#aurora winter train

[abirddogmoment]

Two weeks with Aurora! Here's a recap of life so far.

Our targeted socialization was pretty successful, we managed a bunch of different experiences and she rocked them.

Monday: Busy street at rush hour

Tuesday: Train station

Wednesday: Construction site

Thursday: Bike path next to train line

Friday: Outside a coffee shop

Saturday: Baby hike in the wild

She's still doing great in overall good citizen behaviours. She has specifically been crushing:

✅ Sleeping through the night

✅ Name recognition

✅ Basic training skills

✅ Recovering from being startled

✅ Being crated quietly

Honestly she's doing amazing, I am so so proud of her. 💜

Areas for improvement for the week include:

✴ Bullying Pike (which is improving but still not great)

✴ Demand barking and overall noise level

✴ Chewing on the couch in excitment

Our biggest victories this week include:

🎉 Baby hike 2.0 with beautiful ranging, reasonable baby recall, and great enthusiasm

🎉 Calling off play with Pike on multiple occasions

Our big goals for next week:

🚀 Less harassment of Pinecone

🚀 Working through the foundation levels of the baby conditioning class I'm taking

Really excited for the next few weeks with this girl! 💜

#dogblr #rory borealis #about aurora #she is snuggling really really well without biting me #and she 'asked' for a training session the other night which was soooo sweet #i want to take her on the train today #and i want to take her to see some blow up xmas ornaments before theyre put away for the year #i would love for her to stop barking #but im remembering how loud mav was and he grew out of it pretty quickly #so im hoping she grows out of it as well #the conditioning class is pretty cool! #its for dogs 8 weeks to 8 months #conditioning is a weak spot of mine - i dont know enough to work through it on my own #so i think this was a great purchase #im excited to work through it this winter #i feel like if any dog can use more body awareness and core strength its probably a brittany #this photo is from last week by the way we have like no snow left

[aloeverawrites]

🎶✨when u get this, list 5 songs u like to listen to, publish. then, send this ask to 10 of your favorite followers (positivity is cool)🎶✨

Aurora- Winter Bird

Aurora & Pomme- Everything Matters

Bilie Eilish- Bellyache

train wreck (james arthur) - sad violin version

Paloma Faith- Only Love Can Hurt Like This

#thanks for the ask! #<3 #ask #ask games #music lovers #music promotion #aurora #winter bird #pomme #everything matters #bilie eilish #bellyache #james arthur #train wrecl #paloma faith #only love can hurt like this

[comphy-and-cozy]

love it if we made it - mat barzal

Pairing: Mat Barzal x OC (f)

Summary: Aurora Foster and Mat Barzal are friends. Sometimes with benefits, sometimes with unspoken feelings, but always with a little something extra. When they have the opportunity to close the cross-country gap between them, will they be able to overcome the skinny love and take their relationship to the next level?

Word Count: 9.2K

Author's Note: My first ever Barzal fic written for @thewintersoldierdisaster for @wyattjohnston's Winter Fic Exchange! You are such a talented writer and I really wanted to make this a good one - I hope I managed to get the Garden City details covered correctly. 😉 It was a blast to write for someone new even though I am still reluctantly slowly joining the Barzy train. Enjoy, my dear! Thank you to @smileysvech, @pyotrkochetkov, @jostystyles, and @Demi for all of your help in brainstorming, editing, sending inspirational Barzy pics, and the usual general insanity. Couldn’t do it without y’all. Also, just for the record, Mat has hair in this entire fic. No bald Barzy allowed.

Warnings: Mutual pining, angst, alcohol use (characters get drunk), Mat being a bit of a fuckboy. Smut (18+ ONLY); unprotected sex, general sexual tension/sexual themes. Masterlist

July 2013 - Vancouver, British Columbia

The crackling of the fire melds with the gentle splash of waves on the shoreline, crickets chirping happily amid the cool summer breeze. Smoke billows up, wafting to a deep sky sparkling with stars, not a cloud in sight. 

Aurora Foster watches the flames, absorbing the warmth on her legs. There’s a blue koozie on the armrest of her Adirondack chair, holding a Diet Coke. She allows herself to sink into the warm, worn cotton of her Burnaby Winter Club sweatshirt, sighing contentedly. 

“Anyone want more pizza? I’ve gotta rock a piss.”

Rolling her eyes, Aurora scoffs as the rest of the group murmurs no’s. “Charming, Fabbs.”

The next voice that rings out is clear. “Anyone wanna go for a late night dip?”

“Yeah, I’ll go.” This time of night is Aurora’s favorite time for a swim, when the lake is all but glass and the water feels like a lukewarm bath; not warm, but certainly not cold after spending a day baking under a bright British Columbia sun. 

There are no other takers, so she looks expectantly across the fire. His dark hair is shaggy, unkempt, air-dried after a day in the lake. His brown eyes lock with hers, and he jerks his head toward the dock with a grin. “Race you.”

Mat Barzal. 

A name that holds the burden of promise. He’s going to be drafted in a few years, to the Show—and he’s going to be good. Not I’m just saying that because he’s my friend and I’m supposed to say that—no, he’s going to be good, potentially even great.

Here, though, he’s just Mat. He feels weird about the weight his name is starting to hold, not really knowing what to do with the slight level of fame. He’s made a vow to himself that whatever happens, he won’t let it get to him, won’t let it change the fabric of who he is—this guy, right here, feeling the warm breeze through his hair as sprints down the wooden dock, two smaller feet pattering rapidly behind him.

“You first,” he grins, gesturing toward the ladder.

“What if there’s a big monster waiting right there and it eats me?”

“I’ll jump in and save you,” he says, like there’s no hesitation. He glances down to double check that there is no actual sign of danger. Aurora doesn’t notice, her eyes also on the dark water, illuminated only slightly by the brightness of the moon.

“You promise?”

“I promise.” The way he says it is so sure that it actually comforts her for a split second, enough time for her confidence to reach the appropriate level to jump in with a splash. 

Her body is immersed in cold for the briefest of seconds before she’s enveloped in warmth. The splash next to her tells her that Mat has joined her beneath the water. He rises to the surface a few moments later, letting out a scoff as he shakes out his hair.

“Shit. You like this?” he asks, swimming out toward the trampoline floating a few meters away. 

“It’s nice!” she says, following him. “Refreshing.”

“It’s cold.”

“Aren’t you supposed to be a big macho hockey player?” 

He ignores her with a roll of his eyes, rising back out of the water to climb the ladder to the trampoline. Aurora opts to swim around a while longer, feeling the weight of the water gliding over her skin. It’s nice, heavenly even, how the water makes her weightless.

When she approaches the trampoline, the blast of cool air against her wet skin makes her shiver, goosebumps instantly covering her body. Mat glances at her, sees the way her arms have wrapped around herself in an attempt to warm herself. He extends an arm, his own skin almost dry. “C’mere.”

His arm curls around her frame, warmth of him already heating her skin. He’s not sure if it’s his heart or hers that he can feel beating—maybe it’s both, beating in a steady, sure rhythm next to one another. 

Aurora’s toes nudge his, the gesture comfortable and affectionate; a silent thank you.

June 2018 – Vancouver, British Columbia

By all accounts, it’s a normal Thursday evening in June; Aurora’s housemates are getting ready to go out to the bar—there are plugged-in curling irons, loose cans of hairspray, scattered makeup brushes all over the counter alongside an assortment of cups in varying stages of empty. A half-full fifth of Smirnoff is there too, the cap misplaced somewhere.

On any other occasion, Aurora would be right there with them, blasting Taylor Swift and chattering about if Brad will finally make a move on Carley. Tonight, though, she’s opted out in favor of spending the night on the couch in her favorite sweatpants. Just not feeling a bar tonight, she’d said.

The silence when the door finally closes behind her friends is almost deafening; she hadn’t realized how loud it was in the chaos of the pre-night-out ritual. With a contented sigh, Aurora plops down on the couch and tugs a blanket over her legs, opening Netflix and starting an episode of New Girl. 

She's part way through her second episode and her first glass of wine when she gets the text.

[Mat:] what’s the play tn

Mat. Of course. He’s home for the summer now, back after his first year in Long Island, and recently returned from winning the Calder trophy. Aurora still had a hard time connecting that this Mat, the one that she’s known since they were 12, the one who she grew up hearing make stupid dick jokes with his friends, is the same one that just won Rookie of the Year in the National Hockey League. 

Instead of typing out a message, Aurora snaps a photo of the wine glass in her hand and blanket in her lap with the TV in the background. It doesn’t take long for the response bubble to pop back up, and soon enough the whoosh of an incoming text sounds.

[Mat:] want some company?

Aurora’s heart freezes in her chest. She hasn’t spent any time alone with him since that sorority formal her sophomore year, the one she bribed him to attend with her so she wasn’t the only girl without a date. It was platonic—that didn’t even need to be discussed—and it had been nice to have a familiar figure by her side; it didn’t hurt that he was starting to make a name for himself in the hockey world as a top draft pick headed for the NHL.

What started as a simple, friendly night ended with her leg wrapped around his waist, leaning against the bathroom door of the venue, moaning his name. She didn’t know how they ended up there, but what she did know was that it was passionate, mind-boggling, life-altering sex. 

At least, to her it was. He’d never mentioned it since. 

At first, it lingered on the tip of her tongue every time he was around, waiting to be blurted out when the sinking confusion became too much to bear. But one month, two months, three months passed, with no recognition or acknowledgement that anything happened between them. 

For a while, she began to believe that she��d dreamt it; that her mind conjured the hottest, dizziest, most viscerally real dream possible. But then she’d see his eyes flick to hers during the sex scene in a movie and feel the spark of electricity when his hand would brush hers. Just briefly, but enough for her to confirm that no, she didn’t imagine it all. 

Needless to say, Aurora can’t help the rising suspicion at the seemingly random text. Surely, he couldn’t be thinking about one night years ago when he had the pick of any girl he wanted at his fingertips.

Before she can stop herself, she's typing ‘bring chocolate’ and soon, she hears her front door open. There’s a shuffle, the sound of shoes being shrugged off, before that handsome face is rounding the corner. His eyes land on her in an instant, a predatory gaze simmering behind an unassuming smile. In his hand is a plastic bag from which he fishes out a pack of peanut M&M’s, tossing them at her.

Aurora squeals, eagerly tearing open the packet and immediately tossing three into her mouth. After an expectant eyebrow raise from him, she heaves herself off the couch with a dramatic sigh and runs the short distance to him before launching into his arms. 

“Thank you, Matty,” she says, voice muffled by the black Acme sweatshirt he’s wearing. He’s warm. And big—bigger than he was before he left for New York. “And congratulations.”

He hums a response, following her as she resumes her spot, this time making room for him beside her. “You didn’t want to go out tonight? Celebrate that enormous trophy?” 

Mat shrugs, placing her feet in his lap and securing the blanket over both. “Could take it or leave it. Can’t leave you to be home alone and bored.”

She rolls her eyes and nudges his leg with her foot. “Shut up. You didn’t have to come over.”

“Honestly, I need a break after that media circus,” he confesses. “So much press, so many questions, so many pictures. It’s exhausting.”

Aurora nods understandingly, though she can only imagine being put on public display the way he is day in and day out, the attention only heightened now that he’s won the Calder. She’s seen the pictures, the articles, all of the buzz, feeling a slight tinge of jealousy—not of him, but that she has to share him with the rest of the world now.

Mat settles in, and casual conversation filters in amidst the episode, pausing at moments to hear the dialogue before another one of them is adding commentary or snorting at someone’s Instagram story. It’s so casual, so normal, his place beside her on the couch; like finally finding that one pivotal puzzle piece she’s been looking for for hours. He’s calm, relaxed, and once again she begins to wonder if she’s been creating something out of nothing this entire time. If the flood of nerves in her chest is an overreaction.

“You still seeing that frat guy? Tim, or whatever his name is?” 

The question comes out of nowhere. Aurora can’t help but wonder if she detects a hint of jealousy.

“Was never really seeing him,” she replies, leaving a heavy pause, enough time for him to fill in the blanks. It’s true, but maybe she chose her words intentionally, curious to see if that lilt in his tone really was jealousy. 

He doesn’t react much outside of a nod and an over-engineered nice, but she sees the very slight tick in his jaw. She resists the urge to roll her eyes, instead supplying, “You really gonna give me shit, Mr. Hot-Shot-NHL rookie?”

“Listen,” he grins, “it’s not my fault there’s a million single girls in New York.”

This time, Aurora does roll her eyes, if only to hide the sting she feels deep in her chest. She wouldn’t say she has feelings for Mat Barzal, but—well, it’s complicated. It’s always been there, buried deep beneath the surface, veiled as fond affection for a friend who’s grown by her side since they were 12. 

“But none of them are as pretty as you.”

Aurora has to laugh, can’t help but laugh, rather than feel the discomfort that sinks in when she processes what he said. He’s always like this—these seemingly harmless, flirty comments—but those are the ones that keep his hooks latched into her, keeping her coming back for more, dangling by a single thread of hope.

“Don’t be a dick.”

“M’not. You’re so pretty it hurts.”

She moves to kick him—playfully, mostly—but his hand catches her foot in an instant. Before she has a chance to protest, barely processing the evil grin that hatches on his face, he’s tickling her arch. Aurora shrieks, legs flailing in protest, doing her best to scramble out of his grasp. Mat’s laugh is mirthful as his strong arms easily overpower her, hands moving to her hips to pin her to the couch.

“You’re gonna—” he pauses to wrestle her down, “—hurt yourself.”

“Fuck off,” she shouts playfully, hands shoving wildly at his hands in a weak attempt to stop him from tickling at her sides. “I—I hate you!”

In a flash, Aurora finds her arms pinned above her head, large hands pressed into her wrists. She shrieks again, but the laughter dies in her throat when she realizes he’s paused, hovering over her. Her legs stop their thrashing, breath caught in her throat while her heart thumps in her chest. She isn’t sure how long they sit like that, frozen in time, staring at one another; she wonders if he’s thinking the same thing she is, flashing back to the night spent inside the dimly lit bar bathroom.

And then he’s kissing her, desperate, his open mouth pressed against hers. It consumes her, the feeling of his lips, in a way that makes her wonder how she’s survived the last two years without his touch. The thought of stopping is unthinkable, unfathomable, unbearable. 

Mat’s hand slides down her arm to cup her jaw, thumb brushing against her cheekbone while his tongue finds hers. With her now free hand, Aurora instinctively moves to run her fingers through his hair, soft and smooth. It’s long, long enough that she can wrap the locks around her knuckles, offering a firm hold that has him exhaling lowly against her mouth.

With just the simplest, subtlest move, Aurora’s flipped the switch inside of Mat that transforms him from doting, passionate lover to desperate and unrestrained. His lips pivot to nip at the base of her jaw, offering a subtle bite on his way down to her neck. 

She can hear his heavy breath, feels it hot against her skin. His palm draws warmth up her side, rucking up her t-shirt to expose her bare stomach before his hand dives beneath the hem of the cotton to press flat against her ribcage. It’s shameful how quickly Mat can render her little more than a lolling, whimpering mess, back arched eagerly to chase his touch; she wants to kick herself for giving in so easily.

His hands move in tandem with his mouth, caressing, kneading, aiding her slow descent into madness. When he tugs the cotton over her head, grateful there’s no bra impeding his view, Mat swoops down to her breasts like a starving man getting his first taste of food; with a groan, his tongue swipes over a pebbled nipple. 

Aurora’s afraid to say his name, afraid that if she calls attention to the moment, he’ll snap out of it and stop. 

And she can’t have that. 

Hands roam, chased by hot breath and wet kisses, until she’s all but naked on her living room couch, as if she lives alone and doesn’t have roommates that could come home at any given moment. 

He doesn’t even bother to take her panties off, instead ripping them to the side and wetting his tip with her slick, teasing her folds for just a moment.

Mat pauses at her entrance, breath heavy in his chest. His eyes trail up to hers, and Aurora’s heartbeat ticks, afraid he’s going to change his mind right now, when she needs him more than she’s ever needed anything in her life.

And then his eyes slink over her body with a smirk, admiring her breasts, her curves, the way her legs have wrapped around his hips—when did that happen? Mat’s dick twitches when he realizes he has nowhere to go but inside the dripping wet cunt in front of him, perfect and tempting and waiting to be filled up. He lets the low groan rumble in his chest while his lips return to the spot he sucked into her neck.

“Fuck, baby, you’re so pretty like this,” he murmurs against her skin. “Always think of you like this.”

Mat waits for only a moment, so brief that it flits by almost unnoticed, before he’s pushing in with a low groan. Aurora gasps at the sensation, infinitely better than everything her imagination conjures when her fingers slip between her thighs at night. Nothing replicates the feeling of him buried to the hilt inside her wet heat.

“How long you been thinkin’ ‘bout this, sweetheart?” he rasps once he grows accustomed to the way she squeezes him. “Been thinkin’ ‘bout you for a long time.”

Aurora’s fingers settle into the dip of his shoulders, breasts pressed into his chest. She tries to answer, but all that comes out is a moan. How can he expect her to speak when his hips are punching into her like they’re getting paid for it?

He’s smug at the way he’s rendered her speechless, entranced by the way she feels. Sensing he might not make it long, Mat focuses on his rhythm, finding the one that has her nails scratching down his back so he’ll have a perfect reminder of her wrapped around his dick.

When her moans escalate, he brings a hand between their bodies, watching the way her eyes flutter shut when he rubs at her clit. “Bein’ so good and so pretty for me, ‘Ror. Wanna feel you squeezin’ me while you come.”

She likes when he talks, judging by the way her breath hitches and her cunt tightens, so he keeps talking, muttering pretty, filthy somethings in her ear while he circles her clit. Before long, his whispers are covered by the sound of her crying out his name—she sounds the same as she did two years ago, sweeter this time now that he knows what she feels like when she comes. 

Later, when he slips out into the night, Aurora presses her fingers against the hickey on her neck, memorizing the feeling of his lips against her skin.

July 2019 - Vancouver, British Columbia  

Aurora takes a seat in the chiavari chair beside Gina, offering Dante a wave. A string quartet plays softly, ushering in wedding guests taking their seats before the ceremony. She’s there more out of obligation to the Fabbros, the bride a cousin of theirs that she’d grown up with, too.

Mat sidles in far too close to the start of the ceremony, plopping himself into the seat next to Aurora. He bumps shoulders with her, offering a grin when she mouths “hi” as the precessional begins.

The ceremony is sweet, the food is excellent, and Aurora can’t help but tear up at the best man’s speech during dinner. Afterwards, everyone is on the dance floor, moving and grooving to a Bruno Mars mashup. 

