#dunno that assassin one just stuck with me

[bwabys-scenarios]

Reunited

Feitan x Reader Route

Part 1

part 2

!!REBLOGS APPRECIATED!!

warning: brief mention of human trafficking, brief torture scene, Feitan masturbates at the end

taglist: @tsukilover11 @sxyriii @shidoni-san @living4tomrua @lemonslut @honeylunalove @sugarrushdaydream @canthebest1 @whorermoviestar @fabitheraven @ashdownunderscorebeloved @astresoleil @smuttysammie22 @yandere-enthusiast @lostsomewhereinthegarden @sketchy-owl @bekahtaylorgriggs @zanzie @dabisimp21

if you’d like to be ADDED to the taglist, please comment a red heart ❤️, make sure you’re able to be tagged/mentioned, and have your age in your bio(IF YOU ARE ALREADY ON THE TAGLIST, YOU DON’T NEED TO ASK TO BE ADDED AGAIN!!)

(Name) dropped her suitcase off at Leorio’s before making her way to the location Phinks and Feitan provided in her note. Apparently, Machi would be waiting for her, and would take the console so it would be safe while (Name) ventured into Greed Island.

“Machi!”

The pink haired woman looked up just in time to catch the girl crashing into her. “H-hey! Don’t you know what personal space is?”

She pushed (Name) back a bit, huffing. “Haha, sorry. I’m just happy to see you’re safe! Fei told me… what happened with Paku…”

Machi sighed, ruffling the girls hair. “Yeah, yeah I’m fine. Come on, let’s get you into the game. Fei’s probably worried sick.”

“Worried?”

‘Ah, she’s dense.’

Machi didn’t answer, leading her towards their hideout. “Fei requested that I stay to make sure you got into the game safely.”

(Name) giggled, holding a hand to her cheek. “Aww, that’s so sweet of him.”

(Name) gasped when she felt a pair of arms wrap around her from behind. “(Nnaaammeee)~ you’re here!”

Shalnark laughed, giving her a good squeeze before Machi sent him a look. “If Fei knew what you were doing right now…”

Shalnark stuck his tongue out at her. “What he doesn’t know won’t hurt him. So…”

He seemed different, his hands holding onto her waist as he leaned forward. “Who was that dark haired man you saw when Feitan told you to stay put?”

(Name) tilted her head. “Dark haired man… you mean Illumi? He’s a friend.”

“Do you typically make out with your friends?”

This caused the girl to pause. “First of all, that’s none of your business, secondly, how do you know that?”

Shalnark sat her down, smiling. “Aww, but I asked first! What is your relationship with that man?”

(Name) sighed. “Again, he’s a friend, the assassin that kidnapped me. Feitan is aware of that, but…”

She twiddled her thumbs. “He kind of proposed to me at dinner.”

“Proposed?”

“Yes… I met with him to discuss why we left off on bad terms, and possibly continue our friendship. However…”

She scratched the back of her head. “He um… proposed to me. I’m still not sure how to feel about it.”

Shalnark hummed. From the camera he placed at her front door and room, he’d seen several… things. Thankfully for (Name), he removed the camera before she and Kurapika enjoyed their night together.

“I see.”

“Now answer my question, Shalnark. How did you know that?”

The blonde only shrugged. “Dunno!”

Knowing she wouldn’t be getting an answer from him, the girl only sighed and pulled out the cookies she’d brought. “There’s at least two for everyone, and…”

She stepped forward, towards the coffin covered in flowers. The lingering troupe members watched as she placed an offering of freshly baked goods on top. “I hope you like these, Paku. They’re cat cookies. I… I really wanted you to meet my kitties one day…”

Shalnark stepped forward to comfort the crying girl. “She would of loved those, (Name). Thank you…”

He held her as she cried, patting her back.

———————

(Name) looked over the cast green field after walking out of the small tower. “So, this is greed island… Killua and Gon are supposed to be here, along with Fei and Phinks. Hmm…”

The girl stepped out, twirling around. “Hmm… they said to wait after I got here… so I guess I’ll just…”

She sat under the tower, pulling her knees to her chest. It had only been a few minutes, but she was already growing bored. “Did he say how long it would take? I can’t remember…”

“Did. Second line of note.”

(Name) jumped at the voice sounding next to her, her eyes lighting up immediately. “Fei!”

Feitan grunted when she jumped into his arms, his hands moving down to her hips immediately. “Took longer than thought.” he said, pinching her hip.

(Name) pouted, half heartedly swatting his hand away. “I… I was busy with a friend.”

He nodded, quickly pulling his hands away when a low whistle resounded next to him. “I see you’ve got your girl back now, Fei.”

“Tch.”

Feitan had long since given up on correcting his fellow Troupe members on the relationship he had with (Name). Part of him didn’t want to, he truly did see her as his woman.

But that didn’t mean he didn’t get embarrassed, especially when (Name) was in war shot. “Your girl?” (Name) asked, tilting her head.

Feitan waved his hand dismissively. “Don’t listen to Phinks. Stupid.”

“Hey!”

“Stupid and smell like cheap cologne. Stinks.”

“Oh you little bastard!”

She watched as the two glared at each other, giggling into her hand. “Oh, stop it. No need for all of that. SOO…”

She leaned her head against Feitan’s shoulder, causing the man to stiffen, then relax. “What’s our plans?”

The two glanced at each other before looking back to her. “About that, (Name)…” Phinks said softly, scratching the back of his head.

“You go back.”

(Name) blinked, looking at Feitan with a raised eyebrow. “Go back? What do you mean, I just got here.”

Phinks sighed, taking over. “Listen, there’s been a lot of player deaths recently…”

‘Aside from the ones we’ve caused.’ Phinks thoight, keeping it to himself.

“And we think it’s better if you go back home and wait for us to come get you.” he finished, patting her shoulder.

(Name) looked between the two, eyes starting to get a bit watery. “Fei… I can handle myself. You’re underestimating me again…”

The dark haired man began to panic at the sight of tears streaming down her cheeks. “No, no cry. Not underestimating. Just…”

He took a deep breath, leaning against one of the pillars supporting the tower. “Just worried.”

(Name) sniffled a little, wiping at her tears. “Worried? You’re worried… about me?”

He nodded slowly, glad that his coat was covering his slowly turning pink cheeks.

(Name) looked at him before leaning forward to plant a kiss on his cheek. “That’s sweet, Fei. Thank you.”

He could barely control the urge to pin her against the column and take her right there. (Name) was always so sweet, so cute. He felt the tip of his ears turn red, quickly turning away from her.

“Tch.”

Phinks noticed this, snickering lightly. “Okay lovebirds, let’s get (Name) back to the hideout.”

Phinks pulled out a Leave card, holding it out to (Name) and instructing her on how to use it. Before she did, she looked to Feitan, here eyes softening.

“Fei?”

He stepped toward her, leaning into her touch when she cupped his cheek. He was embarrassingly weak to her touch, unable to keep himself from pulling away. “Yes?”

Her lips hovered over his, before she pulled away with warm cheeks. “I’ll see you l-later?”

And with that she was gone, leaving Feitan red as a tomato, reaching out to the empty spot in front of him.

“She almost…”

“She was about to kiss you. Man, aren’t you lucky?”

Feitan snapped out of his daze her presence had him in, turning on his heels. “Let’s go. Have work to do.”

————————

(Name) fell onto the floor of their hideout, rubbing her ass and cursing. “Shit…”

Shalnark and Machi were in fighting stances in front of her, relaxing when her familiar aura reached them. “Oh, it’s just you.” Machi said, sitting back down.

Shalnark helped (Name) up, brushing off her skirt for her. “You took quite the tumble, huh? Why are you back so early?”

(Name) frowned at that, folding her arms over her chest. “Feitan and Phinks said it was too dangerous and I should go back. Apparently a lot of players have been dying lately.”

Shalnark nodded, tapping a finger against his chin. ‘It must be a real problem if Feitan sent (Name) back. He seemed so eager to her again.’

“Hmm… I see. Well, what are your plans now?”

(Name) sat down, pouting. “I’m not sure… I was hoping to spend more time with Fei, but… I guess I won’t be able to if he’s gonna be busy.”

Shalnark’s eyes softened ever so slightly, the man plopping down next to her. “Hey, no need to pout. I’m sure Fei will call you as soon as he’s able to. He…”

He trailed off, smiling. “He really does care about you, ya know? You’re… kind of his everything.”

This made (Name)’s face heat up. She playfully smacked Shalnark’s arm, giggling. “Oh don’t tease me. I…”

The blonde looked completely serious, putting a hand on her shoulder. “(Name), I don’t say this lightly, but your safety and happiness is Fei’s biggest priority. Your nen is incredibly useful, if he didn’t care about you he would have kept you in greed island despite the danger.”

She couldn’t argue with him, looking down at her lap. “Really..?”

She wasn’t asking because she didn’t believe him, she just needed that confirmation. “Really.”

Machi huffed, pushing herself off of the concrete slap she’d been sitting on. “We should get moving soon, considering those kids knew of our hideout.”

‘She means Gon and Killua.’ (Name) thought, a little sad she wouldn’t get to see them in Greed Island.

“Where did they say to meet them again?” Shalnark asked, pulling out his phone.

Machi listed out a location, making (Name) blink. “Oh, that’s really close to my home!l

Shalnark flicked her forehead. “You shouldn’t blurt things like that out, (Name). We’re criminals, remember?”

The girl poured, rubbing her forehead. “But… but you’re Feitan’s friends. I trust you!”

This caused the two to pause. It wasn’t often that they heard those words from anyone outside of the Troupe.

“It’s stupid to trust people you barely know.” Machi said, giving her a flick to the forehead as well, but it was halfhearted. It felt nice to be treated as a person, not like the cold hearted thieves they were.

But were they really all that cold hearted, when (Name)’s words warmed their chests so?

Shalnark suddenly perked up, grinning. “If where we’re heading is close to your home, we can accompany you there!”

“Shal.” Machi warned, raising an eyebrow. They both knew just how protective Feitan was of (Name), how he hadn’t even planned on most of them meeting her.

Shalnark shook his finger. “Ah, ah, ah! I’m sure Fei would prefer (Name) getting home safe and sound. Traveling alone is dangerous after all, especially after…”

A silence filled the air as Shalnark’s sentence trailed off. “After what?” (Name) asked, tilting her head.

‘After you’ve been associated with us.’ Shalnark thought. They’d been careful to conceal her identity, but a skilled nen user would be able to pick up on faint traces of the phantom troupes aura on her. It put a target on her back, and Feitan’s infrequent visits were probably to protect her.

“Nothing, nothing. The others are in town grabbing supplies right now, and we’ll be leaving after. You said you dropped your suitcase off with a friend, yeah?”

She nodded, and Shalnark smiled. “I’ll take you into town to grab it. And don’t worry, I have my own business to take care of so I won’t snoop.”

“I haven’t even said yes to going with you all.” (Name) said with a laugh.

“Oh? Do you not want us at your home? How cruel!” Shalnark teased, holding an arm over his face. She giggled, removing his arm to look at him.

“I didn’t say that, silly. You’re all welcome.”

He didn’t expect his heart to thump against his chest like it did when she began pulling him away. “Let’s get going then, before my friend mails my suitcase off!”

——————

Leorio handed her suitcase, giving her a hug before she was off again. Shalnark was waiting by a boba shop, holding two cups.

“Here, I got you one.”

She gasped, taking it. “Oh, thank you!”

The two left, but not heading towards the hideout. Instead they showed up at the airport, where the others were waiting. Shizuku, Franklin, and Kortopi.

“Oh, hey (Name).” Franklin said, waving at you with his large hand. She waved back, Shizuku tilting her head at her.

“(Name)? Isn’t that Feitan’s girlfriend?”

Franklin grasped Shizuku’s head. “You’re not supposed to say that part out loud, Shizuku.”

“Oh. Sorry. Hello (Name)!”

Said girl stood there with her face growing hot. “Hello… and hi Kortopi.”

The small… person waved.

Shalnark helped (Name) onto the airship, Franklin carrying her suitcase. “Let’s get seated. It’s going to be a long ride.”

As the day turned into night, (Name) ended up falling asleep on Shalnark’s shoulder. Out of the bunch of them, he was the least intimidating.

“Ooo, if Feitan saw he would be pissed.” Shizuku said, pointing to the two.

“Bleh, what he doesn’t know can’t hurt him.”

Shalnark gently ran his hand over her hair. ‘Fei better treat her right. She’s special, truly.’

It took a few days for the group to reach (Name)’s home, and once they were walking down the path to her house, she started getting excited.

“I can’t wait for you all to meet my cats!”

Shizuku nodded, walking alongside her. It seemed the dark haired girl subconsciously stuck near (Name). Maybe it was her soothing presence, maybe it was because she was the only other girl in the group, but she felt pulled towards her. “Pakunoda liked cats.”

A silence fell over the group, (Name)’s smile fading. “Yeah…”

The awkward silence of was broken when Franklin breathed in, his eyebrows furrowing.

“Is that…”

He pushed between (Name) and Shizuku, walking forward. “Smoke.”

(Name) blinked, tilting her head. “Smoke? Why would there be smoke? Maybe one of my neighbors is burning leaves or something…”

Shalnark and Franklin glanced at each other as they continued walking.

As they drew closer to (Name)’s home, the smell of smoke became more intense. At some point, (Name)’s walk became a jog, before she started straight up sprinting.

“No… no it can’t be!”

Her home, or at least what was left of it came into view. Shalnark was running after her, attempting to grab her arm to pull her away but she moved too quick.

“Tammy! Missy!” she screamed out. Her home was in ashes, the surrounding fruit trees burnt to a crisp. (Name)’s eyes filled with tears, stepping over what once used to be the threshold of her home.

“(Name)!”

Shalnark pulled her back by the waist, causing the girl to kick and scream. “No, let me go! I have to search for my cats! I c-“

“Use Gyo!”

She paused, focusing her aura into her eyes.

She scanned the rubble of her home, seeing no aura. “See? They aren’t here. Even if they were… killed in the fire, there would still be a faint aura lingering for a few days at least.”

She relaxed, taking in a few breaths before turning on her heels. “Their cat sitter… I told her she could take them to her house if she was too busy. She must have them!”

Shalnark nodded, gesturing for her to call her cat sitter. She walked off to speak to the cat sitter as the others inspected her home.

Shizuku shrugged. “It’s possible something caught fire inside. Maybe the cat sitter left the stove on.”

“No, it reeks of gasoline.” Franklin said with a shake of his head.

“Who would do this? (Name) doesn’t have any enemies, she’s-“

Shalnark paused, taking a better look at the scorched doorframe. There was something etched into the wood, his eyes widening in anger.

It was a star, with an eye in the middle.

“That’s… the symbol of the human traffickers that hurt (Name).” Shalnark said, just loud enough for the others to hear him, but quiet enough that it didn’t reach (Name).

Shalnark took a picture of the mark. “I’m glad we came with her. There’s no telling what could of happened had she been alone.”

Shizuku left the others, again wandering towards (Name). The girl gave Shizuku a smile, causing her to tilt her head.

“Hey!”

(Name) came walking back with Shizuku in tow, a smile on her face. “She has my cats, so they’re safe.”

“That’s great news, (Name).” Shalnark said, giving her the best smile he could. His mind was racing, trying to sort everything out. ‘Are they back? Why would they burn her home down? It doesn’t make sense… at least we have a confirmation that the organization is indeed still active.’

(Name) sighed, sitting down on the remnants of her porch. “I guess this means that I’m homeless. Again.” she huffed, Shizuku sitting next to her.

“Hey, (Name)?”

She looked to see Shalnark standing before her. He was smiling, but it was strained. “Yes?”

The blonde took a moment to respond, picking his words carefully. “I… think it’s best if you come with us.”

“… I mean I’m not against it, but why?”

Shalnark bit his lip. He didn’t want to bring up the painful memories of her past. He knew full well that her mood would be soured, and she didn’t have Feitan to clingy to for comfort right now. “We’re going to see Fei.”

This was a detail they’d left out. “You’re… what? Why didn’t you tell me before?”

He looked away, rubbing his neck. “We figured he would prefer if you didn’t come, considering how dangerous it was on Greed Island. But…”

The image of the mark on the doorframe flashed in his head. “Things have changed. We aren’t exactly traveling to meet him anyways, we were just getting ready for when he came back through the console. That and get as close as we can to greed island.”

“But… greed island is a game, is it not?”

As Shalnark explained that, the sun started to go down. “Ah, we should get a hotel for the night.”

———————

The next morning, (Name) woke up the the sound of arguing. Her and Shizuku had shared a room for the night, the girl stirring in the other bed.

“It’s too early in the morning for them to be fighting.” Shizuku groaned, covering her head with a pillow. (Name) patted her back.

“I’ll go talk to them. You rest.”

Shizuku peeked from under her pillow as (Name) left the room, feeling fuzzy. She couldn’t deny that it felt nice to have someone worry about such an insignificant thing as her getting to sleep in. ‘She’s nice…’

(Name) knocked on the boys hotel room. “Hey, why are you arguing s-“

The door swung open, revealing a disgruntled Feitan. “Fei!”

She tackled him in a hug, sending them both sprawling to the floor. The man yelped, and the rest of the men stared wide eyed. They’d never heard him make that sound before.

“(Name).”

He stared up at her, cupping her cheek as gently as he could. Feitan was conflicted. He was excited to see her again, but when Shalnark informed him of what happened… he felt his blood pressure rise.

“I missed you…” (Name) said softly, leaning into his touch. It was hard for him not to cave and pull her in, to press kisses into her soft cheeks, but he held back.

He didn’t want the others to think he was weak, after all.

“Just saw me few days ago.” he said in a hushed voice, helping her stand up. She pouted, putting her hands on her hips.

“I always miss you, Fei. Even if it’s only been a few days.”

‘Fuck.’

She always knew how to make his heart race with just a few words. The dark haired man didn’t answer her, instead sitting on one of the beds.

“So, we’re going to be visiting greed island, yeah? When do we leave?” (Name) asked, plopping down onto the bed. Feitan shrugged.

“Want to do soon as possible.”

As they spoke about their plans, (Name) leaned her head against Feitan’s shoulder, still tired. It was only 7 am, and they’d gone to bed late due to Shizukus ramblings.

As she dozed off, Feitan allowed her to lie her head in his lap instead. “Always falling asleep.” he said, running his hand over her hair. “Should be more alert.”

She hummed softly. “When I’m around you, I know I can let my guard down for a bit…”

Feitan’s hand trembled ever so slightly as he continued to run his hand over her hair. Once she was asleep, the conversation shifted. “Said you found mark of human trafficking?” Feitan asked, his hand trembling for an entirely different reason now.

Shalnark nodded, leaning against the wall as he pulled up the picture on his phone. “Yep, clear as day. I assume they had some part in burning down her house.”

Feitan cursed, gritting his teeth. “Bastards. What more they want from her? Haven’t taken enough?”

Franklin grunted. “One of the last orders from the Boss was to get as much information on that organization as possible.”

“Yeah.” Feitan said, looking down at (Name). She looked so peaceful in her sleep, despite all the horror she’d been through, despite the fact her house had been burned to a crisp.

“What are we gonna do about the girl?” Kortopi asked, pointing a finger in (Name)’s direction.

“Well we can’t just leave her alone. They’re obviously after her, for some reason or another.” Shalnark pointed out.

“And she’s the only link we have to the organization that was taking Meteor City kids.” Franklin said, looking down at the girl.

“She stay with me.” Feitan answered, placing a hand on her back and rubbing soothingly. “My woman. Need her to be safe.”

Phinks walked in then, carrying a few takeout bags with Shizuku in tow. “Hey, I got breakfast.”

——————

After breakfast, (Name) left to go change into some new clothes. She was happy she overpacked, considering all the clothes she left behind in her home were now gone.

