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#it gives penguin a heart attack but also he's so proud
spacedace · 1 year
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Got another DP x DC prompt for yall:
Things in Amity are going bad, the GIW are getting more aggressive and Jack and Maddie are starting to suspect there is something ghostly going on with Danny and Jazz is scared out of her mind and desperate to get them the hell out or dodge before she comes home one day to find her baby brother strapped to a table in the basement or worse.
She knows there's no way she's going to be able to get custody of Danny though (maybe she's still a minor herself, maybe she is over eighteen but it takes more than being a legal adult to get custody of a kid, and Jazz just doesn't have what the government is looking for and she can't risk Danny getting lost in the system) and even if she could, where could they possibly go? Even if they ran away, they don't have any way to survive.
Half out of her mind with stress and exhaustion late one night she ends up digging through their family tree looking for someone, anyone, that looks like they might be able to help, that could at least get them away from Amity Park if nothing else. She and Danny had each other, and literally anything was better then the nightmare creeping ever closer.
And somehow it doesn't even take that long, maybe luck finally shifting their way for once, maybe Clockwork nudging things along just right, but she finds someone.
As far as family relations go, they're on branches as far away from each other as possible while still being on the same tree. And of course the person in question has a pretty massive criminal background and is still super obviously involved in some shady stuff, but Jazz does her research and can see that - criminal mastermind or no - there's no history of vivisecting children or ghost hunting and honestly the Goonion review is pretty glowing.
Besides, Gotham's ambiant ectoplasm is about the same as Amity Park's, it'll help keep Danny (and her, really, as liminal as she is) healthy.
It's a long shot, but short of fleeing to the Ghost Zone and praying their parents don't chase after them, it's all she’s got. So, using one of Tucker's programs, she gets ahold of a phone number and makes the call.
To say that Oswald Cobblepot is surprised by her reaching out and suspicious of her desperate request would be an under statement.
But he knows a con, and this doesn't sound like one. The girl on the other end of the line sounds close to tears, begging him to hear her out, pleading for his help. When he has his people investigate he finds that Jasmine Fenton isn't lying. They are distant cousins - very distant - and the kids' parents are honestly Arkham levels of insane and the kids' teachers have been getting progressively more frantic in their reporting on their concerns. The notes on Daniel Fenton and the number of visible injuries he's been going to school with are particularly concerning. As is the fact that the Drs. Fenton are apparently scientists on top of being entirely mad.
Call Oswald a soft touch, but there's an old childhood wound deep in his heart that has him feeling for the kids, and from what he’s seen of Jasmine - Jazz, she said to call her, and her little brother is Danny, not Daniel - she's got the kind of drive he admires.
And hell it's not as if he can't afford to put them up in an apartment somewhere out of the way if they turn out to be too much trouble. Besides adopting a couple of sad kids from a shitty home can only be good for his reputation, look how well it worked for Bruce Wayne.
Maybe if he plays his cards right, he can set up a play date with the Wayne kids or something, really get some good networking in.
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softrozene · 4 years
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Reacting to their crush/future significant other who has scars
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I hope I have Katakuri’s character down! It is my first time writing for him officially, so I am excited! As for this whole request? You got me excited the second you mentioned John Marston’s scar. I got too pumped up for this that I ended up doing these as scenarios with bonus headcanons! I really hope you like this Lovely and apologies for it taking so long to get to!
Charlotte Katakuri, Trafalgar Law x Reader (Gender Neutral/Non-Binary)
Warnings: Slight angst, Fluff, hints of past violence/trauma from battles, scars
Words: 1758
Charlotte Katakuri-
*Uh this bro is so tall so um pretend you are the same height, he’s hunching down, or you are on a ladder or something lol
-
Katakuri glances around the room feeling a slight annoyance. His betrothed is late. Though thinking of them does make him feel emotionally calmer it does not excuse that they are late. Especially since he wanted to speak with them about something important.
Just then, the door to his room flies open and his betrothed comes in panting from an obvious rush. You look a bit flustered from being late, but you quickly compose yourself. It is something Katakuri admires since you are similar to him. Calm and levelheaded most of the time but upon getting this arranged marriage- Both of you have become accustomed to different fluttery feelings when with each other.
Katakuri has no idea how to feel about it (and is not aware that he is crushing) but he concludes it to be a good thing since he enjoys your company.
“Sorry I am late Katakuri. Perospero and I were having tea and he wanted me to start calling him Brother Peros from now on then on the way here I ran into Compote who wanted to have a serious talk about my family’s new alliance with Big Mom. I assured her that I am with you guys all the way and that they will follow her. Anyway, enough excuses, what did you wish to talk about?” You ask trying to stop your fingers from fidgeting.
Since you walked in all he has done is stare you down and usually, it would not bother you, but you honestly felt bad for being late. You wanted to be the perfect partner for him since all he has done is shown you kindness since the announcement of your engagement.
“I wanted to finally speak-“ He pauses as he hesitates.
This is something he does a bit often with you- Use his Observation Haki to foresee into the future is something he often does but he does more so with you when you have talked so he does not misstep. He quickly continues after you are about to ask him what is wrong.
“I apologize for that. I just was about to get straight to the point, but I feel like I need to emphasize something before I do. We are getting married soon. The date is coming up fast and I wanted to show you something but just now I saw you crying. Before I do, I need to let you know that I see you as my equal and I am proud to have you as my betrothed. I have never seen my siblings actually want to get to know an in-law as much as they do you so thank you for wanting to genuinely be apart of our family,” Katakuri states.
His words make your heart beat fast, but you nod for him to continue. “I wanted to show you my mouth. I do not like others seeing it, but we will soon be married, and you will have the right to see all of me as I do you,” He continues.
He pauses once more to make sure that he did change the future even if it was just a little bit. The amount of trust he places in you does make you want to cry but instead, you feel like you want to meet him on the trust to. You decide you will finally show him your other scars.
After he deems you okay, he takes off his mouth covering and stares at you waiting for any response. He knows that you would never make fun of him but that amount of insecurity he has to tell him otherwise. So, he is surprised when he feels your warm hand cup his scarred face.
You give him a gentle smile and say, “We do not nearly match but I do think we are the perfect match for each other.”
His heart melts at this and he is quick to cup your own scarred cheek. His thumb rubs against them and then your eyes downcast. You back up from his touch and he grows irritated momentarily from no longer touching you when you turn around and begin to take off your shirt. His eyes scan what he sees immediately. More scars litter your back.
You let him view it a moment longer before fixing your shirt.
“I think we are good now. We both have seen more of each other,” You say a bit worried he may not find you attractive anymore.
He returns to touching your cheek and with the mouth covering no longer on him, he gives you a genuine smile that washes away your doubts. “Yes, we have. I can’t wait until you officially become my spouse.”
Bonus Headcanons:
His initial reaction is neutral
He does not exactly care until he has an emotional connection then he will wonder
I think Katakuri would love his significant other with or without scars- He would want to know the story behind them, but he won’t straight up ask either
He loves to trace them when he gets sleepy and it becomes one of his favorite things to do when it is just you two alone
He will only tell you once, but he also likes when you trace his facial scars or pepper his mouth with kisses
Since he is very serious (even more so) with family members and you become his spouse he will definitely be putting lotion on your scars- He believes in taking care of them since they tell a story about you
Trafalgar Law-
“Hey Cap, (Name) fell asleep on Bepo again,” Penguin states coming into Law’s office/infirmary.
Law stares and waits for more words because there is just no way his crew is bothering him over this. Sachi who peeks in continues thankfully. “And their shirt lifted up- I think you should come see this,” Shachi murmurs.
The serious nature of the two surprises Law and he almost thinks they are sick. He says nothing, as he gets up and wordlessly, follows them- Sleep very much wanting to cloud his mind after being up all night. They lead Law to Bepo who has not moved a muscle since you fell asleep on him. Nothing so far out of the normal until Law’s observant eyes look for the part of the shirt that is lifted up and indeed-
His eyes widen and he sighs.
“Let them sleep longer. Then send them to my room,” Law orders.
He is careful as he quickly fixes their shirt and leaves. His thoughts are immediate. Something bad happened to you in the past, that much is clear, and it honestly explains a lot. How you are so slow with opening up and he honestly can’t blame you. That is why he likes you and the little moments when you do open up to him.
They mean something to him and those scars on your back are from stories you are not ready to tell. He will tell you of this mishap, but he will not push you- He would not even dream of it because he cares about you so much it hurts. He knows what this feeling is, and he wants to chase it but you both are holding back with your pasts latching onto you. That is why he has not really said anything about his feelings despite him wanting to.
They are nothing like the ones on your face either. The ones are on your face are just two/three long scars across your face- Almost like an animal attack, the ones on your back must be from previous battles or something equally terrifying if they have you closed off.
With a sigh, Law goes to his room and waits until you are up.
When Law opens his eyes, he realizes that he has taken a brief nap but immediately sees you come in and close the door behind you. Your expression tells him that someone said something. He groans and quickly says something to reverse the damage.
“Penguin and Shachi saw them and told me. You do not need to explain yourself in any way. I am not surprised, to be frank, because you are incredibly strong and have proven to be a valuable asset to my crew,” He states.
He watches your expression for a moment until you turn around and without any hesitation pull off your shirt. Law is surprised and a bit guilty for feeling his heart flutter at the bold action. Quickly pulling his mind from the gutter he takes small steps to you.
“I do not want to explain yet, but you are the person I trust most Law. I want you to at least look at what I have been hiding since I know you are the least to pity me for them,” You state.
The air feels like it turns intimate the second Law puts a finger on your back, but it remains full of trust as he casually traces each large and long battle scar. When he finishes you put your shirt back on and turn to look at him.
“I will tell you everything soon. I- Thank you for being a trustworthy and… an attractive captain,” You say with a wink.
Ah, it appears it was not just law feeling the connection. His cheeks feel warm and he smirks. He is happy to know that the attraction is mutual.
Bonus headcanons:
Law’s initial reaction is concern- Only because you are a member of his crew, when feelings get involved his concern worsens but, of course, he will not voice it unless this doctor decides to play therapist too
He will not voice it until you two are actually dating and involved with each other
Then he will be happy to know everything about you and may hint towards it, but he would never push for it
If the face scars make you feel bad about yourself he will definitely be like “oh hell no you are perfect” and obliterate anyone who says otherwise
As for the back scars, if it is a lot and from battles, you do not wish to remember he will hint towards getting a tattoo
And let’s face it
Law would definitely have matching tattoos with his significant other
Much like Katakur- Law would love to trace your scars and does so when he is sleepy
He also melts when you trace his tattoos
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zevlors-tail · 4 years
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Shinsou x Reader x Deku Zoo HC’s
Pairing: Poly ShinDeku x Reader/Shinsou x Reader x Izuku
Description: A day trip to the zoo with Reader!
Warnings: Established poly relationship, otherwise none. Maybe tooth rotting fluff.
A/N: First and foremost! Both boys and the Reader are in an established poly relationship, are Pro!Heroes, and are aged 21+. Bet y’all can’t guess where I went today lol. Today had hella Shinsou vibes, and of course I will forever love the green ball of sunshine that is Izuku Midoriya, so this happened. Enjoy!
A Day At The Zoo
-It’s so rare that the three of you ever end up with the same day off together, so most of the time you have to plan ahead if you want to have outings or adventures, the zoo included!
-It was Deku’s idea first. Well, not idea per se; he just suggested it in passing and you hopped on that train of thought so freaking fast! A whole day spent looking at cute animals with your cute boyfriends? Um, yes please!
-Shinsou had never been to the zoo before, so he didn’t really understand the hype at first. What exactly was the point in visiting animals other than cats? Especially when you can’t pet or hold them? But if it made you and Izuku happy, then who was he to say no?
-Izuku recommended a zoo that was a little bit farther away than your local one, but it had so much more than the typical barnyard animals at yours. He’d gone a few times himself for fundraisers and meetings but you and Shinsou had never been there before.
-So the three of you planned out a day in advance, took the day off from your respective places of work, and thus, the adventure began!
-You talked about it for weeks beforehand, right up until you were parked at the front gates. “Are you guys excited? Because I am SO excited! I’m gonna pet the goats, and the stingrays, and the sharks, and look at all the birds, and take so many pictures-!”
-The first thing you spot is the giant monarch butterfly chilling on the flowers outside of the front gates, so you already know it’s gonna be a good day. You already have your camera whipped out to take a pic.
-Izuku thinks it’s the cutest thing, and Shinsou is literally taking a picture of you taking a photo of the butterfly. The butterfly might be photogenic, but honestly, he thinks you’re the real work of art here.
-The three of you pay and no sooner than when the receipt was in Shinsou’s hand were you running off to the first exhibit, both boys trying to keep up with your pace so they didn’t lose you.
-The first exhibit had some arctic animals like polar bears and seals, which you watched for a while with a content smile on your face. The bears were up and playing around with a dented bucket and a huge rubber ball, and you got some really cool pictures of them. Izuku even managed to get a video of a seal gliding through their underwater tunnel.
-Once again Shinsou is taking pictures of you taking pictures of the animals, because he thinks it’s absolutely adorable. He has this little smirk on his face as he watches you from the camera lens. Although he has to admit, the polar bears are super cute. 
-You keep bouncing around from exhibit to exhibit. One moment the boys are watching the wolves with you, and the next, you’ve wandered over to the giraffes by yourself. Shinsou briefly wonders if they should invest in one of those backpacks with a leash for you.
-Eh, they can just use Izuku’s arms instead. At some point in the day, you’re not really sure when, Izuku just resulted in wrapping his arms around you and holding you while you’re looking at exhibits to keep you from running off. He likes to rest his chin on your head and listen to you gush about how cute the animals are.
-And when you’re walking from place to place, you can bet he’s immediately reaching for your hand to lace his fingers in yours. You end up in between him and Shinsou who also wants to hold hands with you.
-You point out all the animals, even the ones that aren’t a part of the zoo, and the boys think it’s endearing. “Awe, look at this dove over here in it’s nest! Isn’t it so cute!?”
-”Y/N, I don’t think-” He’s being good-natured about it and laughing because he finds it sweet, but Izuku can’t finish his sentence because Hitoshi is slapping a hand over his mouth.
-”Just let them be. It’s precious.”
-”Hello, Mr. Squirrel!” You probably name all of the local ducks and geese walking around, too.
-Eventually you guys make it to the aviary, and you start to explore all the bird exhibits.
-Shinsou, immediately: “It’s so loud in here.”
-Izuku seems to know little random bits of information on the birds, and really enjoys watching them fly around.
-”Shinsou,” you beg him, “can you take my picture next to this giant bird!?”
-He perks up a little after that. Also, he already took your picture. He’s super sneaky and really good at taking pics while you’re not looking. Some of the best photos he has of you and Izuku are candids he took without you knowing. Nothing terrible; they’re all literally still shots of your smiles, your eyes, or just of the two of you doing routine things. His whole camera roll is full of you and Izuku.
-After the birds, you come to the penguin exhibit.
-Penguins just so happen to be Izuku’s favorite animal at the zoo. He loves how they waddle around without a care in the world, and he thinks their black and white patterns are just so unique!
-Definitely embarrasses Shinsou by imitating the penguin walk. He’s a goofball with the two of you, you know he would! And you’re right there with him, following him around with your hands at your sides as you waddle behind him. 
-”I don’t know them,” Shinsou jokes with the people next to you. But he loves you both, you can tell by the way he’s smiling. He thinks it’s cute how the two of you act like this together...in a dorky way, but still.
-Finally, you guys get to the aquarium. The moment you step through the door, Shinsou is practically mesmerized by the fish. He’s never seen so many before; there’s so many colors and shapes and sizes...
-He feels peaceful while he’s watching them swim around.
-You like all the really weird fish. Izuku likes the tropical ones with all the crazy colors, and Shinsou...
-He loves the moon jellies. The second he stepped in front of that tank, he was gone. You and Izuku just watch him for a moment as he relaxes his shoulders and stares into purple tinted waters, totally serene and carefree.
-Izuku takes a 2 minute long video of him bc the moment is just so precious. RIP anyone else who wanted to look at the jellyfish today, bc Shinsou’s literally been there for like 10 minutes now
-Shinsou decides he really likes the zoo after that. Every other exhibit is much more enjoyable and he’s in such a better mood. Not that he was in a bad mood when he first got there, it’s just that he didn’t see the point in all of it at first. 
-Izuku also spends a while looking at the sea turtles, which happen to be his second favorite animal.
-You guys spent the most amount of time in the aquarium no thanks to Hitoshi, but you did manage to make it to the museum before it closed for the afternoon as well.
-Izu reads all the plaques out loud to the two of you and tells you all about the animals and displays. Some of them are interactive, and you can’t help yourself from pressing every single button and listening to the noises and information it gives you.
-There’s a section in the museum where you can pet stingrays. You had never done something like that before, and neither had the boys, so the three of you decided to give it a go.
-It was so soft.
-Stingrays feel like wet velvet, almost. 
-Izuku decides he’s done so he just ends up taking pictures of you and Shinsou. But soon you’re done too so you grab Hitoshi to leave, however-
-You and Izuku are walking away and suddenly: “Uh, Y/N? Wasn’t Shinsou with you?” “No, I thought he was with you?” “Where’s our boyfriend!?”
-You turn back around and he’s still there petting the stingrays. He’s SO fascinated, please don’t make him leave. He’s having the time of his life! It melts both of your rapidly beating hearts (you know, from the mini heart attack you had bc your other third was missing for a second).
-You both let him stay there for however long he wants, and when he reluctantly leaves (finally), you make your way to the giant gift shop at the end of the zoo.
-You guys buy so much stuff it’s not even funny. Partly because as Pros, you have the money to spend, and partly because you want to support the zoo so you can come back. They always appreciate business and donations.
-Speaking of donations, Izuku whips out his checkbook and makes a huge donation to a cause for sea turtles. The zoo is super thankful and you couldn’t be more proud. 
-You’re sure that if there was fund for jellyfish, Shinsou would be donating too.
-You all end up buying each other a plush of your fav animals; Izu gets a penguin, Shinsou gets a jellyfish, and you get your favorite animal too.
-You may or may not have bought a shirt as well... It has the zoo’s museum name on it along with some really cute animals.
-All in all a really great day! 
Bonus Content:
-Shinsou wants to book another trip as soon as you all are back home. He loves the zoo now and he wants to go, like, all of the time.
-You and Izu have caught him watching jellyfish videos on youtube on more than one occasion. He finds them relaxing and can’t wait to go see the real thing again.
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owlespresso · 3 years
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Mechanist’s Machinations/Stephanivien
Warrior of Light/Stephanivien Spice below the cut! If you like what I do, consider supporting me via ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/owlespresso
Twice a year, during each solstice, the high clans of Ishgard held a ball of changing seasons. Being new to the civilization, you had yet to experience one fully. Stephanivien both waxed poetic to you about the glimmering atmosphere and fully admitted to the stuffiness of that came with the formality, but even he could not deny the fairytale-esque nature of such events. The ballroom opened wide. Paintings depicting legends of eld spanned across the domed ceiling, prompting you to crane your neck as you stared up in abject awe.
Perhaps you could have committed more of the stunning view to memory had the toy nestled between your legs not twitched and buzzed. Your thighs squeezed and tightened inside of your grandiose dress, gaze snapping back down to earth as you sought your mischievous partner. 
“Keep your eyes ahead of you,” Stephanivien’s heavy palm pressed to your lower back. Amusement was all too obvious, primely displayed in the curl of his lips and the low set of his eyelids. “Lest you bump into Archombadin de Dzemael a second time.”
“The first was your fault,” you hissed under your breath, gently elbowing him as the two of you made your way into the gathering proper. The rich sound of the orchestra bounced off the rounded walls, filling the room with beautiful music. Nearly every one of your senses was accosted by the pure majesty of the scene… except for touch. The presence of the toy between your legs was painfully obvious to you. Your pussy walls clenched desperately around it, your stance stiff as you accompanied your lover into the incredible ballroom. 
You have to pat yourself on the back for deciding not to wear heels to this occasion. If you had, you would be on the floor in mere moments with the stunted penguin steps you’re taking.
“That much I will concede,” Stephanivien replied, a glimmer of fondness in his gaze. His hand spanned across the small of your back, never once leaving your body lest he lose you in the crowd. You fancied yourself a woman who could take care of herself, but if you were to become separated from him whilst this goddamn thing was in between your legs, you would lose your mind. “My deepest apologies, love. Allow me to make it up to you.”
“Oh, you’ll be making it up to me plenty later,” you scoff at him with a small scowl, a pout turning the corners of your lips softly downwards. If he feels any semblance of sympathy he’ll have no problem with you shoving his face in place of the goddamned toy when you get him alone. 
Simply accompanying him to the ball had been enough of a favor, but going along with his hare-brained sex play was another thing entirely. You feel unnaturally naked and exposed despite the lengthy dress you’ve picked out for tonight. It’s a stunning number that hovers just above the floor, the corset laced firmly yet not uncomfortably, supporting your bust without breathing your back. 
