#something something 'id fall for ANYONE if they showed me love in return' type beat but sprinkle it with some

[meatriarch]

the thing about maria is - which, was touching on it earlier with lamb abt the dire aus and now touching on it again,

its so easy to overwhelm her - be it by excessive kindness, attention, love, etc, or by horrific, brutal, violent acts that stunlock her and make her far more susceptible to being manipulated coerced pushed into doing things she normally wouldnt ever FATHOM doing in the slightest. its why shes so easy to turn in most of her dire aus / routes with johnny, why she's so quick to grow attached to him and everything too.

coax her with praise and gentleness and love and care in between all the horrors you could throw her way and make her witness and eventually? she'll happily take the knife and get to work, herself (:

[nsfwflint]

Reconnecting

My loyal followers, I have returned! Thank you all so much for being so patient. To celebrate my return I have done a piece a lot of you have been waiting for. There is a plan for a part two, but that’s for another time. I know it’s been a long time, but I hope you all enjoy it!

You curse your lack of directional awareness. It’s been three years since you moved here, but somehow you still manage to get lost. Mostly because of your tendency to zone out as you walk. While it is annoying at times, it always lets you discover new things throughout the city. Hell, it’s what helped you find quite a few of your favorite restaurants. So, while you can always use your phone’s GPS, you try to give yourself time to explore whenever you get lost. Crossing through an alley, you see a doorway that catches your eye. Seemingly hidden away, the only indication that it’s a restaurant of some sort is the small sign that says “open” hanging on a wall near the door.

 As you step inside, you’re shocked at the atmosphere. Soft jazz fills the room, just loud enough to register, but quiet enough that it doesn’t overpower anything. A few patrons are spread throughout the room, quietly talking among themselves at their tables. The dim lighting illuminates the wooden interior. Despite everything looking slightly dated, it still gives the feeling of being a high-class establishment. It reminds you of the small classy bars you see sometimes in dramas. Approaching the dark wood counter, the first thing you notice is the bartender.

Your steps slow as you can’t help but be amazed at her beauty. Her short black hair tied in the back makes her cute ears stick out. A long strand of hair frames her beautiful face. Her soft features are a mix of sweet and sultry. Judging from the confident look in her eyes, you figure she knows how to use both to her advantage. The uniform she’s wearing is a classy white top with a black apron that is just tight enough to tease her incredible rack. It’s harder to see, but the reflection in the mirror behind the bar shows that her black skirt hugs her ass the same way. As you sit at the bar, she gives you a friendly smile.

 “Never seen you around here before.” She notes in a warm tone.

 “Yeah, I got lost and found this place by chance.” You say as you rub the back of your neck, nervous from how beautiful she is.

 “I see. Well what can I get for you tonight?”

 While you desperately want to say “your company”, you settle on a drink instead.

 “I’ll take a beer please. Whatever you have, I’m not too picky.”

 “No problem, just need to see your ID real quick.” She smiles.

 “Sure thing, here you go.”

 Upon seeing your ID card, she perks up for some reason.

 “Oppa! It’s been so long!” She exclaims excitedly.

 You flinch slightly, surprised by the sudden outburst.

 “I’m sorry, do I know you?” You ask.

 “You don’t remember me? It’s me, Kang Mina. We used to play together all the time as kids in the old neighborhood! I can’t believe you don’t remember me.” Mina pouts.

 Suddenly, memories you haven’t thought about in years rush back. Scenes of playing with an adorable younger girl flash in your mind. She was a few years younger than your group of friends, but that never stopped her from tagging along on all your childhood adventures. The same cute ears that she used to be embarrassed by and the same adorable smile. There is no doubt that it’s the same person that stands before you now. While the person in the memories is young and still a child, the one in front of you is very much a woman. Staring at the beautiful woman before you, it’s hard to believe the transformation that’s taken place.

 “Wow, is that really you, Mina? You’ve grown so much.” You say in surprise, looking her up and down.

 Mina blushes as she brushes her hair behind her ear.

 “Yeah. It’s been so long. I’m glad that you remember me now though. Hey, my shift is over in an hour or so. Stick around so we can catch up!” She smiles happily.

 “Definitely, I’d love that.”

 Grabbing a small table in the corner, you play on your phone to kill time. You still talk to a couple of the other kids from those days. As you type out a message telling them what’s going on, Mina stops by and drops off another beer. She gives you a smile before walking away and you can’t help but admire how beautiful she’s become. Staring at her curvaceous body, you delete the message you have typed out. It might be selfish, but for the moment you don’t want to share this time together with anyone else.

 Slowly the few customers that are left trickle out of the bar. A little while later, Mina flips the sign on the door to “Closed” and gives you a wink as she takes off her apron. After grabbing two beers from behind the bar, she sets them on the table and sits across from you. The two of you spend several hours and multiple beers catching up. You guys talk about family and work, the usual suspects. At one point it finally turns into reminiscing about old memories.

 “Man, we did a lot of crazy stuff back then.” You say as your laughter settles down.

 “Yeah. It’s a miracle none of us ever got injured.” She nods.

 “Thinking back, I can’t believe you were able to keep up with us. Or that you even wanted to. Didn’t you have friends closer to your own age?”

 “I had friends my own age, but hanging out with you guys was just more fun.” Mina shrugs.

 “I see. Well I was a little sad when you moved away back then.”

 Mina takes another swig of her beer before looking into your eyes.

 “What did you think of me back then, oppa?”

 “You were brave that’s for sure. You were always right there with us, regardless of what we were doing. You were fun to have around. I thought of you like the little sister I never had.” You nod nostalgically.

 “But what did you think of me?” She repeats.

 “I’m not sure what you mean.”

 “Even back then, I’ve always thought of you as a man, oppa,” Mina leans over the table, her sizeable breasts resting on her arms.

 “You were always so kind and strong. How could I not fall in love with you? I tried looking you up through the years, but I could never find you.” She continues as she leans over the table even more.

 “I uh…”

 “Well what about now oppa? How do you see me now?” She stands up, placing her hands on the table as she leans in closer to you.

 “You’re clearly drunk Mina. You shouldn’t really say things like that. People might misunderstand.” You feel your face grow hot as you chuckle nervously.

 “But oppa. I’ve been giving us non-alcoholic beers all night.” Mina says, slowly leaning right in front of your lips.

 Your body warms all the way to your toes as she presses her lips against yours. Expecting a gentle kiss from that kind of confession, you’re surprised as Mina’s tongue pries its way into your mouth. The sweet taste of her tongue sliding past your lips, she slowly swirls it around your own. With an odd tempo that’s a mixture of loving passion and animal lust, her tongue continues to entwine with yours. Saliva trickles onto your chin as her tongue massages yours. Mina slips her tongue out of your mouth before lightly biting your lower lip. She sucks on your lip as she gently pulls it. Releasing your lip and pulling back from the kiss, Mina stares into your eyes with a seductive gaze. Your mind goes blank as you can feel her stare into your soul.

 “Uh.” You hesitate, trying to find anything to say.

 Mina giggles as she gives you a devilish smile.

 “Well, oppa. How do you think of me now?” She asks coyly.

 “I’ll be right back, I need a minute.” Those are the only words that escape your mouth as you retreat into the bathroom.

  You walk to the sink and splash water on your face. Your thoughts race as you stare in the mirror; frustration builds in you. What on earth are you doing? A gorgeous woman just makes a move on you and you panic and run away? As you beat yourself up, the door opens suddenly and before you can react Mina pushes you onto the toilet and sits on your lap.

 “Mina?! Wh-what are you doing in here?” You sputter, flustered by her sudden appearance.

 “I knew you were shocked, and I wanted to let you know that it’s okay. A confession like that puts a lot of pressure on a person. I’m sorry. But if it’s okay with you, I just need you so bad tonight oppa.” She whines as she softly kisses your lips.

 Staring into her eyes, you can tell how much courage it took Mina to confess to you. With all the memories flashing back to you, it’s not like you can say you don’t feel anything for her. Looking at the beautiful woman before you, you realize that you need her just as bad.

 “We can figure out what we are later, but tonight, let’s just enjoy each other.” You nod in agreement.

 Mina smiles with an emotional twinkle in her eyes as she hugs you. She gives your cheek a tender kiss before whispering in your ear.

 “Thank you oppa.”

 Pulling back from the hug, her fingers slowly start unbuttoning her top.

 “Wait you want to do it here? Shouldn’t we go back to your place or something?” You ask, surprised at her eagerness.

 “Absolutely not. The sound proofing at my apartment complex is terrible. Sejeong and Nayoung unnie had their boyfriends move in recently and all you can hear at night is them having sex. Besides, that’s too far.” Mina whines.

 You open your mouth to reply but right as you go to speak, Mina’s fingers undo the final button on her shirt. Her shirt slowly spreads open and reveals her incredible body. A tight and toned tummy that leads to a large and full chest. The only thing keeping you from paradise is a black lace bra that is somehow managing to contain her sizable tits. Upon seeing your face Mina smirks, knowing she’s got you right where she wants you. She gives you a seductive smile and slowly slides the top off of her shoulders.

 “Do you like them oppa? Go on, touch them.” She grins.

 Mina grabs your hands and pulls them up to her chest. Holding your hands, she squirms slightly as your fingers cup the soft fabric that barely contains her tits. With another smirk, she reaches behind and unclasps her bra. She slowly slides her bra out from between your hands and her chest and your fingers sink into the soft flesh of her breasts. Mina releases a soft moan as you gently rub your thumbs across her nipples. As you fondle and squeeze her tits, you feel her soft nipples stiffen against your fingers. You lick your lips as your fingers press into her soft skin, massaging and squeezing everything you can.

 “You can taste them if you want. I know you want to.” Mina whispers.

 Not needing any more permission, you immediately dive into her chest. You quickly latch onto her breast, your lips softly sucking on her nipple. The sweet taste of her nipple fills your mouth as your tongue swirls around it. Squirming as you slurp on her nipple, Mina starts grinding on your cock. Your pants tighten around your growing erection. She runs her fingers through your hair as you gently bite her nipple. A soft whimper escapes her lips while you continue devouring her tits. Her squirming against your crotch becomes more energetic. Biting and pulling on her nipple, your fingers squeeze her chest roughly. Her moans gradually gain volume as you messily suck and slurp on her nipple.

 “That’s it baby, just like that. Do you like how mommy tastes?” Mina gasps, struggling to catch her breath between moans.

 Almost any other situation and you would have paused at the sudden question. Or at the very least questioned the drastic tone shift. But right now, you’re so obsessed with the taste of the erotic woman in front of you that you don’t care what you have to say. As long as you can indulge in your lust, you’ll do whatever it takes.

 “Yes mommy I do.” You groan with her nipple still in your mouth.

 “Good. Now it’s time for you to make mommy feel even better.”

 Mina smirks as her hand reaches down, unzipping your pants. Her tender fingers grip your shaft as she slowly pulls your dick out of your pants. You release her plump breast from your mouth as you groan from her soft touch. She pauses briefly to hike her skirt up, revealing her delicious thighs and a pair of lace black panties. Using your tip, she slides her underwear to one side and brushes her pussy against you. The wet entrance of her body slickens the tip of your dick as she rubs against it. Just when you think you’re in for a night of teasing, Mina proves to be unpredictable. She aggressively slams herself onto your cock, taking you inside all the way to the hilt. A pleasured gasp fills the air as your tip hits her depths.

 “Fuck!” She moans as she tries to brace herself on your dick.

 “Are you okay?”

 “I just didn’t think you would be so big.”

 You blush slightly, but before you can respond, Mina starts grinding on your dick. Her velvety cunt clamps around your shaft as she squirms against you. The moist walls of her pussy violently constrict you as she slowly adjusts herself to your cock. While you desperately want to just lose yourself in pleasure and ravage her, you give her time to get used to it. Her grinding slows to a stop as she grows accustomed to your size. Gradually, her breathing steadies again as she rests her hands on your shoulders. Mina gives you a thankful smile and looks into your eyes.

 “Sorry about the wait. Mommy just needed a bit.”

 “I understand.” You nod.

 “Good. I’m ready now though. Go ahead and fuck mommy as hard as you can.” She whispers seductively.

 Eager to please, you immediately start thrusting upwards. Your tip mercilessly slams against the ceiling of her cunt as you pierce into her. Frantic moans echo off the walls as Mina throws her head back. Her giant tits bounce rapidly as your aggressive thrusts ripple through her body. Your hands slide down her back before resting on her ass. You bunch up her skirt in your hands, pushing it farther up her body. As you pound away inside her, your hands move back down and roughly fondle her ass. While your attention earlier was placed on her magnificent breasts, feeling her ass in your hands you know that it is just as amazing.

 The sounds of your flesh crashing against each other registers in your brain, only to be drowned out by Mina’s needy moans. Craving even more of your cock, she starts slamming herself onto you. Her soft ass ripples across your fingers with every bounce. Your dick pistons inside her, relentlessly slamming against her depths. Mina’s cunt hungrily clings to your cock, tightly gripping your shaft. Your breathing grows ragged from your mindless pounding. As your dick rams against her deepest parts, her hot walls tug on your tip. Your eyes are drawn back to her giant tits as they bounce wildly from each thrust.

 “Shit. You’re so good.” Mina moans, digging her nails into your shoulders.

 “Does mommy feel good?” You ask playfully.

 “Yes. Mommy feels fantastic.”

 “Good. Now I need to make you feel even better.” You say, your hands traveling back to her breasts.

 “You’re already making mommy feel so good baby.” She gasps.

 You aggressively fondle her tits, her soft skin melting in your hands. Roughly massaging and kneading her chest, your fingers rub and squeeze everything they can. As you play with her tits her tight cunt constricts your shaft. Despite your best efforts, your palms can’t handle their size. Mounds of soft flesh pour through your fingers as you squeeze them forcefully. Pushing them together, you watch her breasts bounce as you slam into her. You pinch her nipples, pulling on the soft nubs. A smug smile spreads across Mina’s face.

 “Do you like mommy’s tits?” She teases.

 “I love them, mommy’s tits are so amazing.”

 “Suck on them again. I know you love how mommy tastes.” She moans.

 You obey the greatest command you’ve ever been given, immediately taking her nipples into your mouth again. Your tongue rapidly swirls around her nipple, aggressively massaging it. Her tits jiggle delightfully in your mouth as your cock pounds against the deepest part of her cunt. Gently biting her nipple, you pull on it as your hand pinches her other one. Vigorously squeezing her breasts, you noisily slurp on them. The sweet taste of her flesh covers your tongue as you lick and suck everything you can.

 Mina’s cunt draws your dick in as you devour her tits. Her moans get even louder as you piston inside her. As you suck on her nipples, she grabs the back of your head. You rapidly circle your tongue around her nipples. Aggressively pulling and nibbling on her breasts, her velvety walls vigorously massage your cock. You realize how much Mina loves you sucking on her breasts as she pushes your face into her pillowy tits. Feeling them ripple and jiggle against your face brings you close to the edge.

 “Yes, yes, yes, yes. Just like this baby. Mommy is almost there. Fuck me just like this.” She screams.

 You have no intention of stopping what you’re doing. The overpowering sensation of her tight pussy and the taste of her sweet nipples is too intoxicating to ever stop. Mina’s moans are so loud that you’re partially worried that someone outside might hear her. But you’re also far too busy losing yourself in her body. The tight pressure of her cunt is driving you to your breaking point. You squeeze her breasts as hard as you can, messily slurping on them. Feeling yourself get close to the end, you violently thrust with as much strength as you can. Knowing you are approaching your final strokes, you look up at Mina’s face to see her expression.

 Seeing Mina’s face contorted in pleasure awakens something in you. The warm walls of her cunt grip your dick, frantically trying to achieve ecstasy. With every thrust, your insatiable hunger for her body grows stronger. While this might have started as a loving confession, it’s devolved into an animalistic lust. Your thrusts become wild and frenzied; furiously racing to orgasm. Your body craves the instant sensation; the release it will bring to slake your thirst.

 “Fuck yes! That’s it baby, just like this. Make mommy cum.” She screams.

 As you both hit the peak of ecstasy, your cock twitches against the ceiling of Mina’s cunt. Both of you know you’re about to cum, but neither of you say anything. You’re not asking where to cum, and she’s not telling you. Staring into her lust-filled eyes, an unspoken agreement forms between you. Releasing a primal grunt, your cock erupts inside her with one final slam. Mina unleashes an ear-shattering moan as your cum floods inside her, surging into her depths. Her body shudders as she tightens around you, forcing as much cum out of you as she can. You look down to see that you released so much that Mina’s pussy is overflowing, a stream of your cum slowly oozing around your shaft. She collapses against your body in an exhausted hug.

 “Fuck. That was so amazing baby.” Mina moans, slowly winding down from her orgasm.

 “That was incredible.” You agree.

 “Did you like fucking mommy like that?” She giggles playfully as she kisses your cheek.

 “I did.”

“Good. Cause now we’re going back to my apartment. We’re going to give those unnies a taste of their own medicine. See how much they like hearing loud sex in the middle of the night.” Mina says.

 As she slowly stands up, your dick slips out from her pussy. A small stream of cum slowly drips out of her vagina. Mina gives you a smile as she puts her shirt back on.

 “You came so much inside me. I guess you really loved fucking mommy huh?” She teases.

 “I really did.” You say, putting your dick back into your boxers.

 “Then let’s hurry up and get out of here so we can do it again.”

 Mina grabs your hand, quickly dragging you out of the bar. As you exit the building, she takes out her phone and arranges for a taxi. Turning back to you, she gives you a mischievous smile as she steps close to you. Leaning in, she reaches up and gently cups your face as she softly presses her lips against yours. Her tongue slips inside your mouth once again, aggressively swirling around your tongue. As she continues entwining her tongue with yours, she presses her body against you. Her soft tits push against your chest as your dick starts to harden. The taxi quietly drives up and Mina slowly pulls away from the kiss.

 “Let’s go. We have the rest of the night ahead of us.” Mina says, giving you a gentle kiss before opening the car door.

 You admire her body as she dips inside the car. Not wasting any time, you eagerly follow her into the taxi. As you slam the door behind you, she immediately pulls you into another kiss. Your cock twitches in your pants. A whole night with Mina is waiting for you, and you can’t wait to indulge in every second.

