#not sure about anacondrai

[crying-over-cartoons]

seriously considering making a ninjago AU comprised entirely of speculative biology about serpentine because their whole everything is pretty inconsistent but I really like snakes so I wanna fix it up a bit

[illusion-of-sea-axes]

rewatched the Tournament of Elements and had the thought of what if Kai got a Mark of Anacondrai to ‘prove’ his loyalty to Chen?

[razzle-zazzle]

would the yin yang pendant have like… chen’s face on it or something? Like Cole’s getting into the restaurants for free, it’s gotta have Chen’s specific mark of approval which, Chen being Chen, probably means it’s either a snake (which would freak out Cole/reveal his special tattoo thingy to people) or Chen’s own face.

-stepdad anon

CHEN'S FACE SDFJDGFLKHGJHJ, HE WOULDDDDD

The pendant's definitely got snakes on it, 100%. But I'm also thinking,,, it's not the original pendant? Like it got remade sometime during Cole and Skylor's teen years, likely sometime after the monastery burnt down and the bounty got destroyed. The new pendant (plus copies of all the letters Skylor sent that got destroyed with the monastery and Bounty, bc ofc Chen's a lil petty like that) gets sent to Cole as a "hey so I heard you lost your home, here's a new pendant and all those letters you lost because I know how important all of this is to you, also the new pendant can be used to get Chen's Noodles at a 90% discount, aren't I suchhhhh a wonderful father in law???" kind of thing.

And the new pendant has a little chip or magnetic strip in it marking it as authentic to the card scanners at Chen's. Or there's something else unique about the design to prove that yes, this is Chen's future son-in-law paying for this meal.

But you are right on the money about the snakes! Chen's face though.... oh my god it would be sooo ugly but so in character for him. Maybe it's like a little thing on the back as the visual proof that the pendant is authentic.

[lynkolnevans]

Ninjago headcanon that the Anacondrai creed, "Only one can remain" was originally about uniting the Serpentine and that by helping each other, there would be peace. If the Serpentine weren't divided into warring tribes, "only one [would] remain" and there would be no strife between them, as the Serpentine would be a single group.

I feel like, whether through mistranslation, time, deliberate sabotage, or a combination thereof, the original creed got garbled into this whole "kill each other until only the best is left". I mean the Anacondrai were regarded as great leaders, and you can't really lead being the only person left.

I can imagine ancient Anacondrai being worried about the prophecy of the Golden Master and saying: We've got a choice to make. We unite as a people and support each other as a single group. Or we will suffer until our species is reduced to a single survivor under the Golden Master. One group or one survivor. Either way, only one can remain.

[saline-coelacanth]

Can you do weresnake jay and anacondrai cole fluff headcanon please

More crossover stuff, wooo! Also not sure how fluffy some of these are so I apologize in advance if there isn't a whole lot of fluff

Immediate thought is the two of them bonding a lot over their similar experiences of turning into a snake sometimes. I feel like initially they might argue a bit over who has it worse since Jay has no control over himself when he transforms, but he has at least some control over preventing a transformation while Cole has literally no control over when he transforms but he's still himself when he is in anacondrai mode. Pretty quickly though they would realize they both have their own issues and try to help out the other in make them feel better or just letting them vent

Overall, they just have much better understanding for the other compared to everyone else on the team since no one else truly knows what they're going through.

In the somewhat rare chance that both Jay and Cole are in their snake forms at the same time, I could see Cole doing his best to calm down Jay, even more than he usually would since his tough scales would mean that Jay can't really hurt him

When Cole is in his human form, he still has patches of scales that he sort of hates, but Jay always tells him that his scales are really pretty and look cool which always cheers Cole up

Whenever Jay is mid transformation, he feels similar insecurities about the scales growing on his body and his claws and all that and Cole always tells him the same thing Jay tells him, that his scales are really cool and that Jay looks just as beautiful as he always does

They make jokes at each other about "Would you still love me if I was a worm?" They ask each other that question about once a week, much to the annoyance of the other ninja. (Although with Zane he's just confused)

I think it would be fun if Jay mentioned he had been thinking about getting a tattoo to match Cole only for Cole to immediately tell him, "No, please do not do that." And Jay would argue, "It wouldn't be an exact copy! I just want people to know that we're snake buddies!"

Jay would always call Cole his 'snake buddy' and at first Cole didn't like it, but he quickly grew fond of the term and now he also calls Jay his 'snake buddy'

Sometimes they mix it up and say 'snake boyfriends' just so people don't get the wrong idea

That feels like a fun place to end this, lol. I never really thought about these two versions of the characters together but now I kinda wanna do more stuff with this au crossover since I feel like they'd have such a fun dynamic

[askthatoneanacondraikaiguy]

Have you given any though to the later seasons?

Like how does Ray and Maya react to their serpentine son? Especially considering one of the biggest things they’ve ever done was locking the serpentine away.

Oh absolutely. I've thought a lot about how Kai being an Anacondrai would impact everything up to Season 12. (And rambled with Raven about it especially)

Some of these thoughts include: how Kai would probably be given a human avatar in Prime Empire because I'm like. 90% Unagami has no clue what a Serpentine is since they were only released from their tombs sometime after he got shut down, how the First Realm raiders probably assume he's a weird new dragon instead of an Oni, how Lloyd's misplaced guilt for Kai being an Anacondrai impacts the way Skybound would have panned out, and DEFINITELY how the Hands of Time changes with an Anacondrai Kai.

It uh...

It makes for a slightly different reunion, that's for sure.

[morroodle]

It's done! Only took like 12 hours

This thing is AWESOME I love it. What a fucking behemoth of a set. I had to completely rethink where to put it and move some other sets around but now it sits proudly atop my bookshelf, opposite of my bed. It looks great up there <3 (not sure about the placement of the other stuff, I'll work on it tomorrow when I'm less tired

Some of my favorite details and easter eggs:

Tiny bathroom complete with toilet paper

Family photo! (why is Lloyd's hair dark?)

Garmadons og helmet

A little bed that you can actually tuck the minifigs into. It's so cute I love it and now they can go eepy ;-;

Anacondrai cultists helmet

I'm not sure but I think that letter is meant to be the love letter to misako? Idk what other letter it would be, assuming it's a specific letter at all

Handle of the djinn blade, aeroblade and vermillion warrior armor piece

The little dojo area on the inside of the second floor is very cute but I specifically love the little training dummy

The license plate written in both English and ninjargon is the cutest

Little compass on top of the steering wheel and map on the inside of the third floor. There's also supposed to be some other thing that I think is a navigation tool but I'm missing it (the curse of being clumsy)

Not pictured but the little anchors actually go up and down when you twist the thing in the middle

The ultimate weapon, being held by Lloyd currently

Unfortunately I lost a few pieces or just didn't get them but luckily its nothing too important or structural, you can barely tell if you don't know what you're looking for. The only important thing I'm missing is the Jay minifig but I knew about that before I bought it. Idk I might end up buying him separately just so I have them all but I'm not too upset. I think I'm gonna take a break before I start working on my next set.

[user-without-a-cool-acronym]

really wondering about what the logistics of the tournament of sources are gonna be. Be sure we know that it is hosted by the source dragon's and that there are probably a lot of people participating. Where do they sleep? What do they eat? How is the tournament prepared? Is it just the I finite power of a source dragon, rearranging furniture and all that? Is that what those temple guards are for? Maybe some kind of automatons that keep the place nice and orderly on their own. Or, last theory, maybe it is hosted in some far away mountain village and the people from the temple City set are the inhabitants, who host it in the source dragon's name. With the ToE we had the anacondrai cultists, but now?

[circus4apsycho8]

unconditionally. | garmadon x reader | chapter iii

𝚊/𝚗: 𝚑𝚒 𝚊𝚕𝚕! 𝚒𝚝'𝚜 𝚋𝚎𝚎𝚗 𝚊 𝚑𝚘𝚝 𝚖𝚒𝚗𝚞𝚝𝚎 𝚜𝚒𝚗𝚌𝚎 𝚒'𝚟𝚎 𝚞𝚙𝚍𝚊𝚝𝚎𝚍, 𝚋𝚞𝚝 𝚊𝚝 𝚕𝚊𝚜𝚝 𝚒'𝚟𝚎 𝚏𝚒𝚗𝚒𝚜𝚑𝚎𝚍 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚌𝚑𝚊𝚙𝚝𝚎𝚛! 𝚒'𝚟𝚎 𝚐𝚘𝚝 𝚊 𝚏𝚎𝚠 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚐𝚜 𝚝𝚘 𝚍𝚒𝚜𝚌𝚞𝚜𝚜 𝚋𝚎𝚏𝚘𝚛𝚎 𝚠𝚎 𝚐𝚎𝚝 𝚜𝚝𝚊𝚛𝚝𝚎𝚍, 𝚝𝚑𝚘𝚞𝚐𝚑.

𝚏𝚒𝚛𝚜𝚝 𝚘𝚏 𝚊𝚕𝚕 - 𝚒 𝚊𝚙𝚘𝚕𝚘𝚐𝚒𝚣𝚎, 𝚋𝚞𝚝 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚌𝚑𝚊𝚙𝚝𝚎𝚛 𝚒𝚜 𝚊 𝚋𝚒𝚝 𝚌𝚑𝚘𝚙𝚙𝚢 𝚋𝚎𝚌𝚊𝚞𝚜𝚎 𝚒 𝚗𝚎𝚎𝚍𝚎𝚍 𝚌𝚎𝚛𝚝𝚊𝚒𝚗 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚐𝚜 𝚝𝚘 𝚑𝚊𝚙𝚙𝚎𝚗. 𝚒 𝚏𝚎𝚎𝚕 𝚕𝚒𝚔𝚎 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚢’𝚛𝚎 𝚜𝚌𝚊𝚝𝚝𝚎𝚛𝚎𝚍 𝚊𝚌𝚛𝚘𝚜𝚜 𝚜𝚘 𝚖𝚊𝚗𝚢 𝚍𝚒𝚏𝚏𝚎𝚛𝚎𝚗𝚝 𝚙𝚘𝚒𝚗𝚝𝚜 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚒𝚝 𝚠𝚊𝚜 𝚓𝚞𝚜𝚝 𝚌𝚑𝚊𝚕𝚕𝚎𝚗𝚐𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚝𝚘 𝚝𝚛𝚊𝚗𝚜𝚒𝚝𝚒𝚘𝚗 𝚏𝚕𝚞𝚒𝚍𝚕𝚢. 𝚋𝚞𝚝 𝚑𝚊𝚟𝚎 𝚗𝚘 𝚏𝚎𝚊𝚛 – 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚖𝚊𝚓𝚘𝚛𝚒𝚝𝚢 𝚘𝚏 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚜𝚕𝚒𝚌𝚎 𝚘𝚏 𝚕𝚒𝚏𝚎 𝚙𝚘𝚛𝚝𝚒𝚘𝚗 𝚒𝚜 𝚌𝚘𝚖𝚙𝚕𝚎𝚝𝚎, 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚒𝚗 𝟷-𝟸 𝚌𝚑𝚊𝚙𝚝𝚎𝚛𝚜, 𝚠𝚎 𝚜𝚔𝚎𝚍𝚊𝚍𝚍𝚕𝚎 𝚜𝚝𝚛𝚊𝚒𝚐𝚑𝚝 𝚋𝚊𝚌𝚔 𝚒𝚗𝚝𝚘 𝚊𝚗𝚐𝚜𝚝!

