#United Estates is here to help you with all these

[unitedestatesllc]

[alienpossession]

Prologue of my own take for this alien story by @apushforfolly

A little bit connected to @fullfriendnerdpurse story because imagine how convenient that he used the guy I planned to use on one of his alien story, and I linked it to my early caption too that you'll find later below. Kudos to @cleanstatevessels for bugging me consistently (LOL) to fulfill my promise

Sander van Broek is a Dutch fitness model and businessman. He's a rather established name in the fitness industry and that caused him to frequently fly all over the globe for fitness expo and bodybuilding meet where he will meet old friends, build new business and personal network or sometimes speak as a panel for his experience. Due to that, Dubai become a very sensible choice of residence for him because it's practically a global hub nowadays, and he's more than lucky to have some people he knows that can show him good places to rent

Sander knew Andrei from a couple years ago as fellow fitness enthusiast. They were cordial at first, but similar type of jokes and life mindset eventually bonded the two men and they've been close friends ever since. Andrei conveniently also worked as a realtor, guess his easy-going personality and charming look proven to be helpful to close deals with the rich and wealthy. Not to mention that he's a polyglot, capable to speak Romanian (his native tongue), Spanish (his girlfriend's native tongue and still part of broader Romance language), French, Russian (language spoken by his boss in the real estate firm), English and Arabic, making him probably a great asset to attract international clientele. All the places he shown were remarkable and located in great spots, but Sander felt the prices to be a bit steep.

"Crazy view, eh? This place gets both of the best sight, and the way this room perfectly captured the sunrise and sunset, perfect righr?"

"Certainly yeah. But again, this is like the 5th place you shown me to be above my budget. I have money, but I don't think I wanna blow it for rent,"

"No worries, price is pretty much negotiable, you know. Let's talk about it while drinking in my office, shall we? We're done looking anyway,"

"How negotiable are we talking about here?"

"You'll be surprised," said Andrei with a smirk, grabbing his Ferrari key and ready to leave the unit with Sander following him closely right behind him

When they arrived in the towering glass skyscraper, Sander cannot help but look upward until his eyes blinded by the sun. Dutch might be the tallest people on Earth, but there's no such tall building in the Netherlands, that's for sure. Andrei tossed his key to the valet and strut to the lobby with confidence in his step, everyone seemed to know him just by looking at him. Well, not like you can ignore a presence like Andrei anyway, he just demanded such attention to every spaces he walked into. As the elevator flies through the floor, he just hummed casually while Sander still marveled at the whole bunch of floors they passed through and how far they are already from the ground within seconds. As the elevator dings at the 66th floor, it opens to a short hallway with lobby in the end of it. The two receptionist greeted Andrei and Sander warmly and as he stepped through the lobby area, the door behind him closed

"That's just the way it is. Don't be afraid hahah,"

"Just surprised on how loud it was, that's all,"

"Okay, you go to the 2nd room after you take left, okay? I'll be there in a sec, gotta talk to boss,"

"Sure thing,"

"Oh, and by the way, what do you want to drink?"

"Anything is fine actually. Just don't get me too drunk, we're still talking about apartment,"

"Okay, as you wished. Just wait for a sec, okay?"

"Sure bro,"

So Sander fidgeted rather awkwardly in the dimly-lit room all by himself, waiting for Andrei to come back. So that's the boss? Piotr something? Sander saw a glimpse of a man with traditional white Arab headdress, the guy is massive and he seemed like a rather stern boss. Is that guy the Russian's counterpart? He's pretty sure he heard Andrei said his boss is Russian, but that one clearly seemed like an Arab and he's pretty sure he read that "Piotr" is the one written in the gold plaque attached to the slightly opened door earlier

---

"Frankie, how's Piotr doing?"

"Still not awake and no response from his body, my Prince. Just very tense and excessively sweating. Probably the slug still trying to wrestle the control over," said the nerd from a hidden office suite right behind the bookshelves within the CEO room

"You see, Andrei? I told you, some of these guys are just not that easy to be taken over. It's beginner's luck that you got someone as massive as him as your vessel," said the Prince from his chair

"Well, clearly Piotr was not easy to be taken over. For starter, he doesn't even understand what the fuck you are saying since he only speaks Russian and here you are prancing as an Arabic prince, and two, I told you I'll take care of him. He trusted Andrei, trust means easier takeover as they won't raise their guard or being too defensive,"

"Show me then. I see you bring a fella earlier. Show me how much "trust" will help you take that guy over. I check his profile, seemed interesting,"

"Pffft, you're underestimating me, Prince Hamid. You see......*take a bottle of wine from one of the small cellar in the CEO room* *take his shorts down* *painted the glass with his black slug* it won't even take more than 5 minutes and he'll be under my control. You'll give that body up to me and the chain of command, including the fate of that dweeb, if I can prove it to you how well my method works," Andrei said as he poured the red wine into the slug-stained glass. The slug camouflaged itself by changing its color and texture to match the wine's depth of color. Mere seconds later and it seemed like it's always been red wine and nothing else ever added there.

"And if you failed?" the prince smirked

"I'll let that nerdy friend of yours used me as he pleased," Andrei hissed while looking at the nerd with disgusted look as the nerd tended to his passed out boss

"Deal. I'm inside a Prince for a reason, young man. I know what I'm doing,"

"Yeah, he's in the middle of a climax when you shot yourself into his asshole. It's not like he can fight you, he's spent. And you got that nerd helping you. Me getting inside of Andrei might be luck, but the rest of those folks you met, the people I takeover, all taken over smoothly because they never thought their own realtor turned out to be something out of this world and all of those process were hella smoother than my first takeover of this stud," Andrei said as he wipes the remnant of the cum-slug in his piss slit with his fingers, give it a delightful lick before putting on his pants back. He then strut to his office to seal the whole deal with his so-called "friend" while the Prince followed him with some distance.

----

"Hey there, sorry. Searched for some of the documents first and talked with the boss about work," said Andrei as he barged into the room where Sander already waited for him

"That's okay, is that for me?" Sander asked, his eyes eyeing the glass of wine Andrei held alongside the bottle and some papers in his other hand

"Oh yeah, for you. Sorry about that," said Andrei, a little bit forgetful about his sole goal as he played Andrei a bit too realistic sometimes while he handed over the wine glass

But instead of directly drinking it, Sander just simply put the glass on the table, which trigger raised eyebrow from Andrei

"You don't want to drink first?"

"Oh no, let's hear first about those units, and maybe if we reached a deal, I'll drink,"

"Ahh....okay *internally cursing Sander*. If that's what you want. So, basically, you can get those units with half of their prices, max,"

"What? Half?! That's so great, how the hell that happened?"

"I told them you're going to be a long-term tenant and with your job, they probably won't have to worry about the payment and all. Just basically convinced them, you know,"

"Are you playing with me right now? Is there something I have to do for them or anything? Half is crazy, bro,"

"No, I'm serious. But yeah, they wanted something. Nothing nefarious or anything, the owner of the last unit just wanted you to help by personally training their son," Andrei said, trying to hide his grin from Sander by turning his back to him and acting busy in his table

"Really? That simple? Huh well, cheers to that then," he said, instantly taking a gulp of the wine in one go due to his excitement

Not even 5 seconds later, the glass dropped to the floor as Sander's body instantly having a massive seizure. His eyes fluttered and mouth foaming like crazy as his body wriggled like a seaweed, flailing here and there purely moved by the spasm of his own body. The Prince steps into the room with his timer recorded 0:25 seconds left. Upon witnessing the state of the man he saw walked earlier, he smirked because there's no way this guy would be back to normal within seconds! But, in a plot twist the Prince didn't see coming, Sander instantly groaned when the timer left 0:08 seconds as he then stabilized and start taking normal, paused breath.

"You thought I'll fail, huh?"

The Prince just seethed in anger. The timer stops at 0:02 seconds, but promise is a promise so a black, oil-like slug gets out from the Prince's ear and then slide off to the floor. It purred upon meeting another slug that came from inside Andrei's body before heading to their respective new vessel. As both men cracked their neck upon the alien entering their brain, Sander murmured

"This guy really didn't see it coming. He simply thought he's going to die or something, that's all what I gathered from his final memory. The burst almost caused his clothes to torn apart by the way, he really likes tight clothing," He said while trying to assess and fix his tight shirt that enveloped his muscular virile form

"Well, the rest of his memories will be accessible to you for the next couple hours so you can lounge around if you want. But yeah, as I said, the owner of the unit wanted you to train their eldest son. Of course the owner is also one of us, but I guess he has that attachment issue to his human vessel or something, some of the team are watching him closely to ensure that he can serve in full capacity or else we will just abandon that old fit man. But in the meantime, I'm the one tasked to ensure we also convert his eldest son. He's based in UK, but he'll move to Dubai in the next few weeks. Since I'm no longer Andrei, you'll do the job alongside Sander, is that clear?" said the alien formerly inside Andrei that now comfortably reside inside the authoritative Prince

Both Sander and Andrei just nodded and said "okay" slowly, one still trying to adjust to a new life with a vessel and the other one still dejected that he just lost a nobility's physique. But not like any of them can say no, they understand that their mission is important to the cause.

"And now, I'm going to leave this premise and contacted HQ for update about our changes. And, let's not try to make my father's suspicious that his youngest Prince went missing for long period of time with no possible info on his whereabouts, don't want to make that old man worried sick. Let's update each other's progress a month from now, hopefully by then you two and Piotr plus the nerd have more progress in branching out, I'm the Prince after all, yall report to me,"

----

"So Mike, how do you like this condo? Your father told us to take good care of it for you. Or you want to look at some spaces to rent on your own?" said Andrei and Sander to the oblivious Mike, not knowing the fate that awaits him.....

[deceitfuldevout]

Haunting You

Dark!Rafe Cameron x Housekeeper!Reader

Word Count: +1,574

Warning(s): +18, Kidnapping, Mentions of past non con, Forced pregnancy. Ward is a warning himself.

Author's Note(s): I got this idea after listening to Beyonce's haunting music video.

You've been best friends with Sarah since childhood. When your parents decide to move away, she insisted you live with her family to attend the same college. With their blessing, you find yourself living with the family as a personal housekeeper. It's a reliable source of income that's kept you busy.

As soon as school was out, you decide to pick up another job at a local diner. You were given a key to their home due to you working late shifts. Ward insisted it was too dangerous, he assigns Rafe as your personal driver. But when you go missing one night, the entire town has their eyes set on the Cameron family.

A search party is held the next morning and following nights after. Rafe is the only one who doesn't attend. Only returning after spending the weekend probably partying. Ward scolds his son for being so careless, but Rafe didn't seem to care. No matter what he does, his father always seems to find another flaw in him. He shows more affection towards his daughter's best friend than his own flesh and blood. He'll be damned if he's second best to some Pogue.

It's been months since your disappearance. So when the police inform the Camerons that your investigation had been labeled a cold case, Ward had to be the one to break the news. After the last and final search party, Ward consoles his daughters. Rafe on the other hand, was nowhere to be found.

Typical, unreliable Rafe. In fact, none of it even bothered him. Someone who he's been responsible for the past year suddenly goes missing and there isn't even the slightest bit of concern. Nothing. If it weren't for Topper's party, he would've been a prime suspect. Ward knew of your friendship with Sarah, that’s why he agreed to hire you in the first place. You were a good kid. Until the day his son informs him that you ran off with some merchandise. Ward ignored all of Sarah's pleas and files a police report, from then on the rest was history.

Ward had kept himself cooped up in his office. Tonight had been a thunderstorm warning he could hear the heavy rain pattering against the windows. He listens to the strong, sharp wind. It resembles a faint cry, no...plea. It sounded almost like you. Like he could hear your cries from down the halls. As if you were still here. Calling, pleading for help. This wouldn't be the first time he's felt a presence in their house. He swore he heard it first coming from the vents. Surely it would go away the next morning. An hour had passed and it was still there.

A faint, ghost-like howling. Ward knows he isn't alone. Wheezie was out for a slumber party, and Sarah was at a friend's place. He could've sworn he saw Rafe stepping foot inside right before the storm hit. But nowadays it was hard to tell. His son barely set foot inside the house. Not unless he was rummaging for supplies or extra cash. To the point where even his father grew suspicious of his activities. He wasn't on Pogue territory, and none of his Kook friends had seen him recently. His jeep was still parked out front, so where the hell was he?

Ward searches for his son upstairs. He makes his way inside Rafe's room. His son wasn't there, the only clue being left is his phone tossed aside on the bed. Knowing Rafe, he'd never step outside the house without it. This time there's another shrill cry, more audible is heard coming from behind Rafe's bed. It sends shivers down his spine. Ward pulls it back, revealing the vent connected to it. He knows where it leads to.

See, the Cameron estate held a few secret rooms. One of them had been in his office. Another in the library, and the last room being an underground storage unit, built years ago by the first owners. He makes his way to the basement, where the entrance to the bunker was. To his surprise, there was a faint light at the end of the staircase. Finally, the voice halts. Whoever this intruder was, they're certainly not welcomed to squat in his house.

Ward picks up a lamp left at the end of the stairs. He follows the faint noise until he reaches the source. For a moment, they sound like Sarah's until he listens more closely, no, he was sure they were yours. But how? You'd been missing for months. He shines the light at the silhouette. His burning question finally being answered. That night their family joined your search party, everyone had been there. All except one.

Ward knew he should've spotted the signs. He knew something wasn’t right when his son of all people suggested that you, his old classmate, work with them. It wasn’t like his son to help hire employees. Let alone a housekeeper. He should've kept more distance between the two of you. That night, Rafe was supposed to pick you upand he did. The housekeepers who had left for the night. So there was no one who saw him dragging you down the basement stairs. During all these months he'd been cooped up down here. All this time, Rafe knew.

