piece I swear!”

“How are you even going to get to the Rat guy? Going up the mountain would take weeks!”

“Ah, I already have a plan for that.” She adjusted her glasses and pointed at a farm at the edge of town. “The rats have to come from somewhere.”

“So you will follow the rats.”

“Yes.”

“And when you see the giant Rat monster? What then?”

The girl merely shrugged. “I won’t approach him, I will just observe enough to know his weaknesses. And then I come back, and we can hatch a plan. We can involve the whole village even! As they say, the more the merrier. There’s no way the Rat monster could handle an entire kingdom.”

“You’re crazy.”

“Crazy enough to try and save everyone!” Mirabel stood up, and dusted her embroidered blue skirt. “So, what do you say primo? Are you willing to help out?”

“There’s nothing I can do to stop you, huh?”

“Yep.”

Camilo sighed heavily. It lasted for around 3 seconds, again, to prove how much he hated this. He thought about it for a while. Technically, it is impossible to go across the mountains around the border. Most likely her cousin would give up after a day and come home safe. “I will give you two days. After that, I’m telling everyone.”

“Deal!”

—--------------------------------------------------—

Meanwhile, the adults of the family were gathered in Casita. The husbands were busy with work in town, leaving the sisters with their mother in the kitchen.

“I heard that Señor Carlos lost a fifth of his harvest to the rats today”, said Julieta. Her hands were busy preparing arepas but her thoughts were somewhere else.

Alma shook her head. Ever since this year started, things have gradually gone downhill. Harvests weren’t as bountiful as before, they weren’t getting enough fish from the rivers, livestock were getting sick.

Worst of all, some townsfolk are afflicted with an unknown disease. Thankfully, Julieta’s preparations are able to alleviate symptoms, but the slow and steady rise in the number of cases is worrisome.

Pepa was leaning against the counter, arms across her chest. “Mama, at this point we cannot deny that something is happening.”

“I know mija. I fear that the Dark might eventually overcome the protective borders that we have…”

“Is there anything that we can do? My food can only do so much… Pepa can’t keep raining on the fields as well.”

The matriarch nodded. “For now, this is all that we can do. We no longer have the old sword the first King used to handle the Curse… I’m afraid I will have to… try and review the remaining visions that we have.”

The sisters looked at each other with unease. Their mother hated going through the visions, and most of all, there was nothing there to find. They have gone through the collection of green glass hundreds of times, especially on the day that Bruno went missing. It was all useless, most of it being visions that already happened, some of them having no meaning to it.

Pepa placed a hand on her mother’s shoulder. “Mama, why don’t I do it for you? I might be able to find and decipher something.”

“I… alright. I will need a new perspective as well. We must try our best to help with the kingdom while we find something definitive.”

She closed her eyes, willing all the bad memories into a locked compartment in her mind. She has to be strong for her family.

“I will have to meet with the Guzman’s today regarding Isabela’s engagement. Dark magic won’t stop the joyous occasion. We are the Madrigals, we will be strong for our family, and for our community!”

________________________________________________________________

Chapters:

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20

[jamiiviper]

The Jamil Essay

this is a reupload of a post i made a couple of weeks ago - previously it was an external link to a google doc, so it never showed up in any of the twst tags, but i worked so hard on this and i would really love it if more people read it, so i’m reuploading directly to tumblr.

to put it simply, this is a 3.7k word character analysis purely about jamil. and even with a word count like that i wasn’t quite able to cover everything i wanted to say, so who knows, maybe there’ll be a part 2 one day. i’ve also decided i do want to write a kalim version, so i’ll probably start working on that sometime soon! stay tuned!

trigger warnings: mentions of child abuse

jamil is the vice dorm leader of scarabia, who’s been kalim’s caretaker practically since birth. he puts on a facade of not standing out, preferring to remain completely average, and plans his life around kalim’s antics. as we learned in chapter 4, however, his true feelings are that he bears a lot of resentment towards kalim, and that he wants to stand out - he just wasn’t allowed to, as he can never surpass kalim.

in this essay i want to cover not just my personal interpretation of jamil, but also some common misconceptions that people tend to have about him. twitter doesn’t have this problem as much, but with tumblr i’ve found that there are very few jamil stans, especially in the theory and writing communities - meaning it’s quite common for people to misunderstand his character. in the fandom as a whole, it’s common for people to only acknowledge him insofar as “gay for kalim”. 

firstly, jamil’s character development in the main story - i would say he’s arguably the best-developed character in twst, since yana now has enough chapters available to flesh out characters after their main story arc ended. jamil holds very deep-seated resentment against kalim, to the point that he plotted to betray him for probably several years. he plotted to have kalim not just thrown out of nrc, but thoroughly ruin his reputation in the process. after his overblot, those feelings did not magically vanish - far from it. i think earlier twst chapters suffered from arcs being wrapped up a little too neatly post-overblot, but pomefiore’s arc has already proved itself to be the exception and thoroughly covers not just jamil’s continued dislike for kalim, but also the wider consequences for what he did.

since the twst school year begins in september, we know jamil is about 9 months older than kalim. from literally the day kalim was born, jamil’s life has been dedicated to kalim. possibly since the day jamil was born, and he was always fated to be kalim’s caretaker. it may even have been the reason he was born at all. either way, it’s not like he remembers those 9 months. all jamil has ever known is that his sole purpose must be to serve kalim. he must not have desires of his own, he must not do anything for himself - from childhood he was expected to be ready to give up his life for kalim at a moment’s notice. he can’t be good at anything - kalim must always be better (i’ll cover this in more depth in a later paragraph, this philosophy is key to his character). his own parents drilled this into him, even going to the extent of hitting him if he didn’t comply. it seems he has a normal relationship with his family despite this - he bickers with his sister like regular siblings, and pre-overblot he indicated that his desire to be free from servitude wasn’t just about him, he wanted to free his family. nonetheless, the psychological damage his childhood caused him is severe. is it any wonder his unique magic is mind control, when he’s never had an ounce of control over his own life?

moving onto his early teen years, we know both jamil and kalim were severely poisoned at one point, both falling into comas for around two weeks. although we don’t have a timeframe for jamil’s coma, we know kalim’s was when they were around 13 years old. if jamil’s was around this age too - probably a short while afterwards - i think it’s plain to see why jamil’s resentment began to build. he’d have been around the age where he first started to question why his life has to revolve around kalim. why should he be expected to die for someone he doesn’t even like, who’s spoiled and doesn’t realise how much jamil does for him? kalim takes everything for granted: status, friendships, freedom, and jamil is meanwhile left in the shadows with nothing. then one day kalim gets poisoned so badly he falls into a coma - how much do you want to bet jamil was blamed for that, at the age of 13? after that he’s expected to taste-test anything kalim eats beforehand, and eventually starts making all his meals for him because the risk of poison is so high otherwise. then one day he slips up, or it’s an undetectable poison, and jamil is the one to fall into a coma. is anyone blamed for that? does anyone pity jamil outside of his immediate family + kalim? no, probably not. after all, he’s just doing his duty, right? it’s truly… no wonder jamil’s resentment became so intense. he finally has proof that his life truly does not matter. although kalim certainly cares about him, he doesn’t understand jamil’s position. he sees jamil as a friend, an equal; jamil knows this can never be the case, and he also knows kalim is too privileged to ever hope to understand. 

fast forward on a couple of years to jamil receiving his nrc acceptance letter. he thinks that finally, finally he’s going to be free. four years of freedom - and who knows, maybe after that he can be free forever! he can finally excel at his classes and be his true self, without fear of upstaging kalim! 

and then kalim gets accepted a month late. for no reason other than his surname. 

and then kalim gets sorted into his dorm.

it’s a miracle he didn’t just overblot on the spot - but that’s his nature as a scarabia student. careful foresight and planning. this moment was, undoubtedly, the moment he started planning his betrayal. he had his one month of freedom ripped away, just like that. 

oh, don’t forget the fact that not long after, kalim was made dorm leader not because he notably embodies scarabia values at all, but because of nepotism. (side note: most scarabia stans agree kalim does actually reflect scarabia values, just not as obviously as jamil does, but either way jamil himself wouldn’t see it this way. this is a jamil essay so i won’t go in depth about this unless asked to!)

under kalim’s watch, scarabia - known for its intelligence and cunning - is turned into “the party dorm”. this seems to be the fandom’s perception of them too - i mean, just ask any non-scarabia stan what goes on in scarabia, that’s probably the answer they’ll give you. jamil would have probably loved the original scarabia; although we don’t know much about it, we know scarabia students are on a par with octavinelle when it comes to intelligence (paralleling azul’s constant interest in jamil). yet by winter break, scarabia is doing so badly in those same exams that they didn’t even place in the rankings…? without meaning to, kalim clearly harmed scarabia. instead of getting chance to study magic and show off, jamil is now essentially an unpaid, full-time party planner by the time his second year starts.

a few months later, winter break finally arrives, and jamil executes his plan to dethrone kalim. i may have just spent the last two pages defending jamil’s grudge, but his actions themselves are still indefensible. there’s evidence to suggest kalim knew what was occurring on some level - refusing to answer jade’s question about who was hypnotising him proved that 1) he probably had some idea deep down that jamil was betraying him 2) he doesn’t want jamil to get in trouble for it. nonetheless, this does not make what jamil did okay in the slightest, even if kalim allowed it to happen. jamil is, undoubtedly, the bad guy in this situation, no matter how sympathetic his childhood makes you feel. i could go into detail about why kalim acted the way he did, but again, this is jamil-focused.

i’ll skip talking about his overblot, because i covered his hatred for kalim in a lot of depth already and i want to talk about the general aspects of his personality like his desire for praise later on. so moving onto the end of chapter 4, we see jamil’s true self: a snarky, heavily opinionated boy who honestly just wants to be free to be himself.

but just like his freedom, that side of jamil once again only lasts for a brief moment. jamil almost loses everything after his overblot. practically every scarabia student hates him and wants him thrown out of the dorm - even kalim, his sole defender, can’t call him a good person. he’s a traitor. he says he trusts the scarabia students to work out that it’s better for them if he stays, but that day won’t come any time soon, and until then he’s keeping his distance from them all, because their hatred is that strong. if azul truly had been streaming to more people than just jade, his life would have been ruined beyond repair. so what does jamil do? he goes back to serving kalim. as a scarabia student, his foresight is good enough that he knows the option he hates the most is the only one that’ll be good for him in the end. for jamil, being himself is nothing short of a death sentence.

now i’ve talked for far too long about the timeline of his character arc, i can finally get to the good stuff: jamil’s personality, and how it’s changed throughout the stories we’ve seen so far.

the first thing that springs to mind when you think of jamil, other than “snake”, is probably “tired”. or “he’s going to snap”. something along those lines. which... yes, we know he is. he did snap. after chapter 4, this doesn’t seem to have changed too much, but i do get the impression that he’s somewhat less stressed out by kalim. his resentment has dissipated, for the most part (he does still openly insult him, though), so while he does grumble at kalim there’s no suppressed fury behind it. what replaced that fury?

guilt.

in 5-10, jamil tells azul that he intends to continue to obediently follow kalim around in order to restore his reputation, both inside and outside of scarabia. this does of course make him sound pretty selfish (as per usual), and in classic jamil fashion he doesn’t let his true emotions show, so it’s easy to take this at face value and assume he just doesn’t really care. i think in this case, we need to look more at his actions that we see throughout chapter 5. namely, the way it’s being emphasised how he’s silently watching kalim from afar - something he’s always done, yes, but yana seems to be really making a point of it in chapter 5. it’s not just kalim he’s distancing himself from, either. he’s staying away from the rest of the scarabia students too, as mentioned earlier. he never had any friends at all to rely on, even before his overblot. so by doing this, he’s effectively completely isolating himself. he clearly has a lot of thoughts about everything that he’s not sharing with anyone - just listen to the way he sighs at the end of the flashback in 5-10, how annoyed and frustrated he seems. if jamil was telling the truth about just wanting to restore his reputation, he’d probably appreciate kalim’s efforts, even if he dislikes kalim himself. he shouldn’t be upset by kalim persuading the scarabia students to give him another chance. not if he truly just wants to get back to normal. i think on some level, jamil feels incredibly guilty over his actions. he might not have even admitted to himself yet that he feels this way, and by saying things like “i just want to restore my reputation” he’s just trying to convince himself. after all, that’s something he has a history of doing.

ever since jamil’s first introduction, we’ve known jamil lives his life by the philosophy of “not standing out is the best way to succeed”. he hates standing out or receiving any kind of positive attention at all, because he thinks that it’ll only attract trouble. or so we thought, because as we learned from his overblot, jamil desperately wants to stand out. he’s powerful and intelligent, and he wants people to acknowledge that. he wants the praise and recognition he knows he deserves. this means that whenever he said he didn’t want to stand out, he was lying through his teeth - he probably constantly tried and failed to convince himself of this throughout his childhood. during his lab SR story, he even repeats it to himself in his thoughts, like a mantra - “I want to avoid standing out. I can’t be satisfied with this. I cannot be too good, nor fall behind, and neither should I get satisfactory grades or fail. This is the best shortcut to success.”. much like his feelings of guilt, jamil refused to acknowledge how much he truly wanted to show off, even in his own thoughts. he is awful at being honest to himself.

post-ch5, we find out that despite everything, jamil does still hold this philosophy, to some extent. he of course shows off his singing and dancing skills enough to be chosen as a main vocalist, and he says he wants to make a name for himself and show various people just how talented he truly is: kalim, his family, the asims and MC, to name a few. yet in the chapter before that, when kalim compliments his singing and dancing, he’s like “i don’t really want to stand out, but…”. which is honestly a little confusing at first because he does want to. i’d probably interpret it as something along the lines of he wants to show off to the people he cares about, but he still wants to keep his head down in general. so i think that to some extent, maybe he actually has internalised that philosophy now. the one time he truly expressed his desire to stand out, it ended in catastrophe for him. he has this tiny seed of doubt within him now, telling him his parents were right all along. but... he’s working past it, and applying himself as and when he’s comfortable doing so.

going back to him being bad at being honest, jamil’s a pretty big tsundere. there’s one person he does regularly receive praise from: kalim. yet despite desperately wanting to be praised, he often gets annoyed at kalim and tells him something like “this isn’t about me right now” or ���what does that have to do with anything?”. plus when the praise is coming from kalim, it’s often in the context of kalim praising him to other people - as a servant, he can’t be seen accepting all these compliments, right? he can never be better than kalim. so he has to reject kalim’s praise. when it’s just the two of them alone, though, is when jamil gets embarrassed to the point he has to hide his blush under his hood. given his childhood, chances are that he doesn’t really know how to process being praised. he knows he wants people’s approval, but when he actually gets it, he just short-circuits. it was the same at his birthday celebration; although he wants to be the centre of attention, when it actually happens, he gets all embarrassed and tsun. i was trying not to let my own personal feelings spill in this but oh my god he’s so cute i can’t

next... this isn’t really linked to any previous topic, but i want to talk about jamil’s cooking! jamil cooks all of kalim’s meals, and regularly cooks entire feasts for kalim’s parties, too (as well as being in charge of getting any animals kalim wants to show off, decorating the dorm, making sure everything runs smoothly… you get the idea). his cooking is very good, and he has a lot of technical knowledge about cooking too - azul, whose parents run a restaurant, didn’t know about emulsification, but jamil was able to explain it to him. despite being so good, though, according to his dorm SSR homescreen lines he doesn’t actually like cooking very much. he says the fact that he cooks so much is “just how things turned out”. of course, he could just be being a tsun, but i do feel like he’s being honest with this - what reason does he have to seriously enjoy something he was forced into doing his entire life? However there is evidence that he might enjoy it after all; he’s particularly good at alchemy because of his cooking knowledge, and according to magical archives he’s completely neutral in motivation for both flying and history lessons, but has slightly higher motivation levels for alchemy, indicating that he can’t stop himself from putting a little bit extra effort into that class. i think it can be interpreted either way with the canon info we have currently, but regardless i would not say he’s the cooking fanatic people often depict him as. 