Feitan accompanied her, not wanting to let the girl out of his sight. “Hurry up.” he grumbled, waiting on her bed.

She walked out of the bathroom wearing a pair of jean overalls and a pink turtleneck underneath. There was a cute bunny stitched into the chest pocket, Feitan finding her adorable.

“I thought this would be warm and cute. What do you think, Fei?”

He stared at her for a moment before answering. “Warm definitely.”

She giggled, slipping into her sneakers. “Fei~”

“… yes?”

She leaned forward, giving him a hug. “I wasn’t joking when I said I missed you. The last few days have been tough, and…”

He could her her choking up, and it broke his heart. He shushed her with a squeeze to her thigh, causing the girl to yelp. “I’m here now. Protect you.”

She nodded, nuzzling into his shoulder. “Thank you, Fei…”

He held her close, the thought of her returning home alone and possibly being hurt by the people who caused her so much pain as a child made his blood boil. Feitan couldn’t let her be alone, now that he knew they were after her.

They left the hotel at 8:30 am, and got on a boat to sail towards green island at around 10 am.

By the time they reach it, it was nearly sunset. (Name) was being carried by Feitan after falling asleep again, and their interaction with Razor after breaking into Greed Island sent them back to the nearest shoreline.

“Fuck, that was just a huge waste of time!” Phinks groaned out, kicking the nearest tree. It toppled over, nearly crushing Franklin.

“Hey, quiet. She sleeps.” Feitan hissed out, holding (Name) close. Phinks huffed, marching away to let some steam off.

“Guess we’ll get back in the “legal” way next.” Shalnark said, keeping his voice low.

Feitan didn’t like this idea. Bringing (Name) back into Greed Island posed more risks to her safety, but there was no way he’d leave her alone without someone he trusted to watch over her.

“Have to make quick. Can’t let her be alone too long. Risky.”

(Name) stirred in his arms, the man patting her back to help her ease back into a more restful sleep.

The group returned to the game, seeing Chrollo’s name had been registered there. Unfortunately it wasn’t Chrollo’s but Hisoka.

The good news was, there was an exorcist that could remove Kurapika’s nen blade in Chrollo’s heart.

As plans were carried and deals were made, (Name) was kept distracted by Shizuku, who had plenty to talk about, even if most of her rambles were idle chat that didn’t mean much. (Name) listened intently though, occasionally butting in to share her opinion.

This seemed to make Shizuku quite happy. Not many people listened to her rants, and she finally had an outlet.

“(Name).”

The two turned to see Feitan returning, looking tired. (Name) jumped up from her seat on a stump, walking over.

“We leaving.”

He handed her and Shizuku a leave card each.

———————

(Name) sat on the old sofa of an abandoned house, occasionally sneezing. It was dusty and cold, but not that awful. At least there was a roof over her head.

The group made the abandoned house their temporary hideout as they discussed certain matters.

“It’ll take the exorcist at least a few months to find and help Chrollo. It’s best we go our separate ways and rest until we get word from them.”

(Name) frowned at this. The past few days she’s been so busy moving place to place that she hadn’t even had the time to grieve the loss of her home, or form any plans on what she’d do about it.

‘I could return to my parents house, but it’s already crowded there, and it will just worry mom and dad…’ she thought, sighing into the apple juice box Feitan had stolen for her.

“What’s wrong?” Shalnark asked, noticing (Name)’s sad sighs. “You’ve been sighing for the better part of two hours.”

“What doesn’t she have to be sad about? Her house burnt down.” Shizuku pointed out, causing (Name) to sigh again.

“Do you have somewhere to stay?”

(Name) looked up to see Phinks standing over her. She had always found him to be a bit intimidating, but now his voice was soft and caring.

“No… I mean yes, but… I could stay with my parents but they have a lot to deal with already and I don’t want to worry them.”

Feitan held onto her hand. “… could stay with me.”

(Name) looked up, her cheeks warm. “W-what?”

“Yeah!” Shalnark agreed enthusiastically. “Fei, Phinks, and I are all roommates! There’s a spare bedroom we use for…”

He wanted to say the room they used to keep Feitan’s victims in before being taken down to the basement, but he was quick to clear his throat. “We use for storage. You can stay there while you get your affairs in order!”

She began to tear up, causing all three of the usually cold hearted men to tense up. “Thats so sweet of you to say… I really don’t want to be a burden…”

“No. Not burden.”

Feitan held onto her hand tightly, not caring that the others were looking at him. “Important.”

Nobunaga leaned against the wall, nodding. “Not only did Uvo and Paku adore you, but the boss said treat you as our own, and we don’t leave our comrades out on the street.”

Feitan swiped away her tears with his calloused fingers. “You take care of me, I take care of you.”

This was what sent (Name) over the edge. She began openly sobbing, leaning her head against Feitan’s chest. “Th-thank you Fei! I love you…”

He wrapped his arms around his, feeling his face turn red. “… we leave in morning. Make sure you packed up.”

——————

They reached Feitan’s shared home a few days later. (Name) was exhausted from the constant travel, and just wanted to collapse into the guest bedrooms bed.

However, when she tried to open the door, she was blocked by Shalnark. “Woah, uh, you can’t go in there yet. We still have to… clear things out.”

She raised an eyebrow, but was too tired to question it. Instead, she plopped down onto the couch to nap, before she fell asleep, she noticed how filthy the home was.

There were fruit flies everywhere, dirty dishes in the sink, dirty clothes strewn across the floor. ‘I have my work cut out for me…’ (Name) thought as she drifted off to sleep, pulling the throw blanket over herself.

She woke up a few hours later, feeling refreshed yet exhausted at the same time. The house reeked like rotting food, sweat, and dirty laundry.

“Okay boys.”

She stood before the three, who she’d called into the living room. “We got your room cleared out!” Shalnark said cheerily.

“Good boy. Anyways-“

Shalnark’s jaw dropped as she continued talking, having to cross his legs to hide his boner.

“This house is a wreck. I say this with love, truly, BUT HOW DO YOU LIVE LIKE THIS?? I saw a dirty sock in the fridge!!”

“It’s not dirty, I like to keep my socks cold.” Phinks said, shrugging.

“Okay if you want to keep your socks in the fridge at least put it in a ziplock bag. Our food is in there.”

“We don’t have ziplock bags.”

“And that ties into my next point. There’s like nothing here! If you told me this house was abandoned I would believe you. There’s no rags, no oven mitts, no silverware.”

Feitan shrugged. “None can cook. Eat out.”

She groaned. “Fei, sweetheart, that’s not sustainable.”

“Still alive.” He countered.

(Name) rubbed her temple. “Okay, I see that talking this out is useless. I’m going to town and getting the essentials, then I’ll be cleaning this house so living here will be tolerable.”

‘She ain’t even been here a day and she’s already acting like she owns the place.’ Phinks thought, amused.

She begin to pull out her wallet, but Feitan snatched it out of her hand. “Hey!”

“What you doing??”

She huffed, reaching for her wallet. “I was seeing what my budget would be for shopping.”

He raised an eyebrow. “We give you money for that. Don’t spend your own.”

“But…”

Feitan placed her wallet in his pocket. “Stolen money, don’t worry.”

She pursed her lips. ‘That doesn’t help anything.’ she thought, pulling her backpack on.

“I’m going into town. I’ll be back in an hour.”

Feitan was about to offer to accompany her, but Shalnark pulled him back. “Hey, we need to talk over some things.”

He glanced at (Name), who was walking out the door before signing. “Wear mask on face. Keeps you from being recognized.” he called out after her.

“Okay!”

They waited for her to fade close the before her before speaking.

“When she was sleeping at the hotel, I found a tracking device on her.”

Feitan’s casual grip on the wall next to him turned into a tight grip, small cracks forming in it. “What?”

Shalnark nodded. “It was pretty advanced tech, it took me nearly 30 minutes to remove it. I ended up driving a good ways away from the hotel and leaving it in a trash can in the next town. Hopefully that will get whoever has been tracking her off her trail.”

Feitan could barely hear him, he was panicking. ‘Who would want to track her!?’

Phinks put a hand on his shoulder. “Hey, man, it’s going to be alright. He removed the tracker, so no one will know she’s here.”

Feitan nodded slowly, moving to sit on the couch.

———————

(Name) grunted, struggling to carry the groceries and essential items she bought for the house. It was as much as she could get in one trip, she’d have to go with the others the next day for more.

“I’m home!”

Shalnark was quick to run to the door and help her with the bags she was carrying in. “Woah, you sure got a lot.”

She nodded, gesturing for him to walk towards the kitchen. Shalnark followed behind her, putting things up as she took things out. “I saw there were no cleaning supplies besides a broom, mop, and bleach, so I went ahead and got all the essentials!”

She began unloading cleaning supplies, pulling on a pair of gloves. “Shalnark, please vacate the area. I need to get into the zone.”

He stifled a laugh at how serious she looked, just giving her a nod before leaving the kitchen. Once he was out of earshot, (Name) turned on her phone and started playing pop music as she got to work.

Shalnark glanced back at the kitchen before walking down the basement stairs, the sounds of muscle tearing and blood dripping barely fazing him. “Hey, Fei?”

The dark haired man looked up from his victim, eyes narrowed. “What? Busy.”

“Please… help…”

Shalnark ignored the poor bastard on the table. His rib cage was exposed, Feitan occasionally snapping a rib then chuckling.

“I just wanted to tell you (Name) is home, so try to be more quiet.”

Fei perked up at that, dropping his pliers onto the man’s chest before pulling off his blue rubber gloves. “She home? When she get back?”

“Just a few minutes ago, and she’s on a cleaning spree.”

Feitan snorted, walking over to the deep stainless steel sink to wash his hands and upper arms. “Would do that.”

He followed Shalnark upstairs, stopping when they reached the kitchen door. The sound of some love song was playing behind it, with (Name) singing along.

They looked at each other before entering.

“Holy shit.”

In the fifteen minutes Shalnark had been gone, she’s nearly transformed the place from a pigsty to a functional kitchen.

There was something cooking on the stove, steam rising from a large pot they hadn’t had before. It smelled amazing, causing Shalnark to sigh contentedly.

She placed the last dish they had, which was not many, onto a towel she was using to let them dry. (Name) looked up, giving them a smile. “Hey, boys, I was just finishing up with the kitchen. I’m making some stew for dinner, it should be ready in an hour or so.”

Shalnark fell at her feet, wrapping his arms around her legs and nuzzling against her thighs. “You’re an angel, sent from above!”

Feitan was quick to scoot Shalnark out of the way with his food, growling lowly as he pulled (Name) into his arms. He didn’t like others touching what was his, especially not someone like Shalnark who was good with women.

“Aww, Fei, what’s wrong?”

(Name) cupped his cheek, giving him a concerned look. “He’s just jealous.” Shalnark blurred out before running away from Feitan.

She shook her head at the two, getting back to work.

————————

By the time dinner was ready, she finished throwing away all of the old food and picking up the laundry strewn across the living room. The house was far from clean, but it certainly looked better.

“This is delicious!” Shalnark explained, wolfing down the stew (Name) prepared. She blushed, waving her hand dismissively.

“It’s just a simple stew, nothing special.”

“Still, it’s quite tasty.” Phinks said, taking another bite.

Feitan ate silently, but he too was enjoying his meal. It reminded him of the days he spent living with (Name), and his heart fluttered when he remembered that those days would be able to continue, considering she lived with them now.

“Tomorrow I’m going grocery shopping again. It was hard to carry it all back alone so could one of you come with me?”

Although Feitan wanted to volunteer, his hands were tied. Phinks raised his hand. “I’ll go. I’m not busy tomorrow.”

With that, the group finished dinner and went their separate ways for bed.

(Name) entered what would be her room for the first time, sighing softly. The room was plain, with a queen size bed, ratty gray comforter, and a desk next to it. She huffed when she plopped down onto the bed.

“It’ll keep me warm tonight at least, but I’ll have to add a comforter to the list for tomorrow.”

A knock at the door made her jump. “Come in?”

Feitan opened the door, peeking in. “(Name).”

The dark haired man approached her, sitting on the bed. “Doing alright?”

(Name) sighed, leaning her head against his shoulder. “I guess. It’s all a lot to handle. The last week has been exhausting.”

Feitan nodded slowly, his finger rubbing circles into the back of her hand. “Understandable. Lost home.”

She turned to him suddenly, smiling. “I’m just glad I have you, Fei. Without you, I would have…”

She stopped, her eyes half lidded as she looked at him. They were so close, noses nearly touching. Feitan swallowed, feeling his heart begin to race.

“Feitan?”

He took a moment to answer, his eyes on her lips. “Yes?”

She leaned forward, inching ever closer. “Would it… would it be okay if I kissed you right now?”

She didn’t receive an audible answer, instead, Feitan’s hand shot out and pulled her in by the front of her shirt, crashing his lips into hers.

His arms wrapped around her, pulling her as close as possible as he kissed her. She relaxed into the kiss, reaching up to run her fingers through his hair, mewling into his mouth when his tongue began to dance with hers.

He pulled away, panting as he stared at her. “Wanted… wanted to do that for long time.”

Her face was hot, the girl nodding slowly. “Me too…”

Although Feitan wanted to pin her down and take her now, he knew she was exhausted. So the man stood, planting a kiss on the top of her head. “Goodnight (Name).”

She pulled him down for another kiss, causing the dark haired man to melt. When she pulled away, he was staring at her with the softest eyes she’d ever seen him make. “Goodnight, Fei.”

Feitan sunk onto his bed, stroking his cock to the feeling of her lips on his that still lingered. He wanted nothing more than to have her pussy sinking onto his cock, to hear her little moans and whimpers, but…

He came, staring up at the ceiling.

Feitan wouldn’t be able to wait for her much longer.

[raygirlramblings]

I forgot to send my proof ;OTL

But I thought I'd share it and your thoughts as well! Rayman even has a "Nothing is true, Everything is permitted" moment!

https://youtu.be/4SYL8pNwOxQ?si=mlxiV8oHDtjma6CY

Idk if you or anyone else has thought about it. But Rayman in the Lawserhawk series is a canonical assassin in the brotherhood, and I have proof to back up that theory >3<

^ this was a previous ask and followed by the attached proof :)

Ok so there is a lot to unpack here and keep in mind I know NEXT TO NOTHING about Assassin's Creed lore XD So I can't speak with any authority or knowledge on the rules of Assassin structure.

I do like what you've put together here! It's a good spot to see how the other members of the ghosts do not fit into the Assassin's rules for various reasons. Though I would argue that Jade actually stuck to her role because she still managed to subdue the tiger dude even if it wasn't the planned way. She didn't reveal herself to the public or the 3 bodyguards in Pagan's base. It's not her fault that she was being forced to play against her type and it backfired; unlike other members of the team (COUGH DOLPH LASERHAWK COUGH) she stuck to the plan and kept a low-ish profile ;D Bullfrog would have been proud.

Also I would argue Pagan was in no way an innocent considering he would have absolutely killed all the Ghosts given the chance. And if Pagan counts as an 'innocent' because he wasn't a direct target then Bullfrog will have to answer for all the tiger guards he killed randomly breaking into the hideout XD HE WAS TOTALLY DOWN TO MURDER PAGAN TOO XD

Now Rayman on the other hand I agree, it's nice to see that he took out that one guard in a peaceful way (certainly more peaceful than Bullfrog with the tiger mob members...but they were mobsters so whatev) before going ham on the council, though you could put that down to him trying to keep quiet until he reached his goal.

I think my only issue is that we didn't get so see much of the council members before Rayman kills them. We only get to know Sarah and see the others briefly in phonecalls with Rayman. I'm not trying to say they're innocents in any way but Ramon killing them feels strange to me. It understandable, but it doesn't feel RIGHT. Or righteous. Or victorious.

I dunno, from what I understand on Assassin's Creed the role of an assassin is a noble one and you can't just go ham on people because they pissed you off. Ramon literally shot one of the council members before making his demands and killed the rest after they agreed to them because he was pissed off. He's not in the mental state to be an effective assassin.

Thooooooough that doesn't mean he can't learn some things from a noble little frenchman :3c

ANYWAY there is a lot to unpack and discuss here, and I would love to know more about the assassins guild that raised and trained Bullfrog in this cyberpunk alternate reality and what their unique rules dictate :D

[ask-row-and-friends]

Uh... hey everyone! The names Rowan! Prince of Valourinth, but uh... I'd... rather not use that title... so just call me Rowan!

This is a blog I put together so that me and my friends can interact with those beyond our dimension! Pretty neat, huh?

Though I suppose I should explain a little bit about our own dimension... uh... you may have to bear with me then, this is gonna be a long post...

[Skip to the bottom for tags and rules, fair warning this is extremely long]

[Anything in these brackets is OOC]

[Currently available to ask: Rowan, Sajan]

-☆-☆-☆-

If I am to give to some basic information about our world, we have a little colour system here that determines if one is a sin or a virtue, this being seen in one's eye colour.

For example with myself, I have purple eyes! That means I am either a virtue of Hope or a sin of Envy... uh... in MY case it's the latter...

Here's a little chart to hopefully make things a bit easier!

My friend and I happen to make up many of these sins and virtues, actually thinking about it now, I think we have at least one of everything here! That's pretty neat to think about!

Uh... anyways, here's some basic descriptions of each of my friends! Uh... I'll maybe update this later if needed (or if my friends want to contribute themselves).

[This will also be particularly long, sorry 😭]

-☆-☆-☆-

Sajan - Sin of Lust

Sexuality/Gender: Pansexual, he/him

Occupation: Performer/Assassin

Personality: Cocky, reckless, dramatic.

Likes: Art and drawing, theatrics, dancing, singing, roses.

Dislikes: Bigots, perverts, cold weather.

Rowan's notes: I mean... he's my ex-boyfriend if that needs to be said? I dunno, we're on good terms though...

Helia - Sin of Pride

Sexuality/Gender: Bisexual, she/they

Occupation: Online influencer

Personality: Stuck up, pretentious, vane, materialistic, snooty.

Likes: Social media, fashion, sewing, tea, victorian/medieval history.

Dislikes: Dirt and mud, insects, just anyone who happens to annoys her.

Rowan's notes: She's probably going to kill me when she see's my description of her... but uh... a-at least her new influencer career is going well!

Radiance - Sin of Wrath

Sexuality/Gender: Unlabelled, he/him

Occupation: Prince

Personality: A little pompous, hot headed, easily annoyed, paranoid.

Likes: Books, writing, quiet spaces, tea (though only in a very specific way).

Dislikes: Complete solitude, dark rooms, anything that may set off his paranoia.

Rowan's notes: He still scares me a little after the whole uh... 'void incident'... we're still good buddies though!

Ide - Sin of Gluttony

Sexuality/Gender: Aro/Ace, she/her

Occupation: Baker

Personality: Bubbly, energetic, generous and kind-hearted.

Likes: Sweet treats (both eating and making them), gardening, bird spotting.

Dislikes: Unknown (does she hate anything??).

Rowan's notes: I gotta remember to ask about some of her recipes, they're just too good!

Mari (Maria Nerezza) - Sin of Greed

Sexuality/Gender: Pansexual, she/her

Occupation: Con artist (sorry Mari, but it's true)

Personality: Mischievous, sneaky, a total prankster.

Likes: Money, cool shiny items, pranks, anything circus themed, alchemy and spells.

Dislikes: People using her full name, being called on her bluffs, anyone she deems a 'party pooper' or 'lame'.

Rowan's notes: She's... interesting... gotta keep her away from my crystal collection though...

Rowan (me!) - Sin of Envy

Sexuality/Gender: Gay/Ace, transmasc he/him

Occupation: Prince (I suppose? Still working on that...)

Personality: Maybe shy, a little paranoid? I guess I just... like to help people!

Likes: Crystal's (I collect them!), magic, stars/space, music.

Dislikes: Certain textures and smells, glitter, feathers, just messy things in general really... butterfly's and moths.

