#if you see the staircase scene again you can pinpoint the moment when he started crying bro

[a-little-bit-of-ships-in-my-life]

I'm going to either write a whole fucking post womiting all my feelings and opinions about today's episode and how much i love Kotaro and my thoughts about him, or write ANOTHER one shot where Kotaro fucking cries with the biggest catharsis feeling i can evoke for him because i want to show how weak he is and how happy he felt after Sakura thanked him. He deserves it.

#zombieland saga #zombieland saga revenge #kotaro tatsumi #i love this #i love Kotaro #and i think we should be talking MORE about his character and HOW much he goes through and HOW much he felt after Sakura thanked him #fuck #if you see the staircase scene again you can pinpoint the moment when he started crying bro #i can't #these two are going to end me #but Kotaro the most #man #how had i fell for an anime character

[kurokens]

Une Minute | Gojo Satoru

anime/manga: jujutsu kaisen

character: gojo satoru

words: 2k

pronouns: they/them

request: "Hey sorry love your blog, need another overprotective Gojo I love the one with s/o is goes on dangerous mission by their higher, but Gojo goes them and witness his s/o getting horribly injured and bloody by surprise grade curse?" & "Hihi! Could I request something with Gojo, where he finds out someone hurt the reader but they didn't fight back? Like, he notices her limping or something and confronts her? Hurt comfort maybe??"

notes: hey! first of all thank you so much for requesting, im so sorry it took me so long to write this. second, i've decided to combine both of your requests because i thought they were going well together so I hope you will both like it! I was inspired by ep 3 of the anime for that one. and as always english isn't my main language so sorry for any mistake.

not proof read

song rec: une minute - pomme

genre: hurt/comfort

warnings: blood, injuries and canon-typical violence, nothing too graphic but still a little bit. my writing

Getting paired up on a mission with Gojo was rare, extremely rare, so it could never be good news when you were, you both knew that, but it didn’t stop either you to be excited about getting some alone time. Well, an old hospital full of curses wasn’t really the ideal date spot, but as long as you were together you were content.

“Let’s get rid of these curses quickly and then go on a real date!!” Your boyfriend said while swinging your intertwined hands.

“We have to go back as soon as we’re done Satoru, we have things to do.” You chuckled at the man-child standing next to you.

“But love we haven’t gone on a date in sooooo long. They won’t know, we can just say the mission took longer than expected!” He whined which only made you laugh harder.

“We will see how the mission goes and how well you behave.” Your last comment earned you a gasp from the oversized puppy you called your boyfriend.

“Let’s go, it should be here.” You said, the abandoned hospital coming into view.

Once at the entrance Gojo and you decided that it would be wiser to split up in order to be more efficient.

“And like this we can finish faster and go on this date we both deserve!” was what your boyfriend exclaimed right before making his way down one of the corridors.

While Gojo was covering the first floor you decided to make your way to the top one. Everything was rather calm, maybe a bit too calm, but you wouldn’t complain, deep down you really wanted to finish this mission fast and go on this date. But suddenly a whimper made you stop dead in your tracks, you whipped your head towards the sound only to be met with nothing but darkness. You waited to see if you would hear it again and decided to start walking again when you didn’t. You made your way to the next floor, starting to find it weird that no curse manifested itself yet, it was quite strange. Walking through the corridor you couldn’t help the chills that made their way up your neck. Something felt off but you couldn’t pinpoint what.

When you were about to reach the next staircase, you heard a sound again, but this time it sounded more like a cry, a human one. You didn’t think twice before dashing towards the sound’s source, not wanting it to disappear again. You violently opened the door only to be met with a bloodcurdling scene, a child helplessly trying to get out of the grip of a curse, while the bloody body of a dead one was laying down on the ground. Upon hearing you the curse tighten its grip around the child’s body, making the little girl hiss in pain.

“Help me, please help me.” She cried out, her eyes fixated on you.

“Don’t worry, you will be okay.” You told her, taking a step forward only to stop again after the curse started tightening its grip again, almost choking the girl.

“Okay, I won’t hurt you, but you need to let her go.” You resigned and tried to bargain with the curse who only wickedly smiled at you.

The distress of the little girl was only growing seeing that the grip of the curse wasn’t loosening up, each of her plea going straight through your heart. You sneakily tried to take a step towards the both of them but the curse saw right through you and brought its hand towards the kid’s neck, as if to warn you of what it would do if you dared coming closer. Reluctantly you stopped making the child scream in terror, her begging intensifying.

“I promise you will get out of here sweetheart, okay? Trust me, it won’t hurt you, I’ve got you.” You told her, smiling softly at her in hope to ease her mind.

You couldn’t let this child die, you had to find a way to save her, no matter what it would cost you. Bargaining with a curse was a lost cause you knew it, they are devoid of conscience, yet you still tried, you needed to. The curse was barely a grade 3, you could take it out easily but before you could do anything you had to find a way to make it let go of the girl, you couldn’t risk hurting her.

“What about making an exchange? Me against her?” You offered, but the curse only snickered, as if it was mocking you.

Your blood was starting to boil, you wanted to punch this bastard across the face so badly, but before you could even make a move, you felt it, the immense cursed energy right behind you, one that you immediately recognised as a special grade. You took a deep breath and slowly turned around, your guts were right, right there stood a special grade curse, viciously smiling at you. You made a move ready to hit the curse with your technique only to be abruptly stopped by the little girl’s muffled cries, you whipped your head back towards her and the weaker curse to find that it was now choking her. The special grade curse used your moment of inattention to slam you against the wall with such force that it knocked the wind out of you. It had you pinned against the wall, one hand wrapped around your throat, you could barely move and you knew that if you even tried the other curse would hurt the kid. The special grade brought its face closer to yours, clearly enjoying your current situation. Staring right into your eyes, it slowly raised its hand before stabbing you right in the stomach. The pain made you cried out, wishing you could rip its head off and make it suffer just as much as you were right now, instead you turned your head towards the kid hoping she was still alive. She was wiggling, crying, and screaming, well at least you think she was. If you had to be honest you couldn’t really hear anything anymore, your consciousness slowly slipping away. You could feel the hand of the special grade still deep inside your stomach, blood spilling on it and slowly dripping down staining the ground beneath you.

“It’s okay sweetheart, you’re okay.” You weakly said, trying to reassure the child as best as you could. “You’re strong, we will get out of here.”

“Help me, please hel-” She was unexpectedly cut off, the silence around you suddenly deafening, and before you could even realise what happened the special grade’s head went flying, its body falling numb on the floor, and its hands releasing their hold on you, causing you to collapse.

“Hey baby please stay with me, okay? I need you to stay awake, don’t fall asleep on me.” You heard your boyfriend’s voice.

“Hm, ‘Toru?” You managed to let out.

“That’s right love, now please stay with me, don’t close your eyes.” He said, gently caressing your cheek with his thumb. “I will take you to Shoko, but I need you to stay with me until then, don’t you dare fall asleep.”

“The girl, you need to save the girl.” You croaked out, scanning the room the best you could in search of the little girl, praying she was safe and sound.

“I did, she is okay. I will take you both to Shoko and then I will take her back home, okay?” Your boyfriend explained to you, to which you only nodded in response, way too tired to speak anymore.

You felt Gojo pick you up, trying his best to apply pressure on your wound so you wouldn’t lose too much blood, you weakly smiled at him before your eyes closed and sleep took you despite your boyfriend’s cries of protest.

Gojo’s steps were urgent, he didn’t have time to lose, he needed to take you to Shoko as soon as possible. Once her office was in sight he started walking even faster, as if it was possible. He didn’t bother even knocking, he barged in praying for the doctor to be here, and to his relief she was. Upon seeing her high school friend’s expression and your unconscious body in his arms, Shoko didn’t ask any question and guided him towards the nearest bed on which he laid you down. She signalled him with her head that she was going to take care of you and that he should leave for now. Reluctantly he stepped away from the bed before going back to the child he left outside the office.

Once he made sure that the little girl wasn’t injured in any way, he asked Ichiji to take her back to her house, and made his way back to Shoko’s office. Knowing his friend would scream at him to let her work in peace if he was to enter the room, Gojo decided to wait outside, praying you would be okay.

And after what felt like hours to him, pacing around the corridor anxiously waiting, Shoko finally came out to tell him you were okay and that he could come inside.

“They are still asleep but they will be okay.” The doctor said with a gentle smile.

“Thank you.” The teacher breathed, hugging his friend tightly before making his way to your bed, sitting down on the chair Shoko put there for him. He took one of your hand between his and brought it to his lips to lay a gentle kiss on top of it before laying his head down on the bed, patiently waiting for you to wake up.

You slowly stirred awake, the pain in your stomach still here but duller, you tried to bring your hand up to cover your eyes from the brightness of the room only to be met with a resistance. You turned your head towards it to find your boyfriend sleeping soundly with your hand in his. You brought your free one to his hair and slowly threaded through it, gradually waking him up. Realising what was happening Gojo shot his head up, his deep blue eyes frantically searching for yours and immediately relaxing once they met.

“Hey.” He whispered, his voice hoarse with sleep.

“Hi.” You replied.

“You scared me.” He continued, his thumb rubbing soft circles on top of your hand.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to.” You said, your hand still in his hair, affectionately rubbing his head.

“You didn’t even try to fight back, you could have killed them if you wanted to.” Gojo sighed, remembering the picture of you with the curse’s hand in your stomach.

“They were threatening the child, they would have killed them if I tried fighting back.” You explained.

“Still, I, I thought I was going to lose you. If I got there even a minute later, you might have died.” The white-haired man breathed heavily.

“But you didn’t, you saved me.” You smiled, sliding your hand down to cup his cheek, your thumb catching the tear that was threatening to fall. “You saved me.”

“Never do this again.” He said, nuzzling his head into your hand, and kissing it.

“I will try my best not to.” You answered before chuckling quietly.

“What is it?” Gojo asked with a soft smile on his face.

“I guess this mean our date is cancelled?” You laughed louder when your boyfriend snickered at your question.

“I think so yes, but we have all the time in the world to plan another one, and an even better one. Now scoot over, my back is hurting from sleeping in this position.” He gently pushed you on the other side of the bed before laying down, putting his arms around you and your head on his chest.

“Better?” You inquired the dumbest smile forming on your face.

“Much better.” He mumbled.

“I love you ‘Toru.” You yawned.

“I love you more angel.” He replied, kissing your forehead one last time before the two of you fell asleep, exhausted by your eventful day.

#saturn's writing #gojo satoru x reader #jjk x reader #jujutsu kaisen x reader #gojo satoru fluff #jjk fluff #jujutsu kaisen fluff #gojo x reader #gojo satoru x you #jjk x you #jujutsu kaisen x you #gojo x you #gojou satoru x reader #gojo fluff

[virtual-luvr]

Gala

☇Pairing: Jumin Han x Reader

☇Pronouns: male; he/him

☇Warning: none that i can think of <3

☇Description: Jumin wasn't planning on getting this emotional, especially at a gala.

☇Note: part two of couch nap for @luckymunchkin ! I got a lil emotional while writing that ending though-

------------------

Poor Jaehee, she had to see all of your guy's advances towards each other

Like right now too.

Jaehee currently stood in front of her boss and best friend, said best friend leaning on heR bosses desk and sending flirty remarks.

'OKAY WE GET IT YOUR G A Y AND IN LOVE', that's what she wished she could scream out right now.

But, alas, if she did she would get embarrassed by all her coworkers AND she knows you would just say

"Is someone jealous~"

And she is not about to deal with her bullshit.

Jumin sits there leaning out of his chair while conversation with you looking like he about to fall off it. Especially when you grazed your hand against his cheek to swipe a strand of his hair behind his ear.

You guys just wouldn't stop flIRTING.

Jaehee grunts as she holds on as tight as possible to the documents in her hands. Quite frustrated with the fact her boss stole her best friends attention from her and also now she has to deal with you flirting every two seconds.

You were still flabbergasted by his actions so you basically heard not even half of what he just said.

At this point people thought you worked for Jumin, i mean, you did spend a lot of time at his office now a days-

You and Jumin hurridly try to collect yourselves as you hear Jaehee give out a small coff.

"Jaehee yes, what is it you need?" Jumin says

You play and fidget with the things on Jumin desk as Jumin and Jaehee talk. Jumin tries his best not to get distracted by it but your excessive pen clicking was hurting his ears.

As Jaehee backs away to her desk Jumin lets out a grunt and puts his hand on top of yours.

"Stop that"

"Heyyy, i can't help it"

"Ill buy you something to fidget with just not my pen"

He always tried to buy you stuff, and even thought you knew he was rich RICH, you still didn't want to annoy him or something.

As you open your mouth to decline him he shushes you up, putting a finger to your lips and standing up from his chair he gives you a small glare

"Shush, also I need you for something"

"Hm?" You hum out and as you look up at him you're surprised with his face close to yours and his hands trapping you on the desk.

If i could accurately describe your thoughts right now im pretty sure it would be something along the lines of "&*$'.×$:_×€:(*€:*_:$*€:,*_€**€#,_*"

His stare is intense as he talks, "My father wants me to bring someone to a gala he's prepared. I don't have anyone, but im sure you might like the idea of a good evening or something"

He stands back from you, slightly adjusting his nicely done cuffs and waits for your answer.

You were not expecting that.

Giving out a small, "sure", and running off your face as hot as the sun and your breath shaky. In the small portion of time you had been obviously flirting he had NEVER done something like that.

------------

As you pick out your clothes Jaehee is screaming through the phone.

"(Y/N)...we are talking about a HAN gala, there is no way i can calm down. This has to be as perfect as can be"

"JAEHEE CALM DOWN" you yell out as you hurriedly put on your clothes.

"Ill tell Jumin to go easier on you okay, you've been working really hard. Take a break, everything is perfect already anyways Jaehee"

Her words elicit an ugly laugh out of you, never in a million years would you believe that, there's no way.

You hear Jaehee heavily sigh through the phone, "thank you..i know he'll listen to you. You have him wrapped around your finger, you know that right?"

"Its the truth!!"

"Whatever Jaehee, ill see you there" you lightly shake your head and hang up, doing any last details and shaking off any dust that might be on your clothes.

When you get there you're met with the beautiful sight of fairy lights and different colors.

As you walk out you meet Jumins eyes and he softly smiles at you. He usually doesn't do that but he's been doing it much more lately.

Giving your hand a kiss he pats the seat beside him, your blush does not go unnoticed and he lets out a light chuckle.

You grumble as he tells the driver to start the car, after a while you get more comfortable and you make conversation as you get to the gala.

Opening the door you're met with flashes and blinding light. You try to cover your eyes but you flinch as Jumins hand comes into contact with your back.

He ignores everyone around him except the corporates who gave out a wave and nice greetings, leading you to a less crowded area he tells you he has something important to do and now you sit there waiting for him to calm back.

He doesn't give out any reaction, he just slowly walks you through the crowd of people and leave you to the grand entrance.

Zen excitedly picks you up, your feet hover over the ground as you try to hug him as best as possible.

Damn you Jumin, im not good at this stuff.

Hearing an oh so familiar laugh you look all around you, trying to find the culprit as soon as possible.

As you walk around a corner you see familiar head of hair.

There he was!

Giving a light tap to his shoulder you smirk when Zen gives you a bright eyed smile

"Miss me?"

No matter what, damn this man is strong-

"He's here!"

All of you were having a good time until Jaehees breath hitches and she hurriedly gives you the champagne bottle she had in her hands just moments ago.

As you look beyond Zens shoulder you see Jaehee.

"Oh im so sorry, was I interrupting your conversation?" Oh god now you feel bad. You thought he was alone-

"No no, you were just the person i was looking for. We missed you"

You smile at Zen and Jaehee, giving Jaehee a quick hug and engaging in conversation. It was more of Zen flexing his acting and you and Jaehee both being amazed.

Both Jaehee and Zen turn a pale white. Zen stutters before giving you a, "peace out", and running away. Jaehee chasing him, right on his tail.

"Is everything okay-"

You were about to ask up until you felt a slight warmth behind you, looking behind your shoulder you're met with Jumins cold glare.

Damn, so that's how it is huh.

That hurt, thats hurt more then it should have. He doesn't even try to look at you in the eyes, he just keeps looking out at the scenery.

You chuckle nervously as you turn around to meet Jumins eyes

He notices your eyes piercing through him and he huffs, he turns away from you and walks through the crowd. You follow as best as you can, trying not to lose sight of him.

You reach a balcony and you see him resting on the railing, the wind made his hair flow beautifully.

But as much as you wanted to admire him, you knew you guys had to talk.