[certifiedskywalker]

Us - Dyn Jarren (The Mandalorian)

jakesmysterio said:

hi hi id love to request a mandalorian x reader based off ep4 where he says that he’s never taken his mask off in front of anyone else since he was a young boy 🥺 maybe you’re basically his girlfriend (like you guys have a thing it’s just unofficial) though you always feel like he’s been a little closed off from you despite your relationship until one day he opens up and takes his mask off and it’s the first time you feel connected to him both emotionally and physically? 🥺

AN: When I got your request, I was already working on this piece! I hope you like it!

Dyn doesn’t always like to talk. He shows his appreciation in other ways.

When the ramp closed, both of you were bathed in darkness, aside from the light that shone down the stairs from the cockpit. The hull of the ship, the Razor Crest, was eerily quiet. That type of silence that you had grown used to since working with Dyn Jarren. When you looked over at your partner, you could only see the starlight that glinted off his beskar helmet.

You didn’t have to see his face to know he was fuming. A year of traveling around the galaxy with Dyn, you could read his body like a holobook. In his tensed shoulders you saw his nerves; in his low hung head you saw his shame; and in his fists you saw his rage. Your constant watch of his body came out of necessity as Dyn doesn’t like to talk often. 

“Karabast!” 

Dyn slammed his fist against the closed ramp behind him. The clang of the metal rang through the air and you felt your heart catch mid-beat. You had never heard him curse before. Speaking was a rarity in and of itself when it came to Dyn. He liked to sulk, you had noticed, whenever a job went awry. You had never been on a job that went as wrong as this one.

“We handled it,” you said calmly. Despite your steady voice, when you took a step towards Dyn, your hands began to shake. Adrenaline was still pumping through your veins and your upper arm stung as if it had been burned. When you looked, you saw blood from where a blaster-bolt grazed your skin.

“Handled it?” Dyn turned and you stared into the visor of his helmet. When you first met, you thought if you looked hard enough, you could see his eyes. You liked to imagine he had kind eyes; the way he was with the Child was enough evidence for you.

“We’re alive.”

“Barely, and we needed a place to dock.”

“We’ll find another place. One without hostile locals, yeah?” You raised a hand to Dyn’s shoulder. The beskar plate almost hummed against the skin of your palm. It was warm; from the sun you had fought or Dyn’s body heat.

He fell eerily quiet again. In the pause, you could read your shared, secret language. His fists were still balled tight, but his breathing had evened out. It wasn’t just the idea of continuing the already tiring search for a place to stay that he was mad about. It was something more. It was something much deeper.

“The Child will be fine. As long as he’s asleep, we can get to another planet. Hell, another system!” 

Dyn’s head turned to you and you forced a smile to your lips. Almost as if he had been summoned, awoken by your voice, the Child hopped down the stairs from the cockpit. With each little leap, he let out a giggle. Your smile fell and Dyn sighed heavily.

You watched as Dyn left your side and walked towards the little green creature. As if reading the Mandalorian’s mind, the Child reached his hands up towards Dyn. You waited to hear Dyn chuckle or scoff at the Child’s new habit, but only silence hung in the air.

When he turned to face you with the child in his arms, you peered into the slits of Dyn’s helmet. Even though you were faced with a mask, you felt like you could really see him. Some part of him that no one else could see. A Dyn that was only yours and the Child’s. 

“Can you take him?”

“Yeah,” you reached out and Dyn placed the Child in your arms. The creature squealed and you felt your smile return. “Hey, little one.”

The Child cooed and you looked up at Dyn. Only, he wasn’t there. You watched his cape flutter as Dyn stepped up into the cockpit. You frowned and you looked down into the Child’s big, dark eyes. His little green hands reached up towards your face and you frowned.

“Someone’s cranky, huh?” The Child gurgled in response and you nodded. “Really? No way!”

 You smiled after the Child giggled at your tone. With a renewed sense of strength, you climbed up to the cockpit where Dyn was pouring over a monitor. 

You placed the Child down on the ground and let him wander as you leaned over Dyn’s shoulder. His breathing was steady, but you could still sense his tenseness. When he was done reading over a planet’s information, he waved his hand angrily to move to the next system. You watched for a few seconds as Dyn studied just how far the Razor Crest could get before needing to refuel.

“You need to take a breath,” you said, leaning over to peer into Dyn’s helmet. He turned his head to face you and you heard a long, modulated breath emanate from the mask.

“There.”

Crossing your arms across your chest, you gave Dyn a glare. “You’re not funny.”

“You do like the strong silent type,” Dyn quipped. You were stunned in momentary silence; that secret, shared language you and Dyn had made for yourselves. You were even more shocked that he had flirted so unabashedly. Once you managed to collect yourself, you shifted your weight on your feet. You hated it when he was right.

“Really, just take off your helmet and breathe.”

“Y/N, you know-”

You raised a hand and sighed, “yeah, I do. I’m just…”

A lump formed in your throat and you felt feeling catch in your chest. You had spent a year with Dyn, getting to know him, loving him. You knew how talking could muddle things and how much Dyn savored the silence, but the words on your tongue begged to be said. Dyn had helped you find your voice in the quiet, but some times, noise was comforting too.

“I hate seeing you like this. You shouldn’t beat yourself.”

When Dyn didn’t reply, you weren’t surprised. You let the silence sink in before turning towards the steps that led back to the hull. As you walked down, the child cooed softly at you. You had to stop yourself from looking at the small creature. The ache in your heart was already too much to bear when it came to Dyn; the Child would only make it worse.

“Don’t.”

The Child peered up at Dyn with wide eyes. Dyn looked back to the catalog of worlds displayed on the monitor in an attempt to ignore the creature’s unwavering gaze and your words that echoed in his head. The look on your face lingered too and made Dyn’s gut twist. You saw him in a way no one else did; and, by the Maker, did he see you too. 

The Child cooed again and Dyn looked over at him.

“Stop it.” The Child gurgled and blinked slowly at the Mandalorian. “Don’t look at me like that. Go find Y/N.”

Instead of listening, the Child stumbled over towards the console of the Razor Crest. His little, reaching hands pressed at the array of blinking buttons. Dyn reached down and placed the Child in his lap. The creature gurgled again, clapping his hands against Dyn’s helmet.

“Stop it, no,” Dyn ordered. The Child’s brow furrowed and it let out a sharp cry. “I’m trying to get you someplace safe, to get us-” 

The Child cooed loudly and Dyn sighed.

“Us.” As Dyn repeated the word, the Child cooed and raised its little arms up in the air. With another sigh, Dyn turned the ship off and stood up. Once he sat the Child in the piloting chair, he pointed. “Stay here and don’t touch anything.”

As Dyn stepped down into the hull of the ship, the Child cooed and almost seemed to smile.

You let out a hiss of pain as you peeled the bacta patch from your upper arm. The wound where a blaster-bolt grazed your flesh was sealed up; leaving only a redden line and the residual sting of the memory. As you studied the new addition to your collection of scars, you heard the stomping footfalls of Dyn’s boots. You looked up and watched as the Mandalorian man made his way towards you.

You glanced behind Dyn and, when you saw no trace of the Child, you looked up at your partner with a worried expression. Wordlessly, he tipped his head up and back towards the stairs from which he came. Nodding, you began to pull your sleeve over your new scar. Dyn reached out, the fabric of his glove, gently tracing the red line. 

“I’m…” You raised your brows at the sound of his voice. When he didn’t continue and let his hand fall from your upper arm, you stood up.

“What?”

He didn’t speak. Instead, you watched as he pulled his gloves off. The tanned skin of his hands looked smooth as they tossed the gloves to the side. You watched his hands as they pushed up on the underside of his helmet. Just when the beskar started to move off of Dyn’s head you spoke up.

“What about your...what about your way? The Way?” You stared into the visor of the mask, only expecting silence. 

“You’re the only way.”

Before you even had the chance to grasp the full implication of his words, Dyn was taking off his helmet. Suddenly, you were seeing him, truly seeing him. You saw his messy waves of dark hair; you saw relief in his kind brown eyes, the very eyes you had dreamed of seeing so many nights before. The scruff lined his jaw, patchy in some places, made him look older than you thought him to be.

You were speechless, just staring into his eyes. The silence that you had grown to love as much as Dyn wrapped around you, pulled you closer to him. 

“I’m sorry.” Dyn’s voice, no longer altered by the static twinge of the modulator in his helmet, felt like coming home. You were still in shock, too caught off guard to know what exactly he was sorry for until you felt his fingertips graze the fresh scar. “I…”

“Dyn.” He swallowed hard and you raised your own hand. Your fingers brushed against the skin of his cheek and you couldn’t help the small gasp that escaped your lips at the sensation. Dyn’s hand moved up from your upper arm to your cheek. His hand was warm and you leaned into his touch.

“I just want to find us somewhere safe.”

“I know,” you whispered and let your hand fall from his face to his shoulder. “I want that too. We’ll find it, alright? Jus’ give it time.”

“I’ve wasted enough of that already,” Dyn replied, gently rubbing his thumb against your cheek. You leaned closer until your shallow breaths mingled with his own. In the touch, you felt a new source of confidence. 

“Then make up for it.” 

You didn’t have to say it twice. The moment you closed your mouth, Dyn let his helmet fall to the ground. When it landed, with a resounding clang, you and Dyn crossed some unseen line. A line that had been forged by your shared language of silence. You could have cared less when Dyn’s now free hand reached for your other cheek and pulled your lips to his. 

He had you pinned to the wall of the ship’s hull with his lips moving against yours perfectly. You could feel his body, the one you hade studied for months on end, pressed against yours. If you weren’t so immersed in the feeling of Dyn’s lips, you would have wondered if he had done this before. Your mind was so foggy that you couldn’t even formulate a coherent thought.

When his hands traveled down from your face to your waist, you did not need him to speak his love for you; you felt it. For a moment, you were nervous that he would say it, give that shared feeling between you its pwn name, when he pulled away from your lips. Instead, he moved his attention to your neck. There, he peppered soft kisses against your skin that had you squirming against him.

“Dyn.” His name was the only word that meant anything to you in that moment. Your hands reached up, tangled in his hair and pulled. When you did, you felt Dyn’s lips brush against your jaw as he pulled back to look into your eyes. You had never felt more connected to him than in that moment. Not even your hallowed silences as you flew from one bounty to another could compare. Every word you and Dyn had pent up, the phrases you both longed to whisper to the other, were shared in every touch. In that moment, you could have cared less about safety; you felt safest in Dyn’s arms.

The next moment, you heard a childish giggle. When the sound reached Dyn’s ears, he turned his head. Your eyes landed on the Child who had perched himself on the bottom stair with his big eyes glued to you and Dyn. Every inch of your body screamed with the heat of embarrassment and you forced yourself to stay together.

“I told you to stay there,” Dyn grumbled. Even with the angry tone, he was smiling. You had never seen him smile before; it was like seeing the birth of a star.

The Child, on the other hand, started to whimper. You looked at the small green creature then back to Dyn whose dark brows were furrowed with confusion. The realization hit you an instant later.

 “He doesn’t recognize you.” You leaned down and picked up Dyn’s helmet, pressed it into his hands. “You might want to put this back on.”

The Child started to cry. Its sobs were a horrible, heartwrenching sound and your body cringed. Dyn was just starting to put his helmet back on when you stopped him.

“What?” 

Instead of speaking, you pressed your lips to his one last time. You savored the feeling, made it into a promise that what you had started would continue later. Dyn smiled into the kiss. When you pulled away, your nose knocked against his. The touch was a mistake but it didn’t feel like one; it felt intimate. It felt like a treasure.

“Don’t hide from me again.”

“Never.” You smiled and started to walk over to the crying Child as Dyn put his helmet back on. Like he said, you were his only way; a new way with no rules except one. And he would never hide from you again.

[superheroesofbothuniverses]

Natasha Gets All The Hot Guys

“Really, Natasha? You’ve added Bucky to your harem now? Why do you have to hog all the hot guys?”

Darcy griped at Black Widow as she sat across from her at the large dining table, plopping her fork down with a disgruntled air. The brand new poly four had just told the other avengers about their status and Thor had told Darcy, whose fan girl hopes and dreams were now crushed. 

“It’s not a harem, Darcy, but thank you for the mental image,” Natasha replied calmly, adding a smug wink. “Besides: you snooze, you lose.” 

They both watched as Bucky sauntered over and joined Nat, his plate groaning under the mountain of food. 

“What’s with the long face, Darce?” He asked, going to town on his steak. The blissful expression on his face made her smile in spite of herself. 

“I’m just bitter that Nat keeps snapping up all the hot dudes. Leave some for us science types. We need love too, ya know.” 

She made a pouty face at him and he chuckled.

“Sorry, doll,” he said sympathetically. “We all kind of lost touch with the rest of you and things kind of…..fell into place. Heard you’ve been busy getting your PhD. Probably didn’t leave you much time for finding a man.”

Darcy smiled. 

“Yeah, that’s true,” she admitted. “But I really am happy for you all. Steve looks ridiculously happy and it’s adorable. And you and Sam flirting in the gym? Hilarious.”

She rubbed her hands together gleefully.

Bucky raised his eyebrows.

“You been spying, Darce? I’ve never seen you in the gym.”

Darcy grinned evilly.

“I will not reveal my sources.” 

Bucky gave her an exasperated look, but he was smiling. 

“You always were a little shit, Lewis. Seems that nothing has changed.” 

“Nope!” she declared cheerfully. “Someone’s gotta keep you heroes on your toes. I’m grateful they invited me to this shindig. The food is top notch.”

It was basically a glorified reunion and celebration over the abolishment of the Accords. In the beginning, they’d seemed like a good idea to some of them, but after the bitter fall out of their fights and the subsequent reality of just how problematic the Accords actually were, well, no one wanted anything to do with them. Darcy had never trusted anyone named Ross and wasn’t about to start now. 

She pushed her empty plate away from her with a satisfied sigh.

“Well, I’m gonna go bother Captain Spangles for a few minutes. Enjoy your red meat.”

Getting up from the table, she sauntered over to Steve who was chatting happily with Sam, Scott, and Wanda. 

Bucky returned to his meal with relish, only stopping when he’d demolished everything on his plate. Nat had scooted her chair closer to his and was leaning against him contentedly, caressing his metal arm. 

“You know, James, I’m thinking I know of a “hot guy” that would be an interesting match for Darcy.” 

“Do you now?” Bucky asked, smirking at the idea of Nat matchmaking again. Her skill set made her very good at finding potential dates for other people and he’d learned to just roll with it. 

“Yep. He was pretty insufferable and immature back in the day, but the last time I worked with him, he seemed to have grown up a lot. He would give Darcy a run for her money, I believe.”

“Do I know him?” Bucky asked curiously, wracking his brain.

“You know him as Flame Boy,” she told him, grinning at Bucky’s expression as he understood who she meant. They’d met the Fantastic Four briefly and Clint’s old nickname for Johnny had stuck, much to the man’s displeasure. 

“Oh man,” he chuckled. “This is gonna be good.” 

Two weeks later, Darcy was hiding from yet another alien invasion and being frustrated that her taser did not affect the creatures. 

“Please tell me you’re sending help!” She yelled into her phone to Clint.

“We are, but it’s not who you might expect. Stark had to call in extra help, because these things are multiplying really fast.”

“Just tell me who it is!” She snapped impatiently, braining an alien lizard thing with a brick. The creatures weren’t all that bright, but there were a LOT of them. 

“The Human Torch, aka Flame Boy,  is gonna zoom by in a minute and take you to to the tower.”

“Human Torch? What kind of dumb name is that?” Darcy scoffed. Clint had already hung up, so she returned to her attempts to not get eaten. Another five lizard things surrounded her and she almost groaned in despair. Just as she had resigned herself to being lizard chow, a car screeched to a stop and a ball of fire flew overhead and right at the creatures, bombarding them with flames and sending them screeching away, howling in pain. She gaped in awe as the ball of fire landed a few yards away and revealed itself as a man wearing a tight fireproof suit. As the flames died away, she stared in shock at the smiling face of Johnny Storm himself. 

“Dr. Lewis?” he asked. “I’m here with your ride.”

He gestured towards a very shiny bright yellow Lamborghini and Darcy felt a touch faint. 

“You’re the Human Torch?” she asked cautiously. 

“Yep.”  He confirmed, with a nod and smile that reminded her a lot of Steve Rogers. “I’d suggest we get out of here before more of those things show up. Like my chariot?”

“It’s pretty sweet, I admit,” Darcy said as he unlocked the doors and opened hers for her.

“Ohh. A gentleman.” She said teasingly. “Didn’t know you had it in you, Mr. Serial Seducer.” 

She had heard tales of Johnny’s bedroom exploits, but had never heard his superhero moniker. It definitely made sense, now. 

Johnny’s face turned red, but he took the jibe in stride. 

“Occasionally, I have my moments,” he said, giving her a smirk as he started the car and got them the heck out of there. 

“So, Astrophysics?” He asked her as he took a shortcut down a side street to avoid a blocked off street chocked with lizard things. Thy looked a lot like the Gorns from Star Trek, Darcy thought with a shudder.

“Yes.” She nodded proudly. “I’m surprised you knew that.”

“A certain distant cousin of mine thinks of you very highly and made sure I was properly briefed,” Johnny said. “There may have been threats of bodily harm if I said something inappropriate.”

Darcy leaned her head back and laughed until her sides ached. Well known playboy Johnny was related to straight laced Steve Rogers? The universe sure did have a sense of humor. She imagined Steve threatening Johnny and wheezed as tears of mirth streamed down her cheeks. 

“Well, I can very much see the family resemblance,” she giggled. “Looks only, though. Oh, my gosh, this is the best.” 

“I’m glad you think so.” Johnny said with a reluctant chuckle. His annoyance at yet another comparison to Rogers was dampened by how adorable her laugh was. He thought he could listen to that for hours. 

“Steve said you’d taze me in the balls if I said something gross.”

“He was right, bless him,” Darcy said, appreciating Steve even more. “But seriously, that flame ball was awesome.”

“It comes in handy sometimes,” Johnny said with surprising modesty. Darcy looked him over again and wondered if the years had toned him down from the egotistical kid he’d once been. It was a good look on him, she thought. 

“Steve failed to mention just how pretty you are,” Johnny said after a few beats of silence. “Does the man have eyes?”

“He does, but only for a certain fly boy and two deadly assassins,” Darcy said, laughing and blushing a bit at the compliment. 

Johnny’s eyebrows flew up.

“Wow, Cap’s got game! But he must care about his friends, too or he wouldn’t get so protective over you.”