Sharply dressed waiters and waitresses wove through the thinning crowds as the guests spread to different areas of the room, carrying platters of hors d’oeurvres and flutes of golden pink champagne.
You plucked one of the slender glasses as one passed by, giving the waiter a kind smile and a thankful nod. Goddess only knew you couldn’t make it through the night sober. You lifted it to your lips, wincing ever so slightly as the cool taste doused your tongue and slid down your throat, the alcohol melting into a slight, sanguine burn. 
The vibration between your legs spiked at that very moment, causing you to gasp and splutter. Your grip on your glass tightened, the back of your throat itching as you worked the liquid down the correct pipe. 
Several passerby jolted at your sudden fit, causing your cheeks to grow warm. 
“I’m fine,” you assured them with a strained smile.
“Are you sure?” At your side, Stephanivien cooed. He looked to you tenderly, sympathetically. His lips curled into a concerned frown. He played the role of the caring spouse to a picture perfect level, from his dewey sweet tone of voice to the strikingly genuine expression he sported. The large hand on your back brought you close, leaving merely an ilm between you… but it also allowed you to see the mischievous glint in his eyes. The smug bastard was shameless, and the need to retaliate in some way gripped you so thoroughly that your jaw clenched.
“One-hundred percent,” you gritted out. One of your gloved hands perched on his upper arm, giving a squeeze. What could be taken as a reassuring squeeze soon turned into a vice-like grip that had him reeling in place, eyes widening as you held him tighter—a silent threat. His partner or not, you were still the Warrior of Light and you could still kick his ass six ways to Sunday. He paled considerably and nodded.
“...So glad to hear that, my dear. Shall we head closer to the dancefloor? I think I see my father entangled in deep conversation with count Fortemps,” he inquired, motioning in the direction of the aforementioned individuals with his shoulder. The sight of Edmont was a welcome one, but speaking to anyone whilst this damned toy is busy tormenting you sounded like a terrible idea. It was practically asking to be humiliated. 
“And let you make me look a fool in front of my adoptive father and future father-in-law?” you inquire, making sure to sound as incredulous as possible. “I think not, Stephanivien!”
 “I think it would help my father grow accustomed to the idea of you as my wife if he were to see you at one of our formal events.” Stephanivien coaxed, gently nudging you with his shoulder. “Taking part in Ishgardian tradition is a sure way to secure a stronger bond with him. And maybe it would help the both of you get along better. If I remember correctly, you described him as ‘stuck in his ways’?”
You gave an exasperated sigh, leaning into his side. As much as you hated to risk it, you had to admit Stephanivien was correct. There wasn’t anything his father could do to separate the two of you, but having his blessing would make the relationship easier. Ishgardians, despite the way their culture preached modesty, were unabashedly nosy when it came to their family members and said family members’ love lives.
Getting close to his father would make the process of courting seem less taboo. The man had already struggled with accepting you, a foreigner, as a proper bride for his son. If there was to be an official wedding in the coming days, having the current count’s approval was key.
“Alright,” you acquiesce (as though you could ever refuse him in the first place). Before he could take the initiative, you pointedly grasp his hand and lead him in the direction of the two. “Come along, then.” They chatter busily near one of the many buffet tables, both wearing relaxed expressions, a good sign at the very least. House Fortemps and Haillenarte have always been close, so you’ve been counting on Edmont putting in a good word for you.
Edmont greeted you with a wide, welcoming smile—the kind that made you feel like you belonged.
The conversation lasts no more than five minutes before the bastard subtly raises the intensity of the toy. You gasp mid-sentence, barely managing to cover your ass with a half-hearted excuse before you scurry towards the refreshment table, readying a slew of insults to sling Stephanivien’s way as soon as the two of you reach private quarters. 
He follows you seamlessly. A few of the noble folk recognize and greet him, whilst others have certainly noticed your presence and make haste in your direction. It’s not everyday you make yourself available to Ishgard’s upper class (with the exception of the Fortemps), so the party’s other attendants are more than likely to interact with you whilst they can. The very idea of entertaining the uppity rich folk nearly sends a rickety shiver down your spine.
Still, you do your best to make a good impression. The steady buzz between your legs only climbs in severity and to your relief, Stephanivien steps in sooner rather than later. He must have noticed your growing fatigue. When he steps forward to brush away the enthusiastic trio of bouncy noblewomen who have done nothing but cling and fawn over you for the past fifteen minutes, he sends you a knowing and apologetic look.
“My deepest apologies, ladies, but I promised the Warrior a dance and I must deliver it to her. I’m sure you understand,” he says with a teasing smile. The women giggle as they bustle away, doubtlessly eager to gossip about the relationship between yourself and the Haillenarte heir.
The vibrant chandelier light catches on his blond locks. His head is absent of his trademark bandana and goggles, hair done in an elegant braid. 
“Couldn’t have stepped in sooner?” you jibe at him a little bit, reaching up and tugging lightly on the aforementioned length of hair. He winches, but you hold no sympathy for him. He’s earned it, after the hell he’s put you through.
“Why? You seemed to be enjoying yourself… and if you’re going to be living here, then you’ll need to grow accustomed to the people,” he says, a palm pressing to the small of your back. He leads you seamlessly through the crowd, heading at last for the exit. You’ve only been here for a little more than an hour, but you’re already exhausted. You only have so much energy to spend talking to the rich and privileged before your brain starts giving out on itself. 
“Regardless, I’m proud of you for lasting as long as you did,” he admits with a small laugh, “Even I grow weary of all the posturing and negotiating and gossiping. The nobility lacks most of the problems that plague the lower class, so they invent their own. Lady Dzemael has been fitting about her supposedly stolen croquettes as of late.”
“I suppose the impending threat of a dragon attack was second to that on her list of concerns,” you remark wryly, resisting the urge to roll your eyes at the melodrama.
The ballroom, in all its incredible extravagance, disappears behind you. Stephanivien continues to idly banter with you, distracting you from both conversations held inside the ballroom and the toy incessantly teasing your pussy.
The orchestra becomes vague background noise as you head down the winding corridors, too focused on the lone task of returning to the Haillenarte manor to pay much attention to your surroundings. Your panties are near soaked through, cunt throbbing around the intrusive toy nestled inside.
You tense and rub your thighs together every chance you get. If he notices, he does not say anything.
-
Your little secret makes you feel giddy as you scurry down the hallowed halls of the mansion, pressed against him, as close as you can get. His hand is perched on the small of your back, his voice jovial as he shepherds you to his room with tantamount urgency. None of the staff dare interrupt your rushed journey, all likely knowing what you’re about to do. Normally you might muster up some sense of sheepishness, but you’re too hot and bothered now.
Only when the door of his room shuts behind you are you able to feel at ease. A weight lifts off your shoulders… as do the straps of your dress. 
“Eager, are we?” Stephanivien inquires with no small amount of smugness, as though he isn’t also feverishly disrobing. He has an easier time of it. No zippers to fiddle with, no corsets to unlace. 
“Again, that’s your fault,” you accuse with no venom in your voice, beginning to shimmy out of your formal attire. The dress, as lovely and comfortable as it is, has got to go… though you’ll most likely need his help to untie it.
“As humorous as it is to watch you wiggle around like a mermaid on land, I must offer you my humble assistance. It is the least I can do after all I have put you through, tonight,” he offers. When you glance back at him again, he’s disrobed down to his boxers. His suit and pants have been haphazardly tossed to the side of the room. He’s seated on the edge of the mattress, looking up to you with imploring eyes. His arms are open, elbows resting on his knees.
“It really is the very least you can do,” you remark. Even while sitting, he’s your same height, if not a tad taller. It’s enough to send a flush of heat to your already aching cunt. 
You go quiet as you shimmy over to him. As soon as you’re able to, you rest your hands upon his shoulders and make a small jump to stand in between his legs, using him as a baseboard. The force of you pushing down on him makes him give a small ‘oof’, but he’s otherwise unbothered, too large and well-muscled to be bothered by someone of your size. 
His countless hours at the workshop have served him well. There’s definition to his shoulders and arms, to his abdomen that might lead you to believe he’s been training on the side. Your absentminded gaze reaches it to the v of his hips before he grabs you by your own and abruptly turns you around.
The suddenness makes you squawk.
“Hush. You will have plenty of time to ogle me in just a few moments, I assure you,” Stephanivien says. His nimble fingers dance up and down the back of your dress, expertly untying and unlacing the top garment with practiced dexterity. Mere moments later, it crumples to the polished wooden floor at your feet.
Unabashedly, suddenly, he manhandles you to face him again. You prepare another teasing barb to throw his way, but the words fall from your tongue the moment you see his face. He looks to you with unspoken ardence, a worshipful admiration decidedly different from the way anyone else has seen you with. It quiets and humbles you, to the point where you don’t speak even as he hooks his thumbs underneath the sides of your panties.
“Utterly divine, my love,” he coos. He pulls you forward by your hips, gaze slowly traversing down your body. He starts at your chest, admiring the curve of your bust before reaching your stomach. It’s as though he’s trying to memorize every inch of you, leaving you feeling more exposed and overanalysed than ever… and that’s before he pauses as he reaches your sodden panties. His head ducks, his lips curled into a torrid smirk. His left hand releases your hip and slides across your thigh, long fingers reaching up to caress a single stripe down your still clothes cunt, gently jostling the toy.
The sudden movement inside your already oversensitive cunt makes you jump and gasp, fingers curling tight around his broad shoulders. The shock is instantly replaced with irritation borne of his insufferable teasing.
“Gods, just fuck me already,” you grumble, thoroughly vexed by his sluggish examination.
“Forgive me,” he beseeches, eyes glimmering with untold mischief. “I was so taken by your beauty that I lost myself for a moment. Will you indulge me for the final time tonight, my love?”
“Depends. You’re already on thin ice,” you reply, tilting your head to the side. The hand that teased your cunt navigates around your body, his palm settling over one of your cheeks. His long fingers span over it entirely, giving you a loving squeeze. Your eyes screw shut as you hold in a moan, your cheeks growing even hotter as you realize what he’s asking of you. 
“As rapturous as you are from the front, I believe I can get a better grasp of the toy’s overall performance from the back? Are you feeling up to that, tonight?” The low buzzing in between your thighs is deriving you to the point of incoherence. In the midst of your frustration, you agree with a wordless nod.
“As long as you hurry up and fuck me already,” you try to put extra bite in your words, but any and all threat in your tone is dulled by your currently nude state. 
“Splendid.” Those long fingers tap against your hip, and he gently urges you to the side. “On the bed, my dear. The sooner you get into position, the sooner I can give you what you want.”
You need no further encouragement to scramble atop the blankets, coming to rest upon your hands and knees, sopping cunt and ass presented for his use. A brief sequence of noises behind you, namely the sound of a drawer opening and shutting, let you know he’s suspiciously prepared for this. 
“Lovely. You’re doing so well for me.” There’s jolly humor in his voice and it nearly makes you roll your eyes. He makes quick work of your panties, sliding them down your thighs until they rest in the crook of your knees. Slicked, chilled fingers lightly work their way to your bottom hole, your voice choking around a gasp as he teases it. The toy still buzzes eagerly between your legs, even the slightest bit of stimulation enough to make you push back into his touch. 
“Fuck,” you curse, face pressed to the sheets as he works a single, nimble digit inside of you, working you open. The series of gentle thrusts in and out make you begin to melt, body desperate for any attention he’ll give it. You relax for him, you loosen, gasping and whining, melting into little more than a puddle beneath him. The slicked lubricant chills against your exposed skin, sending goosebumps sprawling over your legs. 
You pay it no mind as you work a hand underneath you, beginning to tease your clit with practiced strokes. Your growing noises of pleasure pitch higher and higher… and then turn into grievous whines as he pulls his fingers away.
“Hush,” Stephanivien soothes, lips brushing the back of your neck. He adorns your unmarked flesh with kisses and nips, occasionally stopping to suck a deeper mark. “I’ll give you what you so desperately crave, I promise. Just be patient. Intricate processes like these require proper preparation.”
The hot press of his cock makes a sudden breath rattle harshly from your lungs as he nears your twitching hole. The tip presses gently to it, beginning a slow slide inside. His fingers are long and practiced, but his cock is decidedly girthier. You don’t realize you’re shaking until he begins to murmur sweet nothings to you, a warm hand stroking up and down your side in an attempt to soothe you. The sudden nerves settle gradually, every muscle relaxing around him as he pushes deeper, deeper until his pelvis presses firm against your ass. 
“You are a wonder,” he says into your hair, his shaking voice betraying his rattled composure. Even the scion of an Ishgardian noble house cannot remain unflinching in the throes of pleasure. The thought somehow soothes you as he pulls back… and thrusts in again. The pace he sets is slow and measured, yet deep and thorough. It’s the kind of mind-melting measure that frustrates and defeats you, the kind that makes your fingers tremble on your clit as you struggle to cling to coherent thought. 
The constant, unrelenting pressure he applies is enough to keep you pinned entirely to the sheets. 
“You’re excellent,” he moans and growls his praise, voice muffled against your shoulder. His words are spaced between frantic, wet kisses. “Truly. Taking me so well after all you’ve been through, tonight. Can you cum for me, darling? I think you can. I know so.”
The raw satisfaction the praise pushes through your worn mind is somehow enough to undo the coil between your legs that’s been wound so tight. The constant teasing has had you dangling on the precipice from the very start, so it should be no surprise when you finally cum, howling your bliss into the sheets as your body jerks and writhes. The toy relentlessly vibrates through it, devastating your plush walls until you at last reach to wrench it out. 
Your entire body shakes as he fucks you throughout, pushing you so far into bliss that you begin to squirm away. His fingers curl tight around your hips, pulling you tight to him. His rhythm falters and his words fail him. You only realize these tell-tale signs of his approaching orgasm moments before it crashes into him. His hips still as he spills inside you. His teeth find purchase on your shoulder as he bites, sucking a brutal mark onto the blank patch of skin.
The blankets pull and nearly tear as you grip them, shaking like a leaf in his grasp. The strength has been all but sapped from your body by the physical and emotional strain of the night. Who knew talking to so many of Ishgard’s most powerful people could exhaust you so much? In the stillness and clarity of your post-orgasm, you can’t help but feel immensely grateful that you’re not in that stuffy ballroom, anymore.
“Forgive me,” Stephanivien says against your shoulder. His soft lips press up against the spot he had just bitten, and his grip on you loosens. There will be bruises where he held you tomorrow, but you can’t find it in yourself to be upset about that. Knowing that proof of tonight will still linger beyond this encounter is satisfying in a strange and animal way. “I was too… ahem, drawn into the moment. I should not have been so brusque with you.”
“No, it’s alright.” Your voice is hoarse as you assure him. “It was good. Really nice.” You grasp for more sophisticated words, but your head throbs the moment you do.  
What you will have to do is see how obvious the hickies he left are going to be. As proud as you are to be involved with him, you can’t waltz into your workplace looking like you’ve just been near choked to death. Heavens could only imagine the way Tataru would tease and badger you for the dirty details. Not to mention Stephanivien’s father… though you’re quite sure he already knows the details of your relationship with his son. 
Being the Warrior of Light has its perks, one of which being that not even the staunchly traditional nobility of Ishgard can take issue with you marrying one of their own. Not after all you’ve done for them.
“Ah. Full glad am I to hear that, my dear.” He raises from his close position, gently shifting you to lay on your back. The toy lays abandoned only a few ilms away, and you wince at the sight of it coated in your juices. He’ll be the one to clean that up, you decide. It’s the least he can do after all of tonight’s shenanigans. His little invention causes you more trouble than you surely deserved. He reaps what he sows, as far as you are concerned.
You allow yourself brief smugness, knowing he’ll be helpless to refuse. For as dominant as he can be, there’s very little he will deny you. Whilst you strive to not take advantage of that good nature, there are times where you think it’s only appropriate to seize what you’ve so painstakingly earned.
Perhaps you should take a shower, you muse to yourself, staring up at the ceiling. The warmth of the afterglow settles over your tired body. The day’s anxieties are done and over with, put behind you. There are no balls to dread attending, no high social interaction for you to worry about. Perhaps you should have something to drink, too. It wouldn’t do for you to go to bed dehydrated—
Something hard and hot presses ever so gently against the outer lips of your cunt, causing your gaze to snap downwards. Stephanivien at least has the good sense to look sheepish after his unabashed ravishing of you, his lips curled in a decidedly boyish smile. His cock, however, is not nearly as shy. 
“What.” You say, doubtlessly looking as incredulous as you feel.
“I cannot help my hopeless attraction to you, my dear. I think you should know that by now,” he wheedles, batting his eyelashes. “You’re up for another round, aren’t you? The night is only so young, as are we, and we should enjoy ourselves while we have the chance—”
Your face warms as his gaze roves up and down your body, worshipful and lustful all at the same time. Whilst he rants about the finer details of your physical form and soul, those large palms and long fingers come to cup your hips, thumbs rolling slow circles into your cooling skin. Like this, both bared to each other, you’re hard pressed to say no. The simplest of touches sends another spark through you, your already overstimulated cunt throbbing. 
He’s impossible to resist. Utterly, irritatingly impossible. 
So, you make a show of throwing your head back and sighing, staring pointedly up at the ceiling.
“If we must,” you say, but the upturned curl to your lips betrays you.
“What would I ever do without you?” he says. Those clever hands have already drawn you closer, the tip of his girthy cock kissing your entrance. You’re already plenty slick from the toy’s… loving ministrations. He slides inside easily, yet slowly, still careful to give you time to properly adjust. The toy’s size pales in comparison to his, but the preparation and lubrication are more than enough. You keen as he presses close, hips canting in a desperate attempt for more of that blessed, sanguine contact. “So receptive, as well.” 
Your back arches, your eyes flutter shut as your walls clench and loosen around him. He presses up against every special little spot, touches everywhere you want him. His very presence is toe-curling, mind-melting in a way you have trouble describing. 
“With an attitude like that, we’ll put an heir in you yet.” he teases, voice lapsing into a playful little lilt. “Would you like that, my dear? Would you like to be bred and round with child?” His jesting tone of voice is at odds with the fire that gleams openly in his gaze. A million thoughts and possibilities seize you at once.
Your answer is lost in a jumbled gasp as he sets a faster, rougher pace. You are sent mindless into a sea of bliss, wave after wave knocking the breath and coherency out of you.
The very idea of his proposal, however, sends a very raw abet confusing wave of heat straight down to your cunt. The logical part of you halts completely at the suggestion, any rational thought shut down by the swift gyration of his hips. Your hands grip the sheets for dear life. Your walls clench around him. Your eyes squeeze shut. 
This will be a long night.
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itsreigns · 4 years
Text
Surprising Him
Elias x Reader
(Y/N) surprises him at Monday Night Raw after not getting to see him for a few weeks.
Warnings: Angst. Mainly Fluff.
Words: 2,676
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It’s been too long since I’ve seen my boyfriend. Three weeks with nothing but FaceTime and iMessage back and forth. I missed his face so much. Yeah, I know I saw it on the screen but it just isn’t the same.
I miss his face close to mine. I miss his face tucked into the crook of my neck. I miss his beard tickling me as he kissed down my body. I miss his scent. I miss the warmth that emanated from his body. I miss his deep voice. I miss him.
For the past few days, he tried to dismiss it but I could sense he was upset. If I had to guess, I’d probably say he was just bummed that we couldn’t be together on our first anniversary. He always said he wanted to be home, so we could have a private dinner, just ourselves, and enjoy our company. But unfortunately, his work schedule didn’t play in our favor. 
Initially, he asked for a couple of days off and they granted them, but a week ago, after Raw, he was informed that he was needed on the show on our anniversary day. He was so disappointed, and almost embarrassed when he called me to tell the news and call our plans off. I shrugged it off, obviously, and tried to comfort him. 
It wasn’t his fault, so I definitely didn’t want to make him feel even worse. Plus, it was very likely that it meant a huge improvement in his career and in his current storyline. Deep down he knew I was right, but I think he might have gotten the wrong idea. I had the slight feeling that he thought I was okay with not seeing him and not celebrating our anniversary. 
But it was the complete opposite. I was so heartbroken with the news of our now cancelled plans, but I didn’t want him to feel guilty or sadder about it. I moped around for some time, bummed about not seeing my husband, until I had a lightbulb moment. 
If he couldn’t come to me, I’d go to him.
How had I not thought about it before? Seriously, so dumb of me. It’s a special date for us, and I can definitely arrange to take some days off work. It will be perfect. 
I grab my laptop, my credit card and my phone and head to the sofa, ready to start booking my flight and arrange some nice hotel room for us. It took me about an hour and a half and lots of surfing the internet and scheduling to do it all, but it’s all finally set. 
Seattle is waiting for me! In three days, I’m going to surprise my husband on our anniversary. It’s going to be unforgettable. It’s not what we had planned or wished, but what truly matters is that we’ll be together. 