"Whats wrong?" You go and put your hand on his back like he did to you less than an hour ago but he only pushes it away

"Its fine"

"No its not, whats wro-"

"Can you leave me alone please? I don't want to talk to you or see you right now, its annoying"

It works a little but he knows he needs to go look for you now. Budging the door open he swiftly walks through the crowd once again and as he maps out the second floor of the mansion he knows you're not around here.

When Jumin hears the door to the balcony slam shut he knew he had fucked up.

He panics for a second, running his hand through his hair. Trying to calm his laboring breath and bad thoughts.

"Im sorry, i was jealous of your interactions with Zen. I know you're entitled to all your own emotions but seeing you with him makes my heart ache. I don't know what this feeling is, its so foreign. But i know i don't like seeing you so close to him, I thought we were close-" he chocked up while confessing to you, you grab onto the fabric of his vest as he cries into your shoulder

His shoes click each time he takes another step and he practically skips as many steps as he humanly can while walking down the staircase.

The gala was a big, and so was the crowd. But even so, he was able to pinpoint your head through the whole crowd and he runs after you. Not giving a single care about what everyone in the crowd thought.

He tries not to make a scene so with his long legs he goes up behind you and takes you into one of the spare bedrooms.

"Jumin let me go" you barely fight him off, you don't have any energy to. But you know he would obey what you had to say, and just as you thought he let you go.

He suddenly grabs onto you and hugs you close.

You run your hands through his hair. As much as his words hurt, you also know he would never be this emotional around others. So you know he's telling the truth

"Im sorry, please, I didn't mean that I swear. It just came out, I promise i wont do it again. Please don't leave, please-"

Well to him at least it did seem embarrassing, he was raised this way after all.

"Sh sh, i forgive you"

"You do?" He hiccups, his voice is groagy now, he hasn't cried like this in so long. It felt good but also so incredibly embarrassing to do it in front of the person he loved so much.

His hands were glued to the small of your back and his thumb rubbed soft and smooth traces against your skin.

You give his forehead a soft peck and the smile he had that evening finally came back.

He barely thought his actions through before he had you in a close embrace and his lips were against yours.

Your hands were still in his hair and a sigh slips past his lips as he presses his lips harder against yours.

You eyelashes flutter open as he pulls away, but when your eyes meet he closes the gap once again.

If you could stay like this forever you would.

You push away from just a little so you can look at his expression better, his expressions tells you everything. He truly is so, so happy in this moment.

After another passionate kiss he gives out soft pecks to your lips as you both smile, hearts content

"I've never been this happy"

And you wouldn't want it any other way. Seeing Jumin this happy made you just as happy.

You can't help but kiss him again as you see him smile and look at you with soft but loving eyes.

"Is this a good time to say I love you" you say as you chuckle

[1956 words; aug/25/2020]

#virtual luvr is typing #ahh ive barely written these daysss #so sorry its schol fault though so much wORK #anyways i love this #jumin han #mysme jumin #x male reader #x reader #male reader #jumin han x reader #jumin han x mc #jumin han x male reader #jumim hand oneshot #jumin han imagine #mystic messenger imagine #mystic messenger oneshot #mystic messenger x male reader #mystic messenger x reader #mystic messenger

[winchester-purgatory]

Doomed | Dean Winchester (1/5)

New Orleans, Louisiana

Upon arriving at the crime scene, the Winchesters knocked on the victim's door and waited.

The rundown apartment complex gave off a perfect spooky vibe with its sketchily-stained concrete floors - blood, perhaps - and the stinging smell of death coming from the staircase. Maybe the article was just about some junkie having hallucinations?

Regardless, they had to check it out.

According to the article Sam had read online, a young woman in New Orleans, Louisiana had been the victim of a gruesome home invasion in the middle of the night. She came home from a night out with her group of friends to two strangers standing in her living room: a man in his forties and one in his late twenties. The younger shot himself in the head first, followed by the elder. The neighboring apartments confirmed having heard two gunshots, but there was only one body when the police arrived on the scene. During the interrogation, the woman's description of the second man corresponded to the house's past owner...who had been cremated three years ago after commiting suicide the same way.

The last line got Sam and Dean to pack their bags and climb into the Impala, ready for a good old classic ghost case.

Dean knocked again, in case it wasn't loud enough the first time, getting impatient. Sam gave him a look, straightening up when he heard the door handle wiggling.

A young woman with long ginger hair opened the door, pulling her eyebrows at the two suited men standing on her doorstep. ''May I help you?''

Sam was taken aback by her glamorous appearance - stockings, black dress and polished makeup. She looked nothing like the building they were standing in. It could also be an act, a sort of costume. After all, he didn't know what she did for a living. All he knew was that she looked very out of place in this ratnest.

''Cordelia Chase?''

''Myself.''

''Agent Plant and Agent Page, FBI,'' Dean introduced, holding up his faux badge licence. ''We're here for the home invasion/double suicide.''

The redhead glanced at their badges, confirming their FBI licences, but was nonetheless confused to see the agents on her doorstep. ''The case is closed. I already made my deposition and the police didn't believe me for the second man. They said there would be no further investigation.'' She scoffed, shaking her head. ''After all, there was only one body...'' she added in a lower voice.

She made a point, Sam noted.

If their suspicion was correct, the second man was the spirit of the past owner who died committing suicide in this very appartement. But, they couldn't exactly tell Cordelia the truth.

The brunet shared a look with Dean, who whipped out an excuse.

''Local police closed the case. Not the FBI,'' Dean corrected smugly. ''We've been assigned to take over.''

''We don't make the rules, Miss Chase,'' Sam explained, supporting his brother's lie. ''May we come in? We'd like to ask you some questions.''

She nodded, offering them a small smile and opening her door wider. ''Sure.''

The brothers stepped inside and Dean did a double-take, glancing again at the redhead, silent-whistling at Sam as she walked in front of them, her dress hugging her body in all the right places. Glaring at him, Sam smacked Dean's stomach, bringing him back to business.

''Would you like something to drink? Water? Coffee? Tea? I should have some in a cupboard...'' Cordelia kindly offered, passing by the small kitchen area.

Sam was subtly checking out the place in detail, looking for ectoplasm or other signs of the supernatural in this apartment, doing his part of the job as they followed the redhead to the living area for the interrogation. Jobs were much easier when men were the victims. At least he didn't have to remind Dean to focus on the job instead of the victim's physique.

''A coffee would be appreciated,'' Sam responded.

Cordelia nodded and headed behind the kitchen counter, turning on the kettle to boil water for Sam's coffee.  

While she was occupied elsewhere, Sam and Dean took a look around the cramped apartment. Just like the rest of the building, the apartment was barely holding up. There was a hole in one of the walls, as if someone had punched it, and the curtains were replaced by old sheets pinned up.

Walking into the living room, Dean noticed the blood stain on the wooden floor, barely faded despite the bleach that must've been used to scrub it off. Blood was a bitch to get off, he knew that.

''How long have you been living here, Miss Chase?'' Sam swiped his finger on the bookshelf near the hallway, frowning at the heavy amount of dirt that seemed to be on all of the furniture, as if the place hadn't been occupied for a long time.

''A couple weeks. I'll be frank with you, this apartment wouldn't have been my first choice, but I didn't have much of a choice. There was a flood in my old building,'' she explained, pouring the water in the mug, watching as the coffee grains dissolved in the hot water and turned it dark. ‘’Take a seat.’’

The two brothers shared a look before sitting on the not-so-fresh looking floral couch, a stench of old fabric filling their nostrils as they sank into it.

Sam thanked Cordelia as she set the mug on the small table before sitting down on the armchair adjacent to the couch, resting her manicured hands over her lap.

Once again, her well-mannered behavior struck Sam a certain way. Something felt off, but he couldn't pinpoint what.

''So, Miss Chase,'' Dean started, clearing his throat, causing his little brother to snap out of his trance. ''We've read your deposition and you said you walked in to the first man shooting himself and falling to the floor. You saw the second man pick up the gun and bring it to his temple, but closed your eyes the second you saw him press the trigger.’’ Cordelia nodded and Dean pursued. ‘’I don't mean to trigger you, but did you see the other man shooting himself? Did you see him fall to the ground?''

The young woman shifted, blue eyes cast down, feeling uneasy and slightly nauseous at the memories. ''No. I closed my eyes and ran out the second I heard the gunshot. I...I didn't want to witness a bullet going through someone's head.''

''Understandable,'' Sam agreed with a tight lipped smile. ''It could be possible that the second man, the elder one, missed his shot and fled. Do you have a balcony or a window that could be big enough to escape through?'' he questioned, glancing around.

Cordelia shook her head. ''No balcony. One of my windows is broken and sealed with wood, and I doubt someone can pass through the second.'' She stifled a short laugh. ''And, even if he did - no offence to my elders -, but I'm on the fifth floor, sir. Do you really think a man in his fifties could live through that fall and run away?''

Admittedly, she wasn't wrong.

''It was a theory, Miss Chase,'' Sam explained. ''We, just like you, are trying to figure out what happened. We have to think of all the possibilities.''

.

After leaving Cordelia's apartment, the Winchesters decided to separate.

Dean went back to the motel to research information about the victims, hopefully finding a connection between the younger victim and the ghost - even a name would be good - while Sam headed to the first floor to have a talk with the building's owner. An old man in his mid-sixties named Clifford Harrison - very lucid for his age. His white hair was pushed back and his pants were held by suspenders in a classic old man style.

The surprise on his face when he saw an FBI agent at his door was clear as glass. The man knitted his eyebrows, totally clueless about the agent’s motive, but didn't argue and let him in. After all, he was an agent of the law.

''I'd like to ask you questions about Lucian Stine, one of your past tenants,'' started Sam, skipping on the gore-y incident's details, figuring that Clifford didn't need a reminder of what happened in Miss Chase's appartement. As the building's owner, he must've been bombarded with journalists all week, pestering him with their filterless questions.

Instead, Mr. Harrison’s confusion deepened. ''Lucian Stine? I haven't heard that name in a moment…’’

Sam offered him a brief smile, mistaking the man’s confusion for nostalgia. ''Could you tell me about Mr. Stine?’’

When doing his research, just like the other suicide victim, Sam hadn’t been able to find a lot of information about this Lucian Stine. He seemed to be a quiet and lonesome person without any antecedents with the law.

Pursing his lips, the old man searched his memory for the rightful information. ''I don't remember ever seeing someone visiting him. I don’t think he had children either. Pardon me, but may I know why you are asking me about Lucian? Are you looking for him? If so, I’m afraid I cannot help you. I don’t keep in contact with my past tenants.''

Sam frowned at the man’s words. Does he not remember that Lucian died? Maybe he was wrong about his lucidity.

''I’m here on the behalf of the recent suicide that happened in the same appartement a week ago.’’

''I'm sorry, Agent, but there was no recent suicide in this building. It must be a mistake.''

Had he been not notified of the incident? As the building’s owner, the cops are obligated to inform him of all incidents that happen on his property. It's a common procedure.

‘’Mr. Stine occupied the apartment eleven, right?'' Sam asked, making sure Mr. Harrison wasn’t mixing him with another past tenant.

Clifford nodded. ''Yes. He did occupy this apartment, but the place hasn't been occupied since he left last December. This building is quite outdated and away from centerville. It’s difficult to find new tenants.’’

‘’Excuse me? Last December ?’’ the tall Winchester repeated.

.

On his side, Dean hadn’t been able to find the younger man’s name - nor anything about the double suicide. There was only one article about the double suicide online - very brief and to the point. Nothing in the local newspaper or the obituaries rubrik. It was odd.

Just as Sam exited Clifford’s apartment, Dean had returned, empty handed. The brothers shared their new information - or, lack of - and decided to go back to Cordelia’s.

This time, they weren’t as nice.

Dean’s fist hit the door firmly, impatiently.

As if she knew they would come back, Cordelia opened the door almost immediately. She sighed, defeated. ‘’I can explain.’’

.

‘’I declared a false home invasion and used my magic to simulate gunshot noises, knowing the tragic incident would catch Sam's attention. Turned out I was right. You two showed up.’’ Cordelia flashed them a small smile of victory. ''It was a set up, a trap . No double - or single - suicide happened in this apartment, I'm afraid.''

Magic? She’s a witch ?

Instinctively, Dean reached for his gun, hidden inside his jacket, ready to fire at the redhead. There was no witch bullet in it, but it would wound her and slow her down if needed.

She held her hands in surrender, shaking her head. ''Worry not, I'm not here to fight you. Far from. I'm actually looking for help. From you both.''

Sam glanced at Dean, eyebrows furrowed in confusion, but the latter was just as lost. ''Help?'' Sam repeated, demanding explanations.

The redhead nodded. ''I'm looking for my mother.''

Dean scoffed, shaking his head. ''I think you're mistaking us for Parent Finders, sweetheart. I'm sure your local adoption center will be better help than us.''

After having been exposed to the media and putting their lives in jeopardy, the Winchesters had prefered to keep their identity on the down low. Only hunters, demons and other creatures of the night knew about them which meant, if the redhead had reached out to Sam and Dean, it wasn't by scrolling on a random list of names. She knew who they were.

Cert, she was a witch, but most witches weren’t fans of the brothers; they avoid them at all cost.

''I'm afraid they won't be of any help. My mother isn't exactly on their registers.''

Confusion deepened on Sam's forehead. ''What do you mean? Was the adoption illegal?''

Cordelia ignored the question. ''You know my mother. If I'm not mistaken, you've made deals with her in the past. Rowena Macleod. Rings a bell?''

While the name was very familiar, both boys were astounded at the bomb Cordelia had dropped. They've known Rowena for a little over two years and she never mentioned having a daughter. As far as the Winchesters knew, Rowena had one son - Fergus, now known as Crowley.

Dean furrowed his eyebrows. ‘’I get that you want to find Rowena, but where does this concern us? If you’re looking for her number, we don’t have it.’’

‘’What I’m about to tell you concerns everyone . You, me, Crowley... Lucifer .’’

Sam’s back straightened at the mention of the archangel, shoulder tensing. He gulped. Years have passed since Lucifer had tormented him mentally, but a part of him is always haunted by those past torments. Even in the Cage, as Lucifer’s vessel. Those moments were unforgettable, forever carved into Sam’s mind.

‘’Lucifer?’’ Dean repeated. ‘’He’s in the Cage.’’

‘’Is he really?’’

‘’He can’t escape from the inside. I’ve been trapped in there before,’’ Sam confirmed.

Dean glanced at his brother, seeing only one possibility. ‘’Unless someone lets him out…’’

‘’What makes you believe Lucifer is out of the Cage? There are very few ways to open the Cage and they are all very complex.’’

‘’For starter, he has to be present on his wedding day.’’

‘’W-wedding?’’ Sam repeated, incredulously.

The redhead hummed. ‘’You boys are in for a long story.’’ She motioned to the living area. ‘’Shall we sit?’’

.

‘'A week ago, my Coven has exiled me for being supposedly promised to Lucifer which is considered the ultimate betrayal to my Coven. I tried telling the High Priestess that this alliance wasn't my doing, that I'd never agree to side with the devil, but she wouldn't hear a thing…’’

In the world of witches, when a High Priestess takes a decision, it’s final . No one dares standing up to her or going against her decision. You owe respect and obedience to your High Priestess. Unless you want to deposit a complaint to the Grand Coven...but it might take time for them to return to you. And, most of the time, it’s more trouble than necessary.

''According to the whispers, I've agreed to rule Hell at his side and be his queen.'' The redhead laughed sarcastically. ''I must've gone mad because I would never ever agree to his misogynist rulings and beliefs. I'm all in to be titled as queen, but never as second ruler. I'm a woman of power, the daughter of an extremely powerful witch, and I will not let any man rule me. Especially not to Lucifer.''

Her silver tongue and fierce attitude confirmed the two brothers that she was without a doubt her mother's daughter.

Sam cocked an eyebrow. ''How does this has to do with Rowena?''

''You still haven't caught on?’’ Cordelia shook her head in discouragement. ‘’You Winchesters are so slow...''

''Wait. You think Rowena did this? That she sold you to Lucifer?''

‘'Undoubtedly. Revenge is her second name. She must've made this arrangement to get back at me. My mother has no sense of loyalty. She could throw her children in a pit of hellfire without hesitation or remorse.''

Sam agreed, Rowena wasn't a good mother. Although she claimed to love and care for Crowley, she played with his emotions and manipulated him to gain control over him so she could use his position as the King of Hell to her advantage and to further her own goals.

''Rowena can be...selfish and vengeful, but selling her daughter to the one who killed her two times sounds extreme,’’ Sam rationalized, incapable to believe that Rowena was that evil.