“He’s a good dude,” Darcy agreed, as the car pulled into the tower parking area. Security was tight, but Darcy flashed her ID and soon they were parking. 

Johnny got out and once again opened the door for her.

“Well, hopefully we’ll run into each other again,” he said, trying to sound casual. Darcy got the sense he was very interested, but reining himself in. It was rather cute. 

“Maybe we will, Preferably when there’s no lizard aliens trying to eat us,” she replied. “Stark’s got a big charity gala coming up and I may be there.”

He broke out in a grin and nodded.

“Good to know. Stay safe, Doctor. I’m gonna go scorch some more lizards.”

“Don’t get dead, flame boy!” She called over her shoulder as she turned away. Surprisingly, Darcy looked forward to getting to know what made Johnny Storm tick. Maybe her luck had finally changed. If he turned out to be a keeper, she was not gonna let Nat snatch him up, no sireee. 

[drakewalkerfantasy]

Flames of yesterday: Chapter 6

Summary: 5 years ago they made a mistake. They were two broken men drinking away their love life issues, and one girl trying to help a friend. What the night leaves them with are two broken hearts and one nearly broken friendship. 5 years later, two are still broken and another one fixed. But what happens when they all meet again? Will it open old wounds and bring all the their insecurities rushing back?  Or will it mend the two hearts still looking for warmth, unable to find it after their parting?

Words: 3305

Authors notes: A crossover of Open Heart and the Elementalists, a collaboration series by @drakewalkerfantasy and @fluffy-marshmallow-heart

Ethan x OH MC (Diana)

Beckett x TE MC (Oriana)

**Warnings: medical emergency, attempted assault, violence**

It was already thirty minutes into the game and Ethan and Diana were still making the meaningless conversions and mingling among a crowd of a well-dresses business types. While speaking with a middle-aged woman and listening to her carefully, Diana was attempting to ignore what was happening on the field. After a while she felt a light tap on her shoulder, making her turn her head slightly and smiling, when she saw Ethan holding two glasses full of wine.

“Sorry for interrupting,” he spoke to the woman holding glass of wine to Diana. “But I want to have a couple of words with Dr. Haynes.”

“Ethan, can you give poor girl a break. Let her enjoy the game and don’t bore her with the work stuff you so enjoy”

“Marta, have I ever…” he smiles broadly, but with a smile that did not reach his eyes.

“I will be fine,” Diana assured Marta before leaving her to enjoy the game.

Moving to the side, she took a glass from Ethan’s hands, their fingers brushing and their eyes meeting. “Funny she thinks you’re going to bore me with work…has she ever listened to herself?” Diana murmured, only loud enough for Ethan to hear her.

A small chuckle escaped Ethan’s lips, and a hesitant smile played on Diana’s lips before taking a small sip of the sweet ruby nectar. Ethan raises his glass in a toast, his eyes glued to Diana’s lips, following the tip of her tongue as it ran along her lower lip, with his eyes dark as midnight. For a moment they stood in front of a big glass window in silence watching the game, neither of them daring to speak. Both too afraid that their voices will betray them, too afraid to give away their feelings. Ethan knew too well that he shouldn’t be standing so close to this incredible young woman, so close that he could smell the faint scent of ocean breeze. So close that he could see the swirls of glittering night black and tinges of silver blue at the edges of her eyes when their gazes met. So close that when she moved he could feel it with every cell in his body, making it buzz with excitement. He cursed lightly under his breath. Trying to remember all the reasons why they shouldn’t be standing so dangerously close but forgetting all of them every time their eyes met, taking his breath away.

“Ethan! Ethan, there you are!” the cheerful voice shouts from across the room breaking them from the haze they were in and returning them to the present. Their eyes land on the boisterous man approaching them with his business partner from the other side of the room.

“That’s them. The Banner Health reps. Are you ready?” he asks in a low voice, his lips pressed into a thin line before spreading them into a forced smile.

Diana was beginning to realize that it was extremely rare for him to smile genuinely, for a smile to actually reach his eyes. She was starting to wonder if anyone other than herself had ever seen it.

“As ready as I can be. But you need to work more on your poker face,” she mumbled to him, putting a bright smile on her face.

Rolling his eyes Ethan smirked at her, his voice barely above a whisper.  “What do you want from me? I’m a doctor, not an actor!” When the reps arrived to them, he shook their hands in greeting nodding to them politely.

“Dr. Ramsey, we’re so pleased you could join us today. As I said to Chief Emery during our call, we at Banner Health are big fans of your research,” spoke a well-dressed woman, casting a flirtatious look at him.

“A lot of monetization opportunities there, as I’m sure you know…” the boisterous man added, throwing a knowing look to Ethan. Diana could feel how his whole body tensed next to her, and she could swear she could hear how he gritted his teeth. She discreetly reached for his hand behind his back interlacing their fingers, feeling how he started to relax under her touch.

“Ah… yes,” Ethan replied, squeezing gratefully Diana’s fingers, “By the way, allow me to introduce you to Dr. Diana Haynes. She is one of our most promising young doctors. Graduated as the top of her class and has already proved herself an asset in the hospital.”

Gently removing her hand from Ethan’s with a last brush of their fingers Diana shook their extended hands with a wide smile, perfectly playing her role.

“Dr. Ramsey has already talked me through the main points of our contract renewal. And we are looking forward to discussing the terms to straighten the bond Edenbrook has built with Banner already.” Diana chimed cheerfully taking a lead in conversation.

Ethan’s eyes watched her with awe, impressed how easily she jumped straight into negotiation, pointing out all important aspects of the contract. She guided them to the big sofa in front of the large window suggesting moving their conversation there. Taking a seat near to Ethan, while still continuing the discussion. After a moment, he could feel how Diana’s fingers found his under the table intertwining them not missing a beat of conversation. While he… he could only nod in agreement with something she said, feeling how his breath hitched and his heart skipped a beat. After another hour of negotiation, talking numbers and main points of the renewal they were finally promised that legal would draw up the paperwork.

Ethan glanced over to Diana, still holding her hand discretely under the table. His thumb brushing over her knuckles making her glance down on their intertwined fingers, blushing slightly before clearing her throat after a moment. Something about being with Ethan made her feel bold, strong.

“There is one more provision we want. As you just said we are 35% of your business in the cardiac services field. And it all will be lost if we walk away?” Diana started hesitantly, catching a glimpse of approval in Ethan’s eyes. Feeling more confident she continued. “We want better rates on the cardiac services.” Somehow without any need to ask him, she knew exactly what he wanted from this renewal, but he hesitated just for a moment longer than she did.

“Hm. You strike a hard bargain. But I suppose we can give you an extra three points in reimbursement.” The woman replied, her eyes fixed on Ethan extending her hand to him. Ethan shakes their hands, before they finally depart, leaving just the two of them on the sofa, their drinks on the table before them.

“Nice job squeezing them at the end.”

“We had to get something extra for our patients. It’s our responsibility. Isn’t it?” Diana said, their eyes meeting for a split second, before leaning back on the sofa turning to watch the game.

They sit together while falling into comfortable conversation, slowly sipping the wine and watching the game unfold as the sun sinks lower in the sky. When the game was close to the final stage, something caught Diana’s eyes and she moved closer to the window not realizing that Ethan was straight behind her as the same thing caught his attention.

“Uh, he doesn’t look so good,” Diana noted turning her head slightly toward Ethan, already starting to build hypotheses what diagnosis this guy may have. After a moment of observation, they both could see how the player wobbles, vomiting and collapsing on the mound.

“Let’s go,” spoke Ethan already rushing toward the elevator. “I heard that their physician quit on them before the game…” He started to explain, interrupted by Diana’s amused gasp.

“I thought you said you are not into the sport,” a teasing smile forming on her lips. “And for a guy who isn’t into it, you know a lot about their team.”

“I never said I wasn’t into sports,” noted Ethan pressing the button to the ground floor. “I said today I wasn’t into it. Dr. Haynes, you should pay more attention.”

“I…” she started, before the ding notified them that they have reached their goal.

“Here,” he pointed out to the pub’s backdoor before quickly heading to it, showing his ID card to the guard standing in front of it. With a nod the guard opened the door letting them on the field.

By the time they arrived, the player was already on a stretcher heading toward the locker room…with Beckett helping to hold it. Diana paused a brief second before following them into the team’s locker room.

After setting the player on a table, Diana noticed he was drenched with sweat.

“He has a pulse, but his breathing is shallow.” Beckett informed.

Diana and Ethan both nodded. As Ethan assisted in taking vitals, Diana head over to talk to the coach and another player. After several minutes she returned.

“The coach called 911 when we were still on the field, they’re sending a medi-vac. Should be here in a few minutes. Until then we need to figure out what’s wrong.”

Beckett removed his stethoscope from the player’s chest. “It sounds like fluid build-up. He could be in a lot of trouble if we don’t hurry.”

“Do you always carry around a stethoscope?” Ethan muttered.

“Yes. Don’t you?” Beckett asked haughtily, the tips of his ears red.

“Beckett’s always prepared for literally everything.” Diana added, avoiding her best friend’s gaze.

“Good trait in a doctor.” Ethan nodded.

Beckett rose an eyebrow at how quickly his demeanor changed by a simple sentence from Diana.

Diana continued. “The coach has been in talks with the minor leagues…he’s not cutting it in the majors. There’s negotiations to send him back. He’s been caught hyperventilating, he’s constantly tired, and clutches his back and ribs fairly often. Oh, and he’s not taking any medicine.”

“Hmm. So panic attacks, exhaustion, soreness, fluid in the lungs…” Ethan pondered.

“I’m not a diagnostician, but that sounds like a lot to be contributed to one thing.” Beckett interrupted.

Both Ethan and Diana nodded at him.

“Oh my god…I think I’ve got it!” Diana exclaimed. “It’s a drug interaction!”

“But you just said he wasn’t prescribed anything.” Beckett said, confused.

“Sandburg was already worried about being cut from the team. If they knew he had a medical condition, they’d be even less likely to keep him around. If he already had an anxiety disorder, the high pressure situation was probably making it worse.”

“Like fluoxetine? It’s fairly easy to get a prescription for that…and then he started taking something for his pain.” Beckett agreed.

Ethan furrowed his eyebrows. “Based on his gender and age, it could’ve been something like ankylosing spondylitis, arthritis that affects the spine.”

“Which you treat with an NSAID, like Celecoxib, perhaps. One drug was slowing his metabolism of the other. Basically he was overdosing on what would normally be a safe dosage.” Diana finished excitedly, her face extremely close to Ethan’s as they smiled at each other.

Beckett looked between the two of them. “Uh…wouldn’t that cause irreparable damage to the kidneys?”

Diana’s face fell. “He needs to get to the hospital, now.”

“I hear the chopper, come on. Let’s carry him back out.” Ethan directed at Beckett, who nodded.

“I’ll clean up here.” Diana told them.

Left alone, Diana began to collect Beckett’s belongings that he took out from Oriana’s bag to examine Sandburg. She shook her head smirking, knowing how often Oriana complains about Beckett using her purse like it’s his own. She bought him his own bag once, which Beckett carries to and from work, but out in public he always makes Oriana carry the essentials. Deep in thought, she failed to notice that someone else had quietly entered the locker room and that she wasn’t alone anymore. That was until she felt a strong pair of hands of someone on her hips. Yelping in surprise she turned around, her eyes widening in distant recognition as she placed her hands on the man’s chest. She tried to push him away, backing up from him.

“Kitten, don’t you remember me?” the man smirked backing her further to the lockers. “If not for your friend’s interference we would have spent quite the enjoyable time together. I recognized you immediately as soon as I saw you. It’s hard to forget such a pretty face as yours,” he purred, reaching for her face to brush her cheek, making her shrink back as his eyes roamed over her, undressing her with them, cornering her further.

“Please, let me pass,” Diana said trying to come around him, but unsuccessfully. Panic raising in her chest. “I will scream, if you don’t…” she warned, not letting him to notice how terrified she got.

“Com’mon, kitten. Don’t make a scene,” he made another step toward her, hovering over, his hands on both sides of her. “We both know you want this, just like you did all those years ago.”

"Please, let me pass,” she breathed out, tears welling in her eyes.

“You want…” not managing to finish the sentence before someone’s hands were yanking him from Diana, turning him around.

“You heard her. Let her pass.”

“Who are you?”

"I think it’s none of your business. What should concern you is that she clearly doesn’t want your advances. I would suggest you move on,” Ethan’s voice was calm and cool as steel, echoing in the room. His eyes locked with Diana’s checking if she is alright. He could see that she was still trembling, clearly upset by what was happening there.

“Kitten…” the guy started, turning to face her, stepping back into her space and reaching for her, making Diana squeeze back into the locker.

In an instant, Ethan yanked him back again, his eyes throwing lightning. He could see the man’s eyes clouded with rage as his fist flew toward him ready for the punch, but Ethan dodged easily throwing his own straight to the guy’s jaw, sending him to the ground with one strong precise punch.

Ethan breathed heavily, meeting Diana’s silver moon eyes. The thoughts buzzing inside him practically making him sick and terrified.

What would have happened if I hadn’t come back to the locker room wondering why it was taking her so long to join us back on the field with the helicopter? What would have happened if my feelings for her weren’t stronger than I already thought they are? What would have happened if I had just waited for her boyfriend and her friend instead of rushing in on impulse?

They locked their eyes for a split second before some invisible force pulled them toward each other. Ethan could feel how Diana fell against him, shaking with sobs, her face hidden in his chest. His hands securely wrapped around her bringing her closer, holding on to her as if for dear life. His heart was thundering inside his chest while his chin rested on the top of her head, inhaling deeply her scent of ocean. His hands were involuntarily rubbing her back soothing her, letting her to cry. He let himself forget for a moment that she wasn’t his. Forget that she was someone else’s. She lifted her head to meet his stormy eyes with emotions he won’t dare let himself dream of. His hand instinctively reached out to brush the glimmering drops of tears, lingering gently on her cheek…until they were pulled brusquely from the moment by the sound of the door bursting open, and familiar voices calling for Diana. Ethan quickly stepped back as Beckett and Diana’s friend came rushing in.

“Oh my god, Di! What’s wrong? Why are you crying?” Beckett whirled on Ethan. “YOU!!”

“No.” The other girl placed her hand on his arm. “Look.” They all looked down at the man struggling to stand back up from the floor.

Beckett’s jaw dropped. “Is that…?”

“David. It’s been a long time.” Oriana addressed him icily.

“You know him?” Ethan asked incredulously.

“He’s my ex.”

“Go get security.” Beckett said quietly.

“Are you sure…”

“We got this. Go.” The girl told him.

Ethan looked back at Diana, who gave him a small nod. He smiled sadly at her before marching out of the room. I guess her knight in shining armor finally arrived.

David rubbed his already swollen jaw, smirking up at Oriana. “My, my. You’re looking delicious as ever, Oriana.” His eyes travelled to her ring finger, then to Beckett. “Seriously? You married the nerd?”

Oriana smiled wickedly. “I did. Best decision of my life. Other than dumping you, that is.”

“This is the second time you have tried to force yourself on my friend.” Beckett’s hands curled into fists.

“Ha! I don’t need to force myself on anyone. Women line up around the block to have time with me.” David snarled.

“I’m sorry, I don’t remember being one. And Diana, considering she’s practically inside a locker right now, is most definitely not one.” Oriana replied, her tone laced with disdain. “You are disgusting.”

“Maybe if you had just put out every once in awhile I wouldn’t…Auuuugggghhhh!!!” Oriana punched him hard right in the gut, and as he stumbled back she kicked him right in the balls, sending him sprawling back on the floor.

“The punch was for me. The kick was for her.” She turned to Diana. “Or it could be the other way around? It doesn’t really matter, all that matters is your ass stays down, David.”

David grunted in response, cupping his lower region while groaning in pain.

Beckett pulled Oriana flush against him, kissing her fiercely. “God, I love you.”

“Thank you.” Diana said shakily. “Ori, damn girl, you can do some damage.”

“Fucking asshole.” Oriana muttered, glaring at her ex, who was still cupping himself grimacing, a slew of profanities streaming from his mouth.

“Di…” Beckett started, letting go of Oriana and turning back to his friend.

Despite her best efforts, Diana felt more tears on her cheeks. “Shut up, Beckett.” She rushed forward, letting him wrap her in his arms. “And Ori…” She threw her arm out, yanking Oriana into the hug. “I missed you guys so much.”

“We missed you too.” Beckett whispered.

“I’m so sorry, Di.” Oriana cried too and Beckett felt himself tearing up as well. “I completely overreacted and made really stupid assumptions, I know there’s nothing between you…”

“I’m sorry I ever gave you doubts.” Diana sniffled. “I didn’t even think….”

“No, no, it’s me and my stupid hormones.”

“It was all of us okay?” Beckett cut in, kissing the top of both their heads.

Diana rolled her eyes. “You overreacted the most. Honestly, Beckett, what gives with you and Ethan?”

“I don’t trust him…” Beckett began, but suddenly security was there, picking up David from the floor, the three friends not even seeing Ethan bowing quietly back out of the room, the only thing he heard being Beckett still didn’t trust him.

As everyone exited the locker room, Diana looked around for Ethan…but he was gone. She sighed warily. “He saved me, you know.”

Beckett looked at her questioningly.

“He yanked David off me, and even punched him, that’s why he was on the ground when you got there. He protected me! Defended me!”

Beckett ran his hand through his hair. “I…suppose a word of thanks is in order.”

“That’s it?” Diana asked angrily. “He literally kept a predator off of me, and you only suppose he deserves some thanks??”

Oriana looked between the two of them, sensing the growing tension. “Okay, that is enough, both of you. Di, can you come over right now? This all needs to stop. We should all probably air things out.”

Beckett and Diana both looked at her in surprise.

“Calmly.”Oriana finished.

“Sure.” Diana sighed. “I’ll get my car and meet you there.”

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[fanficimagery]

Imagine being the only human friend to the Viking vampire of Louisiana. Technically he hasn't laid claim to you because you refused to be known as his human pet, but all the vampires know better than to lay a hand on you. Humans, however, like to think that Vampire law doesn't apply to them. So when you show up to Fangtasia one night, beaten and bruised, your Viking is out for blood.

Trigger Warning! This mentions and talks about physical abuse. Don't really know if that's a trigger, but yeah. Just thought it'd be better to put it out there before you decide to read.

Author's Note: This is my first and most likely last time I will attempt smut. Excuse the awkwardness, even if the smut barely last a few sentences.