also, when jamil cooks, although his cooking is good, visually it’s usually very boring, to the point he and his sister would bicker over it. he has the technical skills to cook good food, but no idea how to present it. similarly, in his fairy gala SR he was told that although he perfectly memorised the dance, it was boring to watch - it looked like he was just executing the routine without any passion behind it. jamil is so emotionally repressed that he has no idea how to express his individuality. even in his bedroom, the only truly personal items he owns are a first aid kit (related to his servant position, not him as a human being) and a stereo + headphones set for dancing. he doesn’t have any other hobbies or interests - he doesn’t even know what people his age do for fun, because he’s never been allowed to think about such things. 

dancing is all jamil has that’s not directly related to serving kalim, really - but even that ties into his servant status. although he genuinely enjoys it nowadays and dances by himself for fun, he only picked it up as a hobby because kalim wanted to go to dance practice, and of course jamil had to accompany him. when his flashback after his overblot talks about him deliberately losing to kalim, the story focuses specifically on a dancing competition. which is why it’s honestly so important to jamil’s character that chapter 5 focuses on a singing and dancing competition. jamil finally has the chance not just to show off his skills in general, but his skills at the one thing he’s been allowed to love throughout his life. the one thing where losing to kalim at it hurt so much that it was such a prominent memory for him. when jamil was chosen as a main vocalist, he instinctively tries to say kalim would be better suited for the position, but stops himself and accepts it. it clearly means so much to him that he was chosen for this.

okay i started to scare people with how long this was getting when it was only 50% finished, i think if i write anymore people will actually be concerned for my health so i’ll leave it here. if you read all of this, thank you so much for putting up with my anime boy brainrot for over six full pages! i really.. really like jamil. again, i most certainly do not think his actions should be defended, but god if they’re not fascinating to read about. and i hope i covered the other sides to him well enough, the things that you’d never ordinarily pick up on because so few people talk about him outside of him and kalim as a pair (both platonic scarabia + romantic jamikali, i mean). he has so much depth to him that people don’t see and god i could easily have gone on for another few pages if i wasn’t forcing myself to stop. but please please talk to me if you want to hear more...

yana has treated him so well, jamil stans get too much food if anything but i’m absolutely thriving off it as you can see! thank you for allowing him to exist, yana-sensei!

having said that, i couldn’t stop myself from adding some extra facts about him below. please enjoy.

some fun jamil facts for your soul:

his sister used to bake him cookies on his birthday - specifically, these!

when jamil and kalim went to eat at the cafeteria with ruggie and leona, leona took one look at jamil and went “you look like you’d kill kalim in his sleep”

sebek and jamil find each other’s positions enviable. sebek wishes he could have been by malleus’ side from birth as jamil was with kalim, and jamil just… wishes he served someone he respected as deeply as sebek respects malleus (but he does think sebek is too enthusiastic)

jamil hates surprises with a burning passion, and despite being with kalim for 17 years is still not used to them. for his previous birthday, kalim held a huge surprise party, and i think he still hasn’t recovered from the shock

i think a lot of people already know that in his birthday SSR story he said he wanted a parrot after graduation so he could teach it to call him master, but it goes a bit further than that? it was actually first mentioned during his lesson chats, when kalim gets a parrot. jamil has to research how to care for it, and ended up wanting one of his own afterwards (but got too tsundere to admit it at the time).

also, he heard that the sorcerer of the sands’ parrot (iago) could speak as fluently as a human, and he got excited and watched a bunch of parrot videos on magicam, but was of course disappointed to find out that this was not the case.

he frequently uses flattery to try and get his way, like when he attempts to flatter vil during his SSR story - unfortunately he misjudged vil, as vil’s actually the type of person who hates meaningless flattery. because he does this so frequently, when he genuinely does give compliments people don’t always believe him.

according to the halloween event, jamil is surprisingly environmentally conscious, and insists on holding a sustainable halloween theme. after organising so many parties and seeing the waste they probably produce, i think there’s no wonder he’s so concerned about it.

[highonchocolate]

Take Two: The Guardian in Gotham Chapter 13

First   Previous   Next   Ao3

“Now that we know you do not intend to attack or harm us, the next order of business is testing and understanding your powers” Diana said, starting off down the hallway. “Batman and Superman will go over the details with you.” 

She led them to a training room where Batman and Superman were already waiting. The five of them filed in after her, looking around and taking in the room. The design was more on the minimalistic side; consisting of plain white walls, void of decoration, with lights embedded into the ceiling. Training mats spread out over half the floor, with more stacked on one side. There were no windows, or glass, and the ceiling rose high above them, at least twenty feet up.

Superman cleared his throat, and their eyes snapped from the walls to him. 

“As Diana most likely told you, we are going to be assessing your powers today. What that means is, you will explain where they come from, as well as demonstrate how they work, if possible, so that we can better understand your abilities.” 

“That all sounds good, but how, exactly, do you want us to demonstrate our powers to you?” Ladybug asked, tilting her head curiously.

“Whatever way feels the most comfortable, as long as you cause no injury to others. And yes, death is considered an injury.”

They looked horrified. 

“We aren't going to kill anyone to demonstrate our skills!” Chat Noir exclaimed, staring at them with wide eyes.

“Well, some of our members didn't realize that when they were assessed.” Superman said, eyes darting away for a second. 

“You can begin now,” Batman growled from where he stood beside Superman, his imposing black silhouette looming over them.

Ladybug blinked up at him. “Uh, alright.” She took a deep breath, before beginning. 

“So, we get our powers from our Miraculi. Our Miraculi takes the form of jewelry, but the shape can change. The jewels are what stay the same, and they have gods bound to them. When we transform, the god that is bound to our jewel will fuse with it, and give us powers. These gods are called Kwamis, and they represent abstract concepts, which is what our powers are based off of.” 

“What kind of abstract concepts?” Superman asked curiously.

“Um, well my Kwami represents Destruction, and there are also Kwamis that represent things like Intuition, Subjection, Evolution...stuff like that.” Chat Noir answered, ticking off his fingers as he listed the examples.

“How many Miraculi are there?” Batman inquired, still looming. “And what concepts do your Miraculi represent?”

Ryuko met his face unflinchingly.

“My Miraculous represents Perfection, Viperion’s represents Intuition, Queen Bee’s represents Subjection, Chat Noir’s as you already know represents Destruction, and its counterpart, the Ladybug Miraculous, represents Creation.”

“They're stored in Miracle Boxes, and it's worth saying there are many of those, actually,” Viperion added, “But the one we have had nineteen Miraculi,” 

Batman nodded once, accepting the answer.

“You said had, past tense,” Diana noted, “What do you mean?”

“Hawkmoth and Mayura stole two Miraculi from the box, the Butterfly brooch, which represents Transmission, and the Peacock brooch, which represents the power of Emotion. They're literally the supervillains we fight, like, daily.” Queen Bee crossed her arms, looking at them incredulously. “How do you not know this? It's literally all over Parisian news when Akuma Attacks occur.” 

“We had it handled Queenie, and my Cure fixes all the damage anyway, so they probably didn't see it as a problem,” Ladybug countered. “Besides,” She glanced at the three older heroes, “You have to deal with stuff like alien invasions, and plots for world domination, not some dude who wants to make a wish.” 

 Viperion frowned. “It's more dangerous than that and you know it.” 

She shrugged, looking away. 

“While you are correct that we are busy, that still doesn't excuse that we let this slip our attention,” Superman said.

“Well you're helping us now, so I guess that counts for something,” Chat Noir offered, “And uh, if there aren't any more questions, we can demonstrate our powers now.”

“Go ahead.” Diana indicated the training mats, “Just remember, no injuries!” 

“Okay, so Ryuko, you can go first,” Ladybug turned to Queen Bee, “I know you've been working on recalling your Venom, but for now, just stun her when it's your turn, since she'll already be done demonstrating.”

They nodded, and Ryuko stepped forward, facing the older heroes, and inclined her head in a small bow. 

“I have the Miraculous of the Dragon, and it represents Perfection. It allows me to transform into three elements, wind, water and lighting.” She breathed deeply, planting her feet firmly on the ground.

“Wind Dragon!” 

She shifted into a gust of wind that blew around the room once, before reappearing where she had originally stood.

“Water Dragon!”

She became a stream of water that seeped through the cracks in the training mat into a puddle on the floor, before reappearing on the floor in front of the training mat. 

“Lightning Dragon!”

She turned into a crackling ball of electricity, hovering in midair for a moment, before reverting back to human, panting slightly.

Ladybug grabbed her forearm gently, “You need to recharge, and then sit down. You have food for Longg, right?”

“Yes, but I don’t know where I’m going to detransform and recharge,” She whispered.

“Just ask Diana if there’s a closet or something where you can detransform.” 

Ryuko nodded and walked over to Diana. They spoke quite for a couple moments, before Diana pointed to a door they hadn't noticed when they had arrived. She nodded and walked into the room beyond, as Chat Noir walked forward.

“My Miraculous is the Black Cat, and it represents Destruction. I have two powers, one that allows me to destroy anything I touch, and one that allows me to create corruption in something. I also have enhanced senses.”

Queen Bee sidled up next to Viperion. “Was there a script? I don’t remember there being a script?”

“I think he’s just going off what Ryuko said because she sounded distinguished.” He whispered back.

Chat Noir’s ear twitched, and he had to bite down on the inside of his cheek to hold in laughter.

“I’m not going to demonstrate my second power, though, it’s a bit more dangerous, in a way.” 

He raised one clawed hand before him, “Cataclysm!”

His hand began to seethe with a dark, black energy that had the older heroes falling into defensive positions.

“Can I use it on this?” He indicated a nearby metal bar with the other hand.

“Yes.” Batman nodded, observing intently. With the reassurance, he walked over to the beam and pressed a single claw to the shiny metal. Within seconds, it had corroded and rusted, disintegrating entirely. 

Superman raised his eyebrows. “Impressive.” 

“Heh. Thanks.” Chat Noir rubbed the back of his neck awkwardly, stepping back and allowing Queen Bee to come forward. Ryuko walked over as well, standing a few feet away from the blonde heroine.

“I have the Bee Miraculous, which represents Subjection. It gives me the power to paralyze others. I’ll be demonstrating on Ryuko, since she has already demonstrated and recharged.”

Behind them, Chat Noir’s ring beeped once.

She reached down to the striped top, its cord looped around her waist, shouting “Venom!”

It began to pulse with magic in her hand, and she quickly flicked her wrist, sending it spinning at the dragon-themed heroine and catching her between the shoulder blades, leaving a small ring of black and gold. 

It's effects were instantaneous: she stiffened up, her limbs all locking in place. The only things moving were her eyes, and the slight rise and fall of her chest as she breathed.

“How long does the paralysis last?” Diana asked, studying Ryuko’s frozen form.

There were two beeps, one from Chat Noor and the other from Queen Bee.

“Until I detransform. But after we use our powers, we only have five minutes until our Kwamis are forced to drop our transformations,” Queen Bee explained. “That'll change once you become an adult, but for now the paralysis only lasts five minutes, max.”

“So after you use your power you have to end the fight within five minutes?” Superman clarified.

Viperion spoke up.

“Well, we can detransform, feed our Kwamis and transform again. And then we can use our powers again. It just takes a few minutes to do all that.”

“Hmm.” Batman’s face seemed thoughtful beneath his cowl.

Two more beeps echoed through the room..

Viperion stepped forward to the mat. Behind him, Ladybug was pushing Queen Bee and Chat Noir towards the door Ruyko had recharged behind, an insistent expression on her face.

“My Miraculous is the Snake, and it represents Intuition. It grants me the power to repeatedly go back a certain amount in time.” He paused as Ryuko unfroze and began to shake the stiffness out of her limbs. Queen Bee must have dropped her transformation. 

“I can't demonstrate it very well here, but in battle if things go wrong, I reset time and warn us before we make that mistake again.”

There was a flash of green and yellow light behind the door as they retransformed

“A useful power.” Batman commented, face unreadable. The other two heroes murmured in agreement, strange expressions on their faces.

He shrugged, faking nonchalance even as the memories of past Akumas turned disastrous flashed through his head. “It's a powerful blessing and a horrible curse.”

His bracelet beeped once, and he stepped away to recharge as Ladybug walked forward.

“I have the Ladybug Miraculous, which represents Creation. I have the power to summon a tool in battle that will help me win, and I can capture Akumas and repair any damage caused in a fight that Ladybug participated in with my Cure.”

“So if you are not part of the fight as Ladybug, you can’t fix the damage?” Diana asked.

“Yeah, basically.”  She frowned. “So even if I’m there as a civilian, if I can’t transform before the fight’s over, I can’t do anything to repair the damage.” 

There was a flash of blue, and Viperion walked back over to them, falling into line with the other members of his team behind her.

Shrugging, she gave the older heroes a small smile and grabbed the spotted crimson yoyo at her hip. “But I can now! Lucky Charm!” 

A ladybug-patterned keychain with ‘JL’ emblazoned on it fell into her outstretched palm. She threw it into the air, shouting “Miraculous Ladybug!”

With a whoosh of magic, pink glowing butterflies soared through the room, fixing the rusted beam, and even straightening things that had shifted slightly when Ryuko had called on Wind Dragon. The three older heroes' eyes widened at the display of power.

“That’s a very useful power.” Batman commented, eyeing them assessingly. “Now, we’d like to see your combat skills. Without your powers.” He turned on his heel and walked out the door. 

“Follow me.”

“Do you want us to detransform, or just not use our powers but keep our suits on?” Ryuko asked as they followed the three of them out of the room.

“What additional enhancements do your suits bring?” Batman countered, turning right and striding forward along another hallway.

“Uh, mine gives me night vision and they all give us better reflexes.” Chat Noir piped up from where he brought up the rear.

“Any weapons?” Diana asked.

“Well, I have a lyre.” Viperion offered.

“Do you hit people over the head with it when they get too close?” ” Superman asked as he walked beside them.

Viperion looked appalled. “Of course not! It’s a musical instrument! I would protect it with my life! You never damage your instrument!”

“Okay…” Superman said slowly, turning around and walking backwards so he could face all the Parisian heroes. “What about you all?”

“I have my yoyo, and it’s pretty much indestructible.” Ladybug pointed to the spotted weapon at her hip. “Actually, all our weapons are mainly indestructible. Perks of magic I guess.”

