#well we two share something and have something you guys never will have. a border

[wandixx]

Danny, the Young Justice member snippet nr 3 GIW made a lot of mistakes and the biggest one was going against Young Justice part 1

As you can see by the title (I need better ideas, you're all welcome to share yours), this is kinda part of "Danny, the Youg Justice member" but as something I have more of actual idea about. So while I encourage people adding their stuff to other snippets, please let this one be. I will be adding to it. It's even partially written :D

unrelated snippet nr 1, unrelated snippet nr 2

"Hey guys" Danny greeted clearly winded, phasing through the wall. Whole Team turned towards him, some giving him a side eye “Sorry I’m late” 

“You’re good, my dude” Wally answered, patting him on the back as soon as halfa landed, turning into his human form. They gave him a moment to catch his breath(just how fast he tried to fly there?) before grabbing their bags. Dick jumped and threw himself over the speedster's and halfa’s shoulders.

“Happy Harbour, we’re coming!” he yelled.

He fixed his grip when he caught Danny’s quick wince under the pressure as they left the headquarters. Judging by look on his face, Kaldur caught it too.

“So what’s on the agenda?”

“There is an amusement park in city, so we’re going to enjoy our free time there” M’gann explained with excited smile “I can’t wait to see it, I heard it’s fun”

Artemis nodded with a grin.

“I bet I can win more plushies than all of you. No powers,” she demanded after a moment, slamming her hand n a random tree for better dramatic effect.

“Stakes?” he asked, competitive like always. While blonde shared her idea of ‘no locker room duties for a month’, Danny explained all the questions M’gann asked about what even bet was and what stakes meant. Dick was sure she knew the answers to all of them but he didn’t say anything. He was trained well enough to catch Conner listening intently, despite his clear effort to hide it.

It turned into a whole Team competition.

It was going to be an aster.

***

M’gann was having a blast. Everyone already had two to four plushies, stomach full of unhealthy food and manageable nausea from the roller coaster. Wally and Danny were throwing popcorn to each other's mouths, Robin challenged Conner and Artemis to the next game. It really was fun just like she was told!

It was much less fun when literal blast shot a few feets away from them. Ground where it hit was burned. Halfa squealed, projecting a strong wave of distress. Without second thought he threw his hood on and changed his posture, frantically looking for a hiding spot.

Few children started crying, their families scrambling to get away before attackers started shooting again and hurt them. Workers, already used to working in less than ideal circumstances, quickly, but without panic warranted by recognised villains or outright invasion, shut down reinforced blinds and probably walked out to inform someone. At least they didn’t have to worry about potential civilian casualties. 

“Do you know who they are?” M’gann asked, quickly establishing the Mindlink.

“Don’t worry about it” he answered, putting on crazy big sunglasses that Wally won some time before.

“My dude, we just got shot at. We have every right to worry”

“Calm down, Wally. I got shot at, you’re just close by. I’ll handle it” With a ruffle of his hair and a piece of popcorn thrown in his mouth,he turned around, just moment after the next blast almost caught his arm. He plastered a smile on his face.

“Hey, I’ve seen guns like these in laser tag! But I’ve never found them cheap enough to get without selling my kidney!” he yelled enthusiastically.

When the rest of them turned around, M’gann saw ten people in sunglasses and pristine white, holding guns straight from the mad scientist’s lab. THey stood still, projecting surprise bordering on shock. She could also feel hunter's happiness underneath it, intense enough that she considered breaking the ‘don’t mess with people’s brains’ rule. As a treat.

“Don’t worry guys, they won’t harm you. Act like you  don’t believe you’re in danger. Like they're a bunch of LARPers or something” It was easier said than done, especially when Danny, who nearly always underestimated the danger, was so terrified. 

“Who are they?!”

“Wally throw me a bit of popcorn, please” Halfa asked, ignoring Artemis almost yelling in their minds. In turn, he was ignored by the speedster. Three of the men turned to check something on weird sort of scanner. Danny's false smile went from cheerful to embarrassed. 

“Dang me and my poor communication skills” he said, loud enough for men to hear but not enough to sound like he was talking to them, before asking louder “I meant to ask, where have you brought it and how much does it cost?”

This seemed to actually shake men out of their shock. They got furious.

“You won't trick us this time, ghost scum” one of the guys with a scanner snarled. Danny pursed his lips in childish gesture of displeasure.

“Rude much” he muttered as if he wasn’t shining with terror like a lighthouse. Robin perked up as if something got him curious.

“Wait, ghost? What do–”

“What are you cosplaying?” Artemis blurted out. Men got visibly angry but Danny smirked.

“Don't antagonize them,” Kaldur commended. 

“If shit goes south I'll get you out of there, half a second flat” Wally offered.

“Thanks dude. Good job Artemis, they hate to be treated like a joke they are” halfa praised but out loud asking:

“Ghostbusters? No, they had different uniforms. But who else got a thing for ghosts?”

“Quit joking around, we caught you Phantom! You ran far from Amity Park but-”

“Who is Phantom?” Robin interrupted rudely (they deserved to be rude to them).

“Where is Amity Park, Utah? Cali?”  Conner asked, adding fuel to the fire of chaos with barely contained glee. He liked messing with anyone even slightly resembling Kadmus staff and these guys marked almost all of the boxes.

“Illinois” provided chubby man who looked and felt like he didn't want to be there almost as much as they teens did. Danny relaxed slightly.

“Agent W you have no clearance to share this information“

“You were in Illinois and didn't tell me, Tommy?” M’gann finally spoke, jokingly punching his arm.

“I wasn't, I swear! I've never set a foot outside of this state in my life!”

“Quit messing around, you freak!!!” the guy, with the biggest ego and probably the leader, screamed.

“Can I please mess their heads up?”  M’gann asked, pushing hope through Mindlink as hard as she could.

“Again, rude. What did I even do to deserve that?”

“Like you–”

“Operative K, I think they really don't know anything “ Agent W, the nicest out of the batch, interrupted “Maybe it left some ectoplasm on this boy to throw us off?”

“They called you it, Danny” Conner seethed, looking like only Kaldur’s hand on his shoulder was stopping him from punching all of them straight to the sun. M’gann was already reaching for their minds.

“We need to run a scan to be sure. Come here boy”

“Now, who are you?!” Robin got defensive, sliding to shield Danny from asiliants. Conner and Artemis joined him, so clearly furious that M’gann almost retreated from Mindlink. She wasn’t any calmer, it just felt overwhelming to be backed up by five other people.

“It’s classified”

Kaldur took a photo with an obnoxiously loud sound effect. Wally appeared right behind Danny, ready to evacuate him. Artemis barely kept herself from tackling the nearest ‘agent’ to the ground.

“What are you doing, boy?” Operative K splurted, absolutely flabbergasted.

“Calling the police”

“Why?”

“Robin, throw some laws, please”

“Oh, that’s easy,” the boy jumped in gleefully “You assaulted our friend and refused to state why you would have credentials to do so or even who are you. You carry modified weaponry openly in public and I doubt you have a permit, carelessly use it  against minors, endangering innocent bystanders while we’re at it. You disturb public peace. I think that’s enough to get you arrested. Wait you know what, call ‘Supervillain emergency hotline’ instead, this is serious attack”

“Right ahead of you, already calling them”

It wasn’t that big of a problem even if someone tried to qualify this as spam. Young Justice Team was first to respond to all threats in Happy Harbour anyway.

Danny let out a low ‘uuuu’ with a smirk. Someone powered up a gun. Wally slightly raised halfa of the ground, ready to bolt.

“It’s okay young man,” the nice agent started, raising his hands in a placating gesture “We’re searching for a dangerous supernatural entity and may have overreacted. In our defense, Phantom is known to be tricky and we wouldn’t be surprised if it used human disguise to hide from us. Your friend gives off the same type of energy like what we use to track it so we assumed they’re the same. We’re sorry”

“Agent W you don’t have clearance to disclose that to-”

“Operative K, after the last few incidents we have to be more throughout before jumping to assumptions. Agent Gamma wouldn’t be pleased if your temper caused the next scandal,” Agent W look at them again, with a forced ‘warm’ smile “We’re really sorry for bothering you. We have reasons to believe Phantom is somewhere around but don’t worry about it, we will be on the lookout. If you see it, please contact us and we will take care of it” M’gann grabbed the ‘WANTED’ poster from man’s outstretched hand. She barely restrained herself from doing something irresponsible, like turning every man in white into a brainless vegetable.

“Later M'gann”

“But Robin…” she whined before sending a small laugh so they knew she wasn’t serious. She knew that Conner and Danny were anxious about this use of her powers.

Agent’s left and everyone relaxed. Wally put Danny back down and leaned back, jokingly rolling back his arms as if he got tired. Halfa stopped with a loud thump to sit on the ground. He was paler than usual.

Artemis shouted, alarmed.

“That was way too close” he started, aiming for a cheerful tone but missing by a mile “I’m fine, just need a moment to cool down. Sorry for that, guys. I thought I lost them over Ohio”

“That’s fine, personally I don’t care, we knew better than to expect a whole day without something going wrong, but who were they?” Wally asked, already back to eating popcorn.

Danny sighed, so deeply M’gann felt it in her bones even though she didn’t try to read him.

“I think this is the talk we should have in the Mountain”

[springwitch26]

flowers and firsts (melissa schemmenti x fem!reader)

summary: being the gracious friend you are, you offer to share your weed with melissa and jacob for a fun friday night at their place. when jacob goes to bed, things get heated between you and your favorite coworker.

warnings: smut (18+), consensual high sex, recreational marijuana use (be responsible), strap-ons, praise kink, vibrators, soft melissa, stoner reader, attempts at comedy (it's a fun fic guys), mario kart 8 GONE SEXUAL

notes: happy 4/20. this wasn't requested, but my OCD is beating the fuck out of me rn and writing it brought me comfort. let me know what you think. much love from your favorite slutty stoner 💚

"i know kids are curious, but eighth grade is a bit early to try weed, right?" jacob bounced his leg anxiously as he raised the question to his friends in the teachers' lounge. one of his students had just been suspended for bringing marijuana to school, and jacob was characteristically worried about the kid.

"i started in tenth grade, but teenagers are growin' up younger and younger these days," melissa responded. barbara raised her eyebrows in shock, and melissa reacted with an amused half-smile. "like trouble over here. when was your first time, hon?"

you tried to ignore the innuendo as melissa invited you into the conversation. you had been hired to teach the third grade a few months ago. you and melissa had a rapport from the first moment you walked into the lounge. every time you were in a room together, you made each other laugh. melissa made you feel at ease in your new workplace, and you felt lucky to have her.

because you both got along so well, ava often paired you up for team-building exercises and combined-class activities. the two of you weren't exactly close friends yet, but you had chemistry. that much was obvious to everyone at abbott.

"tenth grade for me, too," you answered between sips of your morning coffee. "a friend and i did it in the bathroom before art class. good memories."

"what, did you have some kinda fancy vape pen?" melissa cocked an eyebrow at you.

"i wouldn't call it fancy, but yeah, we mostly smoked carts," you explained. "bought 'em from the upperclassmen in the parking lot before school. i'm pretty sure they weren't pure weed, though. we had to be smoking battery acid, or plastic or something."

"god, your generation is weird. smokin' chemicals out of a flash drive," melissa said, gesturing wildly to convey her amazement. "the first time i got high was in detention. my buddy steve would sneak in and bring us cigarettes and blunts. they all looked the same, so we played russian roulette with it. now everybody walks around with those neon devices in their pockets."

"i can't tell if you're being serious or if you're referencing the breakfast club," you giggled, nudging the redhead's shoulder jokingly as you sat down next to her.

"ha ha, very funny, little miss," melissa deadpanned. you had asked her to stop calling you "kid" a few weeks ago. she respected your wishes by coming up with all sorts of endearing synonyms to call you instead. "what about you, jacob? you used to vape—ever experimented with mary jane?"

"or mark john?" you added. melissa snorted and gave you a playful swat on the arm.

"no, actually, i haven't," jacob said, rolling his eyes at your quip. "i didn't have many friends in high school or college, and after that i had to be drug tested regularly for teachers without borders. i never got the chance."

"well, if you ever feel like trying something new, i have plenty to share," you offered. "can't have you over at my place, though; every time i bring guests around, my crazy neighbor thinks they're cia operatives."

everyone in the room except melissa gave you a shocked look. barbara looked especially aghast, her brightly painted lips curled into an 'o' shape.

"damn, i thought janine was the only after-school stoner here. what a pleasant surprise!" ava broke the silence.

"i suppose i would partake given one of those weed pens you mentioned," jacob said to you. "the only thing i've been vaping lately is air, and it gets stale after a while."

"oh no, i haven't used a cart since high school," you clarified. "if you're smoking with me, you're smoking. don't worry, it's easy. just like vaping, but better in every way."

"first of all, no smoke circle is happening under my roof without me." melissa chimed in, looking at you with a silent question in her eyes. you nodded—of course you wanted her there. "and second, where do you even get the weed? if you buy the legal stuff from new york or massachusetts, you're not bringin' it to my house."

"i wouldn't dream of it," you affirmed. "i only smoke authentic philly weed. don't worry about it; i got a guy."

---

that friday night, you showed up on melissa's doorstep wearing a casual t-shirt dress, with a tote bag full of goodies slung over your shoulder. jacob was the one to answer the door.

"hey! come on in, melissa's making pizza," he said cheerfully, a bit jittery with anticipation.

you followed jacob inside and found melissa leaning over the kitchen island, smiling fondly at you. she was wearing sweatpants and a loose-fitting striped shirt, with her hair loose and a bit messy from cooking. she looked radiant and comfortable.

"you know, the pizza will taste better if we smoke before dinner," you proposed.

"bold of you to assume my pizza could taste any better," melissa joked back.

"i'm game," jacob said. "i want the full marijuana experience."

"in that case, help me set up," you said to the history teacher. "i want you to see how everything works."

you laid the contents of your tote bag out on the island countertop: a ziploc baggie full of flower, a little purple grinder, a holographic pink bowl, and a yellow lighter with white flowers on it.

"jacob, this is a grinder," you said, uncapping the grinder and opening the ziploc bag. "we're gonna use it to break up the flower into little pieces."

"oh wow, that is... pungent," jacob remarked. he watched as you ground up the weed, then handed the pink glass bowl to him.

"and this is a bowl, or a pipe if you're lame," you said. "you wanna do the honors?"

jacob grinned and reached into the grinder, bouncing excitedly on his heels. you put a hand on his shoulder to steady him. he filled the bowl, looking to you for approval several times while he did it.

"awesome, we're ready," you said. melissa placed her pizza in the oven and joined the circle.

"let's take it out on the patio," melissa suggested.

she led you and jacob out to the patio, a small ledge overlooking the city with three chairs conveniently set up in a tight circle. it was 7pm and the sun had just begun its descent, casting philadelphia in an orange glow.

the three of you sat down. you held the bowl up to your lips and moved to light it, but melissa snatched the lighter from your hand. she leaned in and held the flame to the bowl, her face inches from yours. you tried to concentrate on the task at hand, rather than her painted lips or her vivid green eyes dancing all over you.

you took a long inhale of the smoke and blew it up toward the sky. melissa plucked the bowl out of your hand and took a hit. she held the smoke in her lungs for an impressive amount of time for someone who didn't smoke regularly. she passed the still-lit bowl to jacob.

as soon as jacob took his hit, you knew it was gonna hurt. he overestimated his own lung capacity, and he didn't even finish blowing the smoke out before he was coughing.

"happens to everybody, pal," melissa patted jacob's back to ease his pain.

"ugh!" jacob sputtered between coughs. "why didn't you guys tell me smoking hurts?"

