#scorps do NOT like going into things without preparing or trying in some way or form

[jrueships]

maxeys chart 😭😭

[precuredaily]

Precure Day 200

Episode: Yes! Precure 5 Go Go! 02 - “Nozomi and Coco - A Troubling Reunion” Date watched: 4 July 2020 Original air date: 10 February 2008 Screenshots Transformation Gallery Project info and master list of posts

yes, the whole episode is like this

So, full disclosure, the first time I watched GoGo I was kind of only half paying attention to it while I worked on other projects and I don’t remember the overarching plot that well. That may become apparent in my posts about this series. Just something to keep in mind.

If the first episode was a fun but talkative reintroduction to the world, this episode doubles down on the talk and halves the fun. The writing is weak and the art quality is weaker. It still has some heart, and helps to properly set up the conflict of the show, so it’s not a total loss, but these early episodes are missing some of the magic of the previous season. Let’s explore.

The Plot

After a brief recap of the previous episode, the girls admire their new outfits for a moment before snapping back to reality and fighting Scorp. They overpower him with their teamwork and then he declares he’s seen enough for now and leaves. After the dust settles, the girls greet Coco and Nuts and Dream gives Coco her letter, which he half-heartedly accepts and pockets without reading, prompting a silent glare from Nuts. The girls ask what’s going on, and Syrup is still taken aback by the whole ordeal. They regroup at the gazebo at Karen’s mansion for some good old exposition dumping. Nuts explains that the Rose Pact is the key to the Cure Rose Garden, a mysterious place nobody has ever been (so how do the know about it?). The power of the four monarchs of the territories surrounding the Palmier Kingdom is needed in conjunction with the Rose Pact to open the path to the Cure Rose Garden. They further explain why they’re back in the human world: the monarchs were visiting the Pamier Kingdom on a diplomatic mission, when they were attacked by Eternal, and are now hiding in the human world in the form of Palmins.

We cut to Eternal’s headquarters where a purple-haired woman named Anacondy is giving a tour to an unseen but familiar-sounding figure, explaining their corporate mission is to archive every valuable item from all of history (lofty goal). Scorp shows up in her office and explains that he found the Rose Pact, but he was unable to procure it due to the interference of Precure. Suddenly the mystery guest speaks up, admitting he’s scuffled with Precure before, and he is revealed to be none other than Bunbee, preparing for employment at Eternal. He explains how the Precures caused him trouble at his last job, but Anacondy just orders Scorp to go retrieve the Rose Pact with little regard for Bunbee’s words.

Back at the gazebo, the girls start to realize that Eternal is responsible for the attacks on both the Palmier Kingdom and Nozomi, and try to figure out what to do about it. Coco and Nuts need to contact the Palmier Kingdom to let them know what’s going on, so they ask if Syrup will deliver a message. However, due to some obvious friction between him and Coco he declines and flies off, so they focus on finding somewhere to live. Fortunately, Karen has just the place.

Some things never change

It’s not clearly established what happened to the old Natts House location, unless they explain it down the road in future episodes, but this is the new home base, and of course once again Karen presents it as a “small” spare warehouse her family owns, only for the others to protest that it’s bigger than their entire homes. Is it the same gag from last year? Yes. Does it still land? Also yes.

Anyway, the girls want to help tidy up the place, but Coco pushes them away and insists he and Nuts can handle it. That night, Nozomi is standing on her balcony in her pajamas, looking sad, when Syurp pays her a visit to chastise Coco’s behavior. She angrily defends his honor and slams her curtains closed, startling Syrup. Back at Natts House 2.0, Coco and Nuts take a break from cleaning to exposit some more, recalling a story about how the Cure Rose Garden produces both red and blue roses, and a new power emerges when they meet. Nuts surmises that the Rose Pact contains the power of the Red Rose, but isn’t sure what the Blue Rose is. The conversation shifts to their presence back in the human world, with Coco feeling guilty for dragging the girls into the conflict again, while Nuts reminds him that he wanted to see them anyway so he should make the most of his opportunity.

At a later day at Cinq Lumieres we see that Coco has resumed teaching under the guise of Kokoda Kouji. Things are still awkward between him and Nozomi, but she meets him in the library and they have a talk. He acknowledges her letter and her feelings, but stops short of telling her how he’s feeling. Syrup shows up and talks shit about Coco, who just gets sad again, but before they can talk things out, Scorp appears. Coco attempts to de-escalate the situation, but Scorp isn’t interested in chatter and he knocks all three of them back, reverting Coco and Syrup to their fairy forms. Nozomi takes a moment to give Coco the Rose Pact, instructing Syrup to carry him away to safety, and then she transforms. This time, Scorp doesn’t fight on his own, instead he pulls out a yellow and orange orb that he throws into a nearby bookcase, transforming it! 

Yes, these are our monsters of this show, called Hoshiina, which means “want” or “desire”. Cure Dream fights the Hoshiina, but it uses books as shields and whips and manages to throw her around. Coco approaches her, not having run away yet, and unloads his emotions on her, explaining how he feels guilty about dragging her back into the conflict, and inadvertently tormenting her by not communicating because he wanted to wait and show off the fully rebuilt Palmier Kingdom to her. She thanks him for being so concerned, and then the other girls turn up, having heard the commotion. They transform and so does Scorp. and they duke it out over Coco’s honor and intentions. Between blows they reiterate that they want to go to the Cure Rose Garden, they decided that themselves without his influence so he shouldn’t feel guilty, but they still want him to lend his power to make it possible to get there. The Hoshiina puts up a good fight with some diverse tactics, but the girls don’t lose faith and they manage to pin it down. Dream implores a relieved Coco that she wants them all to go to the Cure Rose Garden together, and then launches into her all-new finisher: Precure Shooting Star, where she flies directly into the Hoshiina, destroying it. Scorp flees.

Later, Nozomi and Coco have a heart-to-heart outside the library where he says he really appreciated the letter, but he isn’t sure what he can do to help them. Right on cue, Nuts shows up and explains what they CAN do: detect Palmins! There’s one nearby, and Coco guides Nozomi into catching it in the CureMo by taking a picture.

The girls all gather round to see what she captured, and it turns into.... a futon. Coco explains that there’s different kinds of Palmins, they’re not all disguised monarchs, but they may be useful down the road so it’s not a loss. They vow once more to find all the monarchs and go to the Cure Rose Garden together, as Syrup watches from a distance, still a little confused by their togetherness.

The Analysis

Credit where it’s due. In stark contrast to Max Heart, which had no idea what to do for a plot and just kind of meandered about for the majority of its run, GoGo is hitting the ground running. It has clearly and effectively established the objective (reach the Cure Rose Garden to meet Flora while rescuing the four monarchs along the way) and the conflict (Eternal, the company that wants to preserve everything). In fact I might even say there’s too much plot crammed into these premiere episodes. You’re absolutely inundated with information and it’s a lot to absorb, whereas the first series spread its exposition out over all the character introductions. GoGo could stand to slow down a little, and I think episode 3 still has more to give us yet. A lot of the middle of the episode is taken up with explaining who the villains are, how Coco and Nuts got back, and some private conversation about Precure’s new powers. The Precure were upgraded with the power of the Red Rose from the Cure Rose Garden, and the legend says the garden also grows blue roses. The audience has probably deduced that the mysterious girl in the opening has something to do with that, but I’m still going to pretend I don’t know about Milky Rose for a bit.

The dialog at least feels more natural in this episode, but it’s contrasted with the tension between Coco and Nozomi, which I don’t think was necessary except to add a little conflict. However, I can see the reasoning behind it. He cares deeply about Nozomi and everyone and he didn’t want to drag them back into his and Nuts’s battle, he wanted them to continue to be ordinary girls living their ordinary lives, worrying about school and their hobbies and interests. He feels like it’s his fault they’ve transformed again whether they wanted to or not. However, Nozomi and the others explain they want to go to the Cure Rose Garden and are more than happy to help Coco and Nuts out along the way. Knowing that they don’t feel burdened by him helps put Coco’s mind at ease and he cheers the girls on. From the real-world writers’ perspective, it’s  a pretty stark reversal of his personality from the first season and as I suggested, is probably there to have some drama. Normally Nuts is the moody one, but his character arc last season was all about opening up and being helpful and taking things in stride, so now it’s Coco’s turn to be the dramatic one, though in his case it’s based on concern rather than past betrayal. They seem to have resolved it in this episode, we’ll see whether it carries forward or not. However, there’s still a lingering mystery about his past with Syrup, as the latter seems to resent him, and that will definitely carry us for a bit.