𝚜𝚎𝚌𝚘𝚗𝚍𝚕𝚢, 𝚙𝚕𝚎𝚊𝚜𝚎 𝚔𝚎𝚎𝚙 𝚒𝚗 𝚖𝚒𝚗𝚍 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚒 𝚊𝚖 𝚗𝚘𝚝 𝚜𝚝𝚒𝚌𝚔𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚝𝚘 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚌𝚊𝚗𝚘𝚗 𝚝𝚒𝚖𝚎𝚕𝚒𝚗𝚎! 𝚌𝚎𝚛𝚝𝚊𝚒𝚗 𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚗𝚝𝚜 𝚖𝚒𝚐𝚑𝚝 𝚑𝚊𝚙𝚙𝚎𝚗 𝚘𝚞𝚝 𝚘𝚏 𝚘𝚛𝚍𝚎𝚛 (𝚘𝚛 𝚗𝚘𝚝 𝚊𝚝 𝚊𝚕𝚕).

𝚕𝚊𝚜𝚝𝚕𝚢, 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚌𝚑𝚊𝚙𝚝𝚎𝚛 𝚌𝚘𝚗𝚝𝚊𝚒𝚗𝚜 𝚊 𝚜𝚖𝚞𝚝 𝚜𝚌𝚎𝚗𝚎 𝚊𝚝 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚢 𝚎𝚗𝚍. 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚌𝚊𝚗 𝚜𝚔𝚒𝚙 𝚒𝚝 𝚒𝚏 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚕𝚒𝚔𝚎 - 𝚓𝚞𝚜𝚝 𝚜𝚝𝚘𝚙 𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚍𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚠𝚑𝚎𝚗 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚇𝚇𝚇 𝚊𝚙𝚙𝚎𝚊𝚛𝚜. 𝟷𝟾+ 𝚘𝚗𝚕𝚢!

𝚜𝚘𝚛𝚛𝚢 𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚕𝚘𝚗𝚐 𝚊𝚞𝚝𝚑𝚘𝚛'𝚜 𝚗𝚘𝚝𝚎. 𝚙𝚕𝚎𝚊𝚜𝚎 𝚎𝚗𝚓𝚘𝚢!

𝚏𝚒𝚗𝚍 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚜𝚝𝚘𝚛𝚢’𝚜 𝚖𝚊𝚜𝚝𝚎𝚛𝚕𝚒𝚜𝚝, 𝚗𝚘𝚝𝚎𝚜, 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚜𝚞𝚖𝚖𝚊𝚛𝚢 𝚑𝚎𝚛𝚎.

unconditionally. | garmadon x reader | chapter iii

“And that’s when you sealed the snakes up?” Lloyd questions, now sitting up. The boy seems to realize something, his eyes widening. “Wait, did you meet Pythor when you did?!” 

“I did not, although Kai’s parents might have considering that they were the ones tasked with the Anacondrai’s tomb,” Wu admits. “We arrived later than the others since we were busy sorting the remaining matters out with the leader of the Ninjago Guard.” 

Lloyd smiles. “It would have been weird if you saw him all that time ago compared to now.” 

Wu chuckles, nodding in agreement. “Indeed.”

“So, what did you guys do after the war?” Lloyd wonders. “I bet you guys had a lot of stuff you wanted to do!” 

The elderly man sighs softly, shaking his head. “Not exactly. For people like your mother, preparing for war was all she ever knew. She had trained her entire life, only to realize that despite her hard work, the enemy was still stronger. So, once peace returned to Ninjago, she found herself…lost, in a sense. The three of us agreed that we wanted to continue training together. Sometimes, your parents embarked on sparing missions across Ninjago. I would accompany them occasionally, but I decided that I wanted to prepare to adopt pupils within the next few years. So, I spent most of my days working on the monastery - I built the training course, developed curriculum, added extra rooms, and made sure everything was in order while they traveled.” 

“Pupils? You mean like the ninja?” 

“Oh, no, Lloyd. At this time, only Kai and Cole had been born - and they were just babies by then. I assume Zane was likely built by then too, but we had not met his father yet.” 

“So…you had a group before them?” 

“Certainly. The first pupil came as something of a surprise – she was more of an outlier when compared to my other students. It was Onyx’s daughter – Lilly.” 

“Wait, Cole’s mom?” Lloyd verifies. 

“Yes. Your mother met her in between traveling, while Lilly was training, and befriended her quickly. But more about that later. For now, let me tell you about how your parents readjusted after the war. Soon enough, it was nearly time for Ray and Maya to be wed. Additionally, some of us were beginning to raise the next generation of elemental masters...” 

… 

Well, this is certainly something you’re not used to. 

You eye the pastry on your plate, taking a moment to admire it. Paired with the mug of steaming hot coffee next to it, it sure seems to be the perfect breakfast – certainly not the most nutritious, but perfectly balanced between the rich, bitter flavor of the coffee and the flaky, sugary goodness of the pastry. 

“I don’t think I’ve ever done something like this before,” you note, poking the pastry to get a feel for its texture and temperature. 

“What, like a girl’s day?” Maya questions, glancing over at her baby. Kai is seated in a highchair next to her, babbling happily as he plays with some kind of sensory toy. 

“Yeah,” you reply. “It’s just...never happened for me. I’ve always been focused on the war and work. Not...getting coffee with friends. Or preparing to watch someone try on wedding dresses. I thought I was only destined to defeat the Serpentine. I never expected that something like this would happen.” 

“I know, right?!” Robin chirps, eyes lighting up. Well, one thing is for sure – the combination of the excited blonde and a cup of coffee is a recipe for a noisy morning. Not that you mind, but you’re afraid that if she speaks any faster, you won’t be able to understand what she’s saying. “I’m never able to get out like this! Normally I’m stuck with Cliff ranting about his career, but this is such a refresher!” 

“Oh, by the way,” Maya adds, sipping on her coffee. “Onyx’s daughter is going to be coming with us too. She should be here soon.” 

“Oh, Lilly, right?” Robin questions. “I’m so excited to meet her! I’ve heard such good things about her!” 

“Lilly’s coming?” you ask, brightening up a little bit. You had met her at the monastery a while ago when she was visiting Wu. Apparently, Onyx had lost his element somehow, and it had been transferred to her. She had been training with Wu while you and Garmadon were working on a rather lengthy mission together. “I’ve met her. She trained with Wu a while back, and apparently, they were working together even more before then. I just never saw them that much because I was working on a complex job with Garmadon that had us traveling a lot.” 

Maya nods. “Sounds about right.” 

Then, Kai squeals, causing you to glance over at him with a soft smile. He giggles, shaking his toy around. 

“He’s so cute!” Robin coos. “He looks just like Ray.” 

“I know,” Maya agrees, leaning down towards her son. He smiles at her, kicking his feet as she presses a soft kiss to his chubby little cheek. “I think he’s going to have Ray’s temper, too. He already gets an attitude with us.” 

“I wouldn’t be surprised,” you reply. “You guys are in for a handful. With your stubbornness and Ray’s temper? That kid’s going places.” 

Maya raises a playful eyebrow at you as she wipes Kai’s mouth with a damp cloth. “Only good places, right?” 

“I don’t know. He’ll probably be a troublemaker too,” you joke, watching as Kai scrunches his nose at Maya’s attempt at cleaning the gunk of baby food smeared on his cheeks. 

A moment of silence drapes across the three of you as Kai squirms in his seat. You can’t lie to yourself – you're really excited for today. Being so involved in the war had you thinking that you would never be able to experience something like this, that life would always be dreary and full of hatred. You’re eternally grateful for the friends you’ve made that have shown you what else life has to offer. 

“Oh, remind me again of the order we’re doing things in?” Robin questions. 

“After we’re done here, we’re going shopping for dresses,” Maya replies. “The consultant I picked is doing a private session for us. Then, it’ll be lunch.” 

“Ooh, it’s an all day thing!” Robin cheers. “I can't wait!” 

You find yourself growing just as excited as Robin too. Maya had selected you to be the maid of honor for her wedding, which is in a few days. The two already had mostly everything else prepared, wanting to stick with a simple theme that didn’t stress them out too much. There isn’t much else for them to do, which leaves the four of you with all day to spend together. 

“Speaking of weddings...” Maya drawls, turning towards you. “Congratulations! Ray told me what happened when he went to visit a few weeks ago!” 

You smile softly, already knowing what she’s referring to. “Thank you!” 

“What happened?” Robin wonders. 

“Garmadon proposed,” you admit, cheeks heating up as you finger the yang pendant. It had been resting underneath your shirt initially, but you pull it out, showing Robin. 

“What?!” she yells, eyes wide. Maya giggles, setting a hand on Robin’s arm. Her little outburst had earned a few stares. “Oh, sorry! But how did you not tell me earlier?! And how long?” 

“About a month now,” you reply, grinning softly. “And, well, I don’t know. I guess it just didn’t come up.” 

“That’s amazing! I’m so happy for you two!” she replies. 

“Thank you!” 

“Any ideas for the wedding yet?” Maya asks, taking another sip of her coffee, glancing over at Kai again when he drops his toy. She sighs, bending down to pick it up as he giggles. 

“We’re probably just going to keep it simple and decorate the monastery or something,” you say. “Just something small and sentimental. I guess kind of like what you’re doing.” 

Maya nods in agreement. “Yep. Neither of us felt like we wanted anything too fancy, especially having Kai now. It just keeps the stress down.” 

“I get that. Cliff wants a big wedding, which I’m fine with but there’s just so much planning that we have to do and I don’t know how I’m going to get everything I need to do done and he’s just been so busy with his acting career that I feel like he may not be happy with the decisions I pick so I’ve just been...” 