I decided not to tell him anything about my trip. It’s kind of rude, I know, but I’m definitely not trying to torture him. If I’m being honest, I just can’t wait to see the look on his face, always full of love and lighting up when his eyes land on me, especially after some time apart. And I can’t wait to have his arms around me, holding me tight against his warm and broad chest.
Three days later...
It’s finally here! Today’s the day. I’m already on the plane, 10 minutes away from landing in Seattle. I am so anxious, my stomach is flipping. I’ve got jitters just thinking about how close I am to seeing him. I swear I feel like a teenager on her way to meet her crush all over again. Help!
I’m bouncing my leg nervously, as I look through the window, watching the city come closer and closer in sight. When we finally land, I swear my legs tremble like jelly, I can barely stand up for a few seconds. It’s almost hilarious. I mean, he’s my husband and I feel like I’m about to go on a first date or something. I love how we still get this feeling about and around each other. 
Once I check out, I call an Uber as I go wait outside the airport. In less than 20 minutes, I’ll be entering the arena. Oh God, the chills running through my body just thinking about his warmth enveloping me. 
The Uber arrived in no time and the trip down to the arena was quicker than I expected. Thankfully though! The anticipation is killing me! 
I step out of the car, thanking the driver before he drives off. I reach my phone so I can pay for the ride, and give him a tip as well because he was so nice the whole time. When I’m done, I stare at the gigantic building in front of me, taking in the sight before texting Nattie, who was my inside girl. 
“I’m outside!” I write, barely holding onto my phone as my hands shake nervously. 
A few seconds later, it beeps, signalling a new message. “Don’t move! I’ll be there in 5. So exciteeeeed!”
I smile as I read Nattie’s text. Of course she’s excited, she’s all about surprises and parties and helping out her friends. I love her, she’s a great friend, I just wish I could see her often. 
“GIRL!” I hear her voice coming out of the building, making me turn as I spot her running towards me with a huge smile on her face. “How are you? I missed you so much!” She squeals excitedly, pulling me into a hug. 
“I missed you too, Nattie! And I’m better now that I’m here.” I admit, feeling myself blush a bit as we pull back and she fully faces me.
“Yeah, now that you’re about to see your man, you mean.” Nattie teases playfully, shooting me a knowing grin and earning a genuine laugh from me. “Let’s go inside.” She says, wrapping her arm around my shoulders and leading me through the front doors. 
We walk through God knows how many halls, carefully so Elias doesn’t spot me earlier than expected, until we finally arrive at the women’s locker room. As we step inside, all eyes turn to us. Some of them, I already met, the others I haven’t but Nattie quickly solved that problem by introducing me to everyone. And they are so nice! 
“Don’t be nervous! Elias will love your surprise.” Alexa said. 
“I bet he misses you so bad, he’s going to loooooooove it.” Nia replied.
“He won’t even see it coming. I want to see the look on his face when he sees you!” Lana added. 
Everyone was trying to support me and calm me down, I guess my nerves were that palpable. But being with them, eased me off. I’m feeling so much better, and I’m so ready to see my man. 
It’s been almost 2 hours since I’ve arrived. Raw is halfway through and we’re watching Elias’ segment. My stomach twists in nervousness from both his segment and our imminent encounter. God, I truly missed him. 
I watch him intently as he plays his guitar in the middle of the ring, only to be interrupted by Randy Orton who proceeds to attack him. They engage in a rough fight, making my heart contract in fear for Elias. I’m always so scared he’ll get hurt. He’s been there before and it wasn’t easy at all. 
The match finally ends. I look proudly at Elias through the screen, he’s all sweaty and there’s a bit of blood on his forehead but... I am so proud of him. All of his hard work is finally paying off. He so deserves everything good this world has to offer. 
“It’s time!!!” Nattie yells, clapping her hands enthusiastically, snapping me out of my thoughts. “C’mon (Y/N)!” She insists, extending her hand to me. I take her hand before getting up and following her lead. “Charly texted me, Elias is getting his forehead looked at by the medics, so we’re waiting for him outside the examination room.” 
“Okay, let’s go!” I say, taking a deep breath.
She squeezes my hand a couple of times as we walk towards the room, shooting me a couple of reassuring smiles along the way. Five minutes later, we arrived at the door signaled as examination room. 
“Now we only have to wait.” Nattie smiles, sighing deeply. I could tell she was also nervous for our encounter. She’s so sweet. “It will be great! I can’t wait!” 
By my count, it’s been 10 minutes since we got here. I’m getting super worked up, definitely not liking this delay at all. What if something was wrong with him? What if the cut in the forehead was more than a mere cut? I am getting even more nervous. 
Sensing my uneasiness, Nattie pulls me into a hug. “Hey, it’ll be ok. Sometimes these things take a bit longer than we’d like to.”
“Yeah, I know. I’m just worried about him.” I mumble softly. “And I truly miss him.” 
“I know you do. He’s just seconds away, though.” She encourages, smiling widely as she pulls back and faces me. 
Suddenly, the door opens, revealing an exhausted and shirtless Elias, with his gaze glued to the ground as the palm of his hand is connected against his freshly stitched forehead as if relieving some of the pain. I can also see some red and purple-ish spots on his abdomen and his pecs. He really took a huge beating. 
“That’s my cue. Bye.” Nattie whispers to me, managing to leave without Elias noticing neither of us.
“Surprise!” I shout, for some reason really shyly.  
His gaze moves up in a fraction of seconds, shock written in his features as he stares down at me, his mouth hanging open. His eyes are shining, filled with emotion and love. I feel my own get blurry with unshed tears.
“What-? I mean, how did you-?” He tries to ask, unable to form a complete sentence. I bet his mind is running a thousand miles per hour. “Nevermind, come here, baby.” 
He takes a step towards me and I meet him halfway, launching myself at him, carefully so I wouldn’t hurt him, and hugging him tight, wrapping my arms around his waist, as if my life depended on it. He quickly envelops me in his arms as well, wrapping them around my shoulders and pulling me to him tightly. 
I can feel him taking in my hair’s scent as he kisses it a couple of times. That makes my insides flutter. He misses me as much as I miss him. How difficult it is to find someone who is on the exact same page you are. I am so goddamn lucky.
“Happy anniversary, baby.” I whisper against his chest, then planting a kiss right on the same spot. “I missed you so much.”
He pulls back slightly, resting his wounded forehead against mine. “Happy anniversary, love.” Then, he presses his lips to mine, slowly and gently, pecking me repeatedly. “It means a lot to me that you’re here, (Y/N). You have no idea how much.”
“Wherever you are, that’s where I want to be, Elias.” I reply, in all honesty. “Wherever you are, that’s home to me.” 
“I love you so much.” He sighs, hugging me again. “Every day that I spend with you just shows me that I made the right choice when I asked you to marry me. You’re my girl, and you’ll forever be my girl.” 
“And I made the right choice by saying yes.” I smile widely at him, once we pull back. Then, he lets out a weird laugh, so I raise my eyebrow in confusion. “What?”
“You know… I kind of got the feeling that you didn’t care that I couldn’t be home today.” I’m about to interrupt him, but he doesn’t let me. “I know you care, but I was just… angry for failing you, and then you just acted indifferently, and it kinda stung.” 
“I knew you weren’t feeling good about canceling our plans, I knew how much you wanted to be home, and I didn’t want to make you feel worse. It wasn’t your fault, and I bet you were feeling guilty. That look on your face right there tells me I was definitely right.” I chuckle, and he smiles back, as blush creeps up his cheeks. "I didn’t act indifferently.” I assure him, resting my hand on right above his heart. “I was destroyed inside, Elias. I missed you so much, and all I wanted was to have you for myself and myself only for a whole night.”
“You can have me, baby. Anytime, I’m yours. Only yours.” He reassures me, pecking my lips again. “I’m sorry I failed you, though. I really wanted to be with you, at home.”
“I know you did. That’s why I came up with this magnificent plan of coming all the way down to Seattle to surprise you.” I laugh, feeling really proud of myself. 
“Yeah, about that… How did you pull this off in like… what? Three days?”He asks genuinely curious and amazed by my idea.
“I sat on our sofa for almost two hours, surrounded by my phone, my notebook and my laptop. I called Nattie and she also helped me with some of the details. It was hard, I’m not going to lie, but I’m stubborn, so yeah.” I sum it all up really quick, so I wouldn’t let it slip that I had one more surprise. 
“You’re very stubborn.” I cut him off by smacking his arm playfully. “And intelligent, and pretty, and everything good in this world and I can’t imagine my life without you.”
“Good, because I’m not going anywhere.” I whisper, feeling myself blush a bit as I get on my tiptoes so I could kiss him properly. 
“Speaking of which, I’m really tired and I have a hotel room waiting for us.” He informs, looking much more relieved and happy now. 
“About that… I’m not going to your hotel room.” I say, watching his face fall. “But neither are you.” This time, it’s his turn to look confused. “With Nattie’s help, I got us a really special hotel room, so we could celebrate properly.”
“You got us a suite?” He asks incredulously. 
“You’re goddamn right I did. A master suite, with a king size bed. Champagne, strawberries and chocolate waiting for us.” I can tell by the look in his face that his mind is already wandering in dangerous places. And I love it. “And a little bonus, that I think you’re going to love, considering you’re so sore: it has a jacuzzi.” I add teasingly. 
“Oh great. A jacuzzi, I think you’ll find it very helpful too by the end of the night.” He replies, his voice laced with desire and love.
“Yeah? How’s that?” I tease him back, biting my lip. “You’re going to wear me out? Get me sore?”
“Oh, baby girl, I’m going to make you feel so good, I’m going to show you how much I love you. I’ll be giving my wife the anniversary present she deserves.” He starts, whispering into my ear. “And then, I’m going to hold you tight to me and sleep peacefully with you in my arms after we’re all worn out and sore. When we get up, I’ll get you in the jacuzzi and I’ll massage your shoulders and your back. Or maybe we’ll go in for another round before we get up and then we’ll get to the jacuzzi.” He informs, lust filling his eyes, his tone so low, that it had me clenching my thighs together. Of course he noticed. “Already ready for me, baby?” 
“I’m always ready for you. So can we go?” I stutter, knowing I sound really ablaze and unsettled but that’s the truth, I can’t wait to be alone with him. 
“I can’t wait to get my hands on you either, baby. So after you.”
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blackberrydothings · 4 years
Text
Duke Thomas vs the non-verbal vocabulary
Duke Week (but like a week later) of @duketectivecomics day 6: All in the Batfamily.
Summary: When Duke joined the family he knew he would have to learn lots of things, including survival skills and where Alfred hides the cookies. He never thought that he would need to master the unspoken language that lies under every action of the bats.
Or
Duke finds himself trying to understand his new family’s ways of communication, until he starts doing the same.
Notes: sorry for being late!  wanted to make this fic without dialogue but gave up at the first try. If u see any mistake, u can go ahead and tell me, my English is far from perfect. Well, that’s all, thanks for reading! (I don’t own any of these characters, they belong to dc comics and that stuff)
….
The sun is setting when Duke arrives at the cave after a long but quiet day, his body aching for a nap or one of Alfred’s meals, whatever comes first. 
If it weren’t for the blue light coming from the computer and the sound of typing he would have thought that the place was empty. But Duke can distinguish Bruce profile from where he stands, taking off his helmet. The older man is sitting without his cowl, his posture the one of someone who is trying not to fall asleep. The bags under his eyes a confirmation that Duke does not need. 
“Long day in Wayne Enterprises?” He tries as an attempt at small conversation. As usual, it does not work. Bruce gives him a side glance and murmurs something to himself, not bothering to clarify what it was. Even so, he notices the man relaxing a little in his presence, which Duke counts as a win. 
He knows that he can’t fool anyone (much less the Batman) but he takes longer to put his things aside, pretending that he has to stay in the cave a little more time than necessary. When there is not any excuse left, he heads towards the exit. Bruce has not spoken or abandoned his position in front of the computer yet, an open case in front of his eyes. 
“Have you ever thought about going on patrols during the day? You know, for a better sleep schedule.” Duke asks, fully aware of the answer and when Bruce gives him a grunt, he has to suppress a laugh.
He is too far away to listen when in a low voice, the man answers: “It would ruin the aesthetic.”
….
Alfred, as the omnipotent force that Duke has started to think that he is, is there when someone from the family needs him. But even so, he is always surprised to find the man in the kitchen making him breakfast. 
Duke is usually already on his senses at six in the morning, and a few minutes later he is going downstairs, more often than not passing by one of the other bats, still dressed up and yawning. When he arrives at his destination, Alfred is there with a relaxed pose, like waiting for him. 
“Morning, Alf” Duke says while offering his help, just for the man to deny it. It takes a few seconds to be ready but then Duke is drinking his hot chocolate with a smile on his face. 
“Did you sleep well, Master Duke?” Alfred asks while sitting down at his side. It is a rare sight, given the fact that the man is always doing something, and Duke is secretly proud to be able to see him like that, when there are no immediate worries or tasks. 
“As good as one can ask for.” Duke shrugs and then adds “Eight full hours tho.”
“Four more than the average in this house.” The man says, and Duke is not sure if it is the morning or the words itselves, but he laughs. 
The silence that follows is comfortable, and neither of them has a wish to interrupt it. They keep each other company until Duke finishes his breakfast, and when he has to go, Alfred stands up offering a warm smile, before he also starts with his day. 
….
Duke hates nightmares. 
Yes, he fights criminals on a daily basis, he knows pretty well how to manage Two-Face or the Penguin, but nightmares are another type of monster all together. And he hates them. 
They often start as good dreams, the kind of dreams that makes you want to stay asleep, but also the kind of ones where you do not want to realise it is not real. And that does not help Duke when they transform into madness and chaos. When the images of a happy childhood become the picture of a broken family, and the laughs coming from his parents stop fitting them. 
But there is something that Duke hates more than nightmares: waking up from them. Waking up, alone in a bed that is not the one from his home, is just a reminder that there is nothing untrue about his dreams. That he has his parents, but that their minds had gone far away. 
He adjusts in his bed while trying to suppress a sob when he realises that he is not alone this time. Duke should be surprised that Dick is laying on top of his mattress like it is his own, but he is not. In fact, it is more of a common occurrence around the Manor to find more than one bat sleeping in a single space (yes, that includes Bruce); but them appearing in the middle of the night to Duke’s, well, that’s not as common. 
“Couldn’t sleep, yours was closer, I hope you don’t mind” Dick’s eyes remain closed but he speaks in a voice that is too clear to be sleepy. Duke knows he is lying, his rooms are not even on the same floor, but decides not to comment on it. 
“Sure” he answers, and something in the back of his mind relaxes. He might not know if Dick really wanted company or if he has some older-brother-sense that warns him when someone needs him, but he is not complaining. 
Duke’s nightmares won’t go, but he has a family. He is not alone.  
….
Wayne Manor has a library big enough to entertain yourself for months, and Duke has spent several hours on its quietness. But there are days, just like this one, when he prefers to go to the public one, where the things do not seem so immaculate and he is not afraid of stepping on something. 
As almost everything in Gotham, the public library is old, with high ceilings and large corridors that Duke is pretty sure could lead to the underground if he gets too distracted. Dirt gathers on top of the shelves with books never touched, and the light coming from the large windows gives an ethereal aura to the place. 
Duke has been looking for something to read for the last hour, four books placed on one of the tables near his bag, but none of them caught his attention for more than a few minutes. He is already sitting down with a fifth on his hand when he notices a movement at his right. A figure that Duke recognizes appears with their own books and takes a place next to him. 
Jason looks extremely calm when he nods towards Duke as a greeting, like he belongs in the library and its silence more than anywhere else. It is an interesting sight to contrast with his usual booming and alert self.
They stay like that a few more moments, until Duke groans tiredly when the fifth book ends up being as boring as the other four. He is ready to get up once more when he hears a soft laugh coming from Jason. As soon as Duke looks at him he realises that his brother is offering him a book from his pile, a face that might say “I dare you”. Duke is not someone who would back out from an unspoken dare, so he takes it. 
It is apparently an old collection of poems, the cover is worn out and some of the pages have notes in a neat handwriting that must be Jason’s. If it weren’t because he was the one who offered it, Duke would feel like he is intruding. He starts reading. 
Duke spends the rest of the afternoon in the library, with a silent companion. 
….
It is three in the afternoon and the cave is empty. 
Duke has been looking at the ceiling for the last half an hour while trying to tie up the loose ends of a case that had gone cold a week ago. He got it yesterday morning when the Police Department desisted from keeping an investigation, probably remembering that they could send it to one of the bats. 
He has the feeling that helping in cold cases happened more often in the daytime than in the night, where the Police Department (and Gordon) were already used to having the extra help, or were already resigned to it. There are a limited number of times of the Batman appearing in the middle of a crime scene before you get used to it, after all. 
At least three other files were gathered beside him in the pile of “solved”, and its results were already sent to the Police Department (and to the batcomputer record). It was the fourth case that was starting to give him a headache. A young man had been found dead in his home by heart attack, no history of any heart disease in his family. The only clue is a combination of substances that were not part of any known drug. 
Duke hears the steps of someone coming down to the cave, and by the way they move he can bet it is Tim. He looks towards the sound and confirms his suspicions, he catches the grunt that comes from his brother as a greeting before he sits down in front of the computer. He is ready to focus again on his task when Tim speaks, on a tired yet alert voice. 
“Why did you upload this to the computer?” Tim is pointing at the list of substances that Duke looked for just a few minutes ago. Without result.
“A cold case.” 
Tim mutters something under his breath and starts typing with quick movements. The silence seems to be filled with it for the next minutes, while Duke keeps an interested eye on his file. Confusion is shown on his face when, with his powers help, he identifies something flying towards him. He catches the pencil that Tim sends his way with his right hand, and watches it intensely.  
“You know, if you wanted my attention you could have just said something.” Duke comments when he does not find any other reason why Tim would throw him a pencil. His brother, once more, mutters something while asking for Duke to get closer with a movement of his hand. 
When he does it, Duke notices that three files are open on the computer: Duke’s current case, the components of a pill that he does not identify and a new tab in which Tim seems to be working on. He also notes that some of the substances of his case appear on the other two. 
“Okay, I am getting it, but how did you…?”
“Last night patrol, some new drug in town. Apparently it is getting popular between university students that want to keep awake for finals.” Tim answers with a shrug, and before he gets to drink more of the coffee he has on the table, Duke takes it. “Hey, I am helping you.”
“Well, I am returning the favor. Go to sleep, Tim.”
Tim complains about betrayal and annoying members of his family. Duke does not care, he has time to insist, his case is solved after all. 
….
Duke likes Steph. 
When he joined the family, she was the easiest to get along. The majority of them acted nice, but they were also pretty much disinterested, not even batting an eye towards him. It took Duke a long time to realise that sometimes the bats were just like that: silent. Steph, on the other hand, always had something to say, and for Duke that was the little bit of normalcy that he needed. 
He might never admit it, but he suspects that the other reason they got along from the beginning was because neither of them was sure of their places in the family. Yes, for sure they belonged to it, but for completely different reasons they were at the edge of it. 
So, already gotten used to her randomness, it was not even weird when she offered to go on a daytime patrol with him. Duke liked the company, so he accepted, and every once in a while since then he finds himself with the voice of a purple vigilante on his coms. 
“No, don’t take the avenue. It is going to be crowded.” Duke warns when Steph informs him of an armed robbery on Gotham City Bank. 
“Crowded? Of what?” her voice comes muffled by her mask and the white noise. 
“Of people? And their vehicles?” Duke says in his most obvious voice, and then he realises. Without even trying to suppress the smile, he clarifies “You know, people are outside now, going to work and stuff, it is the middle of the day.” Steph does not answer. 
When the day is getting over they sit on a rooftop enjoying the view of a safer Gotham, even when they both know that the night will be as dangerous as always. Steph has been complaining about how impossible it is to hide in the daytime, and Duke has been trying to explain to her how that is kind of the point. 
Duke likes Steph, and loves listening to her speak, but as any other bat, the things that she does not fully say are the one that he appreciates the most. 
….
The sun has setted a few minutes ago and not many people are still in the Manor. Duke has been moving from doing his homework and watching the movie that is being played on the TV. Now that he thinks about it, he should turn off the thing.
He gets startled when Cass appears from the darkness itself and sits down next to him. He has been getting used to her sudden entrances since they started working together more often with the Outsiders, but he was pretty sure that she was not even in the house. 
“How…? Weren’t you on patrol?”
“Changed day with Tim” she says, without further explanation, looking at the papers in his hand and then at the movie, she keeps silent while the screen shows the image of a vast space “What is that?”
“Hmn, that’s Star Trek. This is my math homework.” 
“Star Trek?” she asks while spelling the words with her hands, then just using sign language adds “A space travel documentary?”
“No, no. It’s a movie, a really impressive one. It’s about a futuristic society where…” Duke starts explaining but thinks better of it “But not as impressive now that we have a Superman. You never watched it?”
Cass denies it with her head, and Duke starts telling her the basics while she gets comfortable by his side. She seems confused by some of the things he enthusiastically describes, but she listens nonetheless. A few minutes later they are both watching the movie, homework forgotten. At some given moment Cass nudges him. 