Everyone except two people.

Outside of the tent, Mat and Aurora are sitting on a bench, watching the sunset. Not feeling this song, Mat had murmured to her before jerking his head toward the tent opening, and who was she to say no to accompanying her friend to take in a Vancouver sunset?

“You think you’ll do all this?” The question is abrupt but curious, like his mind had been wandering and he blurted it out as soon as it appeared in his head.

“What? A wedding?”

He nods, gesturing around. “Yeah. You know, the flowers, the fuckin’… doilies, and shit.”

Aurora’s eyebrow raises as she hides a smile. “Do you even know what a doily is?”

“No, but it feels like something that would be here,” he says with a shrug. Dante’s loud laughter echoes from inside, piercing the quiet reprieve from the music. 

A few moments pass, the silence comfortable. “Yeah, I think I’d like to get married someday. Do the whole thing. No doilies, though.”

Mat snorts, nudging her knee with his. “Wonder what the guy's gonna be like.”

Aurora considers for a moment. In the few minutes they’ve been outside, the sun has slipped beneath the horizon, its dim, fading light still splaying out from behind the trees. Dusk looks good on him, she thinks. “He’s gonna get me flowers. And take care of me when I’m drunk. And he’s gonna be really, really good looking.”

Mat hums, impressed. “Damn. Sounds like a catch.”

“Duh. I’m a catch,” she says, to which Mat nods in agreement. “How about you?”

“She’s gonna have a great rack,” he replies, grinning so wide he almost ruins the delivery of the joke before he’s doubling over. Aurora snorts but joins him in laughter with a playful smack to the shoulder.

Inside the tent, the DJ makes some announcement that Aurora only half hears—something about grabbing a loved one. Mat extends a hand, smiles wide, and she ignores the thump of her chest as she slips her fingers against his palm. 

The anticipation pangs in her chest as he leads her to the dance floor. She feels a sliver of apprehension as he turns to face her, placing his hands respectfully on her waist. Instantly, there’s a flash of the night on the couch, of his lips against her skin; if he’s thinking about it, too, he doesn’t show any outward indication.

Any trace of discomfort dissipates once she gives in to his gravitational pull, hands lacing together behind his neck. He’s strong, sturdy, solid—the way he’s always been, ever-present and a constant in her life since she was 12. His eyes are warm, enveloping Aurora in his gaze until she forgets that there’s anyone else around. 

They sway through the remainder of the song, and when notes begin to slow, she finds herself wishing it would last longer. Fortunately, almost like the DJ is privy to her thoughts, the beat picks up, slow song melding into something more upbeat. Mat blinks, the bubble surrounding them popping unceremoniously. He can’t bring himself to let Aurora go, not when she feels so right in his arms.

With a dramatic pull, Mat spins her around, hand supporting her back as he dips her backwards. Aurora squeals, hand clutching onto his as her footing almost loses balance. Laughter bubbles out of her throat as Mat pulls her back upright, his eyes glowing with amusement. Suddenly, he’s looking to do anything to keep hearing that sound.

It takes a truly revolting love song for them to finally leave the dance floor, beelining toward the bar in search of liquid refreshment and a break. The rest of the evening is easy, full of elation and conviviality, the kind of night that makes your cup overflow and runneth over. 

That night, when Aurora slips into bed tipsy at 2AM with a contented sigh, she falls asleep dreaming of brown eyes and a crooked smile.

December 2022 – New York, New York

When Mat saw the text informing him that Aurora had a job interview for a Software Engineering Lead at TekStack in New York, he offered up his spare bedroom before she could even tell him the date. It would be a waste of money to stay at a hotel when he had an apartment he barely used, he said, and she could make a long weekend out of it and he’d show her around Long Island.

The grin on Mat’s face grows the instant he sees her, a gray coat draped over her arm as she wheels her carry-on behind her. He opens his arms and she falls into them, the way she has a hundred times. “Welcome to New York.”

“—it’s been waiting for you!” 

“Set you up for that on purpose,” he says, offering to take her bag. “You hungry?”

“Starving,” she replies. “But I really want to get the airplane off me first. Maybe takeout for tonight?”

Mat smiles. “Say no more. I know exactly the place.”

A few hours later, Aurora is seated at Mat’s counter, a spread of styrofoam across the quartz. Her suit is hanging in a garment bag on the back of the door to the guest bedroom, waiting to be pressed before her interview. It’s so familiar, the fondness, the sense of comfort, the shared laughter over a plate—or several—of food, but it’s no longer Dante’s family’s lakehouse or the Barzal family’s finished basement. This time, it’s Mat’s fancy apartment in Garden City, the rent alone more than what Aurora makes in a month.

But it’s still the same Mat sitting across from her. Same crooked smile, same easy laughter, same silly, unabashed personality. Admittedly, she was anxious wondering about how things would be; they’d hung out plenty over the summer, kept in touch via the group chat, but their one-on-one time had been limited the last few years.

Despite the apprehension, Aurora is surprised at how quickly they shake off the rust, barely needing any recoil time before it feels like old times. Of course, the camaraderie and pleasantries aren’t nearly enough to build up an immunity to his gray Lululemon sweatpants or the peek of his sculpted Adonis belt when he raises his arms in a lazy stretch. She wasn’t sure how she’d feel when she saw him, but she reluctantly accepts the steady beat of her heart in her chest that tells her her crush is, in fact, still holding strong.

They stay up chatting far longer than Mat anticipated, bedtime delayed even further when he offers to help her prepare for her interview, shrugging with a, I’m not tired anyway—anything to spend just a little more time with her. He Googles ‘Top Interview Questions’ and spends over an hour posing them to her, letting her work through how she’d answer each. Admittedly, he had never really had much practice in the way of a job interview outside of the pre-draft conversations he’d had with various NHL GM’s, but he had more than enough experience at preparing for an onslaught of questions—and how to shake off the nerves beforehand. 

“The thing I’ve learned most is to be concise,” he says, thinking back to when he first did NHL-mandated media training. “Don’t be afraid to take a few seconds after the question to think through what you want to say. That helps so you don’t ramble.”

“Don’t ramble. Got it.”

“And listen to some boss bitch music that hypes you up on your way in. It makes a difference. I promise.”

Aurora raises an eyebrow. “I’m gonna need to know what type of ‘boss bitch’ music you’re listening to pre-game, Barzal.”

“Megan Thee Stallion is my top preference,” he says with a grin, “but if you tell anyone that, I’ll deny it and say Drake.”

“Any last expert advice for me?”

“Get a good night’s sleep,” he says, then glances at his phone at the mention of the time. “Which means we’re about two hours behind schedule. Let’s get you to bed.”

Mat offers to carry her bag to the guest bedroom—decorated straight out of a West Elm catalog—and Aurora thanks him before bidding him good night. After changing into her pajamas, she quickly shakes off the urge to pad down the hallway and slip into Mat’s bed with him, reminding herself that that isn’t why she’s here. 

Instead, she settles into the soft sheets, feeling herself slipping right back into the old, familiar flutter in her chest. 

—

Serendipitously, the scheduling worked out perfectly: the interview was Friday at 1PM, and the Islanders hosted the Predators on Friday night at 7PM, which meant Dante would be in New York and around for post-game dinner, drinks, and a little mid-season reunion for the trio of friends. Aurora shook away the feeling that fate was somehow intervening.

Friday morning arrives, and Mat has morning skate, so he wishes her good luck with a tight hug before he shoves a protein bar in his mouth on his way out the door. For good measure, he sends a string of emojis (💪👩🏽‍💼✅💰) once he arrives at the rink, hoping they’ll give her an extra boost of confidence. 

Practice is relatively easy, more of the opportunity to move his body and run through some plays—nothing intense, preserving energy for the actual game. He’s thankful for a pretty painless practice as his mind continually floats to Aurora, wondering how her interview went. Mat isn’t quite sure why he feels so invested in her landing this role until he realizes that if she gets it, she’ll be moving to New York. 

“Barzy, you trying to go out after the game?” Oliver asks across the locker room. Mat’s tugging on a pair of sweatpants, fresh from his post-practice shower.

“He can’t,” Matt pipes in with a lopsided grin. “His girl is here.”

Mat groans, pressing a hand to his face as he points a middle finger in Marty’s direction. Next thing he knows, the chirps and wolf whistles fill the room and he feels Pierre aggressively nudge his shoulder.

“A girl?”

“Yeah, the hot brunette. Total smokeshow,” Casey fills in for him. 

“Woof woof, Barzy!”

“Get it, Matty B!”

“Fuck off,” Mat huffs, a dismissive hand directed at no one in particular. “She’s not my… girl.”

“She stayin’ at your place?” Dobson asks. “Gonna be at the game tonight?”

Mat nods, earning another chorus of whistles. He rolls his eyes as he tosses his gloves and practice jersey in the bin, ignoring the no pre-game sex jokes (“Can’t play 3 periods if you’ve already played one in the sheets”).

“If she’s not your girl, I’m definitely gonna make a move, then.”

“Fuck off, Dobber.”

—

Aurora arrives home from the interview to find a jersey folded on the bed, along with a handwritten note–thought you might want to have something to rep the home team. She sends back a text to Mat to thank him and respond to his inquiry about the interview before setting off to change and make her way to UBS.

The game is disappointing, if you’re an Islanders fan. But while Aurora is sporting the blue and orange jersey, she’s waiting excitedly for a Nashville Predator to meet her in the designated area Mat directed her to. 

When he rounds the corner, hair still wet from his shower, she runs up to him and leaps into his arms. Dante grins as he embraces her in a tight hug. “Feel stupid now for wearing the wrong colors tonight, huh?”

“I have to support my host,” she says with an eye roll. 

The host in question appears as if he’s been summoned, moving to hug his old friend, but not before his eyes drag over the 13 on Aurora’s arm. The three of them together just feels right, the dynamic shifted—but complete.

Once they’ve been seated at a high top in a bar in Rockville Centre, Dante turns to Aurora. “‘Ror, how was the interview?” 

“It went great,” she grins, accepting the fist bump Dante offers her. “I aced the coding exercise.”

“You’re such a badass. I picture you like one of those hackers in the movies.”

Aurora snorts, shaking her head. She thanks the waiter who places her drink in front of her. “It’s not really like that, but thanks.”

Conversation flows easily amongst the trio–only one comment from Dante razzing Mat for the 4-1 loss–and eventually the food arrives, along with another round of drinks. 

“So… you really gonna join us and become a Yank?” Dante probes over his meal. 

“To be honest, I don’t even know if I’d accept it,” she says quietly. Mat watches the way her lip disappears between her teeth as she contemplates; he doesn’t envy the gargantuan decision that lies ahead of her. “It’s a big move to make.”

As dense as he knows he can sometimes be, Mat recognizes this as a pivotal opportunity for him to share his own experience moving across the continent. He doesn’t have much in the way of advice, the distance something he just grew accustomed to in time, but he knows what it’s like; feeling the divide between him and the rest of his life like a bruise that won’t quite heal, the precious few-hour window where phone calls and texts make 5,000 kilometers feel like 10.

In so many words, he tells her so, aided by Dante’s supporting murmurs in a rare serious moment. Aurora absorbs it, if nothing else, comforted by the fact that they understand—kind of. It’s a little different moving cross-continent when you’re going to make millions of dollars, but money certainly doesn’t make the distance less of a burden to carry.

“FaceTime is your best friend,” Dante says, and Mat nods in agreement.

“Oh, is that why I get one FaceTime from you every two months?” she sticks her tongue out at Dante. Mat makes a mental note to FaceTime her more often. If she moves to New York, he won���t have to.

“No, that’s ‘cause you’re not my best friend,” Dante jokes, and Aurora scoffs playfully, eyes rolled in annoyance. 

Sensing the end of the semi-serious moment, Mat stands up. “Gotta rock a piss.”

“Charming, Barz.”

Dante watches Mat’s retreating figure, eyeing the brown locks until they disappear down the hallway toward the restrooms. His gaze moves to Aurora’s, lowering his head conspiratorially. “Is something happening?”

“What are you talking about?”

“You two. You seem… different.”

Aurora’s eyebrows raise. “Different how?”

“Just… different,” Dante shrugs, then takes another swig of his drink. “It’s not like everyone doesn’t know you’ve been in love with each other forever.”

Jaw dropping in shock, Aurora feels her face suddenly get very hot. “That’s not true!”

“Oh, I didn’t realize we were still in denial,” he says, feigning self-defense and fighting a smile. “My bad. I’ll go back to trying to ignore the way you googly eyes each other.”

“I do not make googly eyes at him!”

“Man, ‘Ror, that acceptance is really buried deep down in there, huh?” Dante grins, dodging the french fry she launches in his direction. Then, he’s back to serious—kind of. “I know it’s a big leap to take when you’ve been friends for so long, but you haven’t been subjected to seeing the way you look at each other. I wish you’d just make out already. It’s disgusting.”

Aurora doesn’t have the heart to tell him they’ve already done far more than make out—multiple times—and part of her is relieved that Mat never divulged that information to his best friend despite every opportunity to. This way, it’s their little secret, something for just the two of them to have. 

Mat’s return effectively ends the conversation. They pay their tabs—Aurora ignores Dante’s pointed look when Mat picks hers up without a word—and make their way to the next bar.

Several hours and far too many Palomas later, Mat unlocks the door to his apartment. He struggles slightly under the stumbling weight of Aurora, who’s latched onto him as she drunkenly giggles. He’s not much better off, but the Uber ride sobered him up enough to think to order DoorDash, conveniently arriving a few minutes after they get in the door.

Coaxing her to eat is a bit of a struggle, but he finally manages to get her into a barstool, munching contentedly on chicken tenders.

“C’mon, ‘Ror,” he murmurs once he sees she isn’t going to finish the third tender. He wraps an arm around her waist, helping her out of the seat to stand her up. “Let’s get you to bed, yeah?”

“Carry me!”

Without any additional warning, she’s leaping into his arms. Mat lets out an oof but manages to secure her in his arms as he carries her to the guest bedroom. When he places her on the mattress, her legs don’t untangle from his waist, and Mat feels the near instant pulse in his groin. Aurora’s eyes are closed, but her hips move, subtly, and he allows himself to revel in the feeling of her brushing against him. It doesn’t take long for his dick to become hard as steel, aided massively by the soft, sleepy whimpers that leave Aurora’s throat.

“Matty,” she whispers, hands seeking out the dips in his biceps.

Mat wants nothing more than to throw caution to the wind and devour her like he’s been aching to from the moment he saw a glimpse of her in a towel coming out of the shower this morning. He’s got just enough booze in his system to cloud his judgment, hand trailing up her side and savoring the warmth of her body against his palm. His dick twitches in his pants when he glides a hand over Aurora’s breast, yearning to tug the cups of that stupidly sexy corset down to repeat his fantasy.

But he doesn’t. 

Instead, he summons every single ounce of self-restraint left in his body and tears himself away from her tempting frame. Much to his chagrin, Aurora lets out the most devastating, disappointed mewl and Mat swears he can feel his heart (and dick) shatter at the sound.

“‘Ror,” he whispers. “We can’t.”

“Why not? S’not like we’ve never… done it before,” she slurs, reaching to run her hands across his pecs. He indulges in the feeling for just a brief moment, his resolve fleeting with every second.

“Not like this.”

“Y-you—” she hiccups, then frowns when he gently takes her hands off of him, “—you don’t… want me.”

“No,” Mat says quickly. He’s pretty sure she won’t remember in the morning, but if she does, he wants her to remember this. “I do. But I don’t want it to be like this.”

“Only wore this so you’d take it off,” she murmurs, and Mat groans, the devil on his shoulder whispering very strong reasons why he should give into temptation.

Ultimately, the good guy in him wins the battle, ignoring the throbbing of his dick when he helps Aurora to shimmy off her skintight leather pants. He does his best to avoid staring at the flimsy scrap of fabric between her thighs and pretends not to notice how little it covers. Her body is almost entirely dead weight as he tries to figure out how to remove her corset, eventually tugging it over her head; her breasts fall free, and he chokes on his own spit as he desperately looks around for something to cover her with. 

Dashing to his room, he grabs a t-shirt—only a little bit intentionally selecting an Islanders tee in order to see her wearing his colors again; on his way back, he pours a glass of water and grabs a bottle of Advil from the bathroom. When he returns, Aurora’s breathing is heavy and she’s lying in the same position he left her in, finally asleep. 

Mat places the water on the nightstand, then notices her phone and plugs it into the charger. Gently, he slides the t-shirt over her head and maneuvers her arms through the sleeves, then situates her and tucks her in before pulling the blanket up to her chin. With a kiss on her forehead, Mat quietly steps back to return to his room, ready to palm himself off, the image of her tiny panties and her tits seared into his brain.

Just before he shuts the door, he hears a quiet whisper of his name, a soft Matty in the darkness. He pauses, waiting for her to speak again.

“Stay.”

Something in her voice makes his heart ache. He stands, frozen in place, hesitant to return to her; afraid that he won’t have the willpower to resist her if she makes a move again. Like an unruly stepchild, his dick throbs as he adjusts himself.

“Please?”

Her voice is so sweet, he can’t help himself. His feet move of their own accord, back to the bed before he’s crawling under the covers beside her. Aurora’s arm immediately wraps around his stomach, snuggling into the crook of his shoulder. As he listens to her dozing off, Mat pretends it’s the alcohol that blankets his heart with warmth and not the girl sleeping soundly in his arms.

—

Bright light wakes her first. There’s a few, beautiful seconds of peace before the throbbing begins.

Aurora groans loudly, hand flying to shield her eyes. Timidly, she stretches her legs out slowly, to avoid the wave of searing pain through her skull. She has a memory of Mat’s hands touching her, dragging their way up her body, but she can’t decide if that was real or just a dream. Judging by the empty space next to her in bed, she assumes it was a dream.

She gropes for her phone on the bedside table—thankful that she had the foresight to plug in her phone in her inebriated state—and opens Instagram. Dante’s green Close Friends story bubble is one of the first she sees. The video that lies within makes her groan: it’s Aurora, illuminated by the dim, disco lights of the bar they ended up at in Rockville Centre, making an absolute fool of herself dancing. If you can even call it dancing. It’s more like a series of unhinged, discombobulated movements that barely follow the pulse of the music playing over the speakers.

But Mat Barzal is in the background, watching her like she put the stars in the sky. His eyes are warm, and the smile on his face is soft, relaxed; a look of adoration. Of love.

[Gina:] Are you going to tell me what’s going on with you and Mat? [Gina:] Dude is looking at you like you just birthed his firstborn on Dante’s story  [Gina:] Wait, he didn’t knock you up, did he?