You smile affectionately as you listen to your talkative friend, Maya doing the same. From there, the chat leads to other topics when the bell above the café door chimes, betokening a new customer. The three of you glance to see none other than Lilly herself there, a bag slung over one shoulder and a baby perched on her opposite hip. Her dark hair is tied up in a sloppy bun, eyes fatigued. Despite that, her expression lights up when she spots the three of you waving her over. 

“Lilly!” Maya calls excitedly. You stand along with your friend, the two of you walking towards the other side of the table where Lilly drops her bag, offering Maya a one-armed hug. 

“It’s so good to see you again! I feel like it’s been forever,” Lilly notes, pulling away. When she spots you, though, she instantly pulls you in for a hug too. Even with her only using one arm, you still feel like she’s going to crush you. 

“It has,” Maya adds. 

“I know. Time has been weird lately,” you agree, bending down to greet her baby boy. “Hi, Cole!” 

He stares at you for a few seconds with wide, green eyes before a gummy grin appears, pushing his cheek into Lilly’s side. You giggle at him, going to have a seat as one of the café employees slides another highchair out for him. Lilly thanks the worker before sitting down, pushing a strand of hair behind her ear. 

“I love this place.” she notes as an employee greets her, setting a box of pastries and a large cup of coffee in front of her. “Thank you!” 

“You’re welcome, darling. Good to have you back,” the worker notes before slinking away. 

“How’d the Shintaro mission go?” you wonder, sipping on your drink. 

She sighs, smiling softly. “It was good. Asses were kicked, order was restored...for now, at least. I’m just glad to be back with my boys.” 

“Looks like he’s glad you’re back, too,” Robin adds, chuckling softly at little Cole as he stares at his momma with wide eyes. 

Lilly’s expression melts as she pulls her baby closer. “Oh, sweetheart...” 

After another sip of your beverage, you chuckle. “I’m glad you’re back. From Shintaro, no less. I imagine that was a tough job, especially considering that they almost never allow visitors.” 

She nods in agreement, setting Cole on her lap and looping an arm around him. “Yeah, it was. But I’d say it was one of the most rewarding missions I’ve done. And it’s such a gorgeous place, too. The kingdom and scenery are both beautiful.” 

“It’s impressive that you took it all by yourself,” Maya adds, watching as Kai glances around the room. “I’d love to see it one day.” 

“Thanks. I almost didn’t have it under control, but...you know. It worked out in the end,” Lilly replies, using her free hand to dig into the box of pastries in front of her. You laugh quietly, already knowing that the box of sweets stands no chance against the ravenous Master of Earth. “Anyways, how much time do I have to knock these out?” 

“About fifteen minutes,” Maya adds. 

“Ah, plenty of time,” Lilly responds, eagerly eyeing a poor chocolate croissant. 

From there, your group continues to chat and catch up until it’s time to head to the dress shop. 

… 

“Okay, I’m putting you on baby duty,” Maya declares, handing you a wiggling Kai. 

“Yes!” you cheer, gently scooping the baby into your arms. His head rests in the crook of your dominant arm while the other supports his body. A round toy rests in his grasp, allowing him to chew on it as he stares at you with warm brown eyes. Instantly, you can feel the heat emanating from him. “Wow, he’s a little radiator!” 

“I know!” Maya replies. “He’s so warm all of the time.” 

“Alright, ladies! Your consultant is ready for you! If the bride will wait here, I’ll take everyone else to the fitting room,” one of the employees says. 

The three of you wave to Maya before following the worker to the fitting room. With Kai now propped against your shoulder, you feel him shifting so that he can look over your shoulder. He babbles as he watches his mom fade from view. 

“Your momma will be right back,” you assure, hand on his back. 

Seemingly assured for the time being, he spins to face you with a curious expression. 

“Don’t worry! She’s just getting ready!” you say, the three of you sitting down on a spacey bench. Kai plops down to your lap, your arms now circled around his torso as he peers through the gap. Lilly settles in beside you, and Robin next to her. 

“Okay, ladies! We have complimentary glasses of champagne and snacks for you to enjoy coming in a few minutes. Please make yourselves comfortable and enjoy. Let us know if you need anything!” the employee states, flashing the three of you a smile. 

“Thank you!” you all reply in unison, getting excited to see Maya’s potential dresses. 

“She’s going to look gorgeous in every single one, I already know,” Lilly states, holding Cole against her stomach. 

You smile, nodding in agreement as Kai catches your attention again. You peer down at him, picking him up under his arms and letting him stand on your lap. 

“What is it?” you wonder, making a funny face at him. He giggles, dropping his toy onto your thigh as he studies Cole. “Oh, you want to see your friend?” 

You adjust your arms so that Kai is facing Cole. Kai’s little feet steady themselves on your thighs, tiny hands resting on your arms as he looks at Cole. 

You watch with interest as Kai and Cole both giggle at each other, both making cute little scrunchy faces. 

“They’re going to be the best of friends,” you mumble, listening to their baby babble with a warm smile. 

“I know they will,” she replies. “Oh, I almost forgot! How about you and Garmadon? How are you guys doing?” 

You shrug, grinning as you avert your gaze slightly. “We’re engaged.” 

“Oh my stars, really?!” she questions, face lighting up. “That’s incredible! Congratulations!” 

“Thank you!” 

“I’m so happy for you two!” 

“Thank you,” you repeat, adjusting your grip on Kai so that your right arm is circling him. You use your other hand to feel your pendant. “I just...it’s so weird to think about, you know?” 

“I get it. I was the same way when Lou proposed,” she admits. “It’s...a change, yeah? A big one.” 

“It really is,” you mumble. “I mean, before the war...I never would have pictured myself being engaged and thinking about settling down. And, with everyone going their own ways now...” 

Lilly’s gentle smile remains, prompting you to glance into her warm, earthy brown eyes. “And the war is over now. It gives you a lot to think about. Have you guys talked about kids?” 

You remain quiet for a moment, heart skipping a beat as you shake your head. “Well, not yet...I want to, though. I just...it’s complicated for us.” 

“I understand,” she says, fingers going to stroke the back of Cole’s head as he plops his cheek onto Lilly’s breast, cooing quietly. “It’s a big decision. And...with him...” 

“It would be hard,” you finish. “I mean...I’d have Wu too, but...it would never be the same if Garmadon succumbed. Wu seems to think that that time might be closer than we think, and that scares the hell out of me. I would love for it to happen, but...if Garmadon turns, then I don’t want to force that role on Wu, you know? I think he’d feel responsible if I ended up staying, so...I just don’t know. There are so many unknowns with this, and it’s...it’s terrifying. And it’ll be even worse if we have to factor a baby into the equation. Because what would happen if Garmadon wasn’t there? If our baby lost the father at some point? As wonderful as children can be, they only add to the responsibility.” 

“That’s all very valid,” Robin assures from the other side. “But...keep in mind, there are going to be challenges no matter how the two of you proceed. Let’s say that Garmadon wasn’t even bitten by the Devourer, and the two of you decide to have a kid. Who’s to say that something won’t happen to either of you during the course of the baby’s life?” 

“She’s right,” Lilly confirms, taking her free hand and linking it with yours, giving a squeeze. “Either way, you’re taking a risk. Just know that you two are stronger than you know. You’ll find a way.” 

“Yeah...you both have a point. I just...I think about it a lot. Like, if I did get pregnant, and...if he turned completely. What I would do, how Wu would take it...you know, just running through the what-ifs. Wondering what would happen if we started trying now, or if we wait...or if it doesn’t happen at all...” 

“Talk to him about it,” Lilly encourages. “You’ll find something that works. Even if Garmadon turns, you’ll have Wu to support you until you figure out what to do.” 

Robin pokes her head from behind Lilly. “Yeah! I remember, before you came and joined the alliance, I overhead Garmadon talking to Ray. They both agreed that they wanted kids!” 

“You heard him say that?” you wonder. 

“Yep!” 

“There you go. There’s still hope. Just...do what feels right, okay? You can’t worry about what might happen. You two need to enjoy your time however you see fit,” Lilly assures before her expression darkens. “Besides...I kind of understand how you feel. But for the other way around.” 

“What do you mean?” you wonder, confused. 

“Ah, don’t worry about it. I’ll explain another time. For now, let’s just enjoy this,” Lilly states. “This isn’t the time to worry – this is a celebration! Let’s relax for once!” 

You shake off the worry, nodding in response. “Yeah, you’re right. Thank you.” 

With that in mind, you quiet down and listen to Lilly and Robin chatting for a bit. While you do, your gaze shifts to Kai again. 

He’s now leaning the back of his head in the crook of your elbow, staring at you again. You smile softly, tickling his tummy. Squeals of laughter erupt from him as his little hands flail around. 

Something about that absolutely unbridled, innocent joy makes your heart flutter. Your expression softens as you play with Kai for a few more minutes, laughing alongside him before you turn to Lilly. 

“Yeah. I need one,” you admit, giggling as Kai snuggles up to you. 

“Trust me, it’ll come,” Lilly assures with knowing eyes. 

… 

The next night, you find yourself contemplating Lilly’s words. 

The most you and Garmadon had ever done was make out, sometimes riddled with a bit of risqué touching. Now, though, you had found yourself thinking of him more sexually – thinking about him at night, picturing him on top of you as the two of you make love. It’s almost a nightly thing now, and with the two of you beginning to sleep in the same bed more often, you want it more than ever. 

And, of course, that thought also veered towards the idea of potentially having a baby with him some day. After your chat with the ladies (and playing with little Kai and Cole!), it made you realize that you do want to become a mother in the future. There were days where the baby fever became so intense that you found your mind wandering to potential what-if scenarios and wondering if Garmadon would still want to begin a family too.  

But then, the thought would occur to you that you don’t have to decide on anything just yet. You were getting ahead of yourself. For now, you would simply talk to him about amping up your sex life first. You wouldn’t let your own desires get in the way of your relationship with him. 

You lay in bed one night, lying next to him as sleep fails to come to you. Turning towards Garmadon, you quickly find that he hasn’t quite fallen asleep yet either. 

“Garmadon?” 

Your fiancé turns toward you, eyes curious as the shadows envelope his figure. You find yourself growing nervous as you pull the sheets closer to you. 

“What is it, my love?” 

“I just want to ask you something kind of personal,” you admit as the two of you gaze at each other. 

“I’m listening,” he prompts. 