---

several rotations later, the three of you were high. well, you and melissa were high; jacob was outright fried. not altogether unexpected, but funny as hell.

when melissa's pizza was done, you all resolved to eat outside so you could watch the sunset together.

"this is heavenly, mel," you moaned after a delicious bite of the pizza.

"ha!" jacob exclaimed, and you and melissa turned to him, confused. meeting melissa's gaze, he threw his arms up in the air—like he expected her to understand what he meant by that one noise. "she stole two syllables from your name. you can't just take syllables, y/n. they're not yours."

"since when do you care about private property rights?" you quipped back before turning your attention to melissa. "i'm serious though. this pizza is sooo good. like last-meal-on-death-row good."

"keep talkin' sweet like that, and you can call me whatever you want," melissa replied with a wink, sending a flood of warmth to your face.

"what were we talking about? just now?" jacob chimed in, his eyes wide and darting every which way.

"... i actually don't know," you said with a giggle. you tried to remember, you really did. but you could feel melissa's eyes on you, and you heard her words echoing in your head. and it was hard to focus on anything else.

"short term memory loss! add that to the list of things you guys didn't warn me about," jacob scoffed.

"jacob, eat your damn pizza," melissa cut in. a peaceful smile graced her lips as she stared out at the city skyline, now a twilight blue in the absence of the sun. "i've missed this feeling, everythin' all fuzzy and light. how are you holding up, lovebug?"

your heart fluttered at the endearing name. melissa, it seemed, wore her heart on her sleeve when she was high—judging by the adoring way she gazed at you while she awaited your response. maybe the weed was messing with your head, but you swore she'd never looked so beautiful.

her eyes lacked any trace of the fire you were used to seeing (though they were quite red). for once, she wasn't on guard. her plump lips curled around her wine glass as she took a sip of merlot, vocalizing her sensual appreciation with a hum.

her long auburn hair was tucked behind her ears, resting on her shoulders in loose waves instead of her preferred meticulous curls. you wanted to run your fingers through her locks, feel their softness and smell her shampoo.

entranced by the redhead, you forgot she had asked you a question. melissa tapped your knee in reminder.

"i feel perfect," was your soft reply. you were beaming brightly before the sentence even finished. rather than sitting in a chair, you felt like you were floating on a cloud. the colors of melissa's patio and the sky blended together in a beautiful, swirling mosaic. the sounds of the city were clear and pleasant as philly wound down for the night. "i'm so happy."

"glad to hear it, sunshine. but i'm pretty sure jacob is asleep," melissa chuckled and patted the man's shoulder. he didn't stir, remaining slumped and conked out in his chair. "he's been losin' sleep over the kid who got suspended. bending over backwards trying to keep 'em on track."

"oh gosh," you said sympathetically before patting jacob a bit more firmly than melissa had. "jacob, hey. c'mon, it's time for bed. get up, go get cozy."

your words were slurred and hushed, but they seemed to pierce the veil of jacob's slumber as he awoke with a start.

melissa stood behind jacob's chair, gently rocking it back and forth to bring him back to the conscious world.

"can't go to bed, we just started," jacob grumbled, but his eyes were still closed. he was dangerously close to falling asleep again.

"from the looks of it, you're either gonna spend the night sleepin' in this chair or in your bed, so get up," melissa said resolutely.

"yeah, and besides, there's always next time," you assured jacob as he stretched and groaned his way into an upright position. you made eye contact with melissa, and this time you winked.

---

after helping jacob into bed (his motor skills really deteriorated when he got high) and smoking another bowl together, you and melissa were ready to continue your night.

"alright, sweetheart, it's down to you and me," melissa said, sitting down next to you on the couch. "what do you wanna do?" you pondered the question, looking around the room for inspiration.

"oh my god, you have a nintendo switch?" you asked excitedly, gesturing to the black tablet plugged in next to the cable box.

"that's jacob's. he showed me one of the games on there—animal crossing, i think it was. i don't get it. why play a game if you can't win?"

"alright, i know what we have to do now," you said, walking over to jacob's game cabinet and pulling out mario kart 8. holding the case up for melissa to see, you grinned. "four races. whoever wins gets whatever she wants from the other."

you were distantly aware of the implications, but you were too high to reconsider what you'd proposed.

you figured melissa would want something from your thoroughly decorated classroom if she won. if you won, you'd ask her to make you a custom pizza.

"you have no idea what you just started, hon," melissa said with a confident smirk.

"may the best woman win."

---

how the hell was she so good at everything?

melissa had needed some time to warm up to the switch controls, complaining about how the little red rectangle was too small to hold comfortably. but she was a quick learner with skilled fingers, and soon she was absolutely demolishing you.

it also didn't help that your coordination escaped you when you were high. you had driven off of too many ledges to count.

"two wins in a row for luigi," melissa bragged as she crossed the finish line of the third race. "hope you're ready to give me whatever i want, princess. don't think i forgot about our bet."

"daisy won the first race," you pointed out calmly. "i can still bring it back. but you know what this last race has to be?"

"what?"

"rainbow road. it's the perfect final showdown course," you explained, navigating to the course with your controller.

"get ready to be mine for a night," melissa said lowly. god, you knew she was talking about the bet, but she knew damn well what she was doing. by this point your panties were almost uncomfortably wet.

you leaned into her unconsciously as the race countdown began. you both held your controllers tight, almost shoulder to shoulder.

3...

2... (you push down the gas pedal button)

1...

GO!!!

daisy took off with a boost of speed thanks to your timing. luigi had a false start as his engine blew out. you cheered, and melissa cursed.

"how the fuck do you do that?" she asked, exasperated.

"play the game!" you demanded without looking away from the screen.

the competition was intense. you and melissa weaved around curves, nearly fell off the road, passed and bumped each other. neither one of you spoke until lap 3.

coming up on one of the last turns of the last lap, your hands jerked and you swerved. reacting on instinct, you bent your arms dramatically in the other direction to overcorrect.

melissa's arm bumped into yours, sending your controller flying out of your hands.

"hey!" you said, thinking she was cheating.

"hey yourself," she said, her eyes still fixed on the screen.

if she was gonna play dirty, so were you. you thrust your arm forward to grab her controller. but she saw you coming from a mile away. effortlessly, she shifted the controller into her left hand alone and held it up and out of your reach.

desperately competitive (and stupid high), you launched yourself toward the controller. you'd stop at nothing to get even. before you could snatch it out of her grasp, though, your balance faltered. you fell out of your position and started to fall backwards off the couch.

melissa dropped the controller and wrapped her arms around you, pulling you back up before you could hurt yourself. there was only one problem with this heroic act.

you were in her lap now.

her hands remained clasped at the small of your back, and your balance shifted forward. you put your arms out for stability, and wrapped them around her neck.

"careful, don't hurt your pretty head," melissa cooed. the two of you stared at each other for a moment. she surged forward and pressed her lips to yours.

if sitting outside with her felt like floating, kissing her and feeling her body against yours felt like riding the ocean waves. but unlike the atlantic, she was warm. you relaxed into her warmth as her tongue licked into your mouth.

you felt her tongue everywhere. in response to her, you gave a few tentative kitten licks. she moaned, she moaned, and pulled back before giving you one last kiss on the lips.

she stared at you with heated eyes for a while before switching her focus to the tv.

"look, baby," she said smugly while gesturing to the tv screen, where luigi was driving victory laps after placing first on rainbow road. "i won. you remember what that means?"

it was a fair question, considering how many conversations you forgot happened tonight. still, you nodded shyly and bit your lip.

"smart girl," melissa praised. "can you guess what i want from you?"

you shook your head no with a frown. melissa beamed and kissed you on the forehead. then she leaned in to whisper in your ear.

"i wanna touch you everywhere. i wanna hear your pretty voice moan my name and see your face scrunch up when you come. i want you to feel me all over you, and i want you to spend the rest of your life craving that feeling," melissa said her piece all at once, as if revealing a long-buried secret to you and herself.

you swallowed.

"would you let me do that?"

you nodded, pressing your forehead against hers.

"i need to hear you say it," she said softly, so softly you almost missed it.

"i want you, melissa. i have since the day we met."

that was all the confirmation melissa needed to attack your face and neck with kisses.

"sorry, let me just," melissa said as she pulled away abruptly and reached for the tv remote. she changed it to cable mode and navigated to the jazz music channel. "there we go, perfect."

"you're ridiculous," you giggled upon seeing melissa's proud face.

"honey," she leaned in to nip at your ear before whispering, "watch your mouth. you wanna be on my good side tonight, trust me."

you shuddered and wiggled in her lap, aching for her touch. a slow grin spread across her face and her hands found your legs, running up your thighs and lightly dragging her nails along your skin. they soon made their way up your waist to your breasts, cupping and squeezing them. melissa even took two fingernails and circled your nipples teasingly, to which you squeaked.

"do you know how many times i thought about havin' you like this?" melissa whispered. her voice was sweet like molasses and flowed right through you. you could feel your nipples tingling where her fingers had been, swimming in a bubble of desire. "in my lap, all whiny and squirmy."

she pinched your nipple and you keened. you held your breath as her hands once again traveled to your thighs, making a beeline for your core.

"and now i got my angel in my arms," she said, gently spreading your legs for better access. you sucked in a breath and trembled when her palm caressed you through your panties. "but i gotta say, even in my imagination you were never this wet for me."

she punctuated the sentence by pressing her pointer finger on your clit through the fabric, drawing tiny circles. you gasped and hid your face in her neck. the high made every touch feel like it rippled through your whole body. the world felt like it had been knocked off its axis, and melissa was your new center of gravity.

"aw, don't be embarrassed, babygirl. it's cute you're so sensitive," melissa soothed, easing you out of the crook of her neck to face her again. she trailed her fingers down to swirl around your wetness under your panties. "let me take care of you, yeah?"

---

a few minutes later, you were spread out on melissa's bed, naked save for your (now useless) panties. she'd practically carried you to her room as you were baked and horny and unable to walk straight.

in spite of your writhing and needy whines, the redhead took her time to savor you. she kissed every inch of your torso before she even considered taking your panties off, mumbling sweet nothings between love bites.

when she finally pulled away to admire her work, the view did not disappoint. you were panting and covered in melissa's marks, and god, you were her favorite piece of art ever created. all hers.

"alright, sweet girl, i know," she cooed as you continued to plead for her touch with your best pout and puppy eyes. unable to resist you, melissa hooked two fingers in the waistband of your panties. "i'm gonna slip these off ya, okay? there, down they go."

melissa discreetly tucked the saturated material into her pocket. not as a trophy or proof of her conquest; rather, a token from the first of many magical nights with her girl. she would treasure it.

she wasted no time getting situated between your legs so she was face-to-face with your pussy. she inhaled deeply, basking in the heady aroma of your arousal. you overwhelmed her senses. everything she saw, everything she smelled, everything she felt, everything she thought—it was all one big, bottomless pool of you. and there was only one sense left for you to conquer.

the first drag of her tongue up your slit set you ablaze, flames licking from your core all the way to your extremities and your head. she let out a small noise of appreciation, and you felt it more than you heard it.

"you taste like fuckin' heaven," melissa rumbled between determined licks through your folds. her comment reminded you of the pizza, and you found yourself amused at how much things had changed in just a few hours.

"last-meal-on-death-row good?" you joked, and melissa seized the moment of levity to latch onto your clit. you cried out before remembering jacob was sleeping in the next room. you clapped a hand over your mouth.

"mhmmmmm," she moaned in agreement, and the vibrations on your bundle felt incredible. "but if you're still crackin' jokes, i'm not doin' my job."

with that, she shut you up completely. her tongue poked at your clit between harsh sucks. your back arched and melissa changed her strategy, prodding at your entrance with her tongue while her fingers took over on your clit. when her tongue penetrated you, you bit down on your hand to keep from screaming.

"i said i wanna hear you, remember?" melissa pulled out to chastise you.

"but jacob—" you managed.

"is passed out. he's dead to the world. now sing for me, angel," melissa's tongue dove back into your weeping cunt and lapped at your walls. you wailed her name.

"oh, mel, right—ahhh—there!" you mewled as her tongue teased your most sensitive spot. now that she'd located her target, melissa changed her play once again. two fingers replaced her tongue and crooked into your g-spot while her mouth returned to your clit. "close..."

melissa nodded her permission, her mouth busy with your button. with another hard roll of your clit between her lips and drive of her fingers into your sweet spot, you fell apart. you moaned and cried unbidden as she worked you through your orgasm, which felt twice as powerful thanks to the intoxication factor. your body shook in the grip of seemingly endless waves of heat.

your climax eventually died down and you squirmed away from melissa's touch. your mouth opened in dismay when instead of staying by your side, she stood up and disappeared into her closet.

after a short while, the older woman reappeared by your side. she was now nude and sporting a long, girthy strap-on. she placed a few other items on the nightstand, but you couldn't tear your eyes away from the thick faux cock. unless it was to look at her gorgeous tits, which swung with her every move. she was a goddess.

"okay, sweets, i'm gonna spell this out nice and slow because i know your brain is a little messy right now," she said as she crawled on top of you. "i'm gonna fuck you with my strap. and i know it's so big, but i have this to help you take it."

melissa reached over to the nightstand and retrieved a green mini wand vibrator. her intentions were clear, and you gulped. the redhead peppered kisses all over your face in reassurance.

"now relax, little love. let me in," melissa instructed as the wand buzzed to life. she smeared your wetness around your clit with her fingers, then pulled back its hood to position the vibrator tightly against your nub. even the lowest setting was a shock at such a direct angle.

while you were distracted trying to adjust to the clitoral stimulation, melissa aligned the tip of the dildo with your entrance and pushed in. you both groaned, and you felt yourself stretch around the toy. melissa turned up the vibrations on your clit as she progressed to being fully seated inside you.

"that's a good girl, so brave," melissa cooed. you thrashed underneath her, the sensations overstimulating you. the pain of the intrusion staved off a powerful orgasm from the wand vibrator.

again, you wondered if the drugs were messing with your mind—the dildo felt indistinguishable from a part of mel's body, and you were full to the brim of her.

as she began to rock her hips back and forth, you saw her bite her lip. you assumed that the strap had some kind of clit attachment for her based on the telltale signs of pleasure.

melissa built up a steady rhythm and drank in your pathetic sounds of pleasure. her tits swung in your face with every thrust, and you made a mental note to give them proper attention next time. with another tactical increase to the wand's speed, you felt yourself approaching the edge once more.

"you gettin' close? yeah, i can tell. feels too good to hide it, huh bunny?" that was a new one. you clenched at her words and she set the wand to its maximum power, rubbing it up and down on your clit. your vision went white and you spun out of reality as you came. "that's my girl. good little princess, coming so hard for me."

with a few more thrusts, melissa also came to a release. she shuddered and shimmied her hips at random while she rode it out. as soon as she recovered, she turned off the green wand and relieved you. next, she eased herself out of and off of you.

with a chaste peck to your lips, she sat upright and reached for the nightstand. she smiled at your fucked-out expression as she laid out the pajamas she'd picked out for you.

you watched in awe as she took off the strap and put on her own sleep clothes. her red hair was wild from the night's activities and glowed like a warm hearth against the white backdrop of her walls.

in your state, you wanted nothing more than to cuddle up with melissa and fall asleep. but she insisted that you get ready for bed so that you'd be comfortable through the night. she guided you into the bathroom and gave you a new toothbrush to use.

returning to the bedroom, you found a silky green nightgown with flowers on it waiting on the bed for you. given your exhausted and intoxicated state, melissa had to help you into it. neither of you minded. as a reward for your cooperation, she gave you a kiss.

the two of you snuggled into bed, tucked in together with you curled up against her chest. the tides of slumber lapped at your feet.

"g'night, lovebug," melissa whispered as you drifted off. "sleep well. see you in the morning."

and tomorrow would be the first of a lifetime of tomorrows waking up in her arms.