“Oh, and I have my baton!” Chat Noir lifted the weapon in question above his head enthusiastically.

“Spinning top for me.” Queen Bee shrugged and indicated the striped top at her waist.

“Do any of you have traditional weapons?” Diana asked, looking at them incredulously.

“I have my sabre.” Ryuko unsheathed the weapon in question, the light glinting off the unmarred metal.

“A sword.” Diana nodded, “I can work with that.”

“Alright, here we are.” Superman announced, throwing the door open. “Time for your combat skills to be tested!”

@laurcad123, @liquid-luck-00, @toodaloo-kangaroo, @stainedglassm

[nikkilover-miraclenikki]

【 Miracle Nikki CN 】 4 Seasons “Chapter 11-14”

【 Miracle Nikki CN 】 4 Seasons “Chapter 11-14”

Collection :: 4 Seasons

Suit Display ::

The first time Debbie saw this bag, she wondered is it more like cotton candy or milk fudge?

P.1 :: Rabbit Sweet (白兔糖)

The original dream is like the early spring sunshine. It may not warm your body, but can ignite your heart.

P.2 :: Rising Star (芳华心歌加)

Her world was pure and simple. No sophisticated stories were needed. Their hearts were settled after a hug.

P.3 :: South Wind Star (白南风之晨)

The moment Nikki saw Bai Jinjin's hairstyle, she realized that it was the 101st Runaway Travel.

P.4 :: Jinjin’s Jurney (锦锦的旅行)

Yao Sui shook the magic wand in his hand, Jing Shi let it fall like snowflakes, Zhan Sui turned down and sent the road to Seba.

But Momo has done the same

P.5 :: Star Bud (星语蓓蕾)

The world beyond the flower fields. Dongxi saw the first winter in her life. The first snow that I saw with the formation, is the most memorable picture

P.6 :: Winter Rhyme (慕雪童謠)

Modeling is not a simple profession, especially as a professional, to maintain your body and mind at all times.

P.7 :: Valiant Phantom (飒爽丽影)

It's not her usual style, but Kimi still carefully planned her outfits for the trip as a professional designer.

P.8 :: Shallow Sky Trip (浅空旅行记)

NPC ::

P.1 :: Debbie

Main Story • Vol.1 Ch.18-S2 “Bookish Debbie”

P.2 :: Vivi

Main Story • Vol.1 Ch.7-S1 “Office Lady Vivi (4)”

P.3 :: Starlet

Main Story • Vol.2 Ch.2-S3 “Wedding Stylist”

P.4 :: Bai Jinjin

Main Story • Vol.1 Ch.4-10 “The Cloud Couple”

P.5 :: Bobo

Main Story • Vol.1 Ch.3-S2 “Wedding Dress Design”

P.6 :: Winter

Main Story • Vol.1 Ch.6-10 “Competitions: Winter”

P.7 :: Vivi

Main Story • Vol.1 Ch.4-6 “Office Lady Vivi (2)”

P.8 :: Kimi

Main Story • Vol.1 Ch.19-2 “Town Dessert Chef”

Type :: Association Fantasy Workshop

P.1-2 :: Ch.11 “Sin City”

P.3-4 :: Ch.12 “Oren’s Night”

P.5-6 :: Ch.13 “The Queen’s Garden”

P.7-8 :: Ch.14 “Bovaly’s Autumn”

Date ::

P.1-2 :: 31/10/2017…..

P.3-4 :: 09/03/2018…..

P.5-6 :: 22/06/2018…..

P.7-8 :: 28/09/2018…..

[whimsicallyenchantedrose]

Christmas Reruns 2023 Day 3: A Christmas Miracle (3/3)

Merry Christmas if you celebrate it and happy holidays if you don’t!  One of the things I love about Christmas is watching reruns of all the old classic Christmas movies–Christmas is a big time for nostalgia.  A few years ago, I decided to incorporate that tradition into my fandom life and post my CS holiday reruns.  So here you go!  Enough holiday (mostly) fluff to get you to New Year’s Day. (With a new story posting on Christmas Day.)

Rating: G

Word Count: 2446

Other chapters: 1 2 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32

Notes:  Here’s the conclusion of A Christmas Miracle.  Once again, it was written in 2013 and fits within my A Wish Your Heart Makes universe.

“If you hadn’t cast the curse in the first place, dearie, Pan never would have had the opportunity to curse us the second time.” Mr. Gold hissed.

“Oh, that’s rich!” Regina said with a sneer, “considering it’s coming from the imp who provided me with the curse in the first place!”

Emma sat in her favorite booth at Granny’s and watched her adversarial family members face off. She was rather impressed. They’d remained civil for nearly two hours.

“Come on guys,” Mary Margaret said, walking up to Gold and Regina, her hand extended in a pacifying gesture, “let’s not argue. It’s Christmas!”

Regina turned on her. “Stay out of it, Snow. It’s all your fault anyway.”

“My fault?!” Mary Margaret yelled, her hands coming to rest on her hips.

“Don’t play stupid,” Regina sneered, “Or maybe you’re not playing.”

“Just a minute! You can’t talk to my wife that way!” David charged into the fight.

Regina rolled her eyes and turned back to Mary Margaret.

“Yes, Snow,” Regina continued, “if it wasn’t for your total inability to keep your mouth shut, we wouldn’t be where we’re at.”

“Where we’re at? Where we’re at?!” Mary Margaret fumed, “That's…that’s not even grammatically correct, let alone accurate!”

Emma rolled her eyes. They were arguing about grammar? It was definitely time to go get some air…before the magic started flying. She got to her feet, and wobbled for a second on her high heels. Why had she let Mary Margaret convince her to dress up? If she had to come to this party, couldn’t she have at least been comfortable?

Emma turned her back on the argument, on Neal and Henry talking in a booth on the other side of the diner, on Hook who had gone up to the bar for another drink. Pushing the door open, she stepped outside.

Hook looked up as he heard the bell over Granny’s door chime. He caught a glance of golden hair and a soft blue dress before the door closed behind Emma. The lass had been rather quiet since dinner; he wondered what was bothering her. It was obvious something was; something beyond the obvious awkwardness of this party.

The voices rose behind him, everyone trying to shout down the others. Something crashed against a far wall. He shook his head. Snow White really did see the world through rose-colored glasses. How on earth had she thought this group of people would have a good time together?

Hook took a final swig of the beer he was drinking, and then headed for the door. He had no wish to remain in what was turning into an all-out battlefield. Of course, the thought of spending some time alone with the lovely Emma, might have played a part in the decision as well.

Pushing the glass door open, Hook stepped outside. There she stood underneath the awning, shivering. Why hadn’t she grabbed her coat before she’d stepped out?

“It’s a bit cold to be standing outside love,” he commented, stepping up behind her.

“Yeah, well,” she answered, turning toward him, “it beats getting caught in the middle of World War III in there.”

He laughed and shrugged out of his coat. He draped it over her shoulders and was rewarded with one of her rare smiles. They stood there for a moment watching the snow gently fall through the dark, evening air. Hook caught strains of music coming from the convent; it seemed the nuns were ringing in Christmas with carols.

“Joy to the world the Lord is come…”

“It doesn’t look like Mary Margaret is going to be able to get in all the Christmas traditions she was hoping for,” Emma commented. “We didn’t get to the Christmas carol sing-a-long.”

“It’s a shame,” Hook commented, looking over at her, “that was the part I was particularly looking forward to.”

“Really?” she asked looking at him with skeptical eyes, “You want to sit around singing carols?”

“And why not,” he asked with a grin. “Some of the songs I have heard here in Storybrooke would be particularly appropriate to the evening at hand.”

“Such as?” she asked with a matching grin.

“When we finally kiss goodnight,” he sang in a soft baritone, “how I’ll hate going out in the storm, but if you really hold me tight, all the way home I’ll be warm.”

She rolled her eyes, but he saw the smile that draped her face. A moment later, she turned back toward the street with a dejected little sigh. They stood in silence for a minute. “…And heaven and nature sing. And heaven and nature sing. And heaven, and heaven and nature sing.”

“It’s really coming down,” she finally said looking up at the streetlight across from them.

“Aye,” he answered with a smile. “We’ll have a fine blanket come Christmas morning.”

“Great,” she said with a grimace. “Just what I wanted for Christmas.”

“Oh come on love,” he said, turning her back toward him. “Surely there was a time you liked snow.”

He expected a witty retort, but instead she dropped her eyes and turned back toward the street. “I do remember one day,” she finally responded. “I was about six. I’d been living with a foster family for almost three years. They were great; I really thought they would adopt me. One day, it was close to Christmas, I remember, my foster dad took my foster brother and me out to play in the snow. We made the biggest snowman I had ever seen. We made snow angels, had a snowball fight, the whole nine yards. Later, we went in and my foster mom had made us a big pot of hot chocolate.”

Emma fell silent, and Hook waited. He heard the pain in her voice and softly began rubbing her shoulder. She leaned into his touch. “…holy infant so tender and mild. Sleep in heavenly peace. Sleep in heavenly peace.”

“What then, love?” Hook asked after a moment. He wasn’t sure he wanted to hear the answer.

“The next morning, my foster dad disappeared,” she answered, and he saw the tears in her eyes. “They never found him; no one knows what happened. Well, my foster mom kinda fell apart. She couldn’t afford to take care of two children, so it was back into the system for me.”

Hook closed his eyes. It must have been devastating for a little girl to lose the only family she had ever known. Turning her once more to face him, he wrapped her in a hug. She resisted for a moment, and then he felt her arms wrap around him.

“I think it’s time we make a new memory surrounding snow,” Hook said after a moment. She pulled away from him and looked questioningly up into his face.

“Yeah?” she asked, “and what would that be?”

Hook grinned. “Well, love. I propose we go play in the snow tomorrow.”

“Play in the snow?” she asked with a raised eyebrow, “Really?”

“Aye, lass,” he smiled at her, “We can bring Henry.”

“And what exactly would we ‘play’ in the snow?”

“First,” he answered, with a wicked grin, “We make a devastatingly handsome snowman with a hook. Then we make a beautiful blonde snow maiden looking adoringly up at him.”

“Are you sure the blonde isn’t rolling her eyes at him?” Emma asked with a grin. “Sounds more true to life.”

Hook put his hand to his heart and staggered as though mortally injured. “You wound me, lass.”

“Hmm,” she said grinning, “that might play to your advantage.”

“Aye? And how is that?”

“Well,” she said with a grin, “if you’re injured you’ll need someone to take care of you.”

Was the lady actually flirting with him? His grin blossomed into a full blown smile. She smiled back for a moment and then turned back to the street. He heard a defeated sigh.

“What’s troubling you, love?” he asked. She didn’t answer for so long he thought she was deliberately ignoring him. The nuns started up a new carol. When blossoms flowered ‘mid the snow…

Finally she turned back toward him. “It’s just…” she made a helpless little gesture with her hands. “I don’t know…Every single time it looks like things are starting to work out, like good is going to succeed, like the bad guys are going to get defeated, like we might get a bit of peace and happiness, something else happens. Someone casts a curse, or kidnaps a kid, or…”

“Or disappears sending you back into the system…or turns you in to the police for his crimes…or sends you off to another realm with no more protection than a seven-year-old lad so that you can come back and be the savior?”

“Yeah,” she said, and he saw the tears brimming in her eyes. One escaped and slid down her cheek. Raising his hand, he tenderly wiped it away.

“Emma, love,” he said, his voice going deep and gravelly, “I can’t promise you peace and happiness, but I can promise to always be beside you, helping you, protecting you and those you love. You need never fear I’ll abandon you.”

She whirled away from him and started pacing. The lass was seething. “Yeah?” she snarled at him. “I’ve heard that before. 'I love you, Emma.’ 'You’re like our own daughter, Emma.’ 'Let’s go to Tallahassee, Emma.’ 'We just wanted to give you your best chance, Emma.’ It’s crap! All of it!”

“You doubt me, lass? Even after Camelot?” he asked and was ashamed to hear the pain in his voice.

She stopped and looked back at him. The first Noel the angels did sing…

“No,” she finally answered, “the hell of it is that I don’t doubt you. You’ve proven again and again that you will do anything for me…even at your own expense. But Hook, you’re not indestructable. What if you disappear? Or are kidnapped? Or are killed?”

Hook’s heart swelled. That was real feeling in her voice. The lass was a lot further gone than she thought. He cupped her face with his good hand again.

“Love,” he answered meaning the word with all his heart, “as I said, I can’t promise you nothing terrible will happen, but for today, for this moment all is well. Perhaps, all one can do is create the good memories to be our solace in times of distress.”

She looked up at him for several moments and then slowly nodded, briskly swiping her hands across her damp cheeks.

“So about those snowmen…?” he asked playfully.

“Henry and I will be ready bright and early tomorrow morning,” She answered with a smile.

For the first time in nearly as long as she could remember, Emma felt hope. It was hope that she found shining out of Hook’s blue eyes as he smiled at her.

“I’ve got a gift for you, love,” Hook said, holding out a small, thin box.

“Oh,” Emma said ruefully, “Hook, I didn’t get you anything.”

He smiled gently. “It’s no matter, Emma. I have no need of gifts.” He held the box out to her again, and she reached for it automatically. Lifting the lid, she saw a silver necklace with an opal and silver swan pendant. Emma ran her finger over the jewel.

“It’s beautiful,” she said softly.

“Aye,” he answered looking at her. “It is beautiful, and strong and graceful. Much like you.”

She looked down and then met his eyes. “Is that really how you see me?”

“Aye, lass,” he said gently. “Indeed it is.”

Il est ne le divin enfant… It seemed the nuns had decided to venture into French carols.

“Thank you, Hook,” she said simply. “Well, I don’t hear any yelling, so that probably means they’ve either stopped fighting…or killed each other. Either way, I suppose we should go back in.”

“A moment more lass,” Hook said. That pirate grin of his was back.

“What?” she asked warily. She had come to know that tone in his voice, and it meant trouble.

“Well, love,” he said with a raise of his eyebrow, “I think it is only right that we follow holiday tradition.”

“Exactly what holiday tradition might that be?” she asked. He pointed to a spot over her head. She looked up and saw a sprig of mistletoe hanging right above the two of them.

“You’re terrible, you know that?” she asked with a smile and a slight shake of her head.

“Perhaps so,” he answered playfully, “but your mother has her heart set on her family following the traditions this year. What manner of a daughter would you be if you were to blatantly deny her greatest Christmas wish?”

Her breath caught and her heart began to pound. Well, why not?

“Well, in the spirit of Christmas tradition…” she said with a little wave of her hand.

He looked surprised for a moment, then the grin was back. She was determined she wouldn’t let his kiss affect her, she wouldn’t! Then his lips settled against hers and all rational thought fled. All that existed was this man and the sensations he aroused in her. Her arms wrapped around his neck. She tangled her fingers in his hair, pressing closer, closer. She could never be close enough. She blossomed for him like a flower in a spring rain. The kiss went on and on. It lasted forever; it ended far too soon.

Finally, with a groan, he pulled his lips from hers.