Aurora snorts at the texts from her pseudo-sister. 

[Aurora:] Funny enough, your brother asked me the same thing [Aurora:] And no, he did not knock me up  [Gina:] Still waiting on the answer to my first question

Aurora is halfway through typing a message (“I’ll call you when I get home”) when she hears the front door open and close. A few seconds later, there’s a gentle knock at the door before a messy-haired Mat pokes his head in. “G’morning, sunshine.”

She groans, throwing the blanket over her head in an attempt to shield herself. “Can you stop yelling?”

He laughs, and though it’s lovely, the sound pierces her brain with a fiery stake. “So you don’t want me to tell you there’s bagels in the kitchen?”

Aurora peeks her head out from under the comforter. “Bagels, you say?”

“Bagel sandwiches,” he corrects. “Best on Long Island.”

Contemplating for a moment, Aurora glances at the glass of water on the nightstand, along with the two Advil sitting by it. He must have put them there this morning. She downs then, throws on a sweatshirt, and trudges into the kitchen behind Mat.

Aurora is convinced the bagel sandwiches have magic in them, reinvigorating her brain and hitting just the right spot. The two of them chew in silence for a while, Mat choosing to give her a few minutes to come back to life.

When he senses the medication might have kicked in, he speaks, slowly. He isn’t sure why he’s feeling so nervous. “Are you sure you have to go back today?”

She laughs and nods. “Sadly, I do have to get back to my actual job that I haven’t quit yet.”

“Just saying, you can come and be my roommate–free of charge. You just gotta do the dishes and help with a little laundry.”

Aurora’s eyebrow raises, taking a long sip of the hot mug of coffee he’d placed in front of her ten minutes ago. “So you want a live-in maid?”

“Well, when you say it like that…” Mat trails off with a laugh. “Really though. When are you supposed to hear back?”

“They just said in a couple weeks,” she shrugs. Only a few more weeks before life could change forever.

Something in their goodbye is different; a little bit timid, maybe even hesitant, but neither call it to attention. Mat gives her a squeeze in the departures lane, wishing her a safe flight, and Aurora promises to keep him updated on the job.

He watches her slip between the sliding doors, watching her figure retreat until he can’t see her anymore.

January 2023 — Vancouver, British Columbia 

Aurora huffs, blowing the hair out of her eyes as she concentrates on her phone in her hand. She types, deletes, then re-types her message. 

I got the job. 

Her finger hovers over the button to send, heart pounding. She doesn’t know why she’s nervous, not exactly, but she knows there’s a lot of weight behind those four words, knows that they have the potential to change everything. For her. For him. Everything.

[Mat:] Congratulations! Told you you’d kill it. 😊

The text is followed by a gif of Buddy the Elf, and Aurora almost snorts at the stupidity of it. She takes a breath, almost… disappointed? If nothing else, she was expecting a bit more excitement, more fanfare. 

Aurora presses down on the message and gives it a thumbs up.

Three hours later, she’s on the phone with Gina, gushing over the excitement of her job offer. She hasn’t even accepted it, but she’s still wistfully dreaming of how she might decorate her Manhattan apartment, anticipating the charm—among other things—of being in the greatest city in the world. 

Gina senses Aurora’s hesitation before she even says anything. “But…”

“…but if I go, I’m pretty sure I’m going to get my heart broken.” She can hear Gina contemplating on the other line, probably debating how to deliver her latest blow of hard-hitting advice.

Gina’s next sentence is quiet, but confident. “You just need to talk to him, ‘Ror.”

“I know.”

Aurora’s phone buzzes, but it isn’t until she gets off the phone with Gina a few minutes later that she sees the second text appear on her screen.

[Mat:] so, we gonna do this? [Aurora:] do what?

She watches the text bubbles appear, then disappear. The seconds feel like an eternity before a FaceTime call is popping up, a photo of 17-year-old Mat with upside down sunglasses on. Sliding to answer, she’s greeted by the sight of Mat, arm resting behind his head, silver chain peeking out of the hem of his white t-shirt. His hair is ruffled, and he’s looking at the camera with a knowing smirk.

“You and me,” he says simply. It takes Aurora a few moments to realize he’s responding to her text—and a few more before she realizes what he’s saying.

“You–are you—what?”

“You know, give it the old college try.” He offers a cheeky shrug of his shoulders, a flash of his charming smile.

“Mat, are you asking me out?”

“Were you expecting a grand proposal with roses and champagne?”

She ignores his snigger, too frenzied to acknowledge his sarcastic quip. Instead, she opts to get to the real question she has burning a hole in her chest. “Where is this coming from?” 

“I’ve been waiting for a chance with you since we were 15, ‘Rora. Jus’ never had one ‘til right now.”

Aurora’s jaw drops, words completely absent from her brain. This was everything she’d wanted to hear for the better part of a decade, and here he is, as casual as if he was asking her to pass the salt at the dinner table. 

Mat’s waiting for a response, so she shakes off the surprise and does her best to gather her composure. She isn’t sure what to feel: elated, irritated, and skeptical, and everything in between. “And you never thought to tell me you felt this way?”

He shrugs. “Jus’ did, didn’t I?”

Aurora resists the laugh at the simplicity of his Boy Brain. “Mathew Michael Paul Barzal, if you are fucking with me and this is some shit idea of a joke—”

“Why would I joke about something like that?” he says, then a glint takes over in his eyes. “I would like to be fucking you, though.”

An exasperated sigh leaves her throat, though she begrudgingly notes the way her stomach flips at his statement. “Can you not do—that—for five minutes, please? This is a lot of information to take in.”

Mat hums an apology, not really sorry. He watches the way she puts her phone down, his view now the slowly spinning ceiling fan in her apartment bedroom. He can hear the sigh, the sound of her feet padding slowly on the hardwood floor–pacing.

“I’m serious, Aurora.” He announces it out, loudly, maybe a little more formally than he expected. 

Her forehead peeks over the camera, frizzy, unstyled post-shower waves falling over her face. “Fuck, Mat.”

“You could come live with me in Garden City,” he says. “Take the subway in on the days you go into work. Could set up an office for you in the den.”

“Mat, I’m not fucking moving in with you when I don’t even know what this is,” she says, exasperated, ignoring the thought he’s clearly put into it all. She hears the words he’s saying, but after almost a decade of missed connections, crushed hopes, and mixed messages, she’s hesitant to really take them to heart. It’s a defense mechanism, not willing to trust him even though she’s pretty sure he’s serious. “Do you realize how insane you sound?”

“M’not,” he says, shakes his head for emphasis. “It’s always been you, Ror.”

At that, Aurora has to sit down, the weight of the words smacking her clean in the chest. She can feel the magic, the warmth, the fuzzies enveloping her heart, ready to soar into the clouds at what he’s saying. At the same time, she’s confused, uncertain, maybe a little angry. More frustrated than mad, really, but she knows she deserves an explanation all the same.

“Why haven’t you said anything this entire time? It’s been years, Mat. I’ve loved you since we were fifteen—waiting this whole time to hear you say this, to give me any fucking clue that maybe you felt the same way.”

He looks like a puppy who has been scolded for destroying a roll of toilet paper. Then, “You think I don’t want to be with you?”

“You never gave a sign. You never even acknowledged what happened between us.”

It’s the first sign of any remorse when Mat sighs, his eyes cast down from the camera. “I—I thought it was casual. We’ve lived so far apart I just thought—”

“—thought it wasn’t worth it?”

“No,” he says quickly, looking up to meet her gaze. “I thought you wouldn’t want to do it. The distance.”

“Thought you regretted it,” she admits. Her voice is so quiet Mat barely hears it.

“Regret sleeping with the girl I’ve been in love with since I was in high school? Yeah, okay,” he snorts. “My only regret is that we haven’t been doing it all this time.”

Aurora hums, overwhelmed by his confession—if you can call it that—and the influx of feelings that have inundated her chest. What he’s saying makes sense, in a twisted, boy-math kind of way.

“What does being—” she swallows the word girlfriend like a disgusting cough syrup. “—together look like?”

“Whatever you want it to look like.”

“What do you want it to look like?”

Mat hums. He thinks, envisions what calling Aurora his girl—for real, not just when he’s getting razzed by his teammates–would look like. A picture of waking up with her in his arms, sleepy and smiling. Eating takeout on the couch, her feet in his lap, sporting one of his t-shirts while they catch up on Succession. Seeing her in the stands at UBS, wearing his number on her back. Laughter, comfort, happiness. Home. 

In other words, the entire weekend he spent with her.

“Don’t say something stupid like, ‘unlimited sex’,” she adds, the dreamy smile on his face alerting her to the idea that some of his thoughts may, perhaps, be unsavory.

“Wasn’t gonna,” he replies, “but now that you mention it…”

“I’m going to hang up.”

“I’m just joking, ‘Ror. I mean, don’t get me wrong, that would be top of my list. But you gotta know that you’re way more to me than just great tits and a fat ass.”

“Mat!”

“Okay, okay, sorry,” he says, holding a hand up as if to defend himself from her scathing tone. Aurora’s eyes roll and she scoffs, though Mat swears he sees the corner of her lip turn up just slightly. “I’d… want it to look exactly like this.”

Aurora blinks, not expecting such a simple answer—not that she had any idea of what to expect out of his mouth, ever. The concept that they’re already there, minus the labels, is… overwhelming. A little bit unnerving, because everything that flicks through her mind just feels like more and more evidence that he’s right. Dante, Gina, everyone else saw it—she’d just been blind to it the whole time.

“So,” he says slowly, afraid to pop her thought bubble. “What d’you say?”

“Wish you were here and not on FaceTime,” she mumbles, embarrassed at the vulnerability that slips out.

“I’ll get a flight to Vancouver right now, if it helps.”

Aurora smiles melancholy, and it tastes bittersweet. She knows he’s serious, would be by her side as soon as humanly possible, if she asked. But she also knows his influence will only sway her in one direction, and she needs to make sure she’s making an unbiased decision.

“Ror?”

“I–I need some space, okay?”

“I’ll be here when you’re ready.”

—

The next week is a blur, a mess of emotions and running through the same scenarios in her head over and over again. Aurora sits at the countertop on FaceTime with Gina, dissecting the options for what feels like the thousandth time. 

“I don’t know what he doesn’t understand about space but this sure isn’t it,” she says, glancing at the bouquet of flowers sitting in a pretty—and expensive—glass vase.

“I think it’s sweet,” Gina insists. “Besides, we all know he isn’t the smartest.”

“It feels like he’s pressuring me, Gin,” Aurora says.

Gina rolls her eyes. “So he wants to show you he cares after years of burying his feelings. Sue the guy, why don’t you?”

Dusting a crumb off of the kitchen counter, scrolling through the relocation document TekStack had sent her along with her offer, Aurora sighs. Gina’s right; other than the flowers, he’d cooled it on everything else, and she missed it—the stupid memes, the goofy texts, the random (and gross) Snapchat series of him peeing in different cities. Missed him.

“Can’t wait to visit you. Keep the sex to a minimum while I’m in the guest bedroom, ‘kay?”

“Shut up!”

February 2023 — New York, New York

Mat fidgets, wiping his hands on his sides before glancing at his watch for the 16th time in five minutes. 3:17pm. Any minute now.

When he sees her coming down the catwalk, he doesn’t think twice; his strides quicken, along with the tick of his heart, and his fingers itch in anticipation. When he reaches her, he ignores the look of surprise on her face, hands cupping her jaw and pulling her mouth to his in a kiss that takes her breath away.

“I love you,” he says breathlessly when she pulls away, an expression of pure shock on her face. “Should’ve been telling you that for years. Please, please, please be mine. For real.”

The corners of Aurora’s lips twitch before they curl into a smile, and Mat has to resist the urge to kiss her again before she can even answer.

“Thought you said you weren’t gonna do an elaborate proposal,” she says with a laugh. 

“Would, if that’s what it took,” he mumbles. He knows he’s being a simp, but he’s not missing this chance now that it’s right in front of him, so close he can taste it—literally. Her chapstick lingers on his lips, subtle but enough that he knows it’s all her.

“Lucky for you, Barzy, I think an airport love confession is the perfect amount of elaborate.”

SIMILAR CONTENT

The Mystery of Love* Third Time’s the Charm* Adore You

#mat barzal fic #hockey fic #hockey imagine #nhl imagine #nhl fic #mat barzal fanfiction #mat barzal imagine #mat barzal x oc #hockey fanfiction #nhl fanfiction

[thewriterg]

𝐛𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐭𝐚𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠

pairing(s): Leonardo x afab!reader, Raphael x afab!reader, Donatello x afab!reader, Michelangelo x afab!reader, heretic!reader (witch and vampire), soulmate AU

summary: Fighting an army of foot clan soldiers by yourself was easy but seeing your mates and their father that you began to call your own in pain was one of the hardest things you’ve ever been through you’ve ever been through on your over three centuries of earth and you could never see your mates in pain, not ever.

word count: 10.8k+ —damn boy she’s thick— 😎🤏👴🏿

warning(s): mentions of death and suicide attempts, violence, blood, descriptions of weapons, angst, they’re all 22-20 don’t hit me with that minor bayverse turtle bs, crying, feeling a soul bond dying?, pet names, kisses, and language

A/n: —GIFs; @tkappi & @aurora-the-kunoichi— So I rewatched TMNT 2014/16 the best one beside 2012 btw 🙄 and I’m actually taking this from a draft of mine from like two years ago…

You stood surrounded by over a dozen foot soldiers in the alley just above the sewer occasionally throwing daggers and ripping flesh with your bare teeth you had no desire to drag this fight on any longer than you had to you did however feel the strong tug of your bond pulling you to protect your mates

your mates

Little over three years ago you would’ve never even thought of thinking of such you were a witch yes and you did your studies over the subject but it was brief something you couldn’t get into because you simply would not have something like that of your own

Well you could see how far that got you

At the end of 2016 and beginning of 2017 you had a very awaken feeling in your heart and stomach and the longer you tried to pull away from it the more empty you began to feel so you began to travel with no reason why and after a long five months you were in New York

The turtles didn’t have a clue what was going on in their bodies they had passed mating season and it was almost like the hibernation like symptoms they experienced in the winter because they in fact did not hibernate

From lively, upbeat, hyper, and energetic the reptiles turned into slow, easily irritable, cranky creatures. They had no motivation to train as hard as they usually did, had endless arguments snapping at each other, sleeping for more than twelve hours at a time if Splinter didn’t wake them, and despite an empty feeling in their stomach and chest they had no desire to eat

Leonardo couldn’t utter another motivational speech as he was before when his team were experiencing said dilemmas as he was the last to get hit with the dreadful feelings he could barely drag himself out of bed to use the bathroom so why would he force his brothers to train?

Raphael was snapping at anything that made a noise around him or even seemed to breathe in his direction on the regular he would occasionally bump heads with Leo but now no one was safe from the Red Clad turtles rage and he spent most of his time in his weight room pounding his fish into a worn and abused punching bag

Donatello couldn’t tell you when’s the last time the group had showered nor could he tell you when’s the last time he invented or fixed something hell he couldn’t even think of the last time he even began to touch his equipment he along with Leo often slept the longest even after Splinters attempts of getting them both up

Michelangelo who was usually the most talkative and hyper of the group had fell silent and drained he hadn’t rode his hoverboard in weeks and couldn’t even begin to try to think to pick up a spray can or pencil to draw anything he instead was up all night and asleep all day

The problem was that they were at the end of spring they were not in winter so they should have not been experiencing those said feelings

Splinter had had enough he knew his boys were strong and would eventually shake the feeling like they always did but they didn’t usually get like this until the colder times of the year and it was indeed blazing hot

When the thought crossed over his mind he denied it quickly they were animals such thing couldn’t be possible as he thought it was but as time went on it made more and more sense

Animals had mates and mating seasons yes, his son’s experienced it every year that wasn’t the issue it was the who would fulfill the roles as each of the terrapins mates that confused him the books of turtle mating didn’t cover enough ground for him to get the answers he needed so he was soon once again standing face to face to face with the bookshelf he hardly touch that taught him wisdom and the art he knew today

The mutant rat had picked up a book he had yet to read the only book he hadn’t read it had a brown leather cover and it was thick and full with unread pages he carefully dragged his pawed hands over the front carefully making sure to watch his claws

He’d read the book front to back making sure to read over each page at least twice but he was most efficiently reading over soul ties and sealing soul bonds

Soon enough weeks after he was sure Splinter had all of his sons in front of him and even though they felt this way this odd, empty, pitiful, way they all held their respective positions on their knees their three fingers pressed up against their other pair and head bowed even though they slouched as they all could hear sleep and the voidness beg their names out with a screeching voice

“I have a gift for you all, something as a serve of hope” The mutant spoke in his usual prideful, wisdom filled, tone as he began to explain the tale bits and pieces at a time until the puzzle was made up and the picture was made out in front of them

Leonardo was glad he had an explanation or even a start of why they were feeling this way he could slowly feel some of the weight on his his chest and deep within his plastron

Raphael was skeptical even though he never doubted his Sansei he raised him, never lied to him, trained him, kept him safe when he was defenseless, but he couldn’t help but be skeptical. Even if he did have a soulmate what type of being with a brain and sense of surrounding would want to be with a freak like him?

Donatello was on the middle side of the fence he had his doubts what if they were just going through an early ‘hibernation’ period? Though Donnie wasn’t as open to it as Ralph was he did have a slight fear of rejection but he also had a feeling of excitement? Maybe fuzziness and warmth at the thought of being loved unconditionally that was made for someone just for him.

Michelangelo was ecstatic he would have an angel by his side. What if they were a Jedi? What if they were looking for him too!?