You nod, releasing a shaky sigh before starting. “Well...with everyone settling down, and all...it got me thinking. What do you think of us starting to have sex?” 

“I want to try it,” he admits, taking your hand in his. “But it also worries me...” 

You nod. “I thought so.” 

“How do you feel about it?” 

“I want to try it too,” you reply. “And we can always keep our pendants on.” 

“And you would feel comfortable with that?” 

“Yeah,” you say with a nod. “I would. And...that also leads me to my other question.” 

“Of course.” 

“I know we’re both still caught up in our missions and all that, but...when it all settles down, what do you think about having a baby?” 

“A baby...” he trails off, but then a big smile crosses his face. “I...I would love to have a baby. Being a father was something I never even thought would be possible for me. Do you want to...?” 

You nod, smiling. “I do. I want to start a family with you some day.” 

Garmadon simply gazes at you for a moment, brown eyes watering before a tear slips from his eye, causing your heart to skip as you immediately snuggle closer to him, concerned. 

“Wait, you’re crying,” you note, gently wiping his tear away with your thumb. He chuckles, coming to grab your wrist. You watch as he squeezes it gently, a smile coming across his face as he moves the back of your hand to his lips. 

“I know. I can’t help it. I’m sorry.” 

“You don’t need to apologize,” you note, frowning. “But, why? Are you okay?” 

“It’s just...” he trails off, releasing your hand as his stare shifts. “I never would have thought that this could happen...for me, of all people. I thought Wu was going to be the first to settle down. And yet...” 

You smile, propping your forehead against his. “It’s in sight for us.” 

He’s quiet for a moment, nodding as he goes to hold your hand again. “Give me some time to prepare, love. I’ll tell you when I’m ready.” 

“Take as long as you need,” you respond, smiling as you feel tears building up in your own eyes. After all, you never pictured yourself being at this point either. 

… 

A few months pass, with your wedding date drawing nearer until... 

...it’s finally time. 

Your breaths are shaky, eyes watering as you will yourself not to cry. Lilly and Robin had spent a solid hour ensuring that your makeup and hair are perfect, so you don’t want to ruin their hard work. 

But you’re not sure if you can help it. You’re about to marry Garmadon, the man you’d fallen for all that time ago. The man that you’re planning to spend the rest of your life with. 

Of course, you’re happy. But part of this feels like you’re locking yourself in, in some sense. It’s a scary thought, and one that hadn’t even occurred to you until your friends left you to go ensure that the other preparations are running smoothly. 

Despite your worries, you know you won’t be tied down with Garmadon. And yet...that doesn’t seem to entirely console you. 

You exhale shakily, eyes soaking in your reflection as your mind races, hands fidgeting as your heart pounds. Why are you so nervous? Is it because of Garmadon? Or because all of your friends are out there, waiting? 

You don’t get a chance to reflect further, because a brisk knock emanates from your door. Choking back your tears, you yell for the person to come in. 

Of all people, you don't expect to see the General enter. 

“General?” you wonder, eyes widening as he smiles at you, closing the door. 

“Hello, dear,” he says, stepping closer to you. “I hope you don’t mind my presence right now. I understand that this might be stressful for you, so if you want me to leave, just let me know.” 

“No-no, please, sit,” you urge. “I…I’m actually glad you’re here.” 

You calm slightly, realizing that he’s the one unchanged piece of your life that part of you must still be clinging to. Curious about what he has to say, you spin towards him and away from the mirror. 

He chuckles, sitting down across from you. “I’m happy to hear that. I, well…I came to tell you something.” 

“I’m listening,” you encourage. 

The General goes quiet for a moment, glancing to the side as he collects his thoughts. “Ever since I got the invitation to come, I...I’ve been thinking quite a bit. I remember when we first found you. That day, I remember it so clearly…I was visiting an external camp after receiving word that the regiment had recruited someone who had been born into a guild of thieves. And when I came there, and found you…” he laughs quietly, shaking his head. “I remember that there was a quiet, cold determination about you, even though you were just a kid. Everyone saw that there was potential in the training you’d been granted if we could just get you to work with us.” 

You nod, recalling that day with a fond smile. “I remember. I was so scared of entering that camp because of what the guild had told me about you guys. But...they were lying. And I...” 

“...you excelled during basic training,” he finishes. “You did so well, and it established a silent respect among the others. It’s no wonder you made your way up so quickly.” 

“And I got comfortable working with everyone and going on missions,” you remember. “But…everything’s changing again. And…and I’m scared, again. Scared like I was when I joined.” 

“Scared of change,” he muses. “Alas, it’s natural, but something we all must learn to endure.” 

“You taught me that,” you reflect softly, glancing down at your dress. 

“I suppose I did,” he mumbles. “But…my point is, I’ve been watching you grow and improve all these years, and now…we’re past the war. We have won, and things are changing again…but as always, we’re adapting. You’re adapting. And I want you to know that…I’m proud of you - of the woman you’ve become, of all the work you’ve poured into yourself and our land.” 

This time you can’t help it - a few tears escape your eyes as words become stuck in your throat. “Really?” 

“Of course I am. I made you my second-in-command for a reason,” he notes, smiling as his eyes become glassy too. “There’s no one else I’d trust with my men.” 

That does it, because you suddenly go to hug him. He returns your embrace, the two of you falling quiet for a moment. 

“Hey,” you say as you pull back, looking up at him. “Will…will you walk me down the aisle? I don’t have anyone else to do it, and, well…I think you’re the perfect person to do it.” 

“It would be an honor,” he adds. “Thank you.” 

Then, the sound of frantic knocking comes from the door. You wipe your face, realizing you’ve just smeared your makeup everywhere. 

“Fuck,” you mumble, eyeing your smudged makeup in the mirror. 

The General chuckles, going to open the door. “I’m afraid I’m of no help when it comes to makeup. I’ll be waiting.” 

Through your sniffle, you can’t help but laugh as the General exits, now replaced by your three friends - all dressed in your selected bridesmaid wear. They gasp upon seeing your state, all swarming you. 

“Oh no, your makeup!” Robin cries. “It’s okay, it’s okay, we still have a few minutes to fix it.” 

“I’m sorry,” you state, turning to face the mirror. “I’m just…I’m a wreck!” 

“It’s okay, sweetie,” Lilly soothes, coming to take your hand in hers. “Just take a minute to breathe.” 

“If it’s any consolation, the crowd isn’t terribly intimidating,” Maya adds. “I mean, I know that you know who’s coming, but still. I guess it’s different when you’re picturing it in your head, huh?” 

“Yeah…yeah, I’m probably just exaggerating it in my head,” you admit as Robin works her magic. 

“There,” Robin says, offering you an encouraging smile. “Gorgeous. Now, no more tears! It’s your big day!” 

“Okay…” Maya trails off, eyes shifting up and to her right as she seemingly checks off items on a mental list. “We’ve got everyone walking down the aisle lined up, Garmadon’s ready, the quartet is prepared to perform the entrance song…everything needed for the reception is ready…” 

“I think that’s everything,” Lilly adds, nodding after thinking for a moment. “That sounds right, doesn’t it?” 

“Yeah,” you answer, nodding. “Okay. Okay. Um…let’s see, I have my paper here, makeup and dress are both fixed…is that everything?” 

“Sounds like we’re ready if you are,” Lilly notes, tugging you up to your feet. You nod, taking a deep breath as you compose yourself. 

“Okay. Let’s go,” you state, following the others out. 

Behind the closed doors of the inner monastery, you can hear faint classical music already playing. You watch as everyone links arms with their respective partner. 

First up are the maid of honor and best man, which are Maya and Wu. They’re followed by Robin and Ray, and then Lilly and Onyx. 

“Okay, our cue is when the music changes,” Maya announces. Your heart starts racing as the General offers his arm to you. You smile gratefully, linking an arm through. 

“Don’t forget your bouquet,” Maya reminds, picking the mentioned item up from a nearby vase. You smile gratefully at her as you take it. 

“Thank you, Maya. You’re a lifesaver. All of you are, for helping us plan and all that,” you say. “I’m just trying not to lose my shit right now.” 

That earns a brief chuckle from the group. 

“We’re happy that we could help,” comes Ray’s reply. 

“Yeah, it’s going to be great! You’ll see,” Robin adds, flashing you one of her smiles. They never fail to comfort you when you feel all jittery like this. 

It’s then that you all notice the change in music. 

“Okay, here goes!” Maya states. The doors swing open, held by two of the Ninjago Guard members. 

Maya and Wu exit first, with the rest of you hidden behind the wall. Part of you wishes you could have just walked out first and gotten it over with, but there’s no time to worry about that now. 

Thankfully, the couples start walking within a reasonable timeframe, so your turn comes sooner than you expect. 

“Ready?” the General questions. 

“Yeah,” you reply, grip on the bouquet tightening as the two of you exit. 

Sunlight clouds your vision momentarily as the two of you step into the training area, two sections of seats on either side of the path. They’re filled with people either from the Elemental Alliance or the Ninjago Guard. Also present is Mystake, seated in the front row with a soft smile. 

Stationed at the altar are the bridesmaids, groomsmen, and… 

Garmadon. 

Breath escapes you momentarily as your eyes flit upon his figure; he’s dressed in a dark tuxedo, chocolate brown hair styled nicely. When his stare meets yours, his eyes widen ever so slightly. You smile at him, anxiety easing at last as you step up with the General. 

Once you do, the General releases your arm, offering you a final hug before stepping to the side. Maya is next to approach you, taking your bouquet. You thank her quietly before spinning to face Garmadon. 

“Good afternoon, everyone,” greets the officiant as the music subsides. “We’d like to take a moment to thank everyone for attending as we witness the eternal joining of this couple today. We will bear witness to the entanglement of yin and yang as they merge, finding their balance rooted within each other. Understand that this ceremony merely serves as the vessel through which you will share declarations of your love with friends and family, for the connection binding the two of you together shall forever be intangibly ethereal. Let us begin with the bride.” 

The officiant’s eyes turn to you, smiling softly. You nod, hands going to fish out the paper you had stuffed in your dress. Once it’s pulled out, you unfold it and begin to read: 

“Garmadon,” you start, voice shaky at first but growing stronger as you continue. “All of my life, I had been taught that wars…wars tear people apart. They hurt, they kill, they destroy. I’ve been preparing for that reality since I joined the Ninjago Guard, but…starting the alliance with the Elemental Masters made me realize that, with as much destruction as it causes…it can bring certain people together, too. And, when we won, you showed me that there’s more to life than fighting - even though that’s something we certainly connect about. With you, I know that I am my best self because we fight to improve ourselves every day. And I promise, that as long as we are together, I will fight to protect you, Garmadon, because I love and accept you for who you are.” 

