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marigoldenblooms · 2 months

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Unica Semper Avis - Chapter 1

Pairing: Cleric!Wanda x Fem!AvianShifter!Reader x MonsterHunter!Natasha

Prompt: Ever since you’ve come of age, you’ve never been able to stop yourself from transforming into a monster. Whenever the sky would dim with a New Moon, you’d ravage the world with a fury unknown by many. Such is the bane existence of your species. This time, however - something was different. Now, you need help. On the feeble doorstep of the so-called ‘Spirit Healer,’ you found yourself both at the mercy of a cleric, and of a monster hunter’s blade. Previous Chapter - Next Chapter

MINORS DNI - 18+

TW/General Tags: No mention of Y/N, slow burn, stranger to lovers (Wanda), enemies to lovers (Natasha), eventual smut (lord have mercy), Swearing, Fantasy violence, occasional descriptions of light body horror during transformation, slight self harm, slight restraint, angst, fluff, will add tags as they appear!

Chapter Warnings: Angst, canon-level violence, use of medieval weapons, body horror description in transformation, magic use, slight dissociation/self harm, restraint, fluff (for five seconds), R is a simp, so is W, N is not here to play, etc.

A/N: I’ve been working on this next chapter ever since the previous. Chapter two is coming along quickly as well! I want to keep a bit of a backlog for my longer fics, so updates will be as frequent as I can manage. The name established in this chapter for R will be used sparingly, but I loved what Missmonsters2 did with Between the Lines when I read it months ago, and thought it’d be pertinent until nicknames/pet names are established (and for as long as I can avoid conversation where names are necessary).

R’s monster form brought to you by bearded vulture inspiration! Feel free to imagine your own version of avian horror to your heart’s content. Enjoy, y’all!