[fanttasttica]

Family

Helion x reader, Rhysand x daughter reader

You never knew your parents and yourself. One day you decide to leave your home and try to find something about yourself and your family. You come to the Day court, where you meet their cunning High lord, who also happens to be your mate. But your mate isn't the only person you found..

warnings: mentions of nudity

words: 2764

It was a nice summer day. A wind gently caressed your cheeks, as you were looking at your friends, who were enjoying the day with their families. Fathers, mothers.. siblings. That was a luxury you have never known. You never knew your father or mother. The closest thing you had to parents were Christian and Lucille, who found you one day and raised as their own. You actually thought they were your parents, until they came clean when you reached your eighteen birthday. They knew you deserve the truth. Since then, you were jealous and happy at the same time for your friends, who had families on their own. You were watching them from a smaller distance, as they were laughing together wishing you could have something like that too. Not that you were not grateful for Christian and Lucille, you loved them but.. You wanted to find out who your parents were. Whose violet eyes were looking at you in the mirror? Did you have the same black hair as your mom? Was your smile similar to the smile of your father? Those were questions you earned an answer for.

You grew up in the mountains in Night court. Your village was quite small, nothing extraordinary here. It was not far from the borders the Night court shared with the Day court. You could walk there maybe after two or three hours. That means that sometimes you meet people traveling between these two courts. People who were more than willing to share stories. That was how you found out about Amarantha being dead. You knew her, of course you did. Everyone in Prythian did. She trapped all High lords under the mountain, took their powers.. They were helpless until one day a human girl named Feyre freed them. You were fascinated by her story. She was now your High lady, finally being happy with Rhysand, your High lord and you found that really nice. That they found each other after all that. You heard all stories about them and about other High lords and interesting people from travelers, merchants.. You were always listening to them very carefully, until one sunny day, when you decided to stop being the listener and become the traveler, narrator, yourself. It was an opportunity to get to know new places, people.. and maybe find out something about your parents.

“Are you sure you want to go? I mean..it can be really dangerous.” You smiled at your friends. “I am sure. I love you guys, I love this place but.. I just want to try and find out something about my parents, about me. And I think that's the thing I cannot accomplish here.” She sighed and nodded as a sign that she understands you. “Well.. I will not stop you, if that is really what you want. Just.. be careful and don't forget us.” You hugged her tight, trying to find back tears. “How could I ever forget you? You are my best friend, sister, even though we don't have the same parents. I will never forget you, don't worry. And also.. this isn't definitely the last time you see me. I will come back.”

It has been almost two months since you left. After almost a month of traveling, you came to the town which was surrounding the palace of Helion, the Day court´s High lord. Probably the sexiest male alive. You had only seen him once, from afar when he was walking and talking with some of his friends near the shop you worked. You found a job in a smaller café, simply because you needed money and you also quite quickly fell in love with the city and wanted to spend some time here. You weren't sure how long you were going to stay.. A few months? Year? But it didn't really matter. Your job did not only provide you with the money , no. It also helped you meet a few nice people you befriend and could spend time after work. It was nice, the days were not the same as in your old village. Every day brought something new, new skills you learned, new friends.. But the one day that stood out above all the days.. was the one when you met your mate.

It was almost noon when the bell rang and he walked into the café, where you were currently working. Helion stood in the doorway and was looking around the place as if he was searching for something, or rather someone. And then, suddenly, he looked at you, his already big smile grew even bigger. At that same moment, you felt something in your chest, in your heart. Mating bond. It snapped immediately, taking the air from your lungs. You blinked a few times, not daring to move or look away from his gaze as he walked closer to you. “Hello my little sunshine.” 

From that moment, you didn't spend a day without a stolen moment with Helion. You found out that he already knew about the mating bond. It snapped for him a few minutes before he came in, as he was casually walking around the café. He saw you and needed only a few minutes before you he plucked up the courage to go talk to you. You decided to take things slowly. He was coming to the café, where you chatted when you were working. After a week he invited you to a date, to a beautiful restaurant, theater, then he took you on the picnic.. And that's basically how you ended up waking up in his large bed, with nothing but sheets on your naked body. 

You two were seeing each other for almost three months. It was already winter, but that did not bother you. Helion was hugging you, his big and warm body was better than any blanket in the whole world. You were enjoying this quiet morning in his embrace, when you felt he was already waking up. His breathing changed and grip on you strengthened, as if he also wasn't ready to wake up and leave your bed. You giggled at him, whereupon he grunted. “Is there something funny, sunshine?” You sighed happily. “Just one certain High lord who is behaving like a little child who doesn't want to share his toy with anyone else.” He chuckled, turned you around, so you were now lying on your back on the comfortable mattress and he was towering over you in all his glory. You bit your lips at this sight. “But I don't want to share you with anyone else.” He started placing soft kisses on your neck, which was full of hickeys from the previous night. “I don't think that's possible. My shift is starting in an hour and you also have a lot of work.” You argued, trying to keep your thoughts clear, even though the idea of ​​spending the whole day with your mate in bed was more than tempting. “That's why I want you to quit. You know I can take care of you, I want to take care of everything you need or want” This time it was you who chuckled at his idea. “And what would I do? Spend all my time in your bed, waiting for you to return? It would be boring.” You caressed his beautiful face. Admiring his beauty, before he spoke again. “You could always come with me to the meetings, sit on my lap and warm me.” He winked at you, as you punched him slightly in his biceps. After that his face grew more serious. “I love you Y/N. More than my court, more than the sun, more than everything else.. Just say you want this and I promise I will give you everything in the world. I will make you my High lady. My equal. Just one word is enough.” 

It wasn't that hard a decision. You loved Helion with your whole being. You couldn't imagine a day without him. So you finally agreed. You gave him your answer that day, in the evening, when you served him dinner made by you. It was simple, private and even though Helion was known for parties, he really appreciated this. Mainly because after the meal he could immediately take to to the bedroom and fuck you all night without any disturbance. The only thing that was left to declare you his High lady. You urged him to wait a little. When you officially accepted the bond you also moved to his palace the next day and you simply wanted to get used to the new surroundings and to the bond, which was now stronger than before. He of course agreed to your wishes. But you still were slowly making plans for the celebration, because you decided to make this event publicly. Helion thought that it was only fair for his, yours, people to have an opportunity to witness this moment, when the first High lady of the Day court was crowned. And believed him, wanting to also make people happy, to make a good first impression and that was probably not possible if you were hiding in the shadows on that important day. You also decided to invite your and some of Helion's friends, which also included some other High lords and their families. You personally invited Thesan - High lord of the Dawn court, High lord of the Winter court and his wife, Tarquin, who was Hugh lord of the Summer court and lastly.. High lord, High lady of the Night court and their Inner circle. 

Before every meeting with other High lords you were incredibly nervous and Helion was trying to calm you down as he could and he was successful, but this time.. It was different and you weren't sure why you felt this way. Your heart was beating rapidly in your chest, your hands were sweating.. Maybe because you were supposed to meet the only other High lady that existed? Or maybe you were just nervous because you have heard a lot of stories about all of them? Rhysand was the most powerful High lord, his mate had powers of all seven High lords and her sisters were made by the Cauldron.. Not mentioning Cassian and Azriel, who were alive for more than five hundred years and killed more people than you have met in your lifetime. “Don't worry Y/N. They are really nice and don't bite more than me and you are already used to that.” Helion winked at you and you rolled your eyes at him. This was something about him that you absolutely loved and at the same time found annoying. He was such a flirt. “I know and I believe you. Honestly.. I am not sure why I am so nervous.” You as and at the same time tucked a strand of hair behind your ear. Before your mate could respond to you, you heard the sound of the door opening. You looked behind you and to your surprise you met the same eyes you had  and they stared back at you in shock.

There was silence as the others entered the room as well. They were looking at you with shocked expressions and you returned it, mainly to the man that had the same eyes as you. And after a few moments you noticed that the eyes were not the only thing you shared. You also had the same hair, similar features. In the end it was Helion who broke the silence. “I.. I never realized that.” It wasn't surprising he was not very receptive to these things. “That's.. How?” High lady asked, turning to face her mate, who also finally recovered from the shock. “I have no idea, Feyre darling.” He took a few steps towards you. You looked at Helion, not sure what to do. What to say. Was it even possible? Was this really your father or was it some cruel joke made by the Cauldron? How did it happen? “It's her.” You heard a sweet voice from the group. A girl, a woman, in a pink dress came closer. You shared a confused look with your mate. “The girl from my visions. Rhys's daughter.” 

To this moment, the only person who almost made you faint was Helion but when that woman said those words.. You had to grab your mate's strong arms, because otherwise you would be laying on the ground. This did not go unnoticed by your father and your mate, who grabbed you by your waist, holding you firmly. It was not only supporting in standing, it was calming you at the same time. Your father looked with worry. “Are you okay?” He asked you, you nodded in response. “I am, it's just.. a shock.” He smiled at you. “That's understandable. It's a shock for both of us. Well.. for all of us. He turned to his mate and Inner circle, as if he was having a quick conversation with them. After that, they came closer, introducing themselves with bright smiles. You have learned that the lady who was obviously a seer was Elaine, sister of your father's mate. It was Feyre who introduced herself to you last. It was a little bit weird for you, since she was a little bit younger than you and practically your step-mother, but she seemed nice. “By the way, what are you doing here? And how did you find my daughter, Helion?” You almost forgot they didn't know. Inviting High lords to your celebration was also a moment when Helion introduced you to them as his mate for the first time. He looked down at you and you gave him a simple nod. “Well.. she is my mate. And also my future High lady. We wanted to invite you to the celebration personally.” 

Once again, they were shocked, especially your newly found father, who was looking between you and Helion. You wanted to say something. Something that could make this situation a little bit less weird, but couldn't find the right words. In the end, silence was broken by Cassian's and Morrigan's augh. “Well, I did not see that coming.” Your aunt said with amusement in her voice. You smiled nervously, wanting nothing more than to disappear into the thin air. “Congratulations, it's amazing.” Feyre told you kindly and shook Rhysand's hand, so he would wake up from his trance. “Yeah.. congratulations.”He looked from you to Helion. “You better make her happy.” His words warmed up your heart. It was nice of him to look after you only after knowing you for maybe ten minutes. Maybe you were an adult, but that didn't mean you couldn't create a loving bond with him. After the first shock, you finally felt happiness. You had a parent! A father! And at that moment you realized something. With a hope in your eyes you turned to Elaine. “Do you also know who my mother is?”

The smile on her face and the faces of the others froze. Well, except for you and Helion, since you didn't know anything. Elaine swallowed hard, making eye contact with both your father and Feyre, again having some type of silent conversation. After a while, your father sighed. “Your mother.. Well.. Things get a little bit complicated here.” He breathed out. “Maybe you already heard of her. It is.. Amarantha.” It had to be incredibly hard for him to say that. After he said that, he looked away, hurt from memories that came back only after saying her name out loud. 

Of course you were in shock after finding out who your parents were. Being the daughter of the most powerful High lord and also a person who imprisoned not only him, but also your mate and a lot of other people.. Being the daughter of the person who killed and who was the main villain of many people's nightmares wasn't the best thing that could happen to you. But you were lucky to have your mate and also your father on your site. After finding out, you were really sad, angry, ashamed and also worried about what other people would think. What would Helion think? But luckily, he didn't care at all. He supported you, when you were recovering from the news and trying to accept them. He supported you when you tried and later successfully created a bond with your father, but also Feyre and their Inner circle. You were very lucky to have him, to have all of them. You finally had your own happy family.

[kumoriyami-xiuzhen]

Hakuoki Drama CD - Hijikata Biyori Track 30 Eng translation

I know I'm late (again...), but yeah, Warframe. Hehehe. I'm a gamer, alright? Anyway, I'm going to work on the translations for the next two weeks now though I'm not entirely sure if I'll be answering messages during the time I'm away (July 10-17).

Oh well!

Hakuoki Hijikata Biyori Track 30: Gathering/Meeting

Translation by KumoriYami

Harada: Hey, hey, no one's coming. There can't be a meeting like this.

Sannan: Indeed. It's not going to be a meeting with the three of us.

Hijikata: Recently, those Satsuma and Choshu guys have been doing some strange things. Many of the guys are patrolling the border or escorting important people. It's really difficult to get everyone together now.

Harada: Yeah, that's true. Lately, no one even shows up to eat/for our meals/for dinner.

Hijikata: Actually, it's fine if it's just when eating/our meals/dinner where we don't get together, but these occasional meetings�� Harada: Hey hey, Hijikata-san. What doyou mean to say by just eating? It's a big deal for comrades/friends living under the same roof to get together to eat.

Hijikata: It can't be helped if we're busy with work.

Harada: Eating isn't the same thing as working. Right, Sannan-san. Ah, but in any case, Sannan-san and Hijikata-san are of/share the same opinion.

Sannan: It can't be helped when it's busy. It's a reasonable opinion.

Harada: As expected…you two are really heartless. If Kondou-san were here, he would definitely agree with me.

Sannan: Well, we'll see. Kondou-san isn't here today. It ppears that he will not be/come back for dinner either.

Harada: Ah, what, seriously.

Hijikata; It's not like something won't happen if we don't eat together. We've eaten out from the same pot so many times. I think everyone understands each other's feelings/minds.

Harada: Well, that's true, but… What I'm trying to say is…

Sannan: ut… you're right. If things stay like this, we might all never get together for a meal again.

Hijikta/Harada: Ha?

Sannan: When was the last time we all got together to eat? That time might be the last time.

Harada: Hey, Sannan-san... saying that/that's a bit…

Sannan: Ah, it's fine. I was just mentioning a possibility. Is it find to cancel today's meeting? If that's possible, I hvae something to do, so I'll excuse myself first.

Harada: When he puts it like that...

Hijikata: Yeah. Yeah. But there's nothing we can do about it now. Harada: No, that's why...

Hijikata: Harada, I'm not saying that I like that this can't be helped.

Harada: I get it. (sighs)

(dinner time)

Harada: C'mon, let's eat/it's time to eat! Although I'm sorry to the people who working, I'm going to et well… That being said, it's not really fun to eat in such a quiet place. Oh? What's that? It's really noisy outside.

(opens sliding door)

Oh, what's wrong? Heisuke. Didn't you say that you couldn't come back today? Huh? Relieved from escorting? Then are the other guys coming back to?.... Really/ I see. Hey, what's going on. I was just thinking about eating your side dishes.

Hijikata: Souji, what happened? How could I believe that stupid excuse wsa used to dismiss the escord… The Shogunate's people will now be taking care of the escort? Heh, how did that happen… Ah, so that's how it is…

Harada: Hehe, let's eat then. Ah, Shinpcahi. That's not your food. You don't have to panic, the food won't run out/away. Come on, learn from Saito. Hijikta: Sannan-san, it's not like you to do something like this, is it?

Sannan: What are you talking about? I was just doing my job.

Hijikata: Fu, is that so. In front of you, I can no longer say that it can't be helped.

---end---

if there's an "a" missing somewhere, that's on account of me not catching that error since my keyboard decided to not work properly..

