#the mouths are identical hello??? the brows the eyes???

[bbygirl-paul]

dune casting director was on sum when they cast charlotte rampling as gaius helen mohiam (jessica's mother) bc holy shit look

[dmitriene]

THOUGHTS ABOUT GUNSLINGER SIMON MEETING YOU AS HE PASS BY.

cw: fluff, comfort, sugesstive, kind of established relationship, groping, teasing, playful banters, kissing, dirty talk, marking, lot of intimacy, boner, pet names, brief mentions of female and male anatomy, could be posessive behavior, hints on sex, simon is filthy. pairing: cowboy simon ghost riley x fem reader

✎ 𝘮𝘢𝘪𝘯 𝘮𝘢𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘵. 𝘲𝘶𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘴. 𝘢𝘰3. ˑ༄

thinking about gunslinger!simon — he meets you at the store, riding through town on a powerful black stallion to cross the road, and maybe buy a few things, if the sharp gaze of his dark bottomless eyes hadn't caught on your silhouette in a small grocery store, well, seems like he would definitely linger a little longer there, spent a night, even.

you've gone out to buy some small grocery shopping and maybe treat yourself to some pastries, but all your plans go down the drain when the wooden door of the store opens with a bell ringing above it and a cunning, smug bright red skull shaped mask walks in, carrying the identity of its owner, Ghost, whom you know as Simon.

— «ah, see who the horse has brought — eek!» you're in a hurry to notice sharply, but you don't have time to anticipate how quickly he'll cross the line from the door to you, letting you only feel the hurried touch of rough leather gloves over the curve of your waist, clad in the fabric of your dress, before he reaches out and squeezes your rounded ass, ripping out a high squeak out between your lips which he swallows hastily.

he turns you around to pin your back against the shelves of canned food and other goods, blocking the view of surprised eyes of another folks towards both of you, as he casually lifts his mask to his nose to slot his dry, tobacco scented lips to yours, licking inside your warm mouth with fervor of hungry mutt, intertwining his warm tongue with yours for just a fleeting moment before letting go of you.

simon pulls away from your lips just slightly, letting your breath blend together and his teeth pass against your lower lip in a playful bite, as you curl your dainty hand against his dark vest, shooting him a glare as your another hand grip a shopping basket stronger, your tongue slips between puffy lips to lick them, while your gaze focus on simon's sly squint of eyes and his wide grin that he hides behind his mask, and you spat stricktly — “and what this was about? that's how you say hello now?„

simon is amused by your play of the strict, spoiled girl, cause he sees how your eyes flutter shyly during a kiss before closing, and how you sigh into his mouth very quietly, only for him to hear, so he allows you to behave in this way, and in return he demands nothing more than a submission, even when he hoists you by the waist and carries to the exit, forcing you to hurriedly put the basket on the wooden shelf of the store and grab his biceps, pulling, demanding to designate his actions with at least a word, and he chuckles hoarsely — “jus' taking what's mine, can'' i, dovie?„

that makes you huff, «taking what's his» he says, in the meantime preventing you from shopping and doing whatever he pleases to you in public, you have long since lost all shame in his company, so that the words and looks of the townspeople do not mean much to you, but you allow yourself to let him know how displeased you are with his actions, frowning and pouting your lips, adding meekly — “and don't let me shop properly so i'll have what to eat, huh? very kind of you, Sir Ghost„

he visibly rolls his eyes, resembling boiled caramel in the sunset light, before glancing at your frowning brows and the way you pout your swollen from his kiss lips, before his leather covered gloved fingers wrap around your chin and turn your face a little more in his direction, so that simon can press the fabric of his mask into your ear.

— “we can pretty stay here, darling, if you won' me to bend you agains' shop's woll and fuck you for everyone to see?„

of course, the question is nothing more than rhetorical, because you won't agree to this, but it's worth it to see how your eyes widen and round like beads, and your skin definitely flushes, you can't utter a word, your lips parting silly like one of a fish, while simon takes advantage of this moment to put you on his horse before untie it from the rope, and climb in after you, sitting comfortably behind your back.

a position that allows him to grab your hips to pull you closer to him, making the softness of your ass brush against tenting hardness in his trousers, which pokes in the swell of your ass that is definitely not his revolver.

pleased, simon grabs the reins and tugs them, lightly tapping the sides of his black stallion with his feet, as his chin suddenly touches the curve of your shoulder, sending shivers down your spine.

— “i think i need to leave another one in more visible place, wha' do you think, dove?„ drawls his smoky voice, when he pulls the sleeve of your dress slightly with his chin, looking at the devil's mark, his bite, on your shoulders skin for anyone to see, if it weren't for the clothes behind which it can be hidden, not that he likes it, simon himself would have liked if you had worn it openly.

— “s — shush it„ you mutter, looking at him out of the corner of your vision with a little seriousness, adjusting the sleeve of your dress with slightly trembling fingers before continuing to stare ahead, while his broad muscular chest behind you quiver in a hoarse laugh, as he quietly, meant just for you, adds — “course, darling, i'll save this for later, yeah? sure you would be more talkative in bed, hun„

and he may be right, but it will be for his ears only.

— “when i would be balls deep in this little cunt of yours, birdy„

[sanguineterrain]

Hey I saw you're still taking requests... what about a batman x reader where the justice league meets his wife (the reader) by accident? And maybe they're shocked because he's so secretive and she's really sweet and just the total opposite of him. Feel free to ignore if this doesn't sound interesting to you. I love your writing 💗

Hey! I love this prompt, thanks for sending it in :) I made the reader gender neutral, I hope that's okay!

Bruce Wayne x spouse!gn!reader. No warnings, just Bruce being a little shit (and a sweet hubby).

****

You press your palm to the reader at the entrance of the Cave and jog down the stairs, talking all the way.

"Honey, Alfred and I are going to..."

Six superhero faces stare back at you. Bruce is in the cowl, expression hard to parse. Your brows rise.

"Oh! I'm sorry. I didn't know B had company. I'll leave you to it," you say, beginning to back up the stairs.

"Whoa, whoa, whoa," says Green Lantern. You can't tell through the mask lenses, but you think he might be zeroed in on the ring on your left hand. "Uh, Spooky? Something you wanna tell us?"

You freeze on the steps. Bruce looks at you, then crosses the Cave in a few long strides. He stops next to you.

Sorry, you mouth at him. He shakes his head and reaches out to squeeze your hand.

"Hold the fucking phone," Green Arrow begins. "You're his—"

"Partner," Wonder Woman says instantly. She sounds pensive. "I have never seen you look at anyone like that, Bruce."

Bruce doesn't say anything, not that you expect him to. You feel him tense.

He'd been content to keep his family as private as possible, and you hadn't minded being kept separate. You know it's out of extreme protectiveness and the fact that you're the only one of the Wayne family who doesn't put a suit on and fight crime.

There's a moment of silence as the League studies you, then Bruce. You smile slowly and wave.

"Hi, Justice League. Nice to meet you all."

"Hello," says the Martian Manhunter, who's probably known about you since you entered Wayne Manor.

"You got married without telling us?" Superman sounds hurt.

Bruce heaves a sigh.

"We got married during the League's infancy. Please spare me the theatrics. Of course I didn't tell you."

"We revealed our identities two years ago!" Superman argues. "You didn't want to mention you have a spouse?"

Superman nods at you then. "Uh, of course, it's still very nice to meet you."

You smile. "It's nice to meet you too, Superman."

"Clark," he corrects hastily. Then he turns to Bruce again, upset flaring. "Bruce—"

"You're upset over nothing," Bruce says. "We weren't close when I got married, and I never found it a pertinent detail."

You roll your eyes.

"B," you say, nudging his shoulder. "C'mon. Try to be a little gentler about this, hm?"

Bruce looks at you. You smile at him and squeeze his wrist encouragingly. He eventually turns back to the League.

"Very well, you're right. Clark, that was harsh of me. My apologies."

The League startles.

"Whoa. Rewind. Hold up. Did Spooky just apologize?" Green Lantern asks. "Did I just get zeta'd?"

Bruce sighs. You stifle a laugh and kiss his bicep. His hand slips to your back.

"Aw, you guys are cute," Flash says jovially. "Congrats, B! Even if it's been almost six years."

Bruce nods. "Thank you, Allen."

"It is incredible how the better half can transform the other," says Wonder Woman, and you preen a little at the compliment.

Clark looks flabbergasted. It takes him a second to speak again.

"Um. That's... okay, Bruce. I forgive you. I suppose you did it out of protection, right?"

"I'm just a boring ol' civilian," you say, nodding. "No powers or years of Krav Maga training here. B worries."

"You're not boring," Bruce says fiercely, quiet enough for only you to hear... and Clark, who has superhearing, and who softens at the statement.

"This is so weird," Green Lantern says, and Bruce glares at him.

"I mean, it's sweet!" he hastily adds. "Uh, you guys are very sweet together, like Bar said. I just feel like I've been mind controlled or something."

"If it was mind control, you wouldn't still be talking," Bruce says flatly.

"Okay, alright, point taken. Shutting up. It's very nice to meet you, though," Green Lantern says to you.

"You as well," you say warmly. "All of you. I want to thank you for looking out for him all these years and bringing him home safe."

Wonder Woman smiles at you. "It is a great honor to fight alongside him. And we are happy he has someone to come home to."

"Seconded," Clark says. "You deserve someone special, B. And I can tell they're just that."

Your face feels warm under all the praise. Bruce is quiet for a long moment. When he speaks again, there's a slight tremor in his voice.

"Thank you. I—they are the best thing to ever happen to me."

You have to kiss Bruce for that, cowl be damned. He meets you gently, and you keep it short but full of love. Flash aww's.

"Well," you say, laughing bashfully. "I suppose I'll let you all get back to work. Nice to meet you. Goodbye. Bruce, I'm going out with Alfred."

Bruce nods. "Call me when you get home."

"'Course, sweetheart. I always do."

You head up the stairs. Flash starts to speak.

"Y'know, I told you all when I got married," he says. "You guys were the first people I told! We didn't even know Clark's identity then. I think you could've loosened the reins, Bruce."

"Yeah, no. You telling a bunch of superhero co-workers is infinitely stranger than Bruce never telling us, Bar."

[foli-vora]

gilded lily

pre/during-outbreak!joel miller x f!reader

a/n: gif by moi. just me over here clowning around and hurting my own feelings lmaoo. we start off soft af, and then it all goes downhill very fast so enjoy the angst-fest! x

word count: 2.6k

warnings: brief mentions of potential pregnancy, graphic violence, blood/gore, violent murder (does it count as murder if they're a zombie? lmao), infected characters, heartbreak, mourning, angst angst angst - don't like, don't read. this does not have a happy ending.

note: this follows the general direction of the outbreak and how it unfolds in the show, it's not identical, but i'll still put a spoiler warning so yeah - consider yourself warned.

It’s a low buzz, a barely there ringing in your ears, settling in the background and never wavering despite your efforts to clean your ears and pop them. It draws your attention for most of the early morning you spend awake before the others, and it’s not until a body suddenly steps in the way of you staring vacantly at your reflection in the bathroom mirror that you even notice other things are going on.

Your eyes come to focus on Joel who stares at you expectantly, his brows raised at your silence.

“Oh, hi—sorry, what did you say?”

“You’re a bit spacy today… you feelin’ okay?” He mumbles around his toothbrush, his body brushing against yours as he leans back on the sink to face you.

A frown starts to pull at your features.

No, you’re not.

Something is definitely not right with the way you’re feeling, but you’re unable to put a proper label as to what. The flu? Food poisoning? All options that don’t seem to fit your particular… oddness.

“I don’t… I don’t know.”

Your obvious struggle catches Joel’s attention and he’s quick to spit the frothy toothpaste from his mouth, washing it down the sink drain with a quick splash of water before turning his full attention on you.

“What is it? What’s wrong?”

“I don’t—” you pause, staring deep into his dark eyes before letting your frown disappear and forcing a little smile, “—it’s nothing. I’m fine. Really, baby, it’s nothing.”

You aren’t going to do anything that could potentially disturb his birthday—you’d been looking forward to it for weeks. An assortment of wrapped presents hide away in the bottom of the dresser, and you know Sarah’s been buzzing to give him his watch you both had taken to get fixed a week prior.

His mouth opens, no doubt to give you a sharp word about closing him out, but Sarah soon appears in the doorway with a warm good morning and the subject is left at that. You tread after her down the stairs, leaving Joel to scowl lightly at your back as he follows along behind.

Tommy appears just as you’re serving up breakfast, his full plate already waiting in your hand. His grin widens as he gives you a sweet kiss hello on your cheek before snatching the plate with an amused, “Am I that obvious?”

“You don’t want me to answer that,” you reply cheekily, your wide smile faltering when you struggle to open the bottle of pain relief.

“You okay?” He asks around a mouthful of eggs, eyeing the pills you pop into your mouth and swallow down with a mouthful of orange juice.

“Yeah, just not feeling the best today.”

“Are you pregnant?” He asks blankly, picking at the food on his plate as his eyes dart to your stomach.

His question immediately perks Joel’s interest, his hand holding the coffee pot hanging suspended over his mug as he shoots you a look from the corner of his eyes. His thoughts are plain as day—shit… are you?

Sarah perks at the table, the excitement already creeping into her features and you’re quick to cut in before she could get too ahead of herself.

“No,” you chuckle, poking Tommy’s side, “but thank you for the early morning freak out.”

Joel makes a little noise of thought, his rasp coming from around the mug he presses to his lips, “Would it be so bad if you were?”

“I don’t know,” you murmur softly, unable to keep a smile tugging at your cheeks, “would it?”

He shrugs, the barely there trace of a smirk playing along his lips as he nurses his coffee, “I wouldn’t have a problem with it.”

Tommy pipes up with a comment, his voice thick and far away, morphing in your ears until a shrill sound fills your mind, piercing your senses.

That goddamn ringing.

A wince pinches your features and you rub at your temples, willing the ache slowly building there to dissipate. A numb tingle grows over your fingertips, merely intensifying when you rub them together to will some feeling back into the pads.

“Honey?”

Snapping out of a sudden trance like state, you blink wildly as your eyes refocus on Joel and how he’s suddenly in front of you.

Heavy frown deepening, his hands come to cup your cheeks, tilting your head up and side to side. He studies your eyes, noting the strangely vacant look swirling in them and how you seem to struggle finding words.

Sarah shares his concern, stepping up next to him and curling a warm hand around yours.

“Dad, maybe you should take her to the hospital—”

“Yeah… yeah, I think I will. Baby, could you go get her jacket—”

“Don’t be silly,” you breathe, shaking your head and fighting the fog creeping along the corners of your mind. “I’m not sitting in the ER on your birthday, and besides you guys have a lot of work to do today. It’s probably a migraine, or something—I’ll just sleep it off.”

Tommy doesn’t seem all that convinced, his frown mirroring his brothers as he looks at you from over Joel’s shoulder.

“Are you sure? Coz you don’t look too good—work can always wait.”

“I’ll be fine,” you grin, delivering a firm smack to Joel’s ass, “you’re gonna be late—off you go, birthday boy. The sooner you go, the sooner you can come back and get your birthday presents.”

Joel’s jaw tightens, “You call me if anything changes, y’hear?”

Nothing changes, but nothing gets better.

You call into work after dropping Sarah off at school, explaining your sudden illness and confusion quickly forming when they say you’re not the first—a few of your co-workers had called in also. Something’s going around, they say.

There are reports everywhere.

The day passes quickly with you sleeping on the couch, hoping that whatever is plaguing you will pass by the time Joel gets home from his double. You wake to find Sarah hovering over you with a glass of water and a smile that barely hides her worry.

“How are you feeling?” She asks quietly, helping you sit up and tucking herself into the couch next to you.

“Better,” you lie, the smile on your lips forced.

If she doesn’t believe you, she doesn’t make it known. 

You spend the evening cuddled with her on the couch, barely focusing on the shows that come and go. Time blurs together, the hours melding and dragging.

Somewhere inside of you, you feel something’s wrong. Badly wrong. Something’s not right. You start to twitch, random muscles in your body jumping at the most random of times.

At one point, Sarah pulls away from where she cuddles into your side, her obvious worry deepening with your increasingly erratic movements.

“Are you okay?”

“Yeah, I just—I must’ve trapped a nerve, or something,” you murmur through numb lips, watching the way your fingers and hand twitch almost as if through a skewed, blurry lens before giving the limb a little shake and smiling. “I’m fine.”

You’re not fine. You can feel it everywhere. Something’s happening. Where the fuck is Joel?

—

Everything is fucked.

People are being attacked everywhere, people are dying everywhere. Just getting slaughtered, right in the middle of the fucking street.

It’s mayhem.

It’s terrifying and he doesn’t have a chance to truly process the emotion. It makes no sense, no damn sense, but he doesn’t bother to stop and think about it. He can’t. He needs to move, you all need to move and get the fuck out of town.

Joel bursts through the front door, echoes of jets and explosions and sirens sounding in the distance behind him, his face set in rigid determination. He should never have worked so fucking late. 

“Girls, come on—” he roars, hoping the boom of his voice startles you both from sleep, “—in the truck, now!”

Sarah’s asleep and sprawled over the couch when he passes by the lounge, and he immediately goes for her, curling his fingers tightly around her shoulder and giving her a firm shake.  

“Baby? Baby, wake up—” 

Sarah blinks languidly, her face pinched and disorientated, but the sleep hanging in her eyes evaporates when a sudden explosion rattles the house. Her hands fly to clutch his arms, eyes now wide and filled with terror, darting to the window.

“What’s going on?!”

“Come on, we gotta go, baby, get up.”

She follows immediately, her hand not leaving his as he drags her outside. Tommy stands guard by the running truck, desperately trying to pull his lips into some sort of encouraging smile, but it comes across more as a grimace.

“What’s happening?” Sarah asks again, pausing when a familiar sound catches her attention. “Mercy? Mercy, here boy!”

Joel’s jaw tenses, his hands becoming increasingly more urgent as they shove her towards the vehicle, ignoring the frightened dog that bounds over to answer her familiar call.

“Sarah, get in the fuckin’ truck—”

“What about Mercy? We can’t just leave him outside, and what about—”

Tommy holds a calming hand out, his grip tightening on his rifle, “Joel’ll get her, and I’ll take him back, just get in—”

“You keep her in the truck!” Joel yells at his brother, turning away from them and running back towards the house, slamming his way through the front door, roaring your name again and again. He takes the stairs two at a time, marching straight for the bedroom only to discover you aren’t there.

Where the hell are you?

“Come on, honey, we gotta move—!”

A thud.

He spins for the bathroom, noticing the slither of light from under the door and immediately advancing towards it, hand reaching for the handle.

Locked.

