#codename extras

[otaku553]

Ok so I have been stewing this crossover au in my brain nonstop for the past few days and. I am nothing if not committed to the bit, so. Volume cover redraws :)

Here are the originals:

If you want to read more about my one piece spy x family crossover, keep reading!

So the idea is simple! Crossover reincarnation au where ASL is reborn in Spy x Family. They’re each born separately and none of them are born with the same names as their previous lives, and with no way of finding each other, they each find their own thing to do in the world.

Sabo, too used to the dangers of being a spy, eventually finds a cause to devote himself to again, in preventing war from engulfing the country he was reborn in. Ace, drawn to fire as he was in his previous life, used arson as a means to rob rich people for sustenance and survival, and is eventually scouted and hired by Garden as a fire specialist and assassin. And Luffy, though born in perhaps the poorest condition, grows up happily and takes whatever part time jobs he wants to do.

The thing about Sabo is that, as much as he seems like a young man of good repute and high standing within society, everyone in WISE knows that he is a massive nuisance. Nobody knew in the beginning how a child less than half the age of most of their veteran agents could have the same skills and knowledge in their profession. Sabo was— and still is— hyper competent, and by the time WISE figured out just how much of a menace to society he was, it was too late.

Ace forgot for the first few years of his new life that he wasn’t made of fire, and consequently, received multiple accidental burns. This did not deter him, however, from growing up to be a very skilled arsonist, well-practiced in every which way to start a dumpster fire or house fire. As a teenage he would use this often to draw attention as he robbed rich people blind. When he was caught, he was given an ultimatum by Garden: join them and receive payment for starting fires and causing problems under contract, or face the government and authorities for his crimes. Begrudgingly, he joined Garden, but eventually comes to appreciate that he can make substantial money in his element.

Luffy is Luffy. No telepathy or experimentation, no fancy schools, no gimmicks or secret identities. But he has still lived an extremely colorful life in this world, full of fascinating and kind individuals who have helped him grow up healthy and relatively happy. He goes where he is free, and he takes whatever part time jobs he wants in order to make the minimum he needs to survive.

Ace and Sabo find each other first, in their late teens, and neither of them realize that the other remembers their previous life, but both refuse to separate. (Sabo thinks Ace doesn’t remember, because Ace didn’t recognize him. Ace never saw Sabo grow up past 10, however, so he doesn’t recognize older Sabo immediately. By the time he does realize who exactly Sabo is, Sabo has backtracked and pretends to know Ace from a dream, or from somewhere else.)

Sabo’s attachment to Ace, predictably, causes problems between Sabo and WISE, but by then, Sabo is indispensable to the organization, and they make an exception for Sabo to be able to remain with Ace, so long as Ace never finds out what Sabo’s actual job is. Ace, on the other hand, hides his job because he doesn’t want his brother, who he has just found and who does not know Ace well enough yet, to know that he makes a living from killing people.

And they find Luffy sometime afterwards, prior to the beginning of the Spy x Family canon. Luffy figures out, not long after moving in with his brothers, both of his brothers’ secret occupations and the fact that both of them remember their past memories. He thinks it is common knowledge, however, and so he never brings it up.

[flowering-darkness]

I keep forgetting that Antares is her codename and she'd need a real name, hmm..

[kingofblubfish]

Welcome to My Blog

I, king of blubfish, ruler of the seven seas, sovereign of all undersea kind, emperor of the deep, am named Blubie.

I am here to speaketh of your human fandoms. I am of a kind you humans call 'a geek'. As someone who wishes to better relations between the seas and land, I have consumed much of your media. So I shall participate in these 'fandoms' I have involved myself with. Thus, you may feel less inclined to throw your garbage in my domain.

Here is a list of my current fandoms, which shall update upon my interests:

Anime

Bungou Stray Dogs

Kaiju no.8

Chainsaw Man

Demon Slayer

Jujutsu Kaisen

Fruits Basket

Madoka Magica

Yuri on Ice

Naruto

My Hero Academia

Toilet Bound Hanako-kun

Case Study of Vanitas

The Time I Reincarnated as a Slime

Games

Genshin Impact

Honkai: Star Rail

Infinity Nikki

Hades (Series)

Elder Scrolls (Series)

Obey Me

Twisted Wonderland

Five Nights at Freddy's (Series)

Manhwa

I'm Not That Kind of Talent

S-Classes I Raised

Lout of the Count's Family

Regressor's Instruction Manual

Omniscient Reader's Viewpoint

Codename: Anastasia

Greatest Estate Developer

Tyrant who Wants to be Good

Baby Tyrant

Who Made Me a Princess

Death is the Only Ending for a Villainess

The Novel's Extra

Miscellaneous

Percy Jackson (Series & Related Series)

Magnus Chase (Series)

Epic: The Musical

(OOC: This is a blog to help promote ocean support. This account will have nothing to do with real-world politics or events. This is meant to encourage environmental awareness through comedy and fandoms. You don't necessarily have to want to go to any ocean clean up site to just enjoy the content here, however. The goal is to brighten someone's day and maybe help the earth while I'm at it. So feel free to submit posts if you like. Fanfics, art, gacha, videos, edits, or just funny skits are all welcome!)

[kidsnextdoor-doodles]

Sector V + dcfdtl if they were Strawberry Shortcake characters

Nigel: Cranberry Tiramisu

Hoagie: Bubblegum Soft-Drink

Kuki: Matcha Cookie

Wally: Marmalade Pavlova

Abby: Billberry Fudge

Dcfdtl: Birthday Cake

[stabbyfoxandrew]

heard u had OCs & lore & shit… well i’m dying to know more. pretty please.

ah! the guys i was talking about were my OCs from my books and not aftg OCs (though i do have one of those too!) but if you're still inchrested i would be happy to go insane about them sometime! :D

[kxsagi]

heyyy it’s 01/05 so i wanted to request a blue lock fic with the characters finding readers jealousy adorable? with isagi, sae, rin, nagi, and others? ty!

“𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐤𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐭 𝐡𝐢𝐦? 𝐣𝐚𝐢𝐥”

a/n: if my man giggles at another girl’s jokes, i’m pushing him down the stairs

ft. isagi yoichi, itoshi sae, itoshi rin, nagi seishiro, kaiser michael, ness alexis, shidou ryusei

isagi yoichi

he’s so confused at first. like, genuinely puzzled when you glare at a waitress who calls him handsome. 

“love… you know you’re the only one who calls me that, right?” he says as if it’s a codename. 

once he realizes you're jealous, he gets all flustered and smiley. 

you pout? he melts. you roll your eyes? he giggles. you cross your arms? he starts poking your cheeks to make you laugh. 

“you’re jealous? of her? love, she doesn’t even know me like you do. you’ve seen me ugly cry after missing a penalty. she could never.” 

kisses your temple 400 times until you stop being fake mad. 

itoshi sae

you try to be subtle. keyword: try. 

but he catches it instantly. 

“you’re staring like you want to fight her.” 

cue your smug little shrug like ‘maybe i do.’ 

he leans down real close, eyes lidded and smug. “you know i only like one girl enough to deal with her attitude 24/7. and she’s standing right here.” 

he acts like he’s unbothered but the moment you look away, he has this soft little smile like yeah... my girl’s possessive. hot. 

next time someone flirts with him, he wraps an arm around your waist just to watch you smirk like that’s right, mine. 

itoshi rin

oh, he’s obsessed with it. 

you’re fuming and he’s just standing there trying not to grin. 