[toomuchracket]

just thinking about the fact that flatmate!matty and girly clearly almost live like a married couple but of course, they don't see it. And say, one of the boys (George, I'm thinking) has to stay with them for a couple days because of some emergency and he points this out loud and they're both like NO??? WHY WOULD YOU SAY THAT, WE DO NOT??? Just, protesting a bit too much

YES ABSOLUTELY. you and george have like a full debate about sleeping arrangements because you're trying to give him your bed and he's like "love i'm not kicking you out of your bed and making you sleep on the couch! i'll just share with matty" and you're like "nah it's cool you're the guest, you have my bed to yourself and i'll share with matty" and george is like "... what" and matty's like "we literally fall asleep in the same bed at least once a week at this point" and george is like "... and you're still, like, just friends?" and you and matty both say "yeah" but george clocks that you're both upset about that. anyway, george gets your bed to himself, but he goes through into matty's room when he wakes up to say good morning and he literally stops in his tracks in the doorway, because you and matty are awake and chatting but you're snuggled into matty's bare chest with your arm over him and your legs entwined, and matty's arm is draped over your side, hand far too close to your bum and the whole thing too intimate for george to believe this is a totally platonic relationship (aside from the yearning and snuggling, at this point, it is). and george sits on the bed and you all have a little smoke, and you and matty are still being all affectionate, which george immediately sees is just flirting and he's intrigued so he's like "how did this falling asleep together thing start anyway?". and you're like "we had a movie night in my room and just fell asleep cuddling and then it became a regular thing" and george is like "you have movie nights in your bedrooms?" and you and matty go bright red and matty's like "george WE'VE had movie nights in our bedrooms" and george is like "well yeah but we've never bordered on netflix and chill and cuddled, have we?". and you laugh (even though you're screaming internally) and go "maybe you should, george, it's fun cuddling him. anyway i'm hungry, i'll go and start breakfast", and you kiss matty's cheek before you peel off him and get up, and pat george on the head as you pass him. and george just raises his eyebrows at matty before the two of them get up to follow you to the kitchen. and you don't let george make breakfast because he's a guest, so he just sits at the breakfast bar and watches you and matty cook - well, you cook, and matty annoy you as he makes coffee for everyone. and it really is so domestic! you grab something out of the fridge and then go "we're almost out of that matty can you add it to the shopping list" and he's like "of course babe" and does it, and he kisses the top of your head when he passes you, then at one point you stand behind matty and wrap your arms around his waist and just kind of sway to whatever music is playing over the speakers. and george is like "god, you guys are like such an old married couple. you're so in love it's funny" and the two of you are like "what? no we're not! are you high or something? what the fuck are you saying that for? we're just friends!" in progressively higher-pitched voices (clearly lying) and george says "if you say so! it just looks like it. and it's cute, it really is". and then you all eat breakfast in total silence because both you and matty are too busy thinking about the other maybe actually loving you back to talk lol (and i suspect the time you actually get together happens at most two weeks later) <3

[umichenginabroad]

Week 0: Ireland before the Program!

Hello, hello! It is Declan McGrath here checking in before my program officially starts at UCD in Dublin this Sunday. I am so incredibly excited to begin this program and meet all of the amazing people that are going to be in this program with me as well as other people from around the world and Ireland.

First, a little bit about myself. I am a first-year mechanical engineering undergraduate. I absolutely love to cook and try new foods, read, play videogames, take pictures on my Polaroid cameras (which I will most likely be sharing with you all throughout the program!), and just all around hang out! Up until this point, I have never actually left the United States so this trip is going to be an entirely new experience for me! From trying all the new and different foods to exploring a different culture to meeting new people it is all going to be brand new. The program I am a part of is the IPE: Big 10 STEM and Irish Studies in Dublin at University College Dublin. This program has me taking Physics 2 lecture and lab as well as a History of Modern Ireland course which both meet requirements for my major.

I actually arrived in Ireland two weeks before my program started and have been exploring Ireland a lot! My family has a lot of Irish roots and so when I got confirmation that I was accepted into the program my family almost immediately began planning a family trip there before the program started. We drove from Michigan across the border to Canada to catch a flight alllll the way to Dublin. We landed in Dublin at around 9 AM (incredibly jetlagged) but began to make the most of our time in Dublin by exploring the various pubs, restaurants, and stores throughout the city while also visiting some amazing national monuments and museums. We walked through the rain to the famous Temple Bar Pub in Dublin where I got some amazing Irish fish and chips! All of the food I have had in Dublin has been amazing actually. There are so many ice cream stores in every city and some even have something called “bubble waffle” which is essentially an extra sweet waffle with bubbles in it and coated in ice cream. And the soft serve ice cream they have here is absolutely amazing, probably better than the US’s (and that’s coming from a guy who used to work at a Dairy Queen!).

After a couple days in the city we took a trip out into the Irish countryside to a small AirBnB in Terryglass. We picked up a rental car and I helped navigate my dad out of the city and into the countryside. It was so weird sitting on the left side of the car and not being the one driving and even weirder to see all the cars driving on the opposite side of the road. That is honestly the biggest thing that I do not think I will ever get used to while abroad, so it is probably a very good thing that I will not be driving at all on this trip. While out in Terryglass my family and I made a trip out to Cashel Rock to see the final resting place of Miler McGrath, an ancestor of mine with way too many great’s in front of grandpa for me to type out. It was very cool to see this amazing fort and also learn some things about my heritage. I could keep going on about all these things I did before the program even starts but I don’t want to spoil Ireland for y’all before the program even starts!

I am really, really excited for the program to start and I have been thinking a lot about all of the things I want to do during this program. So much so that I made a list!

Get to know the people on the trip with me! There are a whole bunch of people that I have never met before that are going on this same journey and I want to take the time and get to know all of them. 

Travel! Travel between European countries is supposed to be really affordable and I want to take full advantage of the free time that this program has to offer by taking weekend trips with other program members.

Get some awesome photos with my Polaroids! I brought a lot of film with me on this trip and somehow managed to burn through almost all of it before the program began :’) so I want to buy some more film and continue to take photos of all the amazing sights Ireland has to offer.

Pass my classes! This trip is not just about having a blast in Europe, it is also an opportunity to learn a lot in subjects that I am genuinely interested in. I have always been interested in physics and (from what little I was able to glean from short museum trips) Irish history is fascinating.

I am slightly nervous about adapting to the fast-paced environment of Dublin. The city is always bustling with activity and it can be a little bit hectic but I am ready and excited to face it head on. Though I am also a little nervous about getting lost in the city. I have a habit of slightly getting sidetracked (especially when there are so many cool stores all around) while walking around but hopefully I can make some friends on the program that can help me get from A to B with as few side quests as possible. 

Thank you all so much for taking the time to read my blog post! I am so excited for this program to begin, travel to new places, and meet new people. Until next time!

~Declan McGrath

[sparrow-mask22]

The Umbrella Academy Story of The Mothers (2/6) sparrow edition: Whitney

TW: childbirth, blood, unsupportive support person, implied birthing complications, Reggie being a liar.

October 1, 1989. Toronto, Ontario, Canada. 28 seconds before noon.

Whitney Shipley was a 23 year old recent college graduate working her first job at Landmark Cinema of Canada Inc. It was a prestigious position, and she was excited to be a part of such a successful company. The cinema chain was known for its luxurious theaters and top-of-the-line movie-watching experience. Today was her first day working at the flagship location in downtown Toronto, and she couldn't wait to get started.

Whitney worked as a concession stand attendant, which meant she was responsible for ensuring that the movie-goers had an enjoyable experience from the moment they entered the theater until the moment they left. She had already finished setting up the counter with all the necessary snacks and drinks, and now she was busy cleaning the area to make it sparkle. The Landmark Cinema was known for its luxurious atmosphere, and Whitney took pride in her work, making sure everything was perfect.

Her two favorite co workers, Josh and Makayla, had already arrived and were unloading a delivery truck full of fresh popcorn, candy, and drinks. As she worked, she couldn't help but overhear them talking about the new horror movie that was premiering tonight. They were both huge fans of the genre and couldn't wait to watch it. Whitney had never been much of a fan of horror movies herself, preferring romantic comedies or dramas, but she couldn't help but feel a bit of excitement listening to them talk about it.

"Sorry we’re late, Whit," Josh apologized, shuffling in with a large cardboard box of snacks in his arms. "Brad had the chicken pox and the delivery guy got held up at the border. You know how it is."

Makayla rolled her eyes as she followed Josh into the concession stand. "Yeah, we know," she sighed, setting down a stack of empty soda cups on the counter. "You'd think with all the horror movies he's seen, Brad would have learned not to pick up hitchhikers."

Whitney smiled as she wiped down a display case of candy. "Or maybe he'd know better than to accept invitations to seance parties," she added with a wink.

Josh chuckled, shaking his head. "You got us there, Whit. So, you ready for tonight?"

Makayla nodded in agreement. "Yeah, it's going to be a busy one. We should get in some extra popcorn before the rush starts." She turned to Whitney, giving her a reassuring smile. "Don't worry, we'll show you the ropes. You'll be a pro in no time."

Whitney smiled back, feeling a surge of excitement and anticipation. "Thanks, guys. I'm really looking forward to it." She glanced out the window, watching a flock of crows perched on the ledge outside. They seemed to be arguing about something, flapping their wings and squawking loudly. She chuckled to herself. "They remind me of us when we're trying to decide what snacks to stock up on."

(Someone call an ambulance for a severe case of foreshadowing)

Josh grinned at Whitney's comparison of the crows to them. "Well, at least they don't eat popcorn and soda like some people we know," he teased. Makayla laughed in agreement, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Or leave their trash all over the place," she added.

Whitney rolled her eyes good-naturedly. "Well, if they did, I guess I'd have to give them a piece of my mind," she retorted, gesturing toward the crows outside. "Or better yet, I'd share my favorite recipe for birdseed chicken." The three of them shared a hearty laugh, the tension in the air momentarily dissipating.

As Whitney began stocking up the butter popcorn, she couldn't help but feel a sense of relief. The theater was finally starting to pick up, and the energy in the air was contagious. She glanced out the window, watching a group of children run past, laughing and shouting as they made their way toward the ticket counter. She smiled, remembering what it was like to be that carefree.

"Hey, Whit, you got any of those caramel popcorn clusters?" Josh asked, interrupting her thoughts. "I'm starving!"

Whitney smiled at Josh's request and reached into the popcorn bin, her fingers brushing against the soft, sweet-smelling kernels. "Yeah it’s right here under the butter," she said, scooping a generous amount of the caramel popcorn before dropping it and screaming out in pain. "Oh my God, what the hell was that?" She cried, clutching her stomach.

Josh and Makayla exchanged worried glances as they hurried over to Whitney. "Are you okay? Do you need to sit down?" Josh asked, his voice filled with concern.

Whitney tried to catch her breath, her hand still clutching her stomach. "I-I don't know," she stammered. "It just felt like something sharp poked me, and then this pain just exploded."

Josh crouched down next to her, his eyes wide with worry. "Maybe you should sit down," he suggested gently, helping her over to a nearby chair. He turned to Makayla, who was already dialing 911. 

"Get her some water," Josh said to Makayla, his voice still filled with worry as he helped Whitney onto the chair. As she leaned back, her breath came in short gasps, and she winced in pain. "Are you sure you're not allergic to something?" he asked, his brow furrowing.

Makayla hurried to fill a paper cup with water from the cooler and brought it over to Whitney. "Here, drink this," she said, helping her lift her head up slightly so she could take a sip. "Is there anything else you need?"

Whitney gulped down the water gratefully, her breath coming in ragged gasps. "I... I don't know," she stammered. "It's just so sudden, and I don't understand how it could happen." She winced again, clutching her stomach.

Josh and Makayla exchanged worried glances, unsure what to do. They had never been in a situation like this before. "Maybe we should call the manager," Josh suggested. "He might know what to do."

Whitney winced as another pain ripped through her, her grip on her stomach tightening. "No," she gasped between breaths, "I don't want to wait." She couldn't believe she was going through this, in the middle of the theater.

"But we were smoking cigarettes in the backseat. It's so stupid!" Whitney cried out in pain, gripping the sides of the chair. Her face was flushed and she was sweating profusely. She winced, feeling another contraction coming on. "It's happening, it's happening!" she moaned.

Josh and Makayla exchanged glances, panic rising in their throats. They had never been in a situation like this before. Josh took a deep breath and then placed a reassuring hand on Whitney's shoulder. "Hey, it's going to be okay," he said, his voice steady. "We're going to get you some help. Just hang in there."

"It’s ok, Whitney. You can do this," Makayla tried to reassure her friend, but her own voice betrayed her fear. "We just need to stay calm, breathe, and wait for the ambulance. Just remember your breathing exercises." She glanced over at Josh, who was still pacing the room. "Josh, why don't you sit with her?"

Josh hesitated for a moment before sitting down beside Whitney. He took her trembling hand in his and squeezed it gently. "Hey, you're doing great. I'm right here, okay? We're going to get through this together." He wiped the beads of sweat from her forehead, feeling completely helpless.

"What's all the screaming about?” Kate, a sixteen year old employee at the movie theater, shouted as she hurried down the hall. "Oh my god, is that blood?" she gasped, taking in the scene before her. She had never seen anything like it. "Kate, I need you to go find Mrs. Rochester. Tell her to call 911, right now!" Josh yelled, his voice shaking.

Whitney was doubled over in agony, her hands gripping the sides of the chair as another contraction wracked her body. "Oh God, oh God, I can't believe this is happening," she moaned, tears streaming down her face. "I don't want to do this. I don't want to be a mom."

"Frankly my dear, I do not give a damn," Hecuba, one of the other employees muttered under her breath as she hurried over with a stack of towels. "Here, sweetheart, let's try to make you more comfortable." She gently guided Whitney onto her side, propping her up with a towel beneath her head.

"The placenta must be detached," Makayla said, her voice steady despite her own fear. "Whitney, can you feel the head yet? You need to push when you feel the urge." She placed a hand on Whitney's abdomen, guiding her through the process.

Josh felt completely helpless, watching as his best friend writhed in pain. He wanted to do something, anything, to take away her suffering. He glanced over at Hecuba, who was expertly supporting Whitney's back. "Hey, can you maybe help us here? You've seen this before, right?"

Hecuba nodded, her expression a mix of sympathy and determination. "Yes, of course. But first, we need to make sure the baby's head is properly aligned. Whitney, can you feel the head? Is it high or low?"

"It's low, I think," Whitney gasped between contractions.

Makayla nodded in agreement. "Hecuba's right. We need to make sure the baby's head is properly aligned before we start pushing. Whitney, can you feel the baby's hair?" she asked, gently running her hand over Whitney's abdomen.

"Oh god, I can feel something," Whitney gasped, her body tensing as another contraction hit. "It feels like there's something... hard... pushing on me."

Hecuba nodded, her expression grave. "That's the baby's head. Just try to relax, sweetheart. You're doing great." She helped Whitney shift her position, propping her up on one elbow so that her body was more aligned.

Josh held Whitney's hand tightly, feeling the strength flowing through her as she fought through the pain. "You can do this, Whitney. You're so strong." He wiped the sweat from her brow, wishing there was something more he could do to make this easier for her.

"Okay, Whitney. I think I feel the baby's head now. When you feel the next contraction, you need to push as hard as you can," Hecuba instructed. She placed a hand on Whitney's abdomen, guiding her through the process.

The next contraction hit, and with a primal scream, Whitney pushed with all her might. Hecuba and Makayla helped her, their hands guiding the baby's head as it emerged from Whitney's body. With one final push, the baby slid free into Hecuba's waiting arms.

"Oh my God, it's a girl!" Hecuba exclaimed, cradling the tiny, wriggling form. She gently wiped the blood and amniotic fluid from the baby's face, revealing coffee-colored skin and glossy black curls. "Congratulations, Whitney. You have a beautiful baby girl."

Makayla couldn't help but smile as she looked down at the newborn. "And she's healthy too. That's the most important thing." She turned her attention back to Whitney, who was still catching her breath. "You did amazing, Whitney. Really."

"Born at the strike of noon," Hecuba murmured, gazing down at the newborn girl. "What a perfect time for a new beginning." As she spoke, she gently swaddled the baby in a soft, warm cloth. "Here you are, sweet pea. You're going to be just fine."