“How do we find our mates!? We should look for them! I gotta find my Angel cakes!” Mikey was out of his kneeling position he was ready to do anything his chest hurt a little less and soon he would realize it wasn’t the discovery but the newly found distance that lifted the weight

“Mikey we can’t just go on a side quest to find people we don’t know” Leo intervened is brothers rambling also getting out of his position of kneeling as the other two turtles followed in suite

“That’s your problem bro it’s not a ‘side quest’ it’s the main mission” The orange clad turtle stated in a matter of fact tone with a smile on his face

“And if we actually meet these people-”

“They’re our mates not jus’ some random people if you wanna be lonely all yer life that’s on you but you can’t make decisions for us” Ralph interrupted with a gruff coolly voice the pair began to argue as Donatello sighed heavily Along with Splinter who suddenly bursted from his quietness

“Silence! Before I send you all to hashi!” The mutant rodent shouted and the room fell silence the only thing erupting from the room was Mikey slightly whining about not doing anything but the group knew that it would just about alway be a group punishment

“You need to find an efficient plan that still allows you continue your duties while finding you’re peace” Splinter spoke wisely before retreating his steps to his room to meditate

“What if we send two of us at a time to search for them while the other two stay here to patrol” Donnie spoke up it wasn’t the most effective plan but it was the best they had the purple clad turtle had finally had relief of the dreadful empty feeling he didn’t plan on going back

“That’s not a bad idea… We should all go back to patrolling for now and then after a month or so we can get everything under control and then we can carry out the plan” Leo finally spoke up after a moment of silence as everyone subconsciously nodded eventually they all went their separate ways with a bit more hope than they started with

They had their Sansei to thank for that

💌💌💌💌

As weeks passed the brothers were too caught up in protecting the city to carry out their plan the reptiles all stood around in the dojo listening to the TV as the channel nine news played filling the silence

There had been ‘animal attacks’ going on all over the city multiple pictures of punctured wounds showed up on the screen and none of the brothers were dumb enough to believe the story that was being sold the wounds were too… clean to be from an animal attack their was two punctured spots with usually a bit of bruising around them and was often found around the neck just below the jugular or on the wrist barely missing a vein

“What if there’s a vampire out there just… feeding from people” Mikey stated in awe at the thought before Ralph through one of the terrapins nunchucks at his forehead while he hissed rubbing over the sore spot

“Vampires aren’t real idiot” The red clad turtle rolled his eyes as he placed is sais in their holsters at his hips

“You don’t know that! What if they could be hiding around us in plain sight” The youngest brother dragged as the group began to move towards the tunnels

“Well the news hasn’t report anyone sparklin’ like a disco ball ‘cause they’re in sun and these bites that people are getting aren’t turning them mad so I think that answers that pretty well” The raging turtle resorted with an eye roll as Mikey sucked his teeth

“Can you both be quiet!” Leo hissed as they quickly traveled through the tunnels the last thing they need was Splinter to hear their conversation bouncing of the metal as they traveled to the surface somewhere they were indeed not supposed to be

Soon enough the group was traveling over the roof of buildings watching over the streets of New York they weren’t as busy as they usually were but they were never empty

“Please, you’re taking too much” Donatello heard it first a small voice slightly whimpering followed by Leonardo as they alerted their brothers silently landing on the next roof close to an alley

“Shut up” A women’s voice erupted from the shadows and suddenly the noise of the first voice was gone the only thing left signaling life was heavy breathing

💌💌💌💌

You hadn’t had blood from the vein since you were around 220 it had been a while 146 years to be exact but even if you happened to be angry at the world for an unknown reason you weren’t stupid leaving a trail a bodies with bite wounds wouldn’t be ideal for laying low

You could’ve gave your victims some of your blood heal them up so they no longer had a mark to show for the attack but humans were idiotic and you didn’t need a baby vamp on your hands because they had found some way to die in twenty four hours

So you settled with this

You could feel different presences around you as you finally let up on the man who you had pushed against the wall tuning in on the heartbeats around and there were four not including the blonde in front of you but they didn’t sound human

Before you could comprehend a hand was on your shoulder crushing your collar bone you quickly gripped what you could make out as a three fingered hand throwing a packing kick to the things knee before swiping under its hold the wind whispering and whooshing behind you

Leonardo slightly faltered in his stance at the attack on his knee as a figure sped around him at a inhuman speed but it in fact was a human and he could feel string of his heart tug slightly but couldn’t think on it too much as Ralph called out to him

“Alright fearless that was your way hears mine” The red clad turtle stated in a gruff voice as you finally stood still in the middle of the alley that voice… it made your ears ring you couldn’t pawn on it long as you got swept off your feet your head hitting the concrete as the light post flickered so neither opposing sides could see each others identities and before the unknown creature could lay another hand on you you had your hand in the air before swiping it right as the being crashed into the the brick wall the sounds of trash bins falling filling the empty air

“What the hell” Ralph groaned quick to get back on his feet while Mikey stood beside him helping him up and was soon going back to the battle

No matter what the team threw at the unknown woman she was back up in an instant and seemed to be healing? Leonardo was sure he felt one of his katanas graze skin on her arm but he watched as the wound quickly mended itself together at a concerning rate

Whatever they were dealing with was not human

“I told you, I called it! It is a vampire!” The youngest brother cheered after coming from checking on the stranger along with Donnie the man was slightly bleeding from his neck and was experiencing some after shock symptoms but other than that was fine

“Mikey!” The other reptiles called as the youngest rolled his eyes mumbling about getting no credit before joining the fight with his brothers

Leo and Ralph were on their knees in front of the girl clutching their heads in pain as she held her hand out towards them and Mikey couldn’t help but realize she looked… human? other than her baring fangs and the prominent purple colored veins under her eyes her skin wasn’t paper white, she didn’t wear a cloak she wore… black jeans and a leather jacket?

“Donnie!” Leo called out groaning and gasping for air the pain going through his head was like a hundred needles stabbing at his brain is this how he was going to die?

“Sorry bro wrong turtle” Michelangelo grinned taking one of Raphael’s fallen sais before throwing it into the women’s shoulder blade as she let out a hiss and the orange clad terrapin was soon too on his knees in pain

Suddenly the light post flickered on and as You saw all three of the mutant turtles in front of you your invisible assault on the brain faltered as you looked at them closely your brain screaming at you to protect them, to touch them, to heal them.

You began to take a step forward before there was a cloth forced down on your nose and mouth and your face burned as you smelled the familiar plant clouding your senses

Vervain

You felt weak as you struggled against the rough yet warm embrace that held you down the plant was one of your very few weaknesses how’d they even know? Where did they even get it? As your vision became blurry, your face stung and burned, and you’re eyelids became heavy and soon you were limp in this familiar yet foreign embrace

The turtles watched as Donatello held a black cloth to the woman’s face and how she went limp in his hold they also watched as their brother stared at the stranger with a foreign care and something else they could quite figure out

Leonardo was the first one to get on his feet as he approached the pair something simply drawing him in and Donnie fought the urge to growl at his brother to get away as he subconsciously held the body tighter It hit then hit the leader like it did his brother as his mind screamed at him

Protect mate!

protect!

protect!

protect!

“It’s her” The terrapin whispered as he reached his arm out to touch her skin Donatello took a step back a low growl in the back of his throat as started at his brother with wild eyes

“Are you tellin’ me I ‘gotta share a mate with you idiots?” Raphael’s voice was deeper than it usually was his accent a little heavier as he stared at your limp body suddenly next to his brothers with some sort of anger at your unconscious state

“Dudes tell me you feel that too” Michelangelo questioned staring down at you and they could. The bubbling sensation in their plastrons, the protective nature screaming in their head, the odd feeling of the word spinning, and that nothing else no longer mattered

“We have to take her to the lair” The red clad turtle said suddenly ignoring his brother rabid animalistic gazes as he took a step forward to to get a better look at your features the skin around your mouth, nose, and chin slowly mended together itself together at a way slower rate than it was before Leo took note standing by his brothers side

“That herb, that’s her weakness. Donnie what Is that?” The leader questioned now inspecting the black cloth in his hands it didn’t burn or hurt him like it did you

“It’s an oil I made from a plant called Vervain, it’s a strong natural sedative. I figured if we did actually come into contact with an animal than it would be easier to put them down than tackle with it” Leave it to the purple clad turtle to think of every scenario they could be in

“What the hell are you doin’? It’s burning her idiot” Raphael growled now grabbing his brother scaled wrist as he went to sit the cloth back on your face and Leonardo snatched his hand away before responding

“We need to keep her unconscious until we get to the lair. I don't know if you're aware but she's not human or did you forget how she had you on your ass?” The leader rarely swore and it made the hot head get defensive but he was unusually uneasy

His mate was the one who drank blood from civilians.

His mate was not human.

His mate was not just his mate.

“Oh and she didn't have you on your knees begging like a pussy?” The red clad terrapin sneered as the two brothers stared at each other intensely nostrils flaring

“Guys we need to get her to my lab I don't care how we do it but we need to do it quickly” Donnie nugged Leonardo and Mikey tugged on Raphaels arm pulling them away from each other and the leader went to approach the blonde haired male who sat next to a trash bin with a newfound terror in his eyes softly shaking

“Do not tell anyone what you saw tonight. If you do, we will find you.” The reptile stated darkly after making sure the man was fine to walk and had a sense of surrounding

Soon the turtles were back on top of roofs the night winds grazing their scales as they jumped from one building to another quickly keeping Donnie infront as he held your unconscious body in his arms

When the group reached the manhole they were quick to run through the tunnels with silent feet and what would've been and fifteen minute walk to get to the lair was a five minute run as landed silently in in the dojo tip toeing to keep their Sensei unaware of their presence as they safely made it into Donatello's lab

“What are we gonna do to hold ‘er? She’ll just run again if we don't have ‘er held down” Ralph stated and for once Leo agreed while Mikey stood above your unconscious figure laying on Donnies bed, you were so beautiful, nostalgic even. He felt the strongest urge to protect you, the weight in his chest was empty, he felt complete.

You couldn't get away, you couldn't leave them and they just got you.

“What if we tied her down to a chair? You know how they do in those interrogation scenes in the action movies!?” The terrapin said suddenly causing his brothers to look at him pondering

“It's a good idea but, if she can push over Ralph and Leo like she did back there than ropes would be a piece of cake” Donnie shook his head slightly meeting his older brother's eyes as Leo spoke

“Do you still have some of that oil you made?”

💌💌💌💌

You felt your mind drifting in and out of consciousness as the voices around you suddenly went silent you blinked the fuzzy feeling in your brain away as your eyes open vision blurry and you began to take you hand to rub at it to be met with a searing pain around your body if you weren't up before you were now

You roughly thrashed around you restraints Vervain laced ropes clever you had to admit you felt too weak to break out of the chair you were strapped do

“Woah trouble slow yer roll there”

“Please don't hurt yourself anymore than you have ”

“Just relax Angel cakes you're all good ”

“We're not gonna hurt you”

It was pretty ironic that this..mutant tortoise in front of promised you such thing as your flesh repeatedly burned and healed itself

“Let me go” You hissed baring your fangs as purple veins traveled underneath your eyes and your once y/e/c eyes were now replaced for pitch blackness you fought the warm feeling in your chest that was pulling you to these… things

Donatello and Michelangelo watched you in curiosity in this weak state you resemble more of a shaken scared animal then whatever being you were taking on four mutant turtles in the alley thirty minutes prior suddenly the brothers all watched as Leonardo dropped to his knees in front of you staring you dead in your pitch black eyes

The feeling of a tug was no longer there as the feeling now pushed you roughly into this unfamiliar yet certain embrace and the veins under your eyes slightly faltering before you looked away from the Leaders gaze

You were fighting it he though amusingly

He took his hand bringing it up to your face to force you to old hold his gaze ignoring the hiss that erupted from your throat instead just steadily keeping your gaze and finally his brothers took note of what he was doing and followed in his steps coming Into and eye level position with you

Your pupils dilated, the veins vanished from your eyes, and your fangs retracted as you looked at all of them taking it in as a small voice in your head injecting familiar words into your brain

protect them

hold them

heal them

It was never the same from that day but you were… whole, complete.

💌💌💌💌

You were fighting over twenty foot soldier by yourself as the boys fought underground you were simply holding these ones off quickly discarding each that couldn’t seem to get a hand on you sweeping through the grounds with a speed quicker than light

You swept your foot under a masked man making him lose his balance falling on the concrete with a sickening crunch the last small group of soldiers came sprinting towards you and you fought the urge to roll your eyes

You held your hand out as they dropped to their knees some screaming in pain as others groaned and whimpered you held your hand there for a second before turning your wrist quickly as quaking cracks erupted the air around you as bodies fell to the floor limp

You turned on the heel of your boot as you went to open the manhole to the sewer two colossal vans surround both exits of the alley releasing large herds of assassins and soldiers yelling out random codes if Mikey or Raph were here they would squish or poke your cheeks because you ‘looked mean’

Not because you were a vampire over 300 years old and a menace to society

“Any last words freak?” One of the most formal dressed soldiers called out to you surrounded by a dozen more the whole herd pointed their assault rifles at you the red beams bouncing of your clothes you figured he was Lieutenant a weak one but a lieutenant nonetheless

“I do actually” You stated simply and you could see it took some of them back while you held your hands up in the air as a surrender as they waited for you to speak

💌💌💌💌

Raphael pulled himself and April through the crushed rocks and debris that had collapsed from the ceiling as they began to approach the end of the makeshift tunnel an ear piercing scream shook the gravel under their feet the red clad turtle smiled slightly before continuing his path as the brunette shakily stood in her spot

“Shouldn’t someone go help her” She questioned with a concerned look on her face as Ralph turned to look at her smirking before shaking his head before beginning to pull them the rest of the way out

“That’s a battle scream princess you know that out of anyone, nothing worried about” The terrapin knew if you were next to him you would definitely probably kick his ass for calling someone else one of your pet names but how he loves how you glared

April slightly shuttered at the thought to put it in a short term you didn’t get off on the right foot, you hated her when you first met to put it in the most appropriate words she could

💌💌💌💌

You fled around buildings at a inhuman speed looking for the four brothers you went down to the lair and hadn’t found them there Splinter how ever was wide awake and was the face you were met with when you hopped down from the tunnel so now here you were speeding from rooftop to rooftop trying to find the terrapins

“That guys gonna be drinking out of a sippy cup for months!” You listened closely around a mile away you could hear Donatellos voice tracking through the air over the voices, cars, and overall noise of New York

Inhuman speed and hearing just another benefit

“That’s what I’m talking about brother, shadows in the night completely unseen” Was the last statement you heard before a camera flash fluttered across the roof maybe catching your frame in the corner

You didn’t wait before in a blink in an eye you were in front of the girl taking her by the collar of her jacket railing over the roof dropping her onto the hard ground

“You think it’s okay to take pictures of people because they look different from you little girl?” You questioned as the brunette shook slightly in terror watching as your pupils dilated eyes turning pitch black while veins crawled actively underneath your eyes

“花/Hana” Leonardo tried softly sitting a three fingered hand on your shoulder as you snapped around to look at him giving him a soft hiss standing up to your full height from crouching over the girl which didn’t look like much compared to the over six foot turtle (flower)

“You said no more secret patrolling” You stated darkly walking towards the turtle with a slight threat in your step as he backed away the brothers winced they knew they weren’t safe either

“I kno-” The blue clad turtle began

“You all said if you patrolled again you would tell me first” You hissed again jabbing your finger into the leaders plastron as he chuckled nervously

“Listen trouble, we didn’t mean for it to happen like this were sorr-” You were in front of the red masked turtle with a blink of an eye April watched as you practically teleported in front of the turtle with a speed she couldn’t quite comprehend as a human

“Are you sorry because you did it or sorry because you got caught?” The brunette had a slight fear for the turtle beings you all knew each other no doubt as she watched the most buff turtle nervously laugh under your rough gaze

Raphael didn’t have time to respond as you were back in front of her dragging her to her feet and she could see the peak of your fangs as you spoke

“You are going to leave, and you aren’t going to tell anyone what you saw tonight. If you do I will find you” You were back in front of her now looking her directly in her eye’s pupils dilating as April let the feeling of her body take over she didn't have a say a foot forced one in front of another as she came back down the latter she came from beginning to walk the streets of New York

“Did you have to compel her?” Was the last thing the brunette heard as she began to walk home

💌💌💌💌

The pair made it out the tunnel as Raphael told the woman to stay put as she hid in Donatello's lab peeking from behind the door watching as the red clad turtle run off to go help his brothers

Leonardo attempted to go assist Splinter but he was soon stopped in his tracks as a small group of foot soldiers tased his scaley body as he spoke in soft groans falling to the floor at the harsh electrical impact shouting for his brother

“Hang on Leo, I'll be right there!” Donatello wanted to help his brother in the moment her really, trull did but it was a bit difficult when he was swinging his Bo-staff blocking bullets from assaulting his body as at least four different foot soldiers shot at him Raphael finally emerged from the shadows taking two of the men dressed in all black knocking their heads together holding out a hand for his brother

April watched as Shredder began gaining gaining the upper hand on Splinter throwing the rat on top of the dojos platform slowly strolling towards him steel claws slicing through the thick air that fell over the lair

Adrenaline pumping through the news reporters veins as she gripped and pulled on the handle on one Raph's sais that had gotten stuck in a wired basket before sprinting towards the armored bot like man stabbing him in the control system on his back as it sparked from the impact he turned around quickly

“You stupid little girl” The deep robot like voice degraded taking a threatening step towards the girl

“April!” Splinter called out quick to get back on his feet wrapping his long tail around the brunettes frame throwing her out of the dojo into safety as she landed with a whimper at the newfound pain in her ribs and forearm stumbling behind Donatello's steel desk out of the open

“Sensai!” Leonardo shouted sprinting towards his father as the rat landed near a concrete bared gate with a thud

“No, my sons stay back!” The mutant rat crawled to the small lever on the wall dropping the gate the terrapin began hitting his katanas against the bars watching as his father figure got dragged away by a metal fist before he scrambled loose limping back toward the gate

“NO,”

“Save yourselves!” He croaked

“Sensai, Dad! Dad! What are you doing!?” The blue clad turtle cried out

“Hide!”

💌💌💌💌

You watched as the turtles struggled to get the bar gate open from blocking the dojo you rushed over quickly holding your hand out raising it with a strain as the makeshift door slid open

They all looked back at you and could’ve sighed in relief they knew you could hold your on but as your mates they were always worried

The group of terrapins rushed in as their father was held in front of them shoulders slumped breathing shallow and irregular the only sign of life was pleading look in his eyes for them to run, to get away from here

“Drop you weapons or your… father dies” The gruff robotic like voice spoke into the air pausing in a moment of disgust as foot soldiers surrounded them

Just as the turtles were about to abandon their arms of defense a voice spoke out into the open

“You let them all go, or I’ll kill myself.” You stood above the railing looking down on the Dojo as the attention shifted towards you including shredder as his head turned with a metal shriek

“Y/n!”

“What the hell are you doin’!”

“Please!”

“No!”

To put together your statement you had a piece of wood from a broken leg chair directed in front of your heart and as you stepped forward a little into the light Donatello noticed the blood continuously seeping through your clothes

Why the fuck weren’t you healing?