“you’re mad?” 

you: “why was she touching your arm?” 

him: “i mean. i do have really nice arms.” 

bastard. 

he fully uses it as an excuse to tease you. every time you get possessive, he’ll lean into your neck and mumble, “mine,” just to make you say it back. 

but if someone gets too bold, he’s not smiling anymore. one cold stare and they’re gone. 

then he turns to you like, “happy now?” 

(you are. you’re very happy.) 

nagi seishiro

thinks it’s lowkey funny that you’re huffing over something so “small.” 

“you jealous again? that’s kinda cute.” 

deadpan, lazy grin, but he scoots closer anyway. 

he starts being annoying about it. uses it as a way to get your attention. 

“someone looked at me today. you gonna kiss me or fight them?” 

but he actually gets really clingy when you’re jealous. like he’ll throw his arm over your shoulder in front of people and go, “mine,” like a sleepy toddler claiming a toy. 

and he always looks smug when you glare at someone. like, that’s his girl. look at her go. 

kaiser michael

oh. he lives for it. 

“you’re jealous? that’s so sexy of you.” 

literally eggs it on just to see you snap a little. 

“schatz, should i give her my number? you look like you’re gonna push me down the stairs.” 

he’s not going to. he just wants to see that sparkle in your eyes when you’re about to fight someone. 

kisses you all over when you get feisty. “you care about me soooo much. it’s adorable.” 

and he starts getting even more possessive back. if you get jealous, he’s clinging. arm around your waist, hand in your back pocket, whispering “mine” in your ear with that cocky smirk. 

ness alexis

ness is clingy by default. but the second you get possessive? he goes full anime blushy mode. 

someone complimented his eyes and called him “soft boy material.” 

you didn’t like that. at all. 

you pulled him away mid-conversation like “he doesn’t talk to strangers, sorry.” 

he was literally glowing. “oh my gosh. that was soooo hot.” 

“i was serious.” 

“even hotter.” 

he starts fluttering his lashes like a cartoon schoolgirl. 

“are you gonna fight someone for me? steal me away? ruin their credit score?” 

you make one vaguely aggressive comment and he’s spinning in the air like a ballerina. 

sometimes he acts extra petty just to provoke people so you’ll act mean and protective. 

it backfires. you punish him by ignoring him for two hours. 

he cries into kaiser’s shoulder and kaiser tells him to “be normal.” 

he never learns. 

shidou ryusei

oh. oh he’s INSANE about it. 

“awww, you wanna bite someone? that’s so hot.” 

he deadass starts wagging his metaphorical tail when you get mad. 

“do it. scratch their eyes out. c’mon. you’d look so sexy in mugshots.” 

you: “i am one inch from strangling you.” 

him: “kinky.” 

he loves it so much, he starts acting even more scandalous. 

“you’re mine,” you snap. 

he groans like you just proposed. “say that again but with a little more ‘i’ll ruin your life’ energy.” 

he posts selfies with you captioned “don’t touch or i’ll bite” with a smiley face. 

you hate it. he lives for it. 

“you really like when i get crazy,” you mutter. 

“baby, i like it when you get homicidal. you’re so hot when you threaten violence.” 

© 𝐤𝐱𝐬𝐚𝐠𝐢

[jadeazora]

A ton of cut content and other things that were planned:

The Pokémon Village was originally planned to be a town entirely populated by Ditto disguising as human, and you would even find disguised versions of characters of the game. (They kind of reused this for USUM. There was a Ditto sidequest from what I recall where there were some Ditto disguised as humans, and it even implied that one of the police officers you were helping was a talking Ditto that could perfectly disguise itself.)

A make your own Gym feature that could be shared online for other players to challenge and conquer.

A quick hatching facility for Eggs.

A fourth Mythical codename "Tettou" that was Steel/Electric.

Soaring was originally planned for X/Y (implemented in ORAS instead). That's why Sky Battles existed in the first place, and that's originally how we were supposed to find the Legendary Birds

Released Pokémon Evolution, once you freed a Pokémon in the wild, there's a chance it could come back having Evolved.

There was also a planned bonus to have unevolved Pokemon: raising your Pokémon without evolving them would bring an extra STAB Bonus (1.5 > 2) and Stats Boost at +30Lv after whatever level the species normally evolves at.

Your friend, likely Calem/Serena based on initial choice, was a Pokémon turned human which would later revealed in the gameplay.

Mysterious Space location where you can battle a reflection of yourself with an Identical Team.

Rhyhorn Race Minigame was planned in depth with a bunch of idea, they wanted to recreate the classic Mario Kart vibes using Pokémon Moves:

[revasserium]

chapter one: a shadow of the past

roronoa zoro; 3,225 words; angst and fluff, hurt/comfort, enemies to lovers, mostly enemies in this chapter, tragic!backstory, flashbacks, slightly canon divergent, baroqueworks!reader, no "y/n"

summary: in which zoro will always find you, even if you don't want to be found

a/n: not much to say here other than enjoy! :)

< to the table of contents

It would be months before he sees you again, months before he runs across the typeset of your codename, on a wanted poster with an obscene amount of Berry tacked underneath — more, he thinks, dully, than the last time he’d seen it.

MS. DOUBLE-NINES — WANTED — 90,000,000 BERRY.

“Agent from Baroque Works… seems like a bad lot,” Sanji says, frowning as he squints at the poster, smoke curling from between his teeth.

“Yeah, dunno about that,” Zoro reaches out to rip the poster from the wall, crumpling it in his fist.

“There a story you wanna tell us, moss-head?” Sanji asks, slating Zoro a long glance.

Zoro scoffs, “Barely,” but at a hard look from Nami, he relents, rolling his eyes, “they sent someone called Mr. 7 to recruit me a while back.”

“And…?” Nami asks, probing as the three of them turn back towards the bustling street market, Usopp and Luffy already halfway down the street, chattering about lunch.

“And nothin’. I took care of him.” Zoro makes to toss the crumpled poster onto the ground but he pauses, glancing down at his hands, “the Marines still owe me his bounty though.”

Sanji laughs, even as Nami scoffs.

“Well, let’s try to stay out of their way till we get out of here,” Nami says, eyes caught on the poster in Zoro’s hands, “at least in the Grand Line, there’ll be bigger fish for them to fry.”

Zoro wets his lips, staring down at your disfigured face before tossing it aside.

“If you say so.”

— — —

You have the most delicate hands — nimble fingers and soft, marshmallow palms. You’d cradle the miniscule wooden knife just so, slipping the dulled edge along the tops of the homemade wagashi, making marks in perfect intervals until the cake resembled a flower, just so.

“Okay, now who wants a piece?” you’d ask, giggling as the boys all scrambled over themselves, raising their hands and hooting like monkeys.

Zoro always held back, feigning disinterest, even though his mouth would water just the same.

“Here, a piece for you too,” you’d say, after giving everyone their due share. Behind you, the other boys would always be squabbling for an extra slice, fighting over the crumbles left on the thin rice paper packaging.

“Don’t want it,” he’d say, looking anywhere but at the tantalizing slice of wagashi, the soft lotus-paste insides nearly translucent, the pastel mochi exterior the perfect amount of sticky and sweet.

His mouth goes dry as you hold it up in front of him, cupped in your palms like just-found treasure.

“Everyone else got a piece,” you say, as if that’s reason enough for him to forgo his abstinence.

