#this just makes me more obsessed with whoever's coming tonight though WHAT'S HIS DEAL GONNA BE

[egophiliac]

i don't think u need to worry about poppy ikemen anymore, new ride kamens character is kr kamui who is our lord and savior dan kuroto

DAN THE DANGEROUS ZOMBIE MAN!!!!!! I was SO excited when I saw the reveal, he is absolutely the funniest possible character choice hands-down. oh my god. I'm so glad he made it into this game.

also Kamui just looks incredible. instant favorite. this is the kind of man I can picture standing naked on a cliffside and screaming at everyone about his imminent ascension towards godhood. he is the incarnation of that one iconic Gina Linetti scene.

[keanureevesisbae]

Becky's debut novel (Sugar Sugar fic)

A/N: So, @thelastsock gave me such a great idea: a snippet of Becky's book. So I have a snippet here, including a front cover, back cover and a little dedication page (because I am extra like that 😂😂, what else do you expect from me). Hope you like it xoxo

Chapter 1

YOU ARE NOT WELCOME.

Those are the exact words that greet me when I walk up our porch to our front door. Let’s just say that my mom has a special way of welcoming her quests. I step over the slightly offensive doormat to get inside. Not a lot of people would expect this kind of welcome from the mayor, but then again: no one expected her to win the elections in our town Starfall Fields in the first way.

Not to be mean, but even I never believed in my mom and not for a second did I think she had any chance of winning. Mom has been quite the controversy the second she moved into town. How on earth would she be able to be the mayor?

Weirdly enough, she hasn’t made a complete fool out of herself in these two months she has been mayor. Actually, she’s been doing quite well. It’s just that her housekeeping skills have been lower than low.

I open the refrigerator and scrunch up my nose when I notice there is barely anything edible in here. Great.

I grab my phone and send my mom a text.

Josie: You need to do groceries

Mom: Do it yourself, you lazy bitch

Mom: Still love you though 😘

I chuckle as I read her text. She’s quite something, my mom, and if we don’t call each other bitch at least once a day, there’s something up and we should worry.

People might find it odd that we call one another bitch, but it’s just our way of showing our affection towards the other.

Somehow I find some left over yogurt that isn’t expired already. I peel a banana (to only throw half of it away, because it’s brown and squishy, therefore absolutely repulsive) and cut it into slices. I drizzle some maple syrup on top of it and want to add some raisins, but when I open the jar, I find out there is only one raisin left in it.

‘Mom,’ I whine, though she can’t hear me. ‘Really?’ This is just absolutely fantastic. After a long day at school, a girl can barely enjoy a nice little afternoon snack. I grab my bowl and walk over to the dining table. My butt barely touched the soft seating of the chair, when my best friend Andy FaceTimes me. I place the phone against the fruit bowl before I press answer. ‘What do you want?’ I ask him. ‘You literally saw me half an hour ago.’

He smiles, two dimples appearing in his full cheeks. ‘You know I can’t get enough of you, sugar.’

Andy and I have been best friends since I can remember, but that is mostly because we’ve been in the same class the moment we both stepped foot into kindergarten and we’re neighbors. We’re literally the two houses in a radius of around half a mile (yes, we took the time to measure it) and he isn’t the worst guy to hang around with.

Okay, he is the only one that doesn’t make me that angry, I have to fight the urge to claw his eyes out. I’m not gonna beat around the bush: I love hanging out with him.

While we see each other the moment we step out of our houses to go to school, share every class of the day with one another and we walk from school back to our houses, it’s hard to function without the other one. Therefore, we usually FaceTime the second we can after separating.

We’re quite the symbiotic pair.

‘Spit it out, Andy. What do you want?’ I ask.

‘I was wondering what your plans are,’ Andy says. ‘Mainly for tonight.’

I can’t help but chuckle. ‘There was a plan of me hanging on the couch, watching a movie with my best friend while we eat junk food, but your voice is telling me that you have something else in mind for the two of us.’

He nods. ‘I was thinking about you and I doing some FindUrPricing tonight.’

‘FindUrPricing is not a word, you idiot.’

‘I don’t care, miss Doyle,’ he retorts with a sassy undertone. He shakes his head, gestures I have to wait (like I’m going anywhere) and comes back into frame, this time with a tablet in his hands. ‘I have like five of these things, so what do you say? Want to bury them tonight, while we try to find something cool for it in return?’

Andy has this obsession with solving puzzles in newspapers like the old soul he is and since he is quite good and really fast, he has won multiple prizes, including multiple tablets.

‘Only if I find a diamond ring,’ I answer with my mouth full of yogurt.

‘Yeah, that’s attractive. You’ll find yourself a boyfriend in no time with those manners.’

I show him the finger. ‘I don’t need etiquette lessons from you,’ I say.

Andy sticks out his tongue. ‘Are you coming with me tonight?’ he asks me. ‘You know I need you.’

I chuckle. Andy is a disaster when it comes to being in the dark, but since FindUrPrice is just more fun at night, I have become his personal guard. ‘Okay, okay, but only if I can sleep at your place tonight. I have no idea what time my mom will be back from work.’

Andy’s parents are going to the opera’s tonight and afterwards, they’re staying in a hotel near the big city. Normally, they aren’t the type of people to go to the opera’s, but when their son wins tickets, including a stay in one of the most luxurious hotels in the area, who are they to say no?

Since I have no idea what time my mom manages to pull herself from city hall (to say she is a workaholic is an understatement), I’d rather sleep at Andy’s, then telling her we’ve been wandering on the street late at night.

Especially on a school night.

Sure, my mom knows about FindUrPrice, but she forbade me to ever do it late at night, because “you never know what can happen”. I personally think it’s not that big of a deal, since Starfall Fields is boring as hell and absolutely harmless, but my mother wouldn’t be my mother if she didn’t envision my death.

FindUrPrice is an app for the younger folks in our city and the few around. The organization hid a few gifts and presents and whenever you follow the leads and find something, you have to place something nice in return. It’s cute and me and Andy do it from time to time.

‘You’re coming over now?’ Andy asks.

‘To help you do your laundry?’ I ask, nodding towards the screen, mainly towards the enormous pile of clothes on his bed. ‘Didn’t think so. See you in a few hours, Andy.’

‘Please,’ he begs, right at the same time as I hear his mom in the background yelling for him. ‘Yes, wait a minute!’ he yells. ‘Can I live with you? I feel like your mother never pushes you to do chores around the house.’

‘That’s because I do them voluntarily. If mom doesn’t do laundry, no one does it. If mom doesn’t clean the toilet, no one does it. Believe me, with a mom who all of the sudden turns a bit blind when it comes house chores, there is more to do here than there is at your place. Don’t you dare whine about it, Andrew Carter.’

We hang up and I grab a magazine from the table, reading through some of the articles. How to painlessly bikini wax yourself, how to get rid of strawberry legs, how to get yourself a man in a week.

Geez, mom, why do you read this?

No wait, better question: mom, why haven’t you gotten yourself a man in a week? This issue is three months old.

My phone rings again and without looking I answer, since I know exactly who is calling me. ‘Andy, I’m not helping you with your laundry,’ I say. ‘Shirts, sweaters and other items for your upper body go on a hanger and the rest with clothespins on a drying rack. How many times do I have to tell you that?’

‘Thank you for this wise, yet unnecessary lesson in laundry,’ mom says and I can hear her smile in her voice. ‘But laundry is your chore, so I pretend I didn’t hear it.’

‘What do you want?’ I ask my mom.

‘Wanted to know your plans for tonight.’

‘I was planning on hanging out with Andy,’ I say. Go outside, do some FindUrPricing. ‘Watch a movie. Probably sleep at his place. He is home alone, you know how he gets.’

Mom snorts. ‘Oh, do I know. How old was he when he rang our doorbell, nearly crying because he was afraid of the dark?’

‘The last time was a few months ago,’ I chuckle. ‘Why do you want to know my plans for tonight?’

‘You know,’ mom starts and I do know. ‘There is still a lot to do here at city hall.’

‘Right,’ I say, ‘and you wanted to know whether or not I mind. Mom, I’m your daughter, I truly don’t care.’

‘I’ll make it up to you,’ she says, mostly because she is trying to feel less guilty.

And I wouldn’t be her daughter if I wasn’t going to totally exploit her sweet offer. ‘So, you’re making breakfast for me and Andy tomorrow?’

She sighs. ‘Goodness gracious, really? I’m going to pull an all nighter.’

‘You wanted to be mayor and you’re also a mother. Deal with it.’

Mom scoffs. ‘And here I was thinking I was gonna get some sympathy from my daughter.’

‘Ew never,’ I say.

‘Well, I might just make breakfast for you, only if you eat it here. I might be your chef, but I’m not a waiter and I’m certainly not gonna walk it to the Carters.’

I scoff. ‘Okay, I think I can live with that.’

‘Alright, enjoy your night, Josie and don’t make it too late okay? Ten o’clock lights out, okay?’

No. ‘Of course. Bye mom.’

I look at the picture on the dining table. Despite not being blood related, my mom and I are really close. According to Andy’s mom, it never seemed like my mom would settle down. She moved to this boring place a few years prior to finding me on her doorstep. She was thirty and didn’t have a husband (nor had any intention of settling down with anyone—she turned down a lot of men who asked her out in Starfall Fields). Even back then, she was already a workaholic and worked over time as the mayor’s assistant.

One day, when she was getting herself ready for work, she heard soft cries from her front porch and when she checked it out, there was yours truly.

I was around a year old and in the cradle, there was a note saying that whoever found me, to take good care of me. My DNA wasn’t available in any database, just like there were no matches at all.

I have no idea who I am, who my biological family is and where I’m from.

Mom adopted me, because I only felt safe with her and since that moment, we were a duo.

A year and a half ago she became the mayor and since then she is everywhere in Starfall Fields, except home. I barely see her, but she does a lot for this town and I don’t think I have the right to whine about it, especially because it means many many sleepovers with Andy and many nights wandering around the woods to play FindUrPrice.

Sure, I miss her from time to time, because she’s still my mom. From someone who was home a lot, would wait for me on the porch no matter the weather when I came back from school and had chocolate pie ready for me and Andy, she changed to a real career woman who is everywhere in town.

But that’s okay, she’s happy and when she is, I am too. I should be, especially after everything she has done for me.

[interrogatethecat]

Of Husbands and Murder

word count: 3k

written for the prompt “Noir” for Their Love Was Real

Dean had a great life.

He worked as a mechanic during the day, and he loved his job. Every evening, he came home to his husband. Said husband made some fucking awesome pie. On weekends, he played DnD with his best friend. His brother called him at least once a week from college.

And, of course, he was a serial killer.

Late at night, sometimes Dean would get an itch that he had to scratch. A thirst that couldn’t be quenched. Nothing else did it. The only thing that sated it were the pained screams of whoever he had tied to his chair and the blood that spilled across the warehouse floor. The only thing that truly satisfied him was cleaning up after, seeing the flecks of blood mixed in with his freckles, and the dangerous glint in his eyes.

When he got home and the itch was scratched, he’d crawl back into bed, and in the morning, Cas would be none the wiser that he had ever been gone, and life continued.

Change someone’s oil. Fix the brakes on a Toyota. Come home covered in grease. Take a shower. Steal kisses from his husband. Hang out with Charlie on weekends. Jokingly remind Sam not to go to any keggers. Off someone. Repeat. Such was the life of Dean Winchester.

This time, the itch came in the middle of January.

the rest + tag list below the cut, or on a03 here.

Like most November days, it was blustery and cold. Dean liked it that way. If someone off the streets went missing, well, it would be assumed that they froze to death. Days would pass before the body would be found, marked and warranting a front page headline. Easier for him.

“Boy! You got any spark plugs there?”

“Uh….” Dean glanced around the area where he was working. “Nope. Sorry, Bobby.”

“Balls. We’re out.”

“What do you need them for?” Dean asked, turning back to the engine he was working with. “Someone need theirs replaced?”

Bobby leveled him with a glare from beneath his baseball cap. “No, I wanna turn ‘em into a necklace. Yes, a customer needs them.”

Dean raised his hands in surrender. “Woah. Didn’t know if you were just asking for inventory.”

“Since when do I do inventory? That’s Kevin’s job. He’s got exams, though, so he’s preoccupied at the moment.”

“He didn’t leave a list?”

Bobby huffed. “He did, but I can’t read it.”

Dean straightened up, wiping his hands on a towel. “Here, let me see.”

Bobby raised an eyebrow at him. “You think you can crack it.”

“How hard can it be?” Dean scoffed. “I had to read Sammy’s handwriting for years, I think I can manage Kev’s.”

Bobby grumbled something under his breath, moving towards his office.

Dean watched him disappear behind a large truck. When he was alone, the thirst came back, more persistent than it had been.

Tonight, Dean figured. He’d take care of it tonight. Just a few more hours of his shift, he’d see Cas, then he’d grab someone off the streets and parch his thirst.

Bobby came back and shoved a notebook into Dean’s hands. “Still think you can read it?”

Dean squinted at the— was that even writing? “The hell?”

“Exactly,” Bobby said.