“Thank you,” replies the officiant. Garmadon grins, moving his hand to your cheek and gazing at you for a moment. “And now, the groom?” 

Garmadon reaches inside his sleeve, pulling out a paper as well. He clears his throat before beginning, starting with your name: 

“Though I hate that the Anacondrai got as far as they did, I am eternally grateful that we were given the chance to meet. Being given the honor of fighting alongside you was the opportunity of a lifetime, and throughout the despair we’ve faced - both in battle and concerning my condition - still you remain by my side, unwavering in your insistence to face this looming threat together. And for that, I…I cannot even begin to express how grateful I am for you. So, I hope to show you how much you mean to me while I still can. I wish it could be forever, but…” 

Garmadon trails off, expression sinking slightly as tears line his eyes. You immediately take one of his hands in yours, taking a moment to wipe a stray tear from his cheek. Part of you wants to assure him, to say that everything will work out, but… 

…nothing comes to mind, because you know that there’s nothing you can do. Not yet. But you’ll be damned if you’re going to give up on him. 

“I’m not going to give up on you,” you mumble, stare hardening. “Even if we’re physically apart, I will always stand with you, Garmadon. I love you.” 

“I love you too,” he replies, a tear colliding with the tip of your thumb. 

“Thank you, Garmadon,” the officiant interjects, tone hesitant as you withdraw your hand. “Ladies and gentlemen...I don’t know about you, but I find this to be a bittersweet representation of a true testament to love. We’re all rooting for you two.” 

A chorus of applause emanates from the crowd, allowing you a moment to blink away your tears as you smile sadly. Garmadon subtly reaches over to hold your hand again, squeezing it slightly. 

Once the applause fades, the officiant continues: 

“Now, for the Yin-Yang Promise,” the officiant holds out the yin and yang pendants, the two residing on a gray cloth in his palms. “Starting with yin.” 

You gingerly take the yin pendant, waiting for Garmadon to bow slightly before you loop it around his neck. 

“Yin - symbol of the darkness, preparing to adopt a piece of your significant other within you,” the officiant holds up a small, white dot, handing it to you. You step closer towards Garmadon, gently screwing the piece into the empty slot of the pendant. “By repeating ‘I do’, you promise you will work in tandem with your partner, striving to compliment the areas in which you differ, and to love, cherish, and protect her with all of your heart.” 

“I do,” Garmadon states. 

“Now, for yang,” the officiant notes, watching as Garmadon picks up the white pendant. He drapes it around your neck, smiling at you as he does so. “Yang - symbol of light, preparing to adopt a piece of your significant other within you.” 

He drops the tiny black circle into Garmadon’s hands, who adjusts his grip on it before carefully screwing it into your pendant. 

“By repeating ‘I do’, you promise you will work in tandem with your partner, striving to compliment the areas in which you differ, and to love, cherish, and protect him with all of your heart.” 

“I do,” you promise. 

“Then, by the power invested in me, I pronounce you man and wife. You may kiss the bride!” 

Garmadon steps closer to you, sweeping you into his arms as he presses a kiss to your lips. You wrap your arms around his neck, kissing him back with all of your might as muted cheers erupt around you. 

As you pull away, you press your forehead against his so you can study his expression for a moment. Brown eyes alight with happiness, smile prompting you to grin as well...the joy is all there, and although you can detect the faintest hint of fear, you know that the two of you will enjoy your time while you can. 

About fifteen minutes later, you find yourself seated next to Garmadon as you enjoy a bit of food together. Your guests are mingling about, some chatting together while others help themselves to the refreshments present. 

You take a sip of water, suddenly feeling...lightheaded? Half-asleep? You don’t quite know what it is. This all seems like a dream, and it’s almost like your brain is trying to ensure it’s really happening. 

Garmadon sneaks his hand into yours, snapping out of your thoughts. 

“I don’t think I told you earlier, but you’re absolutely stunning,” he notes, rubbing his fingertips across your knuckles. 

“Thank you. You’re looking handsome yourself,” you compliment, grinning at him. 

“I think I pale in comparison to you,” he teases. 

You roll your eyes, laughing slightly. “Garmadon!” 

“Hey, guys!” 

The two of you turn upon hearing the new voice. There, you spot Lilly dragging an unfamiliar man towards the two of you while holding Cole with her free arm. 

“Hey!” you greet, Garmadon nodding towards the two. 

“First of all, congratulations!” she yells, dropping the man’s hand. You stand, accepting her vertebrae-crushing hug. “I wanted you guys to meet my husband, Lou. He couldn’t make it to Maya’s wedding, but he’s here now!” 

“It’s a pleasure,” Lou states, grinning. 

“Oh, it’s nice to finally meet you!” you say, shaking his hand. Garmadon follows suit, now standing next to you. 

“Likewise,” Lou notes. “And you must be Garmadon, right?” 

Garmadon nods, shaking Lou’s hand firmly. “The pleasure is ours, Lou.” 

You watch for a moment as Cole squeals, likely wanting his mother’s attention again. As Lilly talks to him, you turn back to Lou: "I know we haven’t had the chance to speak properly yet, but thank you for taking the time to perform for us.” 

“Of course, of course! Weddings are one of our favorite performing venues, after all,” he explains with a grin. 

“You should have seen the looks on their faces when I told them they had another performing opportunity,” Lilly adds, laughing. “They just can’t pass them up!” 

“Oh, that reminds me,” you respond, frowning as you think back to one of your previous missions. “I remember seeing you guys perform in some remote village a while back.”  

It's coming back to you now – you'd taken that mission alongside the General. The Royal Blacksmiths performed for one of the local charities one night – that's about as much that comes to mind, though. 

“You’ve actually seen us perform before?” Lou wonders. 

“A while back, yeah. I just can’t remember the name of the village,” you mumble. 

“No matter! The very fact that you recognize us is compliment enough!” Lou pauses when someone taps three times on the microphone. “My apologies, but that’s my cue. It was nice meeting the two of you!” 

“Have fun, sweetie,” Lilly encourages, before turning back to you. “But...yeah, just wanted to introduce you.” 

“It was nice to meet you too, Lou!” you yell back as Lilly smiles fondly, taking her position next to you with Cole looking over her shoulder. You chuckle at her. 

“He’s dorkier than I expected,” you mumble with a giggle. 

“He is, and I love him for it,” Lilly admits with a laugh. 

“How long has their group been together for?” Garmadon questions, sneaking an arm around your waist and pulling you closer to him. 

“They’ve been performing together since they were freshmen in high school,” Lilly adds. 

“Wow. They’re dedicated for sure.” 

After a few minutes of chatting, you hear an announcement coming from one of the Royal Blacksmiths. Their group is introduced before the rest of the quartet appears on stage and begins their performance. 

“What’s this genre of music called again?” you question. 

“They’re a barbershop quartet. They mostly sing acapella, though I know they can all play instruments too. They just don’t use them during their performances,” Lilly explains. 

“Oh, right,” you mumble. “Yeah, I feel like I’ve seen them perform before.” 

“Might have been at Ninjago Talent,” Lilly notes. “It’s hosted annually.” 

“That’s it, I think,” you note. “Yeah. I think I went because someone gave me and my team tickets after we completed a job for them. That was a while ago, though.” 

“Lou has participated in it his entire career,” Lilly explains as the song continues. “And they’ve won quite a bit. More than I can count.” 

“I see why. They’re passionate about what they do,” you note. 

“They are,” she agrees. “It’s admirable.” 

After the first song finishes, the quartet announces that they’ll be performing a slow song next and encourages the crowd to find a partner. Garmadon wastes no time in sweeping you towards the dance floor. 

“I have no idea how to dance,” you admit. 

Garmadon grins guiltily. “Neither do I.” 

“I guess we can just...sway?” you suggest, his arms falling to loop around your waist while yours encircle his neck. 

Garmadon nods, the two of you swaying together amidst the quiet music. “This works.” 

A minute passes as you find yourself leaning your head against his chest, closing your eyes as you listen to his heartbeat. 

And somehow, in that moment, you understand that despite everything, things are going to work out for the two of you. 

XXX 

Your honeymoon leads the two of you to a private beach resort on the western coast of Ninjago. 

Days pass with you and Garmadon simply enjoying your time as newlyweds together: 

On the first day, the two of you spent half of the day at the beach appreciating the uncannily clear water together before heading back to take a nap induced by sun fatigue. 

On day two, you both spent the day exploring the resort town while admiring some of the historic scenic areas. 

Now, you’re on day three. After a day relaxing at the spa resort, you find yourself sitting at the foot of the bed, hands fidgeting. 

You and Garmadon had agreed earlier that tonight would be your first time ever having sex. Although you’re still set on the idea, you can’t help how fast your heart is racing while waiting for Garmadon to return. 

Doing your best to shake the thoughts of what could happen away, you decide to take a few deep breaths. 

He enters the room shortly after, not wearing a shirt. You smile smally, suddenly feeling awkward. 

“Um…” you trail off, glancing away. “Hi...” 

Garmadon chuckles slightly, tossing his shirt to the side. “Hi.” 

“I’ve...I’ve never done this before,” you mumble, glancing away from him. 

“I haven’t either,” he confesses softly as you stand. He takes your hands in his, studying you quietly. “Are you still sure about this?” 

“I am,” you answer as he sits down beside you. “I’m just…kind of nervous, I guess.” 

“I am too,” he admits. “But we can take it slowly. You remember what to do in case…?” 

You nod. “Yes, I do.” 

“Okay,” Garmadon nods to himself. “Okay. I meditated beforehand, we have our pendants…” 

“I think we’re ready,” you state, heart starting to pound as you squeeze Garmadon’s hands. You release a shaky breath, nodding. “So...do we just, um...?” 

“I suppose we start with whatever feels right,” he mumbles, dropping his forehead against yours. Your noses brush together as he tenderly kisses you, hand moving to your cheek so he can tilt your head up slightly. 

After a few seconds, you pull away, opening your eyes to see Garmadon gazing at you reassuringly. This prompts you to swing a leg around his lap, adjusting your position so that you’re straddling him on the edge of the bed. 

The only light in the room comes from the pendants hanging from both of your chests. Their soft, golden glows gently illuminating the lower portion of Garmadon’s face. His eyes are trained on you, replete with that same love you had come to develop for him. 