Cordelia smiled smugly, about to spill some tea. ''I bet she told you about being excommunicated by the Grand Coven as a result of her violent and forceful use of magic? Well, let's say it wasn't the only reason. My father was a non-witch. It's miraculous that I was born with the gift of magic. Given so, Rowena didn't think my father's identity would get to the Grand Coven's ears, but it did. Since then, she blamed me for her excommunication.''

''Why would she hold a grudge against you for something she is responsible of?''

''After all, she is the one who decided to-''

Sam gave a warning glare to her older brother. ''Dean.''

The redhead shrugged. ''Jealousy, perhaps? I've recently been growing in powers inside my Coven, currently in line to be the next High Priestess. I ignore how she got the tip, but this is a vendetta. She sold me to Lucifer so I couldn't thrive among my Coven, among the witchcraft world.''

‘’I agree that Rowena’s thirst for revenge is strong, but I doubt she’d go to this extent do doom you without getting something in exchange.’’

‘’Why don’t you ask her, Samuel? Right, we don’t know where she is.’’

Dean stifled a laugh, smug smile on his lips.

.

Lebanon, Kansas

Eight hours later, they all made it to the bunker. The heavy door closed behind them, echoing loudly and locking itself shut, startling Cordelia. The brothers walked further in, Dean leading the way downstairs, duffel bag in his left hand.

Cordelia glanced around as they stepped down, admiring the bunker’s industrial look. Everything was made of brick, wood or cement; all durable materials. There was also a rustic vibe and some modern touches, giving the place the slight warmth it needed. It wasn’t what the redhead used to live in, but it was better than the dump she spent the past few days in.

At least, here, nothing was falling apart.

‘’So, this place is warded against any evil ever created?’’ the redhead repeated, walking around the war room, exploring a bit even though there wasn’t much in here. Just a large oval table with a map as table-top and chairs around it.

Sam ran a hand over his face, wiping the tiredness away, and put his bag on the table, thankful to be home after a long drive. They hadn’t stopped on the way home other than to get food so he was pretty tired - and sore from being cramped for over twelve hours in Dean’s car. The sleep quality of the passenger seat didn’t compare to his bed.

‘’Yes. But-’’

Cordelia raised an eyebrow at him, not liking his answer already. ‘’There’s a ‘but’?’’

Sam gave her an uncomfortable smile, dreading the coming explanation. Why was he the one announcing bad news to a witch? Rowena’s daughter, of them all. If she was anything like her mother, blowing up a building because someone got on her wrong side wouldn’t be a problem.

‘’Biblically, Lucifer is an angel- an archangel . Despite their…overly strict rules and being major dicks all the time, angels aren’t considered evil.’’

‘’Lucifer is the devil incarnate, how can he not be considered evil?’’

‘’Well, we don’t make the rules.’’

‘’Why did you bring me here then if this place won’t keep me safe from Lucifer?’’

‘’Surely, Lucifer isn't working by himself. He must’ve got demons to do his dirty work, including searching for you. Unlike angels, demons can’t come in.’’

‘’So I’m on lockdown ?’’ she clarified.

‘’Until we find Rowena and get a clear of the story, yes,’’ Dean answered, removing his suit jacket, leaving him in his white dress shirt and loosened tie, annoyed by how restrictive and hot he was getting in his faux-FBI attire. Don’t get him wrong, he liked this job, saving people and hunting things, but those suits were damn uncomfortable.

''Talking about Rowena, have you tried locating her?''

Cordelia scoffed. ''No offence, Samuel, but don't you think I tried locating her before coming to you?'' She cocked an eyebrow at the tall one. ''The incantation didn't work.''

Dean held a laugh, amused by the sass Cordelia used whenever she was speaking to his brother. She wasn’t being mean to him, just quick witted and a little feisty. Dean liked it.

''Maybe she blocked her location to prevent her from being found? Rowena isn't exactly loved by her coven sisters. Or, anyone,’’ he suggested.

Cordelia scoffed a laugh. ''So I've heard! She must be hiding somewhere, away from the inevitable afterfall of her act. Especially after putting her sweet revenge plan in action.''

Grabbing his jacket off the chair’s back, Dean headed down the hallway. ‘’I’m gonna go change out of this and call Crowley. Maybe he can help us.’’

.

Before Dean returned, Crowley showed up at the bunker, dressed in his usual all-black attire.

‘’Long time no see, sister,’’ he greeted, standing in the middle of the war room, eyes on the familiar redhead by Sam. She looked fiercer than he remembered, a perfect, younger portrait of their mother.

Cordelia stood, all high and mighty, glancing at her brother. ‘’Fergus.’’

The way she said his name had the same effect when Rowena did.

The demon inhaled a breath, cringing. ‘’It’s Crowley .’’

‘’Fergus,’’ she repeated, amusement in her venom tongue.

‘’It’s Crowl-’’

''There's no need to repeat yourself. I ignored you just fine the first time,'' Cordelia said, interrupting her brother in his correction. ‘’I thought demons couldn’t teleport inside the bunker.’’ She turned to Sam. ‘’Is this another one of your lies, Samuel?’’

He flashed her a curt smile. ‘’There’s exceptions.’’

‘’We’ve summoned him here,’’ Dean explained, walking into the war room from the library, his suit having been replaced by a more casual attire: a flannel and jeans.

Cordelia’s eyes followed the voice, giving Dean a subtle head to toe look before returning her attention to the Sam and Crowley.

‘’Squirrel! Nice of you to join us,’’ Crowley pointed, acknowledging the older Winchester.

‘’How’s the family reunion going?’’

‘’As you can see, no one’s killed anyone.’’

‘’Who said I haven’t slipped an hex bag in your pocket?’’

Slightly paranoid, the King of Hell patted his pockets, checking if there was anything in them. While hex bags couldn't kill him, some could cause serious injuries.  

He rolled his eyes, recoiling his hands when catching the amused smile on her lips. ‘’Ha! Very funny.’’

Sam cleared his throat. ‘’Back to business.’’

Crowley’s posture straightened, haughty. ‘’So, you need my help.’’

‘’Yes. We need to find someone,’’ Dean explained.

‘’I’m not a tracker device-’’

‘’It’s Rowena,’’ Cordelia interrupted.

The mention of his mother caught Crowley’s attention. ‘’Our mother?’’ he repeated. ‘’Why do you want to find her? If it’s to try and mingle with her, I suggest you cross that idea. Trust me, we’re all better off without her.’’

‘’Oh, I know. Searching for her doesn't enchant me. I’d rather stay far away from her, all she do is poison people’s lives, but I need to speak to her. I need to ask her why she made me her personal vendetta.’’

Crowley frowned and they filled him in on the details of Rowena’s possible latest doings, skipping no details. Although it was mostly concerning Cordelia, Crowley was concerned too - by default - since is throne and position as king of Hell were on the table.

‘’That evil bitch…’’ Crowley paused, feeling like some part was missing.  ‘’But, why? She might’ve done this for revenge, but revenge doesn’t suffice her, she needs to get something in return.’’

‘’It’s the reason we need to find her. There’s some holes that we assumes she’ll have answers for,’’ Sam explained.

‘’I’ll have my demons searching for her. I’ll fill you in on any leads I have.’’

.

A clatter of glass and wood echoed as Dean crossed the bunker's hallway to get to his room, catching his attention. The bunker didn't have many residents beside him and Sam and Dean knew from years of cohabitation that Sam rarely gets up during the night.

Alert, Dean made his way to the library, debating whether or not making a run back to the guns he had just finished cleaning minutes ago. There was a high possibility that Cas was back, but according to his last call, he was still searching for fellow angels that survived the fall. Therefore, it couldn't be him.

That left only one option: an intruder.

Longing the wall quietly, Dean was ready to call out to Sam for backup when a woman's thick accent echoed, the choice of curse words could only belong to one Scottish redhead - or her daughter.

'' Bollocks !''

Stepping away from the wall, Dean regained composure, stepping in the library, catching sight of Cordelia in her black dress, heavy glass of whiskey in her left hand and its bottle tilted on the side, the auburn liquid spilled on the wooden table.

''Found my secret stash, I see,'' Dean commented, making his presence known. ''This whiskey cost me a hefty penny,'' he added, nodding at the good old bottle of whiskey and its remaining.

The redhead snapped her head up, slightly taken by surprise. ''You spying on me, Winchester?''

Dean shook his head and she downed her drink in one swig, impressing the blond.

''I'd apologize for finishing your whiskey, but I'm not even sorry.'' A slurred laugh escaped her lips and she set the empty glass down, almost missing the table and shattering.

''Drinking your problems away won't solve anything. Trust me, I know. It numbs them for a few hours before they're back at you, more present than ever.''

''I'm not an idiot, Dean.'' Cordelia stepped in his direction, high heels clicking on the cement. ''Does it stop you from drinking? I doubt so considering the amount of bottles you have here.''

Dean smiled dryly. ''And I thought we didn't have anything in common, turn out we pick the same poison.''

''I've been excommunicated from my beloved coven and promised to Lucifer, do I need another reason to drink?''

Fair point .

The Winchesters had the lovely occasion to meet Lucifer in the past and, needless to say, it was never pleasing nor accompanied by good news. Quite the contrary. He had caused the death of their mother, beaten Dean to almost death, mentally tortured Sam as a hallucination, and many more.

''And you.'' She nodded at Dean, interrupting his thoughts. ''What are you trying to run away from?''

The words left his lips before he realized it, his own honesty so blunt it surprised him. ''Myself.''

#supernatural #dean winchester #Sam Winchester #dean winchester fic #supernatural fic

[as-write-as-rain]

Once Upon A Dream (remix)

Pairing: Bucky x Reader

Summary: A Sleeping Beauty/Winter Soldier remix, featuring the reader as a SHIELD agent who might have powers (or just a really finely tuned intuition)

Warnings: None. If you’ve seen and enjoyed Winter Soldier, you shouldn’t find anything troubling here.

This is the first chapter of a Fairy Tale AU for @moonbeambucky’s 5k Writing Challenge. Congratulations, Tara!!!! Sorry it’s so late. Hope you like it!

Chapter One

Gunshots. Squealing tires. Explosions. Breaking glass. Screams. 

The Winter Soldier’s waking life was chaos divided into clean lines, dissociated destruction by the book, mindless obedient violence.

Every kill, every mission – they all lined up in an orderly fashion, tidiness to the pandemonium. He was never really there; it was all like a walking nightmare, a hallucination that didn’t even seem real. Like watching a movie or being in the passenger seat – he witnessed all the carnage as though he were seeing it secondhand; and later, as he sat buckled in his chair, waiting for cryofreeze, the distorted memory of it seemed like he might just have imagined it all.

And then the ice would come.

And he’d drift off, to a world that seemed more real than anything he experienced during the day.

Here everything was vivid and detailed, instead of hazy and confusing. His senses seemed heightened rather than deadened, and it was only here that he ever felt truly alive or awake anymore. He was himself again, once more in control of his thoughts and his actions.

And she was here.

She’d been appearing in his dreams for as long as he could remember – although, the way dreamworlds work, there’s nothing to really indicate any long term passage of time, so it’s not like he could have pinpointed her arrival even if he’d tried. But she was there, every night, no matter how the surroundings might change.

The time he spent with her was a paradise. They’d explored forests and jungles together, wandered the streets of Paris and New York, ridden camels through the desert and dog sleds across the tundra. They’d watched the sunset on the beach, the sun-warmed sand beneath their feet; and lain in soft meadows gazing at star-strewn night skies. At times, their adventures could even be fantastical, filled with mythical creatures or impossible physics that allowed them to fly or breathe underwater. The one constant was her presence, and her love became his gravity.

Tonight, she met him on the banks of a quiet lake, surrounded by a forest ablaze with autumn color. At her feet lay two bundled blankets and a large lidded basket; several yards away there was a dock, at the end of which sat a rowboat. She turned towards him and stretched out an arm, beckoning him to join her, smiling that beautiful smile that made his heart leap.

There wasn’t another soul to be seen anywhere; just orange and yellow and red leaves, both on the trees surrounding the lake, and in their reflection in its clear waters. A small island floated in the middle of the lake, aglow with more fall foliage. The trees contrasted beautifully with the bright blue sky; the air was fresh and crisp. He inhaled deeply, relishing the scent, and joined her at the water’s edge, drinking in the gorgeous view. She leaned against him, and he wrapped his arm around her, drawing her close to his side. Her warmth was welcome against the chill in the air, but somehow he was dressed in weather-appropriate clothing, so he was comfortable either way.

He helped her into the boat, and then stepped in himself, taking the oars in hand. She was a vision, wrapped in one of her blankets and smiling up at him, surrounded by the riotous beauty of fall, and he was certain this must be paradise.

“Penny for your thoughts?” Her voice was nearly a whisper, so as not to disturb the idyllic scene; but he heard her with perfect clarity.

He gave a lopsided smile, shrugging. “Sometimes I just can’t believe you’re real.”

Her laugh was musical, as she dropped her gaze and flushed. “I feel the same way.”

He steered the boat lazily around the lake, with not so much a destination in mind as a desire to really allow themselves to steep in the gorgeous view. The sun slowly moved across the sky, and when he estimated it was probably close to four, he set his course for the island. He steadied the boat for her to climb out, and then he joined her on the gently sloping shore, securing the vessel so it would not float away and leave them stranded.

Just as he was turning to help set up their picnic, the scene began to change, colors spinning and whirling together.

The trees ballooned and stretched all around him, suddenly surging closer as though in movement. The reflection of their new bell-like shapes still danced across the water – though, now that he looked, the surface of the lake itself seemed to solidify into a glassy floor. Walls materialized in the distance, lined with elegant pillars and filled with windows revealing nothing but the clear night sky. The light in the air wavered and dimmed, seemingly cast from thousands of candles throughout the expansive room. Beautiful music swelled from a small orchestra perched on a balcony. Reflections of flickering candlelight danced on the burnished floor, as couples whirled by in a kaleidoscope of color.

He looked down to discover he was clad in a velvety jacket, complete with tails – and the strangest pants/boots combo he’d ever worn. But before he could further contemplate this, a sudden fanfare sounded. The whole room paused, turning as one towards the staircase, to glimpse the newcomer.

She was beauty personified, layers of fluffy tulle cascading from her waist, giving her the appearance of wearing a cloud – or perhaps cotton candy, as the iridescent sheen of her gown seemed to shift from silvery blue to pale lavender to a sheer pink when she moved. The gems scattered across her mask flashed in the candlelight as she turned her head. She stood tall and stately, serenely surveying the ballroom, but there was something in the way that she carried herself that quietly radiated power. He could tell just by looking at her that she was not someone he wanted to cross. He was instantly captivated, and felt irrevocably drawn to her like a magnet.

She descended as though she were floating, and he deftly made his way around the edge of the room to intercept her at the foot of the stairs. Their eyes met, and he struggled to catch his breath. Warm and welcoming, sharp and wise, sparkling with wit and mischief – how could one pair of eyes speak so much? He felt as though she could see through to his very soul.

They stared at one another for several long seconds, as he struggled vainly to find something impressive to say. Seemingly coming to her senses, eyelashes fluttering, she dipped into a low curtsy. He bowed deeply in response; then, when she delicately placed her gloved hand into his outstretched one, he led her onto the dance floor.

The rest of the world seemed to fade away as they waltzed together. “Do I know you?” He asked earnestly, searching her face. “I have the funniest feeling I’ve met you somewhere before…”

“I’m sure I’d remember,” She demurred coyly. He felt a shiver along his spine when he heard her voice. She was entirely bewitching, and he couldn’t fight the conviction that he knew her. His mind warred with itself, torn between wanting to discern why she was so achingly familiar, and the desire to simply lose himself in this moment and fully enjoy her radiant presence. He surrendered to the latter.

They swept along the dancefloor, moving together in effortless harmony, their bodies in perfect tune with one another. The music seemed to surround them, enveloping them in a reverie, and he felt like they were dancing across the sky. The way his heart was winging undoubtedly helped to sustain that sensation.

He didn’t know how long they danced, as one song bled into another; all he knew was that he held an angel in his arms, and he never wanted to let go. He was lost in her adoring gaze, vaguely aware that his own expression must be a mirror of hers. Finally, he could bear it no longer, and slowly, hesitantly, tilted his face towards hers, hoping she would meet him in a kiss.

But before their lips could touch, the music started to change, transforming into a brassy calliope. It mingled with distant shouts and whoops, as the chatter of the nearby dancers became gradually louder. Scents of hot dogs and popcorn and fried dough wafted on the breeze. The shapes of the couples throughout the dancefloor began stretching and shifting as though they were reflections in a funhouse mirror. The sky – when had there been sky? – brightened, and he could feel the sun warming his face. Someone jostled his shoulder as they strode past, apologizing quickly; and when he turned back around he found Steve walking beside him. Already he couldn’t remember what he had just been doing, and instead was filled with the certainty that the two of them had been here, at Coney Island for hours.