“That’s not writing, it’s chicken scratch,” Dean said, shoving the notebook back at him. “Tell Kevin to type his notes instead.”

The day continued. Dean fixed a set of taillights on a pickup truck, changed the oil on a Honda, had to deal with the broken brakes on a Prius. By the time his shift was over, he was covered head to toe in grease. Just another day on the job.

After toweling the worst of it off, Dean gave Bobby a wave and made his way outside.

Singer’s Auto and Parts consisted of a large, out of the way garage that connected to a small room Bobby used as his office, a large parking lot out back for the cars they were fixing up, and a cracked stretch of asphalt where the employees parked. Not the most glamorous, but then again, neither was Dean.

He ducked into the Impala, the corner of his mouth turning up as her engine rumbled. The sun was beginning to sink below the horizon, painting the sky in vibrant oranges, inky purples, and all the shades in between. Rush hour had just ended, leaving the streets emptying of cars but not deserted. Led Zeppelin blaring, Dean pulled out onto the road, headed for home.

He missed every red light, and within fifteen minutes, was pulling into the driveway and parking the car.

Cas was already inside, curled up on the couch, papers spread out on the coffee table in front of him. He looked up when Dean came in and smiled. “Hello, Dean.”

Dean smiled back. “Hey, Cas. ‘Nother essay?”

Cas shook his head. “Creative writing. Some of them are very good. Actually, I’m rather impressed by a number of them. This one, on the other hand….”

“Well, lemme take a shower, and then I’ll rescue you. Deal?”

“I’ll hold you to that,” Cas said. “Please, hurry.”

Dean mock saluted. “Yes, sir.”

Cas rolled his eyes.

As promised, the shower was quick, and in no time, Dean had shifted Cas’ papers aside and thrown himself down on the couch next to him. He dropped a kiss on the top of Cas’ head and threw an arm around him.

Cas leaned against him, head settling against Dean’s shoulder. “Marie is an excellent student,” he said, “and very creative, but I fail to understand her obsession with robots, ninjas, and ‘subtext.’”

Dean huffed a laugh. “‘Course you don’t.”

Cas looked away from his paper to glare at him.

Dean laughed harder. “It’s cute, Cas.”

The glare didn’t cease. “I don’t want to be cute. I’m not cute.”

“Whatever gets you through the night,” Dean said.

“You're insufferable,” Cas said.

“You love me anyway.”

“Yes.”

Dean grinned. “Love you, too.”

The itch squirmed beneath his skin, in his very bones. It was always better, more under control around Cas, but never gone.

He had to keep the night moving. As much as he loved this time with his husband, the itch was there and needed scratching. He needed to make someone bleed, needed to hurt, to kill. None of which would happen while Cas was still awake.

“So,” Dean said, “how do you feel about takeout for tonight? Because I really don’t wanna cook anything, and it’s kinda late.”

Cas nodded. “Chinese?”

“Sounds good. Want me to order?”

“As long as you don’t ‘forget’ to order stir fry or something else with vegetables.”

Dean groaned as he stood up. “Why the hell would you want vegetables?”

“Because they’re good.”

This time, Dean was the one to roll his eyes. “Fine. You owe me, though.”

Cas smirked triumphantly for the remainder of the night. It was especially wide when Dean actually ate the stir fry.

Not that Dean would ever admit it, but it was actually pretty good. Maybe a little more than pretty good.

By the time he and Cas were in bed, it was nearing ten o’clock. Surprisingly early. Cas seemed to have wanted to get into bed as well, which was unusual. When Dean asked him about it, he just shrugged it off and said, “I’ve been working since five o’clock this morning, I think I deserve a break.”

Dean pressed a gentle kiss to his lips. “Sure thing, angel.”

Something flashed briefly in Cas’ eyes, there and gone too quickly for Dean to dissect.

They crawled into bed, Dean curled protectively around Cas, listening to Cas’ breathing even out. Cas was so peaceful like this. Any other night, Dean would have stayed awake, kept watching him until he drifted off. Taking in every bit of Cas he could. But tonight….

As gently as he could, Dean extracted himself from around Cas, taking care not to disturb him. The bed creaked as he stood up, but there wasn’t any other movement. Good.

He crept through the house quietly, grabbing the keys off the counter, wincing when the door squeaked on his way out.

This time when Dean drove, there was no music. Just him, his car, the road, and the itch, the desire, the need. Clawing its way out from his core, begging for blood and screams. Just one person. That was all he needed. A person and a knife, and it would be dealt with. His knives had been left there. Now, all he needed was a guest.

There was a homeless person, dumpster diving in an alley that Dean saw halfway into the city. He couldn’t have been more than eighteen. His oversized coat was dirty, and his face smudged with grime. He was no one.

Perfect.

The Impala slowed and stopped on the side of the road.

“Need a lift?”

The kid looked up.

“I’ve also got a spare room, if you need it,” Dean added.

The kid’s eyes widened. “Really?”

“Yeah,” Dean said. “Hop on in.”

“How do I know I can trust you?” the kid asked suspiciously.

Dean shrugged. “Just gonna have to.”

“What’s your name?”

“Dean,” Dean said. “You?”

“Alfie,” the kid offered.

“Well, Alfie,” Dean said, putting on his most charming smile, “I’ll ask again: need a lift?”

Alfie got into the car.

The blood pounding in Dean’s ears with need got louder as Alfie slammed the passenger door shut behind him. Giving him no time to react, Dean seized the back of his head and slammed it against the dashboard. There was a satisfying thunk, and the kid’s eyes unfocused before he passed out.

Dean hit the gas.

________________

The warehouse was on the far edge of the city, far enough out that Dean wasn’t even sure it was a part of the city.

The building was rusting and dirty and old and abandoned. A little cliché, but since when had that hurt anyone?

Dean parked the Impala behind the warehouse, then ducked outside the car. He popped open the trunk. Shuffling aside some reusable bags, Dean found his buried stash of zip ties. Pocketing a few, he slammed the trunk shut, then went around to the passenger side door.

Alfie was still out cold. He didn’t even stir when Dean picked him up bridal style and carried him into the warehouse. Didn’t move when Dean used the zip ties to tie him to a chair, or grabbed some duct tape off a bench and covered his mouth.

He probably had at least ten minutes until he would come to. Ten minutes to kill. Ten minutes to decide what he wanted to do tonight to make him scream.

Dean kept his knives by a workbench in the far corner of the main room. To the best of his knowledge, it was your standard serial killer set-up; a wide array of weapons of varying sizes, shapes, and sharpness. Above them he had hung newspaper clippings, each with a headline pertaining to him.

Body Discovered Bearing Demonic Symbol

New Body Found, Not the Work of Angel Killer

Cult in Sioux Falls?

One Wasn’t Enough: Two Serial Killers in Sioux Falls?

Serial Killer on the Loose

Sioux Falls Murderer Dubbed “Demon Killer”

Demon Kills Again

Demon and Angel Killers Strike Again

Another Body Found With Demon Mark

Two Bodies Found In One Night

Trail of Bodies Leads Nowhere

Heaven and Hell Working Together?

Theories About Angel and Demon Killers Run Rampant

Some of the most recent articles made Dean the most curious. No longer was he the only person in Sioux Falls with the extra curricular activity murder. And this someone, dubbed the Angel Killer because of their tendency to spray paint coronas over the heads of their victims, had been around since before Dean moved there. Then Dean had started offing people. There was no connection between the two of them. And then, for whatever reason, this Angel Killer had started killing on the same nights as Dean. Why was that? Accidents didn’t happen accidentally. There was something there, more to it that coincidence, Dean was sure. But what?

Alfie groaned, the sound muffled slightly by the tape.

Dean grabbed a blade off the table, then turned to look at Alfie. “Good, You’re awake.”

Alfie was still out of it, struggling to make sense of the situation. His eyes widened when he saw the knife Dean was twirling in one hand.

This knife, in particular, was one of Dean’s favorites. It had a sturdy handle, and an even hardier blade. Part of it was sharp, smooth enough to slice skin with so much of a brush, while the other part of it was serrated like the jaws of some creature, perfect for ripping and tearing away chunks of flesh. Elegant and savage, all at once.

Dean smiled at the kid dangerously. “Glad you’re up. Would’ve had to go on without you if you hadn’t woken up in the next few minutes. After this, I’ve gotta get home. Work tomorrow. Husband to get back to.”

Alfie tried to shout something.

“Not gonna work, buddy. You’re not the first one to try.” He took a few steps closer, then used the tip of the blade to force up Alfie’s chin. “So,” Dean said, “ready to have some fun?”

There was a strangled sob as Dean lightly dragged the tip of the knife down Alfie’s throat, stopping when he reached his clavicle. With a swift motion, he sliced open the front of the kid’s jacket and shirt, exposing the upper part of his chest. It rose and fell rapidly, nothing like the calm inhales and exhales of Cas falling asleep. While that made something inside him flare warmly, this— the raw, unfiltered panic— filled him with satisfaction.

Dean smiled as he made his first incisions into the kid, felt more and more alive with each scream. Happily watched the blood drip to the floor, pool around the chair as he carved. This wasn’t his most precise work, but he only had a little while before he had to be back in bed. It didn’t matter that it was sloppy; it did the job.

Only after his chest and face had been completely mangled did Dean roll up the kid’s sleeve. With steady hands, he carved his signature into Alfie’s forearm, a seven-like shape that dug into the flesh. Dean took pleasure in the kid's heaving chest, reveled in knowing that his lungs weren’t getting enough air.

“Thanks, kid.” Dean grinned at him as he made the final line of the design, then drove the knife into his chest.

Alfie gargled wetly, then—

Nothing.

His body sagged in the chair, bound and bloody and lifeless.

The itch was gone.

Dean admired his work for a few moments, then pivoted to grab a cloth from his workbench to clean the blood off his knife. As he was wiping it down, there was a voice from behind him.

“So you’re the Demon Killer.”

Dean froze. He knew that voice.

“I always wondered what you did when you disappeared,” Cas said.

Dean turned around.

Cas was standing on the other side of the chair. He looked incredibly out of place amongst the carnage; he was still wearing his ridiculous bee pajamas, only with his trench coat thrown over them. His attention was turned to Alfie’s corpse. “You know what you’re doing,” Cas noted, as though this was a perfectly normal conversation. “It’s quite impressive. I should have expected as much, given your skills in the kitchen.”

“What are you doing here?” Dean demanded.

Cas finally looked at him, his expression one of interest. “I thought I said that. I wanted to know what you did when you left at night,” he said simply. “This isn’t what I expected, but… you always are full of surprises.”

“Why now?”

“Curiosity finally got the better of me. I figured I could hold off on my plans for a few weeks longer.”

The gears in Dean’s head started turning. “Your… plans?” Dean said slowly.

Cas nodded. His eyes flickered behind Dean, to the newspaper articles.

Dean shook his head as he connected the dots. “No way,” he said. “Absolutely not. You’re not— you can’t be—“

“The so-called ‘Angel Killer?’” Cas asked.

If Dean hadn’t been struggling to process, he would have rolled his eyes at Cas’ finger quotes.

“Yes,” Cas said matter-of-factly. “I believe that’s what they call me.”

“No,” Dean said insistently. “You— there’s no way you’re a serial killer!”

“What makes you think that?” Cas seemed genuinely curious.

“You're an English teacher!”

Cas fixed him with a look. “You’re a mechanic.”

Dean stared at him incredulously. “This is not happening.”

“I can assure you it is,” Cas said.

“Prove it,” Dean said.

Cas’ eyes glinted at the challenge. In a few strides, he was in Dean’s space, pressing their lips together.

Oh. Shit.

This was definitely happening.

When they broke apart, there was some blood smeared on Cas’ face. A smile was beginning to form, his mouth quirking upwards. “Was that enough proof?”

Dean nodded. He reached out and tried to wipe off some of the blood that had gotten on Cas’ face with his thumb, only succeeding in streaking it more.

They stood there for a few moments silently.

At last, Dean spoke.

“Cas,” he said, licking his lips, “you’re even more of a badass than I thought you were.”

“I know,” Cas said. “The same goes for you.”

“How long?”

Cas didn’t need him to specify. He considered it for a few seconds. “Years. Just a few before I met you.”

Dean nodded. “Yeah. Uh, I started not long before I came to Sioux Falls, but….”

They fell quiet again.

“I’m sensing awkwardness,” Cas said.

That was so incredibly Cas that Dean had to laugh, the tension broken. “Keen observation, Sherlock.” And then, as though he’d said it a hundred times, “Help me with the body?”

Cas’ smile widened. “I thought you’d never ask.”

One body-disposal and a drive home later, Dean was laying in bed, curled around Cas. He smiled into the back of Cas’ neck. Yeah. He had a great life.

He worked as a mechanic during the day, and he loved his job. On weekends, he played DnD with his best friend. His brother called him at least once a week from college.

Every day, he came home to his husband. Said husband made some fucking awesome pie.

And, of course, he was a serial killer.

tag list: @theirlovewasreal @holmesemrys @fanfic-corner @lovingherwasgay @destiel-is-canon-i-guess @top13zepptraxx @i-do-know-and-idc

let me know if you want to be added or removed!