Eric X Reader

Tossing money at the overly judgmental cab driver through the opened window, you turn around to face the almost nondescript building that is Fangtasia. The only interesting things about the building is the small red awning above the front entrance, the red neon sign on the window that reads Fangtasia and the intimidating statuesque blonde vampire checking all the human ID's before permitting them entry.

Sighing, you make quick work of zipping up your hoodie and placing the hood atop your head to hide your face in the shadow it offers. Walking is currently quite painful, but you know you have to face the music sooner or later and you rather it be sooner than have an overbearing vampire knocking down your door when you don't return his calls.

The line is quite long given that the night has only just begun, but you're lucky enough to be on good terms with the vampires who own the place. So heading straight for Pamela who's rocking a leather dress and sky high stilettos, you mumble her name as soon as you near the velvet rope she's manning with your head ducked.

"Back of the line, breather," Pam drawls.

"Aw, Pamela, is that any way to speak to your friend?" You lift your head, grimacing a little and nearly flinch when her fangs click down.

"Fuck," she drawls as she takes in your split lip and half swollen face.

"Is Eric in?"

"He's gonna kill whoever it is that touched you."

"Counting on it." Pam briefly looks startled at your words, but in the next moment her own progeny Tara is at her side. Tara's eyes widen as she takes in your own appearance and you nod in greeting. "Hey, T."

"Girl, what the hell happened?!"

"Long story. I just- I need to see Eric first."

"Come on,” Pam sighs. “Tara, cover the door. I’m taking Y/N to Eric."

One second you're standing outside in front of Fangtasia and the next Pam is cautiously setting you down on the couch in Eric's office. Just as you're attempting to curl up on the cushions, the door slams open and in walks the six-foot-five Viking vampire Eric Northman.

"What the fuck happened?" He crouches in front of you, his cold hand gently grasping you by the chin to tilt your face upward.

"You always told me he'd take it one step too far," you mumble. "Well you were right. Only he took it a lot too far this afternoon."

"Jesus." Eric attempts to pull you into a seated position, but when you whimper as your back hits the back of the couch he's quick to pull you forward. "What is it? Is it your ribs? Why aren't you in the hospital?!"

Your eyes fill with tears. "I don't want to scar. Please don't let me scar."

There's a click of fangs descending and both you and Eric look at Pam. "I smell fresh blood."

Eric frowns as he looks at you and you start to cry softly. Hiding your face in your hands, you don't object when you feel hands pulling up the back of your hoodie and shirt. Both vampires hiss as they see the once again bleeding welts littering your back.

When you chance a look up, you see Eric standing to his full height, chest heaving. His expression is carefully blank, but you can practically feel the power radiating off of him in his anger. "He's dead."

"Had he not lashed me with his fucking belt, I'd had argued for his life," you tiredly tell him. "But I'm done. I came to you because I-" You pause and then gulp, not too sure about how this is going to go down. "Look... I know you're always saying the blood is sacred, but I could really use something right now. I wouldn't be too upset if Clint wound up dead and left on his best friend's front lawn. After all, his bestie was there when the beating started and didn't do anything to help me. I wanna see his face when he realizes I'm completely fine while Clint is dead."

"Oh, sweetheart, you don't even have to ask."

You're too startled by the term of endearment in what you've come to known as Eric's native language that there is no objection when he shoves his bleeding wrist to your mouth. You weakly glare at him before swallowing your first mouth full and then your eyes close in pure bliss as your hands fly up to secure his arm to your mouth. Somewhere in the back of your mind you’re horrified at the moan you let loose, but after your fourth gulp the wound has closed and Eric is gently taking his arm back.

Panting briefly, your mind clears and your eyes snap open. "Way to be a dick, Northman. You could have poured your blood into a glass."

Pam chuckles from her guard by the door and instead of getting angry for speaking to him the way you did, Eric merely smirks. "Grab a shower while I'm gone. Pam will find you something to wear."

"Aye, aye, boss."

"Sweet dreams, Y/N."

Eric and his infuriating smirk are gone before you can retort, and you look up at Pam who's staring at you expectantly. "...what?"

"Eric's been waiting for nearly two years for you to open your eyes to that pathetic excuse of a boyfriend of yours," she muses.

"Yeah. And?"

Pam's smirk widens. "You don't get it, do you? Eric isn't the type of vampire to wait patiently for what he wants. You've heard the story about how he chased that little fae."

"Get to the point, Pam."

"My point is that you just let the Viking feed you his blood while also giving him permission to kill the only competition he's ever had for your affections." Her meaning finally sinks in and your eyes widen. She laughs. "Sweet dreams indeed. Come, little one. Lets go find you something to wear so you can fall asleep."

Back arching off the polished wood of the desk, your hands grasp for the head of blonde hair that's made it's temporary home between your legs. Tongue swirling around your clit, a moan rips free and a chuckle reverberates against your nether lips.

"Eric... fuck! Don't stop, don't stop, don't stop."

"I love it when you start babbling, kitten." His chin rests on your lower abdomen, and you whimper when you catch his icy blue gaze sparkling at you in a mixture of amusement and lust.

"Goddammit, Viking! I said not to stop."

"But you're so adorable when you're denied an orgasm." Eric slowly climbs up your body, nipping and licking his way to your lips where he takes your bottom lip between his teeth and bites down hard enough to pull free another whimper.

"Stop teasing me, Eric, and just fuck me already!"

"As you wish."

You feel Eric's own arousal teasing your entrance and in one swift thrust, he's-

You gasp awake, heart pounding and your lady bits pulsing with arousal.

"Good dream?" Pam drawls. When you glance at her, she's smirking knowingly.

"Eh," you sigh and squirm until you're comfortable. "Apparently my subconscious really wants to be tongue-fucked on Eric's desk."

Pam cackles and you tiredly smile at her, but your total casual-ness flies out the window when the private bathroom door opens and out saunters Eric- Eric who looks freshly showered and is now wearing a black muscle tee that shows off his nicely muscled arms. "That's good to know."

Groaning, you glare at Pam. "Thanks for the head's up."

"Anytime." Then with a wink, she's out of the room before you can even utter a reply.

Eric grins as he walks over to the sofa, towel drying his arms and face as he takes a seat directly next to you. "So I take it things went well?"

"Obviously." He tosses the towel aside and stretches his arm out across the back of the sofa. "Clint was still at your shared home and it was all too easy to glamour my way in. I could smell your blood and see the splatters of it from where you were assaulted, so I called in a vampire clean-up crew. They removed all evidence of any assault and then I took Clint to a remote field where I took care of him. I made sure to give him every mark he gave you before dropping him off at his friend's house. We'll have an alibi for you should the friend start pointing fingers."

"I know I should be upset... or something, but I'm actually quite relieved." Eric practically purrs as you subconsciously move to where you're curled up in his side, your head resting against his shoulder as you throw your legs over his. You sigh in contentment. "This was always inevitable, wasn't it?"

"You were always mine. You just had to accept it."

"Yeah, well, I think everyone's going to accept it now. All the vampires are going to smell you even more on me. And worse... in me. They're going to smell you in me and it's not because we got up some hanky panky."

Eric snorts. "The hanky panky can be arranged." You laugh at how the words sound coming from him, but then sober up at what comes next. "Is this going to be a problem? That I now have an official claim on you?"

Taking a moment to honestly think about it, you can't think of any other reason why you never let Eric publicly claim you other than you didn't want to be called a fang-banging whore. But you're way passed what anyone thinks and now that you don't have to worry about Clint's abusive behavior... you're at peace with just about everything.

Eric's chuckles knock you from your thoughts. "I take that as a no."

You realize a second too late that you're rubbing your cheek against his pec like some sort of cat. "Shut up. You should've told me that your blood would make me feel like I was stoned. The racy dreams and you feeling everything I feel, I expected. Wanting to rub up on everything and finding me a smorgasbord of food to eat, I did not."

"The fun's only just begun, Älskling."

You practically swoon at the Swedish term of endearment, your thighs clenching a moment later. Eric's laughter silently rumbles and you punch him in the ribs. "Don't be a dick. You know what your voice and your native tongue does to a woman."

"Hmm. Yes, my tongue can do a lot of things. Want me to show you? On my desk, perhaps?"

You groan, too turned on to even be embarrassed. "You're going to be so much trouble."

"As if I'd be anything else."

[hellacre13]

What Superman story made you realize why Lois can’t work as his love interest?

I suspect Superman the movie and everything after that. And then getting into comics themselves. As we mature and the world changes then so do societal norms, I realized how seriously effed up the Lois/Clark/Superman love story is.

Many heroes might have started off in a more camp way, asking us to suspend belief etc but as time went by the story telling got more complex and tied into real world themes etc. Superhero stories often reflects the time we live in. Like the Golden Age Superman was created during a time of the Depression and pre World War 2.. He was rougher, brasher, a man who was the champion of the oppressed and small man, who fought corrupt business men and Nazis etc. The new 52 was more modern and looked at Superman via a more global lens by looking at his alien aspect and making him more socially conscious. Rebirth he has gone back to traditional troupes and is more preachy father figure who seems to be more concerned about his comfort and playing house. He calls his wife and kid his world and so wants to preserve that comfort, he is willing to ply Lois with immortal juice to live for a billion years. It’s got that feel of a guy who isn’t too concerned about the bigger picture as long as life does not change for him. I mean, what he does with Lois isn’t too far off what Mr Freeze wanted to do with his wife if you think about it? But that is “love” according to DC. 

Anyway I digress. Lois, Clark and Superman was the original love story for decades. She had the hots for the rock star while the nerd Clark pined for her to notice him. He even prob ignored women who cared for him. She was often mean spirited and very ambitious and walked all over him. She was a career girl in a time it was a largely male centric job but in fiction she was not the only female that did this. In fact she was inspired from another character Torchy Blane who did what she did first. And there were other female characters in fiction that were just as brave, empowered before her too. Anyway as the world evolved and more female characters  were created what Lois did became not all that special. We have many strong women in fiction, from different backgrounds and people have their favorites. We are spoiled for choice. 

The love triangle or what I like to call now the lie triangle is what define Lois and Clark’s dynamics. I really did not understand why this guy wasted his time on someone who never valued him. I guess he was a bit of a masochist. As as I grew to learn more about Superman’s mythos and who he was and what drove him, I genuinely could not understand why DC kept pushing them as some ideal. The woman did stupid things to try to get his attention or outing his secret when she suspected…from trying to jump off buildings and Niagara Falls. That is not brave. It’s dumb, at least to me. She even had her own comics for a time whereby she was obsessed with trying to get him…Superman… to marry her. Lois and Clark’s iconic imagery is of him carrying her like a baby or saving her. I am sorry but as a female reader and fan of heroes…that just does not interest me nor do I see it as romantic. DC might think it is seeing they still push it.

And Superman himself was a douche bag too. Lying his ass off to her as Superman and Clark. Or dating her as one or the other…yet claims this was love. The guy was even willing to give up his gifts just to bone her in Superman 2. Can you really see a real hero being that needy and hard up? The Reeve movies are considered quintessential Superman but to me it is outdated and the stuff between him and Lois is eye rolling. The other movies like Superman Returns his love for her is not noble. Fact it is creepy and selfish on both their parts considering she was shacked up with another man who was a real father to a boy not even his own.

Man of Steel and the DCEU show how they need to shoe horn her into many things that defy logic and really just to try to find something for her to do. She is a human. She should be subject to its limitations. This woman just throws herself in dangerous situations and survives. Or DC tries to suggest she can handle situations she is not even trained to.

Most recent cases…1. Fighting Female Furies. She has 0 training …people like Barda and Diana who trained all their lives and have to have back up with Darkseid’s elite Lois Lane can take on these women with no problems. That is the stupidity we have come to. 2. MOS Superman is fighting Zod and snaps his neck and Lois who was miles away just appears to pet his head. I didn’t know she had superspeed. 3 Death of Superman ( just like Batman v Superman) the woman is in the middle of the action because? Two heavy hitters battling, Doomsday beat up the whole JL, damaged the city, the earth is crater city, smoke, dust and debris is being kicked up while Superman is battling him…yet Lois is in the middle of all this so these two characters can make google eyes at each other. When Superman dies…after killing Doomsday with a killer blow…she just standing there…unscathed…like she got some force field I was not aware of.

The writing suffers because they have to find something for her to do. Even the most sensible journalist would know to get the hell out of the way and get shelter if you are in between two warring sides. Why are you making your ass a potential causality and distracting a man from his job?

Death of Superman really sealed the deal for me. Lois and Clark act like two jerks.. Clark is dating her but has not told her he is Superman.She has no clue he is Superman. Yet she flirts with Superman even while having Clark on the side. He tells her she knows him better than anyone else. Yet she claims she does not know him at all. ???? It’s bizarre logic. He says he loves her…I have no clue why. He acts insecure and whiny and a bit of a prick to Diana. Given his and Diana’s relationship was based on honesty…she knew who he was…it’s very amusing to see Clark try to convince the viewer Lois is the one for him. They even tried to throw all his other past loves under the bus putting the blame on them.

I found it all forced and dysfunctional. And the Superman we admired and who respected Diana berates her for calling him Clark while sparring in a simulator no less…they were not even in public…because he wants to be called Superman because Lois (who he had not told his secret) gave him the name.I am sorry. But when has Clark/Superman/Kal ever acted such a douche to anyone? And he blames Diana for their “break up” because she wants to live as herself.

Anyone who reads comics know that Clark and Diana had a very close bond. I can get you tons of panels of her calling him Clark or Kal or Superman depending on the situation and he was never this asshole Tomasi wrote here just to prop Lois. Also even if Diana did not like a dual identity here, it’s clear DC does what it wants when it wants because she used Diana Prince off and on for decades. She uses it in the DCEU and other comics. But for Superman to judge her this way makes him come cross as unlikable.

What it mean is Superman is a selfish character. He wants a woman to do what he says and lives as he says. He wants to make no compromise. In truth and fact he never made a compromise for Lois Lane when he told her his secret. She just accepts it and adapts to HIM. They are in love because he can continue to live the way he wants. I thought real love was give and take. In Death of Superman she is not even questioning his lies. She is like oooh my boyfriend is an alien when he tells her he is Superman. Must be nice her boyfriend looks like a man she lusted after and he did not really look like Martian Manhunter, eh? I bet she’d react quite differently. How can anyone elevate this type of relationship over Clark and Diana’s is beyond me.

There was no truth and no trust from the start and when they hook up Clark and Lois continue their charade yet claim to be watchdogs for truth for humanity. This is such a joke to me. They both have no ethics. He still gives her scoops even though they banging each other and they act as if they are more moral than other people.

And let us not forget Superman goes evil troupe or needs her alone to ground him because it is what pisses me off the most. It undermines Superman’s heritage, upbringing, innate goodness and compassion and heroism to suggest he cannot be who he is unless he is banging Lois Lane. If Batman could not be with Selina no one here would suggest he would never be who he is. Same for every other hero. But Superman? The dude is crippled morally, spiritually and emotionally if no Lois. In Justice League the entire League is nerfed so she can call him to heel. A woman he knows all of 2 years. What about his mom? Hell what about the earth?The people? His own mind and goodness? Nah. Only Lois. I am sorry that is bs

We have the superhero landscape where heroes can live openly, many don’t need ID’s, some have given them up. Look to Marvel and how well they do it. These men and women do jobs that don’t require jumping through hoops like Superman and his news room reporter job requires. They might be billionaire scientists, supersoldiers, Gods, Kings, aliens but we feel with and for them because their stories are woven in a coherent manner, and their heroism doesn’t have conditions. It has real and truth sacrifice and growth. Superman with Lois is what I call a fair weather hero. He is concerned about himself and his comfort. All is well and he is happy. Things go a little iffy or something happens to her…his ass is useless.

I could go on and on but if your hero’s entire pov and how he views the world and whether he feels connection to a place he grew up in is based on one person he screws as it is with him and Lois…then I cannot support that. So It is not one story. It is a cumulative thing. And it sucks as a fan of Superman because you realizing he might not be what you thought he was nor hoped he could be.

As someone who was drawn to Superman comics on a story based on him dealing with real challenges and loss and trying to be a leader in the face of great odds as in Kingdom Come…I am at a loss what DC is putting out. I feel like the Superman I want to believe in is no longer around. Punching something very hard doesn’t make you a hero. All the League put their life on the line everyday. Just because SM can hit hard does not make them less than him nor their lives less than his. Wonder Woman nearly died in Death of Superman but for him lunching with Lois. He left her in the lurch for Lois on the battlefield in BM v SM, not even knowing if she could handle Doomsday. No good soldier would do that. Heroism is the way you live and choices you make and how you try to make the world better for others even at the expense of your own comfort.  I look to other heroes now outside of DC and I am ironically finding what Superman could or should be there. It’s a shame.

[talkingwithburritospodcast]

Baby Ducks In The FP - TWB70

The FP is like Breaking: Electric Boogaloo set in a dystopian society of young twenty somethings who don’t know any better about the real world.

Frazier Park and the 248

Frazier Park, a subdivision somewhere in the greater state of California where wars aren’t fought over color or race but by county lines and dance. Not the Samba, not ballet, no crunk, but video game dance battles. Beat Beat Revolution, similar but exactly equal to the popular ninities arcade Dance Dance Revolution encourages battlers to pop, lock, and step in the name of where you from for points earned and undeniable street cred. Hit your mark and you live to fight dance another day. Too bad for BTRO, leader of the 248. Good guy living in a bad town. He danced till he couldn’t dance anymore. Poor fella's heart gave out in a dance battle against the penultimate villain next door, L Dubba E, who is just as annoying as his name sounds. Sure BTRO could’ve been roofied or maybe lugging about in a huge pair knee high ultra space boots wasn’t the best choice of footwear when playing a game where you must step on small lily pad sized shapes in an effort to score big. Not knocking his style but those boots weren't made for walking, it's not just what they do. One of this days those boots are going to dance all over you. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Soul Man, 1986.[/caption]

Hero is In The DNA

JTRO, brother to BTRO and witness to his fall from grace, leaves the 248 in great hero fashion to grieve for a period of time unknown to everyone but the screenwriter of this film. There was a montage, so we must assume it’s been, like, fitty years since he's been gone. Okay, more like two at the most. Dude didn’t even grow a beard by the time KCDC trekked across the small stretch of highway in a beat up ol’ Honda in search of the forgotten 248 heir to the throne. JTRO, self exiled 248 member, made good with his time getting swole carry wood and chopping logs. When KCDC finds him, and pleads for the hero to return home, JTRO refuses. The 248 ain’t his life no mo. "I’d rather bust these logs and dream of my dead brother and question why he wore those damn boots anyway. He knew they were too big!” Frustration aside, JTRO understood what he must do: he most return to the FP.