“Emma, love…” he breathed. She couldn’t say a word if her life were on the line. She was glad his arms were still around her because her legs felt like jelly. If he were to release her, she would melt into a puddle at his feet.

Hook took a deep breath and closed his eyes. When he opened them again, the charming rogue was back.

“Well, love,” he said gently rubbing her back. “I had it on good authority that the last time was a one-time thing. It seems I’ve just experienced a Christmas miracle!”

She rolled her eyes, but didn’t pull away. Though it scared her half to death, she couldn’t deny it any more. Being in his arms felt like…home.

“Well, don’t get too used to it buddy,” she said. Her voice didn’t sound convincing even to her.

“Oh, I wouldn’t dream of it, love,” he said with a raise of one eyebrow. “After all, I’d have to wait an entire year for another Christmas miracle.”

“Very true,” she said with a grin, “But there are a lot of holidays between now and then.”

He laughed. “I like the way you think, Emma. I like the way you think!”

NEXT CHAPTER-->

[seriouslyhooked]

Lost Souls and Reveries (Part 23)

24 part AU written for @cssns​. Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4, Part 5, Part 6,Part 7, Part 8, Part 9, Part 10, Part 11, Part 12, Part 13, Part 14, Part 15, Part 16, Part 17, Part 18, Part 19, Part 20, Part 21, Part 22. Story available on AO3 Here and FF Here. Banner created by the amazingly talented @shipsxahoy​!!

A/N: Hey all! So we are back with another chapter of Lost Souls and Reveries and, as is very typical of me, I found myself trying to wrap up this story and I’ve come to the realization I need a few more chapters to do the story justice. I also had multiple readers ask (okay, beg) me to pick up the story right where the last chapter had ended so I have done that with this chapter. Be advised we will move from Killian’s POV to another character who’s POV we’ve never had before. But rest assured you’ll get some fluff, some smut, and some cuteness before getting back into the drama. Thanks so much for reading, and can’t wait to see what you all think!

Hearing Emma say the words, ‘I do’ just now as they made their vows to each other out on the front porch changed the entire plan Killian had for this evening. There could be no soft and sweet or slow and steady when he knew Emma loved him just as fiercely and entirely as he loved her. It brought too much to the forefront, prompting his body to pulse with the need and adrenaline reserved only for two perfectly suited fated mates. This didn’t seem to bother Emma though, for she replied in kind, holding him tightly and clamoring for more as they moved past the front door and into their new home.

A tour might have been an obvious first step, but it would have to wait. Right now, Killian craved the taste of his love and the satisfaction that came with making her purr. He could smell her want for him and feel the way her body shook with anticipation and desire. It was like their first night spent together all over again. None of the frenzy had dissipated, and his confidence and assuredness in them had only grown stronger. He and Emma were forever. There was nothing but this – nothing but them – and he let out a growl of approval at that as he made quick work of the alarm and bolted the front door, locking them away from the rest of the world. Before she could put even a few inches of space between them he was on her, resulting in a yelp of anticipation from Emma that dissolved very quickly into a throaty moan.

“Killian.”

His name on her lips soothed him even as they drove him just a little more insane. Didn’t she realize how lost he was for her and how such strong displays of her infatuation would drive him even more wild? She was stirring the animal inside of him, making him and his wolf completely desperate for more.

“I had a plan, love. I was going to take you room by room through this house. I was going to tell you of my dreams for this place and ask you of yours,” he said as his hands brought her harder against him, her core rubbing against his hard length through the denim of his jeans. She writhed at his show of power, her eyes hazing over to a lusty emerald green. “But that plan is no longer viable.”

“It isn’t?” Emma asked, her tongue coming out to wet her lips, taunting him and splintering his already fractured control.

“No. I can’t wait any longer, love. Maybe another day, in another moment…” he trailed off, not wanting to revisit the harrowing episodes from earlier today again, but Emma understood. Instead of letting that linger she pulled him down to kiss her and fed directly into his new dream. Soon he had her caught between his body and the wall and as he tore his lips from hers, seeking out her slender neck, he hummed before nipping at her pulse.

“You unravel me, Emma,” he said as his hands roamed her body with power and precision. He held her tight, his hold absolute, dominating his love in a way more befitting of a wolf than a man. It was primal, but oh so right, for him and for his mate, as was made clear by Emma’s little keening cries for more and her ever strengthening scent. “My mate, my wife, I must have you.”

“You do. Totally and completely,” she exclaimed, her voice growing pitchy as her breathing grew more labored.

She wiggled against him, and he resented the clothes still between them. Without real care for any of it, he stripped them down of everything he could, ripping away whatever wouldn’t easily go. He pretty much destroyed the whole outfit his Emma had been donning, but he didn’t give a damn. He’d buy her a hundred more if it made her happy, and in this moment she didn’t seem to care, watching him with increasing excitement and desire with each rip and tear. When she was naked before him, he stood for a split second totally hypnotized. He didn’t know where to start. He wanted to devour her completely and he traced the lines of where he could begin over and over a thousand times in mere moments. But when his eyes landed on the place where their pup was now growing more and more every day, he was pushed to action again, overtaken by the knowledge that he’d filled her womb with his child almost from the start. She was his in every way, tying them together and building something wholly good from their union, and both those things only made him want her more.

“It’s moments like this I thank God a little extra for what you are, love,” Killian murmured against her skin, his instincts trying to decide where it would be best to take her. Sure he could gather her up and bring her upstairs, but that would take time. Time he had no interest in wasting.

“What I am?” she asked, not following.

“A perfect blend of human and shifter. It makes you strong, love, strong enough that when I take you tonight I don’t have to hold back. I would have loved you any way you came, Emma. Never doubt that, but knowing how much you can handle…” he said as he knelt before her, his hands keeping her pressed against the wall as he maneuvered her to bring her waiting heat to his hungry mouth. “Knowing I can take you hard and make you mine again and again, well that’s the definition of a miracle.”

Without further discussion he took exactly what he wanted, savoring her taste and her desire while sating some of his need for her. This urge to dominate her, to take what he wanted while also giving her everything she could ever wish for pounded through his body, and after a day as riddled with peril as the one they’d just faced, he could do nothing to curtail this. The sounds of her wild and unchecked wants were music to his ears, and he started to lose grasp of his conscious human mind. Everything was instinct as his animal took over with just basic pulsing words blaring in his head as he tasted her sensitive flesh.

Mine. Take. Claim. Mine. Take. Claim.

He felt Emma crash into her completion once and then again and again. He drew her out and never let her rest, but when she couldn’t take love in this form any more he shifted their position, bringing her down to the ground with him but having her from behind. They’d done this before but never so brazenly, never with so much rampant need. It made the back of his throat tight with a need to howl, and when Emma begged him to take her he almost did. He cursed aloud but felt that biting sense of bliss as he slammed into her over and over. He lost himself in this but it wasn’t enough. It felt like the mating moon bearing down on them, but it was just their love. No other magic was at play, save for the magic that lay in Emma. Ultimately he needed to change their position again, never feeling fully complete without seeing her fall apart and when she did he wasn’t far behind. And in those precious moments where they truly became one, Killian found that all too elusive peace that told him just how perfect they were for each other.

“That was…” Emma couldn’t seem to find the words as they lay together on the living room floor, both spent and reveling in what they’d just done, with nothing like shame or embarrassment between them. “God, I don’t even have words. Can we do that again?”

“Every day of our lives, my love.”

After a few more moments spent enjoying their togetherness and the way that their burdens felt far beyond their reach, Killian wanted to show his soon to be bride their new home. There was just one problem – in his haste to claim his mate, he’d made a real mess of their clothes, hers most notably and in the end all they had between them was his jeans and shirt.

“There are clothes upstairs,” he explained, running his hand through his hair distractedly, as Emma stood up, completely exposed and unfazed in the slightest. But then she smiled at him and he was truly driven to distraction.

“Why bother?” she asked, stealing his shirt and throwing it over herself, the hem of it coming to just about midthigh, covering her, but making her no less tempting to him in the process. She gestured to his jeans and he put them on, reveling in the look in her eyes when he remained shirtless and available for her viewing pleasure. “See? We’re golden.”

Killian laughed at her assessment before taking her hand in his and guiding her on an actual tour through their new home, a place she clearly loved, even before seeing the redone interior. It was a great gift to him to know that he had made such a good decision in buying this estate, and Emma’s enthusiasm and excitement reassured him that he could not have done better. She was enamored with this house, and thankfully she was on board with all of the changes he’d made so far.

“I can’t believe this can be the same house. Everything is so bright and airy, but it’s still timeless,” Emma marveled, taking in the high ceilings that the first floor boasted and the charming antique moldings that adorned the walls. He’d had the contracting crew paint everything a pale eggshell for the time being, wanting a clean canvass that Emma could change should she so wish, but even like this the house was somehow still cozy. It didn’t have any sort of sterile, modern malaise. It was simple sophistication, and that seemed to be exactly what Emma wanted.

When Killian first saw the house, there were some rooms that were beyond salvaging, but many were diamonds in the rough. In some spaces, like the sunroom which was directly next to their living room, the antique windows that had always been there still worked perfectly. They formed a large glass encasement facing the east, so that early morning sunlight would always fill the area. With a bit of cleaning and restoration, the gilded beauty of a more ostentatious time was made relevant again, and the effect was classic and homey all at once. The room lacked furnishings now, but Emma immediately had ideas, something Killian knew would happen. He was almost glad for this little bit of chaos, if only because it sped up his reveal of their home. With Emma’s wishes known now, he could make this place a completed, calming hideaway for them by the time they were truly wed, and that was a goal he would be glad to accomplish. In this room especially, Killian could imagine shared stolen moments. Someday this home would be filled with their children, and there would be rare segments of time when Emma and Killian weren’t attending to them, but in the early morning, when the sun was just rising, or just after dusk when the stars were starting to appear in a vast night sky, Killian could envision them curled up, sharing a coffee or a cocoa and enjoying the respite, however fleeting it might be.

Other areas like the kitchen, were beyond small fixes. The contractors gutted the whole thing, and what now stood there was a contemporary looking space that was big enough for everything they needed. There was ample counterspace, new appliances, and a kitchen island made of local white granite, and most importantly there was an open wall so that he or Emma could see directly into what would be one day be their children’s playroom when they were cooking meals. That wasn’t the original layout of the house, but Killian had been adamant with the contractor that this was what he wanted. He and Emma hadn’t discussed this at length, but he knew that her career and the service she provided to the community meant everything to her. As such, he anticipated that he would take on a bulk of watching the kids and keeping things handled over here. He was desirous to do that, knowing that providing his family with love, protection, and stability after being denied that for so much of his youth would make him a better man. This fresh start with Emma was a way to do things right, and though it might seem overprotective, he wanted the ability to keep tabs on all their little ones at any given moment.

“This kitchen is amazing,” Emma gushed, running her hand along the sleek new features with adoration. Suddenly her cheeks flushed and Killian was on her immediately, wrapping her up in his arms and demanding to know what thought she’d had that made her blush. “I was just thinking that we’ll probably be spending a lot of time in here. What with all my pregnancy cravings and everything.”

Killian knew she didn’t just mean cravings for food, of which Emma had already begun to show signs. Since he’d gotten her pregnant Emma had been even hungrier for the love between them, and that was perfectly fine with Killian. He craved Emma every second of every day, and if she liked this kitchen and had visions of satisfaction stemming from this space, then who was he to deny her what she wanted? Hell, he’d take her right this moment if she indicated that was what she wished, but clearly this tour meant so much to her, and they still had much to see.

The rest of the first floor was all pretty standard, though Emma commented again and again about how open it was and about how it was exactly like she’d always wanted. But it took getting upstairs for really overflowing emotions to emerge. Emma saw the rooms Killian had begun to design for their future children and the features he’d put in already, like reading nooks and bay windows that matched her own childhood bedroom. There was a circular ‘tower’ room that he’d converted into a library, and even now many of Emma’s favorite books were adorning the built-in shelves around the space. She had been so busy she didn’t notice him taking them from her apartment above the clinic, but seeing them now she was overcome with emotion. Her eyes filled with happy tears, and her voice grew soft and strained from all that she was feeling.

“Oh, Killian, it’s perfect,” She said, running her hands along the wooden shelves with a dreamy expression.

After a few more minutes, Emma noticed the books that adorned many of the lower shelves and in the face of them her unshed tears managed to slip down her cheeks. For there, in an area most easily reached, there were already some childhood story staples. More than a few of those were courtesy of Emma’s parents. They had saved her favorite books from when she was a young girl and gifted them back now in hopes that one day their grandchildren would enjoy the same stories. Meanwhile, though his own possessions were much less vast than Emma’s were from childhood, there were even a few bounded tales from his youth, which he one day hoped to share with his children.

“I was thinking I could put the telescope here,” Killian said, drawing her to another wall that was made almost entirely of glass and which dipped upwards, allowing for a beautiful view of the night sky. Already the stars were twinkling, and though the grounds of their house were largely obscured by the shadows of the night, the sight was still beautiful. “I always loved the stars as a boy, I figure chances are one of our little ones might be the same.”

“They all will. They’re all going to want to be just like their Dad,” Emma said, bringing Killian’s hand atop their growing pup and smiling as she did. “They’re not even here yet and already you’re the best kind of father. You love us all so much, and that’s the one thing that matters most of all.”

Killian agreed that she was right. His love for their family was forever. It was unconditional and it would never end, as long as he lived and ever thereafter. That was probably evident in the way he’d begun to style the nurseries and designed the rest of their home, but in one room there was no real hint of their children. The master bedroom would be their space, a den of sorts, built to be the essence of comfort for him and Emma. From a giant bed with flowing white linens, to the giant clawfoot tub and the walk-in closet, Killian had chosen every feature with Emma’s happiness in mind. Things in their life were already hectic, and when they had kids it would be the same, just in new and differing ways. He felt strongly that Emma and he should have this, a private little oasis where they ended and started each day together.

To say that Emma agreed would be an understatement, and she showed him that immediately, by pulling him into bed and ‘christening’ the room in a way that drew them both to bliss. All in all, it was a perfect first night together, and a miraculous stretch of time where both of them could put down their worries about of the state of their small world. They ate, they bathed, they made love more than once, and they cemented their mating bond over and over again. The monsters in their lives were pushed to a far away distance, and somehow they both managed to sleep after everything they’d gone through. Nine full hours of rest were attained, and both of them slept with only peaceful dreams, but alas, the real world could only wait for so long, and sure enough it came tumbling back in again. When it did Killian woke right away, hearing the chirping of his phone before it woke Emma and walking into the room beside theirs, which happened to be their nursery before answering the call.

“You found something?” He said, not even greeting Ruby’s call with a hello or a good morning.

“We did. Graham managed to get surveillance tape of George’s SUV. He changed the plates but there’s a recognizable scratch along the front. Definitely bear claws. Graham ran it through the national database and got a hit at the border.”

“So he’s in Canada now?”

“Yeah, but we lost the trail there. Graham’s police contacts seem to not be as international as we might need them to be.”

“So we’ve got nothing then?”

“Not so fast, Lance of all people got a message from a mountain lion clan about six hours from here. There’s something happening up there, something weird.”

“What do you mean by something?”