Word Count: 3.1k - Read Length: 11 minutes, 18 seconds. Pictures aren't mine, credit to their owners!

~~~ The healer’s home was nothing short of overwhelming.

Multi-colored knick-knacks were strewn on every surface, perched below gatherings of drying, braided flowers which hung from the rafters. Beneath your feet, woven rugs of alternating sizes dotted the cabin’s cool wooden floors, like islands between a chilled sea of timber. The front door lead further into a sitting room, offering glimpses into a small, quaint looking kitchen, adorned with a single well-worn table and chair. Within that same place, a large pot was held still on the counter by wisps of scarlet magic, another more opaque plume coaxing a wooden spoon to stir whatever was inside.

Paintings hung along every wall, although you could never get a full glance at one, as though they’d subtly shift and change muses whenever you’d look away. The sound of a shutting door would heighten your senses enough to break from the scenery, turning on your heels to face the home’s owner once again. She’d pry at you with a half-smile, and you’d solidify your gaze at the floor before her eyes could have the chance to meet yours.

“What brings you to my home?” She’d question evenly, her words a pleasing rasp- smooth molasses which could easily cloud your senses if you allowed her to. You’d see her form move to the side of you in your peripheral, yet you’d remain still, your stare continuing to bore a hole into her carpet.

Wordlessly, you’d tug at your shawled sleeve to show the back of your arm. Running along the skin’s expanse were thin ridges, pin feathers prickling beneath taut flesh. A light down speckled your skin in odd patches, consolidated mostly on your neck and shoulders for now. Your hair had begun to fleck and grow waxy and silkish, akin to dense ostrich feathers, tousled from your trek to her abode. You’d watch the ground as her shadow would shift around you, a curious tsk showcasing her intrigue.

You wouldn’t see her raised expression, eyebrows furrowed as she’d take your wrist without warning, raising it up so she could see the indentation better in the light. She’d drop your arm as soon as she’d grabbed it, falling limply to your side, and her smooth voice would threaten to carry you off again. “Fascinating..your affliction isn’t something I’ve seen recently.”

“Can you help?” You’d mumble, the few phrases coming to you sounding choked from lack of use, and you could hear the healer’s grunt at your lackluster response. You’d swallow thickly, trying to find the words to explain all that you were, but none arrived. She’d circle around you once more, and before you could flinch away, would capture your chin between her thumb and forefinger, wrenching it to make you look at her- green irises narrowing as you’d shut yours, unwilling to look her in the eye. You’d half expect her grip to be cold like the Matron’s, but her touch’s pleasant warmth was something you almost missed as she’d let go of you, the shuffle of her arms crossing heightened behind your closed eyelids.

“I can’t help a patient I can’t trust,” She’d muse with a teasing lilt, rolling her r’s in a way that made your chest flutter. Was this another symptom of your molt? It had been a long time since you’d been with another and the thought made your heart ache, albeit not more than your bones. “Why won’t you look at me?”

The scoff that came in response to her was almost too easy, opening your eyes after directing your head to the floor again, “Because I am no threat to you.” “And why would I assume that?” She’d retort immediately, and you’d glare into the ground. Why was talking so easy for her? Why couldn’t she understand that you weren’t like her? You’d raise your arm aloft again, the skin burning now as you’d twist the plumage under your flesh for her view. The rage that had been festering in you for days unlocked a torrent of your words, finally finding purchase in your mouth- frustration evident in how each phrase was ripped from your throat. Your larynx would be useless beyond a breathing tool soon, so you better use it now. Your nails clawed at your arms, doubling into yourself, “Because you are human and I am not, healer- is that not something you’re able to understand-?!”

“Relax for me-” she’d grit, and you’d feel your stomach plummet at her words. Something in them begged obedience, and for a second you felt as though you were back in your nightmare. You’d twitch, glance immediately circling the ceiling as something would restrain you- thin tendrils of crimson magic, keeping your arms from flaring out at your sides. As if seeing your frustration, your panic, the healer’s sorcery would calm, soothing both your body and your mind into an unnatural lull. “You’re…using-” you’d begin, yet words would evade you once again, no longer fueled by anger. There was only a different feeling- regret, and uncomfortable stone in your stomach that you shied away from, wanting to cower from its weight. You didn’t like yelling at this woman, even as she cradled you with her witchcraft.

You’d feel her heat again, warm hands placing tentative touches to your shoulders, slowly coaxing your glance to hers. “I’m sorry,” she’d breathe, shallow as you’d feel her palms shake against you, “I didn’t want you… to hurt yourself-” Her irises, blooming with clouds of red, would drain into green as you’d feel her magic loosen around your body like unraveling ropes. You wouldn’t shy away from her this time, panting as her gaze would share her soul with you. She, too, held that stone in her gut. Perhaps she didn’t fear you.

You’d part as her back would stiffen, adding a few feet between the two of you. “What is your name?” She’d ask, and you saw the way her head tilted since you looked at her face. Your words came easier now that you were less tense, muscles losing their rigidity, and yet you didn’t have an answer for her. You still pried into her windows, eyes flicking across the expanse of her garden from the view you could get from her living room, but it was a start. “I met your gaze, healer..I’ve done my part, you first.”

You’d see the way her nose crinkled at your response, flecks of mirth illuminating her expression, a grin finding its place there, “Talking now, are we? I’m Wanda.” “I’m..Margo.” In truth, you hadn’t had a name in years, the few decades you’d been alive focused more on survival than memory, especially when your molts made it difficult to discern who you really were- humanoid or avian. You’d forgotten your birth name ages ago, and it was a blessing that your words left your mouth as cleanly as they did. She’d tut at your response, taking it in as satisfactory, “Sure…Margo. Would you like to sit down?”

Wanda would guide you to her kitchen table without much fanfare, settling you on her single chair. With a focused look and a wave of her hand, however- a duplicate would reveal itself from a cloud of scarlet mist. “Your magic is red?” You’d inquire, tilting your head as you’d seen her do, “It’s a violent color. Why is that?”

“Do you really want to toe that line?” Her phrase were humorous, yet you swear a flash of indignation peppered her visage. You were not going to mess with that line, whatever she meant by that. “No, Wanda.” She smiled at that, her name seemingly pleasing in your mouth. You felt the flutter in your chest again, heart drumming a little faster against your shifting ribcage. If this was a sign of your incoming succession, then you had to finish this fast- to return before you transformed in Wanda’s house. And yet, why was the feeling almost pleasant?

“You said you haven’t seen my ‘affliction’ in a while,” You’d recount, finding her term for your molt unremarkable. You’d offer her a glimpse of your arm again, hesitating to touch the quills beneath. It was always tender before a lunation, and you didn’t want to aggravate the transformation further, “It doesn’t normally happen so soon. In hours before the new moon, maybe- not over days.”

“And what happens after those hours?” She’d coax your arm down with a gentle wave, seeing how your movements grew stiff as your skeleton hollowed out. You shrug, “I transform.” Wanda’s expression would sour, yet curiosity prickled underneath. Why did she look at you like that? “Can you help me? You said you're familiar with my kind.”

“..In truth, I’ve never met someone like you,” She’d murmur, expression bashful, and if the circumstances were different you would’ve taken it as a compliment. Instead, spiked embers of dread seared in your stomach, heart beginning to thrum in your ears. She didn’t know. Could she even help you? Her voice would raise a little louder, “However, if you tell me about yourself, perhaps I could figure it out.” With a twirl of her fingers, two cups of..something floated towards the table. Her gaze was an offer, “Thirsty?”

You’d nod, your throat suddenly dry. The drink was smooth and warm, with a bite of something fresh and crisp. It was much better than your rainwater. Gulping more of it down, you notice how she’d smile at your eagerness, careful not to spill as you’d raise the cup from its saucer. “Cider,” she’d mention, motioning to her mug, “Where are you from?” “My cavern is far from here. About half a day’s walk.” Wanda’s eyebrows would raise. “Cavern? You live in a cave?” Her interest was a delight, and you wanted to keep it for as long as you could. You didn’t answer her question, instead throwing one back at her, “Why do you live far from your town?”

“Bellmoor?” Amusement would blanket Wanda’s expression, snorting as she’d shake her head, twisting in her chair so she could lean forward towards you, “Because I like my peace and quiet. I assume the same for you, Птичка?”

“What does that mean?” You’d ask, and she’d tut again. “Now now, that can be your next question, but it’s my turn.” She’d scrunch her nose at your grumbling acquiesce, and you couldn’t help but smile with her. You liked this game. Wanda rested her hands on her table, and your eyes were caught on the shimmer of her rings as she’d speak, “Can you control your transformation?” That one was easy. “Fuckin’ wish I could...” Wanda’s brows would reach her hairline at your curse, but you wouldn’t give her time to comment as yours would stream from your maw, though it’d stop early, “No Aegypius can. What does..”

“‘Птичка’ mean?” She’d grin, rasping her knuckles on the wooden grain at each syllable, “Little bird, birdie, you have feathers underneath your skin, yes?” You’d send her a taunting look, one that she met in equal measure. You’d smile back at her, “Is that your question?”

Wanda would balk, gotten so caught up in teasing you that her words just tumbled out with no direction. You’d see her cheeks grow pink, clearing her throat with a stuttered breath, and you swear she felt like you did when you felt that flutter. “No, it isn’t-” She’d respond smoothly, but you caught how her eyes shimmered, and you took another sip of cider. You knew why when her words made your mind double-take, “Would you like to stay with me tonight?”

You almost spit out your drink, coughing on it as you’d sputter, blush alighting your face. You felt it warm and you tried to hide it away, your flustered reaction seemingly pleasing Wanda. She certainly didn’t know what that meant to you, “I..you want me to stay with you- I’m going to molt tonight, Wanda.”

“And if I am to help your transformation, then I must see it in person,” She’d respond, never losing her smile. It soothed you, that richness in her tone and that calm in her expression, and you’d feel a new pull in your heart. One you hated.

Your instincts wanted you to ruin her. Wanted her vulnerable as she was, to splinter her bones into shards you didn’t even have to chew.

To take advantage of her weakness, your hunger eating you alive unless you picked her clean, consumed-

You’d swallow, a shaky breath leaving you. Wanda had blinked, and your voice acted quicker than your mind would comprehend, “I don’t want it helped, Wanda. I want it gone.” You’d feel your skin itch at that, and a cold dread filled your gut, like the Matron’s chill held you once again. Your words were a whisper. “But I don’t think my body will let me.”

“All the more reason for you to stay. Do you have anything that helps you calm down?” She’d ask, leaning forward with a gentle lilt. Her hand would’ve come across the table, offering her palm to yours. It was calloused, warm skin juxtaposed with smooth metal, and you took it in yours gratefully. You were starting to really like her company.

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The hours would’ve floated by you, a subtle bliss filling you as you and Wanda would’ve enjoyed the rest of your evening together. You could feel your body shift by the hour, and yet a part of you didn’t care if you were with her. You’d show her your chains, mentioning their unknown inscription and how they’d keep your form….distracted. You would be kept in the barn once the moonless night had begun, the sky within a period of tranquil dusk. She ghosted her hand across the rim of your shackles, and you were surprised they didn’t burn her like they did you. An Aegypius trait, you supposed.

Wanda had made you stew using that pot from earlier, while you hovered in the vicinity, chopping up carrot and onion into more manageable pieces. The meal was finished after it had boiled for a long time, and it was only when you sat down to enjoy it with her that a blink of movement would catch your eye. The bay windows curved in a beautiful shape that let the last vestiges of light in, and you’d register the sight of silver metal piercing into the glass before you heard it smash.

A figure leapt through its shattered remains, thick cloak blanketing their form to protect them from the glass. Their armor and longsword was polished beautifully, and they would be regal if it wasn’t for their war shout and barred teeth. You could see their face beneath their hood, just before the glint of their weapon as it’d slice down towards your chest.

You’d dodge, rushing backwards until your back hit the other end of the wall. As the longsword would finish its downward arc, Wanda’s magic would cradle its blade, her hands outstretched and bent as if trying to push it up. Her voice was strangled and thin, heard between the thudding of your heartbeat in your ears, “run, Margo- go!”

Turning to bolt, you’d hear the clatter of boots against wood as a rougher hand would grab you by the scruff of your neck. Writhing in their hold, you’d shove your elbow into the ribs of your attacker, before grabbing their hand from your nape to sink your teeth into it. “Fuck, you гриф-” The knight’s heavy breath was audible from behind your back. You’d bite harder, feeling their skin break beneath your jaw as you’d thrash, trying to cleave flesh off. They’d tear their hand from you, kicking your legs with a force that sent you barreling down.

Your head would hit the hardwood floor, and you could hear the ringing in your ears as you’d look up, vision swimming as everything looked double. Your hooded attacker brandished their longsword with two hands above you, although it looked like they had four. Before they could stab the blade downward, Wanda’s hand would lurch out to their neck- pressing the kitchen knife into their throat as her other palm would scratch towards the knight’s eyes, the pair barreling backwards which left you an outside view that made your pupils retract into pinpricks.

The sky was dark, illuminated with bright swaths of stars. Tears pricked at your eyes. The few treetops you saw couldn’t even reach its height, blanketing the world in an awaiting gloom. You knew the moon was out there, but you couldn’t see it. Your mind reeled, thoughts growing famished as you’d stare into its expanse. You licked your lips. The sky offered you reprieve, and who were you to deny its feast?

The wheezing pop of bone into stronger sockets would startle Wanda and her assailant into a tense standoff, your witch pinning the stranger to the floorboards while the knight tried in vain to grasp at their longsword that had been kicked many feet away. Your breath heaved with strength you hadn’t felt before, seizing as the voice that came from you was no more than a guttural hiss. Your skull would reshape, mouth widening into a curved beak, hooking into serrated edges, while your skull would become angular, bird like. Anything but human, you were no longer recognizable. Feathers would blanket the creature’s shifting musculature, tearing from roughened skin as they’d fan into shape. Its arms and legs grow as its fingers would lengthen, bat-like wings creaking before they’d be covered in plumage; ivory white on it’s neck and shoulders, cascading into darker blacks and blues elsewhere. The monster’s feathers wouldn’t remain unpigmented for long, as they’d begin to warm on its skin- sparks flying from where they touched, growing into a burnt umber. The beast would groan as its wings crashed to the floor- bipedalism was no longer an option, the force cracking the wooden boards. Horns would thunder from shaking its monstrous head, the beast’s eyes blinking into pale gold with a crimson ring surrounding them. A black line of feathers ran down the side of its face and to its gaping maw, tufted at its chin. Its feathers had heated into shades of orange, flecked with flame- while cyan speckled where its temperature had reached an apex.

Silence would still the room, the shaky inhale of breath marking the presence of living beings in it’s fray. The demon would blink again, a gnashing sound emanating from inside its cavernous beak. It’d then raise itself on its haunches, spread its twelve meter wingspan (shattering the walls in its wake), and echo a deafening, reverberating call into the night.

The hunt had truly begun. Previous Chapter - Next Chapter

~~~

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overlordraax · 2 years

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[Image ID: a picture of Skyfire and Starscream embracing, Skyfire wraps his arms around Starscream whilst nuzzling his cheek. Meanwhile Starscream smiles at Skyfire’s affection, gazing at him softly. His hand comes to rest on Skyfire’s arm. They had beast modes with bird inspired designs. Skyfire being snowy owl with white wings that wrap around Starscream, and Starscream has black wings that drape down his back like a cape. There are tree branches below them. In the first image the sky is dark blue with stars, with them being coloured in a soft blue hue with blue light. In the second image it is the same but it is a sunsetting sky with purple and yellow, with orange and pink clouds while they are cast in a yellowy orange hue. End ID]

My piece for Day 7 of @skystarweek using the prompt: Embrace. Featuring some Beast Wars designs I did for Skyfire and Starscream. Skyfire is a snowy owl and Starscream is a bearded vulture. It's been a great Week and I hope everyone had fun!

