#nice army you've got here

[tritoch]

i know a lot of people (very understandably) dislike the paladin job quests in ffxiv, particularly HW, but i do think it's fun that, now that the pre-ShB MSQ revamp is complete, paladins now have a very cool and thematic in-game storyline that happens without a word being spoken: the development of passage of arms.

none of the below is directly stated in the script, but imo it's a fairly obvious gloss on what the game presents, if you assume a paladin warrior of light. spoilers for all expansions through the end of 6.X.

in the new version of steps of faith, as vishap breaks through each ward protecting ishgard from attack, lucia mounts a final desperate effort to hold him back, with a very familiar looking animation:

but even lucia can't hold back vishap's flame alone, so the temple knights surge forward to assist her. their efforts make the shield visually more powerful and larger. the temple knights here band together in defense of ishgard, and their knightly resolve to protect their home is the difference between victory and defeat.

lucia and the knights do ultimately succeed in defending the last ward, as you have to defeat vishap before their shield falls or you lose.

later in heavensward, obviously, we will get ffxiv's most famous (failed) attempt at blocking something with a shield.

this moment can be read as fairly impactful on the warrior of light's development; as i've noted elsewhere, after the trauma of watching haurchefant bleed out in their arms at level 57, at level 58 paladins learn to channel their magic into healing (and it's called "clemency," or mercy. mercy for whom? who was guilty?), and as someone pointed out on that post, at level 58 dark knights used to get "sole survivor", letting them heal in response to a marked target's death.

for a time, you literally carry haurchefant's shield with you, and 3.3 very much literalizes in genre fashion the idea that even when you are standing alone, your fallen friends stand with you. you don't need to call any allies to stand at your side and raise their shields with you because they are already there, in spirit.

stormblood marks a pretty important turning point in the warrior of light as a combatant, in my opinion, and the text makes this clear in several ways. first, in pretty much all your jobs, you've now far exceeded your trainers and are pioneering new techniques. this is no less true of paladin, which for 60-70 abandons any trainers at all for you to show off your peerless skills in a tournament.

second, stormblood is straight up a story about you getting stronger. at level 61, zenos kicks your ass. at level 70, you kick his ass. why? because you fought and got stronger and developed incredible new techniques and became a one-man army.

for a lot of classes, this story lines up nicely with the big rotation changes or flashy new finishers on the way from 60 to 70. SMN is now busting out bahamut and casting akh morn; RDM gets verflare and verholy; DRG starts harnessing nidhogg's power directly through dragon sight and nastrond.

the tanks are divided in two: warriors and gunbreakers get huge damaging upgrades at 70 in the form of inner release and continuation, each of which lets them hit the same button many times for lots of damage and satisfying animations. paladin and dark knight get more protective abilities; dark knight gets the blackest night, and there's been plenty said about that already by pretty much everyone.

paladins get passage of arms. instead of a relentless new attack (and you get requiescat at 68, which is a way bigger deal for your dps rotation), your big reveal at 70 for zenos in your fight in ala mhigo is a superior way to protect your party, a shield that lets you stand for your allies so they never have to fall for you again. it's lucia's same shield, except you need no allies' shields to reinforce you, proof of your martial prowess and your ability to transcend limits, and perhaps in truth a reminder that you never really stand alone.

in many respects passage of arms should really feel like a paladin signature move to you now if you are playing it at this point, because you should be popping it in pretty much every fight (you are using your mits, right...?). basically every FFXIV fight has at least one big AOE with downtime that warrants passage of arms usage, usually after the mid-fight add phase with slowly filling bar. since that AOE usually drops during downtime, there's no reason not to pop passage of arms (which otherwise restricts your movement and actions), and even on normal, sometimes every little bit counts on a damage check even if it means dropping DPS (thinking here of harrowing hell P10N on release, which was...less consistent for a lot of roulette parties than you might hope).

so from 70 onward, passage of arms is in a sense a paladin warrior of light's signature move, and certainly the one a player gets to most actually enjoy (since if you're using it, you're by necessity not doing anything besides moving your camera and admiring your sick animation). it doesn't have any competition in terms of spectacle until confiteor, and those you're usually throwing out in the middle of movement.

it's such a signature, in fact, that the only other person shown using your one-person version of passage of arms is your greatest admirer, who studied your legend for over a century.

and it's when he fails (should've popped arm's length, bud) that the warrior of light decides they can't let their friends fall for them, and sends them away with the transporter beacon. this is all wrong: you were meant to die for them, not the other way around. yours is the shield that stands between your allies and defeat. it is you who will win this passage of arms and break your opponents lance. and you do.

and then later, when they need to quickly establish zero's domain as a place of fallen grandeur, the home of someone who once believed in heroes but is now a cool and cynical vampire hunter d, what do they use? a decayed statue of someone in the paladin endwalker gear doing the passage of arms animation, of course.

from a visible instantiation of knighthood as a joint effort to defend what is sacred, to a tribute to the fallen friends whose memories stand by you and animate you, to a symbol of the wol's power as emulated by their allies or darkly mirrored in other shards.

not bad for a mit button you hit once per fight and otherwise never think about!

[theosbutterfly]

the best thing at this party — t. nott

❝ fighting in only your army frontlines, don't you ignore me i'm the best thing at this party ❞

pairing: jealous!theo x malfoy!reader

context: at yours and draco's annual back-to-hogwarts bash, a pair of weasleys show up uninvited, much to theo's dismay.

words: 2.3k+

warnings: jealousy, somewhat possessive behavior, reader's kind of a bitch, theo's kind of an asshole, marijuana use, alcohol use, vomiting, a little fluff, mainly angst

"so where's the principessa?" you hear theo bring you up in conversation as you and pansy descend the stairs to join the boys in the foyer. "taking extra time to fix up her hair?"

"é un dato di fatto, lo ero," as a matter of fact, i was. you lean a hand against the banister, stopping on the last step, eyes focusing on theo. there's a chance you may or may not have learned italian just to make sure he couldn't insult you without your knowledge—not that it stopped him, but at least this way, you could defend yourself. "it takes time to look this good. but glad to know you noticed my absence."

"ooh, she got you there, mate," blaise chuckles, placing a hand on theo's shoulder, who shrugs it off.

"whatever," he spat, rolling his eyes. "i need a drink."

"finally something i can get on board with," mattheo points a finger at him, and they both turn to head towards the sitting room, pansy trailing closely behind them.

"is pans still trying to get with matt?" enzo asks, tilting his head up at you as they walked away.

"beats me," you shrugged, stepping down the last step and glancing between them. "now, why are you two standing here like a bunch of statues? last i checked, party's over there." you point your thumb towards the parlor, which appeared to be glowing green.

"the gate's still open," blaise shrugs. "draco wants us to watch for 'undesirables'."

"undesirables?" you repeat the word just so he could hear how ridiculous it sounded. "has he gone mad?"

"he wants to make sure no one from the other houses show up," blaise clarifies.

"fuck that," you shake your head. "come on." you link your arms with one of blaise's and one of enzo's, waving a finger up in the air. "colloportus!" the spell causes the front door and front gate to seal shut, as you begin walking with blaise and enzo towards the music. "now, where's dobby?"

your house elf immediately appears in front of you at the sound of his name.

"dobby is here, miss y/n," he looks up at you. "what can dobby do for you?"

you unlink your arms from blaise and enzo's and crouch down to be eye level with him. "fetch me the good liquor from the cellar downstairs, and then come find me when you've got it."

he nods. "dobby is on it miss y/n!"

—

"what are you doing standing here all alone?" daphne greengrass saunters over to theo, who was leaning against the bar, a drink in hand.

"daphne greengrass," theo greets her. "i'm surprised you're here. wouldn't the head girl disapprove of rowdy parties as such?" he waves his drink towards the crowd that had turned the malfoy's parlor into a makeshift dance floor, and she chuckles.

"i'm turning over a new leaf," she shrugs, taking a sip of her own drink. "it is our last year, after all."

"thank merlin for that," you walk between them, and lean over the bar to reach for four shot glasses.

"y/n," daphne's voice is strained as she clears her throat. "nice to see you."

you stand up straight after retrieving what you were looking for and turn your head towards her. "i'd say the same, but i'm not a liar."

theo shifts his eyes between the two of you, slightly amused at the way daphne takes a deep breath to keep her composure while you throw her a close-lipped smile.

"where'd you get the bottle, y/n?" he cuts in to prevent a cat fight from breaking out between you and daphne, and eyes the bottle of fire whiskey in your hand.

you look at him. "i had dobby fetch it from the cellar," you say. "pans and i are gonna drink it dry."

"just the two of you?" he raises an eyebrow, condescension painting his features. "does draco know about that?"

"why?" you challenge. "are you gonna go run off and tattle on me?"

before he could reply, another voice cuts in. "oi, malfoy! are we getting pissed or what?"

you turn your attention away from theo to the one of the weasleys you'd found lurking around the corners. "well, you're quite the impatient one, aren't you, freddie?"

heat rises in theo's chest when he gets a better look of the guy under the green light, and realizes its a weasley. what the hell was he doing here? and why were you allowing it?

"time is of the essence, darling," fred tells you. "george and i are trying to get a taste of this drink you've got before we inevitably get kicked out of here."

"what are you doing here, weasley?" theo speaks through gritted teeth, and looks at you. "you invited them?"

"of course not," you shrug. "they snuck in."

theo's eyes narrow at you. "and you're offering them a drink instead of throwing them out?"

"they ditched their house colors to don ours for the night," you tell him, eyes focused on fred. "i think that deserves them a little taste of slytherin."

theo doesn't miss the way fred's eyes trail over your body, and rolls his eyes. "maybe even more than a little," fred smirks.

you giggle at his words, but before you could walk away with him, theo grabs the back of your arm, pulling you close, his lips right above your ear. "cosa fai?" what are you doing?

you tilt your head up to have your eyes meet his. "mi sto divertendo," i'm having fun. "dovresti provarlo qualche volta." you should try it sometime.

you yank your arm out of his hold and don't give him a chance to respond, waltzing away towards the crowd.

"merlin, she is fit," fred comments, watching the way your hips sway as you walk away. "is she seeing anyone?"

"if she was, it certainly wouldn't be you," theo tells him.

"we'll see about that, mate. excuse me," fred throws him a smirk, before walking away to follow you across the room.

theo watches as he does, bringing his glass up to his lips to finish of his drink.

"do you-" daphne starts, but he doesn't let her finish, slamming his glass down on the bar and walking off.

—

"you all look pissed," pansy stumbles over to the guys, who were seated in a secluded area of the manor that was somewhat devoid of all the noise from the party in the parlor, passing around a joint.