Mrs. Rochester, a tall, imposing figure with her hair pulled back into a tight bun, strode purposefully into the room. Her dark eyes scanned the workstations, finally settling on Whitney with a disapproving frown. "I hope you're all being productive," she said, her voice cool and commanding. "Everyone’s wondering where have the concession stand attendants gone?"

Josh glanced at his watch, then back at Mrs. Rochester. "Whitney had a baby a few minutes ago, ma'am," he said, trying to keep his voice steady. "I think everyone's kind of... distracted right now."

"I see," Mrs. Rochester said, her expression softening slightly. She glanced at the baby in Hecuba's arms and then back at Whitney. "Well, that's... unexpected. But I'm sure we can work something out." She hesitated for a moment, seeming to weigh her options. "Why don't you come with me, Whitney? We can discuss this further in my office."

Whitney looked up at Mrs. Rochester, hope flickering in her eyes. "Really?" she managed to choke out.

Mrs. Rochester nodded. "Yes, really. A very kind gentleman is downstairs. He saw the commotion and offered to take the baby off your hands. He's been through this process himself, and he understands what a difficult decision this is."

Mrs. Rochester nodded, her expression softening further. "Yes, really. He's been through this process himself, and he understands how difficult this decision can be. He's willing to provide a loving home for your baby girl. It's the best solution for everyone involved."

Whitney hesitated for a moment, her eyes darting between Mrs. Rochester and the baby in Hecuba's arms. The pain of childbirth still lingered in her body, but the exhaustion and relief were starting to set in. She took a deep breath and slowly stood up, letting Mrs. Rochester guide her out of the room.

"Whitney, this is Reginald, the man who offered to take your baby girl," Mrs. Rochester said, leading them into her office. "He's been through the same situation you are now and has a good heart. You can trust him to give her a loving home."

Reginald, a tall, distinguished man with kind eyes and a warm smile, extended his hand. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Whitney. I understand this is a difficult decision for you, but I want you to know that I will give your daughter the best life possible. And as for the around-the-clock nanny care, well, that's just because I believe every child deserves the very best."

Whitney was hesitant, but the warmth in Reginald's eyes and the sincerity in his voice made it difficult to deny his offer. She looked at her precious baby girl, still cradled in Hecuba's arms, and felt a pang of guilt for even considering giving her up. But then she thought about the life that Reginald had promised her daughter: one filled with adventure and love, with around-the-clock nanny care to make sure that she never lacked anything and siblings her own age to grow up with. It was a life that Whitney could have only dreamed of for her child.

"I... I believe you," she finally whispered, her eyes filling with tears. "I trust you, Mr. Reginald." She paused, swallowing thickly, and then forced a small smile. "She'll be in good hands."

Reginald nodded, his own eyes glistening with emotion. "Thank you, Whitney. I promise you that I will take care of your little girl as if she were my own." Heir tone then shifted slightly. "Now, as for finding her...let me make something clear. If you ever try to track her down, to find her, I will not hesitate to make sure that you never cause her any harm. Do you understand me?"

Whitney swallowed hard, her heart pounding in her chest. She glanced nervously at Mrs. Rochester, who gave her a reassuring smile. "I... I understand," she managed to say.

Reginald's expression softened, and he placed a comforting hand on her shoulder. "I'm sorry if that sounds harsh, but it's for your own protection, and more importantly, for your daughter's. I want to make sure that she grows up in a loving, safe environment, free from any outside influences that could potentially harm her."

Whitney glanced at the two babies lying down on the blanket, side by side. One of the babies was bawling his lungs out, clearly in distress. The other one was giving him the side eye as to say "thou shalst not interrupt my nap time, mortal!" The scene was heartbreaking and surreal at the same time.

She looked back at Reginald, who was now standing tall and imposing, his expression stern. His words echoed in her head: "If you ever try to track her down, to find her, I will not hesitate to make sure that you never cause her any harm." Her heart raced as she tried to process what he had just said.

Her heart ached as she relinquished her daughter to the strange man in front of her. She forced a small smile, trying to convince herself that this was the right choice. As Hecuba carefully placed her baby girl into the waiting arms of the nanny, Whitney's stomach twisted into a knot. She wanted to run after them, to take her back, to keep her safe from the world. But she knew that she couldn't

[amazingmsme]

What Siblings Do

AN: Yes yes, late again, don’t be expecting that to change lmao. But this is a Schitt’s Creek fic I started awhile back to fight the writer’s block & I’m so happy I got to include it for tickletober! Here’s day 15, hope ya like it!

The Rose family was not a tight knit, overly affectionate one. Even as children, the siblings were distant from one another, preferring to play with their expensive toys alone or with their respective friends. When Alexis started to toe the line of puberty, she set out on her world-wide bender that lasted throughout her middle and high school years. David was already on his own in New York, his sister merely a footnote in his thoughts.

When they lost everything and their lives essentially flipped upside down, they only just began to realize they may not be the perfect, happy family they thought they were. Money can buy a lot, but memories are forged from your actions, or lack thereof.

Alexis thought she and David were normal brother and sister, that their contempt and annoyance with each other was common and didn't border on hostility. After being forced to spend so much time with him, she's grown to enjoy his near constant presence, and wondered why she'd ever shut him out. But then he'd say something snide and bitchy and she was promptly reminded. But David was smarter than he gave himself credit for, and she had to admit he could be hilarious. (She couldn't let on that she thought that; the last thing he needed was an ego boost.)

It was the middle of the afternoon, and she was hanging in the motel lobby to fight off her boredom. Stevie gave up on passing her Candy Crush level and shifted her full attention to Alexis's nonstop rambling and the occasional question. She must've read something in her expression, because her next words threw Stevie for a loop.

"I hope I'm not coming off as, like, an entitled whiny brat trying to brag. But I just miss the way things were when we had money. Things I never even considered as a luxury before, I can't dream of having now," she said dejectedly.

Stevie shook her head, eyes wide. "No, I-I don't think that at all. I mean, you are an entitled whiny brat, but so is David," she said, smirking when she saw a fleeting smile grace the other's face.

"Thanks."

"I mean, you can't really help it. You guys had a lot of money, so you lived like rich people. You never knew this would happen, so it's okay to miss it. Hell, I miss it and I don't even know what that's like."

Alexis nodded, taking in her words. "Yeah, but I guess if anything good's come from it, I don't think I've ever been closer with my family."

"Hm, I can see that. No offense, but none of you seem like the... touchy feely type," Stevie said, vaguely waving her hand in her direction. Alexis giggled and rolled her eyes.

"Well you're not wrong there. I can't help but wonder what it's like to have, like, a normal childhood," she wondered aloud, leaning on the front desk.

Stevie hesitated before she spoke. "Weeell, when I was a kid, we played outside a lot." Alexis listened intently, leaning farther over the counter. Stevie let out an amused huff as she continued. "We'd get dirty and someone wound up hurt most of the time. We got into a lot of trouble," she admitted, chuckling. "Even though I can't really stand my cousins now, we had some good times, back in the day."

"Aww, that's so sweet! So like, what would you guys do? Any favorite, memories you'd like to share?" she asked in her usual inquisitive, bubbly manner.

Stevie thought for a moment, a smile forming on her face. "We'd go skinny dipping in the creek during summer. But only after it rained," she specified, the two of them succumbing to a short lived giggle fit. "We had a few sleep overs. We just did normal kid shit like watch movies and play games." She paused and chuckled, shaking her head. "There were some pretty brutal tickle fights. But I'm sure you know all about that, being the youngest," she teased.

Alexis cocked her head. "Mm noooo," she said, stretching her arm out and leaned away from the counter.  "Should I?" she asked, knees slightly bent and arms tucked close like she does when she's nervous about something. Stevie looked her up and down, brows furrowed.

"Are you trying to say you won against David growing up? 'Cause that doesn't really seem likely if I'm being honest," she deadpanned.

When she didn't answer, Stevie dropped the sarcasm. "Alexis... have you and David ever had a tickle fight?" she asked, genuinely curious. She thought for a moment, shook her head, paused and hummed to herself before shaking her head again.

"Nnno, not really. Maybe when we were like, really little, but nothing more than a poke here or a squeeze there," she explained. Stevie looked at her, something akin to pity in her gaze as she tried to think of something to say. It made Alexis fiddle with her hair as she whined. "That's not weird, right?"

Stevie froze like a deer in headlights. "No," she replied, a little too late.

"Mmmm really?" she asked skeptically. "'Cause you're acting like it's weird, and it's making me feel weird, 'cause, like, were we supposed to?"

"Well- I- obviously, it's not for everyone," she struggled to put her mind at ease.

"Why do you keep looking at me like that?"

"Like what?"

"Like, I don't know, like I'm one of those dogs on the sad commercials."

Stevie shrugged. "I don't know. I guess, I'm just a little sad for you guys," she said honestly, her hands shoved in her pockets. Apparently that was the wrong thing to say.

"Oh my God, it is weird!" she cried, grabbing a fistful of hair. Stevie shook her head frantically, mouth slightly agape.

"I didn't say that!" she insisted.

Alexis heaved a sigh. "You didn't have to."

There was a long stretch of awkward silence. Stevie finally spoke up. "You know, it's never too late. And I saw David get back like an hour ago, and most of the guests are out for the day," she hinted. Alexis picked up what she was laying down, and a bright grin stretched across her features.

"Thanks Stevie, you've really been a huge help. On an unrelated note, I think I'm gonna go," she said, already at the door.

"Uh huh," Stevie grinned as she watched her leave and walk down the sidewalk through the window. She muttered a silent prayer for David, hoping he'd forgive her for whatever hell she unleashed upon him.

When Alexis burst into their room, David was laying on his bed eating Doritos and talking on the phone.

"Why have we never had a tickle fight?" she demanded, slamming the door behind her. David jumped out of his skin and started choking. Alexis could hear Patrick on the other line asking if he was okay until he composed himself enough to answer.

"I'm fine, Alexis just- barged in here and said the most atrocious thing I've ever heard so I started choking on my Doritos!" Patrick hummed in understanding. Ah, so that's what all that crunching was.

Alexis stared down at him, arms crossed. "That's not an answer!"

David groaned. "I'm sorry babe, I have to go. I'll call you later." He didn't wait for Patrick to say goodbye before hanging up. "Are you out of your mind? I was on the phone!" he yelled at her, standing up from his spot on the bed.

"Oh come on David, I've walked in on much worse," she teased. He huffed in frustration, running his hands through his hair.

"What even brought this up? The last time I just acted like I was going to tickle you, you hissed like some demon and flipped me off."

"Well, yeah, but when was the last time you actually tried?" she asked in exasperation.

David blinked a few times as he realized he didn't have an answer.

"I... don't know."

"Don't you think that's weird?" she asked, staring at him expectantly. Hopefully.

He shrugged, "No."

"Well Stevie got this look on her face when she found out, and she said she thought it was sad!"

Oh, so this was Stevie's fault. He was going to kill her. "It's only weird cause you're making it weird!"

"So you really don't feel like we missed out on something?" she asked, something accusatory in her voice.

"No! And honestly, I wish you'd just drop it!" he snapped, throwing himself back on the bed. He turned his attention back to his phone, thumbs flying across the screen. He didn't notice his sister creeping towards him, which would utterly be his downfall. He looked up just in time to see Alexis looming over him, and let out an ear piercing scream.

In the lobby, Stevie muttered to herself as she idly clicked around on the computer, "Wow, that was fast."

Next door, Johnny's head snapped up in alarm when he heard his son's scream, but his nerves were set at ease when it was followed by loud laughter. Moira on the other hand, didn't seem to bat an eye.

Back in their room, Alexis was already laughing as David flailed on the bed, holding her hands and pushing against her with all his might. She had the high ground and ultimately won the upper hand when she twisted out of his grip and shoved him on his back.

"Alexis! Alexis nohoho!" he immediately broke, having no resistance against the feeling. She was scribbling up and down his sides, finely manicured nails sending ticklish shocks through his whole body. He rolled onto his side, curling in a tight ball as he swatted at her persistent hands.

"Wow David, who knew you were so ticklish?" she taunted, pinching around his torso sporadically, leaving him in a fit of jumpy giggled, shrieking each time her hand made contact. “I really missed out! Oh well, guess I just gotta make up for lost time!” she chirped happily, kneading her brother’s stomach as if she were a cat making biscuits. Needless to say, it was very effective.

“Nohoho you dohon’t! AHAHAHA!” he screamed and arched his back when she poked his bellybutton. A devious grin spread over her face as she wiggled her fingers above him. He didn’t know why, but felt warm and fluttery inside. He hadn’t played with Alexis like this in… okay he’s never played around with her like this, but something about it felt somewhat adjacent to fun. He tried to banish the thought from his mind, but was beaten to the punch when she started squeezing his hips, sending him into mad cackles.

“Ohohoho fuhuhuck you!” David snapped as she began squeezing his thighs. That had no right being so ticklish.

“You know, you’re not really doing much fighting in this tickle fight,” she teased smugly, hands continuing down and latching onto his knees. David screeched and kicked, but to no avail.

Hold the phone.

“Ihihi cahahahan doho thahahat?” he asked incredulously through his laughter. Alexis scoffed in annoyance as if it were obvious, which, to her,

“Duh, it’s called a tickle fight! You’re supposed to try and defend yourself!” Apparently, that was all the permission David needed.

He mustered up the strength to turn over and shoved his hands under his arms. She let out a shrill squeal, falling on her back as she fell victim to bright, bubbly giggles.

“Ha! And you tried to say I was bad?” he mocked, enjoying how the tables turned. That made her snort, followed immediately by a shriek.

“Dahahahaviiihihid!” she whined, grabbing a pillow off the bed and shoving her face in the cushion. Her laughter was muffled, but only slightly.

“What’s that? Sorry, I can’t understand you, you’re laughing too hard,” he teased, scribbling over her neck. She yelped, biting her lip in an attempt to hold back her laughter, but to no avail. He looked down at her and smiled. He doesn’t remember the last time she looked so carefree and happy. Her hair was tussled in a way she would’ve been appalled by, her cheeks were flushed a bright pink, her eyes glistened with unshed tears, but most importantly, she wore a smile that stretched from ear to ear. David smirked down at her. “Or maybe just take that pillow out of your mouth.” She flipped him off.

He gave a dramatic gasp. “Well that’s not nice! I guess someone needs to be taught some manners!” He went to attack once more, but the predator became the prey.

Next door, Johnny Rose had been trying to read the same newspaper article since their tickle fight began. Don’t get him wrong, he loved the fact they were bonding! But did they have to bond in such a loud manner? His brows furrowed in concern when he heard a shrill scream followed by begging and screaming for help. He set his paper aside and made to stand.

“Ah ah, what do you think you’re doing?” Moira asked, brush combing through one of her many wigs. John gestured wildly to the door.

“He asked for my help! It sounds like there screaming bloody murder in there!” he exclaimed, pointing to the door behind him that connected the two rooms. Moira gave him a look

“John, they’re adults, they can fend for themselves. Besides, Alexis borrowed a necklace without asking, and David blew me off for dinner to go see Patrick. So I say let them tickle torture each other to their heart’s content,” she chirped, unbothered by the sounds next door.

Johnny sighed, defeated. “Okay, if you say so.” It was probably another 10 minutes before they settled down.

[tellthemeerkatsitsfine]

Okay, everyone, it’s here. Nish Kumar’s 2022 show Your Power, Your Control, on TV for everyone to see. If there’s anyone who wants to see it and can’t, send me a message or a non-anonymous ask and I’ll send you a link. Anyone, really. I really, really want everyone to watch this, and I am happy to share with absolutely everyone. I say this because I know what the culture’s like on this site, how people think “Oh I don’t know, I haven’t talked to that person before, I can’t just message them out of nowhere, it would be weird.” It won’t be. Even if I’ve never interacted with you before and we’re not mutuals or anything, if you want a link, ask. I want to spread this. Though if you live in the UK and are able to, you should watch this through official channels (Sky and Now TV) so he’ll get whatever support he’ll get from viewcount.