The fights in this episode are great, especially the second one. The first is brief but to the point, filled with dynamic team kicks to throw Scorp off his rocker. The later fight is for all the marbles, and the fairies get caught in the crossfire. It’s a struggle but the girls come out on top with the strength of their convictions and some fast thinking. Despite being a few months since they’ve been at it, clearly the girls haven’t gotten rusty. If anything they’re faster than before, or maybe that’s just the early animation budget. It’s evenly balanced between physical and ideological fighting as the girls try to convince Coco that they’re not upset at him, and explain to Scorp why they care about Coco. The Hoshiina is pretty creative for a first enemy, using books as swords, whips, shields, arms, and legs at different times. It spins itself around at high speeds to avoid attacks and gives the girls a good fight. For their part, they use a lot of flying punches and kicks to wear it down and Dream gets in a particularly good one-two combo before her finisher. Speaking of which: Dream’s new solo attack! I liked Dream Attack and its successor Crystal Shoot, but Shooting Star is next level. She FLIES DIRECTLY INTO THE ENEMY? It’s like Five Explosion but as a solo attack and it’s totally badass. We’ll get to see more of the others’ attacks in the coming episodes, of course. Once again it’s a while before they get their group attack, so enjoy the solos.

The artwork this episode is, unfortunately, laughably bad. I mean come on it’s only episode 2, you’re not supposed to have the super off-model shots until later in the show. And yet....

These faces are laughable. Misshapen, disproportionate, or just blank stares. It’s not the entire episode but it’s present at key moments throughout and it takes away from the experience. I looked ahead and actually Milky Rose’s debut is also pretty bad so maybe they were in a rush with the early part of this show.

Now, it wouldn’t be Precure without some good old fashioned merchandising, and we’ve got a brand spanking new toy to sell in the Curemo! The extended sequence of Coco walking Nozomi through the process of capturing a Palmin is also promotion for kids to buy the toy and see what they can do with it. It’s a little fancier than the Pinky Catch from last year, taking the form of a pink flip phone, but it also has a swivel hinge, similar to the Heartful Communes from Max Heart.

The top of it has a grid design with depictions of the five butterflies of the Palmier Kingdom, and on the lower left is an emblem of a rose. When it’s opened, it has a blue-green screen surrounded by pink, and the body where the keyboard would be just has three buttons, shaped like a rosebud and two leaves, and some stem designs etched in beneath that. It’s a much more involved toy than the Pinky Catch, at least visually, and I’m here for it. While the Pinky Catch could only open and close, the CureMo also has a rotating screen as mentioned, which lays into the capture gimmick. The user rotates the screen sideways and snaps a picture of the Palmin, similar to a real cell phone, which is then scanned into the device and turns into its true form. It looks neat and it compacts nicely, blends into their world well, so I think it’s effective as a device. I do find it funny how heavily the Palmin capture is emphasized and how blatantly similar it is to last season’s Macguffin quest, but that’s the business, I’m not going to dwell on it too much.

Despite some major hiccups after a bumpy premiere, GoGo 02 is still a pretty good episode overall. The characters are starting to settle into their new roles and we’re learning about the conflict. If the animation smooths out then the show will be off to a strong start.

Next time, Mailpo appears! What’s a Mailpo? Wait and find out! Look forward to it!

Pink Precure Catchphrase Count: 2 kettei!

[beetlegoose01]

stolen whispers: chapter 1

AN: this fic isn’t a request, it’s a story i’ve been preparing for a lil while and I’m so excited to share this with you all <3

I’ll link it on my Archive if you prefer to read it there. Also warning, there’s quite a few OCs.

Time: 2028 (Scorbus have been married for two years)

Summary: When a new generation of Death Eaters kidnap Scorpius, Albus and Rose put aside their differences to rescue him.

TW: Kidnapping/Language/minor violence

~~~~

Two witches wearing shadowy black robes entered the tavern, finding a table near the back. They ordered their mead, waiting for their third partner impatiently. It was a crowded area, so thankfully there was a small chance they would be overheard.

"We don't want more mead." The first woman growled, tapping her long nails at the table. The bartender, a tall man with a mustache put the drinks down.

"I didn't think so." He lips curled into a grin as he morphed into a younger man with wild dusty brown hair, wearing matching robes. He was handsome, but had an eerie presence to him. Any reasonable person would have at least flinched at the transformation, though neither witch did. "Hello ladies." He grinned cheekily.

"Soren, enough playing games." The second woman said, though she was smirking.

Soren barked out a laugh. "It was funny, Mara. And you know it."

The first woman, Lilith narrowed her eyes. She pulled down her hood, revealing cascading inky black hair down her shoulders. A scar that showed no sign of mending was down her cheek. "Your skills are impressive, but useless if you don't use them for our own gain. Don't forget that." She pulled her hood back.

"Understood." He murmured, taking a seat.

"We have much to discuss," She continued, flicking her wand idly. "Our current plan in action. Our...act of revenge. It's been thirty years since The Tenebris was wrongfully killed. I am sick and tired of his name being tossed around in history like he was some monster. He was on the right side."

"Are you certain we want to call the Dark Lord that?" Mara asked suspiciously.

"Shh! You know if anyone hears us, they'll lock us up for good. For speaking our minds." Lilith said. "It's safer we call him by his code name."

Her companions nodded.

"Because of his loss, we have mudbloods in positions of power. Our siblings that fought for his cause are locked up. Or worse, dead."

Mara and Soren looked grim.

"If we had more allies, perhaps we would have had a chance." Soren noted. "We weren't even alive then but...I have a feeling if we were..."

"Just because we weren't alive then, doesn't mean we don't have opinions over the lives stolen!" Mara argued. "That damn Harry Potter."

"Correct. And Soren is right too. For once. If we had more allies, or better yet...certain allies didn't betray us. The Malfoys for instance." She took a sip of her drink.

"Are you suggesting something?" Mara asked.

"Of course I am, don't be so daft." Lilian said, deadly calm. "I want to make that family suffer for what they did. My uncle Vincent Crabbe died for their selfishness. Draco Malfoy had a chance to save him, and he refused like the coward he is. His mother Narcissa lied to Tenebris' face. They are backstabbing filth that besmirched the Sacred 28. No, it isn't just about their betrayal or avenging those we lost in the war. Think of the big picture. They have the capabilities to join our side. To...respawn a new generation of Death Eaters. But that's not all...

"The Malfoys have lots of gold." She drawled. "Surely, they'll spare a few for us in exchange for something important. Or rather...someone."

"Someone?" Soren paused. "What are you suggesting?"

"Regretfully, Astoria Malfoy has passed on." Mara didn't sound the least bit sympathetic, instead stated it blandly. "So using her as a ransom for Draco is a no go."

"Ah, but there is still someone left." Lillian said, removing a small photograph from her cloak, she slid it across the table.

A young man with platinum hair was pictured, beaming brightly in Healer Robes.

"Scorpius Malfoy."

Soren and Mara exchanged a look of satisfaction.

"Bring him to me."

~~~~~~~~~~

The best thing about mornings, at least to Albus, was waking up beside his husband. The sun's bright rays peaked through the window of their cream colored bedroom, slowly stirring them both awake. If it was up to him, he would stay in their warm bed, arms wrapped around Scorpius until noon.

Scorpius rolled over, so that they were facing each other. His eyes fluttered open, and Albus felt his heart melt at his sapphire eyes.

"Hi." He yawned. His voice was slightly croaky, no doubt from the morning.

Albus replied by nuzzling his nose, then kissed his cheek. "Hi honey."

Scorpius laughed lightly. "Let's get up then. Start the day? It's a Saturday. We have the whole weekend to spend together."

"I'd rather spend it here with you."

Bathilda mewed from the kitchen.

"But our child is hungry." Scorpius teased, stretching as he slid out of bed. Albus begrudgingly slumped after him, not eager to wake up before ten am. But his own stomach was growling too.