"not as much as you, it seems," mattheo chuckles as she falls beside him, head falling against his shoulder. "where you been?"

"drinking with y/n," she says, eyes slowly fluttering close.

"that was your first mistake," enzo tuts, taking a long drag and inhaling. "that girl can drink double her weight in alcohol."

"mhm," pansy hums, eyes fully closing as her body falls limp against mattheo.

"alright," mattheo shifts, just enough to wake her and get her up on her feet. "look like someone's had enough for the night. come on." he begins to the guide pansy out of the room, his eyes telling the guys that he'd be right back.

"what the bloody hell did they even drink?" blaise asks, shifting his eyes between theo and enzo.

"fire whiskey," theo blows smoke out of his mouth and takes another drag. 

blaise's eyes widen. "and they didn't think to share? bloody wankers."

"they were too busy sharing it with y/n's new conquests," theo replies bitterly, passing the joint off to him.

"seems to me she's sharing more than that," enzo cuts in, raising his silver flask to point at you and fred on the opposite side of the room, where surely enough, you were tucked between him and the wall, one hand beside your head and one hand on you waist.

"oh, bloody hell," theo rolls his eyes, pulling a chuckle out from enzo.

"who is that guy anyway?"

"fred weasley," theo grits out.

"you're bloody kidding," blaise snickers, leaning forward to flick off some ash from the a joint. 

"oh, i'm bloody serious," theo nods. "he's been eye-fucking her since she showed him the tiniest bit of attention. it was quite pathetic, if you ask me."

"what's with the bitterness, mate?" enzo asks, attention shifting to theo. "you jealous?"

theo scoffs. "jealous? please. non durerà in alcun modo." no way that's gonna last. you weren't exactly the "relationship" type.

enzo shakes his head. "no clue what that means, but it didn't sound nice."

"you know how y/n is," theo tells him, hand motioning towards you and fred across the room. "it's nothing but a game to her."

"so what?" blaise asks, handing the joint over back to enzo. "you bitter she won't let you play?"

"who won't let who play?" mattheo rejoins them, and sits back down beside theo.

"theo's jealous fred weasley's got his claws in y/n," enzo catches him up.

"alright," theo stands from the sofa, no longer wanting to hear anymore of it. "i'm done with this shit."

—

unfortunately for theo, the second he headed for the bar and away from the boys, you were also already there with fred.

"alright, freddie, what's it gonna be?" your body was bent over the bar counter, fred's eyes trailing over it as you tried to reach for two different bottles. "rum or brandy?"

"oh, i'm in the mood for something much tastier, love," fred flirts, causing theo to roll his eyes.

"bloody hell," you hear theo mutter, and stand up straight after taking a hold of the two bottles you were looking for. "can't you two do this elsewhere?"

"well, no one's forcing you to stand there and watch," you retort, eyes shooting him an ice cold glare.

"for merlin's sake," he groans, clearly frustrated. "if you wanna fuck him, at least do it in one of the many private rooms upstairs so you can at least keep some of your dignity."

the words fall out of his mouth before he can stop them, making you scoff and set both bottles down before getting close to him to make sure he hears you loud and clear. "fuck you."

you walk away from both of them and head for the corridor, while fred looks at theo.

"that-"

"don't fucking say anything, weasley," theo cuts him off, and leaves him behind, legs immediately following after you.

"y/n, wait!" he takes grab of your wrist and pulls to make you stop and turn to look at him.

"get off!" you shake his hand off your wrist, arms crossing in front of your chest as you looked at him.

"oh, smettila di essere una tale stronza," oh, stop being such a bitch. he tells you.

"you know what theo-" you start to give him a piece of your mind, when an uneasy feeling suddenly creeps into your stomach and slides up the back of your throat. 

fuck.

you immediately push past him to head for the nearest bathroom and he follows, as your knees hit the cold tile floor and reminiscents of what you ate before you started drinking came pouring out into the toilet in front of you.

"alright," theo winces, crouching down beside you to take a hold of your hair and gently rub a hand up and down your back. "let it out."

—

"ugh," you complain, swinging your bedroom door open and proceeding inside as you tucked your now messed up hair behind your ears. "this was not how this night was suppose to go."

theo chuckles behind you, closing your door and tossing your heels down on the ground beside your dresser.

"oh, i'm so glad you find this amusing," you spat, undoing your hair and placing the bobby pins down on your vanity.

"i just find it funny that even after two years of drinking, you still can't hold shit down," he says, taking a seat at the edge of your bed.

you mimic his words, but don't actually say anything. "ugh!" you groan loudly when it suddenly becomes much harder to tug your dress off. "why is this not-"

you stop when you feel cold fingers trail across and down your back, your skin feeling like over a hundred degrees. "hai dimenticato di aprirlo, farfalla." you forgot to unzip it, butterfly.

your eyes threaten to flutter close at the deep sound of his voice, goosebumps rising upon your skin, as he slowly unzipped the back of your dress. "theo…"

his hand lingers above your lower back, as he leaned down, lips just right above your ear. "potresti fare meglio di weasley, lo sai?" you could do better than weasley, you know that?

his breath on your ear makes a shiver run down your spine, as your head tilted back against him. "mostramelo meglio allora." show me better then.

to anyone else, this would seem odd. but to the two of you, this was just how you worked. one second you were bickering, and the next, whispering sweet nothings. it was a dance that you both knew all too well.

though the thread he used to keep you at a distance threatened to snap, theo holds himself back—you were draco's baby sister. he wasn't suppose to want you. he couldn't.

"dovresti dormire un po'," you should get some sleep. he lets himself stay beside you for one more moment, before finally pulling away—to your disappointment.

"you're not gonna stay?" you grab at the sides of your dress to keep it from falling down as you turned to look at him.

"non posso," i can't. he shakes his head at you, despite your forming pout. he didn't know what he'd get himself into if he stayed, and a part of him was afraid to find out. "buona notte, farfalla."

good night, butterfly.

part 2 coming soon!!!

re-entering my slytherin boys era bc tension with theo is the BEST kind of tension, and hopefully this didn't disappoint.

reblogs and comments are deeply appreciated <33

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tags: @helendeath @freshlypickledpancakes

[idk-bruh-20]

Tony, the futurist

Buckle in folks, I've had some thoughts and I'm about to make it ✨everyone's✨ problem.

Been thinking about Tony Stark, the futurist who saw the end of the world.

Tony, who in IM1 escapes kidnapping and torture and says, "I shouldn't be alive. Unless if was for a reason."

who, in The Avengers, has this exchange with Bruce Banner:

Tony: You know, I've got a cluster of shrapnel, trying every second to crawl its way into my heart. This stops it. This little circle of light. It's part of me now, not just armor. It's a… terrible privilege. Bruce: But you can control it. Tony: Because I learned how. Bruce: It's different. Tony: Hey, I've read all about your accident. That much gamma exposure should've killed you. Bruce: So you're saying that the Hulk… the other guy… saved my life? That's nice. It's a nice sentiment. Saved it for what? Tony: I guess we'll find out. Bruce: You might not like that. Tony: You just might.

Right after this, Cap tells Tony, "You're not the guy to make the sacrifice play, to lay down on a wire and let the other guy crawl over you."

And then Tony flies a nuke into a wormhole, tries to call his girlfriend because he thinks these are his last moments, did not go in there expecting to survive.

Although he survives, he witnesses an alien army so terrifying, so unbeatable, it gives him crippling PTSD nightmares and panic attacks, knowing they are not prepared to defend the earth.

I'm thinking about Tony who, in AOU, gets manipulated by Wanda into witnessing his worst nightmare.

Which, by the way, involves losing all of his newfound friends.

Later, he has this exchange with Nick Fury:

Tony: And I'm the man who killed the Avengers. I saw it. I didn't tell the team, how could I? I saw them all dead, Nick. I felt it. The whole world, too. It's because of me. I wasn't ready. I didn't do all I could. Fury: The Maximoff girl, she's working you, Stark. Playing on your fear. Tony: I wasn't tricked, I was shown. It wasn't a nightmare, it was my legacy. The end of the path I started us on. Fury: You've come up with some pretty impressive inventions, Tony. War isn't one of them. Tony: I watched my friends die. You'd think that'd be as bad as it gets, right? Nope. Wasn't the worst part. Fury: The worst part is that you didn't.

Tony's worst fear is to survive in a world he's failed to save. He has to "do all [he] could" or else the future he's terrified of will happen and it will be his fault.

(Not to put too fine a point on it, but there's a reason why Tony and Peter are so compatible as mentor and mentee.)

Tony's seen what's coming, and he's willing to do whatever it takes.

Here's the thing, though:

Tony doesn't actually want to die.

In AOU, when they're arguing about why he created Ultron, Tony says this to Cap:

"Isn't that the mission? Isn't that the 'why we fight'? So we get to go home?"

He tells Bruce that the reason they should create Ultron is to have "peace in our time."

He tells Pepper that his constant tinkering, his inability to ever, ever rest is because he needs to keep her safe from the oncoming threat.

Tony has a life he wants to protect, people he wants to keep safe. And, unlike the other Avengers, he knows exactly how impossible this will be to achieve.

Tony is the only Avenger who understands how severely outmatched they are. Maybe Thor understands the threat, but he has no ability to imagine losing.

Tony tries to get them to understand:

Tony: Recall that? A hostile alien army came charging through a hole in space. We're standing three hundred feet below it. We're the Avengers. We can bust arms dealers all the live long day, but, that up there? That's… that's the end game. How were you guys planning on beating that? Steve: Together. Tony: We'll lose. Steve: Then we'll do that together, too.

Well, they do lose. And they don't do it together.

And it turns out Tony was right about everything.

He was right that he would survive to face his world that he'd failed to save.

He was right that the Avengers would not be enough.

He was right that Bruce's powers would be worthwhile someday.

And, apparently,

some people think he was right that he was only alive for this reason.

Because, obviously, the only "reason" for someone like Tony Stark to be alive is to eventually sacrifice himself, right?

A character so traumatized can only find peace in death.

Right?

No.

Stop that.

Tony Stark may have been willing to risk his life for his family, but that doesn't mean he wanted that to be his end.

Remember when this happened?

Bruce: Saved it for what? Tony: I guess we'll find out. Bruce: You might not like that. Tony: You just might.

Bruce gets to live long enough to like his ending.

Remember when this happened?

All Tony ever wanted to do was make the world a better place.

And, what about this?

You're telling me that Yinsen didn't value family above all else?

That he thought Tony should die and leave them behind?

No.

Tony Stark is a futurist.

He is the Cassandra of the MCU. He warns the others constantly of the oncoming threat that only he, apparently, can see. (Even Thanos calls him "cursed with knowledge.")