A fallen tree in a forest doesn’t make a sound. However, revenge screams like a mutha effing donkey on steroids. FP Homecoming

Home isn’t like it use to be. With the 249 in charge it’s like 1940’s prohibition up in the 248. L Dubba E, heir to the one liquor store in town has stopped service the 248 disrupting life as we knew little of it; we can only assume that shit is bad on a dystopian level. No drink means the bums are dry and if the bums are dry, then the baby ducks don’t get fed. The baby ducks don’t get fed. Not my words. All credit goes to KCDC for that, which is the best line of the entire film and there are some doozies.

TRO Hearts Stacey In The Fp

Fathers, be good to your daughters Daughters will love like you do But without the drink, fathers becomes assholes and beat up on their daughters. No heroes journey is complete without a damsel in distress and as harsh and real as John Mayer sung that beautifully crafted song, Stacey is a complete mess. We don’t even know why JTRO would even bother, but we do know that he didn’t take a shot in high school. As she was blowing through guys, JTRO respected the and like the girl enough as not to be just another bike ride. He’s dizzy without even have slept with the girl and among other horrible attributes, she’s hanging withL Dubba E who we can only assume has herpes of the everything. But a hero has chilvery etched into his DNA, and JTRO can’t fight that feeling of wanting to save his Winnie Cooper. Maybe she is cute, in that Betty on crack next door type of way or maybe it’s because he only sees out of one eye. Did I mention JTRO wears an eye patch?

The Redeemer

No redemption song is complete without it’s maestro, BLT, to lead the redeemer to salvation. Through training and excessive hard work, JTRO will work his way to the supreme status of sleeping within the trainers quarters. Scrubs sleep outside. To be the best and covet a comfortable mattress, JTRO will have to be the best, but unfortunately his vision is cloudy — he lacks focus. That girl got him dizzy! No heroes journey goes without a training montage! (Jamaican Horns Here)

Running

Weights

Running with weights, DC, piggyback

Dragging a tire

Beat Beat Revolution Waffles sandwiches

And electrified tennis racquets - now lasts some low grade Rocky shit

NIGGA

N: Never I: Ignorant G: Getting G: Goals A: Accomplished Didn’t really bother me. Well, it did before this stupid ass validation as to why they allowed KCDC used it so freely when I saw no black people in this film. Middle class youngster during the nineties and up till now, still find it okay to use the word nigga when there isn't a black person around to correct them. Some of them just don't care because they're hip, listen to rap music, and have a couple of black friends. Words of wisdom: you will still get your ass whipped. Just saying.

Stripper Shame

I was more upset over the tire stripper pool. Okay, this is the moment in the heroes journey when he’s tested before the final face off with L Double E . JTRO, his trainer BLT, and KCDC invade a party hosted in the 138, a ramshackle Russian Trailerhenge park where dreams go to die. This is where we not only find the girl, Stacey, but our boys happen upon a tire stripper pole based in a pool of water. Now that’s trashy. Isn’t stripping for those idiots in that town insulting enough? You have this poor dunk girl —because alcohol how she eases the pain — swaying to in fro on a pole mounted in a tire surrounded by water in a kiddie pool? Now, that’s offensive. To test his training, JTRO has to entertain the musing of another loud mouth idiot who resembles a smaller and lest cool Gary Oldman from True Romance. It’s in this scene we learn what truly broke his brother BTRO, however, the characters never elude to the fact that BTRO was drugged before his death match with Double L, and the life hack to never send anyone to get you a drink. Date rape rule #1: Order your own drink and watch the bartender make it yourself, ladies.

BTRO Avenged!

The best two moments from this Beat Beat Revolution dance off is the bystander cuffing a woman’s breast for no apparent reason than to show a man holding one beast of a nonchalant woman and the fact that the death match was enclosed inside a ratty mesh cage. Yes, a cage match, people! If you’ve ever played DDR, you should understand how ridiculous this is as you literally jump, hop, and step in place to play this game. A cage ain’t gonna do nothing for you but give somebody tetanus in this instance. After the hero avenges his brother’s death, a fight breaks out and somebody pulls a gun. This was by far the best directed sequence in the movie. The effects were well done and the action scenes were quite impressive for a film on a limited budget. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r5QtZs09_0Y

The FP Does Not Get Made Without Overwhelming Support

As ridiculous a film this is; The FP does not get made if not for the support of family, friends, and the entire 248. Someone had to read this script and question whether the Trost Bros. had lost their collective minds. It’s in this support from I assume the place he’s from that this film shows its true heart. Listed in the credits: * Trost Bros. - Written and Directed * Ron Trost - Ex Producer/ Effects Coordinator * Sarah Trost - Costume * Brandon Trust - Directory of Photography * Jason Trost - Story By No matter how bad the film might be, it takes a lot of effort to pull together the resources to complete such an endeavor. Kudos to all involved in the production of this film. They were successful in their efforts to get a sequel made to The FP, and are currently in post-production. So, if this podcast episode encourages anyone to watch this movie, then maybe that’ll encourage you to support the sequel whenever it releases.

The Scoop Dujour

Links:

The squeal to The FP in the works. BEATS OF RAGE: THE FP PART II Almost Black - Indian student accepted into medical school as an African American [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kp7eSUU9oy8[/embed] Dedicated to my wife.

Flava Text of the Week:

Never Ignorant Gettin' Goals Accomplished

The plate full but we're always open for suggestions

Leave us a voicemail or email about the podcast episode, ask a question, or share what entertains you. Phone 520-775-1690 Email feedback@talkingwithburritos.com Follow links: Twitter, Facebook, Google+, etc. Subscribe links: iTunes, RSS, email newsletter, etc.  

Talking With Burritos Presents A New Episode!

[deziswhoiam]

Why now? Part 1

I’m gonna let this one speak for itself guys. TW attempted suicide. 

Idiot idiot how could you be so stupid?

She remembered everything, as though she were watching the past few months of her life on film. How could she have missed the signs? They were all there. She just hadn’t been paying close enough attention.

Rao, why can’t I fly any faster? Come on, please!

Lena had always seemed so happy around her. Always smiling and flirting. Kara knew now what it had been, attraction, interest, love. The word made her cheeks flare and her heart beat erratically. If only she’d noticed before everything, if only she’d noticed along with everything else. That on top of all of that was the pain buried deep inside, shining only momentarily behind her eyes every once in awhile.

A surprise trip to Lena’s office at midnight found Kara stunned and frozen. Lena was crying on the floor.

“Lena?” As Kara got closer she could smell the alcohol pouring off of her. She was absolutely wasted.

“Kara! I haven’t seen you in so long. What has it been? 3 hours?” Lena had laughed erratically, too hard, as though she was trying to compensate with a pathetic attempt at a joke.

“Lena are you okay?”

“I’m just peachy! Look!” She held up a near empty bottle of scotch. “I’m just spending time with my other best friend.” Lena winked and broke off in giggles.

Kara frowned and reached for the bottle, only for Lena to pull it out of reach. “Lena. Give me the bottle.”

“Nuh uh. I’m not finished yet.” Lena had pouted then, bottom lip jutted out and emerald eyes wide. God, if this is what Alex went through every time she pouted she felt sorry for her sister. Maybe she could lay off the puppy eyes for awhile. “Why do you always spend so much time with Supergirl? Is she your special friend?” Lena put stress on the word special. She had caught Kara off guard, and it showed as the blonde began to sputter.

“Of course not. She’s not my type.”

“Ah. What is your type the, Ms. Danvers?” Lena asked, looking up at her through her lashes.

“If you can remember this conversation tomorrow, I’ll let you know.” Kara pulled her to her feet gently, and with a burst of superspeed had the bottle of scotch back in the liquor cabinet across the room in seconds.

“Wow you’re fast. Wow I’m drunk.” Lena giggled to herself.

“Let’s get you home, how does that sound?” Kara slipped a hand around Lena’s waist and began to lead her to the door.

“But Kara, I don’t wanna!” Lena whined. She leaned heavily against her best friend, trying to slow her down with her dead weight. Kara shook her head and scooped her up, carrying her bridal style. “Wow you’re strong.” Lena’s hand gripped at her bicep. “And you’re really buff. Who would have known…” Lena leaned against her chest and her eyes fluttered. She was asleep before Kara could get the elevator doors closed and headed to the lobby. When they reached the lobby, Kara had the man at the front desk call Lena’s driver.

She’d set the other woman gently in the back seat of a black town car. “Make sure she gets to her apartment safe. Or else.” A few threats and a promise from the driver, Tobius, to get Lena home safely later the CEO was headed home. Unknown to both occupants of the car, Supergirl was following, flying high above to keep watch.

The next day Kara went to Lena’s office to check on her. She didn’t ask directly, but she could tell the other woman hadn’t remembered the night before. It wasn’t the last time it happened.

Stupid stupid, worst friend ever. She better be alright or- Kara grunted and shook her head, willing herself to go faster. What kind of person was she that she couldn’t have spared a moment for her friend in her time of need?

The Daxamite invasion and subsequent banishment of all Daxamites from Earth had taken a hard toll on Kara. Mon-El, whom she thought she had loved, had to leave her. And she was alone once again. Not alone, you had her. It had been two months since everything had gone down. Two months where Kara had shut herself away from the one person that needed her, her not Supergirl, more than anything. It had been the biggest mistake of her life.

A week after everything, after she’d lost Mon-El. The tears in her heart were healing, but she still couldn’t look at Lena’s caller ID without a flash of pain. She knew she’d agreed, Lena had even tried to convince Supergirl not to do it for this exact reason, but it had to be done. Blaming Lena just made it easier, if barely. Countless missed texts and calls. Then two weeks hit. Nothing. After the first month, Kara had texted Lena asking to talk. No reply. No answer to her calls, no replies to her texts no matter how many she sent. All the apologies in the world couldn’t seem to make it better.

She’d tried to go to Lena’s office, to explain, but Jess had barred her from the doors, stating very clearly, “Miss Luthor has asked not to be disturbed. By anyone and that includes you, Miss Danvers.” The pure hatred and anger in her voice had been enough to push Kara to retreat. She didn’t even make it to the elevator the other times she tried. Security had stopped her, at the order of Jess no doubt. Even when she tried to appear as Supergirl, she found the windows had been tinted and lined with led. She couldn’t see inside super vision or no. The door was always locked. She respected Lena enough to not use her super strength to get in.

You should have tried harder. You should have been there for her when you had the chance.

When she’d received the call from her sister, she’d been sulking at home, alone.

“What do you want Alex?” She’d asked, irritated her solitude had been interrupted.

“I know you really don’t want to talk to anyone right now and I respect that, but Lena’s on her balcony about to jump off and I don’t think we can make it on time.” The wail of a siren in the background and her sister yelling to go faster barely registered in Kara’s mind. Her blood ran cold. The phone fell from her hand and in an instant she was changed, racing towards L-Corp like a bat out of hell.

That’s where she found herself now, coming up on the large building and gaining speed, pushing as fast as she could. She’d broken the sound barrier at least 3 times, but what did it matter when her best friend was about to do something terrifying. She slammed to a halt a few feet away from Lena, heart dropping when their eyes met and she saw nothing but dark indifference.

“What the hell do you want?” Lena’s voice was rough. She was sitting on the railing, legs dangling over to the 300+ foot drop. She chugged the remainder of whatever alcohol she was holding and flung the empty bottle against her tinted windows. The bottle shattered without a scratch to the larger glass, shards flying in every direction. There looked to be a couple other shattered bottles below where she’d thrown it.

“Lena, please, talk to me.” Lena barked a laugh and stood on wobbling legs, holding out a hand when Kara made to move closer.

“Don’t you dare get any closer. Now you want to talk? How laughable.” Her eyes held no mirth as she barked a laugh.

“I tried to talk to you Lena, I stopped by numerous times.”

“Spare me, Kara.” When her eyes widened Lena seemed to grow angrier. “Really? You thought I wouldn’t figure it out? I’m a certified genius, Kara. A ponytail and glasses aren’t going to fool me.” Kara barely got her mouth open before Lena interrupted again. “And no, I haven’t told anyone. Unlike someone, I’m loyal to my friends.” Her voice broke on the word friends, her face scrunching into one of pain.

“Lena, I don’t care about that. Please, please just step away from the railing and we can talk this out. I’m sorry, okay? I was a horrible friend, and I’ll be better I promise, just please…” Lena sobered up quickly, face going blank as she stared her friend in the eyes.

“I called, and I texted, and I waited for something. Anything. I understand you loved him,” She practically spit out the word. “But I thought we were friends. I thought you actually cared about me.” Tears began sliding down her face and she wiped at them angrily. “Guess I was wrong again.”

“No Lena!” The shout took them both by surprise. “I do care about you. You’re my best friend. I was just too selfish to think about what it would do to you and I’m sorry. But don’t you ever doubt I care about you. I love you, dammit! Why can’t you see that!?” Kara didn’t realize she’d started crying too until she felt something drip onto her closed fist.

“Shutting me out was enough. But mocking me?” Lena fell apart. She looked nothing like the woman she was merely weeks ago. She was broken, and Kara’s heart broke at the knowledge that it was her fault. “I always thought you might return my affections, even when you were with-” Lena took a deep breath. “But to mock me now?”

Silence hung between them. Kara could hear the boots of police and Alex on the stairs, closing in fast. She just had to hold out for a few more minutes, a few more precious seconds.

“Lena, please, I-”

“Save it. I wish I could say it’s been a pleasure.” Kara had time to sputter before Lena was leaning, falling off the side.

“NO.” Kara dove after her. She didn’t make it far, a smaller fall than the assassination attempt on her life all those months ago, but Kara still clung to her like she’d almost hit the ground. She wrapped her arms around Lena’s waist and pulled her as tightly to herself as she dared. She slowed them gently, and when she knew Lena was safe she began to fly them away from the building. “I have her Alex. Stand down.” Kara said before turning her comm off. Hopefully her sister would leave them alone until she called.

“Why, why?” Lena sobbed into her shoulder, beating her fists uselessly against Kara’s arms. Kara’s heart broke, and she gripped just a bit tighter as she flew them towards safety. Towards home.

[ressarioth]

HEY SUKIE.... would u wanna write me a zevistair thingy... id love to read the reunion when alistair becomes king n zevran had left to take out the crows and stuff so they thought theyre over but THen at inquisition times they meet again

This took me way longer than I would’ve liked, but I finally finished it! Have a bit over 3.6k words of Zevistair reunion before I overthink the question of how they can get their happily ever after ending. That would be something for a multi-chaptered fic after all.

I hope you enjoy!

[ Writing Requests ]

It’s been on his mind for the longest time, a seed of yearning that took roots and grew a sprout of hope against all his principles. One day Zevran doesn’t know how to fight it anymore, because he runs out of his most prominent reason against it when he finally breaks free from the Antivan Crows for good. For the past decade his heart has been growing stronger and now it’s overthrowing the rule of his rational mind.

So Zevran returns to Ferelden: the country where he tasted freedom for the first time and embarked on a journey to stop the blight; the country where he fell in love against all odds with a man who in the end became someone he cannot have. He’d be better advised to never look back, like he never allowed himself to miss Taliesen or Rina — though Rina was a dead woman when he turned his back on the Crows and Taliesen met the same fate when coming after him. It’s not unreasonable to think that these two don’t compare, not to a man who lives and breathes and haunts his mind whenever he doesn’t indulge in distractions.

What fate is worse? To love a dead assassin or a living king? Having experience both, Zevran concludes it’s the latter for all the temptation it holds. Temptation he’s finally giving in to as he sneaks past the guards in the courtyard and into the kitchen of the Ferelden palace. It’s the middle of the night so the fire in the hearth has died down to nothing more than embers and the servants are asleep in their quarters.

He presses on in the faint light of a few torches on the walls. There are some guards patrolling the corridors, but he knows how to avoid all of them. The only disadvantage he has is that he isn’t sure where the bedroom is which he’s trying to find. Though he takes a gamble and guesses that it would be on one of the upper floors and most likely guarded. So he ventures upward, determined to find his destination as soon as possible.

It’s not the hiding and sneaking past armed men that has his heart beat faster in his chest — Zevran is used to doing that from his time as an assassin and it has long since become second nature to him. What has his pulse reach new heights in his throat is the prospect of what awaits him behind the door he’s trying to locate. This isn’t the first bedroom of royalty he’s sneaking into, but for the first time it’s not to assassinate whomever is inside. In a way he’s out of his element and his nerves know it, that’s why they’re troubling him so much.

When he comes across a door with two guards, Zevran realises he isn’t sure how to get past them. He hasn’t planned this far ahead which goes to show just how foolish this whole endeavour is in the first place. Should he knock them out, risking someone to come across them and raise the alert, or should he draw them away with a distraction which might also get the attention of other guards? All he knows is that he shouldn’t kill them, he did not come here to stain his daggers with blood.

As he lurks around the corner of the hallway, debating how to handle the last two guards in his way, Zevran has a thought. It’s his biggest gamble yet in this nightly infiltration, but he considers it his best bet at this point if he wants to avoid drawing any attention to his presence. If the door is blocked, find a window to get inside — one of the oldest rules he’s been following in his occupation. So he picks the door closest to him and slips into the room, out of sight of the two guards further down the hallway. Had someone been asleep inside he’d taken his chances sneaking past them, but as if to ease the final steps on his way, the bedroom is empty and he can proceed to unlocking the window without worry.

Zevran knows what comes next is going to be way harder. There are no years of practice and experience to fall back on, he has no routine for what he’s about to attempt. Nothing in his life could’ve prepared him for facing the man he grew to love more than he could’ve ever imagined who long since wears the Ferelden crown. How can an elven assassin approach a human king and ask to be loved as an equal?

The voice of reason in Zevran’s head tells him that he’s being foolish and wasting his time on a idle fantasy which can never become reality. But his heart persists and clings to hope even more than Zevran holds on to stone wall as he inches along the windowsill two stories above the ground. He’s not scared of heights, but his nerves straining in anticipation of what lies ahead makes this go less smother than he would’ve liked. Two times he nearly slips as he’s trying to maintain his balance.