He rattles it, hoping the weak thing would cave like it’s done so many times before. He knocks harshly when it holds firm, calling out your name, but a weight hitting the door sends panic through his system.

A weakened groan sounds through the timber and he shakes the handle again, his face creasing with worry. He doesn’t have a lot of time, none of you have a lot of time. He forces his shoulder up against the door and it soon gives way, shoving something heavy out of the way and slamming against the tiles.

“Honey, come—”

He stops, eyes finally taking in the form in front of him.

It’s you, but it’s not.

Ice creeps along his shoulders, hardening around his heart and sinking to the pit of his stomach. There’s something wild about your expression, an almost animalistic curl to your features. Your eyes have lost their usual warmth, their sparkle, now they’re feral, and locked right onto him. 

God no, not you.

“Honey, baby,” he utters, stepping back and desperately willing, praying, for the unfolding situation to change in front of his eyes, “it’s me—I can’t… god, don’t make me do this. Please wake up. Show me you’re there, do somethin’—“

A guttural cry that barely sounds human tears its way out of your mouth and you lunge for him, hands poised ready to grab onto him. He evades your attack and dives into Sarah’s room, swiping one of her participation trophies from her drawers and barely able to turn before a weight hits his side and takes him down to the floor.

He curls a hand tightly around your throat, keeping your rabid, snarling face away from his and strikes. The marble base of the award meets your skull with a sickening crunch, but he doesn’t stop, his arm soon aching from the brutal force he puts behind each hit and causing blood to rain down over his face. He doesn’t stop until he feels the strength behind your hands vanish. 

The sticky red substance coats the trophy and he lets out a sob as your body falls to the floor in an unmoving heap beside him. He throws the makeshift weapon away from him as his chest heaves, the heavy thud of it hitting the floor suddenly so loud in the now still house, and rolls onto his side, taking in your still form before carefully crawling closer.

He reaches out, placing a trembling hand against the part of your bloodied face he could see through the destruction, sick at how cold you feel and the way your thick blood coats his skin. His thumb brushes over your cheek, tracing the swollen veins lying beneath and he chokes on a cry.

“I’m so—fuck, honey, I-I’m so sorry—”

Remorse rolls through him in waves until it fills every vein, runs along every nerve. He should’ve been here. He should’ve done something. Was there even anything he could have done? Could he have saved you from any pain? Were you alone and scared? What were your last thoughts? Did you know what was happening? Is that why you were locked away?

“Joel?!” Tommy shouts from somewhere in the house, and it’s enough to tear him away from your body and the grief overwhelming him.

“Don’t let her up here!” He yells back, listening to Tommy quickly stop Sarah from climbing the stairs.

She couldn’t see this. She couldn’t remember you like this, mangled and bleeding out on her bedroom floor where you both had spent so much time reading over magazines, painting each other's nails and giggling over shitty TV shows. He wouldn’t let those memories be stained with the blood of the mother she had found so much comfort in, tainted by the monster that had become of her.

He takes one final look at you, smoothing a hand along your hairline and avoiding the caved in shattered bone only a few centimetres from his touch. Nausea rolls through him, hot acid bile rising in the back of his throat as he backs away from your body and stands on unsteady legs.

His hand flies out to rest against the wall as he stumbles back, eyes not leaving your twisted features and broken body. Eventually you fade from view once he rounds the corner and he turns for the stairs, his heart thundering in his chest.

Sarah sees him first, Tommy busy eyeing the windows and keeping his weapon at the ready.

“Is she sick?” She asks, noticing the obvious emptiness behind him.

Joel feels his shoulders deflate, stepping down the final steps and giving a solemn nod, “Yeah. Yeah, she was.”

The use of past tense brings a thick wave of emotion over his daughter's face, and his broken heart shatters even more. He tries to wipe the blood, your blood, from his hands, dragging them down the legs of his jeans and it catches her attention, her face creasing with anguish.

“You killed her,” she mumbles, tears filling her lash line as her eyes dart across his face.

He swallows the thick pressure in his throat, ignoring the look of sympathy his brother gives him and steps up to his daughter, holding back his own tears as hers spill over her cheeks.

“I did,” he returns quietly, “I did. I’m so sorry, baby—”

She softens when he reaches for her, his arms tightening around her and squeezing. Her lower lips wobbles with the effort of keeping her emotions at bay, her fingers tightening around his shirt as he curls around her. She shakes in his hold.

“The Adler’s were sick, too,” she whimpers into his shoulder, “are we sick?”

“No baby. No, we’re not sick,” Joel pulls away, cupping her cheek with a sticky hand and keeping his gaze steady with hers, “but we’ve gotta be brave, okay? We’re gonna be fine, but we’ve got to go.”

“We shouldn’t leave her behind—” she whimpers quietly, another stream of tears falling down her cheeks.

“We have to, baby girl. We have to, I... I’m not gonna lose you, too.”

-

everything pp: @maievdenoir, @javier-pena, @lv7867, @dihra-vesa, @katronautt, @radiowallet, @januarystears, @missminkylove, @beskarprincessjenny, @mswarriorbabe80​, @danidrabbles, @sergeantbannerbarnes, @amneris21​, @eri16​, @absurdthirst, @hnt-escape, @acourtofsnakes​, @ezrasbirdie​, @mstgsmy​, @lovesbiggerthanpride​, @coaaster​, @sherala007​, @kelseyxyeslek, @greeneyedblondie44​, @wyn-n-tonic​, @you-got-me-starry-eyed​, @shirks-all-responsibilities​, @withasideofmeg​, @harriedandharassed​, @andruxx​, @buckybarneshairpullingkink​, @spideysimpossiblegirl​, @prostitute-robot-from-the-future​, @tanzthompson​, @mad-girl-without-a-box​, @hope-for-the-best-98​, @fangirl-316​, @christina-loves​, @jediknight122​, @hallway5​, @xoxabs88xox​, @nicolethered​, @churchill356​, @massivecolorspygiant​, @just-here-for-the-moment​, @gracie7209​, @pinkie289​, @lavenderluna10​, @goodgriefitsawildworld​, @juletheghoul​, @punkerthanpascal​, @itswanktime​, @karolydulin​, @pedrostories​, @fabilei, @ghostwiththemostbitch, @omlwhatamidoinghere​, @cannedsoupsucks​, @chaoticemz, @hows-my-hair​, @alexxavicry​, @cran-berry-vodka, @deadhumourist​, @outercrasis​, @thisshipwillsail316​, @toxicfrankenstein​, @hotchlover​, @ew-erin​, @mishasminion360​, @jitterbugs927​, @penelopeimp​, @woodland-mist​, @pedro-pastel​, @spaceserialkiller, @adriiibell​, @1andthesame​, @elegantduckturtle​, @captain-jebi​, @magpie-to-the-morning​, @sharkbait77​, @sleep-tight1​, @musings-of-a-rose​, @Karlawithacapitalk, @woomen23​, @frasmotic​, @songsformonkeys​, @loonymagizoologist​, @aynsleywalker​, @ruhro7​, @bluestuesday​, @what-iwish-you-knew​, @princess-djarinn​, @totallynotastanacc​, @girlofchaos​, @pjkimrn​, @bangaveragewhitewine​, @trickstersp8​, @rominaszh, @gooddaykate​, @ms-loverman-066​, @bunniwarrior, @detectivecarisi-1​, @tintinn16​, @iceclaw101​, @bport76​, @thatpinkshirt​, @tusk89​, @withakindheartx​, @curiouskeyboard​, @pedropascalsx​, @sirpascal, @racetrackheart, @patisseriel, @timpletance​, @titabel, @xdaddysprincessxx​, @dnxgma​, @astronomeoww​, @dindjarinswhore, @alwaysdjarin​, @mando-amando​, @mx-ferelden​, @trinkets01​, @jxvipike​, @thesmutslut​, @thereisaplaceintheheart​, @scentedthingtidalwave​, @mwltwo​, @loveslide​, @artsymaddie​, @untitledarea​, @sukunababe​, @emiemiemiii​, @your-slutty-gf​, @wisecolornight​, @emilianamason​

joel miller: @jujuliaispunk

[solomons-finest-rum]

Hello to one of my favourite Alfie fic writers! Since you're taking requests, I'd like to make one as well.

I don't know how it works but how about a scenario/imagine where Tommy gets in some kind of trouble (as always) and Alfie suggests that his lovely gangster wife could help and goes to introduce them but as it turns out it's none other than the Shelby's sister/cousin/relative/friend/or maybe even an ex? (Your call one this one) who they thought was dead or something?

Idk if it's even worth your time and effort but I just wanted to make a request ;) No pressure, of course!

Love you and your writing a lot!

“As The Crow Flies” (Alfie Solomons x fem!Reader) — PART 1

SUMMARY — By all accounts Anna Gray died in Australia and had no business standing in Alfie’s living room, nor calling the man “darling” for that matter. But there you were, identical to the picture they took when they shipped you off to the colonies.

AUTHOR’S NOTE — Thank you to @zablife for being the most gracious beta!💗💗💗💗💗 and thank you Anon for this request, because actually it inspired a full-blown multi-chapter idea! So this is set around... Season 5 I suppose? But I'm going to ignore everything in it and Season 6 too. Let's pretend none of it happened and just focus on the fun part! That is driving Tommy insane and making Alfie say outrageous lines.

WORD COUNT — 2,286

Masterlist

In retrospect, Tommy Shelby felt he should have known better. He should have fucking known that the moment, the moment, he came to Margate to sort the bloody situation out, exactly two things would happen.

One, he would have to sit and listen with a straight face to Alfie’s inspired monologue, the subject of which had swerved from elephants to bank robbery in about two and a half minutes, and then managed to touch upon just about everything else under the sun.

Tommy remained quite sure that the sense of Alfie’s rambling had been long lost to history and the point of it all was just to talk him to death, really. Put him out of his misery with nonsense alone.

“Now then, Tommy, as I said, right, I ain’t the vindictive type, I really ain’t, so I am gonna help ya out just this once, right, outta the goodness of my own heart.”

Tommy managed not to roll his eyes. Barely.

“‘Cause I am a changed man these days, Tommy, an’ it can be that the old man that I am, I’m goin’ soft on ya, right, an’ so tradition dictates, mate, to ask for more than ten thousand for my troubles.”

Tommy raised a brow.

“But as things currently stand with the medical bills, on the account of bein’ shot in the face by some cunt, right… Fifteen would sound proper fair, mate.”

Thank fuck for small mercies, Tommy thought, then lit another cigarette and promptly got up to leave. Alfie apparently managed to settle both sides of the conversation, negotiations included, and their American problem could very well sort itself out all on his own—thus proving to Tommy once more that the only thing he could really count on in this world had always been lunatics.

“Right, the fuck you’re doin’ now, sit down!”

Tommy frowned and remained standing, cigarette in the corner of his mouth and sheer outrage emanating from his entire person. The question of “what in fuck’s name do you want now, you crazy bastard?” overtook his face.

“Right, I need to make a bloody phone call,” Alfie said then, which explained exactly nothing.

Yes, that was the second thing Tommy had been so sure would happen. Alfie would first go on a tangent, then formulate a plan that involved three separate layers of deception, a bribe, and a crate of dynamite (probably).

Then Tommy would get caught in the middle as bloody always and Polly would have his head for going along with Alfie’s plan in the first place.

What he didn’t expect was for Alfie to change his tone of voice completely as soon as the person picked up on the other end:

“Yeah, darlin’, it’s me. Come to the house, alright? Right, ‘cause I need ya here for somethin’. No, not like the— Bloody hell, woman, just don’t fuckin’ argue with me for once, alright?”

Sometimes a rare occasion would present itself for Tommy Shelby to become fucking speechless. Truth be told, he remained rather surprised that two such occasions had also involved Alfie Solomons, undoubtedly purely for the Devil’s bloody amusement.

“Who was that then, Alfie?”

“None of ya fuckin’ business.”

Tommy had a sneaky feeling there wasn’t a clever enough question in existence that could have pushed Alfie to say anything more. He looked smug as hell for having pulled that stunt off so Tommy was willing to see it through.

For old time’s sake.

The sun was setting and they had another drink, then Tommy let Alfie go on another tangent about… Tea import. Perhaps. Who knew, he wasn’t really listening.

On drink three Tommy was alerted by a car pulling up to the house, followed by a door slam and a rhythmic clacking of high heels on the porch. Tommy looked to Alfie, but the man remained infuriatingly calm.

Just as Tommy was about to reach for his gun, the door to Alfie’s study opened unceremoniously and a scent of expensive perfume wafted across the room. Tommy turned around and tried his best to keep up the indifferent facade, but failed miserably. Nothing could have prepared him for you walking through that door, with a giant bodyguard no less, following you like a second shadow.

“Alright there, Billy?” Alfie greeted the bodyguard casually and the man grunted in response. “Right then, might ya wait in the car for us, mate? This whole bloody business will take a minute.”

Tommy then watched as Alfie approached you and planted an affectionate kiss to your cheek, at which point Tommy stood up abruptly.

For a moment he just stood there and stared; a state he didn’t find himself in too often these days. 

“Darling, are we having guests?” you asked Alfie in a tone so familiar to Tommy; so like your mother. Pleasant, on the verge of sarcastic. 

By God, either that Camden bastard was a magician or you had a twin sister that Polly never mentioned. Because it wasn’t possible… It couldn’t be you. Not according to the file he stole from the parish. By all accounts Anna Gray died in Australia and had no business standing in Alfie’s living room, nor calling the man “darling” for that matter. But there you were, identical to the picture they took when they shipped you off to the colonies. 

“Right then, Tommy, might I present my lovely wife,” Alfie said. “Sweetie, this here is Tommy Shelby, right, all the way from the ungodly place they call Birmingham—”

“Tommy Shelby?” you interrupted and looked at Tommy with a smile so like Polly’s that Tommy nearly lost his composure again. “My, my… And there you went and promised you were done with the life, Alfie.”

“Right, an’ how could that—”

“Anna,” Tommy interrupted what he was sure was a budding monologue from Alfie. 

“Yes?” you asked. “You know my name?”

“I… Know your mother.”

“Know?” There it was again. That curious smirk of yours that could really mean anything. Tommy found it harder and harder to keep up the charade.

“But that’s not possible, Mr. Shelby.”

“What’s not possible?”

Your tone remained polite, but your dark eyes said it all. The expression of quiet resolve Tommy thought only one person capable of delivering with such resentment.

“I’m an orphan, Mr. Shelby.”

Tommy said nothing to that, because what in hell could he even say? All of a sudden the American issue faded into nothingness, replaced solely by the phantom standing before him.

“So you did not lie, I see,” you turned to your husband with a quizzical expression, seeing as Tommy went quiet again. “He really is as strange as the papers make him. No matter, though, Mr. Shelby, I hope you like chicken? My husband insists I’m a terrible cook, but you must stay for dinner.”

Tommy nodded mechanically and put out his cigarette just to busy his hands with something. When he looked at Alfie, though, Tommy noticed how the man’s mouth twitched, clearly indicating the scheme was playing exactly how he wanted it to. Mad bastard, Tommy thought. There was no saying if he was being played or tricked or helped. Probably all at once, but solely for Alfie’s benefit of course.

“Right, curious as I am, luv, what delectable fuckin’ option you maimed and butchered for dinner, Tommy isn’t stayin’—” Alfie then stopped himself when two sets of identical Shelby scowls got directed his way.

Tommy did stay for dinner and made sure to clean his plate, too. He didn’t mind the food at all; it reminded him of Polly’s simple cooking back in the day when she would take care of Tommy and his siblings in Small Heath.

The more he listened to you talk and bicker with Alfie, the more of your mother he saw in you and the angrier he got at seeing you here of all places, as Alfie’s wife, unable to speak to you in plain terms. Tommy wasn’t exactly sure which made him angrier, though—the fact that you were Alfie’s wife or the fact that the sly bastard had kept you from your true family for who knows how many years. How did he even find you?

All the questions he had were still swirling around in Tommy’s head and he wasn’t particularly paying attention to anything else, besides staring daggers at Alfie. He was hoping there would be a moment to talk to you alone, but of course your husband would never allow it. He watched Tommy like a hawk the entire evening, sometimes with just a hint of a smile to suggest he was still three steps ahead of everyone else.

“See you never got accustomed to that fancy cookin’ they’re offerin’ ya at the mansion these days, Tommy,” Alfie said, undoubtedly truly enjoying the charade. “Tommy’s an MP, darlin’, right about two steps from gettin’ a knighthood I reckon. Yeah, a real prince he is.”

The way Alfie said the word was so clearly a jab at Tommy’s ancestry that he didn’t even flinch. What he was curious about was your reaction, but you remained perfectly pleasant: 

“Don’t tease, love, we haven’t had guests in ages and I’m not letting you drive this one away.”

When the maid took away the plates, you lit a cigarette in a swift overdone gesture and Tommy was once more taken aback with your resemblance to Polly. 

“Well, I’ll leave ya both to it,” you announced as you got up. “It was a pleasure, Mr. Shelby.” You extended your hand and Tommy shook it. “I know you tried your best with the chicken and I appreciate it,” you paused and tilted your head to the side as if sizing Tommy up.

“I rarely trust your husband’s judgement,” he replied.

The way you smiled reminded Tommy of a cat that got into the pantry. He decided not to think about it too much.

“I see. Goodnight then, Mr. Shelby.”

As soon as Tommy heard you got upstairs, he turned to Alfie who, unsurprisingly, already had a gun pointed at him. It was a casual way of it that was the most infuriating—Alfie’s hand was more so resting on the table and the gun just happened to be there, pointing at Tommy. 

“Now then, Tommy, let’s be reasonable about this, mate.”

Tommy clenched his jaw and remained silent, but his murderous glare said it all.

“There are four people at the house, right, includin’ you, me, my wife, then the maid… Then there’s Billy outside, right, who’s gonna be rightly worried once he doesn’t get my dismissal for the night. So I want ya to be real cold an’ calculated about it, Tommy, just like I know ya can be, ‘cause if ya decide to off me for no reason now…”

“No reason.”

“Right.”

“You’re old enough to be her father.”

“Yeah an’ fortunately I’m not, ‘cause that’d be right fuckin’ awkward at the temple, mate.”

“Temple?”

“What’d ya think, Tommy, that I smacked her over the head and dragged her into my cave?”

“Somethin’ like that.”

“Right, we’ll have to show ya the pictures then, she looked stunnin’.” Alfie leaned back in his chair. “Tell ya what, mate, why don’t ya come by for tea one day?”

“Tea.”

“Yeah. We have it, Tommy, we’re not animals.”

Tommy said nothing to that. He was still reviewing his options, but as he wasn’t a fan of spontaneous action, the patient approach seemed appropriate. The offer, though, just like everything else about the situation, was fucking infuriating.