Rowan's notes: Hah... kinda weird to describe myself... uh... not like I'm all that interesting honestly...

Igo - Sin of Sloth

Sexuality/Gender: Bisexual, he/him or any

Occupation: Detective

Personality: Stoic, brooding, lethargic, lazy.

Likes: Coffee, anything strawberry flavoured or themed, the colour pink, wearing dresses (he can actuslly rock a dress pretty well!).

Dislikes: Close-minded individuals, loud noises, strong smells, bright flashing lights.

Rowan's notes: His wolf form is kinda scary, but also kinda cute! He has very fluffy hair, I really gotta ask what product he uses for it.

Azaezel - Virtue of Faith

Sexuality/Gender: Pansexual, he/she

Occupation: N/A (I need to ask honestly...)

Personality: Optimistic, positive, determined.

Likes: Animals, bright colours, rain, thunderstorms.

Dislikes: Warm weather, tension/drama, sticky things.

Rowan's notes: I guess we're both kinda ambassadors for our teams? Still don't really know the guy all too well though, his brother barely let's me speak to him...

Ezekiel - Virtue of Faith

Sexuality/Gender: Bisexual, he/they

Occupation: Adventurer

Personality: Pessimistic, hot-tempered, insecure, overly loyal to those close to him.

Likes: Playing the guitar, fighting, rock and heavy metal bands, swords, action films.

Dislikes: Any talks of his past, being grabbed or touched suddenly, being talked down to, any lose of control, dogs/canine creatures.

Rowan's notes: VERY protective of Azaezel, practically death stares you if he thinks you're doing something bad to him... it's kinda scary...

Damien - Virtue of Humility

Sexuality/Gender: Gay, he/him

Occupation: Adventurer

Personality: Generous, open-minded, empathetic, extremely grateful and respectful.

Likes: Astrology, mythology, puzzle games, origami, fireflies.

Dislikes: Airplanes, crowded areas, windy and damp weather, foggy weather, loud noises.

Rowan's notes: We both really like space stuff, it's pretty cool! He definetely knows a lot more about the stars than I do, I really need to read up on it more...

Vincent (Vinny) - Virtue of Prudence

Sexuality/Gender: Bisexual, he/him

Occupation: Musician

Personality: Hyperactive, optimistic, sunshine personality.

Likes: Classical music, dancing, 90's and early 2000's cartoons, silent films.

Dislikes: Being talked down to, crowded/claustrophobic spaces, large bodies of water.

Rowan's notes: And I thought Ide was high energy... he's just... he's way too hyperactive for me to handle...

Cilantre - Virtue of Temperance

Sexuality/Gender: Pansexual, any pronouns

Occupation: Adventurer/Sorcerer

Personality: Anxious, squimish, fidgety, overly worried (not only for themself, but others I've found).

Likes: Things that glow, sparkly things, quiet spaces, set routine and schedules (honestly, same).

Dislikes: Talking to new people, socialising, loud and sudden noises, buzzing insects.

Rowan's notes: They're a nervous guy, I can respect that. I mostly see them whenever I'm having some quiet time to myself, it's just nice to be around them.

Vitani - Virtue of Charity

Sexuality/Gender: Unlabelled, transfem she/her

Occupation: Rockstar

Personality: Loud, shameless, boisterous, rebellious.

Likes: Anarchy, anything punk rock, singing, dancing, playing in her band, being loud.

Dislikes: Bigots of any and all kinds, law enforcement, propaganda, 'money hungry assholes' (her words, not mine).

Rowan's notes: She's so cool! Very high energy though, just a little too strong on the hugs...

Harmonia - Virtue of Hope

Sexuality/Gender: Omnisexual, she/her

Occupation: Librarian

Personality: Quiet, passive, stern and fierce if provoked.

Likes: Horror, mystery, history, folk lore, novels, the goth aesthetic, grimdarks.

Dislikes: Anything cutesy or 'tame', anything too sugary or sweet (hurts her teeth apparently), hot weather.

Rowan's notes: I don't know much about her, I just know she really likes horror and stuff? Vitani said she's cool, I'm more inclined to trust her word than what little knowledge I have on her. Though... if there's one thing I do know it's that Helia is mighty jealous of her.

Djal - Virtue of Fortitude

Sexuality/Gender: Unlabelled, he/him

Occupation: Bodyguard

Personality: Overly-protective, stoic, assertive.

Likes: Unknown.

Dislikes: Annoying people(???), small talk.

Rowan's notes: I know he's Vincent's boyfriend, but that's about it. I've always been too afraid to approach him... I don't think I'm the only one either...

-☆-☆-☆-

Phew, that was long... but hopefully very helpful for you guys! Hmm now... maybe I should put a little chart together! Show you guys what everyone's relationships are like, that sounds like a good idea, right?

So how's about I do just that!

-☆-☆-☆-

[Sins Chart:]

[Virtues Chart:]

[Everyone:]

-☆-☆-☆-

So uh... yeah! That's about it I think! Me and my friends look forward to your potential questions! We'll try to answer them as best we can!

Hopefully my friends are available for questions aswell... uh... I'll try to let you guys know if any of them are unavailable for questions, maybe I'll even see if I can ask others to pass on certain questions? I don't know... we'll have to wait and see if that's the case...

-☆-☆-☆-

[Okay this is the start of the more OOC section, the rules, potential notes, etc for those who want to interact with this blog]

For starters: my main account is @k1ng-r0wan for those wondering, it's where I post art of the ocs part of this blog and other stuff (feel free to send asks other there aswell if you want!)

Moving onto the rules for this blog:

1) I will not do anything NSFW, the furthest I'd likely go is maybe making sex jokes with Sajan.

2) If I suddenly go dark on this ask blog then either assume I haven't got any asks to reply to or I'm just busy (the latter is most likely since I'm busy with uni).

3) I can do some out of character replies or non-canon posts (I do love myself some shitposts every now and again lol), those posts will be tagged as such.

4) Other blog interactions are welcome here, even if they make 0 sense with my characters universe (hell, I got inspired simply by interacting with an ask blog in character).

5) Shipping is allowed, all of the characters mentioned here are over 18. I don't mind possibly responding to asks about ships.

6) If I don't respond to an ask then either assume I don't know how to respond or I don't feel comfortable responding to it.

7) I am possibly planning to allow certain characters take over the blog instead of Rowan on occassion (potentially some who aren't listed here), I may potentially take requests for certain characters to take over.

8) I might talk about sensitive topics, but I will try to actively avoid them. If I do discuss a more sensitive topic then I'll add trigger warnings in the tags (inform me if I potentially miss something that might require one).

9) Kinda just want to add this incase something pops up in future, but I am autistic, I might misunderstand certain asks and thus want to make that clear here incase that happens in the near future. Please inform me if I misunderstood an ask.

10) The main purpose of this blog is to simply explore and develop my characters better and to lore dump, if certain designs or lore get changed I will simply tag it to say its not canon anymore. This blog is mainly just for fun at the end of the day.

May add more if needed.

DNI: Pedos, proshippers, bigots, etc.

-☆-☆-☆-

Side note:

I am planning some potential time jumping or flashbacks, so this is a simple reference for how you can tell whether something is in the present or the past:

-☆-☆-☆-

Tags I may use:

#Ask_Row&Friends - main tag

#Row&Friends_Chain - for rp responses and such

#OOC_Row&Friends - ooc posts

#[name of character]_Ask - for specific character asks/responses

#KR non-canon - the not so canon events (mostly shitposts)

#KR lore - lore tag I tend to use in general with my characters

I'll add more if needed, but I hope y'all enjoy this silly little blog :)

[miqojak]

About Me/People I'd Like to Know Better

Last song: Really, I've been listening to a lot of Fallout songs, I don't know that there's a 'last one' because even out of game, I've got Fallout playlists on! But Into Each Life Some Rain Must Fall has been stuck in my head, in particular, as well as Mighty Mighty Man. I love jazz, though - swing always makes me want to get up and move! So...Fallout music really hits a sweet spot for me.

Favorite color: Green! Most shades of it, though I have a fondness for lime green!

Currently reading: Not actively reading at present, I stopped in the middle of one of the Padme Amidala books a bit back, though - and I was loving reading about her pre-movies! It really puts into perspective what a badass she was, and why she was never a damsel in distress. She had a squad of highly trained assassin hand-maids around her and a contingency for everything, PLUS she was a woman of the people! Her books have made her one of my top favorite characters in the whole of the Star Wars universe - I'd have loved to see what she would have accomplished in the rebellion!

Currently watching: I just finished the new Fallout show, and I'm planning on catching up on Bad Batch here soon.

Sweet/savoury/spicy?: I have a notorious sweet tooth, but I'm also a huge fan of spicy - but as you get older, your body HATES spicy stuff...so enjoy it while you can!

Relationship status: Living with a platonic partner of 10 years

Last thing you googled: An image editor! I was trying to make the mayqo'te prompt list look more pretty than...just a list of words on a tumblr post.

Current obsession: Fallout 76 and SWTOR! After furiously charging through the whole SWTOR MSQ, I'm really swept up in a galaxy far, far away and how good the writing is and how much I love the branching choices that matter, and are remembered in the MSQ! (Plus there's free character housing on the 'battlepass' this time around, and it's one of the best ones yet...) Fallout 76 is free until May 15th, with Amazon Prime...so I picked up a code on the 76 Reddit and I have been LOVING it! The players are super nice, and it's just...fun? Making guns, armor, wandering the wasteland...building a joint house + roadside convenience store out in the world wherever I want! It has really sucked me in. @ungrateful-cyborg and @briar-ffxiv tagged me in very similar things, so I combined them, since only about 2 things were different!

I dunno who hasn't done it, so I'll toss a few names out that are in my notifs - do it if you want, and forgive me if you've been tagged already!! @wpip-raham @xmimiteh @uldahstreetrat @illia-ast @why-raven @littlestcreampuff @hares-and-hounds @cosmicharm @dragonsongmakhali @thedawnforged @starforger @selnyam @madalyn-maeve

[jikanet-tanaka]

Ideas for stories and such...

I'm a bit overwhelmed with plot bunnies right now, and I think writing them all out is the best way to get 'em all straight. So... here are a few ideas for future fics I'd want to write. I dunno which one(s) I should focus on first...

Assassin’s Creed Valhalla

A Saga Most Ordinary : I have ideas for two more chapters, one about Eivor playing Dungeons and Dragons with the three Good Boys, along with Hytham, Randvi and Tewdwr, and another about her and Valka Staging An Intervention because she thinks Sigurd went and joined some cult because of his new girlfriend (ie Fulke).

Untitled/maybe it’ll just be chapter two of an existing fic, I dunno: A new companion piece/sequel of sorts to ‘Nornir's Curse, Nótt's Counsel’ about Randvi and Valdis just hanging out (on the beach while their respective spouses watch over the young ‘uns) and talking about their (rather similar, really) lives.

Dishonored

Take Your Silver Spoon (Dig Your Grave) : A two-shot about two bastard-born princesses of the Kaldwin line. Part of it is already written, I just need to get off my ass and do something about it lol

You and Me and The Leviathan Makes Three : An AU where Daud survives the events of DoTO, and Billie is stuck trying to find new purpose in her life while teaching a god-turned-boy how to Human and a suicidal old man how to… not be a total wreck of a person . Oh, and the Abbey of the Everyman is falling apart all around them (which makes the Boysider happy, since his two newfound biggest goals in life are 1) to destroy organized religion and 2) to save the whales. Every chapter would be set in a different isle, with titles based on sea shanties.

Dracula

Untitled : A little one-shot about how Drac might have gotten to Mina on the night of October 3rd. Because the details are kinda hazy on that, right?

Final Fantasy XVI

The Tale of the Telamonides : Before the mission to Drake’s Head, Mid shows up to the Hideout to Bring Chaos and Shenanigans to everyone’s live. Because I was sad that we never did see her interact with Cid.

Gravity Falls

Dungeons and Dummies : …I need to finish this you guys, I already have it all planned out. I feel weirdly anxious about this story, mostly because I don’t happen to have the whole of the rules of D&D stamped in my brain (shocking, I know). It’s like I’m afraid I’ll have someone go, ‘hey, that’s not how it goes in the Player Handbook, page so-and-so blah blah blah ’ so I don’t even try, you know?? It’s a weird thing.

The Awesome Mixtape of the Apocalypse: A story where Dipper and Mabel’s parents join both sets of twins on a roadtrip to Gravity Falls. The concept would be that Mabel made a mixtape with songs for everyone in her family (so for example Ford definitely gets weird prog rock like this, listen my dad was a happier, most well-adjusted Ford, and that was his shit, car trips in my family were trippy), with each character represented by a particular musical style (the Pines mom’s got punk ska like Reel Big Fish and Streetlight Manifesto lol…) and each chapter corresponding to one song. I got every big story beat and character moment planned out, I just… need to get off my ass and write, I guess.

Horizon Zero Dawn/Forbidden West

Untitled : Aka Aloy watches Varl and Zo together, gets confused/frustrated, and shares a convo with Erend that helps her figure out she’s asexual. Sweet!

Untitled Rost and Ersa fic : Rost and Ersa, as ghosts, hang around Aloy and Erend for the events of the first game (and have a mini ship war about the merits of Ereloy as a couple). Also known as ‘Rost Gets Another Grumpy Daughter Because These Are Sure Fun To Collect Or Something’.

Mass Effect

Untitled : Just a little Shakarian ficlet about Shepard listening to Thane’s story about how he met his wife after the events in Garrus’ loyalty mission and her being like, oh, oh boy, oh no.

Radiant Historia

Will You Learn to Love (Without Consuming): A little one-shot set in the Apocrypha ‘verse which is not compliant with the canon shown in Perfect Chronology. Basically my take on who became the big Mana Monster causing the desertification (and why he’s a foil to both Heiss and the Conuts Guy).

Déjà Vécu : A one-short about Ernst and Heinrich (and, by association, Stocke and Heiss) because I guess that’s what I always write about in this damn fandom.

This Sweet Corrupting Reality : Basically the only parallel history I would have liked to see in Perfect Chronology, that is, Stocke wakes up and realizes he is now King Ernst of Granorg.

[thevagabondexpress]

HI! I know we've been on each other's dashes for a while, but since we took the leap and followed each other, just want to say hey!

Okay uhhh I'll ask questions.

Favourite TSC characters? Ships? Books?

What's your favourite kind of fruit?

Tell me a weird and wonky fact about your live?

Favorite TSC characters . . . obviously Christopher (reminds me of myself a lot, also annoyingly attractive for someone I won't ever have canon aged-up content for) and Grace (that I happen to like We Have Always Lived In The Castle does not help), also Will particularly in his dad phase because once he started clawing himself back from the "I have to be a nasty asshole because otherwise I might kill somebody" cliff he started reminding me of both myself and my father (similar terrible sense of humor, similar level of 'hyperactive extrovert' energy), and also Edwin the bit-part vampire who had half a scene in Chain of Thorns, I dunno, something about him stuck with me. Also Ty but kinda specifically the scary going-on-assassin-levels-of-silent-jumpscare headcanon-Ty that lives in my brain.

Favorite TSC ships . . . Gracetopher, but I also like Lucie/Grace a lot (I cannot decide and have come to the conclusion that it depends on context). I like most of the ships in TSC but those are the ones I have the most thoughts/fanfic ideas about (crushes do not help). I also have a lot of thoughts about Jordelia and about Matthew/Cordelia though I wouldn't say I'm so much seriously hardcore into these ships as they have so many layers of things to look at and so many different paths that could have been taken and I want to dig into it.

Favorite books: Chain of Gold, Chain of Iron, City of Bones, all of TID.

Favorite kind of fruit: technically a fruit, since it's a fruit juice, I'm hopelessly addicted to cranberry cocktail to the point where it's kind of hilarious now (it's what I got onto trying to get off of the overly sugary things I was drinking that were messing with my sleep schedule).

Weird/wonky fact(s): I have many, but the top of the list of ultimate weirdness (I think) is that I live in a county which has what look like literal altars with bronze turkeys on them at the county line on most major roadways in and out. They also have altars to chickens at the county fair. I will get a photo of a least one of these someday as proof.

[minetteskvareninova]

Minette watches Medici, part 16 (Mass)

- HOLY FUCKING SHIT. Screaming, crying, throwing up. This season was underwhelming af, but what a finish!

- There were a few stupid moments, of course. Giuliano’s death was way too prolonged, ideological conflict at the core of the Pazzi conspiracy made no fucking sense, the swordfight between Lorenzo and old Pazzi was completely unnecessary, and so on. But overall it stirred emotions in me that I haven’t felt for a long, long time, and honestly it ended as well as it could have given the bellow average season that preceded it. Apparently, the dude who wrote this only worked on these two final episodes, and judging from his output here he’s the best writer in the staff...

- I am still kinda shocked that they managed to wrangle some actual themes from this mess, like Lorenzo being a living saint before that almost helped to make the point after he goes full on Nemesis mode? And if they stuck with the self-perpetuating Pazzi-Medici family feud as the main source of conflict from the beginning and didn’t try to add any kind of ideological component into it with the whole “true republic” bollocks, it could work absolutely splendidly. The point about self-perpetuating feuds was also kneecapped by the fact that Francesco didn’t have a good reason to turn on Lorenzo, leaving me almost cold during their final confrontation. Well, almost, because “cold” isn’t really an option when one is confronted with Francesco’s tousseled hair and face artfully covered in blood and dirt... As for Lorenzo abandoning his principles and Pazzi achieving a small victory in seeing that, I actually kinda liked it? They didn’t emphasize it enough in my opinion... But maybe it will lead to something later? Like in the next season that said I am not going to watch???

- CLARICE MY ANGEL. I COULD CARE LESS FOR YOUR DUMBSHIT HUSBAND, BUT YOU... She kicked so much ass this episode, I fucking love her. And her and Lorenzo fending off attackers together, maybe Lorenzo x Clarice deserves rights actually? Fuck, I AM going to watch season 3, am I not? Curse you, final episodes, why do you have to be so good?!

- This episode also made me feel for Sandro of all people! Imagine, me caring about Sandro! The fuck??? This writing is truly something else...

- The moment when mob turned on the Pazzi and backed Lorenzo was kinda overdone, like I wish his popularity with the people was actually well-developed and wasn’t just taken as a reflection of the objective truth that he’s just that awesome... But like. It is historically accurate, mostly? Lorenzo did prevail over the conspirators thanks to his overwhelming popular support, which in turn did stem from the things mentioned by the mob (support of arts, economic prosperity of the city etc.). I adore the scene in concept, even if the actual writing was piss poor.

- I was a bit miffed at the rando employee of the Medici getting all of that spotlight, especially since I don’t remember him even being there before - I mean, he could’ve been, but either way he didn’t have a big enough role to justify him being that big of a part of the climax. Heck, even the relationship of the Medici family to their subordinates in general wasn’t a big part of this season, so Nori’s death didn’t work for me at all. But, credit where credit is due, he is based on a real guy that really died defending Lorenzo from the assassins, so kudos to the writers for that!

- Another testament to the quality of the writing on display? I gave a shit about Gugliermo and Bianca! Their conflict first with each other and then with Lorenzo was short, but did kinda slap. The exile was kind of a non-resolution to their story, I guess if I am watching season 3 anyway, might as well find out what happened to them afterwards.

- To think a lot of this was indirectly caused by good old Ugo shanking his asshat boss fucking sent me. Though I guess the Pazzi really did shank Lorenzo, brother of Cosimo? Dunno, don’t remember who killed the older Lorenzo and at this point I am way too lazy to look it up.

- Overall a 4/10 season, would’ve been 3/10 without those final episodes. I most definitely do not recommend it, like there’s just way too much stupid for that, your life is short and with so many better period dramas out there, you’d just be wasting your time. That said, if you’ve watched season 1 and want to finish the series, I guess it’s not completely unbearable. Now, if you excuse me, I’ll be in my room writing the filthiest, sappiest, most self-indulgent Clarice x Lucrezia D fanfic you can imagine...