Your expression melts in the golden light as you give in, kissing him again. This time, your hands drift to his collarbones, tracing the bones that lie underneath his skin. Garmadon’s breath hitches as you do, causing you to slow down slightly. 

Once your hands reach his pecs, Garmadon’s fingers creep down to the hem of your shirt. You smile softly, lifting your arms so that he can pull the article over your head. 

You’re left in your bra, heart beating nervously. Of course, he had seen you without a shirt before, but this feels...different. 

Garmadon pulls you close, pinning a kiss to your sternum. You sigh quietly as he slips his hands underneath your arms, bringing you so that you’re now on your back. 

His head dips down, lips connecting to your tummy before trailing upward, his line of kisses a paean to you. He makes his way to your neck eventually, tongue flicking across your skin before you feel his teeth sink into you slightly. 

The action elicits a moan from you, followed by a whisper of his name. He returns his focus to your lips, kissing you once more. 

“Doing okay?” he hums, eyes meeting yours. 

You nod, smiling as one of your hands comes up to grab your pendant. “Yeah. Are you?” 

“Yes,” he answers, stare shifting down to your hand. You release the pendant, dropping your hand to the side. 

Garmadon smiles, causing you to cup his cheek. 

“I love you,” you mutter. 

“I love you too,” he responds, leaning down to press a kiss to your forehead. 

You arch your back high enough so that you can unhook your bra, tossing it aside. Chills erupt across your skin, but the warmth radiating from Garmadon’s skin is more than enough to scare the cold away. Garmadon studies you for a moment before his lips latch onto the top of your breasts, quickly shifting his attention slightly lower. You moan softly when he starts kissing your nipple, his hand going to rub your other breast. 

You moan, feeling his tongue swiping over the sensitive areas on your breast, and you feel his hips slightly grinding against yours. 

“Garmadon...” you moan softly. He looks up at you, smiling softly as he kisses you before continuing his ministrations on your other breast. You arch your back and moan, hands going to tangle your fingers within his mess of dark hair. He continues licking your skin for a few more seconds before he finishes, kissing your lips yet again. 

A few seconds later, he separates from your breasts before righting himself. This time, his hands wander down to your panties. 

He gingerly slides his fingers towards the inside of your thighs, eliciting a soft moan from you. He trails his touch upward until he gently presses a finger into your panties, beckoning another moan from you. He rubs you a few more times before he slips his fingers underneath the waistband and gently tugs the article off. 

“Tell me what feels good,” he notes, shifting back a bit. “Are you ready?” 

“Yes,” you reply, spreading your legs slightly. 

With that, Garmadon’s hands go to keep your thighs apart as he lowers his head to drag a slow, teasing lick along your labia. You moan, your wetness only increasing as a heat stirs within you. You go to grasp his hair, his tongue beginning to swipe across your vagina. 

Your heart races faster as his tongue flicks across your clit. A sharper moan escapes you this time as the pace ramps up, his hands bracing themselves against your inner thighs as you feel his tongue slipping inside you. 

“Garmadon!” you mewl, squeezing your thighs a little as his tongue goes back to your clit, managing to find your sweet spot. You can’t help the little sounds that emanate from you as he works, mind starting to go hazy as he continues. 

Moments later, he pulls away, leaving you a hot mess. Your heavy breathing subsides as you rub your thighs together, even readier for the real thing now. 

Garmadon exhales shakily, taking a moment to strip out of his remaining clothes. Your arousal only burgeoning as your eyes land on his penis. 

“Garmadon...” you breathe, grateful when he climbs back over you. “Please...” 

He kisses you roughly before taking he aligns himself, hips starting to lower. Eventually feeling the tip of his penis sliding in. You moan as the sensation continues until he’s completely in, tightening your hold around him. 

“Are you still okay?” he questions, voice tight as he looks down at you. 

A slight pain starts stinging inside of you, but it’s nothing you didn’t expect – after all, you’ve had much worse before. “Yeah...yeah, keep going.”. 

Another moan slips from your lips as he starts thrusting lightly, pressing his forehead against yours again. You’re forced to look at him, arms locked around him as you hook your legs around his hips. “Faster!” 

He obliges with no complaints, intensifying the pleasure as your mouth remains slightly agape. Garmadon groans, taking the opportunity to kiss you again. This time, the kiss is sloppy and needy as you lift your hips to meet his thrusts in an attempt to increase the friction. His tongue enters your mouth, yours meeting his not long after. 

His pace gets stronger as the two of you keep your eyes locked on each other, his hands prying your arms off from his neck as he pins them above your head with one hand. He dips his head down to your chest, latching his mouth onto one of your nipples again. 

You feel your head starting to become a puddle of mush as he continues, hands releasing your wrists so that he can grip your waist and go faster. Your hands return to his neck as you hear him moaning, not in much better shape yourself. 

You know you won’t last for much longer, despite loving this unfamiliar sensation. You can tell he is too, judging by how uneven his thrusts are becoming. You whimper as you feel your climax approaching, crying out as he finishes with a few final thrusts. 

The orgasm finally hits, causing you to release a final mewl as he does the same. Your nails and fingers are digging into his shoulders as you feel him ejaculating inside of you, arms clinging to his torso as he presses his forehead against yours. 

The two of you still against each other, breathing heavily. After a minute or so, Garmadon pulls out of you. 

Garmadon kisses you one last time before turning onto his back next to you. You take a moment to catch your breath, pulling part of the sheet over you to replace the warmth lost from Garmadon’s body. 

“Garmadon...” you mumble, grinning. “That was...” 

“...spectacular,” he finishes, the two of you turning to look at each other. This causes you both to giggle, with you turning to lean your head against his shoulder. 

“What do you say to a hot bath?” he whispers, studying you. 

“That sounds amazing right about now,” you answer. “As great as that was...I feel sweaty as hell.” 

“Me too,” he chuckles, taking a moment to sit up. “I’ll run it.” 

While Garmadon starts the bath up, you take a moment to clean everything up before collecting the discarded clothes and setting them in the pile to be washed. 

Once that’s done, you join Garmadon in the bathroom. 

“Doing okay?” he questions, stepping into the tub that’s now just under halfway full. 

You nod, taking his offered hand as you enter the tub. “Yeah. I might be a little sore tomorrow, but I thought that might happen, so...it’s okay.” 

“Okay,” he replies. “Just let me know if there’s anything I can do for you.” 

“The same goes for you,” you retort, sitting down in the hot water and sighing in relief. 

With that, the two of you share a warm bath and few drinks together late in the night.

𝚊/𝚗: 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚠𝚎𝚍𝚍𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚜𝚌𝚎𝚗𝚎 𝚠𝚊𝚜 𝚔𝚒𝚗𝚍 𝚘𝚏 𝚑𝚊𝚛𝚍 𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝚖𝚎 𝚝𝚘 𝚠𝚛𝚒𝚝𝚎, 𝚋𝚎𝚌𝚊𝚞𝚜𝚎 𝚒 𝚍𝚒𝚍𝚗’𝚝 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚔 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚒𝚝 𝚠𝚘𝚞𝚕𝚍 𝚋𝚎 𝚎𝚗𝚝𝚒𝚛𝚎𝚕𝚢 𝚊𝚌𝚌𝚞𝚛𝚊𝚝𝚎 𝚝𝚘 𝚐𝚒𝚟𝚎 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚖 𝚊 𝚜𝚞𝚙𝚎𝚛 𝚑𝚊𝚙𝚙𝚢, 𝚌𝚕𝚒𝚌𝚑é 𝚠𝚎𝚍𝚍𝚒𝚗𝚐, 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚔𝚗𝚘𝚠? 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚢’𝚛𝚎 𝚏𝚊𝚌𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚊 𝚝𝚎𝚛𝚛𝚒𝚋𝚕𝚎 𝚝𝚑𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚝 𝚊𝚑𝚎𝚊𝚍, 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚢 𝚋𝚘𝚝𝚑 𝚞𝚗𝚍𝚎𝚛𝚜𝚝𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚐𝚜 𝚌𝚘𝚞𝚕𝚍 𝚝𝚞𝚛𝚗 𝚒𝚗 𝚊𝚗 𝚒𝚗𝚜𝚝𝚊𝚗𝚝. 𝚜𝚘 𝚒 𝚝𝚑𝚘𝚞𝚐𝚑𝚝 𝚊 𝚋𝚒𝚝𝚝𝚎𝚛𝚜𝚠𝚎𝚎𝚝 𝚙𝚛𝚘𝚖𝚒𝚜𝚎 𝚠𝚊𝚜 𝚊 𝚋𝚎𝚝𝚝𝚎𝚛 𝚛𝚘𝚞𝚝𝚎 𝚝𝚘 𝚝𝚊𝚔𝚎 𝚠𝚒𝚝𝚑 𝚒𝚝. 𝚒 𝚑𝚘𝚙𝚎 𝚒𝚝 𝚝𝚞𝚛𝚗𝚎𝚍 𝚘𝚞𝚝 𝚘𝚔𝚊𝚢, 𝚝𝚑𝚘𝚞𝚐𝚑.

𝚊𝚜 𝚊𝚕𝚠𝚊𝚢𝚜, 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚗𝚔𝚜 𝚝𝚘 𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚢𝚘𝚗𝚎 𝚠𝚑𝚘 𝚑𝚊𝚜 𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚍, 𝚌𝚘𝚖𝚖𝚎𝚗𝚝𝚎𝚍, 𝚕𝚒𝚔𝚎𝚍, 𝚛𝚎𝚋𝚕𝚘𝚐𝚐𝚎𝚍, 𝚘𝚛 𝚜𝚎𝚗𝚝 𝚊𝚜𝚔𝚜 𝚊𝚋𝚘𝚞𝚝 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚏𝚒𝚌! 𝚒 𝚑𝚊𝚟𝚎 𝚋𝚎𝚎𝚗 𝚜𝚞𝚙𝚎𝚛 𝚐𝚛𝚊𝚝𝚎𝚏𝚞𝚕 𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝚊𝚕𝚕 𝚘𝚏 𝚢𝚘𝚞𝚛 𝚜𝚞𝚙𝚙𝚘𝚛𝚝! <𝟹

𝚕𝚎𝚝 𝚖𝚎 𝚔𝚗𝚘𝚠 𝚢𝚘𝚞𝚛 𝚝𝚑𝚘𝚞𝚐𝚑𝚝𝚜! 𝚒 𝚊𝚕𝚠𝚊𝚢𝚜 𝚊𝚙𝚙𝚛𝚎𝚌𝚒𝚊𝚝𝚎 𝚊𝚗𝚢 𝚌𝚘𝚖𝚖𝚎𝚗𝚝𝚜, 𝚕𝚒𝚔𝚎𝚜 𝚘𝚛 𝚛𝚎𝚋𝚕𝚘𝚐𝚜 :)))))

𝚝𝚊𝚐𝚕𝚒𝚜𝚝:

@ladyathenawisdom

@josephslittlemetalballs

𝚙𝚕𝚎��𝚜𝚎 𝚕𝚎𝚝 𝚖𝚎 𝚔𝚗𝚘𝚠 𝚒𝚏 𝚢𝚘𝚞'𝚍 𝚕𝚒𝚔𝚎 𝚝𝚘 𝚋𝚎 𝚝𝚊𝚐𝚐𝚎𝚍, 𝚘𝚛 𝚒𝚏 𝚒 𝚖𝚒𝚜𝚜𝚎𝚍 𝚢𝚘𝚞𝚛 𝚞𝚜𝚎𝚛𝚗𝚊𝚖𝚎 (𝚒𝚗 𝚠𝚑𝚒𝚌𝚑 𝚌𝚊𝚜𝚎 𝚒 𝚊𝚖 𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚢 𝚜𝚘𝚛𝚛𝚢!)