As they strolled down the avenue, examining the various games, they heard a commotion several stalls away. Turning a corner, they saw a woman arguing with one of the game attendants; apparently she did not take kindly to being called a cheater.

“I won the top prize, fair and square! Fork it over, buddy.” Her hands were clenched, her expression so fierce that Bucky wouldn’t have been surprised if sparks started flying from her eyes.

“There’s no way you hit all the targets without cheating, missy. You’re not going to get away with hustling me!”

Bucky noted with amusement how wide the man’s eyes grew when he and Steve approached the booth and leaned nonchalantly against the counter. He supposed they must seem rather intimidating.

“Something wrong, miss?” Bucky felt a strange sense of déjà vu, and a strong instinct to protect and support this woman. Maybe he’d met her before?

She turned her glare on him, her jaw set. “This bozo doesn’t believe a girl can shoot well enough to beat his stupid game. And if he doesn’t watch himself, I’m gonna show him just how good a shot a girl can be.” She reached for the plastic gun tethered to the counter and the barker’s expression grew even more alarmed.

Bucky turned away to hide a snicker, and Steve spoke up. “Why don’t you give her another free go-round and we’ll all see for ourselves? Sound fair?”

The man grudgingly agreed, resetting the game. She picked up the gun and fired several shots in quick succession, knocking over half the targets; in under a minute, she had decimated all of the tiny men, and Bucky had never wanted so badly to kiss a dame. She tipped the fake pistol up and blew away imaginary smoke, before dropping it back onto the counter. Cocking an eyebrow at the game attendant, she popped her hip and crossed her arms, practically daring him to say something. He looked like he was about to argue, but after the quickest of glances back at Bucky and Steve, he heaved a disgruntled sigh and grabbed the biggest stuffed animal off the shelf.

Crisis averted, the woman turned off her murder eyes and smiled brightly, thanking the man in a tone that wasn’t quite patronizing (but was awfully close). Then she turned to him and Steve, and in a much more gracious tone of voice, said, “And thanks to both of you, too. I was perfectly capable of handling that myself, but a girl does appreciate allies every now and then.”

“Oh, I have absolutely no doubt of that, sugar. But I do hate to see a man mistreating a woman, so I felt compelled to intervene.” He gave her an easy smile, feeling remarkably comfortable in her presence, though he couldn’t put his finger on precisely why she seemed so familiar.

She looked him over appraisingly, and her expression seemed to indicate that she liked what she saw. Her gaze flickered briefly over to Steve and back before asking, “Can I treat you two to some ice cream? As a reward?”

Both men agreed readily, neither one capable of turning down dessert, and soon the three of them were ambling towards the confectionery, discussing favorite flavors. She let Bucky carry her prize when he offered, and Steve gave him a surreptitious wink, falling back behind the two of them and allowing Bucky to dominate the conversation.

Bucky’s spirits were high, and he was really enjoying chatting with his new(?) friend. But when they got their cones, he found that the ice cream was cold, way too cold, and it made his joints feel weird. Then suddenly there was a jumble of other sensations and a jolt of pain, some muffled yelling in a strange language –

and then he was falling awake.

#taras5kwritingchallenge #bucky x reader #bucky x you #bucky barnes fanfiction #fairy tale au #marvel #once upon a dream (remix)

[minsyal]

Mutual Feelings Pt. 8, [Revali x Reader]

Bad Summary: Finally, some good fucking content. 

“Loosen the grip.” Revali instructed as he flew north to the hot spring. From your position, you could spot Keumi in the wrap that Seoi had firmly attached to her body. A tuft of orange popped out, her wide sparkling eyes intently watching you. They glistened slightly, wet with tears from her reddened state. Ignoring Revali, you flashed a smile to Keumi, who squinted for a moment and decided to contently smile back.

Large puffs of white steam rose from the small pool that sat full of warm water below. The water bubbled audibly in a delightful chorus of pops and swishes; it sounded charming. Blankets of snow lined the area, a soft dry layer on top from the most recent whiteout. It hadn’t yet been packed into the ground by visitors. Revali shrugged you off, turning a blind eye as you fell to the ground with a thud. You caught the slightest glimpse of a smirk. Instead of belittling you or taking amusement in your state, he focused on something in the distance, his eyes contently avoided your gaze.

“Can you join me?” Keumi’s small voice said with hints of upset laced into it like a thread through fabric. She was speaking to Seoi who was placing her on the dock.

“Sweetheart,” Seoi started, kneeling down next to the tired child’s level, “I can’t. I won’t be able to get you back if I get in the water.”

Keumi’s eyes adverted downward, a big huff of air escaping her mouth as she stomped her foot into the ground leaving the smallest print you’d ever seen. She wasn’t typically a pouter; she didn’t enjoy starting drama as she was usually the one trying to dissolve it. She would get a pass this time, seeing as she had been sick for days and was obviously not feeling well. Seoi frowned and looked in your direction, a pleading look on her face.

“I can go with you, Keumi.” You offered while pushing off of the ground to join her at her side. A smile spread across her face as she beamed brightly up at you.

Not wanting to freeze in wet clothes, you opted to remove your top layer – discarding them to the side. With your back to the other two birds, you waded into the spring. The water was a comfortable hot. Not to the point of scalding, but enough to turn the skin red. Keumi quickly joined, splashing around in the water as her tiny wings floated above her body. You smiled, taking her in your arms and tucking her head beneath your chin.

Revali watched from a distance, arms crossed over his chest as if to conceal the swelling he experienced in his chest. His heart expanded rapidly at the sight before him, only to be stopped by his ribs. His eyes were lidded, an easy expression upon his face. Seoi stood nearby, observing the guarded bird as he took in the scene before him. She smiled.

“Wandering eyes kill, you know?” Approaching Revali, Seoi mimicked his posture as she leaned against an old wooden stake that was driven into the ground.

“Excuse me?” He coughed. Uncrossing his arms, he shook his head and turned away from the spring to conceal his embarrassed state. If feathers could blush, his would be a deep red. “You’re reading the situation incorrectly. I was simply thinking. Lost in thought, if you may.”

“Whatever you say.” She said in delight. “Your secret is safe with me.” A finger crossed a dramatic “X” over her heart. Rather than reply, he remained silent, choosing to inch away from Seoi as he averted his eyes downward. Slowly, though, he found them drifting back to you.

You looked so peaceful lying in the spring. Your eyes were closed, lashes fluttering eyery now and again when Keumi would shift positions. Your hands laid contently across Keumi’s chest, holding her close as your chests rose and fell in sync. Even while sleeping, you hadn’t been this calm.

The wind whistled against the entrance to the cave, snow blew harshly inside, only blocked by a few stones that stood near the opening. Revali sat in his corner, back against the wall, not quite asleep. He watched with narrowed eyes as the other Champions slept happily near one another, or close at least. You, on the other hand, were away from the group. Alone in an opposite corner, he watched as you sat there, gaze focused on Zelda and Link.

You rose from your spot, taking the stones you had found and warmed and tucked them around the squirming princess. You gave her your blanket, laying it over her as you moved to return Link’s to him. Pathetic, Revali thought. Foregoing your own personal safety in favor of another. While he couldn’t wrap his mind around your reasoning, he couldn’t really understand many of the things you chose to do.

You were tough to crack. The walls around you were ten feet tall and crafted from an unbreakable stone. His standoffish attitude didn’t help either.

He watched as you returned to your spot, wrapping your arms around your body and slowly drifting off to an uncomfortable sleep. You twitched and turned; your mouth moved but no words escaped. Your feet kicked and your fingers gripped tightly to your arms leaving red marks behind. With a heavy sigh and the shake of his head, Revali strode to your side. Taking your limp form by the arm, he tucked you in between his arms. He held you close to him, expecting you to calm down, but you didn’t. Even in a dormant physical state, your mind raced, and nothing would deter it from its destination.

The night was long.

But now here you were, lying in the water with a bird on your chest. Peaceful.

Keumi was fast asleep by the time you returned to Rito Village. Seoi lowered her gently into her hammock, placing a loving kiss against her head before thanking you and Revali for doing this for her. Assuring her it was no big deal, you held your pack on your shoulder and departed for the Castle.

The days were becoming shorter and shorter as the window came closer and closer. You sat at your cluttered desk reading and rereading the book pinpointing the exact location as to where the legendary flower would choose to bloom. At your request, a light container was crafted that would provide ample air to the flower while keeping it alive with a small reserve of water that would be stored at the bottom. It looked like a small bird cage with two straps to the back and one at the top. It was perfect.

Another productive day passed in Hyrule as you finalized your research and gathered the right ingredients to be taken directly to Rito Village upon your return from Gerudo. The ingredients were from the most distant locations of Hyrule: an herb from Hebra, minerals from Eldin, greenery from Akkala, water from Lanayru, rice from Neculda, fruit from Faron, and the flower from Gerudo. With a bustling market in Castle Town, obtaining the majority of these items was a breeze.

Revali made his return to the castle on a diplomatic trip between the Rito and Hylians. His presence in the castle was unknown to you for the majority of his stay. He had been in meetings during the day, at feasts in the evening, and attending balls at night. Undoubtedly, those were all things that numbed his brain.

“You’re going to ignore me after that intimate moment we shared?” The voice came as a shock as you hurried toward the library to present information to the King. Turning, you sighed heavily as your eyes fell upon the bird. He stood tall, proud, with his arms locked behind his back.

“What moment?” You inquired, deciding to keep on your way.

“You act differently around Keumi and Seoi.”

“So, they have names now?”

He didn’t answer.

“Do you have a moment to talk?” He followed suit, keeping the pace easily as he strode next to you. “Where are you headed?”

“King asked me to update him on Purah and Robbie’s work.” A quizzical brow rose, “They’re scientists here. You’ve met Purah. Short, loud, nasal. She’s sweet.” He threw his head back in a nod and opened his mouth in an “awe” fashion.

“Here.” He snatched the stack of papers from your hands, giving you no time to respond as he tucked them beneath his wing. Unbothered by the death glare you shot at him, he pretended as if he didn’t just steal all your material and continued walking. “Allow me.”

“Give that back.” You demanded, but it was useless.

He carried them with ease to the library where King Rhoam waited in his study. Upon your arrival, he smiled and beckoned you inside. You turned to Revali, who still hadn’t given up your papers, and gave him an expectant look. He smirked.

With gritted teeth, you spoke. “Thank you, Revali. I believe I can take it from here.” You held your hands out expecting the papers but instead were met with a face-full of feathers as he strode past you into the study. King Rhoam didn’t seem bothered by the bird’s actions as he smiled and greeted him with a boisterous laugh. “Or not…” You muttered under your breath.

He placed the stack gingerly on the King’s desk and turned to you. “I’ll be waiting in the garden when you’re done.”

____-

Speaking with the King was always a nerve-wracking. Whether it was his impending stare or the fact that his daughter held a certain disdain for you, something just got under your skin. The meeting was fairly short, having been cut off by a knight who came to inform the King of more visitor’s arrivals. Gathering the many papers that had become scattered across his desk, you shook your head as a loose scrap reminded you of the many updates you had made to the Divine Beasts. The many unauthorized updates.

The paper landed somewhere in the middle of the pile, stuffing itself between the pages of a book to ultimately be discovered at a later time. A group of guards stood near the gazebo in the garden as they held their hands up to steady the guardian that clamored to life with shaky uneven legs. Above, Zelda could be spotted sporting her rich royal blue dress and golden headpiece. You watched until the King arrived with his royal entourage. He spoke to her so harshly, but she complied with whatever he told her.

Revali stood near a closeby staircase with his leg kicked against the retaining wall. His head turned in your direction and he waved you over. You could easily pass him, and head inside, or even just turn around and take the long way back to your room. There was so much work to be done with so little time left. He’d only be taking up your time. Before you had time to think it over, the bird was approaching.

“Your meeting?” He inquired while scooping the papers from your arms like he had before.

“Went fine.”

“Just fine?”

“Went great.” You emphasized, reaching an arm out to take the papers back, only to be met with his wing as his body turned away. “Revali, what do you want?”

“A tour.”

“You’ve been here before. I’ll bet you’ve had a tour or two of the grounds.”

“But,” he clicked his tongue and eyed you from the corner of his gaze, “not from you.”

“I think that’s the dumbest thing that has ever come out of your mouth.”

“I’m choosing to overlook your backless insults. Plus,” he lifted the stack of papers in front of his nose, eyes scanning their contents, “I have this.”

“You’re taking my papers hostage?”

“So, they do have some critical thinking skills.” He chuckled. “You may have them back after the tour.”

“Revali.” You sighed, wiping a hand down your face. A smug grin was plastered on his face, enhancing the slap-ability of his already arrogant features. He knew he was going to get what he wanted one way or the other. And for some ungodly reason, today he wanted a tour from you. “Fine.”

The grounds were no different than they were from the last time he toured. Revali pretended to be interested in what you told him about the many unique rooms scattered across the maze-like halls that stretched beneath the ground. He pretended to listen and nod his head as you rambled on and on about the significance of certain statues and stained-glass windows. He spent the entire tour pretending. It was exhausting.

The sun moved from its position high in the sky to just above the horizon in the west. Guards switched out their shifts as those who had stood out at day went inside and those who rested during the day went out. The tour wasn’t supposed to take this long, but Revali kept talking! He had so many dumb questions about the different areas of the castle and why they were designed like they were.

“Okay.” You stopped at the hall that led to your room, a hall you had specifically left out of the tour. “Books now, please.”

“You act differently.”

“This conversation, again?” The books were much heavier than you recalled. Their contents were still intact as he handed each and every one back to you.

“What makes them so different?”

The halls had mostly cleared out. Maids were in their own dining areas with the knights and guards as they shared the leftovers and overflow of food from the great hall. The King had long since retired to his study and the princess was locked away in her room, like always.

“What doesn’t make them different?” You questioned. The thought of the two brought a smile to your face, one that didn’t go unnoticed by Revali. “They’re good people.”

“There are other good people in Hyrule, scientist.”

“Back to that nickname?” You let out a short-amused huff of air. “Sure, there are. Mipha, Link, Urbosa, Daruk… they’re all nice.”

“Am I nice?”

The question caught you off-guard. “Well, in your own way. Maybe. Anyway,” changing subjects was much easier than continuing that conversation, “I have to head back. I’m sure you know your way back to the guest rooms.” You turned on your heel faster than you ever had, wanting nothing more than to lock yourself in your room and never have to speak to anyone ever again.

“You’re not eating dinner?”

You slowed down and turned your head enough to see him. “I’ll be fine.”

“You need to consider your own well-being.”

“Thanks, Revali.” You paused. “Goodnight.”

“Wait.” He stepped into the hall but didn’t challenge the invisible barrier he placed in front of him. He seemed nervous, out of place even. His typical arrogance and conceited attitude had melted into something completely different. This was out of the blue for Revali. He dare not speak until you stopped moving and turned to face him completely. The words he wanted to say refused to form into a sentence in his head. Instead, they danced as if full of caffeine on the tip of his tongue. They bounced around, refusing to align. “Never mind. Goodnight.”

#revali x reader #revali imagine #revali botw #revali #botw #botw imagines #loz botw #tloz #loz #rito #breath of the wild #botw fic #botw fanfiction #mutual feelings minsyal #revali imagines

[psychosistr]

Talk to Me- Chapter 6

Summary: So much for a peaceful, quiet evening. With their date and their lives in danger, Domino and Steelbeak work together to find their attacker before he finds them.

Notes: Time for another classic spy movie-style scene complete with some minor bloodshed and unnamed character death! >:D

-First Chapter-

Dominic had no idea what happened for a minute. One moment he’d been telling his partner about what he did to his former academy instructor, and the next Steelbeak was suddenly rushing towards him.

He was now on his back on the ground behind a pair of large trees and a few surrounding shrubs. He felt pressure on top of him and soon realized it was Steelbeak, who’d landed on top of him on the ground.

“What have I said about touching me?!” Dominic snapped as he easily shoved the other bird off of him and pinned him to the back of one of the nearby trees. He grabbed the collar of the rooster’s shirt in one hand, the other curled into a fist primed and ready to hit the other’s face repeatedly. “You, of all people, should know better than ANYONE-!!” He saw red, but not in the usual figurative sense. He literally saw red- it was on Steelbeak’s hand when he pulled it away from his upper arm with a pained hiss. There was a tear in the fabric of his right sleeve that allowed him to see a bleeding gash. It was too straight and far too clean to have come from a branch or stick from the surrounding foliage, it looked more like- “!!” Dominic let his partner go in favor of drawing and loading one of his pistols, looking around for anything out of the ordinary. “What did you see?”