I saw this show twice last year. Once in mid-May in New York City, and once in late July in Montreal. When I booked tickets for his show in NYC, I didn’t know he was going to take the show to Just For Laughs in Montreal. If I had know that, I wouldn’t have booked the NYC tickets, because NYC is an 8.5-hour drive away, and requires crossing a national border, while Montreal is two hours away and in the same country as me. However, I’m glad I bought those tickets before I knew. Because the NYC show was amazing, and it was worth seeing twice. I hated the NYC trip, overall. My dad and I spent all day Saturday driving there, then slept on my brother’s uncomfortable couch (he was briefly living there at the time, so at least we didn’t have to pay for accommodation, which was nice), then spent all day Sunday driving back. I’d never been to that city before, and I didn’t like it, with its crowds and its skyrocketed COVID rates but no one was wearing masks, and its general atmosphere that I just hated. I hated every moment of the trip during which I was not in a room with Nish Kumar. And the whole thing was still worth it. And then of course I saw it again in Montreal. That’s how good a show it was.

The show changed a bit in the couple of months between the two I saw. The most notable being that in NYC, he complained about comedians who use their platform to be a dick to minorities, and then shouted: “Fuck you Dave Chappelle, fuck you Ricky Gervais!” In Montreal, he did the same routine, but this time ended it with: “Fuck you Dave Chapelle, fuck you Ricky Gervais, fuck you Jimmy Carr!” I am a bit curious to see if he leaves all those names in on the filmed version, particularly the last one as he was hanging out with Jimmy Carr on Katherine Ryan’s couch for her Backstage TV show not too long before this, it might fuck that up a bit.

The shows were mostly the same though, you don’t tend to take a show from England to NYC unless you’ve got your material pretty well worked out. The Montreal one did have some references to the fact that an Off Menu episode was recorded live at that same festival earlier that afternoon, and most of his audience had been there (I hadn’t been – I’d considered it because I like Ed Gamble and James Acaster, but the ticket price wasn’t worth it for a podcast I don’t listen to). He made a bunch of jokes about Ed and James, and then after some particularly harsh making fun of them, he added, “Obviously I’m just kidding, I love those guys, they’re my friends. I meant what I said about Gervais and Carr, though.”

Oh, there was something else that happened in Montreal but not in NYC. In Montreal, he was doing the part of the show where he explains that online abuse happens to everyone in the public eye, but it gets worse the more levels you are away from what’s thought of as the “default”. Then he started listing levels of “default”: white, straight, male, heterosexual, able-bodied, etc.

As he did so, I became very aware of my best friend, who was sitting next to me. I had dragged my best friend to Montreal with me, because I loved the show so much and I wanted him to see it too. He, however, is not into stand-up comedy. He’s not into any of this sort of thing at all. I’ve known him for 20 years, I met him because we were teammates in high school, and then after high school we took over as coaches, and we’ve now run a wrestling team together for many years. He is a 35-year-old (now 36) white straight guy who’s been an athlete all his life, and he looks it. He’s really cool for a jock, I swear. He’s a nice guy, he’s a feminist, he’s worked with me for many years to try to fight against the fucked up culture in sport. But he doesn’t, you know, look it. He looks like a jock. And he is a jock. He did not look like he belonged in a Nish Kumar gig. I didn’t realize how much he’d not fit in until we actually go there, and we sat in the front row of the 128-seat room, and everyone else looked like an artsy nerd, and I guess I looked like whatever in-between thing I am, and my best friend looked like a guy who should be in a sports bar and not in a Nish Kumar gig.

Anyway, when Nish Kumar started listing all the definitions of default, I felt slightly awkward, because my best friend is all those things. Now, I want to be clear, because Nis Kumar gets accused of this all the time and it’s fucking horrible when people say that shit: he was not deliberately making the rich straight white men in the room uncomfortable. He wasn’t saying “Fuck those people for being the default”. He was saying “It’s a fact that those people being the default mean, all else equal, they’ll get less online abuse than a visible minority for doing the same shit.” When I saw I felt a bit awkward, I mean that in a sort of affectionate way, when you’re sort of affectionately “called out” by a part of a comedy show, not that Nish Kumar was genuinely making his room an unsafe space for rich white men. Nish Kumar does not hate rich white men! Some of his best friends are Ed Gamble.

But I knew it was already a bit awkward for my friend, so when Nish started listing “straight, white, able-bodied, heterosexual…”, I put a hand on my friend’s shoulder, in a kind of reassuring way. Nish Kumar saw me do this, and stopped talking to laugh. Nish Kumar. Nish Kumar laughed, because of something I did, with the trademark wild infectious Nish Kumar laugh. Then he asked me, “Do you know that guy?” I said yes, and he said oh good, because it had looked like I might be just taking a guess about what he’s like based on his appearance. And that interaction with Nish Kumar is in the top ten coolest fucking things that’s ever happened to me.

So those are my personal stories from seeing that show. I know what it was like in May 2022, and I know it was like in July 2022, and I’m very curious as to what it was like in October 2022, which is when it was filmed. Both times I saw it, it ended with an extended routine about how fucked up it is that Britain worships some old lady (queen) and some special song (national anthem) and the big towel (flag). After that routine, he says, wouldn’t it be weird if she died while I was on stage? When people ask you where you were when the queen died, you’d have to say you were in a theatre, listening to a comedian be, if anything, too respectful about her.

…So even though I’ve seen the show twice, I’m guessing there will be at least a bit of stuff I haven’t heard before in the filmed version, because he’ll have to have rewritten that by October. There was also some stuff early in the show about Boris Johnson that was pretty current to when I saw it, I guess that’ll be different in October too. I’m looking forward to seeing that.

This post has been my preamble before I watch the long-awaited actual special. Just a place to record my thoughts going into it. I’m going to actually watch it now, and see how it compares to my memory of it. My memory of it is of one that did perfectly what I love in comedy – cover important personal stuff and cover important political stuff and tie the two together. Any show that does all three well, while also being funny, immediately becomes a favourite of mine (for another show that does that well, see Ahir Shah’s Ends, which just won the Edinburgh award and I’m very pleased about that). And God, it was fucking funny. Nish Kumar started the energy high, and I remember that both times I kept expecting him to at least start to run out of steam, and he never did. Never slowed down for a moment. Shouted at the crowd at a million words a minute, like he couldn’t wait to tell us everything he had to say, because it mattered and because it was worth saying and because it was funny enough to merit the time and space. I remember losing my breath laughing over and over and over, both times. I am prepared for the fact that some of that came from the atmosphere in the room and it won’t hit quite as hard through a screen. But still, it’s brilliant material, everyone needs to watch it. Like I said, message me for a link. I am here to spread the good news of Nish Kumar.

Also, happy birthday, Nish. It's a good day for comedy.

[juneandnick]

5x06 : Together (My POV)

After being captured at the border, June and Luke find themselves in a van: destination unknown. Luke completely freaks out while June seems impassive.

They are photographed as if they were arrested by the police for a crime: a frontal shot and a profile shot. Then they are locked up individually in cages.

Scarlet noticed something very interesting about the cages: The striking contrast of having them together but separated. It only shows where their marriage is at.

The Gilead's doctor to Aunt Lydia: Now Esther will be transferred to the high-risk obstetrics hospital and she will be there on bedrest, until term. She is pregnant of three weeks after being raped by Putnam, a day before she was posted. Aunt Lydia is shocked because the ceremony is sacred. Is that all that shocks her?

In cages, Luke panics and annoys June until she loses her temper. Because he is complaining. Because once again June must reassure him and tries to keep her cool. A parallel with S4E08, when they are in the kitchen eating, he told her: I am really sorry about today. About coming to court and … But at least now I know everything. And maybe we can just move on. I mean, if you want to talk to me about anything to do with Hannah or … All right. Well, I am here. I do not know what to do. I am trying. Just tell me. He whines. She gets up and tries to comfort him.

When June says to Luke I survived, I wonder if it is a parallel with S3E05, about Nick: I need you to know that Nichole was born out of love. Her real name is Holly. Her father is a driver named Nick. He helped me to survive. Or nothing to do with it.

At the same time, Luke confides: I just wish I could have been the kinda guy that could have come and got ya. And I know how that sounds, I just wish I could have been with you through that. As Alwaysnyc14 wrote, there is an elephant in the room. Maybe it is time for these two to have a honest conversation about Nick. At least, this latter did it with Rose. I am crossing my fingers for season 6.

June and Luke joke in the cage before the housekeepers arrive. Once again she should think before to talk: You tell your boss he has to call Commander Lawrence or Commander Blaine. After S5E01, it was incredibly stupid. Did not she learn that in Gilead, if they ever really are at Gilead, she can not trust anyone? Even less hooded men. She gives names without thinking it might get them in trouble.

What the hell Luke was thinking when he tried to escape? No comment.

At Lawrence's house, Nick cannot hide his disgust at Warren's remarks. Which does not escape Joseph. So the plans for New Bethlehem seem compromised.

Joseph: It is a good example for young Commander Blaine. Accept when you have been outplayed. Nick: I am learning a lot from the both of you.

Was it a secret code between these two? A sort of: Our dearest friend, you have no idea that your hour has just struck. It will only be a formality. I really love it.

June to Luke: Last time when we were apart… No matter what happened, I never gave up hope. And you never gave up hope. Because we knew, we just knew that we would find each other again. So, we are gonna do that again. Right?

About it, I already shared my point of view.

Later, they are separated because he is legal, they do not want him. I wonder if this line: We stay together is a sort of wink to Let's stay together that he sang in the previous episode. The two struggle because they do not want to be separated.

Interesting fact about the symbolic of their marriage: Resistancerising56.

I did not know there were restaurants in Gilead. Anyway, this is where the story continues. Guardians arrive and take by force Warren outside. Nick kills him because officially Gilead found him guilty of apostasy and sins of the flesh. There is a parallel with S4E10. Before to die, Warren says: But I have a baby on the way! Before to die Fred said: I have a son! A son! And on S5E02, Warren said to Serena: Fred was like a brother to me. True or not they had the same destiny.

Eric Tuchman says: We have to remember that as much as we love Nick he is not a boy scout. Over the years he has seen Gilead corrupted and perverted by men like Putnam, who have exploited it and used it for their own pleasure and gain. So to Nick's mind, this is a justified execution. He did what he dreamed to do to Fred.

In S5E01, Rose seems to understand June’s revenge to Fred. Even if, it is not really clear what she exactly knows. Nevertheless, she seemed to be a support for Nick.

But in this episode, Rose cries and says: I am worried about the kind of person this makes you. Turnaround situation. She is frightened and disapproves.

Resistancerising56 noticed something very interesting but about the title of the episode. Contrary to what one might think it is not about June and Luke. It is about June and Nick. Because: Their only concern is the well-being of their children.

It seems there is no doubt that Nick is the father of Rose's child.

June gets out from the bus with Ezra and face to face with Serena, who forced her to pray on her knees. I pray for our children. I pray that my daughters live a life of peace. A life without all of this hate and violence. Give them a life, give them a happy life. And, dear God, may they do better than we did. Serena answers Amen and shoots Ezra in the chest. Before to go on the run with June.

Personally I find it unhealthy to maintain the June / Serena relationship.

Music by Adam Taylor

- I Survived ❤️

- Separated Again ❤️

Source Pictures: Screenshots (by me)

[acourtofthought]

Do you have any theories about the next two ACOTAR books?

SJM also said CC3 sets up ACOTAR5. Do you think she means romantic pairing or plot (or both)?

I have so many theories and I'll be curious to see if I even get one right! 😂

To start, I think CC3 setting up future ACOTAR books has nothing to do with ships and everything to do with plots. I know in the HOSAB spoiler interview, she mentioned that now the ACOTAR characters are going to be thinking "if Bryce was able to enter their world, does that mean others would too?" Which to me means that those creatures who have been trying to find their way back to the original world that threw them out will use portals to return which means a threat even bigger than Koschei and the Human Queens will be a concern.

Theories I feel are a strong possibility (I have posts that go into detail as to why I think each of these but this will be basic summary):

Vassa and Jurian will end up together, and ruling over the small slice of land that connects the human world to Spring.

Elain will make her way to Spring and end up as High Lady (or interim High Lady) and Lucien will the one that helps her in that role. Not only is he very aware of how a Court should run but he's friends with Vassa and Jurian. There would be no better pairing to share a border with those two than Elain and Lucien, especially because SF reminds us how important the Spring Court is politically due to it's location.

Elucien Calanmai scene. If Elain is HL, performing the Rite with Lucien (the last to fulfill the duties of a High Lord in the Rite) would be exactly the sort of union needed to restore the land to it's former strength. Plus, Lucien deserves to have his last memories of the Rite replaced with new (better ones).

I know Elain is a Seer but really, I can't imagine a whole book of her having visions that are just "hints" of what's to come. With the vison of the ravens and her visions of Vassa, she was given clues but they were still unclear and they weren't necessarily things she could do. Most of her visions seem to benefit others but don't seem to be something that belongs to her in the way Nesta's power of death or Feyre's powers from the High Lords belonged to them. And visions still leave her sort of useless when it comes to a battle scene. So I think Elain's other abilities will be that she can shift into an owl and that she'll end up being a healer (physically healing wounds, bringing back the crops on the Prison Island since I'm guessing it's decline is the reason the Pegasus numbers dwindled). There seem to be hints that Koschei's onyx box is located on the Prison island so that's another reason they may end up there which ties in to the Pegasus storyline. I'm also thinking that Vassa's curse may actually be a Valg type infection in her blood and if Elain is a healer, she'd be the one to remove it. I originally thought Lucien would but neither Feyre or Helion have been able to sense a spell within her, saying it seems to be "woven into her blood" and Lucien will share in their powers.

I think Lucien, however, will play a major role in actually defeating Koschei after learning if his Day Court heritage since he was "setting his target" in SF, though both he and Elain would travel to the continent together (with Jurian too).

Things I think could happen though I'm less confident on:

Gwyn is able to find Narben and pull it from the sea (or call it to her).

I do think she's a possible lightsinger BUT not at all evil. Rhys has "evil" type powers when you consider the twins were also demati but he only used those powers to protect those he loved. Regardless of lightsingers possessing a darker sort of power, Gwyn would NEVER use it against the main characters we love. It would be used against the bad guys. I do think it's something she'd struggle with though, the desire to use it on others even if they deserved it. But I think that would make her well matched to Az who also struggles with his self worth because he enjoys revenge and knows he's done the things he's done.

I'm back and forth on whether we're meant to focus on the mystery of her grandfather or the mystery of her father. If it's her grandfather, I could see it being Beron and Azriel ends up challenging him in the Blood Duel. If it's her father, it's a long shot but I wonder if there's any way he could end up being Illyrian which I kind of love the thought of.

People like to take the "appear as a friendly face" line and try to turn Gwyn evil with it but I think a more interesting spin would be if Az fell in love with Gwyn or developed a strong friendship with her. They'd both discover her Illyrian heritage at a later point and her friendly face would suddenly be someone that appeared as a foe to Az because of his issues with the Illyrians. Gwyn would have a reason to kick Azriel's ass for his reaction and Az would have to do some much needed groveling, not to mention he'd really have to face his issues head on and embrace his heritage.

I also think Az might lose his shadows for a bit because the things his shadows want (like the power that exists within Gwyn) and the things that Az sometimes commands them to do (fight on behalf of Elain or Mor) seem to be at odds in SF. Sort of like Bruce Banner and the Hulk, when the Hulk refused to come out until Bruce Banner learned to accept that the Hulk was his own person and not something to be used at his convenience. The two eventually merged into "Smart Hulk" and I think we'll see a similar journey for Az.