My owl design of Skyfire is from here. I did the design for the Bearded Vulture version of Star a while back apparently forgot to post it up. I should get on that

#Transformers #Skyfire #Starscream #SkyStar #Maccadam #SkyStar Week #my art #Beast Wars #Owl Skyfire #Bearded Vulture #BW Starscream #BW Skyfire #Owl #Vulture Starscream

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skekheck · 2 years

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I was today years old when I realized skekMal's face was probably inspired by bearded vultures/lammergeiers.

I dunno, the resemblance is pretty strong.

#it's the beak and head shape honestly #also I saw that picture of the bearded vulture on reddit and looked at my mal statue and I like #they are the same???#but now I'm wondering what other birds inspired the other skeksis #but this is good to know when I go back working on the young!skek designs #skekmal #skeksis

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shieldagentnatasharomanoff · 2 years

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👥 ― a memory involving a friend.

Natasha climbed op to the roof of her building, taking a seat on the wall that was supposed to prevent people from falling off the flattened surface. It was red brick. Quite pretty to just exist at.

She took a long breath, Natasha usually came up here to decompress after missions. The night sky and the quiet made it easier, overlooking parts of New York skyline in all of it's glory.

There was a pull in the back of her mind, tang of magic in the air, as an ominous wind picked up, pulling at her crimson hair. Her shadow stretches outward, several eyes blinking up at her, emitting a light orange hue, like swirls if stars in the sky above.

"Not tonight, Stephen. I'm not in the mood for an adventure. I've had plenty of those the last couple days. I want to..." but before she could say anything the shadows pulled back, revealing a bird. Moonlight catching on it's oily, black feathers, too many eyes, scalely bands attached with tail feathers and a tuft of beard hanging from his beak. "Alone!" He croaked. Strange had never quite gotten the hang of an avian voice. She was impressed that he managed words at all and it was always unsettling when he talked in bird form.

"Yes I would like to be left alone." Natasha told him firmly. But on second glance his plumage seemed deflated, his many eyes seemed as tired as hers. Maybe she wasn't the only one who's had a long day. She already felt the shadows around her grow heavy again, but Natasha just held out an arm towards the vulture monstrosity. "On second thought. Maybe we could be alone together for a bit."

A sound Natasha would just interpret as an approving crow escaped the bird as he hopped into the offered arm. Natasha laughed as he immediately started to cock his head from side to side in a panic. "No one saw you Stephen. We really got to work on that pride thing." As Natasha pulled the bird up, carefully balancing him he started to shrink himself down a bit to accommodate her smaller shoulders.

Natasha leaned back against the wall, her hand absentmindedly dancing over her friends feathers. A small chirping noise was to be heard through the silence blanketing the city. She chuckled, but didn't make a comment as she stopped petting him and recognized the split second Strange started to pout and then thought better of it.

"You really are a silly bird." She whispered tenderly. "Au! Hey! Watch it." To show how strongly Stephen disagreed with this he had pecked at her hand, Natasha inturn shoved his beak sideways, until she was laughing and bird Strange gave a cackling sound, reminiscent of a crow.

Once the situation a little bit, Natasha noticed herself smile. Reaching up she let Strange step up on her hand so she could look at him while she talked. "Thanks for coming by. I needed someone." Strange sat on her hand slightly twitchy as he choked out. "Sure."

Natasha brushed through his plumage that now seemed to fluff up. He leaned forward to nuzzle his feathered head against Natasha's cheek. "Maybe being alone together isn't so bad after all."

(little something involving @supremestrangeness inspired by a picture drew up for us by @cherryfinolahobbes )

#answersd ask #memories #memoriesof a friend

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doomedandstoned · 5 years

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THE DESERTFEST DIARIES: Destination Antwerp ‘19

~By Willem Verhappen~

Photographs by Stefanie Dörnbrack and Willem Verhappen

Day 1

The good beer, tasteful food and beautiful inner city, together with the fact that even though I live close to it, it makes me feel like I’m on vacation, make that Antwerp ranks high on my list of favorite cities. Every once in awhile my girlfriend and I like to spontaneously cross our southern border to go shopping (seriously, check out Chelsea Records if you're ever there) or watch a movie in their massive cinema complex. There is however one weekend when nothing can stop me from going to Antwerp and that's the weekend of Desertfest. For three days, Antwerp turns into the Mecca of all the music I -- and since you're reading this, probably you, too -- hold dear. So on the 18th of October I made my fourth pilgrimage to this epicenter of riffs.

My timing could hardly have been better, since my friends with whom I was going to share a hotel room for the next three nights showed up at pretty much the same time. After dropping our stuff at the hotel, we went downtown to meet up with some more friends and have a pizza and some beers.

With some proper groundwork laid, as we say in Dutch, it was time to head to the Trix, as the venue's called. There was some discussion as to whether it was faster to go by tram or subway, so we decided to turn it into a race. In the end, we still all ended up going by subway, since there didn't appear to be a tram going that way. I was told, however, that the subway was way quicker than the tram the guys took in previous years. That still counts as a victory in my eyes.

When we arrived at the venue, we were greeted by the sign shown at the top of this article. What a way to get your crowd hyped up for all the goodness that was to come.

The first band we got to see, was Monomyth. The band, featuring former Gorefest guitar player Boudewijn Bonebakker, plays an addictive mix of styles ranging from kraut- and space rock to more progressive and psychedelic exploits. The Dutch instrumental rockers might be reminiscent of acts like My Sleeping Karma, but with five people, there's never a boring moment.

After that first headbanging session, it was time for some more partying with desert rockers Nebula, where the title of their new album 'Holy Shit' sums up the experience quite well. This was followed by my first Duvel beer of the day and the Dutch '60s heavy psych inspired wolf pack named Temple Fang, both at the cafe. For a band that hasn't even released a single yet, they've got quite the following. Taking into account that two members used to be in the cult band Death Alley, gives some understanding as to why. Witnessing them live makes you a believer yourself.

As a music collector and lover of artwork, I decided to pay a visit to the merch area. I was very happy to see that my personal artwork favorites Branca Studio decided to take the car to bring some of their t-shirts to Desertfest. Now I finally have my very own "Doom life" shirt. Could my day get any better?

Of course it can! With some more cds and some less money in my pockets it was time to go to the main all for Truckfighters. When we walked through the door, one of my friends asked when the show had started. This was more than five minutes before the show actually started, but the hall was already crowded. This was the first time we had difficulties getting in before a band started playing, but it turned out to be only the first of multiple shows where this phenomenon occurred.

As you might know, Truckfighters was on a hiatus for a couple of years. Lucky for us, the Swedes have returned. I'm happy to say that the show hasn't really changed. You still get your high energy rock show lead by Ozo. Dango still runs through the crowd shirtless. There's still a different drummer than the last time you saw them. And of course, every place turns into absolute mayhem once they play Desert Cruiser. Honestly, the only thing that changed is Dango's beard. That's fine, but other than that, a Truckfighters show is perfect as it is.

Sadly, there wasn't much time to catch my breath, for after witnessing a bit of Beglian band 30,000 Monkies, Yatra was about to take the upstairs stage. I wasn't familiar with the Maryland doom crew, but someone (sorry, I don't remember who) recommended them to me. I cannot thank that person enough, for Yatra is by far my favorite discovery this Desertfest. It was the first doom band of the eveningThis trio spices up their low 'n' slow doom with a whiff of black metal dirt, just the way I like it.

Since I've never been much of a Zeal & Ardor fan, I decided to socialize and go looking for stories instead. That's when I ran into the Yatra gang, who were talking with Dango from Truckfighters. The latter mentioned to me that we can expect a solo record from his hand somewhere in the near future. Needless to say, this encounter needed to be documented, as shown in the picture above. Afterwards I decided to check out some Z&A, only to arrive when they started Devil is Fine. It was a good reminder of why I'm not a fan.