[silyabeeodess]

AHIT Headcanons: Queen Vanessa

I said I wasn’t gonna do this yet, but it’s been on my mind for half the day.  Already said some of these points a little bit more generally in other posts, but I’d like to cover my thoughts on her in greater detail.  Notes below the cut:

I like to think that Vanessa’s ice powers are something that’s passed through the women in her family line.  I won’t go too into detail on how, because of my writing and spoilers, but it’s the cause of her mother’s early death.  Vanessa’s abilities were to be suppressed, both by her parent’s orders and her own fears of that magic crippling her body in the same way it did her predecessors.  (The only reason why Vanessa would “survive” is because she embraced it.) Her relationship with her mother was strict, as the latter had high expectations for how her daughter was to carry herself as a princess and what was expected for her in life.  However, both she and the king--who had passed before her--did spoil Vanessa rotten.  Vanessa was raised to be an ideal princess, but also became entitled and locked in her own delusions. Her servants were at her beck and call, and--Vanessa being fawned over as the future queen who they tried to keep happy--her subjects loved her.  When she was in a bad mood, her magic was more likely to show and she would bar herself away in the manor until it had passed.  This kept her developing any real problem-solving skills when it came to her social life, like how to compromise with others. 

Her abilities are ice-based, but can reach into the spiritual.  This is how they’re able to affect ghosts/spirits just as much as mortals, as seen with the frozen figures around her home.  When she personally kills a person, she can draw out a portion of their life/spiritual energy.  Mortal souls are less likely to escape an icy imprisonment when it is carried out directly by her hand as well, forever trapping them.  

She was childhood friends with the Prince, so while her parents encouraged the union for the advantages that would come from it, she did like him and he loved her back.  

One of the most common debates I see with her character is on the topic of whether or not Vanessa truly loved the Prince.  The split tends to be that she did truly love him and the misunderstanding caused her actions vs. the thought that she only loved the idea of him.  Well, in a sense, both can be a little in the right.  We all know love is complicated and that there are multiple types of it, but speaking of love in the general sense, real love is a selfless feeling: From it, we desire the well-being of others, and are willing to show patience and make sacrifices for their betterment, even to the cost of ourselves.  To love despite someone’s flaws, not out of ignorance or an unwillingness to see them.  However, Vanessa’s behavior toward the Prince is often from selfish desires: Her obsession and possessive nature is the most obvious, but also in her efforts to change parts of who he was to satisfy her wants, such as forcing him to change his appearance and taking away things that he enjoyed.  This is not love--but let me continue: You can think the world of someone.  You can treat them with kindness.  You can put them on a pedestal.  None of this, however, means that you necessarily love them--in the very least in the romantic sense. They might have a tick that’s your exception, causing you to always push them away without compromise because it just bothers you too much, always crossing into an “unforgiveable” territory.  You might care about them, but just put other things in your own life ahead of that--not other people necessarily, but your own interests.  Sometimes, the feeling just isn’t there, nothing that would make you want to give up on certain things or compromise/change yourself in positive ways to be in love with that person.  It’s not necessarily bad: It just means they’re probably not right for you.  If you’re in love, to the point where you feel ready to spend your life with a person someday, you need to be willing to adapt and grow alongside them. 

I compare my interpretation of Vanessa to Shrek’s Fiona gone horribly wrong. Someone with high expectations of what they expected in their lives, wanted, and believed love to be. Her idealizing this vision of her being a princess with her perfect prince aligns with the common fairytale trope: The princess falls in love, her prince is there for her on bended knee, and they live happily never after.  (If she’s not the princess anymore, her ‘character’ has effectively been stripped from her and she can’t be the maiden of that story.) It’s a very naïve and closed way of thinking, and anything that would challenge that also challenges her worldview.  I imagine she loved who the Prince was, but wasn’t in love with him--she just thinks she is.  This is where the “idea” sense comes from: Not loving the idea of an individual, but rather loving the idea of being in love in itself. “This is how we’re supposed to be.  This is how we’re supposed to feel.  If you don’t behave this specific way, you don’t love me.” Nothing can go against the script, so when anything does it confuses and enrages her.  If she was going to have a healthy relationship, it would’ve needed to have been with someone willing to shatter her worldview--which I don’t think the Prince ever did.  It would’ve been much better had they stayed friends.

We can’t ignore either that, whoever Vanessa was in the past, she’s certainly not a good person in present-day Subcon.  Beyond showing a merciless nature toward anyone who enters the manor, you can hear her attempting to lure Hat Kid out so she can kill her between threats. “Come out, little one! Don’t be shy.”  I just can’t eat all these yummy cookies!  Oh, if only someone who was hiding would come out and let me eat them...” “I can smell your fear!  You don’t have anything to fear!  Now... why don’t we have a little talk?” “The garden looks beautiful tonight!  We can go see it together!”  This shows that she knows HK is just a child and does not care, as well as how unhinged and manipulative she is.  She’s also laughing and claiming how much fun she’s having, enjoying toying with HK and the idea of finishing her off. The frozen Subcon Dweller in her parlor proves that she won’t even spare her own subjects and likely felt little to no guilt in freezing the village over--though at the time I do behave she was on an emotional override to the point where any sense of guilt was drowned out by rage and self-remorse. (Granted, we don’t know what the ghost was doing in her home, but we can infer that they’re pretty weak and aren’t really a threat, especially to her.)  Another quote, where she talks about being lonely in the manor, can indicate emotional manipulation and/or that she still sees herself as the victim in all of this. She likely used this behavior to abuse the Prince when they were together in order to get her way.    

Already mentioned but might as well put it here too, she does still have “servants” through the headless statues.  She doesn’t interact with them beyond giving orders though, when she wants something in the outside world, because she refuses to leave the manor now.  

She still “loves” the Prince and keeps telling herself that he has to come back for her someday--because he always did.  Her staying in the manor is both out of an unhealthy way of dealing with her emotions and so that she couldn’t possibly ever miss him if he came back to her.  He won’t.  

She knows of Snatcher, but not who he is.  She doesn’t like him in the forest, but no more than a ton of other beings that lurk in it and so long as he doesn’t push too far on what she considers her own territory she doesn’t care.  In her twisted mind, “happily ever after” can still happen: That’s her main focus, and even after that she figures he’d be chased out.  Sometimes she uses the statues to ensure he’s not going to be any trouble for her, to stay up to date on anything that might be happening in the forest, if “her prince has returned,” etc. 

[finalcreacher]

Chapter Three - That Summer, And Many More

A/n -

Trigger Warnings :

Period Typical Language (homophobic slurs!!)

Previous Chapters: 

Chapter One, Chapter Two

Word Count: 1,346

1987, 13 years old - Summer

.

We were at my house, a few days after I told him. We hadn't been able to discuss any of it further. It was to Eddie's and grabbing our friends, and spending the whole night out together...to being grounded and having to do chores. My father didn't appreciate the thought of me having only male friends, he found it impractical, and he always insisted I make more girl friends. A girl would evermore be a good influence on me. I had my mother, though, I always thought- wouldn't that be enough? Would that be enough to please him? I suppose it never was, and by the time Beverly came around, he wished it was just the boys and me again. He was always hoping- hoping, hoping, hoping.

Richie stopped at the comic shop, briefly, before coming over. He picked up the latest Spider-Man. We enjoyed collecting them together, saving up from chore money, and coins on the ground. Whoever saved up enough first, would head down to the shop, and buy the next issue. That person would keep it for their collection- but we always read it together.

He has it open to the first spread and is sprawled long ways across my bed. I frown, "Rich! Get your shoes off, my mother's gonna throw a fit if she sees this."

He grunts and rolls off, sitting on the carpeted floors, untying his shoes. "What's it matter, anyway? You can wash them afterwards."

"We already had laundry day, and it could like, stain."

"And you care why?"

"Geez, just take off your shoes."

"Right on it, Captain." Richie leaves his shoes near the side of the bed. I turn around, giggling- the thought of being called captain has a kind, fuzzy feeling growing in my body. "Heard this one's really good."

"With a name like this? I hope so." I hold it up, and it reads, "The Hobgoblin Revealed!" I flop onto my bed in excitement. "Rich, c'mon." And he follows suit- albeit hesitantly.

I want to ask 'what's the matter,' cause something seems off with Richie. The way he holds himself next to me. But judging from the other day, I'd understand if he was uncomfortable.

"Hey," he whispers- and my heart nearly beats out of my chest. The way he pauses and thinks it over, I'm sure he changes his mind on what to say. "So, everyone wants to get together tomorrow..."

I sigh, "I'll ask. I think I'm still grounded- might be an epic plot to ruin summer."

"Damn, well, I think it's working." He laughs, and his face shines, even in the littlest of light.

"And why's that?"

"You're not there." He doesn't even have to think of it- I think he knows it before I even ask, I imagine I knew it.

"Rich," he hums in response, "In the barrens when you said you like me, what did you mean?"

He seems surprised at my question, but answers- thoughtfully. "I like you. I want to spend all my time with you, I want to do what the big kids do- I want to date you. "

"Me? That seems silly, you could pick anyone, and you pick me?"

His face twists to an unreadable expression, but it's dark and ugly.

"Why not? Your gorgeous."

"How about...hot."

He mockingly debates it in his head, "Yes, definitely."

"And handsome?"

"Sure- if that's what you want."

"More of how I feel."

"Hm, would you explain it for me?"

"It's like this feeling deep within me, and it's just the worst feeling. I'd rather physically be in pain than deal with this every day. But, something doesn't feel right, being a girl."

"So, it's not that you've had a dick all this time or?"

It's this that makes me slip, "what's with this obsession with my dick- are you sure you're not gay?"

Richie's light mood turns angry. His brows furrow, and he frowns, making a hideous expression.

"Jesus, I'm sorry, Rich, really."

He hums in response, "Sure."

I sigh, "Look, I am sorry. It's just, you've had such adverse reactions to me even mentioning it! What if I was gay? I mean, I'm not, of course."

"Exactly, your not. There's nothing to worry about, silly." He chuckles, and tickles my sides, making me giggle. "Let's get to Spiderman, okay?"

"Y-yeah," I say, sitting up quickly to grab the comic off the bed before Richie could.

"Sounding kinda like Bill, something wrong?"

"Richie! That's so mean! I'm good, just surprised by your tickles- are you trying to start a fight?"

"Oh, challenging me now?"

"Maybe, I'd watch your back if I were you- just in case, y'know."

We fall back laughing, and I hold the issue between us, so we can both read.

.

"Hey, Rich, it's nearly six. You think your folks are expecting you?"

Richie lets out a low hum, "They can have one dinner without me, I haven't seen you all week."

Chuckling, I continue, "Partially your fault, though. You know I can't stay out that late."

"Do you want me to?" He sits up and turns away from me.

"What- no. Why would I?" That uncomfortable, awkward feeling that always left a heavyweight against my chest, slowly trickled into the room.

"Things have been pretty weird between us."

"Yeah, well, we're weird," I laugh nervously. "I know, that's on me. I have a loudmouth. If we keep avoiding this, though, things are just going to get worse."

"What's there to discuss?"

I sigh, "Well, for one, what are we?"

"Two, why are you so insistent?"

"And three, how do we talk without getting into a tiff about it?" Richie playfully snarls at that, and I try to hide a smile from appearing on my face.

"I think you know plenty of what I want us to be."

"I've never done that before, I need time to think about it?"

"Sure- just don't decline because you think I'm a fag."

"I-I don't think that."

"You're very insistent on it- why is that? If your not gay, then-"

"I may not be a dyke or a fag, but I'm sure not with today's standards. If you were up there with me," I sigh, trying to sort my scrambled thoughts and pick words that wouldn't upset him. "I don't know, Rich, maybe I wouldn't feel so alone, or I wouldn't feel so bad about this."

He doesn't respond, not right away, at least. He slips off the bed and searches the floor in search of his shoes. Richie guffawed, "That's selfish."

I know," I look away, "You can leave."

He frowns, sighing, "I'm sure it's not what you want."

I hum in return, I don't look back at him, and part of me(even knowing that Richie would never be so rude as to do this) thought he had already slipped out the door and was biking back to his house by now. And the me that still held onto the idea that he would never do that wanted to get up and hold him in the biggest hug. Instead, I ask in the quietest voice(perhaps just above a whisper) I could muster, without my voice cracking and showing to Richie that I was near crying, "Would you stay tonight?"

I don't receive a response, but I can feel my mattress shifting under someone's weight, and I can only assume it's him. I can feel him lie down next to me, and his soft breathing is confirmation enough for what he chooses. I run a hand along his arm, gently, and lock my pinky with his.

He curls his pinky around mine.

In his own way, this was the best way to answer and to go about all of the questions we brought up that night. We weren't ready to discuss issue two, not entirely, really. And I wasn't ready for a relationship, not quite(I think). But that night, with our pinkies held together, we didn't need answers, this was just enough. We were happy in those moments.

Tag List (Just ask me if you want to be added or removed!):

@cutie-memers

[queerchoicesblog]

Lost Cause (OH, Aurora & F!MC Friendship, Harper & Aurora)

So I finally wrote a fic about the Emery doctors since I strongly doubt we will get a chance to see this in the original book. Yet I feel like a scene like this should have been part of the story, after what we learned about them over the past few chapters. Set before Ch. 16 on the eve of MC (Meredith Valentine)’s hearing and containing references to my Aurora & F!MC friendship fic, this fanfic deals with a (much needed) confrontation between Aurora and Harper. 