“Other day, you dance. With me.”
Duke smiles, he would like that. 
….
Silence fills his room and Duke is ready to turn off the light and call it a day when he hears the knocks on his door. Damian does not even wait for his response and opens it. 
“Thomas” he says, and his voice sounds mildly annoyed “I am in need of your assistance.”
Duke gives him a questioning look. Damian is not dressed for patrol, and if Duke is not wrong, this has to be his free night. So saying he is surprised by the request is an understatement. But the kid does not explain, instead he turns around and goes back to the corridor. Duke gets up and follows him.
Damian is already going downstairs when Duke gets to him. It must be a weird sight, he thinks, a child all formally dressed at ten in the evening, while the teenager is in his pajamas trying to suppress a yawn. But Duke does not have time to share his thoughts when they arrive at their destination. 
Damian opens the door to one of the many rooms of the Manor, and waits for Duke to enter. If it weren’t because he is pretty sure that the kid at least estimates him, he would be worried. The only two things in the room are an easel and a stool. Damian gets closer to them, and Duke once more follows. 
Now that he sees the easel better, he can discern a pencil drawing on a white canvas. It looks extremely similar to the outside of the Manor. Damian seems relaxed by his side but he can tell that the kid is nervous. Of what, Duke is not sure. 
“Did you draw it? Because it looks amazing.” Damian unsurprisingly does not answer, but he looks to truly relax this time, and Duke is tempted to assure him once more, even when he knows that the kid would dismiss him. Dick older brother’s vibes must be getting to him. 
“It is not finished. I still have to paint it.” Damian clarifies, then, like it hurts him like hell, adds “Your help with the lighting would be… appreciated.” 
It is not a request, more of an obligation, but Duke still acts surprised for a few seconds. He looks again at the painting, he is not sure of being able to tell how the lights actually work, but Damian still looks interested in his opinion. So he explains, he shows all the points where it can come, and how that would affect the whole picture. Duke must admit that he feels pretty dumb doing it, he might have light related powers but he has no idea how to paint, but still, he finishes his overview. 
Damian seems to be in deep thinking for a few seconds, then he nods towards Duke and gives a glance to the door. Of course.
“Your presence is not required anymore” the younger one says. 
“Yeah, almost didn’t notice” Duke murmurs while heading to the door, but thinks that he was able to catch the shadow of a smile on the kid’s face. That will have to be enough. 
….
It was half past six in the morning and Duke was tired. No, he was exhausted. 
Yesterday was a long day, without even counting the meta that has been trying to destroy the Gotham City Museum. Duke has been falling behind with his schoolwork, and the attack has not helped him. Besides, he did not remember about the delivery of an essay for his literature class until midnight, when he started to write it. Not being able to fall asleep before five in the morning was what Duke would put in the cons of being a vigilante. Having to wake up early on the morning was a con of being a daytime vigilante. Both of those things happening on the same day was what he would call a fucking bad day. 
Duke is yawning while he goes downstairs, already suited up and hoping that all of Gotham’s rogues had a night as long as his and won’t be going around the city. For the first time in weeks he is considering drinking coffee instead of his usual chocolate, maybe Alfred actually knows a way of making it tastier. 
He is arriving at the kitchen when he feels it, not because of some bat-sense, but because he hears the loud voices. He opens the door and knows it: Duke lied, the bats are not silent. They can be difficult to read, they might not be good at explaining their feelings, but silent can’t be a word to describe them when they are together. They are loud and dramatic. Duke loves it, but not when he had a long night. Just like today. 
They are all here, still suited up and with sleep deprived faces. Jason’s helmet is on the floor near the door, and the man himself has one arm up in the air grasping a mobile phone, the other holding Dick back, who seems to be trying to get his device again. Both of them are mocking the other with high pitched voices that do not really fit them. Duke is pretty sure that they would have tackled one another if it weren’t for Bruce, standing in the middle of the pair, each hand on their shoulders, but not really doing something to help any side. He has a small but genuine smile on his face. 
Cass is suppressing a yawn while she eats pancakes, she is listening attentively to Steph, who is doing wide gestures to tell a story about an old lady that tried to convince her to date  her nephew. Steph has bags under her eyes and a band-aid on her jaw that seems to be from last night, but still explains the story as it is the most interesting thing of the week. Duke makes a reminder of asking later. 
Damian is sitting in front of Cass with a similar expression. He has Alfred (the cat) on his lap, and Duke can see that he is still wearing his suit pants under a two sizes bigger hoodie that probably belongs to Jason. His cape and domino mask are on a pile at his feet painted with a weird substance that Duke prefers not to know. He looks half annoyed and half amused. 
Duke notices that for the first time Tim looks to be drinking an orange juice instead of a coffee, being the only one not suited nor ready to fall asleep. Tim, of all people. Behind him Alfred is making something (Duke bets that more pancakes), and seems to be the only one to spot him on the door. They exchange a smile (well, the old man gives a smile, Duke a panicked expression), before he resolves that he can get breakfast in some place in the city. Having had a long day and night means that he does not have to put up with all his family this early in the morning, he decides. Duke is going backwards when he hears Damian’s voice.
“Thomas is here” he announces. Damn kid. 
They all stop mid-action and look at him. Bruce clears his throat and gives a step back, probably wanting to come back to his professional persona and failing when he almost trips with his cape. That gets a snicker from all of them, except for Jason who laughs freely. Bruce, with his most poker face, pretends nothing happened. Duke is tempted to remind him that he already knows his not Batman self.  
“You must start your patrol on Gotham Harbor” he reports “We got information that a new drug shipment will arrive in less than an hour, Black Mask henchmen will be there. They will not expect someone in broad daylight.” 
“We found some clues leading to a recently abandoned Scarecrow’s hideout, he might attack before sunset.” Steph adds, pointing at her and Dick with her finger. 
“Poison Ivy is trying some new substance” Damian warns while giving a side glance to his cape. “Might want to prove it.”
Duke looks at them with his most deadpan expression, his body is aching for a rest that he will not get. Well, there it goes his quiet day without rogues. He groans in frustration. 
Everyone understands. 
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Text
The art of seduction...
For the lovely @fandoms-are-my-friends-1321​
Hope you’ll enjoy!
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"OMG, what have I done?"
(Y/N) wanted to disappear six feet under after her fiasco. How could she manage to embarrass herself in front of her boss?
She pinched the bridge of her nose and sighed: she worked for the most powerful man in Gotham City, she should not fail like this!
A small smile came across her lips when she thought about her employer. Oswald Cobblepot, the elected mayor of Gotham, was also one of the rising crime lords. 
She worked for him for 5 years, and she witnessed his rise to power with amazement. 
And she fell in love with him. Madly, truly, deeply. 
But now, she just managed to look like a fool, and she wanted to erase this inglorious moment from her memory.
"Are you alright, (Y/N)?"
The familiar voice woke the woman from her daydreaming, and she noticed the presence of Victor Zsasz.
The henchman and (Y/N) get along since they started working together under Cobblepot's orders. And he was the only one who knew about her feelings for their boss... 
"Apart from humiliating myself in front of the boss? Yes, I feel like a million bucks!"
The bald man chuckled.
"I have noticed... Don't worry about Oswald: he did not even pick up on your failed attempt of flirting!"
"Are you here to put the boot in again?"
"Hey, it's not my fault if you say I would say God bless you, but it looks like he already did. Seriously girl, do you know how to flirt or what?"
(Y/N) sighed.
"Not really. Most of the time, I am the one men flirted with. Oh wait, harassed would be a suitable description!"
"I'm sorry for you..." mumbled Victor as he massaged the back of his neck.
"Don't be. Now, if you don't mind, I want to be alone and dig my own grave in peace!"
"Come on, don't be over-dramatic! He did not fire you!"
"You got the point..."
Victor cogitated a few moments before declaring:
"Okay, I have a proposition for you!"
"What?" asked the young woman.
"Well, if you want, I can teach you how to flirt!"
(Y/N) raised a suspicious eyebrow.
"You? You know how to hit on someone?"
"My dear (Y/N), I am a man full of surprises! Now, chin up, lady: we have some lessons ahead!
A few moments later, they were alone in a room.
"Okay, first of all: let's check all the qualities you find in Oswald?"
"Physical appearance or character?"
"I don't care... Both, if you want!"
"Alright... So, he is charismatic, smart, powerful, elegant... So charming..."
"Oh my god, put yourself together! It's not the moment to daydream about your twisted prince charming!"
"It's not my fault!"
"Alright, nevermind!" Victor sighed as he raised his hands in a sign of defeat.
"What next?"
"Well... The next step is subtly complimenting him. Let me demonstrate with you..."
He cleared his throat and said:
"Dear, you have the brightest eyes I've ever seen!"
"Uh... Thanks ?"
"You're welcome. Now, your turn: imagine me as Oswald, and say something flirty!"
"Right now?"
"No, in the next century! Of course, right now!"
"Okay, okay! Let me think about something..."
She turned things over in her head before she finally said:
"Sir, you are the most brilliant genius in all Gotham!"
"Not bad, but I am sure you can do better! Go ahead!"
"Right, so... Mister Cobblepot, I wonder how Gothamites did not notice before how amazing you are!"
"Mmmh... Nah! A bit toady for him. Try again!"
"Mmmh... Oh, I know! Sir, no matter what others would say, you are the best man for Gotham!"
"We're getting close... One more time!"
"Oswald, thanks to you, my life has another goal... and it's you!"
Victor slowly clapped.
"Well done, girl! You learn fast!"
"Really?"
"Yes, it's good! Now, next time you want to seduce the boss, you know what to do!"
"Thanks for your help, Victor!"
"Anytime, (Y/N). Anytime."
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A week later.
"Okay, (Y/N), time to put into practice what I've taught you!"
"Yes, I know... It's just that I have a knot in my stomach!"
"No need to worry: act naturally! Now, make me proud!"
"Okay, here I go!"
She pulled herself, smiled, and entered Oswald's office. As for Victor, he hid behind the door.
"Good morning, Mister Cobblepot!"
"Ah, good morning, Miss (Y/N). Please, take a seat: we have a lot of work to do!"
During half an hour, they discussed the different projects The Penguin had for his city.
"For the last project, I thought about funding a scholarship for children from single-parent families!"
"Excellent idea, sir! They deserve the same chances as the others!"
"Indeed... Besides, it's a cause close to my heart as I was raised by my mother!"
"I understand, Mister Cobblepot... May I know the name of the scholarship?"
"Of course, where is my mind? I decided to name it "The Gertrude Cobblepot Scholarship for Children in Need"; I named it after my mother!"
A sad smile appeared on his face.
"I owe her so much..."
Seeing him so vulnerable moved (Y/N) who sighed:
"Aw, it's so cute!"
"I beg your pardon?" exclaimed Oswald.
"WTF is she doing?" muttered Victor, surprised.
Panicked, (Y/N) lost her mind and started blattering:
"Sorry, I mean... You are very cute!"
"Cute? Really?" asked Oswald, unconvinced.
"Oh no!" grumbled Victor as he facepalmed.
And it was not the end of the show... 
"Nevermind, let's go back to work! So, I was saying..."
He stopped as he noticed (Y/N) staring at him.
"(Y/N)? Are you sure everything is okay?"
"Yes, sorry... It's just that I get lost in your eyes!"
"What ?!"
"I must be dreaming!" groaned Victor as he clasped both his hands on his face.
"It's true: you have such beautiful eyes!"
"Miss... Are you sure you do not have any fever?"
"No... But I am sure being in your arms is the warmest place on Earth!"
"What's this nonsense?"
"It worsens every second! Stop it, (Y/N)!" discreetly whined Victor as he seemed desperate.
But the young woman was not ready to stop... 
"Either you're drunk, (Y/N), or you're making a fool of me, and I don't like it!"
"But I'm not making a fool of you, Mr. Cobblepot! Speaking of that, you're not far from the truth: I'm drunk in love with you!"
Oswald was wide-eyed: in his entire life, he has never seen such a scene!
Crossing his arms against his chest, he sighed:
"Tell me the truth, (Y/N): are you just trying to flirt with me?"
Blinking like she woke up from a dream, the woman realized what happened and sputtered:
"OMG, NO! Tell me it's a nightmare!"
"No, welcome to the real world! But I'm waiting for an answer!"
Ashamed by the situation, (Y/N) confessed:
"Yes, indeed! You've finally noticed..."
"Oh, come on! This is a disaster!" whispered Zsasz.
"So, you're flirting with me... Okay, may I know why?"
"Where can I start? You're the most amazing person I ever met, and I am so happy to be among your trusted people! And... As I said before, I fell in love with you on the first day. I tried to subtly flirt with you but, as you can see, it's an epic fail!"
She lowered her head, waiting for a fit of anger. Instead, she saw Oswald chuckling.
"Well, I must say that I admire your bravery (Y/N). You're right: your flirting attempts are not a success... Moreover, they are not really necessary!"
"I guess so..."
"Don't you want to know why?"
"Because I am a silly girl who thinks she can have a romance with her boss?" (Y/N) answered with a sad tone.
"No, you're wrong... Your flirting was not necessary because I already like you!"
"Wait, what?" she exclaimed.
"Oh my, what a twist!" thought Victor.
"That's the truth, (Y/N): you are an astounding woman. I admire your strong will, your loyalty, your smiling character... Everything in you is perfect for me!"
"Mr. Cobblepot..."
"Please, call me Oswald!"
"Oswald... Thank you... For not shut me away!"
A sly smile appeared on Oswald's face.
"Pleasure is all mine, (Y/N). Now that everything is settled and the misunderstanding has disappeared, would give me the greatest honor to join me for a date?"
A wide grin appeared on (Y/N)'s face.
"Of course!"
"Wonderful! Friday evening, 8 p.m.? I know a nice restaurant in the neighborhood: you're going to love it!"
"I am sure..."
"By the way, (Y/N)"
"Yes?"
"I can't give you the world... But I can promise to give you my world!"
"I cannot ask for more!"
While the two lovebirds talked about their future dates, Victor smiled, relieved to see it ended well:
"At least, she reached her goal... But Lord, that girl was close to giving me a heart attack!"
Sometimes, a bad pick up line can bring you the right way to your crush's heart...
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thegreenfairy13 · 4 years
Text
No Country For Heroes (Part 9)
Read the full story here.
Notes: Yes, you have seen this post before! But as @whomerlockwood pointed out, the ending of my fic came too sudden so I took it down.Sorry for the resulting inconvenience. But then I love writing this story so much I’m actually glad I can keep working on it (so there will be one or two more chapters after this). 
Plot: the GCPD turns Jim in for Oswald’s protection. He takes the opportunity to bend the detective to his will. Features torture, mind control and dub con. Originally written for the prompt ‘beg’ by the wonderful @justsimplymeagain who always encourages me <3! Also, a special thanks to @one-eyed-bossman as well! 
And Finally the 9th chapter:
Oswald doesn’t react the way Jim expects him to. He was prepared for rage, violence, not a moment of quiet consideration. The mobster smirks, almost sadly, before sitting down next to the former cop.
“James?” he asks softly while reaching for his hand. Jim wants to jerk away from his touch but once he feels those long fingers wrapped around him, he goes limp. He thinks he should feel fear and desperation - he only feels numb and docile. Jim’s aware of his bravado being nothing more than a fleeting spark at this point. There’s not much fight left in this weakened body, or in his exhausted mind. His prior words, though spoken with vigor, lack conviction. Oswald probably knows, too.
The Penguin can hardly hide the victorious little gleam in his eyes. It would be easy for him to overpower Jim, to hurt him for his rashness.
“Naked and humiliated,” Oswald states, almost reverently, as he presses his other hand over Jim’s heart. His touch feels hot on his skin, and the detective wonders why it doesn’t hurt. “I have to admit, I admire you,” he whispers. “You’re barely hanging on, but there’s still so much anger in you.” Leaning in, he kisses Jim’s knuckles.
The blonde stiffens, breath caught in his throat.
“That is what you want, isn’t it?” he carries on. “To fight until your last breath, remain proud and strong even when you’re already down, broken, and bleeding.”
Jim grits his teeth, can’t contain the angry snarl about to escape his mouth.
The mobster is unfazed though, only studies him with a mildly bemused expression.
“Let me go!” he hisses when Oswald’s hold tightens. He’s so sick of their dance, yet he can’t seem to stop it. Not in the past, not now. Cause this is what they have been doing for years, isn’t it? Getting close while desperately trying to get away from each other. At least it is was Jim has been doing.
The smaller man shakes his head solemnly, purses his lips. “And then what?” he asks back. “The moment you’d walk outta here, they’d put a bullet in your head,” he states, shuddering in disgust. “They made you responsible for the mess we’re in,” he reminds Jim, smiling compassionately. It sounds wrong though, as if he was mocking the cop.
Jim finally pulls his hand free, only to regret it immediately. Without the distraction of Oswald’s touch, he can’t keep his fingers from trembling. He raises his hands, lets them fall back into his lap. “Then let them,” he whispers, barely audible.
Closing his eyes, the Penguin stretches beside him languidly. “I should have known breaking you would be different,” he mutters. “It’s such a sweet task,” he adds, smiling innocently. Lazily, he covers his eyes with one arm, gets comfortable. The way he acts doesn’t indicate Jim only moments ago threatened to take him down. If there was truly some fight left in Gotham’s knight, he’d choke the life out of the gangster. Yet even now, he can’t. The thought doesn’t cross his mind even though it would be the most reasonable thing to do. If he’d murder his torturer, the worst that would happen would be his own death.
Instead, he mulls Oswald’s words over and over in his head, tries to decipher their meaning. Turning his head, he stares down at the Penguin’s unfazed form. He can barely get his words out as the panic slowly catches up with his brain.
Everything up until know only served to stall for time. Once the mobster gets up, once he pulls him from the room and across the hallway, he’ll be chanceless, give in, become Oswald’s puppet, his zombie - of that he’s certain.
“Why aren’t you granting me the mercy you gave this other man?” he blurts out. “One blow and it was all done,” he chokes out, thinking about the blood coating the floor only mere minutes ago.
Oswald removes his arm from his eyes and sits up. Biting his lips, he reaches out. Cupping Jim’s face between his palms he asks, “How could you ever ask me to murder you? You of all people?” The Penguin blinks back tears as he speaks, his voice is so hoarse he can hardly get his words out.
“But,” Jim protests, and at last, the long-awaited slap paints his cheeks red.
“But how dare you comparing yourself to this worthless thug!” Oswald hollers, all but jumping from the bed.
Frantically, he starts pacing the room, dragging his bad leg behind him, even pulling at his perfectly-styled hair - it’s something Jim has never seen him do before.
Spinning on his heels, he attacks, pins Jim down once more with his entire weight, eyes glistening feverishly. It takes him almost no effort to overpower the other man.
Taking a moment, he listens to the cop’s frantic heartbeat before he starts laughing. It’s a crazed sound, almost maniacal, animalistic. It subsides, eventually, until it’s nothing more but a slight sob.
“I’d hate to put you through another round,” he finally confesses. “We’re close, so close,” he gushes. “If you’d only see !”
“See what?” Jim snaps back, trying fruitlessly to fend off the mobster restraining him.
“What you really want !” Oswald screams, clearly exasperated. “Of all the things I showed you, what did you learn? What did you see?”
Jim struggles in the gangster’s unyielding grasp, bucks against the weight holding him down, yet achieves nothing. He’s powerless beneath the murderer, unable to help himself.
“Let me go!” Jim tries again. “Let me go. Let me go. Let me go.” He barely registers the moisture coating his face.
“And then what?” Oswald challenges, not relaxing his grip. “Then what? My death? Your death? Leave Gotham and live a normal life with a family of your own? Two kids and picket-fence? What, James, what?”
The cops stills, lets his head fall back against the pillows. Panting heavily, he stares into two orbs of green. Oswald looks as broken as he feels.
“You want freedom,” he reminds him. “But what would you do with it?” he asks, emphasizing his point by patting Jim’s nose lightly.
Jim snaps.
It’s this tiny bit of hope that Oswald keeps wielding in front of his nose, like a carrot, that infuriates him, fills his heart with rage. “Kill you!” he spits. “Put a bullet in your head, put a bullet in anyone’s head who deserves it, who pushed this city to the brink of destruction, who destroyed the souls and hearts of people like Barbara, and Lee, and...” his voice breaks off as he hears himself speak it out loud, horrified by the realization how badly he wants it, to just let go, to choke the life out of everyone who keeps dragging this city down with them, who keeps maiming and killing the innocent and the guilty and everyone in between. Jim wants this to end, to start all over, to be who he used to be.
Oswald, in turn, lets go of him. “And?” he inquires softly.
Jim inhales through his nose, tries to get his heartbeat under control. He’s back under Tetch’s spell, is fighting against this urge to simply destroy the madness that has befallen everyone around him, to just run off with nothing but a loaded gun and his determination.
He can’t let Oswald have this victory, can’t allow for him to set his inner demons free. He must not succeed where Tech failed.