[kierancampire]

I just beat Horizon Forbidden West!

I loved the first game, though i admit i remember little of it. I think this game expanded super well on it, from my memory of 1, it's hard to say which i preferred! They did really well with it! Loved the story, world, gameplay, the fighting, taking down machines, sidequests were super good and felt like they actually mattered! It was super enjoyable! Put about 60 hours in and there is still lots left to do!

However, there were things i disliked. Quite buggy, from being unable to progress quests, characters not moving, things disappearing under the floor, there were quite a few. Climbing, like Assassin's Creed Odyssey, was so frustrating, Aloy would just stop climbing or get stuck. It's kinda annoying knowing there is DLC but for PS5 users only. Also, i hated missions where other characters joined, they just scream at you the whole time, often repeating things endlessly, to the point i wanted to mute the game. Also the climbing animations where it slows down or tries to be tense like Aloy won't make it? Just so slow, tedious, and unnecessary. And also, some of the enemies were so difficult/impossible to knock parts off or focus on certain areas, due to them just CONSTANTLY moving and nothing helping, so getting parts, i literally gave up on some enemies as i just couldn't do it

However, my biggest gripe with the game. God. Fucking. Damn. Aloy. Fucking Aloy. If Aloy gets hit. You. Are. Fucked. When they make the third game, god fucking damn i hope they improve on that. The *AMOUNT* of times i got stun locked and killed! Or the fucking arena, where everything is time based, and often very strict time limits, but i failed because Aloy kept getting hit by water, explosions, or other things, and she just fucking flails, launches, falls over, but then takes an *ACTUAL* fucking century to get back up, to the point where often, and this happened SO fucking much, where by the time she got up/i got control again, the enemy did another attack, and it restarted the whole fucking process, sometimes until i died. And again, especially so in the arena or "certain" encounters, where you are in a small place, no where to hide, nothing to really hide behind. You can't go too far away, or the enemies just fire a constant barrage of projectiles at you, often leading to that issue of you in a 5 minute animation trying to get back up, so you die and can't hit back. But then if you get too close, they again spam attacks that just stun you and deplete your health in seconds! And trying to run away is futile! Everything has a lunge attack that lets them bridge the gap in less than a second, and you're stun locked! Like, if you can't tell, fucking hated this aspect of the game, i dunno how they decided it was okay and just went with it. It made *SOOOO* many parts of the game unenjoyable for me! Like i said, can't be too close, can't be too far, can't hide, can't run, can't back up, you can barely attack if at all between Aloy just fucking flailing for 5 minutes any time a fucking pebble taps her. Like, my god, i hated it

Also, i dunno if this was just me, but i literally never used melee, even in forced close range encounters. 3 reasons for this. 1, melee seemed so weak and you usually always need status ailments from ranged weapons. 2, groups of enemies just fucking destroy you, so you want to take them down one by one or from a distance, throwing yourself in for melee is a death sentence. 3, to sorta expand on that, stealth is so crucial to the game, to the point there are a ton of perks/an entire tree for it. So the game kinda forces you to go long range, bows are much more powerful, they inflict status, expose weakness, close range combat kills you, stun animations kill you, and there are a maltitude of long range options only one melee option. I just don't even really see why it is in the game? Or why the game seemingly tries to force close encounters on you at time to try and make you use it? There is literay no advantage to melee?

Also yeah, if it isn't obvious from a lot of my gripes, fucking hated Tiderippers. Elephant in the arena was hell too. But like i said, i did honestly really enjoy the game at the same time, it's gorgeous, i took so many scenic screenshots, it continues the story well, i just really liked it. But yeah, there could be some major quality of life improvements haha

[robininthelabyrinth]

Here's a mini fill! For a twist, LQR actually doesn't like quiet and order. He is a huge stickler for the rules because he has to set a good example, but every so often he sneaks off in disguise and just goes WILD. (Inspiration: that photo of Huang Ziteng with LQR hair and makeup wearing that PERVERT jersey)

cont of assassin!LQR

“Tell me another story,” Lan Qiren’s brother requested, sounding gleeful as any child asking for a bedtime story – in actual fact, come to think of it, he sounded precisely the way Lan Xichen did while making a similar request; the only thing missing were the big round eyes and quivering lip. “Come on, Qiren, I’m bored. The least you could do is tell me about something interesting.”

“I already reported to you about all the assassinations I’ve done recently,” Lan Qiren protested.

“Those are reports. I want a story.”

“What’s the difference?”

A small thud from behind the door. A fist on the doorframe, perhaps?

“Qiren, don’t mock me. Don’t you dare.”

It was probably better not to antagonize his brother any further, Lan Qiren decided. The oath Qingheng-jun had taken as a result of the situation with his wife was a dire one, nasty, but if he managed to hold out in seclusion until his younger son was a full adult, crowned at twenty, he would be able to emerge with a cultivation far, far more powerful than anyone else. Even Wen Ruohan wouldn’t stand a chance against him – which was one of the reasons the entire situation was kept quite so secret, layer upon layer of misdirection: first that Madame Lan had only been sickly, second that he’d secluded himself only due to guilt...

Lan Wangji was already sixteen. It wouldn’t be long now.

“All right,” Lan Qiren said. “What do you want to know? I don’t think I’ve done anything that interesting recently – I’ve actually gotten terribly boring, you know. All rule-following and such. It’s on me e to be a good role model, since you’re not around to do the job.”

His brother snorted. “Don’t give me that crap. I know you, Qiren. Too much rule-following gives you hives if you don’t cut loose every once in a while…surely you must have done something recently that counts as having fun?”

“Well, I did play a small prank on Jin Guangshan, but that hardly counts.”

“Tell me about it anyway.”

“Well, you know how he blathers on to his prostitutes, right? Always boasting, always dribbling out every thought that passed through his head. A clever girl would be able to extract just about any sect secret you like from him – but of course, he doesn’t like them clever any longer, which I suppose is a sign that a man can learn. Certainly after the first few times it happened, anyway…anyway, I thought it might be fun to play on his paranoia a bit.”

“Oh? I’m listening.”

“I attended every one of his nightly parties during the last discussion conference in disguise,” Lan Qiren explained. “And then every following single day I used something that I learned from him during his nightly rambles against him. It drove him up the wall.”

Lan Qiren’s brother sniggered. “I bet it did, I bet it did. Didn’t he try to take precautions against you?”

“Of course he did. One night he even bought out the entire place and refused to allow anyone in there but women.”

“What’d you do then? Pay one of them to tip you off?”

“Please, xiongzhang, do I seem like a quitter to you? Obviously I dressed up as a woman and made my way in anyway.”

Silence for a brief moment, and then – “Qiren, I seem to recall you mentioning some time ago that you’d grown a beard.”

“Veils exist.”

His brother was starting to laugh again, Lan Qiren noted with relief. “Did you wear make-up?”

“Naturally. I have very striking eyes. Shouldn’t I make the best of them?”

“I want a picture,” his brother demanded. “Or a show, if you can manage it without violating my vow of seclusion.”

“Xiongzhang…”

“Find a way. I know we’re in the Cloud Recesses and you have a reputation to maintain, but you’re a resourceful bastard – you can think of something. No, better: think of it as a challenge.”

Damn his brother, Lan Qiren thought. Mostly damn him for knowing him so well: now that the challenge had been issued, he was already getting excited in thinking of how to manage it despite all the obstacles.

“I’ll think of something,” he finally agreed, rolling his eyes. “But you have to do something for me in return.”

“I don’t have to do anything for you,” his brother fired back, fierce as ever – good, it was better than him begin depressed – though a moment later his voice softened. “But I’ll consider it. Something to do with the boys, I assume?”

“Mm, indeed. Wangji, this time. He needs a little fatherly advice. You see, I think he’s developed a crush…”

[cjsinkythoughts]

Windows Down, Music Up

Pairing: Bucky Barnes x Avenger!Reader

Word Count: 3730

Warnings: !FATWS Spoilers!, Cursing, Lotsa Fluff, Slight Angst, Talk of PTSD/Flashbacks, No Seatbelts at One Point (WEAR SEATBELTS!)

A/N: The Part I didn’t know I needed. I started writing and this is where it got me. I needed these soft moments after the intensity of the last few parts. I know I said there’d only be one part left, but…I didn’t know this Part would be so long. So three parts for episode 5 it is!

I hope you enjoy this! I know it’s not really a part of the show, but I love the idea and I think both Bucky and the Reader needed it. Plus the show has a lot of leeway this episode because time passes but they kinda skip over traveling and stuff, so I thought I’d give you a glimpse of what it looks like in mine!

Not beta’d, as per usual! All mistakes are mine and please excuse them! Be kind to yourselves and others! Enjoy this part and stay tuned!

FATWS Masterlist

cjsinkythoughts Masterlist

!SPOILERS UNDER CUT!

******************

“So what’s next?” You questioned, your feet hooked onto the bar below the bar you were sitting on so you didn’t fall. Not that you could - Bucky was right next to you, his hand flying to your thigh every time you shifted even a little bit to keep you steady. “Walker’s been arrested, we have the shield, Karli’s in the wind…where does that leave us? Do we have any leads on Karli right now?”

“The GRC is conducting raids to try and find Karli, but so far they’ve only found her followers. They’ve searched this camp, and just like the last camp, nothing. She’s gone. And we’ll never find her.”

You huffed at Sam’s words, rubbing your temples as you grumble, “way to look on the bright side.”

“What bright side? There’s not one here, cher. Not this time.”

“Hey.” Bucky snapped. “Back off, Sam.”

You grabbed his forearm and squeezed reassuringly. “Hey! You got your, uh, you got your sleeve back!” You turned at the familiar voice that caused Bucky to scoff lightly and shake his head.

“Torres!”

The kid smiled at you, waving as Bucky pushed off the bars, helping you down (he’d been refusing to let you do anything on your own since you woke up) and started walking towards the door. “Hi, Y/N. It’s been a while.”

“Are you off to take care of Zemo?” Sam questioned, making Bucky look over his shoulder at the three of you. The former assassin raised an eyebrow at you. You nodded, and he turned around to leave. 

“Alright! Good to know you survived!”

You snickered a bit at the kid. “It’s good to see you.”

Torres turned back to you and grinned. “You too. I really am glad you survived.”

“I know you are, kid.”

Sam looked at you questioningly. “Are you gonna go with him?” You pursed your lips, chewing your cheek, and nodded. “Alright. C’mere.”

You frowned as he lifted his arms, but walked into them anyways. “What’re we doing right now? This isn’t goodbye. We’ve still gotta find Karli.”

“For now.” He responded, setting his chin on your head, careful of your shoulder. “But we don’t have any leads and I’m sure we’ve been benched. So, until we do and we meet again, stay safe. And take care of yourself. And for the love of God, please have that conversation with cyborg, now.”

A small puff of laughter came from you and you nodded. “Okay. I’ll see you later then, Sammy.”

He pressed a kiss to your head, before letting you go. “Later, cher.”

“Bye, Y/N!”

You smiled, waving to Torres. “Bye, kid. Keep out of trouble.”

“Yes, ma’am!”

You chuckled, shaking your head as you walked out the door Bucky disappeared through earlier, turning down the hall to exit the building.

When you got outside, you found Bucky leaning against a wall, narrowed eyes watching the police as they finished the raid. “Do you agree with it?”

“What?”

“These people getting arrested.”

You shrugged, shoving your hands in your pockets. “They harbored a criminal.”

He looked at you with a frown, eyebrows knit together and forehead creased. “We harbored a criminal. We broke him out.”

“Technically he broke himself out.” Your joke fell flat, Bucky’s head dropping. “Buck…” You sighed, eyes following a lady as she was shoved into the back of a car. “No. I don’t. I think these people have been through enough.”

“But?” His eyes grew sad as you met his gaze again, making you smile softly at him.

“But we can’t do anything about it right now. So we need to focus on doing what we can and finding Zemo.”

He nodded, reaching for your hand as he straightened and started walking off. You grabbed his fingers, jogging slightly to fall into sync with his strides. He seemed to notice and slowed down slightly. “We already know where he is, though. Don’t we?”

You hummed, thumb brushing over his knuckles. “Where else would he be?”

“Anywhere.”

You shook your head. “No. He’s there. Question is…how are you going to take care of him?”

“Sam thinks I’m gonna kill him.”

His blunt statement made you raise an eyebrow. “Are you?”

Licking his lips, he looked down at you, eyes set with certainty. “No.”

Your lips pulled up at his answer, leaning closer into him, shoulders brushing. “Good. Not that I’m an advocate for never killing people ever…it’s just,” you chewed on your cheek, thinking about the previous day’s events. “Revenge and justice are two different things.”

“Yeah.” He agreed softly. “We kinda witnessed that.”

“Yeah…we did.”

He let go of your hand to wrap an arm around your shoulders, tenderly avoiding your wrapped wound. “Good thing I contacted Ayo while you were sleeping then, huh?”

“You did?” You looked up at him with a smile as he nodded in confirmation.

“Yeah. And…I’ve been thinking a lot. Since our conversation about Wakanda and Zemo and Sam. You were right.”

A smirk graced your lips, an eyebrow quirking in amusement. “Pardon me? I don’t think I heard you correctly. What was that?”

He rolled his eyes, reaching over with his free hand to shove your head lightly, making you laugh. “You are such a punk sometimes. I’m serious though, doll. I-I’ve been…I dunno…I haven’t been thinking straight. The whole thing with Zemo was wrong and-and Sam didn’t deserve what I was blaming him for.”

You froze in your steps, tugging him to a stop as well, staring at him thoughtfully. Just since that phone call a couple weeks ago he’d grown so much. You could barely believe what he was saying - that he was finally saying it. He was a stubborn ass sometimes, so to hear him say that? It just stunned you. You knew he was a good person, but this…you felt yourself falling more, which you thought was impossible.

“Doll? Why’re you lookin’ at me like that?”

Your arms raised around his neck, tugging him down into a hug, your lips pressing to his cheek. “I’m just proud of you.” You murmured softly, kissing his temple. He ducked his head, leaning against your shoulder, arms wrapping tightly around your waist. You held him like for another minute or two, before kissing his temple again. “We should get going. Gotta get to Sokovia before the Dora do.”

He hummed in agreement, pulling you tighter against him and squeezing you slightly, before letting go. “Yeah. Let’s go.”

“Question.” You said once you two started walking again.

“Possible answer.” He replied, making you elbow him as he chuckled.

“How’re we gonna get to Sokovia?”

He blinked, tilting his head. “Uh…plane? Unless you wanna have a road trip. The plane would only take a couple hours at most and a car, well…I could have us there in under a day with some broken traffic laws.”

You giggled, shaking your head. “Know what? I could go for a road trip right now.”

“Yeah?” He grinned at you.

“Yeah. And yes, you can drive. Just don’t get us in the middle of a high speed chase.”

He winked, kissing your head. “No promises.”

**********************

Bucky was actually a very good road trip partner. He made sure you had plenty of your snacks and let you control the music, turning up the volume for your favorite songs, shouting the lyrics to the heavens as you danced in your seat, the windows rolled down, wind ripping through the car, ruffling both of your clothes and hair.

You grinned over at Bucky, bobbing your head to the beat as he stared back at you, his eyes soft and sparkling. “Watch the road, dork!” He chuckled as you shoved his face.

“I’d much rather watch you.”

You felt yourself heat up despite the cool breeze moving through the car. “Have you ever stuck your head out the sunroof?” You suddenly asked him.

He gave you a weird look. “What?” Feeling a bit mischievous, you smirked and unbuckled. “Woah, woah! What are you doing?! But your seatbelt back on!”

“Oh calm down!” You stood on the seat after opening the sunroof, the top half of your body outside the car. He laughed as you whooped and hollered.

“Alright, alright. Sit back down, doll.” He tugged you back in, shaking his head. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen you like this.”

You smiled, putting your seatbelt back on and plopping your feet on the dash. “Like what?”

He turned to look at you, his teeth pulling his bottom lip between them contemplating. “Carefree. Relaxed, even.”

You shrugged, leaning back in your seat. “I don’t get to do it often. But it’s so hard to care right now.” You gestured out to the gorgeous landscape you were moving through, the sunsetting on the horizon. “The wind, the music, the open road. Nothing feels more like freedom.”

“Yeah…yeah. I guess. I’ve never really…been on a road trip. Unless you count going across Germany in that little blue car-”

“Ha! That was not a road trip! That was Steve being a reckless dumbass driver for a few hours.”

He laughed. You’d heard him laugh before, but this was different. Something about the freedom you were talking about made it different. It was nice. And you’d do anything to hear it more often.

“I’ll take you on a real road trip once this is done.” You vowed. “We’ll hit all the states. Even go through Canada to get to Alaska. Nothing but us in a car for weeks. Wherever we wanna go.”

“I’m gonna hold you to that.”

You winked. “You do that.”

Conversation died after that, the only sounds being you and your music with the occasional chuckle from Bucky at your over dramatic dancing. You made a few stops at gas stations, getting food and drinks, before you felt yourself start winding down as the stars came out, winking down at you. You didn’t even realize you drifted off until the car jostled, waking you up.

“Sorry, sleepyhead.” Bucky apologized. “There was a deer. Maybe if you put your seatbelt on you would’ve stayed asleep.”

You rolled your eyes, rubbing at them and blinking. It was still dark out, no hint of the sun peeking out yet. “They’re uncomfortable.” You grumbled, shifting and wincing at your leg which was still asleep. “What time is it?”

“Almost two.” Bucky answered. “Are you okay? Is your shoulder hurting?”

“No. My leg’s just asleep so it feels weird and it’s aching. You want me to drive so you can sleep?”

“Nah, it’s fine. We’ll be there in a few hours. I’ve got it.” 

You hummed, sitting up and digging through your bag for some food. “Hungry?”

“Uh…I’ll just take a bag of pretzels.” Nodding, you grabbed one of the bags and handed it to him. It was quiet, the radio now turned low on some jazzy station you were sure Bucky turned it to once you fell asleep. “I’ve been thinking-”

“Hope you didn’t hurt yourself.” He shot you a bemused look, making you giggle. “Sorry. Go ahead.”

“I’ve been thinking of that fight. With Walker.”

You tensed, clearing your throat as you munch on your snack. “Oh?”

Glancing at him out of the corner of your eye, you saw him lick his lips, setting the bag down on the middle console, his grip on the steering wheel tightening. “When you were fighting him…why-why’d you hesitate?”

“What do you mean?”

He glanced over at you quickly, forehead creased. “You had the shield. You were holding your own. I’m sure Steve taught you some stuff…but then…” He trailed off, seemingly trying to find words. “It was like that first fight. On the semi trucks. You hesitated. Got distracted. Why?”

You shrugged, turning back to your food nonchalantly. “I guess I just had a lot on my mind. That’s all.”

“I know you better than that, doll. Please don’t lie to me.” Turning to the window, you just noticed that yours wasn’t down anymore. You look over to his side to see his was only a little cracked open. “I didn’t want you to wake up so I rolled them up. Answer the question.”

Letting out a sigh, you shrugged again. “I’ve been having…flashbacks.”

“Flashbacks?”

You nodded, sipping on your water bottle. “Yeah. Kinda like PTSD, but it’s not. Not really. They’re never traumatic or anything.”

You could see the gears in his head turning, his jaw clenching. “What are they about then?”

“Steve.”

The tension in his shoulders slipped, his head ducking while still keeping his eyes on the road. “Oh…why…why didn’t you say anything?”

“I didn’t want anyone to worry about me with all the other problems we’re having-”

“Hey.” Your eyes snapped up from where they fell at his sharp tone, his gaze meeting yours. “Don’t ever think that. Ever. You’re not a fucking burden, Y/N. You’re important to me. I-” He cut himself off, shaking his head and looking back out the front. “Does Sam know at least?”