No one believes him. Alone, he tries to prepare for the threat that he has witnessed. He sits with his nightmares and tries to find a way around them, constantly.

He builds a life worth living, finds people worth protecting, just like Yinsen told him to.

To protect the future, he does all he possibly can.

Tony deserved to be part of the future too.

[rarityroo]

Here now…

(Shōta Aizawa x GN!reader)

Hello again! I have another short Aizawa fic for you! This one has high school Aizawa, The reader is described as having a dangerous quirk and suffers from bullying and lots of self doubt so TW for that. I hope you like it, please give feedback and also send in requests!!! Enjoy! 🫶🏻

You've always felt outcasted from others because of your quirk, it wasn't your fault. Sadly that didn't matter to many, especially to your peers, ‘kids can be cruel’ they said, they always deflect the blame from the persecutors, and the persecutors always had an army of adults to defend them.

You felt so alone, every push and shove was always met with a ‘well maybe just try to be friends with them’ it killed you, you felt so heartbroken so outcasted, so different.

Then one day you met him...he had dark hair and eyes, and his entire aura was dark too, not in an evil menacing way but more like a calm rainy night way. It was nice although you couldn't push the creeping feeling of fear that he would join the others and make fun of you for being dangerous, but you weren't dangerous...you're 16.

You just got unlucky in the quirk department. As your mind wanders you don't even notice him coming towards you, "Pardon me." he says tapping your shoulder to get you out of your dazed state, "Huh?" you say dumbly snapping out of your trance "May I sit here?" He asks in a quiet tone, "O-oh! Yeah!! Yes! please do!" You say all too excited to have someone sit by you.

As he settled beside you, a sense of apprehension mingled with the newfound excitement of having someone to sit with. You stole a glance at him, noting the calm aura that seemed to emanate from him.

"Thank you," he murmured, his voice carrying a soothing quality that put you at ease.

"Um, no problem," you replied, a nervous flutter stirring in your chest. "I'm [Your Name], by the way."

He offered a small smile in return, the corners of his lips quirking up slightly. "I'm Aizawa Shōta," he introduced himself, his dark eyes holding a depth that drew you in. For a moment, silence hung between you, neither of you quite sure how to break it. But then, Shōta spoke up, his voice gentle and faint.

"I couldn't help but notice," he began, his gaze meeting yours with a steady intensity, "that you're sitting alone. Why is that?"

The familiar pang of unease settled in your stomach, but you forced yourself to meet his gaze head-on. "Yeah, my quirk," you admitted, a bitter edge creeping into your tone. "It's...not exactly something people are comfortable with, I mean I don't blame them I'd probably be that way too if someone's skin could intoxicate you with poison."

Shōtas expression softened, a hint of understanding flickering in his eyes. "I see," he murmured, his voice tinged with empathy. "My quirk isn't all that great either."

You blinked in surprise at his words, caught off guard by the confession. "Really?" you asked, a glimmer of hope igniting within you. Maybe you were alone. He nodded, his gaze unwavering. "Yeah," He says with a bitter chuckle, "I can cancel others quirks but I'm not too good at it also doesn't help that it's a pain to deal with."

His words resonated with you, stirring a newfound sense of kinship within your heart. Maybe, just maybe, you didn't have to hide who you were anymore, maybe you weren't alone. With a grateful smile, you turned to Shōta, a newfound sense of camaraderie forming between you. "Thank you," you whispered, the words carrying more weight than you could express.

Shōtas small smile widened, a silent promise of friendship growing between you both. As the two of you continued to talk, the weight of loneliness that had plagued you for so long began to lift, replaced by a sense of friendship that you hadn't felt in so long.

In that moment, you knew that no matter what may lay ahead, you wouldn't face them alone. You had Shōta now.

[tinydefector]

IRON GIANT 3

Optimus prime x Human

Word count: 1.5k

Warnings; none

1

11

___________

It's a few days later and the child is once again sitting on Optimus' leg, a book in hand as they read Outlook to him. But commotion outside the barn catches both of them. "Look I told you I don't know, I haven't seen anything out of the ordinary, and I don't want you all scary my kid” their voice calls out from outside.

"Oppy, what's wrong?" the little one asks, sensing as keenly as any could the subtle shift in Optimus' posture at the commotion beyond sheltering walls. Optimus rumbles soft apology, lowering his helm and raising a gentle servo to offer comfort. "Do not fret, little one. Just your Par talking with people, but i must show caution." He states in reassurance, he carefully lifts the sparkling from perch on massively folded legs to cradle nestled against plating.

Transformation is quick, the little one giggles and laughs as they move around the cab of the truck, tiny hands clasp his seat in curiosity as they begin looking around grabbing at random parts. He turns his mirrors inward to make sure they are safe.

It's only a few minutes later that the doors to the barn are thrown open. Soldiers look around. The older human looks almost relieved to see Optimus hidden. The little child opens the door of the truck excitedly calling out. "Par!, Par Truck Truck goes vroooooom!"

The Soldiers continue checking things. "Come on baby let's get you down." They call out, holding their arms up to their child, small giggles come from them as they climb down into their parents arms watching the soldiers walk around. “Par, Army men!” They continue excitedly while watching them in awe.

The soldiers exchange apprehensive glances as the child's enthusiastic call draws their attention. One of the mne steps forward cautiously tapping knuckles gently against chipped red paint of the truck. “nice Peterbilt, used to have one like this back before I joined the army, trusty vehicles” he calls out.

“Ye was my father's, now it's kinda become a hobby project to fix up.” They state, trying to come up with a story without calling Optimus a He while talking. “Hopefully one day I'll get it back on the road, might even take Squirt here on a road trip” They continue while pulling their kids cheek.

It makes the man laugh as he walks closer. “Eh sounds like the life. truck got a name?” He asked and they have to stop themself but a little voice called out. “Oppy Truck!, Oppy Truck!” They state loudly. It makes the soldiers laugh at little one.

It nearly makes their parents' blood run cold and Optimus has to hold himself from panic too. “good kid you got there, Look after ya Poppy's truck then” he rumbled with a chuckle before another speaks up.

"All clear in here, sir. Just a kid's toy, and farm equipment." The voice carries an unspoken question - whether to continue disturbing what appears a scene of mere peace. Glancing between guardian and child now reunited in the doorway, another soldier relaxes stance minutely. "No signs of disturbance. Let's move out, give the family their day." boots scuffing straw.

"What is going on?. what is the army looking for all the way out here?" They ask while boosting their little one further up their hip. The soldiers share an uneasy look before themselves.

"Apologies for the disruption. We've been tracking movement in the woods, believed to be associated with...weapons trafficking. Just performing routine sweeps of outskirts as a precaution. No disrespect or disturbance meant to you or yours." A younger soldier speaks up tentatively. "We spotted unusual tracks, Still, people on edge after..." Her gaze falls realising he was giving information he shouldn't have been. "Just want folks safe, is all. You've a right to peace; we'll be gone soon and trouble you no more." As the other men begin to load up its the older man from before who had chatted about the truck. “Keep and eye or ear out, if you see any military jets overhead its best you get out of here” it's a vague warning but a warning none the less about something bigger going on.

They pull their child closer as they watch the soldiers pile back into the truck, many giving nods and glaces towards them as they drive off. They watched as the military Jeep and trucks slowly trek off the property. "Baby where's Optimus?" They ask their child, hoping It would calm their nerves by asking the silly question.

"Oppy!" The tiny one squeaks, twisting round in guardian's arms to peer back at the dishevelled peterbilt. Tiny hands point eagerly. "There, Par! Oppys! A Truck!" The excitement in their child's voice isn't lost on them.

His engine rumbles gently in response. Another sigh of relief leaves them as they press the side of their head against his door. "Are you alright, God I'm so sorry I didn't expect them and was hoping I was loud enough to give you a chance to hide" they are quiet for a moment. "They are looking for something, they weren't willing to say but they asked if I've seen any strange aircraft's, i think they are looking for someone like you"

A gentle exhale escapes vents, it was what he had feared, that others were about, and all he could hope it wasn't Decepticons out this way.

"If they seek me, I shall remain unseen. But your family's shelter comes first." They slowly slide down the wall, eyes lingering Optimus alt mode. Their child perks up. "Par, par Oppy is a truck, he turns into a truck! Isn't that cool!" They exclaimed while pointing to Optimus. "I can see that baby, he's very smart isn't he" they chuckle with a tired and worried smile. Optimus can see the worry etched in their face. “I won't let anything have too either of you” he calls out trying to reassure them. "I'm just worried, gut feeling that something bad is going to happen." They state.

His engine rumbled softly. "Troubled times stir troubled sparks," he rumbles mainly to himself, even in alt mode his attention was now on the skys.

Later that day Optimus still lingers in the barn, he had decided it was safer to stay there for now, but he remained vigilant watching both the child and their parent who was currently up a ladder, working on nailing some boards back down. "Par!, Oppy look!" The child calls out. It's Optimus who moves slightly, helm peeking out of the barn to see what they had. "Oppy, Oppy, look what I found!" the young sparkling calls excitedly, scurrying over with tiny palms outstretched. Nestled in their hands lies a cluster of strange objects smooth stones of varied hues, along with bits of coloured glass and ceramic smoothed by time.

Wide little eyes peer up at Optimus's faceplate, silently begging his praise on the tiny treasures collected. A gap-toothed smile spreads brightly. "Aren't they pretty?"

"Indeed, You have a keen eye for treasures." He states with a soft smile. “it's safe to come out if you want, I haven't seen anyone around since they left I'm sure your in the clear Optimus” they call out around the nails hanging out of their mouth. Optimus lets out a deep rumble noise as he slowly moves out of the barn, joints and gears creaking and screeching as he moves to stand outside. He watched his pede making sure that the little one wasn't at risk of being stepped on.

They had taken to playing across the yard with toys which makes Optimus vent out a sigh of relief as he moves to watch the older work. The cracking sound is what catches Optimus’ attention when the ladder gives out underneath them.

He moves around a speed he hadn't moved in a long time at the startled cry, powerful engines surging him into swift catch as the ladder hits the ground. "Careful now, I have you," Optimus rumbles, vocals soothing yet concerned as he over looks them. Ventilations exhale relief once he found no injuries. Optics crease warmly down at the human now gazing up, wide-eyed but unharmed. “are you alright, seems i caught you just in time”

Their eyes go wide as embarrassment takes over them. As their jaw drops a little. they hold onto his shoulder plating looking at him in shock. "I mean best rescuer I've ever had, I'd have to say my favourite set of red and blue" they state boldly, not thinking before they spoke.