Pretty angsty and hopefully bittersweet, as I headcanon them as close in the past: that affection isn’t gone, but things are different now when they’re both doctors at Edenbrook hospital. And a few misunderstandings cloud their minds, even though they speak from the heart out of care.  It was tough to write, but I hope I stayed in character! I’d like to think that after this talk, there will be a new beginning for their relationship. Hope you like it!

Word Count: 2800+

Perma Tag: @brightpinkpeppercorn @melodyofgraves @abunchofbadchoices @bhavf @bbaba-yagaa @kennaxval @strangerofbraidwood @crazypeanat

OH Tag: @bubblygothzombie  @emeryharper

_________________________

Harper was going through the papers of Dr. Valentine's hearing, sipping a coffee on her couch when her doorbell rang. It was a bit late for a friend stopping by and she wasn't expecting anyone, not the night before a hearing. She stood, groaning, hoping that it wasn't Ethan on the other side of the door. Or even worse, Declan. That creep would be perfectly capable to throw a stunt like that.

But it was none of them. When she opened the door, it was...

"Aurora?"

"Hi...Harper" her niece greeted her, shifting uncomfortably.

"Hi but what...what are you doing here? It’s late?"

"Can I come in?"

Harper looked at her for a moment, before resolving to set aside and let her in.

"I made coffee, do you want some?"

"Yes, why not? I can't sleep anyway"

They both walked to the kitchen.

"How come? What's troubling you?" she inquired, handing her a mug of black coffee.

Aurora took it and a displeased expression curled her lips. She diverted her eyes and muttered:

"As if it's hard to guess"

Harper inhaled sharply and grimaced.

"Rory, please tell me you're not here for tomorrow's hearing"

Aurora met her gaze and looked at her right in the eye, determination in her eyes.

"What if I am?"

"You perfectly know that I can't share any detail nor allow any kind of interference-"

"I know that"

"Then why you're here?" Harper sighed.

Aurora didn't divert her gaze but kept quiet for a moment, searching for the right words to articulate her thoughts.

"When I mess up or do something wrong you, Dr. Mirani, Dad or whoever else don't miss the chance to let me know that I made a mistake. Well, that's why I'm here tonight. You made a mistake. More than just one maybe"

Harper crossed her arms and stiffened. She had already had the most unpleasant phone call with Declan earlier that day, another scolding was exactly what she needed, she thought.

"Because I called the hearing?"

"Yeah, for instance"

"Believe it or not, Dr. Valentine herself asked me to call it. She came to my office, confessed to be the one who injected the unapproved serum to Mrs. Martinez and asked me to call an ethical hearing" Harper shuttered her jaw.

"What?" Aurora gaped, genuinely surprised. She was in the dark of that detail.

"She stated that she wants to stand up for what she believes it's right, to pick her battle. And she wanted a chance to defend her choice at an ethics hearing which I allowed her. But I guess it's easier to put the blame on me, right? The only one who broke the rules is Dr. Valentine, I'm just following the protocol. And for the record, since she confessed me her doing, I wasn't even-"

Aurora had stopped listening to her. She repeated the words of her aunt into her head.

"My God, she did it...she did it for real"

Harper gave her a quizzical look. Aurora met her gaze again.

"That's one more reason why Valentine must win the hearing!"

"Wait wait...it's not that easy, girl. We're not in one of those medical dramas on TV. I must admit I was impressed by her courage too but-"

"Name me one intern, an intern not even a senior doctor, who would do the same? Who has ever done the same?" Aurora challenged her.

Harper opened her mouth to say something but nothing came.

"See? Maybe not even you would have done it!"

Harper sighed.

"Rory..."

"Surely not a single one of those one brain cell interns of that stupid competition you put on!"

"That's not stupid! It-" Harper protested but she was cut short by her niece.

"Maybe it was not in your head but it's utterly stupid! None of them took it seriously. Or better too seriously! But in the wrong way! It's just like high school or worse kindergarten all over again" Aurora groaned. "People only want to win and can't care less for their actual patients. Take Olsen, number two of your ranking, for instance: the other day I heard him say to a kid complaining about pain to toughen up and stop whining cause he couldn't possibly be that much in pain. And it's not the only one I heard saying stuff like that! I got lucky that my surname is Emery but someone's heavily sabotaged Valentine since she got to the top!"

Harper immediately reminisced the pager accident and the talk she had with Dr. Valentine in her office.

"Sabotaged?"

"Yes, with the pager, stolen charts and things like that. Because she was on top!"

Harper pinched her nose.

"That's ridiculous and very serious at the same time. That's not just a petty prank, this is crossing a line and putting our patients in a bad position too. Do you have evidence?"

"No, I don't. I just know, everybody knows"

"That's no good news though. With pieces of evidence, I could have started an investigation. I don't tolerate this in my hospital, under my watch"

"Still, it's partly your doing: if you hadn't come up with that brilliant idea of yours!"

"I did what I thought was right, Rory. And I would do it twice because I believe it is the right thing. Even if there are clearly interns that are utterly immature and don't understand the huge opportunity I gave you all. Because that's what it is. But is that a reason not to do the right thing? That fellowship could be the start of a great career, it's an opportunity none of the doctors I know had when we were in your place. But I cannot hand it to any of you just like that: I must know that you have what it takes to earn it. Even if it means pushing you to the limit. I don't regret it, I'm just disappointed to hear some of the interns are so unworthy of even entering medical school as they have no maturity nor ethics"

Aurora exhaled loudly, taking a sip of her coffee.

"Whatever, it doesn't change the fact that Valentine's career is on the line now"

"Actions have consequences and she made her choice" Harper winced.

"And you made yours"

Harper's gaze hardened as she registered the implications.

"And what's this supposed to mean? What Valentine did was reckless and the charges she's gonna face are very serious!"

"And what about Teresa? Didn't you care for her? Or was that just a lie you told to yourself?"

A flash of fury crossed Harper's gaze as she slammed her own mug on the kitchen counter.

"That's enough, Aurora! Enough! What do you think you know about Teresa? About Teresa and me? You have no right to talk to me like that! So do me a favor and stop assuming things about you as most do lately, and on that note stop assuming the worst about me!"

She paused and took a deep breath to cool off. When she spoke again there was a hint of sadness in her voice.

"Is that what you really think of me?"

Aurora diverted her eyes.

"All I'm saying is...you're so obsessed with rules. I know it's a Chief job but I think that a good doctor knows when to make certain calls if you get what I mean. That's what makes them a good doctor, not just another doctor"

"And I'm clearly not a good doctor while Valentine is, that's what you're saying, right?"

Harper was now looking her right in the eye, waiting for her answer.

"From where I stand, Mrs. Martinez case is so complex and there are so many ethical implications...I don't know if it's right to charge Valentine for her doing. Yes, she broke the rules but Teresa got to live her few days outside the hospital"

"Aurora, I'm glad she got to leave the hospital at last too but that injection could have killed her, for what we know. I was about to read the result of the autopsy but I hope you understand that the scenario you're using to support your admirable defense of your partner is just one of many. The brightest one. The one you're ignoring is way darker and far less pleasant"

Aurora considered her words.

"But what if sometimes there are some risks to take? Like you have to do whatever it-"

"Whatever it takes" Harper repeated mechanically, exhaling loudly in frustration. "Did you talk to Ramsey too?"

"No, but from what I've heard at least Dr. Rams-"

"Ramsey, Ramsey, Ramsey. Always Ramsey! Hundreds of talented professionals at Edenbrook and who's everyone swooning over? Ethan! Because he's so tormented, so compassionate with patients: the knight in shining armor of Edenbrook"

Harper shook her head.

"Do you know what wondrous Ethan did? He quitted! And I've covered for him so far to avoid rumors and chaos! I tried to make him reason and come back to work but no! Drowning your sorrows in a bottle of scotch is way better than fighting back, because yes, Aurora, that's what he's doing right now! And he even stopped answering my calls, anyone's calls! So I'm asking you: is that what you call a good doctor? He is one of the best residents in the diagnostics team and yet he chose alcohol instead. He quitted without giving a damn about the consequences: who's gonna cover his role? Did he say if he's done permanently or not? No, and in the meantime, I have a hole in the diagnostics team with him and Naveen gone and one brilliant doctor less. A doctor who could have helped significantly during the E.R. emergency and every single day, if only he picked up a phone because people don't stop getting sick or hurt when we're down. Everybody hurts, everybody grieves their losses but it's not a good reason to act like that. From where I stand, this is part of the Oath too"

"I didn't know about Dr. Ramsey..." Aurora commented, lowering her gaze.

"Nobody does yet people always assume the best about him" Harper commented sharply.

A tense silence fell into the room. Aurora was the first to speak.

"I didn't mean to say you're a bad doctor. I..I just miss you being you, I guess"

"What do you mean?"

"When you weren't Chief. When you were just my aunt surgeon"

"I'm always the same, Rory"

Harper's voice imperceptibly softened as she tried to reach for her niece's hand but Aurora shook her head, grimacing.

"No, you're not. Stop lying to yourself"

Harper looked taken aback by her last statement so she continued.

"This is not you and you know it, deep inside. You're frozen, stuck...scared maybe? What were you thinking when you signed up for this position? When you were an intern like me, when you were a surgeon, you were happier. Try and tell me I'm wrong! I remember the look on your face, the light in your eyes when you were appointed Head of Neurosurgery. Your dream came true, that's what you said. Then one day you gave it away to do what? Administration. And become this Chief who enforces rules at any given occasion. But that dignified smile you have on at work is not the one I remember from back then. Was it even worth it? Being a Chief?"

Harper did her best to conceal the pang of pain she felt in her chest as her niece spoke.

"Rory, time changes things...years of experience changes your perspective..."

As she stopped, unable to find other arguments, not ready to tell the truth, Aurora sighed.

"You know what's funny? I don't think I've ever told but when I decided to apply to med school, it wasn't only because of an aptitude test. It was a tough decision but I did it because...I wanted to be like you one day"

Harper met her gaze, visibly surprised and touched.

"Maybe not a neurosurgeon but a confident, badass female doctor just like you. You were so passionate about your work. When you talked about it, it was so inspiring, nothing like mom and dad speeches. You made it sound the best thing in the world, even if it was just an ordinary appendicectomy. And when I visited you at work...gosh, you were a force of nature! And your colleagues I talked to as I waited for you to end an operation were enthusiastic about you. So when at my college admission interview they asked me who was my inspiration I said your name"

"You...you never told me"

"No. But you know what? Seeing you now, I think I would change my answer"

This time Harper diverted her eyes under the blow of Aurora's delusion.

"I understand" she whispered.

Aurora grimaced, looking at her aunt who was now giving her her shoulders pretending to wash her mug. Noticing how her last few words hurt her, she spoke again, her tone gentler this time:

"I...I saw the pile of the newest surgery journals on your desk. Aunt, you miss it. You miss practice. You should go back to it: you're a...good doctor. You can still be a good doctor."

"It's not that simple, Rory. I cannot exactly quit like Ramsey did. That's not who I am, since you mentioned it. And even if I quit, I cannot walk into-"

"No, you're right. You're so stubborn when you want. I knew it was a lost cause trying to talk with you"

Aurora placed her mug on the counter too and stood.

"Just for your information, tomorrow I'm not gonna stop by your office at the end of my shift. I'll go straight home and find answers on my own"

Harper turned. Her face looked more exhausted now.

"Okay, as you wish"

"Just like that?" Aurora asked, taken by surprise.

"Yes, you don't need me to find out the solution to your cases. You never did."

"Then why you grilled me for hours?"

"Because you're so insecure, Rory. You keep second-guessing yourself and it backfires"

"Oh and here I thought the reason why you put all that pressure on me was that you were trying to live through me the doctor life you cannot live anymore since you become an administrator"

"What?"

"Yeah, you heard me. And I hate it as much as you hate being the Chief away from the O.R."

"This is what you think?" Harper asked, wincing.

"Honestly I cannot find another logical explanation but it ends now. This is my life and I want to live it on my own terms. I'm not you, aunt. And if you're so frustrated by how you miss practice, go back to it and don't take it over me"

Harper frowned, hugging herself.

"I wasn't trying to take it over you and I'm not...frustrated, as you said. I was just trying to mentor you. Pushing you to excel because I know you can excel, you have it in you. But I didn't mean to hurt you and make you feel like that. I'm sorry I did, truly sorry and I won't do it again" she sighed before recollecting herself. "But you’re right. It's your life and you get to live it on your own terms. Just know that it works for me too. And this is the life I choose now"

"But you're not happy" Aurora noted.

"I appreciate your concern but I'm good with it" Harper said, closing off again.

Aurora gave her a long look then frowned.

"It's a lost cause, right? This conversation is a lost cause, isn't it?"

"I'm afraid so" Harper confirmed, pressing her lips together.

The young Emery nodded and without looking back to her aunt, moved towards the door. She stopped right in front of it and sighed.