He swallows.

“Don’t move.”

His eyes flicker open to the shape of you, crouching by his hammock, a knife held to his throat. Outside, the night is thick and moonless, the seawater lapping softly at the sides of the ship.

Zoro huffs out a breath, “Or what?”

He blinks, the afterimages of the dream still solid behind his eyelids.

“Not sure yet, but I’d bet you wouldn’t like the answer, either way,” you say, your voice barely more than a hiss as you shift the blade from one hand to another and he feels the sharp edge of it skim along his skin.

You’re careful not to break any skin as you pull back, ever so slightly, allowing him to sit up.

“What’dyou want?” he asks, moving slow, fingers inching towards his swords, propped by the hammock’s side.

“Nothing too much,” you answer, “just a free ride off this island. And the next time you dock, you’ll never see me again.”

Zoro scoffs, “That a promise?”

Even in the dark, your grin slants crescent-moon sharp. Zoro blinks again, his mind fighting to reconcile the image of you as a child over the shadow hunched over him now, holding a knife to his throat.

“Something like that,” you say, your eyes flickering down to where his fingers are inches from his swords. Zoro sighs, tugging his hand back.

“Fine — but one condition,” he says.

You hike an eyebrow, “From where I’m sitting, you’re not exactly in the position to be making demands.”

Zoro smirks, folding his arms across his chest and stretching out on his hammock.

“And from where I’m sitting — we’re one alarm away from my entire crew wakin’ up. And… they might not be as good as you one on one but… all together?” he shrugs, “I mean, you do the math.”

Your lips curl into a contemptuous snarl, but you don’t fight him on it. Instead, you pull the knife away, tucking it into your belt.

“Fine. What’s your condition?”

Zoro peers at you from a half-lidded eye, “Tell me what happened to you.”

You puff out a laugh, leaning back against a wooden barrel, propping your arm on your knee.

“It’s kind of a long story.”

Zoro motions towards the darkened window, “We’ve got a lotta time.”

You turn your head away, “Maybe tomorrow,” you say, your voice low and fractured.

Zoro frowns, “You made a promise.”

You cast him a faint, woeful smile, “Yeah, but I never told you when I’d tell you the story.”

— — —

The next morning, you awaken to a wide-eyed stare from a boy who couldn’t have been much older than you, grinning ear to ear.

“Hi!”

“W-what the —”

You scramble backwards before realizing that your back is already pressed against the wall.

“Oh! Sorry, didn’t mean to wake you up!” the boy leans back, still grinning, propping both his hands on his hips as he stares down at you. Behind him, you can see the shape of Zoro, leaning by the door, swords at his side, a smirk on his face.

“What the hell’s going on here?” you ask, shooting him a dirty look, “you made a promise,” you spit the word back in his face.

Zoro shrugs, “Yeah, but I never said your free ride would be a secret.”

Your eyes narrow into slits as the boy standing over you claps a fist to his palm, turning towards Zoro.

“Oh! I remember now — we saw her on one of the wanted posters! You’re uhm — Ms… Ninety-Nine?”

You wince, sighing as you push yourself up and dust off your trousers, “Miss Double-Nines, but… close enough.”

Zoro snickers.

“I’m Monkey D. Luffy, and I’m the Captain of this ship! But… I gotta say, your name is way cooler. Did you get to pick it yourself? Or did someone at Bara-Rock Works give it to you?”

You fight down the twitch threatening your left eye as your gaze slingshots to Zoro and back to Luffy again.

“Uhm — someone… assigned it to me. And it’s Baroque Works.”

“Right! Yeah — that one!” Luffy smiles, seemingly unbothered by the implications of you being a member of a known criminal organization.

“Breakfast! C’mon — before it goes cold!” a voice calls down the hallway and a moment later, a blond-haired man in an all black suit peeks his head around the doorframe.

“Ah, our special guest is awake — so what about it, Ms. Double-Nines? Any requests for breakfast? I could do a few eggs, sunny side up, with a side of toast and some freshly made tangerine-butter. Or, we’ve still got some batter left over from the blueberry pancakes yesterday. Take your pick.”

You blink at the man with one shoulder propped against the doorframe, the other supporting a half-done cigarette, bringing it to his mouth for a casual puff.

Zoro lets out an annoyed grunt, “What blueberry pancakes? You gave me left-over potato mush for breakfast yesterday.”

The blonde turns to Zoro with a vindictive smirk, “You really think I’d waste the good stuff on someone with the palette of a forest slug?”

“Oh! I want the eggs! And can you make the sausages you made the other day, Sanji? Those were the best!” Luffy bounces out of the room with a bright smile as Sanji chuckles, shaking his head.

“Yeah, but you’ll have to wait a bit for those!” he calls down the hallway after Luffy’s rapidly retreating form.

You glance from Zoro to Sanji and back again, your stomach a mess of knots, your heart skidding strangely inside your chest.

Sanji slates you a helpless look and a lopsided smile, “C’mon then — can’t miss breakfast. Most important meal of the day!”

Introductions, as they are, take the better part of the morning. Though by noon, you’re still unsure if you’d stepped into some strange alternate universe where you’d miraculously escaped the dark tangles of your past, and into some idyllic, sun-lit story full of great friends and endless adventures.

“Mm, that’s a pretty name, but I still think Ms. Ninety-Nine is cooler,” Luffy says, when you finally tell them your name — the one that had been yours for your whole life before you’d been forced to become someone — no, something else.

“It’s Ms. Double — nevermind,” you sigh, shaking your head, feeling an incredulous laugh bubble out of your chest.

“So… you trying to leave Baroque Works?” Sanji asks, casually adjusting his fishing lines as Nami pours over a hand-drawn map of the East Blue, a pair of tiny glasses perched on her nose. Of all the members of the Strawhat Crew, she’d been the least overtly welcoming, staying quiet and keeping her distance.

And, judging by hardness that lies just on the other edge of her smile, you can’t blame her. She knows a liar when she sees one; you do too.

“Something like that,” you say, glancing away.

Zoro lounges against the main mast, his eyes closed.

“So! You must be a really good fighter!” Luffy says, tugging on his own fishing lines till Sanji nudges him away.

“I —” your voice catches and you look away, “I’m alright.”

“I heard that only the best fighters in Baroque Works get codenames with numbers,” Nami says without looking up, her tone casual. Her hand is steady as she traces a long line through the center of the map.

“It’s… a bit more complicated than that,” you say, your fingers twisting in your lap.

“Complicated how?” Nami asks, finally looking up, her gaze bright and hard and unrelenting.

You lick your lips, shrugging, “It’s just… you don’t have to be a great fighter to be… useful.”

And something about the way you say that makes everyone stiffen. By the main mast, Zoro shifts, peering open an eye to stare at you. But before he can say anything, Luffy jumps up, pulling hard at his fishing rod.

“Look! I think I caught something!”

That night, when they drop anchor, the ocean is still, and the summer air is almost too sweet. Luffy proposes a toast, to a new friend, he says, and Sanji has never turned down a toast to a pretty girl. Even Nami, who had been cautious all day, lured by the sweet tangerine wine and the tantalizing summer air, flashes you a small grin as she raises her glass.

You manage to choke down the wine passed the scream curdling at the back of your throat.

And then later, when the Millions come calling, no one notices the way you slip away, pulling all the fire towards you until you’re too far to be saved.