Ward didn't want to admit it. If he could just sweep this whole incident under the rug, then maybe it would fade within time. But there you were, sobbing, rocking yourself back and fourth. He notices you were holding something. A bundled blanket. It starts moving. That's when he realizes there was no turning back from the damage Rafe had done.

A small fist raises in the air as the babe cried out for its mother. You were nearly drained, your face losing color as each minute passes. Drenched in sweat and still sore from the after birth. There was no time to spare. Ward had to think, and he had to think fast. Out of all the things Rafe could get himself in, why? Why did he bother someone like you of all people?

You were a good kid. You made everything around you better, and in a way, more complete. Ward noticed the way his son used to look at you. He should've stopped this sick obsession before it could take root. Never in his life would he predict such an outcome. You look up at him with pleading eyes, “P-please…please help us!” A small cry came from the covers. At that moment Ward realizes his son had gotten himself into something he couldn’t reverse.

What you had suffered was unfortunate, but he couldn’t risk losing everything he’d worked hard for. "P-please Mr. Cameron h-help me you have to hurry before he comes...!"

He throws on an act, "Honey, who?" Approaching you with fake concern.

"I'm so sorry I should've stayed far away--I should've never gone in his room if I knew he would--" you can't help but get choked up. Ward gently held your shoulders as he pulls you in for a hug. After a moment you gather enough courage to look him in the eyes, "It was Rafe. All along it was him!"

Ward felt horrible for what he was about to do, "Oh sweetheart..." he picks up the lantern and takes a step back, "I can't risk losing my family because of one mistake,"

That's when your entire world came crashing down. As if your heart had broken into a million pieces. This was the man who had watched you grow up with his children. Who you thought embraced you as one of his own. He sighs, "It's a small sacrifice to protect my family, I hope you'll understand now that you have one of your own," He makes his way up the stairs, ignoring the echoes that bounce off the walls as you plead, scream for mercy.

You let out a final shrill cry, "I hope this follows you for the rest of your life! Like a curse, I hope this haunts you for the rest of your life!" It was the last thing Ward hears from you before leaving. He meets Rafe at the entrance. His son drops the medical supplies in hand. He had had been sporting a fresh bruise on his face. One of the many you'd given him during these past months. Even now at your at your most vulnerable form.

Rafe had the audacity to look at him as if he'd just killed someone. Ward sighs, "Care to explain?" giving his son a moment to find the right words. Rafe isn't phased, not even in the slightest. He's not upset that he'd got caught. He's more nervous that his father found out about a the kid he had behind his back.

Rafe looks his father dead in the eyes, "I love her," smiling at his proclamation of 'love'. it was at that moment when Ward felt pity for his son. He should've known better when Rafe decided to go under the radar. Nothing good ever came from it.

As mad as he was, Ward couldn't blame the child born from such circumstances. So, the Cameron men decide to hatch a plan. Later that summer, the Camerons decide to hold a grand solstice celebration at their manor, inviting almost every single Kook in the area.

They decide to hold the event at their house. It was a coverup plan. An excuse to show off their newest renovations, which indirectly helped cover their tracks. A perfect distraction for the Cameron ladies of the house. Ward let them redecorate the inside in preparation for the party. It gave Ward and Rafe time to rearrange the old vents away from the noisy basement. All while Rose and the girls were kept busy with the décor.

During the event, Rafe took his time introducing his son to each and every last member of Kook society. The whereabouts of his mother seemingly out of the picture, abandoning her own child and leaving Rafe a single father. They took pity on him and the situation he'd been forced in. Rumors spreading that he'd been seduced by some lowly Pogue. He decides to step up into the role and embrace fatherhood, playing hero for safe face. Of course the Kooks ate his story up. Who doesn't love a happy ending?

Ward sees his son selling the story and can't help but feel much more relieved. Way more than he had been in months. But just to be sure, he kneels down to the nearest vent and places his ear against it, nothing. He hums a tune before downing his champagne. There would be no more 'hauntings' coming from the Cameron house.

[givemeonereason]

Meditations: First, the Friend and then, the Son

Part 1 Part 2 Part 3

Photo Credit: Here

Dragon Ball Masterlist Givemeonereason Masterlist

Rating: SO MANY FEELS

Plot: Krillin seeks out Gohan to get some more information about the girl who lost her "Piccolo." A warmth between friends and family.

A/N: Hello, and thank you for patiently waiting for me to write up this next installment. I kept saying I was writing and I kept pushing it aside. Depression is so real and writers burn out is really real too. I think I just overdid it.

I'm so excited and happy that this series has taken off. Seems like there really is an audience for Piccolo. And he deserves it! I'll keep it going for as long as the story needs it. Tall, green, and handsome love for all.

╒══════════════════════╕

The police speeder came to an abrupt halt outside Son Gohan estate.

When Krillin gingerly unhooked his regulation helmet and hung it from the handlebars of his unit, the elderly man who was tending to flowers in the garden was swiftly walking towards the main house.

After he disappeared through a side door a kind-looking, middle-aged woman came out to greet him.

"Good morning, sir." She bowed her head politely. "To what do we owe the pleasure of the local law enforcement?"

The formality of the situation made Krillin perk up his shoulders. "Sorry, ma'am I need to speak with Gohan. Do you know if he's around?"

"I believe he is in the library." She turned on her heel. "Please follow me."

What seemed like an endless amount of stairs for a pair of small legs, the door to the library was ajar. Gohan was buried among several piles of books, a laptop, and three mugs, which presumably had an unknown concoction of caffeine.

"Gohan." Krillin called out to him as he walked towards the desk, but Gohan only pushed his glasses up the bridge of his nose. He scribbled vigorously at the notepad before him.

"Gohan?" Krillin repeated with a little more oomph. Gohan began to mumble to himself.

with the help of prefectural flora cultivation, this can provide direct resources to the habitat of-

"Gohan! Snap out of it."

Gohan shook his head and blinked his eyes a few times while readjusting his thick black frames. "Whoa, Krillin I didn't see you there."

"Obviously..." Krillin rolled his eyes.

"Gosh, how long have you been here." Gohan finished the sentence he was muttering and almost stabbed the notepad when he poked the paper at the period.

"Well, I've been trying to get your attention for a few minutes now."

"Okay, I'm sorry I'm on the verge of a breakthrough here." He picked up a large blue mug and took a swig, only to spit it back into the glass. His face contorted when he tried to wipe his tongue on his sleeve.

Krillin had picked up a book nearest him and flipped through a few pages. "Cognitive Ecology of Pollination: Animal Behaviour and Floral Evolution." Too many words. He set the book back down and crossed his arms. "This might be out of left field, but have you seen Piccolo lately?"

"Not today, no."

"No, I just mean recently. There is something fishy is going on. I don't know if you know about the girl?"

"There's a girl?" Gohan took a sip from a different mug garnished with a Satan City logo. He set that one down quickly. "Did Piccolo do something to a girl? I'm not sure I understand."

"That's what I'm trying to find out." Krillin took a seat in a wooden car adjacent to the large desk. "This is going to sound odd. Considering we've seen and experienced some very odd things in the past, this one is hard to place when it comes to weird."

Krillins folded his hands and relaxed his shoulders. "Well, here goes. Long story short; I got a report of a girl screaming on a hillside about an instrument. When I went to investigate the girl said she lost her piccolo. I put two and two together and figured she might be talking about our Piccolo. So when I went to The Hideout to ask Piccolo about this girl, he got defensive and said he did something to her. And I think he couldn't forgive himself, or I don't remember fine details."

Gohan sat for a few moments in silence thinking. "Do you know this girl?"

"Never met her a day in my life...until I spoke with her."

Gohan scratched at his hairline, pushing the rouge tuft of hair out of his face only for it to fall back down towards his eyes. "Piccolo hasn't said anything to me about a woman." His shoulders were undulated with confusion.

Before Gohan could circle the same conclusion, he spoke again. "Whatever it is, he seems to care enough about this girl. You know him. He's a pretty unfazed guy. Very serious. Not too emotional, or softish. You know what I mean."

Gohan reached out for the last mug on the desk, hesitating before grabbing the handle. He stared down at the contents swirling around in contemplation and decided against it. The mug clanked against the desk surface as Krillin's pleaded with him.

"I was kind of wondering if you would go talk to him? He practically demanded I leave The Hideout when I pressed the issue. If he's going to talk to anyone it's got to be you. You're practically his son."

The last bit made Gohan chuckle. "I don't know Krillin. If he didn't want to talk about it, maybe we should just leave it alone."

Krillin stood up and walked towards Gohan. "Could you just at least try. If he doesn't open up to you then I'll let it go, okay?"

"Okay, okay." Gohan stood up, pressing his palms against the armrests of his chair. "I'll go to talk to him tomorrow morning. I'll call you when I get back."

Krillin smiled widely. "Thanks Gohan. I just think, you know, he does.. has done so much for us that we can try and help him too sometimes. Even if he says he doesn't want it."

═══════════════════

When the morning light touched the western side of The Hideout, Gohan walked through the threshold Piccolos room. “Hey, Piccolo.”

Piccolo turned towards the similarly dressed young man, putting down the small, leather bound book in his hands on the small desk beside him. “Gohan, what brings you here this early.”

Gohan stretched his arms, his elbow popping loud enough to warrant a light echo. He laughed with some embarrassment. “Well, I guess I’m just a little rusty. I was wondering if we could spar?”

The upturned smirk told all Gohan needed to know before the two of them were passing blows hovering over the ground far below them.

One after the other, fists flying, blocking, dodging, power surging. Time was passing as the sun arched across the sky, but it only felt like moments. The adrenaline of the fight.

When Gohan began to tire slightly he landed a singular hit that propelled Piccolo back that anyone with even the best eyesight wouldn’t have seen. The super Sayain gives his all in the last throes of battle.

Piccolo gathered his equilibrium, and wiped the blood staining his lip against his forearm. He laughed as he landed on the grass below them. “You say you’re rusty, but you still got it, kid. You just got to put your mind to it.” He gently patted Gohan’s head, shaking his hair lightly.

Gohan plopped down to the ground and lay sprawling, taking in breaths. Piccolo sat down near him cross-legged. "I still think you have it in you to be the strongest, Gohan. But you've got a family now and your studies. You have more important battles to fight than just with your fists."

Gohan put his hands behind the back of his head. "I get discouraged sometimes. Everyone chastizes me for not keeping up with training. I'm 'a shame to the Sayain race,' or 'If only he could have---'" He shook his head. "Sometimes I wonder if Dad is still proud of me, even if my progress is strictly academic." He pondered on the thought. "It really doesn't matter, does it? Between Dad and Vegta there won't be anyone as strong. There won't be anyone who can't save the world." He looked over at Piccolo. "You're pretty strong too Piccolo."

Piccolo let out a deep, humph. "You are still stronger than me. And I only get involved when I am needed."

"Right. Why should we constantly have to be ready for a threat that might never come?"

"They always do."

Gohan sighed, closing his eyes. "Well, if they need me I will always be there. I won't let anything happen to anyone. Not after all the things we faced before."

The subtle sounds of nature became more apparent with this silence. The shallow sounds of breathing between them. Piccolo looked off into the near distance, his voice calm and relaxed. "If it accounts for anything, I am very proud of the man you've become."

Arms were tightly wrapped around. "Thank you for never giving up on me Piccolo."

Piccolo smiled to himself as Gohan sat down next to him. "I've been meaning to ask you something. Do you have a girlfriend?"

"A what?" Piccolo's voice turned deep again with seriousness.

"A girlfriend. You know, someone who you like and date." The look in Gohan's eyes was hopeful and sweet.

Tch- "I know what a girlfriend is. Why are you asking me this?"

"Well, Krillin stopped by and---"

"Not this again. Did that small man send you to do his bidding?"

Gohan got up and followed Piccolo when he began to walk away. He shouted, "I told him to stay out of it."

Gohan picked up his pace to meet the Namekian. "I don't even understand what Krillin was saying. But I wish you would just tell me what's going on. If not, you know he's going to get my dad involved."

Piccolo stopped and grunted. His arms crossed in defiance. Anything but Goku getting involved. Piccolo will NEVER hear the end of this. And if Goku makes a big deal out of this, it's everyone's problem.

But it's just his problem.

He stood quiet and tense. Gohan stood beside him stretching his legs and preparing to leave for home.

"I--" He started and stopped.

Hmmm, Gohan turned towards him.

"I don't even know how it happened. She came out of nowhere. Day after day, she prodded me with questions about myself. She sat with me as I meditated. She wasn't frightened of me." Piccolo was speaking so fervently and fastidiously that he was almost out of breath. "And I didn't know why or what to do. So I tried to show her that she shouldn't be so curious. I tried to scare her. I tried to stop her from coming around." His arms were tight against his chest. His chin pressed down into his collarbone.

Gohan watched Piccolo in awe. He's never seen this man act in such a way. The sorrow within the tightness of his shut eyes. The deep purple across his cheeks. Piccolo usually being a towering man, now pulling inward at his middle.

Gohan reached out and hugged him again. "Okay..." He looked at Piccolo, who bent his shoulders, which would normally be difficult to see over his shoulder pads. "Okay." Gohan's hand on Piccolo's forearm. His voice was so sweet and kind. "What did you do to scare her?"

Piccolo only took a deep breath. His booming voice was now almost a whisper. "I picked her up and took her in the air, flying. I flew and made myself out to be like another version of myself. I tried to make myself into King Piccolo." He's bent over near Gohan's shoulder, and Gohan lets him rest his forehead. "I made myself into something worth being frightened by. I didn't want her to trust so easily because she can easily become fodder like so many others have." His voice was almost nonexistent. "I could have killed her."