The first day ended with a banging show from Polish psych doomers Sunnata and a fun after party. I had to promise not to write about the after parties, even though I could write an entire article on just that. Let's just say that lots of fun and beer was had by all, up to the point where we were kicked out of the venue.

Day 2

Saturday started, not entirely unexpectedly, with a hangover. Usually I get over them pretty quick, but this one kept lingering on for quite some time. Not even the great sandwich I had, seemed to have any effect. The thing that eventually cured the hangover, was Bismut. The Desertfest website describes them as "instrumental psych desert metal", which is an apt description for these young Dutch hounds. We're treated to some heavy spaced out jams, mixed with some colorful shredding. Day two is a go!

The Admiral Sir Cloudesley Shovell put up one of my favorite shows this weekend. This is their second year in a row and third in total of playing here and if you've seen them live, you know why that is. The band are like the demented love child between MotÃ¶rhead and Hawkwind (like that would ever happen), blasting some dirty biker rock, but with some stoner groove in there. It's also the first band I witnessed on the Canyon stage that made full use of the video screen.

Not every band can be a winner and if there's a loser this weekend, it's Fireball Ministry. Personally, I really enjoyed their distinct brand of desert rock, featuring vocals from both guitarists James A. Rota II and Emily Burton. The only point of critique is that Emily should stick to background vocals.

Even though the band gave their everything, they we're playing to a half filled hall at most, with many people leaving after a song or two with some just taking a couple of pictures. These pictures were of course from former Kyuss bass player Scott Reeder. This behaviour made the band look more like a freak show than anything else, which is too bad, since Fireball Ministry deserves better.

The Desert stage is far more crowded for Church of Misery. I can't say I'm surprised, since the Japanese quartet knows how to deliver a solid slab of old school doom metal. For 50 minutes, the band proved to know exactly how to keep heads banging in unison.

Following Church of Misery, I decided it was time to give the muscles in my neck some rest. And what better place to do that than in the food and relax area. This is like the school yard where all the cool kids hang out, drink beer and smoke, but mixed with a food truck festival. I'm usually not big on festival food, but the food here is certainly an exception. From homemade fries and vegan burgers to Mexican and tribal food, there's something here for everyone. It's a great place to just sit down, eat and talk to random people.

This moment of peace was very much needed ahead of Bongripper. This was one of the most crowded shows of the festival. The band created a most impressive wall of sound, or should I say wall of noise, during their show. Although the show was very impressive, I'm still surprised by how insanely crowded it was.

After the intense show from the Chicago doom crew, desert rockers Steak are a welcome change of scenery. They might be from London, but these guys sound like they came straight from the California desert, although with some Pink Floyd thrown into the mix. I was very charmed by their sound, since it sounds familiar, but with a British twist. Highly enjoyable.

At the Desert stage, we remain in the instrumental musical spectrum with Pelican. This was one of the shows I looked forward to the most. The post-metal from these Americans manages to find that sweet spot between heavy dark riffs and a touch of light. The hour of playtime was over way too soon.

The other band I was really looking forward to, was Dopelord. I'm not sure what's happening in Poland that's causing the rise of so many good old school doom bands, as proven by Dopelord's recent excellent 4-way split with Weedpecker, Major Kong and Spaceslug, but it's clear these guys are leading the revolution. This show had everything I love: great songs, heavy riffs, exploitation cinema on the background and rowdy crowd. There even was a new song, called 'Hail Satan' and some moshing during the epic 'Reptile Sun'.

On my way to Ty Segall & The Freedom Band, I heard some music coming from the Vulture stage that caught my attention. Crowhurst was supposed to be performing here, but they had to cancel last minute. Their replacement were the Antwerp locals Your Highness.

Earlier that day, I was told they were a doom band and that I would like them. That turned out to be very true. The band plays traditional doom metal, but with a hardcore ferocity. I clearly wasn't the only one who enjoyed their show, judging by some of the most intense mosh pits I'd seen all weekend. I was so entertained that, for the first time in four years, I missed a Desertfest headliner. Not that I mind, these guys are worth it.

There's no rest for the wicked and Inter Arma made sure of that. The death/black.sludge doom band pretty much set the Canyon stage ablaze. It was past midnight but that was no excuse to take it slow. Vocalist Mike Paparo was running the stage like a ravenous beast. The band was a great warm-up for yet another night of mad partying.

Day 3

Usually the last day of a festival is somewhat of a cooling down. Festival days are long days and involve lots of walking and a lot of things to take in, resulting in you being exhausted, both physically and mentally. For this Desertfest, being tired was not an option, since the lineup is nothing but spectacular. Luckily for me, I woke up relatively fresh. I still don't know how I pulled that off, but I'm not complaining.

Since not everyone was as awake as I was, the first band we got to see was Wolvennest. I've seen the band perform many times in the past four years or so and I've yet to grow tired of their music. Their excellent mix of black metal, doom, psychedelic and krautrock still entrances me every show. And every show, they seem to get better. At least it helped me clear my mind in preparation for the rest of the day.

Wolvennest may have brought me to a higher plain, but after that it's a slap back to reality, courtesy of The Progerians. Their sludge mimics their hometown of Brussels. It's dark and nasty, but with just enough melody to make it appeal to the masses. This makes it a good warming up for the impressive set from Lord Dying, although they look towards more progressive and psychedelic horizons.

Monkey3 is one of those bands that always manage to deliver. Their instrumental space rock usually attracts quite the crowd and that was no different here. Sadly, nature called, resulting in me not being able to get back to the Desert stage. On the other hand, I did get to see High Reeper. These guys manage to play an energetic, balanced mix of stoner rock and Sabbath-y doom metal. A perfect blend of old school and new school.

The NOLA sludge kickers of Eyehategod are on a roll today. The band is clearly in a good mood and frontman Mike IX Williams is playing the crowd like a fiddle. The crowd, on their turn, is eating the slow, nasty blues raw. This was without a doubt my favorite show of the day.

After EHG I'm in doubt, stay where I am and be assured of a good spot for tonight's headliner, or go and see Un. I decide on the latter, even though many people seem to be saving their spots. I don't regret it though, since the Seattle band delivers some beautiful, heavy funeral doom. Especially fellow Seattle natives Bell Witch come to mind while riding Un's emotional roller coaster.

When I got back to the Desert stage, some 20 minutes before showtime, I was happy to see that it wasn't as crowded as I'd expected. I managed to get a nice spot in the center of the hall before the countdown started for the band all of Desertfest was clearly waiting for.

At a quarter to 11, the famous audio recording leading up to the moon landing started playing. What happened next felt like a ritual. Joints were lit across the audience, with some also being passed along through the crowd. People moved towards the stage like Muslims to the Ka'aba.

At 11, the almighty Sleep took the stage. Even though it was my fourth time seeing them in 15 months, the band still manages to impress me. All through the weekend, bands have been projecting everything from band logos to movies on the backdrop, but not Sleep.

Sleep doesn't need a backdrop. Nor a dynamic light show, for that matter. Sleep is all about the music. And the music is all that matters. Witnessing a Sleep show is like witnessing a voodoo ritual. The band's goal is to get you in a trance, to get you to follow the smoke to the riff filled land. For 75 minutes the music is all that matters.

Black Pyramid holds the thankless honour to close off the festival after Sleep. Their psychedelic brand of metal sounds good, but honestly, Sleep is still stuck in my head. Judging from the size of the crowd, many people have decided to head home early, but not us. We stayed until the bitter end.

On monday morning, to my great joy, the headache remained absent and I was feeling relatively fresh. I was looking forward to my own shower and couch, not necessarily in that order, so I was packed and ready to go in no time. My friends had some more difficulties to get their motor running, so we ended up getting brunch at one of the countless Panos sandwich bars in the city. Of course, we ran into some familiar faces there. Going over the weekend, we could all agree it was a festival with many highlights and next to no low points. Another one for the books. Why can't all festivals be like Desertfest? I'm not being melancholic, I'm seriously asking.