"I took the subway train with Valentine, after the E.R. emergency. That night she was the only person who treated me kindly. And you know what she said about the competition? That she doesn't care if she wins or not, cause that was never the point. She said that she wanted to believe you would make the right call. That she trusted you to choose the intern who would best benefit the hospital and the patients. If it wasn't her, it's okay, she said. Then she added: I share this with you because I know you think that way too. And she was right"

Aurora sighed.

"I don't want to interfere. I'm talking as Rory, not Dr. Emery junior when I say...I do really hope Dr. Valentine wins the fellowship. She's the best partner and the best intern, both on a personal and professional level. If she loses her license tomorrow, well then this competition is a total farçe and I'm not sure I would keep playing along. It would be such a loss for Edenbrook and medicine in general"

"Rory..."

"See you tomorrow, Harper" Aurora sighed before opening the door and disappearing out of view.

[hufflepuff-with-slytherin-t-blog]

To Follow You (A Snarry Oneshot)

Special thanks to @thedimensionofnerds for suggesting this amazing idea. I had so much fun writing it and found two cool new songs to add to my Snarry playlist. Thanks so much, I hope you like it!

Also! I am taking requests! Drop them in my ask box or message me!

The songs are, If You Could See Me Now and Glowing both by The Script.

Severus loathed having to hide. It was tedious not being able to leave his house in Hogsmeade without a Disillusionment charm. Shacklebolt swore they almost rounded up the rogue band of Death Eaters that had threatened Severus's very existence.

"Only a few more weeks, Severus." The new Minister of Magic had said. The problem was he had been saying that for the past three months.

Severus grumbled as he stepped out of his house, passing through the streets. The cold feeling of the Disillusionment charm had become annoying, but he did not wish to stay in that god forsaken house all day and night. Afternoon walks had become a necessity for Severus's sanity. He huffed as his normal path by the Weasley twin's store was blocked by a gaggle of children trying to catch a Pygmy Puff. With a roll of his eyes he flashed a spell that froze the Pygmy Puff momentarily and took a detour through an alley.

The alley led to a row of homes that were mostly uninhabited. They were reserved for the Professors at Hogwarts though few took the offer. He knew for certain Minerva had one, so had he when he had been a teacher.

He walked along the row, wondering if perhaps Minerva was willing to have some company, Shacklebolt be damned, he couldn't bear the company of just himself and his potions for much longer. However, something stopped him in his tracks. Sitting on a porch swing, outside of one of the houses, was none other than the Boy Who Lived Twice, and he seemed to be listening to music. Severus hesitated then crept forward against his own judgment. Whoever the singer was, they weren't half bad, even for Severus who was devoted to classical instrumental pieces only. What on earth does Potter have in his hands? Severus wondered then gaped.

Potter wasn't listening to music, he was playing the music. He held a guitar and strummed it with a skill that came only from practice, and out of his mouth came the lyrics, softly lilting in the nights.

"-Take that rage, put it on a page Take the page to the stage Blow the roof off the place I'm trying to make you proud Do everything you did I hope you're up there with God saying "That's my kid!"

Severus found himself slowly sitting on the stone wall in front of the house, leaning closer to listen better.

"I still look for your face in the crowd Oh if you could see me now

Would you stand in disgrace or take a bow Oh if you could see me now

If you could see me now would you recognize me? Would you pat me on the back or would you criticize me? Would you follow every line on my tear-stained face Put your hand on a heart that was cold As the day you were taken away? I know it's been a while but I can see you clear as day Right now, I wish I could hear you say I drink too much, and I smoke too much-"

It occurred to Severus that perhaps he shouldn't be eavesdropping on the boy, after all this sounded like a very emotionally moment for the boy. For Potter. Severus corrected in his mind. Potter definitely wasn't a boy anymore.

"-But if you can't see me now that shit's a must You used to say I won't know a win till it cost me Like I won't know real love till I've loved and I've lost it So if you've lost a sister, someone's lost a mom And if you've lost a dad then someone's lost a son And they're all missing out, yeah they're all missing out So if you get a second to look down on me now Mom, Dad I'm just missing you now"

Severus leaned forward a bit more as Potter went a bit quieter and accidentally rustled the bushes.

Potter jumped up in an instant and had his wand at the ready.

Severus held his breath and Potter slowly scanned the area, only taking in air when the boy, the man, Severus corrected, sat down and picked his guitar back up.

Potter began to sing again, softer now.

"I still look for your face in the crowd Oh if you could see me now

Would you stand in disgrace or take a bow Oh if you could see me now

Would you call me a saint or a sinner? Would you love me a loser or winner?

When I see my face in the mirror We look so alike that it makes me shiver I still look for your face in the crowd

Oh if you could see me now Would you stand in disgrace or take a bow Oh if you could see me now Yeah I'm just missing you now

I still look for your face in the crowd Oh if you could see me now

Would you stand in disgrace or take a bow Oh if you could see me now You could see, you could see me now"

Potter leaned back and stretched.

"Well done, Potter."

Both Severus and Potter jumped a mile.

Minerva looked amused.

Severus figured this was probably a good time to slip away. He shouldn't of been there in the first place. He pried in on Potter's private business, the same thing he himself punished Potter for in the boy's, man's, fifth year. He stood up and rushed away as Potter stood behind him, silently hoping neither Potter nor Minerva could hear his footsteps.

For some reason, Severus ended up right in front of Potter's house again, the exact same time as yesterday. He wasn't even aware he had been heading there until he arrived. He swore at himself and went to walk away, but at that moment Potter chose to saunter out of his house.

Potter had definitely grown in the years since Voldemort's downfall. He was a good deal taller, and his muscles were more defined. He no doubt worked out. His hair was longer and pulled back into one of those man buns that Severus had scoffed at, yet Potter seemed to pull it off nicely. There was several tattoos on his arms. He recognized the one as a snake a strange choice for Potter all things considering, the next was a stag, whether it was to mean his patronus or his father or both, Severus could not say, but the next tattoo was unmistakably for his mother, as it was a beautifully done lily flower. The only thing that was the same, however, was his green eyes.

Potter stretched, his shirt rode up and exposed a flat stomach and a tattoo of the deathly hallows sitting on his hip.

Severus swallowed thickly and watched as Potter picked up his guitar and sat down.

Tonight he sang a song of lost love. No doubt singing about Ginny.

Severus knew more than he cared to mention about what Potter had been up to in the years since the war. His marriage to the Weasley girl, their three children, two boys and a girl, their divorce, which anyone with eyes could see coming, and most shocking to the wizarding world, Potter's coming out as Bi, which didn't surprise Severus much, considering how much time Potter had spent obsessing over his godson. Severus told himself he only knew all he did because the Daily Prophet reported Potter's every movement.

Several times through the song, Potter would glance in Severus's direction, causing the man to have a heart attack until he realized the young man was checking to make sure Minerva wasn't looking. When the song finished, Severus slunk away. You know, he could of swore he felt Potter's eyes on his as he left.

After several days of Severus coming back to Potter's house, he began to wonder if the young wizard knew he was there. He would always glance in his general direction, even if he wasn't standing in front of Minerva's house, and if Severus was honest, he made quite a bit of noise, forgetting he wasn't in a Hogsmeade crowd where making a little noise was aloud, at Potter's it was dead quiet and every noise he made sounded like thunder.

On the third day of the second week, Severus got his confirmation that Potter did, indeed, know he was there. How? He didn't know. All he knew is when he arrived at the Potter house, a cup of tea was sitting on the stone wall. He stared at it for a moment.

Potter was sitting on the porch swing already, holding his guitar. "It's for you." Was all he said.

Instead of doing the reasonable thing and dropping the Disillusionment charm and apologizing for prying, Severus turned on his heel and walked away.

He didn't come back the next day. Nor the day after that. He stayed hidden inside his house, even after Shacklebolt reported that all the rogue Death Eaters had been found and imprisoned. He couldn't bear the thought of bumping into Potter. The embarrassment of it alone was enough to keep him inside, not to mention the guilt for prying in on Potter's private business. He would simply wait until Hogwarts break was over and Potter took up his post as DADA teacher again. However, it would seem the younger man had other plans.

Severus had been relaxing in his armchair, sipping a cup of tea and reading the Evening Prophet when he heard the strumming of a guitar. He sat very still in his chair, wondering if perhaps he left the radio on. Then that unmistakable voice came wavering up through the open window.

"-And it left me speechless The secrets you've been keeping You're running now, 'cause someone's chasing you

And you bought a ticket But you don't know where you're going And you won't tell me For fear I'll follow suit And you're tryin' to save me From your past of bad decisions But my decision's always gonna be To follow you To follow you"

Severus jumped to his feet and stormed over to the window. "Potter! What are you doing!"

Potter stopped and flashed a grin.

"Stop this immediately!"

"Will you let me come in?"

Severus blinked at him in shock then huffed and slammed his window shut. He stormed over to his armchair and sat down.

"Never gonna stop 'til the clock stops tickin' Never gonna quit 'til my legs stop kickin' I will follow you and we'll both go missin' yeah yeah No I'm never givin' up 'til my heart stops beatin' Never lettin' go 'til my lungs stop breathing I will follow you and we'll both go missin' yeah yeah"

Severus huffed. As much as he enjoyed Potter's voice, this couldn't go on. Severus had neighbors! And a reputation to withhold. So he stomped downstairs to the door and flung it open. "Inside." He hissed.

Potter sauntered in with a grin on his face, he set his guitar against the wall and turned to Severus.

"What do you want, Potter?" Severus asked, folding his arms.

"Just Harry, Severus." Potter said.

Severus hesitated. "What do you want, Harry."

Potter, Harry, nodded and shoved his hands in his pockets. "Ginny's dropping the kids off tomorrow to stay with me for the week while she plays for the Holyheaded Harpies. I'd like you to come and have dinner with us tomorrow night."

Severus blinked and unfolded his arms. "You want me to meet your children?"

Harry nodded. "They like my singing as much as you seem to, so you have that in common."

Severus bristled and Harry grinned.

"Also, I was thinking, maybe you'd like to go out to dinner with me some time?"

"Isn't that what we'll be doing tomorrow?" Severus asked, leaning against the wall and refolding his arms.

"I meant without the kids." Harry said. "Just you and me. A date really.

Oh.

Oh.

Severus cleared his throat and stood up straight. "I would be delighted to."

[temeraaires-blog]

Crazy Ex-Girlfriend Season 2 Song Starters

SUPER long post and some  a lot of these are nsfw. Feel free to change pronouns/names/do whatever. 

Theme Song

I’m just a girl in love.

I can’t be held responsible for my actions.

I have no underlying issues to address.

They say love makes you crazy.

Love Kernels

I can live for days off a single “you really listen to me.”

I’m like a sexy fashion cactus.

But how do I know he loves me?

I guess the only way to prove it is through abstract symbolism.

He gives me love kernels.

If you read between the lines he’s saying “I love you.”

I’m the most important person in his life, next to his friend.

God, I’m thirsty after all that popcorn.

Whatever you got, baby, I’ll take it, baby.

Your house smells like lemon.

I’ll take it.

It’s a stretch but I’ll take that too.

______ is now played by a broom on a stand.

We’ll do our best with what we have.

We Should Definitely Not Have Sex Right Now

We should definitely not have sex right now.

I need time to reflect.

I’m in a really weird place.

There’s no reason to have sex again. But I’ll be ready to go again in ten.

Maybe This Dream

When I was a little girl, I felt like a princess.

I thought my dreams would come true, but then as I grew, the world was all like, "Nope.”

Maybe this dream won’t end in disgrace.

Maybe this dream is in reach.

Maybe this dream won’t be like my vibrator, breaking when I need it most.

Maybe this dream will finally me feel like I deserve a dream.

Greg’s Drinking Song

There’s joy and there’s glory more than you can think.

Yes, this is what happens to me when I drink.

I pee my pants!

Wow, I did not know it was that bad.

Chase down the regret with some gin for good luck.

I puke on my cat.

Poor little ____ did not expect that.

What happens when, I try to have one it just turns into ten.

That wasn’t a woman?

No, it was a bush.

So that’s where that scar comes from!

But he’s breaking his cycle and making a push!

He’s quitting his drinking.

I Could If I Wanted To (Reprise)

Whoop de frickin’ do.

My best friend is sleeping with my ex behind my back.

Who cares? I don’t.

But I could if I wanted---

Ping Pong Girl

Sports!

I could tell she’s the most perfect girl who’s ever existed.

Oh man, look at her pong that ping.

She does it for herself and that puts my fears to rest.

BRO!

She’s so aloof it borders on cold. And that’s what makes me want her.

Nothing’s hotter than a chick who’s good at sports.

She scored a thousand points!

I think I love her.

Ping pong shows she has control of her body, but it doesn’t threaten my masculinity like basketball or hockey.

She’s like Serena or Venus

She’s so indifferent. It makes me want a tangible commitment.

The Math of Love Triangles

What’s a girl to do when she’s stuck between men?

I wasn’t really listening

The center of the triangle is little ol’ me!

So I need to decide which man’s more acute.

Those are good puns, but please pay attention.

We’re starting to suspect you don’t sincerely want to know about triangles.