“Cat got your tongue?”

“Fuck you, Alfie.”

That finally made Alfie smile and for some reason he lowered the gun.

“Right, so seein’ as we’re family, Tommy, and what a happy coincidence this is, I must say, I feel like we should talk fuckin’ proper. None of that shit.” Alfie then gestured between them as if he hadn’t been responsible for “that shit” in the first place.

“We’ve been talking, Alfie,” Tommy deadpanned.

“Yeah, but then there’s still somethin’ ya haven’t told me about your American troubles, isn’t there, mate, so I’m expectin’ you’ll be more honest with me in the future. Now that I’ve brought the right arguments to the table…”

The hint of a threat in that statement almost made Tommy wish he still had his razor cap around.

“She’s Polly’s only daughter, Alfie.”

“Right, I’m aware of that.”

Tommy nodded, feigning understanding between them. As always, handling Alfie very much resembled handling a live grenade without a pin.

“This can’t be the way to end things.”

“Who’s endin’ things, Tommy?”

“I’m just saying.”

“Yeah, an’ I’m going to let this one slide, Tommy, ‘cause you just got a lot to process, mate, so I’m prepared to be understandin’.”

Tommy shook his head and reached into his jacket pocket, at which Alfie uncocked the gun. Tommy slowly pulled out his cigarette box, but Alfie never even flinched. It was gruesomely reassuring to still have been right, even in the position that Tommy currently found himself in. 

Alfie Solomons would always remain Alfie Solomons, even with the whole song and a dance about getting old and senile. He was still the same mad bastard Tommy came to know all those years ago, and as things stood, Tommy found himself wondering if this time he shouldn’t try poison instead of a bullet.

“Tommy,” Alfie sighed, “with three good eyes workin’ between us, mate, I really would greatly mind if I somehow acquired a fuckin’ tumour in my lungs, too.”

Tommy said nothing and he knew Alfie hated it.

“Which means put that shit out, mate, and listen to what I’m about to say, ‘cause I got a feeling you’ll really wanna hear it.”

[sweetyluvs]

25 with ellie who wears pink cuz ist readers fav color??

𝐛𝐚𝐛𝐲 𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐤 𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐫𝐭𝐬

MODERN! ellie williams x fem! reader

tags - just fluff<33

the bright pink color of the matching shirts in the display of Forever 21 caught your attention within milliseconds.

two bright, baby pink shirts with laced flower marks sewn in with hot pink string with the words “i’m hers” with an arrow pointing to each shirt had you foaming at the mouth.

Your feet carried you into the store faster than you’ve ever done anything, your heals announcing your entrance to the employee at the entrance. Her head turned towards you, a grin forming on her lips. “Hello, Ma’am. can I help you?”

“Yes! can i please purchase those two pink shirts on display?” you chirped, smiling back at her— happiness striding through you upon seeing her nod. “of course, what two sizes?”

“one medium in woman’s and one small, please”. the employee ran off to the back and you were left grinning ear to ear thinking about seeing ellie in such a cute shirt— her freckles being brought out perfectly, the embarrassed blush you knew she was going to have would be perfect with the shades of the top. You fiddled with your bracelet, that ellie had made you, while you wait for the employee to come out from the back.

when she did, you were sure she could feel your happiness because her polite employee grin seemed to turn genuine. “Thank you so much! i hope you have a wonderful day!!” you thanked her profusely, excitement running through your veins as you waved bye and rushed out of the store— deciding to take a detour from your shopping time to go home early and surprise your girlfriend.

˚₊‧꒰ა ☆ ໒꒱ ‧₊˚

Ellie’s soul practically left her body upon hearing the front door of your shared apartment slam open with such force. The otter pop in her mouth falling from between her lips and to her stomach, leaking through her white wife beater tank top and freezing her.

“what the— ouch! fuck.” she reacted quickly to the sudden cold by flicking the popsicle off her, standing up, she went to see who was at the door— (and she left the otter pop on the floor.)

She slowly approached, light shuffling could be heard, but no signs of life. ellie rose a brow.

“Babe? is that you?” she asked skeptically, popping her head around the walls corner to see who was making all the ruckus.

to her surprise, and her relief, it was you. You were home two hours earlier than you usually are. Ellie sigh a breath of relief, putting a hand to her chest, leaning against the wall.

“you’re home early. someone die?” she teased, dropping her hands to her side. You turned to her, a giant smile taking over your whole face.

Ellie knew she should be happy to see it— but deep down, she was scared. scared of what you’ve brought home this time.

She gulped, pushing herself off the wall and walking towards you. “i know that smile.. bring home another cat?” she bit out, watching as you only smirked at her. “oh, ellie. not this time. i found something better.”

“better than a cat? wow.”

“Turn around.” she rose a brow, lips creasing.

“do i have to—”

“turn around, ellie.” you interrupted, putting a hand up to cover your smile. She did as told, spinning on her heal but keeping her green eyes wide open.

The bags on the table she didn’t get the chance to fully look at began to shuffle. She could hear your new things being taken out and placed on the table.

You shifted, seemingly putting something on before letting out a squeak of excitement that had ellie in fear.

“Okay, els, turn back.”

Ellie inhaled, exhaling as she turned towards you. There you were— your cute smile on your lips, but the most god awful hideous shirt on you ellie had ever seen. The worst part? you held up an identical one.

Ellie’s throat went dry, all sign of life leaving her body the moment her face went pale.

“try it on. I got your size.” you beamed, eyes scanning her before blowing wide. “you stained that top? we just got it.. this is actually perfect. Now you have a replacement.” You tossed the shirt onto her chest, leaning on your hip waiting for her to put it on.

The grin on your face was the only thing keeping the auburn haired girl from running away like she had all the previous times.

Ellie groaned lightly, a huff of air escaping her. curse your adorable smile.

She unfolded the shirt, her biceps showing their muscle as she went to put it on. she was slightly disappointed to say it fit perfectly— ellie was going to protest wearing it, but than she saw the look on your face. You were euphoric.

You hadn’t looked this happy since.. well, the cat. and a few other times…

“oh my gosh, it’s perfect!! now we can wear them together.” you hugged her, smiling so widely she could feel it from where your face was buried in her chest. Ellie felt her cheeks heat up from embarrassment, hugging you back quickly before you pulled back, admiring your work. and the blush on her cheeks you knew would come.

“do you like it?” you asked, eyes gleaming brightly, lips puffed out, smiling wildly up at ellie. Said girls heart stopped, and shattered for a moment upon the look that might cross your face upon hearing her truthful answer— so she.. improvised.

“Yeah, totally, love it. looks great. good choice, babe.” she complimented, bending down to kiss your cheek. You began to talk about how you found it, why you thought of her etc.

You’re lucky ellie loves you so much, because she would have never worn this pink shit for anyone else.

[ckret2]

The most unpleasant breakfast.

I feel like this picture is a perfect summary of the fic so far.

Chapter 6 of The Pines Capture Human Bill Cipher But Can't Tell Anybody Because They Don't Know Whether Killing Him Will Restart Weirdmageddon (title TBD). Chapters one, two, three, four, and five, and I've gotta get a masterpost or something.

####

The group asking for a seat at the truck stop diner was an odd sight: three adult men; two children; and one disheveled barefoot lunatic in a cartoon pony toga, handcuffs, a chain restricting one arm, and the dirt-smeared remains of a butterfly marker mask. But truckers and odd sights were the only things you saw at a truck stop on the outskirts of Gravity Falls at three a.m., and the handcuffed guest wasn't blinking SOS in Morse code, so the weary party was escorted to the round corner booth without question. They sandwiched Bill between Soos and Stan and silently awaited their menus.

"Hey, I'm Dani, I'll be taking care of you tonight." A waitress passed out menus to the group, hesitated uncertainly with a couple of paper kids' menus in front of Dipper and Mabel, and handed them over when Mabel made grabby hands for the accompanying four-pack of crayons. "Can I start you off with some coffee, or...?" Dani's gaze fell on Bill, and she beamed. "Oh, hey! Toga Lady! Hi!"

Bill gave her a puzzled smile and raised brows. "Hello?"

"Oh, yeah dude!" Soos laughed. "Wendy got a picture of you the last time you came by. You're totally a local meme now."

"Okay, I've gotta know." The waitress gestured at Bill's ensemble with her pen. "What's your story?"

"Well—" Bill opened his mouth, and froze; and the whole table went still as they simultaneously had the same realization.

If anybody revealed Bill's identity, in Gravity Falls, the epicenter of Weirdmageddon, they'd have a mob on their hands. At worst the town would rip Bill to shreds, and at best they'd throw him in a cell so they could schedule his shredding for a pleasant Saturday afternoon when more people could watch. Bill couldn't risk the possibility that he'd die for good, and the humans couldn't risk the possibility that he'd be re-released as a triangle.

None of them could reveal anything.

And all of them knew it.

"Party," Bill said. And then, warming to the cover story, he went on: "This is my party uniform. A little anachronistic, but what can I say? There's nothing I like better than being the center of attention at a wild party!" He cast a sideways glance toward the Stan twins. "Until the fun police break it up."

Ford grumbled, "Partying wasn't the problem. You were going to burn down the town."

"You get so worked up over a little bonfire, sheesh." Bill rolled his eyes, leaned toward the waitress, and said, "These geek types, I tell you. Some people wouldn't recognize a good time if it appeared to them in a divine vision."

"Maybe if I ever had a divine vision..."

Bill shot Ford a dirty look. They quickly broke off their mutual glare, conscious of Dani curiously watching, and Bill breezily explained, "He had a bad trip and still blames me for it."

Dani laughed. "You're crazy! What's your real name, Toga Lady?"

Bill hesitated. "Guess!"

"What?"

"Guess! It's a game. You guess mine, I'll guess yours."

She looked down at her name tag. "I already told you my name's Dani."

"But did you tell me it's Danielle Miranda?"

Her eyebrows shot up.

Bill beamed. "I'll give you three guesses! While you're thinking about that, could we get a round of coffee, and... do you serve anything more toxic than mildly spoiled apple juice? No? Just coffee."

"And a chocolate shake," Mabel threw in.

Bill's eyes lit up. "Make that two."

Stan snapped, "I am not paying for you to get a chocolate shake." Bill sighed.

Once the waitress was gone, Bill said, "Trauma still disrupts humans' long-term memories, right? Have the locals forgotten my name yet?"

"Yeah, no, everyone remembers," Soos said. "I know two different Williams that got their names legally changed."

Bill groaned. "Great. Terrific! Fine. My last pseudonym was getting stale anyway, it's about time I find a new one. All right, what have we got, toss out some ideas." At the others' blank looks, he said, "I've spent the last couple of days getting starved, beaten, and literally killed. All I'm coming up with is 'Not-Bill' and 'the letter A.' Somebody else think of something."

Stan let out a loud sigh. "Who cares? Bob."

"No."

"Will."

"No, and you're stupid."

"Hey—!"

Ignoring Stan's irritation, Bill looked around the table. "Anyone else?"

The others at the table considered the question. Soos said, "Ferdinand. I think Ferdinand is way cool."

"Coming out of you, that's not the high recommendation you think it is, Questiony."

Soos winced. "Ouch."

"C'mon, give me something that sounds a little bit like me."

Dipper said, "Troy Angle?" Mabel laughed.

Bill didn't. "Troy again."

Ford ventured, "Xanthe?"

"Ha. Sure, just call me 'yellow hair,' why not. I like the direction you're thinking—"

Stan—whose barely-suppressed rage at this whole situation had been steadily building back up since Bill called him stupid—snapped, "Why are we looking for a name he'll like? Why does he get any say in this! I say we call him whatever he can pronounce through a mouthful of broken teeth! Because when I'm through with this sonovab—"

Bill blocked his view of Stan's threatening fist by holding up his menu. "But Stanley's got a point, I need a simple name. How many Americans know how to spell Ξανθή?"

"Get this stupid thing out of my—"

Mabel stood and slammed her hands on the table, interrupting the brewing argument. "GOLDILOCKS!"

Bill erupted into a peal of laughter that made the rest of the table flinch. His handcuffs clattered as he smacked his hands on the table and he leaned toward Mabel. "Yes yes yes YES! You've got it! That's perfect!" It was like a light switch had flipped on in Bill, suddenly re-energizing him. Eyes crinkling in genuine amusement, Bill said, "You know, I like you, kid. You're the one with the fun ideas!"

Mabel blinked in surprise, any pleasure at the unexpected compliment dampened by the knowledge that being liked by Bill was never a good thing. Miffed, Dipper said, "Hey, I made a pun."

"I don't like puns."

Ford said, "If you'd please stop trying to win over my grand-niece with flattery..." but fell silent as Dani came back with drinks.

She passed coffee around, set a chocolate shake down for Mabel, set a second one down for Bill—"On the house"—and winked. "Is it Rumpelstiltskin?"

Bill cracked up again. "No, but give me three hours and a particle accelerator and I could teach you to spin straw into gold!"

"Worth a shot." Dani laughed. "Okay, is everyone ready to order?"

There was an awkward pause. Soos finally said, "Oh man, we all got to talking and completely forgot to look at the menu. Can you give us like five minutes?"

"Sure. Just wave when you're ready." 

The group steeled themselves to the task of picking a meal, which felt far too mundane for such a bizarre night. Dipper frowned at the paper kids' menu he'd been handed. "Hey, Soos. Can I look at your menu when you're done...?"

Wordlessly, Bill stole Dipper's menu and crayon box and slid over his adult menu.

"... Thanks."

Bill had already dumped out the crayons and started drawing triangles on the menu. "Don't mention it!"

By the time Dani returned, Bill had covered a quarter of the menu in tiny doodles of his own triangular face, reluctantly scratched them out after Soos pointed out he could get arrested for those, and covered half the rest in countless eyes. Soos ordered a burger, Stan ordered bacon and eggs, Ford ordered an omelet, Dipper ordered an omelet too not because Ford did but because it sounded good and maybe he wanted to try one okay that's all, Mabel ordered rainbow sprinkle chocolate pancakes, and Bill ordered a banana octopus pancake and a side of bacon "as floppy as you can make it" over Stan's objections to letting Bill get a side item.

"And raw bacon. Got it." Dani closed her notebook, gave Bill a considering look, and said, "Is it Blondie?"

"Ha! No! But you've been a good sport so I'll give you a hint! It's something in between your first two guesses."

"Huh..." Dani considered that a moment; then noticed Bill trying to pick up his shake with handcuffs on. "Do you... need help with those? I think our gas station next door's got bolt cutters."

Firmly, Ford said, "We've got bolt cutters at home." Bill gave Dani an apologetic shrug.

As soon as Dani was gone again, Ford leaned forward. "All right, Bill. If you're going to be in our house for who-knows-how-long, we need to establish some ground rules."

"Boy, do we ever," Bill said, with the confidence of somebody who assumed he'd have an equal say in deciding what the rules were.

Ford went on without acknowledging Bill. "For now, we can lock you back in the cellar—"

"Cellar's right under the gift shop," Stan pointed out. "I was thinking a storage closet. Just stuff him in there and pile a bunch of furniture in front of the door."

"You know, Stanley, I think that would be safer," Ford said, like he was trying to pretend he liked the idea based on safety rather than based on how satisfying it would be to make Bill as uncomfortable as possible. "Although I'm sure Bill knows he'll just be putting himself in danger if he makes enough noise to catch anyone's attention—so there's rule number one, no sounds. And once I've done some repairs, we can move him to the bunker..."

"No, I don't think so," Bill said. "I don't like that at all."

Coolly, Ford said, "Well, Bill, you're our prisoner, so we can do what we want, you don't get a say in it, and you don't have to like it. In fact, the more you dislike it, the more I think I do like it."

Stan laughed, elbowing Ford. "Took the words right out of my mouth."

"But that's just the thing—I do get a say in it," Bill said. "I'm as worried as anyone else about what might happen if this body is killed—but there are fates worse than death, aren't there? Like boredom, for instance. You know what I'm talking about, right?" He gave Mabel an appealing look.

She doggedly avoided making eye contact, slurping her shake.

Bill shrugged and returned his attention to Ford. "You know and I know that you're only keeping me alive until you can think of a better way to kill me—and that gives me an advantage. It means I've got nothing to lose. If I'm not living a life that's at least barely tolerable, then your only way to stop me from choosing death on my terms instead of your terms is by sticking me in an artificial coma." His smile stretched wider. "And are you really, really sure I don't know a way to kill myself in my sleep?"

Ford and Stan's scowls deepened the longer Bill spoke. Stan muttered, "If he's gonna be like that, it's not too late to just kill him and get it over with."

Ford shook his head. "What do you consider intolerable conditions."

"Being locked in one little room with nowhere to stretch my legs, no entertainment, and no company. Abandon me in your bunker? Once I get tired of the scenery, I'm bashing my skull in."

"And if we lock you in the cellar?"

"Then I'm screaming for help until someone calls the cops, and we all get to learn what they find more convincing: 'You've gotta believe me, this lady is secretly Bill Cipher in disguise,' or 'Help me, officer, these lunatics think I'm some kind of demon pyramid!'" Bill rolled his eyes. "I'm not asking for much. Just a little mobility. A few rooms I can move freely in, the occasional conversation, a window or two I can look out of..."

"In other words," Ford said, "if we don't want you to do anything drastic, we need to give you a slight chance to escape."

"See, this is why you're the smart one!" Bill graced Ford with a brilliant smile. "And in return, you've bought yourselves time to look for a guaranteed way to finish me off. It'll be like a game: can you figure out how to get rid of me before I find a way out?"

"I stopped playing games with you a long time ago, Cipher."

"We never stopped playing. You just stopped having fun."

Their negotiations were interrupted by Dani's return. She distributed their meals, then said, "Okay, I've got two guesses. They're dumb, though."

"I'll allow it!"

"Rapunzel or Goldilocks."

"Hey, guess number four! Smart girl! Give her a nice tip, Stanley."

"Stop trying to spend my money."

Dani laughed. "You're joking!"

"No, really! Goldilocks!"

"No, no way. You're totally lying."

Studying her face to gauge how much of her skepticism was sincere, Bill amended himself, "Okay, okay—first name Goldie, last name Locke. Funny though, right?"

"I didn't think I'd get it. Goldilocks the Toga Lady. Ha! You guys enjoy your meals."

Once she was out of hearing range, Ford said, "Here's your situation. You're trapped in a small geographic bubble and surrounded by enemies. You have no money, no identification, no connections, and if you still have any powers at all, they're clearly dampened or we'd be dead by now. Your options are limited even if you do escape—so before you try, think how much less latitude we'll give you once we catch you."

"Sounds like somebody's about to agree to my terms."