“Animals are acting strangely, unaccounted for tracks, and there’s a smell, or rather a stench as they put it.”

“More sick shifters?”

“Only one way for us to find out, but it sounds like it. Good news is David and Neal made good progress with a cure, and in the meantime, they found a sedative that works. Anna’s bear let them test it on him and he was out damn near all night. They’re prepping more now.”

Killian heard the sound of Emma waking up, the sheets on their now messy bed rustling as she moved and he sighed, knowing that yet again he was facing real danger and an enemy that didn’t want him and Emma to have this peace. The only consolation was that a lead could get them past this. If they could find these shifters, then maybe they could find George and really get rid of him. That was the ultimate priority as the man was seemingly decided against letting Emma be.

“Do we know anything about the area?”

“We don’t, but David seems to. He says it was a long time ago, but when he was a kid he went with George past the border. They stayed with another family of hunters who lived not too far from this clan. David had heard that family were all gone now, some sort of hunter feud gone bad, but land records show there’s a massive estate out there. No listed residents but taxes on it get paid every year so no one’s messed with it.”

“George is probably there,” Emma said, putting into words Killian’s own assumptions as she curled into his side, and he nodded to her as he promised Ruby that they’d be there in thirty minutes. When he’d hung up the call. He looked to Emma, hating what he had to say next.

“We’re going to need to send a tracking team love, and there’s a reason Ruby called me. Of all of us, it’s likely me, Liam, and your father who are most needed out there. If this place is really as rural as Ruby made it seem, we’re the only ones trained for this kind of thing.”

“Well good, you should go then,” Emma said, moving to get dressed. “But I’m going with you.”

“Emma, you don’t have to do this,” he replied. “Yesterday was a lot for you and the baby and -,”

“Oh no you don’t. There is no way in hell I am sitting on the sidelines. This is my fight too, and besides, we both know that even if you’ll worry about me with you, it’s nothing compared to what you’ll feel if we’re apart.”

How could he argue with her when she was exactly right? He would feel better knowing she was with him, danger or not. After yesterday, there was just no comparison. Fighting side by side would now always be his preference and Emma knew that and made no complaints.

Soon enough they were ready and reunited with the others, and it became abundantly clear that more people wanted to go than could easily be brought. Killian and Liam were a given, as was David for obvious reasons. He was the only hunter among them, he had a baseline awareness of the area, and he had the most resentment against George of any of them. Ruth couldn’t bear to go, and it didn’t make sense for most of the others, but finally it was settled that Emma and Anna would round out the team. On this they had only mild pushback, all of it from Elsa.

“If you’re going, I’m going,” she said, not to Liam but to Anna. His brother’s mate seemed to trust in Liam’s ability and obviously didn’t desire to be away from him, but her fiercest protective instincts only came out for her sister and for Emma. Since Emma had Killian to watch over her, Elsa was appeased on that score, but Anna was more precariously placed, and also guided by emotion that could end up being her downfall.

“No, Elsa, you have to stay here. Ruby needs you to help with tracing Gold, she can’t do it alone, and I need you to stay with him,” Anna said, motioning towards the bear who remained trapped in the crystal enclosure.

The bear had been paying attention this whole discussion, and he roared out an aggressive sound. Clearly it didn’t like the idea of Anna leaving, and Killian couldn’t blame him. But there was very little choice, especially when Anna wanted to get some kind of vengeance for him. Before he could get too worked up, Anna slipped back into the crystal enclosure. While no one outwardly gasped this time, it was still alarming, and Emma squeezed his hand tight as she watched her friend.

“I know you hate this idea,” Anna said, pressing her hand to the bears face lovingly. “I’m not a huge fan either, but I know it’s the right thing. My instincts are going haywire, telling me it has to be like this. I’ll never know peace until I know he can never hurt us – hurt you again.”

The bear growled, but the sound was aimed at George and not Anna. Surprisingly the bear then reached its claw out to grab Anna and pull her close in what was quite literally a bear hug. Anna let out a sound between a laugh and a cry, but she relaxed into the embrace for a moment. Finally she pulled back, pressing a quick peck to the bear’s cheek before promising to come back. When she was through the crystal enclosure again, she looked to Elsa, and the tears in her eyes did nothing to deter her conviction.

“I can’t leave him with just anyone, Els. Leaving at all is hard enough, but I have to. This man hurt him, tortured him, and it makes me crazy. I have to help bring him down, but I can’t if you won’t stay here and protect him for me.”

Elsa stood there quietly for a moment, her hands balling and releasing unsteady fists as a range of emotions crossed her face. She clearly hated this idea, and her eyes flicked between Anna and Emma, before ultimately landing on Liam. Killian watched as his brother whispered an assurance in his mate’s ear and then kissed her surely, and when they pulled back Elsa’s fear was somewhat eased but by no means erased. Still, she chose brave acceptance over continued argument.

“You have to promise me you will stay with Liam or Emma at all times,” Elsa said to Anna, emotion caught in her throat as she spared another glance at her mate and Emma to confirm. “Seriously, you all three better come home to me or there will be hell to pay.”

“Everyone is coming home, and that is an order,” Mary Margaret said, her stares intent on David and Emma, though she clearly cared for all of them.

It was almost humorous to see the fierceness of a mother and a wife so closely mirroring Elsa’s fear as a friend and sister. If one didn’t know better, she and Mary Margaret would seem like family, but then again they were. Truth be told, every person here were all of them connected together, whether through blood, love, or unbreakable bond and that was all exceptionally clear as goodbyes were said, and ‘see you soons’ were exchanged.

“There’s no use worrying now about how this is gonna go,” David said a few minutes later as they got into the car and he drove the clinic’s SUV out of town and due north.

“Oh no?” Anna asked, her eyes watching the landscape like at any moment she’d see her mate running through this grove of woods.

“When my wife gives an order, she gets her way. If she says we’re coming home, we’re coming home.”

The joke achieved its objective, lightening the mood and bringing a small smile to everyone’s face. And though there were no real guarantees, and the future was still unsure, Killian chose to believe that Emma’s father was right. For after all of this, they simply had to survive, and when they did it would be on to happy endings, and the days of warring villains would be past them once and for all.

………………………..

Idiot! Fool! Complete and total failure!

The snarling voice inside his mind gave life to all of Gold’s own feelings about the sham of a hunter who had driven him astray.

What a farce this had been, and infuriatingly, what a harrowing misstep they both had made. All of this magic and time, wasted. He was low on his stores, having depleted too much of his saved up power not just in the past few days but over a series of years, and the thought was repulsive to Gold. After decades of harvesting every last bit of magic he could from creatures and beasts all over this world, here he was, weak and vulnerable. That wouldn’t last too long. A few months in one of his many hideaways and he’d revive himself to a more stable position. He had plenty of treasures back home designed to help him do just that. But still, what an embarrassment, and it was all because George Nolan was too blinded by purpose to prepare for all outcomes.

Of all the things to be undone by, a mated bond was one Gold never anticipated. Surely a seasoned hunter wouldn’t be so stupid, so pitiably dumb as to miss a possible match set by a natural magic far stronger than any Gold could conjure. But then that was the problem with these humans. All of them were so guided by their own crusades and devoted to overblown ego. Still, hunters were supposed to be of at least some use. They knew of magic in this world, they were privy to more than the average so and so. Yet in this situation it clearly meant nothing and now years of planning were gone, faster than he could flick his wrist and cast a spell.

Walking through the doors of this dilapidated shack that humans called a home, Gold bit back his sneer. Or maybe he didn’t. Why guard himself now? The cat was already out of the bag, so to speak, and now it was time to clean up. He had made a mess, or at least had allowed a mess to happen, and now it was time to make things right and protect himself before this belligerent waste of space made even more trouble.

“You played me!” George said, appearing from the back of the room that was obscured with shadow with a cross bow drawn and aimed Gold’s way. “You reneged on our deal! You told me you’d give me a weapon to kill them, and look what you did instead!”

“What I did?” Gold bit out, the words filled with venom and yet sterilized from most of the hate and rage flowing in his veins. He stepped closer to George, never flinching even when the hunter raised his bow to aim at his heart. “You were the one who made the choice. Who caught the beast in question? Was it me? Oh no, it was you. I offered one after another after another. I made it as easy as I possibly could for you to have all that you wanted. I gave you access to every shifter I could find, I ravaged half a dozen packs and chose the strongest of each clan, but none of them suited you. No wolf would do. No lion would suffice. I searched high and low, but it had to be a grizzly, and for what?”

“You know as well as I do that the infusions work best with a larger beast -,”

“Ha! You and your little ‘infusions.’ It was my magic that made anything possible. Without me you couldn’t stabilize that sickness to save your life. You would have had nothing, nothing!”

“Would have had? I have nothing now! Not only did the bear not fulfill the objective, they captured it.”

“You really can’t even grasp your own stupidity can you?” Gold asked. If he were capable of pity he would have felt it in this moment, watching as George looked confused in the face of his words. “They didn’t capture the beast. The bear has a fated mate and she is a witch. A friend of your great-niece.”

“That’s not possible. I designed the virus to override that instinct.”

At this Gold let out a sharp cackle, a maniacal sound that echoed through the aging wood of this long forgotten cabin. He hadn’t laughed like this in a long time and it really was funny, even if it was also a fucking farce.

“Override the instinct? You really are as dumb as any human off the street.” George’s anger got the better of him and he shot the arrow at Gold, but Gold was faster, waving his hand and halting the motion of the weapon as it clattered to the ground. “There is nothing in the world stronger than a fated mate. True love, soul mates, they exist in all the fairy tales for a reason. As long as there has been magic in the world, love has had power.”

“Well you should have told me! How was I to know?”

“See that’s the problem with you – you think that in this deal it’s I who serves your purpose. And I’m here to assure you of how wrong you are,” Gold said lifting the arrow with his powers back from the ground and turning it back to face at George. “The only reason I let you have your little sickness was to suit my needs. I want those witches and the hybrid. You promised me them in exchange for your weapon.”

“Maybe if you had told me why you want them so bad we could have avoided this.”

Gold ignored the barb, but his own sense of foreboding crept in again. He suppressed it, refusing to allow a dying witch’s last words to haunt him any longer. He was taking control of the situation, stifling any threat, or at least he was trying to.

“But it’s too late now.”

“Too late?” Gold said with a barked out laugh. “We’ve a half a dozen more shifters roaming around these mountains, waiting to be sent to track and kill, and none of them with mates to find in that wretched pack.”

“Doesn’t matter. David knows what he’s up against now, and he may be a disgrace, but I also trained him. He’ll have found a way to fend them off by now, he and those abominations he carries on with.”

“You really believe he has that ability?”

“I do,” George admitted, angrily.

“So what? It’s just over then? You’re giving up and reneging on your deal?”

“The way I see it the deal is moot – you failed to provide -,”

“I gave you everything I promised!” Gold screamed out, and the sound of it boomed around them, echoing in a thunder clap above them. The wind had picked up inside the cabin, the air crackled with energy, and yet when he calmed, that aching sense of exhausting kicked back in. he was weak right now, and he couldn’t afford this fight. But that didn’t mean he planned to lose. Far from it. “And now you’ll see just how strong a weapon that it was.”

With a flick of his wrist, the arrow fell down to the ground again, and George let out a sigh of relief, but then the howl of animals in the night emanated from a few miles away, sending an eerie chill even through Gold’s body. Oh he was at no risk, to be sure. His magic had a failsafe – no creature in his hold could turn on him, but any block against their attacking George was now gone. After all, a deal was a deal, and if a man couldn’t meet terms… well, that was hardly his problem.

“What did you do, Gold?” George asked, but Gold just smiled, giving an exaggerated wave goodbye, laughing again as he turned for the door. “Gold?! Gold!”

The sound of desperate calling was music to his ears as he walked away into the woods, heading to somewhere no one could find him without paying a hefty price. And though it might take some time, Gold reveled in the thought that by this time next year his latest trophies would be found. The witches and the hybrid would be his, fate would be rewritten, and he would remain the most powerful creature of them all.

Post-Note: Okay so yeah, this was wild even for me, BUT I needed you guys to see a little more of how things have gone awry and to know more than Emma and the others do. When I hinted a few weeks back about a spin-off of this series, I always had tracking Gold in mind, and though the story will feature CS, it will more centrally revolve around some of our other characters. Rest assured though, Gold is now out of the picture in this story, but George and the six sick shifters are still very much an issue. We’ll get to the climactic conclusion of that next time, and in the meantime I hope you guys enjoyed, I thank you so much for reading, and I hope you’ll keep enjoying this journey with me as we hit our last two chapters (and maybe a bonus epilogue or two)!

Tag list: @jennjenn615 @winterbaby89 @kmomof4 @teamhook @ultraluckycatnd @resident-of-storybrooke @coliferoncer @artistic-writer @snowbellewells @eastside-divebar @snarkycaptainswan4 @allofdafandoms-blog

[ends-of-the-wayward-storm]

The Big Four--Through Moonlight--Book 1

Chapter 13--Of Moonbeams and Trees

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Summary

Why something decided to bring so many different people together from so many different places was beyond them. But it had to be for good reason. And that reason just happens to be an elusive enemy who is searching for a powerful artifact, one with an unfathomable amount of knowledge.

There was definitely one thing in question, however—was this enemy the real deal, or something else?

(AO3 version) (First chapter)

_______

She knew something was off here. She just couldn’t put her finger on it. Everything seemed too quiet, and that was with the snoring.

She really should get some sleep. They covered quite a bit of ground today, but they still hadn’t found Hiccup and Toothless. Someone must’ve taken them, but she couldn’t figure out who. Maybe it was because there wasn't anyone that could’ve taken them. Alvin was their ally now and Dagur was taken care of.

There has to be something I’m missing.

A twig cracked, and Astrid sat straight up. The dragons didn’t even budge, so either they were really tired or she was hearing things. Regardless, she skimmed the area for movement, but nothing seemed to be—

There! She heard something! Something close to a yak with a cold. Or . . . maybe it wasn’t a yak to begin with. Whatever it was, she definitely heard it. And yet the dragons didn’t.

Frowning, Astrid grabbed her axe and briskly snuck off toward the source of the sound. For all she knew it was probably nothing and she was overreacting. But she couldn’t sleep, so finding out the source of the noise was better than nothing.

She kept her head on a swivel as she made her way through the woods. Now she could hear voices, but most of them were faint and unfamiliar. There were accents that didn’t sound like the ones she knew, and judging by what she could hear of their tones, they seemed to be discussing something.

Then she heard it—a sound she knew.

“Toothless.” Astrid picked up the pace, and the conversation got louder.

“. . . really don’t know much about her, then.”

“Hiccup!” What in Thor’s name was he doing out here? And who was ‘her’?

She stopped near a small pond. No one seemed to be around, but she could still hear people. She could still hear him. “Hiccup?”

“We still have our advantage in numbers,” a girl’s accented voice pointed out.

Squinting, Astrid could see movement in the moonlight shining down onto the water, and she skeptically stepped closer to the pond.

“But her magic might be stronger than we think,” a girl in a blue dress said. “We can’t underestimate her.”