"Speaking of children," Albus said, starting to work on their breakfast as Scorpius poured Bathilda's food. "Iris is pregnant again. James told me through a Howler yesterday."

"Really?" Scorpius' eyes widened. "That's great news!"

"Yeah, not for my ears." He commented dryly, still traumatized by James' excited screeching in his ear. "Baby number three." He whistled. "Do you think they're trying to make an entire quidditch team? With Teddy and Vic's lot included, they're on their way."

Though he was joking, Scorpius noticed that Albus was glowing, happy for his brother and sister in law. That was one of the many reasons he loved Albus. His love for his siblings.

"Perhaps. When are they due?"

"September. Which means...that's where they scurried off to last Christmas party." Albus quipped. "To have a little fun."

"Albus!" Scorpius scolded. "Honestly, only you would make a beautiful moment gross."

"It's life, Scorp!" He chuckled. "You're a Healer, you should know these things."

"We'll have to visit. Maybe bring a gift basket to congratulate them." He mused, smiling fondly. "I can't wait to meet our new niece or nephew." There was a wistful look in his eye that Albus caught.

"You've got that look on your face." He noted, amused. He served the plates of bacon sandwiches on the table.

"What do you mean?"

"That Scorpius 'I want something but I'm not going to spell it out for you' face."

"Oh."

"Yes, oh." Albus said, forest green eyes brightening in amusement. "What's up?" He took a seat, tucking into breakfast.

"Well," Scorpius started, staring at his food. "I was thinking..." He stopped himself, hesitant to continue his train of thoughts.

"Yeah?" Albus nudged him gently.

"I want a child." He said, his voice quiet, but firm. "I love my nieces and nephews so much, but they aren't...ours. I want to start a family with you, Albus. Raise a little one of our own to be bright and wonderful and brave and..."

Albus' expression softened. "I do too. You know I do, Scorpius. It's just...difficult right now." He stared at his wedding band. "You know it's harder for us than any hetero couple." He waved his hand vaguely. "Adoption is hard, surrogacy is expensive. Maybe once we settled into our careers more, we can talk about it."

"I think we're ready to go beyond just talking about it, Al."

"We're still young. We've still got time. But...I definitely want to work it out. Somehow, we will. We always do."

Scorpius beamed, reaching to kiss Albus' knuckle. "Thank you." He sat up abruptly. "Oh, I almost forgot- it's the farmer's market today."

Albus snorted. "You're exactly like your dad, you know?"

"Yes yes yes, but we should go!" Scorpius said, levitating the plates to the sink and it automatically was clean due to the floating sponges.

"We? I've got some work to do. I'm not very fond of small talk with old people selling fruit."

"Al, it's really good fruit." Scorpius said seriously. "And it's not all old people. I've seen some of our old schoolmates there."

Albus cringed. "That's even worse."

"Don't be so dramatic. Are you still coming?"

"Mm, but I should really finish this article. Go on without me."

"If you're sure...do you want me to bring anything back?"

Albus thought for a moment. "Those strawberries Ms. Beaker sells. Please? Strawberries and cream sounds so good right now."

"Brilliant, I'm on it." Scorpius did a mock salute.

"Have fun." Al waved as Scorpius appatered, leaving the kitchen empty. Albus went straight to work on his article.

~•~

The market was lively and merry, despite the early hour. Scorpius had stopped by the strawberry stand first, in case he forgot.

Ever since they had moved two years ago, Scorpius had found himself drawn to the quaint farmer's market. Not because of the delicious, fresh food, but to socialize. He made quite a few friends with the muggles who lived around there...mostly old ladies. The early days of their marriage, Albus would join him. Before life got in the way, and work had to be done.

Not that he wasn't busy himself. He only had two days off as a Healer, sometimes less. He didn't know how they would manage childcare, but like Al had said, it was best not to dwell on the future.

"Scorpius? Is that you?"

He turned around, following the voice from behind him. "Polly ...Chapman?" He uttered blandly, praying he wasn't mistaken. He didn't have the best memory- even with old schoolmates who bullied him.

"Yep." Polly said, laughing lightly. "It's me. Been a while."

"It has." Scorpius shifted his weight. "How are things?"

"Great!" She smiled, swishing her blonde ponytail, the same air of confidence from when she was a teenager. "Yann and I are engaged."

"Oh! That's wonderful." Scorpius said, pretending to sound pleased. "Congratulations!"

"Thank you. I proposed to them last month. It was just as I had dreamed."

"How is...Yann?" Scorpius did not actually care how Yann was.

"They're good! Brilliant actually, since they passed Auror training." Polly looked genuinely proud of them, which he had to admit was adorable. "Are you and Albus still..."

"Yes, yes. We um, er- we've been married almost two years actually." He added.

"Aw, that's very sweet. You two were always very close, yeah?" Polly looked at him, and Scorpius nearly walked backwards, intimidated by her stance. She still was extremely scary, like a lioness but with a great sense of fashion. "I know...Yann, Karl and I weren't the best to you two but perhaps we could..." She trailed off. "I'd like you both to come. To the wedding. If you'd like."

That...wasn't what he was expecting. He half expected her to invite him to another Blood Ball.

"Pardon?" Scorpius asked, dumbfounded. "I mean- yeah, that sounds great! Fun! Yes. That sounds nice. I'll bring it up to Al."

Polly was glowing. "Brill! I've got to go, but we should all hang out sometime. Like old times."

Like old times? Scorpius thought. When did they ever hang out?

Nodding mutely, he walked away from Polly with a puzzled, but cheerful expression. He hadn't completely fucked up the conversation, which was always a plus. It still felt odd that Polly Chapman of all people was talking to him, let alone inviting him to her wedding. It was bizarre.

He passed the final vendor, and was surprised and amused to see a tiny girl, no more than seven standing behind it. She had a Brownie uniform on, bright rosy cheeks and pigtails included.

"Would you like a biscuit?" She squealed.

It had taken him a moment to respond, he was still thinking of Polly being kind to him "Oh erm- of course." It was impossible to say no to an adorable small child. He reached for some muggle money, handing her the pound notes. "Just the one box please."

"Okie dokie!" She said, handing him the box. She waited a moment, pouting. "Go on, try it." She urged.

"I really shouldn't I-"

"Please?" The little girl gave him the most pitiful expression. "It's for a good cause, mister. We're helping orphaned puppies find homes."

"Well, alright. For the puppies." He fumbled open the box, taking a polite bite out of the cookie. It was a classic lemon cookie with powdered sugar, one of his favorites. But the second he swallowed, he felt dizzy all of a sudden. "What..." He stumbled back. "Oh my," He gulped, the entire market swirling around him. Something wasn’t right. "is there something in..." 

He would be damned if he let this happen without some sort of fight. Throwing his basket aside, he collapsed, slipping into unconsciousness.

"We've got him."

[alindakb]

How Love Hurts - Chapter 5.6 - by Alinda

Draco follows Scorpius through the house and watches as his son lets his fingers slide over the bannister when he walks up the stairs.

“And the kitchen is downstairs? In the basement?” Scorpius asks.

“Yes, it is,” Draco answers.

“The study is really cool. Looks cosy. Albus would have loved it.”

Draco doesn’t answer. He doesn’t want to think about the sad look on Harry’s face this morning, or about the fact that three members of their little family are missing. Last summer they had spent so much time with the five of them, visiting museums and parks all over the UK. And now it is just Draco, Scorpius and Harry. Draco has no idea how they are going to survive the constant reminder that their family is incomplete now that Scorpius is here.

Scorpius opens every door on the first-floor landing. He looks into Draco’s and Harry’s room and shakes his head. “Did Harry had any say in the furniture or is this all you?” he asks.

“Mostly me. Harry picked the pictures for on the wall. And I just made sure everything else matched.”

“It’s nice,” Scorpius says while he opens the door to Lily’s room. The walls are painted yellow and match nicely with the dark wooden floor. A big purple rug lays on the floor. The rest of the room is still empty. Scorpius closes the door without saying a word. Draco knows he’s struggling as well. For one short holiday, he had two brothers and a little sister before they got ripped away again.

“I’m not allowed to talk to Albus,” Scorpius says when he looks into the room that was supposed to be his and Albus. “Rose helps, she passes notes back and forth for us.”