“But I won’t,” Jim finishes stubbornly.
“But how else could you save this city?” the Penguin presses. Judging by the way he looks at Jim, he thinks Oswald knows how badly he just wants to give in. The blonde huffs out a laugh. Of course, he knows. He had been in his head.
The pressure on his chest increases when he doesn’t answer. Jim opens and closes his mouth, tries gasping for air, but it’s to no avail. Everything hurts and he’s about to lose his sanity, the part that ultimately defines James Gordon.
Leaning in, Oswald lovingly brushes a strand of sweat-sodden hair from his forehead. “Wouldn’t it be wonderful to just let go?” he whispers. “To do what I’m doing? This man, this thug... didn’t I merely serve justice when killing him for suggesting he rape you?”
Oswald’s shoulders sag and finally, he lets go off Jim. “You gave your all to make Gotham a better place, but where did it lead you? The moment you had your pathetic little victories, you would go and betray me, time and time and time again…”
“But you always knew that!” Jim interrupts frantically. “You always knew how I’d act, what I’d do!” he hollers. His head is swimming, hurting. They had this conversation before, hadn’t they? “You knew me,” Jim challenges, pressing his fist against his eye-sockets. The light is blinding once the pain is back, once everything starts throbbing anew. “You knew I’d try being good whenever I had the chance, to abide by the law.” His voice breaks off when the headache overtakes every rational thought.”
“Blaming the victim,” Oswald tzks. Pursing his lips, he agrees, though.  “That’s right, I know you,” he admits bitterly. “That’s why I knew I could do this ,” he confesses softly.
Jim’s head snaps up at those words. Belatedly, he realizes how in everything the mobster says and does since Jim arrived, there’s a clue hidden, a hint he can’t grasp.
Extending his arms, Oswald gestures at both of them. “It took me a while to understand it. And when you shot me, I got so angry.” His voice cracks slightly. Leaning over, he grabs a fistful of the blond’s hair. Tilting Jim’s head back, he murmurs, “It took me a while to understand,” he grouses. “ I’m truly your exception, ain’t I? You’d never go for my blood, not really, would you?” he urges and Jim slumps again.
“Why state the obvious?” he snaps back, tilting his chin defiantly, even when he’s shaking with fear.
“Why do you want to stop me?” Oswald presses.
He reaches for Jim, shakes him slightly, before climbing back into his lap as if he belonged there. Despite himself, Jim catches his slender waist, presses him close. One hand tangled in the criminal’s hair, he starts rocking him as if he was truly his lover.
If this warmth, this touch right here will be the last display of affection he’ll ever receive, he’ll soak it up. Besides, it was true. He does love, or maybe did love, Oswald. His lenience with the gangster had always been controlled by his emotions, by a desire to rather see him free than bound. Or by utter madness.
He is, after all, everything that is wrong with this city. He’s greedy, selfish, violent, ruthless. But he’s also driven, full of determination, and powerful. Jim should have shot him as Harvey commanded him to do so. Yet, he can’t even hurt him now. It’s ridiculous.
Jim looks up, takes in the slender frame, the pointed nose, those sharp eyes. Oswald is beautiful. And he tore Jim apart, violated him in ways he can’t even begin to comprehend.  The cop doesn’t know why he needs to haul him into a brutal kiss, only registers what he’s doing when he tastes copper. It’s his time now, to draw blood from the monstrous man that clings to him, that seemingly fragile being.
Jim thinks again how he should break his delicate neck now, end this misery, save himself and the city all the pain the Penguin is inevitably about to bring down upon them.
“You’ll lose your empire again,” Jim threatens between kisses. Oswald merely shrugs, wraps his arms around him like a vice in response. “Comes and goes,” he states. “I always get it back, eventually.”
Jim accepts the statement easily, it’s true. Maybe not even death could stop him, not in a city like this. Prison definitely couldn’t. His hold on the other man tightens.
“What do you really want?” Oswald asks him again, and Jim stills, stops working on the buttons separating him from the warmth and touch he craves in his wrecked state of mind. He wants him gone from power so much, and all the others like him. And he just wants him , too.
“I should kill you,” he pants, even as he slides the belt from his waist. Oswald nods in agreement.
Oswald chuckles in response. “The fire,” he states, biting his lip flirtatiously. Oswald hooks his arms around Jim’s waist, pulling him easily with him. “You truly can’t stop poking the bear, can you?” he asks appreciatively.
Belatedly, Jim realizes how he’s being maneuvered towards the hallway again.
“You should put something on,” the Penguin notes, winking seductively when Jim finally realizes that he’s still naked. The cop blushes.
“There’s really nothing to be ashamed about,” Oswald laughs as he traces the blonde's perfectly defined abs. “I’d just rather keep you to myself,” he adds, tilting his head.
Leaning back against the door, he offers his neck for Jim to press a kiss against his jugular. “It’s such a shame,” he sighs. “Shame, shame, shame,” he mumbles while running his fingers through Jim’s hair. In his insanity, the cop thinks to indulge Oswad’s desires might save him after all, tries forgetting what is at stake.
Oswald smiles affectionately at him. “How come I can have you but will never be able to keep you?”
Pulling back, the cop looks down at the other man. “Is this one of Edward’s riddles?” he wonders out loud before his brain catches up with him again and the fear slams back into his body with the force of a freight train.
“But I do love you,” Jim tries to bargain.
“I know,” Oswald replies as he wraps his arms around Jim once more. “But we both know that would never be enough, don’t we?” Drawing patterns into his skin, Oswald pulls him against the door. “What is that worth if we can never be together?” he asks when Jim starts mutely crying against his shoulder.
His legs give out beneath him. Bonelessly, he slides down to the floor until he’s at the Penguin’s feet. All Jim can focus on is a pair of shiny shoes. Reaching for Oswald’s ankles, he starts sobbing without restraint. “Please don’t,” he begs, knowing full well how futile it is.
“I can’t turn back now,” Oswald replies, almost apologetically. “Just once more,” he consoles, patting Jim’s head. “And the pain will stop and you’ll have everything you could have ever wish for,” he vows.
This time, Jim follows him down the hallway without kicking and screaming.
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seekingthestars · 4 years
Text
sarah watches the untamed: liveblogging adventures, part thirty the untamed boys
(aka: oh ho ho you thought we were done, did you? [she did too.])
uhhhh. yeah. oops? no one will care about these but i.love.them. so ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
the untamed boys, ep 1:
ji li complaining about waiting forever lol
and cyc complaining about being hungry bc he had to wait so long for ji li XD
fanxing is like…not even paying attention, he’s just playing on his phone HAHAHA
ji li “how about THIS i’ll cut yu bin’s hair doing a handstand, i want to cut his yellow hair” he is truly chaos
yu bin and fanxing just lounging all over each other is adorable, i love this uncle and nephew
bowen LOL “bring it on, who cares.”
“Stop talking about me!” /ZOOMS AWAY — WHY IS FANXING SO CUTE I ADORE THIS MARSHMALLOW
fanxing pouting and clinging onto yu bin and yu bin just letting him and hugging him back, fanxing is a koala and stupidly adorable
ji li sliiiiiiding around XDD
“This is our cultivation process” JI LI ILU
jiyang’s FACE when he says he’s lost a lot of hair already fjeaoiwfjw
[ it’s time for Ji Li’s nonsense ] OH GOOD :D :D :D
“can you control your child please?!” NO BOWEN, NO ONE CAN CONTAN JI LI
JIYANG IS SO CUTE IN THE RECORDING STUDIO ;n;
jiyang in this pink and white striped sweater is Peak Softness
the choreographer being grumpy at fanxing makes me ;;;;;;;;;;;;;; yu bin going to pat him makes me ;u;
zfx saying he wanted to give up and pull out so he would stop dragging the rest down makes me ;AAAA;
when fanxing goes “i forgot my actions just now” and puts his hands to his head it is VERY cute but also i just wanna wrap him up in fifteen blankets and tuck him in bed and give him his preferred bedtime drink and tell him he’s doing amazing TINY BABY ;;
AWWWW they got a Halloween cake!!
you’re ALL doing great my lil beans, i proud of youuuu
the untamed boys, episode 2:
dammit all, xiao zhan is so pretty
GOD SONG JIYANG IS SO CUTE UGH
cyc with his hair all pinned up out of his face so he can get his makeup done is freaking adorable
zheng fanxing is so small and cute i will protect this bean
i appreciate that ji li’s jacket says “Maniac” on the back bc.....yeah. i know it’s part of the brand, but STILL. appropriate. such a good boy though, saying he wants to walk around and put everyone in good spirits for the show
fanxing eating his banana CUTIE
i love xiao zhan’s little hat omg
wyb “I don’t think you have ever beaten me before” LOL SASSY
BOWEN BREAKING THE LITTLE TOY CAR THING AND THEN JUST GIVING UP HAHAHA
xz talking about how hard his solo song is to sing but he does such a great job of it, i love his solo song ;~~~~;
good god yu bin saying they rehearsed for 13 hours and slept for like 1-2, how the heck were any of them alive enough to do the show dang
POOR LITTLE FANXING LOOKING SO LOST AND CONFUSED XD
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ji li in the audience cute cute
yibo 😭❤️
jiyang’s fan dance!!!! i love jiyang’s fan dance!!!!
FANXING T______T he’s crying so much he’s shaking omg baby omg now i’m gonna cry ;;;;;;;;;;
cyc is so pretty ugh
god every time fanxing cries i just want to wrap him up in a million blankets and rub his back until he feels better
them all saying goodbye to their characters is so EMOTIONAL, and they’re all emotional and xz’s voice cracked and i lost it ;AAAAAAA;
xz and wyb closing it out, my heart ;~~~~~~;
the untamed boys, episode 3: I’m so freaking excited about this chaos oh my god
THE LITTLE FOX PIN THING ON ZANJIN’S SWEATER. CUUUUUTE. also i like that sweater, do want
they get in the van and ji li IMMEDIATELY starting his chaos by yelling at zanjin omg i am living
them pretending to see Disney omg they’re all so dumb
they look so COOOOLD little penguins
fanxing shielding zanjin’s eyes from the sun like the sweet little bb he is
yu bin with his famous poem he’s such a DORK
fanxing time! “i think the boxes are where our staff is” LOL big brain energy from the small boy
ji li and zzj together!
DUMB AND DUMBER BROTHERS “We 2 are crazy” AT LEAST YOU ADMIT IT HAHAHAHA
FINALLY!!!!!! THE LINE!!!!!! “I DON’T FEEL LIKE USING MY BRAIN OUT HERE TODAY!” ZANJIN, IT IS ICONIC
Bowen’s little baby hop to reach the box fjewiaofawe he’s so TALL
“Why!!!!” omg he’s found two and can’t get anything open XDDD
YU BIN’S CACKLE WHEN HE FOUND THE BOX HAHAHAHA and he got it open! such an easy question, he’s so pleased hahaha
“Wow this game really makes people confused” poor Bowen with the empty brain XD “WHAT.” “HOW MANY CHICKENS DID HE STEAL.” i’m dying HAHAHAHA
fanxing found a box!! so smart, this one, he has much knowledge
JI LI AND ZZJ TRYING TO CLIMB THE POLE OMG DUMB DUMB DUMB
oh my god cyc and he peng tormenting ji li and zanjin is hysterical, they’re so chaotic
YU BIN’S DUMBASS LAUGHTER FJEIOWFJWE
ji li changing what was in the box L O L and STUFFING THE CLUE IN HIS SHOE L O L
bowen is so sweet “i need to hurry up and find a box for fanxing!!!!!” but fanXING ALREADY HAS ONE XD
oh nooo zanjin found a box but it’s the one fanxing already opened XDD
CYC’S DUMB LAUGH OMG
FANXING’S VOICE IS SO SOFT every time he speaks i’m just like FJEWIOF WAIT
he is a BABY
calling fanxing “little a-yuan” look i am weak and i am soft
i love how so far everyone’s been eliminated for just attacking the wrong person lol their web of lies and deception is so deep
why is yu bin stroking bowen’s face lol
omg it’s yu bin’s gross marshmallow time
did they just stick entire unpeeled bananas on the grill 
ji li singing XDDD
yu bin using the eggplant as a mic for bowen XD
cute bunch of boys c:
the untamed boys, episode 4:
(How drop-dead gorgeous they are!) -- Correct caption is very correct
ALL HUDDLED TOGETHER LIKE LITTLE PENGUINS AGAIN :D
“Can we have something to eat inside?” “Or anything to drink~?” PLS JIYANG AND FANXING TOO CUTE
LOL THIS FACE JIYANG
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JI LI’S “NO~”
cyc: “HE LIKES SLEEPING NAKED” fanxing: slowly covers ears  XDDDDD
yu bin’s guess of “he talks with a doll before going to sleep” omg i’m dying
jiyang’s like “when did i act cute” and then poUTS AT THE CAMERA fjewioafjawe
them guessing all of jiyang’s before he can even pick a person LOLOL
ji li going “yu bin sent me a message once and i replied 14 days later” LOL I RELATE i have legit done that, not on purpose, i just forget, i’m really bad at forgetting to reply if i don’t see the message/notification constantly, i have goldfish memory
ji li “I quit, I don’t wanna compliment him anymore” XDDDD
fanxing is so small and cute pls he’s like four someone get him a juice box
jiyang, bowen, yu bin VS fanxing, ji li, yuchen!
YUCHEN DANG but also fanxing going “OHHH!!!” and clapping and hopping along in excitement jfeiowafw
fanxing with the big paw gloves omg
yuchen is so good at this
ji li: “it hurts!!” fanxing: runs up to him and cups ji li’s cheeks in his giant paw gloves all concerned SO. CUTE.
them all being dumb and dancing around during halftime fjeiowaf
fanxing sneaking a snack in XD
fanxing trying to grab the ball and just falling over with it PLS SOMEONE PROTECT HIM HE IS SO SMALL
cyc and ji li are both surprisingly good at this, esp. cyc
and then he whacked ji li in the face feioawjfawe POOR JI LI
yu bin’s hat falls off “THIS IS MY LIFE WHICH CAN’T BE LOST” XD
the untamed boys, episode 5: dinner party time! /chants WZC WZC WZC :D :D :D
WZC WZC!!!!!! “I’m just hungry” LOL
AND GUO CHENG!! :D
nom nom eat up hungry boys!!
ohhhh everyone got hidden tasks oh fun!
yu bin just singing omg fjiewoafjwaeo; XDD
everyone in this cast in their own brand of chaotic, it’s so great 
the interview part with cyc in that suit and those glasses HEART EYES
jiyang’s drawing is cute!
wzc about yu bin: “he’s the fish who loves singing in my heart!” XDDD
yu bin’s scribbles of ji li BLESS IT “I usually don’t get what he means, just like this drawing that’s not understandable.”
“what about the lost arm????” “HE DID LOSE IT AT THE END!!!!!!” ilovejili
omg they’re gonna be baristas omg so CUTE, the coffee shop AU of everyone’s dreams thank you 🙏
ji li’s face when he tries the drink HE made XDDD and fanxing consistently refusing to try it XD
fanxing and yu bin duo is the CUTEST and fanxing’s constant little pouty faces when they can’t get anyone to agree to coffee jfieowajfawe
ji li and yi zhou are doing no better XDD 
bowen seeing the puppy and immediately stopping what he’s doing to run after it screaming “OHHHH!!!!!” is such a mood
bowen is so chaotic, chasing puppies, screaming at people in boats XD
fanxing chasing down the foreigner omg lol
they made such a mess of the cup lol but they’re so CUTE i would forgive them if they were my baristas
nie bros got a customer!
“I’m the wiiiiiinner, sorry!” JI LI THAT WAS STUPIDLY CUTE SHUT UP
“What winner, you’re the waiter.” LOLOLOL YU BIN
BOWEN GIVING HIS COAT TO THE GUY HAHAHA
literally the coffee shop of my dreams, pls, all the cute waiters
yu bin just swooping over and shoving ji li out of the way to talk to the lady XDD
fanxing talking to the lady washing dishes and about his mom and all the part time jobs he had and he is such a soft sweet little bean
and we did it! that’s a wrap on The Untamed Boys! (er, the show anyway lol) that was fun, I enjoyed myself and laughed a lot bc they’re dumb and adorable :’)
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worddevdealswithml · 4 years
Text
Failed Step 1 (And 2 (And 3))
Chapter 19: Let’s Dance
As she’d seen them put down their cups, and start back towards the dancefloor, Chloe had practically shuddered, as she started moving almost unthinkingly after them.  Technically, she should have thought her actions through, but the impulse had overwhelmed any sense of restraint.
She caught up to them as they were already back on the dancefloor a few feet, and, as they paused for an instant, readying themselves-
“Well…  She seems to be having a good time,” said Marinette, scrolling up through the messages that had gone out to most of the class.
It was coming up on 8, now, and about 10 minutes ago, there had come a rapid barrage of messages, followed by a slow stream, that had gone out to most of the girls in the class, from Rose, who, apparently, was having a great deal of fun watching the festivities.
Alya laughed.  “Fancy clothes, and dancing to follow?  I’m pretty sure that as far as she’s concerned, it doesn’t get better than that.”
Nino came back from the kitchen with a large plate of microwaved pizza rolls.
“What?”
“Rose is watching the rich-people ball,” said Alya.
“Oh, no kidding?”
“She seems to be having the time of her life doing it, too,” said Marinette, “although, I guess it’d be a bit more like one of the times of her life, since… She watches this every year.”
“Oh really?” said Alya, still scrolling, “Oh, Marinette, you did read the bit where she said she’d spotted Adrien, right?”
Marinette looked at her questioningly.
“Yes?”
“And she was talking about how fancy he was, and how…”  Alya trailed off.
“I mean… Yeah, I did see that bit…”
Alya raised her eyebrows.
“And you’re not bolting off to go see how he looks?”
Marinette was silent.
“Did you already check.”
“…Yes.  And I’m really trying not to panic over the New Year’s Dance thing.”
“You know what, girl?  I’m proud of you for that,” said Alya.  “If you want my opinion, people put way too much stock in that kind of thing.”
“Well, maybe Marinette won’t go get some pictures, but I’m definitely gonna,” said Nino, pulling out his own phone.
The other two gave him confused looks.
He shrugged.
“Listen, dudes, if you don’t get pictures of your best friend when he’s in a suit, and put penguin jokes as the captions, are you really friends?”
Alya and Marinette shared a glance.
Nino shrugged.  “I dunno, man. Adrien likes puns, and I know for a fact he thinks the suit they’ve got him in is uncomfortable.  So…  Penguin jokes.”
“I don’t think it’s actually a tuxedo.”
“Possibly off-brand penguin jokes,” said Nino, brow furrowing.
“Well what if we put you in a suit, and let Alya give you a taste of your own medicine?”
“Nah,” said Nino, laughing.  “Put Alya in the suit, put me in a dress.  I can make penguin jokes about Alya, completely avoid return fire, and I’d probably confuse Rose, too.”
Alya laughed, and Marinette shook her head in amusement.
“I think you’re underestimating Rose.”
“Well, definitely the first two things, then,” he said, shrugging.
“I think I could make you forget to make penguin jokes,” said Alya, winking.
Nino nodded his head from side to side. “I’m not seeing a bad outcome here. You’re on.”
“Well, you’re welcome to commission me,” said Marinette.
“Aw, no discount for your friends?” said Alya.
“Absolutely not.  It’s either a gift, or it’s full price.  But I’d be happy to give you some free designs to consider.”
“Hit me with ‘em,” said Nino.
“Alright,” said Marinette, reaching into her bag for her journal, and making a show of taking out a pen.
Carefully, Marinette turned in the journal until she found a blank page.
A few seconds passed, marked only by the sound of pen on paper.
“Hm…” said Marinette, cocking her head, slightly.
“What is it, dude?” said Nino.
She looked up.
“How do you feel about miniskirts?”
--
For Adrien, the hours seemed to drag, on and on.
The speeches, of course, had been basically like being back in school, and frankly, some of it made for an interesting look into the thought processes of some of Paris’ wealthiest people, which, despite being similarly rich, he didn’t usually understand.
Then, of course, the food came around, and unfortunately, wasn’t served buffet-style, however much Adrien wished it was.  It was good food, of course, but after how long he’d been waiting for it, what he really wanted was more food.
It was enough to redouble his wish that he was spending the night with his friends.
Nathalie, of course, was sitting next to him, and if he was unsatisfied after the meal, he had to assume that it was worse for her, since she hadn’t even received a plate.
Then, of course, after the eating, there was about a half-hour where people just milled around, supposedly to talk, but in Adrien’s case, much more to take advantage of the snack bar for all it was worth.
He’d half-expected Kagami to come find him, but either she didn’t spot him, or she wasn’t looking, because he was left blissfully free to consume canapés, crackers, cheese, and all the punch he could get his hands on, and a bit extra for Plagg.  Even Nathalie seemed to be busy carrying around the tablet with his father’s face on it, which meant Adrien had no supervision, for a very limited value of ‘no.’