Is this a triangle?

No that’s a shoe.

No that’s you.

So I’m a triangle?

What? No!

Ooh, are you erect?

That’s really erect!

We’re tired of all your tangents.

You all deserve a kiss.

Lady, we’re all gay. We get nothing out of this.

It Was a Shit Show

I love you, yes.

The thought of staying is so enticing.

Then stay.

When you speak, my knees get weak.

I can’t believe what I’m sacrificing.

But let’s get real. We know the deal.

Darling, let’s not tiptoe.

This thing we had was not just bad. It was a shitshow.

We can’t undo, can’t make amends.

Disfunction is our lingua franca.

We can’t unscrew each other’s friends.

There’s hard to get, then there’s neglect.

To say it’s fate, you’d have to be a bit slow.

Not to be crass, but this sucked ass.

This was a shitshow.

We have chemistry, of course. But that’s a formula for divorce.

Oh what the hell, let’s get a hotel.

Life is short, and we’re not getting any younger.

But after sex what happens next...I mean, in the long run. Not just fatigue and hunger...

And when you say that I should stay, that’s exactly when I should split, though.

Though I won’t forget, I won’t regret.

Though I won’t forget, I won’t regret this beautiful, heart-stopping, breathtaking, life-changing…..

We Tapped That Ass

We tapped that ass all over this house.

Sometimes him. Sometimes me. Though never simultaneously.

But one of us was hitting it, usually.

That bed is really uncomfortable!

Right? It’s like a prison cot!

What? Too cheeky?

A little to the left/right

Wait! No, you’re doing it wrong. I’ll do it myself!

Barkeep! What’s on tap?

How much more tapping could one ass endure?

Thought Bubbles

Well, I don’t mind being alone.

I’m not afraid of what enters my mind when I’m so low.

I’m perfectly capable of taking of advantage of this time.

No, I don’t mind being alone with my thoughts.

That’s a bad thought!

I don’t like that thought!

What happens if I go to hell?

Chill out.

If I can’t hit the gym how will I ever be a good father?

Friendtopia

When my friends and I stick together there’s nothing we can’t do.

I specifically mean we’re going to stage a coup.

Squad goals!

A dystopia around our friendship

There’s a really exclusive sushi place that never lets us in.

Let’s just go home and drink rose.

I put drugs in the water supply.

Aww, I love Hocus Pocus.

Zig-a-zow!

Stuck in the Bathroom

Get me out of here!

Tonight was already super weird and now [you’re/she’s/he’s] stuck in the bathroom.

I have a deceptive amount of muscular strength thanks to my amazing core.

Her little bird arms aren’t going to do anything!

Whoever renovated this house did a terrible job!

I can’t believe it took us that long to come up with the most obvious solution.

Research Me Obsessively

Hey, what are you doing for the next, like, thirteen hours?

Don't do anything healthy. Don't be productive. Give in to your desire.

Find out everything you can about me

You Go First

We used to be there for each other, every second

I really wanna tell you that I'm sorry!

I really wanna tell you that I am the worst!

I just want to say I miss you every day!

This is almost entirely all my fault here. But you gotta admit it's just a tiny bit your fault too.

Sometimes you can be really passive aggressive!

Sometimes you can be really self-involved.

Go ahead and say you're kind of sorry! So I can say "Oh, no, no, no, please!” Just like I rehearsed!

If you open the door, I'll apologize so much more.

[But] You go first!

So Maternal

Parenting ain’t harrowing, demanding or traumatic!

Step aside ladies, give your babies to a Carol Brady level matriarch.

Low expectations - Raise ‘em up!

You know, I guess I just instinctively get how to be a mom and that's what sets me apart from other "mothers."

Damn, I’m so maternal!

Duh!

Duh! What was I thinking?

Can’t believe I couldn’t see it all along.

Don’t know what was going through my mind!

I’m just like -- ugh! God, I’m so stupid.

Looking back on old times. Like that one time. And that other time.

It’s so obvious!

Duh!

Who’s the New Guy?

Who's the new guy? I don't trust him

Do we really need a new guy this far into the season? And by "far into the season" I mean it's almost fall.

He's suspiciously good looking. In ways that normal people are not

Is this someone new we're gonna have to grow to care about?

Why should we root for someone male, straight and white?

We’ll Never Have Problems Again

We’ll never have problems again!

It's only smooth, smooth sailing from now on…

We used to have problems but now they're gone.

Do you remember, back when we had problems?

Man, that was annoying.

But now our love has magically solved [our problems].

And there won't be any more [problems] in our future at all!

Fine. I guess I’ll just Soul Train out of here.

The first test failed but that’s ‘cause it wasn’t true love. 

They say obsession biologically lasts four years at most but science doesn't apply to us.

Remember That We Suffered

But before you feel too great...remember that we suffered!

But we sing in a minor key to remember that we suffered!

Being happy is selfish!

You have no idea what pain is!

When I say 'we' you say 'suffered'!

Santa Ana Winds

Hello there, it's me.

I make things weird

That's science for "a pain in your asses"

They just got Santa Ana winded!

I'm a prankster. Tee-hee-hee-hee.

I just wanna see what will happen

You're looking really guilty

That kiss was all your fault!

I just reveal your deepest wishes and fears

So it's you, ________. It's not me who is super weird.

You ruined everything.

Let’s Have Intercourse

Unfortunately, I want to have sex with you

I don't know what happened

For some reason, you're now on the top of my to-do list

Let's get this over with so I can focus on other tasks

Just pretend I'm seducing you

Let's quickly have intercourse so I can move on with my life

Once we do it, it'll be like “Well, that's what that was like.”

I mean, obviously you want to, too

Just super quickly have intercourse

Sometimes my body wants things that my mind does not

My body wants things that make my mind go, "Uh, body, what?"

We're animals It's unfortunate.

So come on, let's contortion it!

I won't be back to normal till I see what your nipples look like.

Until we stop wasting time talking 'bout it and we super quickly, it'll only take a second, have intercourse.

Good thing I happen to have an old condom In my wallet

You’re My Best Friend (And I Know I’m Not Yours)

You’re my best friend, and I know I’m not yours.

And that’s okay.

I’m not your best friend.

I’m okay.

Friendship doesn’t have to be a two-way street.

I don’t need a shoulder to cry!

Your best friend is somebody else. But I get it.

I love you like a sister and you love me like a second cousin.

I said it’s okay! Really!

Man Nap

It’s a man nap!

Time to nap like a man!

Life is so tiring when you’re a man.

It’s exhausting being so damn strong.

‘Cause when a man gets older, his testosterone starts getting low.

Tell Me I’m Okay, Patrick

You represent the outside world because you don’t know me.

No pressure, but I seriously need to know.

‘Cause I think I’m fine ______, but I’m only, like, forty-three percent sure.

I’m sorry that I yelled.

Tell me I’m okay.

Period Sex

It’s period sex.

Put down a towel, party till it’s dry.

Are those sheets expensive?

I’ll Venmo you back for your sheets.

I hope you can get those sheets again.

What a Rush to be a Bride

Can you believe you snagged him?

Forever you will have him standing right there by your side.

I’ve been picturing this day since I’ve been a little girl.

Why veer from the classics?

Rebecca’s Reprise

You’ve gotten everything you’ve ever wanted.

It turns out magic exists.

Everything in the past will just fade away.

I’ll never have problems again.

[dragneelmedown]

That Pink Haired Demon

Lo & behold! Chapter 4! I hope you guys like it. It was rushed and very bad but it still gives a lot of background depth and foreshadowing and gajevy :)

Pairings: Mainly NaLu, building Gajevy, mentions of Gruvia, Jerza, Fraxus, Stingue, AlBis and ElfEver.

find on ff.net

Chapters: one, two, three, four multi chaptered nalu au ; you’re a demon that tried to possess me but when you realized what awful shape i’m in, you forgot your nefarious plans and now you’re trying to help me get my life together

Meetings in Fairy Tail were short. Usually, Makarov would welcome everyone with a bright smile. He'd then proceed to all the important information needed.

Today, the Master noted, "We will soon be meeting up with Sabertooth and Lamia Scale! Not in Magnolia, but Crocus. No, it is not the time for the Grand Games," He paused to allow people in the hall to groan. "I'll explain it in another meeting. I'm going to talk about how we are planning to hold our S-Class trials at Tenrou. We're bringing in the other Groups because they are also sharing our island for their trials,"

This was surprising to everyone because Tenrou was Fairy Tail's territory. Although, they didn't mind seeing familiar faces around the island. Supposedly, the founder of FT saw fairies there. But many others believe they were fireflies. Members of the café still argue and say that fairies still exist.

"The following organizations are coming to Tenrou: Sabertooth and Blue Pegasus. Just two, so you brats aren't complaining about sharing," Makarov rolled his eyes.

Groups were associations to help ordinary people and recruit them into their organization. At first, Groups were created for "magical wizards" back in the day, but there was a 'war' back then. Which wiped out all mages. Now, these Groups are full of human beings filled with hope and humbleness.

There are different Groups and they all had separate locations, like Fairy Tail. They were all in dissimilar areas. So it was easier to help out other ordinary citizens all over the country of Fiore. For example, Mermaid Heel hosts at the beach while Sabertooth was near a castle. These Groups were intended to help out others. Although, there were also evil Groups that do terrible things. Their locations are unidentified, but they don't serve a big threat.

However, they did pose a danger towards Magnolia when Lucy's father sent the Group, Phantom Lord, to retrieve his daughter. Luck was on their side that day because Fairy Tail fought back, lead to a victory, and even recruited a member named Juvia. Since then, Phantom Lord has gone into the shadows or has been disbanded.

"Now getting into the good stuff, candidates for the S-Class trials, chosen by me! As always, I picked 5 people who I thought qualified this year. Cana Alberona, Gray Fullbuster, Freed Justine, Levy McGarden, and our newest member, Juvia Lockser! You have the entire week to select your partners and may you choose wisely. Good luck to all participants! This meeting is over, thank you for coming, brats." The Master concluded, disappearing into the kitchen.

The hall turned into laughter and happiness floated in the air. "Congratulations" went to all of the candidates.

In Fairy Tail, there are normal employees such as Max or Kinana. They go on jobs to help others, just like S-Class. There are also S-Class workers who not only get paid more, but they have private meetings between only them. No one else knows what they're about other than the actual S-Class members. Even though it doesn't seem very important, everyone in Fairy Tail was curious.

"Let's have a party tonight at me and Lucy's place!"

"NO!"

Soon enough, the celebration settled down. "Okay, but seriously, let's have a party at our place." The brunette brought up again to which the blonde shook her head firm.

"C'mon Lucy~"

"A 'lil party!"

"Our place is too small!" Lucy argued.

Cana laughed as if it was no big deal, then replied, "It's okay, most of the members have plans anyway. Like Laxus is holding a small party for Freed already with the Raijinshuu and the Strauss family. We're gonna do our usual group of girlies and add whoever else we want! That's the fun of party making."

"Oh, I thought it would be okay if we could borrow Levy for today?" Jet asked with a smile.

"Guys... I'm not a toy.." Levy spoke up as she held a pout on her face, arms crossed.

"Jet, you and Droy can join our unofficial party! But if you want her all to yourselves, then it's fine!" The bartender offered, and the two men nodded in excitement.

"Lucy, if you're going to reject this, you're going to reject everyone's, HEART. You don't wanna be the cause of that, right?~" Cana asked with a tone of her voice, making Lucy unable to deny the suggestion.

"FINE. Party at ours. Everyone's invited." The blonde agreed in a stubborn manner.

Cheers broke out once again while one could hear Cana's obnoxious loud laugh even through all the noise. Many conversations Lucy heard was about several different parties, like what to bring or how to do their hair.

To be honest, the woman didn't mind the party a bit, she wanted some time to talk to Natsu. Unfortunately, it seemed like that wasn't going to happen. As she realized that, she frowned a bit.

"Uhh, Lucy?" A voice stirred her away from her isolation.

She swiveled around to tilt her head down and that led to a conflicted boy named Romeo. She bent down to talk to him. "What's up, Rome?"

Romeo was the son of Macao Conbolt and the youngest worker in the café, practically every single person loved the kid. He was very adventurous and determined about anything. He said, "Can I go to the party? And can you ask my dad for me?"

Lucy let out a giggle. "Why do you need me to ask your dad? Are you.. scared?" She exaggerated the last word and a dramatic gasp escaped her lips.

The raven haired boy's eyes widened as a light shade of pink dusted his cheeks. "OF COURSE NOT! I'm jus' asking because, uh, I've never been to an actual party so it'd be good to have the, um, permission of the, mm, host!"

She squinted at him. "Well, you have my permission if you go ask your dad."

He groaned in exasperation, "Fine! I'll go ask, but you have to come with me!" He declared in confidence as Lucy nodded in a brief motion.

Some of the workers noticed the young Conbolt marching and stomping towards his dad, a few stumbles on the way. They laughed at the boy and said, "Go get 'im!"

And with that, lead a strong Romeo who reached his father and stated, "Dad, I want to go to Lucy and Cana's party tonight."