“Stay back!” you call, even as one of the Millions hauls you onto the deck of a smaller ship by the hair.

“Gum-Gum —“

“Wait,” Zoro places a hand on Luffy’s arm.

“Huh?”

Zoro frowns, pointing to a spot of white on the railings. Luffy stares down at it for a second before Sanji peers over his shoulder, reaching out to dab at the smear of white powder.

“It’s… rice flour.”

In the kitchen, they find a tray with a series of tiny wagashi mochi’s, simply made, but each perfectly shaped and dusted with a fine powder of sweet rice flour.

There’s a hastily scribbled note that just says — Thank you. I’m sorry.

— — —

It takes them the better part of a two weeks to track you down.

And when they do, it’s to an island of sand and trees and not much else.

“What… is this place?” Nami asks as they all hop onto the bleak little stretch of beach.

“It’s a holding ground,” a voice answers, rich and feminine. They all look up to see a tall figure, arms crossed, a cowboy hat perched atop her head. Her hair looks like it’s been cut with a slide-rule. She makes no move to attack, but Zoro still finds his thumb ticking at the hilt of his sword.

Beside him, Sanji looks conflicted at the thought of fighting such a beautiful woman.

“Miss All Sunday,” Nami says, her bo staff clicking clicking into place as she takes half a step forward.

The woman allows herself a grin, dipping the brim of her hat.

“Ara… if it isn’t the Cat Burglar.”

Nami scoffs, “Let’s cut the song and dance — we’re looking for a friend of ours. You might know her — goes by Miss Double-Nines, I think.”

“Friend?” Miss All Sunday lets the word simmer in the air between them, blithely checking her nails before pinning them all with a hard look, “we at Baroque Works aren’t known for making friends outside the organization.”

“Yeah well, maybe our friend’s just different!” offers Luffy, grinning widely, his chest puffed out.

Miss All Sunday regards them for a moment more before shrugging and slipping into the shadows of the giant tree she’d been leaning against. Zoro and Nami share a look before stepping forward to follow her, Luffy, Sanji, and Usopp half a step behind them.

The forest is a twist of ancient trees, their canopy high and thick enough to completely blot out the sun. Beneath the preternatural dark, the woods are spine-chillingly quiet. There’s no rustle of leaves, no hush of wings or skitter of claws. Nothing moves, save for their slinking guide and their own, weapon-laden bodies.

No one dares to speak; even Luffy keeps quiet, his mouth set in a straight line, his eyes tracking the lithe form of Miss All Sunday as she leads them through the undulating terrain.

“Ah… you’re in luck,” Miss All Sunday says, her voice a silken whisper as she stops in front of a massive tree, it’s roots as thick as the Merry’s main mast, it’s trunk so wide it’s impossible to see around. Miss All Sunday adjusts her hat, sweeping her hand through the air much as a hostess would when presenting a prize, “she’s awake.”

It’s you, or at least the shape of you, caught in the massive tangle of tree roots, your arms held to your sides, your body half-swallowed by the trunk of the tree itself. Your lashes flutter open at the sound of Miss All Sunday’s voice, and when your gaze finally lands on them, it goes wide —

“W-what —”

“We’ve come to rescue you!” Luffy says, grinning even as he revs up his arm.

The cigarette dangling from Sanji’s lips falls he leans back to inspect the grotesque sight before him.

It’s Nami who catches Zoro with an arm around the waist, tugging him back to relative difficulty. It’s only then that Zoro realizes how hard he’s breathing, how there’s red seeping like spilt blood into the edges of his vision.

“I — I told you not to follow me!” you say, your voice cracking over the words, your skin nearly translucent as it strains over your ribs.

Zoro ticks his tongue against his teeth, “Yeah well — we never said we’d listen.”

You drop your head, your throat bobbing around a mirthless laugh.

Everyone jumps at the sound of clapping, loud and slow and measured. A moment later, a man in a fur-lined coat with a thick set of stitches across his face steps out from behind the massive tree, a cigar caught between his teeth, a steely glint to his eyes.

“Well done, well done — if it isn’t the infamous Strawhat Pirates,” the man says, crossing his arms and taking a long puff of the cigar.

Luffy takes a step forward, “We are just here for our friend!”

“Your friend?” the man says, an eerie smile splitting his lips as he takes the cigar between two fingers and glances towards you, “you didn’t tell me you’d made new friends, Miss Double Nines?”

You wince at his words, twisting your head as he blows a stream of smoke at your face.

Zoro jerks forward, only to be caught again — this time by Sanji and Nami both.

“Ah, but this is wonderful! We should give your new friends a proper welcome, no?” the man opens his palms, laughing heartily before the forest around them shudders. And then, everything beneath them turns to sand.

It is not a long fight, and Zoro only remembers it in faint flashes — the base rumble of the earth shifting beneath them, the sky-splitting crack of tree trunks as the forest around them roils and breaks. Through it all, he remembers the sound of your voice, calling out something before it’s muffled by a pair of too-large hands —

And it isn’t till he finds himself standing on the thin stretch of beach with the rest of his crew that his mind returns to him, jarred and unsettled, but lucid.

The man with stitches across his face grins, your body caught beneath his arm like a rag doll. He laughs as he tosses you down onto the sand at this feet.

Both Zoro and Sanji charge forward, only to stop in their steps as the man cocks a gun and levels it at the back of your head. He grins, tilting his head.

“Go on,” he says, “she’s right there, isn’t she?”

Sanji crouches down, his eyes narrowed. Zoro’s jaw clenches as he adjusts his hold on his swords.

You shake your head, your hair a dark spill around your shoulders, peppered with sand as you push yourself up onto hands and knees, your gaze imploring as you look up at them.

“Don’t.”

Zoro feels something inside him snap at the broken register of your voice.

He charges forward just as the man reaches down to grab a fistful of your hair and tug you backwards, pressing the muzzle of the pistol to the side of your head.

“Let her go, and I might let you live,” he snarls between gritted teeth.

The man grins, savage and unbothered, shaking you like a marionette on tender strings. You let out a soft groan as he digs the gun further into your temple.

“Ah… I’m not sure I like being threatened on my own turf,” the man says, his voice soft as he trails the gun along your face down to your throat before pressing it the soft spot just beneath your chin. Your eyes squeeze shut.

“Wait —!” Zoro’s voice cracks like a gunshot over the word, desperation wriggling it’s way up his throat till it’s spilling out of his mouth.

The man’s eyes go dark at the sound, his mouth splits wide on a savage grin as he trails the gun back up to your temple, caressing the trigger with almost lethargic ease, clicks down the safety — and shoots.

TAGLIST: @brairslair @msheds0519 @yunabelless @lynndt-chocolate @lostonthrillerbark @stunies @tsumu-senpai @phroggii @ssailormoonnn @breathinginyoursmoke @guridoodles @kyllium @naomihatake @itoshiexx @mythicallystupid @mars-mizuko @astroniii @crispynutella @enhastolemyheart @fanficwriter101 @jamesbparker @dira333 @weirdowithaphone @ink-perfect @lodeddiperrodrick @not-a-glad-gladiator @vinskyspuff @itsagoodluckkiss @blondethinkpink @ellelowthere

pls comment below to be added to the tag list! :)

[parasolladyansy]

DxP REWRITE - Dishonor Among Thieves

Back when I was figuring out the brothers’ early friendship with Ansy during her PKMN Black run, I had the thought that Rain (Eevee), a very rare, foreign Pokémon, would be a target for Team Plasma (until N tells them not to touch her again). From there, I figured a good first meeting was them teaching Team Plasma exactly what happens if they try to cause trouble in their subway.