Optimus rumbles a chuckle, warm field pulsing flattered amusement despite hint of embarrassment surfacing in his own modulated field. "Ah, you flatter me." massive digit lifts carefully to brush again their chin in gently. Optics crinkling warmly, he pauses for a moment, savouring the small moment "perhaps you should stay away from highest, we wouldn't want another fall"

His begins to lower them gently back to ground. As they are placed back down on the ground their legs wobble slightly. Optimus heads back over to the barn where their child continues to call out and ask him to play. They stand there stunned.

They had a thing for him. He was sweet, kind and he adored their child. They had a thing for an alien robot which could transform into a semi truck.

_____________

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[galedekarios]

Hello! I hope you have a nice day. I just wanted to point out that during the tiefling party in act 1, Gale (I can't remember exactly what he said) but he says that his close circle is very VERY small and that he has a bunch of colleagues and acquaintances but not many friends. Then there's a dialogue option to tell him that you would be glad to be his friend.

Then in the epilogue he says that his friends at the yawning portal were left with quite an impression of Tav/PC. Friends! Either I'm reading his tone wrong, or reading into it too much, but it's as if Tav/the PC helped expand Gale's close circle (as the dialogue option before this mentioned that Tav/the PC made him 'put down his quill' and enjoy Waterdeep). I just think it's sweet.

this is such a great observation, anon! these are the conversation you are referring to:

gale at the tiefling party in act i:

Gale: [about Tara] I wish she were here for me to make a formal introduction, but I would never ask her to undertake such a journey. She is safer at home. Besides, she was always telling me I needed to spread my wings, so to speak. Find mortal friends, instead of hanging onto Mystra's coattails. So that's what I'm doing. I hope. Player: You don't have any friends? / Player: No one came to visit you during your confinement? Gale: Sadly not. If I'm being entirely honest, my social circle is rather small. More of a dot. Or a pinhead. I've got aquaintances, certainly. Plenty of colleagues. But friends? Those are precious indeed. I hope, though we've only known each other for a short time, I might be able to count you among that number?

and

Player: You must have been lonely, with only Tara for company... Gale: Sometimes. But I imposed it upon myself, after all. I set up enough wards to keep an army at bay, never mind the few colleagues who sought to inquire about my welfare. Gale: Tara did her best to keep my spirits up, of course, but there's only so much one tressym can make up for one's entire social circle. And she was often gone seeking items to treat my condition. Gale: You're the first person I've spent any significant time with in a year or more. Spending time in your company, I realise that I may have left behind the greater part of my wit, and sensitivity, in my tower. Player: I rather like the Gale stood in front of me. In fact, I'd like to see more of him...

compared to what he says in the epilogue:

Gale: Teaching at Blackstaff Academy has proven such an unexpected pleasure. Sometimes I find it hard to tear myself away. Just one of the myriad unexpected ways life has delighted me in recent months. Even my own city feels new to me, now that I share it with you. Player: Probably because I make you put down your quill once in a while and enjoy it. Gale: That you do. I've not had so much fun in Waterdeep since my own days as a wayward Blackstaff apprentice. You've certainly made quite the impression on my friends down at the Yawning Portal. The last I heard, they were thinking of naming a drink after you.

he really came into his own in this ending.

thank you so much for your message! 🖤

[vodika-vibes]

Maybe We'll Be Happy

Summary: You're a private in the Imperial Army - less than a private, really - and you're stationed on the same place as Crosshair. You start off as strangers, and then grow to more. But when you hear that the Clones are being decommissioned, you decide that something has to change.

Pairing: TBB Crosshair x F!reader

Word Count: 985

Warnings: The Imperial Army Sucks

Tagging: @trixie2023 @n0vqni @imabeautifulbutterfly

A/N: I started writing this on my phone, and it was supposed to be a short little thing, but it got longer, so I'm sorry.

When the Republic Fell and the Empire rose, you were a recent enlistee in the GAR. So low ranking that the only people who knew your name were the ones directly responsible for you.

And when the GAR became the Imperial Army, nothing changed. You still had to do drills and PT and attend lessons to learn your career. 

But the Imperial Army was nothing like the GAR. Promotions were no longer based on merit so much as how much ass kissing you were willing to do.

And so you, an honest person whose sense of honor would have worked well in the GAR, get passed over time and time and time again.

At this point, you're barely a private. If there was a rank lower than private then that's the one you would have. You're stuck with the most thankless jobs, and get minimal pay.

And you hate it. You hate the Imperial Army. You hate your commanding officers. You hate the Emperor.

On the other hand, your low rank and the fact that you're generally unimportant to the Imperial Army as a whole, means that no one notices when you slack off.

And it was while you were slacking off that you met Crosshair.

Tall and slender and with very pretty silver hair, you honestly didn't peg him for a clone until he turned to look at you. 

That first time you met, he didn't say anything to you. But he also didn't rat you out to your CO when he came looking for you, so you mentally slotted him in the “friend” pile in your brain and carried on.

After that day you saw him everytime you slacked off. Sometimes he would just look at you with a raised brow, and other times he would ignore you. And though you didn't know his name, you enjoyed his quiet.

Quiet meant that no one was scolding you for not doing your job…or not sucking up as some old guy who thinks he's important.

And then, one day, he started talking to you. It surprised you so much that you nearly fell over, but you eagerly latched on to the offer of friendship, though that's probably not what he intended at the time.

And, as time went on, and you learned more about him, the more you liked him. And you think he liked you just as much, after all he never pushed you away when you leaned against him or traced the plates of his armor.

And then, late one evening, when you were skipping your late night shift, he kissed you. It was hard and rough and needy…and it was exactly what you both needed.

That was three months ago, and the last three months have been a dream come true for you. Every day you get an hour or more just to be with Crosshair, and sure most of the time the chats devolve into heated make-out sessions, but you're totally fine with it. You even instigate it sometimes.

But as of now, you're concerned.

No, you're afraid. For Crosshair.

You've heard the rumors, about how Clones are being experimented on, or just killed, to make room for the Imperial Stormtroopers, and you're terrified.

You don't want Crosshair to die. Or disappear.

So here you are, late one evening, pacing in your normal hidey-hole, trying to come up with a way to convince Crosshair to run away with you.

So far you're not having any luck.

“Kitten? What's wrong?” You jump when you hear his voice coming from the otherside of the room, and while you try to smile reassuringly, your smile just drops.

Concern flickers across his face, “Did someone hurt you? I saw you were playing nice with Admiral whatshisface.” Crosshair continues as he walks over to you and sets his hands on your shoulders.

“I'm fine. I mean, he said some pretty nasty things to me about ways I could get promoted,” You make a face at the memory, “but he didn't touch me.”

Crosshair scowls, able to guess what kind of things the Admiral said to you, but he drops it, “So what's wrong?”

Nervously, you twist the hem of your dark gray uniform. “Cross-”

His grip tightens, “Talk to me, Kitten. What’s wrong?”

“They’re decommissioning all of the Clones.” You say quickly, and Crosshair falters, “And you-”

A muscle works in his jaw, “I suppose I knew this was going to happen eventually.” His grip is so tight that it’s almost painful, “So what’s this then, you saying goodbye?”

“No!” You yelp, “No. I…I was trying to think of a way to save you-” You admit.

His grip loosens slightly, and he gently rubs your shoulder as a silent apology, “Okay, so what have you come up with?”

“Uh…steal an escape pod and hope we don’t get shot out of the sky?”

“That’s a terrible idea, kitten.”

“I know, I know. I’m just…panicking a little.”

Crosshair pauses, “Wait, we?”

“Well, yes. I thought I’d go with you…unless you’d rather I didn’t?” You ask, your eyes wide.

“I’m not going to say no,” Crosshair replies, as he gently caresses your cheek, “It’s a hard life you’re signing up for, Kitten. We’ll be running for the rest of our lives.”

“If you’re trying to talk me out of it, it’s not going to work.” You say stubbornly.

He chuckles, and kisses you quickly, “You love me so much it makes you stupid.” There’s no heat in his words though, just soft affection.

“I know,”

Crosshair presses his forehead against yours, his dark gaze locked with yours, “I think I have an idea.” He murmurs, “Can you get to the hanger?”

You nod.

“Good.” He kisses you one more time, “Get to the hanger, and wait for me there.”

“Cross-”

“It’s going to be okay, Kitten. Nothing is going to happen.” And you can’t help but to believe him.

[jack-off-valentine]

Guilty Gear Design Revisions

Guilty Gear is a great series, with some great characters. However, the designs can be rather hit or miss; with some of the women taking the most hits. So I have decided to toss my hat into the ring and suggest some changes for the designs.

But first, rules.

There will be two types of revisions made here; Some I think would better fit their stories and characters, and some are just personal taste. I will label them as such.

Some characters will have both types of suggestions, some will only have one, and some won't be featured at all. This does not mean there are no changes that could be made, or even should be made, it just means I haven't given enough thought to them to come up with any.

I will be focusing entirely on characters who are currently in Strive as of today, October 2nd 2023.

With all that wrote, let's begin.

Baiken

For Improvements; My girl needs some beef on her bones. And I don't just mean a little bit of tone on the belly, I mean tree trunk limbs and shoulder so wide she has to turn around just to get through most doors. Scars too. Seeing her model having essentially a completely clear face will never not feel off to me. Rough skin, chapped lips, maybe some scarred titties if we're feeling particularly uncowardly. Also, some signs of aging would provide a nice flavour to the design, like gray hairs and wrinkles.

For Personal Taste; Some baggy army pants alongside the dyke boots Daisuke used in this image would look pretty nice.

Sin

For Improvement; Make him look like an acrobat, not a body builder. I know it's funny seeing this canonical five-year-old be swole beyond belief, but it just doesn't fit the character. He isn't swinging around a giant sword and overpowering his opponent with sheer brute force, he isn't Sol. Instead, he's flying around the battlefield with polejumps and cartwheels and backflips and frontflips, confusing then striking with a quick physical blow or some potent magic. He's an excited doing acrobatics, and he should look like it.

Ramlethal

For Improvement; First off, give her a new outfit. The Xrd tube top and short shorts, while nice for horniness, is terrible for her character. Strive kind of fixed this, but they didn't commit as much as they should have. I'm thinking an outfit like this by @matcchio.

Secondly, she must become more creature-esque. She was given a maw full of shark teeth and they didn't do anything with it. It doesn't even show up in Strive. Some thicker, curlier hair would also be appreciated.

For personal taste; Take all the muscle you took off Sin and give it to her. This would probably have to coincide with making her a bit more of a bruiser, gaining some health and losing some speed. I think it would be cool, though.