[higanbana-au]

Intro to our AU

Meet the dumbasses (aka writers), there's three of us.

Hi, I'm Blue! — They/Them

I'm a professional procrastinator and probably the reason this took so long to make lmao.

check me out: @blu3cl0v3rs

G’day ma- no we aren’t doing that actually, retry.

Heyo! I’m Charli! (She/They)

Joining Blue on the professional procrastinator there, and I’m insane about symbolism and formatting. If you want to see my everyday chaos, you can find me over at @artqueen02

Hi, I'm Prism, She/They/He

I'm probably the reason this will end up being so many parts because all the "what if" questions come from me.

Main account is @prisms-writing

So what is this AU about exactly?

In the Higanbana AU follows Eleanor's childhood and teenage years as she finds out more about her family all while being accompanied by a still tiny Pythor.

Why is Pythor still small you may be asking? simple, the Anacondrai generals fucking hate him.

Turns out you aren't likable when you're a cannibal.

You'll also find the following:

Things you will get from reading this fic

GAY

getting invested in the purple snake

MORE GAY

your eyes are so pretty

GAYYYYYYYYYYYYY

way too many spinoffs

GAYYYYYYYYYY

so much angst you’re not ready

did I mention that there’s GAY

what was that about the angs-

NO. SHUT UP. GAY

P.S. Be sure to watch out for secrets.

[gl4ssfan]

Hey, I have a couple of questions again... Sorry if it was already asked before.

1. Does Kai get the Anacondrai mark while he infiltrate Chen's rank? If so, does he become an Anacondrai later along with Chen's man like in canon ?

1.2 How does the elemental alliance react to that ?

2. Is there people that think that the team was complete with 5 members and think that Kai is slowing them down?

2.2 Does other people knows that Kai was the Samourai before officially joining the team as the fire ninja?

3. Would Kai will be captured quickly by Nadhakan like in Canon or he stay longer to fight?

4. Does Pixal take over the title of The Samourai ? If so, was it difficult for Kai to give it to her ?

It's totally fine!!!!

I'm still thinking about this, so it's a firm maybe right now. I'm gonna try and get through all the ninja's designs and then after that I'll get to thinking more about this!

1.2 Will get back to you on this!!

2. I'm sure it will be a weird process at first, but the ninja themselves are confident in Kai's abilities and trust him fully. There will be backlash from the public, of course, but less-so than there was for Nya in the show, because misogyny wouldn't be a factor with Kai joining.

2.2 The ninja learn first, but the public finds out pretty much immediately after, so yes, people are aware that he was first The Samurai, before the fire ninja!

3. He'd probably be a bit more tactful about his approach to Nadhakhan, but he'd still be captured quickly. He's still Kai, after all!!

4. Pixal becomes sort of a successor to The Samurai, and she goes by Samurai X. She enhances herself with more technology, but doesn't use a mech like in the show. She doesn't think about it, so she doesn't make a mech. It's definitely a very bittersweet experience for Kai, knowing that he could never go back to being The Samurai, and that Pixal can do better because of the tech. He's still very proud of Pix, though, and happy to see her thrive, so it's not all bad.

[icy-watch]

So, that was episode 7.

I was completely wrong about the element, so maybe there is no Elemental Master of Water. Which is fine. It's just unusual is all.

I do like the element being surprise though. That's a fun little pun for the show.

Clouse and Chen have Skylor as a prisoner. I'm pretty sure she got her power back after the staff broke, but was she not able to keep all of the other powers she absorbed?

There's going to be a rescue mission for her now. I'm pretty certain this is the end of the Elemental Masters all working together, so we probably won't get them in the next episode helping the ninja, Nya, and Gardmadon take down Chen and his goons.

They also still have to let Wu and Misako know what's up. So hopefully they get in contact soon.

And no one was turned into an Anacondrai, which is sad. But also thank you animators and writers for sparing us the body horror.

Like I said in this post, I'll only be doing one episode Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. There won't be any episodes on Friday or Saturday. I'm hoping to pick up season 5 on Sunday, although that is tentative at the moment. I will see everyone tomorrow!

[illusion-of-sea-axes]

I'm not sure if this was already asked, but in the anacondrai au...is garmadon still the one to sacrifice himself? or does that whole ordeal end. differently?

I mean, I was mainly just playing with the idea of Kai getting a Mark of Anacondrai as the only deviation from the actual show. But the more I think about this, I realize just how, like, fun it'd be if Garmadon didn't sacrifice himself. Cause Sensei Garmadon can connect to Kai differently than Sensei Wu can, especially after Chen's defeated, so him sticking around and finally having some kind of relationship with Kai would be really fun. Hell, maybe Kai even moves into Garmadon's Monastery.

Cause Garmadon would understand Kai's guilt, not just about his fake betrayal, but also for what he said and did while he held the Staff, and the retroactive guilt for having felt that way about Lloyd at all.

Garmadon would also have some advice to offer to Kai that Wu wouldn't because of their different lived experiences.

There's also the fact they'd both give anything to protect Lloyd and how they've both clearly shown that to each other.

And Sensei G could also tell Kai a bit about his parents, now that he has the time, and he's definitely more open to talk about things than Wu.

[razzle-zazzle]

actually, what has Cole's group been doing around ninjago? are they just checking up on areas like the dark island or also drifting around to wherever to see the sights.

Drifting, mostly.

It starts with Cole setting out to try and... he's not sure, really, just that he wanted some time away from the monastery. He runs into Pythor, who's tired of the whole villain thing but doesn't want to admit it, and they end up traveling together because, well, why not? Pythor's bored and Cole doesn't trust him (doesn't trust anyone), so they end up following the same path.

Morro shows up later. He's spent some time trying to acclimate to the modern world and being alive again, but when he and Cole cross paths he decides he also needs to stick around, because he's still not happy about being thrown into the Rift of Return without being asked if that was what he even WANTED, COLE! So now he's gotta come along and bug Cole as much as possible.

Echo, of course, comes along after they find him in the lighthouse, because what else is he going to do? Continue rotting away alone but for Tai-D? No way! He's got a whole world that Julien described that he wants to see! At this point, Cole's already started to come out of his "nobody likes me and I need to be ALONE" arc, and Echo's really just the final nail in the coffin for that. Not to mention, Echo's enthusiasm for the world and desire to protect those who cannot protect themselves is really kind of infectious.

Still, the group's not really all that close, right? They're just traveling together for convenience, surely. When Pythor suggests trying to see if Cole's status as an Elemental Master and Hero of Ninjago could get them some vacation time in the luxury of Shintaro, he's only looking to get himself that vacation time, of course. Why would anyone suggest otherwise? Him, Pythor, caring? Impossible! He ate the other Anacondrai, he opposed the ninja again and again! He couldn't possibly be thinking about how not immensely, sickeningly goody-two shoes Cole's been, or how about how Morro and Echo still have so much of life to experience. Not at all!

And if Morro's sticking around and teaching Echo how to fight, well, it's just because he has a soft spot for second bests! He's only sticking around Cole because Echo is, and because he still has that unfinished business with the Earth Master, and not at all because it's better than being alone. Not at all!

Echo's just happy to be here. He has no idea of the trials he is soon to face in Shintaro.

[breathlessmorro]

Good Morro x Evil Kai (likemthe Kai of season 4 but he's actually evil)

Ohhhh now that's a thought. Evil Kai and good Morro, I'm into it!

Let's say Kai still held the staff, that he helped Chen all the way through. Garmadon manages to banish himself and the Anacondrai warriors, but Kai isn't banished because he's still human (he wasn't given the mark of the Anacondrai, after all). When Morro makes his big entrance, the ninja are still powerless, and Kai is still fixated on Lloyd.

In this au, I think Morro has to be somewhat bad in order to still be from the Cursed Realm. That being said, I think that he wouldn't be as hung up over not being the green ninja, moreso the idea that his sensei thought he wasn't worth anything. He still wants to find the realm crystal, but Kai hears about this plan and decides to search for it himself. Thus starts the race to the Tomb of the First Spinjitzu Master.

Now here's the thing - Kai's reached his full potential. Morro hasn't. Morro is still hung up on all he couldn't achieve while he was alive, and Kai? Well... Let's assume Kai still has Clouse's spell book. I'm sure he could use his staff to bring Morro back to life. He offers Morro the chance to join him, and Morro accepts - if only as a trick.

It's Morro who gets through to Kai, pointing out how foolish he's being, how the staff is corrupting him. It's Morro who destroys the staff, and frees him from the corruption. The ninja all get their powers back, but Kai collapses. The staff took so much energy from him, and he feels utterly guilty for what he's done. He tells Morro that even though he doesn't know him, he's grateful for him for freeing him, and protecting Lloyd.

Which helps Morro realize that Kai never needed to be the green ninja, and neither did he. Morro reaches his full potential.

[akariarda]

Return of the enemy(Ninjago fan season between season4 and 5 with Sensei G.)

Episode 1-The return

Episode 2-Surprises

Our heroes encounter many surprises on their way. Not all of them are very pleasant.

"What do you think, is Wu okay?" Misako asked Garmadon as they walked along the docks.

"I hope so," Garmadon sighed.

"And are you okay?" Misako gently asked him. "All this with Chen.."

"I'll survive," Garmadon snapped at her. "Now we just need to get rid of him once and for all."