“We both know what I am, that’s why some of your men have wooden bullets?” You questioned even though it was more of a statement and the terrapin’s stomachs dropped with nausea

you could only be killed with wood piercing you heart if one of the soldiers had just a few extra seconds then…

“We also know that I’m stronger than anyone in here so… you can get the turtles with me hunting you down, and not stopping until I’m tearing you apart or you can leave them and take me on your side” You couldn’t meet your mates gaze it would tear you apart so instead you looked dead into the black shield where the man’s eyes were supposed to be

Shredder dropped Splinter from his cold grasp and the turtles immediately began to protest as Raphael was quick to step forward two foot soldiers were quick to turn on their tasing wands with a threatening crack

Shredder suddenly jumped onto the platform above landing in front of you with as the ground trembled beneath you dressed in all silver armor he stared down at you and you made sure to hold his gaze as he held up his cold hand up to you face as his knives rested under your chin and you dropped the makeshift stake from your hands

“Turn it off, no further harm will come to them” He stated gruffly almost as if he was trying to comfort you he had done his research on your kind it was difficult and took years of critique but he’d mastered how to build up and break down your species you knew what he wanted Shredder didn’t have many things but he did have his word

“So, Turn it off.” He repeated

“No! 花/Hana” Leonardo struggled against the grip of four foot soldiers as they tased his plastron and you breathed in a shaky breath closing your eyes feeling tears slip down your cheeks as memories of all you together flashed through your mind (flower)

“Fuck! Princess don’t do it!” Raphael groaned out a yell on his hands and knees his figure jerking as shock waves spread through his body

“Please dove!” Donatello deeply whimpered probably getting the worst of it all as he shook at the taser on his shoulder a little too close to his neck

You opened your eyes and the assault on the turtles ended your expression was lifeless, like a never ending void that went on and on, that you couldn’t get out of.

“No” Michelangelo whispered breathlessly you were without your emotions, without a humanity.

You jumped from the platform into the main room of the lair taking a few steps forward before swiping your hand to the right in front of your body making foot soldier go flying some landing with sickening cracks as you went to stand in front of the turtles

“If you get in my way, I’ll kill you all myself” Leonardo watched as something lit in your eyes before it quickly died down to a nothingness

Shredder watch you with a slight… curiosity he wouldn’t allow you to kill terrapins that was simply against your deal but your emotionless state amused him

“Take care of your master” He stated gruffly and you held onto the silver armor before you were gone zipping through the lair and suddenly there was no trace of you Shredder included

“Fuck!” Raphael screamed into the empty air throwing the closest thing next to him which was a wired basket and hit the wall bending the metal

“Sensai, dad” Leonardo along with Donatello crawled over to the mutant rat who lied down on the floor in defeat pink tail slightly swaying against the floor with light ‘thumps’

“Please don’t do this, tell me what to do” The leader sniffled watching as his teacher, his protector in early years of life, his father seemed to crumble in his hold

“A little beating never stopped this old rat” The older mutant wheezed out while the purple clad turtle looked him over with his goggles a few cracked and bruised ribs wouldn’t be enough to put down Splinter and Leo and Donnie chuckled watery hearts still heavy

“You all need to go put a stop to the Shredders madness and rescue your mate” He stated carefully and all of the brother tuned in listening

“We can’t just leave y-”

“I’ve never informed you all of this because I was in… denial, self loathing even.” The rodent cut off the blue clad turtle and he knew that was a warning so he stayed quiet watching as he slowly raised his body to sit up

“When I was researching about the intertwining of souls I studied that the bond meant more than life itself. I was angered for a short time as your protector. It was… sore how once you found your mate that you would figure you all no longer needed me but then I was at peace knowing that a beings soul was yours to protect and vice versa. I could die tomorrow and as long as Y/n is unharmed you will all be fine and whole” The rat occasionally stopped in the middle of sentences to breathe in sharp breathes as the brothers listened closely water lines slowly filling including Raphael who stubbornly wiped it away

“What are you sitting around waiting for!? Go on now, if my daughter isn’t home by nightfall you all will be sent to the hashi!” Splinters tail threateningly swiped at their feet while Michelangelo laughed brightest out of them all as they began to run to the exit tunnel

Leonardo looked back to see April now at Splinters side as they helped each other with wounds and soon he was out of lair into the world

“Wait, I’m coming with you!” The brunette panted behind the four mutants standing in the alley

“Absolutely not it’s dangerous, and you’re hurt” The leader in blue immediately denied their mate wasn’t in a good headspace hell their mate didn’t have a sense of humanity last thing he needed was no be worried about another body to look after

“It’s a sprain light fracture at most and I have a ride it’s broad daylight how are you gonna get there without being seen?” She stated stubbornly and Ralph tried to cover a chuckle with a poorly concealed cough

“Fine. But you stay in the car”

💌💌💌💌

“Figuring the turtles will come to rescue Mrs Hamato-” Eric Sacks stood in front of you as you watched him walk through the lab going over the plan for the fourth time in a little less than an hour

“It’s Y/l/n I’ve said for the third time now stop threading on my patience Eric respect your elders or I will make a meal out of you” You we’re in front of the man in a blink of an eye hand wrapped around his throat at a bone crushing grip the man weakly nodded before you dropped him out of your hold and Shredder chuckled darkly in amusement while you went to go stand next to him

“We capture the turtles, take some of their blood. If it looks like you’re taking too much from them… I will end your life capeesh? Wonderful” You sarcastically smiled stepping out of the lab into the hallway

“If your emotions happen to get in the way of this, the deal will be off” The heavy metal softly shrieked in the quiet air as Shredder stood behind you and you sighed in annoyance

“I think what you fail to realize is when I turned off my emotions my humanity went with it I don’t feel mad or sad or anything” You briefly spoke before walking out of the man’s sight

💌💌💌💌

“Ram the gate” Raphael interrupted Verns ranting of course Aprils ride was a dweeb who talked their ear off nervously the whole car ride as the brothers began to get in position

“Ram the gate? This channel six propert-”

“I said ram the gate!” The red clad turtle yelled as the brunette man winced pressing his foot on the gas as the wood broke in piece against the van April and Vern who sat in the front seat ducked from the bullet breaking the windshield flying past their temples making a sharp turn running over some foot soldiers in the process

The turtles burst through the side of the Van Leonardo taking care of the few foot soldiers in front of him alone as the rest of them watch the terrapin flip through the air kneeling when he was done as Raphael rolled his eyes as they moved through the building

“Feeling flashy today Fearless?” The red clad turtle grunted out sarcastically settling to use his fist instead of his Sais and the leader shrugged with a small smirk on his face

“Watch he’s gonna do his Batman voice!” Mikey laughed handling his nunchucks lightly as they caused damage and destruction

“I watched that movie once!” He exclaimed as they all rushed through door they came into contact with four glass cages and the sound of heavy metal hitting the floor

“So we meet again turtles, the cages are for you” The bot stated dark jerking his arm down to reveal a claw full of knives and swords and Raph and Leo immediately took their swords from their holsters charging at the shredder and they quickly landed on the floor below

As Mikey and Donnie went to follow your whimper stop them in their tracks as they quickly looked around to finally spot you curled in a corner a stake plunged deeply into stomach as the pair ran over crouching over to your aid

“Donnie, Mikey, please.” You whimpered and their heart broke straight down the middle as you gripped onto the purple clad turtles forearm whispering something incoherent as he leaned his down to listen to you better suddenly you elbow connected to his jaw as he landed less than a few feet away from you stunned before scientist were quickly tasing him making sure he wouldn’t get up

“Jeez Angel cakes that was a low blow” Michelangelo was quick to get on his feet dodging the chair you tried to smash over his head as you quickly stood up snatching the stake out of your stomach dropping it to the side as your skin mended together healing itself

“Come on babe please don’t make me do this” The orange clad turtle pleaded as you hissed at him fangs on display, eyes pitch black, veins crawling under your eyes

“Fuck” He muttered to himself placing his nunchucks in their place on his belt ready to try to hurt you as least as possible even though he knew you could take it

Mikey along with Donnie were the fastest on the team with their more lanky and thinner figures they still however we’re not faster than you as Michelangelo tried to block a good amount of your hits until a sudden kick to his plastron had his stance faltering

You finished the fight with jerking your neck to the left as the youngest turtle slid in front of the scientist and was quickly held in the glass cage

The two weakest were out the way two more to go

You jumped down from the railing landing in front of the two blue and red brothers who had an upper hand on the Shredder they suddenly look towards you Raphael’s assault on the metal armor slightly faltering

“Miss me?” You mocked sweetly before taking a dagger from your boot throwing it to hit Leonardo’s shoulder if he had stood in place for a second longer Shredder took this as an invitation to to kick Raphael’s plastron from his position on the floor as the two were back at it

Leo had charged at you throwing you under all of his body weight he knew you easily lift him but it was a good distraction as you struggled under him before finally flipping positions as you straddled his waist throwing direct blows to his jaw

The blue clad turtle took you by your hip before flinging you off of him as you landed a few feet away you were a little slower than usual and not using your powers as much and the leader realized you were getting tired you were a heretic usually even if a vampire was witch before they transitioned they lost all of their magic but you were a siphon witch and now that you were a vampire you siphoned the energy from yourself

So it wore you out a little more when you used your magic and Leo couldn’t call the last time you had a blood bag which you had substituted from living people

“I told you to stay out of my way” You stated darkly holding a hand out as the leader dropped towards his knees groaning slightly

“Never, not while you like t-this. We’re always gonna be there for you” You through the terrapin up towards the ceiling dust and debris falling towards the ground as he landed with a harsh ‘thump’

“Shut up” You hissed swiping your hand through the air as he landed back on the floor above crashing into a cage as you stood in front of him moving your fingers to put the broken glass back in it place

“Raphael!” April screamed as she watched shrewder gain the upper hand on the hot you quickly sped to one of the now filled canisters sitting it in its brief case before you were out of the building

“Little girl” The man tainted darkly turning to look towards the brunette before Raphael stabbed his metal chest plate earning his attention back

“Focus on me” He grunted and would soon wince at the decision of words as he held onto the metal armored leg while Shredder began to slug his jaw repeatedly

“Donnie! Donnie!!” April screamed through the thick glass banging her hand against it roughly the fight or flight feeling pumping through her veins to heavily to wince at her sprained wrist as the mutant terrapin finally looked up at her glasses slowly sliding down his face

“What do I do!?” She questioned desperately as the turtle muttered something incoherent she pressed he ear to the to hear him better

“What!?”

“Adrenaline” He muttered his head slightly lolling forward as she rushed to the machines harshly tapping on the plus button for the adrenaline stimulation

Raphael struggled underneath the weighted pressure on his shell he could it creaking and cracking underneath the weight of Shredders foot as he finally fell from his knees and hands to his stomach before Vern turned away running towards April as She banged her fist against the machine

“GET UP!” She screamed anguished just beige the three turtles gasped at the air returning to their lungs Leonardo not as affected as he was last to get trapped

The turtles broke out of glass too much energy in their system to simply stand still as they flipped and ran in circles uttering and babbling nonsense

“OH I FEEL REALLY GOOD RIGHT NOW”

“DO YOU FEEL EXCITED IM SO EXCITED”

“I FEEL LIKE CLEANING, WHO WANTS TO CLEAN THE DOJO!? ILL CLEAN THE DOJO!”

“ENDORPHINS? ENDORPHINS!”

“WE HAVE TO GET RAPH!”

“RAPH!”

“RAPH!”

They turned ran into the railing causing it to cave under their weight making them fall to the next floor but they payed it no mind getting right back up helping their brother to his feet while they kept repeating the same question as he groaned to a stand

“ARE YOU OKAY!?”

“YOU ALRIGHT!?”

“YOU OKAY!?”

The terrapins explained to their brother why they had to go to the finishing each others sentences as they ran around him in circles

“Come on let’s do it for Sensai and Y/n” He stated deeply running out of the building his brothers hit on his tracks making up their on little game of ‘who can catch raphie first?’ he rolled his eyes at it but figured it would tire them out a little so he kept his legs moving

💌💌💌💌

The brothers made it on top of the building as You stood next to Shredder clicking the keys on the keyboard to initiate the toxin for release over New York

You didn’t take a second glance as Shredder turned skeins facing all four terrapins and it could’ve pulled a groan out of him

“Buy me some time… You break the deal and I’ll kill you” You stopped the armored man before continuing your journey of hacking through the systems

“cowabunga!” Michelangelo exclaimed as the turtles ran at Shredder before they were quickly kicked and put down to kiss the floor as Leonardo stood in front of him and he pulled his katanas from his back before nodding as the pair ran towards each other

Shredder slammed the leader on his shell getting a stomp on his plastron before attempting to throw a punch to his jaw the blue clad turtle dodged the hit repeatedly before blocking his face with his katana’s as the steel clacked against each other before the steel made man took him roughly by the shell throwing him off the side of the building

Donatello was next as he held his staff out and Shredder took to blades from each of his hands before putting them together to make double bladed wielding sword and the two clanked both weapons together but the purple clad turtle was soon to thrown off the building

Michelangelo was second to last trying to buy his older brother more time with his cracked shell as he swung his nunchucks freely using the the retractable blade on the side of them the stab into his armor and hop onto his back trying to weld the sharp steel back before he too was quickly thrown off the building with a speed high enough to get him whiplash

Raphael was last more of a distraction than anything as he wasn’t much of use alone parts of his cracked shell covered with duck tape he really wished you could heal him the moment and ended with the same fate as his brothers

Shredder turned back towards you walking back by your side as you set the timer for five minutes before the turtles were back on the building

Suddenly you were out of his sight with a blink of an eye but he paid it no mind as the turtles rushed at him one by one gaining enough momentum to push the armored man off the side of the building

“You know how to work this thing?” The red clad turtle stated gruffly as Donnie set his eyes upon to computer trying to find a place to start to decode it

“It’s a simple command line interface it hasn’t been used in fifteen years, I read about it online but this kind of thing takes time” He stated carefully typing on keys while Raphael watched as Shredder pull himself over the building onto is feet

“I’ll buy you some time” The red clad turtle along with his two other brothers blocked Donnie and themselves from being his blocking Shredders knives with their own defense weapon

“BAM! System disabled! Who wants Italian!? I’m buying! Tiramisu for everybody!” The purple clad turtle cheered soaking his hand flat down on the laptop before he was quickly cut off watching as Shredder called back his knives before throwing them back into the towers weak metal as the canister finally tipped over

“Fall in!” Leonardo shouted as the brothers rushed under the tower taking a corner groaning under the weight

“If the spire falls and the toxin makes a ground impact, it’ll contaminate a ten block radius” Donnie shouted out into the open trying to keep his mind off the weight on his shoulders quite literally

“What’s the odds of us stopping that from happening!?”

“Uhh 0.000000003%!”

“I’ll take it! Nobody moves no matter what.” The blue clad turtle stated finally as Shredder walked to the group Leonardo being his first target as he took a metal fist to the plastron without dropping his arms from holding the falling tower

Suddenly the armored man was pulled back with a force too strong to be human and the turtles could cry at the sight of you standing in all your glory holding a hand out as his metal shrieked against the floor dragging towards you as you put a foot on his metal chest plate

“You traitor” He said with a slight wheeze voice still deep and robotic like as you hummed before speaking

“I just don’t fancy the world going under a pandemic because of silly little chemical, you mortals truly amuse me… You will never be a god Oroku” You chuckled darkly and Leonardo realized you humanity still wasn’t on they’d have to fix that when this was all said and done

Without another word you jerked your neck as the man slid off the side of the towers and you approached the tilting towers and the terrapins felt the pressure leaving their shoulders as they watched you hold both of you hands out with a grunt holding the tower up putting back in place breaking the canister as the red air pressed against a sort of force field pressing back into itself before it finally distinguished

You dropped to your knees blood dripping from your nose as you panted heavily and the brothers rushed towards you bombarding you with questions touching you skin a hand was suddenly on your cheek before you were flooded with darkness

The brothers attentions snapped to April while she gasped loudly mutagen held in her hand as she had just watched the leader in blue snap your neck with a sickening crack

“woah, woah, slow yer’ role there. Vampire, immortal, can only die by a stake to the heart ring a bell by any chance? She’ll be up ready to kick my ass in an hour” Raphael questioned somewhat sarcastically before continuing with his infamous smirk on his face as the news reporters breath immediately slowed

“We gotta get out of here… Thank you O’Neil” Leonardo stated finally carrying your unconscious body in his arms and the brothers one by one said goodbye in their own way and the brunette watched as they finally jumped from one building onto the next the people on the ground below too focused on Shredders unconscious body to see the four mutants silhouettes gone into the light of day

She knew however they would see each other again

💌💌💌💌

“It’s been four days Donnie” Raphael huffed pacing back and forth as they all watched you on the nanny cam or vamp cam as Mikey called it you were tied to a chair shoulders slumped, vervain pumping through your veins, and slowly healing

“It’s tedious process Raph I’m trying to speed it up as most as we can” The purple clad reminded his brother pushing his glasses up on his face

The was the problem the process was too tedious and they all remembered the stages you had to go through so they could find a crack in your humanity

First they had to weaken you which is what called for the vervain pumping through your system like as a makeshift IV Then they had to cause you pain and it was hard for all of them but after multiple days seeing not doing so hot you all know where they were a little less reluctant to, trying to make you feel any emotion possible anger, rage, anything.