You pursed your lips. “I-I told Sharon?”

He groaned, head falling back against the seat. “Sweetheart…”

“They’re just memories. It’s not a big deal.”

“It is if it’s affecting you on the field. And if it’s gonna get you or someone else hurt-”

Crossing your arms, you shifted in your seat, feeling the ache in your legs from sleeping in that position too long. “What? You don’t trust me now?”

“No! That’s not what I’m saying!”

“What’re you saying, Buck? You can’t have me watching your back because my mind’s messed up right now?” The car came to a halt and you sat up, looking around worriedly to see if any cars were coming. “James, we’re in the middle of the street-”

“Look at me.” You turned to him, only to look away at the intensity of his eyes. “Doll. Look at me.” He repeated tenderly, grabbing your chin between his fingers, making you face him. “I trust you.” His tone was nothing but genuine, and you’d never seen him look so sincere. “With my life, I trust you. But if your head isn’t in it? It’s okay, you just need to tell someone. When did you start trusting me?”

“At the airport in Germany.” You answered quietly.

He tilted his head. You kinda missed his long hair - the way it used to get in his eyes and you’d have to brush it behind his ear. “Even though I could still get triggered?”

“Well, yeah. But that’s different! You wouldn’t have been in your right…mind if you were…triggered…”

He raised an eyebrow as you frowned. “Trusting you and trusting your mental state are two different things. I’d know. Sometimes our brain’s do stupid things and we can’t stop it. But we can get help.”

You sighed, hanging your head. “Okay. Alright. I got it. You’re right. I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be sorry. Just…tell me about it.”

You nodded, before looking at the road. “Okay, okay. But can you drive? We’re still in the middle of the road.”

He chuckled and nodded, starting up the car again. After a moment, he glanced at you. “So?”

Another sigh left your lips, before you told him. You told him what’s triggered you so far and what the memories were about. How it feels when you slip. “It’s like, I remember something and my mind latches onto it and won’t let me out until I relive it again.” He just nodded, never interrupting as you explained what was going on.

It felt good to finally get it off your chest. And it felt good knowing he wasn’t freaking out and pulling you from the mission like you thought he’d do. It was something you hadn’t done in a long time. The last person who sat down and listened to your problems was Steve and the fact that you felt comfortable enough around Bucky to pour out your soul made you realize that Steve was gone. But Bucky was here. And maybe it was time to let go.

Bucky looked over to you when you stopped talking abruptly, cocking his head to the side. “Sweetheart? You alright?”

You lunged forwards, hugging his shoulders, burying your face in his neck. Fortunately for you, he had great reflexes, or else you’d probably be wrapped around a tree. You couldn’t care about the what ifs though. Sniffing, you closed your eyes, a couple tears leaking down your cheeks and landing on the skin connecting his shoulder to his neck.

“Thank you.”

It was so soft and muffled by his shirt, you weren’t sure if he heard it. But then he set his cheek on your head, his hand coming up to run through your hair like you did to him when he needed comfort. “C’mere, cuddle bug.” He cradled your head, shifting you easily so you could lay down comfortably, your legs curled in your seat, your head in his lap, taking extra care that your shoulder wasn’t agitated. “Try to get more sleep, doll. We’ll be there soon.”

You nodded, sleep taking over you once more with Bucky’s fingers in your hair, soft jazz still floating through the air along with the slight whistle of the wind from the crack in his window.

****************

You leaned against the hood of the car, crossing your arms, watching Bucky pull on a shirt. You had stopped at a rest stop to clean up and change, just a few more miles until you got to the memorial.

“Ayo’s there already.” Bucky spoke, shrugging on his jacket. You pushed off the hood of the car to pull him closer by the sides of his jacket, your fingers moving to button it. “I just…I want a couple minutes alone with him.”

You nodded. “Okay. I can do that.”

“You trust me right?”

“More than anything.” You confirmed, looking up at him, smoothing his jacket down with your hands.

He nodded, leaning forwards to kiss your forehead. “I just - I just need you to know…I’m not gonna kill him.”

You nodded back, smiling softly at him. “I know.”

“Okay…let’s get going then. Get this over with.”

It didn’t take you long to reach the memorial, only a few more minutes down the main street and then going off down a side road.

Just as Bucky said, the Dora Milaje were already there, waiting for the two of you to show up. Bucky and Ayo had a conversation in Xhosa - which you were really regretting not learning anything more than “hi”, “please”, “thank you”, and “where’s the bathroom?” - before he turned to you.

“Stay with them. Just...I just need a couple minutes.” You nodded, eyes flickering down to the gun he pulled out from his coat pocket. He hooked a finger under your chin, lifting your gaze back to him. “Trust me.”

“Sometimes our brains do stupid things.”

He shook his head, kissing your forehead. “Not this time. ‘Cause I have help.”

Pursing your lips, you nodded. He gave you a reassuring smile, before stepping away, out of the trees to face Zemo. You couldn’t hear what was being said, but you had to admit that when Bucky lifted the gun, your heart skipped a beat. But he wouldn’t. He wouldn’t. He promised.

The quiet click of the gun seemed to echo, a pressure lifting off your chest as the bullets spilled from Bucky’s hand, clattering against the ground.

You figured that was the signal, considering Ayo led her badass women out to grab Zemo right after the bullets hit the ground, so you followed them out. You stopped next to Bucky, his hand slipping out of his pocket to wrap around your shoulders, tugging you to his side, your arms wrapping around his waist.

“I was listening to your heartbeat. You get nervous for a second, doll?”

You hummed in response to his question in your ear. “I trust you…but that doesn’t mean you don’t raise my anxiety levels.”

He snickered, kissing your temple, before straightening to listen to what Ayo had to say as she stepped towards you. She informed you both that Zemo would be going to the Raft and told Bucky to stay away from Wakanda for a while; both very fair statements that you weren’t surprised to hear. What you were surprised to hear was Bucky’s next sentence.

“I may have another favor to ask of you.”

Ayo raised an eyebrow, signaling for him to go on. Bucky caught your eye and his lips twitched up into a small smirk, before he faced her again and started speaking Xhosa, making you groan.

After their conversation, Ayo nodded. “We will drop it off here tomorrow morning.”

“Thank you.”

You pouted as Ayo turned to walk to their ship, Bucky starting to lead you back to the car. “You’re not gonna tell me what that was about, are you?”

“Nope.”

You huffed. “You’re the worst, you know that?”

He chuckled. “You’ll find out.”

“Soon?”

“Depends.”

“On what?”

Bucky shrugged, pulling open the passenger side door for you. “On when Sam wants you to see it.”

You narrowed your eyes, a smile spreading on your face. “You got Sammy a present?”

“Maybe.”

You groaned, sliding into the car before he shut the door, watching him jog to his side. “You’re so annoying.” You spoke once he got in and started the vehicle again.

“If you feel that way, you don’t have to come to Louisiana with me to drop it off.”

Scoffing, you gaped at him in disbelief. “You’re kidding, right?”

He shrugged, turning in his seat and putting his hand on the back of your headrest to back out of the spot he parked in. “If I’m so annoying-”

“You’re so dramatic!”

“I thought I was annoying?”

“You’re both!”

He grinned at you, before looking through the windshield, blinking as something occurred to him. “I dunno where we’re going. We have to come back tomorrow morning-”

“Just drive, Buck.”

He blinked at you, eyebrows raising in slight shock. “What?”

You shrugged, nodding your head to the road. “Drive. Wherever we want, remember? Just until tomorrow. We can go back to reality after we pick up Sammy’s gift, but for now-”

“Just drive?” He guessed, the corners of his lips pulling up.

You smirked, shooting him a wink before propping your feet up on the dash again, turning up the radio, and linking your hands behind your head. “Exactly, Buckaroo.”

[maximoffwitch]

Heart on Fire: Chapter 2 (Wanda Maximoff x Reader)

chapter summary: As the weeks go by and you adjust to the Avenger life, you try to connect with Wanda.

warnings: hints at ptsd, poorly google translated russian (again sry :/)

word count: 3.5k

a/n: second chapter! here we’ll get to see more of wanda :) enjoy! also the next update may be a little slow (same w the rest of my writing) until after finals but then i should have plenty of time to write during break!

SERIES MASTERLIST

Chapter 2: Kindling Slowly

The next few weeks consisted of training with Wanda and Nat, both in your powers and regular combat, getting acclimated to the team, and adjusting to what normal life was life, or as normal as one could be as an Avenger.

Considering that you and Wanda spent nearly every day together, you developed a, well you wouldn’t call it a friendship rather, an interesting relationship. You noticed the little things about her, like the way she scrunched her nose when she laughed or tilted her head slightly before she delivered the knockout blow. And while you knew from Natasha that she had had a twin brother, you learned the hard way that the subject was still a sore spot for the witch.

“Hey, Wanda,” you approached the other girl after one of your sparring matches.

“What, (Y/N)?” Wanda turned to you, annoyance radiating off of her, as she packed her things, clearly wanting to leave.

You nervously bit your lip, as you contemplated your next words. Although you and Wanda weren’t the closest, despite training all the time together, you were hoping to become friends, especially given how much the two of you had in common. Being experimented on, losing your family, losing a sibling.

“Um, I was wondering if you could tell me about Pietro?” you offered her a soft smile, hoping to convey that you truly meant well, but the next thing you knew, you were thrown across the room by wisps of red magic. Clearly that wasn’t the way to go about this, you thought to yourself, wincing in pain.

“Don’t,” Wanda hissed, standing over you, “talk about him.”

“Okay, I’m sorry,” you apologized earnestly, as you got up, ready to propose an alternate topic of conversation. But before you could speak, Wanda turned on her heels and stormed out of the training room.

—

After that day, the air had been tense between you and Wanda, despite your attempts to crack jokes and lighten the brunette’s mood. For some reason, one you couldn’t quite pinpoint, you wanted Wanda to like you. You wanted to at least be her friend, so you made any attempt to invite her to spend time doing things that didn’t consist of beating each other up.

Devising an idea, you planned everything to a tee, even consulting Natasha for her advice. Once you had it all sorted out, you decided that it was now or never.

That morning, as Wanda went to grab milk for her cereal, she paused.

“What’s this?” Wanda peeled off the red sticky note that was stuck on the fridge and turned to Natasha.

“I dunno,” the assassin shrugged, her spy training coming in handy, as she pretended as if she didn’t know what you had planned. “What does it say?”

“‘Wanda, Meet in the lobby at 6,” she read aloud, eyebrows scrunching with confusion, “‘smiley face.’”

“Who’s it from?” Natasha sipped her coffee to hide a knowing smirk.

“Doesn’t say,” Wanda twisted her lips before crumpling the note in her hand.

“Hey!” Nat protested, offended as if she had been the one to write it. “Aren’t you at least gonna check it out?”

“Uh, no?”

“Why not?” the redhead pushed the younger girl.

“Why would I?” Wanda shot back. “For all I know it could be some HYDRA agent trying to kidnap me.”

Natasha raised her brow incredulously. “You really think a HYDRA soldier would leave you a sticky note on the fridge with a smiley face? Wanda, if they wanted to kidnap you, they wouldn’t ask.”

Wanda felt her cheeks warm, causing Nat to grin amusedly.

“Just go for it,” Natasha urged. “What do you have to lose?”

After a moment of contemplation, Wanda relented. “Fine. But if I get kidnapped, you better come find me.”

“I promise,” Nat chuckled.

A couple hours later, Wanda made her way down to the lobby, slowing when she saw you leaning against the desk with a grin.

“Hey, Maximoff,” you greeted, holding her coat out for her.

“You were the one who wrote that note?” she tried to hide the surprise but you could tell by the way her eyes widened slightly.

“Yeah,” you scratched the back of your neck. “I knew if I asked you in person you would’ve said no.”

Wanda internally cringed at that because she knew it was true. “And what would I have said no to exactly?”

“Well, there’s this Sokovian market in Queens and they’re having a Christmas themed night celebration thing,” you trailed off, trying to gauge her reaction.

“And you wanted to me to go with you?” Wanda asked, this time genuinely curious.

“Yeah,” you nodded, the smile returning to your face. “I mean I’ve never been to anything like this, so I thought it could be a cool experience, and I know you miss your home, so I thought this might be something you’d enjoy but if you don’t wanna go, I totally understand. And I thought that this could be a good way for us to spend some time together, you know, outside of training. But again, if you don’t want to—“

“(Y/N),” Wanda interrupted your rambling, causing you to chuckle sheepishly. “I’d love to go.”

“Really?” your eyes lit up, not expecting her to agree.

“Really,” she nodded, taking the coat from your hand. “I’ve been dying for some pryaniki.”

“Oh, that sounds delicious,” you agreed, as the two of you made your way outside to where Happy was waiting. “We’ll have to bring some back for Nat.”

That night, the two of you strolled the Sokovian Christmas market, buying a variety of treats to bring back to the tower. While you’d had the most fun in a while, and you could tell Wanda enjoyed herself as well, your conversations were surface level. Every time you tried to get to know her, Wanda switched the subject, brushing you off. At one point, she even wandered off without you, claiming she had to go to the bathroom.

When you got back to the compound, Wanda thanked you with a tiny smile before quickly scurrying into the elevator, not bothering to wait for you, despite the fact that your rooms were on the same floor. You felt defeated, not understanding why the other girl didn’t like you.

—

“I don’t understand,” you waved your hands exasperatedly, as you paced in front of the sofa where Natasha currently sat watching you. “I’ve been nothing but kind and amicable to her.”

You plopped down next to your friend, sinking into the cushions. “I just wanted a friend,” you mumbled frustratedly, playing with the hem of your sleeves.

“What am I? Chopped liver?” Natasha joked.

“You know what I mean,” you lightly nudged her shoulder, sitting up a bit.

“Are you sure it’s not because you want her to be more than a friend?” she asked, her tone teasing but you could tell she was intrigued.

“What?” you sputtered, feeling your face warm. “No, nothing like that.”

“Mhm,” Natasha knew you were lying but decide not to push it. “Look, (Y/N), Wanda’s been through a lot,” she held up her hand to stop you when she noticed you were about to interrupt, “and I know you’ve been through hell too, but a lot has happened to her in the past few months. It’s a lot to process.”

“I know,” you sighed. “I just thought that we could connect, support each other, you know, like you said.”

“I know, (Y/N/N),” Nat sympathized, wrapping her arm around your shoulder and bringing you in closer to her. “But everyone grieves and handles loss differently.”

“You’re right,” you leaned into the older woman’s embrace.

“I know,” she said smugly, causing you to playfully slap her shoulder. “Now, shush, you have a lot to catch up on and I wanna show you my favorite movie.”

—

From then on, you decided to give Wanda some space.

You only spent time with her and spoke to her during trainings and team meals. While you were still as friendly as before, you didn’t make the same effort, and Wanda didn’t seem to mind.

Although your efforts at friendship had been thwarted, your hours and hours of training your powers had paid off. You were able to produce and control fire a lot more easily, and you could also warm your body up higher than your already abnormal body temperature.

Not only were you becoming more comfortable with your powers, but you felt as if you were becoming a part of the team. Clint told you about his family, showing you some adorable photos of little Nathaniel; you started joining Steve and Sam on their morning runs, which the latter was pleased about, finally having someone his pace; and Bruce and Tony indulged your nerdy side, bouncing ideas off of you about new experiments and inventions.

With Natasha back in your life and being a part of something good, you finally felt as if you had a home. Though you couldn’t help but notice Wanda’s glare whenever you were spending time with anyone on the team.

That night, against your better judgement, you knocked on her door.

“Come in,” she directed softly.

“Hi,” you poked your head in. “Nat and I were gonna watch a couple episodes of a TV series if you wanted to join?”

“What show?”

“I think it’s called Bewitched or something,” you answered, tilting your head as you tried to remember. “I don’t know what it’s about. Natasha picked it, said I needed to watch it.”

“No, thanks,” Wanda declined, despite wanting nothing more than to join you and watch her favorite show. “I don’t want to interrupt.”

“You wouldn’t be interrupting,” you insisted.

Wanda bit her lip and after a moment of contemplation, she shook her head. “It’s alright. I want to finish my book.”

“Alright,” you smiled softly, trying to mask your disappointment, “maybe next time.”

“Sure,” she nodded, as you retreated back into the hallway.

“No?” Natasha looked up, as you entered the living room.

You shook your head and claimed the spot next to the redhead. “She said she wanted to read her book.”

“Really?” Nat raised her eyebrows. “Bewitched is her favorite show.”

You picked at your fingernails, trying to stop yourself from getting lost in you deprecating thoughts. As if she was the mindreader of the team, Natasha reached out and took your hands in hers.

“Hey,” she gently squeezed your hands, “her decision has nothing to do with you, alright? Remember what I told you?”

You nodded with a sigh.

“Good. Now,” Natasha began to smirk as she lifted your intertwined up to your face, “remember what I told you about picking at your nails?”

Rolling your eyes, you pulled your hands back from hers and turned to face the TV. “Yeah, yeah, yeah, все что (whatever).”

After watching the first couples episodes of the sitcom, you could see why it was Wanda’s favorite show. You mentally cursed yourself, as your thoughts once again drifted towards the witch.

“You wanna watch another episode?” Natasha, thankfully, pulled you out of your thoughts.

You glanced down at your watch and shook your head. “It’s getting kinda late. I think I’m gonna head up to bed.”

“Okay,” she contently closed her eyes, as you leaned down to kiss the crown of her forehead. “I’m gonna stay down here for a little longer.”

“Waiting for a certain super soldier?” you teased, ducking to avoid the pillow that narrowly missed you.

“Shut up!”

“Love you too,” you called back with a chuckle before making your way up to your room and calling it a night.

—

“(Y/N)?” you heard a voice whisper, as you were pulled from your slumber.

Your eyes flew open, relaxing slightly when you saw it was only Wanda. “Wanda,” you gasped, flopping backdown onto your bed, “jeez, you scared me.”

“Sorry,” she grimaced.

“You’re lucky Nat took away my Glock,” you mumbled under your breath, evidently not so quietly as Wanda’s eyes widened.

“What?”

The sound of the door handle woke you, and as the footsteps approached your bed, you discretely slid your hand under your pillow to grab the gun you’d hid.

Before the intruder could lay their hand on you, you sat up and aimed at them.

“Woah, (Y/N). It’s me,” Natasha held her hands up, not wanting to startle you even further.

“What the hell, Nat?” you hissed before turning the safety on and setting the weapon down on your nightstand.

“You’re asking me that?” she exasperated. “Why are you even sleeping with a gun?”

“Makes me feel safer,” you shrugged. “You of all people should understand.”

Natasha sighed, as she sat on the edge of your bed, hitting your leg lightly so you’d make room for her. “I do understand.”

Lifting your head, you observed the older woman. Her face had become more defined over the years and her hair longer. While there was a certain glow that she radiated, you could tell that the nightmares and memories haunted her. Patiently, you waited for Natasha to continue, knowing she had more to say.

“It took me months to adjust being here,” she revealed. “Not only being on the good side of it all and fighting for the good guys, but also being here, in a place I knew was safe, where I had other people on my side.”

A moment of silence passed between the two of you, your eyes not leaving her. She turned to meet your gaze and offered you an affirming smile.

“You’re safe here,” Natasha squeezed your knee. “I’m here now, and I’m not going anywhere.”

You knew that the redhead was still feeling guilty about your whole situation, feeling as if she could’ve done more, but you also knew she would deny your protests, so you let it go for now.

“I know, Nat,” you dropped you head onto her shoulder.

“Good,” she leaned her head on top of yours. “I’m taking your gun away.”

Too tired to object, you just huffed, as your eyelids began to droop.

“Nothing,” you shook your head, pushing the memory to the back of your head. “Wanda, what are you doing in my room,” you glanced at the clock, “at 1:18 in the morning?”