Back to Elucien, I wonder if the line that "Elain would do whatever is needed for this Court" is foreshadowing for Elain coming to the conclusion that because the NC needs Spring as an ally (and they're not getting it from Tamlin), she'll suggest an marriage alliance between she and Lucien after he discovers his Day Court heritage and she's involved in Spring. There was never a stronger show of unity than marrying the offspring of two different kingdoms and where her mother predicted she would only marry for love and beauty, it would be fascinating if Elain was the one to marry for political reasons (which would obviously then turn to love). And in turn, it would be Elain doing what was best for her sisters and the first Court she belonged to in Prythian. I also think it is possible she was living (or had been living) in the townhouse but not with Az. I don't think it's coincidental that Cassian specifically told us it was vacant and open for anyone who needed it, then we see a fire burning in HOSAB. Plus, after what happened on Solstice, I imagine Elain would want a place of her own so she's not constantly running into Az at the River House where IC business is conducted.

I could also see Lucien as High King. Not as a long term thing, just as the role is needed during the upcoming time of war.

I think Mor may end up with the Golden Queen as her love interest (there are hints she's not actually dead and may be a lion shifter) and that she'll end up leaving the NC on a a more permanent basis.

I believe the Dusk Court will never actually be a real Court at all but the location where other characters from other series may enter Prythian to join in one multiverse battle. It's where I also think Nesta will raise an army of the dead (those trapped in the stone) wearing the Mask to help in that final battle.

So that's what I've got so far! Sorry for the rambling and jumping all over. I'm sure there's about a million grammar mistakes, it all came out in brainstorming form.

Thank you for the ask!! 😊

[limelocked]

Look dude im just.. i like these two so much, no one will understand why i love my little guys so much, theyre gay for each other and this doesnt cover that at all, first chapter teaser chapter ass vibes for a story that will never on earth be told other than in the dms of my most beloved friends

---

“Good morning your highness”

There were no plans to meet with the duke of Argo this morning and yet here he was, as if the gods themselves had decided so. 

“So it is Lord Daviel”

Duke Daviel Teyvan of Argo was a man who had, until recently, not concerned himself for a moment with politics outside Argo and its border territories. A tall and broad shouldered man, one would assume he was blessed with a bear’s soul. It was, however, clear from his gracefully graying hair, gained before the start of his third decade of life, that the stress of managing his estate and businesses were better suited to his temperament than a battlefield. 

“How come you’ve decided to visit me, duke? I was shocked to hear that you’d traveled to the capital so you must imagine my surprise now that you’re here in my sitting room”

“I had heard your highness was ill” 

He said this with a smile that you would expect not to be genuine, yet it extended into a curious gleam in the duke's eye. 

“News travel slowly to the south it would seem” 

They did not, and I now knew why the duke of Argo was here. 

Lord Teyvan has a claim to the throne, small as it is. The late duke was the great grandchild of a royal who didn’t ascend the throne and who died before the first to-be duke of Teyvan was born. 

The nobility were planning treason and either Lord Teyvan was here to warn me, threaten me, or test me. 

“As you must have heard through the butler; it’s a great day of lucidity for the insane. You should count yourself lucky with your visit my lord”

“So I will, your highness.” he took a prolonged sip of his tea as if intentionally annoying me “I wished to see if our future ruler were as crazed as the rumors say, so I shall also have to leave today somewhat disappointed”

So it was a test and a warning.

“You are a brave man, Lord Teyvan, for speaking so bluntly of such things to my face when that is my reputation. I happen to know that you aren’t one for swords, unlike myself” 

Of course I had no reason to hurt this man, it would actually be a huge loss for me if I did. The duke had however challenged my honor, and boundaries were to be set accordingly. He should not tread over such an obvious line when implying treason to the royal he’s testing.

“My apologies, your highness. It was my impression that you may find more use in a bold man than one who whispers sweet nothings and vapid compliments in your ear. That is to say I thought you a man who would enjoy a harsher truth over a hidden lie”

In the holy text this man was a stoic and silent type, the rock for the primary romantic lead to lean on. What happened to that guy?

“Is that why you’re hiding your true intentions from me even now?”

He flinched. Only slightly and not enough for a human to notice. 

He was quiet for a moment before sighing in resignation. 

“You’re very observant your highness”

“Yes, and I’ve been very patient with you as well. Unless you have something to add then I suggest you leave” 

Duke Teyvan was objectively beautiful and could objectively be a good tool if I favored him. All the same qualities that made him dangerous to me. He has shared rumors of treason with me and he is a person with good support and a claim to the throne. 

I have to hate him, I have to fight this man. 

“Then I will take my leave. I hope we can meet further in the future your highness”

And then he left. The maids cleaned up the reception room and I returned to my library. 

In the coming weeks the duke entered capital politics, and once more managed to join my tea time. 

—

[9 years ago]

“Will you run away again, Solen?”

He stood there, at the end of the hall, brandishing a sword as if he knew how to use it. 

He sneered, filled with unearned confidence.

As of late, my half brother had grown emboldened, forgetting the healthy fear one should have in the face of regicide. With our father, the emperor, on his sickbed with little hope of recovery it was now no secret that the empress consort coveted his power.

“We don’t have to do this Malisian”

It wasn’t a warning but a plea for him to accept mercy. We both knew who the better swordsman was amongst us children, and I had never wanted human blood on my hands.

Malisian, the only other known survivor other than myself, smiled.

I wanted then to beg him not to make me do this. But he was raised cocky, he would run me down and gloat if I fled again.

He lunged and with a swift motion of my blade I parried.

I had to note that for a teen four years younger than me he was pretty strong. He lacked in most other areas of martial arts, but for a 13 year old to have a chance of overpowering a 17 year old was admittedly impressive.

I moved my wrist, the metal blades scraping against each other and into the marble floor, making a horrible sound I hoped no servant would ever have to hear.

“You know, brother” Malisian spoke, “If your mother hadn’t been that bitch then I would’ve spared your life. I would’ve put you in the dungeon for me to laugh at if you had been my real brother”

It was a lie. I knew for a fact he had afforded the other children of the empress consort no such opportunities. Me and my siblings, as children of the empress, had and would never receive special treatment.

He lunged again, probably aggravated by my silent response.

We exchanged blows for many long seconds, and he was losing ground.

I pitied him.

If I could, then I would have liked to offer him mercy, exile him or lock him up instead of death. It would be bad for me later on but–

CLANG!

I could see how the reckless attack had made the grip on his sword unstable and so I twisted my sword to knock his sword out of his hand.

Disarmed, my half-brother stood slightly hunched, dumbfounded.

“Malisian, you know you can’t win this. I’m holding back even after everything you’ve done”

It was quiet like that for a moment.

He didn’t move.

“You’re right. You were holding back. All this time as well.”

I turned my back on him. While I hadn’t killed any of my siblings with my own hands, I had avoided this fight and ran away, so could you really argue that my hands were clean?

The knights would be coming soon unless he’d paid them off, I needed to round them up and tell them to arrest him without lethal force.

It was something I could do myself, but I would rather have the safety of numbers that could hold him down and receive more but shallower wounds. This is what I thought of as I was walking away.

Sigh…

Why would he do all this when it was clear that the empress consort just wanted to use him as a puppet? Malisian had never been a smart boy but he’d displayed considerable cunning in his murder game so you would think he’d be able to figure this out himself.

Rustle…

Ah.

I see.

He had picked up his sword again, without making as much as a sound against the stonework.

I suspected this would happen but decided to be the bigger person anyways, and for no good reason.

The sound I had heard came from his clothes as he took a final shot at my unguarded back.

I instinctively turned around to defend myself.

He did not attack where I had anticipated.

My side felt hot and wet but no pain had registered yet.

What had was the fact that my last brother had overstepped, and gone full speed into the blade I had held up to guard against a swipe rather than a stab.

He had sliced his own neck in a way I figured would be irreparable.

More blood on the imperial floors.

It was covering me, a man who had only defended against a fool.

“Haha…”

How did he even manage to kill everyone else?

“Hahaha!”

I could hear footsteps in the distance and I felt something break inside of me as the laughter kept bubbling out.

“HAHAHAHAH!!”

Then I felt something else.

‘Sis did you read the new chapter?’

‘Of what?’

‘< I'll un-ruin this kingdom myself if I have to >’

[filet-o-feelings]

I posted 2,397 times in 2022

That's 2,343 more posts than 2021!

406 posts created (17%)

1,991 posts reblogged (83%)

Blogs I reblogged the most:

@stereopticons

@treluna4

@ramonaflow

@rmd-writes

@rosedavid

I tagged 1,014 of my posts in 2022

#thanks for asking! - 93 posts

#schittscreekdrabbleblog - 21 posts

#sc finish it fest - 12 posts

#schitt's creek fanfic - 11 posts

#wip wednesday - 11 posts

#snippet sunday - 11 posts

#yep - 9 posts

#love this! - 8 posts

#david x patrick - 8 posts

#thanks for the rec! - 8 posts

Longest Tag: 139 characters

#i basically never got my enhanced license/passport once it became required to cross the border just so i wouldn’t have to drive in montreal

My Top Posts in 2022:

#5

So originally my nano goal was to write 50k of one specific work (Library Boy) but almost immediately after the word count of that surpassed the longest thing I wrote at about 29k I just lost motivation in favor of working on other projects... but I've been tracking all of my writing, and if I write about 4600 words tonight I can still hit 50k words for the month. Not my original goal, but still something to be proud of. So, I'm working on a mainly stream of consciousness fic with nothing but a sentence and a sad personal memory twisted for creative purposes and hopefully lots of fluff.

So here goes... 269/4579

32 notes - Posted November 30, 2022

#4

WIP Wednesday

David: hey are you guys okay over there? I’m going to have to stay with Patrick for the foreseeable future Alexis: oooh David! Mom is worried about her wigs if it gets too cold, but we’re fine. Have fun with your button! David: ugh it’s not like that, I literally have no choice, the ice has trapped me in here Alexis: sure David *wink* how many beds are in his room? David looks over at the bed, not having considered that just yet. Fuck. David: um just one… can you open your door? Maybe you can break the ice from the outside? Alexis: I just tried, I think we’re stuck too. David. I’m stuck in here alone with mom and dad. What am I supposed to do now? David: you’ll be fine. My battery is dying, I’m turning my phone off. I’ll text you from Patrick’s phone later, okay? Alexis: ughh fine. Have fun snuggling with Patrick in his bed! David powers his phone off and looks back up to find Patrick watching him. “I’m hungry. Please tell me you got enough food for both of us?” Patrick throws David a protein bar. “I have enough protein bars to last us weeks, but not much else. We won’t starve, but we’ll probably be craving the cafe’s food by the time we get out of here.” David laughs bitterly, “I can’t imagine that happening, but I really hope you have more than just protein bars.”

Tagging @rosebrewerj @hippolotamus @stereopticons @alysiswriting and anyone else with words to share!

34 notes - Posted November 2, 2022

#3

Bargain + bonus word blanket

For @schittscreekdrabbleblog word of the week

“David Rose, do you understand what it truly means to make a bargain with the devil?”

“Um, are you the devil?”

“Of course I’m the devil. What did you expect the devil to look like?” 

“Well, for one, I didn’t expect the devil to roll up in mid range denim and a blue button down looking like a boring business major.”

“Ouch, David. Stereotypes hurt. Now, is this blanket really worth giving up your soul to me for eternity?”

“It’s really fucking soft.”

“Alright, there you go. Eternally comfortable blanket, to keep you extra toasty in the fires of hell.”

36 notes - Posted October 10, 2022

#2

For @schittscreekdrabbleblog word of the week: Inspiration

“I’m really lacking inspiration lately. Can’t you guys get up to some shenanigans or something?” The author says from everywhere and nowhere. “What, I thought you all love this domestic fluff?” Patrick says from the couch as David leaned further into his husband’s arms. “This is true, and you’re being absolutely adorable right now, but there’s only so many ways I can describe the two of you snuggled up together watching another rom-com.” “Sometimes I let him watch sports!” David pipes up, proudly. “And he rarely complains about it anymore.” “Fine, but I’m getting Stevie to shake things up tomorrow.”

53 notes - Posted September 12, 2022

My #1 post of 2022

When David's ex, Sebastien Raine, unexpectedly shows up in Schitt's Creek, David enlists the help of a stranger on the street to pretend to be his boyfriend in an attempt to get rid of Sebastien.

Chapter one

(thanks @statueinthestone for the banner! 💛)

63 notes - Posted November 14, 2022

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[littleapocalypsekitten]

Eh, a classic - "Man, I wish I'd said something, but now it's too late." So, today I woke up and chose violence - that is, I started commenting on a Yahoo article about Trump vs. Biden polling and of course got into it with some red hats. For fun, I guess. I feel like I am dumber now, but I don't know, I'm in a mood. So, I stopped replying after a while, but am still getting replies sent to my Yahoo mail. I deleted one that I thought later of how to reply to. I figure I'll rant all my thoughts here in case people think my unshared thoughts are witty enough to zing their racist uncle with at Christmas dinner. (Someone whines about illegal people crossing the border and about dems wanting food shortages and bread lines). Me (should have): "Illegal people? Last I checked, being a person was not illegal. An illegal human? What a silly notion! Oh, I understand what you mean - people illegally crossing the arbitrary line that separates countries that we've all set up. That's been going on since forever, dude - since the concept of countries were a thing, it didn't start and end with Biden - or Obama. I grew up in Arizona. Disdain for "illegal Mexicans" was something all around me in my childhood. Some legal and generational Mexican-American families shared the disdain, because they seemed to blame them for the racism they suffered. I'd even concede a point or two on "they're takin' our jerbs!" because I distinctly remember being turned down for a job I wanted and desperately needed at a restaurant when I was young because the interviewer said that I "didn't speak enough Spanish" to work in the back. Upon demonstrating the Spanish that I knew (sadly, I am not fluent and have lost some since then, but I had a working knowledge of the language then), well... I knew that guy was looking at my blond hair and green eyes and thinking he didn't want to have to hire a dishwasher he'd be required to pay an actual minimum wage to with the possibility of benefits down the road. These were the Bush Jr. years, I remember. And that's the long and short of it. You people, who have always been afraid of the border crossings never think of who to blame for the "taking the jobs" aspect actually belongs to - the blame lies with the companies and landowners who don't want to pay people decent wages and want to get around the minimum wage laws by preying on the desperate who will never, ever ask for a raise because, if they do, the boss will call Immigration on them. I don't think it has ever been about preserving American jobs for Americans for you folks. Think about your real angle. We "dems" aren't stupid. We know. I could go bleeding heart and talk about how most of the people "flooding" the border are various asylum seekers and people wanting to come in legally. The "crisis" of the masses are people actually wanting to do things by the books. How many the U.S. can handle naturalising is a different matter. I just think that the blame for things that everyone complains about falls on shady capitalist practices than anything. As for the breadlines and food shortages you envision, the only time I've experienced anything like THAT in my life was during the Trump years - and I don't even blame him for that. Everyone went nuts when Covid was new. He made things worse, but in March 2020 it was just a natural disaster and peoples' response to it.

[j-graysonlibrary]

The Xiang Chronicles: Book Three Chapter 37

Title: The Xiang Chronicles: Book Three

Author: Jay Grayson

Word Count: 107k

Genres: Fantasy, adventure, drama, LGBT+

Available on: my website

Synopsis: Only one Xiang remains and her name is Merra. She hopes to unite the land by force and plow down anyone in her way—especially the people of Agni who she deems faithless and the native people of Terra who refuse to cooperate with her.