There are a lot of people in our world who don’t see mental illness - or “mental injury” as I like to call (C-)PTSD - as a real health condition, let alone a disability. Some say ugly things to shame others they label as “entitled” or “weak”. Sometimes they’re raised that way, sometimes they’re confused or have some sort of inner resentment, or sometimes they’re just plain awful.

If you struggle with mental illness / injury, you’re not entitled or weak for needing extra help navigating life, whether it be a service animal, therapy, a trip to the hospital, or just a friend. It’s real, even if people around you can’t / won’t see it. 🩵

PS: my headcanon is that evil team Grunts have little themed codenames, too (knights for classic Team Plasma, maybe meteoroids / asteroids for Team Galactic, etc).

🔼 Diamond x Pearl REWRITE 🔽

<<Previous / Next>>

[raisengen]

It only just occurred to me that Rhodes Island's codename system is likely rooted in the Sarkaz naming customs (or lack thereof).

It's fairly common for us to see Sarkaz with no name, or just an epithet. Famously, W took her name from a dead man when she picked up his gun.

To other peoples, something as basic as lacking a name is likely to come off as strange or untrustworthy, creating extra distance between them and any nameless Sarkaz.

Rhodes Island can't give every Sarkaz a "real" name, nor can they change Sarkaz culture to accept such things—and they can't change the rest of the world to accept it either. What they can do is create an environment in which "real" names aren't used, so that everyone is on an equal footing.

This realisation brought to you by Degenbrecher insulting the codename system:

[oldschoolfrp]

"Space Marines from the Blood Drinkers and the Nova Marines engaged in the process of cleansing the space hulk codenamed Death of Integrity. Members of the First Company from both Chapters led the assault, clad in Tactical Dreadnought Armour for extra protection." (Mike McVey's multi-layer diorama including some very early Rogue Trader era marines, originally published in White Dwarf 114, June 1989, reprinted in Warhammer 40K Compilation, Games Workshop, 1991)

[theangrycomet-art]

TFA Blaster Attempt

Random World Building Lore GO!

Blaster was forged just before end of the war as a part of the canceled "Boom Box" project. The idea was to have to trick the enemy to capture one soldier, only for said soldier to release an a crew of extra small mini-bots, codenamed "Cassettes" to infiltrate Decepticon bases and gather intel. The deployer's frame would then serve as their broadcast towers for however long the 'Con's decided to keep the corpse around.

To be completely clear- it was 100% the plan for deployer frames to serve as canon fodder and their mini's left to die once their position was no longer deemed useful.

Fortunately, the war ended before Blaster could even begin training, much less be granted any cassettes of his own. There were also whispers that the plans had been leaked to the Decepticons.

So instead of being sent to his death, Blaster serves as an underground investigative Reporter (and of course DJ) for his pirate radio station where he'll do just about anything to dig up the truth to a good, much to Autobot Council's chagrin. He may or may not be getting away with said radio station with the help of a certain member of the Elite Guard who enjoys his choice in playlists.

His day-job's a running a pet shop that never seems to sell any pets despite their excellent demeanors and conditions (he can't help it- it's in his coding to keep little guys)

COMMISSIONS AVAILABLE

KOFI

[papercorgiworld]

Truth be told

A Regulus Black fake dating thrope

You are hunted by the realisation that while your relationship is fake your feelings are very real. Meanwhile James figures out more than just his feelings for you.

Read part 1 here: ‘Dance like it’s all real’

Again lots of kudos to @thatdammchickennugget and her hogmarch challenge. You brought magic to march! Also lots of love to all the tumblr peoples who encouraged me to write a part two. 💛 Your love makes writers write! Happy readings!

Another week had passed since your dance with Regulus, the beautiful but painful moment you realised you were in love with Regulus. You had cursed yourself everyday for playing a dirty game and getting hurt yourself. This is just bad karma for trying to get James jealous. Merlin, I’m such a fool.

“That will be it for today’s class. Remember I’ll be expecting your essays by friday.” You could barely hear professor Mcgonagall through all the noise of students closing their books and chairs moving.

As soon as you exit the classroom Marlene bumps into you. “Hey, are you joining us for a picnic?” You think it over, you still needed to write a conclusion for your paper and you were really desperate to meet up with your boyfriend, fake boyfriend that is. “Come on you’ve gotta join, we barely hang out anymore since you’ve been dating. Don’t be that girl.” Remus argued and you smiled, he could take the weight of the world off of your shoulders with just one look from his kind eyes. “Sure, but not for too long I don’t want to disappoint professor Mcgonagall.”

“Right, right. It’s about homework and not your sexy slytherin.” You gasp at Marlene’s boldness. “That’s not it. I really need to finish my essay.” The three of you laugh and for a moment all is well.

However it doesn’t last long, you can feel the knot in your stomach grow when you see Sirius, James and Lily are already at the picnic. “Look what the wolf dragged in.” Sirius jokes as he munches on some food. “She doesn’t have much time, she has homework.” Marlene winks playfully and you roll your eyes as you all sit down. “Is that Regulus’ new codename?” Lily teases and you just drop your head to the side, pretending to be annoyed but you had to admit you kinda enjoyed the teasing. At least to them your relationship was real.

“Ugh. Please don’t. That’s my baby brother.” Sirius complained. “Baby brother is getting more than you padfoot. Deal with it.” Remus threw a grape at Sirius to get him to stop complaining. “I’m working on that.” Sirius countered, picking up the grape and trying to seductively eat it, making Remus frown.

Unfortunately, fake dating did not include getting some. Not that you had never thought about it. Your mind had wandered off more than once, when he slung an arm around you and smelled so fresh. Merlin, you had it bad.

The afternoon passed and you had started working on your essay in the sun with your friends, but you were too engaged in your work and suddenly you found yourself sitting with just James. “Hey, where's everyone?”

James chuckled at your confusion. “Sirius is showing Remus a new magic trick. Marlene, Lily and Peter are getting extra drinks. They have good connections with the house elves.” You nod and there’s a strange tension in your silence. “Why? You need help?” James offers, leaning closer to scan your paper.

“No, I’m good. I think I got everything in my conclusion. I will reread it tomorrow.” You carefully fold the parchment and James nods, but he seems a bit frustrated with you. You notice how tense his jaw is and stare at him for a moment, when he catches you he chuckles. “You’ll probably go to Regulus for help now…” You bite your lip, you couldn’t deny that there was still some attraction. Definitely now that he sounded so jealous.

“So about baby Black.” You narrow your eyes at James’ attitude. “Don’t.” You demand some respect that’s the least Regulus deserved for being so good to you. “Sirius and I are worried.” James suddenly admits catching you off guard. “I mean here at Hogwarts he might seem like a good guy, but out there he hangs with a bad crowd and.. I mean.. just look at his family. You have no future with him. You do realise that?” His words stung, hard. His jealousy was suddenly a lot less attractive and it took you a moment to bite back.

“Are you worried or jealous, James?” You snapped as you put your quill and parchment in your bag, ready to get up. “Maybe both.” James looks at his hands as you stare him down after his confession. When he looks up his eyes look vulnerable. Your heart starts to race. James’ lips part but he’s forced to keep his words to himself as he sees Regulus heading in your direction.