Johnny

For personal taste; make him not white, dear lord. He would be so much cooler if he weren't a Blue Eyes White Dragon.

Happy Chaos

For improvement; Use the X's he has on his body to give him top surgery scars connected to the heart symbol on his chest.

For Personal Taste; Put some goddamn shoes on. This is gonna be a big showing of my taste in character design, but I just am incapable of fully enjoying a character's looks if they've got the dogs out. I put this here because it at least supports his character, unlike Ram, so I can tolarate it, but I have a Happy Chaos Shoes mod for a reason. It may show weakness, but I'm fine with that.

Giovanna

For improvement; Make her eyes not blue. Why are they blue. At least on Nago you can argue it's a contrast to his red and black eyes when he's in hangry mode, but if you wanted an eye colour related to her powers you could just make them green.

In Conclusion

I may have acted like a bit of a hater near the end, but I do genuinely love this series; and, like with many things, my love makes me privy to all manner of less than great things in it. Anyway, if you've got any additions to this list, feel free to tell me all about it.

[bonny-kookoo]

Can we maybe get a tongue tied Drabble where mc joins one of the boys (or all of the boys) during a vlive? I can just imagine her being super shy and quiet at first, but after a while she gets more comfortable and even talks to army. Just imagine her getting super excited everytime someone comments on how cute/pretty she is 😭

Initially, Seokjin had just wanted to do a regular livestream. But then, Jungkook had randomly visited with you in tow- and so, now, today, the regular live turned into a special one.

"Everyone, it's JK and our puppy!" He offers into his phone still standing on the table, and at that, your tail stops wagging as you realize why his phone is there in the first place.

Jungkook can't help but laugh for a second at your sudden reaction. "You can sit on the side if you don't wanna be on camera." He softly tells you, taking your jacket from you as you slowly take it off, a bit uncomfortable now at the prospect of the fans watching.

It's all fine and dandy when you're with everyone. But today, it's clear that you were with Jungkook only, so it might fuel some not so nice comments. Every staff had warned you about that, after all; don't initiate skinship, don't look at them too much, don't talk to them or in general, just sit there and be pretty.

Maybe if you go that route here too, it might not be that bad?

You sit down in a corner just like Jungkook had offered you, but surprisingly, the chatting fans aren't at all happy about that. Comments flood the screen about where you've gone to, why you're not visible, if you're shy. "Ah, yes, she's a bit shy." Jin says gently, laughing when you look up at that, looking at him from behind his phone. "She usually sits on Jungkookies lap all day!" He jokes, making you absolutely horrified at the potential comments this could cause.

But Jin only laughs as he reads what's flowing in. "Someone said 'I would take that seat too if I could' yes! He's got some strong thighs!" He laughs, hitting the maknae's legs in a joking manner, making the singer shake his head as he hits back.

"Ah, she's not permanently living with me! She just stays over sometimes." Jungkook refers to some comments confused as to why you were with the youngest of the group in the first place. "We don't want her being alone so much, so she's with one of us most of the time." He explains.

"We should go fishing with Yoongi!" Seokjin tells you, and your tail starts to wag as you nod with excitement. "Ah, you're all so unfortunate you can't see her! She's so cute!" He laughs his signature laugh, making you blush, and the comments complain over the lack of you in the picture.

"Does she get into trouble if she's on live? Ah, no, we wouldn't let that happen." Jungkook denies a fan in the chat who's asked about the rules. "I didn't even know he was live, to be honest." He shrugs, looking at Seokjin who now leans back on the couch, holding out his hands.

"Come on now, I never get to have you close, it's unfair!" He complains, and you hesitate, looking between him and Jungkook constantly. "Army, she doesn't like me. I knew it. She only likes our Jungkookie, no one else." He shakes his head in fake disappointment, and at that you slowly get up from the floor to walk closer and pat the head he's got in his hands as he fake-cries.

Immediately, at the sight of you petting the oldest's head, the comments erupt into hearts and emojis. Sure, there's the occasional question as to why you can't just leave or why you have to be there in the first place, but surprisingly, most seem to be happy. "Ah, finally! Now come here!" He laughs, sitting you on one of his legs where you sit, watching the different emojis flood in.

Everything else is too fast to read- but it's not like you could read it any slower either.

"They're all saying how pretty you are." Jungkook picks up on your disappointment, pointing at the phone. "See? Hearts. So many hearts for you." He chuckles when your tail starts to wag, the prospect of being in front of a live audience not too scary any longer.

And though you stay quiet for the entire duration of the livestream, it definitely made your reputation skyrocket practically overnight- news outlets covering every significant moment of the live, while others post screenshots and short clips on multiple social media platforms. The agency itself doesn't like that at all-

Because once the public begins to love you too much, it'll be impossible to get rid of you again.

At least not in the way they had planned.

But for the band, it's absolute heaven on earth watching all the positive comments and reactions from people. After all, they already love you more than enough to want to keep you-

And with rebels like Seokjin who will do what he wants anyways, your place is basically set in stone already.

Because you're not just something for publicity anymore, or social therapy-

You're part of the pack.

[cherish--these--times]

Important information. SLEEPLESS IN SEATTLE. UPDATING AS I WATCH THE MOVIE ALONG BEAR WITH ME. The film they watched at the hotel is You've Got Mail, this is Sam and Rebecca's story. When they messaged each other not knowing who the other person was. Ted said Sleepless in Seattle was far superior. This is the one where airports play a significant part and it's about a man who lost his wife and has a son finding love again with the woman he never knew until the last second would be the one. He first sees her in an airport and is knocked sideways. By all accounts the last of Ted we will see will be in an airport based on previous seasons with first and last shot being a character’s face in the same location.

Also Rebecca mentioning she has a private jet and the thing with airports; SUSP AS HELL.

Keeley assumed the moment Rebecca spent with Dutch Guy was "Magic" This is also a quote from Sleepless in Seattle. Turns out it was Gezellig instead. But this is definitely where we're going. And that'll either be Dutch Guy or Ted. Both fit the man who lost their partner and have a kid formula. Definitely not Sam. But Ted tripped over the Red String of Fate, has the matchbook, loves Kenny Rogers, bakes the biscuits who are home to her, she carries his army man everywhere she goes. She hasn't been struck by lightning yet which to me means it's not Dutch Guy; Ted is leaving which means her world is about to be turned upside down. I keep the faith. i don't care.

AND there's a tear in Meg Ryan's wedding dress and she says oh no it's a sign to which her mum says "You don't believe in signs!" And Rebecca doesn't really believe in signs either! All the signs have been pointing to different people except the obvious one! They're there so she can see something about herself she completely missed.

FUCK MY LIFE. It's about making wishes!! Tom Hanks' son in the film wishes for his father to find a new wife!! His son is worried about his dad!!!

The psychiatrist on the radio is called Dr. Fieldstone FUUUUUUCK MEEEEE. IT WAS RIGHT THERE ALL ALONG.

Sam and Annie speak the same words at the same time in two different places, soulmatism right there!

Annie thought Sam sounded "Nice" on the radio and Ted is one of the "nicest" humans Rebecca has ever met!!

Quote from a guy : "This is fate, she's divorced and you need a new wife." (not talking about Annie here, it's another woman) "What is that thing when everything intersects?" To which Sam replies: "The Bermuda TRIANGLE."

One woman who writes to Sam after he was on the radio lives in OKLAHOMA!

Dr. Fieldstone tells Sam she can tell he is a good dad just like Beard told Ted!!

One woman says on the radio: "Why do you want to be with someone who doesn't love you?" (Michelle, anyone?)

"Sam, tell me what was so special about your wife?" "It was a million tiny little things then when you added them all up it just meant we were supposed to be together. I knew it the very first time I touched her it was like coming home, only to no home I had ever known!"

Annie asking a friend: "But when you met her (his wife), did you believe she was the only person for you? That in some mystical, cosmic way, it was fated?"

Sam's friend about relationships:

"Things are different, now. First, you have to be friends. You have to like each other."

Annie talks to her best friend about the concept of DESTINY.

Annie hires a private detective to run a background check on Sam!! Ted wanted Rebecca to do it with Dr. Jacob!

Wonderful addition by @doctorbeverlycrusher : Rebecca’s mom said a couple times that when she loves something, she loves it forever. The main song from Sleepless in Seattle, When I Fall in Love, starts with the lyric “When I fall in love, it will be forever”.

ANNIE MUNCHES ON SUNFLOWER SEEDS ON THE PLANE.

Sam's son to his dad: "Jessica says you and Annie never got together in that life, and your hearts are like puzzles with parts out of them and when you get together the puzzle's complete. The reason I know this and you don't is that I'm younger and purer so I'm more in touch with cosmic forces."

There's even a mention of Horticulture!

We spotted the word Rainbow in the pub game, the romcommunism episode was called Rainbow. Let me leave you with the quote from Ted again.

"Now, it may not work out how you think it will or how you hope it does, but believe me, it will all work out. Exactly as it's supposed to."

I might be setting myself up for disappointment but the writers are building every step up to the cliff egde, baby!

Thank you for coming to my Ted Lasso Talk

[artbyblastweave]

Thoughts on the Institute vis a vis with Big MT/'Big Empty' and its Think Tank (and the Vault system in general) and what these glimpses into science-factions imply for the setting's tendency towards near-supervillain mad scientists? Because I definitely remember you being the one to say "the Fallout Universe was maybe three twists of fate away from being a superhero setting" and I'm betting you've got Thoughts on this

I remember a few months ago I saw a lore video on a location in Fallout 3 I never visited where there's a mad doctor sewing bomb implants into the heads of ghouls and super mutants as part of a bid to build a slave army. It's a set-up that he's implemented with scavenged resources in one of the most aggressively ravaged and unlivable areas of the Fallout Universe shown in canon to date, and he's doing it totally independently of all the other mad scientists in the region who have actual named quests associated with them.

The point I'm working towards is that Fallout shares a quality with superhero comics in that they both treat mad science as something comparatively low-overhead and accessible, something that a reasonably intelligent person can make a decent go at while working out of a literal garage with second-hand parts and tools; in superhero settings this ease-of-access serves as a mill for villains of the month, and in Fallout specifically this generates a lot of characters who would read as supervillains if they were consistently being opposed by superheroes. But they aren't. Because what's actually happening is that superhero comics with DIY mad scientists as supervillains were a subset of the greater ecosystem of pulp works that have mad scientists as the antagonists- Superheroes are one of the kinds of people who pop up to oppose them, but not the only kind of person. Super Spys. Private Detectives. Plucky Teens. Academics. Really smart dogs. The list goes on.