Magic? Astrid could see a group of people in what looked to be a cave with a waterfall. Most of them wore clothes like nothing she’d ever seen, and there was some black animal laying down next to . . . some horned animal. And yet none of them seemed to notice her.

“So what’s the plan?” a girl with short black hair said.

“If we do come across her, maybe we can get some information out of her,” Hiccup said.

“Hiccup!” Astrid said. “What are you doing?!” But he didn’t hear her. “Toothless!” The Night Fury didn’t hear her either, appearing to be oblivious to her.

Why couldn’t they see or hear her? She was right in front of them! Or . . . maybe she was hallucinating.

Astrid rubbed her eyes with her arm. The group was still there in the moonlight. Hiccup was still there. Why am I even seeing this? How am I even seeing this?

She shot a look over her shoulder. No one was coming, and she had been pretty loud. Upon facing forward however, she saw that Hiccup, Toothless, and the rest of the group were moving on. “Hey! Get back here!”

Something in a man’s hands—a jar—flashed, and the man looked at the jar. “Something’s wrong.”

The group turned to him, and the man turned toward Astrid’s direction. Everyone’s eyes followed his line of sight, and Hiccup and Toothless ended up looking right at her.

“We’ve been looking everywhere for you!” Astrid said. “Where have you been?!”

“Didn’t we just come from there?” a girl with extremely long hair asked.

“Yes, but it seems like the moonbeam senses something,” the man with the jar replied.

“Ugh!” Astrid racked her brain. What she was seeing was real. But Hiccup couldn’t see or hear her, and neither could anyone else. It was like she was invisible. What’s going on?

The beam moved toward her, making her take a step back. She looked up at the trees only to find no one in them, no one who could possibly be making that light move. It moved again, just stopping right before dry land. Astrid cautiously took a step forward, and she extended her hand to—

~ ~ ~

Astrid flinched as she found herself in broad daylight. A silvery light very similar to the one she saw darted away at the corner of her eye, and she sat straight up, spotting it right before it disappeared.

“Wow. You were completely out,” Tuffnut said. “Almost thought you had died in your sleep or something.”

“Totally possible, by the way,” Ruffnut added.

So it was a dream. . . . Astrid thought.

“Are you okay? You look a little . . . bewildered,” Fishlegs said.

“I’m fine.” But Fishlegs didn’t seem convinced.

“C’mon, Fishlegs, you should know a girl like her needs her beauty rest,” Snotlout pointed out.

“I don’t think we’re looking hard enough,” Astrid said, completely ignoring him.

“I think we’ve been pretty thorough, Astrid,” Fishlegs said.

“But we haven’t checked any caves.” From the corner of her eye, she could tell Meatlug didn’t seem to like that idea.

“Why would he be in a cave?” Snotlout asked.

A weird dream. “Just a hunch.” Astrid mounted Stormfly. “Let’s keep searching.”

As the Riders took off, Stormfly gave Astrid a concerned look.

“I’m fine, girl. Just . . . confused.”

~ ~ ~

She huffed as she briskly walked through the lush autumn woods. There was no way she was going back into that frozen wasteland. She swore she almost died out there. But if her bracelet said she had to go back, then she would have to go back. Speaking of. . . .

She held up her arm. Her bracelet was a teal color now. Finally. She thought it would never turn a different color besides blue. I can’t have any room for setbacks.

So far she hadn’t run into those people she had encountered. Which meant her snow monsters must’ve dealt with them. Or they survived by some miracle. Either way, there was no one stopping her, and she wanted it to stay that way.

But he did warn her about people who would try to stop her.

I’ll show them not to underestimate me.

Her foot caught on a root, and she fell face first. Biting back a curse, she sat herself up despite her body’s protests. She needed to keep going. She needed to get that book. She couldn’t stop.

Brushing her dark hair out of her eyes, she placed her hands on the ground. What if she came across that group again? She’d need her magic, and she was sure she still needed some more time before she was at full strength. And if it came to it, she might need to change forms.

Sighing, she leaned against a tree and looked up. Making more creatures would help her with numbers, but she’d been making them every chance she got. Surely there were enough to deal with any possible enemies.

And once she had that book, she wouldn’t be taken advantage of ever again. She wouldn’t be used anymore. But who’s to say the man she was working with wasn’t using her now?

She balled her hand into a fist. This time for sure, she knew this would different. Even if he never showed his face or said much about the book, other than it was her key to a new life. Or rather, a new strength against those who would oppose her or even think about casting her aside.

“Ahhh! Smell that fresh air! Doesn’t it just feel amazing?”

Immediately she looked in the direction of the chipper female’s voice.

“Yeah, not a big fan of the underground,” a boy said. A creature growled as if to agree.

Getting onto her stomach, she slowly crawled toward the voices. Below her and coming out of some sort of doorway in a rocky wall were several people and a few animals. Among them was the group from that snowy wasteland.

They’re still alive, she thought.

She analyzed each of them carefully. Every person was unique, each with their own look and mannerisms. The one beside the lizard was missing part of his leg. That would probably be difficult to replicate. More than difficult. In fact she had never done it before. She might not even be able to do it.

“What do you think that moonbeam sensed?” Rapunzel asked. The spell caster furrowed her eyebrows. Moonbeam. Moonbeams were just lights. They couldn’t do anything.

“Maybe it was the book?” Varian asked. The spell caster stifled a gasp. All of those people were looking for it. No. She couldn’t let them get it first.

“Wouldn’t it have gone crazy?” Anna asked.

“Maybe,” Eugene said. “But whatever it was, it left.”

She needed to move now. That book was too important.

She crawled away from the group and looked to her bracelet. Its color changed ever so slightly, so she moved to her right. It changed again, this time becoming a tad greener. She couldn’t be spotted. She couldn’t.

“So what do you suppose this book looks like?” Chane asked.

“Old,” Merida said.

“Might be pretty thick, too since it’s got information since . . . forever,” Kristoff said.

“I think we’ll know it if we see it,” Cassandra said. “Or at least, I’m assuming.”

Toothless abruptly looked right, and Sven and Angus’s ears rose. The group gradually came to a stop as the dragon sniffed the air, and the scent he caught wasn’t familiar.

“I swear if it’s more of those monsters,” Régine retorted under her breath. The animals’ gazes were set above everyone, and Toothless didn’t seem to like the new scent.

Upon noticing his friend’s hard expression, Hiccup mounted Toothless. “Lead the way, bud.”

Toothless raised his wings and flew off. Behind them, Merida mounted Angus to keep up with him, and Toothless scanned the area. It wasn’t long before he spotted someone with dark hair running on the hill above everyone.

“Hey!”

The girl ignored his call and ran faster. She tore through her knowledge of magic for anything that could help her get away. She needed to get that book, and she would do whatever it took to get to it.

Muttering a spell, she tossed her hand toward the trees and directed them at the boy. By her command the trees snapped to life and whipped their branches at Hiccup and Toothless. The duo pulled back, but the branches managed to wrap around Toothless’s legs.

“Guys she’s here!” Hiccup warned before Toothless fired at the restraints.

“Yah!” Merida urged, and she sped forward with most of the others following. Elsa froze the branches around Toothless, enabling him to easily yank free of them. More of the branches grappled onto Toothless, and a few even wrapped themselves around Elsa.

“Hey!” With her ice sword, Anna sliced Elsa free, and a shot from Toothless disintegrated another branch. Kristoff kept any branches from getting to Anna and Elsa, but one managed to latch onto his arm. Retaliating, Anna freed him as Elsa froze the trees, stopping them from moving.

“Thanks, guys,” Hiccup said. “Uh with all due respect, Your Highness. And Your Majesty.”

“Just Elsa and Anna is fine,” Elsa said. “Let’s catch up with everyone else.”

The spell caster glanced down to see the group being lead by Merida. The two of them made eye contact, and the spell caster raised boulders to hurl at the group. Long locks of golden blonde hair suddenly shielded her targets from view, and the boulders were surprisingly but safely caught without much of a problem.

Something thumped behind her, and she looked to see Hiccup and Toothless rapidly coming toward her. She muttered another spell as she raised her arm, bringing more branches to life to scoop her up. Hiccup watched her go up and behind him before Toothless swiftly turned around, but tree roots sprouted from the ground to tie them down.

“Hiccup!” Merida exclaimed. She loosed an ice arrow at a branch supporting the girl, making her slip. The next instant Rapunzel swung up with Cassandra, and immediately the latter went to free Hiccup and Toothless.

Rapunzel whipped her hair at the enemy only for the girl to roll out of the way. Angrily she muttered a spell, and the trees once again lashed out.

“Hang on!” Elsa quickly crafted a staircase as the spell caster used the trees to get herself to the other side. Merida fired an ice arrow at a branch, forcing the spell caster to cling to another branch. Another arrow sent her to the ground, and she abruptly sat up only to lock onto a nocked arrow pointed right at her.

“Don’t—move,” Merida threatened.

The girl glared at Merida, keeping her eyes trained on the redhead even as the rest of the group gingerly came toward them from atop the slope. Her hand curled into a fist, and she narrowed her eyes before spitting out a spell. The ground shook as the trees groaned, and the trees all began to fall onto the group.

“No!”

The spell caster scrambled away the instant Merida took her eyes off of her. Angus whinnied as Toothless tried to shield as many people as he could with his wings. A flash of golden light surrounded everyone as it spread out, and the group shielded their eyes. The ground trembled as the trees crashed down, and then all became still.

When everyone opened their eyes, they found themselves protected by not only Toothless, but Rapunzel’s glowing hair.

“Wot is. . . !”

“Your hair just. . . .” Régine started. The glow faded away as Rapunzel’s hair dropped to the ground, and the group was absolutely silent.

“Everyone okay?” Rapunzel asked. Everyone managed to murmur replies.

“Did your hair just . . . move on its own?” Hiccup asked.

“Yeah. . . . It . . . does that sometimes.”

“Wait. Where did she go?” Elsa asked.

Merida scanned the area and spotted the culprit attempting to climb up the other slope. But before she could even get an arrow out, a shot from Toothless was fired right above the spell caster. She fell back onto the ground, and before she knew it Rapunzel had wrapped her hair around her. Desperately the spell caster squirmed to free herself as the rest of the group went back down to Merida and Angus. But the spells from earlier had taken most of her energy.

“You are definitely not getting out of that hair,” Eugene said. “Trust me.”

“Well, we got her,” Kristoff said. “Now what?”

“Now, we get some answers,” Hiccup said.

_______

(First chapter) (Next chapter) (Previous chapter)

[magioftheseas]

Magical Miracle Dream Girl ☆ Momonomi

Summary: Matsuda suits up Monomi for her next attempt at the second boss in the events immediately following Chapter 13 of Super Danganronpa 2: Matsuda Yasuke's Battle of Despair and Wits .

Rating: PG (?)

Warnings: Laaaaanguage I guess? Idk.

Notes: Dude, reading this over with it being more reference heavy is lowkey super embarassing for me so I really don’t get how Kodaka does it so shamelessly. But I tried. Oh my god did I try. Anyway, I’m a sucker for ribbons and yet I did not squeeze in a single reference to the Ribon magazine so in reality I am a failure. In all seriousness, writing Matsuda and Monomi is great and I wuv wuv them both so much.

Read this fic among others HERE

Main story is HERE

Commission? Donate?

“U-Uuu...boohoo.”

Monomi sniffled into her paws, sitting on her rump and looking so pitiful it was honestly kind of sickening. Matsuda, ever weathering, just stared and waited for her to stop crying.

“I-I’m sorry, I’m so sorry, I-I’ll get stronger, I will, I will, but, but,” her breath hitches. Matsuda wordlessly hands her a handkerchief and she blows into it. It’s an astounding sight and he refuses her trying to return it. He’s just, he’s not sure how his sanity would handle potentially having to wash off a stuffed animal’s mucus from a fabric. Shit was already so fucking weird.

Monomi dabs at her eyes delicately.

“Matsuda-kun, you really are such a kind boy. So, so kind.”

That’s such a miserable thing to say, so Matsuda rolled his eyes at it.

“O-Okay!” she exclaimed, getting to her feet with a few squeaky noises. “Sensei will now bulk up before her next fight! I won’t lose! Not when my precious students are depending on me!”

It’d be easy to burst her bubble but this time, she’s not wrong. We have to get to the hospital on the third island. Not just for that guy’s sake, but for all our sakes. I have to scan not just myself, but potentially everyone else.

“I-I just, um, need a new weapon, maybe a new ribbon, and, um.” Monomi pats her belly a few times. “This diaper is a bit restrictive too, huh.”

“Then just take it off?” He raised an eyebrow. “It’s not like you need it. You don’t defecate, right?”

“S-Such a horrifying question to ask your teacher!” she exclaimed, jumping with an utterly mortified look. “It’s not just inappropriate, it’s so indecent! You should never suggest nor ask such things of a young woman!”

Young woman? What about her is young besides that childish appearance? She has an age? She considers herself matured?

So many questions. So little importance. Matsuda scowled.

“I’ve already dug around your intestines,” he pointed out. “I know there’s nothing there but fluff.”

“D-Don’t say that; it’s so embarrassing!” she cried. “For a teacher to be in such a position before her precious, precious students! I’m just so, so ashamed! I never want to think about it again!”

“So you’re just going to keep wearing a diaper. Even though that’s not exactly tasteful either.” He shook his head. “What is there even to be done about you? Urgh. Come on.” He clapped his hands a few times, and she tottered after him in confusion. “Let’s go to Rocketpunch.”

Monomi blinked up at him. Grimacing, he explained.

“You said you needed a new ribbon, right? We’ll look for sticks on the way there but there might very well be something else you can use.”

“M-Matsuda-kun, oh.” She presses her paws together, awestruck. “Y-You really are such a kind, kind child!”

“Hurry the fuck up or I’m throwing you ahead.”

“R-Right!”

--

“Red or yellow? Is yellow maybe too flashy, Matsuda-kun?”

“Those are for pigtails.”

“Oh! I see! I’m not a pig, after all, I’m a rabbit! Ehehehe!” Monomi giggled even in the face of Matsuda’s stoic frown. “They have all kinds of ribbons. It’s difficult to choose.”

“Some of these have different names,” Matsuda said, pulling out a big red one. “This, for instance, is a V Ribbon.”

“Ooh! For victory!” Monomi exclaimed. “Yes, yes.”

“No, but whatever.” He held up the ribbon to Monomi’s ear. Making a face, he tied the bow and then leaned back to take in the sight. “A maybe, maybe?”

Not exactly feeling the most confident about this one. Best to find a couple of other options.

He dug around the ribbon section some more. His eyes light up as he pulled out another one, similarly bright red but so very fine.

“This one’s better,” he said, holding it out. “The Hime Ribbon. It’s an actual creation of the princess of the Magical Kingdom.”

“It looks like this one,” Monomi replied, patting her bow.

“It’s completely different!” Matsuda exclaimed, annoyed. “It’s come on, come on, go, go, jump!”

“Come on, come on, go, go jump?” Monomi repeated. She mulls it over before pumping her paw. “Ike, ike!”

“No, no!” Huffing, Matsuda rubbed his temples. “It's a classic! A fucking classic! Like, Akko-chan and Mami? No, not that Mami!”