You turn your head and the corners of Regulus’ lips tug up. He hated how he couldn’t hide it anymore. You had full control over him. He was just lucky that he got to play the role of boyfriend. If not, he would look like a fool. You heard James sigh and turned to look at him, making Regulus’ heart squeeze. You looking away from him was a painful reminder that your heart belongs to the most obnoxious person ever.

“Hi beautiful.” Regulus’ whisper stroked your eyes as he kneeled next to you on the picnic blanket. You were hesitant for a second because James was there, but your lips found your way to Regulus’ like muscle memory. “I got you something.” Regulus reached for a small pack of your favourite HoneyDukes candy and your eyes widened with joy. James let his head fall back as he leaned on his arms, his eyes rolling to the back of his skull with disgust for what was happening in front of him. “You went to hogsmeade?” Regulus nodded. “Forced to, by Evan.” Regulus watches you with adoration as you struggle to open the candy wrapping, but his jaw tenses when he looks at James and notices his hostility.

Clearly you were no longer unnoticed and Regulus hated the whole fake dating thing was going to blow up in face. You had always liked James and you were going to fall into his arms at the first effort James makes. “Can I steal her away?” Regulus manages calmly, before looking away from James and stroking a strand of your hair making you meet his eyes. James chews the inside of his cheek to keep himself from yelling ‘no’.

“Reg.” Sirius pants as he approaches you, followed by Remus mumbling something about almost getting caught committing a crime. “Brother.” Regulus returns nonchalantly as he gets up to meet his brother in height. “Long time no see.” Sirius chuckles, making Regulus tilt his head and frown. “We see each other every day.” Sirius nods and Remus’ eyes widen at the awkwardness. “They were just leaving.” James announces, making the air between everyone even more tense.

Regulus ignores everyone and helps you up, guiding you with a gentle arm around your waist. “Was I interrupting something I shouldn’t have?” Regulus questions pretending to care about your connection with James, while only wishing he misinterpreted the situation and that James still only saw you as one of the boys.

“No, I don’t think so.” You lied, afraid that if you told him the truth he might think there would be no need to further continue fake dating, but by Salazar did you hate yourself for lying to the man you cared about so damn much. Regulus’ lips formed a line and you didn’t really know what to make of it, but he gave you no time to overthink it as his hand reached for the back of your head, pulling you in for a passionate kiss. “He’s a fool for letting me steal you away from him.” Regulus’ husky voice and warm breath sent shivers down your spine. It was one of those moments that made you wonder how much passion was hidden behind his calm demeanour.

***

You were sitting between Regulus’ legs, laying against his chest with his arm around you, both reading your own book with an occasional kiss for Regulus if he noticed you drifting off. It was moments like this that were absurdly romantic and comfortable for two people fake dating. You had been chewing your lip for a while now wondering if you should test the waters. What encouraged you was the gentle way Regulus fingertips caressed your arm, probably subconsciously, as he was deeply engaged with his book. “You know… there’s no one around so there’s really no need to be all cuddly… but I’m kinda comfy, sooo can I stay for just a few more minutes?” Regulus' lips formed half a smile at your question but he barely looked away from his book.

“It would be weird if someone walked in and we weren’t sitting together, gossip would spread quickly. This is the slytherin common room after all.” You nodded at his boringly reasonable argument. “I guess I’m not moving if you're not.” You declared settling in more against his chest, unknowingly making Regulus’ whole body heat up. He caught himself leaning in to kiss the crown of your head, but was interrupted by a loud slam of the door as Barty walked in.

“You told Evan I kissed Tessa.” Regulus raised his chin in thought. “Ah, that was her name. I thought it was Tilly.” Barty shook his head aggressively, clearly annoyed with his friend. You and Regulus both sat up straight to prepare for the drama Barty had just brought in. “I’ve been trying to impress Evan for weeks and you tell him I’ve been kissing other girls. I’ll hurt you for this, Black.” At the harsh tone of Barty Regulus got up to stand in front of you. “Alright. Let’s take this elsewhere, before this gets out of hand.” Barty narrows his eyes at you. “Afraid I’ll hurt your little birdy.” Regulus gives Barty a soft shove in the direction of the door. “First of all leave (y/n) out this and second if you’re trying to impress Evan why in Merlin’s name are you kissing other people. I had no idea you had a thing for Evan… Well a lot of things make sense now.”

You hear the two bicker until the door closes behind them. You’re a little worried, but on the other hand you know better than to get involved with Barty-drama, Regulus was way better at handling these kinds of situations. Sirius had once explained it as a family survival skill to manage conflicts with hotheaded people.

However, on the other end of the door the always so calm Regulus Black was about to lose his patience. “How would you like it if I told everyone all about your business?” Regulus rolled his eyes and shook his head at what he thought was an empty threat. “There’s nothing to tell, I don’t go around kissing people when trying to impress another.” Barty licked his lips before showing a filthy smile, closing in on Regulus’ face with a firm and dark tone. “I know all about your pact with (y/n). Pretending to be dating so she can get James’ attention.” Regulus’ eyes widen and Barty’s pleased with the reaction. “How do you-” Barty laughs. “I overheard you talking once. You are so occupied with her that you’re losing your touch.” Regulus clenches his jaw and his eyes go dark, but Barty just continues. “What would people think of that Regulus? No one would take you seriously if they knew you were caught up in petty games like this. And what would people think of her?”

With one move Regulus had Barty thrown against a wall and his wand against Barty’s throat. “You don’t want to make that mistake Barty. You keep your mouth shut.” Barty eyes are still mad, but tempered down by the force with which Regulus is pushing him against the wall. “You do seem to care a lot about your fake relationship with your fake girlfriend? I hope the feelings are still fake?” Regulus’ eyes get meaner at Barty’s deduction. “You obviously care about her. I care about Evan, let’s not ruin this for one another and let all slide.” Barty reasons, but Regulus isn’t quick to take the deal, considering more sinister options to deal with Barty instead, but distant footsteps force him to pull away.

However, what neither of them had realised is that someone overheard the whole conservation.

***

“We are going to make those snakes cry for their mums!” Sirius yelled as he excitedly fist bumps Peter and Marlene. Regulus just rolled his eyes, but Bellatrix doesn’t stay quiet as she walks by. “Shut it, family disgrace!” Sirius falls silent and James gives him a gentle pat on the back, before checking the tape on his wrist.

“Not looking good, Potter.” Regulus laughed at James’ wrist taped in after he had hurt it during training a few days ago. Regulus normally wasn’t one to bully, but a few mind games before a quidditch game were always hard to resist. Definitely after Regulus had noticed you and James talking more and more. Since you were dating Regulus, you felt more confident and no longer felt the need to avoid James, but Regulus hated it when you were around the gryffindor.

“No need to act so tough, Regulus. By the end of the day you’ll be a double loser and honestly that’s what you get for playing dirty games.” Regulus’ laughs mockingly at James' accusations as he walks closer, but before he can counter with something witty James takes the word again with a venous low whisper. “Lily overheard you and Crazy Crouch talking yesterday. It's over for you, after the game I’m kissing (y/n), I’ll tell her how I feel.” James slammed the quaffle hard into Regulus’ stomach, making slytherin groan a little. Regulus felt like his whole world was shattering around him, the quaffle hadn’t done as much damage as his heart was enduring right now. On top of it all he had to watch Sirius look questioningly at James, but not sparing his own brother so much as a glance of worry.