“She sounds like a nice girl,” Draco comments. He doesn’t miss how Scorpius’ cheeks redden a little before he turns towards the last door. He looks into James’ empty room and signs.

“I hate not having him around in the Slytherin dorm. He’s my best friend and I’m not allowed to talk to him because his mother thinks I’ll poison him or something. I hate sitting on the other side of the classroom and see how miserable he is. He said James is looking out for him and that he’s okay, but I know he’s not.”

“I’m sorry, Scorp. We never wanted this to affect your friendship. If I had known it would come to this I would have never told him.”

Scorpius turns around to face Draco. “Don’t say that, dad. You and Harry love each other. We both don’t blame you, or Harry. He’s the best thing that ever happened to you. And you know, it’s only a couple of years before we’re seventeen and Al’s mom won’t be able to stop us from hanging out together.”

Draco stares at Scorpius. He’s so much like his mother sometimes. It makes Draco want to smile and cry at the same time. Astoria would be so proud of their boy.

“You’re thinking of mom, aren’t you?’ Scorpius asks.

“Yes, you remind me of her from time to time.”

“I think she would have come to yell at the headmistress for agreeing with Albus’ mom, being all about how unfair and unreasonable it is to use children as ammunition in a divorce.”

Draco laughs when he pictures it. Scorp is right, Tori would have been outraged about it all. And the idea of her screaming at McGonagall until she would see sense. If she only was here now to help them all through this difficult time. Astoria always knew how to turn dire situations into something beautiful and filled with love.

“Albus and I wrote back and forth about what we want furniture wise. Starting with a bunk bed and something cosy to sit on,” Scorpius says. He walks back downstairs and opens his trunk. Draco tries not to look at the mess while Scorpius pulls out a large pile of parchment. “We’ve made some sketches,” he says while he hands the parchment to Draco.

Draco flips through the papers. There are notes and little side remarks. Sketches of furniture and possible layouts of their room. “Albus is fine with you going furniture shopping without him?”

“Yes, he said it was stupid if I had to stay in an empty room all summer. We know what we like and what we don’t like. And as soon as all this mess is sorted out and he doesn’t like it, we can always change it, can’t we?”

“Yes, you can,” Draco answers. He hugs Scorpius and turns them towards the stairs. Together they walk into the kitchen were Harry and Toby are having a cup of tea. Mila is preparing dinner. She looks up and smiles at Scorpius.

“Welcome home, Scorpius,” Mila says. She puts down her knife and walks over to hug him. He bends down and whispers something in her ear. Mila laughs. “Don’t be ridicules, Scorpius,” she says before she turns back to the stove. Draco looks at Harry who stares at Scorpius with teary eyes. Draco steps up to him and places a hand on his shoulder. Harry rests his head against Draco’s arm. Scorpius sits down next to Toby and hugs the elf before he turns to Harry. He places a big pile of parchment on the table. Harry looks at it in disbelieve.

“Letters from Albus, James and Lily for you. They wanted me to tell you that they miss you and that they love you. And I promised them I’ll make sure you’d enjoy your summer and that we would have fun. So I get that you are sad, but I’d like to go back to school in September with the news that I didn’t break my promise.”

Draco smiles at Scorpius who keeps his eyes on Harry. Harry reaches for the letters and picks them up like they are made out of some precious diamond. Draco watches him skim over the words of his children. Watches as the tears come. Draco sits down on the chair next to Harry and pulls him against him. He holds him while Harry cries. Scorpius ignores them and starts to tell Toby about his exams and the grades he got. Toby tells him to study harder, that Scorpius should take his school more serious. That not everyone is as blessed as him to go to a good school.

Harry’s tears have died down a little when Mila serves dinner. They eat while Scorpius tells about his last couple of weeks at school and how he and Albus made sure they could stay in contact. He talks about Rose, how she helps and how he spends a lot of time with her studying in the library. Mila tells about the new cookbooks she ordered that she wants to try out during the summer and Toby talks about the books he’s been reading. Draco tells them all about his latest shoots and his new little studio. And all the while Harry is quiet and withdrawn. He hardly eats any food and he leaves for bed as soon as dinner is over.

“I’m making it worse for him, aren’t I? Scorpius asks.

“He just misses his own children, Scorpius, but I’m sure he’s happy you are here,” Mila says.

“But he didn’t say a word, he hates me for being here.” Tears fall from Scorpius eyes and Draco struggles to hold back his own. It had been a nightmare to see Harry struggle every day with the hole inside his heart, but to see Scorpius break down because of it all is even worse. Draco stretches his arm over the table and Scorpius takes his hand. Teary eyes look at Draco. “I don’t want him to hate me, dad,” he whispers.

“He doesn’t hate you, Scorp. He’s hurt and sad. That doesn’t mean he doesn’t love you, because he does. He loves you like you’re one of his own. Just give him some time,” Draco tells Scorpius.

Scorpius nods and Draco squeezes his hand.

“You tell him I’m sorry it’s just me here,” Scorpius says.

“I will,” Draco agrees.

“Okay, then now go to him and hold him. He needs you more right now than I do.”

“Scorpius, I,” Draco starts. It’s clear Scorpius is still upset and there is no way Draco is going to leave his son like this, no matter how much Harry needs him right now. Only Scorpius is just as stubborn as his mother and shakes his head.

“Dad, go up there. I know you want to. It’s okay. I think I want to go to bed early anyway. It’s been a long day.”

Draco nods and stands up. “I’m glad you’re home, Scorp.”

“So am I, dad.”

[leviackercanon]

HCs about Levi with a titan shifter! S/o please! you’re doing great! ❤️❤️❤️

Thank you so much for your kindness !! I’ll keep trying my best !!! ♡(.◜ω◝.)♡

There will be 2 versions : a non-spoiler one and a spoiler one ! Those who are not manga readers, scroll up when you will reach the spoilers section ღゝ◡╹)ノ♡

Head(Story)canon : Levi x SO who is a titan shifter

Non-spoiler version (quite long ヾ(´･ ･｀｡)ノ)

How can I start without telling you that it was pretty bad when Levi found out you were a titan shifter ? (´；ω；`)

Oh... I can’t ! Because it was very bad  (sorry o(╥﹏╥)o)

You belonged to the survey corps but you weren’t a random soldier. Nope there was a titan inside of you and unlike Eren... You knew your c r i m e. You ate your mother when you were younger and even if some memories were blurry because of the shock, the memories were always reviving in your nightmares : how your mother explained that there was a special tradition in your family, the cannibalism, and she had to transmit you the titan inside of her and you would have to do the same later. How she was crying and screaming that she regretted her acts but she didn’t have the choice

And then she transformed you into a titan. When you regained consciousness... You felt a strange power running through your veines. And your mother was gone. You knew what you did and you were scattered for life.

After that you lived seperated from the others and you learned how to control your powers by yourself. You knew you were a titan shifter : someone who could transform into a conscious and intelligent titan. But not only you were scared of yourself, you were also disgusted with what you were. Worst : titans were enemies if people knew your secret, you would be killed as the enemy number one.

But then you found out about Eren Jager and that’s why you joined the survey corps : someone else was a titan shifter, finally, finally, there was someone like you ! And apparently he had a key that lead to his father’s basement where he hid the truth about the titans. You wanted to know the truth about your mom too ! Joining them was the only way to understand this

But you never expected to meet Levi though, the humanity’s strongest soldier. And in the worst way : you wanted to catch up Eren in a corridor to meet him but you bumped into someone who crossed your way. That someone was the heichou... And he was holding his dear cup of tea (the only damn pleasure of his damn day... ruined by you) when you bumped into him.

His precious cup of tea shaterring in the floor was the worst thing you could e v e r do to him and when you met his eyes to apologize, you got scared of his murderous look

OÏ YOU DAMN BRAT ! Where are your eyes ?! No one told you to look in front of you when you walk ? Huh ? Where do you think you were going like that ? If your eyes are that useless to you, I’ll help myself to cut them off from you, no hard feelings since you don’t fucking know how to use your damn shitty eyes in the first place ?! And what are you waiting for ?! Go clean the mess you have done cadet !

Y-Yeeeeees !!!!! H-Heichou !