“Laser sight on ya from your left- started at the shoulder and went up towards your head.” Steelbeak wiped his hand off on the grass below them to get rid of the excess blood before reaching into his pants’ pocket. “Didn’t have time t’ see where it came from.”

“Must have been one of the buildings down the street..” Dominic glanced to his partner and saw him take out a handkerchief, preparing to wrap it around his wound. “…….” He reached into his own pockets and pulled out a familiar glass vial. “Here.” He popped it open and put a few drops over the middle of the handkerchief.

Steelbeak eyed the vial curiously, clearly smelling the minty scent in the air. “You gonna tell me it’s a healing serum now?” He asked while tying the handkerchief around his arm using his left hand and his beak.

“Not exactly,” Dominic closed the vial and stuck it back in his pocket, peeking around their cover to look for any movement in the nearby buildings. “But it does have some anti-bacterial properties and should at least keep you from getting strepto or staphylococcus until we can treat it properly.”

“Good ‘nough for me.” Steelbeak peeked out from between the trees cautiously. “So, can ya tell where the guy is?”

Glancing down at where they were on the ice a couple minutes ago, Dominic spotted a crack in the ice a couple feet away but no bullet lodged in the surface, so it must have ricocheted. “No, I don’t have a clear angle to backtrack the shot’s trajectory.” He shook his head, tying his scarf back in place around his neck as he tried to think up a plan.

“Hm..” Steelbeak took a look at the park around them, paying particularly close attention to the trees. “How many shots would ya need t’ figure it out?”

“Three or four, ideally.” He responded automatically before the question fully sunk in. “Wait, don’t you dare-!”

“I can get ya three.” By the time he turned to face the taller bird, he was already preparing to run. “Just keep those pretty eyes of yours on the target!” And then he took off before Dominic had a chance to stop him.

Despite his reservations on the idea, Dominic did as he was told and stayed in place while keeping his eyes open for any signs of the shooter. It was a solid, effective plan, but it was also incredibly risky. One wrong turn or slip and it would be all over for Steelbeak. Not too mention the fact that, if he couldn’t accurately pinpoint the sniper’s location, his partner would be left out in a much more compromising position with significantly less cover- he was essentially putting his life in Dominic’s hands.

As he watched Steelbeak sprint towards another cluster of trees nearby, the rooster keeping his movements serpentine and erratic to make himself a more difficult target, Dominic saw some dirt a few feet away get kicked up. The first shot. The angle of the bullet in the ground was particularly steep, so that meant a shorter distance and greater height- ruling out any of the buildings that were less than five stories high or further than the first two streets he could see.

Steelbeak tucked and rolled behind a cluster of smaller trees, some leaves falling around him in the process. Dominic spotted a red dot moving across the leaves then, just an inch behind Steelbeak’s neck as he ran, he saw a trail of the leaves change their fall-path. The second shot. The disturbed leaves were being blown towards the right and he spotted a couple of them with damage on one side- both factors suggesting that the shot came from somewhere to the left.

Looking at the buildings on the left that would have a good vantage point of the park with high enough elevation, Dominic noted that there were only two possibilities within the appropriate distance: A six-story apartment complex and a half-constructed twelve-story corporate office building.

Keen eyes stayed on the pair of buildings, flicking between the two for even the smallest sign-

There.

It was brief, but he caught a glimpse of movement on the roof of the office building and saw a tiny red light gleaming from the same area right as he heard the third shot clip the trunk of the large tree that Steelbeak dove behind for cover.

Now that he had the location, Dominic sprung into action.

Pulling out his second pistol and loading it with a different type of ammo from his stash, he lined up the shot and fired. A small white sphere flew out of his gun with a trail of gray smoke trailing behind it, eventually falling in a gradual arch so that it landed right in front of the tree Steelbeak was hiding behind. Within an instant the sphere exploded in a blinding burst of white light.

Shielding his eyes with his forearm, Dominic ran towards the park gate with Steelbeak following not far behind him. “They’re at the construction site on Third Street- up on the roof. Also,” Once they reached the gate and the rooster was close enough, he reached over with one of his pistols and used it to give the taller bird a swat on his uninjured arm. “Don’t ever do that again.”

“Ow!” Steelbeak rubbed at the likely-bruising spot on his arm, but, despite the slight sting, he still had his usual grin on his face. “What’s the big deal? It worked, right?”

Dominic shot the other man a glare as they hurried out of the park and back to his car. “You could have gotten yourself killed running off like that.”

“Nah, I knew I’d be fine-” His partner said confidently as they got into the vehicle. Dominic was about to snap at him for being overconfident in his own abilities while he started the car- “-‘cause YOU were the one watchin’ my back.”

“……” For the second time that night, Dominic was grateful for his darker feathers that hid the warmth blooming across his cheeks. Why did he always end up falling for crazy and reckless men who still managed to be so sweet and trusting? Apparently he just had a type.. “You should still be more careful.” He sighed and shook his head, driving towards the construction site.

As he drove, he noticed that Steelbeak was keeping his focus on the building ahead, likely keeping an eye out for any signs that their assailant was trying to escape. “How ya wanna handle this, Dee?”

“Divide and corner them.” He replied, finding a spot along the side of the building to park the car when they arrived. “Find all possible routes to the roof, close off as many of them as possible, then corner them when they have nowhere else to run.”

The duo snuck inside through an unactivated fire exit that was left open- likely being the entrance the sniper themself used- and double-checked it for any traps before heading in. Once they were inside Dominic pulled out his guns, Steelbeak untucking his shirt and pulling his own revolver out from the waistband of his pants. It seemed he wasn’t the only one who decided to pack a little extra heat for their date. Good, Dominic appreciated not being the only one who was well prepared for the evening.

“There’s gonna be a floor map down here somewhere.” Steelbeak told him as he looked around. “Tells ya what’s workin’ an’ what’s not.” After a few seconds of searching, he stopped at a wrinkled map taped to the wall. “Jackpot.” He took a moment to study the sketched and scribbled-over blueprints before tapping at two different spots. “There’s only one elevator with power goin’ to it right now…and this staircase’s the only one goin’ all the way t’ the top without takin’ a buncha detours.” He went on to tap a few other staircases on the map. “And these’re the only ones connected t’ the ground floor.”

“Impressive.” Dominic nodded as he listened, looking over each point on the layout.

“What can I say? Ya sleep in enough construction sites, ya learn a few things.” The rooster replied with a smirk before looking back down at his partner. “What’re ya packin’?”

Taking a moment to think it over, Dominic counted each type of ammo off on his fingers as he spoke. “Fire, ice, lead, flares, slime, and a few gas rounds.” Considering their options and the best course of action, the loon swapped the ammo in one of his guns to the slime shots before handing a single darker casing- one of his poisoned gas rounds- off to Steelbeak. “Take the elevator up and set this off once you reach the top- that should keep them from taking it back down. I’ll boobytrap the minor staircases then meet you up top on the main one.” He gave the taller bird a stern glare, his voice low as it took on a strict, warning tone. “Do NOT engage them until I get up there. Is that clear?”

Steelbeak took the offered bullet, rolling his eyes a little at the other bird’s tone of voice. “Yeah, yeah, I got it, red eyes: Don’t start the party without ya.”

“And don’t get into any trouble before I can bail you out.” Dominic gave the rooster another smack on the side of his arm with his pistol before heading towards the stairs. “I’ll meet you at the top.”

“Lookin’ forward to it.” Was the last he heard from his partner as the rooster made his way to the elevator.

Dominic went to each of the indicated stairways and made sure to thoroughly coat a good number of the stairs and handrails in sticky green slime that shot from his gun, keeping lead bullets in the other just in case he ran into their attacker. Luckily, he made it through the smaller stairwells without incident and took the main one up as quickly as he could. Hopefully he would get there before-

The silence of the stairwell was broken by a series of loud gunshots.

Had it not been for the guns currently being held in them, at least one hand would have met Dominic’s forehead in record speed. “I honestly don’t know why I expected any different..” He heaved an annoyed sigh and quickly ascended the final steps to the exit at the top.

Opening the door to the roof, Dominic kept his guns drawn and ready. The rooftop was a large, flat, dimly lit area that was currently being used to store crates and stacks of extra building materials as well as the machinery used for lifting heavier loads to the upper floors. After hearing another gunshot, the loon took cover behind a stack of loosely tied together metal pipes.

Peering out cautiously to get his bearings, he saw Steelbeak near the far edge of the roof. The other bird was currently engaged in a firefight with a male pitbull in a suit. While the dog’s large rifle was far more powerful, the light weight of Steelbeak’s own revolver made it easier for him to maneuver around the obstacles set up on the roof and get off more shots before ducking behind a stack of crates for cover. Dominic was fully prepared to go in and give his partner some backup-

“Did ya REALLY have t’ go an’ do this TONIGHT?!” Steelbeak took the opportunity to reload his gun, a scowl visible on his face from Dominic’s position. “I mean, seriously- ya couldn’t wait ‘til tomorrow or somethin’?!” He peered out from behind the corner of a crate, quickly ducking back behind it to avoid a shot that grazed the side of the box. “Any other day of the week, and I might’ve let ya walk away with a couple missin’ limbs..but you just HAD t’ go and ruin my friggin’ date night!” Looking around, he found a hammer that had been left out and tossed it over the crates to create a distraction.

The pit bull fell for it all too easily, shooting at the object reflexively but growling in frustration when he realized he’d been tricked. “Date night?” The words were spat venomously as he tried to tell where the rooster had run off to while he’d been distracted. “You monsters slaughter an entire squadron of my comrades then go on a date to celebrate?!”

“Lemme tell ya somethin’, pal: When the guy you’ve been pinin’ after for nearly TWO MONTHS asks YOU out on a date, ya don’t go tellin’ ‘im ‘no’ just ‘cause ya killed a few nobodies last night.” The dog turned quickly when he heard Steelbeak’s voice beside him, but it was already too late. The mouth of a long-barreled .38 revolver was pressed against the side of his head and a pair of dark eyes were glaring down at him menacingly. “I have been waitin’ a long time- a REAL long time- t’ make this happen.” The enemy agent’s flimsy attempt to fight back by hitting the tall fowl with the butt of his gun failed almost instantly when Steelbeak used his free hand to grab the dog’s elbow and apply enough pressure to make him drop his weapon. “I’ve tried harder t’ get this guy’s attention then I have with literally every broad I’ve ever dated put together ‘cause he’s somethin’ special.” As he spoke, he steadily forced the cornered dog closer to the edge of the roof. “He’s wicked smart, good lookin’- gorgeous, really-, the sharpest guy I know, and he’s got a sarcastic, twisted sense of humor I just can’t seem t’ get enough of. Basically, he’s the total package and I REALLY wanna make this work with him, y’know?” He now had the much more nervous looking S.H.U.S.H. agent backed all the way to the edge. “And I’m not gonna let some two-bit revenge-obsessed chump ruin this for me, capiche?”

“You know, it’s almost sweet hearing you talk like that.” Dominic emerged from his hiding place and approached the two men on the other side of the roof.

Steelbeak turned his head just enough to glance back at his partner, the loon catching a trace of red under the other’s off-white cheek feathers. “Aw, geez- you heard all that?”

“Every word.” He replied with a smirk, thoroughly enjoying the way the red color spread across the rooster’s cheeks. “Though I am still disappointed you started without me.”

“Hey now, I didn’t start nothin’!” The taller bird stated defensively. “This guy-” He jabbed his gun further against the pit bull’s head in indication. “-caught me comin’ outta the dang elevator an’ tried t’ blow my head clean off!” He rolled his eyes with a scowl. “Seriously, no banter, no conversation- just no courtesy with this one.”

“I showed you the same courtesy you showed my brother when you shot and used him for camouflage, you murderer!” The dog growled as he glared up at the rooster, his earlier nerves being replaced with fury. “I was monitoring the remote security feed last night- I saw everything you did to my brother and the rest of our squadron!” He turned his glare in Dominic’s direction. “My original plan was to kill the monster responsible for most of my comrades’ deaths-” His furious eyes returned to Steelbeak. “-and make YOU suffer with the pain of being left alone- just like me!”

Neither of the F.O.W.L. agents were moved by the other man’s emotional outburst- if anything, they just looked bored.

“Wooooow, how original.” Steelbeak’s tone practically dripped with sarcasm. “This guy’s real unique, ain’t he, Dom?”

“A once in a lifetime find.” Dominic’s attitude matched his partner’s perfectly. “It’s uncanny, though- I could swear I’ve already heard that same speech fifty times this year.”

The deadly duo glanced at each other, maintaining their bored, deadpan expressions for a moment more before simultaneously breaking into a fit of laughter with matching wicked grins.

Once his laughter died down a bit, Steelbeak looked at the confused and affronted agent with an amused chuckle. “Look, buddy, in our line of work, ya hear one revenge monologue, ya heard ‘em all. You’re just another sad loser in a LONG line of failures.”

“The only thing we might remember you for will be how you interrupted an otherwise lovely evening.” Dominic sighed, rolling his eyes.

Rage and indignation were clear on the enemy agent’s face when he bared his fangs at them with a snarl. “Maybe you’ll remember THIS!!” The hand furthest from Steelbeak moved, pulling out an extremely small .32 Beretta pocket pistol and moving with clear intent to shoot the fowl beside him.

“!!!” Dominic moved on instinct, instantly raising one of his own pistols and shooting the pit bull in his shoulder.

The action accomplished its goal of stopping the enemy’s attempt at shooting his partner, but the impact sent him off-balance. Flailing as he began to fall, the S.H.U.S.H. agent grabbed the back of Steelbeak’s shirt on his way down.

“Oh cr-!” The swear barely had time to leave the rooster’s beak before he started to topple over the edge, too.

Dominic felt his heart stop and his eyes widen.

Falling..

Steelbeak was falling…

He was falling and would di-

“NO!!” The loon’s legs were already sprinting forward before his mind could catch up, his precious pistols falling from his hands.

In that moment, everything felt like it was moving in slow motion.

He saw Steelbeak falling backwards as he ran across the roof to close the gap between them. Along the way, he scooped a hammer up off of the ground (the same one that Steelbeak had tossed earlier, but he was too distracted to realize it at the moment) without breaking his stride and, with the other hand, pulled his scarf from his neck. Hands working as quickly as his feet, he managed to tie the hammer to one end of the scarf and wrap the other around his left hand twice before reaching the edge. At the last moment before he’d reached the edge, Dominic slid onto his knees and tossed the weighted end of his scarf down towards his partner, bracing his free hand against the ledge.

This had to work! He couldn’t lose him! Not now, not like this-!

Off-white fingers grabbed onto the dark purple fabric and held on for dear life. “Nh!” Steelbeak winced when the sudden interruption of his downward momentum resulted in him slamming into the side of the building, but his grip stayed firm.

Relief quieted Dominic’s racing mind when he looked down at the other man suspended in the air below him, causing him to let out a breath he didn’t know he had been holding. “Hold on.”

“Trust me, Dom- I ain’t goin’ nowhere.” Dominic never thought he’d be so happy to hear the other man’s sarcastic remarks but, right now, it was like music to his ears. With a grunt and a combined effort from both parties, Steelbeak was hoisted back up onto the roof. Once he was safe and sound, both fowls collapsed into a seated position next to each other while catching their breath. “You..are gonna tell me..where..ya got this-” Steelbeak gasped as his breath evened out, holding up the loon’s scarf in his right hand. “-and me an’ you are goin’ shoppin’…‘cause I need t’ buy at least FIVE of these things.” He had a huge grin spread across his face, the beginnings of a laugh evident in his voice. “I don’t care what it costs or where you got it- I’ll borrow a jet if I gotta- this thing was worth EVERY penny!”

With a smile on his own beak, Dominic nodded agreeably. “Sure..that can be our next date.”

“So I’m already gettin’ a second date?” The lighter bird asked coyly, even wiggling his eyebrows in an over the top comically flirtatious manner.

That was all it took for both of them to start laughing hysterically- the kind of laughter that follows surviving a near-death experience unscathed when the heart-stopping adrenaline wears away and leaves a person feeling giddy and lightheaded. It lasted for several minutes, leaving them gasping and panting for breath all over again, but in a far more pleasant way.

Looking at his partner while the other snickered quietly and wiped tears away on his wine colored sleeve, Dominic felt a soothing, gentle warmth flowing through his veins. To be here, next to Steelbeak, and to still be able to see that smile and hear that odd laugh, it was one of the best things he’d felt in a long time.

With a gentle smile on his face, he moved his left hand just enough to give the scarf still wrapped around it a light tug.