Macao raised an eyebrow at Romeo, then glanced at Lucy as if he was saying, "Did Cana put him up to this?" So the blonde furiously shook her head. His eyes went back to Romeo, "Well, I guess, as long as Lucy's watching you, you can go ahead." His son let out a big, "Yes!".

After that, Romeo and his father rearranged their plans for this day after Lucy spoke a quick goodbye to the two. She walked towards Cana, Levy, and Juvia who saw the astronomer making her way towards them. They waved her over and she smiled back at them. Once finally reaching her girl group, Lucy asked, "I'm going to the grocery store to buy stuff for the party. Anyone wanna come with?"

Levy pouted, "Sorry Lu, I already promised to help Cana clean up the place!" Cana nodded after, confirming the blunette's task.

"Juvia would love to! She needs to bake a cake for Gray, anyway." The other blue haired woman smiled at Lucy, who was grateful that she had a friend to go with.

"We're heading to the store, then. We'll see you, girls, later!~" Lucy held the door open for Juvia. Both of them waved and left the building.

Arriving at Cana and Lucy's 420 apartment, Cana herself was in front of the door. Levy was waiting in a patient and polite manner.

"I promise it's not that bad, Lev." The brunette claimed, opening the door to the apartment.

Levy's eyes widened in surprise as she followed Cana into her home. It wasn't actually that bad. Then again, Cana lives with Lucy who is more of the cleaner roommate. There were few clothes laying around in their respective spots. Walking into the kitchen, however, was a different story. Unwashed plates since both owners of the apartment were busy or lazy. Chips placed in separate areas, as the same with pretzels. Ah, yes, Lucy's pretzel obsession. Soda cans seemed like they'd been thrown around. Levy also spotted money sitting in a corner.

She pointed it out. "Is that a tip for me?" The woman said in a joking tone.

"You wish," Cana rolled her eyes and laughed. "This can all be cleaned up in an hour or two. I'm positive."

"Yeah. Let's get to it!" The two high-fived each other before starting to clean.

During the cleaning process, Lucy and Juvia had linked arms as they were walking around to find the right ingredients for the cake. A made-from-scratch plus love cake. Lucy already bought chips, pretzels, soda, and she was planning to order pizza later. She decided to help out Juvia with her cake since Juvia helped her as well.

"How's your relationship with Gray going~?" She asked, wiggling her eyebrows at Juvia.

Juvia shook her head, "Lucy is too much. Juvia isn't sure about Gray... Juvia truly hopes Gray loves her because sometimes she doubts herself. Like, what if Gray doesn't love Juvia anymore and just wants her to go away? She can't imagi-"

"Shhh. Shush. Shut it. Shut up. Any other form of saying be quiet. You know that Gray loves you, right? A few times he's been over to our place, asking how he should he impress you on Valentine's Day or your birthday. Asking, 'what would she want?' Yeah, Gray sucks at being romantic, but he means well. He's really improving. Don't ever think that, because you're the hottest bean in the world and he will forever and always will appreciate you." Lucy said without hesitant stuttering.

The cerulean haired girl smiled in confidence. She straightened her back, "Lucy is too much," Juvia laughed and Lucy pouted, "but Juvia thanks her. A lot."

"No problem, Juv." The blonde grinned, nudging her with her shoulder. "Now lettuce go find your special ingredient!"

Back at the apartment, the buddies decided to take a quick break. They were halfway done. Cana poured out lemonade for both Levy and herself.

"You're not drinking?" Levy queried.

"Levy, please, you know I'm not that wild," Levy sighed in relief, but Cana continued, "I'm saving it for tonight."

"Why did I even hope?" The blunette asked herself and the brunette laughed.

After plopping on the couch, they took a sip of lemonade. There was a moment of peace and quiet, breathing was the only sound that occurred. Cana started to get sleepy before a blinding light shined around the room. She sat up imminently, while Levy was cautious as she stood up.

A voice said, "Yo."

That voice belonged a specific pink haired demon, who was staring at the screen. Or rather, his dark eyes dashing around as if he was searching for something. Someone.

"NATSU?!" Both companions yelled, staring at the hologram. They looked each other, "HOW DO YOU KNOW NATSU?"

Cana spoke first, "Last night, Lucy and him were talking and I came in. That's it?"

Levy giggled, "Alone?" Cana nodded and snickered.

"I met Natsu when Erza, Juvia and I came over to force her to summon a demon." The short woman said. Every word that was said had a hint of delight.

"Sounds like y'all." The brunette laughed, shaking her head.

"Sorry to interrupt your wonderful conversation, but is Luce around by any chance?" Natsu asked with hesitance.

"Luce... Lucy?" Cana questioned, glancing at Levy who shrugged. She looked back up at Natsu who nodded. "Uhh, Luce- I mean, Lucy, went shopping with her friend for a party tonight. Why you asking, demon boy?"

Natsu looked a bit disappointed, but covered it up well with a smile. "No reason. Can I come to the party? You guys have enough space for the greatest and strongest, Natsu!"

The two women bursted out laughing. They couldn't hold in their giggles for a second. "Ah, Natsu, you wish. I betcha Lucy would love if you could hop on over to Earth. We have plenty of space here in the land of CanaLucyia! You're welcome anytime, my dude."

"Alright! Natsu signing off, I'll see you guys-"

"Who're ya talking to, firebutt? Oi! Is that the Shrimp over there?" Another low voice joined into the conversation, abruptly finishing the demon's sentence.

Cana grinned at Levy, "Shrimp?". While the blue haired girl ignored her smirk, instantly glaring up at the hologram. Her eyes met a deep red color and immediately put her hands on her hips. "Gajeel, I will murder you if you call me that again."

"Woah! Shrimp, oh sorry, Levy, seems pretty upset. What'd you do this time?" The raven haired demon looked at Natsu accusingly.

"WHAT ARE YOU TALKING ABOUT?! YOU CAME IN AND CLEARLY INSULTED LEVY! ARE YOU CHALLENGING ME TO A FIGHT, IRON EATER?" Natsu yelled, now completely ignoring the humans on the other side.

"Ahh shut up." He rolled his eyes and turned back towards the two women. "Who's that, 'shroom?"

"Did you call me a mushroom?" Levy's right eye twitched.

"Ahh, I am Cana Alberona! It's nice to meet you, Gajeel." Cana smiled evilly. "Levy talks about you all the time!"

"WHAT THE FU"

"Alright! Great conversation, you met Cana! Everything's great, no more nicknames, oh! And tell Lucy that I'm mad at her now. Thanks, Levy! Bye!" Natsu quickly interrupted and spoke fast. The last part was easy to catch before he hung up and the hologram disappeared in a second.

The humans took a moment to breathe before the blunette screamed, "YOU JUST MET HIM TODAY I NEVER SPOKE ABOUT GAJEEL!"

"Levy, Lev, Lev, it was a joke! Don't worry about it, babe. Worry about getting ready for the partay~ tonight!" The bartender laughed as Levy huffed.

Soon, Juvia and Lucy came to the apartment with a finished cake that had icing written, "Congratulations, Gray!" Of course, Juvia wanted to add, "my love", but it was a cake for everyone to share. Fortunately, Juvia came to accept it quickly and smiled proud.

The decorations were up, everything was clean. Not exactly spotless, but still, clean. The guests came in pairs, such as Jet and Droy. Others like Max and Warren, Kinana and Laki, Romeo by himself. He said his father felt like staying home, sleeping well unlike the youngins. Cana laughed at that. The party was filled with chatter, occasionally screaming from Cana. The songs were a variety of types.

After talking to many people, Lucy sat down on the couch. In her hand was a cup of lemonade, she'd rather drink that instead of alcohol tonight. She knew she was going to be cleaning up alone since Cana will pass out later. On the couch, she met Warren.

"Hey, Lucy!" He said, waving at her.

"You enjoying the party, Warren?" She asked with a polite smile.

"Not my thing, but Max felt like bringing me along." Warren laughed. "Oh! How's the communicator thing I made for you guys? Is it working well?"

Lucy gasped. She totally forgot about calling Natsu. Especially since that random text Levy sent her that said, "Natsu is mad at you right now. Don't ask me, I have no idea why." She received while she was waiting with Juvia for the cake to bake.

"Uh, Lucy?"

The blonde shook her head, looking back up at Warren. "Oh yeah, there is a problem, but it's minor. One time, the hologram opened up by itself when nobody, on either side, called. When can you fix it?"

The man scratched his head, "Oh, is that so? Well, I did make it recently. Plus, it's new so it is difficult to fix because I don't know how I can unless I borrow it for at least a day. Do you need to make a call to anyone tomorrow?"

Without thinking, Lucy responded, "Yes. I'll text you when I can give it to you!".

"Alright, cool." Warren gave her a thumbs up and stood up. "I'm going to awkwardly leave this party. Thanks for everything!"

"Uh, no problem?"

Eventually, with the cake being completely eaten and time slowing down, the party ended. "Thank you for coming tonight!" Lucy said, waving at everyone exiting through the door.

As soon as the astronomer closed the door and sighed, Cana plopped down right on the couch. The only thing heard out of her mouth was a snore.

"Great."

[midiaryofus]

Part 2 of why I said I don’t see a future with you..

January 25th 2018

The last post, it seemed more on a loving note. But there is a negative side, to why I said I don’t see a future.

The first reason is simply. We’re different. We want different things.

To you, it’s normal and completely fine to go three days without texting a girlfriend type person.

I used to be afraid, of my flaws and admiring them. But now, I’m like, “yeah I’m a judgmental bitch”. And I don’t care. I’m a judgmental bitch, and you’ll fully agree with me on that later on in this post.

Everybody wants different things in a relationship. I’ve been in enough to know what I do and don’t want.

And after being in so many effed up relationships..I •need• consistency.

I’m an understanding person. I can understand someone who has a busy schedule. But in a relationship, I need someone who can spend time with me. It really bothers me that we’re almost at the 2 year mark, but haven’t watched a single movie, tv show, anything together. We haven’t done so many relationshipy type stuff. It bothers me.

(we've still never watched a full movie. We've only watched like 20 minutes of the kissing booth together in Sept 2018 -this commented added -feb 2021)

In my fantasy’s, you hold me, you want to. You don’t yell at me. You look at me like I’m the person you love. You think I’m amazing. You can’t image being with anyone else. You feel so deeply about me. You match my own feelings for you. You hold me so tightly that the broken pieces of my heart get pushed back together.

In reality: you don’t. You don’t talk to me. You don’t want to be with me. You don’t think I’m amazing. You think I’m a waste of time. You don’t say anything flirty when I send dirty pics.

Last night

(This is the part where you call me a judgmental bitch).

I watched porn. It was just a video on the main page. Usually I just watch a guy and a girl doing it. That’s pretty much all I’ve been watching since we’ve gotten close. Because when I watch that stuff I think about you.

So I was watching it, and the guy in it, he’s the type of guy I fall for.

He said “I don’t get off first, I’m a gentleman”. And to that I just laughed but yeah that’s really good of a guy, to let a girl go first. But anyway, I started to see his personality and liked more of what I saw. I ended up going back to the start of the video, and I watched the whole thing though it was 22 minutes. And after that, I watched more of his videos.

I watched 9 of his videos. Maybe now you know where I’m going with this..

So. I though, “what if I watch more of these vids What if I watch 9 of them. The same number of girls Damien’s been with. Maybe I’ll be able to better understand.”

(why did I think that would be a good idea? I deeply apologize for this post. I erased a ton of disgusting judgmental crap)

I thought parrot was waiting for someone special. And I didn’t realize before him that I was too. But he wasn’t. He just wanted whatever he could get.

But then, you told me 9. (I’m sorry. I’m a judgmental bitch)

(yes you are)

You told me 9 and I wondered why. You told me 9 thought, that you weren’t waiting to save anything for the girl you end up with. Just doing it with whoever you’re with. No big deal.

When I’m with you, you just make me feel like I’m the only girl.

But when we’re not together, I don’t feel that anymore. Don’t feel like I’m the only girl. That there’s been many girls.

But it’s no big deal right? It’s just sticking a penis in a vagina. And I know nothing since im a virgin and I should go get fucked so I can stop playing the virgin card, right?

I’m sorry I hurt you.

I never told you this. But. When you told Chris, “she’s playing the virgin card. She wants me to regret being with those girls or whatever. I don’t regret being with the girls I’ve been with.” Something along those lines. It really hurt me.

So I finished. Watched the 9 videos. I cried.

(Dear 2018 me, why TF you crying over his past? He didn't cheat on you. Just because he's been with other girls, doesn't mean he'll keep doing that stuff with other girls while talking to you. That's His past, not yours, leave it alone.

Sincerely, 2021 me. Ps, stop talking about your ex's so much, it's annoying for me to have to keep going through these messages and deleting parts where you want to random insert an ex. It's an ex. Leave them in the past where they belong.)

Some people, try to avoid things. I was doing both. Trying to avoid them but also trying to understand them.

I mean, guys are so braggy and full of themselves. “Yeah I’ve fucked this many girls. I’m gonna fuck a girl tonight.”

I don’t want to be with someone like that.

I don’t want to make you feel bad. If you were my guy friend, and we never fell in love and we were only just friends, I’d tell you something different.