"But you didn't kill her, right?"

Piccolo shook his head. "But I could have."

"You didn't though. Sure, you could have maybe got your point across in a different way, but she's alright, right?"

"The look of terror in her eyes. The tears. I don't know why-- why I went--"

Gohan could hear the choked sobs before he pushed Piccolo back to face him. "Piccolo, I have known you my whole life and I've never seen you like this. You're like a whole different person. Usually, you're a very reserved guy, but I know these types of feelings. You must care a great deal for this girl. You're beating yourself up over the smallest thing." Piccolo kept his eyes closed shut, but his head lifted slightly, his arms relaxing as much as he could muster. "Hey, at least you don't explode or anything. You don't resort to your power because a lady is hurt or in danger. Blame it on the Sayain blood.”

Piccolo tried to straighten up and fix his posture. He wiped the tears that escaped from his eyes against his sleeve. Swallowing down his feelings deep into his chest.

“Piccolo, you’re allowed to have feelings like everyone else. Look at Dad, he’s an alien and he’s insane half the time.” Gohan laughed. “It’s okay to care about something for once. I know you care about me, about my family. But you can also care about something for yourself. If you care that deeply about this girl then I think you should talk to her. I think you should set things right between the two of you. Even if nothing comes of it and you just get closure.” Gohan pointed to Piccolo’s chest, pressing down into the fabric of the Namekian’s purple Gi. “If for all of us, but just for you.”

Gohan turned and started to walk away, calling over his shoulder. “You don’t need to bare the weight of this on your own. We’re always here for you. This is just a different type of fight.” He began hovering over the ground. “I have to get home before Videl gets angry.” He laughed. “Responsibilities.”

Piccolo could he his voice fading as he flew away. “All you have to do is try, Piccolo.”

Piccolo stood there, silent. The weight in his chest was still heavy. Do I care about this woman this greatly? He pressed his palm firmly against his chest, his cape flittering in the wind behind him. A heart beating strong behind his fingers. Is this love or understanding?

What I was once so sure about, I am at a loss.

Who do I want to be now?

(Just an extra reference photo here of our precious, green boy) Credit

╘══════════════════════╛

© 2024 givemeonereason

Don’t steal other people’s works! Respect creators!

Reblogs and likes appreciated :)

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[kaylinababy]

Longing For More [ii]

⤷ Uzui Tengen x Fem!Reader x Rengoku Kyojuro

♡ portal ♡ demon slayer ♡ series ♡ words: 1.7k | reading: n/a

tags fem!reader, slow burn (not kidding in the slightest), angst central, smut (other parts), emotional cheating, fluff, depression, manipulation, maladaptive daydreaming. (lmk if i missed any!)

The laughter from downstairs woke you out of your slumber, as you notice a pillow was replacing Tengen. You smile to yourself as you hurriedly bathe and head down, ready for your day at the Rengoku Estate. The other wives all wave at you with smiles as they were preparing breakfast. You appreciate that if you are taking care of others, they take care of you. Tengen is sitting at the table, arms stretched as he pouts, wanting a hug. You walk over quite slowly and give him a kiss on his cheek before hugging him tightly. “y/n, my love, I need more than that! Too boring for me” He brought your chin close for a short kiss. As you back up he goes to bite your lip and you swat him away, both giggling. Hina walked in and pinched your cheek as you smile at her.

Makio brought out chopsticks and a basket, and bent down for a hug as she said “Good morning! I made extra bread for the boy” referring to Senjuro. You nodded and smiled, smelling the sweet scent. “How kind!” You exclaim with stars in your eyes. It was joyful when all the girls were interacting like one unit. “I hate how you have to go so far… so often” Suma says as she brings your plate. “I just enjoy their presence. You all should come with me one day.” You say with a bite.

Finishing your tea, you make your way to a bin near the front door as you overhear their complaints about leaving the comfort of the estate. You steal a glance at Tengen, as you notice the way he’s looking at the other wives. The look of admiration on his face as they discuss and try to make the others see their point. He suddenly stands up and walks over to you as you grab your hairpin to push your hair to the side.

"Take care, my love." He barely whispers and holds your hand as he slides a ring from the bin onto your finger. He sure enjoys marking you guys in his own way every time someone leaves. The carriage is stationed outside, and the girls are all waving from the front door. Tengen pushes your hair behind your ear and cracks a smile. “Send Kyojuro my regards” as he helps you into the seat. You nod, getting into the carriage and smiling at everyone as you start moving.

This part makes you so tense. Your hand reaches to knock on the main door to the Rengoku Estate. You brace yourself to be tackled by Senjuro, but are surprised when Kyojuro is there with his signature smile. "Good morning, y/n! Come in." He says in a soft voice. You bow before you enter. “It’s nice to see you, Kyojuro. Tengen sends his regards.” He nods "Oh, no need to be all formal with me. You’ve helped so much, I don't think the bowing is necessary." He laughs and smiles warmly at you. You look around curiously “Where is Senjuro?” Kyojuro closes the door and leads you into the kitchen. “He must still be sleeping” He wonders off to check on him. You get started on tea and breakfast for Kyojuro and Senjuro.

After a while you hear Senjuro’s fast footsteps and immediately put down the cups just in time for a hug. “Mornin’ Sen!” you bend down and ruffle his hair. The boy smiles at you sweetly. “Morning! You’re here early!” he walks to the table and sits. Kyojuro enters the kitchen “What should I do?” You get startled and avoid eye contact. “Well, nothing. Its my job today to handle things-” He cuts you off with a determined look “Nonsense! If I’m able to, I can help. You have helped my brother so much, and I’m home today” he looks at you with a genuine smile. You face him and grin. “Alright, take these cups to the table and bring Sen his bread.”

You grab Shinjuro’s cup and head to his room, placing it on the table next to him as you tell him good morning. Before closing his door you hear a grumpy greeting as he reads his book. On your way back, you notice that Kyojuro’s plate is moved to the table without you doing so and smile to yourself.

Your mind starts to wander as you see how Kyojuro acts with his brother, patting his back after he rips some bread for himself. ‘Tengen is a statue, me and the girls are always doting on him, and he’s sweet when he notices efforts, but how many efforts until I feel like less of a maid with benefits’ you think to yourself. You picture how Kyojuro looks at you with gratitude for handling the domestic work, and even- “y/n! Kyo said you allowed him to have some of my bread?” You walk up behind them and grab the loaf, “I did, and now that you mention it, I’ll take some, too!” Ripping yourself a piece, you split it in half and offered the other piece to Kyojuro, who took it with a grin towards his brother, leaving you both laughing as Senjuro pouts while eating. Eventually he finishes his breakfast and excuses himself to go buy some fruit, while Kyojuro is finishing his tea.

You glance at Kyojuro to see him already staring at you. “Every meal of yours never fails to make my taste buds sing, delicious!” You blush and look down at your thighs, “Thank you, it’s the best I can do. Is there anything else before I sweep?” He paused in the middle of taking another sip, clearly thinking of something. A sparkle of joy landed in his eyes, and a huge smile appeared. “I need you to help me plan something!” He leans in closer at a respectable distance, and tells you about Senjuro’s birthday coming up, and what his favorite meal is.

It makes your eyes water to hear that only Kyojuro celebrates his big day, and now he wants you to join in. You look at him with worry “But this is a family moment, and I think that I can only go so far in planning everything.” Kyojuro quickly interjected “y/n, my brother adores you, and” he paused to look you in the eyes, brows furrowed “ever since you started helping us take care of him, he is more joyful. It would be a shame if you couldn’t taste the amazing food we will prepare together, as well!” His face is so bright and cheery, did you hear correctly? “Alright, we will make this celebration a memorable one, for Sen’s sake!”

You felt lightheaded. The imagery of you and Kyojuro cooking, and it leading into a flour fight, and Senjuro joining, and you guys ganging up on him- your breath hitches in your throat as Kyojuro touches your arm. “I’ve started making a list on what we need, and I’ll depart as soon as he comes in!”

“Alright then” you spoke quietly, a blush creeping up your cheeks as you smile at Kyojuro, who you swore had a hint of pink before clearing his throat and staring at his notes. Senjuro’s footsteps are heard and Kyojuro moves his hand away. You get up to grab the broom and step onto the patio, as Kyojuro rubbed his brother’s head before stepping out, sparing you a glance and muttering about getting his father some beverage loud enough for Senjuro to hear.

You stare at him walking away, and wonder if silent confidence like what he has is more desirable in a man. You feel guilty. Tengen has his moments, but you must be patient. It’s 4 of you now, plus Tengen. It still isn’t right to introduce well meaning men such as Kyojuro into your fantasies, even if he would make a great father, and his maturity and cooperation is desirable as well, his calmness and-

Once the patio is clean, you enter the kitchen to prepare dinner in advance in cute bento boxes before you take your leave, honestly excited about celebrating Senjuro’s birthday as close you can, the next time you’re due to be here. Starting to seal up the bentos, Kyojuro enters and pops up next to you, smiling with his eyes closed with two bags of groceries. “Another satisfying meal in the works! It smells amazing!” He exclaims. You look at him eagerly, “Tastes amazing, too! It’s two simple dishes, I hope you understand.” He looks at you in surprise. “I would enjoy even a grain of rice, y/n.”

To hide your blush, you grab the rice ball you were going to take home and try to hand it to Kyojuro. You remember he’s holding the bags and move your hands up to his mouth, looking at his lips a little too long as he laughs loudly and bites a good chunk of the rice ball before putting the grocery bags on a counter. “Mmm, wonderful” he whispers as he passes his hand on the top of your head. He moves all around the kitchen putting the groceries away, showing you what combinations are possible for Senjuro’s special day, then stands behind you, watching you packing the bentos.

As it’s time for you to leave to your own estate, you look at Senjuro and Kyojuro with a hidden sense of sadness. “Alright guys, it’s time for me to leave…” Kyojuro is mumbling thanks for doing individual chores, while Senjuro runs, planning a hug attack. “Don’t go! It can’t be time yet, can it?” Kyojuro stands up to get him off of you, as he continues pleading, “Sleep over… or watch me train longer!” You and Kyojuro are laughing as you step down the front path, and it dies down as he reaches for your hand to prevent you from going further into the cold breeze outside.

Your heart drops as you realize that Tengen once again had not called the carriage as he usually does. You look to Kyojuro as his brows are furrowed and he avoids your gaze. He calls you inside to wait as he finds you a trusted rider. The way back is painfully quiet, and your eyes go dim as you recall how embarrassing it all was. The estate is on the horizon: bright, and some of the shadows inside seem quite lively. You panic as you dismiss the carriage and reach to open the front door, uninterested to know what’s happening inside.

kaylinababy please do not copy | ty for the ♡ & reblogs!

[voidpetrova]

summertime sadness — isaac lahey x reader

you can find part 1 here

☄. *. ⋆

content warnings and genre: swearing, drinking, borderline cheating — angst, fluff

˚ ༘♡ ⋆｡˚

synopsis: your summer fling with stiles had come to a cold, harsh and abrupt halt. what happens when both of you come to your senses? when emotions clash with logic, late confessions with patient ones?

i got that summertime, summertime sadness

su-su-summertime, summertime sadness

got that summertime, summertime sadness

✧.*

some people call it burying the hatchet. the phrase is an allusion to the figurative or literal practice of putting the cessation of hostilities among or by native americans in the eastern united states. some call it making peace, to end a quarrel. in latin, they call it “sepelite securim”. letting bygones be bygones. a lot of people in beacon hills chose to stick with their more traditional senses, inabilities to smoke the peace pipe.

however, you didn't fall under that category.

“what's with the smile? missed me?” of course you did. you had limited access to different varients of information, but you knew one thing for sure—you were falling in love with him. how could you help yourself? you turned around to face, him leaning against your locker as you locked eyes with his green ones. “don't flatter yourself.”

he couldn't help but smile back as he placed his hand next to the side of your head. ever since you and stiles clashed, the pack had started to gain a sense of developing tension. you and stiles spoke only when mandatory, lydia couldn't meet your gaze, almost as if she was ashamed, maybe even angry. scott, no matter how much he loved stiles, remained neutral and unbiased. he had offered to console you alongside allison on numerous occasions. derek didn't really care, he was all too familiar with the drama entangling teenagers brought up—he chose to stay out of it, but he knew stiles was in the wrong. out of everybody, isaac had been spending the most amount of time with you. he knew how to set aside his own feelings in order to help you sort out yours, and he was very patient with it. in the long run, his patience and hard work seemed to have paid off.

a generous amount of people have taken notice of your blooming relationship with isaac, and that same generous amount of people supported the two of you. they took notice of the way you would hold isaac's hand to calm him down whenever he got angry, how you would give it a tight squeeze when aiden and ethan walked by. they took notice of how he looked at you—those were the eyes of a man in love.

however, you couldn't please everybody.

“this is blasphemy,” scott couldn't help but let out an exasperated sigh at the words of his best friend. this certainly wasn't the first time stiles chose to spit out venom, disguising it as sarcasm and shits and giggles. “is there no school policy against public displays of 'let's make stiles throw up'?”

stiles huffed as he leaned against scott's locker, his best friend watching him with such concern, you'd almost think the annoyance departed. he squinted as if he was trying to read your lips, tilting his ear towards you and isaac in order to get something. anything. with a sigh of defeat, he rolled his eyes.

“you know, i actually just got a really good idea,”

“no kidding, stiles has a good idea?”

“yes, asshole. unlike some of us, good ideas come naturally and not through supernatural claws, fangs and blowing pigs' houses down.” scott shot him a glare. whatever it is i said about the annoyance making a departure, i take it back.