The motion was just enough to be felt by Steelbeak, earning his attention. When he saw the smile on the loon’s face his own grin softened as well and he pulled the hammer out of the loose loop in the purple fabric. It only took a moment for him to untie it and wrap his end of the scarf twice around his right hand and give it an answering tug in return.

They sat there quietly, simply gazing into each other’s eyes and enjoying the light pressure around their palms.

<-Previous Chapter Next Chapter->

End Notes: What a fun little emotion and adrenaline fueled roller coaster of a chapter x3 I’m not the best at writing action scenes, but for times like these they are still fun to write ^/////^”

#darkwing duck #DWD #steelbeak #Dominic Domino #steeldomino #100 follower giveaway! #talk to me

[elym13]

Queen’s Gambit Chapter 5

Yes, I know it has been at least a year. Yes, I am terribly sorry. Yes, I shall try to do better, but for now I offer this humble submission. Note the rest of the story is available at https://www.fanfiction.net/s/12579895/1/Queen-s-Gambit

Chapter 5

It was surprising to Elsa that the silence bothered her. After all those years, she would have thought that being alone in a room, in the inn near the Ledsham estate, would have been a relief —  not a problem. But the silence grated on her nerves, as did the gloves, as did the horrible scenes that flashed through her mind when she thought of Anna. And Elsa had been sitting here alone with her thoughts for hours.

She moved to the window and pushed it open. Behind the inn was a small stand of trees that screened it from the waterfront where they had landed in the very early hours of the morning. Charlotte had secured all of the rooms here, above a small tavern, so Elsa knew she was essentially alone. Carolina and Georg — Michael and Georg she corrected herself — had gone to scout the entrances to the castle. The Comtesse was napping in the room next door.

The open window allowed the breeze to help clear the stuffy room. Cold didn’t bother her, but heat did. Elsa removed her gloves placing them on a side table. Then with her hands on bottom of the window frame she leaned out and took a deep breath of the early fall air, craning her neck for a glimpse of the castle where they hoped, only hoped, that her sister and Kristoff were being held.

This was madness. Anna could be hundreds of miles away from here. She could be hurt, in pain, brutalized. Who knew what her captors were capable of? Anna … Anna could be dead.

The wood of the window groaned as it froze. With a start Elsa pulled her hands from the sill and thrust them outside. A stream of frost and ice shot from her hands into the woods, splintering a tree in its wake. She closed her eyes and tried to control it. Think of something warm, something safe, she chided herself, but that was a difficult task.

At last, she managed to pull the magic back into herself. She shivered, and she felt the trail of a tear running down her cheek. Quickly she pulled her gloves back on and then wiped it away. She was going mad. She needed a drink.

The tavern below the rooms was small, warm, and crowded. There was a carved wooden bar that curved around from the interior doorway, and a few tables scattered around the room. Booths on the outside walls under small windows and a plain red door to the street completed the decor. Elsa felt the urge to flee back up the stairs as soon as she came down them. But she couldn’t stand to be alone anymore, and she was in no mood to try to wake the Comtesse let alone talk to her. Plus she was going to have to deal with strangers in the immediate future without the armor of being royalty. She might as well start doing that today.

Elsa took in her surroundings trying to decide where she should land. The bar was occupied by a line of men, farmers by their dress but not peasants. They wore the dress of people who worked hard but had enough money to enjoy themselves at a bar and had more than one set of clothes to wear when they went there. The booths and tables were occupied by a more mixed crowd. More men than women for sure, but some couples sat with each other enjoying food and drink. Two tables were occupied with what Elsa assumed was a local militia. They were clearly military men, most wearing swords, all in coal black jackets and pants with brilliant silver buttons closing the jackets up to their chins. There were, of course, no other single women. But fortunately there was one empty table, and it was there that Elsa sat.

“What can I get fer ya, luv?” The barmaid called as she deftly avoided the hands of the militia men.

“Wine, do you have wine?”

“Aye.” The barmaid looked Elsa up and down. “But it’s not cheap. I’ll have to open the bottle ya know.”

“Oh, I can … I mean, her Excellency the Countess de Artois has made arrangements.” Elsa decided on the Avalonian version of the title.

“I see.”

Elsa felt the bar maid’s eye pierce into her soul, or whatever place lying came from. It felt strange, insulting … humiliating Elsa thought, to have someone question your word let alone your ability to pay for what you asked for.

“I’ll have to ask him,” the bar maid gestured with her head to the stout man behind the bar, the owner. “Sure you don’t want sumthin’ else?”

“No,” Elsa answered firmly. “Wine, if you please.” She watched the woman saunter away, resisting the urge to send a chill wind up her skirt. Maybe it would warm up her soul.

“Girl, if you need someone to share your wine. Me and the boys would be happy to help.”

It took Elsa a moment to pinpoint who was speaking. But when one of the militia men winked at her, she knew she had her man.

“No, thank you.” She answered and then fixed her gaze across the room. This tavern could use a painting or two.

“We’d even pay fer it if you’d come over here.”

Elsa imagined a fine work she would call “The freezing of The Highlands” as a mural across the far wall.

“Oi, don’t be rude. We just wanna talk.”

The others chimed in, “Don’t mean no ‘arm girlie.” “Didn’t yer mother teach you manners.”

Elsa heard the scraping of a chair and then an unshaven face reeking of beer loomed in front of her.

“Shy then. Hows about we join you?”

“No, thank you.”

“Girl, you can’t drink alone. Ain’t right. Ain’t right a girlie sitting by ‘erself.”

Elsa looked away. Then to her utter surprise a hand fixed itself under her chin and pulled her back.

“Come’on luv. Don’t be that way.”

Elsa went rigid and looked him square in the eyes, furious.

“I will thank you to unhand my wife.”

Everyone at the two tables turned. Fitz took two steps closer intervening between the militia man and Elsa. “Back off, mate. We don’t want trouble.”

Elsa’s assailant moved closer to Fitz. “I ain’t yer mate, and you’re the one making trouble.”

“Please darling, go upstairs,” Fitz gestured up the stairs and gave a reassuring smile to Elsa.

“Caro - Fitz. No. You come with me.” Elsa put her hand on Fitz’s arm and squeezed.

“I can’t, dearest. But I shall be up soon.”

“Dearie, do what yer fella says. You don’t wanna be here when we teach ‘im a lesson.”

Fitz took Elsa’s hand off her arm and gently kissed her palm. “Please, go upstairs.”

“I won’t …”

“Go.” Fitz turned Elsa around and guided her to the staircase. “I shall be right up. You must trust me.”

Elsa sighed but nodded and then ran up the stairs.

*******

Fitz turned back and walked slowly to where militia men were standing. She placed her hand on the pommel of the sword at her side. “Now do we have a problem, gentlemen?”

“No boy, it’s you who is got the problem. You don’t got no manners. Don’t respect the military.” Both tables of the militia got to their feet and closed in around Fitz. “Seems you need a lesson.”

“If you ill-mannered buffoons are representative of the military here, then I don’t see why I should.” She looked around at the men surrounding her. “Cowardly as well, I see.” She poked the ringleader in his chest. “If you can’t stand up for yourself.”

“Mind your words boy. I’ll wipe the floor wid you.”

“Outside! Outside!” the man at the bar yelled. “No fighting in here.”

Fitz nodded at the owner. “Of course, my good man.” She started for the door, forcing her way through the circle of men. “Come now, if you’re so impatient to school me. If you are not a coward,” she remarked over her shoulder as she made her exit.

Once outside she looked carefully at the ground surrounding the tavern. It was dirt, packed by the near constant foot traffic. A good 20 feet was clear and hard, stone and root free, but she wouldn’t need that much. There was a set of posts set off to the right, likely for horses. Fitz carefully folded her coat and placed it atop one. She heard the raucous group coming out the door.  She turned and watched them assemble.

“Do you have a second?” Fitz called. She unsheathed her sword rechecking its balance in her hand. It was far and wide the finest sword she had ever held, and it felt like an extension of her arm, a very sharp deadly extension. Steel that was said to be able to cut through other lesser swords. And a gift from her beloved. She would use it well today.

“Loike I need a second, boy.”

Fitz rolled her shoulders feeling her suspenders move and her shirt pull up from its tuck. She would not have to worry about those binding. She noted the traditional military style suspenders on her opponent, two shoulder straps coming together to one strap in the rear. His well muscled arms became apparent as he shed his heavy jacket and tossed it to one of his fellows standing near. His shirt was plain, no stock, as none was necessary with his uniform’s high collar. A collar his thick neck strained against as he brought his sword to the ready.

Fitz brought her blade up in a salute and was not the least bit surprised when the larger man rushed at her with a roar. It was a shame, she thought, she never got his name.

The larger man swung at her head clearly intending a saber cut. He was surprised when Fitz countered by merely moving her head, arm and blade in a quarter turn, interposing her sword between his and her face. Her arm moved back several inches with the force of the blow, but she did not flinch, and he could not reach her. He could not overpower her block even even he leaned in with his heavier body. She blocked his next blow, too, one to the other side of her head, simply by moving her blade, again catching his edge with the flat of her weapon. Her expression was impassive, and if she was working to keep him from reaching her she didn’t show it.

This continued for several long minutes. He tried moving more quickly, swiftly slashing from side to side. He tried varying shots from her head to her body and even one or two to her legs. As he increased his pace his blows had less force, but Fitz knew they were actually more deadly. Finally he tried a lunge at her chest. Fitz allowed his blade to run up hers, deftly deflecting it so it just passed her shoulder. She stopped him when they were hilt to hilt waited until he tried to overpower her one last time and then asked, as they were nose to nose, “Are you done with your lesson?”

When he responded with another grunt and push, she replied, “Good. Now I shall begin mine.”

Fitz pushed back with her weapon but then dropped and ducked under her opponents blade as she disengaged. She turned behind him, and she brought her blade across his back leaving a shallow cut that parted both his suspenders and shirt and left a bloody score in its wake.

The man snarled in pain and whirled. He started a flurry of attacks that Fitz parried while backing up slowly to keep him at range. Then she changed trajectory, abruptly stepping to his left. When he moved his sword to follow her, she feinted a lunge before continuing behind him bringing the tip of her sword across his left side. He swore as blood seeped onto his ruined shirt, but whirled keeping his blade between them. Fitz started a series of slashes at his face and then with a firm double beat dropped her blade. He was forced to block across his body, blade down. Fitz extended and the force of his own block drove her point across his right side. He grunted in pain, and then started a long paragraph of foul language as his pants, no longer held by his suspenders, dropped down around his boots. Fitz thanked whoever was in heaven that he was wearing drawers even if they were not especially clean.

“You bloody cow’s cunt,” the larger man swore. Tripping forward he struck out again at Fitz. This time Fitz easily blocked his blade, disengaged and then performed a backhanded thrust through his hand guard and into his wrist. His hand spasmed and he dropped his sword. Fitz pushed on his hip with her own sending him sprawling. As he went down on his back she kicked his sword aside and then put her left boot on his chest, the point of her sword right over his heart.

“This is not a bloody game,” Fitz said quietly. “It’s life and death. Right now your death.”

“Please,” the larger man begged.

“A quick death here.” Fitz poked at his chest and was rewarded with a small spot of blood that grew slowly. Then she dragged her sword down to his belly, leaving a thin line spreading red, this cut no deeper than the other superficial slashes bleeding into the dirt. “A much less quick death here. Although I will have the pleasure of imagining the pain you will be in as you die, your insides stinking and festering.”

“Please.”

“Or maybe,” Fitz’s blade dropped lower. “I just —”

“Captain Fitzwilliam! Stop that nonsense and come here instantly.” Charlotte’s voice rang out from the doorway.

Fitz sighed and brought her sword up. “You are saved by my employer’s dulcet tones. But I do hope you take your lesson from this.” Then with a nod to his fellows who were standing nearby, eyes wide, afraid to come any closer, she sheathed her sword and walked to the Comtesse.

“Your Excellency, how may I serve you.”

“You can get your arse inside before I have to take a horsewhip to you.”

“I was defending a lady’s honor.” Fitz offered her arm.

“I know what you were doing you idiot. Inside.”

Charlotte dragged Fitz inside and to the bar. Once there she dropped a small pile of gold coins in front of the tavern owner.

“I will thank you in advance for your discretion. And I would appreciate it if after these fine people finish their dinners, you might close for the night.”

“Oh, but nights my best time for business —  with the drinking and all.”

Charlotte added more coins to the pile.

“How could I ever refuse a lady such as you, your Grace?”

“Good. And if you would bring dinner and two bottles —  no four bottles — of your best wine upstairs to my room.”

***************

“How much of a simpleton are you?” Charlotte turned on Fitz once they were in her room. “I am sure the news of a brilliant duelist who humiliated a man at the “Drunken Ox,” or whatever this hellhole is called is not going to remain a secret. We were trying to be discreet.”

“Spotted Cow,” Elsa corrected, then she turned on Fitz, “Carolina, what did you do to that man?”

“He needed a lesson both in swordplay and in how not to offend a lady.”

“But did you …”

Charlotte cut Elsa off. “And you. What in god’s earth were you doing? First you freeze the forest, and then you go unaccompanied into a bar! Women do NOT go into a bar alone unless they want that — ” Charlotte waved her hand  “ — sort of attention.”

Elsa ignored the Comtesse,“I will not have you dueling in my name!”

“Do you not understand that the number of women in the world who can produce ice magically is somewhat limited?”

“Luv, I will not have wretched scum insulting you or any woman.”

“You promised not to duel.”

“In Arendelle. I will not slay your subjects, which really isn’t a problem since they do not insult you. But here this is what one does unless one is a coward.”

“For god’s sake, the two of you. Shut up!” Charlotte raised her voice as much as she felt was wise. “You,” she pointed at Fitz, “Keep that damn —

sword in your sheath until we need it. You,” now Charlotte pointed at Elsa,“Fitz does these things for some god forsaken sense of honor that she holds dear, and that she doesn’t in your kingdom is quite a measure of her love. Also please don’t freeze things.”

Fitz’s tone turned to contrition,“It was my fault, Charlotte. I shouldn’t have left her alone for so long. And she’s never been in a tavern, well one that doesn’t have her portrait on the wall.” She was interrupted by a knock on the door.

“Discreet,” Charlotte muttered, as she gestured for Fitz to open the door. It was a pair chamber maids knocking. They carried both the wine and their dinner, two roast chickens with potatoes and some cabbage dish. “Discreet,” she said again pouring herself a large glass of wine once the maids had left. “A discreet surveillance of the castle. Discreetly making our way into the bosom of Ledsham.” She glared at Fitz. “Georg is in his room NOT causing a fuss. So you will at least tell us what you found. Then you can go tell him dinner is served.”

Fitz took Elsa’s hand in hers and addressed the queen directly. She noted Elsa was again wearing the gloves. “It is very highly likely Anna and Kristoff are here. There are an inordinate number of guards. Two different regiments by the look of it. One being Ledsham’s own, which numbers about fifty men and two sergeants in its permanent full-time configuration and nearly one hundred with three officers at full strength. Then there is another, formed of the same blackguards who accosted you, in those black uniforms. They don’t belong to Ledsham. I don’t recognize them as any regiment from Avalon, and I know them all.”

“What?” Charlotte was surprised.

“Foreign or mercenaries, or quite probably both.” Fitz now turned to Charlotte. “That’s expensive and supports the idea that something in that castle is important enough to guard. That in turn suggests that Anna and Kristoff…” Fitz hesitated, ”That they are well enough to need guarding.”

“Thank goodness,” breathed Elsa, relief evident in her voice.

“Indeed,” agreed Charlotte.

Fitz continued, “We spent most of the day watching the front gate. It’s locked shut and under guard.”

“Not the best news, even if it supports your previous theory.” Charlotte tapped her lips with her forefinger.

“But in the morning, from quite early until almost noon, there is a lot of traffic. Food deliveries and what not. And some servants aren’t resident, so they are coming in as well. ”

“I would bet substantial sums that the guards get tired of unlocking and locking the gate. Plus there will be the confusion of two chains of command.”

“Indeed,” Fitz agreed, “Although the guard will be composed of the best men.”

“At let’s say, 7 am? Do you think the sergeant will reward his best men with an 7 am watch?”

“I would. If the mission needed my best.”

“Yes, and I note you were an excellent officer. In your opinion is that true of Ledsham’s?”

Fitz thought and then shook her head no. What she recalled included capricious orders and blatant favoritism. Of course any unit reflected it’s head. A head that in this case might well be decorating the King’s outer bailey.

“And at any rate,” Charlotte stated, “I would certainly favor my grit in a battle of wills against any non-commissioned foot-soldier.”