Finally Zevran reaches the window to the royal bedroom and crouches down in front of it. The lock keeping it in place is easily taken care of and he pushes it open and climbs inside. The room lies quietly in the pale moonlight and he gets a good look at the man sleeping soundly in the wide bed. Recognition turns into relief that he finally arrived at his destination in the blink of an eye. The feelings pass as quickly as they’ve come before he’s struck with awe at the sight which presents itself to him.

After a decade, Zevran is seeing him again: Alistair, the features aged with the years, his jaw and cheekbones becoming a little more defined than those of the 20-year-old Zevran met back then, but still familiar. There’s a slight stubble covering his jaw and the hair is now long enough to fall into his forehead in its dishevelled state. Beneath it Zevran can make out thin lines as if he’s been frowning too much for his skin to smoothen out entirely.

Zevran forgets to release the air from his lungs, the sound of Alistair breathing almost melting into the silence of the room. Or maybe the blood in Zevran’s ears is rushing too loudly and he just assumes everything to be so quiet when actually Alistair is snoring. With a pinch in his chest he realises he can’t even recall if Alistair was ever prone to snoring in his sleep.

For a moment Zevran just watches Alistair in the scarce moonlight falling through the windows. He used to do that a lot when they were resting by the campfire, curled up together in the bedroll they started sharing. Alistair had needed some time to allow for the intimacy of a man — especially one who tried to kill him and his Warden companion. Zevran had teased him for it, but never too much to drive him away. It was way worth it though, their first tentative kiss stirring something up inside of Zevran which he had never felt before.

There was a sincerity in the way Alistair went about everything, proof of a naivety which Zevran found simply endearing at first even though it felt misplaced in a world he knew was filled with intrigue and deceit. But when Alistair looked at him he came to realise he had never felt so loved in his entire life. When Alistair reached out for him with fingers trembling from nervousness, every touch tentative as if Alistair was scared to break something, he felt treasured.

Zevran closes his eyes, his mouth twisting in an expression of anguish as the memories start welling up. A yearning fills his chest, stronger than ever, and what makes it so painful is that he knows that he should not give in to it. It’s the one truth inside his mind which he feels he cannot deny. He broke free of the Crow’s chains, but he can never overcome the fact that he is an elf and the social conviction that elves have no place in a royal castles apart from being servants.

Yet Zevran is drawn closer, against his better judgement, drawn in by the peaceful look on Alistair’s face. He wants to touch it, that skin which now is seeing less sun than during the time they travelled and slew darkspawn at the Hero of Ferelden’s side. He wants to trace them, those features which are relaxed in a way almost exclusively reserved to a person being fast asleep. He wants to feel it, the stubble rubbing against the skin of his fingers in a sensation between scratching and tickling him.

Before Zevran can stop himself he’s standing directly next to Alistair’s bed and leaning over to better reach down. His hand hovers inches above Alistair’s head, his breath hitches in his throat. He’s still hesitating as if what he’s about to do could have insufferable consequences. Fear is a curious thing with how much power it can hold over someone.

It’s a faint brush over Alistair’s cheek that marks the crumbling of Zevran’s resolve. That’s also all it takes to have Alistair stir in his sleep. Zevran freezes as he blinks open his eyes, caught in the act like a lousy pickpocket. It lasts only a moment though before Zevran snaps out of it and quickly puts one hand over his mouth so he can’t raise the alarm. He struggles like anyone would who wakes up finding a dark figure leaning over their bed.

“Shhh,” Zevran tries to calm Alistair as he puts his index finger on his own lips to emphasis his point. “It’s me, Zevran.”

That does the trick and has Alistair go limp so that Zevran dares to let go of him and step back to give him some space. In the pale light which now finds his face again Zevran can make out bewilderment.

“Zevran,” Alistair repeats, a whisper which is softer than mere surprise. Then the first shock wears off and with it disappears the gentle tone. “What the hell, were you trying to scare me to death?”

Zevran feels guilt and embarrassment and worry about the situation he landed himself in and having to explain himself. He’s not the type to open up and easily share his genuine feelings like Alistair. He’s too used to keeping his guard up and trying to steer clear of all the emotional pitfalls like rejection and ridicule. So he tries to make light of the topic, giving his voice the usual carefree note. “An interesting way to kill someone for sure, but I did not come to assassinate you — please don’t be disappointed.”

“Don’t worry, I’m not,” Alistair retorts as he sits up on the edge of his mattress and reaches over to his nightstand to light the candle standing there. “I’ve had an attempt on my life recently, that’s more than enough for a lifetime if you ask me.”

“You aren’t cut out for Antivan politics, that’s for sure.”

“Well, thankfully I’m the King of Ferelden and not Antiva.”

There it is, the painful reminder, and Zevran tries not to flinch at it. He turns his back to hide his face in case his features betray him, though Alistair seems momentarily to occupied with himself, rubbing his tired eyes, to notice any effect the words have on Zevran.

Silence spreads around them and Zevran begins to think that the distance was the smallest obstacle which has grown between them. After all he’s finally here and yet he doesn’t even know how to look at Alistair anymore, let alone how to hold him. Zevran wonders what the past years have done to them. He wonders if this is what it’s like to grow apart and it’s almost funny how it never used to bother him as much with anyone before. (Or maybe he was just good enough at lying to himself.)

“Why have you come?” Alistair finally asks and though he doesn’t sound hostile, the gravity in his tone makes Zevran’s heart grow heavy.

Despite it, Zevran tries to maintain his lighthearted air as he walks along the windowed wall. “To test your security and let me tell you, it’s way too easy for a pro like me to get in here.”

He glances only briefly over to Alistair, but the silence which meets him breaks down his weak resolve and he relents. “Or well, that sounds way more fanciful than me simply wanting to see you.”

Zevran tries to play off the confession as an aside yet it leaves him feeling vulnerable as if he had taken off his armour in the midst of an arena in front of his opponent. In a way it feels more reckless and foolish to do than pointing an enemy at your vital spots and inviting them to hit you there. You can dodge a blade far more easily than you can avoid sharp words which cut like a knife. But maybe he’s going a bit overboard with the worst case scenario for this reunion.

“You wanted to see me?” Alistair questions and there’s a painful edge to his time. “After all those years you’ve been roaming the world without ever sending a word, leaving me to wonder if anything we had ever mattered in the end.”

Zevran turns around and stares at Alistair, a sense of horror building in his gut. The accusation hits him whether he thinks it’s fair or not. For the first time it occurs to him that Alistair was hurting, too; that maybe he wasn’t the only one who had been longing for something he could no longer have, hung up on the past and all the promises it held. The thought burdens him.

“I never said it didn’t matter,” Zevran objects quietly. “I just said what we both knew: that with you becoming king there was no place for me at your side.”

Alistair had agreed back then, even though not right away. Zevran wonders if he has to bring that up though he’s still reluctant to do it. That would make it seem like he’s defending himself like man unjustly accused of a crime. He refuses to accept that role.

“You made leaving seem so easy,” Alistair notes, though his solemn tone doesn’t make it sound like an accusation. His eyes are fixated on the ground somewhere in front of his feet as if he’s avoiding to meet Zevran’s gaze.

“Trust me, it wasn’t.”

At those words, Alistair jerks up his head and looks at Zevran with something akin to surprise. This time it’s Zevran who averts his eyes, only catching a glimpse of the shadow of a thought crossing Alistair’s face in the flickering candle light.

“Tell me, were you angry with me for claiming the throne?” Alistair asks and his voice has grown even softer.

“I don’t think I had any right to be.”

The wall Zevran is looking at is starting to blur in front of his eyes, but he doesn’t bother to refocus his vision. He also still doesn’t meet Alistair’s gaze, too afraid the emotions he feels quelling up inside of him could show in his face.

“I didn’t ask if you thought you had the right,” Alistair clarifies. “Were you angry with me?”

Silence takes over as Zevran has Alistair’s question drift around in his head, seeking for resonance. He tries to fight it, the feeling which forces its way out in response. It was something he never wanted to acknowledge, but with Alistair calling it by name he can no longer deny it.

“Yes,” Zevran admits finally, a hoarse whisper from his lips. It’s quite horrifying not only to face an aspect of himself he’s been repressing for years but also to lay it bare in front of someone else. But for Alistair’s sake he wants to try. “The moment you announced your claim to the throne I knew you’d leave me behind.”

“So you decided to move on before that could happen,” Alistair concludes, his assumption scarily accurate. Zevran feels unable to respond, but he doesn’t have to, the lack of protest being answer enough.

“But I wouldn’t have, I could never have!” Alistair stands up from his bed in protest.

Zevran turns to look at the king who resembles the naïve man he used to be more than ever. A sad smile spreads on Zevran’s lips as he regards Alistair with fondness hiding away the mocking voice in his head which has already started to come up with countless objections. If only things were as simple as Alistair makes them sound.

“You show a severe lack in realism if you think your human nobles would’ve accepted an elven man at your side,” Zevran remarks, touched by Alistair’s devotion even though his own experience tells him it would’ve been worthless if confronted with the cruel currents of this world.

“Like I care what they think about who’s at my side or not!”

“Has your time on the throne taught you nothing about politics?”

“Oh it has, but that doesn’t mean I have to go along with everything. Besides, we’re not in Orlais.”

Zevran shakes his head, still convinced that Alistair is getting hung up on a pipe dream which cannot withstand reality. “That’s not how these things work, not even in Ferelden.”

“Yet despite all that you’ve come here.” Alistair moves close, covering nearly all the distance between them with a few steps. “There would’ve been no point in that if not at least a part of you had hope that what we had doesn’t have to be a thing of the past.” He briefly pauses before confessing: “I know I have hope now, because you’re here.”

“Hope, maybe you can call it that.” Zevran chuckles lightly at how ridiculous the thought is to him and yet it was something he considered. “Or maybe your foolishness has rubbed off on me.”

Alistair tilts his to the side, the hint of a smile tugging at the corner of his lips. “Is that really all?”

First Zevran shrugs. Then he closes his eyes, halfway fooling himself into believing that he isn’t being watched. The words come easier this way. “Maybe, after all those years of you haunting the back of my mind I need to ask you what you think I should do.”

He keeps his eyelids shut and waits for an answer — one moment, then two moments pass. It makes him wonder if he could’ve just as well posed the question to the image of Alistair in his head with the same result.

“I don’t know.”

Zevran hears Alistair’s admission, but only opens his eyes once he can feel touch of Alistair’s arm against his back. It’s firm, the shaking hands tentatively reaching for him definitely a thing of the past. He stares up into Alistair’s eyes and finds a determination that makes him convinced that it’s the opposite of what Alistair just said.

“I’ve never known how to love you under the scrutiny of others,” Alistair admits, his voice quiet but solid. “Maybe because deep down I’m a coward who was always too concerned with what others think.” A slight smile plays around his lips at the confession, but before long he turns serious again. “But there was a time I could’ve never imagined being with a man and it was you who taught me to challenge my own conceptions. So why stop at that when I’ve learned to stand up more for myself and what I want?”

Entranced by Alistair’s words, Zevran finds himself reaching up and touching Alistair’s cheek. He almost can believe it, even though the voice inside his head keeps faintly insisting that it’s a lost cause. “You don’t want me to give a reasonable reply to that, do you?”

“If you find my notion unreasonable, I’m telling you to screw reason.”

Zevran laughs, his wit returning and making him lighter as if relieved from a heavy burden. “Now there’s a thought. I had a multitude of lovers in my life, but I never considered my liaison with reason to be a thing of pleasure.”

Though Alistair chuckles, he doesn’t take the thought any further. Instead he leans in even closer, his warm breath brushing over Zevran’s skin, ensuring to maintain eye contact. “Stay with me this time.”

The request is simple in words but made complex by circumstances. The reasons why this can’t possibly end well won’t disappear even if Zevran tries to will them away. Even if Alistair is determined to figure things out, Zevran isn’t sure he’s up for the challenge.

But then Alistair kisses him and the protest Zevran was about to voice slips from his tongue. Alistair’s lips are enough to make reason and worry a tertiary concern on his mind. He wraps his arms around Alistair’s back to pull the man closer. The hunger inside him is aflame now that he finally gets to taste the one he loves again.

As his yearning is fed the sprout of hope grows inside him like a young tree stretching towards the sun. Zevran knows he’s not going to leave now, not tonight when he finally finds himself in Alistair’s arms again. It may be temporary — it may end tomorrow, in a week, in a few months. Or maybe it’ll last for years to come this time. He doesn’t know and doesn’t trouble himself with it. That’s a concern for another time, when daylight breaks.

Zevran breaks the kiss only to give Alistair his answer, a whisper of warm breath in his beloved’s ear.

“I’m not making any promises,” he declares and for tonight that is enough.

[beardcore-blog]

Wolfenstein 2: The New Colossus Review

This review will have all the spoilers. You’ve been warned.

It was either late 2013 or early 2014. Good times. I was messing around on Youtube one day looking at videos of the latest Batman game. Then in the recommended videos I saw something that both confused and intrigued me. The thumbnail was the iconic image of Niel Armstrong saluting the American flag he just planted on the moon. Except there were a couple differences. Twisted, terrifying differences. The American flag was replaced with the banner of Nazi Germany. And Niel was Seig Heil’ing to it. I’m pretty sure I let out an audible "what the fuck?" apon seeing this. This was the E3 trailer for Wolfenstein: The New Order. For those who don’t know, Wolfenstein is one of the oldest franchises in gaming, and put FPS games on the map. A goofy game about shooting Nazis in WWII that gave 90s gamers the chance to shoot the hell out of Mecha-Hitler. Think of it as a prototype to the more infamous Doom series that would launch shorty after. The New Order was a modern-day reboot with some ambitious questions. The biggest one being "what if they won instead?" The New Order takes you to an alternate 1960 where the Nazis beat the allied forces to the nuke (among other advanced tech) and thus took over the world. It was grim. It was campy. It was subtle. It was loud. It was dumb. And it was also much smarter and more engaging than anyone would’ve thought. So it went on to be a smash hit in 2014, and one of my favorite games ever. A few months ago to the day this is being posted, Bethesda stopped by E3 and showed the world it was sequel time, showing off Wolfenstein 2 The New Colossus (Actually like the 3rd or 5th in the series) to the world. The next day I preordered the hell out of it. Was it worth it? Well after 10 days of tearing through it, lemme tell you.

So I’ll start off with things I didn’t like, get the negativity out of the way. It’s not a big list but I think what on it is valid. In The New Order, which I shall now abbreviate as TNO, in nearly all sections you could either go in fast and loud, putting holes in everything that moves with dual automatic shotguns and a big laser cannon. Or you could be a bit more stealthy about things, sneaking through vents and corridors putting knives in throats and taking care of problematic enemies from afar with a suppressed pistol (which might I mention was one of the things I loved about the TNO; keeping the pistol relevant and not just a forgettable starter weapon like most shooters). It was all about personal play style, but both options were viable. In The New Colossus, which I shall now abbreviate as TNC, going in loud was the way I always went because it seemed more viable. And I always went stealth in TNO. I probably just need to learn the areas, but there was some problems I ran into. Like this game being dark. Not story wise (even though it is) but literally. I remember alot of areas meant to be stealth-able lacking in the lighting department, and I set my brightness at the recommended settings, too. Anytime I’d get caught it’d be from and enemy that I couldn’t see. And that leads to another problem. In TNO, enemies stuck out in the maps. Even if they were dully-colored humaniods coming in plentiful shades of gray you’d still spot them from across the area. It was probably due to both TNO being brighter and the enemies having a wide design variety. Not so much in the TNC. There’s less design variety here and they all seem to just blend into the background alot. Even the brightly-colored HAZMAT and Venus space troopers don’t pop in anything less than Glamour Magazine photo booth. On top of that those two previously mentioned troopers, while being obvious separate models apon inspection, honestly just look like classic Mortal Kombat-esque palette swaps. Again, TNO had alot of variety in their designs. Which is why it was a shame there was no proper model viewer in TNO, and why it’s straight-up bullshit their isn’t one in TNC. One of my favorite bits of last year’s DOOM (another Id games classic updated for the modern world) was a model viewer that let you get an up-close look at the game’s monsters and weapons. The Batman: Arkham games have had it for years. Hell, I remember having them back in 2005 with Jak III. Why can’t Wolfenstein, with their toybox of greatly-designed characters, weapons and assets have it? Or a photo mode, too? I’m not insane about graphics in games, but I still appreciate them with how incredible they are today, and TNC is no exception. It’s a beautiful game. Let me appreciate it to the fullest extent possible. Honestly these days model viewers and photo modes are something all games should have with how far graphics have gone. If only bosses got the same advancement. TNO had a few that aren’t Psycho Mantis or Big Baby Bowser levels, but they were fun nonetheless. DOOM’s bosses were one of the highlights for me. TNC has none of those. Here and then there’s an enemy that can act as a sort-of miniboss, but their’s nothing big and climactic like TNO’s showdown with the towering London Monitor, or the final showdown with the main antagonist, General Deathshead. The "final boss" of TNC is more of a gauntlet than anything. 3 pairs of Supersoldiers, a higher-powered but still common enemy assisted by a shitload of standard infantry, finished off by 2 "Zerstörers", which are basically super versions of the Supersoldiers (I call them "Super-duper Soliders"). The main antagonist of the game, General Engel, goes down with one melee attack, only vainly defending herself with a pistol. An outdated pistol by both the game’s and IRL standards. In a game where mechs, actual Avengers Helicarriers and boimechanically-enhanced mutants are possible, you’d expect so much more. Especially with Hitler himself making an appearance. I was really looking forward to a modern-day Mecha-Hitler. Not sure if I’d want bosses to worry about though since something as simple as getting your weapons out can be a pain. In TNO you could dual wield nearly every weapon in the game, but you could only dual wield two of the same gun. In TNC dual wield returns, for every weapon you can carry, and you can interchange between them. And while it has it’s uses for sure, it feels kinda clunky, not to mention slow. TNC takes it’s sweet time letting you change your weapons which can be fatal, especially since this game carries over a problem TNO had in that you’re not exactly warned when your current ammo’s about to run dry and you’re gonna get lit up while changing a clip.