"If that's possible," Misako muttered to herself.

They walked in silence for a long time.

"I'm sorry we're not going anywhere after all," Garmadon sighed.

"Me too," Misako agreed. "Where did you want to go?"

"That's a surprise," Garmadon smiled at her.

"Oh come on," Misako encouraged him. "You know I hate surprises."

"I know you don't hate them, you're just afraid you won't react well to them."

"You know me well," Misako smiled back, though deep down she was still worried.

It was a good way for both of them to get their minds off the situation.

"And psst!" She put a finger to her lips and pointed towards the docks. "Someone is there."

"Who..." Garmadon asked but then immediately recognized the face and voice.

"Oh, isn't that Sensei Garmadon," the voice taunted. "And surely that's Misako, nice to meet you."

"Clouse!" Garmadon hissed and started to move forward as if to attack, but Misako grabbed his hand.

"You? How? I will.."

"I don't think now is the time to throw threats, Garmadon," Clouse continued in a mocking tone. "You're not in a position to do so."

"And I also think that fighting is not the best solution right now," Misako said, pulling Garmadon's hand again.

"But..." he started, then stopped when he looked around.

They were surrounded by Chen's soldiers, there were at least a dozen of them, no, more than a dozen, three dozen?

"At least they're not Anacondrai anymore," Misako offered poor consolation.

~~~With the ninja:~~~

"We need to come up with a plan," Zane said when the ninjas stopped in front of the noodle house with their vehicles.

"I agree," Cole replied. "We shouldn't underestimate Kai if we fall into a trap with him."

"But we can't just leave him," Lloyd complained.

"No one said we would abandon him."Jay patted Lloyd on the shoulder.

"I know he's your best friend, he's family to all of us, but that doesn't change the fact that we need a plan."Cole insisted

"But Chen said we have to all go," Lloyd lamented.

"Maybe I have a plan," Jay smiled.

~~~With the Kai and Skylor:~~~

"What do you want from us, father?!"

Skylor yelled as she and Kai were forcefully dragged through secret hallways by soldiers.

"And what did you mean by saying we are useful?"

"Stop!" Chen raised his hand as they halted in front of the dungeons.

"This is your new residence, fear not, there is also space for your friends when they enter my castle."

"They're not that dumb!" Kai objected. "They'll find a way to deal with you." "

They may not be dumb, but they are loyal," Chen sighed, feigning sympathy. "And that's just as good as being dumb."

"You still haven't answered me, father," Sklor interjected. "What do you want from us?"

"If you want to steal all the elemental powers again, I'm afraid it won't be so easy for you this time," Kai sneered.

"Don't worry, this time I have completely different plans," Chen looked at them, for the first time appearing serious.

"No matter what is it, you will not succeed!" Skylor shouted at him.

"We'll see about that," Chen motioned to his soldiers to take Kai and Skylor to the dungeons.

~~~With the ninja:~~~~

"No, no, and no!" Lloyd shouted. "That is out of the question."

"I agree with Lloyd, we can't put innocent people in danger,"

Cole said, pulling out his weapon. "We will fight."

"I don't like it either, but my sensors tell me we have no choice," Zane sighed.

"We won't send just anyone, but someone with the necessary skills."

"But it's still too risky," Lloyd groaned. "What if something goes wrong..."

"That's what Kai would do," Jay entered the noodle house. "So the majority wins."

"No..." Cole and Lloyd shouted at the same time, but they couldn't respond Jay from going into the Noodle House.

"Who wants to go on a ninja mission?!"

Soon, a considerable number of people gathered around them.

"Everyone, calm down," Lloyd shouted, and everyone fell silent.

"It will be very dangerous and risky. Are you sure you want to do this?"

"Those who are sure and think they are capable, stand on my right side!" Jay shouted, and a few people stood on his right side, while the others dispersed.

"Hello, fellas!" Dareth stepped forward. "Going on another mission with the brown ninja?"

"Oh no," Cole groaned.

"People, you need to be aware of what's happening. We are fighting Chen."

Lloyd interrupted again. "He wants us all to come to the backyard of this building.Jay's plan is for you to pretend to be us until we find a way into Chen's tunnels."

"It will be very dangerous, can you handle it?" Cole added.

After a few mumbles, people dispersed, leaving only Dareth and one man in his thirties with a bandage on his forehead and black hair streaked with gray. He was tall and slender.

"So, the two of you go with Dareth... And sorry, who are you?" Lloyd asked.

"Sorry for not introducing myself earlier. I am Sangfugol. I usually play the harp somewhere else, but I have a mission here."

"What kind of mission and where are you from?" Jay asked, confused.

"And why are you telling us this now?" Zane inquired.

"Because it concerns all of you," Sangfugol looked at Lloyd. "But enough about that, I just want to say that I am a friend."

"Alright then, I suppose we continue with the plan," Lloyd, who seemed uncomfortable, said.

"Which two will go with Dareth and Sangfugol?"

"rock, paper, clamp?"Cole suggested.

"It's not like we have any other choice," Lloyd sighed.

"No!" Jay exclaimed. "I wanted to go!"

"So, it's Cole, Dareth, Sangolfun, and me," Lloyd repeated. "Zane and Cole, you stay behind and follow us later."

"Affirmative," Zane confirmed.

"Now, who will play whom?" Jay asked, looking at Sangolfun and Dareth.

"None of them really resemble any of us..."

~~~With Misako and Garmadon:~~~

"How did you know we would be here?" Garmadon angrily asked Clouse, who was smiling in front of them.

"Everything in due time, Garmadon. It is best for you to come with us," Clouse replied.

"Never," Garmadon said.

"I believe we don't really have a choice," Misako said, pointing to more soldiers disembarking from the ship.

"Oh yes, how could I forget to mention that?" Clouse gloated. "If you cause any trouble, she gets hurt, and vice versa. Now let my soldiers escort you to our ship."

"You'll get yours, you..." Garmadon pushed away a soldier who approached him. "I'd rather die than go into your captivity."

"Such a shame," Clouse sighed. "But like I said before, you won't die. Throw her into the sea."

"No!" Garmadon shouted, and the soldiers stopped trying to pull Misako away.

"Leave her alone, coward. This is between us."

"I'm afraid this is much more than just between us, Garmadon,"

Clouse began walking towards the ship, and Garmadon and Misako were finally allowed to be taken with them.

"Furthermore, I'm afraid your wife plays a significant role in all of this."

"Which one?" Misako asked.

"I'm afraid I can't speak of it just yet," Clouse pretended to sigh. "But I am certain that my master won't spare any words when I deliver you to him."

They let themselves be tied to a pole. Garmadon could no longer feel anger, all that was left was exhaustion.

He felt Misako testing how tightly their hands were tied on the other side.

At least she didn't give up.At least they were together, even though they couldn't see each other, he could at least feel her hand and hear her breathing.

He grabbed her hand and squeezed it before letting go again. More for his own comfort than hers.

She didn't know what kind of person Chen was.

"So, we're going to Chen," Misako said. "Great."

"You'll like it even less when you get there," Clouse gloated. "Especially your husband."

"You still haven't told us how you knew where to find us," Garmadon said indifferently. "And where is my brother?"

From his expression, they could conclude that Clouse failed to capture Wu. He didn't know he would be there. He only knew about them.

"Wu and the ninjas will come after you again," Misako told him just as indifferently.

"Not if your son and his friends stumble into a trap," Clouse replied.

"They'll figure it out," Garmadon responded.

"We'll see about that," Clouse's mood clearly improved. "And what about your samurai, isn't her name Mya?"

"Nya, you idiot," Garmadon told him.

"Oh, right, Nya, of course. Watch this now."

Misako and Garmadon gasped when they saw the image that appeared on the screen.

"No, I need..." Nya was speaking on the screen while talking to someone.

"How?" Misako asked in disbelief.

"I think I know," Garmadon said, recalling the empty box he received that morning.

"Anyway," Clouse interrupted the recording. "Soon our army will capture your precious little monastery and capture the samurai."

With those words, he left the room where Garmadon and Misako were standing.

"Quick!" Misako said when everyone left. "We won't be alone for long."

"You don't think we can escape, do you?" Garmadon asked in disbelief.

"No," Misako admitted. "But I think we can try to send a message to Nya to flee."

"How?"

"If we can hear her..."

"You mean she might somehow be able to hear us," Garmadon slowly began to understand.

"There must be a button..." Misako looked towards the panel.

"Maybe the one with something drawn on it?" Garmadon suggested.

"I think so, but how do I get to it?" Misako tried to free herself but without success.

"We need to throw something at it," she mumbled.

"Wait here," Garmadon said as he grabbed a nearby box with his feet.

"It's not like I'm going anywhere" Misako replied.

With a few swings, he managed to launch the box and hit the right button.

"You did it!" Misako exclaimed.

"Shh, Misako, be quiet," Garmadon said, unable to hide his smile.

"Nya, if you can hear us," Misako said, "run away from the monastery. Clouse has captured us, he's listening you."

"Go to Mystake's tea shop," Garmadon added.

"She..." he began, but stopped when he noticed someone approaching.

"What's going on here?" Clouse angrily asked, fortunately not appearing to know anything,but even they didn't know if it worked.

~~~With the Nya:~~~

"Where can I find them?" Nya talked to herself while trying to figure out a way to contact the other elemental masters.

She dialed a number, but before she could start speaking, someone interrupted her.

"This doesn't make sense." Angrily, she hung up the phone, but then heard some whispering.

"Misako?"

"....hear us," Misako said, "run away from the monastery. Clouse has captured us, he's listening to you."

"Go to Mystake's tea shop," Garmadon's voice said. "She..." he began, but stopped.

"What's going on here?" A voice. She assumed it was Clouse's.

She bent down a few times, trying to locate where the voice was coming from.

"There you are," she said and caught a mechanical spider.

"Now you're mine!" she said and turned it off. She didn't want to completely shut it down in case she might need it later.

After some hesitation, she turned the spider back on.

"Obviously, the best solution now is to go get the other ninjas," she said and turned off the spider again.

"Quickly," she told herself because she didn't know how long she would be alone.

She picked up some scrolls she had found earlier and considered them relevant to the situation.

She put on her samurai X suit and flew towards Mystake's tea shop.

"I'm here," she said and stepped inside uncertainly.

"Hello!" she shouted at the entrance. "I am Nya, and I..."

"Welcome, Nya, master of water," an older voice interrupted her. Mystake turned towards her.

"Master of what?"

"I was expecting..."

Mystake started but had to stop when she saw Nya faint.