And what this means for Fallout, right, is that the superhero would have to be the one to initiate the idiom here, so to speak- they'd have to operate in large enough numbers to recontextualize the behavior of the mad scientists as properly supervillianous. Because all those mad scientists- the think tank, the vaults, all the one-off freelance weirdos- those are tropey to us, right? To the audience. But in the context of how their universe works, what they're doing is a feasible path to power. Fallout Mad Scientists only rarely end up that way as a result of deliberately cultivating the aesthetic- you just end up as one by default, as a result of pursuing your goals the intuitive way, with the tools and technology available to you. By contrast, superheroism in Fallout is always the result of somebody Committing To The Bit. Both Mechanists, Manta Man, The Silver Shroud (at player discretion), The Mistress of Mystery, the would-be vigilante at Parson State- even at their most effective, none of these people got that way by following an intuitive, signposted path to power. They aren't living in the ruins of superheroism implemented at Scale. It's an aesthetic that they had to pursue deliberately, and as first-adopters they looked weird.

If you wanted to stretch the text like taffy, this almost says something- the world is laid out in such a way that the exaggerated, pulpy evil occurs thoughtlessly, stemming from institutional inertia and precedent, but an equally exaggerated, pulpy good takes work. Work and imagination, and a heartfelt belief that things can change. Fallout's narrative doesn't have terribly kind things to say about the superheroes in practice, so I doubt that's what it's going for. But it's a nice thought, right?

[giggly-squiggily]

I'm jumping from fandom to fandom this weekend like it's a game of hopscotch!

Anyway here's Wonderwall (Shin Soukoku)

@intheticklecloset >:3

CW: Foot tickles

Atsushi really should delete TikTok.

"You got a friend in me," He mouthed as he barrel rolled over to where Akutagawa sat, lost in his book. "You got a friend in me." He tucked his hand under his shirt, popping the lid of his sharpie off as quietly as possible- all while watching his boyfriend from the corner of his eye.

No reaction. Proceed as planned.

"When the road looks rough ahead," Atsushi army crawled closer, sharpie pointed as he reached out, gently grasping the other's ankle. "And you're miles and miles from your nice bed, you just remember what your old pal said."

He was wearing socks, but Atsushi didn't mind. If anything, it might spare him a painful death.

"Boy, you've got a friend in me." He let himself whisper the last few words as he pressed the sharpie into Akutagawa's foot. "Yeah you got a friend in me."

He managed to get one stroke.

"GAH!" The brunette spasmed, book flapping out of his hands and bookmark skittering across the table. "Weretiger, what the hell are you- AH!"

"Hold still!" Atsushi grunted, pulling Akutagawa's leg into an armlock as he scribbled in a massive "A" "It's gonna look all crooked!"

"What the hehehehell are you going on about- Stahhahap that!" Akutagawa tried to sound ferocious, but reluctant giggles bubbled up his lips, killing any staged anger he felt. He tried to pull his foot away, but the angle plus Atsushi's death grip on his leg made it near impossible. "I'll kihihihill you!"

"Uh-huh. Sure. You've said that how many times since we started dating?" Atsushi giggled, starting the "T" in his name. Yes the trend was supposed to say "Andy" but Akutagawa was his. He wasn't giving him to this Andy kid! "You're awfully giggly for someone so murderous right now- what's up?"

Akutagawa clamped his mouth shut, glaring as best he could into Atsushi's back. He was gonna kill him- oh he was gonna skin that damn tiger alive-

"Wereti-Eehehehehehhehahahaha!" So much for murdering him. Atsushi was currently scratching the marker repeatedly along his foot for the "S", the sock proving to be quite the challenge. "Cuuhuuhuhuht thahahhat ohoohohohohut! Gehahahhahaha stahahhahap!"

"Oo, are you ticklish?" Atsushi grinned, something devilishly knowing in that smile. "Toys don't laugh, Ryu~"

Akutagawa once again tried to clamp his mouth shut, but the constant scratching of that damn sharpie. "Rahahhahashoohohohmon!"

Nothing came.

"Didn't you leave your coat on the couch?" Atsushi reminded. Son of a-

"Ahehahahhahaha! Dehhehehehvil! Yohoohohohu dahahahahmn dehehehehvil!" Any efforts to grab the weretiger and yank him off failed immediately; each swish and scratch of his sharpie sent a new wave of ticklishness up his leg, spreading through his nervous system like a fever. He never felt so defenseless in his life! "Ahhahahhare you ahahahhamost dohoohohohne?"

"Nope! Halfway there!"

"Fohohohohoor gohoohohohd's sahhahake! It's sehehehehven leheheheht-EHEHEHEH!" The sharpie found a particularly bad spot along the base of his toes, earning an embarrassing squeak noise. "CHAHAHAN'T YOU SPEHEHEHELL?"

"Oi! Keep that up and I'll write my last name on your other foot! And that's-" Atsushi paused briefly, counting off his fingers. "...8 letters!"

"Yohoohohu had to coohount?"

"...." Atsushi shot him a side eye before wiggling a singer finger against the bad spot. Akutagawa squawked, nearly hitting his head on the coffee table.

"IHIHIHIM SOHOHOOHRRY! IHIHIHM SAHAHHAHARY STAHHAHAHP!" He pleaded, cheeks dusting a pretty shade of red and tears dotting his eyes. "AHAHAHTSUSHI!"

"Heh, okay okay." The weretiger released him, dropping his foot and recapping his marker with a proud nod. "Now everyone will know you're mine!"

"Ehehe..hehehe...ahahahs if thehehy doohohon't already..." Akutagawa sat up some, eyeing the shaky handwritten "Atsushi" along his socked foot. "You could have just asked."

Atsushi raised an eyebrow. Akutagawa flushed, wide eyed.

"The sock! For the sock! You could have asked for the sock- not the ti- the torture!" He quickened his reply, sinking back further with a glare as Atsushi started to grin once more. "It probably would have came out cleaner that way."

"Eh. This was more fun." Atsushi smiled, then suddenly looked towards the front door, eyes widening. "Oh my god."

"What is it?" Akutagawa followed his gaze, finding nothing.

"Andy's coming!" The weretiger exclaimed before tossing himself onto Akutagawa, knocking them both into the ground and going limp.

"W-Weretiger!" The brunette griped, halfheartedly shoving him off as he realized it was yet another joke. "Get off!"

No response came, only a muffled fit of giggles from the other. Akutagawa rolled his eyes as he flicked his boyfriend's messy bangs, getting comfortable. "You're lucky I'm...fond of you, weretiger. Even when you decide to replicate that clock app thing."

"Love you too, Ryu." Came a muffed reply, softening the other completely.

Thanks for reading!

[beansnsoup]

Hi do you think you can do a movie dk x reader where his family tries to set us up with a date?

I gotchu

☆

Good Arrangement

Summary: You're and Donkey Kongs kingdom are allies, and to keep it going, your parents have set you both up on a date to keep the alliance strong.

Relationship: Platonic, forced romance?

Warnings: Arranged relationship, gn reader

"Hun, you're going out this weekend."

"Mom, I don't think the parent is the one that is supposed to tell the child to go out."

She sighs, "No, I mean you're going out with Cranky Kongs son, Donkey Kong, this alliance we have needs to stick."

"Mom, you've got to be kidding."

"I'm not, now please clean your room, it's a mess."

You sigh as she shuts the door behind her. You skim around your room, deciding to just pick up the dirty clothes you have scattered around your room.

You were going to hate this weekend, not that you hated the Kongs, but you didn't want your parents to be using you for their alliance. They just wanted a stronger army.

And to be even more whiney you didn't know what you were going to wear. You were told nothing, it's not like it needed to work out anyways.

The two of you were going to have to be together at some point in your lives. It's not like you hated him, he was a nice guy, he was just very into people loving him and ate up every bit of attention he received.

-

You sat Infront of your mirror, messing around with your hair and fixing the collar of your shirt.

"Hun, are you ready yet? We need to get going."

You sigh, "Yes, mom." You call from your room.

You join your parents in the car, staring out the window. You honestly didn't know how to feel about all of this, you weren't really looking for a relationship. You and your parents were on your way to the Kongs kingdom, you were guessing that they all wanted to talk before you and Donkey Kong were sent away.

Once pulled up to the kingdom you were all drove in by guards. This is too much, why are they going all these lengths for the alliance, why not just have you guys hang out for a while, kind of like childhood friends or something.

"Welcome!" Kranky Kong yelled, greeting all of you, his son sulking beside you.

DK took a glance up for a second and got a glimpse of you, once he did, he picked up he posture and stopped acting like a child.

You noticed this, maybe this wouldn't be so bad, you already had him wrapped around your finger from the looks of it. You smirked, sending a small wave his way.

-

You both walk down a small path along the water near his kingdom,

"So, what's it like? Living here I mean." You ask, trying to start up a conversation.

"It's not terrible," He scoffs, "I'm pretty adored."

You can tell he's trying really hard to act big and bad and it's not really working, you raise your eyebrows and smile in response, looking away from him and towards the water.

He notices you losing interest, "But it's not like a care that much! They only like me so much because of things that my dad makes me do!" He's trying to cover himself up now.

You sensed a tiny bit of fatherly issues on him, you bring your gaze back to him.

"Do you like doing those things?"

DK shrugs, "It's whatever."

"When we rule, we can do whatever you want." You reassure him, he looks over at you, raising his eyebrows with a glow in his eyes.

You smiled at him. He wasn't that bad.

I'm sorry that this is bad!!

[rpstartersinc]

* 𝐂𝐀𝐋𝐋 𝐎𝐅 𝐃𝐔𝐓𝐘: 𝐌𝐎𝐃𝐄𝐑𝐍 𝐖𝐀𝐑𝐅𝐀𝐑𝐄 𝐈𝐈𝐈.

feel free to change pronouns / wording! spoiler warning.