Ford glanced at Stan, to see if he wanted to voice any objections; then Soos, as the current owner of the shack; then the kids, with a silent apology for what this would mean for their summer; and when no one protested, Ford said, "You'll stay in the main shack. You can go anywhere that isn't closed behind a door—that means the kitchen, the living room, the R&D room, and the attic. You don't get to enter any room behind a door without supervision. You don't get access to tools, poisons, or anything you could potentially use as a weapon. No phone, no computer, no borrowing anybody's cellular phones, but you can use the TV."

"Question."

"Yes?"

"How will disputes over what to watch on TV be resolved."

"Everybody in the house gets priority over you."

"Now you're just being petty. You won't even say we could vote on TV selections?"

"Fine, let's vote. Who's in favor of being petty and never letting Bill choose what to watch?"

Everyone but Bill raised a hand.

Bill laughed. "Okay, I walked into that! But I want books."

"Fine. You can have books."

"And writing materials."

"Under supervision only."

"Sheesh, paranoid. Okay. And a radio."

Ford considered that.

"Come on, you don't think I could get into trouble with a radio."

"You can use the record player."

"Nobody uses records anymore. I want a CD player."

"Fine."

"Fine." Satisfied, Bill picked up the maple syrup bottle and poured way too much on his pancakes.

Mabel cast a quick, envious glance at Bill's banana octopus. It had chocolate chip eyes and was way cuter than she'd expected.

Bill caught her glance, gave her sugary pile of sprinkles and chocolate an equally covetous look, and said, "Want to go half and half?"

She shoved her plate over. "Like you wouldn't believe!"

Dipper hissed, "Mabel," and Mabel flinched, guiltily glancing toward Ford to see if the Head Bill Cipher Expert had any objections to the pancake swap. Ford grimaced, but said nothing. Mabel had already agreed and Ford couldn't think of anything Bill could have done to an untampered-with plate of pancakes, and if Ford objected on principle he'd just end up making himself look like the bad guy—which he had a sneaking suspicion Bill would immediately pounce on.

Meanwhile, Bill certainly hadn't waited to see if Ford approved. He mercilessly sawed his mushy cephalopod in half, the swap was made before anyone could protest Mabel sharing her bounty of sugar with the worst person in the universe, and Bill gleefully added more maple syrup to his new source of sweet sensory overload. He scooped up a forkful of pancakes, stuck it in his eye, then jerked his head back and stared in confusion when it just hurt. He tried the other eye before he remembered his mouth.

Mabel played with the banana peel tentacles on her half-octopus. At Dipper's grimace, she said, "It's fine, he'll be fine! Octopuses grow back if you cut them in half."

Soos had worked through his burger like popcorn at a movie while he watched Ford and Bill's hostage negotiations. Now that the important decisions had been made and Soos was down to fries, he said, "So, how are we gonna keep Bill out of all the other rooms? Am I gonna have to put locks on every door tomorrow? Because if we just say 'don't go there,' Bill will be like, 'okay,' and then do it anyway, you know?"

"Yeah, Stanford, how are you gonna keep me out of your rooms?" Bill was twirling a piece of bacon around his fork like spaghetti. "I hear I'm pretty sneaky." He stuck the fork in his eye again, winced, and gave it a disappointed look.

"Well—" Ford glanced around to ensure no one was nearby, leaned closer to Bill, and lowered his voice. "I've actually got a clever idea about that."

Instantly intrigued, Bill leaned in closer. "Oh, do you?"

Like he was inviting Bill in to hear a secret, Ford reached past Stan to put a hand on Bill's shoulder—and said, "Amnesia Limina—"

"You—!" Bill tried to jerk out of Ford's grip, but was blocked by a wall of Soos. Soos caught on and grabbed Bill's wrists before he could shove Ford's hand away.

"—Stupidi Digiti—"

"I hate you."

"—Occultus Locus."

A bright red light flashed between Ford's fingers. Bill's eye twitched. He jerked out of Soos's grip and shrugged off Ford's hand. "When did you learn how to play dirty?"

Dipper had watched with such fascination that he hadn't even noticed a chunk of omelet fall off his fork into his lap. "Whoa, what was that?"

"A curse," Ford said. "Cast it on a door, and no one who interacts with it will know how to open it. Cast it on a person, however—and they'll forget how to open any door. We don't have to worry about locking Bill in if he doesn't know how to use a doorknob, do we?"

Bill asked, "What's a doorknob?"

Stan cracked up. Ford grinned at Dipper and gestured at Bill. See?

"Seriously, what's a doorknob? I know every word in the English language, I'd know if 'doorknob' was a word. Is it a wart? A kind of fungus?" Bill sighed irritably. "I taught you that spell. This is how you pay me back for teaching you?"

"No, this is how I pay you back for torturing my family."

"I never tortured your family! Just you."

Mabel raised a hand. "You stuck me in a bubble."

"That wasn't torture. You had a great time."

Dipper said, "You threw me down the stairs and stabbed my arm."

"That was self-torture, and I had a great time."

Ford said, "Well, then—this is payback for myself."

Bill scowled, lips pursed, expression sour; and then spat a thick, milky wad of phlegm onto Ford's omelet.

Stan rounded on Bill so fast he kneed the table.

Ford put a hand on Stan's shoulder to stop him from making a scene. Calmly, he cut around the chunk of soiled omelet, scooped it up, and dropped it in Bill's milkshake.

Everyone tried to ignore how a crooked smile threatened to break through Bill's scowl. As if he was almost having fun.

When they left, in lieu of the extra tip Bill had wanted Stan to give the waitress, he turned over his paper menu and drew a map to an eighty-year-old buried cache of stolen jewelry just a fifteen minute walk from the diner.

He'd finished his milkshake, egg and all.

####

[m00nlight-ramblings]

Me and the Devil

While in the upside down, Eddie and the crew meet Death herself.

Pairings: Eddie x female (even though she's ethereal?) character

Warnings: talks of death, general spooky gothic stuff?, swearing. MINORS DNI

Requested: yes

Word Count: 3.8k

A/N: The entire crew is in the Upside Down for this one, let's bend the canon a little lol. Graphic and story made my by me. I do not give permission for my work to shared or re-posted. Pictures in graphic found on Pinterest, I do not own them. Thank you!

Eddie's chest heaved as the final bat (hell-bat? What the hell even were these things?) slammed into the ground, a high-pitched squeal escaping its body before he met it with his wooden bat, blood spilling on the ground.

"Oh god, Steve! Steve are you okay?" Nancy rushed to his side as he gently laid his back on the ground, his open wounds noticeable from multiple feet away. The sound of Nancy yelling Steve's name sent Dustin and Mike running to him to inspect. Eddie dropped his bat and ran walked over, almost afraid to get too close.

"Yeah, I'm...fine? No, I mean I'm not but, I-"

"Shut up for a second. Here, let's help. Will someone help him up with me?" Robin said, slinging one of his arms over her shoulder. Nancy took the other, propping him up gently as Steve groaned in pain.

Everyone seemingly sprang into action at the same time - trying to clear and clean an area for Steve, squawking over what we could do to help, ripping of clothes to create makeshift wrappings.

Eddie's head began to spin, sending a dizzy spell through him. So, just to get it straight, not only did the entire town of Hawkins hate him and want him dead for something he didn't even do, but now he was in Hell (sorry, the "Upside Down"), and was fighting a supernatural entity in order to save the planet - no, the universe? And on top of that, one of his friends almost met his end right in front of him?

Okay...so, this was overwhelming.

The voices from the group barking over each other made sweat break out on Eddie's forehead, and Steve's groaning wasn't making it any better. Panic started to rise in Eddie's stomach as his heart raced and wait a minute, when did he start pacing? Ringing his hands to try and expunge some of his excess anxiety, Eddie's mouth couldn't stop from moving:

"Oh god, oh god, oh fuck, oh Jesus Christ! Oh shit, okay, oh shit-"

And suddenly, a whistle.

A whistle so clear, and so loud, it silenced the group instantly. Eddie's anxiety ceased at once as he met the faces of the others - everyone's brows an identical shade of furrowed and confused.

"What the hell is that?" Dustin murmured, staying completely still. His eyes shifted around him, trying to find the source of the whistle. The whistle, that, somehow, had shushed the thunder and lightning of the Upside Down.

As the whistle grew louder, the group knitted closer around Steve (and each other) - even though they didn't know who or what it was, somehow the closeness made them feel more secure. Eddie's eyes met Steve's, which were unreadable.

Suddenly, a woman stepped out from a cluster of rocks a few feet away. As she stepped out, the air seemed to get sucked out from under them, and a bolt of lightening struck ways away; lighting up the sky, but having no noise.

The woman, dressed in an all black - perhaps a shroud that was tightly wrapped around her body - was the source of the whistling. As she stepped out and closer to the group, the sound got louder, sending shivers down Eddie's back. Her dark eyes danced and she smirked.

A hunter playing with their prey.

The group collectively stepped back as she moved forward.

"Well, hello." She purred, stopping and scanning the group. She removed the hood that encapsulated her face, sliding it down to her shoulders, revealing a swath of dark hair. “It seems I’ve been...called.”

“No!” Robin immediately shouted, unable to keep her mouth shut, “No calling done here! No one here called you, you must have the wrong number! A-a-actually, we don’t even have a phone down here!”

“Robin shut up.” Mike hissed, keeping his eyes on the woman and not moving her lips.

The woman laughed, which sent another shiver down Eddie’s spine. He eyed the wooden bat that he had left on the ground, a mere inches away from this woman’s foot.

Fuck, he thought, I’m such a fucking idiot. The woman took another step forward and smiled fully now, showing her impeccably white teeth. Whoever this woman was, she wasn't good news.

"No, no no..." She started to circle the group slowly, eyeing each one of us individually. The pause she was taking in her speech made us all even more uneasy. Finally, she looked at Steve, "A phone, dear, is not how I'm called. Think of it as..." She breathed in deeply, as if we were in some beautiful wildflower field and not the hellscape of the Upside Down, "A universal call. Psychic or..." She waved a hand in the air, "Whatever. Anyway-"

She took a large step in to Steve and looked at him, starting at his feet, "The universe called, and I answered."

"And what...exactly are you here to do?" Nancy protectively stepped out from under Steve's arm, earning a muted groan from him, "Who even are you?"

The woman made a small O with her mouth, nodding her head slowly, "Oh well, I'm Death, darling."

"WHAT?!" Dustin, Robin, Mike, and Eddie screamed out, taking a comically large step back from her.

"Oh come now, friends, it's just my job. And everyone's gotta work, right? So...just let me do my job and I'll be on my way and -" Suddenly, Death stopped. She tilted her head and bit the inside of her cheek, examining something.

Eddie couldn't help but follow her gaze, straight to El.

"My, my, my..." She finally spoke. She waved a finger, pushing Mike to the side without even touching them. "Do my eyes deceive me, or are you who I think you are?"

El, obviously terrified, stayed still as a statue as Death examined her. Eddie couldn't help but move closer, almost involuntarily.

"My, yes, I think you are," Death extended a finger (with a long, black-painted nail) and brushed a piece of El's hair behind her ear, "It is an honor to meet you. Forgive me but, you are a bit of a...legend...in these parts. You have been the talk of the town for quite some time, you know." Death clicked behind her teeth and smiled, "I was sent here for one person, but if my boss knows of your presence, well then-"

"Absolutely not," Eddie said, stepping in between Death and El, "Like fuck you are. You aren't taking anyone today. Move the fuck along, or we'll make you."

"Eds, you're literally talking to Death herself. I don't know if you'd be able to take her." Robin grumbled, "I certainly can't..."

"Oh, my love, I'm so sorry. But if I turned my back on every single person that their friend told me not to take, I wouldn't have a job!" Death chuckled a bit, eyeing Eddie. As Eddie looked at her, he realized she looked about their age. A...teenager? Was Death? Was it a trick of the mind, or did she just present herself that way?

Eddie shook his head at this ridiculous thought - how did he get to the point where he was trying to figure the schematics of Death's age...DEATH?!

"I do admit though," Death said, smiling at Eddie, "Most people go running for the hills once they figure out who I am. It's nice to have a proper conversation every once and a while," She turned and went back to circling the group again, "So thanks, for that."

"Well - well how about we continue the...fun? Conversation!" Argyle offered, "Right? Because you...lack...stimulating conversation so much..." Argyle's voice wavered as Death turned back and started to make her way towards him. Once they were eye to eye, Argyle let out a shaky breath, "Okay, yeah. I can see why people go running for the hills. You're terrifying."

Every head in the group turned to Argyle and Nancy hissed, "Argyle!" The air was still as no one moved. Suddenly, Death laughed.

Hard.

"Holy shit, you're funny!" She pointed at Argyle, "You're very funny! Oh fuck, I wish all my clients were like you all!" She turned to the group and smiled again, "It really is a shame I'll have to take Steve and El back with me, because you seem to all have a...good dynamic going on."

"Wait, you're here for me?" Steve suddenly asked, his eyes half open.

"Yeah you idiot, you're just realizing this?" Dustin looked at him, incredulous.

"Holy shit, that is terrifying." Steve spoke again.

"Dude, she's literally Death, what do you think she's here for?!"

"Hi, sorry to break this up," Death spoke again, interrupting Dustin and Steve's banter, "But can we wrap this up? I have a job to do."

"No! You can't!" Nancy shrieked, turning to Death as if she was an annoying sibling rather than, well...Death.

"Listen, Vecna isn't going to be too pleased when I don't return with at least ONE of the people I was called for, so-"

"Sorry, did you just say Vecna?! Your boss is Vecna?!" Mike hollered.

"Oh my god, we are so fucked." Dustin finished.

"We were so fucked before we found out her boss is Vecna, Dustin, WE ARE LITERALLY TALKING TO DEATH!" Eddie yelled, taking Dustin's shoulders and shaking them.

"Oh my god." Death rolled her eyes and walked away, sitting on a nearby rock. If they needed time to argue, then fine. She could let them argue. She had all the time in the world - she was Death, after all. As she watched a giant argument unfold between all members of the party, the feeling of annoyance that was once blooming in her chest was replaced by something else.

...sadness, was it?

No, that couldn't be. She hadn't felt sad in years...decades, centuries.

She had seen hundreds of thousands of groups of friends in the last moments of their lives - the crying, the screaming, the anger, the frightened feelings in their hearts. And the memories - the joy, the laughter, the happiness...she had experienced all the emotions with her clients. And 99.99% of the time, she was unaffected, just there to do her job.

So why was this group of seemingly giant bratty babies tugging at her heartstrings?

As she eyed the one with curly brown hair - Eddie, she remembers - she cocks her head to the side. The group's gravitational pull seemed to be much more than just this particular earthly plane - something about their dynamic, their love (and seemingly, anger) for one another made Death realize that this group was a group of soulmates. Destined to be in one another's lives in every lifetime, every dimension. And the fact that they were so young...

She had seen a few soulmate groups over her career, but never this young.

When she died (well, technically reborn as Death, according to the Devil himself) at 18-years-old, she had never had friends. Or love. Jealousy and loneliness weren't emotions that she necessarily felt from that point forward, but seeing this group together...something stirred within her.

What was it like to feel love? To feel...happy? To feel anything at all?

"Oh, fuck..." Death murmured, the pang in her heart growing. Her brain started to repeat the gnawing thought that had sparked inside of her years ago. Usually, she could shoo it away. But seeing this group...she couldn't help it.

What would life be like if she could start all over? Be normal again?

She stood, crossing her arms. "Hey," She spoke to the group.

They kept arguing.

"Hey..." She raised her voice a little louder.

Nothing.

"HEY. ASSHOLES." She shouted, silencing them. They all turned at once. "I'm going to make a deal with you," Getting up from the rock, she strode over to them, "I...will not take Steve. Or her." She pointed to El. The group all collectively sighed in relief.

"Oh, thank god." Nancy said. Death put a finger up to Nancy's face to quiet her.

"But...you have to do something for me."

"Of course..." Eddie murmured, looking at the ground.

Ignoring him, Death continued, "I became the collector of souls by a contract. Life-binding, in a sense. But..." Her voice trailed off, trying to find the right words to speak, "I...know I can leave this life behind. Get a second chance. I can become...well, not Death anymore. And I think if anyone can help me do it, it will be you all."

The group was silent. Finally, Dustin spoke, "So, like...take away all your hellish Death powers and you'd just be...human again?"

She nods, "Yes. We just need to kill Vecna, for the contract states I am indebted to him for as long as he is alive. If we kill him, and complete the ritual needed to turn me - I can handle the ritual part, don't worry - I can become human again and will start right back at my 18-year-old self."

"Oh that's it?" Dustin retorted sarcastically, "Just a simple 'kill Vecna' and boom we're good?"

"Well, I mean...we were already going to do that...so it doesn't seem like too far of a stretch..." Jonathan considered it for a moment.

"Dude are you really suggesting we let a she-devil into our group? You're suggesting we just let DEATH waltz into our group like she didn't come here to kill Steve?!" Robin shouted.

"To be fair, I could have easily killed all of you by this point if I wanted to." Death offered.

"NOT HELPING!" Robin and Will shouted to Death.

"O...kay..." Death huffed, shutting up.

"I say we do it. We don't have anything else to lose. I mean, we're in the Upside Down for fuck's sake. We're already going to kill Vecna so why not?" Eddie offered, shrugging. Death smiled at him.

She was starting to like him.

"Because this could be a trick!" Robin yelled, causing Eddie to jump, "She could be lying!"

"Um, actually, I can't lie. Since death in itself is an absolute truth, I therefore, literally cannot lie. I have to tell the truth at all times. Like...it's in my other-worldly make-up, or something." Death put a finger up to interrupt Robin.

Everyone stopped and stared at Death. There was silence for a moment, and then everyone looked at Robin. Robin made eye contact with everyone before she groaned and rolled her eyes.

"Fine. Whatever."

"Oh, yay. Thank you so much, you won't regret it!" Death purred. She sighed happily and shrugged expectantly. She spoke again, unable to contain her smile,

"So, what do we do now?"

An hour later, with the group travelling the Upside Down, Death had fallen in line with Eddie.

"So...what's your real name? You couldn't have been born Death, right?" He asked, thinking about actually, how metal would it be if she was born "Death"?

Death shrugged, "I don't remember. I honestly don't remember much about my old life since I was turned."

"Turned?"

She nodded, "Into Death. I was just a normal, boring girl. I got into an accident - I was attacked by wolves outside of my village. I was so scared...so terrified of what had happened, and of dying, that when my soul was to be collected, the Devil made a deal with me. I became Death - I was to collect the souls of those about to die, do his dirty work - and I would never have to experience death. Eventually I was passed to many different masters - 'bosses', if you will - until I landed with Vecna. That I do remember."

Eddie whistled, "That sounds...intense."

"it was. If i knew the things I know about death now, back then, I would've died. It's a much better situation than...whatever mess I've gotten myself into."