But you however figured out very soon that the brothers couldn’t actually do any serious damage to you around four hours ago

💌💌💌💌

You screamed out a groan in agony as Leonardo held the shutter to the window open letting the sun lay on your skin burning you while you struggled against your restraints squirming your daylight ring sitting on the table across the small room that kept you able to walk in the sun freely before finally shutting it waking to stand next to his brother

“You’re gonna thank us for this, once you turn it back on, you realize life of no emotions blew” Raphael stated gruffly before you cut him off

“You knew what else blew? Having to worry about your every move and baby you just because you don’t follow simple directions” That was a low blow but the red clad turtle didn’t let it show on his face as he nodded a sarcastic smirk on his lips as he rolled his eyes

There was a small silence before you were suddenly out of the chair opening the shutters letting your skin burn as you screamed Leonardo quickly rushed to fire extinguisher blowing the cold foam over you blazing body as you dropped to floor wheezing out a chuckle

“I’m the girl you love, I’m your mate. You wouldn’t do anything to actually hurt me you just proved that. So what do I really have to be afraid of?” You stated dryly as Michelangelo and Donatello rushed through the door having watched everything on camera and after the purple clad turtle made sure you were okay he dragged to your feet your arms behind your back before finally sitting you back in the steel chair sticking the needle connected into a tube that connected to the main IV and he made sure up dosage on how much Vervain solution pumped into your bloodstream as you let your head fall backwards sighing deeply and the four brothers left a room without another word

💌💌💌💌

Mikey now sat in the corner on the floor in the fan room as it was his turn to watch you for the night and when he heard you rattling against your chains he knew everything was in motion and just how he expected you were in front of him in a flash not as fast as you usually were with all the vervain in your system but it would do

You pulled him up to his feet and without another word he felt your fangs pierce his neck vision getting a bit blurry as you took blood from him and he soon fell to his on all fours before rolling on his back breathing heavily

“Oh come on I barely drained an artery. Come on get up I’m hungry, my heads fuzzy, I can’t think straight I need more.” You taped his side with your foot ushering him back to his feet as he continued to lie in his unmoving position

“Y/n stop” The orange clad turtle raised his head to lol at you for a second before falling back to the floor with a thud as you mocked for forgiveness

“But you’re so good” Just as you dragged the youngest brother to his feet ready to bight the jugular of his neck you were pushed against the wall your head slamming roughly against the concrete

“Hey! You’re cut off, done! Stop it!” The leader in blue growled in your ear as you struggled against his grip screaming at him for you to let him go

“‘Nough” Raphael stated loud enough for your attention to shift towards him as he shoved Donnie away from checking over Mikey’s body dragging his little brother to his feet as his head fell to the side eyes struggling to stay open

“Yer, actin’ like a little spoiled brat you know that? You think we cant punish you? Maybe not but I can sure punish him”

“You seriously think this is gonn-”

“Shut up! I’m done playin’ nice. Turn yer’ emotions back on Y/n or so help me God I will give ya’ somethin’ ta’ be sad about, I will kill him right in front of you” The red clad turtle cut you off gripping his younger brothers frame against his

“Raphael” Leonardo started

“Don’t Raphael me, she don’t love anyone? Fine prove it, and If I’m wrong what difference does it make? He’ll be outa my hair.” He dropped the orange clad turtle to his knees as he incoherently groaned and whimpered looking towards you for a response

“You’re bluffing.” Not a second later you watched as the red clad turtle twisted Michelangelo’s neck the sickening crunch bouncing off the walls as he fell limp to the floor Leonardo let you out of his hold and you gasped taking a step forward before rushing over to him scrambling to take a seat as you cradled his head you head in your lap

“How ‘bout now you feelin’ anything now? You angry I just turned your buddy into roadkill?” As you took quiet gasps running your hands over his scaled face having taken his orange mask of as sat on the floor beside you

“Or are sad that the guy that everybody loves is just a bag of bones? Trying to imagine when he was a little kid? Warm heart, big goofy smile, brightest laugh, biggest imagination” Raphael pressed as You choked out a silent sob while you pressed your forehead to Mikeys and the apologies spurting from your tongue would never be enough you thought

“My baby, my baby.” You sobbed hardly chest aching heart pounding in your ears and Raph crouched down to meet your eye level

“It’s a good thing he’s wearin’ this then right?” He lifted the youngest terrapins arm to bring in your line of sight and what was on it was a T-pad that Donnie had been working on and he pressed the button of the realistic ‘crunch’ that had sounded through the air

“You feel that weight lifting off yer’ chest? That’s joy ‘cause he ain’t dead, that’s emotion baby, that’s humanity” You took a sharp breath in letting the rest of your tears fall down and Leonardo dropped to his knees behind you wrapping an arm against your shoulder

“You’re okay 花/Hana everyone’s okay” The leader shushed you (flower)

“Why isn’t he waking up?” You sniffled hopelessly looking up towards Donnie as he sadly look down at you before doing the same as his brother taking a seat next to you pressing a kiss to your forehead

“Just a little blood loss he’ll be fine, you can speed it up if you want” He spoke quietly and quick you brought your wrist to to your lips biting into your flesh before you pressed it to Mikey’s mouth letting the blood coat his lips and slide down his throat

“I’m so sorry, I was just trying to protect you I didn’t mean for this to happen for the first time in centuries I was actually scared. I-I didn’t know what to do” Donatello read your vitals starting to come down you were just in a bit of shock it was expected

“Don’t be so harsh on yourself Angel cakes if it made you feel better that was totally hot” The orange clad turtle spoke from his position and rushed to hold him tightly his skin mended together the only thing left was smeared blood against his neck

“Can’t believe that plan actually worked, yer a little wuss you know that?” Raphael’s voice cracked slightly eyes watering as you stared up at him with a relieved watery look on your face and that’s all it took for the buff raging red turtle to join in the forming turtle pile around you

💌💌💌💌

WOO after about just under a week and a half of writing I’m done

*cracks neck*

time to take another three week break 😊

#tmnt #tmnt x reader #tmnt bayverse #bayverse turtles #leonardo x reader #raphael x reader #donnie x reader #donatello x reader #michelangelo x reader #april o’neil #bayverse tmnt #tmnt bayverse x reader #vampire #vampire!reader #vampire au #soulmate au #romance #fluff #angst #fem!reader #i love you #geegeeneedsmopping #thewriterg #2023

[dance-world]

Harris Bell - The Royal Ballet - photo by Kosmas Pavlos

Scottish dancer Harris Bell is a First Artist of The Royal Ballet. He joined The Royal Ballet’s Aud Jebsen Young Dancers Programme from the start of the 2018/19 Season and was promoted to Artist in 2019 and First Artist in 2023.

Growing up in Dollar, Scotland, he started ballet at the age of seven and went on to train at Elmhurst Ballet School and The Royal Ballet School, graduating through the school. Awards included Most Promising Boy 2013 at Elmhurst Ballet School and third place in the Lynn Seymour Award for Expressive Dance 2016 while at The Royal Ballet School. 

Roles in the School’s annual matinees included Didy Veldman’s See Blue Through, Frederick Ashton's The Two Pigeons, Robert Binet's Self and Soul pas de deux, Liam Scarlett's Third Movement and Aurora's Wedding in Anthony Dowell's adaptation of The Sleeping Beauty. 

He represented The Royal Ballet School at the Gala Des Ecoles 2017 performing the 2nd Movement from Kenneth MacMillan's Concerto at the Palais Garnier, Paris. He performed with the Company as a student in Christopher Wheeldon's Alice's Adventures in Wonderland and The Winter's Tale, Kenneth MacMillan's Manon, Frederick Ashton's Sylvia and Liam Scarlett's Swan Lake. 

His repertory with the Company includes Spanish dance (Swan Lake, The Nutcracker), Matvei (A Month in the Country) and roles in Like Water for Chocolate). He created a role in Untitled, 2023.

#Harris Bell #The Royal Ballet #Kosmas Pavlos #dancer #bailarín #ballerino #danseur #tänzer #boys of ballet #ballet men #dance #ballet

[kedreeva]

(same anon that asked about peafowl mating and courtship!) thank you for explaining it! i was always a bit confused on how things worked as i always see peafowl owners warn about not keeping peacocks together due to aggression but there will be other males present not being aggressive (preening each other, etc) and of course peachicks can end up boys too. does this mean mated peacocks are 'aware' of their offspring and don't see them as competitionlike other animals or is it more complex?

It's SLIGHTLY more complex.

They actually DO recognize one another as individuals; there was actually research done to understand the way peafowl Leks work, because they weren't quite like others. It was found that sibling males (appeared to) recognize one another even after being separated BEFORE hatch, even years later, even if they never socialized with their siblings, and we don't know how. Researchers took eggs from hens and mixed them into unrelated nests and the siblings STILL managed to find one another and establish displaying locations near one another. I've actually seen this in my own birds, as well; Joslin hatched and raised Aris, but Aris (who would fight god if he appeared in her territory) acts in deference to Aurora (her biomom) the same way she did to Joslin, as if Aurora were also her mom, despite NOT being raised by her AT ALL, and not even being raised in the same PEN as Aurora. So, there's a good chance that they do have some yet-unknown method to recognizing blood relations, even when not directly socialized with them.

The other complicating factor is that peafowl have a breeding season and it's a hard line breeding season. During the off season, after the males drop their trains and start growing new ones, they become different birds. Many people don't bother keeping everyone separated during winter, because the males don't fight then. They also don't fight the younger males until the younger males hit around 2-3 years old, sometimes as long as 4 years, when the younger males start getting heavier doses of hormones and trying to find a place in the hierarchy, preferably at the top. So, babies generally have a few years before they have to worry about any true hormonal aggression toward them.

#peafowl #asks #anon asks

[handoverthekawaii]

We Go Together | Homelander x You | Chapter 1

Taglist: @hom3landr

It’s a crisp spring day in New York. Parents all over town are probably scheduling park play dates for their little ones, and restauranteurs are likely dragging tables out of winter storage to take advantage of the sun and the breeze. Part of you wishes you could be at one of those restaurants, sipping coffee or nibbling on a bagel as the city moves around you. But, today, you’re on the move yourself — it’s Friday, the end of your first week as a full-time employee at Vought International.

Well, KIND OF a full-time employee, you think to yourself as your train pulls up to the platform. You’ve landed a job in the Hero Management Department, but it’s only a temporary position (“Just to fill in some unexpected gaps in Vought’s workforce,” the hiring manager had said, whatever that means.) But a temp job is still a job, and surely you’ll have enough time at the company to accomplish what you’re going there to do.

The rider seated next to you is watching the news on his laptop, without headphones of course. Since it’s not like you have a choice anyway, you halfway pay attention as the subway trundles toward Midtown Manhattan.

21 dead as protests erupt in the Middle East… Ecoterrorist group Viridi Aurora claims responsibility for Vatican blackouts… The headlines are pretty bleak, so part of you is relieved when the man switches over to VNN’s coverage of the Vought Hero Draft.

Before long, you find yourself standing on the sidewalk in front of Vought Tower. A security check and a crowded elevator ride later, you make it to your workstation just in time to clock in. The morning passes by quickly — you work on some travel reimbursement forms, then attend a sexual harassment prevention seminar alongside other new Vought employees.

You decide to make your move around three o’clock. All week long, you’ve been using your morning and afternoon breaks to roam the hallways of Vought Tower’s many floors. Yesterday morning you finally found what you’d been looking for: a simple white door in a sterile, featureless hallway.

“Personnel File Storage,” it says on the door in painted block lettering. And even though the door is warped and the lettering has started to peel, the door is secured with a deadbolt lock attached to a shiny, black keycard reader.

You’ve revisited the door multiple times since you initially located it, puzzling over how you might gain entry. Swiping your own keycard would be a horrible idea — even if the door opened, Vought security staff would know right away that you’d trespassed somewhere you weren’t meant to be.

But your walks have also led you past a keycard station in the IT Department’s warren of cubicles. It looks like an employee is intended to staff the station at all times, but you’ve never seen anyone there. With a little luck, you should be able to encode a keycard giving you access to the room, conduct your business there, and leave the card behind at the station before anyone catches on. How hard could it be?

So there you are, standing in front of “Personnel File Storage” with a freshly minted keycard in hand. Trying to steady your arm from trembling, you swipe the card through the reader — but instead of a click of the lock, instead you are greeted with a blinking red light. Access denied.

For a split second, you have no idea what to do. Did I fuck the card up? you think to yourself as, just for good measure, you swipe it again. Once again, access denied.

Maybe it’s the adrenaline coursing through your veins but, after the third try, your temper flares. “OPEN, GODDAMMIT!” you whisper to yourself as you kick the door in frustration.

“I doubt you can kick open that door wearing those shoes.” [continued in AO3]

#ao3 writer #fanfic #the boys #homelander #homelander x reader #homelander x you #the homelander #homelander x y/n

[evita-shelby]

The Knife

Cw: miscarriage, death, haunting, ghosts, murder, angst

Luca has been the Don of the Black Hand since that winter when he finished the last of the Shelbys off in the name of Vendetta.

Eva’s last pregnancy ended the same as the first began and she knew one day it would be her husband’s blood that stains her hands for all that he does. Sooner or later, karma would find them and take them to hell with their victims.

Time passes, her love for Luca proving to be weaker than the guilt she feels for what he did, for what they did.

She killed them as much as he did, Tommy, Arthur and Lizzie had been her kills. She had orchestrated their deaths even if Luca took the credit.

And now he would do the same to the Sabini clan.

“You look magnificent as always, maga.” Luca kissed her cheek, and she fought the revulsion she felt. He reeked of death now, it was there mingled with his cologne and aftershave.

It had not affected her so much in 1925, not when she was willing to walk into hell with him in the name of love. Then she had let it fuel her anger at God for taking their last baby.

But then the ghosts came, children of varying ages all with Shelby Blue eyes. They hid behind corners, in their room and always stood there covered in blood from their bullet wounds.

It got so terrible that Eva had taken up her old habits and let Brilliant Chang introduce her to opium, so much opium she’d nearly died in 1929 when the stock market crashed, and they barely survived the fall.

Eva had healed enough to pretend all was fine, even Luca had no idea that she longer felt as in love with him as before. He remained as he always had, loving and generous and utterly bewitched by her.

It is 1940, Leonardo turns eighteen and announced his engagement to Aurora ---who knows to fear Luca if she does not know why---before he is sent to train for the British Army. They hadn’t wanted him to, but the little boy who wanted to be the Don of New York and later the Don of London now wanted to be anything but his father’s son.

He wanted to be a swashbuckling hero or die before he became his father.

“I cannot look shabby at Leo’s engagement party, not when it falls on my favorite holiday of the year.” The witch said swallowing the guilt she feels for what she will do.

“Is Sabini getting a knife?” Luca asks with a smirk, remembering what happened last year.

“Yes.” Their guest of honor had been marked for death, he had not received a knife and was dragged behind a car until he was unrecognizable.

Even her parties have been corrupted by him, and she let him out of the love they had.

This time it is Luca who will not receive the knife.

When the party favors are revealed, he laughs thinking it is all a joke and she laughs too as she bites back the tears that slip and the pain she feels for having to do this.

Perhaps she still loves him, too much history and life were shared for it all to have died that night she tried to overdose at the opium den. Perhaps that is why she is choosing to die with him instead of telling him the Germans will bomb here tonight and everyone except them two will be home.

#luca changretta x eva smith #luca changretta x oc #juli's ides of march #incantatrice fic #evacore

[cheerycherrycandy-resurrected]

Ghoulette Appreciation Week 5

still behind but catching up!

Week 5: Comfort and Hobbies

Cumulus crochets to relax. When newly summoned Phantom struggles with fitting in, she extends this comfort to them with a soft little friend.

Hi yes I am unashamedly joining the Cumulus-crochet-ghoul train.

I’ve had Cumulus and Phantom being really good friends stuck in my head ever since @foxybouquet's adorable photobooth drawing of them, Lus seems like just the ghoulette to bring out the fun side of her shyer packmates, I totally see her as the goofy pack big sister!

Rating: General Content: slight hurt, much comfort Words: 1141

Cumulus's little comfort gift (context in the fic!), pattern here:

Oh and the blankets mentioned are real, they're just mostly back at my mum's house! I should ask her to send me reference pictures...

Read below or on AO3!

All the ghouls had hobbies. Some were more conventional, human sports and arts, while others were less so – Dewdrop and Ifrit claimed burning shit counted as a hobby. Cumulus was firmly in the more conventional camp: she spent her free time between rehearsals and Abbey duties crocheting. She'd made all manner of jumpers, winter hats for all her pack and, on the road between Rituals, a veritable mountain of blankets. It was a comforting activity for her, partly because it was a creative outlet that remained within her control, unlike her music, and partly because she was always cold. She had first learned from Mist and some Siblings of Sin who made plushies for the children in the Abbey nursery. She’d found the process of making little fluffy animals, monsters, and ghoul kits so relaxing, the methodical process occupying her frequently anxious hands, the repetitive counting soothing her racing mind.

Too many thoughts was something many of the ghouls suffered from, especially the newer summons. Their human forms seemed capable of both intense fixation and infinite distraction. Many new ghouls had developed anxieties over things they had never previously paid heed to. The mental pain of stuffing a strongly instinctual creature into a 21st century human body couldn't be overstated. How did humans cope with this every day of their lives? Many older ghouls chose to retire back to the pit just for some peace and quiet in their heads, the simpler life ghouls below could lead. Conversely, the often younger and more inquisitive ghouls found the topside world to be a land of endless fascination. Many a ghoul had had to be located, then dragged back long after dark from the farthest reaches of the Abbey grounds, after spending a day following every new sight and smell that caught their attention.

Phantom liked to watch bugs. That, along with their stick insect-esque mannerisms, had quickly contributed to their pack nickname. It was quite clear that the relative quiet of the Abbey grounds was their solace in the busy new world. Aurora, on the other hand, seemed quite content to roll with the new speed and intensity of everything around her, being incredibly outgoing and becoming fast friends with everyone. Despite their summonings happening so close together, the two ghouls couldn’t have had more different initial experiences topside. As Aurora continued to flourish, Phantom had become more withdrawn. This concerned Cumulus greatly, she remembered the feeling of drowning and being overwhelmed in her own thoughts, and felt protective over the lost little quint ghoul. They almost reminded her of the infants in the nursery, crying out for some comfort in a new and unfamiliar world. She could tell there was a sweet and loving ghoul buried beneath their many layers of anxieties. They were more than competent in rehearsals, but with less than a month until tour, Cumulus was worried they might get lost on stage amongst the strong performance personalities of the rest of the pack.

She knew Swiss had been trying to help, he was similarly infatuated by the new quintessence ghoul, although they appeared entirely oblivious to his affections. She continued to observe Phantom, trying to think of a way to comfort them. They seemed so childlike in some of their mannerisms, and likewise their taste in foods, that Cumulus started to wonder if they wouldn’t also benefit from a soft and cuddly friend like she and the sisters made for the children in the Abbey’s care.

But what to make for them? She couldn’t very well make a bug, despite their nickname: too many legs to be squishable. But what about a bat? They had clearly been interested in the nature documentary about them playing in the background of the den the other day. Cumulus thought back to what the older children liked best; velvety wings and a squeezable stress-ball belly? Sounds perfect. She picked out a few shades of purples, matching Phantom’s eyes, and set to work.