Fitz chuckled, “Indeed, they do not stand a chance.”

Elsa was still thinking of Anna and Kristoff. “They are alive, and we’ve found them.” She felt tears of relief welling in her eyes. Fitz pulled her close into a hug and stroked her hair. “And now we will get them back.”

A/N: Art by Comickergirl; Patronage by @grrlgeek72, who was also the fine hostess at my artistic retreat when I was able to walk, think, visit the lake, and most importantly write. Proofing by @grrlgeek72 and @thegeekogecko, but all errors are because I ignored them adn continued to write.

#frozen fanfiction #FitzElsa #myfanfic #elsa/oc

[cruzrogue]

Roomies Part III

#Fictober19 @fictober-event

————————————————————————

for fanfiction:

Prompt number: 23 “You can’t give more than yourself.”

Fandom (AU if applicable): #arrow fanfiction #olicity #Flommy

Rating:PG13

Warnings/Tags:  There might be adult language

Summary:  Little more than two years later. Felicity is standing where her mother-in-law placed two tombstones in memory of Robert and Oliver.

(This is the last part)

Notes: This is a three-part with its own prompt story Part I Felicity/Tommy conversation. (The are past lovers/ but current best-buds)

Part I Felicity/Tommy friendship Prompt 21- “Change is annoyingly difficult.”

Part II Oliver enters the scene (Future tense Oliver/Felicity relationship) Prompt 22-“We could have a chance.

”Part III Fallout of the Gambit situation… Prompt 23-“You can’t give more than yourself.”

Part 3 of the dynamic that is Tommy w/Oliver and Felicity.

~~~~~~****~~~~~~~~sp@ce~~~~~~****~~~~~~~~

Roomies Part III on A03

Felicity has cried her eyes out. It is so unfair that she survived and so many on the yacht with her didn’t. Her father-in-law, husband, and the crew gone in a stormy night. Her heart is so heavy. Her mind reeling in the moments before the disaster took place. The peace she felt in her husband’s arms.

Oliver ushers her into their cabin. It has been an exciting day as they got to see whales, something Felicity had an excitement to see on this Pacific Ocean journey. Her husband holding her as she would just get closer to the yacht’s edge to feel the spray of one of the whales emerging from the deep ocean. It was a glorious moment.

“Oh my gosh Oliver, did you see that tiny one near its mama.”

“I sure did.” He’s already helping her off her garments in-between their kisses. “I think there were a few teenagers in the mix of the pod.”

Felicity kisses his neck just like he likes it as he’s already picking her up to deposit on the bed. “Oliver?”

“Hmmm.”

“I want three of those.”

Confused he pulls from her slightly, “Whales?”

Her sultry laugh gets him to hold her for a few more seconds before softly having her land on the soft mattress before him. “No silly! Children.”

“Well maybe after the one we are working on currently.”

Felicity pulls him down for another ravenous kiss. They seem to not get enough of each other especially since right before leaving Starling on the trip they find that they indeed are going to be a family of three.

The giggling coming from yards away pulls Felicity from her stupor. Her daughter’s laughter is contagious and has grounded her when she just didn’t want to continue on those harsh days. Getting up from her knees and dusting the dirt and some grass off as if talking to a tombstone can answer some of her prayers. It’s time to go back to the living she indeed has a little spitfire child that both her mom says it’s so like her and her mother-in-law keeps telling her that she is exactly like her father.

“Uncle Tommy! No!” And Ariel in another giggle fit. Her grandmother Moira placed a fence around the pool because this little cherub loves the water. She will jump onto every puddle she can pounce on. It’s like she really takes form from the mermaid in Felicity’s hallucinating dreams out on the ocean bobbing while holding on to a plaster piece with the word Gambit before being saved. Olivia Ariel Queen is a happy little girl.

As Tommy sees Felicity heading up the hill he gives her a warm smile. It’s been tough to mourn his best friend and see the little girl that Oliver will never got to know. She’s amazing and the perfect blend of her parents. The little girl wants a sibling so bad that she’s already adopted the unborn child his wife, Sara is carrying. Until Felicity graduated M.I.T he moved back to Boston to be of moral support. They were once roomies and it wasn’t hard to get reacquainted in those terms. Dating Sara Lance around that time frame could have ended if she wasn’t willing to help the widow of his best friend. Finding that Felicity was alive from the Chinese Embassy was a miracle in itself. Even if she was so distraught.  

At first it was the repetitive action of going to classes and doing what she knew like the back of her hand. Then it progressed that her baby became a focal point and as she was approaching graduating her focus became in making sure her daughter would be around where her father grew up. Learning about her dad from the people who loved him.

“Look! Its mommy.” Tommy tells the little girl who is now finding a dandelion to be of the most important essence. Ariel whips her head to where her uncle is referencing to and it has her calling out for her mother.

“Momma, look what I found.” Running towards her mother as fast as she can go almost slipping before her mother has her safely wrapped up. “It’s so yellow. Y-E-L-L-O-W!”

Felicity can’t help but smile. Her daughter is already to be a genius of her time. “Yes baby. That is correct.” Kissing her temple.

“Can I go swimming?”

“Sweetie, you already did this morning.” She can see her little happy child sigh in defeat. She loves to swim or do anything water related. “Maybe we can have an evening swim later, okay?” Just like that the girl is gleeful once more as her eyes light up. As the dandelion is grasped again Ariel asks her mom if she can pick some more and Felicity lets the little girl go to gather more flowers.

“How was the conversation this morning?”

Felicity doesn’t need to ask because it’s something that is ongoing since she moved to Starling to raise her daughter after graduating. “Quiet.”

Tommy nods he’d usually add a joke but he can tell Felicity is holding on by a string.

“I feel like I’m failing her.”

“Who? Ariel?” Tommy pulls her in for a hug. “You can’t give more than yourself.”

“What if there is nothing left to give?”

“Felicity, hey, you’re doing an amazing job with her. She’s a well-adjusted free spirit. Who for some reason loves giant bodies of water? Still…”

She gives him a dry look but her eyes are filled with mirth. “Tommy! I didn’t make out with a merman in the Pacific Ocean so don’t even ask.”

“Sheesh, you always do protest to my great ideas.”

“Do you always need to be your crazy self?”

“Of course, you love me just the way I am.”

“I do.” She kisses his cheek, “I thank the heavens that you are in my life.”

“Come on Raisa made her famous cookies.”

Ariel hearing about cookies starts to make her little happy dance before running back to her mother’s arms.

“My baby loves sweets just like her momma.”

Off they go to spend quality time together. It isn’t until the evening hours that Felicity takes her daughter out again to swim. Just observing her baby enjoying herself around the pool. How she wishes Oliver was here to just confirm their daughter loves swimming just like how much his father enjoyed it. Sometimes thinking that Ariel won’t also get to know her grandfather hits her. The little girl is a mirror image of her family. Reminding them all that Robert and Oliver live through her.

~~~~~~****~~~~~~~~sp@ce~~~~~~****~~~~~~~~

“Felicity? Felicity!” Moira’s voice vibrates an urgency as the woman swiftly walks into the massive room that houses the indoor pool. Ariel’s nanny by her side. That is how Felicity knows this conversation is urgent.

“Moira, what’s wrong?”

“Gammie!”

Moira still in a hurried manner stops in her tracks still taking the time to show affection to her granddaughter as the girl is being dried by her mother. “Hi darling baby girl.” She lays a simple kiss to the girl’s temple. “Nancy will take over and ready you for bed. I need to talk to your mommy.”

“Okay. Night Gammie.”

“Goodnight sweetheart.” She watches Felicity kiss her daughter and tell her she’d be by to tuck in her in. Both women watch as Ariel is content to leave with the other woman who seems to be telling her of a fun activity they can be doing.

The moment the child is out of earshot Felicity is pressing for information and Moira looks a little more youthful. She’s hasn’t seen her mother-in-law show such happiness if not with the antics of her granddaughter.

“What’s is going on?”

“The American Embassy called. Our family has been located with a single crewman. They are alive.”

“What?” Felicity shakes her head she just thinks it’s highly improbable. “This can be a hoax.” Shaking her head furiously. “We’ve had false claims. I just…”

“I know. I know darling.” Moira has this smile that helps Felicity a tiny bit. “I heard their voices. They’re being cleared. Robert has sustained some injuries that need extra hospital care but they’re alive. I called Thea to come home. They will make another phone call to us soon. I want you both there when it comes through.”

“Of course.” Felicity just nods numbly she isn’t going to take this one call Moira seemed to get as the only evidence her heart won’t allow it for the growing hope that could finally be the nail to crush her spirits.

~~~~~~****~~~~~~~~sp@ce~~~~~~****~~~~~~~~

The wait is beyond any anguish she could feel. She misses Oliver and remembers their last moment together like it was yesterday. When he forced her to put that orange life jacket on telling her to just amuse him as she whined until he placed his on to. The storm vividly on her mind as it rocked their boat back and forth. They heard it was taking in more and more water. It wasn’t until a wave rocked them enough that she can’t remember much after as she tumbled and lost conscious to wake up on a floating debris while still wearing her lifejacket. Her heart drowning in grief as the sole survivor of this wretched wreck.

There are reporters and many photographers present here at the tarmac where the Queen family waits for the three passengers to disembark. The family of the crewman also here to welcome him home. As the door opens and some personnel from the plane disembark it’s the moment when the first crewman shows himself and the camera’s flashes go wild. It’s a miracle to man does stumble down the staircase. Then Robert Queen emerges but he has people steading him as he looks down at the crowd and looks pinpointing his family before he too makes it down the stairs slowly but surely. At the top is Oliver keeping an eye making sure his father will safely make it down.

Spotting Oliver is when Felicity’s heart truly can feel again. His voice on the phone was so sterile so far away. She keeps her eyes glued to the man slowly descending and she notices he hasn’t looked for her… for them. His family.

Its when his eyes roam around the tarmac and she can tell he’s taking in the amount of people there is at this moment and he seems uncomfortable. A part of her aches to reach him but another part of her wonders what is fueling his emotions. He looks to somber unlike his father who is smiling.

The security detail already ushers her into a vehicle before there is a reunion. These vehicles already heading to what the media thinks is Queen Manor and Felicity is beyond numb. She has no idea what just happened. Moira takes her hand as Felicity turns from the window with unshed tears. “I know it is more than expected, we both agreed before going out there we wouldn’t make a spectacle expose ourselves to the media.”

“I know Moira, I just…” Felicity doesn’t voice her concern she knows they are going to Starling General where the private rooms are already setup. Robert needs some surgery and Oliver is just going to get checked by their private physician. As for the crewman their going to give him a full physical before releasing him.

It’s the moment she opens the door to his hospital room Felicity feels trepidation she doesn’t know what she is going to uncover. Maybe her husband after all this time without her has found he doesn’t want her as a wife or in any capacity any longer. That he’ll shun his child he never got to know. So far, everything to this moment has pointed to dread.

“Oliver?”

He turns from what had his attention even though he knows the door opened and she is the one to come through if her silhouette from the glass window is anything to go by.

Its like the moment they met some years ago, how she hung back in the dinning room and he stood looking at her in awe. This time Tommy isn’t here pushing her closer or breaking the ice between them. He can tell his stoicism is scaring her. He doesn’t have a container in his hands to give her like all those years ago not that she’d want anything but to know where she stands with him.

For years he thought her dead. Learning to accept that he lost her on the island was a lot. Knowing he urged her to go with him on this ill-fated voyage the anguish of knowing he didn’t just kill her but also their unborn baby. It wasn’t until the embassy patched them through to his mother for a second time.

Learning that Felicity survived the storm’s carnage just has had him in a daze. She’s alive, the woman he saw in his nightmares telling him it’s his fault she’s gone is alive. Now he fears she hates him because of the ordeal or just the notion she lost their child. No one has spoken of this subject so he’s just so frightened. In the few hours it took to get back to the States it a question he is eager to find the answer to.

He is glad his mother and wife and even sister, oh he misses Thea so very much. They’ve remained a family. A part of his heart thawing out as once he learned to compartmentalize he made it where his heart would beat for nothing more than surviving. Taking care of his injured father. He and a crewman making due on a harsh landscape. An island where the natives allowed them to live as long as they stayed in their zone. They survived and now are home.

Just as Felicity lets a hollow breath go it propels him to be the one to move forward first.

“Hi.”

A simple word has her tear up. She knows of some injuries that are still healing on his torso she doesn’t close the distance yet. She doesn’t want to hurt him.

“This is when you’d say hi or hello back.” He says lighthearted as he takes her in. Tommy may not be here but he can hear the rumbling of how dismal they are at coming together.

“I’ve missed you so much.” She finally says between sobs as he holds her tighter to his frame. Holding her body to his he never thought this is would ever be a possibility. As easy as that thought came to him another darker one takes hold. Is she still his wife? Did she move on? Her voice cuts him back to reality. “There is someone I’d want you to meet. Got me through these tough times. If it’s too much right now I’d understand.”

Oliver afraid of losing her grips her tighter if that is possible. He doesn’t know who has helped her through but it’s just not fair. No matter how nice this man that has mended her heart he doesn’t really need to meet him. Not knowing she’d be going back with him in the end while he tries to survive again without her. “I don’t know.” He whispers. “I may never be ready to meet this guy.”

“Guy?” Her confusion taking hold. “There is no other man, I mean our child.”

He pulls her just enough from his hold to look down at her face. Same eyes that he adores even if she lightened her hair and doesn’t rock the Goth vibe anymore she looks so radiantly beautiful. She survived and the little bundle that he thought he lost also is actually a little boy or girl that he’ll get to meet.

“We have a child?”

“A little girl. Olivia Ariel Queen.”

Feeling the dread, he’s been holding begin to deviate. They have a child together. “A baby girl. Wow! Where is she?”

“At home, I told her about you in terms that a child can understand she’s a little confused but she can’t wait to meet you.”

“Really?”

“Yes.” Her hands reach upward to hold his face. The fact that she can do this brings her to tear up once again. “You’re here.”

“I am. I’m not going anywhere.” There is no simple feeling that can converse what they feel at this moment as both happily embrace each other and finally kiss.

~~~~~~****~~~~~~~~sp@ce~~~~~~****~~~~~~~~

The couple take their leave with their daughter to a quieter room it’s time to get that father-daughter duo time with one another without prying eyes. Ariel in her father’s arms. Oliver seems he really hasn’t shared her with anyone yet. He can’t get enough of the small wiggling weight in his grasp.

The little girl is as fascinated by him as he is with her. She has asked a few times to make sure this man is who he says he is.

“You’re my daddy?”

“I am.”

She glances at her mother and a big sweet smile goes across her face knowing exactly what she wants to say as she gazes into this man’s eyes. “You’re my daddy!”

“Yes, baby I am.”

“That’s wonderful. I like a baby sister now.”

He’s looking at his daughter at how she looks quite serious as he can hear his wife make a strangling sound but he doesn’t turn to Felicity yet as his daughter just smiles even more.

“How long do you think it will take daddy?”

“I…” He doesn’t know how to really answer he wasn’t expecting this demand from his precious daughter. He’ll need to ask Felicity what this line of questioning comes from but he’ll ask a what if question instead. “Sweetie what if you get a brother instead?”

“That’s okay daddy. It may take lots of practice to get stuff right.” She tilts her head just like how her mom does. He smiles at the memories of Felicity doing that with him when she’s pondering something about him. “You’re my daddy.” She says that as an acknowledgement. Her smile contagious as she takes in the man she already likes so much. “You just have to put the dough in the oven.” Her hands fly out as she yelps out, “Tada!”

Oliver finally looks at Felicity who just has her mouth in that perfect ‘o’ shape as she’s just flabbergasted at their daughter basically demanding they create another child for her amusement.

“Guess your mommy and I will need to get the right ingredients huh?”

“Oliver? you shouldn’t encourage her.” He just gives a quick smirk to his wife. Ariel’s giving her mom a bothersome glare but her attention snaps back to her father. “Daddy, make sure she’s all organic. Okay?”

He nods and that’s enough for his baby girl to kiss his cheek. “Okay.” He places her softly back to the floor and just as quickly the little girl runs to where the other adults are. They hear her screaming at the top of her lungs that her daddy and mommy are going to bake her a sister.

Both Oliver and Felicity staring at the exit the little tornado went. Felicity finally shaking her head at the man she can’t believe is really truly back. “You could’ve promise her a dog instead.”

“Who says she won’t get one.”

“Oliver? I get your reasoning but she can’t get everything her little heart desires.”

“I get it. No spoiling but I also do recall someone here asking for three children.”

“Nah., I think I was talking about whales.”

He laughs as he embraces her. He is finally home and they’ll have to take time to get to know each other again.