“what's this great idea of yours?” stiles huffed, turning to face scott estatically, as if he knew his idea would be shot down. “could you put your alpha echolocation crap to use and help me eavesdrop for a quick minute?” scott thought of you as his sister, he really did. no matter how much he cared for stiles, he couldn't defend him for the things he did and said, which is why he was so hesitant to oblige. at the same time, no matter how much stiles chose to deny it, he knew you made him happy. he knew lydia was just someone to fill in the blanks, because it made more sense— it was the way things were supposes to be; him and allison, stiles and scott. unfortunately, scott was, at times, very biased. this was one of those times.

in a second, everybody else's voices were drowned out. the sound of your laughter filled his ears as he focused all his attention onto you and isaac. he could feel the way stiles tensed up—he couldn't hear the things scott heard, but he could see just about the same. he watched the way isaac tucked loose stranda of hair behind your ear, the way you two held hands. most importantly, the way you looked at him. it was similar to the way you used to look at him, he only wished he hadn't been blind to it then. now, everything was crystal clear. so clear that it made his stomach churn.

“they're going out tonight, they're going to bar next to jungle,” scott paused for a moment, as if he was questioning what he had heard. “jungle, as in the gay club?”

stiles shot him a disapproving look. “no, the amazon,” scott met his look with such annoyance, anybody would've expected him to punch him. “it's 2011, scott. get with the program.”

if he hadn't been so focused on your conversation, stiles would've ended up with a foot in his ass. “why are they going there?” stiles asked him, this time, without provoking annoyance. “it's a first official date sort of thing,” scott explained as he listened further. “he's taking her out, just the two of them at eight tonight.” stiles knew he owed scott for this one, but he couldn't have been more grateful.

“whatever plans you had tonight, cancel them.”

i'm feelin' electric tonight

cruisin' down the coast, goin' about 99

got my bad baby by my heavenly side

i know if i go, i'll die happy tonight

as you pushed open the heavy wooden door, a rush of warmth and muffled laughter enveloped you. the interior of the bar unfolded like a treasure trove of memories, bathed in the soft glow of vintage filament bulbs that dangled from the exposed rafters. weathered brick walls embraced the patrons, adorned with an eclectic mix of framed photographs and old signs, each hinting at the bar's storied past. the air hummed with the lively cadence of a jazz ensemble tucked into the corner, their melodies meandering through the space like a river finding its course. the smoky aroma of oak-aged spirits mingled with the heady fragrance of crafted cocktails, enticing the senses to partake in the evening's delights. it was a haven where conversations danced amidst the tinkle of glasses and the low rumble of laughter, a sanctuary for wanderers seeking refuge from the outside world.

isaac was gentle with you. his hand in yours felt reassuring as you crossed the threshold into the bar, the soft timbre of laughter and music enveloping you both in its warm embrace. the interior unfolded like a carefully crafted tableau, bathed in the soft glow of vintage filament bulbs that cast a romantic ambiance over the scene. as you took a seat on a well-worn stool, he offered a knowing smile, a silent acknowledgement of your presence. in this haven, time seemed to stand still, granting you both a moment to savor each other's company against the backdrop of the enchanting sanctuary.

as you and isaac settled in, the bartender, a friendly figure with a twinkle in his eye, approached with a warm smile. “welcome,” he greeted, his voice carrying a note of genuine hospitality. “what can i get the two of you tonight?” his inquiry was accompanied by a gesture towards a menu filled with an enticing array of libations, each one a carefully crafted creation that seemed to promise a delightful journey of flavors. the anticipation between you and isaac was palpable as you exchanged glances, a silent conversation of preferences and unspoken desires. with a soft chuckle, isaac turned to you, his gaze a mixture of playfulness and curiosity, as if seeking to uncover the secret to your taste. “a beer for me and a diet coke for the designated driver.” the waiter politely nodded before heading back. you smiled at him, he knew you all too well.

“i hope this date wasn't too sudden,” he mused, his eyes crinkling with a mixture of sincerity and amusement as he leaned in slightly. the soft candlelight flickered, casting playful shadows across his green eyes and light curls. his words held a warmth that eased any lingering uncertainties, like a comforting embrace on a cool evening. you met his gaze, a smile of reassurance blooming on your lips. "no, not at all," you replied, your voice carrying the resonance of honesty. “after everything, i'm only upset we haven't done this sooner.”

isaac leaned in even further, your lips almost brushing. “tonight is about you and me, nobody else, okay?” your hot breath fanned his lips as the question passed your lips. he smiled at you, before pressing your lips to yours. “that's what i like to hear.”

unfortunately, you hadn't accounted for the uninvited guests.

as your laughter mingled with isaac's, an unexpected hush fell over the bar. turning in surprise, your eyes widened as you spotted a familiar face—stiles, his expression a mix of determination and vulnerability. his sudden appearance was accompanied by the sight of scott, who seemed torn between loyalty and concern. the air around you shifted, the romantic ambiance giving way to an undercurrent of tension. isaac's grip on your hand tightened subtly, a silent affirmation of his presence by your side.

stiles cleared his throat, his voice laced with an urgency that hung heavy in the air. “i know this isn't the best time, but there's something i need to say,” his words were raw and unguarded, revealing a side of him you had only glimpsed in passing. isaac's protective stance remained unwavering, a silent shield against any potential discomfort.

scott shifted uneasily, his conflicted expression a reflection of the friendship that had endured countless challenges. “stiles is right, he has something he needs to get off his chest.” his gaze held an unspoken plea for understanding, a testament to the complexity of their motives.

the once-vibrant bar had become a backdrop to a moment suspended in uncertainty, a collision of emotions that seemed to stretch time itself. with isaac's silent dismay, you made a choice—extending empathy to stiles and scott without diminishing the connection you shared with isaac. you waited, eyebrows raised as you finally locked eyes with stiles. you had stared into his brown eyes a countless amount of times, heart fluttering and fireworks exploding in the pit of your stomach each time. you could feel the way your heart melted, similar to the candle next to your arm as it illuminated your face. this time, it wasn't like that. for the first time in a while, you felt nothing.

and stiles had noticed it too.

stiles' eyes met yours with a mixture of regret and resignation, his unspoken words echoing in the charged atmosphere. understanding seemed to pass between you in that moment, the weight of his unspoken feelings hanging in the air. with a heavy sigh, he mustered a small, bittersweet smile, the corners of his lips lifting as he broke the silence.

“you look stunning tonight.” stiles said softly, his voice holding a blend of fondness and acceptance. his words were simple, yet beneath them lay a cascade of emotions he had chosen to keep hidden. it was a gesture that transcended spoken language, a way of saying more than words ever could.

isaac's grip on your hand remained steady, his presence a constant reminder of the connection you were forging in this evolving moment. as the seconds ticked by, the tension seemed to ebb, replaced by an unspoken understanding that the path ahead held new possibilities for all involved.

the bar around you, once a haven of shared stories and tender moments, became a backdrop to an intricate tapestry of emotions that defied easy categorization. in the midst of it all, your gaze met stiles', a silent acknowledgment passing between you—an acknowledgment of what could have been, and a nod to the new paths being forged.

oh, my God, i feel it in the air

telephone wires above are sizzlin' like a snare

honey, i'm on fire, i feel it everywhere

nothin' scares me anymore

[checkoutmybookshelf]

The Circle is Reforged

Tamora Pierce's Circle Reforged books are an interesting case, because this is really where she started bouncing around in time in Emelan, and filling in some parts of story that were mentioned, suggested, or explicity referenced but not told. The books themselves were published well and truly out of chronological order, but having read them in publication order as they came out and then in chronological order on reread, I honestly don't think there's a "preferable" strategy. If you've read the Circle of Magic and Circle Opens quartets, you can explore the Circle Reforged in whatever order. However, I think I'm going to cover them in (more or less, no promises) publication order here. So let's talk The Will of the Empress.

*absolutely rampant, unapologietic spoilers for the Circle of Magic and Circle Opens quartets below the break*

This book explore the implications and consequences of Lady Sandreline being both Fa Toren in Emelan and Fa Landreg in Namorn. Our girl is practically royalty in two countries, but after she is orphaned in Hatar's smallpox epidemic, Duke Vedris in Emelan and Lord Ambros Fer Landreg in Namorn largely shield Sandry from her responsibilities as the primary landowner of the Landreg estates--which is entirely reasonable given that she is ten years old at the time.

When we get to the beginning of Will of the Empress, though, Sandry has been functionally running Emelan in the wake of Duke Vedris's heart attack and Ambros has been pointedly sending her account books for her Namornese estates. Sandry has been neglecting the hell out of those, and misses the fact that the Empress of Namorn has been financially squeezing Landreg to try to force Sandry back to Namorn.

Sandry has also been largely completed separated from Briar, Tris, and Daja for almost two full years by the opening of this book, since they went off to travel with their teachers and she stayed. She's had contact with Lark, but even that dropped significantly once Sandry moved into the Duke's Citadel.

Given all of that and two years of personal growth and change, when our four protagonists reunite in the house Daja buys for them, they collectively seize up in self-consciousness and shame and uncertainty. Plus seriously powerful ambient magic. Which literally everyone with eyes (except our protagonists) can see is a bad thing. So to kill two birds with one stone, Duke Vedris asks Briar, Tris, and Daja to go with Sandry to Namorn as basically bodyguards. The background hope is that the four of them get to know each other again and find their equilibrium.

With a lot of yelling and a distinct lack of talking, they set off to Namorn.

Which is when we really get off to the races, because the lack of talking means that Briar hasn't told the girls he's dealing with PTSD from the war in Gyongxe; Daja hasn't said she is dealing with abandoment issues, figuring out her own sexuality, and having helped kill a friend who had killed a lot of people by setting fires; Tris hasn't told anyone that she developed a skill that kills or drives mad 99.99% of all mages who try it and the whole Ghost-is-Jack-the-Ripper thing in Tharios; and Sandry...well, I love our girl, but she's dealing with a combination of inheritance and political machinations, her crippling terror of another family member dying on her watch, and the fact that she actively chose to rip three people to shreds to save Pasco's life. So everybody has big feelings and nobody is dealing with them or communicating effectively. Which, again, is a GREAT combination with the phenomenal cosmic powers.

This is a Sandry-centric book, but as we did with Sandry's Book, we also get a metric ton of the other three as well, because as they did in Sandry's Book, they're coming together as a unit. Trying very, very hard to prevent that are Berenene dor Ocmor, Empress of Namorn and her court mages, Ishabal Ladyhammer and Quenaill Sheildsman. They are trying to either recruit or get rid of four legendarily powerful mages. The recruiting goes...poorly. For a variety of reasons. The getting rid of goes WORSE.

Part of the recruiting scheme for Sandry specifically includes a himbo husband that Berenene can boss around to her heart's content. The approved suitors are Jakuben fer Pennun, who had himbo down pat, and Finlach fer Hurich, who was less himbo and more goldigging asshole with an influential uncle. Finlach ends up leaping SO FAR over the line that Berenene has to slap him down so hard that his entire life is ruined.

Then we come to Pershan fer frickin' Roth. Even if you take the Namornese tradition of kidnapping brides into account, Shan takes the whole thing to another level because his ass makes Sandry feel SAFE and WANTED and VALUED AS A PERSON before turning around and kidnapping her in a trap tailor-made for subduing even a very powerful stitch witch. Literally this man is the worst and he deserved so much worse than he got.

Overall, this book is about reconnection and remembering that some bonds are deeper than two-year world tours. It's also about seeing your siblings as their whole selves and accepting them, warts and all, because they are the people you love and who love you back. This is one of my favorite Circle Universe books, and I think it is objectively the best Sandry book and the best "all four of us are here" book in the Circle universe.

This book also objectively heavier than the Circle of Magic and Circle Opens quartets. It's still technically YA, but it's the 16-19 end of YA more than the 13-15 end, given that it deals with not only PTSD and trauma, but also sexual assault and kidnapping, so take care if you aren't in a headspace for those topics. The book will still be there, and taking care of yourself in your book choices comes first, always.

[a-legacy-not-to-be-forgotten]

SequenceShift AU Locations

Since I already covered the main cast, I figured it'd be best to tacke the setting next. They are...vastly different from the ones in UT and UTY, so let's dive in.

The Remnants

The Remnants are pretty much the Ruins/Dark Ruins of this game. They're almost identical, aside from the fact that the Remnants are based more off of Japanese architecture compared to the occidental style of the Ruins. A few monsters live her, including Chujin, who has taken residence in Ceroba's childhood estate (there's also a hidden office there, which is only accessible on Neutral/Vengeance Routes). Dalv also lives there, helping maintain a corn field that he and Chujin set up.

Lakeside

Lakeside is the Snowdin equivalent. It's pretty much exactly what the name implies and is based off of the rural Japanese countryside. My idea was it used to be a cold and snowy place before the Swelterstone was excavated to act as the Underground's artificial sun, which terraformed the place into what it is nowadays. There's a small village set up here, known for its production of honey and vast fields of flowers. Moray and Mooch are set up here, keeping an eye out for any humans who exit the Remnants, along with the Dog Warrior Auxiliaries of the Royal Rangers (aka the Canine Unit from the OG Undertale).

Sand Dunes

The Sand Dunes...are the Dunes, basically. Okay, there's a bit more to it than that. In SS, it used to be Waterfall from the original, until the Swelterstone terraformed it, too, and unlike Lakeside, it wasn't for the best. It's still livable, of course, just really fucking hot. It has a lot of dense brush and canyons that used to be rivers. The Oasis, Wild East, and Sunnyside Farm are all still around, and of course, Starlo himself is based out here.