Cumulus had croched many things for her packmates in the past, especially blankets for her ghoulettes’ nests. From a brightly coloured affair for Sunshine, a garden of flowers for Cirrus (“I might not be an earth ghoulette but I can still grow you a bouquet”, she had said) to a pond of lilies for Mist and several more, the den was full of her brightly coloured creations. She’d tried to teach the others, with varying success. Aurora had almost immediately gotten herself in a giant tangle, somehow crocheting herself to the table leg. Cumulus quickly pivoted to instead teach her fingerknitting and how to use knitting dollies to make cords and hair ties. Sunshine had been a quick learner but ultimately preferred knitting, while Mist had been the one to teach Cumulus in the first place. As for Cirrus… Cumulus was still trying there. Each time she tried to teach her, Cirrus would end up in a tangle and feign dismay, begging Cumulus to help her out. She would guide Cirrus’s hands through the motions once more with strangely little resistance, almost as if her fingers did know what they were supposed to be doing, Cirrus exclaiming what a good teacher she was, and if she could show her just one more time. If Cumulus was a more skeptical ghoul she would almost think Cirrus was looking for an excuse to have Cumulus’s warm hands on hers for an extended period of time…

A short while later, the toy was complete. Cumulus sewed its small ears and features onto it, cooing at it's sweet little face. She caught up with Phantom as they were leaving rehearsals, waylaying them before they could slink off back to their room. If she had thought the ghoul was withdrawn before, this image was fully shattered when they threw themselves onto her in a hug that almost knocked her off her feet.

"Thank you Lussy, I love it!” they squealed into her hair.

"You're welcome, little bat!”

After this, Cumulus sensed she had gained a new shadow. Phantom had taken to following Cumulus around during rehearsal breaks, and she had tried to subtly include Phantom whenever possible so they would begin to open up more to their other packmates. It wasn't long before she caught them playing video games with Aurora, and giggling and blushing with Swiss in the den. Notably with the little plush bat by their side.

By the time they all headed out on tour, the world around Phantom had begun to slowly make more sense, and they had learned to ignore the competing voices in their head. The friendly young ghoul had come out of their shell more than Cumulus had dared dream, and she felt a small swell of pride at having even a tiny part in it, through the small stuffed bat that lived on Phantom's bunk shelf.

#ghoulette appreciation weeks 2024 #ghoulette appreciation weeks #the band ghost #ghost #nameless ghouls #nameless ghoulettes #cumulus ghoulette #phantom ghoul #ghost fanfiction #crochet #em writes

[nobodys-saviour]

Deepspace Messages

The (English) Deepspace Messages

—

Deepspace Tunnel

In 2034, a spacetime anomaly appeared above Linkon City. Bound by a gravitational force and filled with an abundance of barely detectable energy and matter, it raised many questions. From that point on, Earth started to see the emergence of alien creatures known as Wanderers. This event sparked curiosity throughout human society. Space exploration truly began in earnest, significantly advancing research in this field.

→ Chronorift Catastrophe of 2034

Fourteen years ago, with the opening of the Deepspace Tunnel, countless Wanderers invaded Earth and began attacking humans. Many lives were lost. Among the affected areas, Linkon City suffered the highest number of casualties.

Skyhaven

Skyhaven is an artificial floating island hovering near Linkon City. A Protocore serves as its primary energy source. It is home to the most cutting-edge research centers and advanced tech organizations such as the Deepspace Aviation Administration.

→ Deepspace Aviation Administration

Located in the tallest building on Skyhaven, it is an aerospace organization responsible for research, combat training, and space exploration. Has many flight facilities and is the world's most advanced military aerospace institute.

Protocore Syndrome

A unique disease caused by Protocores. There are different types, and they harm the human body in various ways. Currently, the known types are A, E, and Y.

The Arctic

An area blanketed with ice and snow most of the year. It is a very popular tourist destination due to its stunning aurora and silvery, frost-covered ground.

Simultaneously serving as the Earth's magnetic pole, it is frequented by Wanderers. Numerous research institutions and relevant military forces are stationed here.

→ Snowcrest

Nestled in the southern region of the Arctic is a little town, home to warm, sincere locals and a unique winter-themed culture. It attracts many tourists year-round and boasts a thriving tourism industry. It's a must-visit destination for any polar adventurer.

→ Mt. Eternal

In the northernmost region of the Arctic is a place perpetually covered in snow. Humans rarely travel to it, and energy fluctuations often occur due to its proximity to Earth's magnetic pole. This makes it a suitable location for many research institutions. There was a wide-scale Wanderer attack that resulted in many casualties. Linkon City dispatched several medical teams to participate in the rescue efforts at that time.

Ever Group

With its roots in biotechnology, Ever Group has become a large company in industries such as biotech, aerospace, Evol Energy, and international trade.

Philos

The celestial body α-P0159 was discovered via the Deepspace Tunnel. It's speculated to be the core of a star. While this core no longer reacts to energy, research suggests that traces of life may very well exist within its galaxy.

Using the most vibrant colors of Deepspace, the galaxy where α-P0159 resides responded to humanity's lifelong vision of the universe. Thus, it was named Philos, a word meaning "love."

#official.txt #← im saving all these on the blog so i dont have to open the game as much when looking for a clue

[tsunami-of-tears]

A Court of Shadows and Sunshine — Part Eleven

Azriel x Aurora (OC)

Summary: It’s the Winter Solstice and Aurora is enjoying the Night Court traditions with her family. We also have a rare Vanserra appearance. 

Wordcount: 1.6K

Warnings: the fluffiest of fluff, slight smut (foreplay only, mostly petting, no actual penetration on page)

Part Ten

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

Aurora

Solstice was upon you before you knew it - the passing of time had grown as hazy as the morning mist. 

Your days were full of training, with evenings spent loving up to your mate; getting cozy under blankets by the fire, tangled in sheets with strong hands holding you tightly. 

You barely stopped for long enough to notice the changing of the seasons and the growing chill in the air. 

————

“Do they truly do this every year?” you ask. 

It’s the morning of Winter Solstice, and you find yourself among your family, relaxing in front of the glowing fire. 

“Since they were boys,” Mor shakes her head, smiling fondly, “I swear they never grew up.”

You smile to yourself at the image of your mate and his brothers playing in the snow. You wonder how dangerous a snowball would be when wielded by an Illyrian warrior. 

You’re pulled from your daydream by a tall figure standing in the doorway.

The male steps forward into the living room, the warm glow of the fire seems to radiate from his flowing red hair. The brutal scar stretching from above his brow down to his cheek was a stark contrast to the ethereal beauty of his face. 

The male’s eyes drew you in - one of russet brown, and the other wholly gold and whirring as he casts it around the room. 

He was striking, but there was something familiar about him. Not in the same way your soul recognised your mate before you felt the pull of the bond. No, this was like seeing a childhood friend all grown up. 

Feyre stands, pulling the male into a hug. “Lucien, I’m so happy you could join us for Solstice.” She pulls back, holding Lucien’s shoulders as her eyes scan his face and she turns towards you with a warm smile. “I don’t believe you two have met. Lucien, this is Aurora, our latest Valkyrie recruit,” Feyre says with a wink at you. 

He bows gracefully and extends his hand to you. “It’s lovely to meet you, Aurora.” 

You curtsy in response, taking his outstretched hand. “Pleased to meet you too, Lucien.” 

Your eyes flick towards Feyre and Mor who are grinning at you wildly, they appear to be discussing something mind-to-mind.

Lucien arches a brow quizzically towards your High Lady. “Why are you acting strange Feyre? Do you have more cauldron-shattering news? Should I sit down?” 

Feyre’s smile drops ever so slightly as she says, “Nothing at all, I just missed my friend.” 

Lucien chuckles softly, “If you say so.” 

Everyone settles in again, Nesta and Mor joining you on the larger couch. Lucien sits poised on the smaller lounge while Feyre fills everyone’s glasses. 

Feyre pauses her toast as Elain enters the room with hesitant steps. Lucien’s eyes fall on her instantly and you can’t glean what his expression means - whether it’s joy or sorrow. You swear you hear him whisper her name. 

Elain smiles softly and takes a seat next to Lucien before pouring herself a glass. “What are we toasting to?” she asks. 

“To family,” Feyre answers, raising her glass. 

You send a wave of love down the bond as you raise your own glass. 

————

Cassian and Rhys look very pleased when they return from the cabin. Azriel trails behind them, looking a bit flat but his face noticeably lifts when he locks eyes on you. 

He beelines to the empty space next to you on the lounge, wrapping his strong arms around you and pulling you into his lap. His head falls to rest on top of yours. Your hands lay on his and you idly draw small circles into his skin. 

“I missed you today,” Azriel murmurs into your hair. 

“Me too,” you sigh, settling into his warm embrace. 

Feyre coos softly at your public display of affection, “You two are so cute.” 

You barely notice Lucien’s brows furrow briefly before straightening out again as he watches you and Azriel. 

“Who won?” Nesta asks.

Azriel lifts his head off of yours to respond gruffly, “Rhys.” 

“Someone was a bit distracted this year,” Cassian smirks.

“A bit? That was the most pathetic fighting display I've seen from you, Az. It’s not even fair that I won.” Rhys shakes his head in mock disapproval, but his smile is broad as he looks over at the pair of you. Your High Lord gives you a wink as your eyes meet. 

You turn towards your mate, giving him a guilty look. Your eyes asking a silent question, whether it was your fault he was so distracted.

Azriel sends pure adoration down the bond as his frown shifts into a grin. “I’ve decided I’m more of a lover than a fighter.” You squeal as he presses many sloppy kisses all over your cheek and the side of your neck.

“Ugh, get a room,” Mor groans.

“We have one,” you say, smiling as you lean further into your mate's loving touch. 

Lucien sighs and runs a hand through his long locks, “So much changes so quickly around here.”

————

As everyone grew weary and the day’s celebrations drew to an end, you winnowed back to your apartment with Azriel for the final festivity. You had agreed earlier to give your presents to each other in private, wanting to keep the special moment for yourselves. 

You look up at Azriel contentedly, “Today was amazing. Thank you for letting me be a part of it.” 

“There’s no one else I’d rather share it all with,” he says, kissing you on the top of your head. 

You stand still in your silent embrace, enjoying the peace that always comes when you’re together.

Azriel gives you his gift first. You pull firmly on the gold ribbon, untying the bow around the present before unsheathing it from the paper. 

It’s a book, brand new with golden lettering on the front. 

Your eyes scan the title, the book is about the history of yoga.

“This is from the Mortal Lands. How did you get this?” you ask, looking up at your mate with wonder.

“I have connections,” he winks at you. 

Your heart skips a beat as you flip through the pages, eyes breezing over the chapter titles. “This is perfect, thank you so much. I really love it.”

You give Azriel a soft kiss before reaching for his present. You gingerly hand over the small box, fidgeting with your now free hands as you watch him open it. 

He carefully lifts the lid, looking at your gift before meeting your nervous gaze with a warm smile. “I take it there’s a story to this?” he asks.

“That was my father’s wedding band. You don’t have to wear it like that if you don’t want to, but I wanted you to have it.”

Azriel arches a brow, the ghost of a smirk on his lips. “You want to marry me?” 

“Of course I do. And I will accept the bond too, but I’d like to have a traditional mating ceremony, surrounded by our family.”

Azriel breaks into the biggest smile you’ve ever seen on his handsome face as he picks you up and spins you around. You both laugh as he pulls you closer, your legs wrapping around his waist as he kisses you so deeply and full of love that you feel it all the way to your toes. 

He holds you tight in his arms and drops his forehead to yours. “You know, typically the male proposes to the female.” 

“My love, there is nothing typical about us.” 

You lean forward and kiss him. Your lips move with purpose, claiming his mouth, his body. 

Azriel kisses you back with just as much passion, desire roaring down the bond and setting your body ablaze. 

Your legs tighten around Azriel’s waist as his tongue slips past the seam of your mouth. You press even closer, as if you could become one being, one soul. 

You feel the soft mattress beneath your back as Azriel lowers you to the bed. His hands cage you in, holding the bulk of his weight above you. Your legs hold firm as he grinds into you with his hips. 

Azriel trails fervent kisses along your jaw, sucking the spot beneath your ear. A soft moan escapes your lips as he sucks harder, the trail of love bites left behind marking you as his. 

“There is nothing I want more than to be yours,” Azriel whispers against your flesh. “I want to let the world know. I’ll scream it from the House of Wind, all the the way to Spring and beyond. To marry you, would make me the luckiest male in the world.” 

You cup Azriel’s face as you take in his hazel eyes. “You are mine, just as much as I am yours.” 

You kiss him again, but slower this time. 

You take your time to memorise every inch of his mouth, the way his muscled back flexes under your touch, the growing heat between your legs. 

Azriel lifts himself up as you remove the layers of fabric between you, craving as much skin-on-skin as possible. 

He settles back against you, arousal pooling in your center as your bodies mould together. 

Azriel drags his length against you and your eyes flutter closed, every cell in your body aching for him. 

Azriel continues with the unhurried pace, indulging in every second. 

There was no rushing. Every stroke was calculated, intentional; with the goal of wringing as much pleasure from your bodies as possible. 

No, there was no need to race to the end; not when you had forever. 

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

A/N: AHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!! I wanna cryyyy! This is the *final part* before the epilogue. 

It’s been quite an adventure writing this, and I feel like I’m happy enough to end the story here. There may be opportunities to reprise these characters in the future, but they will be stand-alone bonus chapters. 

From the bottom of my heart, thank you to all who have followed along with this fic. I never expected anyone to read my writing. It started as a silly idea I had while daydreaming at the gym and turned into a greater exploration of my trauma. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to share this journey with you all, and for the friends I’ve made along the way. 

All my love, Shelbs ♡

Tags ♡ @mis-lil-red @nickishadow139 @lilah-asteria

Epilogue

#azriel shadowsinger #azriel acotar #azriel fanfic #a court of thorns and roses #azriel #azriel x oc #acotar fanfiction #acotar fic #acomaf #acowar #acotar #acosf #azriel fic #azriel smut #acotar smut

[tvrmoils]

     ✦       SABINE  BOGELOT         »       percetive  yet  cynical  thirty  year  old  biomedical  junior  agent  who  goes  by  she  +  her  pronouns  and  is  always  carrying  the  initial  of  her  late  mother  hanging  around  her  neck  .  born  in  portland  ,  oregon  ,  often  can  be  seen  nose  deep  in  any  and  every  of  her  lab  tasks  ;  training  overtime  at  the  gym  ,   even  when  it  is  not  necessary  ;  or  taciturn  and  busy  in  her  research  at  the  public  library  .  perceptive  as  a  cat  in  the  dark  ,  but  insensitive  as  a  numb  limb  ,  sabine  deeply  enjoys  afternoons  in  which  her  mind  is  quiet  enough  to  allow  her  to  read  ;  nursing  a  glass  of  pinot  noir  after  a  particularly  exhausting  day  &  lone  walks  under  the  rain  ,  drops  hitting  her  umbrella  in  a  soothing  rhythm .  chaotic  neutral  ,  aries  sun  &  biology  enthusiast  ,  she  identifies  as  a  lesbian  cis  woman  ,  has  the  terrible  habit  of  moving  a  pen  between  index  and  forefinger  in  a  maniacal  way  when  she’s  anxiously  focused  ,  and  has  been  part  of  the  mercy  organization  for  seven  years  .     ©

                    THREADS   .   WANTED  CONNECTIONS   .   AESTHETIC  .

⸺      ONE  ,        BASICS  .

full  name .         sabine  aurora  bogelot .         nicknames .         sab  ,  rory  ,  bean  ( brother’s  rights  exclusive  ) .         age  +  dob .         thirty  +  march  27th .         birthplace .         portland  ,  oregon .         residence .         apex  city  ,  washington .         gender  +  pronouns .         cis  woman  +  she / her .         s / r  orientation .         lesbian .         faction .         biomedical  junior  agent .          codename       :       agent  verbena .         spoken  languages .         english  ( native )  , spanish  ,  german  ,  dutch  ( fluent )  ,  russian  ( conversational ) .         significant  bonds .          jean - luc  bogelot  ( father  ,  deceased ) .   louise  bogelot  ( mother  ,  deceased ) .   tba  bogelot  ,  wanted  connection  ( brother  ,  alive ) .

⸺      TWO  ,        PERSONALITY  TRAITS  .

positive .         perceptive  ,  industrious  ,  resourceful .         neutral .         determined  ,  guarded  ,  witty .         negative .         short - tempered  ,  cynical  ,  insensitive .         zodiac’s  main  three .         aries  sun  ,  taurus  moon  ,  aquarius  rising .         moral  alignment .         chaotic  neutral .         temperament .         choleric .

⸺      THREE  ,        BACKGROUND  .