“H-How cruel,” she sobbed, holding down her ears. “But, you know.” A pause before she beams. “It does give me a nostalgic feeling, Matsuda-kun.”

“Because it’s a classic,” Matsuda muttered, puffing his cheeks. “But, considering what this ribbon does, it’s a bad fit for you.”

“Eh? What does it do?”

“It’s...freaky.” Making a face, Matsuda set the ribbon lovingly aside. “Maybe we should look for something a little more straight-forward.”

“Hm, hm,” Monomi hums. “You know, transformation is a very important part of being a magical girl but it’s not always a good thing.” She tugs at her diaper, sullen. “This kind of transformation for instance.”

Transformation. Yeah, obviously. Normal people can only do so much even with the amount of capability they have. But, there’s more to it.

“It’s not about getting stronger, it’s also about building confidence in yourself,” Matsuda snapped, irritated now. “You may not have the range you did before but the fact that you’re so whiny and weepy about it is beyond infuriating. Was your character always that fickle? Your simpering, desperate optimism only a forced front?”

Monomi stilled and blinked up at him.

“Pathetic,” he sniffed. “Even if you didn’t mean for things to go so wrong, you’re making it worse with how flighty and pitiful you are.” He quiets for a moment, and weirdly, he feels sick. He covers his mouth with a groan. “Gross.”

“Matsuda-kun,” Monomi says, softly and meaningfully. “So harsh.”

It is a bit harsh, isn’t it? He thought almost in mirthless amusement. If she had just been trying to help, that’d be one thing, but she’s responsible for our lost memories. She’s part of the reason why we’re trapped in the first place. That’s why I can’t help but get so pissed about it.

That said, he should know better than to tell off a program of all things. He wished he could just spit in the face of whoever human in charge. But that person is, allegedly, someplace he can’t reach while trapped.

It’s useless. It’s all useless. Except. I really do have to get to the hospital.

“I’m sorry. You’re right. An adult complaining so much only burdens the children.”

Matsuda stilled for a moment, perking up.

“I’ll do better!” Monomi chirped. “I’ll get stronger! For my precious, precious students!”

She’s a program, but maybe she does have a semblance of maturity. He thinks that, but even so, his expression darkens. Still a program that acts as a proxy. Still incapable of explanations and justifications. Still the means we found ourselves trapped with our heads tampered. How trustworthy can someone so fundamentally detached and closed off really be? Even if it’s someone with this kind of personality?

Still, there was one matter that was clear while the rest were vague.

Even if we’re at odds, we have the same enemy. Komaeda said that about the traitor, too.

While he’s still undeniably pissed and suspicious, he does need all the help he can get. Especially from someone with the capabilities of taking down the Monobeasts, of opening the paths to the closed-off islands where more could be gleamed and where more could be done. With that, he looks through the ribbons once more, pulling out various options before he found one that had him pause.

A pretty yellow ribbon adorned with a blue star. Still quiet, Matsuda knelt down and tugged the red ribbon off Monomi to replace it. He fixed the yellow ribbon and the star shone brightly at him. Pulling back, he took in the beaming Monomi and nodded.

“Yeah, that’ll work. Let’s go with this one.”

Monomi twirled around with flourish.

“Magical Miracle Girl ☆ Monomi! At your service!” A pause. Monomi yelped. “N-No, Usami! I mean Usami! I’m not Monomi, I don’t even know a Monomi!”

“Right,” Matsuda said, nodding along. “There should be a baton around here that we can use as a weapon. Hopefully one that suits your new look.”

“Y-Yes!” she exclaimed, watery-eyed. “Yes, yes!”

When he found one and handed it over, Monomi waved it around and declared,

“I absolutely won’t lose! I’ll fight for the sake of my students! With the power of wuv and hope!”

Matsuda said nothing to that, even as his lips twisted in the slightest way.

Later, when Monomi faced against that snake beast again, not only was she knocked away again in spite of her best efforts, but...

That thing knocked her away with the force of a truck, causing the now broken baton to clatter at Matsuda’s feet.

“Welp,” was all he had to say.

[methylsalicylate]

The Madrigals and The Beast Ch 1

AO3 Link | Story art by @waokevale | Tag: #Madrigals&Beast 

Chapters:

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20

Summary: 

In the Kingdom of Encanto, there was only Light magic, while the Dark surrounded the forest beyond the mountains. Everything had been prosperous for them, but recently the Dark has been seeping through in the form of disease, less harvest, and dead livestock.

Mirabel, the only giftless princess of the Madrigal Royal family, wants to prove her worth by making it her mission to eradicate Dark magic and restore the full power of the Light.

Starting with defeating the hideous seven-foot tall half human half rat monster hiding in the depths of the dense forest.

______________________________________________________________

In a land far away, protected by dense forests and massive mountains, was a small kingdom.

Here, Light magic existed in nature. It was found in the bountiful harvests they get every year, in the river that never runs out of fish, in the fields that fed the animals, and in the living house of the royal Madrigal family, which is fondly called “Casita”.

The existence of Light magic implies the existence of the opposite kind, which is of the more evil sort. Dark magic stemmed from a wretched being, an entity known as the Curse of the Encanto. Its energy spilled throughout the outside borders, weakened due to its diffused state. The very first king defeated it with a sword made with a small amount of Light magic, creating the protective barrier and dispersing the energy outward, scattering its essence.

Currently, everyone lived peacefully under the governance of King Pedro, the 10th ruler of Encanto.

During King Pedro’s term his wife, Queen Alma, gave birth to triplets, 2 girls and the youngest, a boy. With their birth came gifts from the counterpart of the Curse, the benevolent Spirit of Encanto. These gifts were in the form of a Candle representing the status of Light magic, and a sealed box, both manifesting in the topmost room of Casita. Nobody knew what this meant, but this occurrence was seen as a miracle, and the entire town celebrated the birth of the royal triplets for a whole week.

This was not where the miracles ended, though.

—--------------------------------------------------—

“Really mama? There are more miracles?”

Julieta pulled her 4 year old daughter closer to her as they lay down in bed. It was a little early in the evening, but Mirabel was tired from playing too much with her slightly older cousin, Camilo. The boy was still outside, forced to help out after knocking a few vases in the garden outside.

“Of course. Why do you think Isa can make flowers? Or how Luisa is super strong?”

“Or how you can heal with food!”

“Yes exactly. You see mi vida, when I was around 5, my sister and…” Julieta trailed off, looking down with pain in her eyes. “Well, we were still complete back then. On our 5th birthday, three mysterious doors showed up in Casita. Your Abuelo Pedro knew it was a gift from the Spirit of Encanto, and it granted us the miracles we have now. It also gave us these marks around our arms.”

She raised her hand, and just below her wrist was a small mark of a leaf, and a straight line going around, as if it were a bracelet in the form of a tattoo. To her, this was like a small reminder that her gift of healing was meant to be shared with the people around them. Her sister Pepa had a small sun, while Bruno had a small hourglass as a mark.

“These miracles are why we dedicate our life to helping the kingdom.”

She tried to avoid sounding upset, but Mirabel noticed the change in her mother’s tone. She was still young, but her older siblings and cousins have told her about how her mama and Tia Pepa used to be a part of a trio.

“Mama… where did Tio Bruno go?”

“Ay, it is a very hard story to tell mija… It is a little bit scary too, and you are about to sleep so I don’t want you thinking about -”

“Mama please I can take it! I am a big girl now!” The child sat up and puffed her chest out, even flexing her arms to imitate her older sister.

Julieta smiled softly, and caressed her daughter’s hair. She motioned for her to lay down, prompting Mirabel to lay closer to her, full of anticipation.

“Promise me you’ll be brave tonight.”

“I promise!”

It was a hard story to tell. Even though it happened more than 20 years ago, closure was never met, and remembering the past felt like opening a still bleeding wound. However, her daughter had to know the dangers that surround the outskirts of Encanto. “You know how I can heal with meals I make, and how Tia Pepa can control the weather with her emotions? Well, your Tio Bruno could see the future.”

“Whooaa…”

“It is an amazing gift, but it also comes with consequences. He had this… vision, many years ago, of a giant rat-like creature standing behind him menacingly, with its arms around his neck, like it was choking him.”

The little gasp that came out of Mirabel prompted Julieta to stop, but her daughter stared at her with intense focus, waiting for whatever happened next. There’s no way she’s leaving her daughter alone tonight.

“We figured that it did not mean anything, that maybe it was a nightmare… But you know that Dark magic exists beyond the mountains.”

“Oh! The one from the Curse of the Encanto?”

“Yes. It was a terrible entity, spreading disease and disaster wherever it went. If it weren’t for the first king, the ancestor of your Abuelo Pedro, it would still be here. He was able to defeat it with a sword laced with some Light magic.” It was common knowledge, and more of a legend to the people in the kingdom. She still remembers how her father Pedro acted out the entire scene in dramatic fashion, complete with costumes and all.

“This vision of the Rat monster felt like Dark magic seeping through… Your abuelo and abuela were very worried about this, and it made Bruno even more anxious than he already is. Then one day… during a partial solar eclipse… We were just 10, we were playing outside and we had a small fight. Bruno walked away, and night came but he never returned… Nobody saw where he went. It was like he disappeared from Encanto.”

She paused, replaying the moment in her head.

“It was a nightmare. Everyone looked around the kingdom, but they were not able to go beyond the mountains, for it was too dangerous and treacherous. There were those that attempted but could not last a day climbing the mountains. The search lasted for months… We all assumed that his disappearance was the doing of the Rat monster from his vision, who most likely is a user of Dark magic, a servant of the Curse.”

“Your abuelo and abuela were devastated. Pepa and I cried almost every night. We kept blaming ourselves… If only I was a better older sister, if only I was brave enough… Losing one of us… losing a triplet, I felt like a third of me was ripped away.”

Mirabel stared at her with glassy eyes. She hugged her mother tightly. “Mama I don’t think it’s your fault. It’s the Rat monster! He’s a meanie!”

Laughter filled the room, Julieta already feeling more relaxed than upset. “Thank you mija. I still can’t help feeling sad whenever I remember that day… Ever since then, children have always been accompanied by at least one adult when they play around.”

She looked at her daughter, slightly being reminded of her baby brother. They both had big brown eyes.

“Mirabel, it’s very dangerous out there. Here, we are protected by Light magic, but beyond the mountains, Dark magic is everywhere. It is no longer conscious and is spread thinly all over, but it is out there. So please promise me, mi vida. Always be with someone when you go around the kingdom. And never, ever leave the Encanto.”

______________________________________________________________

Chapters: 

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20 

[dailyexo]

[SCHEDULE] EXO’s SCHEDULE for May (2018)

[BROADCAST] - pre-recorded and live television and online programme broadcasts, including weekly music shows and dramas, [REC] - programme recordings, [RADIO] - radio programme broadcasts, [SIGN] / [MEET] - fan-signing and fan-meeting events, [PERF] - performance events, including concerts and festivals, [RELEASE] - music releases, [BIRTHDAY] - members’ birthdays and birthday parties, [OTHER] - various other scheduled activities.

This schedule will be continually updated.

EXO’s SCHEDULE (Last updated on 180526)

May 1

[BROADCAST] KBS ‘The Miracle That We Met’ Ep.10 (KBS ‘우리가 만난 기적’ 제10회) - 22:00 KST - (Kai)

May 3

[OTHER] MBN ‘Rich Man’ press conference (MBN '리치맨' 제작발표회) - (Suho)

May 4

[RELEASE] Netflix Busted! Ep.1-2 (넷플릭스 범인은 바로 너! 제1-2회) - (Sehun)

[OTHER] CCTV Youth Day Gala (CCTV 筑梦新时代) - 19:30 CST - (Lay)

May 6

[BIRTHDAY] Baekhyun's Birthday

[BROADCAST] Go Fighting Season 4 Ep.2 (极限挑战第四季第二集) - 20:30 CST - (Lay)

May 7

[BROADCAST] KBS ‘The Miracle That We Met’ Ep.11 (KBS ‘우리가 만난 기적’ 제11회) - 22:00 KST - (Kai)

May 8

[BROADCAST] KBS ‘The Miracle That We Met’ Ep.12 (KBS ‘우리가 만난 기적’ 제12회) - 22:00 KST - (Kai)

May 9

[OTHER] 1st full Japanese album 'Magic' - (EXO-CBX)

[BROADCAST] MBN ‘Rich Man’ Ep.1 (MBN 리치맨 제1회) - 23:00 KST - (Suho)

April 10

[BROADCAST] MBN ‘Rich Man’ Ep.2 (MBN 리치맨 제2회) - 23:00 KST - (Suho)

May 11

[RELEASE] Netflix Busted! Ep.3-4 (넷플릭스 범인은 바로 너! 제3-4회) - (Sehun)

[PERF] Magical Circus Tour 2018 in Yokohama - 18:30 JST - (EXO-CBX)

May 12

[PERF] Magical Circus Tour 2018 in Yokohama - 16:00 JST - (EXO-CBX)

May 13

[PERF] Magical Circus Tour 2018 in Yokohama - 15:00 JST - (EXO-CBX)

[BROADCAST] Go Fighting Season 4 Ep.3 (极限挑战第四季第三集) - 20:30 CST - (Lay)

May 14

[OTHER] ‘Middle School Girl A’ Production Briefing (‘여중생A’ 제작보고회) - (Suho)

[BROADCAST] KBS ‘The Miracle That We Met’ Ep.13 (KBS ‘우리가 만난 기적’ 제13회) - 22:00 KST - (Kai)

May 15

[BROADCAST] KBS ‘The Miracle That We Met’ Ep.14 (KBS ‘우리가 만난 기적’ 제14회) - 22:00 KST - (Kai)

May 16

[PERF] Magical Circus Tour 2018 in Fukuoka - 18:30 JST - (EXO-CBX)

[BROADCAST] MBN ‘Rich Man’ Ep.3 (MBN 리치맨 제3회) - 23:00 KST - (Suho)

May 17

[BROADCAST] FBS Barihaya! Interview (FBS バリはやっ!) - 05:20-06:30 JST - (EXO-CBX)

[BROADCAST] KBC Asadesu Interview (KBC アサデス) - 06:00-08:00 JST - (EXO-CBX)

[BROADCAST] MBN ‘Rich Man’ Ep.4 (MBN 리치맨 제4회) - 23:00 KST - (Suho)

[BROADCAST] MBC It's Dangerous Beyond The Blankets (MBC 이불 밖은 위험해) - 23:00 KST - (Xiumin)

[OTHER] iQIYI Technology & Entertainment World Meeting - (Lay)

May 18

[RELEASE] Netflix Busted! Ep.5-6 (넷플릭스 범인은 바로 너! 제5-6회) - (Sehun)

May 19

[PERF] Magical Circus Tour 2018 in Nagoya - 17:00 JST - (EXO-CBX)

[BROADCAST] tvN Salty Tour (tvN 짠내투어) - 22:30 KST - (Chanyeol)

May 20

[PERF] Magical Circus Tour 2018 in Nagoya - 16:00 JST - (EXO-CBX)

[BROADCAST] Go Fighting Season 4 Ep.4 (极限挑战第四季第四集) - 20:30 CST - (Lay)