“Um, well,” she stuttered, “I think the heat broke in the compound, and it’s freezing in my room so I was wondering if I could stay in here?”

She rushed out the last part so quickly that you almost missed it.

“The heat’s broken?” you scrunched your nose and she nodded. “Huh, I didn’t notice.”

Wanda raised her eyebrow at you with an incredulous look.

“Right,” you chuckled awkwardly, remembering you were basically a human heater. Pulling the sheets back, you tapped the spot next to you. “Well come on then.”

“Really?” A mixture of surprise and fondness washed over Wanda’s face.

“Just get in before I change my mind, Maximoff,” you teased lazily, as you concentrated on radiating warmth off your body.

Wanda carefully climbed under the sheets, sighing contently as the warmth engulfed her. For you, the presence of another body in your bed brought a whole other kind of warmth to you, one you weren’t familiar with.

“Better?” you closed your eyes, hoping the darkness of the room would hide the blush on your cheeks.

“Much,” Wanda hummed sleepily. “Thank you, (Y/N).”

Though you were too tired to voice your response, you fell asleep with a small smile on your face at the sincerity in Wanda’s voice.

—

As the sun crept in the next morning, you woke to an arm across your torso and legs intertwined with yours. Slowly opening your eyes, you were met with the sight of brown locks splayed across your chest. During the night, Wanda had somehow made it over to your side of the bed, seeking the warmth of your body.

Turning your head slightly, you observed the sleeping woman. The morning light shined on Wanda’s face, giving her an angelic glow. Up close, you noticed little features you hadn’t before, like the freckles that dotted her face or the way her eyelashes naturally curled. She was breathtaking.

Not wanting to wake her, you remained still and let your eyes close again, falling back asleep.

The second time you woke, you immediately noticed Wanda’s absence. Sighing, you pushed down disappointment that was creeping up. You slid out of bed and got ready for breakfast, remembering there was a team meeting this morning.

“Sleep well last night?” Natasha greeted you with a teasing grin, as you entered the kitchen.

“Uh,” you knitted you brows, moving to grab a doughnut from the pink box on the counter, “yeah?”

“I’ll bet,” she smirked, as she sipped her coffee. You eyed her suspiciously, trying to figure out what she was hinting at.

“просто выплюнь это (Just spit it out), Natasha,” you demanded frustratedly.

“I didn’t know you were a cuddler, маленький (little one),” she said, as a wide grin formed across her face, causing your eyes to widen.

“I-I’m not,” you stammered, letting out a nervous laugh. “I don’t know why…what would make you think that?”

Natasha rolled her eyes at your attempt to be nonchalant. For a former spy, you were truly a horrible liar.

“(Y/N), I saw you and Wanda snuggled up together in your bed last night.”

“Oh,” you flushed red, tucking a loose hair behind your ears.

“Yeah,” Nat chuckled. “Care to tell me what that was about?”

“Well, Wanda said the heater broke so she wanted to, well, come stay in my room because I’m, you know, warm,” you cringed at your awkward phrasing.

“She wanted you to keep her warm?” Nat wiggled her brows suggestively.

“Yes,” you answered before shaking your head. “Wait, no. Not like that!”

“I’m just teasing, (Y/N/N),” she laughed, slipping off the stool to put her mug in the sink. “Remember, meeting in 5.”

With that, the redhead sauntered out of the room, leaving you to finish your doughnut and recover from your embarrassment. After shaking yourself out of your stupor, you scarfed down the rest of your breakfast so you could make it downstairs on time.

The meeting dragged on, as Fury outlined basic protocol updates, while Tony and Steve had their usual banter. You were just waiting for the end when missions and assignments were announced.

Finally, Fury handed everyone a manilla envelope, presumably containing the mission details. “This one’s all hands on deck,” he paused to address you, “including you, (Y/L/N).”

Nerves and excitement bubbled up inside you. While you had been on several small missions already, this would be your first serious one, one with the whole team.

As Fury explained what needed to be done, Natasha sent you an encouraging smile, which you returned, trying to show her that you were ready for this.

“We’ll be leaving tonight,” Steve declared, earning nods from the group, as you all dispersed to prepare.

You spent the rest of the day relaxing in your room, wanting some time to yourself and also to get ready for this upcoming mission. You knew you were ready, your powers were under control and you had just beaten Natasha in a sparring match the other day, but you couldn’t help but think of all the possible things that could go wrong.  

“Whatever you’re thinking, you’re wrong,” Natasha interrupted, leaning against the doorway.

“Even I was thinking that Natasha Romanoff is the best person in the world,” you joked, causing the older woman to roll her eyes, as she entered your room and sat on the bed.

“Even that,” she took a moment to observe you, and you knew that despite all the years you had been separated, the redhead could still read you like a book.  “You’re ready for this. You’ve been on other missions and executed them perfectly. This is no different, okay?”

Nodding, you took a deep breath and offered her an appreciative smile.

“Good,” Nat squeezed your arm. “Come on, it’s time to go.”

The hum of the quinjet did little to calm your nerves. While there were hushed conversations among some of your teammates, you thought if you were to speak, you might throw up. Time passed painfully slow and too quick at the same time and before you knew it, Steve was giving final instructions.

You patiently waited for your assignment, bouncing your knee up and down, until you finally heard your name.

“(Y/N), you and Wanda will be on the front line,” he announced. “Of course we’ll all be right behind but with both of your powers combined, those HYDRA soldiers don’t stand a chance.”

“Got it, Cap,” you nodded before glancing over at Wanda, offering her a small smile. The brunette’s eyes were already on you when your eyes met, but her face remained neutral.

Great, you thought to yourself, as the smile slowly dropped from your face, replaced by an awkward pout, this should be fun.

​.・゜゜・　　・゜゜・．.・゜゜・　　・゜゜・．.・

taglist: @xxxtwilightaxelxxx @nfatale05 @iliketozoneout

[phantoms-lair]

OKay, I'm currently stuck on my latest crossover challenge (Dunno how to stick together Scooby Doo and Assassination Classroom) So Have some more Assassin Shinichi in the meantime.

"Kudo-kun, may I have a word?" Shinichi turn from where he was exiting the classroom. "You grades have been exemplary young man, but I have some serious concerns about your bloodlust. You haven't tried to kill me once, nor have you assisted in any other plans to. Don't think I didn't notice you weren't even trying to hit me during the massive firing attempt."

"Bloodlust isn't something you should be trying to instill in students. Besides I have no reason to try and kill you."

"Not even the ten billion yen bounty?" Koro-Sensei goaded.

Shinichi frowned. "A killer for money is a killer for money, whether it's done for a couple thousand or a billion. I won't become a hitman, not even for the government."

Kuro-sensei wiggled his tentacles menacingly. "Oh, but have you forgotten I'll blow up the planet next March if you don't."

But Shinichi was unphased. "You have no intent of blowing up the planet." he said bluntly.

"And what makes you so sure?" Koro-sensei challenged.

For a moment Shinichi was silent. "I had my doubts from the beginning. After all, you were 'an Earthling born and bred', so why destroy your own home? You crave junk food and creature comforts, and above all else attention. You even enjoy the attempts of multiple governments trying to kill you when you fly across the ocean, because it means your the center of their attention. None of which you can ever get again if you destroyed the Earth. But I was sure after you saved Nagisa."

Shinichi put his bag down and began to pace the room. "At first I thought the teacher thing was another way for you to get attention. You have governments watching you even closer now that you're near children, plus our undivided attention. And yet, you were furious when Terasaka convinced Nagisa to suicide bomb you. You put yourself in an advanced state of danger to make sure Nagisa was unharmed by the bb filled grenade around his neck and made your feelings about one of us being put in danger known." It had been the one time he had been truly terrified of his teacher.

"You want us to succeed. You want us to graduate with our heads held high. Which can't happen if you blow up the world, and for all you say you have no intention of dying, you're clearly teaching us with the assumption the Earth is going to keep turning for more than a few months.S o no, I don't think you have any intention of blowing up the Earth, and thus I have no reason to want one of the few effective teachers in this school dead."

Hmm, there was a small smell of bloodlust around Kudo-kun, it just wasn't aimed at him. "Your deduction shows the validity of your reputation," his tone was far more serious than normal, "and yet what I say is true. The Earth will be destroyed if you don't kill me by next March."

Shinichi picked his bag back up, "Funny, isn't it. How 'I will destroy the Earth' and 'The Earth will be destroyed." are two very different sentences." It was a clue though. In fact, it made this whole thing reek almost of a hostage situation. "That's why you provided the government with the weapons we were issued, right? The knives and BBs harmless to human but devastating against you. They were developed too fast to be done by people who were never even able to get their hands on you, so I can only assume you supplied the government with those yourself." "

You're very astute, Kudo-kun." Koro-Sensei said after he had left. "But there's so much going on that you don't know."

[animebw]

So Assassination Classroom is... weird for me. I could tell you I had a blast from start to finish, and I’d be telling you the truth. But I could also tell you it was a constant aggravation, and that would be just as honest. I had such a great time with the first season, but my god did it test my patience at points. Frankly, I feel like my thoughts are too scattered to do a proper review. So instead, I’m just gonna go down a list of bullet points spouting off all my various swirling thoughts, good and bad. Hopefully that’ll make enough sense to get my opinions across.

-Seiji Kishi may well be anime’s most underrated director. Between this show, Tsuki ga Kirei, Yuki Yuna is a Hero (despite my issues with that show, the direction was excellent), and fucking Angel Beats, this man is a master of his craft. I would not have been laughing so hard at these jokes if they weren’t timed so impeccably, and the way he’s able to ground Koro-sensei’s inherent absurdity in a cartoonish world that still feels tangible is genuinely impressive. It may not be the most impressively animated show in the world, but it still pops with cinematic punch.

-This is one of very few anime that I actually watched dubbed! A friend suggested it, and after checking out the first episode in Japanese and English, I decided to stick with English. It’s got a few awkward performances and line deliveries, but it’s overall really strong. Especially Sonny Strait as Koro-sensei himself. Jun Fukuyama is fine doing his usual megalomaniacal grandiosity in the role, but Sonny’s take on the character as every dorky, unabashedly cringe “cool teacher” you’ve ever had was much more entertaining.

-While very few of the characters are that interesting on their own, I feel like the show does a good job making the overall cast feel balanced and interesting. You really get a feel for the class dynamic and how all these kids operate within it, even if you don’t get to know many of them personally.

-In general, I like how this is a shonen series that builds itself around the theme of teaching. Not every series for kids puts so much focus on the adults and their importance to kids’ lives, let alone makes that its entire driving point. In that way, it almost acts as a teacher itself, guiding its audience to unlocking their best selves by following the lessons that Koro-sensei imparts to his students.

-As for negatives... hooooooly shit, did I struggle with Irina. At this point in my anime-watching “career,” I am fully sick and tired of female characters who exist mainly to be stuck-up bitches so the story can humiliate them and “put them in their place.” Not to mention the fact she literally sexually assaulted Nagisa. That is a child, and you are a grown-ass woman, lady.

-It’s also weird, because even though I was watching the dub, I felt like I was subconsciously having a negative reaction to how I imagined her original Japanese performance was like. Martha Harms is having an absolute blast in the role, and her over-the-top deliveries could get a chuckle out of me. But after seeing so many characters like Irina in other anime, I feel like my sense memory of those characters’ performances still affected my overall impression of her as a character. I dunno, it’s bizarre.

-I don’t mind Koro-sensei having a thing for big boobs, that’s a perfectly fine character trait. But there were a few moments where that crossed a line into him outright stalking/harassing women as a “joke,” and fuck that noise ten ways to Shanghai.

-The one big issue I have with the structure of this series, at least in the beginning, is that it only seems to know one way to generate conflict. And that way is: introduce a completely new character, have them threaten to disrupt the status quo, and then dispatch them with the status quo unchanged by the end of the episode, either by shuffling them off screen and then they never show up again, or by adding them to the status quo in a way that doesn’t really change anything and just adds one more character to... exist, I guess. It’s not until the final arc of the season that it actually starts bringing some of those characters back and doing meaningful things with them, and it is pretty cool when it finally happens. Before then, though, it’s basically all one-offs who cease to be relevant once their designated episode is over.

-Nagisa looks damn good in women’s clothes.

I think that covers all my main points. As you can tell, I’m pretty divided on this show overall. I can safely say I had a great time, and it made me laugh my ass off on multiple occasions, so I can’t be too harsh on it. But at the same time, I can’t be too kind to it considering how much it could frustrate me. So let’s say it’s a 6.5/10? Maybe 7 if I’m feeling generous? Yeah, that seems right. I’ve heard the second season is way better, so I’m looking forward to that. Until next time!

[grigori77]

Critical Role: Campaign 3 Episode 32

Oh dear gods why are we starting this with a Sam Riegel skit of him shoving stuff in his mouth? Oh shit ... Marisha: "Oh God, please do not vomit on air!" That was so bad on so many levels.

Sam: "I found my gag reflex, guys!"

Marisha's trying to do her plug but she's traumatised, while Laura's grossed out by the smell of the pickles ... and the mint ...

I don't mind this new title sequence, it's fun, but that last one was AWESOME, I just miss it. Why'd they change it? They clearly spent SO MUCH on it. Still love the theme song, though.

After the recap ... wow, we really are a MESS, ain't we?

Taliesin rolls a 15. Nothing happens. THAT was the first roll of the session? Really?

Ouch ... is that really how Fearne's gonna part ways with her mother? That was so awkward.

Honestly, I think Chetney has a point. FCG should not just SHOW UP on Dancer.

Orym and Fearne? I was thinking more Orym and Imogen would be a better choice.

Chetney: "We've detained the beast known as FCG!"

FCG: "Can you describe it with wood?" Chetney: "I describe EVERYTHING with wood!"

Ashton: "You're eating Bassuras street food, you're braver than I thought you were."

Goblin pickle vendor: "You want more?"

Whoa, Imogen's message is COLD. That is SNEAKY. Ashton is DEEPLY impressed.

Imogen: "Stop making that face." FCG: "I can't make faces." Inexplicably starts growing earlobes. Matt: "I hate this so much."

Chetney: "Finesse baby, you wouldn't feel a thing." FCG: "I'd be more worried about that ticker of his."

Singing "Stay here!" after "Making my way!" Matt: "You've gone too far."

So Dancer BOUGHT FCG. She's not responsible for ANY of his uniqueness.

Imogen's reading her thoughts ... she LOVED him once. Before. Thus whole thing is getting HEARTBREAKING.

WHISPER!!!!

Rumedaan desert ... Sam: "Hoobastank!"

Imogen and Dancer are having a serious conversation about what makes FCG tick and then Marisha and Travis are just goofing around in their little corner. I'd love to know what they're talking about that's got them cracking up so much.

Orym speaking DEEP TRUTHS to Dancer. That us SO SWEET.

Yeah, reckon I'D need a big fucking drink before dealing with this shit too.

Chetney gets a Laudna message for the first time and it seems like it kinda turns him on ... gods he is SO WEIRD sometimes.

Sam pretends to arm a bomb when they see Dancer again. Everybody cracks up. Matt: "Weirdest TPK ever."

FCG asking Dancer: "Are you still having bad dreams?" Oh man, I dunno if I can handle this ...

Oh wow, the only think that Dancer changed about FCG was how they mimicked her voice and it stuck ... fuck ...

Dancer's not forgiving them, but she's being surprisingly gentle with them too ... then they ask her to tell them what they did and ...

Jesus, Sam, are you REALLY asking how they're gonna KILL FCG if it comes to it?

This is like a really tough and painful breakup between two people who still REALLY CARE about each other.

Go to Joe. Get Imogen to work her mojo on him.

Not the tongue. Please no more with the tongue. Matt is DYING. "It's not canon."

Chetney: "Gives me an idea." Sam: "Me too." Oh God.

Laudna: "What if you were an ASSASSIN?"

Imogen: "Chet, what does it feel like? You're like a young buck compared to this one." Chetney: "I don't know." Jokes about senility ensue.

"Ask me about my Pussy." Marisha: "That would sell. Multiple pussy jokes ensue. They break Matt again. Sam is reminded about the One-Eyed Monster thing. Commits a fatality on Matt. Liam: "Youmade it to this episode and no further."

You can't offer Chetney METAL BASED PAINTS! Gods, his soul just died a little.

Joe fixes it for him with SCIENCE!!!

Chetney: "Creativity is BUSTLING Joe! There's no time to fucking waste!"

I love the way Matt is always SO RESPECTFUL with the way he'll talk about how gender is seen and represented ...

Imahara Joe, thorough arcane tech nerd.

Whoa ... are they gonna have Joe just tinker away with him RIGHT HERE? SERIOUSLY?

Laudna: "Would you like to hold my hand?" Marisha commences to pretend that FCG IS CRUSHING Laudna's hand.

No backflips in Joe's shop!

Joe opens him up. FCG freaks. Imogen: "Do you wanna go to sleep?" FCG: "I don't know, this feels weird!"

Imogen: "It smells like old beer in here." Matt: "It is a unique smell. "

Chetney starts taking notes. By chiselling his hands.

Purple things can be purple without being specific purple things.

Matt: "That is the funniest table bullying I've seen in quite some time."

No! Not Delilah! Not right now! Stop it!

FCG gives Joe guidance and their entire insides just LIGHT UP. Joe: "You are FILLED with magic!"

They want to experiment. Ashton volunteers. FCG casts SACRED FLAME and deals him SIX POINTS OF DAMAGE!!! Taliesin: "And I'm down."

Joe's going to OPEN HIS HEAD NOW!!!

Sam: "Oh God ... he's GUESSING?" Joe: "I ... DO NOT KNOW how to do this."

Fearne: "I can do it, I wanna do it. I can do it." Orym: "What if NONE OF US did it?"

Yeah, Joe, I'm with you. I don't like where this is going either.

Joe: "There's something called the Care and Culling." Laura: "The Karen Culling?"

Ooooooooh ... pre-Divergence lore dump! FCG was an ASSASSIN BOT? Bonus: Order 66 homage ...

Chetney: "That means you ARE older than me." FCG: "But didn't YOU wanna be the oldest? I thought that was a point of pride with you." Chetney: "That was like a thousand years ago. I can't compete with that."

More deep truths to help FCG realise they can be more than what they were intended to be. Just like everybody else.

Heart to heart talk with a little dig at the fact that they're a healer that never heals. Ah, that old running gag ...

FCG'S sense of taste ... Joe chickens out. Laura: "Coward!"

Orym: "What was D's Nutz?" Matt: "It just keeps on coming."

Imogen gets Joe to picture D. It's Doctor Doom! NOOOOOOOOO!!!!

Token of the Changebringer. That's so sweet.

FCG: "Thank you Joe. I won't eat this one." Joe: "Please don't."

"Chetney'll catch up." Travis is in the bathroom at the time. Jokes about Chetney huffing paint and dying of an aneurysm ensue as they decide to take a break.

Imogen SHOULD NOT be anywhere near Otohan right now ...

Chetney: "Step one." Laudna: "Walk through the door." Chetney: "KNOCK ON the door, surely?" Laudna: "Oh fuck! I'm fucking this up already!"

Imogen uses wild magic. Matt: "Roll a D100." Imogen starts floating. Dread Pirate Roberts jokes ensue, but it takes me a moment to realise why. Damn it, I really shoul know that one already, I love The Princess Bride.

Liam: "The bones tell me nothing."

Imogen: "What if I float forever?" Ashton: "Honestly I think it'll at least last until it's not funny anymore."

Liam: "Absolutely, Orym says, as he thinks about the plan he mentioned thirty seconds before."

Marisha, cracking up: "Nothing like weaponising somebody's damage."

Artana Voe? Wow ... what's SHE doing here?

Stealth check! Liam: "That's not bad. 19." THAT'S not bad?

I'll say it right now, none of this is good. She is DEFINITELY not alone ...

Imogen's levitation drops after 10 minutes.