Frostpeak

Frostpeak takes the role of Hotland. It's a tall mountainous region, which takes inspiration from IRL Mount Fuji and the Grizzlies Mountain Range in RDR2 (my boyfriend is in the process of playing the game rn so). Currently, it's the least fleshed out, storywise. I don't have much for it rn, besides an entrance to the Steamworks as well as a gift shop at the summit.

Steamworks

Steamworks is fairly identical to how it is in UTY, while also having elements from the Lab. The main difference is, since there's no CORE in this AU, it acts as the primary source of power generation for the Underground, tapping into geothermal energies beneath Frostpeak. In addition, there's also the Lower Levels expansion of the facility, which takes the place of the True Lab and houses its own secrets. Martlet, the Royal Scientist, is based out in here, along with Axis, the Guardener, and most of the robots from the original Steamworks.

New Kingdom

The New Kingdom (yeah, Ceroba's naming skills are on par with Asgore's) takes the place of New Home, acting as the Capital of the Underground. It's a sprawling city which mixes in both traditional edo architecture with a more modern metropolis. Best example I can think of is something along the lines of modern Kyoto. This location also houses the Ketsukane Palace, where none other than the Empress herself awaits the seventh human...

And that's the general summary. If you guys want any further details, feel free to poke me!

[pub-lius]

im lowkey losing count but lafayette pt. 6???

okay this is a little bit embarrassing because this part will have a lot less detail since I'm both uneducated and lazy when it comes to the French Revolution SFHKSJFHSKJ also the details about lafayette in this section are highkey boring sooo here's pt. 5 and lets get moving

In Between Revolutions

Lafayette returned home from the war in December 1781, but no one really cared because Marie Antoinette had just given birth to her first son, so they were like. "ok! anyway" when they saw him.

He didn't spend very long in France, and he returned to America to do a small little tour of the states in 1784. He stayed at Mount Vernon for a little while, which would be the last time he ever saw his adoptive father, George Washington.

I'm going to talk about slavery now. Lafayette never commented on slavery at Mount Vernon, mostly due to his reverence of Washington, however Lafayette was proactive in abolitionism. He created his own plan to purchase an island plantation where the enslaved people would work to earn pay and be able to buy their own freedoms. He and Adrienne both arranged for education programs and career options for the enslaved people so that they would be well-adjusted to society by the time they were awarded their freedom. However, property seizures during the French Revolution would prevent them from ever being freed. So, you could say Lafayette owned slaves, but you have to consider that the only enslaved people he ever purchased were for this specific project.

Also, I'm begging you to look into James Lafayette and Peter Ostiquette (Otchikeita) because I don't have time to get into their stories here but they are really interesting POC figures in early US history. send me an ask if you want, i just don't have enough patience to do the research along with all this lafayette shit

While he was in America, he helped negotiate a treaty with the Six Nations/Iroquois with James Madison, since he already had particularly good relations with the Oneida tribe. The Oneidas gave him the name Kayewla, which was the name of one of their former warriors.

He returned to France after his short visit and helped negotiate trade agreements between his mother country and the United States along with Thomas Jefferson. Technically on paper, Lafayette was only supposed to have an advisory role in these international affairs, but he just. started doing it. and this pissed off a special someone.

That special someone was, of course, John fucking "I'm a bitch to everyone and wonder why they don't like me" Adams. Btw Lafayette did NOTHING WRONG to him, he was just butthurt. Lafayette would continue to press for an official representative of France (which wasn't allowed since he was allied to both France and America) while John Adams was fired <3

Lafayette was also a little involved in the Society of Cincinnati controversy, but he followed Washington's lead by not getting too involved. He was also a part of the Republic of Letters and the American Philosophical Society. With all that along with being a Freemason, he was basically admitting to being in the Illuminati

Could you imagine if I was just like a really intense conspiracy theorist and this is how you found out? I'm not but like. that's pretty funny

French Pre-Revolution

When Lafayette reestablished himself in Paris, he was a much richer, much more confident guy, which allowed for all kinds of rich guy shenanigans. These shenanigans included, two affairs, being a karen, getting into debt, and politics! Let's talk about the politics part, because I don't get paid enough to talk about all of it.

Lafayette was elected to the Second Estate of the Assembly of Notables, which has a french name thats almost exactly the same but I'm too lazy to type accents. He had very ambitious goals that aligned with his very liberal morals, which caused him to be closely allied with the men of the Third Estate aka the rich poor people.

Lafayette would end up having a crucial role in the writing of the Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen, and a more minor role in organizing the Constitution, since he was too busy with the actual revolution!

The French Revolution Revolution

I just want to preface that, in the French Revolution, Lafayette was considered one of the leaders of the moderate party. "But pub-lius, I thought he was super radical because of his behavior during the American Revolution!" Yeah, well, little richie, you're fucking wrong. There are always bigger fish and there are always more liberal white men. Lafayette would get out-liberaled and out-conservatived by almost everyone during the Revolution, and that's why he didn't last. Basically. Pretty much.

Lafayette was named Commander of the National Guard in 178 which made his name even longer by the National Assembly, which was the first Revolutionary French government! There would be fifty million fucking more governments from now until 1792 i swear to fucking god-

If I sound stress to you, it's because this is literally the most stressful part of Lafayette's life, and actually I don't think it gets more stressful than this. I'd say Lafayette was more stressed as Commander of the NG than Washington was as Commander of the Continental Army. He was basically always running back and forth across Paris, putting down rebellions, and starting massacres because he's stupid, and organizing the Fête de Fédération, and constantly being threatened with lampposts and pikes. It stresses me out just reading about that.

After the more liberal white men took over the French government in 1792, Lafayette fled the country expecting more friendly faces outside France's borders. He was fucking wrong, he got arrested by Austrians immediately. He remained in prison for like five years or something.

What had happen was Lafayette was viewed by the powers of Europe as the motherfucker responsible for bringing the revolution to France, and they decided they needed to take the bitch out back, except not really, they just took his clothes and put him in a dirty cell for a while. Eventually, Adrienne and the girls joined him, while Georges Washington de Lafayette escaped to America to live with Alexander Hamilton. Which that is just a really American thing to happen.

This imprisonment had severe consequences for Adrienne, who would be permanently injured by the illness she and the others suffered while in prison, which would eventually cause her death in 1807, but we're not done with her yet.

Womp Womp Napoleon is in charge, and he doesn't like Lafayette, because Lafayette said he was a dictator, and that hurt his feelings, so he exiled Lafayette and his son and sons in law. So, while Lafayette was gardening in exile, Adrienne stepped up to the mother fucking plate and went into Paris every day to absolutely girlboss her way into reclaiming her family's citizenships and fortunes and KICKED ABSOLUTE ASS YOU GO GIRL I LOVE YOU.

Also I'm fairly sure it was during this time that Lafayette fucked up his leg by slipping on ice and breaking it and then it was improperly treated so his hip. rotted???? and he was in severe pain for the rest of his life. Nice going, fuckface.

Retirement and DEATH :'(

Lafayette did manage to scrap together a bit of a career after reentering France. He was elected to the Chamber of Deputies and had minor political roles along with his son, but he was more like an antique vase at this point.

He did go on a tour in 1824 and I highly recommend checking out The Lafayette Trail, where they track every place he went during this Farewell Tour!! It's so cool and I love them. I looked into if and when Lafayette came to Louisiana, and found out his fucking ship sunk on his way here FKSJFHSJ so he was stranded in the Mississippi river for a little bit which is silly.

While Lafayette was managing his estate, La Grange, he made many young friends, to whom he served as a mentor. In return, they kept him appraised of all the political and scientific developments which he was very interested in. La Grange is very interesting, since it was largely based on Mount Vernon, which if I think about that too much I'll cry.

And then... Lafayette died on May 20, 1834 at... 4:20 am. Historians won't tell you that. They don't want you to know that he died at 4:20. But I'll tell you. I'm a beacon of truth.

Also, by the way, he died of fucking pneumonia. And I'm not judging him for dying of pneumonia, I almost died of pneumonia, but i am ABSOLUTELY judging him for GETTING pneumonia. He got pneumonia from being outside in the rain repeatedly and refusing to go inside or take shelter. I got it from the same thing but I was like TEN YEARS OLD AND IT WAS HALLOWEEN, and he was a GROWN MAN WHO JUST NEEDED AN OUNCE OF COMMON SENSE. So, anyway, yeah, he's fucking dead.

this last half of his life is very rushed, I admit, but things should go a bit better with the last person on our list here. Which, by the way, prepare your ass for that. He's rapidly approaching.

[flowerflamestars]

Effloresce snippet

Hands clasped perfect- it was perfection or screaming, she just needed to hold on, just needed to keep herself steady, Nesta needed time- Elain stared back. ���Why what, Feyre?” “You,” Feyre wiped her pink nose, even her flush a thing of otherworldly, rosy exquisiteness, “You’re so angry. You won’t- you won’t let anyone help. Won’t- what you said to Rhys, what you did to Mor- we’re all on the same side, Elain.” Feyre made a horrible little noise, threw up her hands, “You wouldn’t even bring Nesta to her bedroom.” Something in Elain cracked. Her bedroom. Feyre had come to their home, to where they’d built all the while a place for her, and refused it. Slept in a cold unmade room, under the eye of some monstrous High Fae Lord, who’d told her she was the one in danger. That Feyre, an Archeron, was not safe on her own blood-sworn estate, the only bit of their birthright that could ever have saved them. It was all gone now. Everything was gone, and here Feyre was- perfect, immortal, unhurt, weeping- not asking where the hundreds of humans they were responsible for had landed. If the guards, under her own damned Court, had survived.

No, she wanted to know why Elain would reject the absurd hospitality they’d been shown. Three damned rooms, in three different gods-damned wings.

It might as well had been audible. Elain felt like the furrow should have been visible, hot blood streaming from her chest. Not blood- not simple heat- fire, alive, incandescent. Red ruddy blooming gold behind her eyes, a thousand withering blossoms overtaken into something beautiful too. It was not unlike holding, wearing that crown- it was a rupturing, utter magic, to just feel what she’d been feeling and let it out. “Nesta,” Elain kept her motion slow, precise, standing to back toward Lucien, away, safe, in control, “Told you exactly what would happen. I told you. We are not on the same side, Feyre. Do you understand?” “Hybern,” Feyre’s voice pitched, half a shout, “Will kill us all. We need to stand united. Rhys”- “Rhysand,” Lucien interrupted, all a forest shadow, suddenly both so dark and so bright he was impossibly to look away from.“Is not our High Lord.” “He saved my life.” “What part,” Fae and then some, a hiss of temper, Lucien right at the end of his rope, firelight seething off his skin with no clear source, air stinging with something harsher than smoke, “Of saving you, were the drugs, Feyre? Did he save you, by having you stripped bare before crowds? What does it cost you, to be the face of a war he cannot win? Has he not humiliated you enough?”

[unitedestatesllc]

[hazel-of-sodor]

Day 6-Summons

Traintober

Other Stories

Day 6-Special Letter

Summons

Gordon, Northern, and Scotsman met at Cronk station near midnight as the letters had asked. "Why do you think Caomhnóir called us here brother?" Northern asked. Her newly restored LNER Blue paint shone in the yard lights.

"And why by letter?" Scotsman asked.

"I don't know," Gordon said. "He normally would have asked for us in person. I wanted to introduce him to both of you."

"Because you three draw too much attention as is."

The three large pacifics all jumped as the tank engine suddenly spoke. Thomas rolled out of a shadowed siding, he appeared to be covered in soot, black from footplate to funnel.

"What happened to you?" Northern asked in concern.

The tank engine chuckled, "Nothing that won't wash off later. It's almost too easy to sneak away when everyone is looking for a blue tank engine." He smiled at the three lner engines, "It is good to finally meet you Northern, and good to see you again as well Scotsman."

"So you are here as Caomhnóir, then," Gordon said once they had returned the tank engine's greetings.

Thomas shifted anxiously, "Yes, but not in the way you're used to." He hesitated, "Now that British Railways is letting up the search for engines, it's time I let others know about some of the engines I've hidden. That way if any were to happen to me..."

"They wouldn't be lost," Scotsman finished quietly.

"Yes." Caomhnóir sagged and for a moment his true exhaustion shone through, "I have no idea if this is the right decision...but I can't keep putting it off."

"Are you alright?" Gordon asked concernedly.

The tank engine gave a mirthless chuckle, "It's been a long few years." He glanced nervously up at the blue engine, "please don't hate me?"

Gordon frowned in confusion, "I can honestly say I can think of nothing you can reveal to us to make me hate you. You have always done your best Caomhnóir."

He suddenly chuckled, "If we made it through the twenties as friends, I highly doubt anything you have done will phase me. United we stand

..."

"...Together we fall." Thomas finished, smiling softly. "Alright then, if you will follow me, we're heading up to a private estate on the Peel Godred branch. It has rail access to help with the orchid's harvest."

"Can the rails hold us?" Northern asked dubiously, "We weigh significantly more than you."

Thomas smirked in a way that Gordon knew meant a trick was coming, "I have it on good authority they'll be able to hold you three. Now come on, the 70s can only distract everyone so long."

The three express engines trailed behind the little tank engine up the electric line, in the distance Gordon could see the three class 70 electrics at the station, doubtlessly creating the distraction Thomas had mentioned.

Gordon had only rarely traveled up the electric line, so he was unsurprised when he didn't recognize the junction to the estate. The tracks disappeared through a massive wrought iron gate. Thomas gave three short bursts of his whistle, and the gate cracked open. A teen shot through the gap, hugging Thomas's buffers.

"Caomhnóir!"

The tank engine chuckled warmly, "And a good night to you as well Rhyddid."

The girl huffed good-naturedly, "I've told you not to call me that."