Now to the good, which I assure you outweighs the bad. Lemme start by saying that the gunplay feels as fantastic as before. Every gun has kick and you feel it whenever you see a Nazi get turned to mush by your triple-barreled automatic rotary shotgun. Yes, that’s a thing in this game. As is a pistol-sized grenade launcher. And sticky-bomb launcher. And an OP-as hell laser cannon that atomizes people and metal covers/doors alike. And all of these can be powered-up through upgrades. The Shotgun can be upgraded to have ricochet rounds to deal even more damage. The pistol can have a suppressor so it stays useful like it did in TNO. The Assault Rifle can have both a scope and armor piercing rounds making it able to down mechanical enemies in one shot. And the laser cannon. Oh god the Laser cannon. Called the LaserkraftWerk in the game, it’s by far the best weapon you’ll get, even before upgrades. One shot will destroy even more armored infantry, but when you upgrade it so the blast can be charged, ooooooohhh. One charged blast will down Super soldiers with ease, and even on higher difficulties the powerful Zerstörer units I mentioned earlier will fall with a few good shots. Combo this with an extended battery doubling your already-decent ammo pool, And you’re unstoppable. I guess that leads to another issue. While every gun has their uses and you’ll likely use every one at one point, like DOOM before it you’ll probably cruise along primary’ing 2 guns. For me it was the Shotgun and Laserkraftwerk. But even then they weren’t the weapons I used the most. It was the heavy weapons. In TNO there was a Heavy MG you’d find here and there. It was powerful, sure, but could only be picked up and not carried in your inventory, and slowed you down considerably. You couldn’t sprint and crouching reduced you to a snail’s pace, and interacting with anything would make you drop it. In TNC there’s 4 types of heavy weapons and they’re awesome. They still slow you down but nowhere near the TNO’s. You CAN interact with stuff and you can even sprint with them. Doesn’t sound like much but believe me, that makes a world of difference. Another thing that gives you an edge in combat is the contraptions. There’s 3 in total; The Ram Shackles, which allow you to bash through both weak walls and enemies alike, the Constrictor Harness, which allows you to sneak around in tight spaces, and the Battle Walker, my favorite, which is just some goddamn stilts. They let you get to higher places so its not anywhere as useless as it sounds, but also has perks, like the other contraptions. You’ll be able to tank explosions without falling over, make enemies freeze n terror at the sight of you, and even keep your overcharged health from going down, my favorite. Speaking of health, one thing that makes the newer Wolfenstein and Doom games is the lack of regenerating health. You have to find health and armor in the levels, and this returns in TNC. One addition though is instead of having to pick up stuff manually, walking over health and armor pieces will make you pick it up automatically, though manually picking them up like before is still an option. It admitting needs refinement but it works well enough. It’s nice after a firefight were I took a beating, I remember where a health pack or some armor was, I run to that location, and I already have some extra heath/armor on me when I get there from the bits that was lying around. While I did say that their isn’t much variety in the enemie’s designs, the designs that are there are good, and carry over that retrofuturistic asthetic I loved so much about TNO. My favorites are either the Ubersoldat, with is basically a Nazi T-800, or the previously-mentioned Zerstörer. Enemy behavior is much better in this game too. In TNO during a stealth section if an enemy ran into a dead body, they’d just move along like something happened. In TNC, enemies are much more sharp. Anything louder and light sniffle they’re hear and investigate, and if they find a dead body they go into high alert and start hunting for you. The levels are incredible too, truly feeling and looking like a 1960s America under Nazi control. The level layouts in this game are kinda funny. In TNO a new level was an entirely new location. In TNC, multiple levels are across one location. This is due to the levels being so much more vast than TNO if anything. My favorite level is either the Nazi base on Venus (the actual planet), or Manhattan, which was directly hit by a Nazi nuke in WWII and is now a desolate, irradiated wasteland. You could feel how thick and cancerous the air is, and the devastated buildings have their upper skeletons eerily bent and curled from the blast. Fallout fans will have a bit of deja vu going through it. All these locales help guide the story along, which like TNO before it is a standout part of the game. TNC takes place right after TNO more or less, after the main character, BJ Blazcowiz, is mortally injured in his big battle with General Deathshead. You’re saved by your resistance buddies before they nuke the place, but you’re still messed up. After 5 months in a coma, the game finally starts. With you shooting Nazis on a U-boat you captured previously in a wheelchair. For half the game the only reason you’re able fight again is thanks to a power suit wired to BJ’s brain. Even while you’re fighting BJ’s injuries are taking their toll. By his own estimate, he has weeks. Which is tragic to think about since in TNO, he met Anya Oliwa, a nurse who took care of him during a prior comatose, and eventual lover. By the time TNC rolls around, she’s heavily pregnant with BJ’s twins. Not being their for his kids is something BJ laments a few times, and you feel for him. Especially when you learn about his awful childhood at the beginning of the game. He deserves a good family, and it sucks he’ll never get that. And for a bit it really seemed like that he wouldn’t since midway through the game, BJ’s betrayed by his abusive, racist, Nazi-loving father who make his childhood such a shitshow, and is captured by Nazi forces. After a few weeks of parading "Terror Billy" The most horrible terrorist the world has ever seen according to the Nazi propaganda machine, BJ is executed in front of the Nazified Lincoln memorial to an audience of millions. Beheaded, it really seems like the game took a grim turn. Luckily due to the quick work of his aforementioned buddies in the resistance and some advanced tech, BJ is saved, if head slapped onto a new super soldier body. This brings up something that some reviewers had an issue with. TNC goes through a tone shift in story midway through the game. It starts out very grim and foreboding. Your base was attacked, the leader of the resistance is murdered right in front of you, America seems like it’s perfectly fine living under the Nazi’s boot, BJ is crippled and basically expecting death, and his unborn kids seem like they won’t have a dad. Even in gameplay things feel grim at first. Even with the power suit giving double armor you can’t escaped the halved health. You really feel like you’re playing a crippled character. BJ himself puts it out there pretty good. "I take it off, I’m afraid I’ll fall apart and all the pieces won’t fit back together again." Then he loses that body and gains one that can actually move on it’s own power and then some. BJ is basically reborn. stronger than ever. It makes sense that the game would kick up to a more upbeat tone. You’re a new man, more powerful than ever before. This can be done. You can save the world. This upbeat attitude peaks at the birthday party scene. Just before the final assault, it turns out it’s BJs birthday, so what do you and your resistance buddies do? Party like theirs no tomorrow, because for all they know there might not be. If their’s one thing I like in a story it’s reminding me that the character I’m playing and the characters around them are people, and not by just showing me their trauma and flaws. Every character in Wolfenstein already has those in spades. I’m more for seeing them having fun. Being happy. Enjoying eachother’s company. Take me out of the misery for once and remind me that their’s something good in the world. Not to say seeing smiles on their faces is what made them good characters. Every major character is pretty good in this game. Grace Walker, The new resistance leader and black revolutionary front member is pretty much a female Samuel L. Jackson. General Engel, The game’s antagonist, is the perfect villain in that you want nothing more but to see her get what’s coming to her. Super Spesh, Grace’s husband and crackpot alien conspiracy theorist, gives some good comic relief for the time he’s around. And Anya. Fucking Anya. Loyal, smart, and considering the crazy shit she does while carrying twins in her, may be more badass than BJ himself. And even with the grim beginnings don’t think this game takes itself too seriously. In one level, right after BJ monologues to himself about his imminent mortality, he (and us) get a first glimpse at the Nazi’s rocket-powered train system. Something he immediately responds to with basically "what the fuck?". After nuking the Nazi high command in fucking Roswell, BJ escapes on what’s pretty much the monocycle from Men In Black. Before BJ’s head is slapped onto his new body, it’s dropped in a jar like Futurama. That Venus level I mentioned earlier? You get there on a Nazi flying saucer. And again, stilts. One of your upgrades is big, stompy stilts.

Overall out of all the recent iD software games to hit the scene lately, I’d say DOOM is my favorite. But I’ll give it to The New Colossus. With a few bumps here and their it’s just as fun to play as it’s predecessor, and improves in most areas. Overall, yes, it’s a step up from The New Order, and if you want a fun, absurd shooter with a good story to tell, look no further,

Posted by SHARPSPEED on 2017-11-08 21:23:49

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The post Wolfenstein 2: The New Colossus Review appeared first on Good Info.

[torentialtribute]

Don’t tell me Test cricket is dying: It’s the ultimate format and only the real elite get to play 

It's always exciting to enter every new season and it's an honor this year have been asked

I will share a dressing room with 10 other boys who go there with their own aspirations of success with their counties and further awards

And of my teammates I have previously taken the field alone with Dom Bess, Steven Parry and Tom Westley, I think. One of the best things about cricket is the chance it gives you to meet and play with different people.

It's always exciting to enter every new season and it's an honor to captain the MCC

always exciting to enter every new season and it is an honor to be the MCC captain

Before I came to Dubai, I went bowling outside in Nottingham against the other guys who didn't playing abroad at this time of the year – players such as Tom Moores, Samit Patel and Luke Fletcher – and it was two or three-man weather, so I'm definitely looking forward to the change in temperature and bowling in just one shirt.

Beware of Pattin

These coming days will be about finding rhythm, because there will certainly be no room for it if the championship season starts on April 5 in Yorkshire – one of the two games at the start of

James Pattinson, who returns for his second spell as an overseas player, misses those two, but it is nevertheless a big pat on the back for the club to draw someone

In 2017, he was one of the eye-catching cricket players

When someone like Richard Hadlee, or a West Indian, came up quickly, members would be on the brink of their seats.

<img id = "i-6cff3c05754df893" src = "https://ift.tt/2FpGU26 23/20 / 1AE872E9000005DC-0-image-a-2_1553374223625.jpg "height =" 446 "width =" 634 "alt =" James Pattinson wants to enter the Ashes squadron of Australia and will be motivated for wickets Ashes squadron of Australia and will be motivated for wickets "

James Pattinson wants to be in Ashes squadron of Australia and be motivated for wickets

The same thing happened with Pattinson for his pace and skills.

So getting someone of that quality back is a real coup. His last game for Notts ended with the lifting of the white-ball trophy at Lord & # 39; s and he is again a great lift for the players because we know we have a squadron ready to challenge.

We were promoted in 2017 with a Division One type team, but last year we were in Division One with a weaker one.

It is difficult to replace players such as Chris Read, Michael Lumb, Alex Hales, Brendan Taylor and Pattinson.

Not least because it means that we are going to look at trophies this year.

Having played with Jimmy in 2017, I would have found it hard to believe that he would not be included in every bowling attack in the world. He's so good. But he's a bit close to Australia, which is positive for Nottinghamshire because he wants to prove a point.

<img id = "i-52c06705986ab449" src = "https://ift.tt/2NyDsEw /1s/2019/03/23/20/11370688-0-image-m-5_1553374392567.jpg "height =" 692 "width =" 634 "alt =" <img id = "i-52c06705986ab449" src = "https: //i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2019/03/23/20/11370688-0-image-m-5_1553374392567.jpg "height =" 692 "width =" 634 "alt =" <img id = " i-52c06705986ab449 "src =" https://ift.tt/2UaEAEk "height =" 692 "width =" 634 "alt =" Another scoop for me will be the chance to go bowling against Joe Root in a County Championship match. When he is fit and shoots, he has real pace, aggression, squeezes the ball back, swings the ball away, throws a knee length, has a bowler presence and can also braid.

Another scoop for me, I think, is the chance to come to Joe Carrot in a County Championship competition, it was a bit of a surprisefor me, to be honest, when I was mentioned in the Yorkshire team for the opening ceremony because I thought I might have rest before the World Cup.

I was playing against him right now Jake Ball grabbed him first ball in the first innings and again in the second inning, just before I had to return.

Testing still the best

Test cricket takes a back seat to white-ball cricket in the next few months and there has been much debate about the state lately of the longest form of the game, with some suggesting that it is a format that will die.

I don't think that could be further from the truth. Recent ICC research showed a worldwide audience of around 700 million people.

Players still realize that

It is the ultimate test of everything as a cricket player: character, skill, longevity, fitness. only the best can play Test cricket. More players are capable of knocking the ball a long way than the batting time and that is still the ultimate skill, I think, because all your weaknesses are discovered faster in Tests than T20.

The most nervous people I have long been were Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane were beating together in Southampton "

The most nervous I have long been was when Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane were beating together in Southampton

In the area of ​​entertainment, fans have been enthusiastic over the past year.

People were glued to the England-India theater series last summer and delivered Virat Kohli in a way we are used to, but we are used to it succeeded to win 4-1.

We defended a target of 245 and Kohli played with his eyes closed.

Credit goes to the players for creating exciting games because they are great do things in the game. Last fall India won a historic victory in Australia, England won in Sri Lanka and New Zealand rushed through Pakistan in a cheap way to win in Abu Dhabi. The final stages of that competition were moving.

Some of the best bowlers, such as South Africa & Dale Steyn, would like to impress "

bowlers, such as Dale Steyn from South Africa, would like to impress make "

Some of the best bowlers, such as Dale Steyn from South Africa, would like to impress

Sri Lanka then went to South Africa and knocked them over .

Some of the best bowlers of the past 15 to 20 years are now there, we have also seen a long time with one of the strongest arches of the West Indians with bowlers to excite anyone. South Africa has Dale Steyn and Kagiso Rabada, Mohammad Abbas has dominated Pakistan, and there is Shannon Gabriel in the Caribbean. Pat Australia has had a fantastic few months for Australia.

Test cricket remains the ultimate format for me and the players I know who still filled it with awe.

Come on,

It's been something that has been around in the county cricket since I started playing and makes players easily recognizable on the pitch.

I love the move to put names and numbers on test cricket that was revealed this week

I love the move to put names and numbers on shirts in Test

This makes you feel like you're on the road,

It will be great to have No 8 England- shirt to be put on again at the start of the Ashes

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[one-direction-fan-fiction]

Chapter 17

(Jess POV)

i’ve been home for a total of 1 month and i’ve hated every minute of it. i miss everyone from London. sure they call and text but it’s not the same as see them every day. i’ve been catching up with my friends from home, telling them i’m pregnant - though it’s pretty obvious just by looking at me - and most of what happened while i was abroad. excluding the whole Jay thing. but, ever since i returned everything feels different. it’s just not the same as when i left... i’m not the same as when i left.

there is only 4 months left of school before i graduate and i barely have any classes. i’m basically just killing time now because i already have enough credits to graduate. i could not go to school the rest of the year and still graduate. i just wish i could be in London with the guys. i miss them so much i can barely think.

my phone rings early Sunday morning, the caller ID says ‘Louis’. i smile to myself and pick up the phone eagerly. “hey, how are you? i miss you.” i rush out before he can say a word. “i miss you too! i’m brilliant. been busy with promotions for the new album. but, i can’t stop think about you. how are you doing? how’s that baby of yours?” he asks, happily. “i’m good. i swear this baby is going to be a football star judging by how much it’s kicking me.” i say moderately sarcastic. he laughs humorously. “look at you calling it ‘football’ instead of soccer. we could make a proper Brit out of you yet. i’m glad you’re doing well. i’ll tell the guys you and the baby are doing well. i’m sure Harry will be happy to hear it.” i nod even though he can’t see me. “that sounds great! i hope they’re all doing well too. it’s hard not being there anymore. i miss seeing all of you.” okay, i’m starting to notice how this conversation is getting slightly repetitive. “i should probably go. the guys and i have an interview and then we are catching a flight tomorrow for our concert that starts off our tour.” we say our quick goodbyes before he hangs up the phone.

i get ready for school slowly. i hate going to school with everyone staring at me when i walk passed. judging me for being 18 years old and pregnant. they just don’t understand my situation or the circumstances that led to this. they’re judging something they don’t even understand and that’s pissing me off!

(Louis POV)

after our interview with BBC radio yesterday i finally tell the guys about my chat with Jess yesterday morning. they all seem happy with what i tell them. that she’s doing great and the baby is healthy and that she misses them. even Harry is smiling for the first time since she left. it makes me realize that i need to see her... that we all need to see her.

as we sit in the studio just simply fine tuning our set list for the tour i abruptly get to my feet. “i have to go. there’s something i need to take care of before the show. i promise i’ll make it back before the show tonight.” and before they can even say a word i go running out of the room.

i get in my car and drive to the airport. i call the plane company that we use so that they will have the jet prepped by the time i get there.

(Jess POV)

it’s about halfway through one of the longest days of my life when i hear a scream coming from the hallway just outside my classroom. everyone goes running out into the hall to see what the commotion is about. when i enter the mod seen i hear people screaming “i love you!” “you’re amazing!” and other shit like that, that i have only ever experienced when i was hanging around the guys in any public place. i walk forward into the madness to see what all the fuss was about when i see... “Louis?” i say out loud when i finally get a glance of the face i am all too familiar with. we lock eyes from across the room making my heart skip a beat. “Jess...” i hear him say at a whisper before he starts pushing his way through the crowd. i push my way towards him and when we finally meet in the middle i can’t help but wrap my arms around his neck, pulling him down so our lips meet. everything and everyone around us just melts away for that split second our lips are together before separating again and the rest of the world comes flooding back in. the whistles, shouts and gasps hit me like a brick wall.

i stare into his ocean blue eyes as he stares back into mine before he starts looking around the room at the watchful eyes around us. “let’s get out of here.” he whispers in my ear. i nod eagerly in agreement as he takes my hand and pulls me out of the school, away from all the craziness and out the front door of the school. when we get into his car and drive away my brain races with questions. “what are you doing here?” is the first thing i come up with. he glances at me briefly before returning his attention to the road. “well, as i told you we have a show tomorrow. but what i didn’t tell you is it’s in Vancouver and when i told the guys we talked they all perked up in a way i haven’t seen since you left. we all needed to see you... me most of all. i’ve missed you so much!” he says through his smile. i smile to myself, feeling a little embarrassed about how he said they all seemed happier when they heard i called. it’s just a little weird. i’ve never really been the type of girl people want to be around all the time. i found that people handle me better in moderation. “i’ve missed you guys too! i’ve hated being away from you this passed month... where are you taking me?” i ask once i realize we’ve passed the exit to my house. “we’re going to the airport. we’re going to Vancouver to surprise the guys with your smiling face. and don’t worry about your stuff. we’ll just buy you new stuff as you need it.” my eyes almost pop out of my head as he speaks. “i can’t ask you to spend your money on me. it’s completely unnecessary.” i say, shaking my head at him being so... pop star. “you’re not asking, i’m offering. plus, i’m happy to do it. now, just relax. we’ll be at the airport soon.” he says stern but sweet. i roll my eyes at the more dominant side of Louis that i’ve never seen before. but i stay quiet and sit back, trying to get comfortable with this huge pregnant belly of mine.

i call my mom to let her know where i’m going and that it’s only for a day maybe two and that i’m safe. that Louis would never let anything happen to me. she reluctantly agrees to let me go once i tell her i already have enough credits to graduate and a few days wouldn’t effect me at all.

we pull up right in front of the small jet, making me confused. “what is this? why aren’t we going through the airport?” i ask him, sounding completely naive. “because this is a privet plane. we don’t need to go through the airport for it.” he said with a mocking chuckle. i push his shoulder playfully before he gets out of the car and walks around to the other side to open my door while the driver talks to the pilot. “you’re insane!” i say to him, staring at the plane. he chuckles humorously but doesn’t respond. he simply places a hand on my lower back and guides me to the lush jet.

this really is insane! i only flew first class for the first time a few months ago and now i’m on a private jet with Louis Tomlinson on my way to see my friends (One Direction) live in concert. what has my life become? i’m not complain, i’m just... in shock.