"What are the secrets of death?"

"Ah..." Death laughed, "That's for me to know. I don't want to spoil the fun."

Eddie smiled at her and looked down at his feet. You know, for a she-devil, she wasn't so bad. "How old were you when you turned?"

"18," Death said, "For a long time, I was okay with what I was doing. I felt nothing, I had a higher purpose. Get in, collect, get out. But..." Her voice trailed off, looking into the distance in front of them, "I started to observe people in their final moments. I was able to see the memories of their life, of their family, of their relationships...and I realized I would never have that," She shook her head, "Which for a while was fine. But...centuries of never feeling can take a toll on you, I guess."

"So when you turn back..." Eddie said after a moment, "Like, when we kill Vecna and you do your ritual and whatever...what happens?"

"I turn back to a human. I start at 18 again. I get a second chance. I scoured that contract for a loophole, and when I found it...I felt the first glimmer of hope I had felt in forever. It would be re-written every time I changed masters...Vecna thinks he can never be killed. But I know he can," Death looked at Eddie with...softness in her eyes? "And whatever is happening in your world will restore itself, and I can get a second chance."

"Why the change of heart?" Eddie's voice was soft, barely above a whisper. He had stopped walking, causing Death to pause. When their eyes met again, his were filled with sadness, she noticed.

"I saw all of your arguing..." She stopped to laugh to herself, "And realized I wanted the chance to argue with friends. I wanted friends again. I want...to fall in love. Once, I had to find the soul of someone who died at a rock concert because he had overdosed. And even though that is of course, incredibly sad...it made me realize I want to experience a rock concert. Stupid, silly things like that."

Eddie blushed and started walking again, "I'm in a band. I play concerts."

Death smiled, "Do you now?"

He nodded, "Yep. I play guitar. And it's rock...well, metal. But...once this all gets squared away and you're human again, you should come to one of our shows."

Death giggled, a blush rising on her cheeks. (A blush?! Since when did she blush?) "I'd love that."

A moment of silence passed between them as the air felt hot. "Won't...your bosses be mad that you just...leave? Like, who else is gonna be Death? That's a pretty important role."

"Think of it as me quitting, without putting my two weeks in...they'll find someone else, quickly. The fear of death is not uncommon, by any means. Someone will want to 'live' forever, no matter the cost. The poor soul..." Death's voice trailed off as she thought about the person who would be replacing her.

"I'm...sorry...by the way..." Eddie started, his voice low. He looked Death in her eyes as she scrunched her face, "I'm sorry that this entire thing happened to you. It doesn't sound...fun. By any means," He sighed, one of his hands reaching to scratch the back of his head, "Actually, it sucks. But...we'll get him. And you'll be able to go back to normal. And you'll be able to go to a rock concert. I promise." He offered a smile, causing Death to smile as well.

Another blush rose on her cheeks.

"I hope so."

*3 Months After the Saving of Hawkins*

"If you guys don't hurry up now, I'm leaving you home and you won't be able to get a ride with me, so move it!" Steve shouted into the Wheeler's house, leaning on the doorframe of their front door. He sighed and checked his watch and yep, just like he thought - 15 minutes behind schedule.

Dustin, Mike, Will, and Lucas were the first to scamper out of basement, yelling and shouting about their current D&D campaign. Steve ushered them into the car with a smattering of "go, go, go!" Before Mike got into the car, Steve grabbed him by his collar.

"Do we have to wait for your sister or is she taking her own car?"

Mike shook his head, "No, she's taking the girls, so Max, El and Jennifer are going with her. Something about 'No Boys Allowed' when they were doing their hair and makeup or something?"

Steve rolled his eyes, "Ugh okay fine. Let's go. We're gonna be late - I don't even want to go to this show and here I am, driving you guys around AGAIN."

Steve shut the Wheeler's door just as Nancy was opening her bedroom door, the girls spilling out, giggling. Max fluffed El's hair as she walked behind her, and Nancy was re-applying her lipgloss.

"So, are you just so excited to see Eddie play tonight, Jen?" Nancy asked, teasing her innocently, "Rockstar boyfriend and all?"

Jennifer - formally "Death" - giggled and could feel the blush rising to her cheeks. "Enouuggghhh...of course I am," She giggled again, but it turned into a sigh, "Except I got a pimple for the first time in like, literally 350 years last night, like, of course the night before Eddie's big show."

"Yeah, well, you wanted to be human. Welcome to womanhood, toots!" Max said, slinging an arm around Jennifer.

~*~

As the group made their way and enjoyed Corroded Coffin's first concert since Hawkins (and the world) was saved (Steve enjoyed it, he just didn't want to admit it), they found their way over to the band at the bar. Eddie couldn't have taken his eyes off of Jennifer the entire time, no matter how hard he tried. And as he watched her walk over to him, it wasn't every different. Immediately he hopped off of his stool and wrapped his arms around her, breathing in her scent.

"Hi babe," He murmured into her ear, placing a kiss on her temple. Jennifer couldn't help by smile.

"Hi, babe. You were so good. I loved it!" She pulled away and looked at the rest of the band to compliment them. The group started to intermingle and Eddie took her hand, leading her a little bit away from the group.

"So...enjoy your first rock concert?" He asked, cocking an eyebrow. She smiled and nodded, hooking one of her fingers into his jean's belt loop.

"I wouldn't have wanted it any other way." She leaned in to kiss him, the butterflies fluttering in her chest. After killing Vecna, when she had completed the ritual and saw Eddie for the first time after, she had experience butterflies for the first time in 350 years.

And since them, they didn't seem to stop.

Eddie smiled into the kiss and strengthened it, cupping her cheeks with feverish hands, "I'm so happy you're here."

Jennifer nodded. It had been 3 months since she was able to turn back to a human, leaving the life of Death behind her. And with it came emotions, and schoolwork, and navigating human life...pimples, periods, sad songs, even being made fun of.

But there was also love, and her new friends, and her new "family" (being "adopted" by Hopper and pretending to be a high school student again), kissing Eddie, passing notes to Nancy in classes, popcorn, going to the mall, watching movies on the couch, the promise of a rollercoaster of a normal, human life.

She looked Eddie in the eyes, grabbing his hands again. "I'm happy I'm here, too."

-----

Will I ever be able to write a short oneshot again? Who knows. But I had so much fun writing this one! What did you guys think?!

Reminder: my inbox is open for requests to head over there and fill it, I'm itching to write!

[sonekwi]

☆ ⸻ the white paladin, keith x reader

chapter three: lion assignment

characters/parings: keith, female reader

genre: fanfiction

summary: on another planet millions of lightyears away from earth, you and your friends awaken two aliens who have been asleep for 10,000 years.

word count: 3,911

links: previous, next, wattpad, masterlist

     The Blue Lion flies towards a castle. Four tall pillars accented with a blue that reminds you of the coastal waters of home surround the main structure. A long, ancient, and deteriorating bridge connects the lone plateau the castle sits on to the rest of the world.

     As the Lion lands in the large, spacious courtyard before it, it lowers its head to the ground.

     "Keep your guard up," Shiro warns.

     "What's wrong?" you ask.

     "My crew was captured by aliens once, I'm not going to let it happen again," he says.

     The group exits the Lion, your mouths agape and your eyes wide with awe and disbelief. Your footsteps echo loudly within the courtyard and the pearly white stone beneath your feet seems too clean. You look around, hoping to spot someone or something, but you're alone.

     Behind you, the Lion stands and roars. Hunk freaks out and hides behind you, screaming that you're going to be eaten. But the doors to the castle groan as they open and the Lion sits back down.

     "Oh... the door is open!" Hunk says, coming out from behind you. He looks at the Blue Lion, "I guess I was wrong about you!"

     The doors lead to darkness, the sunlight only reaching so far inside. You feel uneasy not knowing what lurks within. Thankfully, Shiro takes the lead and the rest of you cautiously follow. And after a few moments inside, your eyes finally adjust to the darkness. The group stands in a room larger than any you have ever seen; the Blue Lion could easily fit inside.

     "Hello!" Hunk calls out and you nearly jump out of your skin.

     The group stops in the middle of the room. In front of you, a large staircase leads to an upper floor and the balconies overlooking the room.

     "From the size of the Lion, I expected these steps to be bigger," Pidge observes.

     "Maybe the castle isn't for the Lion," you say, looking around.

     Something powers on above you and creates a ring of light around you. The tiles below you illuminate and a robotic voice speaks, "Hold for identity scan."

     A light rises from the ground at your feet and up to your head, scanning you and gathering whatever information is needed.

     "Why are we here? What do you want with us?" Shiro interrogates but is left unanswered.

     The scanner powers off. The room lights up, the torches along the walls igniting. You can properly see now, and you're realizing just how futuristic the castle is. Its architecture is abstract and alien.

     As the long corridor at the top of the steps lights up as well, Pidge shrugs and says, "I guess we go that way."

     The group moves forward and you grab onto Lance's arm to make sure he stays close. Knowing him, he would see something and wander off.

     "(y/n), I can walk myself," your brother complains.

     "You're basically a two-year-old in the body of a teenager," you say.

     Lance irks. "You're literally ten months younger than me! What makes you think you're any different?"

      You roll your eyes, "I'm much more mature."

     "What!?" Lance barks at you, ripping his arm from your grasp. "You drink apple juice and eat animal crackers like they're your freaking life source!"

     "So?" you say and raise a brow at him.

     The six of you wander into another room. In the center sits a control console and two cryopods standing vertically a few feet behind it. Lance walks up to one of the pods, tapping on the glass. He mutters something to himself.

     You and Pidge inspect the control console in the center, or at least that's what you think it is now that you're looking at it. There's nothing on it, and there doesn't seem to be a way to turn it on.

     Lance screams when the cryopod he stands by hisses loudly, the freezing air from within escaping as the seal breaks. The glass door opens, revealing a beautiful woman with curly white hair and dark skin. She whispers something and her knees buckle beneath her. Lance catches her before she falls to the ground.

     She looks up at your brother. "Where am I? Who are you?" she asks.

     Lance grins, his cheeks flushing. "I'm Lance, and you're right here in my arms," he flirts.

     The woman gives him a quizzical look. She reaches a hand towards his head. "Your... ears?" she says. It's now that you notice her ears are pointed.

     "What about them?" Lance asks.

     "They're hideous," the woman grimaces, "What's wrong with them?"

     "Nothing's wrong with them! They heard exactly what you said about them- Agh!" Lance grunts as the woman yanks him by the ear and throws him to the ground. She grabs his arm, pinning it behind his back.

     "Who are you? Where is King Alfor?" she interrogates. "What are you doing in my castle?"

     You feel your heart beat wildly within your chest. Adrenaline rushes through your veins at the sight of your brother in danger. Without a single thought, you charge at the woman to protect him. Your shoulder connects with hers and she falls to the ground. As you stand over Lance, you watch her movements carefully.

     "Don't touch him," you growl, "A Blue Lion brought us here and that's all we know."

     The woman picks herself up and dusts off the skirt of her dress. "How do you have the Blue Lion? What happened to its Paladin?" she asks, staring at you and Lance for a moment. She glances around the room and sees the rest of the group. "What are you all doing here? Unless- How long has it been?" she rushes over to the control console, placing her hands on top of it.

     "So that's how that works," Pidge comments as the control console powers on, a holographic screen popping up.

     "Who are you?" Shiro asks, "Maybe we can help?"

     You glare at the back of her head as you help Lance off of the floor. Whoever she is, she is not touching Lance ever again.

     "I'm Princess Allura of the plant Altea," the woman says and presses a button. The other cryopod opens up and an older man with a bushy orange mustache wakes up.

     The man gasps and shouts, "Enemy combatants!" He lunges from the cryopod at you and Lance, and the two of you easily dodge him.

     The man catches himself on the other pod, groaning. "Quiznack! You're lucky I have a case of the old 'sleep chamber knees'," he says, turning to you.

     Crazy old man, you think to yourself. His detailed explanation of how he would take you down in a fight goes in one ear and out the other. You feel no need to be defensive, because if he was going to fight you he would have done so already.

     But your brother decides it would be fun to entertain him.

     You leave Lance to the chaos and join the rest of the group near the control panel. You keep your distance from Allura as you watch her pull up some data.

     "It can't be," she says with shock.

     The man stops and looks at her. "What is it?" he asks.

     "We've been asleep for ten thousand years," Allura says, her expression quickly turning to anger. She glares at her hands before turning to the man. "Altea and all the planets in our solar system have been destroyed. Coran... Father is gone. Our entire civilization... It was all Zarkon."

     Shiro's eyes go wide. "Zarkon?"

     Allura clenches her jaw. "He was the king of the Galra. A vile creature and enemy to all free people."

     Shiro looks down at his robotic arm, flexing the fingers into a fist. "I remember now... I was his prisoner."

     "He's still alive? That's impossible," Allura says.

     "I can't explain, but it's true," Shiro says. "He's searching for a super weapon called Voltron."

     Allura shakes her head, "He's searching for it because he knows it's the only thing that can stop him," she says, "And that's exactly why we must find it before he does-"

     The castle's alarms blare and the console's screen flashes red. It shows a video of an alien warship similar to the one you encountered back at Earth.

     "A Galra battleship has set its tracker to us!" Coran exclaims.

     "How did they even find us?" you ask.

     "I bet it's Keith's fault," Lance says, side-eyeing the mullet boy.

     Keith rolls his eyes, "Say whatever you gotta say to make yourself feel better," he growls, "After getting us stuck on the other side of a wormhole!"

     Lance gets in Keith's face, "I'll stick you in a wormhole!"

     Shiro grabs Lance and pulls him back and you do the same with Keith. As Lance raises his arms and feigns innocence, Shiro steps between them, "Stow it, cadets! This is no time to blame others, it's time to work as a team!"

     Keith stares your brother down and you can practically feel his blood boil beneath his skin. You tighten your grip on his arm to get his attention, but he doesn't look at you.

     Shiro turns to Coran, "How long before they arrive?"

     "At their speed?" Coran hums, counting his fingers, "I'd say... a couple of days?"

      "Good, let them come," Allura says. "By the time they've arrived, you will have reformed Voltron and together, we will destroy Zarkon's empire."

     "Princess," Shiro says, "There are five of these Lions, how are we going to find the rest?"

     "Come with me," Allura says and walks out of the room. The group follows her, but you're wary. The last time you told you to go with them, you ended up flying through space halfway across the galaxy... at least you think it's halfway.

     Allura enters another large room, glass windows reaching floor to ceiling all around it. The room contains a large control console at the far end of it, six individual chairs towards the entrance, and two waist-high pillars in the center. A large crystal is mounted on the ceiling above them.

     "King Alfor connected the Lions to Allura's life force," Coran says, "She alone is the key to their whereabouts."

     Allura walks up to the pillars, placing her hands on the crystal blue orbs sitting on top of them. She closes her eyes and the crystal above her shines a light down on her. After a moment, a three-dimensional, holographic map of the universe fills the entire room. Stars, planets, and various other markers float through the air. You smile, amazed at the technology.

     "These are... coordinates," Pidge says, curiously reaching a hand through one as it floats by him; the Black Lion. "It looks like the Black Lion is in the same place as the Blue Lion."

     "That's because the Black Lion is in the castle," Allura explains.

     "To keep it out of Zarkon's hands, King Alfor locked it in the castle," Coran says, "It can only be freed if the other Lions are present."

     "As you have found, the Lions choose their pilots," Allura says. "It is a mystical bond and cannot be forced."

     You cross your arms, confused. "Then how come the Blue Lion let me and Lance fly it? These things are made to only need one pilot."

     Allura furrows her brows, "I... do not know. Perhaps it's because you share the same blood? The quintessence of the pilot is mirrored in their Lion," she says.

     You share a look with your brother and he shrugs.

     Allura swipes her hand through the air and the map rotates. The Black Lion floats above Shiro's head. "The Black Lion the decisive head of Voltron. It requires a pilot who is a born leader and in control at all times. Someone whose men with follow without hesitation. That is why, Shiro, you will pilot the Black Lion."

     "The Green Lion has an inquisitive personality," Allura says, moving the Green Lion to Pidge, "And needs a pilot of intellect and daring. Pidge, you will pilot the Green Lion."

     "The Blue Lion–"

     "Hold up, let me guess!" Lance interrupts, "Takes the most handsome slash best pilot of the bunch?"

     You smack his arm, silently telling him to knock it off. He hits you back, and it takes every fiber of your being to not give in to your little sister instincts.

     Allura moves on, "The Yellow Lion is caring and kind," she moves the Lion's marker over to Hunk, "Its pilot puts the needs of others before his own. His heart must be mighty. Hunk, as the leg of Voltron, you will lift the team up and hold them together."

     Allura looks down at her hands where the Red Lion's marker now sits. "The Red Lion is temperamental and difficult to master. It's faster and more agile than the others, but also more unstable," she releases the Red Lion and it floats over to Keith. "It's pilot needs to be someone who relies more on instinct rather than skill. Keith, you will fly the Red Lion."

     She continues, "Unfortunately I can't locate the Red Lion's coordinates yet. There must be something wrong with the castle, and after ten thousand years, it might need some work..."

     "Don't worry!" Coran interjects, "We'll find it soon. They don't call me the Coranic for nothing!" he pauses, "You know, cause it sounds like mechanic... Coranic... mechanic..."

     Allura smiles, laughing softly. As she continues speaking, the Lions floating around the map roar and fly toward the center of the room, forming Voltron. "Once the Lions are united, you will form Voltron, the most powerful warrior the universe has ever known!"

     The map dissipates. To be honest, you're a little bummed you don't get a giant robot cat to fly around. But at least you still get to help out... maybe. You're not sure what you can do.

     "Wait, how does a Lion turn into a leg?" Hunk asks Allura. "Also, is this going to take a while, because I have to pee. Do you people pee?"

     Shiro sighs, "We don't have much time. Pidge and I will go after the Green Lion. Lance, you take Hunk and get the Yellow Lion. Keith and (y/n), you can stay here until the Red Lion is found."

     "In the meantime, I'll get the castle's defenses ready," Allura says. "It will be sorely needed."

     Coran folds his arms behind his back, "I'll ready a pod and load in the coordinates so you can get to the Green Lion," he says, "But we can only keep the wormholes leading to the other Lions open for two of your Earth hours, so make it quick!"

⁀➷

     You and Keith sit on the floor, playing a game of twenty questions while Allura and Coran configure the castle's defenses. You lean back against the wall, puckering your lips as you think.

     "Is it... big?" you ask.

     "Yeah," Keith answers.

     "Is it... an animal?"

     "Sort of?"

     "Is it red?"

     "Yeah."

     "Is it the Red Lion?" you ask with a smile and sit up.