Not only you definitely lost the sight of Eren but Levi had an eye on you (no pun intented with sight and eye... Ahh so many expressions in english)

Since that day, Levi ordered you to clean the refectory every night (not only you wasted his tea but your cleaning skills sucked, he had to do something with you, you couldn’t get away from this shit easily)

But Levi had actually noticed something with you, something that bothered him, and he wasn’t a man of many words but when he wanted to say something, he wouldn’t hesitate. He was honest and frank after all. So that’s what he did when he found you cleaning the tables of the refectory

His face would still show his disgust, you really sucked at cleaning, he could still see some bread crumbs on some tables... But oh well, he would just have to clean up later, gosh, no one knew how to clean in the survey corps, the headquarters were only clean thanked to him huh

You the damn shitty brat. What’s wrong with your face ? You look like a corpse. Do you want to defecate or something ?

Levi noticed the emptiness in your eyes. The same emptiness in a lot of people’s eyes in the slums. The same pain in their face. And for good reason, he had the same expression when his mother died and his entire world collapsed.

You looked like someone who was just waiting for their death and that was something he couldn’t tolerate especially when so many soldiers would have wanted to stay alive and they fought until their last breath. Levi valued life more than anyone else. Just what was wrong with you ?!

No... No Levi ! Heichou ! I’m good thanks !

Levi would frown and tch you. Your deny was the w o r s t

I happened to finish my paperwork. Stop cleaning. You are just making the tables dirtier.

Levi preparing tea and asking you to follow him in his office! He might have given the impression that he didn’t care of everything and everyone by his attitude, but it was the opposite. Erwin made him a corporal. A heichou. It was also his duty to talk to the recruits who needed help. He couldn’t stand the useless chit-chat but he was good at saying the right word.

And telling people to get their shit together. He did say that to you.

You joined the survey corps to find someone like you and the truth. You didn’t want to be alone. But you never thought that the one who would save you was Levi.

Making you tea but on the same time being scold off by Levi... He was the FIRST person to notice that deep suffering and actually care (and telling you to get your fucking shit together if you didn’t want to have your eyes ripped off by him yep yep)

Levi would actually help you (he knew the importance of being saved : Kenny, Isabel, Farlan, Erwin, even that annoying Hanji, they all helped him, now it was his turn) by asking you to clean up some stuff, making tea, sometimes putting you with a member of his squad... Giving you importance by giving you some responsabilities

And he actually succeeded. You forgot about your crime and your past. Your pain. You even found yourself talking and laughing with his bad sense of humor. He was even praising your tea and your cleaning skill few months later

He even considered you as a friend after these months, he didn’t know what whas the cause of your pain (he knew that if you wanted to open to him you would so he didn’t worry) but you could see you were more lively than when he first met you

But bonding with him woud be your mistake

 It was during a very violent expedition where even Eren in his titan form wasn’t enough, there were to many titans. And Levi was beating his ass off to kill as many titans as he could to help the SCorps to go back inside the walls. He was ready to sacrifice himself.

AND Y O U COULDN’T STAND T H A T

HE WAS YOUR SAVIOR ! HE Made you feel so ALIVE during these past months ! And you could help him, you had the powers to !

sCREW OFF YOUR SECRET AND YOUR COVER ! If you had to die, it had to be for your savior ! And that’s how you slowed down your horse, seperated yourself with the others, and went to where Levi was before transforming yourself into a titan

 Levi’s shock was real. Especially when it was a titan shifter he didn’t know. And in a few minutes you cleaned up the entire zone. And when you got out of your titan’s neck... The shock was an euphemism

The damn brat he helped... was a titan shifter.

Levi... I... I can explain everything to y -

Not now. Let’s get the fucking hell out here.

Levi was livid. He didn’t understand a shit but he trusted his guts. If you both stayed here, others titans would come. Though you never caught up the others and you finally went to a hideout of the survey corps especially made for this case of scenario

But now LEVI WANTED ANSWERS

So sadly you weren’t surprised when he took out his lames and threatened you, a lame under your chin with a cold and blank expression in his face

You have 30 seconds to explain yourself S/O. If you think you can get away, I’ll just cut off your members. Hands, legs, eyes, tongue. But who cares ? It will grow back right ?

You were disappointed but you knew it would go this way. You were a titan shifter. What did you expect ? Titan shifters didn’t have the right to live... And you wanted to burst out in tears. You told him everything. You were trapped anyways.

And you can’t remember everything ? Just like Eren. How convenient right ? What about Annie ? Where you on her fucking side all this time S/O ?! DID YOU WORK WITH HER ?!

 NO I DIDN’T ! I SWEAR ! IF YOU THINK EATING YOUR OWN PARENT IS CONVENIENT JUST KILL ME ALREADY LEVI ! DON’T YOU THINK I KNOW ? THAT I AM DISGUSTING ?! I JUST WANTED TO SAVE YOU ! ALL I HAVE EVER WANTED WAS... WAS... TO STAY WITH YOU A BIT LONGER LEVI !

You had enough of your life, the secrets, you couldn’t bear that, no more. You never talked to anyone because you were frightened. So it wasn’t surprising when you fell on the ground, crying your soul and your heart out. You were just so fed up with that broken world and that life !

My mom transformed me just to make me eat her ! I never wanted that Levi ! I swear ! I never hurt anyone else ! If you want to kill me, I won’t fight b...

Enough.

Yeah Levi grabbing you by the collar and putting you against the wall to make you standing up... To see your eyes.

Enough. I have heard it. Tch.

Heichou I...

You are not like Eren. That brat is unstoppable when he is in his titan form. He is crazier than you.

Levi had definitely calmed down. Cause Levi himself had a fright. The fright that you betrayed him, you used him, you were a spy. He had to be ready to cut out your arms and legs in the worst case scenario

But... You were you. You had the same eyes. The same pain in the eyes. Your suffering was honest. That’s why killing you wasn’t en option. And by far, the only titans shiters were CRAZY AF : Eren who could go crazy in his rage, Annie, Berthold, Reiner.

But you... He had to admit it while looking at you. He had to admit that you weren’t a titan shifter like the others.

You were the most human one.

Crying your pain, begging him to kill you... God. He couldn’t stand that and watching you sobbing and suffering. Especially when you just saved his fucking ass. You saved his damn life. Of course he was feeling a bit bitter knowing you were a titan but he couldn’t stop thinking that there was no difference. Yeah you could shift into a titan... but finally, what was the big deal ?

The world was SO FUCKED UP ALREADY, titans shifters, titans, even him wasn’t that normal

But what was making him feel sorry was the regret on your face, the regret of being you, the regret of being alive

S/O, calm down. I owe you an apologie. I don’t care if you hold a grudge against me later, that’s my job to eliminate threats. But you saved my butt back there and I thank you for that.

Now... I will be killed right...? Because I hid the truth for so long...

I don’t know. But I’m sure of what my eyes saw. You saving me and I won’t omit that to the hierarchy

But that wasn’t enough to calm you down. You were obviously crying for an entire life, like a baby, since when were you holding your feelings like that ? And because he couldn’t stand that, he finally took you in his arms

He was full aware he acted like a jerk but he had to be sure. Feeling you shaking in his arms, your tears on his warm neck, he was sure. You were so inoffensive. And even though he knew your real identity, he wanted to protect you

Because you were the personification of a collateral damage.

You didn’t ask for this, you were just a victim

The world was already wrong so he at least had to do the right thing with you in this shit.

And that’s what he fucking did : when you both went back to the walls (you shifting into a titan to kill titans behind you while Levi would guide your horse) he stood up for you in front of Erwin, Zackley and Nile. Well he had to give them that shitty excuse that as long as he could kill you, you weren’t a threat, but it was a necessary step to be officially accepted in the walls as a titan shifter

After that night, Levi and you would share a special bond : not only in the headquarters where he would often ask you in his office just to make sure you were alright and that no one would badmouth you (it would often end with him making you tea or hot chocolate while you would telling him about your day), but also oustide of the walls : he asked a special permission to team up with you

The official excuse was to keep an eye on you... But you both knew it wasn’t that. You were actually making a great team. He never suceeded to work with Eren, he was always so impulsive but it was different with you : you both trusted each other. You both would have each other’s back.