May 21

[BROADCAST] Oksusu ‘Travel The World On EXO’s Ladder - Japanese Chapter’ Ep.1 (옥수수 ‘엑소의 사다리 타고 세계여행 - 첸백시 일본편’ 제1회) - 10:00 KST - (EXO-CBX)

[BROADCAST] KBS ‘The Miracle That We Met’ Ep.15 (KBS ‘우리가 만난 기적’ 제15회) - 22:00 KST - (Kai)

May 22

[BIRTHDAY] Suho's Birthday

[BROADCAST] Oksusu ‘Travel The World On EXO’s Ladder - Japanese Chapter’ Ep.2 (옥수수 ‘엑소의 사다리 타고 세계여행 - 첸백시 일본편’ 제2회) - 10:00 KST - (EXO-CBX)

[BROADCAST] KBS ‘The Miracle That We Met’ Ep.16 (KBS ‘우리가 만난 기적’ 제16회) - 22:00 KST - (Kai)

May 23

[BROADCAST] Oksusu ‘Travel The World On EXO’s Ladder - Japanese Chapter’ Ep.3 (옥수수 ‘엑소의 사다리 타고 세계여행 - 첸백시 일본편’ 제3회) - 10:00 KST - (EXO-CBX)

[BROADCAST] MBN ‘Rich Man’ Ep.5 (MBN 리치맨 제5회) - 23:00 KST - (Suho)

May 24

[BROADCAST] Oksusu ‘Travel The World On EXO’s Ladder - Japanese Chapter’ Ep.4 (옥수수 ‘엑소의 사다리 타고 세계여행 - 첸백시 일본편’ 제4회) - 10:00 KST - (EXO-CBX)

[BROADCAST] MBN ‘Rich Man’ Ep.6 (MBN 리치맨 제6회) - 23:00 KST - (Suho)

[BROADCAST] MBC It's Dangerous Beyond The Blankets (MBC 이불 밖은 위험해) - 23:00 KST - (Xiumin)

May 25

[BROADCAST] Oksusu ‘Travel The World On EXO’s Ladder - Japanese Chapter’ Ep.5 (옥수수 ‘엑소의 사다리 타고 세계여행 - 첸백시 일본편’ 제5회) - 10:00 KST - (EXO-CBX)

May 26

[BROADCAST] tvN Salty Tour (tvN 짠내투어) - 22:30 KST - (Chanyeol)

May 27

[BROADCAST] Go Fighting Season 4 Ep.5 (极限挑战第四季第五集) - 20:30 CST - (Lay)

May 28

[OTHER] Louis Vuitton 2019 Cruise Collection - 19:15 CET - (Sehun)

[BROADCAST] Oksusu ‘Travel The World On EXO’s Ladder - Japanese Chapter’ Ep.6 (옥수수 ‘엑소의 사다리 타고 세계여행 - 첸백시 일본편’ 제6회) - 10:00 KST - (EXO-CBX)

[BROADCAST] KBS ‘The Miracle That We Met’ Ep.17 (KBS ‘우리가 만난 기적’ 제17회) - 22:00 KST - (Kai)

May 29

[BROADCAST] Oksusu ‘Travel The World On EXO’s Ladder - Japanese Chapter’ Ep.7 (옥수수 ‘엑소의 사다리 타고 세계여행 - 첸백시 일본편’ 제7회) - 10:00 KST - (EXO-CBX)

[OTHER] Oksusu ‘Travel The World On EXO’s Ladder’ press conference (옥수수 ‘엑소의 사다리 타고 세계여행’ 제작발표회) - (EXO-CBX)

[BROADCAST] KBS ‘The Miracle That We Met’ Ep.18 (KBS ‘우리가 만난 기적’ 제18회) - 22:00 KST - (Kai)

May 30

[OTHER] Gucci 2019 Cruise Collection - 15:30 CET - (Kai)

[BROADCAST] Oksusu ‘Travel The World On EXO’s Ladder - Japanese Chapter’ Ep.8 (옥수수 ‘엑소의 사다리 타고 세계여행 - 첸백시 일본편’ 제8회) - 10:00 KST - (EXO-CBX)

[BROADCAST] MBN ‘Rich Man’ Ep.7 (MBN 리치맨 제7회) - 23:00 KST - (Suho)

May 31

[BROADCAST] Oksusu ‘Travel The World On EXO’s Ladder - Japanese Chapter’ Ep.9 (옥수수 ‘엑소의 사다리 타고 세계여행 - 첸백시 일본편’ 제9회) - 10:00 KST - (EXO-CBX)

[BROADCAST] MBN ‘Rich Man’ Ep.8 (MBN 리치맨 제8회) - 23:00 KST - (Suho)

[BROADCAST] MBC It's Dangerous Beyond The Blankets (MBC 이불 밖은 위험해) - 23:00 KST - (Xiumin)

Credit: dailyexo.tumblr.com. Material not to be redistributed in part or whole without prior permission.

[thisweekingundamwing]

TWIGW May 13-19

Hello Amazing Fandom!

Thanks to everyone who submitted something, and thanks to everyone who keeps contributing and helping our tiny fandom truck along! 

Here’s the round up for this week - if we missed anything, drop us a line! And don’t forget to leave the creators some love!

XOXO

Mod CB

Fanfiction:

A Little Piece of Gundam Wing

The archive is being ported to AO3! Check it out!

ammiehawk

What Do You Say?

On the road with a new companion after the events in St. Louis, what will Sam and Dean do with a supposed civilian now traveling with them? Will Sam and Dean be able to keep their secrets? Or will secrets between the brothers break them apart?

Pairings: Dean Winchester x Trowa Barton, 1x5

Warnings: Supernatural crossover, slash, supernatural elements

@anaranesindanarie

Death Unspeaking - Final Chapter!

What happens when a Gundam Pilot is mute? Will the other Pilots look down at him because of it? Will he overcome the odds or will the odds overcome him?

Pairings: 2x3

Warnings: Graphic Descriptions of Violence, Underage, Mute!Duo, Gundams, Eventual Canon Divergence, Mobile Suits, Fighting, Eventual Yaoi, AU, Sign Language, just pure awesomeness, Blowing Shit Up, blowing ships up, Circus

@claraxbarton and @kangofu-cb

Bad Company

"The only hell and the only paradise are the ones we build ourselves." - Unknown

Years after the wars, Preventers has decided to tackle one of the most powerful and oldest of all the Terran crime syndicates. Embedded dangerously deep in an undercover operation targeting the violent and bloodthirsty Sinaloa Cartel, Trowa Barton is pushed beyond even his flexible morals - and when his new "partner" arrives in the very unexpected and unwelcome form of Duo Maxwell, the one person he'd been trying to protect at all costs, both men must deal with the realization that preserving peace for humanity is turning into a bloodsport. What follows is race against time to uncover the evidence they need to bring Sinaloa, and its beautiful but deadly leaders, down - all while keeping each other alive in the process

Pairings: 2x3, 1x4

Warnings:  Graphic Depictions of Violence, Post-Canon, Undercover Missions, Undercover as a Couple, Implied/Referenced Torture, Implied Sexual Content, Implied/Referenced Drug Use, Human Trafficking, Gang Violence, Explicit Sexual Content, Moral Dilemmas

@duointherain

Perfection

Heero is a very good Preventer agent. Duo used to be his partner. Now he's stuck with Burt Gummer. If he could find Duo, he'd love to confess his love. Life is not fair. Then, in order to get Burt to resign from Preventers, Heero, Wufei, Quatre, and Trowa agree to an easy mission of delivering supplies to Perfection National Monument. There they find Duo. Things are going to get grabby, and not just with the graboids!

Pairings: 1x2, 3x4

Warnings: none

Terminal Velocity

Duo comes looking for Heero after a long absence.. there is make-up sex. Well, then they have the whole effort of learning to live together like normal people. Mistakes will happen.

Pairings: 1x2

Warnings: none

@gundamwing-ellesmith​

Heero's Inheritance

A headcanon/drabble: Heero has often wondered what it might be like to have something to hold onto...

Pairings: none

Warnings: headcanon-ish, illustrated

KageKagi

The Heir of House Black

Harry attends Sirius's will reading and learns that there was more to the black family than anyone expected,

Pairings: 2x4, Drarry, Ron x Hermione, 1x2

Warnings: none

Lithle

Salt

Three months after the events of Like Oxygen, Duo shows up on Wufei's doorstep. As familiar, dangerous patterns assert themselves, Wufei's left wondering if there is, or could be, anything between them beyond self-destructive desire.

Pairings: 2x5, 1xR

Warnings: Unhealthy Relationships, Post War Trauma, Suicidal Thoughts, no EW, Post-War, Explicit Language, Sex, Bad Decisions, POV Chang Wufei, everyone is broken, But Maybe Trying to Get Better?

LittleMouse

WarCraft

Alternate Fantasy World - A world where people have ‘Talents’ that allow them to control certain elements. Different Talents can ‘Join’ to become a specific entity - some can heal, some can repair damage to land and buildings, some are weapons. The Talents you ‘Join’ with are called your Others. The perfect Joining is of five separate Talents. One lonely Fire Talent far to the North has given up waiting for his Others - good thing they haven’t stopped looking for him.

Pairings: none

Warnings: graphic depictions of violence, Alternate Universe, Fantasy, Non-con touching

luvsanime02

Identifying the Problem

Wufei has a problem. The other guys want to help, once they can figure out what the problem actually is.

Pairings: None

Warnings: None

A Cocktail Friday submission

Maldoror

The Source of All Things

Center, a planet where magic and technology blend. Or more accurately, fight tooth and nail. A planet of Sources, holes in our boring dimension letting through arcane power, chaos and pseudo-deities. In this hot-house of myths and very real dangers, Trowa and Quatre find a mysterious man at the end of a shamanic voyage. Portents suggest this Heero Yuy is crucial to Center’s survival. He’s important enough to have some interesting enemies after him, at any rate: a devious killer and thief called ‘Shinigami’, and a very irate Dragon. Beyond them looms an even greater threat. Indeed, the greatest of them all.

Pairings: 3x4, 2x5, 1x2x5

Warnings: alternative universe, Science Fiction, Fantasy, Plot Twists, fairly graphic depiction of sex, Mild description of self-harm, Mathematical Magic, weird science, crones - Freeform, Magic and Technologyl brawling and eventually screwing, Eventual Threesome, Kinda, Insanity of arcane origin, The universe is a pile of marbles and other dubious allegories

Two Halves

The two kingdoms of Sanq and Lin were at war for years; a conflagration involving magic, armies and political murder. The conflict left both nations devastated and strewn with refugees. The king of Sanq finds his infant son, lost at birth, among the death and the ruin, a miracle he barely dared to hope for.  But there isn't just one boy, there are two, clinging together like two halves of a whole that cannot be separated.  Decades later, the truth behind that second child’s existence will put a hole in the world, or possibly save it.

Pairings: 1x2

Warnings: Fantasy AU, medieval setting with magic, starts with our heroes as children, Cousin Incest, sort of, eventually, being royalty this is in fact the norm and rather expected of them, Canon-Typical Violence

Shinigamiinochi

A Stagnation of Love (rewrite)

Duo Maxwell has been stuck his entire life. With an abusive father, a mother who doesn't even realize he exists, severely bullied at school, and hiding his sexuality, he has given up all hope for a better life. When he falls in love with his bully's boyfriend, he needs to make a choice about his future. Will he continue to let himself be abused or will he fight back?

Pairings: 1x2, 3x4, 2x3, 1xR

Warnings: Major Character Death, Rape/Noncon, Underage, Child Abuse, Bullying, Angst, Suicide, Incest, Alternate Universe

@stoic-rose (Alithea)

Lose By Winning

Wufei goes in for an interview. Short drabble takes place after Endless Waltz. Inspired by @lbro009

Pairings: none

Warnings: none

Sylvieforaday

Neighbors

A/U - Meilan is learning, not everything happens the way you thought it would. Sometimes you fall for the perfect girl next door when she gets knocked off her pedestal.

Pairings: RxM

Warnings: none

white_fox

Life Is A Highway

On an impulsive plan to travel from California to New York City to propose to his longtime girlfriend, Heero Yuy did not plan to pick up a hitchhiker in nowhere Texas. Faced with some setbacks and a growing attraction to his passenger, Heero goes through more challenges than he planned on facing.

Pairings: 1x2, 1xR

Warnings: light slash, Fluff, Road Trips, Dubious Morality

Snippets:

@lifeaftermeteor

The Vote, pt 1

The Vote, pt 2

@remsyk-blog

Feel good fluff

@terrablaze514​

Teaser Tuesday - Secret Magic AU, Rated M; I’ve pulled this scene out just to play with the pair itself, for a late 2x5x2 (Duo/Wufei) moment. It is a combination of silly, dark, and h/c. 

@vegalume

From Collide, a 13x1

Black Adder quote prompt

WIP Wednesday

Photo Edits/Manipulations

@gundamwing-ellesmith

What if Gundam Wing was real? - Chang Wufei’s office ft. Sally

Headcanons / Meta / Discussions:

@disturbed02girl

Postcard 11

@lbro009

Characterizations by Japanese vs non-Japanese fans

@lifeaftermeteor

Quatre’s (not)sleeping habits

@terrablaze514

HeadCanon Time (Secret Magic AU): The G-Boys encounter problems behind the scenes + how Quatre and Wufei reconnected. 

@whenwillmailcome

Chang Wufei - MemeLord

Multiple Contributors

Q&A with Gundam Wing producer Hideyuki Tomioka and fans

Wufei and stringed instruments

Why was Zechs kept alive?

Fanart:

@chronicwhimsy​

Duo and Wufei for Mermay

@duointherain

Duo

Duo

@lemontrash

Duo chilling

@zibelinbelt

Gundam Wing minifanbook about Gundam Wing 

Calendar Events:

Cocktail Friday

https://gwcocktailfriday.tumblr.com/

A new prompt every Monday!

Submissions should be posted Fridays between 3 and 5pm EST, and tagged with @gwcocktailfriday, and are included in the This Week roundup on Sundays.

Interview with a Creator by @remsyk-blog @interview-with-a-creator

Remsyk has created an online interview for fandom creators to fill out and then she features one each week so that everyone in the fandom can learn a bit about each other.

If you haven’t filled out her interview, go! do! now!

This week’s featured creator is @gwepisode50 check their interview out here!

30 Day Gundam Wing Challenge

Daily questions about Gundam Wing. Please tag your participation posts with @gundamwing30daychallenge for them to be recognized.

Challenge questions and more information can be found here

Pick and choose which questions you wish to answer (or tackle them all!). The point of this challenge is to stimulate fandom participation and to promote conversation and interaction between all fans!

Submission Box Open for Diamond in the Stars (OT5) Challenge

Challenge information can be found here

Submissions due September 23, 2018

Current posts:

@terrablaze514

Day 1, Day 2, Day 3, Day 4, Day 5, Day 6, Day 8, Day 9, Day 11, Day 12, Day 15, Day 17, Day 19

@lbro009

Day 15

Day 18

@chemicalcrush

Day 13

Day 15

Day 17

@lifeaftermeteor

Day 18