" patrol boat, 2 o'clock, get under. "

" keep it quiet. "

" your plan was perfect. "

" plans depend on execution. "

" simple is best... until it's not. "

" power is held by those who seize it. "

" if it was a problem, you should have dealt with it! "

" there are no debts here... only loyalty. "

" i've done everything you've asked. "

" they're hunting for ya, stay low. "

" peace through strength. "

" knife's not gonna be enough. "

" i like your style. "

" you did what needed to be done. "

" you wasted precious time. "

" timing is everything. "

" everyone should own their mistakes. "

" a lie flies, while the truth... it only crawls. "

" if you control what people believe, you control the world. "

" you beat the gas but you still need some time to recover. "

" was worried your face was gonna melt off like those other poor bastards. "

" you ask me, it'd be an improvement. "

" how you getting in there alive? "

" head on a swivel, old man. "

" my weapons are my business. "

" these are very dangerous men. "

" we are all dangerous. "

" i never want to lie to you, but i can't tell you everything. "

" i hope you'll trust me. "

" silent and violent. "

" they know we're here. "

" there has to be a way to disarm it. "

" could go upside down quickly. "

" i specialise in upside down. "

" keep a low profile. "

" hard to walk onto an enemy base without a gun ready. "

" he took one for the team. "

" i'm impressed but... not surprised. "

" i'm giving you everything we know. "

" the opponent of my opponent is my ally. "

" people are dying down there. "

" how do we know we're safe? "

" you have a beautiful family. "

" family is everything. "

" no, no, no, please, there are more - "

" you exceeded my expectations today. "

" somebody beat us here. "

" there's at least twenty guns holding that area. "

" what do you need from me? "

" if only we could kill them all twice... "

" try not to get caught this time. "

" i should've killed him when we had the chance. "

" how did you get in here? "

" who are you with? "

" you going to kill me? "

" that's more... your strategy. "

" you're not safe anywhere. "

" i don't believe in luck. "

" bad luck is just poor planning. "

" every man is replaceable, even me. "

" no one is innocent. "

" war is treachery. "

" i asked you a question. "

" let me finish him! "

" i thought you were the good guys. "

" i've been looking for you. "

" we're not looking for money. "

" without an army, you got nothing. "

" that is not nice. "

" i got a name and a location. "

" i know all about lies. "

" not much for the beach? "

" prefer the snow. "

" no one gets in or out. "

" good to have a laugh while we can. "

" he fell... on a knife... nine times. "

" money can't buy happiness... "

" i wouldn't mind being sad on that boat. "

" special forces, show your hands! "

" i don't have a boss, no one tells me what to do. "

" no one tells me what to do. "

" or else you'll cut it off? "

" not my style. "

" why the mask? "

" wealth opens doors. "

" you're not very good at this. "

" let's make this personal. "

" last call, or he takes over. "

" i'm as good as dead without my money. "

" pleasure doing business with you. "

" that relationship is strictly transactional, i can assure you. "

" i want everyone to know that we won't be stopped by anyone. "

" you're a buzz-kill. "

" if he's still alive, he's still dangerous. "

" is there a single shit show that you are not a part of? "

" they're hunting us. "

" one wrong move, and i'll put a hole through you. "

" i'm freezing my ass off here. "

" got half a mind to let them find you. "

" your intel better be good. "

" my intel's always good. "

" you're a long way from home. "

" stay sharp, and try not to slow us down. "

" i have always had your back. "

" wasn't in the mood for visitors. "

" not an ambush if we hit them first. "

" no one else had the balls to do what i did for you. "

" keep the prisoner focused on their own self-preservation and eventually they will break. "

" good to see you remember your training. "

" i don't forget anything. "

" you can run, but you'll just die tired. "

" three things you cannot outrun in the world, folks - death, taxes, and me. "

" don't let him live inside your head. "

" every man for himself. "

" we gonna let this stand? "

" best way to end a war is to win it. "

" no prisoners. "

" got a light? "

" she's tying her shoe, likely checking if she's being followed. "

" they don't see us. "

" never bury your enemies alive. "

" he was the best of us. "

" who dares wins. "

" you're better than this. "

" this job is about making sacrifices for the greater good. "

" you got a body-count of your own. "

" i am not gonna beg for my life. "

[elvisabutler]

#15 Fluff prompt with army! Elvis where you know he’s been seeing other girls and you just met him but he actually really adores you/makes time for you. Kinda took inspiration from the Anita phone call where he’s nagging her about calling, this is different, he wants her to visit and call.

called ya, didn't i?

fandom: elvis presley | elvis ( 2022 ) rating: t for some implications but again pretty tame pairing: elvis presley x female plus sized reader word count: 1249 warnings: mentions of elvis and his ladies' man ways. mentions of the reader deciding men are trash. minor insecurity on the reader's part, nothing too woe is me, more practical than anything else. reader is of age ( i mention her daddy so it needs to be said. ). author’s note: thank you for this anon! this was adorable and after the- smut army elvis prompt i got i discovered he's actually quite fun to write. hope you enjoy this! this is done for my 1k gala, based on fluff line “just call me whenever you like.” y'all know the drill, real elvis or austin elvis works fine for this despite the moodboard.

If there's one thing, and one thing only that your parents have taught you, it's not to be stupid around boys. It's to know that most boys are stupid and don't have your best interests at heart, instead they have their own interests at heart and are slaves to their own desires. Army boys- be it the ones you've grown up with on bases in various places or the ones who've been shipped off to fight in wars or to just be a peacekeeping force- are ten times worse. Something about the fact that they know they can be shipped away at any time makes them practically caustic with other people's feelings and hearts. No, you know better than to fall for an army boy.

Or at least, perhaps you you did. You thought you knew better and then Elvis Presley came strolling into your life and you- oh, you feel that God has to be mocking you. He has to be mocking you because there's no way Elvis Presley would show interest in you. You're confident enough in your figure, it errs a little too much in the rotund direction for some but you like it just fine. Figure that whoever you want to be with would do the same, tell you how much they enjoy the plushness of your stomach and of your various parts. You know the type Elvis goes for, however, and you- oh you- are most definitely not it.

Yet, here was Elvis sending you letters and finding out your phone number from other people because you're so charming every time he talks to you. He never gets to talk for long, someone always pulling him every which way but it's fine, you think. It's fine because he's got all those other girls, the nice refined girls who look good in the papers and even the ones that just look good, even if no one but you and half the base know about them. No, it's better this way, better that you don't call him and you just leave him be to the other girls. Leave him to charm them like he kind of charmed you.

Except Elvis keeps making time for you. He keeps pushing aside whatever girl he has on his arm at any given function to come and say hello to you. It's not unwelcome but it's strange, it's strange to see Elvis Presley making time for you. It's even stranger still that one night he asks you on a date. A date your mind tells you that you should accept, you shouldn't accept because he's going to inevitably toss you aside like you just watched him toss the other girls aside. It's a date you do accept though, one that's filled with dancing a little silly till the slow songs start and he's twirling you as if it's the most natural thing in the world. It's a date filled with so much joy you almost forget it has to end until Elvis is on your doorstep placing a chaste kiss to your cheek.

"Gonna let me take ya out tomorrow night?" He murmurs, his hands against you cheeks, his thumbs rubbing them slightly. "Please, darlin'."

You agree and your life becomes a whirlwind of dates and phone calls and Elvis getting sent to Paris where you know he's got another girl so you don't call. You don't call for over a week until Elvis calls first. Your instinct is to remain sweet and charming because even if he's got another girl probably in the next room over but you can't help the way you pout just a little.

"Why are you calling me? Don't you have a pretty French girl to kiss and spend your time with?" The hurt seeps into your tone despite everything. You knew better and yet- yet you thought maybe this was different. "I didn't call you for a reason, 'Vis."

There's a silence on the other end of the phone call before you hear a muffled curse before he groans. "Baby, I ain't got any French gal. I got you, but no French gal looking to be mine." He pauses. "Ya really think I ain't- Baby I'm mad as hell ya ain't here wit' me. Why would I- That's why ya haven't been callin' me? Ya think I got someone else?"

It's your turn to be quiet on your end of the line as you listen to his breathing and hear a slight huff of a laugh leave him before you answer. "Well what am I supposed to think? I know how you are and how girls are and how I'm cute and pretty but not your-"

He cuts you off. "Not what I go for? Darlin'- now I want ya t'listen. I jus' call me whenever ya like. I wanna hear ya voice, wanna hear 'bout ya day. Wanna get to know ya real well. Thought I made that pretty clear 'fore we went to Paris but I'm guessin' I didn't now."

"Oh Elvis." Those are the only two words that cross your mind at the admission and you're struck by a faint rush of embarrasment that you had read the situation so wrong, that you had allowed your judgment to be a little clouded when it came to him just because he was Elvis and just because he was a boy in the Army. It makes your heart twist a little before you finally gain up the courage to speak again. "You really mean it? You aren't teasing, are you? I know you do that too and I don't think I could handle you doing that to me. It'd be real mean."

"Baby. My mama'd- God rest her soul- she'd ask God to smite me if I lied about this. No lyin' I want to get to know ya better 'fore my tour's over. 'Fore they send me back home. If I get to know ya and we like- we enjoy each other more, ya can come home wit' me. Already want ya to visit me more often. Wanna see ya. Hear ya."

A laugh leaves you, a soft little thing that Elvis thinks is something a little bird might sing before you speak. "I- Okay. Alright. I'll- I'll call tomorrow night, how about that? Because I got to sleep, Elvis. And we'll talk and I'll see if my daddy can help me see you."

You can hear the relief and the smile in Elvis's voice when he answers you. "You better. And- I know you're a good girl, I do, but I wanna kiss ya on the lips sometime soon. Can we-"

"Maybe. Play- Play your cards right, Elvis. I'm not so easily swayed you know." You answer is a little cheeky and earns a loud bellowing laugh from him in response.

"Best answer I'll get from ya. Alright." He pauses and hears someone yelling for him before he curses yet again. "Listen. You 'member. Tomorrow night. Gonna be right by the phone waitin' for ya."

He has to hang up before he gets confirmation from you. But the phone call he gets the next night and the night after that and the one after that might just be enough of one. Enough of one to take you on another date when he sees you and one that ends with a proper kiss. And perhaps it's just maybe enough of a confirmation to talk about taking you back to Memphis with him.

[h0ney-fiction]

Nashville

masterlist

Synopsis: Adam Page and Swerve Strickland go to a bar in Nashville...

Word Count: 2,359.

A/N: do we like this 1st POV or back to 3rd?

Ratings/Warnings: M. Alcohol Use. Explicit Sexual Themes.

It was a hot night in Nashville as I sat at a bar and grill waiting for my best friend, Liz, to meet me for dinner. It was our ritual to meet after work to commiserate another grueling week. 

As I waited for Liz, my eyes passively scanned the bar filling up around me. Most people were pooling in to pregame for a night out. It was summer so there were quite a few people in shorts and t-shirts. This was my favorite season to people-watch. You could tell if someone was a tourist by their clothes or lack of them. My eyes wander out to a pair of men at the end of the bar. One donning a dark purple shirt, dark jeans, and cowboy boots. His light brown hair looked almost gold in the lights of the bar. The other was wearing a black t-shirt and jeans. His hair was loc'd and when he smiled, I couldn't help but notice a grill in his mouth. Both of them were very handsome.

The man in the purple shirt laughed at something his friend said. He threw his head back. My eyes traveled down his body. He was fit, I could tell. His biceps flexed as he raised a drink to his lips. My eyes couldn't help but trail over to his friend and notice how muscular his physique was as well.