     Keith kisses his teeth, "Yeah, how'd you guess it so quickly?"

     "You just gotta come up with things that are harder to figure out," you say. You place your hands on your knees and Keith takes his turn asking questions.

     The two of you get through a few more rounds of the game before the others return. Shiro and Pidge are in a pleasant mood, whereas Lance and Hunk look like they went through Hell. Keith stands and you grab his hand and he helps you up.

     "You made it!" Allura chirps.

     Lance rolls his shoulder, groaning. "Yeah, just barely. That was a nightmare..."

     "Did you find the Red Lion yet?" Shiro asks.

     "Allura just located it," Coran says. "There's a bit of good news and bad news..."

     "Good news first?" you shrug.

     "Okay, the Red Lion's nearby!" Coran says, then crosses his arms. "The bad news... it's aboard that Galra ship now orbiting planet Arus."

     You grimace, glancing at Keith. He's going to have to go straight through the enemy to get to the Red Lion.

     "But wait, good news again," Coran exclaims, "We're Arus!"

     "They're already here!?" Shiro shouts.

     "I guess my calculations were a bit off..." Coran says. "Finger counting is more of an art than an actual science."

     The room's lights flicker for a moment before a broadcast appears on a large screen. On it is a one-eyed alien with purple fur and fluffy ears. Under other circumstances, you would think he was adorable. But his menacing snarl reminds you what he's here for.

     "Princess Allura," the alien speaks, "I am Commander Sendak of the Galra Empire. I come on behalf of Emperor Zarkon to confiscate the Voltron Lions. Turn them over to me, or I will destroy planet Arus."

     The broadcast ends and you feel nauseated. You turn to Shiro, hoping for some words of encouragement.

     "Alright, let's not panic," he says.

     "Not panic?" you look at him with disbelief.

     "The scary purple alien thing is driving his battleship towards us!" Hunk exclaims, "We only have four Lions–"

     Pidge interjects, "Technically three working Lions."

     Hunk pats his shoulder as to say a very sarcastic thank you, "Three working Lions and a castle that's, like, ten thousand years old!"

     "Actually," Coran smiles proudly, twirling with his mustache, "It's ten thousand six hundred years old–"

     You shoot him a glare, "Not helping Coran!"

     "See?" Hunk gestures to Shiro, "Now is the perfect time to panic!"

     "Just wait," Allura says desperately, "This castle has a particle barrier we can activate."

     Lance smirks, "Girl, you've already activated my par–"

     "Lance!" Shiro growls.

     Coran pulls up a diagnostics screen of the Galra battleship. He highlights the canon sitting on top of it and isolates the individual information of it. "The particle barrier won't stand against Sendak's ion canon forever. The Galra's technology must have advanced since the last time we fought..."

     "Panic now?" Hunk asks.

     "No," Shiro sighs, "We just need to figure out our plan of action... and figure it out quickly."

     "I say we pop through a wormhole and live to see another day," Lance says.

     "I second that," Hunk says.

     "Did you not hear Sendak?" you ask, frowning at the two. "He'll destroy the planet if we don't do as he says. We'll be screwing over everything that lives on Arus if we run away!"

     "And the Galra will keep destroying planets and capturing prisoners until we stop them," Pidge says.

     "But what if Sendak doesn't destroy the planet and follows us through the wormhole?" Hunk asks.

     "Are you seriously gonna trust that?" you cross your arms.

     "Staying is our only option," Keith says, standing beside you.

     "Here's an option, shut your quiznack!" Lance says and the vulgar words nearly kill Allura and Coran on the spot.

     "I don't think you're using that word correctly," Keith says, getting increasingly frustrated with your brother.

     "What do you know, mullet?" Lance asks, getting in Keith's face.

     "We're staying!" Keith shouts.

     "Leaving!" Lance argues back.

     "Guys, stop!" Shiro barks,

     You step between the two, holding your arms out at your sides to keep Lance from simply going around you. You take a few steps back, moving Keith with you. "Can you not go at each other's throats right now?" you growl.

     Shiro turns to Allura, "Princess, these are your Lions. You've dealt with the Galra Empire before. You know what we're facing better than any of us. What do you think is the best course of action?"

     She hesitates, eyes wide with uncertainty, "I don't know..." she says softly.

     Coran rests a hand on her shoulder, "Perhaps your father can help?"

⁀➷

     Allura returns a few moments later dressed in an Altean uniform, a determined look on her face. "You five paladins were brought here for a reason. The Voltron Lions are meant to be piloted by you alone. We must fight and keep fighting until we defeat Zarkon. Voltron is the universe's only hope."

     "We're with you, Princess," Shiro says.

     "Then come with me," Allura says.

     She brings everyone to an armory. Five suits of armor sit safe and sound within glass cases, the accent colors of each one coordinating with a Lion.

     "Your suits of armor," Allura says.

     You watch as your brother runs up to the Blue Lion armor, gawking at it. You frown, majorly feeling left out, and walk over to him.

     "This is so cool!" Lance says, glancing back at you. "I wish you could get one too."

     "Yep," you purse your lips.

     "Alright," Shiro says, "Let's suit up!"

     Once everyone is in their Paladin armor, Allura moves over to a table. She places her hand on the glass top and it slowly disappears, revealing four strange objects.

     "These are your bayards. The traditional weapon of the Paladins of Voltron. It takes a distinct shape for each Paladin," she says and they mystically float up and into the hands of their Paladins, transforming into a different weapon.

     Hunk gets something similar to a Gatling gun, Keith gets a sword, Lance gets an Altean rifle, and Pidge gets a handblade. But Shiro doesn't get a bayard.

     "Shiro, I'm afraid your bayard was lost with its Paladin," Allura says.

     He shrugs, "I guess I'll just have to make do."

     When everyone comes back to the main control room, the group begins to devise a plan. Coran pulls the Galra battleship diagnostics back up, and Allura talks the rest of you through it.

     "You'll need to retrieve the Red Lion from Sendak's ship," she says. "There are various areas of the ship you can enter through, but not without being spotted."

     "That's a really big ship," Keith says, "How are we going to know where the Red Lion is?"

     Pidge says, "It's not a matter of we, it's a matter of you."

     "Yeah!" Hunk says, "Once we get you in there, you'll be able to feel the Red Lion's presence and track it down."

     "You know how you felt that crazy energy while we were in the desert?" Lance asks.

     "Yeah, you made fun of me for it," Keith frowns.

     "And I'm proud of it," Lance smirks, "But turns out, it's just like that."

     "Keith," Allura says and he looks at her, "Remember, the Red Lion is extremely temperamental. You'll have to earn its respect."

     "Alright," Shiro says, placing a reassuring hand on Keith's shoulder. "Here's our plan of attack...

     "The Galra empire knows about the Blue and Yellow Lions, but they don't know about the Green Lion. Hunk and Lance, you'll act as a decoy by pretending to give yourselves up. Keith, Pidge, and I will sneak onto the ship in the Green Lion. Keith and I will find the Red Lion while Pidge guards our exit. Hunk and Lance, you need to find some way to take down that ion canon in the meantime."

     "Let me come with," you say, "I want to help."

     "I don't think there's anything you can do other than stay here with Allura and Coran," Shiro says. "Besides, you don't have any armor or weapons."

     "I'm sure there's some spare stuff," you say, hoping to persuade him. "I don't want to sit here and wait around. I can help you guys find the Red Lion."

     Shiro stares at you for a moment, considering. He then sighs, "Fine. Allura, is there another suit of armor (y/n) can use?"

[whatwhump]

Ex-Villain Whumpee: Pt. 4!

Hello lovely whump community! I apologize for how long this took me; I’m in school so it can be hard to find time to write sometimes. :) 

Anywho, thank you for all of the encouragement for this story! I’m excited to announce this will be an ongoing series! I’m not sure for how long, but what I anticipated as being only a few posts I think has potential to be a larger arc. I’m really excited to dive into these character’s relationship dynamics and plan to use all of my favorite whump tropes! I’ve got some pretty evil fun ideas in the works. ;) My goal is to update this story bi-weekly. 

This is by no means my best work because I’m just doing this for fun. I hope you don’t mind and still walk away with whumperflies! 

**For list of character names/roles as well as Parts 1-3, see the previous post here**

TW: whipping, torture, beating, self-harm reference, suicidal thoughts (of the passive ideation variety), severe self-esteem issues; bad caretaker

“I. Won’t. Break.” 

Despite their diminutive stature, Charlie towered over Alex as they writhed against restraints on the table of Eric Goodgrave's torture chamber interrogation room. 

Charlie stared down at their victim grimly. “You will. You have to,” they responded matter-of-factly. 

Both of them were sweating beneath the bright, hot lights. They were going on hour three of their little dance, now. Charlie still held the whip but it now dangled lifelessly beside them. They simply stared down their victim. Cool. Calm. Collected. 

Alex–lying on their stomach–strained their neck to glare back at them, practically seething with rage. The anger protected them; as long as they held on to the fury deep within, it helped distract them from the excruciating burning all across their bare back. Yes, inside that room and beyond, anger protected them from the brutal realities of life as a hero. 

Charlie began the interrogation in a suit with a buttoned-up white dress shirt. By now, though, they had abandoned the blazer and rolled up their sleeves. It struck Alex as a strange juxtaposition. Here they were, being torn apart by this…this psychopath, as if they had just arrived home from their 9 to 5 to find the dog had peed in the house and were slightly irritated.

“Tell me where the team is,” Charlie murmured, slowly raising the whip up off the ground in a warning. 

Alex wanted the suffering to stop more than anything; they’d already passed out–twice–and hadn’t had anything to eat or drink in at least two days. But not more than they wanted to keep their teammates safe. No, they cared about them too much. They would die for them, there was no doubt in their mind. Alex scowled; unfortunately, although they wished to spit right in Charlie’s stupid face as they had at the start of the session, their parched mouth could no longer produce any saliva. I think I might die here, they thought to themselves…

That’s when they saw it. How hadn’t they seen it before?! 

Charlie’s dress shirt had shifted just enough to reveal a tattoo on their collarbone—a tattoo of a sparrow…the symbol of the hero's resistance. Identical to the tattoo they had as well! 

A roguish smile crossed Alex’s battered face. 

“So…what’s it like to be a traitor?” Charlie’s brows furrowed in confusion. 

“What are you talking about?” 

“Your defection from the Hero’s League, silly!” Charlie’s face flashed with surprise momentarily before they returned to their stoic expression. 

“I think the blood loss is getting to you.” 

“Come on! Spill the tea!” cried Alex. Charlie tightened their grip on the whip and took a menacing step forward. 

“Ughhh–FINE, Mopey-Pants,” they said rolling their eyes. “Lucky for you I’m a good guesser. Hmmm….let’s see. You…stole documents with sensitive information?” 

Charlie sighed. “Stop this. Just spit it out already. There’s no other way you’re getting out of this.”

“Ok, not that one, then. Ummmm…failed a dangerous mission that resulted in the deaths of thousands?  Yikes, that’s definitely a big no-no! How about…unencrypted the hero’s security system? Staged a coup?”

Charlie was starting to get red in the face. Of course, this only provoked Alex to push further. 

“What about damaging top-secret technology?” 

“Alex–”

“Oooh oooh, I know! You shared your secret identity? Took an extra tray of tater-tots in the cafeteria?” 

“STOP,” Charlie exclaimed, adjusting their stance uncomfortably. They weren’t used to these things not going their way, of not having total control. The grin on Alex’s face spread even wider. 

“What about just sucking at doing your job, plain and simple?” 

“I will give you twenty more lashes if you don’t–”

“I’ve got it! You fell in love with a co-worker!” 

Alex opened their mouth once more to continue their diatribe but paused. It was slight, barely perceptible, but they saw it. Charlie’s eyes had widened a bit on that one… 

“Wait…seriously? Oh. My. GOD!! You actually–” Alex burst into laughter. But honestly, it wasn’t just to piss them off. It was genuinely ridiculous to them. (And the blood loss and malnutrition wasn’t helping either). 

“You have got to be kidding me! But I guess it’s kinda sweet; you had a little office crush!” Alex mocked, their eyes sparkling in pure, unbridled joy at the humiliation evident on Charlie’s face. 

“That’s–that’s not true,” Charlie stammered. “You’re just making shit up! Stop this nonsense because I swear I’ll–”

“You were actually so butt-hurt that after they broke your heart you became evil?” 

“Shut–”

“Your self-esteem is so fragile you actually became a villain! Like a coward! A self-pitying, coward!” 

Charlie was pissed now. Mortified and pissed. Their chest heaved as their breathing grew heavy and their nostrils flared. They couldn’t get a word in as Alex continued to denigrate them.

“What are you, an incel?! How absolutely–” 

“STOP–”

“PATHETIC!” Alex wheezed. They were howling with laughter now. So invested in the hilarity of the situation and having pulled one over on their abuser, Alex didn’t notice as Charlie…well…broke. 

“You were NEVER a true hero! You’re just a slimy, insecure, foolish bastard! Oh lord, whoever broke up with you dodged a HUGE bullet! Like what kinda idiot thinks you of all–” 

“SHUT UP!!!! SHUT UP!! SHUT UP SHUT UP SHUT UP!!! DON’T YOU DARE SPEAK OF THEM! DON’T YOU DARE INSULT THEM IN MY PRESENCE!” 

What happened next was a blur, for both hero and villain. Charlie whipped out the knife from their pocket and slashed it across Alex’s face. Then, they wrenched back the whip and slammed it against Alex’s back, over and over and over again. They were absolutely relentless, the entire time screaming, “YOU DON’T KNOW WHAT YOU’RE TALKING ABOUT! YOU PIECE OF SHIT!” 

Alex screamed as Charlie used more force than they had before. The lacerations already on their back deepened, scarlet red practically flooding off the sides of table. Charlie’s barrage just would not stop. Tears streamed out of Alex’s eyes as apologized profusely and begged for it to stop. Soon their vision grew blurry and they silently thanked God for the embrace of unconsciousness. But they knew this nightmare would still be here when they woke up. 

Before they completely lost touch, they managed to shriek…

~ 

“I’LL TELL YOU!” 

Alex shot out of bed with a whimper. They ware disoriented at first, still babbling through sobs, before their eyes begin to adjust to the darkness. They are in the cell. Goodgrave’s cell. The small skylight above them emanates the soft, bluish glow of early morning hours. Dew drops dot the dirty glass and they become aware of just how cold the room is. The calmness felt eerie and unsettling after such a nightmare. 

Then they looked beside them. 

Seeing Charlie asleep in the bed brought back a tsunami of memories from the day prior. It generated a visceral reaction in them–making their stomach churn in knots and their heart pound even faster. Immediately they bolted off the bed, backing away until they were on the other side of the room. They sunk down to the floor and watched as their enemy remained asleep. 

Charlie had the blanket draped over them but it was thin and raggedy; no match for the icy, winter morning. They shivered and their teeth clattered slightly. They were still covered in blood and bruises from the night before and hugged the broken arm to their stomach. It bent at a disturbing angle and was an angry red color. But what Alex noticed the most was their pallid face. It was drawn down in frown. Grime and blood painted their cheeks. 

Without even thinking about it Alex’s finger softly ghosted along the scar across their face. They stood up and crossed the cell to the small mirror hanging above the dirty, old sink. They’d become used to it by now. Their mind spun in circles, overrun and overwhelmed. 

The prone figure behind them couldn’t hurt them now. Not just because they were asleep, or because they had become weak and sickly after their time with Eric, but because by the time Charlie was taken captive by the Hero’s Alliance eight months prior they were a shell of themselves. The stoic, fearsome interrogator they once knew was replaced by a nervous, obedient individual. Ripley said Charlie seemed genuinely repentant. To the point of self-disgust. Alex refused to believe this. (They did notice the way Charlie avoided looking at themselves in the mirror, and a couple times noticed the scars they tried to hide beneath long sleeves. They noticed it because Alex used to be like that, too. But Alex didn’t care…how could they?) 

“Alex.” 

Alex jumped, startled by the groggy voice, and spun around. Charlie was using their good arm to prop themselves up. They could only open one eye, the other nearly swollen shut and mottled with purple, black splotches. 

“Sorry,” Charlie whispered. They ducked their head as the tips of their ears reddened. “Didn’t mean to startle you.” Alex hummed in response. A moment of awkward silence elapsed. Alex focused on removing a piece of lint from their shirt and did their best to look completely unperterbed despite their recent dream.

 “Are you…um…are you okay?” Charlie asked. 

“I’m fine.” An awkward silence filled the space between them once more. Charlie tried to move from their position but quickly regretted it, hissing as their broken arm was jostled. Cautiously, Alex neared the bed. They shifted their weight as they watched their enemy struggle to sit up. 

Charlie appeared to still be in the throes of a fever. They let themselves fall back on the bed. Their eyes seemed glazed, lids half open and struggling to stay that way. Again, they tried to sit up but only managed to hurt themselves once more. They moaned as their arm burned and their head throbbed with a migraine. 

Alex hesitated momentarily, and then untied the sweatshirt from around their waist. “We need to do a make-shift cast for your arm. It will take some of the weight off it.” 

“Oh no, it’s fine. Really. You keep it. It’s cold in here. Thank you.” 

“No, you need it or it’ll get worse.” 

“I swear I’m fine. You need it, you–” 

Alex huffed stubbornly and began reaching for their enemy anyways. They were taken aback when Charlie flinched. 

“I’m not going to hurt you, you idiot,” Alex bit out, annoyed. I should be the one flinching, not you! They thought to themselves. Resentment bubbled up to the surface and Alex tried to focus on putting villain in a positon where they could make the cast to distract themselves from it. 

“Sorry. I’m really sorry. I don’t know why I did that. It was–yeah. I’m–” 

“Just stop talking, okay?” Alex barked. Charlie bit their lip and nodded ashamedly. 

Alex’s resentment manifested as roughly tending to the villain. Charlie did their best to not make a sound but when Alex harshly man-handled the broken arm into it’s place in the cast they winced and whimpered. 

“Stop whining. You’re the reason we’re in this mess. You should have left when I told you to!” 

“I know…I’m so sorry.” 

“If Team Lead had just listened to me in the first place…ugh. They’re way too nice to you. You don’t deserve their sympathy. Pff. You don’t deserve anything really.” 

“...I–nngghhh–agree,” mumbled Charlie weakly.

“Yeah right. I don’t believe you.” Alex grins as they glance over to see Charlie’s face; they wanted to watch their words hurt in real time. Instead, Alex didn’t feel the joy they expected. They could tell Charlie was holding back tears. One escaped and Charlie hastily wiped it away. 

Something felt wrong in the pit of Alex’s stomach. Their grin quickly dissipated. 

They had finished with the cast and were about to get up when they noticed just how much blood still covered Charlie’s neck and chest. They retrieved and wet a cloth like they had the night before. 