The girls suddenly froze at the sight of the trio behind Thomas.

She turned pleading eyes on Thomas, "Does this mean..." She began hesitantly.

"Yes. It's time they know."

"YES!" The girl whooped, quickly dashing to open the gates. Thomas puffed through, pausing long enough for Rhyddid to climb up on his buffer beam.

The three siblings followed the pair into the estate, the teen, who asked to be called Rhy, happily chatting the whole time. They finally reached a set of sidings where the orchid's produce would be loaded, allowing the three engines to line up alongside each other as Thomas pulled up to a shed at the end of the sidings.

"Hey, Sis!" Rhy called as she unlocked a door and entered the shed, "you have visitors."

Gordon could make out the sounds of a discussion within, but it was covered by the sound of the shed doors swinging open.

The inside of the shed was dark, but Gordon could make out a large shape within, almost as large as his own. Rhy stepped over to a light switch, stopping to smirk at them before she flipped it, "Surprise."

The lights flicked on to reveal a large green engine. It had four smaller wheels in front, six 6'8" driving wheels in the middle, a pair of smaller wheels supporting her firebox and cab, and a large taper boiler. She was missing her tender, but her identity was unmistakable.

LNER A3 No.4480 Enterprise smiled nervously. "He..."

Northern surged forward to crash her buffers against their little sisters as Scotsman's and Gordon's jubilant whistles rang out through the night.

It was far later in the night when Gordon finally forced his eyes away from the impossible sight of Enterprise, intact and alive. Thomas and Rhy were quietly chatting to give the siblings a semblance of privacy.

Noticing the attention, Thomas nervously spoke, "Gordon, sorry I didn't tell..."

Gordon rolled up and gently pressed his buffers against Thomas's.

"Thank you," Gordon said hoarsely. "However you managed it, however long you had to hide it, thank you."

Thomas frowned, "Gordon, I let you and Scotsman think you were the only ones left."

"To save me." Enterprise spoke up. She glanced towards Scotsman, "He wanted to reveal me when you first visited, but it was the worst of the end at that time, and the other railway was already sniffing around this line."

She looked over to Gordon, "Your red friend found me on the mainland back in 62, said he couldn't let a chance to get one over on you go."

Thomas snorted, "James dodged eight patrols to get her back. If he was that dedicated to getting one over on you he would have done so by now."

Enterprise laughed, a bell-like sound that threatened to have Gordon begin crying again.

"Caomhnóir met us at your terminus and brought me here. Mrs. Rachel and Beth wanted to preserve a steam engine so Rhyddid could grow up like they did. They had a shed built and sent word to Caomhnóir that they were ready when he found an engine in need."

She smiled at Northern, "You won't have to keep these two in line much longer, they have been working on obtaining proper paperwork for me. They hope within a few years I'll be able to receive an overhaul and join you on the North Western."

"I'm going to be her driver." Rhy stated, "I can apply to the North Western next year, and I should be able to reach the position of driver by the time she's overhauled."

Gordon smiled, "I would be happy to have you train with my crew. The experience would see you ready in time."

"I would be happy to have you as well," Northern agreed.

It would be far later in the morning when the three pacifics followed Thomas back to the mainline, more tired than when they had arrived, but far, far happier.

[millenari]

For the WIP ask game! The grief story (number six I think?)

It sounds so interesting but please don’t hurt me too bad (´∀｀*)

Luckily that one is actually not terribly sad at all. It takes place in a kind of steampunk-y au in which society revolves around non-conventional family units referred to as colonies- a group of 10-30ish mostly non-related cats who all live together in large estates. Cats who do not have colonies or are kicked out of them are referred to as 'castaways', and are usually at the fringes of society. The fic is about the jellicles as a colony. When Misto and Tugger were young, a series of Very Bad events occurred, after which Macavity had been cast from the colony (with vehemence), Tugger had been grievously injured, and the jellicles (wrongly) came to the conclusion that a missing young Misto had been tragically murdered by Macavity. The reality was, however, that Macavity has simply stolen Misto away, and convinced him that the two of them were cast out. Misto grew up as a castaway, raised solely by Macavity, until one day while traveling, Munkustrap just happened upon the theater Misto worked at, and found him there. Delighted that the kitten they all mourned for a decade had actually been alive this whole time, he dragged Misto back home. But Misto had been changed by an adolescence under Macavity's eye, and Tugger never really got over the abrupt loss of his childhood best friend, so it takes them a while to figure things out. Man that summary was long. Anyways heres the snippet:

When he finds the mettle to look up he finds Tugger staring at him again, for what has to be the third or fourth time now, and Misto can’t help but let an awkward little laugh escape from between his lips, tenderly amused and a little intimidated both.

Tugger smiles when Misto laughs, but his brows rise too. “What?” he asks.

“I just— I just— sorry, I just feel like every time I look at you you’re staring at me.”

“Sorry,” Tugger says, but his gaze doesn’t budge.

“Am I that interesting?” Misto asks, mostly joking.

“Terribly,” Tugger responds with that same near-seriousness. “I remember Jenny and Dad used to say you’d end up short, but all this time I never imagined you quite so…”

He lifts a hand roughly level with Misto’s head, smile lifting at the corners; Misto rolls his eyes, fondness creeping up his throat. So much like the annoying little kitten he remembers.

But something about that statement quirks at him. Before he can truly wonder if it’s a good idea to ask, Misto finds his mouth already forming the words. “You imagined me? As… like as an adult?”

Tugger’s brows pinch together, high on his forehead. “Yeah,” he admits after a long while, in a voice that scrapes Misto’s ears. “Pretty much all the time. I didn’t know…” He clears his throat and looks down at the blanket. “It’s just kind of surreal.”

[writing-fanics]

𝖘𝖑𝖊𝖊𝖕𝖎𝖓𝖌 𝖇𝖊𝖆𝖚𝖙𝖞 | 𝖒𝖔𝖗𝖕𝖍𝖊𝖚𝖘 𝖝 𝖋!𝖗𝖊𝖆𝖉𝖊𝖗

𝕮𝖍𝖆𝖕𝖙𝖊𝖗 𝕺𝖓𝖊: 𝕴 𝖂𝖔𝖓𝖉𝖊𝖗

a/n: used the opening of sleeping beauty as the bases for the storyteller credit goes to Disney for creating the script and the movie literally the first half of this is the entire movie of sleeping beauty

'In a far away land, long ago, lived a king and his fair queen. Many years had they longed for a child and finally their wish was granted. A daughter was born, and they called her Y/n.' The king and queen smiled joyfully as they gazed upon their newborn daughter. Her tiny cooes as she looked up at her parents. Such birth deserved a celebration a holiday so one was proclaimed throughout the kingdom.

'Then a great holiday was proclaimed throughout the kingdom so that all of high or low estate might pay homage to the infant princess. And our story begins on that most joyful day.' Many people came to pay their homage to the infant princess, on this joyful day. The castle and courtyard were filled with people wanting to gaze upon the infant princess.

'Thus on this great and joyous day did all the kingdom celebrate the long-awaited royal birth. And good King Stefan and his Queen made welcome their lifelong friend.' As the king and queen sat on their thrones. A quartet of castle trumpeters sounds off a fanfare on their trumpet and the Lord Duke begins to announce. "Their royal highnesses, King Hubert and Prince Phillip!" Lord Duke announced.

King Hubert and his son, Prince Phillip, walk toward King Stefan and Queen Leah and bow to them. Hubert welcomes his friend with open arms.'Fondly had these monarchs dreamed one day their kingdoms to unite. Thus today would they announce that Phillip, Hubert's son and heir to Stefan's child would be betrothed. And so to her his gift he brought, and looked, unknowing, on his future bride.'

'Three fairies bestowed gifts upon the infant princess. Gift of beauty, and the gift of song. The last wasn't a gift but a counteract to the spell cast on the infant. For when on the day of her eighteenth birthday, she'll pick her finger on a rose bush and die. But the good fairy instead of death the princess will only fall into an eternal sleep. Until her true love awoke her with true love's kiss.'

'The infant eventually grew into a beautiful young lady, living in the forest with the three fairies. Until her eighteenth birthday came past. '

'When hearing the news of her being betrothed she couldn't believe it. She didn't even know him. What or who he was like? She was going to marry someone she doesn't even love. Tears brimmed the young princess' eyes as she ran to her room crying. She dreamed of one day meeting her true love and now. Her dream now seemed to never become true.'

'The fairies could only shed a tear for they thought she'd be happy. To find out she's a princess and is to be wed. As night fell, they secretly made their way to the castle. A solemn look on the young princess' face. After arriving in her room she began to cry as the tiara was placed on her head. She didn't want to be a princess. She didn't want to be betrothed. She just wanted to sleep to dream.'

'She arrived in the garden following the raven walking deeper into the maze-like garden. As if she were in a trance as she followed the bird, her eyes turned a tint of green. Before stopping at a rose bush covered in red roses. She couldn't hear the cries and pleas of the fairies behind; her as she picked a flower from the rose bush. Pricking her finger on a throne and collapsing onto the ground.'

'When the young Prince Philip kissed her lips. She never woke from her eternal sleep, for he wasn't her true love. The fairies looked at each other worriedly. Eventually, deciding to leave her here in peace they couldn't help but feel guilty. After years, of living the life of the common folk to be told that you're a princess and betrothed to someone you never met and there for didn't love.'

'Legend says she remains in her eternal slumber waiting for her one true love to come and find her; if you think you might be her true love. You can find her in the old castle not far from here. No one goes there anymore for it's haunted. By the mournful king and queen, and his subjects. But be warned only her true love can get to her for her rose thorns. Are enchanted to protect her from any harm.'

"Legend says of a princess forever trapped in an eternal slumber. Waiting for her one true love to wake her with; true love's kiss. She laid at the very top of the tower surrounded by rose thorns and flowers." The storyteller said, and the children looked up at him intrigued.

"Many have tried and failed to find the tower. For it lays hidden from prying eyes. Some say it only reveals itself to those who truly believe; or those who sometimes might stumble upon it by mistake." They continue. Morpheus and his older sister Death, continue to listen in on the storyteller.

"Those who dare try to harm or take advantage of the fair princess while in her eternal slumber shall face the consequences of eternal sleep. If they prick their fingers on the thorns that encase her. Only her one true love will be able. Will be allowed to enter the tower." They continue. Looking at the crowd of people listening in on the story.

"No one knows if her true love will ever arrive. So now she’ll lay forever trapped in eternal sleep. If you listen closely the nightingales still carry her song through the night. Hoping to reach her one true love." They finish taking a bow, and the audience claps.

"What a child's story," Morpheus says, as he and his sister continue walking and she looks at him, "You don't believe in it?" She asked.

“Why, would I believe in such story. A princess trapped in an eternal sleep waiting for her one true love,” he said, looking down at his sister.

“it’s make believe a story parents tell their children.” he says.

Death on smirks, “I’d honestly thought you’d believe in it.” she says, as they’d continue walking down the dirt path.

Once Morpheus arrived back in the Dreaming. He searched through the dreams of many. Searching for the princess mentioned in the story. He heard in the town in the waking world, until he found her. The story was true, a young girl trapped in an eternal sleep.

A girl with (h/c) and (e/c) eyes; walked through the forest. Holding a basket to pick some berries in the woods. Her voice echoing throughout the woods, a blue bird flew out of its nest and towards her hearing her voice. She smiled, as she continued vocalizing to the bird. Her voice sounded like an angel a nightingale.

The birds tweet it back and she couldn’t help but giggle. Her voice was enchanting. As the animal creatures flocked towards her following her as she walked through the forest. She started humming, “I wonder.” She sang, looking at the birds.

“I wonder. I wonder why each little bird has a someone.” She sang, looking at the bird.

“To sing to, sweet things to” she sang, as she picked the berries.

“A gay little love melody.” She sang, as the birds harmonized along with her as she walked towards the cliff.

“I wonder, I wonder” she continued, longingly.

“If my heart keeps singing, will my song go winging.” She sings arriving at the cliff. She stares longingly at the castle in the distance.

“To someone who'll find me.” She sings, as Morpheus watches her sing in the distance. “And bring back a love song to me.” She finishes, smiling softly. She sighed turning around before deciding to head back to the cottage, while humming the song in her head.

Morpheus couldn’t help but be entranced by her beauty and voice. She must’ve been some kind of enchantress. How could someone so beautiful be forever trapped in an eternal sleep.

The owl sat on the stone beside her as she dipped her toes into the stream. “Do you think he’ll ever come?” She asked, looking at her animal friends. They shrugged and she looked down sadly, “It was only a dream yet it felt so real.” She sighed, her chin leaning against the basket.

“He was so handsome, so kind, so strong.” She says, looking off in the distance longingly.

“Yet it was only a dream.” She says, and the woodland animals look at her sadly.

“Maybe, one day.” She says, as she stands up from the rock and begins walking towards the cottage. She began humming the song she remembered from her dream, “I know you I walked with you once upon a dream.” She started singing, the animal creatures watching in awe.

As she danced by herself spinning around with grace and pose. “I know you the gleam in your eyes is so familiar a gleam.” She sang, imaging if she were dancing with the man from her dreams.

“And I know it’s true that visions are seldom all they seem.” She sang, as she danced in the woods.

“And if I knew you I know what you’d do.” She sang, spinning around in the forest. “You’ll love me at once the way you did once a upon a dream.” She finished. She stopped feeling the gaze of someone watching her and turned around to see Morpheus.

Her eyes widened seeing him. She hasn’t seen anyone else here before in who knows how long, “Who are you?” She shouted, looking at him he was taken aback slightly. He thought she would’ve run off terrified for seeing a stranger but she wasn’t.