The vibration of my phone brought my attention back. I was texting my friend.

'I'm so sorry but I got stuck with another shift!'

'It's okay.' I replied.

'Can you take a raincheck?'

'Yeah. Sure.' I replied.

I wasn't upset that Liz bailed; as we do this every week. I began to put my phone in my purse and get ready to walk away when the man in the black shirt took the empty seat next to me.

"What's a beautiful woman like yourself doing all alone?" The man said, his voice deep and rich.

"I was waiting for my friend," I replied.

"I'm Stephon, but my friends call me Swerve." He said, extending his hand.

"I'm Ciera."

"Ciera, huh? That's a pretty name. It's nice to meet you, Ciera."

I took his hand and shook it. I tried to ignore how soft his skin was.

"Well, my friend can't make it. So, I guess I'll be heading home."

"That's a shame, my friend and I were wondering if you wanted to join us for a drink."

He nodded towards his friend in the purple shirt who had been watching us the whole time. He smiled from across the bar and raised his beer.

"Oh, well. I don't want to interrupt." I replied.

"You won't be. We've been waiting for someone just like you to join us."

"Oh? And why is that?"

"Well, a beautiful woman like yourself deserves some attention."

I smiled, "So, you've already told me."

He chuckled, "My friend and I are from out of town."

"That explains the purple shirt. Are you here for business or pleasure?"

"Business. We just finished a show."

"What kind of show?"

"We're professional wrestlers."

"You don't say," I said, trying not to sound surprised.

"Don't believe me, huh?" He said, his hand going to his chest, feigning pain.

"No. I didn't say that."

"Your face says it all."

I blushed, "I'm sorry."

He waved me off, "It's cool. It sounds crazy, but it's the truth."

Swerve then proceeded to take out his phone and show a clip of him and his friend's match. 

"Woah."

"Now you see, I wasn't lying." He said with a wink.

"Yeah, you're right. Sorry about that."

"You can make it up by having a drink with us."

The man grinned mischievously. I knew I shouldn't have, but I couldn't resist.

"I guess, but just one drink."

"Great!" He said, waving for his friend to come over. 

His friend smiled from across the bar and took the seat on the other side of me.

"Ciera, this is my friend, Adam."

"Nice to meet you," I said, smiling and shaking his hand.

"It's nice to meet you, too." He replied.

"Well, what are you drinking, sweetheart?"

***

Three drinks later, we learned everything about each other. I learned how Swerve grew up an army brat and how Adam was a high school teacher in a past life. My life seemed pale in comparison as I told them I grew up in the middle of nowhere Florida before moving to Nashville as an assistant for a music executive. They were the total package. Adam was smart, funny, and easy to talk to while Swerve was the life of the party and knew exactly how to keep a girl smiling.

I could barely contain my laughter as they were regaling me with stories of their exploits.

"It was crazy. The entire crowd was throwing bottles at us." Swerve explained.

"Oh my god. How do you guys do it?"

"We love it," Adam responded. Swerve agreed.

"I think we've found our new best friend," Swerve said, raising his glass.

"Best friend?"

"Of course. We can't let you get away that easily."

"We have to leave for another show tomorrow, but we'd love to see you again," Adam added.

"We've had such a great time, Ciera," Swerve said.

"Me too. I've enjoyed getting to know you both."

"We could get to know each other better. Our hotel isn't too far from here." Swerve said, his hand brushing against my thigh.

Goosebumps rose across my skin at the feel of his fingers. The touch was light, barely there.

"I don't know about that."

"Come on. Let us take care of you. Show you a real good time." Adam said, the southern twang in his voice thick from the alcohol.

My eyes went to his. They were filled with heat and desire.

"I've never done something like this before."

"That's even better."

Swerve's fingers continued to brush against my skin. He inched closer and closer until his entire palm rested on my thigh. Adam leaned against me from my other side, his breath against my neck giving me chills down my spine.

"Let's go." Swerve whispered.

"I'm not that easy." I breathed out, the scent of alcohol strong on my breath.

"No. Of course not." Adam said.

"No expectations, just a nightcap." Swerve added.

I glanced between the pair. When was a situation like this ever going to happen to me again?

"Okay. Just a nightcap."

"Atta girl." They said in unison.

Adam stood first, helping me out of the barstool. I stood between the two. Both of them towered over me. Swerve placed his hand on the small of my back. His large, strong hands rubbed my skin.

We walked outside. The heat of the air surrounded me. I looked up to see the stars above. Adam ordered an Uber and less than 15 minutes later we were in his hotel suite. He opened the fridge and pulled out a bottle of expensive whiskey. 

"I'm not an alcoholic, I promise. I'm just very picky about my whiskey." Adam said.

Swerve seated me on the couch, his eyes watching me intently.

"Do you have a mixer?" I scrunched my nose.

"You can't drink whiskey straight?" Adam teased.

"I don't know."

"Just give it a try." Swerve encouraged.

"Fine."

Adam handed me the drink and I took a sip. The brown liquor was smooth as it went down my throat.

"See? Not that bad, is it?"

"Not at all."

Adam took the seat to my right as Swerve took the seat to my left, sandwiching me. Adam poured himself and Swerve a drink. We talked about country music as we sipped. Swerve's hand was back on my thigh, rubbing my exposed skin, brushing against the hem of my shorts.

Adam's hand trailed down my arm. The goosebumps came back. I took another sip of the whiskey and set it down.

"You have beautiful skin," Adam complimented as he tucked my hair behind my ear. It was such a contrast from his tanned hands.

Swerve leaned over and whispered, "And you have beautiful lips."

"Thank you," I whispered as the pair's hands roamed my body.

Swerve's fingers played at the waistband of my shorts. He tugged them down slightly. Adam got up to dim the lights before coming back to kiss the side of my neck. I gasped at the feeling of his beard and the heat from his mouth.

"Relax, let us take care of you." Swerve whispered into my ear.

I tried to, but I was in disbelief at the situation. This is not what I expected when I woke up this morning.

"You're so tense, darlin'," Adam added.

"I can't help it. I can't believe this is happening."

Swerve chuckled, "Well, we can stop if you want."

I glanced down and noticed the bulge forming in his jeans. I turned my head to Adam whose erection was also peeking from his jeans.

I could feel myself growing wet at the sight. 

I decided I wasn't going to block myself from this experience.

"No."

"No?"

"No, I don't want to stop."

Swerve grinned, "That's what we like to hear."

They wasted no time getting me out of my clothes. Adam kissed my neck and fondled my breast as Swerve took his shirt off, revealing his sculpted abs. He placed my legs on the couch before spreading them. He rubbed and kissed my thighs. His lips felt soft against my skin. I moaned as I closed my eyes, feeling Adam's lips on me. Swerve spread my pussy and began to lick and suck. I grabbed the back of his head and grabbed onto his locs.

"Mmm, you taste delicious," Swerve said.

"I've thought about this since we saw you at the bar," Adam said.

Swerve licked my clit slowly, taking his time. I arched my back off the couch as the sensations began to build. Adam kissed the back of my neck, jaw, and then lips as he pinched and played with my nipples. Swerve continued his tongue work around my sensitive pussy, lapping me up.

I moaned against Adam's mouth. My fingers tangled in his hair. His kisses were soft and sensual. I felt like I was going to melt.

"Fuck," I breathed as Swerve sucked on my clit.

"Does it feel good?" Adam asked.

"Yes." I hissed.

Swerve licked and sucked harder. The tension built inside me. I felt my pussy get wetter.

Before I got to the edge, Swerve pulled away from me. The nectar from my honey was on his beard. Adam's hands went down my body and rubbed my clit in replacement to Swerve's tongue. He inserted a finger into my tight hole and thrust slowly.

"Fuck." I moaned, throwing my head back.

Swerve undressed and began to stroke his dick. His cock was long and girthy with a slight curve.

"Do you think she's ready?" Swerve inquired, grabbing a pack of condoms from Adam's suitcase.

"I'd say she is."

Swerve and Adam smirked. Adam removed his hand and carried me to the bed. He laid me down as Swerve came to his side. Adam spread my legs and gave me a taste, holding onto my hips. 

Swerve stroked his dick and licked his lips watching me moan at Adam's touch. He rolled on a condom before trading places with Adam, entering inside me. I let out a deep moan as he stretched me out, the pain quickly turning into a deep pleasure. He rocked into me slowly.

Adam watched his friend fuck me, taking his clothes off. Adam crawled onto the bed as Swerve turned me over and positioned me into doggy style. Adam took the opportunity to get on his knees and put his cock in my mouth.

"Damn, baby." He moaned as I bobbed and gagged. He was just as big and girthy as Swerve.

I looked up and saw Adam's abs and v-line. His chest and shoulders were toned and muscular. Swerve continued to pound into me. His large hands grabbed my ass.

After a while, the men changed positions. Now Adam was fucking me as Swerve took the opportunity to kiss and play with me. 

I moaned loudly, my nails digging into the sheets as Adam thrust faster.

"Fuck. You're so wet." Adam said, his southern twang even more pronounced as he fucked me.

He slapped my ass, causing me to moan loudly in response. Swerve watched as his friend fucked me. He played with his dick, stroking and rubbing the precum.

"Come here, baby." He said.

He guided my head to his cock and inserted himself in my mouth. I could taste his precum as he fucked my mouth. He growled, pushing himself into the back of my throat.

I gagged as he pulled out, a string of spit following him. They took turns fucking my holes, switching places.

Adam bent me over, pushing my face into the mattress. He lifted my hips, pounding into my pussy. Swerve came behind him and inserted himself in my ass.

"Fuck!" I yelped, my body conforming to him.

"Oh, yeah, baby. Fuck, you're so tight." Swerve growled.

Adam held me up as the men fucked me. Their grunts and growls filled the air.

"Shit. Fuck, baby. You feel so good." Adam grunted.

My lower stomach grew warm and tight as my orgasm gushed out from me. 

"Fuckkk," I heard Swerve hiss as his orgasm took over. Adam lost it instantly afterward.

"Shit."

Adam lay on the bed next to me. His chest heaved and glistened with sweat. Swerve pulled out of me and took the condom off, throwing it in the trash. I was in between us, the three of us panting. Swerve rolled over to face me then grabbed my face and kissed me, his tongue exploring my mouth. Adam caressed my back, kissing my neck as Swerve kissed me. When Swerve pulled away, Adam rolled me around and kissed me tenderly.

"What do you say, do you think we'll be seeing you again?" Swerve asked.

"Definitely," I said, catching my breath.

"Good."

They took turns kissing and caressing me until we fell asleep.