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castielgurl · 7 years

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The Soldier, the Spy and the Underoos

for @romanogersweek

Artwork9 Based on amazing

fan art http://romanogersweek.tumblr.com/tagged/artwork9

by @ym4yum1

Beta by @ym4yum1 and dedicated to @ym4yum1

They were in Germany when Peter met the Black Widow for the first time. He couldn't take his eyes off of her. Because she was the most beautiful thing he ever seen. Well, sure he had met pretty girls in his school. But no one could be compared to the Black Widow. She was the definition of beauty. When he saw her fighting, moving with precise and impressive skills, with such flexibility and tiny body, that made him respect her so much. He was flexible but not as much as her. He wondered who she was and what she has been through in her life to make her fight like that. He had a crush on her. Well, every guy in his school had a crush on her. He would never be able to talk to her even if he tried to. He was sure that no words would come out of his mouth. He only knew her from the comic books and gossip column in the online tabloid.

One day he came back from school – it was after he had fought Vulture, a week ago. He thought he was hallucinating when he saw the blonde woman wearing tight pants and a black jacket. She was staring at him and smirking while he was sitting on his bed. No words came out of his mouth.

“Well. We met before.” She said with a tiny smirk on her perfect lips.

“You are… you are… well you...” Peter struggled to find his words.

“I'm Natasha.” She said while coming closer to him.

“Well. You are the Black Widow.” He looked down at his feet. trying not to look at her eyes.

“Yes. Remember me, Peter?” She came close to him again.

“Yes. Well… what are doing here? And how did you get in here?” Peter was still shaking.

“Well, I don’t need a door to get in here. That's my style. Besides, you can climb out of your room’s window. and So I can do the same.” Natasha said while looking around.

“That’s awesome. I mean, your skills are pretty impressive., Miss Romanoff. Well, I'm sorry about my room, it is a little bit… um… It’s a mess.” Peter picked up his comic book and his calculus textbook on the floor and put them on his bed, very quickly. “Do you need anything, coffee? Orange juice?” Peter asked.

“No., I'm fine. Thank you for asking. Getting coffee is not the reason I'm here. Come here and sit down. Don't be afraid of me. I won’t bite.” Natasha said pointing at his computer chair.

Peter sat down on the chair.

Then she explained, “I need you Peter. The Avengers need you.”

Peter got so excited when he heard the word “Avengers”

“Yes I'm ready! I will do anything you ask me. Save people and whatever the mission is.” Peter was almost jumping on his seat.

“Well, we do have a mission for you. We need you to go back to class.” Natasha said.

“What? Go to class? But I go there every day.” Peter said.

“It’s not your regular class in high school, Peter. It is an extra class in Virginia University.” Natasha said as she held her smartphone and showed him some news article. “This is Professor McDonald, he teaches Biology at Virginia University. We believe he is creating a serum that could make humans grew bigger and become super strong. And he is on Hydra’s radar. We believe Hydra is paying him to create this serum to make their agents super strong. Can you imagine what if they could accomplish? Super strong bad guys? And it’s possible that he will sell it to the market.” Natasha said as she was scrolling her phone.

“I'm not going to let that happen. What if they sell it to the market? Bullies will get worse.” Peter stood up from his chair. speaking passionately. since bullies were a big issue for him, “I'm going to take him down now.”

“No., no Calm down, little boy. We have a plan. Your job is to follow our plan.” Natasha said as if she almost panicked when she saw Peter so determined. She’ve never seen that spirit in any Avengers before.

“Our? You mean you have a team?” Peter calmed down a little.

“Just me and Cap. Well, Rogers.” She forgot that Steve didn't allow anyone to call him Captain anymore. “He’d hate if anyone screwed up his plan. And we can't compromise working with anyone who wants to work alone.”

“Woah…, woah, woah... You mean Captain America? That is awesome! Thank you for giving me a chance, Miss Romanoff. It will be an honour to work with you and Cap.” Peter slightly jumped and squeaked. Natasha thought it was very cute.

“Well, this was easier than I thought. What I want you to do is to attend his class and investigate every detail. You will report to me.”

“Wait. When will I go?”

“Tonight.”

“What about Aunt May?”

“Just tell her you will attend an extra class. And don't worry about her, I will handle her.”

It turned out that Natasha’s skill to influence people was majestic. She told May that she was his tuition teacher. And gave her a free resort voucher to the Thailand Hotel. So Aunt May would will be absent from home for 3 days. Thankfully she had not read the news about the Black Widow. May had no idea who Natasha was.

On that night, Captain arrived. Peter saluted him as soon as he saw him. Steve almost had a heart attack. Natasha almost laughed when she saw his reaction. Nobody saluted him before, not after he had served his country. Besides, he was is not a Captain anymore.

“Captain...It’s an honour to meet you..Again. I'm sorry I took you down in the airport. And I'm sorry for stealing your shield. I want you to know that you still have my respect Sir. You inspired me to be hero, and you still is my hero. No matter what the government says.” Peter spoke with his shaky voice.

“I know. I know. Thank you, and it is nice to meet you, Peter. Well, we’ve never introduced properly before.” Steve tried to shake his hands. And Peter was more than eager to do it. “Just call me Steve. And not Captain anymore. As you can see I'm changed. A Captain isn't suppose to have a beard. Not in the military.” He said surprised by how strong Peter’s handshake was.

“Well, you’ll always be Captain America for me.”

Steve exchanged a look with Natasha. And she just smirked at him. “So, well, are you ready for your mission?”

“Yes. Anytime.”

Natasha handed him a small brooch and explained that it was actually a microphone, and a pair of glasses that actually had a hidden camera.

“Remember, do not take action unless we ask you to. Don't do anything more than ordinary. Just show interest in his lecture and ask questions. But don’t do too much,” Natasha warned warning him.

“We’ll always be standing by you . If you need back up. Understood?” Steve said.

“Yes Sir! But.. can I bring my suit?” Peter asked as he put his backpack on his shoulder.

“Yes. But don't use it.” Steve said.

Steve and Natasha watched the camera while sitting on Peter's bed. The class is two hour. And nothing happen. Peter writes down everything the professor said. Natasha passes out, and she lean her head on his shoulder. Off course Steve had been close to Nat before. But this time, she is very close. And no one is around. He touch her hair, her new hair, her smells turned him on. He didn't care red or blonde he loves her hair. He kisses her hair, and slowly moves her head and legs so she lay on the bed comfortably. He almost falls on her body and Natasha body turned so her head is close to his Their lips almost touch each other. It takes him a few second to not to kiss her mouth. Until the bedroom door is open. Peter standing there awkwardly

“Peter! Oh you back. Sorry. Just she is tired. Just let her sleep for a while” Steve almost jumped when he sees Peter.

“Oh. Do you need a time for privacy?” Peter said awkwardly

Steve face turn red. “No. No we fine. Let’s talk outside.” Steve said as he walks to out to living room.

Peter told him he put his little spidey trackers, so they can track him everywhere The Professor go. He also asked about the DNA formula in Professor McDonald research. But refuse to share it. And he thought that's odd. He also observed an adult men sitting behind the class suspiciously. Tomorrow he had a lab class so he promises to get more information.

Peter was surprised to found out that Steve Rogers not only interested on the mission he also asking who he was, about his parents, his aunt May and his uncle Ben. And Peter learned that who is Steve Rogers before and find the similarities between them. Both of them lost their parents and living in a poor condition. He never thought that Steve is very care and emotionally deep person. He only saw him as Captain America, mean old men with and strict with rules. He also asked about Natasha.

“She had been through a lot of things in her life. But she is very secretive. I knows her for years, I still don't know who she is. But she is the good person and I won't be adapt to this new world, if not because of her. It makes me think sometimes; despite it was painful to lose your life. But she makes it worth. Maybe she is the reason I wake up again in this new century. I won't regret any single thing” Steve said with a lot of emotion in his eyes.

Peter thinks it was powerful. The love between them is powerful that become the real reason for them to woke up and feels bless to be alive.

Tomorrow Natasha wakes up and realizes it was seven in the morning. She can’t find Steve in this room. She looks around and found Steve sleeping on the couch. She stares at him. He is very handsome young man. She always thinks of that every time she stares at him. But she looks around to find Peter and realized that he must be at school. She looks again his living room and found a family picture. She takes as shower and sitting on Peter's bed to dry her hair. And then she sees something look like a comic book with bright yellow cover just below a Peter's pillow. She picks up and looks at it. It was title with Captain America and Black Widow: The Soldier and the Spy A love Story

She found it's funny. Off course she knows about The Avengers comic book. But she never had seen this one. It looks like it was published on 70s. She open and read it.

Steve and Natalia met during a world war 2 where she was send to kills him. But she let him go. And that cause the red room torture her, until she was safe by Steve Rogers. But not after that Steve was kills during a fight with The Red Skull. And he wakes up again in the new century and met Natalia who now known as Natasha.