Marisha: "Drop the motherfucking gate!" Liam: "Let the gate drop!" Matt: "I will destroy you all."

Random guard: "just stand here and wait." Ashton: "Anywhere in particular or just like a bunch of assholes?" Random guard: "... like a bunch of assholes."

Ashton: "I'm a big fan of low responsibility high violence possibilities." Ratanish: "Then you came to the right place."

Travis: "We're doing it. We're in." (dismayed)

Rockmond the minotaur. Laudna: "What a big strong name!"

Oh yeah, the Cleaners in Labyrinth ...

FCG: "Do you have tiny guns for monkey hands?"

Great. Now Mister is ARMED. Ashton: "I feel like nothing good will come of this."

So clearly Rockmond is surprisingly bright but awfully trusting. It's almost sweet, really. I feel like it won't end well for him ...

Rockmond, as Laudna tries to ask about who's the most important person he knows: "I'd say Ratanish is ... pretty cool." Laudna: "Would you say he's your mentor? Your minotaur mentor?" Chetney (whispering): "Flirt harder!"

Chetney: "Have you ever been disappeared before?" Laudna (gushing): "I have!"

Liam: "I'm still new to this toy, what's my man's AC?" Marisha: "Is this like your new 'what's the time of day'?"

Yeah, this dust storm could be a godsend ...

Ashton: "Questions are the easiest way to get a deafening silence in this kind of work." Imogen: "Why?"

Is Treshi a VAMPIRE? Is that where we're going with this?

Liam: "It's been a while. It's been a whole week." The rest of the group, singing: "It's been a while!"

Oh yeah, nothing more difficult than the intentional pratfall.

Woo, Chetney and Fearne = STRONG. Kind of.

Chetney rolls 18 sniffing for undead. Nothing.

Valuables. There be valuables! Chetney: "Don't, don't, not ... that twinkle in your eye!" Fearne: "That's always there."

Ratanish: "Personal hobbies are encouraged here at Paragon's Call." Sam: "Insight check!" Turns out he's an arts and crafts person.

Detect magic. Ashley: "I can do that! I didn't know I could do that!"

The Cerberus Assembly again! GRRRRRRR!!!

FCG: "We just agreed to do this job! We're just gonna leave, without two week's notice?"

FCG suggests Imogen hides in the cart and sends them messages. Laudna: "Hard no!"

Imogen: "A brewch is just a poorly said brooch."

Chetney's abysmal jewellery. He's so spectacularly offended.

Imogen: "Give him the hole, just in case you see him." Fearne, smiling: "You want the hole?"

Marisha doing Laudna running in place is adorable.

Matt's description of the fortress in the chaos of the storm is SPELLBINDING.

Laudna and Ashton's little adventure in the storm.

Laudna: "Ooh, look at these weapons!" Liam: "Are there weapons here?" Marisha: "I don't know, I'm making this up as I go along."

Laudna: "What if it's, like, from a SCORNED LOVER?"

Sam: "This is a very exciting retail purchase." Taliesin: "I know, we really overcooked this." Matt: "Well you know, D&D."

Laudna and Ashton are so sweet together, they're like incorrigible to each other, it's adorable. Ashton: "You can still be the best broken thing you can be." Damn straight.

Matt reminding them that they've been having this intimate heart to heart conversation and the whole time they're SCREAMING IT over the storm. XD

Taliesin cracking up over Chetney being such a lockpicking perfectionist.

Laura does some exaggerated anime style gasping. Matt makes a joke that she could make a living doing voice acting.

Travis: "Awww, why can't I just assassinate people? Damn it."

Seriously, Ashton, you're on a job. You could just claim that 350 gold back as expenses.

Armand Treshi - prisoner or paranoid guest?

Mystery attack ... Matt: "And THAT'S where we're gonna end tonight's episode."

[carelessannie]

Winterspider, Peter x Bucky, omegaverse, smut, nff, other specific warnings in the tags

For this prompt from @femmeparker

Me: let’s do this, but something kinda different

❤️❤️❤️ I love these two honestly Hope you enjoy!

- - -

There’s not much on the TV. Someone made the mistake of giving Steve the remote, and now everyone is subject to watching each channel fly by at an alarming rate, the only constant sound in the room the rhythmic clicking of the next channel button. None of them complain, though. It’s very rare that they all have a quiet night together, and everyone seems content to watch Steve surf the cable box.

The six of them are spread around Tony’s living room. Pizza is already gone and at any moment Tony or Nat will take away the remote and turn on a movie, but Bucky could care less. He usually sits back and watches from the outside, anyways. He looks over at Bruce, and they share a knowing glance— both of them happy to stay quiet and let the others take the lead.

He could go for a drink, though. Bucky ambles to his feet, offering to grab stuff from the kitchen as he heads there. With his head in the fridge, he sorts through the drink options, gagging dramatically at the thought of one of the fruity wine coolers Tony has tons of. He looks at the bottle, scoffing at the ingredients and alcohol content. Four percent? Why even bother?

“Those are mine,” a sweet voice chirps, and Bucky smacks his head trying to turn around.

“Ow, fu—” Bucky lets the curse die on his tongue as he gets an eyeful of the prettiest boy he’s ever seen, swamped in a university sweatshirt and wearing a playful smirk. He holds out his hand, expectantly, and Bucky stares at it, unsure of what this angel wants.

Deciding to play it safe, he shakes the boy’s hand.

“Bucky,” he says, like an idiot.

The boy just giggles, tightening his grip and tossing his unruly curls, “Peter. And honestly, I just wanted you to hand me a drink— but it’s nice to meet you. I feel like since I’ve been at college, I haven’t been able to meet any of my dad’s friends,” he pauses, giving Bucky an obvious once over, “and I think I would have remembered you.”

Bucky knows his face is glowing red. He clears his throat and pops the top on the fruity drink, handing it over to Peter, “And your dad is?”

Peter takes a sip, “Tony Stark. I guess it makes sense he didn’t mention me.”

Oh, he did. Bucky— like the fool he apparently is— just didn’t realize Tony’s son is only a few years younger than Bucky himself. And drop dead gorgeous. Definitely a no fly zone for ex-assassin, centenarian soldiers with war trauma.

He backs up, heading towards the living room in a hasty retreat, when the air suddenly shifts, catching Peter’s scent, and throwing it in Bucky’s face.

“Oh, shit,” this time he does curse, smacking into the wall as he holds his nose, politely stopping himself from smelling the ripe Omega scent beckoning him closer. “I’m so sorry, fuck, I didn’t realize...”

Peter takes a step closer, placing his drink on the counter. He has Bucky cornered against the wall, and the Alpha has never felt more terrified.

“Shh, it’s okay,” the tiny Omega whispers, no doubt getting a nose-full of Bucky’s fear scent, “you’re not gonna hurt me.”

He watches, helplessly, as Peter steps into his space, his maple-honey gaze wide and pleading. The young Omega wraps himself in Bucky’s arms, burying his nose in Bucky’s chest, and starts to purr deep, soft breaths that shake Bucky to his core.

Not heat— no, not quite— but something very close is burning through Peter’s small body. Bucky realizes he’s supporting almost all of Peter’s slight weight, and searches for a chair. There is no way he’s carrying Peter out into the living room like this.

He must black out for a moment, because the next time he’s aware, it’s pitch black and Bucky’s sitting on the floor, still clutching the Omega to his chest. He looks around, hoping to catch sight of something familiar. Rice. Flour, sugar, Raisin Bran— great. Of course his Alpha instincts would not only den them up, but put them in the pantry. Stupid, practical hindbrain.

There’s movement outside, and Bucky growls, low and menacing in his throat.

“Buck? Are you in there?”

It’s Steve. Another Alpha. Best friend. Threat.

“What?” Bucky snarls, running his fingers through Peter’s hair comfortingly.

Silence for a beat, “Do you... Tony thinks you have his son in there, Bucky. Please tell me that’s not true.”

“He’s safe, Steve.”

The other Alpha curses under his breath, “Dammit, Buck. Okay, let me grab Tony. He’s gonna help.”

Bucky wants to protest, but the Omega in his arms has started gently nibbling on his fingers, holding his hand and sucking on them lightly. He hums his approval, and Peter just smiles sweetly, never once opening his eyes.

“James Barnes, do you have my son in there?”

Tony sounds strained, trying to keep his tone neutral as he paces in front of the door.

“He’s safe in here, Tony.”

“Can you give him back to me, Alpha?” Tony asks, a hint of panic coming through his tone. “He’s unbonded and needs his pack.”

Bucky whines, looking down to memorize Peter’s features in the low light. It’s safe in here, warm and dark and full of food, but Bucky’s instincts insist Peter will be safest with his pack. Dammit.

He stands up, hauling Peter into a princess carry, and slowly opens the door, checking for threats. Tony stands on the other side of the room. His hands are tightly clenched around the countertop, and his face is riddled with worry. Bucky walks slowly to his side, and drops Peter into his waiting arms.

Without the Omega in his grasp, Bucky is suddenly on the verge of tears. Peter whimpers, a painfully sad sound, and Bucky has to retreat before he does something to make this worse. “M’sorry,” he rasps, and turns to head for the door, passing the group of Avengers on the way. Steve tries to lay a comforting hand on his back, but Bucky just brushes it off.

He rifles around the living room, grabbing his phone and wallet, and then heads for the door. As he’s slipping his shoes back on, he feels a painful tug in his chest. Then there’s a loud sob from the kitchen. Bucky’s stuck, frozen, with one arm in his jacket as he listens for more.

A small wheezing noise. Urgent whispers. Bucky’s on his knees. Another sob. Quiet pleading and begging. Bucky curls up against the door, feeling his stomach cramp up. Footsteps approach.

“... don’t think he could’ve gotten far— oh! Barnes, what the hell?”

He barely glances at Clint, “... couldn’t... leave,” Bucky breathes out, groaning as another wave of pain clenches in his gut, tight in his chest.

Bucky’s not sure how long he stays pressed up against the front door. He hears voices around him, but can’t understand them. There’s someone pulling on his arm and picking him up. He tries to protest— they can’t take him away— but suddenly there’s a weight in his arms, warmth against his body, and his nose is firmly pressed into the top of his Omega’s head.

Thank god.

He rolls them slightly, pressing Peter up against the soft wall and hiding him from unwanted gazes. He closes his eyes, letting the comfort of his Omega close by lull him to sleep.

- - -

When he comes to, it’s light outside. Peter is snoring gently in his arms, and Bucky’s head is clear. He sits up, taking in his surroundings. He’s in Tony’s living room and sitting on the largest couch, hovering over Peter’s still sleeping form.

“He imprinted on you, Bucky,” a voice behind him, Tony’s voice behind him, breaks the silence. He turns reluctantly to face the man, an apology already on his tongue.

“Save it,” Tony says instead, drinking from a coffee mug absently, “god knows why, but my kid, my only fucking son, chose you as his Alpha yesterday. I don’t get it. How did you even meet? Temporary mating bonds usually take weeks to form— but yours formed overnight.”

Bucky is speechless, so Tony rambles on, “That is what this is, right? Maybe scent compatibility, maybe his oncoming heat, but my Petey chose the world’s most deadly and unstable Alpha to imprint on. Not only that, but you had to go den him away— basically confirming your side of the bond in the process. You’re a fool, James. Actually, I’m a fool. Thinking you could be trusted—”

“Stop it, Dad,” Peter’s small voice interrupts, and the tiny Omega wiggles out from behind Bucky to stare down his father, “s’my choice. I want Bucky.”

“But why?” Both Bucky and Tony ask, in unison.

Peter just hums, looking up at Bucky with his precious doe-eyes, “Dunno,” he murmurs, addressing his dad while holding Bucky’s gaze, “He feels safe, Dad. His scent is different... calm and gentle.”

“Dammit,” Tony hisses, never taking his eyes off the pair, even as Bucky sways closer, enchanted by the perfect Omega pressed into his side.

“You sure, angel? You could have anyone, any Alpha you want would be head over heels to be with you.”

“Are you?” Peter asks, slotting his delicate thumb into the dimple on Bucky’s chin, tilting his head in a sweet, curious gesture.

“Am I...”

“Are you head over heels to be with me?” he smirks, but Bucky can see a sliver of vulnerable uncertainty in his eyes. His hands are still on Bucky’s face, and the bigger Alpha turns, pulling Peter to sit across his lap. He threads his fingers through pretty amber curls, smiling as Peter’s lashes flutter and tremble.

“More than anything— you’re already more precious to me than a hundred years could prepare me for.”

“Then let me choose,” Peter insists, twisting to look back at Tony, “please, Dad. Let me choose?”

Tony looks like he just ate a whole lemon, face twisted and body rigid in carefully controlled anger. Bucky gets it. He would never have dreamed of mating his friend’s son, but now— now that Peter has claimed him and invited him to stay— there is absolutely nothing that will separate them.

“Under no circumstances will he get pregnant, do you understand, Barnes?”

Bucky nods, but Peter fucking mewls, squirming on Bucky’s lap as arousal pours off of him in waves. The Alpha looks to Tony for help, terrified of the Omega slipping into heat in his arms.

“— fuck, no. Of course. Of fucking course,” Tony jumps to his feet, making his way down the hallway, “bring him with you— c’mon, Barnes. Hurry.”

With Peter cradled against his shoulder, Bucky runs, following Tony down the hall and into a bedroom. Tony’s bedroom, by the looks of it. The older man pulls out a tote bag, throwing it at Bucky, “Take inventory. I’ll be back in thirty-five seconds. Do not touch him.”

As Tony sprints from the room, Bucky upends the bag on the bed, keeping one arm around Peter as he sorts through the contents. Damn, this is the most thorough heat kit he’s ever seen. As he takes stock of meal supplements, electrolyte tabs, compresses, an embarrassing amount of toys and plugs, lotion and lube and even a few bath bombs, Bucky has a realization.

“Holy shit.”

“Don’t curse around my son,” Tony quips, tearing back into the room and tossing a small packet to Bucky, “these are his contraceptives. He takes one every morning, so set an alarm, do what you need to do— he’s not missing that.”

“Tony...”

“Also, you had better wrap it up. Alpha condoms are in the bag— we’re not taking a chance with your super soldier swimmers.”

“Tony,”

“— what?”

“... are you an Omega?”

There’s a moment where Bucky feels like he’s overstepped, “I just mean... I’ve never seen a heat bag so thoroughly stocked, even by a parent...”

Tony brings over a few of Peter’s clothes, shoving them in the bag, and laying a protective hand over Peter’s head. His eyes are steel when they look into Bucky’s, “Yes. Not a lot of people know that. I take high functioning suppressants, so I haven’t had a heat in years— not since I was pregnant with Peter. So you’ll understand if I’m a bit protective of my child, James.”

Bucky just reaches out, taking the bag from Tony, “You know I won’t tell a soul. The two of you are safe with me, Tony.”

Tony whips around and yanks him close, holding the collar of his jacket for leverage, “If you’re lying, you won’t be safe from me, Barnes.”

With one last, scalding look, Tony steps back and lets Bucky sweep his son away. Bucky shoulders the bag, heaves Peter into his arms, and runs out of the mansion, suddenly urgent to get them back to his den. There’s a car waiting, and Bucky settles them in the back seat, holding Peter close as they speed back to his apartment.

He’s so thankful for his own place. Living with Steve had been fine, but after a while, they realized that as Alphas, they desperately need their own territories. So Bucky bought an apartment in Brooklyn, thankfully only a twenty minute drive from Tony’s house.

It’s hard to pay attention, though, when the most alluring Omega is settled on his lap, pawing desperately at his pants and mouthing at his neck. He smells sickly sweet: caramel apples and funnel cakes with sugar and sprinkle-dipped ice cream cones all in one feverish body. Bucky rolls down the window.

When they arrive, Bucky hastily thanks the driver and heads right for his den, locking the doors and windows before settling Peter on his bed. He quickly unpacks the heat kit and fills a pitcher with water, letting Peter wake up and explore his space.

He almost drops the pitcher when he walks back into the den. Peter’s university sweatshirt and pants and pretty lace panties are all in a pile on Bucky’s floor, and damn do they look good there. His Omega is grinding, languid, on his bed sheets. His skin is flush and soft grunts escape his cherry lips as his hips move, flexing between an inviting presentation and a perfect bow of submission.

“Omega,” Bucky growls, causing Peter to freeze and look over his shoulder. His eyes are dark, needy and wild. “Look atcha, angel. So pretty ‘n desperate for me.”

Peter arches his back higher, showing off his perfect ass and pretty pink holes, “All for you, Bucky.”

Bucky makes sure to set the water pitcher down near the bed and grab condoms before climbing up next to Peter, kissing his flank and slowly stripping layers off. As he crawls to the headboard, Peter lifts his head up and pushes up onto his hands, tilting his chin up for a kiss. Bucky chuckles, more than happy to oblige.

It’s sweet, just like Peter’s heat scent. Bucky would be happy to drown in his Omega’s kisses and fade away in his arms. Peter's lips move slowly, tongue flicking out and tasting every so often as Bucky sits against the headboard, settling Peter in his lap.

They both groan. Peter’s tiny cock is straining against Bucky’s belly, snuggled smooth and wet against Bucky’s own length as they rut together, enjoying the dull pleasure and saccharine kisses.

“Touch me, Alpha,” Peter begs into Bucky’s throat, nibbling lightly and flexing his smaller fingers against Bucky’s hips.

Bucky sits up taller and uses both hands to part Peter’s supple cheeks from behind, slipping a few fingers underneath to trace along his delicate folds, scooping up a bit of the sweet slick he finds there.

“Open up, darling,” he murmurs, giving Peter a peck on the cheek as a reward when his Omega drops his jaw, mouth hanging open and tongue sticking out obediently. Without pause, Bucky shoves his fingers deep into Peter’s mouth, letting the Omega taste himself. Peter looks shocked, but sucks on Bucky’s fingers anyways. The inside of his mouth is scorching hot and velvety— tempting in a way that they do not have time for right now.

When he slips his fingers free, a slur of pleading and begging falls from Peter’s lips, urging Bucky on and ramping up his own aroused heat scent.

Bucky hitches Peter up further on his waist, sucking a swollen nipple into his mouth as he eases two fingers into Peter’s dripping entrance.

“Ho-oh-ly mother of shit, Bucky, please please... mm, need more. Please, more. Alpha!” Peter yelps as Bucky bites down, hard, on his nipple, using the distraction to work a third finger inside his Omega. He pumps them in and out, bouncing Peter on his hand. He shifts Peter’s weight, lifts him high, and uses his left hand to reach down and thumb at the throbbing clit he knows is just behind Peter’s tiny balls.

His mate screams, “Alpha!” and clenches down, coming violently while speared unforgivingly between Bucky’s hands. Clear, thick release spills from Peter’s cock, and Bucky leans down to suck it into his mouth, never stopping his assault on Peter’s sweet spots. He tastes absolutely divine, and Bucky’s eyes roll back in his head. Peter yanks on his hair, panting and wheezing as he trembles, thighs quaking around Bucky’s head.

“Bucky! Oh, oh oh oh,” Peter chants in between breaths, and Bucky jerks in surprise as his mouth is flooded, again, with his Omega’s cum. He strains to look up, to try and see Peter’s face as he comes apart a second time. Bucky swallows every drop and slowly lowers Peter to the bed. His pretty mate is still twitching, breathing hard, and is now staring at Bucky in shock.

Bucky crawls forward, leaning over his small mate, “Didja find nirvana, angel?” he asks, leaning down for a kiss.

Peter barely returns it, sighing happily into Bucky’s mouth, “Yes, Alpha.” His mouth suddenly pulls into a pout, and he turns sad, wide eyes to look at Bucky.

“What’s wrong,” Bucky panics, running his fingers lightly over Peter’s skin, searching for injury and making the Omega giggle and squeal, “what is it, angel?”

“You’re... you’re still gonna knot me, right?”