BEST TEAM EVER I’M TELLING YA

Eren making friend with you : but now you didn’t need that much to be friend with him... WHEN YOU HAD LEVI

Also Levi beating the ass of Hanji when she would harass you to make some experiments on you. You didn’t need that, you were actually controlling your titan more than Eren !

And finally the trust and that sepcial bond between you two definitely turned into the greatest love. You always thought you didn’t deserve to be loved after your crime.

But guess who told you the opposite ? Yep. Yepyepyepyepyepype Levi.

ENDING ONE :  no one thought Levi and you would date, and even Zackley and Nile got worried : what if his love blinded him ? But they had to see the evidence, you were a perfect titan shifter, not only you could control yourself, but you could transform more times in a row than Eren. Best asset ever. And oh well... If Levi trusted you, they shall do the same. He was never wrong with people

Levi would always stand up for you anyways ! If Nile or even Zackley had a problem with you, he wouldn’t mind telling them his thoughts on the matter in a snappy way

He would protect you in the Shiganshina’s battler : Sieg, Berthold, Reiner were not only interested by Eren, but also by you. He would beat every fucking damn shitty titan shifter that woud DARE TO TRY TAKING YOU

Definitely M A R R Y I N G   Y O U  after Maria’s reconquest ! You both had experienced some serious shit and you wanted to officialize your love gaaaaah ! He wanted to show to everyone he couldn’t care the less that you could transform into a titan ! And more importantly... He didn’t want you to suffer anymore !

SPOILER VERSION (FOR MANGA READERS ONLY) ( ´ ▽ ` )ﾉ

Ymir’s curse

Ymir’s curse

Ymir’s curse

Ymir’s curse

Y M I R ‘ S C U R S E

YMIR’S CURSE

Grisha’s diaries were clear. A titan shifter had only 13 years to live after eating the special titan

You finally found your happiness with Levi. You both were together. You even planned a life together... But the truth was...

You just had a few years to live.

You couldn’t believe your ears. You couldn’t believe that... Tragedy.

Levi too.

He finally found love. He didn’t want to lose you ! He couldn’t BARE THE THOUGHT of LOSING you ! Even worse, someone would have to eat you to not lose the titan you had!

You were both astonished and in pain to talk about it. You both needed time to that shocking and terrible news.

Of course Levi wanted to find a solution... But there was none. Lilke the others titans shifters in the past centuries, you would die, reaching your 13 years of your titan’s life

That night Levi and you had rough sex, you both wanted to express your passion, your anger, your pain, your bitter love, your need to feel each other’s skin

ENDINg 2 : after that you decided to live your life in the fullest with Levi. There was no other ways anyways. You just wanted to enjoy his love and he refused you nothing. He would do everything you wanted. And you were just grateful to have met him

Your pregnancy made you stayed in the Paradise Island in 854 while the others went to Marley to take back Eren and Sieg

And I think I will stop writing here because I will probably c r y

C’m o n ISAYAMA tell me there is a solution

They deserve happiness : Reiner, Armin, Annie, Peak, Porco.. PLEASE

even that imaginary titan shifter S/O !!! LET HER BE HAPPY WITH LEVI

[illuminating-dragons]

A Question of Marriage

Summary:  It's Hugo's bedtime, but he has a question for his Mum about her and Dad...

Word Count: 1,291

              “Mum, do you have a spare quill?”

               Hermione was half-watching Rose and Ron play chess, half-reading Ginny’s latest article. She hadn’t heard Hugo come in.

               “I think so.” A quick, silent Summoning spell brought her quillbox to her, and she passed one to Hugo. “Do you need ink?”

               “No, Mum.”

               “Checkmate!” Rose said triumphantly. Ron groaned. “Alright, I can’t lose to you anymore, Rosie. Let’s put the board away.”

               “Why don’t you play Mum?” Rose suggested. “I’ve got to write to Al and Scorp.”

               “No thank you,” Hermione said politely. “Ron, we need to go over your accounts.”

               Ron grinned sheepishly. “Can’t it wait until later?”

               Hermione rolled her eyes. “Not unless you want to forget. Again.”

               “Alright, darling.” Ron stood. “I’m going to get some food.”

               “Don’t bring anything sticky!” Hermione chastised him as he left. She saw Hugo watching them intently.

               “What is it, Hugo?”

               “Nothing, Mum. I’m just going to…go upstairs and draw for a while before bed.”

               Hermione frowned. “Alright, but come down and say goodnight.”

               Hugo nodded silently and went back upstairs.

               Ron came back with a tray of crisps, slices of apple and glasses of mead. Hermione raised her eyebrows.

               “Look,” Ron said with a grin as he put the tray down. He held up a cloth she hadn’t noticed. “I came prepared.”

               Hermione tried to hide her smile.

               They worked together on the yearly accounts. Ron and George had both offered to pay her multiple times, but Hermione had always refused. She enjoyed maths, for one thing, and for another she knew that both of them had issues with numbers. They were brilliant at running the shop in every other way. Why shouldn’t she help Ron out when she had an evening free?

               Besides, Ron kept up a constant stream of Diagon Alley gossip and listened intently as she went over each regulation. He was improving, and Hermione knew he could probably do it on his own soon. She’d miss this.

               It was nearly ten when they finished, and Hugo still hadn’t come down. Shaking her head—Hugo had a tendency to forget bedtime—Hermione stood up. “Can you tidy up, love? I’m going to check on the kids.”

               “Sure.” Ron kissed her cheek and picked up the empty tray. “I’ll be up in a moment.”

               Hermione smiled as she watched him walk to the kitchen, then went upstairs.

               A quick tap on Hugo’s door went unanswered. Hermione tapped again, a bit harder. “Hugo? It’s time for bed, dear.”

               No answer.

               Perhaps he’d already fallen asleep? Hermione opened the door carefully. Hugo was lying on his bed, staring at the ceiling.

               “Didn’t you hear me calling you?” Hermione asked exasperatedly. “It’s bedtime, Hugo.”

               Hugo blinked. “Sorry, Mum. I was…thinking.”

               “You must be thinking awfully hard,” Hermione said. She sat down next to him. “What’s going on?”

               “Why did you marry Dad?”

               The question surprised Hermione. “I married him because I was in love with him, Hugo. What brought this on?”

               “You’re not very alike,” said her suddenly alert ten year old son. “And you quarrel a lot.”

               “Hugo?” Now Hermione was worried. “You don’t have to be exactly alike to be married. And we do quarrel, but so do most married people.”

               Hugo sat up and looked at her too seriously for a child, her husband’s eyes looking at her. “Mum, are you and Dad going to get a divorce?”

               Hermione laughed. She couldn’t help it.

               “Of course not, Hugo. Don’t be silly. Why on earth do you think we would be?”

               “You’ve been fighting a lot this month. And that’s what Ricky says happen when people get divorced.”

               “Oh.” Ricky was Hugo’s friend. He lived a few streets over…and his parents were getting a divorce.

               “I knew I should have talked to you about that,” Hermione said, shaking her head. “Sweetheart, why didn’t you tell me this was bothering you?”

               “It wasn’t,” Hugo denied, lip trembling. “At least…Ricky’s happy, because he doesn’t like his Dad, and he’s going to live with his Mum. But I like you both, and I don’t want you to get a divorce.”

               Hermione hugged him close. “Darling, I promise you we’re not. We’ve been fighting for a couple of different reasons,” (dealing with Rose, Arthur’s heart attack, a potential promotion at the Ministry), “but you know we love each other.”

               “But you don’t like the same things,” Hugo protested. “Dad likes chess and Quidditch and pranks and you like books and music and writing! And when you fight you shout. Isn’t that bad?”

               Hermione laid her cheek against his curly brown hair. “Hugo, you don’t have to like all the same things to be in love.”

               “But maybe you do to be married.”

               “No, that’s not true at all.” Hermione closed her eyes as she thought about all those years at Hogwarts, as she tried to understand her own attraction to Ron, why even though they fought and she was exasperated by him she never felt safe unless he was there.

               “Hugo, do you love Rosie?”

               “Yes!”

               “But she doesn’t like to draw.”

               “She can’t draw,” Hugo corrected. “And she gets cranky when she tries.”

               “And she’s kept every drawing you’ve ever given her,” Hermione reminded him. “Every single one.”

               Hugo nodded.