“You are a very handsome young man Steve Rogers....And for the first time, perhaps I'm allowing myself to see that, to see you as someone other than icon called Captain”

This is bullshit.

“May I offer my threat?”

“That's mighty nice of you Tasha”

“Assuming of course that Jennifer does not want you all to herself”

There is no where I'm saying that. They make me pathetic fan girls.

“Please stop me Steve. Take me with you.” Right before she left the grave yard.

Shit

“I'm not good enough for you. You deserve everything Rogers. Even that dream not included me”

“Bruce is just a distraction. The truth is I'm in love with you.”

Fuck!

“Nat?” Steve stands on the door.

“Yeah?” Natasha immediately fixes her face

“Are you alright? I heard you cursed or something.”

“Nothing, just angry with my hair, bad hair day” Natasha said as she hiding the comic behind her body.

“Well. I'm asking if you want some breakfast. I 'm going to buy sandwich.”

“Sure. Cool”

________________________________________________________________

Later Peter got back from school and Steve Rogers out to buy a dinner for them.

“You have to lie to get what you want Peter.” Natasha talk to him

“I don't know how lie” Peter said

“Really? You had been lying about your identity for year now.”

“That is my biggest secret. I'm did it for May”

“If it for saving life. Are you going to do it?”

“But I'm not sure if I convincing enough”

“Well Peter, watch what I'm doing carefully” Natasha went to refrigerator and get 2 big green chilli.

She eats the chilli in front of Peter like nothing. Peter eyes widen.

“What? Is not that spicy right?” Peter gets up and takes another green chilli from refrigerator. And eat it. Second later he coughed, his tongue burning like fire. His stomach feels hot too. Natasha picks plain water and gives it to him. After a few minutes and he drink a lot of water and he managed to ask Natasha.

“I don’t understand. How you do that?” Peter asking, he almost cries.

“Lying, even you hurt, you pretend it wasn't. If they find you lying, give some truth in it and make it up with lies. But do not lie to people care about you except if it needed” Natasha take a plain water and start to drink it.

Later, Natasha and Peter prepare the dinner. Peter pours some orange juice.

“Steve will not drink that. The way you arrange the plate is wrong too. Steve will not like it. And put plain water near his plate.” Natasha said as she put salad in the bowl

Peter surprise how close they are. The little detail remind him to Michelle

“Natasha how long have you and Steve been together?” Peter asking innocently

“We are not together. We are partner.”

“But he really cares about you.”

“Because he is gentleman”

“But not like that. He checked every hour to see if you slept well or not.”

Natasha surprise, she wonder if he did checked her every night.

“Steve really cares about me. But he cares about everyone in his team too.”

“I guess. You know, I have this girl, she was very weird. She did not talk to anybody, she did not have any friend. She noticed every single detail about me. I don't know how and why. She knew I quited band, she knows where I'm going after school. She draw me” Peter tells his story

“She likes you” Natasha chuckle

“No, she can't be. Nobody likes me. I'm a nerd, I did not have many friends, I'm a loner” Peter can't see anything special in him

“She likes you because you very similar to her. Girl won't pay attention so much to a guy, unless she had a crush on him” Natasha smile. And see Peter face got red.

“So, you like him too right? Because you pay attention so much about him”

“No, me and Rogers is a different story”

“I didn't say Captain Rogers”

Damn Peter, you got me.

“Peter as you grown up, you will see. When two people was in love each other started to yell about why she did not reply texting, yell about why he going back late. Why you put a cinnamon in steak. They are fighting about every small thing. Being in love is easy, but being in relationship is the hardest.” Natasha tries to hide her blush on her face

“I know, I seen my parents, and Aunt May and Uncle Ben” Peter said, as he face looks sad

Steve Rogers arrives with their dinner. As they eating dinner, they talk about their plan.

________________________________________________________________

Peter get ready, and sees Natasha in front of door. Dress up as like a kindergarten teacher.

“Today I'm going to take you the class”

Natasha was very good at acting, she pretended to be his aunt. Professor McDonald didn`t expect anything. Natasha even asked, if he can give extra lesson to her “Nephew”. He said yes of course.

Peter said Professor wanted him to go his house tomorrow.

That night all three of them watched the spidey tracker, to see where Professor goes. Peter observed Steve and Natasha obviously flirting with each other. Steve will get a coffee every hour, and asked if she want to sleeps. And Natasha will bring him his favourite snack. He thinks they are very cute.

“Are you guys dating?” Peter said

“No” Both of them says at the same time.

“There was a gossip about you two in Hollywood tabloids. Many people ship you two.”

“What is ship means is it like a ship?” Steve ask because he so confuse.

“Please Roger's; you did not know what that is?” Natasha rolles her eyes

“Ship is support or has a particular interest in a romantic pairing between two characters in fictional series.” Peter said as he Google from his phone.

“Is that why you have a comic book about Captain and Black Widow? You ship us?” Natasha asks, as she lifts her eyebrows.

“What? Come on all boys reading comic.” Peter defends himself, as his start blushing.

“What is that comic about? They did comic about us?” Steve knows about comics, they make Captain America comic since the world war two.

“Nothing, Rogers, just normal comic book about us take down hydra” Natasha said as she signal to Peter, to not let Steve find out.

_______________________________________________________________

That night Steve is the only one was awake. He try to find the comic book Natasha talking about. He shouldn't bother, but he knew Peter and Natasha hid something.

As tomorrow, Peter going to Professor McDonald`s private class. Natasha convinced him to showed them his lab. And he showed them without suspect anything.

Steve knew something is wrong. Natasha should give a signal, a text or a secret code of something. But he did not receive anything. He anxiously waits in the car behind Professor McDonald house. He just about to breaking the house, he saw four large black hummer, arrived in front of the door.

“Captain? Long time no see” As a man in black with trench coat approach him outside of the car.

“I'm surprised to find you here Cap” The man said

“I think I should be the one who more surprise. Because I just saw a man comes back from death” Steve said. He very disappointed as he sees Phil Coulson still alive.

“I'm dying, but they found a way to make me alive again.” Phil

“So your death is just some kind of joke to us?” Steve said sarcastically

“You guys need a push. But I'm kind of proud of what I'm doing. If I'm not dead, there is no Avengers. More people will die” Phil said as usual, he did not show his emotion.

“I will deal with you later. I need to see what's going on in there” Steve said as he clearly angry and push Phil away

“Cap, you need to calm down. Nothing is going on. Professor McDonald worked for us.” Phil said as he tries to stop him

“What? S.H.I.E.L.D knows about this? S.H.I.E.L.D or whatever you call yourself. The serum is not going to anywhere. Nobody will get it, not even you” Steve as his start to shows his anger. He tired of this bullshit. He breaks the door. And he sees no one around. Phil gives a signal to S.T.R.I.K.E team to hold their weapon.

“Natasha? Natasha!!”

Then he heard something big coming from the basement. He was hiding and ready to attack. He saw a giant red foot. Then he look up and

“Hulk?” Steve is in shock.

He is hulk but not a hulk, a red hulk. Then everybody scream and said what the fuck is that?? The S.T.R.I.K.E team start to shooting at him that caused the red hulk angry. Steve distracted him, tried getting him to paid attention to him. Steve successfully avoided his punches. And stopped hulk fist with his hand. And then he saw a spider web cover hulk face. He knew it, Spiderman was there.

Steve punched hulk abs and hulk very angry. Hulk cannot see anything and tries to remove the web on his eyes but failed. Then Peter uses his web to tie the hulk feet just like he did to Giant Man in Germany. And gave the signal for Steve to attack. Steve jumped as high as he can and punch the red hulk face and as hard as he can. Then the hulk felt down and fainted.

“Peter! Where is Nat?” Steve asking worriedly

“She was at the basement” Then Peter realized basement is not basement anymore. Is just a piece of concrete now?

“Nat! Natasha!! Natasha!!!” Steve screams her name and removed the heavy piece of rubble with his hand. He is much panicked. Then the hulk woke up again and punched Peter send him flying across the yard. Steve looked back and in ready to fight again. But he heard a very familiar voice.

“Professor McDonald. Please look at her. She is your daughter. She knows you and believes you. You know her don't you?” Natasha walks closer to red hulk with a little girl.

“Daddy!” The little girl starts to cry.

“Stop this. You are a good man Professor. At least in your daughter eyes” Natasha said as she holds the little girl shoulder. Then red hulk slowly turn to human and pass out. The little girl runs to her dad.