“Let’s clean this up a bit. I don’t like the smell of blood,” they rationalized. Charlie’s eyes were half-mast and they nodded woozily. While wiping their face Alex felt heat radiating off their nemesis’ forehead. 

Charlie swayed slightly and they steadied them. 

“You feeling nauseous?” Charlie shook their head. Alex shot them a look. 

“...A little. But it’s really not that bad. I’m fine.” 

“Here. Drink this. Then you need to lie down.” They took a cup of water they had filled at the sink and made Charlie take a few sips. Alex put their hand behind Charlie’s neck and slowly lowered them. Charlie hissed in pain once more. 

“Sorry, sorry, I’ll be quiet” they reassured. 

Within a few minutes Charlie’s eyes were closed. Alex decided to lay down again and try to get more rest if they could. It was quiet except for the slightly congested breathing coming from Charlie. 

Faintly came the sound of someone whistling. It grew closer and closer until footsteps echoed outside in the hall as well. Charlie’s eyes shot open and they strained to sit up, a look of horror on their face. 

“He’s coming.” 

“It’s probably the guard. Go back to sleep,” Alex warned. 

“NO. It’s...” 

Abruptly, keys rattle in the door and it swings open. Eric Goodgrave’s lanky frame waltzes in and a mischievous smile spreads across his face. 

“Oh goody, you’re both awake! Alex, my dear: may I ask you a personal question?”  

TAG LIST: @whump-blog @whumpsday @trappedgoose-in-a-writblr-room @termsnconditions-apply @the-whumpers-grimm @elizaisnotokay @whumpwillow @asthefirerisesblog @kiratheperson @slightlyexpiredyogurt8 @stuck-in-this-mortal-form @itsmyworld23 @maracujatangerine

[alexanderlightweight]

Hi, how are you doing?

Can we get some domestic Malec with a kitten? Alec coming home from a patrol with an abandoned kitten or something?

This is in my Quarrel universe which is where Alec and Magnus meet over Alec rescuing a puppy that turns out to be a hellhound

—

“Shadowhunter.” Magnus says, managing to keep his voice cool even as he greedily devours his shadowhunter with hungry, gold eyes. “What do I owe the displeasure of your company?” He raises a brow and steps forward, waving away the bouncers who called him into the alley. As soon as they’re gone, Magnus sets up a barrier of sound and vision.

Alexander looks as bedraggled as the first time Magnus saw him. Worse, there is a sheepish expression on his face and Magnus already wants to press him against the alley wall and kiss him senseless.

He already knows the need is only going to increase as soon as Alexander opens his stupidly kissable mouth and says something ridiculously charming.

As if on cue, Alexander opens his jacket and shows the kitten he’s got clinging to his shirt. There’s a flash of amber and a possessive little hiss as the little creature crawls its bedraggled way up to Alexander's shoulder. It crawls into the side of his neck and hisses, little whiskers flaring with fire and Magnus sighs.

“Darling, isn’t Quarrel enough? Must we collect every single sentient and somewhat adorable demon that slips to us from Edom?”

“It was in a sewer, Magnus. Being chased by rat demons.” Alexander looks affronted, as if he can’t believe Magnus would stoop so low as to turn away a demonic hellcat.

“Oh of course, I didn’t realize the circumstances.” Magnus says dryly and then he opens a portal, using the shadows to encircle him and his boy and hiding them as they portal away.

Quarrel perks up in a way she only does for Alexander. Paws sliding and scrabbling across the floor as she barrels into his legs and knocks him against Magnus.

“Oh hello sweetheart.” Alexander says and he kneels, one hand holding the scraggly kitten and the other scratching Quarrel’s scruff. Magnus resigns himself to yet another evening of Alexander spending his first thirty minutes focused on Quarrel. Magnus ups it to half and hour and realizes that he will not be getting a shower with Alexander either, as his boy seems intent on cleaning the hellish little cat.

“I’ll get you the appropriate soaps.” Magnus says with a sigh, “and then you’re going to go lie naked on the bed.”

Alexander looks at him hopefully and Magnus swats his flank as he passes him, “Alexander, you’re getting a massage. You’ll be lucky if I fuck you before you have to go back to the institute.” It’s an empty threat but Alexander frowns, not willing to risk it. “Stop bringing in things that take your attention, darling. I'm not as generous as you think.”

Alexander scoffs and kisses Magnus’ cheek as he passes, like he thinks Magnus is being ridiculous.

Magnus resolves to mask Alexander and take him to Pandemonium and show his boy just how much Magnus is not joking.

If Magnus has to take Alexander to a sex club to fuck him without interruptions, then that’s what he’ll do.

Magnus has no interest in sharing Alexander or his identity, but sacrifices must be made and Magnus can keep Alexander hidden.

—

“What’s the little demon’s name?” Magnus asks, face pinched in a scowl as he watches Alexander pamper and pet the littlest addition to their family.

“I was thinking you might want to name him?” Alexander asks hopefully, hazel eyes wide as they stare up at Magnus. An amber set of eyes and one of umber join and Magnus is staring at two sets of longing, hopeful eyes and one spiteful one.

“Menace.”

Magnus mutters, because they’re all menaces.

“Oh, perfect.” Alexander coos, like he thinks Magnus is being complementary. “I love it.”

To Magnus’ surprise, Quarrel takes to the little beast with ease and delight. Menace rides around on Quarrel’s shoulders and the two of them follow Alexander about the lair like little demonic ducklings.

Alexander seems to enjoy it, if the way he softens more and more each time they bump into him.

[sheisburiedhere]

Welcome Neighbor

Chapter One: I'm... Sweetie

Paring: Wally darling x Y/N Sweetheart

Warnings: nothing to worry about neighbors at least...not as yet.

The Darkness

It feels as if it's consuming you as it drags you to the depths of it's unknown ,blocking your vision, clouding your memory, stripping you of your identity. You try to scream but no sound can be heard as your throat fill with intense heat and smoke after every attempt. You close your eyes. You're relentless, you won't stop , someone will help you, you just need to keep on trying ...

The Light

For a moment all is quiet as your screams cease, whatever had it's grasp on you decided to let you go.You feel warmth on top you and a gentle cold below. You hear the chirping of birds and the rustling of leaves,you frown your eyebrows wondering where could you be but scared to open your eyes. You muster all courage that's in you and open them to see...

A yellow brick road that surrounds various houses each with very distinct colours and designs. You spin around to observe the rest of your surroundings realising you are on the floor, you push yourself up to stand with both of your hands...

Your hands...

These aren't my...

A shiver goes up your spine...

Your hands are embroidered with a tiny heart on the palms,you look further up to realise your joints are covered in stitches of gold thread. You sweat slightly,as you watch down to see your in a red and white polka dot dress with white stockings and red flats. You instinctively pull out a mirror from your dress and look in disbelief at your reflection. Shiny skin and plump red red lips with your (h/c) hair in a half up bee hive. Your eyes falls on your neck as you see a heart shaped necklace with the word , 'Sweetheart'.

You take in everything that you see in the mirror as take notice of the one thing that raises your brows is your eyes...

Hazel brown heart shaped pupils of your eyes

...

You close the mirror and place it back in your skirt as the sound of footsteps approach you with a loud but friendly, " Hello!". You turn quickly and smile with realising that you are grasping on the something in your hand. "A suitcase huh," you thought to yourself , you turn towards them , taking a hand to wave and giving a great big smile. "Hi there!" You say still grinning,you are greeted by a excited puppet named Julie Joyful. "Oh my name is y/n Sweetheart but my friends call me Sweetie, I just moved here but I'm having a bit trouble finding my house"you tell her without having to think about. She grabs your hand to lead you to the house that is particularly new to their neighborhood,which looks just like your outfit. She talks alot then hugs you and leaves you there to unpack.

You smile , now you have a friend

...

Something is wrong...

How do I know this stuff...I have to remember me...

A knock interrupts your thoughts, you walk to the door and open it to see ,a tall attractive yellow puppet in a blue cardigan and rainbow striped pants. He has a red blush dusted on his cheeks and your eyes widen as you realise you have been staring him down. You cover your face in embarrassment apologizing to him," I am so so sorry," you exclaimed, he takes your hand and smile, " It's really fine I had a quick look myself ,I hope you didn't mind" he chuckled rubbing the back of his neck, " I came to introduce myself to my new neighbor, My name is Wally darling," he says placing a what seems to be a kiss on your hand ,which was a him touching your hand with his mouth and making a muah sound. This made your heart melt and your body feel warm as you eyes turn to a shade red. "Oh! You have very beautiful eyes," he says in awe. You close them smiling not aware of the change and thank him. " Mines is y/n Sweetheart but call me Sweetie-" You open your eyes back up to see his pupils huge and black like a hungry cat seeing a bird

His eyes...

He reverts to it's previous state,as he asks "Would you like to for a walk around the neighborhood tomorrow and have a picnic with me? It will be a great opportunity to meet everyone"

You smile, "That would be very nice Wally, Thank you"

He bids you a good day as he leaves ,you close the door and rest your forehead on it smiling... forgetting your situation. You go to your bedroom and rest , dreaming about tomorrow.

Let's hope everything goes well...

"Welcome Home Neighbor," he chuckles watching you from his home window with his huge black eyes.

[onboardsorasora]

❄️Enchanted AU: Christmas Part 20❄️

We're still figuring out the name guys! Enchanted Mondays? idk idk idk

Part 1 | Christmas Part 1 | Last Chapter

Part 20

“Hey Mama.” Daniel comfortably laid on his tummy and smiled fondly at his phone while he watched his mother cook. She was baking today, the house probably stunk of vanilla and sugar or the smell of warm bread. He sighed into the crook of his elbow. He was in his bed, Max was off collecting his family from the airport, so Daniel was alone with Sassy and Jimmy for a little while. He’d wanted to use the time to call home.

“Hello my baby, how are you?” Grace’s eyes squinted at him while she smiled. Her identical honey gaze swept over what she could of his face.

“I miss you.” Daniel mumbled, he knew it might be silly. But he missed her terribly. He missed home. He’d never been away like this.

“I miss you too, my love. Has everything been ok?” She eyed him with concern for a moment.

“I just miss home, I think. Max has been great.” He smiled a bit when he thought of Max and Grace raised a brow, catching the miniscule change with laser focus. She hummed a question and Daniel flushed with embarrassment. 

“I– stop looking at me like that.” He ducked his head from his mother’s view again, pulling a pillow to rest his chin on. Grace tutted at him before proceeding to flour her countertop and drop a large blob of risen dough on it.

He continued to watch her work, kneading the dough and spreading it with her fingers. He bit his lip and then nibbled his cuticle whole watching her methodically work on her bread. He felt calmed by the purposeful movements.

“I think I like him.” Daniel mumbled, eyes focused on his mother's fingers as she worked olive oil into the flat pan of stretched dough. “But I can't– because like he's helping me. And he doesn't see me like that anyway. And it's fine. It's not going to like affect anything. And I…” he continued to ramble while his mother placed herbs onto her focaccia to look like a small garden. 

Grace hummed periodically and let him work through his thoughts, exactly like how it would be if he were at home. He would sit by the breakfast bench and watch her cook while they gossiped or while he told her his problems.

“Are you sure you can't? Does he maybe feel the same?” Grace cut in, she wiped her hands on a tea towel and waited.

Daniel sputtered and eased up into a sitting position, he brought the phone close to his face. “Mama–” he glanced to his closed bedroom door to make sure it was closed and then to Jimmy who was lounging on his other pillow to make sure he wasn't listening to their private conversation. He totally was, Sassy too, but it wasn’t like they could tell anybody.

“Mama no. It-it's not like that.” Daniel stressed and Grace giggled. “I'm already like enough of a burde–”

“Daniel Joseph don't you ever call yourself that again!” Grace's face turned to stone, her eyes narrowed behind her fashionable glasses.

Daniel's mouth snapped closed at her tone and he whined a little. He hated when she was angry with him.

“You are not a burden and I don't want you to think that. Max doesn't think you are a burden either, honey.” She soothed, Daniel bit his lip sullenly. “Besides, if you truly think your presence is such a problem, why haven't you asked for an update on your passport? Hmm?” She grinned cheekily when Daniel sputtered in reply.

“I-I mean I was– I was trusting the process?” His excuse sounded poor even to him, so he said nothing when his mother tutted at him and rolled her eyes.

He watched as she placed her tray in the oven and started to wash up. She hummed to herself and Daniel listened silently, swaying to the song.

Before he knew it, there was noise coming from the living room, which meant that Max was back with everyone. Daniel felt torn, wanting to go outside and see them all but also to stay on the phone with his mother watching her putter around and finish up dinner.

“Mama I have to go.” He said finally, frowning sadly. She smiled and told him she loved him before sending him off.

Daniel opened the bedroom door and watched as the cats darted out excitedly. The noise grew in volume now that the door was open and he heard Luka and Lio cheer in happiness to see Sassy and Jimmy. Daniel made his way into the den of Dutchies and smiled widely, hugging everyone in greeting.

Max watched Daniel carefully, he seemed a bit tired, drawn maybe. “Daniel, is everything alright?” Max asked when Daniel settled back into the kitchen between himself and Sophie. He ignored the quick (and pointed) look Vic gave him.

“Oh! Yeah! Uhm I was on the phone with Mama. I miss her, is all.” Daniel smiled with a shrug and tucked into Sophie's side when she put her arm around his shoulder.

“Max said you decorated for us, it's all so beautiful. Thank you “ Sophie gushed, she understood that sometimes a distraction was the best medicine.

Daniel blushed thinking of all the effort he put in. He was still super proud of himself for the level of magic he was able to produce to clean everything. He'd never cast an enchantment so powerful without a conductor before. But it was all for good, because the aura of the flat was pure, only positive vibrancy remained. 

“Thank you.” Daniel bit his lip and smiled. “Are you guys tired? The guest rooms are also all ready.” He offered and Sophie fanned off his concern, she instead went into full mother mode. 

Max and Victoria watched from their vantage, Vic leaning over to brush their shoulders. “He'll be ok.” She mumbled and Max nodded.

“So what do you have planned for our first Monaco Christmas?” She teased, snorting a laugh when Max shushed her quickly and quickly checked to see if Daniel had heard. He had already told them in the car not to bring the topic up, but he should have known that Vic would tease him dangerously.

“Daniel wanted to go to the Christmas night market and I was looking up Australian Christmas stuff and we can go to the beach maybe. Oh shoot I forgot to order the pavlova.”

“What's a pavlova?” Vic's brow furrowed. Daniel leaned back from whatever he and Sophie were focused on.

“It's– uhm, like a cake made of meringue. With like fruits and stuff on top” Daniel explained with wide eyes. “We don't– we don't have to. It's fine– really.”

“No, it's your first Christmas away from home. We should incorporate some of your traditions from home too.” Sophie shushed and Daniel blinked watery brown eyes and nodded. He didn't offer up any further opposition.

Max went to go sit with the boys, while they played with their toys under Sassy’s supervision. Luka was colouring quietly and Lio was driving a toy car around a track shaped like the outline of Jimmy flopped on his side, complete with engine noises.

“Are you guys ready for Christmas?” Max asked, stroking Jimmy who swiped his tail to change the ‘track’ that Lio’s car drove on.

“Yeah we already got our first gift!” Luka said, not looking up from his coloring. Max knew he was talking about the early present that Sinterklaas left them at the start of the month. 

“Oh yeah? What was it?” Max looked between the two boys.

“A sister! She's in Mommy's belly.” Lio piped up and Max's eyes widened comically before his head whipped to his sister and brother in law who sat talking quietly by the kitchen.

“Vic?! You're pregnant?” Max scrambled up, calling out in Dutch. Sophie looked up with a smile and Vic nodded happily. Max scooped her up in a tight hug. Daniel watched with wide eyes, he looked to Sophie while Max and Victoria babbled excitedly to each other. Max was almost crying with happiness, his face scrunched so achingly tender and adoring. And Daniel staunchly ignored any little feeling in his chest that this all created. 

Sophie laughed happily and repeated the good news for Daniel's benefit. His mouth dropped open in surprise and he hugged Sophie before going to hug and congratulate Tom and Vic. Max was watching his sister with awe in his eyes and he clung to her happily.

Part 21

[tsunami-of-tears]

A Court of Shadows and Sunshine — Part Eight

Azriel x Aurora (OC)

Summary: Uncle Helion makes an appearance and has some explaining to do. As usual, Rhys is a huge gossip! 

A/N: Now I know Rhys + Nesta don’t get along in the books, but I like to think they’ve bonded over playing matchmaker.  

Wordcount: 2.6K

Warnings: Angst! Slightly sexual themes (slightly), attempted SA/SH, violence

Part Seven

✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*✧

Aurora 

“Hello, my dear niece. It’s been too long.” 

Through the fresh bond, you feel Azriel’s confusion turn to relief. You only feel confused. 

Helion glances between you both, his face is neutral aside from the slight quirking of a brow. “The cauldron does have a sense of humour.”

Rhys presses his lips firmly together to form a straight line, as if he had to force his mouth closed to keep from speaking.

Your wide eyes flick between the two High Lords, “What do you mean, niece?” 

“I’m afraid I have quite a bit of explaining to do, you will want to sit for this,” Helion continues, gesturing to the lounge behind you. 

Azriel remains close to your side as everyone takes a seat in the spacious office. You fold your arms over your chest and wait for Helion to speak.

“You already knew that your mother was from the Day Court, but we lied about her parentage. Helena was my younger sister.” Helion gives you a small, sad smile as if reminiscing on their childhood in Day. “Your parents met during the war, they were fighting for opposing sides when their mating bond snapped.” 

You nod in acknowledgement as Helion continues his explanation, you’d grown up hearing stories about your parents’ early relationship and what they overcame to be together. You’d dreamed of finding your own mate one day. 

Helion continues, “Your father, Ortun, hadn’t been happy with his king and the war. Being mated to Helena was the final straw for him. From that moment on, he became one of my spies.” You feel Azriel tensing slightly beside you. “To protect himself and Helena, and eventually you, they lied about her true identity and powers.”

You lean forward on your knees, running your hands through your hair. You look back up at Helion with furrowed brows.

 “How could they keep this from me?” You ask him, glaring into his amber eyes. 

“We were preparing to tell you, but Amarantha foiled that.” Helion pauses, averting your glare. “I couldn’t protect anyone else I loved. No one knew who you were, so Rhys was able to hide you here.”

Finally, everything is falling into place. You rise to your feet and start to pace as the information swirls around in your brain, filling in the missing pieces from your memories. It’s why you always travelled with your father, why you spent so much time in Prythian, why the High Lords saved you… 

You stop pacing and look straight at the High Lords in front of you. “What does this mean?” You question. You turn towards Rhysand, “Are you sending me away?” Your voice cracks as you think of the incident with Cassian. 