“My name is Dream.” He says, and she looks at him confused. Backing away slightly as he removed himself from the shadows stepping into the light.

“You’ve been watching me haven’t you?” She asked, looking at him and his composure didn’t change he was. “I didn’t mean to startle you.” He says, and she just looked at him holding her basket of berries.

“It’s just I usually don’t see anyone out here. It’s far from the palace the village.” She says, looking at him as she avoided his eye contact. “I must be going.” She says, swiftly before turning away to leave before he could say anything.

making her way back to her cottage shutting the door behind her and locking it. once back in the comfort of her home she started humming to herself once again. her feet moving on her own as she danced across the floor. A smile growing on her face as she remembered the dance. She shared with the man from her dreams.

she could still feel his arm around her waist; as he spun her around. lifting her up into the air as she smiled happily. yet everytime she’d open her eyes she’d be back no longer dreaming.

maybe one day she’ll meet him or maybe she never will. she also dreamed of seeing the village and the castle. wanting to explore past the forest, away from her cottage.

[niffala]

Love Me Again

Pairing: Jake Jensen & Plus-size OFC (Maisie)

Summary: Jake’s back, but the Loser’s sixth member is still M.I.A.

Warnings: fluff, angst, feels, bad attempt at humor, guns, killings, mention of memory loss, post breakup, enemies to lovers

A/N: This is a sequel to You Loved Me Once. Reader insert version found here. No stealing, no reposts, no translations, no feeding to AIs. Comments, reblogs and likes are always welcome and appreciated. 

You Loved Me Once    Main Masterlist     

Clay’s unit awaited him in a motel parking lot in Adelaide. He secured their post mission rooms and returned keys in hand. "Okay, I got good news and bad news... We can all look forward to hot showers, clean sheets, and a complimentary breakfast. However, there were only three rooms available, so we will have to share.”

The responding groans of protest were expected. “Would you prefer to sleep on the ground for another night? No? So shut your pieholes.” Clay pocketed one of the keycards and set the remaining on the vehicle in front of him. “Aisha will be sharing with me. One room has a king, the other two double beds. Work it out amongst yourselves.”

Wordlessly, Jensen, Cougar and Pooch launched into a game of rock paper scissors. It had been weeks of travel, tents and living on top of one another. The victor cheered, scooping up the keycard to the private room.

“No! Come on, best two out of three.” When his friend shook his head, Jensen changed tactics, “I’ll give you that bitching crossbow I got last op if you switch with me… my watch… a hundred bucks. I’ll even throw in a foot massager, top of the line.”

“No way man. I need a night to myself. The Pooch has earned this.”

Jensen hung his head, accepting defeat. Bunking with his bestie wasn’t so bad, at least there were separate beds. Sharing one with Cougar wasn’t fun, the man was a cover hog. Jake was still grateful Clay reinstated him eight months ago. His teammates were ambivalent about him at first, but eventually everything returned to normal. Well, almost everything.

---------------

The Loser’s current operation led them to South Australia. They’d been hired by a distraught (and wealthy) father as part of a rescue team. He hadn’t seen nor heard from his daughter, Isla, in two years. She had been kidnapped by an illegal arms dealer who forced her into marriage. All prior attempts to get her back had failed. No amount of negotiation, payment, threats or pleading could sway the nefarious man to return her.

A rendezvous with the rest of the group at their makeshift campsite, plus a thirty minute drive east put the Humvees at the perimeter of the target’s estate. “Alright, you all know the drill,” Clay barked into the comms. “We get our asses in there, extricate the woman, send her back to her daddy, and take down anyone that stands in our way.”

Meanwhile their tech genius had already hacked into the system to disable the security and jam communications. Once the cameras powered down, Pooch floored it, ramming through the gate, the other two vehicles followed close behind.

“Eww... This guy’s got raptors picking at a bunch of bones and sinew on his property, always a good sign. You’d think he'd want to be more inconspicuous.”

Pooch’s face scrunched up at the image, “Pretty sure that's just a dead animal.”

Jake shook his head, pursing his lips in mock disapproval. “There's a lot of places to bury a body in a vineyard, all I’m saying. Keep the place tidy.”

“Thanks for the tip,” Aisha deadpanned.

“What do you call that… carrion, right?”

Clay grumbled from the front, “I'm close to calling it Jensen.”

“Yes, sir. I hear ya loud and clear. Shutting up…” he paused for dramatic effect, “now!”

---------------

“This whole goddamn thing’s going tits-up!” Clay had thought his team was prepared, ready to engage the moment they entered the property, but the intel their employer provided was crap. The location was more heavily armed than believed. His unit was at a disadvantage despite the extra help. Outmanned and outgunned, a few men were down and one lost within the first ten minutes.

“Well look at the bright side, we're outside enjoying some fresh...” Jensen’s quip went unfinished as he dove for cover. Incoming drones zoomed through the air spraying bullets. They must have been linked to an independent off sight system because the primary and secondary security had been obliterated. 

Jake focused the scope of his rifle, aiming at the nearest flying pest. “Here birdie birdie…” ‘Wait. That - that’s.’ Still in disbelief, he shouted, “Guys! Guys, that's one of Maisie’s drones!”

Pooch was skeptical, “How can you be sure?”

“Cause they’re like my step kids. Franny, Freddy, Felix, Frank and Foxy. It’s been painted, but that's Frank,” he insisted before taking off, sprinting toward the assailing device.

Clay eyes widened at the other man’s actions, “Jensen, you realize it's shooting at us! Stand down!” Seeing his order ignored, he screamed at the rest of his group, “Cover his dumb ass.”

Disregarding his boss, Cougar pulled out his cellphone and spoke in hushed tones to the person on the other end.

Aisha grit her teeth at her teammate while continuing to fire at their opponents. “That idiot lost his mind, now our sniper decides to make a phone call mid battle. Are you ordering a pizza?”

“Don't forget the breadsticks,” Pooch chimed in. Laughing at the increasing absurdity of the situation.

Jake removed his helmet and dropped his weapon. Frantically jumping and waving his arms, repeatedly calling out ‘Angel.’ A drone moved in and shot at his feet, before slightly pulling back, continuing to hover above him.

“Understood. Our apologies. Copy that.” Cougar hung up and waited.

The remaining drones collected above Jensen’s head. The hair on the back of his neck stood on end. However the moment he dreaded never came. The devices turned and began taking out the guards with quick precision. When only Clay’s men remained, they flew off. 

Sticking to the plan, the team continued to the manor. Wary of a possible ambush awaiting beyond the front door, in lieu of breaking it down, Clay instructed Jensen and Cougar to go through the nearest second floor windows, clear the immediate area and let them in.

Cougar nodded, but walked right through the unlocked door instead. To everyone’s shock but his, it was clear. Raising his chin toward the staircase, he proceeded up them.

“Okay, so we're just following him then?”

Clay shrugged, “Good enough for me.” He had the Losers head upstairs, leaving the rest of the group to keep watch at the entrance.

Cougar seemingly knew exactly where to go. Navigating the twists and turns of the large house with ease. Any lingering guards they came across were swiftly handled. Within the master bedroom’s closet, hidden behind sliding shelving they found a 16-point locking, bullet resistant, biometric fingerprint panic room door. 

Before Jensen could get his gear out to crack it, Cougar tapped the scanner, confirming it was off. He pulled the heavy door open, immediately shooting the two guards inside as if he was expecting them.

Jensen scratched his head. Not knowing what to make of it. “What is going on?... Are you a T-1000… What's my dog's name?”

Cougar just looked at him and chuckled.

“You laugh, but I'm legitimately concerned.”

Clay took point, announcing his entrance into the room, “Honey, I'm home.”

The occupants sat on a couch, Isla held a crying baby in her arms, wincing from her husband's hand on her thigh, squeezing painfully tight. The baby’s presence gave everyone pause. No one was aware there would be a child involved. There has been one surprise after another today.

“You lost, asshole. Now let them go and come quietly.” Clay slung his rifle over his shoulder and moved toward them, attempting to calmly apprehend the man.

The target pulled out a gun, shoving it into Isla’s side. “Stay where you are.”

“Don't be like that. This doesn't have to get more ugly than it already is.”

Seething, the man turned the gun on Clay, who discharged his sidearm, firing two shots into the arms dealer’s chest before he could blink. The group hurriedly moved Isla and her baby out of the building into one of their vehicles. Assuring the frightened woman that she was safe and going back to her father.  Pooch voiced his concern over their lack of carseat.

“Then drive extra carefully.” Clay smiled at the rescuees, “Let's get you both home.”

Riding in the second Humvee, Jake stared down a silent Cougar. He offered no explanation as to why Maisie's drones were on the property or who he had called, but it was pretty easy to connect the dots.

---------------

Hours later, Isla and her daughter were safely on their way home. At Cougar’s request, and after a stop at the motel for much needed showers, the team waited at a bar in the city. Leaving one chair empty, correctly guessing who they should be expecting.

Jake was a bundle of nerves. The hand gripping his empty glass started to cramp as he watched the door. He wondered if they had Boys II Men on the jukebox to help set the mood. ‘Would that be too presumptuous? She probably moved on by now. Has a new special someone in her life. Somebody else loving her, touching her, making her laugh.’ He wouldn’t blame her. His amnesia may have been temporary, but the damage he caused wasn't.

“You stare at that door any harder and it will burst into flames.” Aisha refilled her teammates' glass, encouraging him to relax and breathe.

“She'll be here soon, won't she? She's still coming, right?”

Maisie took a deep breath before entering the tavern. Her former teammates were easy to spot. Cougar gave her his number when she quit, asking her to keep in touch. It took a few months before she found the strength to do so. Even after learning of her exs' recovery, she couldn't bring herself to return yet. She wanted her Jakey back, but was scared of his rejection. Plus she was on assignment, the timing was off. The weight of this reunion wasn’t lost on her. “Of all the gin joints in all the towns in all the world, you losers walk into mine.”

“Well that's unfair, you walked in after us.” Grinning ear to ear, Clay pulled her into a tight hug. “Missed ya, Maise.”

“I had a few things to handle before getting here. So you beat me, but I've been dying to say it." She squeezed Clay tight before facing the rest. "I missed you all too. Sorry about earlier, I didn’t recognize you guys in all that fancy schmancy gear.”

Jake felt unsteady the moment she walked in, his blood roared in his ears. It was really her, his Angel, more gorgeous than ever. He watched her warm greeting with Clay, swallowing a lump in his throat. She was wearing the jacket he bought her. He hoped that was a good sign.

The group stood to welcome and embrace their former member. Jake waited through the exchange of pleasantries for his turn. Longing to throw his arms around his Angel and hold her close. It had been nearly a year since he’d done so. Ten months, three days and seventeen hours since he kissed her goodbye to go on that ill fated mission.

However, he noticed Maisie’s smile falter when their eyes met. Abandoning his desired hug, he forced a smile, awkwardly waved and sat back down.

“Hey Jake.” She crossed her arms, suddenly feeling self-conscious in front of her old love.

As everyone took their seats, Jensen glanced at the entrance then back at his Angel. “So are we um… waiting for anybody else?”

“Like who?”

“No-nobody. Nobody. Just wanted to make sure there was room for everybody. Everybody together again. It’s good to be together.” Jake took a long sip of his beer. His brain screamed with the knowledge that there was no boyfriend in the picture.

Maisie filled them in on her whereabouts since her departure. She’d gotten a job as private security for some rich asshole’s wife. Mostly involved keeping her in and others out. The winery was lovely, but the running of guns and heavier artillery, and the dabbling in human trafficking ruined the ambience. Of course, she knew he was dirty when she accepted the position, so Maisie did all she could to throw wrenches into his operations without being detected. Quietly dispersed his ill gotten gains into several hidden bank accounts, the biggest for Isla. She was helping the wife and baby prepare for a safe and covert escape. Simultaneously gathering evidence against the husband and his associates.

“It was all set to go down in a few days, and you guys just broke in and killed him. All that planning and hard work for nothing.” Maisie shoved Clay’s shoulder.

“Yeah, well it was the quickest way. Can’t argue that.”

“Well, I wasn’t going to let months of work go to complete waste. So I allowed you guys to be the heroes while I tied up some loose ends. That’s why I was late. Had to reroute the latest shipments, funnel the rest of the money to charities, victims and of course, a nice sum for myself. Scrubbed the camera footage and removed any evidence of us or Isla being there. Then I alerted the authorities to handle the rest. They’ll find all they need to take down the whole thing.” She took a deep breath, trilling her lips to exhale. “But I’m still mad at you about it.”

Aisha offered compensation, “I don’t think anyone here will object if you want in on the pallet of wine we rescued."

“Bold of you to assume I didn't take my own,” Maisie laughed.

After a few rounds, the Losers felt they were sufficiently caught up on each others lives. Pooch and Cougar announced they were going to play stripes and solids, inviting Aisha and Clay as their opponents. It was obvious that was an excuse to leave the ex-lovers alone.

Jake wasn’t going to turn down the opportunity. Putting on his most charming smile, he slid over next to Maisie. “G’day mate, fancy meeting you down unda. Maybe I can show you my down unda lata. I promise I'm koala-fied.” He tittered at his themed pickup line, but she didn't react. He desperately wanted to make her laugh. If she laughed, he knew things would be okay.

Trying to shake off the nervousness, he cleared his throat and continued his attempted seduction. “I like your jacket, where’d you get it?” He couldn’t backpedal fast enough seeing the alarmed look on her face. “Joke, really bad joke. Oh my god, I'm sorry. That was… Fuck,” he grimaced.

Maisie remained stiff and unsure. Wanting to give in to his flirting, but waiting for the other shoe to drop. The defeated look on Jake’s face broke her heart, so she attempted to bridge the divide with a safe topic, “How are Stephanie and Hannah?”