Steve was very relieved to see Natasha. And jumped to hug her tightly. Natasha was surprised by his reaction.

“I'm fine Steve.” Natasha looks fine.

“Don't ever do that again. I can't lose you Nat” Steve said as he looking at her eyes.

“So you are very worried huh?” Natasha teasing him

“Of course. But what you just did was amazing Nat.”

“Did what?”

“The hulk weakness is his daughter. Even when he turned into a monster, he stills himself inside his heart. You did without a fight and without blood. That's amazing Nat.” Steve said as he holds her face.

“Are you really flirting Steve?” Natasha smirks at him.

“Hello? I'm bleeding here!” Peter yells to get their attention. They almost forgot about Peter.

“Agent Romanoff, we haven't seen each other for a long time” Phil approach them. Steve grabs his collar and lifts him like his weight is nothing.

“Steve! Put him down!” Natasha yells at him.

“None of this happen if not because of S.H.I.E.L.D. Hulk almost kill you and the 15 year old boy!” Steve said angrily

“I know. Just put him down ok.” Natasha persuade him

Steve releases him. Steve thought Natasha about to help Phil. But Natasha punched his face with one movement. And Phil passes out.

The mystery location Steve found in the tracker was S.H.I.E.L.D based where they cooperate to do research. S.H.I.E.L.D needed the serum to make Hulk as a replace the green Hulk that been missing two years ago. They want the serum back but Natasha steal it while Agent Coulson busily talking to Peter Parker. Natasha and Steve threw the serum in river. Natasha said Professor McDonald get panicked when his wife was kidnapped by mafia who wanted the the serum. So he injected himself with the serum. But S.H.I.E.L.D helped to get his wife back.

Steve and Natasha send Peter back to his home. Is time to say goodbye.

“You did a very good work there Peter. I'm was surprise when you try to protect me, or else Hulk will smash me to the ground. So thank you Peter” Natasha said as she kiss him on the cheek.

“Take care of your Aunt May. Finish school, and continue helping people in need. It was nice to work with you Peter” Steve said as he hugs the teen. Peter was shocked at that. Suddenly he felt so sad to see them go. They are like his parents now. So he hugs both of them.

“Thank you for everything Captain Rogers and Miss Romanoff. I won't forget all the advice you gave me.” He looks up to both of them. They was his idol and his new family.

“You can ask anything Peter. Just give us a call.” Natasha said as she touch his face

“Good luck for you two, my parents had a fight every day; my dad regrets it after she passes away. He regrets that he never told her, that he loved her. So I hope you guys will a find a way, before it’s too late.” Peter said genuinely, he really hoped they will confess their love.

“Thank you Peter, but I'm taking this comic book with me” Steve smirk as he show him the comic book in his hand. Peter and Natasha in shocked that he found the comic apparently.

________________________________________________________________

“That's is very good advice. I learn something from him as well” Steve talks as his driving to get out of the town

“He is very young and naive, I'm surprise for how mature he was” Natasha said as she looking at the window.

“So why don't we follow his advice?” Steve said as suddenly stop and parks his car beside the bridge. They watch the sunset, the view is stunning

“What are you doing Steve?” Natasha said as Steve takes her hand to the bridge to see the river.

“Natasha, I read the comic, I don't know how they found it, how they know about our story. But I want to say the way they described me in the comic book was true. I was stubborn and also an idiot not sees that you and me.” Before Steve can finish his words. Natasha pulls him for a kiss. Natasha laughed to see his reaction. She been with him all this time, as his best friend, helping each other in need, believe in each other no matter what happen, helping him to cope with this new world, she with him at the lowest point in his life, right now even he is a war criminal. So he cannot stop his feelings anymore. Because if he didn't say now, he probably will never ever can tell her.

“I love you Tasha” Natasha shocked at his confession, because she never though he will say the words very quickly. But she shut it down immediately as Steve kissed her passionately.

Later, Steve and Natasha heading to their secret honeymoon.

#romanogers #stevenatasha #stevenat #capwidow #captain america #Black Widow #natasha romanoff #Steve Rogers #rwbigbang #peter parker #spiderman #romanogersweek

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tripstations · 5 years

Text

20 of the world’s best waterfalls: readers’ tips | Travel

Winning tip: Cola de Caballo, Pyrenees, Spain

The aptly named Cola de Caballo (horsetail) cascade is the most spectacular of the many along the Arazas River in the Spanish Pyrenean Ordesa national park. Taking the GR11 upstream from the park’s entrance, a three-hour hike takes you past increasingly dramatic falls. Another kilometre beyond the Cola is the beautifully isolated Góriz mountain refuge hut, where you can enjoy some of Europe’s most unpolluted night skies. The backdrop is the brooding grandeur of Monte Perdido (Lost Mountain) looking down from its 3,300-metre peak, and often you can see giant lammergeiers (also called bearded vultures) circling. To the north, across the French border is Gavarnie, another magnificent waterfall. Alan

Aquafraggia Falls, Lombardy, Italy

Photograph: Francesco Bergamaschi/Getty Images

A couple of weeks ago we went to the Notte delle Cascate festival which sprawls around the foot of the Acquafraggia Falls in the Val Bregaglia near Chiavenna. We sampled local food and wine as we wandered ever closer to the base of the dramatic falls – two tiers and twin streams dropping 130 metres off the valley wall – and found a good viewpoint to spread our blanket on the grass, and wait. There were river pools for kids to play in and lots of pop-up bars for refreshments. All this is the build up to the exciting climax: at 10pm a squad of abseilers, their bodies outlined with lights, slowly descend the falls in the dark. Magical. Martha

Grawa, Austria

Photograph: Getty Images

The Grawa waterfall is on the Wild Water Trail in the Stubai Valley. We travelled there by bus using the Stubai Super Card. Our walking group were the only ones there on a damp, misty morning. The 85-metre-wide waterfall wasn’t even in full flow but it was an awesome, thundering spectacle. When we revisited the next day, it was transformed: a bright, sunny afternoon had framed the waterfall with blue sky and green trees and brought many people out to enjoy the show from the wooden platform and seating. Liz Young

Svartifoss, Iceland

Photograph: Getty Images

One of my most amazing experiences ever was to see the mystical Svartifoss waterfall in Iceland, in the south of Vatnajökull national park. Although this is not the biggest of the Icelandic “fosses”, the magic of the place was palpable. Magnificent octagonal basalt columns that surround Svatrifoss add something special. In the dying light of winter sun, the icy glow of falling glacier water was radiating extraordinary power. The hike to Svartifoss from the visitor centre in Skaftafell takes about 45 minutes each way. Every time I think about Svartifoss, my heart is filled with wonder. Rod L

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Søtefossen, Norway

Photograph: Getty Images

If, like me, you’re obsessed with waterfalls, Norway is the promised land. No other country gives more bang for your buck. Unfortunately many of Norway’s cataracts are harnessed for the country’s huge hydroelectric industry. But a hike up the Kinso River bags you four of its finest unharnessed falls culminating in Søtefossen, a giant double leap down the headwall of the Husedalen. You start in Kinsarvik: there’s a bus stop in the village and a car park at the trailhead a few kilometres up the valley. The trail climbs 666 metres, it’s strenuous but the payoff is extraordinary. Michael

Glen Maye, Isle of Man

Photograph: Mark Wallace/Alamy

A small but powerful force, Glen Maye waterfall in the Isle of Man plungesthrough a dramatic, intensely green gorge sheltered by mature woods and clothed in moss, ferns and trailing plants saturated by the river’s breath. When the river is not in full spate, the pool is an unforgettable place to swim – deep, wild, clear and exhilaratingly cold. A spirit of Manx folklore – the Cabbyl-Ushtey (Water Horse) – is said to dwell here. Glen Maye is a 10-minute drive from the western town of Peel. There’s a car park above the glen, from which you can follow the river down through the trees to the beach for a picnic. Elizabeth

Cora Linn, South Lanarkshire

Photograph: Peter Devlin/Alamy

The most magical place in Central Scotland is the Cora Linn at the Falls of Clyde after a heavy rainfall. It can be reached by walking from the historic town of New Lanark via a well-maintained woodland pathway alongside the river where badgers and otters make their home. The falls have impressed and inspired poets and writers for centuries, including Wordsworth, Coleridge, and JMW Turner. The feeling of being miles from anywhere while being midway between Scotland’s major cities is sensational. And when you catch your first sight of the falls the feeling is glorious. Moira