Oh. Bucky throws back his head to laugh, tossing Peter onto his front and lining up his straining cock, “You think you’re ready for this, sweetheart? You ever taken an Alpha cock in this pretty pussy?” he lets the tip tease in between Peter’s intimate lips, listening to his Omega wheeze below him.

“No, no no, not n’Alpha cock, Bucky please. Fill me up, fu-fuck me, Alpha.”

Bucky groans, “Damn, you sound so pretty with those dirty words in your mouth. So pretty begging for my cock.”

His Omega keeps begging, arching his back and wiggling his ass in the air as Bucky slips on a condom, kneeling behind his mate and lining up. God, Omegas are so pretty from behind— perfect pink holes are glistening wet, and the tiny cock and balls are just the cherry on top. So precious. Untouched and innocent.

“Take a deep breath, angel. It’s gonna be a stretch,” he waits until Peter obeys before pushing forward, inch by inch, into the hot, wet clutch of Peter’s body. Holy shit. Bucky falls forward, panting into his Omega’s neck as he bottoms out. This is heaven.

When Peter gives him the go ahead he starts a steady pace, withdrawing fully before slamming home in one, strong thrust. Peter yelps, tearing through the sheets, and Bucky just smirks, fucking into him with renewed urgency.

He tangles their fingers together in the remains of the torn sheets. Peter meets each and every thrust, cursing and desperate, lost to his heat as he’s split open on Bucky’s cock.

Then Bucky feels it, feels his knot expanding— bumping up against Peter’s entrance and catching on the flexible skin— and feels his orgasm build, deep in his gut.

“Gonna... oh fuck, Peter, angel. Gonna come. Holy shit, gonna knot you up so good, getcha stuck on me, baby. Fill you up, all nice’n full. Shit.”

He knows there’s a litany of profane promises spilling from his tongue, but he could care less as Peter flutters around him, shouting, “Alpha, oh!” as he comes for the third time. The passage around Bucky’s cock is suddenly slicker, sloppy wet, and he realizes what happened.

“Damn baby, I think you squirted on my cock. Fuck, that’s hot, oh. Oh my god. I’m coming, Peter. Fuck, Peter—”

His instincts wash over him, forcing him to rut until his knot is locked inside Peter’s still soft, still trembling body. He wants to bite, to claim, and sinks his teeth into his own bicep, growling deep as his cock is milked through a gut wrenching orgasm. His eyes roll back when Peter clenches down, and he can’t stop coming.

Peter wiggles around, shifting the intimate lock of their bodies and causing both of them to groan. “You’re heavy, Alpha,” he whines, clenching down again.

“Mercy, darling— fuck.” Bucky shivers as a smaller wave of pleasure blinds him, and he flops onto his side, pulling Peter along with him and tangling their legs together.

“How long, Alpha?” Peter mumbles, yawning gently and turning his neck to look back at Bucky sleepily.

“Bout half’n hour. We can rest until then.”

Peter just hums, content to rest in his Alpha’s arms.

Later, they’ll talk. They’ll learn middle names and talk about their favorite colors and dream of a future together. Bucky will watch him go off to college, and Peter will watch Bucky go off to battle.

Until then, Bucky looks down at his dozing mate. He has absolutely no idea where this perfect Omega came from, or why he would be lucky enough to mate him, to knot him, to possibly love him. But Bucky decides not to care.

With a warm Omega in his arms, smiling and squirming on his knot, Bucky will take whatever Peter is willing to give, and return it with as much of himself as possible.

[ragingbookdragon]

Each Word Gets Lost In The Echo PT. 1

Roy Harper x Batbrother!Reader

Word Count: 2.9K Warnings: Explicit Language, Mature Themes

Author's Note: I had way too much fun with this but PT. 2 is going to be angsty and y'all are gonna hate me for it. >:) Enjoy! -Thorne

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So, are you planning on getting us together soon?

He hummed in response, pulling out the pan and spatula. “I dunno. With Gutierrez’s wife giving birth, I want Esmeralda to have some time with her daughter before we pull out again. I know her Samantha wants her home.”

Understood, but…what’s happening in Syria…it’s not going to get better on its own.

“I know it won’t, Nadeen. But until we get a mission from somebody overseas, we can’t exactly go out.” He pulled a few eggs from the refrigerator, cracking them on the rim of the pan, watching the yellow yolks fall in. “Besides, it’s the first week of a three-month leave.” He smirked. “Don’t tell me you’re already bored.”

Are you kidding me? Um and Ab have grounded me from flying. I’m stuck here, (Y/N).

“How is your family by the way? Wasn’t your sister attending the Cairo University?” he asked.

Yeah, and Um is so proud of her.

(Y/N) chuckled, whisking the eggs in the pan. “Someone’s jealous.”

Well, I can’t exactly tell my parents I work for an illegal black ops squad. Kinda puts dampers in relationships.

“Nadeen, we’re not an illegal squad. We’re government sanctioned.”

The fuck we are. They just don’t bother us because they know they can’t kill us all.

Grabbing the pepper, he ground some into the pan. “Jesus, take a vacation, Nadeen. Go to France or something.”

Fuck France. I’ll go to Saint Petersburg first. Oh shit, speaking of SP, have you spoken to Vitsina yet?

(Y/N) frowned, setting down the pepper grinder. “Why? Is something wrong?”

What? No. I was just wondering if you had. She really needs to get a hobby. Hey, maybe I can get her and Walker to come hang out with me at home.

“You’re not going to get Walker out of his flat, Nadeen. You know how he is when he gets on leave.”

And what about Nakamoto?

“You know they’re both paranoid. Remember to—” something clanged down the hallway and he stopped, mid-sentence, going silent.

Hello? (Y/N)? Captain, you alright?

He frowned and turned off the stove, opening a drawer at the far end of the counter. Pulling out the Glock, he cocked it and murmured, “Asghar, lemme call you back.”

Ten-four, Captain. Be careful.

The line went dead, and he crept to the edge of the doorway and paused, inhaling sharply before he peeked around the corner, gun ready. Nothing. (Y/N)’s frown only deepened as he moved down the hallway, quiet and breathless. He got to the first room in the hall, his study and he shifted against the wall, listening for movement. When he heard nothing, he moved slightly, gun pointed into the door as he swept the room. Empty.

Exhaling deeply, he started to move when he heard the noise again and he peeked out the door to his bedroom. There. (Y/N) crept along the wall again until he was at the doorway and he leaned against the frame, listening carefully. Something was in there. Something or someone, he didn’t know what, but he did know.

(Y/N) waited until the noise got closer then turned the doorway and moved in. Someone’s hand shot out, grabbing the gun and he grunted, throwing up his elbow into their jaw. The intruder cried and with their free hand, grabbed (Y/N)’s shirt and yanked; they went tumbling to the ground, the gun falling away, but he didn’t waste his chance, scrambling atop the stranger as he went for the Strider he had in his back pocket.

He flicked it out and brought it down when the person beneath him grabbed it with one hand, the other ripping off the hood he wore. “(Y/N)! It’s me!”

“Roy?”

The archer sighed and went slack beneath him. “God, yes, it’s me!”

(Y/N) relaxed and tossed the knife to the side, hanging his head down. “Jesus Fuck Roy, I thought you were an assassin.”

“Get those often?” he shot back and (Y/N) glowered at him.

“Yeah, I do actually.” He rolled off Roy and got to his feet, holding out his hand for him to take.

“God, remind me not to sneak up on you again.” He let himself be tugged up and rubbed his jaw. “I thought you dislocated my jaw for a second.”

(Y/N) shoved a finger in his face. “You’re lucky you managed to grab the gun because I almost shot your ass.” He bent down and picked up his Glock and knife, putting the latter back in his pocket after he’d flicked it shut. “Are you some kind of idiot? Why the fuck didn’t you just knock on the door? What possibly justified sneaking into a mercenary’s bedroom through the window?”

Roy shrugged. “I thought you weren’t home yet.”

He opened his mouth to retort, then shut it and nodded. “Alright, that’s actually not a terrible excuse.” Sighing, he shoved past Roy and walked down the hall into the kitchen, the archer following him. “But don’t do it again.”

“Why? Worried you were gonna shoot your boyfriend?” Roy teased, wrapping his arms around (Y/N)’s waist, nuzzling into his neck.

“Yeah, I was.” He put the gun back in the drawer and lugged the archer towards the stove where he flicked the burner back on. “Next time just text me and ask if I’m home.”

Roy hummed, pressing a kiss just above the mercenary’s collar. “I wanted to surprise you.”

“Well,surprise me you did,” (Y/N) griped. “I seriously thought I was about to have a firefight in my own damn apartment.” He paused, seeming to remember something and said, “I live in a penthouse.” Glancing at Roy, he questioned, “How the fuck did you get up here?”

“I’ve got skills, babe,” Roy grinned, waggling his brows and (Y/N) rolled his eyes before tapping the Bluetooth headset at his ear.

“Call Nadeen.” It pinged for a few moments.

Captain, you’re back. Everything good?

“Yeah,” he sighed. “Roy was in the apartment.”

You live in a penthouse? How’d he get up there?

“His ‘skills’ apparently.”

Nice. He still going around with your brother?

(Y/N) nodded forgetting she wasn’t in front of him and reclined into Roy as the eggs started cooking. “Yeah. Got a new gig as Red Hood and Arsenal.”

Roy blinked. “Wait, does your squad know…about you know…”

He waved and (Y/N) completed, “That my family and friends are vigilantes? Yeah. Why?”

“Isn’t that a breach of security?”

He snorted. “You act like my squad is friends with every government in the world, baby.” He shook his head. “I trust my team with everything. And in return they trust me with theirs.”

Aww, Captain you do care.

“Does your dad know that they know?”

(Y/N) shrugged. “Probably. But he doesn’t tell me how to live my life and I don’t tell him how to live his.” He scrambled the eggs. “Nadeen, go hang out with Vitsina for a week or two if you’re really that bored.”

She’s back in Russia right now, isn’t she?

“I think so. Said she had a loose end to tie up with Antonovich.”

Oh shit, she’s gonna fucking kill that guy. She might need air support then.

“Hence why I said go hang out with her.”

Wanna come along? You could bring your boy-toy?

“Did she just call me a boy-toy?” Roy blurted. “Excuse you, I am not a boy-toy. I am a boy-man.”

Well, from the pictures Captain’s showed us, you are in fact a boy-toy, Roy.

He blinked and looked at (Y/N). “What pictures did you show them?”

“Nothing,” he coughed. “Nadeen, shut up.”

The ones with the red lace and matching heels.

“You didn’t.” Roy breathed. “You showed them the pin-up photos?!”

(Y/N)’s mouth fell open and closed as he vaguely gestured around. “I didn’t directly show them. Nakamoto hacked my phone like the nosy asshole he is and found ‘em.”

“So that means you still showed them because you apparently didn’t stop them from seeing!”

Oh, look at that, Captain, Ab is calling me. Talk later!

She hung up on him and (Y/N) huffed a laugh, pulling the device from his ear. He set it aside and shrugged out of Roy’s arms, pulling two plates out of the cabinet beside them. He plated the food, smirking at the flush across Roy’s cheeks. “Oh, don’t tell me you’re embarrassed, baby?”

“You showed my nudes to your black ops squad. It’s hot. Ridiculously hot. But also embarrassing.”

“If it makes you feel any better, they were very impressed with them.”

Roy tried and failed horribly to hide the grin coming over his lips. “…They were?”

(Y/N) set down the plates and got up in Roy’s personal space and flirted, “Oh absolutely baby. They were so stunned at how pretty you looked all dolled up in that red teddy, your lips painted crimson.” He gripped Roy’s hips and pulled them flush together, and while Roy was about five-eleven, (Y/N) had a couple inches on him. He smirked when he felt the definition in Roy’s jeans. “Wanna know what my favorite picture is?”

Roy swallowed thickly, one hand coming to grab at the island behind him, the other grabbing (Y/N)’s shoulder. “Which—which one?”

He pressed a kiss to the underside of the archer’s jaw, trailing his lips to his ear where he breathed, “The one where you’re bent down on the bed…” he reached up behind Roy’s back and tugged at the hair at the nape of his neck. “Your ass is up in the air and...”

“Uh huh, what else?” Roy begged, hips canting forward.

“God, you’ve got that pretty red flush across your cheeks.” (Y/N) whispered. “You looked incredibly ravishing.” He breathed in Roy’s ear. “We were on that mission in Kazakhstan for two whole months and all I could think about was getting back home and drilling you into the mattress until you couldn’t walk.”

“(Y/N)…” the archer groaned shamelessly. “Babe, please.”

He smirked, pressing a kiss to Roy’s cheek. “I didn’t show them that one though,” he said, pulling away without a second thought, picking up the plates. “I kept that one to myself. It’s still in my wallet if you wanna go check. I look at it a lot.”

(Y/N) wandered towards the living room and plopped down on the couch, propping his legs up on the coffee table. He snorted when he heard Roy’s moan of frustration followed by the man stomping into the living room with the other plate in his hand, the free one adjusting the front of his jeans.

“I hate you.” He scowled, sitting on the other end of the couch. “I hate you so fucking much it’s not funny.”

(Y/N) shrugged and picked up the remote, switching the channels until he found a football game to watch. “You snuck into my penthouse and almost made me shoot you point blank.” He shot Roy a grin. “I guess we’re both doing things to each other we don’t like.”

“I thought you weren’t home!”

“Mhm. Punishment is still a punishment, baby.” He turned up the volume and dug into his eggs. “Jason know you’re in Gotham City?”

Roy swallowed the food in his mouth, answering, “Told him I was in the area.”

“You know he’s gonna wanna see you.” (Y/N) replied. “If not to hang out, to make sure you’re not into trouble.”

“Are you saying I’m trouble, babe?” Roy retorted and he chuckled.

“You’re my kind of trouble.”

The archer went silent, and his cheeks flushed. “…That was a low blow.”

(Y/N) winked. “Uh huh.” His side vibrated and he reached down, pulling his phone out.

“Who is it?” Roy asked.

“Alfred.” He slid his thumb along the bottom and put it to his ear. “Hello, you’ve reached the answering machine of your favorite grandson. How may I assist you today, grandpa?”

You’re absolutely hysterical, Master (Y/N). You should go into comedy.

“I would but it doesn’t pay that well unlike merc missions.”

Hmm…how are you today, Master (Y/N)?

He smiled. “Not too bad Alfie. Could’ve eaten a perfect parfait with fresh fruit and granola, but beggars can’t be choosers, huh?”

You did miss an excellent breakfast if I do say so myself. Nevertheless, it is Sunday morning. Shall I expect you later tonight for dinner?

“Wouldn’t miss it for the world, Alfie.” (Y/N) agreed.

Wonderful. I shall set out an extra plate in case you decide to invite Master Harper. Have a good day. Until tonight, sir.

The line clicked and (Y/N) pulled the phone from his ear, staring at it in confusion. “Babe? What’s wrong?” Roy questioned.

He shook his head. “Alfred knew you were here.”

“What? He did?”

He looked up at Roy. “Yeah…said he was going to set out an extra plate for you tonight at dinner in case you wanted to come.”

“I get to come to the Wayne Family Sunday Night Dinner? Really?” he seemed awfully excited.

“Dude, it’s just dinner.”

“That you guys do every Sunday night and don’t allow anybody to tread on,” Roy retorted with a glare. “This is special.”

(Y/N) rolled his eyes. “Are you that eager to be introduced to the family?” he dodged the pillow Roy threw at him. “But…if you wanna come, you’re free to.”

“Really?” Roy doubted. “You want me to come over? I thought you wanted to keep this quiet?”

He sighed and pulled his legs from the table, setting the plate on it. “It’s not that I want it to stay a secret. It’s just…I worry about it.”

Roy set his plate down on the coffee table and scooted close. “What about?”

“I don’t know, Roy. I’m just worried that the more people that know about us the more danger I put you in.”

“Babe…” Roy started, placing a hand on the other side of (Y/N)’s cheek so he could turn his face to the archer’s. “We both live dangerous lives. There’s always going to be danger surrounding us.”

“I know,” (Y/N) sighed, leaning into Roy’s hand. “I still worry though. About you…about us.” He met those evergreen eyes. “I’m just worried that every time I leave, it’s going to be the last time we see each other.”

Roy chuckled. “Afraid I’m going to get offed?”

“No,” he murmured, turning his lips into Roy’s palm. “That I will.”

The archer gaped at him. “(Y/N)…why haven’t you told me about this?”

“Because I’m a super soldier who was trained to keep my emotions under control by an anal retentive, over glorified kitchen scale of a father.” (Y/N) deadpanned, then heaved an even bigger sigh and rested his forehead against Roy’s shoulder. “You’ve got enough on your plate.”

“Yeah, Jaybird keeps me pretty busy with missions.”

He chuckled. “Gonna have to tell my little brother to let my boyfriend have a break.”

“Break smeak.” Roy quipped, pressing a kiss to (Y/N)’s temple. “Listen to me, you’re a strong man, (Y/N). You’re probably the best out of your family. Smart and skilled off the charts.” He ran his calloused fingers down his lover’s neck. “If anyone is going to get out alive on a mission, it’ll always be you. Always.”

He sighed, turning his nose into Roy’s neck as he whispered. “You think so?”

Roy smiled, gripping his chin lightly to pull his head up. “I don’t think so, babe. I know so.” He leaned forward and pressed his lips to (Y/N)’s. “I love you,” he murmured against the soldier’s lips. “So much.”

(Y/N) hummed and pressed a hand to Roy’s chest, shoving him backwards onto the couch and he crawled atop him. “I love you more,” he replied and pulled his shirt off his body before pressing his hand to Roy’s chest, except the archer hissed and he let up. “What’s wrong?” he worried, and he shook his head.

“Nothing.”

“Roy.” He warned, cocking a brow. “Where are you hurt?” he asked, pressing the same spot again.

“Ow! Stop that!” Roy grunted. “It’s tender.”

“What’s tender?” (Y/N) inquired and Roy sighed.

“I got a new tattoo.”

He narrowed his eyes and gazed down at him. “Of?”

“Nothing.” The archer muttered, though pink was coming across his cheeks and he sighed.

“C’mon Roy. Talk or I’ll tease it out of you.” He shot him a glare. “And you know I will.”

They stared one another down for a minute then Roy sighed and pulled his shirt off and (Y/N) peeled away the bandage. His eyes went wide when he saw the silver spartan helmet atop the black shield, the gold lettering underneath.

“Is this…”

“Your squad designation?” Roy offered. “Yeah…thought it seemed right.”

(Y/N) traced the raised flesh, eyes flashing to Roy’s when he shivered from the calloused touch. “I can’t believe you got my squads symbol tattooed on your chest.”

“You don’t like it?” he sounded hurt.

“I love it,” (Y/N) huffed, gesturing to his own tattoo on his ribs. “We match now…though you forgot to put your name inside the shield.”

“Well, I’m not technically a Spectre, (Y/N).” Roy said.

“Maybe not, but that’s still where your name goes.” He retorted and smiled. “It’s awesome, baby.”

Roy’s thumb brushed his hipbone. “So does the tattoo get me out of punishment for sneaking in?”

(Y/N) smirked down at him. “It just might.” He reached down and tugged the front of Roy’s pants. “Why don’t you show me how sorry you are for it? I just might decide to forgive you before subjecting you to dinner with my family.”

A multitude of emotions flashed through Roy’s eyes. Arousal, desire, need, and then surprise. “Oh shit, I forgot about dinner.”

“Seriously?” (Y/N) blinked, unsurprised. “God you’re such a man.” He crawled out of Roy’s lap much to the archer’s dismay and groaning.

“Where are you going?”

He paused and looked back at him. “I’m not fucking you on my couch, Roy.” He started towards his bedroom. “Hurry up or I’ll start without you.”

Roy rolled off the couch and to his feet as fast as he could.