****

a short 45 minutes later we land in Vancouver. it’s only 5 hours before Louis has his concert and he’s kind of freaking out. we’re still an hour away from the arena where the concert is and the Louis’ phone has been blowing up with messages from the guys wondering where he is and if he’s going to make it in time.

we pull up in front of the arena and Louis kisses me quickly before running into the building. we already agreed that i’d go to the hotel and get us checked in while i wait for the actual concert to start. he promised that he wouldn’t tell the guys i was here so i could surprise them at the concert.

(Louis POV)

i run into the arena, already late for sound check and in a panic. i go directly to the stage without stopping to talk to anyone. when i get out there they are all facing the opposite direction, so i take it as a chance to scare them. at a run i jump onto Harry’s back without any warning, making him fall to the floor. i burst into laughter as i lay there on top of a winded Harry. i look up to see Liam, Niall and Zayn standing around us laughing. “hey, guys. how’s it going?” i say, still laying on the floor. “you’re late.” Liam says sternly, always the serious one. “simmer down, mate the concert isn’t for another 4 hours.” i say getting to my feet and turning around to help Harry up. “where were you anyway? we called and texted.” Niall ask, sounding genuinely curious. “just took a little detour.” i explain evasively. “now lets get to it.”

(Jess POV)

it’s about 3 hours before the concert starts and the hotel in roughly 30 minutes away from the arena so i get in a cab and tell him to hurry. Louis told me that the security team has my name so all i have to do to get in is find one of them and tell them who i am. he said they where instructed to bring me directly to my seat and give me a backstage pass for after the show.

when i get there people are just starting to arrive. i find a tall man with a black shirt that reads ‘SECURITY’ on it. he smiles once i tell him my name and gestures for me to follow him inside. he takes me to a seat in the front row at center stage. he even gives me a One Direction hat and shirt to ‘help me fit in to the crowd’ or some shit like that Louis probably told him as an excuse. but, i put it on anyway so there’s a better chance that the other guys wont recognize me. i sit until the lights go down indicating the concert is starting.

in the middle of the concert Harry drops to his knees right in front of me - i swear he looks right at me - then he does his signature ‘blowhole’ spray thing and walks away without looking back. ‘close call’ i think to myself with a sigh of relief.

Louis comes over several times during the show to give me a wave or just look at me - i think to make sure i’m enjoying myself - keeping it subtle so no one notices it’s directed to me. after the first two songs i sit down because my back is hurting and i feel nauseous. pregnancy is really kicking my ass. i’m not simply sharing my body with another person, my body is not my own anymore. i sit, stand, pee, throw up, lay down all at the little human growing inside me’s command. i still try to enjoy the show even though i’m sitting instead of dancing.

once the concert finishes and the guys are off stage i stay seated for a while to let people clear out a bit before i go backstage. i watch as people calm down a bit from the excitement of seeing them preform and file out one by one. once most of the people have left i finally get up and make my way to the meet and greet line. i pull my hat further down my face so even once i get to the front of the line they wont know it’s me. Harry is the first one i’ll see and since i’m the last girl in the line i don’t have to worry about gossiping girls posting about the guys reaction to seeing me.

once i reach the Harry he doesn’t even look up, he’s too focused on my pregnant belly. “who should i make it out to?” he asks, smiling. “um, write ‘to my baby girl i love you to the moon and back. Love, Daddy’.” he writes it without hesitation, laughing when i tell him to sign it daddy. just as he finishes writing the ‘y’ in daddy on my t-shirt he looks up. my eyes are still glued to where he signed on my stomach before taking off my hat and looking up into his eyes. “Jess!!!” he screams before pulling me into a tight hug. i laugh at his excitement and wrap my arms around him to pull him in even closer. “i’ve missed you too.” i whisper in his ear before he sets me back down. i get lost looking into his emerald green eyes for a moment before looking to the other guys standing in shock beside us. “surprise.” i say through an ear to ear grin. as i expected they surround me in a warm group hug. i feel more at home here in the arms of these 5 guys then i ever have in the house i grew up in.

“what are you doing here?” Zayn asks, not caring about the answer. just happy to see me. i look to Louis for permission to tell them. instead he speaks up himself. “you remember that ‘detour’ i made? well... this was it.” he explained, wrapping an arm around my shoulder. i see Harry look back down at my shirt where he signed. “wait, a minute... it’s a girl?!” he says sounding noticeably excited. i bite my lower lip and nod shyly. “yeah... i found out just yesterday. i wanted the perfect way to tell you... so, when Louis came to bring me here i thought this would be the perfect opportunity to deliver the news. we’re having a girl!” i say, tearing up as i outstretched my arms to embrace him in my arms once again. for the first time in a long time i feel truly and unconditionally happy.

[comicteaparty]

November 5th-11th, 2018 CTP Archive

The archive for the Comic Tea Party week long chat that occurred from November 5th, 2018 to November 11th, 2018.  The chat focused on Cloverlines by Wednesday Ash, asteRiesling, Nachocobana, and Nadikusmo.

Featured Comment:

Chat:

RebelVampire

COMIC TEA PARTY- WEEK LONG BOOK CLUB START!

Hello and welcome everyone to Comic Tea Party’s Week Long Book Club~! This week we’ll be focusing on Cloverlines by Wednesday Ash, asteRiesling, Nachocobana, and Nadikusmo~! (https://tapas.io/series/Cloverlines)

You are free to read and comment about the comic all week at your own pace, so stop on by whenever it suits your schedule! Remember, though, that while we allow constructive criticism, our focus is to have fun and appreciate the comic. Below you will find four questions to get you started on the discussion. However, a new question will be posted and pinned everyday (between 12:01AM and 6AM PST), so keep checking back for more! You have until November 11th to tell us all your wonderful thoughts! With that established, let’s get going on the reading and the chatting!

QUESTION 1. What has been your favorite scene in the comic so far? What specifically did you like about it?

QUESTION 2. At the moment, who is your favorite character? What about that character earns them this favor?

QUESTION 3. What do you think happened between Damon and Karen that caused such a rift in their relationship? Will Karen sign the divorce papers or is she going to continue to cling to Damon? How will this affect Damon’s future?

QUESTION 4. Several characters mentioned that Aimi is a “failed idol.” What do you think happened that caused Aimi to fail as an idol? Do you think this will have consequences for Aimi and/or the band at some point?

Ash

Hey guys, I'm looking forward to reading all your thoughts about Cloverlines

snuffysam

1. Aimi pulling the strings to get Yuuki into the band was my favorite. Just how she goes from being some spoiled brat who uses her charms (aka the PHEROMONES she puts on for her live performances!!!) to get free meals to being surprisingly sweet towards Yuuki.

2. Commenter "TrAsh" said it best - Damon truly is "daddy material". In all seriousness, it was hard to pick between him and Aimi, just due to how much I love Aimi's surprisingly brilliant trickster personality but... I just feel so bad for Damon, I want to give him a hug

3. Have you met Karen? Hmm... I suppose it could be some major argument, or Damon wanting to focus more on the band, but it may just be that they grew further apart as people...

4. (has anyone besides Monica actually said this? i don't recall) Anyway, I think Aimi failed as an idol because she sabotages every piece of equipment in sight if she doesn't like some aspect of the performance/recording session (the songs, the people she's working with, etc). Was she justified in ruining a bunch of careers (including her own) like that? Well... idol industries in the real world are pretty exploitative, so probably.

RebelVampire

QUESTION 5. Do you think Yuuki will adjust to his new life on Earth and the band in general? Will his addition to the band be good in the long run, or will Yuuki continue to cause problems in his own way? Also, do you think Yuuki will become homesick?

ShaRose49

I read the first two chapter so far lol. I thought Aimi was the cutest thing

I doubt Yūko will become homesick cause earth is the best

Yūko

AAHG, YUKII DANGIT

Oh wait is it yuuki? Sonuva...

RebelVampire

its okay names are hard. i look them up a lot to make sure im spelling them right XD

ShaRose49

Haha yeah but it was also dang AUTO CORRECT lol

Japanese names are hard but here so cool I have a few in my comic. Is this comic cloverlines what you would describe as a sci-fi comedy or rom-com?

snuffysam

there's not really much romance in comic

there's a divorce, does that count?

ShaRose49

Nope! That’s just drama

And no worries I don’t mind romance unless it’s super sassy or steamy and non-stop

I looooooooove scifi

BTW snuffy I think I recognize your name from Comic Fury hi!!

snuffysam

hi! yes, I recognize you too!

ShaRose49

Awesome which comic did you do again? (Or are you a reader whups)

snuffysam

that's something we should probably talk about in #general ha ha

ShaRose49

Oh yeah okay tell me there!

snuffysam

i think yuuki has already adjusted pretty well to the band. though aimi might be a bit of a bad influence, given that he wasn't exactly nice to monica...

ShaRose49

I love the art in Cloverlines it was so cute. Maybe this is random but the face she made when she said she spent all her money on delicious meat was to die for SO CUTE

I’ll take a peek at another chapter before I fall asleep lol

snuffysam

how far have you gotten so far? just the first two chapters?

ShaRose49

Just read the third

Man they beat the crap outta poor yuuki

I love that it’s set in Tokyo and starts at kind of a rock-bottom thing. Nowhere to go but up!!

snuffysam

you say that, but they seem to have trouble with that regard

constantly getting negative press

ShaRose49

Who? I don’t follow but maybe it’s cause I’m tired it’s late where I am

snuffysam

the band

brought in a new guy who played super weird

then played a near-blasphemous song on live tv

ShaRose49

Oh yeah. They were just about to bring him in probably where I left off

snuffysam

oh, I thought you said you read through chapter 3?

ShaRose49

Blasphemous?!

Yeah I did...hang on lemme check

The third chapter just has those two band guys arguing over a solo career and then they find Yuuki getting beat up outside

snuffysam

ah i see what you're saying. you're talking about the third update on line

ShaRose49

Yup.

Webtoons

I forgot it’s on other places too

Why was the song blasphemous was it really inappropriate or something?

snuffysam

well, that's a bit spoilers for the real third chapter, ha ha

which is two chapters away from where you are

ShaRose49

Well I don’t wanna read something super dirty or anything not my style

snuffysam

oh no, it's not dirty

religious blasphemy

ShaRose49

?! Like they make fun of a religion?

RebelVampire

fictional religious blasphemy

snuffysam

^

ShaRose49

Aww-has-has okay gotcha

That’s probably not so bad then

snuffysam

not for us it isn't

for the fictional people it's a bit of an issue ha ha

ShaRose49

🤭yeah poor them lol. It’s nice to have things that don’t exist IRL sometimes so that nobody’s bothered . I’m usually a sucker for real stuff though along with cartoony tropes

Anywho I gotta get to bed, thanks for chatting I will return!

snuffysam

yeah me too, talk to you later!

RebelVampire

QUESTION 6. Cloverlines has suffered several changes in band line-ups. Do you think Aussie might try to return to the band? Alternatively, how might his solo career affect the group? What about Monica? Will she manage to stick with the band despite tension?

Ash

would like to chime in for a bit above: having it be a fictional religion allows for less baggage when depicting its effects i feel, cause I wanna show what are the effects of it, without any risk of offending reasonable people otherwise

it's good to have an objective view on something inherently subjective, and fictionalizing the aesthetic elements allows a way for that

ShaRose49

Yeah for sure, things are safer with fictional concepts but I think real ones can be good to depends I guess. It’s super fun to make up stuff though

RebelVampire

QUESTION 7. Despite the band focus, the world in the story keeps turning. How might the recent terrorist events affect Cloverlines or other bands? Who do you think Mirai was? What others aspects of the world caught your attention?

RebelVampire

okay time to answer some questions. 1) My favorite scene so far is the one where Damon and Karen have dinner. I really liked all the subtle and not so subtle ways it showcased the state of their relationship. this is not to mention that i liked it wasnt even technically about their relationship, it was about Rinne. the fact it became about their relationship felt both very realistic and very revealing. 2) Damon. I think he has the most compelling of the conflicts and hes the most sensible of the group. He provides an essential grounding influence in the fact of everyone else being a bit more exaggerated, and if anyone is gonna make the band succeed, its damon. also, he has great hair. 3) I assume what happened is exactly what we saw at dinner: they have a personality clAsh. In the end though, I'm gonna theorize that Karen probably pushed Damon a bit too hard..maybe to succeed in music, and Damon just bailed because it wasn't the way he wanted to do it. overall, though, i think the route of their problems stems from the fact that damon is ambitious and laid back while karen is ambitious and aggressive. i think karen will sign the divorce papers eventually. but she's definitely going to cling for a while. however, i think shell slowly ease off as stuff with rinne starts to happen and changes some of the dynamic of the story. 4) Have you met Aimi? XD That is what happened. Aimi is 1000% not the type to follow orders and will do whatever she wants. Thus, this would make her a poor idol since shed be told constantly where to go and what to wear for her image. Damon is a saint for not having fired her. XD Overall, though, the fact she might be a "failed idol" is irrelevant i think. at the end what will have consequences is aimi continuing to do as aimi do.

5) Yuuki seems pretty well-adjusted as is, so he'll probably be fine. I do think there's gonna be more issues with Yuuki as part of the band though. Cause they basically hired him out of desperation and of the two gigs weve seen, we got weird guitar sound one and blasphemy one. so i think as a whole we havent gotten to see a good demonstration of whether yuuki is good or not. so it might take a while for him to fit in with the band. but to be fair, id say this about most of the members. they really need to work on their synergy as a band imo XD. i think yuuki will only become homesick if his fleet comes near enough he could viably go home. cause then its a tangible goal versus some theoretical could do it thing. 6) Idk if will, but I do think it'd be interesting to see Aussie go "i want to come back." Create some drama where the group has to pick between Aussie and Yuuki and test the limits. Solo career wise I think it might actually help the group. If Aussie is successful and is like "i was in that band" others might take more of an interest. As far as Monica goes, she'll probably stick around. I think the worst of the tension already came and went. 7) I assume the terrorist attacks will keep up and they will inadvertantly expose Rinne and cause all the scandal. Though given the comic's tone I can't really forsee any serious consequences. As for Mirai, IDK. Good question. I assume it was a real person who did something significant which is somewhat interesting to consider. For the world in general I'm really curious about how spread out the population is. Cause the galaxy is a big place. And the astronomy nerd in me wonders what the travel technology is like.

ShaRose49

I didn’t get to the terrorists yet I can’t wait!

RebelVampire

QUESTION 8. Rinne, a robot, has a strange vision and keeps asking if Monica is Mirai. What do you think is happening to Rinne? Is Karen right to be worried about Rinne’s sentience? What is Rinne supposed to “create?”

RebelVampire

QUESTION 9. Do you think Cloverlines will manage to succeed as a band in general? What do you think has to happen for that to be the case? Alternatively, what other hiccups might they face as they aim for stardom?

snuffysam

step 1: fire aimi

question. does it say anywhere that this civilization spans the whole galaxy? or just the solar system? because the furthest from Earth I remember being mentioned is Pluto

RebelVampire

i think its somewhat implied

because in the opening earth is described as the entertainment of the galaxy

not to mention theres aliens

snuffysam

ah yes

RebelVampire

and last i checked there are not aliens in the rest of the solar system

snuffysam

it's been a while

since i've checked, that is

RebelVampire

but tbf how much of the galaxy is colonized is up for debate. i think its at least implied it goes beyond the solar system tho

so it might not be the whole galaxy. cause i mean galaxies are pretty huge

snuffysam

the nearest habitable planets we've found so far are like 30 light years away? and the milky way is over 100k light years across

anyway my guess is that Mirai is just some robot's rights revolutionary dude, and any surviving sentient robots seem to treat them like some sort of deity. don't think Monica is Mirai though. Rinne just gets confused easily.

also what does Rinne create? sick beats! next question!

RebelVampire

omg XD sick beats is a good answer

cause that does seem the direction its gonna go

Ash

well be exploring the larger space in coming eps

RebelVampire

QUESTION 10. What are you most looking forward to in the comic? Also, do you have any final thoughts to share overall?

snuffysam

i want to see them do more shows! yuuki doesn't have all that much experience under his belt and... honestly, I just want to see a performance where he isn't playing a song ten seconds after finding out about it

RebelVampire

i second that. id also like to see him do a show that isnt buried up to its knees in controversy

RebelVampire

8) I definitely don't think Monica is Mirai. I'm starting to think Mirai is an artifical intelligence maybe. Or was a person who made artificial intelligence which is kind of a big deal. but this is what's happening to rinne. she's tapping into some sort of programming that expresses mirai's ultimate desires for her creations. that being said, i do think karen is right to be concenred. not because rinne is dangerous, but because shes right. if its illegal, their band is gonna be screwed if they get discovered. 9) i somewhat agree with the joke answer that they gotta do something about aimi. i feel they wont succeed as long as they continue to tolerate her impulsive willfulness. not to say theyll have no success, but theres a diff levels of success and theyll never become top tier if her shenanigans continue to bury them in controversy. 10) as i said before, i really would like to see more concerts with the band in general. cause i think its an important experience for them to bond as a band and as characters. i also look forward to karen moving past damon because i think itll be interesting to see how she finally matures enough to reach the conclusion.

RebelVampire

COMIC TEA PARTY- WEEK LONG BOOK CLUB END!

Thank you everyone so much for reading and chatting about Cloverlines this week! Please also give a special thank you to Wednesday Ash, asteRiesling, Nachocobana, and Nadikusmo for volunteering the comic and creating it! If you liked Cloverlines, make sure to continue to support it via some of the links below! Read and Comment: https://tapas.io/series/Cloverlines Cloverlines’ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/wednesdayAsh