Mill and Whitfield Gill Force, Wensleydale, Yorkshire

Mill Gill Force. Photograph: Mike Kipling Photography/Alamy

Picturesque Askrigg in Wensleydale offers an enchanting five-mile round-trip to two fabulous but unheralded waterfalls, Mill Gill Force and Whitfield Gill Force. Park outside the church (free) and walk through backstreets and then meadows before meeting Mill Gill Beck in its wooded glade. You’ll soon be following the whooshing of the falls, descending to the first in a cavernous gully shrouded by cliffs and trees. Keep going to the even more spectacular Whitfield, before ascending out of the glen and taking a moorland track back to Askrigg, with commanding views over the dale. Refresh at the ancient and atmospheric King’s Arms, with its excellent food, ales, and friendly staff. Daniel Ashman

Baatara Gorge waterfall, Lebanon

Photograph: Alamy

The Cave of Three Bridges near Tannourine village (a 90-minute drive from Beirut) is a primordial wonder. A vertical shaft of icy melt water drops 250 metres through a limestone cave. Over the centuries the water has carved three limestone arcs across the main chamber at the end of a dizzyingly steep gorge. The curved nature of the erosion and abundance of greenery give the impression of an imagined landscape, a sublime rendering of the natural world. The Baatara Gorge can be accessed by trail from the village of Mgharet al-Ghaouaghir and offers an insight into the incredible geology of this tiny, troubled country. Gareth Roberts

Gocta Waterfall, Peru

Photograph: Getty Images

It is well worth the trek to get to this astonishing waterfall. In cloud forest at the edge of the Amazon, in the Chachapoyas region, it is the most beautiful waterfall I’ve ever seen. Locals will tell you it’s the third-highest waterfall in the world (at 771 metres) although experts dispute this because it falls in two drops and it’s rated by the World Waterfall Database as 16th-highest in the world. Whatever its standing, it’s worth the 6km trek, which takes about four hours. The route is generally well-signposted, if a little rugged in parts. It’s also free, unless you want to take up the option of hiring a horse and a guide. Tim Evans

Moconá Falls, Misiones, Argentina

Photograph: Francois-Olivier Dommergues/Alamy

These falls on the Uruguay River dividing Brazil and Argentina are often overlooked by travellers seeking the undoubted majesty of its big brother, Iguazu, 300km away. We visited Moconá Falls when staying at Don Enrique Lodge, about 50km from the falls, after a tip from our hosts. A 4WD taxi down miles of dirt tracks followed by an hour’s rib-boat trip took us to the 3km-long falls. Uniquely, the falls run the length of the river and although only about 20 metres high, they are breathtaking. Moconá translates in the Guarani language as “to swallow everything”, an entirely justified description. Not easy to reach but an unforgettable experience. Also known as the Yucumã Falls, this incredible sight can also be viewed from the Brazilian side. Paul Hammond

Snoqualmie, Washington State, US

Photograph: Getty Images

This is the 82-metre waterfall (about 30 metres taller than Niagara Falls) made famous internationally in the 1990s TV series Twin Peaks. One of the great things, beyond the sheer force of its visual splendour, is that Snoqualmie is accessible by public bus services from downtown Seattle (30 miles) for a few dollars, so you don’t need a hire car to get there. It’s less than a mile woodland hike to the base of the falls from the top (and there are other hikes there too). David Chalton

Sunwapta Falls, Jasper national park, Canada

Photograph: laurenepbath/Getty Images

This is a perfect stopover when driving on the Icefields Parkway. The 18-metre Upper Falls are easily accessed from the car park. The cascading water, partly fed by the Athabasca Glacier, is immensely powerful in spring and early summer when meltwater volumes are at peak. Walk to the centre of the high wooden footbridge that spans the gorge to appreciate the picture-perfect sight of the towering mountains in the background, and the picturesque island of trees just before the falls. Rushing water curves dramatically around both sides of the island. Sunwapta means “turbulent river” in the Stoney First Nation people’s language. A mile’s hike leads you through forest to the Lower Falls. Watch out for bears. Victoria

Kalandula Falls, Angola

Photograph: Alamy

Angola is home to one of Africa’s biggest waterfalls, the Kalendula Falls, boasting an impressive width of 410 metres and a drop of 105 metres. The thundering noise, mist and setting are overwhelming. The best way to experience the falls is by hire car from Luanda, a six-hour drive on fairly rudimentary roads through varied landscapes. Alternatively, travel by train to the regional capital, Malanje, and then drive north for an hour via Lombe and Calandula. Stay at the charming Pousada Calandula (doubles from about £150). The six rooms have incredible views (and the noise) of the waterfall. The falls are best enjoyed from the B&B’s veranda with its bar. Line Nyhagen

Ngare Ndare, Kenya

Photograph: Martin Mwaura/Alamy

Hidden in the middle of a small, community-managed forest reserve in central Kenya, Ngare Ndare is an impossibly pretty set of waterfalls perfect for swimming in. Four amazingly clear pools stretch a kilometre from a cerulean-blue pool fed by melting ice from the slopes of nearby Mount Kenya, past a couple of smaller, steeper pools with myriad jumping opportunities for adrenalin junkies, ending with the largest fall and best swimming spot. It’s a cool 4km hike through shady forest from the main gate. Take a guide – we came across elephants. Clare

Tappiya Falls, Philippines

Photograph: Getty Images

In a valley of the Cordillera mountains, the journey to the Tappiyal Falls involves making your way to the small village of Batad, among the Ifuago rice terraces, a Unesco world heritage site (390km north of Manila). Hiring a local guide costs between £8 and £16 to take you on a trek along the luscious green terraces carving along mountains before a 30-minute descent to the falls. Here, the water plummets 30 metres to a huge, refreshing pool to swim in and wash off the sweat from the hike. Tappiya’s beauty isn’t solely in the falls (stunning as they are), but the journey to get there: to the remote village, the phenomenal terraces, and the tricky descent. Laurence Britton

Nachi, Japan

Photograph: Sean Pavone/Getty Images

The Kumano Kodo pilgrim trail is actually a collection of routes 100km or so south of Osaka. They are among the best and most well-organised of Japanese hikes with wonderful traditional Japanese accommodation and food on route. The gem at the end of the Nakahechi route is the Nachi Falls which, with a drop of 133 metres, is Japan’s most spectacular cascade. Full details from the Kumano Travel Centre. John Thackray

Khe Kem, Vietnam

Photograph: Son Viet

Take a rented moped (about £7) from Con Cuông in the North Central Coast region on a meandering 20km ride through chiseled mountains, alongside rural villages to access the graceful Khe Kem waterfall. |For a £1 entry fee, visitors get access to paths with bamboo rails that guide through the undergrowth towards the foot of the cascade, where a serene pool is surrounded by natural sun-baked stone loungers. Swim directly under the flowing torrent while having your feet gently nibbled by some of Pu Mat park’s fish population. If you’re lucky, as we were, an invitation to join a picnicking local family and share in food, beers and cheers might cap this magnificent experience. Belly

Weeping Wall, Hawaii

Waialeale crater with many waterfalls and green cliffs in Kauai, Hawaii, USA. Photograph: Getty Images

If you take one helicopter trip in your lifetime, let it be around Hawaiian island Kauai. Not only will you feel transported to the opening scene of Jurassic Park, but in one sweep you will see some of the most astonishing and remote landscapes on Earth from an unforgettable vantage. The Waimea Canyon, the towering cliffs of the Nā Pali coastline, the horseshoe reef of Tunnels beach, and the Weeping Wall. Scores of rivulets thousands of feet high fall like tears directly from the misty sky. Set against the emerald background of shield volcano Mount Waialeale: a towering physical beauty from an earlier geological age, this is one of the most astounding sights on the planet. Hiking to the falls is only feasible for experienced adventurers. Sarah croudace

Whangarei Falls, North Island, New Zealand

Photograph: Chandrasekhar Velayudhan/Getty Images

There are bigger, splashier more dramatic Kiwi waterfalls but few are as photogenic as Whangarei Falls. The spectacular 27-metre drop down a basalt cliff is set in a wooded valley. There’s a wonderful loop walk around the falls among the 500-year-old native flora and fauna. The three viewing platforms, picnic spots and well-maintained paths are balanced with the sheer beauty of the place. It’s easily accessible, a 10-minute drive out of Whangarei, with plenty of free parking and toilets. Walks to the falls from the car parks range from 15 minutes to 1.5 hours. Perfect for a picnic and exploring. Phil Lines

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