               “When you’re married, it’s sort of the same thing. You each have your own things that you like, and sometimes you don’t like the same things and that’s okay. You learn to compromise, and sometimes you start to like them just because the other person does. I try to understand Quidditch and I love watching games with your Dad, and Dad likes listening to me read aloud and we listen to music together.” And sometimes they listened to music while they made love. They had the nights their children were conceived, but Hugo didn’t need to know that.

               “And I love your Dad for other things too. He’s strong, and kind, and he learns from his mistakes and admits them. I’m not so good at that, but he loves me anyways. And he helps me when I’m too stressed to see that I need a break, and I help him with numbers and with remembering where his shoes are.”

               Hugo giggled.

               “We got married after Uncle Harry and Aunt Ginny because we had to take time and figure out if we could do this, Hugo.” Hermione could remember those arguments, the nights talking until dawn, the afternoons when they didn’t speak. “It wasn’t easy at first, but we loved each other enough to learn how to be good to one another. Marriage takes work, but it’s mostly very pleasant, and even though we quarrel, I love your Dad more than anything, okay?”

               Hugo nodded against her shoulder.

               “If something was wrong, we would tell you,” Hermione promised, guessing that Hugo had just been worried they hadn’t said anything. “And if it bothers you that we yell, we can stop yelling when we disagree. It’s just an old habit.”

               “Thanks, Mummy.” Hugo let go of her. “I’m tired now.”

               Hermione laughed and tucked him in. “Go to sleep, my son.” She kissed his forehead. “I’ll send Dad in, okay?”

               “Okay. Goodnight, Mummy. Love you.” Hugo’s eyes slid closed .

               Hermione opened the door and saw Ron standing in the hall. Without saying a word, he wrapped his arms around her and held her tight. “Love you, ‘Mione,” he whispered into her hair. “Love you so much…”

               She was never going to get poetry from this man. Never going to have long discussions about books or magical theory. But standing there in the hall outside their children’s bedroom, hearing the hitch in his breath, Hermione knew she had everything she needed, and everything she wanted.  

[takokola]

Plot: Canyon Conquest - Prologue Part 4

((This story takes place during the Squid Sister Stories. Which is 9 months, after the Final Splatfest. Fynn was feeling melancholy since the new year had started. Just what made him down in the dumps?))

Team Pinkognito (Fynn, Angela, Maye, and Dewey), Team Sky Splash (Skyla and Scorpia), Mysti, and Tundra belongs to me.

Eimie belongs to @eiden-squid | @marchant-girls

Overtime, Fynn’s mobility and combat is improving since the first day of training. Each day, he recieved a heavier set of ankle weights from Tundra. As always, Fynn followed her instructions by walking in a patient manner around the dojo.

After perfecting his slightly toned ankles, he’s feeling as light as a Carbon Roller when he took them off. It feels weird at first, but it didn’t take long for him to move around freely. He was feeling quick and nimble as a result. Now that the first session is done, he stick to his usual regiment. 50 pushups, 50 situps, 50 squats, and a 5km run around the dojo. After he was done with his set, Tundra and Fynn began sparring on the battlefield.

“C'mon, don’t tell me that’s all you got?” Tundra was wielding a Classic Squiffer for battle. She looked down on Fynn, who is on his knees and covered in teal ink.

“Haa… ha.. Not even close..” Even though he’s taken so many beatings, he still smiled up at him. Fynn slowly got up on his knees, still gripping his Wasabi Splattershot. “Again..!!” Fynn lets out his battle cry and charged in, guns blazing.

Tundra readied her charger and aimed at Fynn’s head. She might have lost her eye, but it doesn’t mean that she’s out of commission. She fired her weapon and… she missed!

Fynn had swiftly moved to the right and managed to get behind her. He dropped in a Splat Bomb near her feet.

“Oh, man..!!” She was too late for to escape from the blast. Luckily, she survived the inksplosion from the Splat Bomb. She was about to recover, until Fynn had trapped her. A cunning tactic to flush out the enemy and finish the job. She’s rather impressed than surprised.

Fynn looked down at her with his Splattershot in his hand. “Yield, now.” He demanded. He could splat her in any moment.

Tundra looked around to see that her weapon had fallen out of her hands and she’s unable to move in his own ink. She sighed in defeat and held her hands up. “Ya got me. I surrender.”

“Not falling for the same trick, again.” He still has his finger on the trigger. He was tricked the first time when Tundra had swept him off his feet, causing him to lose his balance.

“Shoot..! Thought it would’ve worked a second time..” She had been toying with the new disciple for a month and a half. It’s about to time to end today’s session. “I mean it, this time. I, Tundra shall admit defeat. Now, can you help me up?” She asked, extending an arm.

Fynn lowered his weapon and reached out his hand to Tundra. He pulled her up with a bit of strength left. He was completely drained from today. “So, that’s it for now?” He panted, lightly. He was wondering how long has he been cooped up in this dusty old dojo? After every session, he felt homesick. He really misses his girlfriend, Eimie and the rest of his friends and family.

“You’re worried about your friends, eh?” Tundra can read him like a book. She glanced over to see the calendar. Today’s July 5th and it's 11:00 pm, which is close to Fynn’s 20th birthday. “Since you’ve improved well since the beginning, I guess I’ll let you go for a few days.” She’s got some other errands to run while he’s away from the dojo.

Fynn’s eyes lit up when she said it. “F-For realsies?! I can return back to Inkopolis?!” He’s not sure if she was joking or not. Definitely not.

Tundra nodded happily. “You’re free to go for the time being. I got some other things to attend to." She walked upstairs to her own room. She looked back at him and said: "Hurry along, now. It'd be best to return home and rest.” She waved goodbye to him and proceed to take a nap in her room.

Several minutes later, Fynn was returning home from Octo Valley with his stuff in tow. It's already nighttime and everyone's either asleep or enjoying their evening. Once he made it home safely, he noticed a certain purple squid on the rooftop. She seemed very sad and lonely, which made Fynn worry. ("Eimie... please forgive me for leaving you....")

Eimie was about to get back down until she had noticed the random squid who is super jumping to her on the rooftop. Hopefully, it doesn't disturb the other neighbors. She was startle at first until she saw Fynn, right next to her. "F-F-Fynny..?!" Eimie stared up at Fynn, shaking like a leaf. It's been a month in a half since Fynn was missing. Not only Eimie was worrying about her boyfriend, but Team Pinkognito's Angie, Maye, and Dewey. Without warning, she hugged him tightly. "W-Where on earth have you been?! We were worried sick..!!" She began to sob.

"Shhh.. It's okay.. I'm here now... I'll explain this til' morning.." Fynn wrapped his arms around her waist and shushed her. It didn't take long for Eimie to calm herself down from the uncontrollable sobbing. All it matters is that he returned back to Inkopolis for the weekend.

Once the sun raises on the horizon, Fynn got plenty of good sleep with Eimie. For some odd reason, the nightmares were gone after each training session with Tundra. Now, Fynn was sitting by the dinning room table and he was face-to-face with Eimie. She was waiting for an answer from Fynn after so long.

"If you're wondering about my disappearance, I was out in Octo Valley. I met a pro battler like me who knows more about mobility and endurance. Her name is Tundra and she's my personal trainer at her own Battle Dojo. I've been training for at least a month in a half. Soon, I'll be finshed for a couple of months. It's a good thing, I got here in time to see you." Fynn smiles for a bit until he stared down at the table. "I'm sorry for making you and my friends worry like this.."

Without warning, Eimie flicked him on the forehead, causing Fynn to cover his forehead in pain. "You just don't go off without telling me, dork.." She couldn't stay mad at him after his explanation. She kissed the bruised spot on his forehead to make it feel better. "How about I make you some breakfast? You seemed starving from the training." She walked over to the kitchen to fetch some pancake mix, bacon, and eggs.

"I have been eating fruit because I'm staying fit." A little fattening wouldn't hurt him. He'll just burn off the calories during a light jog.

A few moments later, Fynn was feeling satified and refreshed after breakfast. It's great to have a girlfriend who can cook, as long as Fynn cleans the entire apartment room with ease. Fynn was sitting on the couch, reading all the birthday wishes, not to mention the "please come back safe" messages from his friends. He scheduled a meeting at his place in response. He sent the same message to both Sky Splash and Kriller Bees.