By the time he turned around, finally somewhere approaching full, it was 9:55, and the band was getting into position.  A space was being cleared for dancing, and Adrien had little doubt that that meant-
“Adrien,” said Kagami, laying a hand lightly on his shoulder.
He stifled a miniature heart attack, as he practically jumped to face her.
He hadn’t had a chance to see her until now, and…
Her dress was a deep, blood red, and she had an immaculately simple black jacket overtop of it, with her family crest done in white on one lapel.
Adrien, as a model, would probably have put her in a suit, if he’d been in charge of deciding, but… Well, it was Kagami, and they had at least given her a jacket.
“Hello Kagami,” he said.  “You look great tonight.”
She smiled, gently.  “You do too, Adrien.”
Adrien might have disagreed, but decided not to, since… Well, what good would it do anyone?
There was a long pause.
“So…  I guess we dance?” he said.
“I assume so,” said Kagami.  “I don’t see why else my mother would require I take lessons.”
Adrien laughed.  “Yours too?  Or… Well, not… Not my mother, but my father.”
“I understand,” she said.
They didn’t start immediately, and Adrien was grateful, even if he didn’t fully understand why.  Maybe Kagami was also a bit uncertain?
And then, finally, as they’d stood there, barely conversing, for almost ten minutes, Kagami finally seemed to reach her tipping point, and took his hand, pulling him in as one song faded out, and another began.
There was a moment’s hesitation as they got ready, which was strange, especially for Kagami, but then…
She placed her hand on his shoulder, and he placed one on her waist, and he caught the tell-tale signs of… disappointment?
He didn’t know why, if she wanted to lead, she hadn’t, but… he also didn’t know why he hadn’t placed his hand on her shoulder first.
Either way…
Adrien couldn’t quite feel good about this.
Of course, Kagami was beautiful, and he really did like her, but…  He knew, guaranteed, that she wasn’t Ladybug, which meant that he was stuck with an insoluble discomfort at how their respective parents were pushing them towards each other.
And, of course, as if that hadn’t been enough, there was the whole significance attached to who you were dancing with at midnight. They said that it was a good sign for your romantic relationship with that person, and Adrien wasn’t sure whether he really felt comfortable with that kind of pressure.
Yet another reason why he’d have preferred to be spending tonight with his friends. Well…  His friends who weren’t Kagami.
But…  Well…  Kagami was his friend, wasn’t she?
There was nothing wrong with dancing with your friend.
Internally, Adrien let out a soft breath, and…
Tried to let go.
Tonight, he got to stay out late. Tonight, he got to spend actual, not-sparring time with a friend.  He got to dance.  He hadn’t had the chance to properly dance since Chloe’s party, which had been a long time ago.
That wasn’t so bad, right?
--
The dancing had started around 10, and Marinette had tried, and failed, to keep herself from getting distracted from her high-stakes game of dominoes.
The problem, unfortunately, was Rose, who had started sending around messages about how great Adrien and Kagami looked as they danced together.
Marinette had looked down one minute, and…  She hadn’t been able to keep herself from checking the live feed.
By the time she’d found the two of them in the crowd, she’d almost missed her turn; Nino had played a jack, which meant that he got to move one of the dominoes to a position of his choosing, regardless of whether it technically should have been useable there.
Marinette was pretty sure these weren’t the standard rules, but took her turn anyway, before almost feverishly checking back in.
They were dancing, but… That didn’t tell her anything she didn’t already know.
She checked back in, of course, every few minutes but as the hour faded past, Marinette only succeeded in losing more games of whatever Lahiffe specialty she’d been roped into.
Alya seemed to know the rules perfectly, but as 11:10 came around, Marinette had won exactly none of the 4 games they’d played.
It was at 11:15 that the messages started bombarding her phone again, faster than before.
RL: oh my goddd
RL: guys you’ve got to see this
RL: its amazing!!!!!
Marinette had blinked, but, assuming that Rose had to still be talking about the dancing, she quickly switched apps, and stared at the screen, searching for… Whatever it was that Rose had seen.
She didn’t need to look.  The cameraman had apparently spotted what was going on, and had made the snap judgement to focus on it.
Her eyes widened.
“Dude?  You gonna…  Play?” Nino seemed to trail off at her expression.
Alya leaned over, craning her neck to see the screen.
“So…  wait,” she said, blinking, uncomprehending, at the screen.
Nino, giving up on getting Marinette to play, joined the group.
“Huh.”
--
It was… a few minutes ago.  11:07.
The first, and greatest problem, was that Chloe had been bored.  She had been bored for hours, now, and even her phone wasn’t assuaging that issue.  She hadn’t gotten to talk to Adrien.  She barely knew anyone here.  And, she was a dancer.
That last point, theoretically, shouldn’t have been an issue in the slightest, except for the fact that she hadn’t gotten to show it off, but…
Well, suffice to say that to her own raw discontent, she was on the list of people that Rose’s frankly infuriating messages went to.
Chloe had little patience for Rose on a good day, but today, of all days, when she was gushing about how Kagami and Adrien were ‘walking on air…’  
For one thing, it was downright inaccurate.  Chloe knew ‘walking on air,’ and that was not it. For another, she had stopped mentioning Chloe after, like, minute five of the dinner, which, like…  she deserved a couple extra mentions.
Well…
Hands clenched at her side, Chloe had seen Kagami and Adrien step out of the dance for a moment, presumably to take some drinks.
What she wanted to do was start a fight, but even Chloe, with her raw confidence, knew better; it would be social suicide.
So, what?  What was she supposed to do?
Her neck had to be solid steel, right now, as tense as it was.
And then…
As she’d seen them put down their cups, and start back towards the dancefloor, Chloe had practically shuddered, as she started moving almost unthinkingly after them.  Technically, she should have thought her actions through, but the impulse had overwhelmed any sense of restraint.
She caught up to them as they were already back on the dancefloor a few feet, and, as they paused for an instant, readying themselves-
“Excuse me,” she said, her voice miraculously level, and even.
They turned, in unison, to face her.
It didn’t even sound like her voice.
“Do you mind…?”  She let the question hang in the air, letting the context do her work for her.
The two of them looked at each other.
Chloe’s eyes flicked rapidly between their faces.  Adrien was obviously uncertain, looking to Kagami for advice.
Kagami…  Chloe could practically see the gears spinning behind her eyes, and then…
Almost imperceptibly, she shrugged, in a ‘why not,’ kind of way.
The two of them turned to face her, and Adrien said, a trifle uncertainly, “I… I suppose not?” his hands coming up slightly, ready to dance.
The grin spread across Chloe’s face.
“Good.”
She stepped forward, and placed a hand on Kagami’s waist.
“Let’s dance.”
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esmeia · 5 years
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I haven't done a fun art challenge in a while, and I've been meaning to draw my favorite from each typing for years now, so here we are! This was excellent practice and I'm actually pretty proud with how everything came out, for once.
@thetristevaguard tagged me a few days ago asking my Pokemon dream team, so that just motivated me further to finish this thing and post it! Thanks for the motivation! ✨
Little explanations under the cut!
🌼 VESPIQUEN – I'll be honest: I was never too fond of most bug-type Pokemon. Nothing wrong with most of them, but they usually don't stick out much in terms of design or battle for me. But not only do I like the queen bee concept and her literally being fused with a honey comb to use BEES TO ATTACK YOU, but I distinctly remember teen!me searching for hours for a female Combee to raise and evolve. Believe me, that was a giant pain in the butt, and helped this buzzy lady stick in my memory.
🌼 UMBREON – Call me typical, but I've always loved Eevee and all its evolutions. I look forward to an addition whenever a new generation's released! Not only are they all ridiculously cute in their own unique way, but they're also fun to raise and battle with! Yet Umbreon still remains my favorite! It's a great example of “dark is not evil”, with it only being able to evolve with enough love from its trainer and being portrayed as a loyal companion overall. I love the glow-in-the-dark cat-rabbit fluff. 💕
I'd kill for a shiny, it's so cool in both forms. ;w;
Still don't understand why they didn't make it possible to evolve it with a Moonstone (and a Sunstone for Espeon), though. I get it; they wanted to introduce the night/day mechanic at the time of Johto. But still, seems like a bit of a wasted opportunity! When I was a kid, I thought for sure that would have worked. XD
🌼 NOIVERN – It's a big ol' bat dragon! It's like if my OC Nox was a Pokemon!
But seriously, I love bats of all kinds, so being able to raise a little purple baby bat into a huge, powerful fluff bat was a real treat. All it wants is love and tasty fruit!
And it has a green shiny form that doesn't make me ill! That's pretty amazing too.
🌼 PIKACHU – WOW, this is probably the least exciting pick on this list. But I can't help but love everything Pikachu! Nintendo/GameFreak really knew what they were doing pushing this chubby, adorable, zappy little mouse as a mascot. There's the normal Pikachus you can catch in-game, Ash's Pikachu, the Cosplay Pikachus (especially Lucha-Chu!), Ash-Hat Pikachus. Really, I love all of them.
Just leave me in Pikachu Valley and I'd be happy just being flooded by them. 🎵
🌼 FLORGES – This was a really tough one to narrow down. I love the Fairy type in general and the way it shook things game-wise. I eventually decided on Florges; her being a beautiful flower-based Fairy is really fitting! She was actually the first Pokemon I raised from this category, and she holds a very special place in my heart. She's my go-to gal when I want a Fairy on my team! My specially defensive princess.
Not to mention that I have a soft spot for Pokemon with alternate colors you can choose from! Makes it a bit more fun!
🌼 INFERNAPE – I'm a sucker for cool monkey characters, what can I say? He's a quick powerhouse and was my favorite starter his generation. I remember initially picking Piplup as my starter, but a friend gifted me an Infernape and I never looked back. Don't worry, I still love the penguin line, even if they got Mach-Punched off the top spot by the fire monkeys! :'3
🌼 VULPIX – My beautiful fox baby! I've kinda been obsessed with Vulpix since I was a little kid. The moment I saw Brock's Vulpix, I tuned into every episode hoping to see more of her, and nagged my poor Mama for any merchandise featuring her if I happened to spot it in stores. And I legit have unevolved ones at Level 100, that's how much I love her. It really was no contest for this one. 💞
And yes, I love the Alolan form almost as much. Cute little ice poof!
🌼 LUGIA – I just recently got a Lugia via trade and I am soooo happy! Ever since his debut in the second Pokemon Movie I've loved this... water dragon? That can fly? Whatever, he's really cool.
All praise the peaceful sea god that stops the elemental birds from killing everything~! 8D
🌼 MISMAGIUS – Give me the cute spoopy ghost! I already love Misdreavus, so having her turn into a witchy thing with a kitty mouth was bound to get my interest. Even better that she's a powerful little thing that easily finds a way onto nearly any team I build. Reliable little prankster!
🌼 SERPERIOR – Smug snake! ✨
Not gonna lie, it was really easy for me to pick him over the other two starters in Black/White. Like, all of them started out cute, but then got... really jarring when they got into their final stages. But Serperior just got fancier, haha! I completed the game with him and he's been a favorite ever since.
Darn shame I could never get his Hidden Ability, Contrary's a really good one to have... D:
🌼 NIDOQUEEN – It's the original Mama Pokemon! Or I guess that's technically Kangaskhan. All the same to me!
Wayyyy back in my FireRed run, I was super excited to evolve my Nidorina into a strong Queen. I love how motherly and protective she is despite her easily crushing you like a twig if you make the mistake crossing her. Battle-wise, she's my ace of sorts and has surprisingly pulled me through a good number of wins!
And why can't it breed?! Nidoking can breed just fine, but not her? That's the REAL mystery.
🌼 SANDSLASH (ALOLAN) – I enjoy the regional variants that were introduced in Sun and Moon! I just wish they had more of them introduced. But one of my favorites is Alolan!Sandslash, not only due to how cool it looks (look at those ice spikes!), but how differently they can function in battle from their sandy cousins. But it having 4x weakness to Fighting and Fire is really tricky to get around, yeesh. 💦
🌼 LOPUNNY – Furry bait? Psssh, a LOT of Pokemon could be considered that at this point, let's be real. Joking aside, I find Lopunny is my precious bun-bun! So much fluffy love to give! She's fast and has a really nice movepool (she can send you over the horizon with any of the elemental Punches!), making her a near-constant on any team I use. Her Mega form is really cute as well, looking like an aerobics instructor! :3
🌼 SALAZZLE – It's the Poison type I always wanted, haha! She's cool, bitey, is really powerful and fast, and has a harem of tiny husbands! Her colors are also REALLY appealing to me, and I just think she's a really cool Pokemon all-around. Definitely a favorite of this newest generation.
🌼 MEGA GARDEVOIR – One of my Pokemon in my initial run of Emerald, and she just grew on me throughout the years. Then they released a Mega form for her, and now she's a powerhouse with a beautiful ballroom dress! She's every bit the graceful Psychic type.
But what really draws me to this Pokemon is how deceptively scary they are. While it's all done out of genuine love and loyalty to its trainer, the fact that it can create black holes is crazy. D8
🌼 MIDNIGHT LYCANROC – It's basically a werewolf! I've been waiting for YEARS for one, you guys. I love everything about it, and I've even got a shiny one! I especially love their swirly eyes, it just adds to the spooky factor. I only wish it was just a bit faste, because these things are pretty tough if it can manage to outspeed!
🌼 SCIZOR – It's an extremely cool and helpful bug warrior! I've wanted one on my team for years and just recently managed to get one thanks to GTS. I love him so much. ;w;
🌼 MILOTIC – This was probably one of the most difficult non-Legendary/Event Pokemon I have ever caught. This was way back in Ruby/Sapphire where you had only a tiny number of randomized squares out of MANY to catch a Feebas, then you had to raise it's beauty stat up with PokeBlocks. And that was likely very difficult due to the somewhat broken time feature at the time. Kid!Me had never known such frustration from a Pokemon game, I tell you what. But it was so worth it, because this was also the first time I understood EV/IV training and she ended up being my very first Pokemon raised in that fashion! She's my special little mermaid and provides great support for my teams to this day.
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naferty · 5 years
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It was a close vote! Thank you, everyone, for helping me decide! For Halloween, here is Peter’s first Halloween for the Stroganoff au!
“Who’s the cutest little pumpkin that I have ever seen? Is it you? Is it?”
Peter blinked up at him with a gummy smile and legs kicking, making Tony’s heart melt.
“That’s right, it’s you! Yes, it is,” Tony cooed, unable to help himself. His pup was inside a pumpkin costume. The black spots making up the carved eyes and mouth on his fluffed middle and a mushroom cap on his head with a green stem sticking out on top. Perhaps Tony was being biased, but no one could deny his kid was the cutest tyke around. Whoever said otherwise can fight him on it.
And today he was going to show the world.
Peter’s first Halloween, and by default, his first ever little holiday. Tony had been looking forward to this, having picked out his pup’s costume the moment stores began stocking their shelves with candy and illegal amounts of orange. Steve might have thought him silly for it but the alpha was just as guilty as he was, planning the day down to the T weeks prior.
Leave it to Steve to make sure everything was absolutely safe for his mate and child on this night where ghosts and spooks and really inappropriate firefighters wander the streets freely.
“How are my favorite vampire and pumpkin doing?”
Speak of the alpha. Steve was standing by the doorway with his tattered costume dangling on his person and wolf ears sticking up on the top of his head. On his hands were fur-covered gloves and on the ripped patches of the costume fake fur was sprouting. The fond smile the alpha was giving them was made ridiculous with the sharp canines peeking through his lips.
Tony grinned to reveal his own. “They’re doing great and are ready to get this going.”
“Buck and Nat are ready and waiting and Happy just arrived. I’ll grab the bag and meet you at the door.”
Tony turned back to Peter. “You hear that? Uncle Bucky and aunt Nat are here. Let’s go see them.” Through his excited wiggling, Tony managed to lift his pup up and gave him a quick kiss on his cheek before heading to the front door.
Standing near it he found Bucky and Nat waiting. The pair was wearing matching ballerina costumes that appeared straight out of the Russian Nutcracker with a little dash of Halloween. Bones were painted over the limbs of the fabric and Tony barked out a laugh when he noticed them both sporting dark makeup around their eyes, making them look like raccoons.
“Bucky do your makeup for you?” He asked her. He’d seen it before and wouldn’t be surprised if she fell victim to it as well.
She shrugged with a smirk. “I figured if we do a matching costume I better go all out. He doesn’t have a career in makeup, but at least he’s consistent.”
“Yeah, he has the raccoon eyes down. No doubt I’ll go to him if I’m ever in the mood for shadow eyes.”
“He’s also right here and can hear you both just fine,” Bucky said with a wave. “Hand over my nephew. At least he doesn’t judge me.”
“Not yet anyway,” Tony obliged, carefully passing Peter over and preening when both alphas ‘aww’ at the image Peter created. Work well done if he said so himself.
“You ready for your first Halloween, Pete? Going to steal all the hearts around?” Bucky bounced the pup a little.
“Pretty sure you’re not going to get him back at the end of the night,” Natasha commented as she made faces at the pup, who gave her his adorable gummy smile and wiggled his arms against Bucky’s chest.  
Steve chose that moment to appear. The baby bag hanging on his shoulder. “We better damn well get him back at the end of the night. Heads will roll if not.”
“Yeah, yeah, you’re head alpha. Intimidate and glare and growl. No one is taking him away, you punk,” Bucky was first out the door, followed closely by the rest. As stated, Happy was waiting for them, but surprisingly so was Jarvis. The elderly alpha had on his classic suit but for the festive spirit, he also wore a witch hat as well.
Tony had not been expecting to see the alpha for that night. “I thought you were going to spend the evening handing candy out to the kids.”
“I had planned to, yes,” Jarvis nodded, “but Master Rogers asked me here to help.”
“I also asked if you could stop calling me ‘Master Rogers’ but you continue to be stubborn about it.” Jarvis hadn’t even attempted to appear innocent, making Steve snort. “I thought maybe it’d be nice to have him help when Peter gets tired. Have fun with friends with no worries and Jarvis gets to spend time with the pup.”
“Which I will happily do so.”
“If you’re sure, Jarvis. I don’t want to ruin your night.” Tony hated being a nuisance to his old caregiver, especially when his old bones weren’t what they used to be.
“Nonsense.” The elderly alpha opened the door of the black limo for them, successfully taking half of Happy’s job for the night. Not one to be outdone, Happy offered the infant car seat to them as Tony and Natasha were first to pile in.
Peter was safely buckled in and the rest of them got comfortable in their seats with Jarvis taking passenger side up front and Happy driving. The ride to Rhodey and Carol’s place was short. The two-story building standing tall and proud with spider webbing and spooky ghosts floating on the walls and doors and pumpkins decorating the edges of the house. Tony had to admire the pair’s work as they walked up to the front door. Even little tombstones were set up to lead their way to the party.
A knock on the door and it was Rhodey who welcomed them. His costume consisting of white wrappings around his face, neck, and arms in a very poor attempt of a mummy.
“You didn’t even try!” Tony felt betrayed, nonetheless going for a hug.
“Hey, I had to plan and get everything for this party,” Rhodey happily returned it, “I wasn’t going to let Carol anywhere near the decorations. They’d go missing. Didn’t get enough time to search for a costume.”
“Fine. I guess I’ll let you off the hook.”
“And I’ll forgive you for being late to my party.”
“Fashionably late.”
“No difference. All of you get in here. Everyone’s been waiting to see the star of the night.”
Rhodey waved them inside, welcoming and offering drinks to Happy waiting inside the limo, who kindly declined. The driver bid a quick goodbye and told them he’d be around the neighborhood to pick them up later.
“Jarvis, good to see you,” Rhodey offered a hand.
“Likewise, Master Rhodes,” Jarvis kindly shook it. “Anywhere, in particular, you want me?”
“Besides over with the others and having fun hopefully?”
“The night is still young. We will see.”
“I’ll take it. Come on, this way.” Rhodey led them down inside to where a large majority was gathered. They turned the corner just in time to see Clint yank his head up from a basin full of water just outside the window and everyone clapping in joy for him. In his mouth was an apple that he was trying to grin around.
Rhodey chose the moment everyone’s laughter and clapping died down to announce their presence. “Guess who’s finally here!”
Everyone and their mother lifted a drink in a cheer for them.
“About time!” In much Van Dyne Fashion, Jan came barreling down, pushing anyone else trying to reach them first out of the way. Her sparkling fairy wings helping along by attacking them all with glitter. “I’ve been waiting forever to see this little guy again.”
“Jan you just saw him yesterday,” Tony said fondly. Peter blinked at them from his arms.
“Feels like forever.”
Carol soon joined them. Cat ears sticking up from her blonde hair. “Trying to keep him away from us? We know your tricks.”
“As if we could. Both of you will break the door down while Pepper called the repairmen at the same time.”
“Aww, aren’t you the cutest little pumpkin I ever did see,” Jan cooed at the pup, squeaking when Peter chose that moment to sneeze. Carol was not far in joining her in the cooing. In fact, once everyone made sure they weren’t holding drinks or their costumes didn’t have sharp points, they began migrating over to their area to fawn over the pup.