/ ! \   warning  for    :    car  accident  ,  parental  loss  ,  injuries  ,  death  ,  grief  ,  poor  coping  mechanisms  ,  nightmares  &  troubled  emotions .  readers discretion is highly advised .

warm  was  the  day  you  came  into  this  world  ,  despite  the  snow  falling  inclemently  the  night  before  ,  despite  the  winter  sun  that  was  just  a  trinket  in  the  sky  ,  it  was  warm  as  the  smile  that  grazed  your  father’s  features  when  he  cradled  you  in  his  arms  for  the  first  time .

you  had  a  happy  childhood  ,  one  you  later  new  you  were  lucky  to  have  ,  always  surrounded  by  tenderness  and  love  and  attention  and  an  annoying  brother  who  ,  five  years  older  than  you  ,  was  always  messing  with  your  blonde  ,  curly  hair  and  stealing  your  toys  ,  yet  too  watching  over  you  like  an  eagle  ,  ready  to  jump  in  front  of  any  and  every  possible  threat  aimed  at  your  tiny  being .

you  had  a  happy  childhood  ,  filled  with  colors  and  laughs  ,  an  annoying  older  brother  and  two  loving  parents  that  did  everything  in  their  hands  to  secure  that  happiness  .  until  they  weren’t  around  anymore .

it  happens  only  months  after  your  twelve  birthday  .  the  four  of  you  were  coming  back  from  one  of  your  football  matches  ,  buzzing  with  excitement  — because  your  team  was  finally  thriving —  when  the  lights  of  a  hovertruck  appear  out  of  nowhere   —   a  driver  who  had  run  a  red  light  ,  its  vehicle  impacting  right  against  your  father’s  side  .  he  died  instantly  and  your  mother  ,  despite  all  the  technologies  and  medical  advancements  that  composed  your  world  , did  it  at  the  hospital  .  nothing  was  the  same  after  that  night .

it  takes  you  three  months  to  recover  from  your  broken  hip  ,  and  later  you’d  realize  it  will  take  you  your  whole  life  to  do  it  from  the  loss  of  those  you’d  loved  the  most  .  but  at  least  you  still  have  your  brother .

he  promises  to  take  care  of  you  .  and  he  does  .  he  offers  himself  as  a  test  subject  for  mercy  ,  so  you  can  have  enough  money  to  do  as  you  please  ,  and  he  teaches  you  how  to  cook  and  how  to  bake  colorful  cupcakes  so  you  forget  about  that  injury  that  doesn’t  let  you  go  back  to  the  sport  you  adore  .  he  comes  running  at  night  when  you  wake  up  screaming  from  the  nightmares  and  hugs  you  until  you  fall  asleep  again  (  it’s  okay  ,  baby  ,  it’s  okay  .  it’ll  get  better  ,  he  murmurs  against  your  template  ,  leaves  a  kiss  there  ,  soothes  you  caressing  your  hair  .  the  next  morning  he  makes  you  pancakes  for  breakfast  ) .

he  has  powers  now  ,  your  brother  .  and  he  uses  them  to  make  you  laugh  and  have  a  good  time  that  luckily  will  become  good  memories  .  and  they  do  ,  because  on  those  moments  ,  for  an  instant  ,  you  believe  him  when  he  says  giving  himself  to  mercy  wasn’t  that  big  of  a  sacrifice .

with  grief  and  melancholy  hugging  your  heart  like  a  warm  blanket  you  keep  growing  up  ,  and  you  get  used  to  it   —   to  the  heaviness  settled  between  your  lungs  that  later  becomes  barely  tolerable  ,  but  it  stills  stings  late  at  night  ,  and  every  time  you  find  the  sorrow  in  your  brother’s  eyes  as  he  stares  out  of  the  kitchen’s  window  ,  coffee  getting  cold  in  his  hand  .

sourness  and  resentment  taints  your  soul  with  time  ,  at  the  knowledge  the  man  that  killed  your  parents  and  took  away  your  life  walks  free  who  knows  where  ,  and  you  drop  everything  that  matters  …  because  you  have  a  new  goal .

medical  school  comes  as  a  surprise  to  no  one  due  to  your  brilliant  mind  ,  yet  surprise  arrives  later  when  you  join  mercy  .  and  he  asks  you  why    ( you  had  so  many  options  ,  bean  ,  why  this  ,  his  eyes  full  of  apprehension  bore  into  yours  ,  searching ,  pleading .  because  if  they  had  someone  as  good  as  me  ,  mom  and  dad  would  still  be  here  ,  is  your  answer  .  and  then—  then  silence ) .

warm  was  the  day  you  came  into  this  world  ,  despite  the  snow  falling  inclemently  the  night  before  ,  despite  the  winter  sun  that  was  just  a  trinket  in  the  sky  ,  it  was  warm  as  the  smile  that  grazed  your  father’s  features  when  he  cradled  you  in  his  arms  for  the  first  time .

you  had  a  happy  childhood  ,  one  you  later  new  you  were  lucky  to  have  ,  always  surrounded  by  tenderness  and  love  and  attention  and  an  annoying  brother  who  ,  five  years  older  than  you  ,  was  always  messing  with  your  blonde  ,  curly  hair  and  stealing  your  toys  ,  yet  too  watching  over  you  like  an  eagle  ,  ready  to  jump  in  front  of  any  and  every  possible  threat  aimed  at  your  tiny  being .

you  had  a  happy  childhood  ,  filled  with  colors  and  laughs  ,  an  annoying  older  brother  and  two  loving  parents  that  did  everything  in  their  hands  to  secure  that  happiness  .  until  they  weren’t  around  anymore .

it  happens  only  months  after  your  twelve  birthday  .  the  four  of  you  were  coming  back  from  one  of  your  football  matches  ,  buzzing  with  excitement  — because  your  team  was  finally  thriving —  when  the  lights  of  a  hovertruck  appear  out  of  nowhere   —   a  driver  who  had  run  a  red  light  ,  its  vehicle  impacting  right  against  your  father’s  side  .  he  died  instantly  and  your  mother  ,  despite  all  the  technologies  and  medical  advancements  that  composed  your  world  , did  it  at  the  hospital  .  nothing  was  the  same  after  that  night .

it  takes  you  three  months  to  recover  from  your  broken  hip  ,  and  later  you’d  realize  it  will  take  you  your  whole  life  to  do  it  from  the  loss  of  those  you’d  loved  the  most  .  but  at  least  you  still  have  your  brother .

he  promises  to  take  care  of  you  .  and  he  does  .  he  offers  himself  as  a  test  subject  for  mercy  ,  so  you  can  have  enough  money  to  do  as  you  please  ,  and  he  teaches  you  how  to  cook  and  how  to  bake  colorful  cupcakes  so  you  forget  about  that  injury  that  doesn’t  let  you  go  back  to  the  sport  you  adore  .  he  comes  running  at  night  when  you  wake  up  screaming  from  the  nightmares  and  hugs  you  until  you  fall  asleep  again  (  it’s  okay  ,  baby  ,  it’s  okay  .  it’ll  get  better  ,  he  murmurs  against  your  template  ,  leaves  a  kiss  there  ,  soothes  you  caressing  your  hair  .  the  next  morning  he  makes  you  pancakes  for  breakfast  ) .

he  has  powers  now  ,  your  brother  .  and  he  uses  them  to  make  you  laugh  and  have  a  good  time  that  luckily  will  become  good  memories  .  and  they  do  ,  because  on  those  moments  ,  for  an  instant  ,  you  believe  him  when  he  says  giving  himself  to  mercy  wasn’t  that  big  of  a  sacrifice .

with  grief  and  melancholy  hugging  your  heart  like  a  warm  blanket  you  keep  growing  up  ,  and  you  get  used  to  it   —   to  the  heaviness  settled  between  your  lungs  that  later  becomes  barely  tolerable  ,  but  it  stills  stings  late  at  night  ,  and  every  time  you  find  the  sorrow  in  your  brother’s  eyes  as  he  stares  out  of  the  kitchen’s  window  ,  coffee  getting  cold  in  his  hand  .

sourness  and  resentment  taints  your  soul  with  time  ,  at  the  knowledge  the  man  that  killed  your  parents  and  took  away  your  life  walks  free  who  knows  where  ,  and  you  drop  everything  that  matters  …  because  you  have  a  new  goal .

medical  school  comes  as  a  surprise  to  no  one  due  to  your  brilliant  mind  ,  yet  surprise  arrives  later  when  you  join  mercy  .  and  he  asks  you  why    ( you  had  so  many  options  ,  bean  ,  why  this  ,  his  eyes  full  of  apprehension  bore  into  yours  ,  searching ,  pleading .  because  if  they  had  someone  as  good  as  me  ,  mom  and  dad  would  still  be  here  ,  is  your  answer  .  and  then—  then  silence ) .

#⠀⠀ ⠀ 𝙵𝙸𝙻𝙴𝙳 ‎ 𝚄𝙽𝙳𝙴𝚁⠀ ⠀:⠀ ⠀agent ‎ file ⠀⠀»⠀⠀ introduction ‎ . #⠀⠀ ⠀ ❛ ⠀⠀⠀ i turned my sorrows into pure‎ ‎gold ⠀ ⠀ » ⠀ ⠀ 𝒃.⠀sabine ‎ . #⠀⠀⠀ ✦ ⠀⠀⠀𝒃.⠀sabine . ⠀ ⠀ » ⠀ ⠀ interactions ‎ . #⠀⠀⠀ ✦ ⠀⠀⠀𝒃.⠀sabine . ⠀ ⠀ » ⠀ ⠀ visage ‎ . #⠀⠀⠀ ✦ ⠀⠀⠀𝒃.⠀sabine . ⠀ ⠀ » ⠀ ⠀ insight ‎ . #⠀⠀⠀ ✦ ⠀⠀⠀𝒃.⠀sabine . ⠀ ⠀ » ⠀ ⠀ aesthetic ‎ . #mercyorg:intro

[princesssarisa]

What are the favorite Four Seasons of the Disney Princes?

Snow White's Prince loves spring. The perfect time to sing a serenade for Snow White under a blossom-covered tree.

Cinderella's Prince I imagine likes autumn, because that's presumably when the ball where he met Cinderella took place (what with the ripe pumpkin in the garden).

Prince Phillip I think likes spring, because the gentle sunshine and rosebuds remind him of Aurora's hair and lips, and it's the perfect time to dance with her outdoors.

Prince Eric I think loves summer – the best time for sailing.

The Beast/Prince Adam used to hate winter, because that was when he was transformed, but now he loves it, because it was also in winter that he and Belle fell in love.

Aladdin likes late spring or early summer. When you're homeless and have to sleep outdoors, it's better when the nights are warm, but when you have to spend so much of the day running from the law, it's better when it's not too hot.

John Smith (not a prince, but included because Pocahontas is an official Princess) likes summer, for sailing and exploring.

Li Shang (again, not a prince, but included to go with Mulan) I imagine likes spring, the best season for army training.

Prince Naveen also likes early spring, because it's the time of Mardi Gras.

Flynn Rider I'll assume likes summer, since that was when he met and fell in love with Rapunzel.

#disney #disney princes #favorite seasons #headcanon

[dailymothanon]

Alaska Railroad 🚂

Ok so. The Alaska Railroad was built in like 1903, and one of the trains that use the railroad is Hurricane Turn, which is the last flagstop train in the US! The railroad operates freight and passenger trains: the Coastal Classic, Denali Star, Glacier Discovery, Hurricane Turn, and Aurora Winter. They do event trains too, like the Easter Train, Fair Train, Hoodoo Choo Choo (Oktoberfest), Great Alaska Beer Train, Kid’s Halloween, and Holiday Train (Winter holidays) :>

I may or may not have decided to talk about the railroad cause I remembered the wooden train whistle my grandparents not grandparents had (like how people still call non relatives ‘uncle’ or ‘aunt’, but in my family it’s like ‘grandma’ or ‘grandpa’ cause they’re usually older than my parents but are really great friends with them) and I felt real nostalgic about their home :>

#Maybe I do like trains you never know #I also wanna draw Alaska with my grandparents’ home according to how I remember #It’s been so long since I’ve seen the place tho #wttt alaska #wttt #wttt fan art #wttt fanart #welcome to the statehouse #welcome to the table #ben brainard #wttt headcanons

[lex-the-flex]

Sleeping in Luke’s Cloak

A/N: A special gift for @acupnoodle who is literally giving me the best ideas out of thin air.

In the blink of an eye, he knew something was wrong. He could tell from a mile away. Even the sky could detect this sudden change. 

Running through the vast training course, Luke discovered your laser-sword amongst the various bamboo leaves and pieces of dried out stalks that littered the forest floor. 

Finding you laying on your side, he rushes to your side, only to realize that your skin started to feel hot, despite the weather being so cool. 

Carrying you back to camp, Luke would tirelessly give you two hundred percent of his attention. 

He prepares your favorite kind of green tea, cooks you (and Grogu) the best broth soup in the world with some steamed vegetables. 

Feeding you, however, would definitely be a challenge. 

A few hours after Luke brought you back to camp, you started mumbling and tossing in your sleep. Reminding him of his vision of Ben on Hoth, Luke knew he had to keep you as cool as possible. 

So with the use of his Force abilities, he collected some water from the stream, and poured it in a large wooden bucket that you carved. Removing the majority of your clothes, Luke had no choice but to keep you nude. Your temperature kept rising, and he was fearing that the fever was starting to take control of your actions. No matter how many times he tried to keep your skin cool, nothing seemed to work. 

At a loss of what to do, Luke knew he couldn’t leave you alone. You could die without him. Then he remembered there was a spare first-aid kit in the X-Wing and there was medicine in that kit. 

Unhooking his cloak from around his shoulders, Luke covered your shaking form in the soft, dark fabric. Clipping the cold chain around your neck, he pressed a gentle kiss to your sweaty forehead before whispering. 

“I’ll be back, I promise. You can’t get rid of me that easily.” 

Sprinting faster than he ever could, Luke immediately knew where the kit was, so he concentrated with the Force to open the small cargo cabinet. The second his gloved hand made contact with the kit, the worried feeling in his stomach instantly dropped. 

Quickly returning to camp, Luke found you sound asleep in the tent with Grogu in your arms. 

A soft smile filled his lips as he moved to sit down next to you, hoping to finally get some much needed rest. 

Luke Skywalker taglist: 

@dreamliners

@tindradelrey

@full-time-make-believer

@ladyrebel25

@maybeimart

@nonbinary-tatooine

@kaleidoscope1967eyes

@tearsleftt

@thereallchristine

@partofmejustwantstosleep

@xxx-aurora-swirls

@remusstefon

@annoyinglythoughtfuldestiny

@giona45-5

@0paperairplane0

@mrskenobi677

@jobean12-blog

@iamhavingamomenthere-crowley

@winter-soldier-101

@dindjarinishot

@kethamine

@pantaeudaimonia

@bonky-n-steeb

@kindnonny23

@ellora-brekker

@acupnoodle

@flawroses

@skx-wxlker

@a-o-m

@myevilmouse​

@tatooineknights​

@thatdummy-girl

#luke skywalker #luke skywalker x reader #luke skywalker x you #luke skywalker fanfiction #Luke Skywalker Mandalorian #luke skywalker book of boba fett #luke skywalker fic #luke skywalker fluff #star wars #star wars fic #star wars fanfiction #star wars fandom #mark hamill

[fountainpenguin]

"Suspense is controlling my mind... I can't find a way out of here..."

---

New 130 Reasons Why I'm Fairy Trash update today!

Fairly OddParents || One-Shot - “Approval”

Read on FFN || Read on AO3

Find more Lavender Train story arc HERE

---

A glimpse into 155,000-year-old Foop's life on the student council as he decorates the gym for a high school dance. Guest appearances by Poof, Denzel, Kevin, the von Strangle twins, the O'Terrae clones, Whistle, and Foop's betrothed: Anti-Coriander.

(First 1000 words under the cut)

40. Approval (~5,000 years after "Temptation" and 5,000 before "All I Ever Wanted")

Wednesday February 8th, Aurora 177

Year of Water, Winter of the Powerful Rapids

---

If Foop had truly had an inkling of how much work it takes to run the school as its student body secretary, he may not have bothered campaigning. Honestly they were three years into the current zodiac cycle and he still hadn't decided if he'll run for the position again.

He probably would. He most definitely would, so he didn't even know why he was complaining. The one and only cycle that he reigned as student body president with Poof as his secretary, half the meetings didn't get their minutes recorded in any real detail, and Poof had typed every single document using the Central Star region's way of spelling Snobbish words.

And other minor annoyances… like, he'd written out directions once and called the first floor "second floor" and Foop spent 30 minutes flitting around in puzzled circles until it clicked that he and Poof were using different terms for their destination. He walked in late and his snacks were cold. Hmph. No one ever seemed to have that problem when it was him sending out newsletters. Atrocious.

And when Poof had double-dipped his hand briefly into the role of student body treasurer, the budget may as well have been sliced in half with the way Poof divvied up their things. Honestly, it felt sometimes like his counterpart flopped in his various roles on purpose just to make him miserable. He'd like to believe Poof was better than that level of petty, but sometimes when you were dripping with exhaustion and low on caffeine, it was impossible to tell.

Poof's on freaking peppermint a solid 70% of his waking hours anyway. A lot of help HE is. He supposed he could thank his counterpart for getting addicted to candy in a way that let Foop operate sober and without temptation of any kind. That was the only silver lining to any of this.

Foop despised his counterpart's peppermint habit, but like Darkness would he ever rat Poofy out to his mummy and daddy. No. They both relied on their parents' approval- if not for physical comfort and safety, then certainly for emotional support. Hard pass. Disgrace. Poof had far too much dirt on him to ever make him risk tipping their mutually assured destruction too far to one side.

My secret affairs with Anti-Marigold come to mind… His father will flay him alive when he finds out about that. An anti-will o' the wisp… Really. The prince of Anti-Fairy World could have done "so much better in a mistress" (and High Count Anti-Cosmo will painfully let him know it). His lecherous father was a textbook nymphomaniac. Foop would rather die than allow the pooferazzi to document Anti-Cosmo dragging his son out to all his old brothel haunts or… or… something like that.

Do we even have brothels in Anti-Fairy World? Who knows. That's not the point. The High Count undoubtedly did something scandalous with his spare time when he wasn't holed up plotting world domination, and whatever that thing may be, Foop would sooner sprint one billion kilometers in the other direction than ever face it head-on.

Anti-Cosmo didn't approve of the fact that Foop ended up on student council in the first place. Foop had cheated some of the vote (as he'd cheated it for years) by relying on bashful simpletons like Whistle to campaign in his favor while simultaneously threatening others into voting for him. He'd stuffed the ballot box and didn't even care. Honestly, part of him suspected the school knew what he was up to, and Foop took cruel pride in the fact that if he managed to do a good enough job keeping the school activities flowing, the faculty might simply look the other way. Oh, there's such a great joy in being wanted as a leader instead of merely feared…

Not that my father understands that. My position is secured someday, especially if I don't have heirs until I'm so old that my wand sparks when I use it. Meanwhile, my father will be twisting his neck, peering anxiously over one shoulder in cold anticipation of my rise to power until the day he dies.

Ah, youth. He reveled in it.

At least Poof knew how to lead a meeting that kept all the officers engaged. Poof had this animated way of speaking where he sort of gushed over his words, the long tails of his blue bandana ribbon snapping behind him in an imaginary wind every time he paced. He could sell a genie on underwater real estate. Maybe that was why the people kept electing him student body president year after year.

They'd been setting up for tonight's dance since before the window for early-morning breakfast wishes closed off. Well… Foop had, anyway. It wasn't really necessary. In a pinch, magic could always be whipped out to speed the process along, but Foop had his own… reasons for wanting to keep eyes on their location for hours at a time.

He traced the pad of one finger along the dark scar that curled around his neck. Left side, just above the collarbone…

Cavatina Sanderson had slit that scar across Poof's innocent skin 20,000 years ago, during the same Autumn Masquerade where Foop first met Anti-Coriander. Foop had even died and regenerated a few times since then - not on purpose! (mostly) - but the scar wasn't his to heal. This same scar branded his counterpart's neck. It had been given to Poof first, and the stupid sync between their cores kept it firmly in place like a teeter-totter. Terribly annoying.

He never knew how to explain it when strangers asked. Wasn't even his battle wound to brag about. Or Poof's, for that matter… That infuriating pixie had simply backed his counterpart against a wall and shoved a blade right up to his neck. Poof just let it happen. And if he'd done it at one dance, Foop had no reason to believe he wouldn't make another appearance tonight.

Therein lay the anxieties.

[Cnt’d - FFN and AO3 links above]

#FOP #Fairly OddParents #FOP Foop #130 Prompts #ridwriting #Nerdy blue bat son #Purple hippie dragonfly #Snazzy sequel son #Panicked sequel son #Cilantro princess #Cavatina #Big Crock #Little Crock #FAIRIES! #Bat cube and associates #I wrote / drew this in May. It's been a long wait #apparently art #fic announcement