Regulus clenched his jaw and turned to walk to his own team. His eyes were dead and even though you were seated far away you could notice something had happened. “Do you want me to curse him for you?” Bellatrix’s eyes lit up as she offered her assistance. “Make every limp hurt, please.” Bellatrix laughed maniacally, enjoying her cousin's darker side.

The game was a mess and not just because of the hellish weather but the ridiculous amount of fouls made. Sirius was sent off first for offensive language, then James almost got hit by a curse which led to Bellatrix being sent off and finally Barty almost got himself killed, not even mentioning Regulus’ reckless behaviour to get any points.

When Gryffindor was celebrating their victory, chanting loudly in the stands, you only watched Regulus, who couldn’t bear to look up to his fake girlfriend that he was going to lose. Without a word he passed everyone and everything and headed straight to the barracks to hide himself. There was nothing that he could think of that would console him.

You rushed through the excited Gryffindors and avoided the frustrated Slytherins ready to make amok. You had no idea of what was going on but you knew it was more than a lost game and you knew you needed to be by your boyfriend’s side. You cursed yourself and reminded yourself that Regulus was only your fake boyfriend. Yet, it didn’t stop you hurrying through the crowds.

Once on the field you headed straight for the barracks, until to your surprise a firm hand grabbed your upper arm. Your eyes land on James, sweaty, wet and panting. “I need to talk to you.” You see Regulus disappear with his teammates before locking eyes with James. You let him pull you to the side, under the stands.

“James, what’s this about?” One hand reaches for the back of your skull and the other firmly snakes around your waist as James pulls you in a warm and wholehearted kiss that leaves you gasping for air. “James?” You breathe out his name demanding an explanation. “I know none of it is real. I told Regulus to back off. I want you… for real.” Softer, but still filled with passion James’ lips lock with yours and this time you kiss back with equal intensity. Merlin, did it feel good. You had loved him for so long and part of you was still so attracted to him.

And yet…

you push him away. “James. I think… I think I love Regulus.” You're both still out of breath from the kiss and your eyes can’t look away from James’ but the truth had to be told. “What? But it was all fake, right?” A tear rolls down your cheek as you see James’ hurt and feel your own heart squeeze. “I fell for him. I’m sorry.” There’s a silence as James studies you and you force your eyes shut, hating yourself and the whole situation. A soft thumb brushes your tears away. “It’s my fault for not noticing you sooner and for not acting the moment I felt you slip away.”

Your hands slipped down to his arms, gently creating some distance between you. It hurt you both, but staying close felt wrong. “I’ve got to talk to Regulus.” You whisper looking away from James for the first time. James closes his eyes and you take a step away. He watches you silently turn around, before speaking up. “If he ever lets you go I’ll catch you.” You feel your eyes water again, but force a smile. “No, you won’t. Because you won’t wait for me. You’ll fall in love before you know it, you’ll be happy… Please.” The softest laugh escapes James’ lips as he nods, letting you go, letting you run into Regulus’ arms.

Everything was a blur, your heart raced and your brain was hazy. Your body was in a rush to find Regulus, like a magnet you were drawn to him with a forceful pull.

“Regulus?” You swung the door open to the slytherin changing room. Regulus jumped up from the bench where he had been mourning his love for you in silence. Everyone holds his breath including you, until your raw love for Regulus kicks in. Once you took the first step in his direction every other one was easy as you ran into his arms. Like a fitting puzzle piece Regulus enveloped you into his arms. A kiss so hungry, it matched all those longing moments you had both pushed away for weeks.

“She’s not allowed to be in here. I’m butt naked.” Barty yelled from the showers. “Shut up! No one cares, Barty. She’s here for Reg.” Evan yells back. You and Regulus laugh at the ridiculous exchange and with a smile on his face Regulus meets your eyes. “I don’t understand, why are you here?” You kiss Regulus again to give yourself the courage to tell him. “James kissed me-” Barty laughs. “That would make me want to run away and hide as well.” Regulus rolls his eyes. “Shut up!” You press your lips together. “James kissed me and it made me realise that I can’t pretend to not love you.” Regulus' eyes widen at your words and his smile grows. “You love me?” You nod encouraged by the rush of it all and feeling yourself all giddy. With both hands Regulus cups your cheeks and kisses you intensely.

“She still can’t stay here.” Barty points out with a smile. “Don’t worry, Bart. Regulus is coming with me.” You take his hand. “I still need to shower, though.” You give him a mischievous smile and the teasing glint in your eyes reminds him there are plenty of showers ideal for just the two of you. with a happy smile he whispers to you: “I love you too.”

Picture source: https://pin.it/25mBnrbz5 & https://pin.it/1p3GkSVUq

[mistydeyes]

Hi! I was wondering if you could do a Task Force 141 and a reader that they never have seen out of uniform until one day they all go to a bar but the reader is late? Next thing they know the reader walks up to them dressed like they just walked straight out of the 2000’s?

(if you end up doing this request: thank you so much! I absolutely luv your writing!!)

thank you so much for requesting! i literally am in love with 2000's fashion like you'll be seeing me walking with low-cut jeans and a baby tee fr

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summary: After a tiring mission, the 141 invites you to drink away the night at the pub. However, you get into a lively argument about fashion when they question your choice in 2000's inspired attire.

pairings: taskforce 141 x platonic!gn!reader (codename: Storm)

warnings: swearing, slight bullying (they fr just don't understand fashion)

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"Didn't we tell Storm half-past eight?" Gaz asked, looking down at his watch. The pub was nearly empty as the men continued to add glass after glass to a growing pile. Despite reminding you with a string of texts, you still haven't made an appearance. "Still don't get why they had to change," Soap continued, choking down another drink, "Lt's still wearing his goddamn mask." The group laughed as their attention was directed to Ghost, still wearing his signature face mask. "They probably wanted a shower and some fresh trousers," Price commented and the rest of the group returned to a more interesting conversation.

As the group laughed at Soap recounting Ghost's out-of-character dialogue in Las Almas, their gaze fell on the pub's door as it swung open. The group smiled at the familiar face and gestured you over. You walked to the table quickly, feeling the attention in the empty pub. At first, you thought it was due to your late entrance but when you approached, you saw all eyes focused on your attire. It was like you walked out of the 2000s or robbed a Delias before your arrival. You felt a little self-conscious at the confused looks and wondered what all the fuzz was about. "What? Do I have a stain?" you questioned as you dusted off your low-cut, denim jeans. "No, it's just-" Gaz began to say but Soap interjected. "Why do you dress like that?" he asked and you raised an eyebrow. You looked down at your jeans and Von Dutch top. "But I normally dress like this?" you said with a curious tone. You dressed like this before joining the military and held on to the lively aesthetic of the early 2000s. You were embarrassed to admit but Britney Spears and *NSYNC were your fashion icons.

"Yeah," Ghost spoke up as he eyed the interesting font of your shirt, "you look like you could be an extra in a Spice Girls video." You rolled your eyes, grabbing at one of the half-drunk glasses on the table. "You've been quiet, Captain," you edged while looking at him, "what do you think?" There was a hush over the room as you waited in anticipation. "Clothes are clothes," he simply replied and the table roared with laughter. "Such a grandad thing to say," Soap loudly exclaimed and everyone clambered with sentiments of agreement. "Sorry I don't wear Wrangler jeans and black fitness tops," you mumbled. It was a subtle jab at your colleagues but Gaz took it to heart. "I have style!" he shouted as you shook your head in disapproval.