Among them was Clint with wet hair from his bobbing for apples adventure and a penguin onesie. Sam was wearing a similar onesie that was of a giraffe and, as if they had planned a trio, Bruce was also wearing a onesie and was a proud turtle among the spooks. Thor, with his golden mane and his nose painted dark, appeared very much of the cowardly lion and Jane stood next to him to as Dorothy. A sulking Loki was the tin man and had probably been nagged to join in the festivities by his brother and there hiding behind a sofa was Hank in all his glorious lack of costume self.
Somewhere in the corner was a brooding Nick Fury with Maria Hill. Both wearing wizard hats. An odd sight for bosses to create. They were probably coerced into coming by Carol, most likely. Tony’s own boss, Pepper, with her bright red outfit representing little red riding hood, was making her way along with the others. Tony’s dearest friend May and her husband Ben were with her and May looked ready to take anyone stopping her from reaching her goal down.
Together they all created a sea of smiles as they stampeded their way towards them. Plenty of smiles. A lot of smiles, and not a single one aimed at him or at Steve. No, they were all meant for one tiny person and Tony wouldn’t have it any other way.
He had to back up a little when they all gathered around him. A bit overwhelmed and fearing they might accidentally push him down. Steve’s steady hand on his back helped him remain steady. In his arms, Peter was bombarded with ‘hello’s’ and kisses and so much attention Tony was surprised the pup didn’t immediately get fussy from so much stimulation. In fact, Peter basked in it and seemed to happily suck up everything they gave him with little trouble. His arms and legs waving excitedly before freezing in place when a new face came forward only to continue all over again when they began making funny faces. All the while Tony preened as they complimented Peter’s appearance and looks.
He had to admit. He and Steve made a pretty cute kid.
“Get the feeling you won’t be getting your mate and pup back for a while,” Bucky said to Steve. In his hand was a drink he managed to snatch while everyone stampeded over.
“From the preening I see, I don’t think he minds it one bit,” Natasha said through the sip of her drink. “Showing them off, Steve?”
“Can’t a fella be proud?” Sometime during the mobbing, Steve ended up being pushed back, leaving Tony to fend for himself. Steve wasn’t worried. He knew their friends were careful and he trusted them. It was probably why he wasn’t growling for them all to get back.
Nat had to give it to him. “Guess he can. I’d be proud, too.”
“Come on, Punk. Bet I can still beat you at bobbing for apples,” Bucky challenged, chugging his drink down in one go before racing to the basin.
“As if!” Steve scoffed and chased after him.
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sidcrosbybro · 5 years
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If you read Brass’ latest interview on his trade to the Panthers, you can easily tell that as much as he enjoyed his time with the Pens (among other good things said about the org) he knew he wasn’t a good fit with the team. He’s had several conversations with JR and Sully where he opened up about his struggles, the high expectations set upon him, etc. Both parties knew it was time to move on. That’s when it hit me something about hockey players. (cont)
(Cont) I wish hockey fans will realize that every player reacts to difficult situations differently. Not everyone can acclimate to an entirely new system, new team culture and new role in a snap. Not everyone can be comfortable with their playing time or their current role on the team. Often times it is the high expectations set by the fans / media (majorly) and the team (partly) that wear the player down mentally. (cont)
We all set extremely high expectations for Brass when he arrived in PIT - and we paid the price. When he got injured shortly after the trade people started calling him a bum. When he didn’t produce as much in the playoffs fresh off an injury many wished PIT never traded for him. The hatred became more vicious when he got sick pre-training camp and was hurt during the West Canada road trip. He was the scapegoat when the Pens struggled in November. Every failure was directed towards him. (cont)
(cont) The last straw was when the trade rumors came around. Many fans wanted him gone because their “savior” of a 3rd line C was a bust. They called him a bum, a loser, garbage. Little did we know that all of those insults tore him mentally. Slowly he became disengaged and visibly uncomfortable with his play as all those negativity got into him. As much as it broke my heart to see Brass go as he has grown into one of my faves, I knew the move was for the best for both sides.
(cont) While reading the article it broke my heart when JR asked Brass, “What’s wrong?” It also broke my heart when Brass revealed he opened up his struggles to Sully shortly before he was traded. From that moment, I knew that hockey players are indeed human beings after all. They are vulnerable. I’m glad that Brass feels better now that he’s getting the role he’s used to in FLA. Apparently this has also been the first time he smiled and felt free in weeks. My admiration for him grew even more.
(cont) I am proud of Brass for his honesty and for showing his respect and admiration for the Pens although things didn’t work out. I am proud that Brass is smiling again and finally got the weight on his shoulders. I thank JR and Sully for recognizing the problem before it was too late. Let this be a lesson to the fans as well: be careful with what you say to a player because you may never know what they’re going through. Don’t blame any Penguin - they did their best to support him.
(cont) Lastly, please don’t blame Brass for not being a good fit with the Pens. Like I said earlier every player is different. While he may not have fit hockey-wise, it is good to see that he at least enjoyed his teammates and colleagues’ company. All things aside, all the best to Brass in Florida and I hope he knows that we love him so much ☺️❤️
Blimey mate, this is a chunky fucking essay. 
I get what you’re saying and I completely agree, but this quote from what you said made me laugh. “From that moment, I knew that hockey players are indeed human beings after all.” Did you not before? They’re not aliens. They’re just boys on skates.
You’re right though, anon. People need to be a little more respectful and remember that just because somebody is in the limelight doesn’t mean they are any less deserving of being treated well than others. There is no excuse for attacking, abusing or cyber-bullying somebody online, and we’ve seen a lot of that bullshit around as of late particularly directed towards Brass. Somebody not playing the way you expect them to does not give you a right to be a shithead towards them.
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scaryscarecrows · 5 years
Text
Old Ghosts
Takes place during that period where Penguin is presumed dead (and Jim, you should know better by now, c'mon).
Jim thinks back to the first time he ever laid eyes on Oswald Cobblepot, crammed into the trunk of a car with a busted leg and a bloody nose and the whinging, pathetic voice begging for mercy.
He had no idea what he was getting into, at the time. He’d done the right thing. Hadn’t he?
Sometimes he wonders about that, then feels slimy and guilty for it, but Oswald brought fire and death to Gotham when he came back, and maybe that could have been avoided.
And now they’re saying he’s dead. Which, yeah, probably, because Nygma’s actually broken up about it, but…Jim has to wonder. A little. The man is a stubborn little shit, after all, and Jim has trouble believing that he’d let something so common as a gunshot wound take him down.
That’s not wishful thinking. It’s not. It’s the byproduct of seeing Oswald pop up time and time again, even after he should have been fish food or roadkill or whatever. Jim sometimes wonders if he’s an actual zombie. Maybe he only says he has a ruined knee, to hide the shambling zombie-gait.
Okay, that might be the booze throwing out conspiracy theories, but still. The past couple of years have made Jim a lot more open-minded than he used to be.
He’s sitting in his apartment, listening to an ambulance speed by and watching the rain pound against the windows, when he’s struck by the ridiculous urge to go to the club. He’s not sure it’s even there, anymore, but he wants to go…see. Just see.
No. No, it’s pouring rain, it’s late, he doesn’t want to go.
God dammit.
He drags himself up and hunts up shoes. This is ridiculous, he doesn’t want to go, he doesn’t need to go, Oswald is dead and the club’s probably closed up or in new hands or whatever, why is he going?
Who knows. But he’s dressed now, and halfway out the door.
God. Dammit.
* * *
The club is still there. Jim’s surprised, a little. What with the mayor business and all…who knows. It’s busy, even, and he’s tempted to just turn around and go home. He doesn’t know why he came here. He needs nothing. Oswald’s not here. If Nygma’s to be believed (and Jim’s never known him to lie), he’s at the bottom of the river.
Never mind that a drag didn’t turn him up.
Never mind that he didn’t wash up, either.
He’s not here.
But Jim goes in anyway, feeling decidedly out of place and hoping nobody notices him.
He’s not so lucky.
That woman Oswald hired, the blonde one that Jim saw once or twice on a streetcorner before she started appearing at her boss’s shoulder, spots him almost immediately. She waves, slips out from behind the bar, and saunters over to him.
“Gordon!” She grins and Jim’s half-expecting her to say, boss’s upstairs, lemme go tell him you’re here. But she doesn’t. “Haven’t see you around in a while.”
“Miss Marquis.” He forces a smile, knows it’s a failure. “How’s things?”
“Busy.” She gestures to the room at large. “You look…well.”
That’s a lie, but a nice one all the same.
“Thanks. You too.”
She does look well, though how much of that is ‘I’m at work, gotta look perfect’ is up for debate.
“Come on in, I’ll getcha a drink. Y’know, for old times?”
“No, I really don’t-”
“Just one? On the house?”
For a second he hears another voice, tinged with hope, saying, Oh, go on, Jim, you’re not on duty. Just a drink with an old friend?
Dammit. Even dead, the little bastard’s still got persuasion down to a science.
“Just one.” he says firmly, ignores the easy smile he gets in return.
“C’mon, you get the good seat.”
‘The good seat’ turns out to be one a little ways out of the main crowd, with a decent view of the room. It hasn’t changed since the last time he’d been in here, in the middle of the day-flattering lighting, fabric that looks, at least, like it costs more than his apartment, the grand piano seated up on stage. No one’s playing now, but he’s seen Dove play before. Oswald, too, but him only the once.
He’s a little surprised Nygma’s not here, either just because or to blow the place sky-high. Not that he’s complaining-they haven’t seen him for weeks. Oh, they’ve seen his handiwork, and poor Lucius is beginning to tire, but of the man himself, there’s nothing. Not even security footage.
Jim almost longs for the garden-variety serial killer, the kind that grabs people off the street because they look like an ex-girlfriend or whatever. Even a cannibal wouldn’t be that bad.
He’s sipping at his whiskey. S’good stuff-Oswald would have had a heart attack if his employees had ordered anything less. Or killed the one responsible. He might even rise from his grave (wherever that is) to do it.
Really, the image of a ghostly Penguin prowling around his club, bitching at his staff, is hilarious. And not entirely out of the realm of possibility.
“Enjoying yourself?”
Jim is not so proud to deny choking on his drink.
“You’re dead!” he hisses, attempting to dislodge bitter drops of alcohol from his throat as he twists around to look at the man sitting next to him.
Oswald looks incredibly unamused. He also looks fairly unharmed-a little thinner than Jim had seen him last, but that’s all.
“Really, Jim, I expected better from you. I have been sitting here for five minutes already.”
Jim counts to ten-it’s his only defense. Strangling the stubborn little bastard will result in his either being stabbed or beaten to a bloody pulp by security. But it’s tempting, it’s really, really tempting.
“How.” he finally spits out. “You are supposed to be at the bottom of Gotham bay.”
“Sorry to disappoint.” comes the snide response, and Jim counts to ten again. “That option was disagreeable to me.”
And there it is. The magical explanation for everything Oswald-related.
“Really.”
“I had unfinished business.” Oswald’s smile is as sharp and brittle as broken glass, and Jim wonders what exactly happened between him and Nygma. Maybe he doesn’t want to know. “But never mind me. You look terrible.”
At least Dove was nice enough to lie. That was appreciated.
“Been busy.”
“The Riddler giving you trouble?”
“A bit.” If he punches him in the face, can he say he thought he’d had too much to drink and was hallucinating? Will that fly? “What are you doing here?”
“Business.” comes the flippant reply, and Jim really doesn’t want to know. “I figured, I’m dead, I may as well get some work done.”
“You are the mayor, you need to-”
“Boss?” Dove sidles up and dammit, she’s the one who ratted him out, isn’t she? “We got a blip.”
Oswald’s smile turns decidedly feral and he slides off the bar stool, cane in hand.
“Excellent. Well, it was nice to see you, old friend. Don’t be a stranger!”
“Wait. Wait a minute-”
But he’s vanished in the crowd and Jim’s left with a half-empty glass and no idea whether he was here at all.
THE END
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shambhalala · 5 years
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Before the Storm (Cullen Rutherford X Inquisitor Lavellan)
Dragon Age: Inquisition has pretty much consumed my being over the last two weeks, which I’m more than okay with. I couldn’t resist writing this angsty one-shot of my Dalish Inquisitor, Varya, and her love, Cullen Rutherford. Spoilers for Dragon Age: Inquisition ahead. Enjoy!
Also: big thanks to my lovely friends @historyofamanda, @reservedravens, and @onespoongirl with this, you guys are the best!
Warnings: mild cursing, emotional distress.
Word count: 4,543
Songs that helped me write this:
‘Shrike’ by Hozier
‘Penguin’ by Christina Perri
She had returned to Skyhold through a mirror.
Or so those were the whispers that had swiftly spread throughout the entire castle. No one had expected it, but the unmistakable clash from the seldom used room near Skyhold’s garden was answer enough.
Dorian, Sera, and Blackwall had stumbled back to their quarters like heroes, weary but hopeful. Morrigan and the Inquisitor herself, Varya Lavellan, marched straight to the war room to plan out their next steps with Spymaster Leliana, Ambassador Josephine, and Commander Cullen. With the Well of Sorrows firmly in Morrigan’s grasp, there was no time to waste in preparing for Corypheus’s swift vengeance. Maker knows it would come sooner than any of them desired.
An hour passed, and a plan was formed. Morrigan’s acquired knowledge from the well made formulating their attack much easier; summon Mythal in the Arbor Wilds, and she would grant them the powers necessary to defeat Corypheus and his red lyrium dragon. It sounded so simple, but they all knew this would be no easy victory.
They disbanded shortly after. With the remainder of the day in front of her, Varya intended to spend her time with those dearest to her. All eyes followed her as she walked around Skyhold with utmost poise, though few of the castle’s population feared her anymore. Despite being the Inquisitor, and the alleged Herald of Andraste, Varya brought an air of serenity with her everywhere she went, though she seemed oblivious of the calming effect she had on people. Maybe it was her humble Dalish upbringing, or the company she kept that made her light-hearted and modest. Regardless, she was a formidable warrior to her enemies, but a gentle, noble woman to her friends. Her hair was as fiery and red as the determination that drove her, but her eyes were a crystal grey, capable of easing the weight of one’s burdens with a single glance.
Needless to say, Varya had quickly captured the attention of Commander Cullen. The troubled man was knocked off his feet by the wave of emotions he felt for the Inquisitor. It pained him every time she was sent to fight, despite knowing she was a force to be reckoned with. Her remarkable calming aura stirred in him something that he had never felt before, and he found himself red-faced and flustered whenever she smiled at him, and lost for words when she expressed her gratitude towards him time and time again. When the time came and she returned his feelings, he couldn’t believe his luck. Their relationship blossomed from then on, and it showed in both of them. Despite the endless teasing from their friends and fellow advisors, none of them could deny that they shared in their happiness. With all that was going on in the outside world, to see love prevailing during difficult times was a welcome sight. Skyhold may be their home, but Varya and Cullen found that their true homes were in each other’s hearts all along.
And so, with her mind calm and clear despite all she had yet to face, Varya wandered the castle. She hadn’t failed to notice Cullen’s quick departure from the war room, nor the concerned frown on his face. She decided to give him some time alone before seeking him out, as much as her heart yearned to be in his arms again. Up the winding stairs she went to Skyhold’s library, not without being stopped by Solas, who tore himself away from his studies to thank her and express his admiration for all she had done.
“You make it sound like you’re leaving,” she quipped with a smile, but the thought made her chest sting. She had known Solas since that fateful day when she first sealed the rift at the temple, and he had shared much with her about his studies of The Fade. Was he leaving?
“I suppose I do not know yet, but I will remain here for the time being for my studies. Thank you, Inquisitor.”
His answer was not satisfying, but Varya knew there was no use in asking him for more details. She continued up to the library, finding Dorian sitting in his favourite chair by the window, lost in a book until she wandered up to him.
“Good book?”
Normally, Dorian’s eyes would have lit up in delight when he saw her, and he would have wasted no time in making a remark that, from anyone else, would have been more than a tad inappropriate and personal. But today, Dorian’s face was concentrated and serious.
“What happened at the Elven temple… it’s got me thinking. I should go back, shouldn’t I? To Tevinter, once this is done… if we’re still alive.”
Again, Varya’s chest stung at his words, and her heart hammered. Dorian stood up and she swallowed past the small lump in her throat, following his every move as he paced around with purpose. Dorian had become a dear friend to her as the Inquisition continued to grow, and she felt pride swell inside of her as he stated his intention to return to his home and restore some of his people’s forgotten history. But the same thought lingered in her mind, growing louder and louder; he was leaving. She shook the thought away as best as she could and composed herself.
“Someone with your impeccable taste could transform Tevinter.”
“I hope you’re right. You usually are,” he replied. “It might surprise you to know that you’re the one who inspired me.”
He was right; Varya blinked in disbelief. Dorian continued his noble speech, and the pride swelling in her chest continued to grow. Before this moment, she had barely stopped to consider the true weight of her actions, and how they would affect those around her. Her friend was a proud man, and hearing a confession of such sincerity flow so easily, so readily, from him, was evidence enough of her impact. Underneath her feelings of pride, her mind wandered again.
He was leaving.
“Anyway,” Dorian switched to his normal hearty tone, snapping Varya back to attention. “I thought you’d be rushing into the arms of your dear Commander,” he teased.
Composed as she was, the teasing from her dear Tevinter friend always made Varya’s cheeks grow red, a stark contrast to the blue vallaslin that decorated her forehead. Dorian took great delight in this, chuckling softly as he stepped closer to her.
“Cullen seemed like he needed a moment alone,” Varya replied.
Dorian nodded. “Don’t leave him too long though, or he’ll be wandering round with that lost puppy look on his face. He always does that when you’re gone for too long,” he rolled his eyes with an affectionate smile. “Anyway, was there something you needed?”
Varya shook her head. “No, but thank you, Dorian. For everything.” Her voice was soft, and any cracks that may have shown were quickly covered up by her smile.
Dorian smiled back with a nod. “A pleasure,” he replied, as she turned away and descended the stairs.
Skyhold was always a place of comfort and security for Varya, but now, the stairwell seemed endless, claustrophobic. As soon as she was outside she strode along the battlements to Cullen’s room, only to find he was not there. With a disappointed sigh, she made her way down into the main courtyard, taking slight relief in the gentle afternoon breeze. Her love may still need some space, she thought. She squashed down the growing burdens in her mind, entering Herald’s Rest.
The tavern was filled with chatter and soft music, as its patrons surrounded themselves with drinks, either happy to be drinking or trying to drown out their worries about the upcoming battle. Varya continued her wander, her heart growing lighter at Iron Bull’s encouraging words of solidarity. However, this feeling was diminished when she reached a rather hysterical Sera, who had grown anxious and uncertain about her beliefs. She decided to take out her frustrations by stomping back and forth in the corner room of the tavern that she had decorated as her own, ranting in colourful language.
“There can’t be a bunch of gods and the Maker. Don’t matter how much or little you believe, those don’t fit,” she declared, but she fiddled with her hands, unsure of herself.
Varya sighed. Yet another burden she could not escape; the origins of her faith, and where she stood now. Truthfully, she didn’t know what to believe, but she knew there was at least some morsel of truth in what Abelas and the ancient elves had said, which only complicated matters in her mind. But this confession offered Sera little comfort.
“No, now you’re stupid. You can’t think that because it’s stupid,” Sera whined.
“But everything we saw-”
“Why believe it? Because Abelas looked weird? If that’s all it takes, Coryphy-shitheel is full of lumpy truth,” Sera’s words were cutting, final, and they rendered Varya silent. She didn’t want to lose her friend over something as subjective as faith, but she felt as if she were treading on thin ice. Sera continued her spiel and Varya stood wordlessly, feeling her delicate demeanour starting to crack from within. The breeze flowing into the room was suddenly chilling, and it jostled the curtains and made her shiver.
“Anyway, believe what you want, so long as we kill Coryphy-fish. Whatever,” Sera sighed, turning away to slump on the window ledge, casting a sorrowful gaze upon the outside world.
Varya was still lost for words. Sera was stubborn and scared, so there was little use in trying to reason with her when their future was still hanging by a thread. She took her leave, ascending to the top floor of the tavern where Cole stood alone in a corner. Her movements were slow as she contemplated Sera’s remarks; she’ll probably leave too, or decorate my quarters with arrows, she thought. It made her heart sink further.
Cole sensed her presence without needing to look up. Despite now being more human than spirit, he could still sense her mind’s state. He bore deeper into her head as she stepped closer, seeing past the thin smile that graced her face.
“You are troubled,” he stated.
Varya knew there was little use in trying to hide the worries that were piling up in her mind from Cole. She nodded with a gentle sigh, scratching the back of her head and looking down.
“A chilling wind on a warm summer day. A warning, of what is to come, but not all is bad. Your temperament wavers like a dying flame, but you are strong. Still, you have hope,” Cole’s voice was gentle and whispery as always.