Raine continues to serve his Lord but he has taken to alcoholism to soothe his grief—a fact he keeps out of his letters with Heidi. Baiya has returned to mercenary work in order to keep his family safe while Kira is on the warpath. He, fully, takes on the title of Chaaya and means to defeat the Xiang he sees as false.

And, in a guarded castle in Enlil, a stir-crazy Princess dabbles in the dark arts, setting in motion something even Tiandi cannot see.

Full chapter 37 under the cut

Chapter XXXVII:

By the time the group arrived at the border camp, Phay’s troops were already well underway in setting up. Despite only beating them there by an hour or so, tents were propped up and supply tables were set out. A few fires burned where soldiers prepared food, brewed medicine, or simply rested.

“Before I assemble my men,” Phay said, glancing back at everyone. “We need to have all of you fitted with armor. You cannot exactly rush into battle wearing bed clothes and casual robes.”

She was the only one already armed and ready to go. Everyone else exchanged a few glances amongst each other, really realizing how out of place they looked now that they were among soldiers.

“I asked to have some armor set aside for you in my message this morning,” Phay continued and led them through the encampment. Her soldiers must have had a very specific layout for their camps that they used every time since she walked around the place like she knew it with her eyes closed.

“I am…not exactly an armor guy,” Kira muttered as he held up the black chest plate to himself. “I mean, it is better than Terran armor, I will give you that.”

“You should wear it just to be safe,” Raine responded, quietly.

Pangu caught the short glance shared between them and then grabbed his set of armor. He had never worn anything heavier than a ceremonial robe before.

As he wondered how he would go about even putting it on, he looked to the rest of the group and caught May with the chest plate covering her head, as if she had tried to slip it on over her head and shoulders like a tunic. Fujin immediately moved to take it off while Kaz laughed at them. At least no one seemed too nervous, he thought.

“Need help?” Baiya’s voice came from his right and Pangu turned to face him.

He and Viren were standing shoulder to shoulder so Pangu could not tell which of them Baiya was speaking to. He went out on a limb and asked, “Who, me?”

“Or me?” Viren followed.

Baiya glanced between them and smiled. “Both of you, really.”

“Please.” Viren grabbed a pile of straps, all connected by metal buckles or clips and he raised an eyebrow. “I do not even know where to begin.”

Before Pangu could join them for a fitting, Phay rushed over to him and grabbed his shoulder. “Pangu,” she said his name like an order so he tensed, “While you are getting ready, I will speak to my soldiers. Once I am done, I am handing them over to you while I train.”

“Oh. Okay.” He nodded curtly. “Do what you need to.”

“You as well.”

Pangu returned to Baiya and Viren, in a vacant tent. He undressed, down to the thin linen under his robes, as per Baiya’s request, and, from there, he redressed in heavier, more durable fabric. Agni armor was at least not like Kyrie or Terran armor—or even like Enlil armor which could be heavy depending on the station—but it was heftier than Pangu was used to. Although, the plates were breathable and he could bend his joints with more freedom than expected.

As he tested the limits of his armor, he noticed two things. One, Baiya was very skilled at fixing Viren’s hair. The man had a lot of it but Baiya was braiding and pinning it up to keep it out of his way and off his neck. It was a quick but elegant style and Pangu found himself jealous for the first time; he wanted to comb through Viren’s hair too.

The other thing he noticed, once he was done watching the two of them, was that Kaz was nowhere to be seen. Although, with a little more thought, Pangu figured that he was most likely with his sister and May, trying desperately to get the princess into her armor. The mental image alone was enough to make Pangu crack a smile.

They left their tent after Baiya suited himself up, looking even more dashing by Pangu’s account. Though, as soon as he thought it, he mentally scolded himself for so easily becoming distracted.

Everyone was ready, standing around one of the fires, and their armor, while very similar, had slight differences. It seemed Phay picked them out to cater to their strengths (although Kira still appeared uncomfortable in his). Most strange was Raine, by far, but Pangu knew it was because he was so accustomed to seeing him in Kyrie armor. Next to him were the siblings who looked even paler in the dark metals and blood reds of Phay’s uniforms.

They were a menacing looking bunch though, if nothing else.

“Alright.” Pangu took a deep breath. “Baiya, you train your sister and Phay. Kira, you are on Viren and Oli.” As he said the young man’s name, Pangu noted that Oli was fidgeting with his belt. Then he wondered who had helped him dress or if he had figured it out on his own.

“What about us?” May asked and gestured between herself, Fujin, and Kaz.

“Train on your own or help out if you see fit.” Pangu was not sure what more they could do. “I will be trying something…new. Um, Raine, will you join me? Your military experience might come in handy.”

“Of course.” He nodded immediately.

“You can do it, Pangu,” Kira said with a smile, already knowing what feat he was about to attempt.

He smiled back and felt a modicum better but not a whole lot. Really, he had no clue whether it would work or not and he could not use his usual method either so everything about the plan was new. His eyes traveled up, to Raine, who seemed quite confident in him.

As they walked away from the group, passing Phay on the way, Pangu chewed on his words before saying them. “So, are things well between you and Kira?”

Raine’s face turned almost as red as the accents on his armor. “Oh, well…we spoke and…”

“No need to be coy with me, Raine,” Pangu smirked and then said more directly, “I will not judge you, you know. If you want to keep certain things a secret, I can do that too.”

He shook his head, throwing his hair about in the process. Pangu almost interrupted and asked if he needed his hair pinned up as well.

“I…I know I can trust you,” Raine replied and then sighed, “It is all new and I…I worry it will be over if I speak of it. I know it does not make sense but…”

Pangu patted him on the back. “I understand. We should focus on the work anyway, right?”

His first disciple gave him a short nod and Pangu was sure he could get more out of him later, after the battle. His focus turned to the sea of soldiers, all standing in formation still, from Phay’s orders no doubt. They looked up at him expectantly and a lump formed in his throat.

“Hello,” Pangu gulped. “So, did Lord Phay tell you what I am going to do?”

“Yes, sir.” The crowd responded in one, forceful breath.

He blinked a few times but then nodded. “Okay. Good. Well…” While he did not want to seem nervous and disrupt the morale of the troops, he was not sure he could falsify some bravado for something he had never done before either. “I need all of you to take deep, soothing breaths. Close your eyes, and try to empty your minds. I know that is asking a lot so do not beat yourself up if you cannot do it. Just…try.”

 Pangu closed his eyes, both because he needed to do so to focus and also to try and encourage the troops to follow suit. His mind went to the energy around him—mostly before him. Raine’s energy spiked at his side but he had to ignore him for the time being and focus on the plethora of small, flickering spiritual bodies ahead.

There was no way to unlock their abilities one by one—that would take the rest of the day, all night, and probably the entire next day as well. So, he stayed closer to their crowns, collectively, and brushed through them like a large comb, plucking and moving blocks as he went. The distribution of energy was enough to tell him he was succeeding, at least on some level, and that a handful—a majority even—of troops were becoming unblocked.

His own energy, however, was draining quickly so when he reached the last few lines of soldiers, he quickly reeled back and gave himself a break.

“Alright.” Pangu took a couple of ragged breaths. “Now, for training.”

***

Baiya had been placed in charge of his sister and Phay, both of whom he was fairly confident he could train easily. He already knew that their resonances were high and he had faith they would catch on quickly. Maybe even more quickly than he had.

So far, both his sister and Phay could spark a flame in their fingers for a few seconds and, for the purposes of battle, that would be all they really needed. Loa, especially, who would be doling out fire arrows for the majority of the battle, only needed that first, quick spark anyway. Phay wanted to bathe her sword in flame but, with her novice grasp on the element, she would need to soak her blade in oil first which was too dangerous.

She worked on maintaining a flame instead.

“How long did it take you to master?” Loa asked as she struck up a flame in her hand, like a match, and tested how long she needed to light an arrow. She was using the same one, just replacing the wrapping around the head for each attempt.

“A few weeks, although, I am not sure I would call myself a master,” Baiya admitted and adjusted her arms and body positioning. “Here, a lot of the energy for fire comes from the gut. You want to have your body firmly planted on the ground to ignite a flame. It is easier that way.”

Loa nodded and tried again, forming a small flame between her thumb and forefinger with ease. Phay watched her with a smile and continued to cup a fire in her own hand though it fizzled out.

The lord turned to look at the two women who kept them company. “That was not either of you, was it?” she accused.

“No?” May raised an eyebrow. “You think we are blowing your fire out?”

“I would not risk burning the whole camp down,” Fujin replied.

Phay frowned and closed her fist. “Damn. I am not improving.”

“Relax, it’s been five minutes,” May said with a laugh. “I was terrible at first. Took me weeks to move something just a few pounds.”

“She is right,” Baiya agreed, “This takes time to become comfortable with. Pangu just wants you to be able to manifest a flame without it sparking out of control and backfiring. So far, you are both well on track for that goal.”

Phay grumbled to herself and continued to practice. She clearly had ideas of grandeur about using the fire in combat immediately and overwhelming Merra’s army with it. Baiya could understand that desire but safety was paramount. If anything went wrong, Pangu would blame himself for it.

After a few more rounds, both Phay and Loa showed remarkable control considering the fact they were just unblocked earlier in the day. Baiya was quite impressed and he even moved them into slightly more complex (but still basic) exercises.

“So,” May spoke up, sounding rather bored. Baiya had not known her for over twenty-four hours but he had already figured out that the princess could not stand silence for long. “Did you and Fujin’s brother get to know each other well last nig—OW!”

Baiya glanced over to see Fujin in the midst of smacking the woman on the arm. “What did I tell you about asking that?”

“Not to?” May shielded herself as if she would be mauled. “But I am sick of just sitting here! Plus, I wanna know!”

“Well I don’t.”

“Me neither,” Phay seconded and she and Fujin shared a look of understanding.

“You wanna know too, right, lil’ sis?” May leaned closer, eyes glued to Loa.

“Um…” She set the arrow on fire and, briefly, glanced over at Baiya. “No details but…I am sort of curious.”

“See? I am not a weirdo.” May puffed her chest out.

Baiya chuckled. “Nothing happened, weirdo.” He laughed even louder at the princess’ deflated response. “We talked and went to bed. There is a war on the horizon; there is no time for that.”

“That makes sense,” Loa said, sounding understanding while Fujin murmured, “Smart,” and Phay nodded with a quiet, “Good.”

“Does Kaz know you are prying?” Baiya decided to flip things onto May.

The princess pouted and turned to look across the field to the man in question. He was sitting off to the side, quite like she and Fujin were, but he was closer to the Terran group.

Kira was in charge of training Viren and Oli since they resonated with earth. Though he had been using miasma more than anything as of late, he was still the best suited to teach them while Pangu was otherwise occupied.

Their drills were, more or less, creating a shield in front of them with earth. It was a fairly simple thing to do (although harder with time constraints) and Kira was also sure it would be the most useful. They could focus on defense and also protect themselves.

It was not like the two of them were well versed in combat anyway.

Viren was able to raise a rock shield about half his height in a second. “Better,” Kira commented and then looked to Oli who still had a molehill. “Less better…”

“It is harder than it looks,” he huffed and exerted himself.

“Do not push physically,” Kaz stepped in. “I know earth is different to air, by a lot, but I, too, tried to physically tense my muscles and push when I first started. It is about the energy, not your body.”

Oli frowned and attempted to loosen himself up to try again. Only, when he did, he made barely any visible progress. “This is hopeless. Maybe I should just learn to wield a sword instead?”

“Keep at it,” Viren encouraged and reached over to grab his hand. “Feel this?” After a second, his cousin nodded. “Follow my energy, with your mind.”

Kira watched with a raised brow as Viren talked Oli through the process and managed to help him raise a wall that surpassed both of their heads. He was beginning to wonder if the lord was holding back on account of Oli’s feelings.

Kaz got the same impression.

With some more help from Viren, Oli was able to raise his own barrier in a few seconds though it was notably slower than his cousin’s. Kira stopped to adjust them both, occasionally, and showed them some stances that helped him. He also started to teach Viren a couple of other tricks since he was so comfortable with his element already.

“I am glad to see you again, Kira,” Viren mentioned as they started their one-on-one training while Kaz showed Oli how to use his spear.

“You as well,” Kira replied, “I am also glad Baiya took care of you.”

The lord gave a breathy laugh. “He was worried about you, you know.”

“Please. I don’t need to hear all that.” Kira frowned at the idea of Baiya thinking about him that much.

That only encouraged Viren. “What; do not tell me you two are still carrying on with your act of disliking each other.”

“It is no act. I really cannot stand him.”

Viren laughed. “Well then I will keep to myself how he mourned the perceived loss of your company.” When Kira visibly winced, he added, “Several times.”

“Please. Viren.”

“No, no, I am stopping. I certainly will not mention the nights he, rather than spend time with me, would lament about how he wished he was back on the road with you all.” With a vicious grin, he added the final nail in the coffin, “I am sure, severity of this situation aside, Baiya is beside himself with joy to be reunited with you.”

Kira could have crushed stone between his teeth with how tightly his jaws clenched together. Even worse, as if the conversation had summoned him, the Agni group walked over.

“Did Oli give up already?” Baiya asked.

“Sort of,” Viren said with a smirk, making Kira worry for a second that he would continue on with his torment. Luckily, he fully switched courses, “He just wants to be prepared in every way.”

Kaz stopped their training and rejoined the group, Oli falling in line beside him. He and Fujin exchanged a quick look, silently catching each other up on how their days had been through their eyes alone. Phay sat down and was joined by Loa, both seeming a bit tired from their training.

Baiya kept his attention on Kira as he asked, “How was being a trainer?”

“Weird,” Kira responded immediately. “I am sure you were a natural at bossing people around, Agnimara.”

He laughed. “Been a while since I heard that name.” His smile dropped pretty quickly, however, and he rested his hands on his hips. “Kira, listen, before this battle starts, I just wanted to thank you for what you did.”

It was something he had been meaning to mention since the day before but, given the information overload and the need to spring into action and head off to fight immediately, he had not exactly had the time. If he did not do so now, he worried he would lose his chance.

Kira, of course, prematurely recoiled. “Why? What did I do?”

Baiya sighed. “For coming back to help my family. You did not even know if I would be here or not but…you came back for them anyway. I…I cannot begin to tell you what that means to me…”

“Don’t.” Kira frowned and pointed a finger at him. “Don’t get all sentimental on me. It’s gross.”

May let out a loud laugh, by herself, and all but the two disciples turned to look at her. “What?” she defended herself, “It’s funny.”

Baiya rolled his eyes, “I do not know why I bother.”

“I don’t either.” Kira countered, getting another laugh from May. That time, he did look over but, before he could say anything, they were joined by Pangu and Raine, both looking worn out.

“Hey, how is everyone?” Pangu asked, not catching the atmosphere in the group at all.

“We are well, Pangu,” Viren answered him with a smile.

“Great. I…Raine and I have done as much as we can so…all that is left is to rest up and do our best in the morning.” The ex-Xiang sighed and checked in with everyone. His eyes landed on May and he asked, “Are you prepared for another fight, May? It will be chaotic, I am sure.”

It was something she had considered and something Fujin had already talked to her about (when she was not scolding her for being so nosey about the other’s personal lives). So, she nodded. “I think, with everyone here, I will be okay. And, if not, I’ll run back to be with Loa and hide until it’s over.”

Fujin clapped a hand over her shoulder and assured her through a look that she would watch after her. Pangu was not necessarily worried about her so long as she did stay by her guards but he was worried about what kind of numbers Merra had and who all she would be bringing with her.

But he could not let the rest of them feel the same apprehension he did. So he smiled and told them, “We will win this fight. I am ready.”

[the-jam-to-the-unicorn]

The bromance is back.