"Gaz, you look like someone trying to emulate an Instagram model or some teenager's Pinterest board," you argued and you were met by the howling of the tipsy men. "And Captain, I'm sorry but you look like a father going on holiday to the Swiss Alps," you directed towards Price as everyone realized this was becoming an insult fueled rage. Soap was still laughing wildly, shaking his head in agreement with your every word. "Oh you shouldn't be laughing, Soap," you said as you turned to him, "a navy blue sweater and black jeans are a fashion crime." He quickly turned red and looked embarrassed as he examined the mismatched colors. Everyone held their breath as you turned to Ghost. "And Lt," you paused, thinking of what you should say next, "you dress like you've never heard of color."

[mmxstrangers]

Io verbalized his exact thoughts, though Squish let out a deflated sigh at being told he couldn't just hang out in her mane. 'But it's so warm and inviting!,' his puppy-eyed stare seemed to say at that moment - but he understood that she had her duties to fulfill for her occupation. A purr couldn't help but kick up in his throat when she petted him, though - he couldn't stay pouty for long.

Squish perked up very fast at the mention of cold weather gear, though. He backed off from the hug to spin around and bounce excitedly, squeaking with loud approval. Yes!! That's just what he was thinking!! And he'd like to wander outside in the pretty snow without having to worry about freezing - he may be able to keep up with her better!!

The little creature-bot settled back onto his front legs, tail wagging enthusiastically as his eyes looked back at her with adoration.

Ohh boy. She was in for it now, wasn't she?

Squish needn’t thaw out her heart, for all her hesitations. But Io was pretty sure that the tooth-rottingly sweet, fuzzy warmth that had seized her mind was in the process of cooking it into a bubbling, caramel sludge. …Maybe she was a little more starved for a friendly presence than she liked to admit. Io’s job was lonely, isolated, and oftentimes a little boring in-between the moments of intensity where she actually had to do her job. She didn’t DISLIKE it, she could get away and stretch her legs from time to time, but being permanently on-call tended to leave her often heavily understimulated. The more she thought about it, the more sharing the company of the little fellow currently busy burrowing into her chest fuzz didn’t sound like such a bad idea. It should have. But it did not. “Nawwh… Don’t worry, I know it gets boring around here, and unlike me, you can’t wander off in the snow for hours to stretch your legs. I’ll bring you along if I go on a supply run - though you can’t just… stay on me the whole time, as nice as it would be to you, I’m sure.” Io reached over to pet Squish’s wobbly little noggin, smiling to herself. “Though - should I get involved in getting you a jacket? Little snow booties? Should be easy enough to find and order online…”

That ALSO sounded like a good idea that shouldn’t be good.

[frostbitebakery]

LOUD.

part one two three four five

Obi watches over him like a shadow the first few weeks he’s in the Temple.

Anakin will wake from a memory-nightmare and his protector will sit on the windowsill, bathed in the ever changing lights.

His warm hand will stroke over Anakin’s hair, soothing and more comforting than words could ever be.

He will offer Anakin to sit with him, watching Coruscant through the transparisteel. And Anakin will inevitably end up cuddled up to Obi’s front, falling asleep with Obi’s heartbeat under his ear, the breath in his lungs.

.

The identities of the Shadows are almost considered inviolable. Due to the nature of their chosen path, secrecy is a tenet they adhere to strictly.

The Council knows who they are, and maybe there are one or two Council members who are uncomfortable with how close to the Dark Shadows operate. But as a whole the necessity is understood.

The Jedi stand and fight for the Light, the balance, for bringing peace and help to those who need it. A calling like that inevitably brings enemies and the need to even the playing field.

“Beacon of Light,” Obi-Wan repeats, hands moving in disbelief.

And code names. It was only a matter of time before he got his codename.

“Fitting, we think it is,” Grandmaster Yoda says, amusement twinkling in his eyes and frog tea.

“Of course, Grandgrandmaster Yoda,” Obi-Wan signs, slipping in the extra grand flawlessly, which results in the sign turning grand to ancient. If Yoda gets cheeky with him, he can very well retribute.

Master Tholme coughs a laugh into the sleeve of his robe.

“Congratulations, Master Kenobi,” Master Windu says warmly and Obi-Wan ducks his head, loses the fight against the blush spreading across his nose. “Master Tholme has prepared a briefing package for you where you can access all relevant information. Like the code name for the Temple here on Coruscant.”

Master Tholme inclines his head in agreement, solemn twist to his lips Obi-Wan knows not to trust. “Old Folks’ Home.”

Obi-Wan wishes he wore the mask so he can wheeze in peace.

.

Jedi move different from the people Anakin has seen so far in his life. They flow, they’re carried by a breeze. Gravity doesn’t have a hold on them unless it suits them. They move like they’re one with nature, detached from sentient-made life and creations.

And then there are a few, like Obi, who move with the undercurrent, with the wind just above the ground. Who vanish with the shadows just to reappear around a corner.

They’re not stalking the enormous hallways or sneaking around like bandits.

Anakin doesn’t think they’re doing it consciously, reflecting attention away from themselves as if they aren’t even there.

Obi’s friend Quin moves like that, too, when he forgets himself, somehow managing to disappear while walking in the middle of the floor.

Quin is a strange one.

But Obi-Wan…

Anakin bites his lips to keep from giggling, hands gripping the banister tightly where he’s peeking. He doesn’t think they’ve noticed him yet.

The training salle they’re practicing in is huge, obstacles dotting the ground for them to leap over or off, hide and take the other off-guard.

It seems impossible, the way they fight and lure each other into traps. Obi is especially good at that. He’s directing Quin into exhaustion he can’t defend himself in anymore, and it’s amazing to watch.

Nothing and no one can beat Obi-Wan. He’s too clever for that.

“I will never stop calling you that, Beacon of Light,” Quin laughs when he jumps out of a roll and onto his feet.

Obi-Wan signs something, his back to Anakin which is aggravating.

He’d change position but both Jedi move around too much.

Quin shakes his head. “Shut up, you know it suits you.” He takes the lightsaber off his belt. “I bet you blushed like a meloroon in season.”

Obi changes into a blue glowing blur in answer.

.

Obi-Wan wants to know where he went wrong. What he did to— He thought the connection between him and Cody—

His vision is swimming, oxygen mask placed over his nose and mouth pumping more than air into his system.

His fingers weakly tap the message on the receiver of the comm device he broke off Cody’s suit during the fight. “Beacon. Light. Force.” Hope and the Force sing to him, even as his doing is detected.

Cody roughly rolls him onto his side, takes the device out of his hand where he had hidden it behind his back.

“The Emperor wants you alive, traitor.”

He’s removed his helmet. The one Obi-Wan had destroyed while it was still on Cody’s head. Just… Cody’s whole demeanor flipped to strange and other. He hadn’t made for his blaster during the fight. Shooting inside a rescue shuttle in the void of space at least still seemed like a bad idea even with Cody’s suit keeping him alive in a scenario like that.

But Obi-Wan couldn’t take that chance. So he’d smashed Cody’s face against a doorframe, breaking the visor and any choice Cody could make in killing Obi-Wan by sudden oxygen depletion.

Of course the fight took care to still break his lungs open, making him gasp for air even before Cody held him down and ripped the mask off.

Lying on his side is easier but the room has decided it is done with him and goes dark.