Once he was done with his phone, he noticed Eimie was about to leave. "We're you heading off too, babe?" Fynn asked, feeling curious. Before he left Inkopolis, he'd noticed that Eimie went off to see Eika.

"I'm going to stop by the grocery store and pick up some food and drinks. Just in case if your friends show up." Suddenly, Eimie gave him a kiss on the lips. "It won't take long, Fynny. Don't go anywhere~" Who knows what would happen if Eimie starts to worry again.

Fynn did some summer cleaning around the apartment while Eimie was out to buy some groceries. It's been an hour or two to make preparation for their arrival. As he was about done with cleaning, he heard a light knock on the front door. He spun around and made his way to the door. "I'm coming!" He said, before unlocking the door and opening it. Suddenly, he was immediately glomped by another pink inkling with a straw boater hat.

"Ohmygosh, you're back!! I've been trying to reach you, but you didn't answer and..." Fynn's teammate, Maye blurted out quickly. She was later, shushed by her twin brother; Dewey.

"Calm down, sis. He's not dead or anything." Dewey's gaze was focused on his captain. "Seriously, Fynn. Where on earth have you been? As a captain like yourself, you shouldn't just leave without an explanation. Everybody knows that."

And then, there's Angie with her roomate, Mysti. "The other two are arriving, shortly. Unfortunately for Dawn and Hanzo, they're both busy at the moment.. And Hunni's team aren't going to make it because they're already training for the tournament.." Behind Angie, Mysti was standing there and looking over her roommates shoulder. The Mimic Octoling seems to be a bit concerning about Fynn's health.

"I'm relieved, you're alright..!" She stepped closer to him and checked for any scars or injuries. She noticed that Fynn's face still has a bit of dirt from outside. ("There's no mistaken it.. He must've been training hard.. I know someone who would do such a thing...") She rubbed her chin until she looked up into Fynn's gaze. "There are no major injuries on your body. That's good."

Fynn was rather exhausted after each session. During training, he didn't whine or complain and he takes it easy on his own pace. "Of course, I'm alright. There's no need tp worry about me. Noow then, let's all sit down and I'll tell you what really happened." Everyone including Fynn sat down on either the couch or the floor. Before Fynn could confess, there was another knock at the door. He quickly opened the door ro reveal his cousin, Skyla and Scorpia. "Hey, cousin! Scorp! Come sit with us. I was just about to tell you my story." He went back to his seat.

"Where the hell were you for the past few weeks!? Dawn, Aunt Cherry, AND Uncle Ray were worried sick about you!" The tiny inkling sat down with the rest of them. She had already signed the applications for the fall semester and she has gotten the word from Angie.

"......" Scorpia leaned against the wall, crossing her arms. During Fynn's absense, she got a new mask from the new Galleria as a present from her sister, Azalea.

And so, Fynn explained why he was gone. He met a teal-colored inkling at Arowana Mall while Fynn and Dawn were out shopping. He accepted her as her new disciple and began training at her Battle Dojo in Octo Valley. He's been working hard for a month in the half, until he came back to Inkopolis to spend some quality time with the gang for the weekend.

I see.. So, that's why you kept this to yourself? And what about your nightmares that Eimie me mentioned about..?" Angie said, still worried about him.

"I.. kinda forgotten all about that during training. I slept well, I ate well, and there's nothing wrong with me." Fynn shrugged. He stopped worrying about himself and others, just his main purpose. "So, there you have it. I've been improving for a month in a half I couldn't bare the thought of letting my teammates down.. No, everyone down.." He lowered his gaze.

Everyone remained silent for a while until Skyla walked up to Fynn. She planted a light and painless jab to his cheek. She looked up at her cousin and smiles. "You really are an idiot by heart, but you're my idiot. There's no need to worry about us. Whatever training you're doing, don't lose faith." Skyla has known him for 6 years when he started moving in with his aunt, Naomi.

"Sky's right. You're still stronger than you think. We'll be there to support you." Scorpia took off her surgical mask and smiles. She's not worrying about revealing her scar on her mouth.

Next up is the Berri Twins. Dewey stepped up to face Fynn. "I've always been frustated because of you. But you're a great addition to the team. I hate to admit it, but I respect you."

Maye nodded, ethusiastically. "I couldn't thank you enough for treating me for ice cream after my rejection, about a year ago. I'm happy to have you as our captain!"

Last but not least, Angie and Mysti approached to Fynn. "You're not a burden to everyone. You've done so much for the past year. You don't need to worry about us, all the time. If you're feeling down, please tell us. Because that's what friends do.." And with that, Mysti nodded happily with her.

Fynn was moved by everyone. He's been worried about his dark past for a while. Angie was right about one thing, he has friends to support him and guide him in the right direction. "Everyone.. Thank you.. You don't know how much this means alot to me.." Fynn was about to shed a tear, but he dried up.

The heart-warming moment was interrupted when his girlfriend immediately opened the door with some groceries in her hand. She looked very shocked and frightened.

"F-Fynn, everyone, You've got to see this!" Eimie cried, reaching for the remote to the TV. She flipped the channels until she found the Inkopolis News.

"Eimie.. What's going o-" Fynn stopped his sentence when he saw there's no Great Zapfish on the tower in Inkopolis PLaza. It's been captured again. But they were far from over. Everyone was questioning about Callie's disappearance. Once the news is over, everyone went silent again.

"M-Missing..?!" Mysti gasped. She knows who is behind all of this. The Mimic Octoling has heard about her kind's attempt at stealing the Great Zapfish once. She's got a bad feeling about this.

"W-What happened to Callie?! I thought, she was going to do a fan meeting at Starfish Mainstage..!" Maye panicked, a bit.

("This can't be happening.. At a time like this..?!") As a former agent like Fynn, he used to defend Inkopolis during situations like this one. Now that the Great Zapfish is missing again, they'll lose power for good. He needs to find Tundra and fast. Maybe, they'll investigate the problem and inform a Squidbeak Splatoon member. If only Agent 3 was here.

"E-Everybody, remain calm!!" Eimie stood in the middle of the group. "We still have generators, in case of emergency. For the meantime, I brought snacks and drinks over. Ain't that right, Fynn?" She looked around to find Fynn, but he vanished without a trace. Eimie's heart felt cold. "F-Fynn..?! Fynn..!!" She cried out, but he was long gone.

The group searched for Fynn as well, still no use. He must've snuck out to find help while Eimie was talking. "Oh no... Where did Fynn go, this time...?" Angie said, worrying about him even more.

Fynn rushed out of the apartment, heading straight towards the Plaza by bike. The situation is starting to take effect. Some of the lights began flickering on and off until the flickering stopped. He must head back to the dojo, before it's too late.

A few moments later, Fynn arrived at the Battle Dojo and he came to a screeching halt. He quickly stepped inside of the dojo and Fynn froze in place. The entire dojo is trashed and covered in fuschia ink. That ink is color is coming from the Octarians. ("There's no mistaken the ink.. It's from the Octarians.. I need to search for Tundra..") Before he could go up the stairs, he heard an eerie and cute giggle from afar.

"Lost, little rat?" A female voice filled Fynn's ears. It wasn't long until one Octoling approached to him with an Octoshot in her hand. If Fynn could see through her new shades, her eyes were filled with inklust. Suddenly, the other three soldiers have surrounded him.

"Okay.. What's going on..?" Fynn looked around to see the 4 Octolings that are aiming at him. Could they be out for revenge from 2 years ago?

"I'll ask the questions here, punk!!" The black-tentacled elite barked at him, causing Fynn to silence himself. "Tell us where Unit-237 is or we'll start splatting you to bits. We've already found your location during your so-called training." She has her finger on the trigger and ready to shoot if he tries to escape or not answer to her question.

Today's been a huge mess for him. There was no Great Zapfish, no sign of Tundra, and worst of all, no escape. The four elite have cornered him in all directions. ("So much for a pleasant weekend from the dojo.. Without my gun or roller, I'm screwed... Unless, I need to think carefully and fast..!") His memories came rushing back to the ankle weights training. Maybe, he could juke them out and outsmart them without his weapons. Fynn's sufficient training with Tundra will be put to good use for odds like this.

To Be Continued...