“They're good, they're good, um,” he scratched the back of neck, unsure how to proceed. His sister, having seen him at plenty of his worsts, forgave him instantly. His niece took a little bribery, but they were back to their usual shenanigans. “So, uh thanks for clearing the way for us back there, you know, after you shot at me.”

Her mouth dropped open, “Excuse me, I shot near you.”

“Tomato-tomahto.”

Cougar gestured with his eyes over to Jensen and Maisie, knowing he was striking out. Pooch got the hint. He called the man over and handed him his room key. Demanding he take it before he changed his mind. Jake practically ran back to the table to ask Maisie to his room to talk in private. He was amazed she agreed.

Aisha’s lips pursed watching the pair leave. “If he doesn't blow this, we'll have to put up with them being nauseatingly cute with each other again.”

“You don't want them to make up?” Clay rested his hands on her waist.

“I do,” she huffed. “Look, I don't know if I believe in that true love, princess bride, bullshit. But they are the closest I've ever seen to it... They belong together.”

“Agreed.”

---------------

The entire car ride to the motel passed in uncomfortable silence. Both anxious and unsure about the outcome of this night. Each stealing glances at the other. Jake noticed how hard her hand clenched around the steering wheel. Maisie caught sight of each time his hand reached for the radio before pulling away without turning it on.

Jake felt butterflies in his stomach as they pulled in the lot. Painful butterflies… Vampire butterflies. He drummed on his legs before hopping out of the vehicle. Maisie was quick to follow. They walked to the room without a word shared. Jake kept looking over his shoulder to make sure she was still with him. He swiped the keycard several times without success. The red light and negative beep mocking him. The twisting in his belly intensified. ‘Yep definitely vampire butterflies.’

Finally, the door flashed green and unlocked. He sauntered in, pretending to be calmer than he really was. Turning on the old Jensen charm, he bowed and waved his hand over the large bed. “Have a seat, m'lady. It’s not exactly the Ritz, but I hope it will be to your liking.”

“It's a nice room. We've stayed in much worse.” She spotted the bobblehead chihuahua on the nightstand, smiling coyly as she sat down. “So this is Pooch’s room?”

“Nah, it's mine. At least now it is.” He plopped down beside Maisie. “Sooo, how’ve ya been?”

“Good, until earlier today when I lost my job and residence cause some assholes charged in guns blazing.” Maisie sighed dramatically, “At least I can take solace in knowing Isla and her daughter are home safe. What about you?”

“I - I’m okay… most days. Um, so what's next for you? Seeing as how your life's been upended by a bunch of inconsiderate assholes.”

Maisie hummed, thinking of a response. “Well, I’ll have a lot of time on my hands, plus a bunch of money. So I'll probably make a few brothers and sisters for the F-team. Maybe one with a flamethrower.”

He turned to her with a lopsided grin. “That would be badass, like its maker.”

Maisie’s heart fluttered. He looked at her with such adoration, like she held all life's answers.  That, that was her Jakey.

“Looks like the possibilities are endless now that you're homeless and unemployed.” Jake’s eyes squeezed shut, cringing. Not meaning to sound so callous.

She snorted, “I'm sure I'll be fine. I always land on my feet.”

Jake breathed a sigh of relief that she found humor in the situation. “Definitely, definitely… But if you're interested, I know of a job opening. Fast paced, high stakes, danger… romance,” he whispered the last word, blushing. “It’s with a great bunch called the Losers. I could put in a good word for you. In fact, I'm sure the two of us could strong-arm the boss to agree to any demands we want.”

“I'd have to move back to the states.”

“If you need a place to stay, your key still works… I um, kept the house. After you quit, I kinda skipped town. Woke up in Ohio about a month later. At first I completely panicked cause I didn't know where you were or where I was. Then it hit me that I REALLY didn't know where you were… and it was all my fault,” his voice cracked, on the verge of crying.

Her head lowered, unable to hold back her own tears. ‘If I had only waited longer.’ “You must be so disappointed in me for not sticking it out when you weren't yourself. I tried, I swear I did, but it was too much. I should have been stronger and held on until you were you again. I’m so sorry, Jakey.”

“No, Angel no.” he wiped Maisie’s cheeks with his thumb. “There's nothing to forgive. You didn’t abandon me, I drove you away. I don't blame you at all. Hell, I deserved it. I was a total asshole.” Jake took a deep breath, “I was so angry… I was in pain, confused. I felt trapped with no room to breathe. Was sick of everybody telling me things I was supposed to already know. Telling me over and over to relax and let myself recover when I couldn't calm down to save my life. I kept fighting with my sister, was short with my niece, rude and snapped at everyone… And you got the worst of it… When I saw you, there was something there in the back of my mind, just out of reach. I didn’t know what it was, but I knew your presence made my headache worse. So I aimed my frustration at you and chased you off. I can't say how sorry I am.”

Maisie gently touched Jake’s head, running her fingers through his hair and rubbing small circles with her fingers. The urge to comfort him stronger than any apprehension she felt before.

Jake leaned into her touch, “It's all better now. I'm better… I wish this was a cartoon so you could've wacked me in the head again to reset my brain and stop all the bullshit I put everyone through.”

She pulled her hand away too soon. “I'm glad you're better… You really hurt me, Jake, but you have to know I already forgave you.”

His eyebrows shot up, “You have? That fast? Are you certain, I mean…"

“It took some time. Months to push through that pain, but I'd be the bigger jerk if I didn't take into consideration that it wasn't completely your fault. You literally had a doctor's note to prove it.” Maisie smiled at him, brushing away a few more escaped tears.

“So you don't hate me?”

“I could never hate you, Jakey. Do you hate me?”

“Impossible.”

“It's going to continue to sting for a while though.”

He nods in understanding. Jake got on his knees before her, taking her hands in his, his face more serious than she's ever seen him. “I need you to believe me when I say I have NEVER thought those horrible things about you. You didn't deserve any of the awful things I said and I swear I didn't mean them. You’re my perfect Angel and I love everything about you. Every curve, every line, each and every inch of beautiful skin because it’s yours. You are the most incredible person I ever met and I can't stand knowing that I made you feel otherwise for even a minute. Please say you believe me.”

“I do.”

Jake leaned in and placed a soft kiss on her lips. He couldn’t believe how lucky he was to have her back.

Maisie returned the brief kiss. This was a good start, but she was exhausted. “It’s been a long day. I don’t know about you, but I’m wiped out. Can we pretend, just for tonight, that we’re good? That everything is back to normal? We can work on us in the morning, and everyday after, but right now I just need you and unconsciousness.”

‘She wants to sleep here, in my bed, with me.’ Jake jumped up, enthusiastically agreeing. His pants down around his ankles in an instant.

Her face became heated at Jake’s sudden nudity. Maisie bit her lips, shyly telling him she was going to change in the bathroom.

Jake realized he was jumping the gun. He pulled up his batman boxers, removed his shoes and remaining clothing. He turned the toy dog around, just in case. “Sorry mini Pooch, no looky loos.”

Maisie walked out in panties and t-shirt, tugging it down in an attempt to hide more of herself as she skittered to the bed and got under the covers. Jake frowned, he needed to mend his Angel's heart, squash the insecurities he created. He scrambled up the bed, took his glasses off and sat them on the nightstand. Hesitating at the edge of the bed.

“You can come closer.”

He didn't need to be told twice, scooting over and joining her under the covers. He sat next to her, tentatively wrapping his arm around her shoulders. Intent on never leaving her side again. “Hey, tomorrow, do you want to check out this awesome mini golf course I found? Just the two of us.” The smile that adorned his face when she agreed fell. His voice lowered to a whisper, “I'm terrified of screwing this up.”

“So am I,” Maisie admitted, lacing her fingers with his.

Jake kissed the top of her head. “I don't think I ever told you.”

“Hmm?”

“The moment I knew this was it for me… Remember our first comic con together, we had that bet going on over how many people we could get to follow us doing the bunny hop around the convention center. I said five, you bet nine, and we ended up having thirty-five people in line behind us.” He chuckled at the memory. “We had Link, predator, three Spidermans, a wookiee in a bikini and just so many others. I was behind you, my hands on your hips having the time of my life. And there was a moment midjump, midlaugh, when you looked back at me, making sure I was having fun too, and I knew with absolute certainty that I was going to love you for the rest of my life. That you were the one for me and there'd never be anyone else. That hasn't changed.”

Maisie’s eyes watered, an unreadable expression on her face. Somewhere between disbelief and amusement. “I knew then too. Slowly throughout the day, then all at once in one defining moment. You were like a squirrel darting around, but you never lost me. You held my hand the whole time, squeezing it when you felt me get nervous. And when we parted for even a minute, you always found me. But the moment that sealed it was when we stopped for refreshments. I couldn't drink my water properly because of my costume and seeing my struggle, without a word, you slid behind the counter, grabbed a straw and placed it in my drink, holding it to my lips. It was something so small but so considerate. I've never had anyone be so sweet to me. I never had anyone look out for me like you did. I knew you were the one for me.”

Not trusting his voice, Jake kissed the hand he held.

“I love you, Jakey.”

His heart skipped a beat. “I love you, my Angel.” The reunited couple shared another kiss before lying down. Maisie snuggled into his chest and closed her eyes. Jake wrapped his arms around her. “Would it be wrong if I copped a feel right now?” 

She laughed, “I missed you so much.”

Jake blinked back tears. He thought he'd never hear that sound again. “I missed you more.”

A few peaceful minutes passed, her warm breath ghosting over his chest. He noticed she was trying to stay awake. Each time she began to drift, her eyes popped open to search for him. He rubbed her back to soothe her asleep. “I'm still here. I'm not going anywhere, Angel, I promise.” Jake made sure she was sleeping soundly, before he allowed himself to follow her into slumber. 

---------------

Heading to his original room to get his belongings, Pooch was halted by a hand on his shoulder. Cougar, refusing to let Jensen and Maisie be disturbed, turned his friend around and led him to their shared room.

Pooch glanced back with a frown, “I'll guess I’ll get it in the morning.”

Cougar nodded, smiled and patted his shoulder. Tomorrow was looking like a very good day. The Loser’s would be a full team once more and his best friend would have the love of his life back. He didn’t save his best man’s speech for nothing.

The End

A/N: Thank you to everyone that has read. I appreciate you all. I’d love to know your thoughts.

[ishouldgetatumbler]

There had been 14 ghosts between Amityville and Gotham. Four-fucking-teen. Danny was tired before he started his two hour flight. But he was home. These streets knew him. He tucked into an alley to transform back into Danny Fenton, tucking the fenton thermos away finally.

He walked the streets of his home. He hadn't been gone for long, but somehow he'd missed it anyway.

As he walked, he found himself favoring one foot, his heel bruised and ankle twisted on one leg. He moved through town, watching the night turn to dawn as he moved in through the edge of Amityville. It was quiet, empty and cool as the humidity hung at the edge of fog.

Danny stopped walking, and turned to face the way he had come. He could hear something, something odd. There were the sounds of amityville: humming streetlights and AC units, distant traffic where the interstate buzzed, but this was different. It grew and shaped into a rumble, deep and fast approaching.

A car, loose edges and harsh black tears up the road. It's long and flat like a limosuine, but the back flows into wing shaped fins, cutting the air in its wake. The batmobile speeds out from the pine woods around Amityville and then shrieks to a stop maybe 10 feet from Danny.

Bat-Freaking-Man steps out.

"Danny!" Batman sounds alarmed, "are you okay?"

"Batman‽"

Batman withdrew a cellphone with two small pointed ears at the top. He pressed a button and put it to the side of his head.

"I found him. He was just trying to go home."

Batman paused, and motioned danny towards him. Danny, limply, walked towards him. Once within range, Batman squatted to be eye level with the boy and shone a small light in one of his eyes.

"I know, it's not your fault. Yes, thank Mr. Wayne for his help on my behalf. Yes I-."

Batman flashed the light, then switched eyes.

"Thank you Mr. Pennyworth, I'll be in touch."

Batman hung up, and then looked back at Danny.

"No concussion, but judging by the limp, you may have sprained something on the hike here."

Danny nodded dumbly.

"Must have."

"Does anything else hurt?"

Danny shook his head.

"Danny."

Danny looked at Batman. His cowl covered the top half of his face, but his eyes shone through the mask. He had a nine o clock shadow, and smelled like new cars. He wasn't smiling, but he wasn't angry.

"Are you hurt?"

"Bruises and scrapes." Danny admitted.

"From the hike." He added quickly.

This seemed to relieve Batman, he slouched slightly.

"Good."

He straightened up and offered Danny a hand. They shook hands.

"Uhm, how do you know my name?"

Batman cleared his throat and ended the handshake.

"Bruce Wayne informed me you went missing from his estate at least an hour ago."

The word hit him funny. 'Missing.' like there was a hole in reality shaped like him at the manor.

He hadn't seen his mom in almost two weeks. Had she noticed?

"I'm sure he wouldn't be hurt if you'd rather be with your parents once all this is over."

Danny scowled.

"I don't want to go back."

Batman hummed, acknowledging this.

"Would you like to stay with me for the time being?"

Danny froze. What did he want?

His stomach gurgled in wailing distress, a furnace want of fuel.

"Have you tried nasty burger?" He asked Batman.

"Nasty burger?"

Batman's stomach, somewhat sympathetically, warbled for food. He gripped it self conciously.

Batman tutted and peeled back part of his glove, revealing a wrist watch. He grumbled something to himself and covered his wrist again.

"Do they have a drive through?"

Danny leaned around the superhero's cape to look at the batmobile behind them. Mentally he pumped his fist.

"Yes they do."