Rhys shakes his head. “Never, Rory. It’s entirely up to you where you wish to live. I just want to help you.”

“How do you plan to help? Haven’t you done enough for me?” Tears well in your eyes, and you slump down beside Azriel again. He laces his scarred fingers with yours, grounding you. You feel his unconditional support flowing down the bond. 

“Your powers are strong,” Helion starts. “You can learn to control them, so they don’t control you. I’ll teach you. There are no conditions, you’re my kin. Whether you wish to be a part of my court, Rhys’s, or neither, is entirely up to you. Whatever you choose, you will always have a home in Day.”

You look up from your hand joined with Azriel’s, “Velaris is my home.” 

Helion looks between you both and nods, “Of course, I understand. You’ll still have to visit though. Maybe for your birthday?” Helion offers. “It’s the big one hundred, and you can’t spend the longest day in the Night Court.”

Rhys lets out a dark chuckle. “You mean to tell me, you were born on the Summer Solstice?” He gives you an incredulous look. “You have light powers, your mate is a shadowsinger, and you were born on the longest day of the year. Gods, that’s like something you’d read in a story.” 

You laugh. A real laugh that fills your heart and overflows into your soul. The information you’ve received today doesn’t change anything substantial. Looking over at your mate you feel at peace. You know that this is exactly where you’re supposed to be - like the cauldron willed you to be in this very room at this moment.

————

Azriel

One hundred. Aurora is only one hundred.

Azriel hadn’t realised quite how young she was, and it almost broke him. 

She’d spent fifty years mostly by herself in Velaris until the fateful day Nesta and Gwyn visited her studio. 

That’s half her life without her family, without a support system. She’s so young, and yet she’s been through so much. 

Azriel looks down at their intertwined fingers. His shadows swirl around them but they don’t dim her sparkle, they make her shine brighter. 

Never again, Azriel vowed. Never again would Aurora feel alone.

————

Rhysand

Emergency meeting. River House. Now!

Rhys is pacing excitedly in his study, he clenches his fists to stop them from shaking. He hears the sound of flapping wings getting closer, and then multiple sets of footsteps coming down the hall. He turns as his inner circle enters the room.

Cassian, Nesta and Amren remain standing while Mor, Elain and Feyre take up seats in the cream armchairs. Everyone exchanges confused glances while Feyre arches an eyebrow at her mate, wondering what has him leaping out of his skin.

Cassian looks around the room, surveying everyone who has gathered. “Where’s Azriel?” He asks. Elain pales slightly. 

“Azriel is why I called you all here.” Rhys grins widely. “It finally happened.” 

Everyone starts talking at once, “What happened?” “What’s going on?” “Is he okay?” 

Amren shushes everyone, “Come on, spit it out, boy.” 

Rhys responds by showing the group his memory from that morning. 

Your conversation with Helion is cut off as the powerful sound of wings draws closer. You peer out the front window from behind a drawn curtain and see Azriel and Aurora standing on the path leading up to your front door. They appear to be having a serious conversation. 

Aurora reaches towards Azriel and takes a step closer to him. You let out a loud gasp as Azriel wraps his arms around her waist, pulling their bodies together.

Their lips touch, softly and tenderly, and Aurora starts to glow - a golden flicker of light entangled with Azriel’s dark shadows. 

You turn back to Helion, unable to stop smiling. “Please excuse me for a moment,” You say, rushing to the front door. 

You open the door wide and see that the initially gentle kiss has turned into one that is much more heated. You curse internally, hating that you have to interrupt this moment, but you’re also quite pleased to have witnessed it yourself. 

“Ahem,” You cough.

Aurora and Azriel part abruptly. They both take a step back with wide eyes and flushed red cheeks. You smirk, knowing they were so caught up in the moment that they hadn’t noticed your presence. 

“I’m terribly sorry to interrupt,” You purr. “But I have an important guest we’re keeping waiting.” You step to the side to let them in, Aurora looks down at her feet in an attempt to hide the deepening blush on her face. 

As the pair get closer, the scent slams into you, overwhelming your senses. Azriel’s usual night-chilled mist is now intertwined with something warmer - fragrant jasmine and liquid amber, like a balmy summer evening. 

As Aurora steps past, your eyes snap to Azriel’s, who is giving you a cold, unimpressed glare. You tap on his mental shields with your sharp talons, ‘What’s the matter, brother?’ 

Azriel shakes his head at you. ‘You have the worst timing ever. The bond just snapped for her.’ 

‘I’m sorry - I won’t bother you for a few days after this meeting.’ 

Azriel nods in response, following you into the study.

The memory fades away and reveals the shocked faces of the inner circle. 

Nesta smiles at Rhys like a Cheshire cat, “You owe me 100 gold marks, High Lord,” she gloats. “I told you it would snap before Solstice.” 

Cassian turns towards his mate, mouth agape. “You told me I couldn’t bet on this!” He exclaims. 

“That’s because I knew I had the winning bet, it was only a matter of time. She’s my friend, I wasn’t going to share all her secrets with you and your fat mouth.” Nesta chimes back, patting Cassian on the shoulder. 

Cassian huffs, but is quickly smiling again as Nesta plants a smacking kiss on his cheek. 

Amren looks over at Rhys, arms crossed over her chest and her mouth pressed into a firm line. “You called an emergency meeting to gossip?” She asks bluntly. 

“Actually Amren - you, Feyre and I have some important work to discuss,” Rhys says. “Everyone else can go back to whatever they were doing.” Rhys waves his hand, dismissing the group. “Try not to bother the new mates for a few days if you can help it.” 

Cassian smirks at Rhys before his gaze settles on Nesta. She grabs him by the forearm and yanks him out of the room - likely to go enjoy their own mating activities.  

Once the room is cleared, Amren turns back to Rhys. “What are you hiding now? You know I don’t like surprises.”

“We have a new spell-cleaver to train. I need your help preparing some magic wards and curses.” 

“Who are we training?” Amren asks. 

“Aurora. She’s Helion’s niece but she’s decided to remain in Velaris for now. Along with light-generation, she’s inherited his curse-breaking powers.”

“I knew there was more to that girl,” Amren says, her lips curling slightly. “This is good, let’s get started.” 

————

Aurora

After you meet with Helion, your uncle, you and Azriel winnow back to your apartment. You unlock your front door and make to enter but Azriel hesitates. 

“Are you going to stand out there all day?” You ask him playfully. 

Azriel gives you a small smile and shakes his head, stepping into your home. 

He pauses again as he takes in his surroundings. He’d dropped you off countless times before, but he’d never seen inside your space. You suddenly feel self-conscious, aware that your little apartment is not as lavish as what Azriel is used to. 

Though the space is small, you’ve done your best to create a cozy environment. Most of your furnishings are cream and warm timber, with sage green and caramel-coloured accents. It’s fairly minimal, but you do have some trinkets from your travels on display. 

You quickly avert his gaze and head to the kitchen to make some tea. Once the kettle is on, you fiddle with your fingers as you wait. 

Azriel breaks the silence, still looking around, “I wondered what kind of place you lived in. I knew it would be lovely like you, but this is… really cozy and inviting.” He turns and scans your face, scrunching his nose as he notices your discomfort. “Aurora, what’s wrong?” 

You sigh, stepping closer and resting your head against Azriel’s broad chest. “It’s been a big day, I feel like my entire life has been shattered. I’m not sure what to do now,” You admit quietly. 

He tilts your chin gently so you look straight at him. “I understand if you don’t want this. I’m willing to do whatever you need.” 

Your heart aches at his words and you pull him into a tight hug. “Of course I want you,” you murmur into his shoulder. “It’s everything else - my powers, my family. I never expected this.” 

Azriel rubs your lower back in comfort. “I’ll be here through it all, we can figure it out together.”

Standing on your toes, you press your lips to Azriel’s. The spark in your chest flares into a roaring flame, warming you to your core. Your mouth moves against Azriel’s hungrily. Your tongues dance together as your hands roam each other’s bodies. 

You gasp as Azriel presses into you further and you feel the hard outline of his length against you. “I’m sorry, I don’t know if I can…” You trail off. 

Azriel runs his thumb across your cheek tenderly. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to push you. We don’t have to do anything you’re not ready for.” 

You nod but look down, “What if I’m never ready?” You ask softly.

Azriel takes your hand in his, bringing it to his lips. “I am content with this.” He smiles at you before pressing his lips to your skin. 

You pull him close into another firm hug. Azriel sends a wave of reassurance down the bond, you send your gratitude back. You don’t know what you did to deserve such kindness. 

————

Azriel

After spending quite some time in each other’s arms, Aurora and Azriel had a simple dinner and talked for hours. They talked about everything and nothing, feeling comfortable enough to share some of their secrets.

As the night drew onwards and Aurora started to yawn, they moved to her bed. Azriel let Aurora decide the proximity between them - and she eventually fell asleep in Azriel’s arms. 

Now that the bond had snapped for her, Azriel had some final business to attend to. So he carefully slipped his arm out from under Aurora and padded out of the bedroom. In case she woke before he returned, Azriel left a note on the kitchen counter saying he’d be back by the morning. 

Ever since Rhys’s birthday, Azriel has been keeping tabs on Aurora’s attacker - Edward. 

To Azriel’s disgust, the male had a pregnant wife at home. She was likely unaware of what her husband was getting up to, unless she was also a victim. Azriel shuddered at the thought. 

Azriel heads out into the night, making his way towards Edward’s usual haunt - a rather seedy-looking bar in the dodgy part of town. 

The male usually left the bar at 2 am, and Azriel was right on time. He waited across the street, concealed by his shadows, for the male to exit. 

It’s not long before two females exit the bar, arm in arm and struggling to walk in their heels. Following closely behind the females is Edward. 

Azriel waits until they walk past his shadows to make his move. He pounces on Edward who grunts as Azriel’s shadows bind his limbs, restricting his movements. The females scream at the commotion behind them, entirely unaware of the fate that they may have met. 

“I’m sorry to disturb your evening, please go on your way,” Azriel says. The females turn silently and run down the street, away from Azriel and Edward.

“I’ve been watching you for some time, did you think you could get away with this? Especially after laying your hand on my mate.” Azriel said with a calm rage. 

“I don’t know what you’re talking about.” Edward cries out. 

“You can play dumb all you want, but I’ve seen what you do. I know who you are and I know your wife is currently with child. Does she know what kinds of recreational activities you get up to?” 

Edward gulps audibly as Azriel unsheaths True Teller and scrapes it across the brick wall next to Edward's head.

“If you ever touch another female without her explicit consent, you won’t have hands. Do you understand?”

“Yes,” Edward whimpers in response. 

To make sure the message was received, Azriel lands two strong punches to his stomach. Not hard enough to cause any severe damage, but still enough to leave some bruising. 

Edward doubles over in pain as Azriel winnows away, taking his shadows with him and leaving the male alone in the street.

✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*✧

A/N: There’s been quite a lot of activity on the individual parts and my masterlists - thank you to all who have interacted with this story. If you’d like to be tagged when I post new parts, please comment/send me a message.

Tags ♡ @mis-lil-red

Part Nine

[cluelessatthispoint]

yandere emesis blu demo and soldier sharing (or fighting) over a new recruit,?

Emesis Blue is the best sfm ever! This is my first Emesis Blue ask and I am so very happy! I am crying tears of joy right now.

instead of fighting or sharing the new recruit, how about both? ;)

Warnings: some blood, mild gore, nothing bad happens.

~~~~~~~~

This was not what you were expecting when you signed up to be a part of the Mann Co cleaning crew. The job offered a decent pay with good benefits and a flexible schedule. But the commute was hell. It took you a good two and a half hours to get to the site and as far as you could see, there was no visible damage to the structure itself. Formerly the RED base; now the Conager Slaughterhouse.

The black clouds above you seemed to groan with the heavy weight of oncoming rain. The clouds were dark and ominous, the smell of moisture in the air and whatever resided in the slaughterhouse sewer mixed together in an abhorrent stink.

Looking to the side of the car, then to the other side you opened the car door and stepped out onto the gravely landscape. It was odd, you were the only one here. Pulling out the crumpled letter in your pocket containing the name and address of the place you furrowed your brow.

"This, this is the place."

Folding the paper back up and sliding it back into your pocket you took a step forward. Looking around at the building you could tell that is hasn't acted as a slaughterhouse for a long, long time. Shuddering involuntarily, you make your way towards the old wooden bridge. Eyeing your car one last time you waled closer to the front doors. Two identical doors on the same side of the wall were strange, but hey, you figured that each building has its own eccentricities. Making your way inside and stepping over the singular large stepping the doorway you were hit with the strong smell of iron and something rotting.

"Hello? I'm here with the Mann Co cleaning department! There are supposed to be more people here and I-"

A strong hand covered your mouth before you could even finish your sentence. Breathing hysterically through your nose you pulled desperately against the hand covering your mouth.

"Hush now, we gotta stay quiet or else you end up dead."

Not daring to move a muscle you gave a small hum of fear and confusion.

"Now then, I'm gonnae remove me hand and when I do: DONT make a sound, okay?"

Nodding tearfully, you could feel the larger man remove his hand. Turning around to face him you took notice of two things. One: This man was the supposed missing Demoman from the RED team. And two: His other arm was ripped clean out of its socket. You didn't know which observation made you more scared.

Hearing footsteps from behind you whipped your head around and came face to chest with another large man. From the looks of it, and his helmet he appeared to be a Soldier.

"Listen here kid, if you go back out there after making all that racket, you'll get shot. Now, you are going to see things, but if we stick together and IF you follow my orders to a T, we'll be okay."

Swallowing the lump in your throat you forced your head to give a nod of understanding.

"There will be no one else arriving at this location, you are the only member of the cleaning crew to make it here. So, if you want to survive then we will be treating you like a new recruit. Understand?"

Giving another curt nod the Soldier led you around the corner and deeper into the base. The sounds of the floorboards creaking and shifting above you made you flinch.

Eyeing the way that Soldier led you further into the base made his blood boil. He and Soldier worked hard to ensure that you would come here by yourself. Why is he the one who gets to lead you? Locking eyes with Soldier the same thought flashed into their minds; Their ours now. Letting go of his annoyance he allowed a small smile to rest on his lips. With the Connagers dead, and your crew MIA, you were all theirs. You wouldn't even know that even right now there was nothing to be afraid of. Everything was dead. And just for you, they could keep up the charade. In time you would come to rely on them completely. After all, isn't that what love is?

'

~~~~~

Creepy, creepy and creepy.

I wish I had more yandere Emesis Blue asks.

[liaromancewriter]

Hooked on a Feeling

Premise: Cassie and Ethan feel their babies kick for the first time.

Book: Open Heart (post series) Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x F!MC (Cassie Valentine) Rating/Category: Teen. Fluff. Words: 685

A/N: Submission for @choices-february2023 Day 9, "Maybe I'm Amazed"

The first time was like bubbles rising inside her. She’d been standing near the digital whiteboard, running differentials with the team. At first, she thought it was gas, but then her heart got that fluttery sensation. The shy kind of feeling she got whenever Ethan was near. It had been such from the first moment.

Cassie Valentine glanced toward the glass wall out of habit, expecting to see her husband. But the hallway was empty, and she wondered if her hormones were just out of whack. She shook her head to clear the disappointment and turned her focus back to the meeting.

Later, she was reviewing patient notes on her tablet for an afternoon consult when she felt it again. Butterflies in the pit of her stomach, like she was being tickled from the inside. It wasn’t painful, but it was…unnerving.

She paused, brows furrowed in consternation, and wondered if it was something she ate. And that’s when she realized it wasn’t indigestion. It was her unborn children saying hello.

Cassie dropped the tablet on the desk and leaned back in her chair, closing her eyes. Her hands automatically cradled her belly, and she rubbed gently. Tiny wings flapped as if acknowledging her presence, and she chuckled.

She knew she had a comical grin on her face, but she didn’t care. She was hooked on this beautiful and intoxicating feeling, enjoying a private party with her unborn twins.

When the glass door swooshed open, she didn’t bother looking up. The quickening of the beat of her heart, the scent of his cologne, gave away the identity of her visitor.

Her green eyes lazily drifted open when his shadow fell on her. A dreamy smile still hovered on her lips. Ethan quirked one eyebrow; just that one action spoke volumes about his concern for her.

There was no denying her hormones had been all over the place the last couple of months. Not the most patient of men under normal circumstances, the notoriously austere Dr. Ramsey had had to adjust to his wife’s yo-yo-ing emotions.

Cassie grabbed his dark tie and tugged his face down, her mouth closing over his, swallowing his protest at the abrupt movement. His lips softened against hers, and his hands framed her face as he deepened the kiss.

She broke away first, smirking when she caught the blush spreading across his cheeks. Ethan blushed easily for all his masculinity, especially when she kissed him at work. After all, he had a reputation to maintain as a demanding and not-easy-to-please chief of medicine.

But Cassie didn’t care. She had crashed through all his self-imposed principles from the start and always would.

When her heart somersaulted again, she remembered what she’d been doing before Ethan dropped by. Unsure he would feel anything, she took his hands and placed them on either side of her pregnant belly nevertheless.

Nothing happened for a few seconds. Ethan started to say something, but suddenly, the babies kicked upward. It was faint, barely there before it was gone, but he felt it. His eyes widened in shock, and his fingers instinctively dug into her skin, making her wince before he let go.

Ethan’s blue eyes snapped into hers, questioning, and she nodded, tears dampening the corners of her eyelashes. He pulled her out of the seat, changed places, and eased her onto his lap.

Cassie looped one arm around his neck and leaned her forehead against his. His fingers entwined with hers, and they placed their clasped hand on her belly. It sounded unlikely, but their babies must have felt them; first, one, then the other waved, a pulsating movement just below the surface.

A few minutes later, he bowed and whispered something to their unborn children. His voice was low, and Cassie couldn’t make out the words. The babies must have liked it, for they executed two swift kicks.

When the babies settled down after that, Ethan continued to rub her belly, the wonder still present in his eyes. They smiled at each other, and Cassie settled in to enjoy this private moment with her family.

Bonus

All Fics & Edits: @a-crepusculo @annfg8 @bluebelle08 @coffeeheartaddict2 @crazy-loca-blog @doriopenheart @genevievemd @headoverheelsforramsey @lucy-268 @jamespotterthefirst @jerzwriter @lady-calypso @mainstreetreader @takemyopenheart @potionsprefect @queencarb @quixoticdreamer16 @rookiemartin @socalwriterbee @tessa-liam @trappedinfanfiction

Submissions: @choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics

Ethan & Cassie only: @cariantha @custaroonie @hopelessromantic1352 @mrs-ramsey