“You’re quite correct, Cole,” Varya responded, smiling at him. Whilst most of the Inquisition feared Cole’s abilities and disliked having their souls looked into by someone, or something, they did not understand, Varya took comfort in knowing that her troubles did not remain entirely unseen.
“How are you feeling? Now that you’re more human?” she asked him.
“I am feeling many things. Some are good, others are bad. Currently I am feeling… gratitude. Hope. Courage. And something…”
Cole’s stomach gurgled, startling them both.
“Ah, yes. Hunger,” he smiled. Varya couldn’t stop the laughter that erupted from her chest, and Cole joined her, his face lighting up in the most animated grin she had ever seen on him.
As their laughter died down, Cole’s expression faded, and he closed his eyes.
“He prays for you,” he whispered.
Varya blinked in surprise, her eyebrows shooting up. She didn’t need to ask to whom he was referring.
“Intense. Chest burning, heart on fire. Love, with fear. Pain. Faith, as much as you can give me,” he continued, his voice growing desperate at the end of his sentence until his eyes snapped open, and he nodded at Varya.
“You should go to him now.”
Varya felt breathless, her mind racing and heart aching. She pictured Cullen, kneeling, praying, alone, and she was overcome with yearning again. She needed his strength and comfort as she felt hers diminishing.
“D-did I help?” Cole asked, an unusual air of vulnerability to his voice. Varya sometimes had to remind herself that he was still so young.
“Yes, you did. Thank you, Cole. I will speak with you later,” she replied with a gentle smile. Her reply came automatically, and she tried to ignore the fleeting thought that there may not be a later.
Cole smiled back, relief washing over his face. Varya left the tavern across the battlements, racing through abandoned rooms back to the grand hall. She was stopped twice on her way by Cassandra and Blackwall, both of them voicing their admiration and loyalty to her once more. Though their words were sincere and she appreciated them, they only added to the circle of thoughts swimming in her mind. Everything was suddenly feeling so… final, and she did not know how to handle it.
Still, she walked, head held high, into Skyhold’s garden. Sure enough, she soon found her love, tucked away in the prayer room. She approached the door, seeing him kneeling before the statue of the Bride of the Maker. Candles burned away on the stone floor, bathing the room in a warm orange light. If circumstances were different, she would have appreciated the room’s tranquillity. For now, she was grateful to see Cullen gaining some comfort in his prayer.
“Though all before me is shadow, yet shall the Maker be my guide. I shall not be left to wander the drifting roads of the beyond. For there is no darkness in the Maker’s light, and nothing that he has wrought shall be lost.”
Varya’s chest tightened at his recital.
“A prayer for you?” she asked.
Cullen’s posture relaxed at the gentle sound of her voice.
“For those we have lost. And those I am afraid to lose.”
He wavered on those last words, and Varya’s chest tightened further, a stabbing sensation filling her abdomen.
“You’re afraid?”
“Of course I am!” Cullen’s voice echoed in the small space, but he was not angry. He stood up to face Varya, his features instantly softening at the sight of her grey eyes. Words could not begin to describe how beautiful she was to him. He tore his gaze away in anguish, his voice continuing to waver.
“When the time comes, you will be thrown into his path again. Andraste preserve me, I must send you to him.”
Internally, Varya panicked. She knew Cullen well, and knew how doubt and self-hatred consumed him in moments of weakness. She had been a fool, to think she could seek his comfort and wisdom at a moment like this. She felt selfish. It broke her heart to see him like this, but she needed to remain strong, for his sake.
Their journey to Honnleath flashed through her mind. How blissful she felt, standing in his arms by the lakeside. She channelled that memory, allowing herself to revel in that peaceful moment once more. She remembered the coin he had given her for luck, the one given to him by his brother before he left for Templar training.
“There’s nothing to worry about. I have luck on my side, remember?” she smiled at him. Her ability to remain so collected and positive, even at what may be the end of days, melted his heart every time.
“That’s less comforting than I’d hoped,” he chuckled lightly in response.
In a desperate moment of emotion, they threw their arms around each other. Varya sighed in relief into his firm grasp as he buried his head in her shoulder.
“Whatever happens, you will come back.” Cullen whispered, almost pleading.
Varya tightened her grasp on his shoulders and swallowed past the lump that continued to grow in her throat.
“Cullen you don’t have to-”
“Allow me this,” he begged.
“The thought of losing you… I can’t.” The words were mostly to himself more than anyone else. His voice was even more desperate than before.
They remained there for several minutes, silently embracing each other. Although neither of them wanted to let go, they both knew they had important matters to attend to before Varya’s departure tomorrow. Slowly, they ghosted their arms down each other’s forms and looked into each other’s eyes. Cullen placed a feather-light kiss on her forehead and they departed, leaving the warm light of the prayer room behind them.
Cullen returned to his room, and Varya to hers. She kept her gaze firmly ahead of her on her way, her lips pressed into a tight line. She ignored Varric’s excited smile at her presence, knowing now that she would find little comfort in talking any longer. She needed solitude.
In her quarters, she paced back and forth, finding herself unable to lie still on her bed or sit comfortably at her desk. The weight of her situation was crushing her, and she found it harder and harder to remain strong. The fate of Thedas rested in her hands, in the power that had been bestowed upon her left one, the power that she never asked for.
She glanced down at the Anchor. It was not currently glowing, but she knew it would only be a matter of time before it illuminated again. She clenched her hand into a fist, as if it would disappear.
She grumbled in frustration and raked her hands through her hair, yanking out her tight ponytail. She stormed to the balcony and gripped the stone railings, casting out her gaze over Skyhold. The sun was gradually starting to set over the mountains in the distance.
What if she failed? She had never had a moment to entertain the thought until now, though truth be told, she was more terrified of what would happen if she succeeded. She had spent the best part of a year in Skyhold, feeling at home, making new friends, falling in love; the thought that all of this may soon come to an end, when Dorian returned to Tevinter, when Blackwall was submitted to the Grey Wardens, if Cassandra or Leliana became the new Divine, was devastating. All of these people were counting on her, looking up to her, but she was terrified of failing them, or letting them go.
Falling in love. Her mind returned to Cullen. His kind smile, the way his eyes softened whenever they were together. The way he danced with her at the Winter Palace, despite his apprehensiveness. Their shared kisses on the battlements when they could spare a moment, though the time was always too short for their liking. The first time they said they loved each other the morning after their love making. She loved him with all her heart, she couldn’t bear the thought of leaving him alone.
At last, the floodgates of her mind exploded, and she wept.
Several hours passed. The sun was just disappearing behind the mountains as food was brought into the grand hall. Even as everyone sat to eat what little they could stomach, there was not one trace of Varya. Her seat remained empty. Everyone exchanged worried glances, casting their gaze every so often to the door to her quarters.
Josephine was the first to speak up, with a gentle clear of her throat.
“Has anyone seen Var-Lady Inquisitor?” she asked, perusing the table.
Silence, until Varric spoke up.
“She went back to her quarters, and… I don’t think she’s come out yet,” he sighed.
“I see,” Josephine replied, defeated.
“Most unusual,” Dorian mused, stroking his moustache with one hand.
Silence fell over the table again, everyone’s minds swimming with confusion, concern.
Suddenly, Cullen pushed his chair out from underneath him, standing up from the table.
“You gonna talk to her, curly?” Varric asked.
“Of course. I know Varya appreciates her own company wherever she can spare it, but this… this is… worrying,” he trailed off at the end of his sentence, frowning and casting his gaze to her door.
Looks of adoration were cast to the Commander. Hearing her name roll so naturally off his tongue reminded everyone of his love for her, that he was more than the Inquisition’s hardened Commander.
Cullen walked away, taking purposeful steps towards the door before disappearing behind it. All eyes followed him.
“I don’t suspect we’ll be seeing him again tonight,” Dorian remarked.
Josephine gasped in shock, glaring daggers at him for making such a comment. Dorian merely grinned back with one eyebrow cocked. Sera spluttered on her drink, and Dorian sat back in his seat with a smug laugh, crossing one leg over the other and intertwining his hands on his lap. The rest of the table couldn’t help but smile a little, and even Josephine covered her mouth to supress a small giggle. The mood was significantly less sombre now that they knew their Inquisitor wasn’t alone for the night.
Cullen treaded lightly up the stairs to Varya’s quarters. The room was quiet when he reached the top, the only sound coming from the crackling logs in the fireplace as the flames died down. The last of the sun’s rays shone in through the far balcony, casting long golden shadows along the floor. Her bed was neat, untouched, as was the desk.
“Varya, love?” Cullen called as he stepped further into the room. Silence.
Then, he heard a soft sound from outside, to his right. He snapped his head towards it. Was it… it sounded like… crying?
Cullen’s breath ceased. He stepped silently towards the balcony, almost afraid of the sight that awaited him.
Sure enough, there she was. Varya stood facing away from him, looking out towards the magnificent mountains in the distance. The setting sun illuminated her small figure, giving her an ethereal glow. Her hair hung low, just past her shoulders, and it danced gently in the breeze.
Maker’s breath, Cullen thought. As if she wasn’t stunning enough already. But he knew this was no time for gazing lovingly, not yet.
He removed his gloves and tossed them onto the desk, stepping out onto the balcony. He stood just behind her, and placed a gentle arm across her shoulders. He placed his other hand over one of hers. Her iron grip on the railings softened, and she intertwined her fingers with his, stifling a sniffle.
Finally, Varya looked up at him, and Cullen’s heart shattered into a thousand pieces.
Her eyes were sore and red, tears staining her cheeks as she bit her lip to suppress its trembling. In all their shared moments of love, affection, and vulnerability, he had never seen her so distraught; no one had.
Without hesitation, Cullen exhaled and pulled her against his chest, wrapping both arms round her protectively. He placed a kiss on the top of her head as she clung to him desperately, shaking as more tears poured from her. It took all of his willpower not to weep with her.
“Forgive me… I am being foolish,” she sighed, trying to steady her quavering voice.
Cullen placed his hands on her face, looking down at her and wiping her tears away with his thumbs.
“I highly doubt that, my love,” he replied, offering a small smile, which she returned. His heart continued to break as more tears welled in her eyes, but he persevered.
“What’s on your mind?” he asked.
Varya sighed and closed her eyes, turning back to the mountains. Cullen loosened his embrace but still held one of her hands firmly. She opened her eyes again and looked down at their entwined grasp, blinking to stem further tears.
“It’s just…” she began. She glanced back at him with a pained smile. Even as she was at her lowest, most vulnerable moment, she still tried to hold up the illusion that she was okay. It pained Cullen to wonder how long she had been feeling like this. He stayed silent, rubbing circles on her hand with his thumb, until she was ready to speak again.
“I… I find myself thinking that time has passed all too quickly,” she explained.
“How do you mean?” Cullen asked.
“It…” she stopped, a brief smile flashing across her face before she crumpled in sorrow again. “It seems like only yesterday that we were playing chess together in the garden, and now… I must face Corypheus. Cullen, I feel cheated. No time with you has ever felt like enough.”
Cullen exhaled softly, closing his eyes. He knew how she felt, because he felt exactly the same way.
“And Dorian plans to return to Tevinter. Sera will probably leave too. And Solas. Cassandra. Blackwall. And that’s assuming we make it out alive,” the words tumbled out of her, ending in another choked sob.
Cullen squeezed his eyes shut tighter, shifting to hold her once more and willing himself not to cry. He didn’t even want to imagine the devastation he would feel if she didn’t return.
“Varya…” he began, weaving a hand into her hair. He didn’t know if there was anything he could say to truly comfort her, but he had to try.
“I… do not know what this battle will bring,” he confessed. She stood silent in his arms, her breathing steadier as he stroked his hand through her hair again and again.
“But I know that we will do all we can to aid you. Please, love, do not bear this burden alone any longer. Not when you do not have to,” he kissed her head again, swaying them from side to side.
“But…” Varya hesitated. Her voice had grown raspy now after all her tears, and she stopped to clear her throat.
“You are a strong, remarkable fighter, and I have full faith in you, but the Inquisition is not your burden alone. We will all stand ready to aid you, for anything,” Cullen continued before Varya could doubt herself any further.
Varya looked up at her love again. Although her eyes were still red, they appeared much less tortured than before. She smiled at Cullen, and he smiled back at her, his heart still healing from seeing her so distressed.
“Please… forgive me if I have worsened the burdens you feel,” he mumbled, frowning slightly.
Varya shook her head, placing a hand upon his stubbled cheek. “Never,” she insisted, her smile widening. “You give me more strength than you can ever know.”
“And you to me,” Cullen replied. He leaned down and captured her lips with his, a tender gesture that melted away their worries for the time being. Their hearts beat in unison as they savoured each other, their burdens lightening by the second and scattering into the wind.
They pulled apart, faces still mere inches from each other.
“Ar lath ma, vhenan,” Cullen whispered.
Varya’s eyes widened, her cheeks flushing. “When did you-”
“Let’s just say I sought the advice of our Elven mage friend,” Cullen chuckled.
“Well, I could have guessed it wasn’t from Sera,” she laughed.
They kissed once more and turned to gaze at the mountains together as the sky finally darkened. Although there was much turmoil yet to face, Varya no longer felt as if the world rested solely on her shoulders. She sighed and pressed her head against Cullen’s chest, safe, and happy, for now.
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Truly Tropical! Some of games best beaches.
The image of a beach is often a sandy tropical paradise. Palm trees, tropical fruit, oceans, birds and wildlife. Of course, let’s not count the blistering hot sand and sunburns. In games, the beach level is often an early level, it symbolizes fun and relaxation as opposed to difficulty. This is not always the case however. I have lived either on or near a beach for the near entirety of my 22-year life. To celebrate where I came from, I present to you a list of beaches in video games! Grab your sunscreen, your umbrella and your towel and get ready to get sandy!
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Emerald Coast (Sonic Adventure) Ah, the first level of sonic Adventure. This level is set on a tropical beach and a series of islands and stone pillars. Four of the six characters have a stage here. As sonic, Tails and Gamma, you race over sandbars and jump from boardwalk to boardwalk. As big you just…fish…but it looks nice at least! Spike traps litter some paths, a lighthouse stands tall and proud on the islands, and a giant whale is in the mood for some sonic food. Overall, as the first true 3d sonic level, it does a good job! The music is great too!
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Beach Bowl Galaxy (Super Mario Galaxy) A fun tropical beach that Mario can visit during his intergalactic adventure. This small area is primarily underwater. The surface is of several islands and a cliffside that overlooks the bowl. Underwater there are pillars of rock, some giant eels, and penguins taking fishing lessons. Try to jump onto the rope swing and dive in! Overall this level is small but fun.
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Treasure Trove Cove (Bajo Kazooie) Every time I hear about the levels in this game, people talk about this one. This level is a great example of a good beach level. The music fits, the palm trees, the boss crab, the pirate ship… A lot of cool things can be found in this level, including new moves! Now be careful swimming out into the water, because there is a very hungry shark that wants to eat you. On the top of the level is a lighthouse. So this level seems great for exploration and I can see why its considered one of the most iconic beach levels.
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Destiny Island (Kingdom Hearts) Ah, where it all began. Destiny island is the first level of the original kingdom hearts. This tropical island served as a hangout for the main characters, Sora, Riku and Kairi. Also some final fantasy characters can be found here too. A small island that serves as a tutorial, Riku was not content with just this small island and wanted to go somewhere else, in a weird twisted way he got his wish. The island was swallowed by darkness, and was only restored at the end of Sora’s first journey. The island would later appear in future installments, but Sora has yet to return to his home. So this island represent the humble beginning to what will eventually become one of the biggest franchises of the past 20 years.
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Phon Coast (Final Fantasy XII) The Phon coast is one of the many locations you will traverse in order to reach the end goal in FFXIII. This coast is one of the few places where the main characters relax for a bit. Some hunters have set up shop here and the concept of rare game is introduced here. Along the sandy shores are many treasures and many monsters, be careful because some of them can fly. Even though you will come back here often for the rare hunter quest, the overall beach is often left unvisited. Enjoy it while you can.
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Virmire (Mass Effect) This planet is a tropical paradise with massive waterways and cliffsides. On any other day it would be nice to kick back and enjoy the beach, unfortunately today is not a good day. The planet is under siege and its up to commander Shepperd to confront the main antagonist here. The commander and his allies will have to fight their way through an army of Geth soldiers, and even confront a reaper, in order to reach the end goal. In the end the villain gets away anyway… However this battle remains as the most memorable moment from mass effect 1 for me.
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The Beach (Donkey Kong Country Returns) The beach isn’t just a level, but an entire world to traverse in the wii game. True to its title, this level is primarily set on a beach. This beach has boardwalks, wooden contraptions, caves and sunken ships. Giant crabs patrol the beach and will attack the Kong duo. After overcoming a barrage from a pirate ship, a giant squid attack and dodging tidal waves you will be able to face the boss. This level is some tropical fun and a good romp.
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Ryoshima Coast (Okami) One of the largest areas in the Okami series. This coastline houses a city and several npcs. Cliffs, beaches and trees dot the coast. Initially it is cursed and has to be cleansed in order to explore. The ocean is home to a sunken ship that is said to hold treasures. Unfortunately for everyone, the sea dragon is rampaging and causing havoc. A lagoon can be found nearby too. This place is beautiful and is visited relatively early in the Okami game.
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Sunny Beach (Spyro 2 Ripto’s Rage!) This beach is home to some peaceful turtles that are being captured alive by poachers. The majority of this level is underground or in caves, but there is a beach there as well. In this level Spyro will help guide baby turtles to safety and defeat the poachers that want to turn them into stew. Explore every nook and cranny of the underwater portions to find all the gems. Once the level is complete, the baby turtles will be safe once again.
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Outset Island (Wind Waker) The beginning of Wind Waker takes place in Link’s home island of outset. This small tropical island is primarily a beach with a forest on the very top. A relatively quiet island that is far away from the more populated areas, and thus it does not see much action. Link’s adventure starts when his little sister is kidnapped by a giant bird that comes to this island. Later on, a mythical creature makes their home here as well. The inhabitants are friendly towards Link as well, giving a sensation of home. This island is also home to a special secret dungeon.
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The beach (Pokemon Snap) The first and arguably the most iconic level in Pokemon snap. This tropical trail has a decent amount of pokemon to take pictures of. Some pokemon won’t be exposed until later on, so this level will be revisited often. The beach is sandy, the ocean has a Lapras that occasionally raises its head. There are grass patches with pokemon hiding within them and some creeks and ponds as well. This level serves as a great tutorial, not fast pace or extremely hectic with who to snap a picture of. It remains one of my personal favorite beach levels of all time.
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Ash Lake (Dark Souls) A truly cinematic area, quite a shame its optional. This small portion of the game is primarily a sandbar that connects some giant trees suspended in a large calm lake. Upon your first visit, a large menacing Hydra will antagonize you until it has been dealt with. This area is calm and almost eerily serene, after said hydra is dispatched of course. Be careful going into the trees because basilisk make their homes there. At the end of the long sand bar is one of the last everlasting dragons, who will give you the ability to join a covenant. There is not much to gain from coming here, but the experience alone is worth the time.
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Cape Claw (star fox adventures) A jungle peninsula full of boardwalks, secrets and of course, beaches. This location is visited later in the game and is home to some enemy soldiers. Explore through sandbars, waterfalls and ruins to find the treasures of the area, including bars of gold! There is a friendly dinosaur here as well that Fox can talk to. Eventually there will be a temple that needs to be navigated as well. This level, or zone as it would be considered, is a great beach level. Tis a shame people don’t seem to view this game very fondly.
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Goo lagoon (Spongebob battle for bikini bottom) Ahh, Goo Lagoon… This level is one of the first levels in the childhood classic spongebob game. This level takes place on a beach and on a boardwalk. You’ll have to navigate over platforms, redirect beams of light and play mini-games a plenty. Be careful though, because none of the characters can swim, so the water, or goo more specifically, is an obstacle. Some new enemies will pop up here as well.
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Sentinel Beach (Jak and Daxter) One of the first levels of Jak and Daxter takes place on a beach. Some grassy cliff aligns this coast as well. A waterfall and a pool that is safe for swimming. Some ruins can be found farther back on the coastline. Be weary of the hermit crab enemies. There are some blue eco vaults here to allow some sky-high jumps, use them to explore the rock pillars. Overall this is a fun easy beach level, just take care not to swim out to far or else you might not make it back.
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Wam Bam Island (Borderlands 2) One of the most colorful locations on planet Pandora. Wam Bam island would be a vacation paradise, if said vacation was full of pirates, monsters, cannibals and assassins. A giant sea monster resides here, just itching to do battle with the vault hunters. On top of that, some assassins have been hired to take out the dwellers but they… lets just say they failed at their job. The few locals here are just like anyone else on Pandora, crazy. So have fun in the sun. explore an underwater tunnel, fight giant crabs and try not to meat your end by the hands of the locals.
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Well that was fun wasn't it? Hope you don’t feel burned out or have sand in your eyes! Next time we are gonna look at some characters, who you may ask? Well lets just say they all share one thing in common, and that is a love for miniguns.
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