I’d tell you, that it’s fine, however many girls you’ve slept with. That there’s nothing wrong with it. That, the girl you’re with needs to get over her issues and either accept the number of girls you’ve been with, or walk.

I’m not a judgmental bitch to my friends. I listen, I care, I understand.

And maybe that’s why guys end up falling out of love with me. Maybe you’ll fall out of love with me.

I’m better at being a friend than a gf. It’s different, when I’m the gf. It’s my ass on the line. It’s my heart on the line. And my heart doesn’t want to get shattered. I look too deeply into things. I obsess. I get addicted. I’m just horrible at being a gf. But being a friend, it’s the complete opposite.

If you knew me as a friend before knowing me as a gf, you’d see me differently. I mean, I tried. But you didn’t want to be friends, you wanted to be with me after having one talk with me.

And yeah, the girl I was when we first talked, it’s apart of me. Our first talk was something out of a movie. I can understand why you fell so hard for me.

Or maybe it was just after the ass pic that you fell hard for me. Idk.

But, it’s like a curse. Once I get close to someone, all these bad things come out.

Like, when I’m friends with a guy, it doesn’t matter to me. How many dating apps he has. If he’s ever cheated. I don’t ask because I’m not into him so I don’t care. I signed up to be a friend, not invade his life.

When I have feelings for someone, it’s different.

I feel like, if I’m the gf, I’m allowed to stalk. I’m not invading cause his world is my world and my world is his world. I want to know all about him. And want to know if he’s ever cheated, all about his past, how many dating apps he has, everything. And then I judge his past. Because if he can do it in the past he can do it again.

And I also learned that from parrot. I saw the way he treated his ex’s. I thought I was different. Gosh, even one of his crazy ex’s who came after me, laughed at me for thinking I was different. “You think you’re different? Lol. Hunny he’s going to fuck your over like he did to every girl.”

That’s where I’m going to leave this post for now. There’s still more things I want to say. But right now all I’m going to say, is that I’m sorry.

(Once again, I'd like to apologize for my past behavior. I seemed to have this weird belief that if someone has sex, they'll keep doing it, even in a relationship, especially an online relationship. I also felt like, you belonged to them and not to me. But you've always done a good job of making me feel like it's only me. Which is how it's suppose to be in a relationship, right? I feel my past experiences deeply screwed up my brain. I apologize for that.)

[fireteamcatastrophe]

The Red War, “Where Did The Party Go?”

((Continuing on from “Hard Time,” this is Henry Gordon’s take on the Red War. As far as canonicity goes, amongst the three members of Fireteam Catastrophe, Henry is “The Guardian” that everyone talks about. The other two are fairly noteworthy in that some of the things are attributed primarily to one of the other two (ex: Breaker-77 is the one who was responsible for killing Crota while Henry has credit for Atheon. Other things, but I have to write that out somewhere. >> Anyhow, let’s get to Henry Gordon’s spin on the Red War kicking off. It’s... Gonna be almost thirteen times as bad as Breaker’s.))

Fire. So much fire. Only a portion of it was from Henry’s Light, and that nudged something deep inside his chest. It was refusing to give, though. His Light topped out, flaring brightly into the hazy night as various spells were shouted with all forms of words. From song lyrics to legitimate arcane wording, the Warlock met the Cabal on the top of the Tower. He’d come back from a run around the Cosmodrome, searching for stores of old Golden Age music. Ironically, he’d found a few servers his Ghost had managed to download. It was a herculean effort, but one that paid off.

“This world can’t take on me, I won’t let go!”

A surge of Solar Light stuck to the Centurion that leaped above his platform, and the ensuing explosion was eclipsed by his leap beyond it, where a Nova Bomb followed suit. He was struck down upon landing, leaping from the death in a blaze of glory. As the music blared into his helmet, he relayed the lyrics out to the world. Giving it all he had to give, the Cabal undoubtedly felt his fury. It burned with the fire of Sol, and it was cold like the Void he drew from. The battered Tower would remain strong, because of the power of Henry Gordon. He would ensure it.

After all, this was just another Tuesday.

Henry knew his home was under siege, he began to gather that this occupying force would be moderately successful, but as he ripped the hordes apart he knew that their victory would be short lived at best. He hoped.

No, he knew the Light would prevail. He had his music, he had his power, nothing would stop that. Tonight, he felt alive.

“The Red Legion have never known defeat!” Ikora Rey shouted. It echoed in his helmet, bouncing around his skull and sticking to his vision as if it were a filter of despair. Henry had never known defeat either: not when the Vex tried to erase him, not when Breaker-77 led him into the pit and Ir-Yut sang death unto him (he sang louder!), not when Alice got him roped into helping Variks and the Queen, and defiantly not when Oryx arrived. Aksis didn’t stand a chance, either. The SIVA Crisis was nothing in comparison to Henry’s sheer determination, his willpower, and his enthusiasm.

Henry shook the burden of fear from his shoulders: he would rise, fall, and rise again until the world stopped. It’s the only way he knew, and the only way he’d follow. Drawing a custom-forged blade, “Bada Bing! Wit’ A Pipe,” he found himself at the Tower Plaza. Zavala held the line with him, saying very little more than tactical chatter that was drowned out in Henry’s singing. There was a brief moment, however, when Henry realized something.

Zavala was in cover.

The Titan of all Titans was hiding in cover, firing out with occasional pot-shots, rather than charging headlong into the fray.

“Henry! Go! Secure the Speaker with Ikora! I will see to the evacuation of the civilians!”

Henry let out a hearty laugh, “Will do, Zavala! Good to be on the front lines, right?”

“This is serious, Warlock!” Zavala sounded angry. Did... No. Zavala didn’t doubt that they would prevail. He was just angry that Henry was having fun. Though, as Henry saw the City burn below, he realized that ‘fun’ wasn’t a word to use.

Henry sprinted, mapping out a series of rifts that he could blink through to leap to the Speaker. There was always conduits of Light he was able to finagle into tunnels, things that would let him blink around and enjoy the Tower on his various errands. Now, though, the Light was... Warped. The tunnels were rebellious, refusing to hold steady and making minor changes that required constant adjustment. As Henry landed where the Speaker used to study his lore, Henry realized that he was standing above a smoking crater.

Ikora screamed, and she flew from a similar rift to drop a Nova Bomb on the first Cabal ship to approach. Henry could only float there, stunned by his mentor breaking her outward appearance of calm and collected to express true, unending fury. The Voidwalker epitomized, Ikora did something Henry could only hope to ever do: she surfed the Cabal ship into the city below.

“I’ll find the Speaker! Henry! Go!”

Henry heard Cabal blasting a wall apart, the one to the market square, and he was so shocked he couldn’t even feel the fire required to ignite the sky, nor did he have the spells to conjure the Void ready. He did however have the cold of his shock to draw upon, and so he drew it out with an exhale. The Arc Light poured from his fingers, and he glided through the Cabal battalion with a calm, collected ease. As the storm poured out unto the foes, vaporizing them with the grace of a hurricane viewed from orbit, Henry could only find his trance deepen at the trauma of what was happening.

The City burned, the Speaker gone, Zavala scared, and Ikora furious.

Henry held it all together until the Arc Light was depleted, and then he couldn’t take it any further: his eyes began to water. The first was denial, then it was bargaining. Henry took his helmet off for a moment, and ran his fingers through his hair. The scent was thick with smoke, the world was burning. Earth could be entirely on fire, Henry wouldn’t know the difference. What would he draw on? What would encourage him to continue fighting? This was everything he ever knew!

“Henry,” his Ghost asked, “Are you... You’re not alright.”

“No, Hank. I’m not. Look at this! This mess!” Henry’s arms gestured wildly, sweeping fingers across rooftops and addressing a building that had been blown apart to expose a small apartment. The apartment had a couch, a bedroom, things most peaceful homes would always have. “What am I supposed to do!? I sing, I throw magic, and I hurt bad guys. I don’t...”

“You don’t finish that sentence, is what!” the Ghost was forceful now, “You are Henry Gordon. The only Warlock I’ve ever known to walk into Vex architecture and make the entire structure rattle in fear! There might be others who did, but generally they are only afraid of Titans. You defy their simulation so thoroughly that you make them shudder at your approach! You danced with Ir-Yut, moshing to her Deathsong! You helped Alice put down Skolas not once but twice! Henry Gordon, you-”

“I’m not even Henry, Hank! I’m just some nobody that poor kid caught a ride with. We were hitchhikers!”

“But you know what you did?! You saw someone who wanted a better life, and decided to live it for them. They wanted to be a hero, a savior, someone who would see this and be only steadfast! A real-deal badass, to use a phrase you told me! You can’t have this breakdown right now, the City needs you!”

“No, they ne-”

“You shut your mouth! I don’t care what your name was before I found you, and I doubly don’t care about how you feel conflicted about every little thing that’s gone wrong, from your inexplicable cynicism toward working relationships to your strange obsession with eating pizza and plaid clothing, you are the hero that the City needs!”

There was a moment of silence, and Henry stood up from his knees. He looked up, and saw a Cabal Centurion entering the plaza. It pounded its chest, laughing at Henry’s plight. Raising its weapon, a massive shotgun-looking device, Henry could feel the Light surge. He chased forward, in a move that was too fast for the Centurion to keep up with. The shot went wide, Henry’s twisting torso making an easy dodge, and the flames of every bitter moment for three years went through the Centurion’s body. Its torso cooked, and the entire creature turned to ash. Henry drew a shotgun, and worked his way through the rest of the Cabal squad in a similar blur.

“Zavala, I found that Guardian you won’t shut up about,” Amanda Holliday spoke on a frequency Henry only barely heard.

“Get Henry aboard that command ship! Whoever is leading this, he is the only Guardian I can find in all this! Breaker-77 is with me, we’re getting these civilians out of the City!“

“You all do that! I’m out here, OW OW OW, oh, hey, it’s Cayde, Alice is on my six! Yea, I’m good never mind! We’re going to try taking out some of the command structure, maybe knock out some of the people who could pick up after you deal with the big guy!”

Henry Gordon’s mind blurred through the rest of the day. As the night dragged on, he could only think in lyrics. His fire needed to engulf the Cabal leader, and he needed to do so with as much gusto as possible. That would break the morale of the Cabal forces, and set up the Tower for a much easier clean-up. This was just a minor thing, after all! The Warlock took heart, singing out the lyrics that could only make him happy. A warcry as much as a lifeline, the music was played through his Ghost but lyrics came from his own throat. He made a mosh pit in every part of the ship, and worked his way to the command deck after exploding several pieces of valuable equipment and using the chunks as improvised weapons. He ran out through doors, and found himself on a flight deck. Staring at the Traveler, he saw a strange device attach itself to the sleeping wonder.

“How do we get rid of that?” Henry asked, panting from his lyrics.

“You don’t.”

Henry turned, looking toward a massive Cabal and two Centurions exiting from the doors he’d just used.

“Welcome to a world, without Light.”

The machine pulsed. Henry’s entire body felt as if it were pulled by a black hole, every muscle screaming at once. Henry tried to conjure up a spell, something to keep himself up. Nothing came to his hands, and his Ghost sputtered something as it fell. Henry dropped to his knees, and fumbled after Hank. Dragging the small machine toward him, Henry heard Ghaul’s approach. If Hank stayed alive, so would Henry. He prayed that the strange machine hadn’t totally cut him off from the Light, but a part of him knew that was exactly what had happened.

“Weak! Undisciplined! You’ve forgotten the fear of Death. Allow me to reacquaint you.” Henry felt an impact in his chest, and he flew to the edge of the ship. He clutched Ghost tightly, struggling to breathe. He couldn’t even right himself before he was punted again, this time losing grasp on Hank. He reached ineffectually after his Ghost, eyes watering in pain as the massive Cabal monologued.

“I’ve watched you. You are undisciplined in the extreme. You follow no code, no tactics, no order, you simply exist in combat. You are shamefully boastful, counting on your ostentatious tactics to win you the day. Your Light is all that allows you to succeed. But not against me, for I am Ghaul. And now, your Light is mine.”

Henry leaned on his feet, staring straight up at the Cabal that called itself Ghaul. A massive boot lifted up from the deck and pressed to Henry’s face. With a nudge, Henry fell. He subconsciously tried to fight the gravity, kept trying to use his magic to keep him afloat, but it all became worthless posturing after a few seconds. Before Henry passed out from the shock, he saw the roofs of the City.

Upon landing, he barely even recognized the difference. He blacked out for hours, only waking up to the sound of his Ghost.

“Hen... Ry?” the Ghost’s voice was weak, feeble, but Henry needed to get up. He willed himself out of the ground, crawling towards the voice, desperate. He found Hank, and the small machine healed him. They walked, having discovered that the City was being evacuated. The Tower fell, and the Traveler was lost.

Henry walked the streets, too injured and meek to even warrant the Cabal’s attention for longer than it took to notice him, and could only feel the despair build to insurmountable levels. People hid in the streets, cowering. They looked to Henry for help, pleading that he do something. But he couldn’t even meet their glances. The most he did was nod forward, hoping they understood his inability.

Ghaul’s words rang true, and as he staggered the mountains of Old Russia, he began to believe them.