“Welcome home.”

“No other place I’d rather be.” He winks at her as he already slightly tugging her back to where everyone else is. He’d like to spend more time with his two girls. Adding to the family may be somewhere on his list of future endeavors as he teases his wife, “I’d like have a pod, a school or a gam with you.”

“Well if that is the case, you better be as good the cook that I remember.”

-The End

The conclusion to the three part prompts…

tag:  laurabelle2930

#fictober19 #olicity #flommy #felicity smoak #oliver queen #thomas merlyn

[mayonara]

Can we have some abo jaydick pls? Omega!dick going on patrol and is hit by a drug that triggers his heat, and jason taking care of his mate. Doesn't have to be smutty, its ur choice whether it ends with smut or fluff. :3 Both is preferable ;). I know that you will definitely do this prompt justice!

Thanks for having faith in me ;A; !! I hope this fills your JayDick ABO needs!! Enjoy all the angst and comfort ~

Dick drew in a shaky breath and pulled his knees up to his chest, arms wrapped firmly around his legs and rested his forehead on his knees. His heart was beating wildly, thudding roughly against his rib cage as a warmth filtered into his body, spreading throughout. He was hot and sweating in his uniform, could feel it soaking through as the heat continued to rise. Dick was sure his face was flushed, bright red as a tomato, but there wasn’t anything he could do about it.

He’d been unfortunate in getting hit by a drug during his patrol that triggered his heat to start. Well, at least caused him to go into pre-heat. Whether that meant his heat would start any moment he wasn’t sure, but none of that mattered because right now, he was in trouble and he needed help soon. Felt vulnerable and anxious and just wanted–he wanted his mate with him.

When he’d been hit with the drug, it didn’t take effect immediately. Not until he was finished tying up all loose ends was when he felt his body tingle and right then he knew he had to get away. So Dick fled the scene and shut himself away in an abandoned warehouse where his smell wouldn’t affect others. It permeated the room and Dick could just smell his pheromones leaking out. At least it was subtle thanks to his scent neutralizer which helped to negate his omega scent, made him smell like nothing so others couldn’t pinpoint his caste. Though it wouldn’t last long as his scent would soon spread like a wild fire.

Dick had fired off his distress signal, calling for help and hoping someone would be able to locate his location soon. He couldn’t move like this, not when he was all hot and bothered, sensitivity at its highest and every single movement stimulated him. When his uniform would rub against his skin, it would send a shiver down his spine and arouse him somewhat. But yet, he just, he wasn’t exactly feeling the need to mate.

He just, all he wanted was to be in his family’s safety net, to smell their scent and soak himself in his mates’. Let that calm wash over him so he could relax. His anxiety was at its peak and he was distressed.

God, this was the most inconvenient thing to ever happen during patrol.

Dick sighed heavily and tried to calm himself from freaking out because he was so close to having a moment to himself. Tears pricked his eyes at the fear of something going wrong. Of someone else finding him and him losing control of himself. The one thing Dick hated was losing control during his heat when he wasn’t coherent enough to make his own decisions. He knew it did that to him especially when an alpha was around regardless if it was his mate or not.

The omega instincts would slowly take over, cloud his mind and all he could think about was fucking and releasing himself. And he didn’t even know what this drug did to his system.

Dick squeezed his eyes shut and focused on something else, someone else. Hoped that he would arrive soon.

As if his prayer had been answered, he heard footsteps rushing towards him and a hysteric voice calling his name.

“Dick!” Jason shouted and dropped to his side. “Are you okay?” he asked as Dick lifted his head, found Jason’s bright and shiny red helmet in his peripherals.

“Jay,” he murmured, whimpering softly at his alpha. “Jason,” he cried again and threw his arms at him. “Jay—oh god Jay.” Dick clung onto him tightly, feeling safe and warm and buried his nose in the crook of Jason’s neck. He drew in a large breath and smelled his alpha scent, letting it all wash over him as he slowly relaxed. It calmed him, brought him down from his emotional high and simmered that anxiety that’d been budding in his chest.

“It’s okay,” Jason whispered and slipped his arms around Dick’s waist, pulling him flush against his chest and buried his hand in his hair. He stroked his head gently, chasing away all his worries. “I’m taking you home.”

Dick nodded against him and felt the alpha lift him into his arms with ease. He carried him close and Dick slung his arms around his neck to hold on securely. From his blazed blue eyes, Dick could see that Jason was struggling a bit. Knew that his smell was strong and was slowly creeping its way inside that mask. Thankfully, the mask was specially built to block out all smells for the most part.

But because they were mates, their scents were stronger to one other, penetrated their nose. Not to mention the fact that Jason’s alpha instincts were at its peak, had kicked in the moment he knew that Dick was in danger. He became even more protective due to the possibility of Dick going into heat soon. He could just feel his strong arms curling around his body, squeezing on tight with enough pressure to bruise him.

“Don’t worry,” Jason mumbled soothingly, but there was a bit of girth lurking beneath his calm tone. “I got you Dick.“

And Dick knew he was safe, that everything would be alright and taken care of.

They arrived back at the cave and Jason carried him over to the med bay where Alfred was waiting. Jason gently set him down on the bed and helped prop him up so he was steady because Dick barely had any energy within him to move. This drug made him weak and lethargic, more so than usual.

The moment Jason moved away from him, Dick whimpered loudly and flailed his arms for him to come back. “No,” he whined, didn’t want his mate to leave him alone. Not when he was feeling vulnerable and needy.

Jason sighed softly and tenderly cupped his cheek. “I’ll be back. I need to set something up. Alfred will take care of you in the meantime.

“No,” he was being difficult, he knew, but he wanted what he wanted. “Please Jay, stay,” he pleaded with glassy eyes, gazing at Jason through his bleary vision. He squinted his eyes, trying to concentrate on Jason’s face and rolled his lips into a pout.

Jason huffed a breath and frustratingly ran a hand through his wild hair that’d been messed up from his helmet. He was saying some words to Alfred and Dick had difficulty picking them up as his mind was too hazed to think of anything besides Jason.

Then finally, Jason slowly pulled his arm away and slipped out of his jacket to give it to Dick. “Here,” he said and gingerly lifted him up so he could slip his brown leather jacket on. Dick was struggling to properly put his arms through the hole and Jason had to do a lot of the work for him. He felt bad, but the man wasn’t complaining.

“Okay,” he said and then directed his attention to Alfred. “Take care of him.”

“Will do Master Jason,” and then he’d left his side and Dick whined loudly, shouting his name and calling for him to come back.

Jason didn’t reply to Dick and that made him angry and upset, could feel his heart jump up again as the anxiety crawled back in. Within the background, he could hear Jason shouting words, calling for Tim and Damian. He could hear loud footsteps, pulling his attention towards the staircase and saw his brothers and his mate sprinting up the stairs towards the manor.

Why—? Where are they going in such a hurry?

Dick couldn’t comprehend, his emotions were mixed up and he was feeling too much to think clearly. His mind was clouded from the heat and the drugs were messing with his blood system.

“Master Dick,” he heard a soothing voice call out to him and turned his head, found Alfred staring at him forlornly. “I’m going to check you over,” he informed softly and waited for Dick to respond.

Dick exhaled loudly and tried to clear his mind as best as he could to let Alfred draw a few blood samples and administer an antidote. Blue eyes captured his butler’s gaze, made sure he had eye contact with him before he nodded his head, giving him the go ahead.

A soft smile fell on Alfred’s face and he started getting right to work.

After Alfred had created an antidote and administered it into his system, Dick felt a lot calmer. The pre-heat symptoms slowly diminished, yet it was lingering just a bit. Apparently the drug that hit him was only a trigger that stimulated heat like symptoms and wouldn’t actually cause his heat to start. However, if it was in him for a longer period of time, than it was highly likely.

Dick was just relieved he was fine and wouldn’t have to go into heat so soon when it’d only happened a few weeks ago. Unlike others, his heat only came every 2 months which was a bliss for him. It was less frequent and it wouldn’t get in the way of his patrol or daily life cause otherwise, Jason and he would be stuck in a room together for at least five days.

Alfred had helped him up to the manor once he’d felt well enough to walk, finally regaining some of his strength back. It was still a struggle since his legs refused to move and he had to gather all of his energy to just drag it up the flight of stairs. Thankfully Jason was waiting right there at the grandfather clock when they’d enter the room. The man immediately strode to his side and gathered him from Alfred. He hooked an arm underneath his legs and in one fell swoop, lifted him up.

“Hey,” he said and glanced down at Dick, gave him a small smile and Dick all but just melted right there. Felt his mind ease, the ache in his body dissipating and he slowly relaxed against him, body growing limp and allowed Jason to take care of everything else.

Dick only reached up to bunch his hand against Jason’s shirt. He was still dressed in his Nightwing uniform with Jason’s jacket still on him.

Jason turned his attention away briefly to give a nod at Alfred, told him he’d take of the rest and whisked him away to his bedroom.

Once they entered inside, Dick was surprised to see a nest already built on top of his bed. He tilted his head back and blinked up at his mate, staring at him in confusion. Did he disappear just to do this?

Jason only chuckled and closed the door shut with his foot before he walked over to settle Dick into the middle of his nest. He gently lowered him on the stacked pile of blankets and sweaters, Jason’s sweaters.

“You—?” Dick started as he stared at his nest, examining it very closely. He was very particular about his nest and most of the time built it himself. Except there were times he’d allow Jason to do it for him, but those were rare since there were things he liked having in his nest and there were things he hated. He also wanted the set-up to be perfect and to have everything in place.

But this–this was acceptable and warmed his heart.

“I got Damian and Tim to help. Figured you’d need it after…you know. And just in case,” Jason said and gestured at his nest, kept his distance from it. Jason knew on instinct that he wasn’t allowed in the nest unless Dick had invited him in.

And Dick did, stretched out his arm for Jason to take. The alpha smiled at him and took his hand as Dick pulled him in to climb into his nest. Jason settled beside him and curled an arm around his waist, pulled him close to his side as he coddled his omega.

Dick sighed contently and scanned the nest that his mate and brothers had made. It was filled with his blankets and pillows, all propped up like a circular wall, something he could enclose himself around since he liked to stay in tight spaces when he was anxious. In between all the layers were also Jason’s shirts and sweaters, all weaved into the nest and he could just smell his scent.

They all knew how much Dick would hoard Jason’s clothes when he was nesting and sometimes, he’d also steal his families as well and incorporate them. He loved all their scents, especially Jason’s, and they calmed him, made him feel protected. So the family learned that if their things disappeared, Dick had them and they probably wouldn’t be getting them back either.

Blue eyes continued to scan his room, searching for anything else that seemed to be amiss. There wasn’t except he did notice that the TV was on and there were movie cases strewn about the floor. And off to his bedside on his nightstand were an assortment of snacks and beverages that Dick liked.

Dick finally got the idea of what had occurred when Jason left and why he did so. It was so he could prepare his room in case Dick went into heat, but it was also for his comfort as well as these were all things that Dick liked to do when he was anxious and needed to calm down. Or things he’d do when he was in pre-heat, just wanting to cuddle with his alpha and watch stupid movies.

“So,” Jason started and recaptured Dick’s attention. The omega turned to look at his alpha, found him staring with furrowed brows, a look of concern plastered on his expression. He could just smell his worry.

“I’m fine,” Dick said and Jason suddenly relaxed knowing that he was fine. He was sure he smelled of distress which is what caused the concern within Jason. The alpha had been tense the whole time he’d been caring for Dick. “It was, I’m not in heat.” And at that, Jason arched a brow.

“I can tell since you don’t smell like it,” he said and then leaned back to grab a pile of something from behind him. He pulled out a pair of his shirt and sweatpants, knew that Dick loved to be comforted in Jason’s clothes during a time of vulnerability. “I’m glad you’re okay though,” Jason said and swiped aside his bangs to lean in and kiss his forehead.

Dick hummed in delight and stretched out his arms as Jason was attempting to peel away his jacket. He slipped it off and settled it off to the side before he helped strip Dick out of his Nightwing uniform. Once he’d successfully got Dick out of his outfit, he gestured for him to lift his arms and slipped the shirt on and over his head. It was baggy around his torso and reached past his butt but it was comfy and smelled of his alpha. He nestled his nose into the soft fabric and sniffed it, sighing blissfully. Next Jason rolled the legs of the sweatpants onto his legs and instructed him to lift his butt up so he could finish the rest.

Once he was finally dressed, Jason re-positioned them so he was leaned against the headboard and Dick was settled in between his legs with his back flush to his chest. The alpha embraced him from behind, arms circled around his waist and hands resting on his belly. Dick immediately dragged one of the blankets and covered them up so they could stay warm and toasty together and threaded their fingers together.

“Want to watch The Princess Bride?” Jason asked and glanced down at his mate.

Dick chuckled at the fact that Jason knew exactly what kind of movie he was in the mood for. He nodded his head and gestured a finger for him to lean down. Jason did as he was told and captured his lips in a chaste kiss.

Their scents oozed from their bodies as they allowed it seep out and fill the room. Their scents blended together, sweetness and musk all swirling into one. It calmed the both of them and Dick could finally feel himself relax after an exhausting emotional night. Jason started the movie and they cuddled against each other as they let the sounds gradually lull them to sleep.

#jaydick #prompt fill #jason todd #dick grayson #my writing #abo #omegaverse #omega dick #alpha jason #hurt and comfort #drugged #pre-heat #ask box

[noctis-and-friends]

The Last Dance

Another Noctis x Reader thing. I’m sorry… I love Noctis so much. I have a story for Gladio coming up next.

“I need dance lessons.”

Ignis didn’t stop to look at Noctis, his attention currently focused on cutting the vegetables for the meal he was preparing. 

“And you just assume I know about dancing?” He eventually responded, sliding the chopped produce into a bowl.

“You’re the first person that came to mind, yeah.” Noctis was nonchalantly leaning back in the couch, his phone held loosely in one hand. He shrugged coolly. “It seemed like your sort of thing.” 

“Ah, I see.” Ignis diligently placed the cutting board in the sink. He pushed his glasses up the bridge of his nose and put his hands on his hips as he looked over at Noctis. “What calls for the sudden interest in dancing anyway?” Noctis rested his phone down next to him and crossed his legs, a heavy sigh escaping his lips. 

“Remember that party coming up next week?”

“How can I forget?” Ignis replied, now giving Noctis his full attention. “Your father organized the event and we’re all invited.” And it was much more than just a simple party. In just few weeks, Noctis and his companions were going to set off for Altissia. King Regis was terribly busy, these days especially, but he managed to set a day aside for his son with a gathering of close friends. “Well…” Noctis shifted forward, resting his elbows on his knees. “I invited (F/N) to come, and I wanted to make it a special evening for her.”

“I take it you told her about you and Lady Lunafreya?”

Noctis had picked up his phone again and began browsing through the photos with his thumb. There were pictures of you with him and the rest of the guys having a great time. You had a beautiful smile, and Noctis loved how it made your face glow. He eventually came across a series of selfies with you and him. These were taken a month ago, before he learned about his arranged marriage to Luna. Back then, it seemed like your love was set in stone and he was seriously considering proposing to you. As events turned out, that wouldn’t be the case. Realizing this fact once more made Noctis’ heart heavy. “I did,” he answered, his voice distant.

“How did she respond?” Ignis continued.

“She seemed okay, but I know it must of really hurt her.”

“Considering how close you two were.”

“Yeah,” Noctis affirmed. “Before we get busy preparing for the trip, I want to show her that she still means everything to me.” Ignis smiled genuinely. “Your motives are noble, Noct. I’d be more than happy to help you in any way I can.”

The days passed slowly as Noctis practiced assiduously for that evening. He counted down the days until it arrived, and he was still nervous about it. He thought he had grasped the concept of dancing with a partner and had pinpointed the exact words he wanted to say to you that night, but as the sun set and the lights of the citadel came on, he felt that initial uncertainty resurface.

Since he was busy preparing himself, Noctis had Ignis drive you to the citadel. When you arrived, Noctis stood at the bottom of the vast staircase of the prestigious building. At first, you were shocked to see Noctis in such royal attire, you were used to him being in casual clothes. You had your moments where you forgot that he was a legitimate prince. Alongside him stood Gladiolus and Prompto, both in very respectable dress suits. Ignis parked the car, then proceeded to open your door and guide you to the prince. When you were just a pace in front of him, he bowed his head slightly and took your hand in his. “Good evening, my princess.” He tenderly kissed the top of your hand, making you giggle softly. “You look wonderful tonight,” he complimented as he entangled his fingers in yours. Noctis gestured to the top of the staircase with his other hand, where the doors were wide open to accept the gathering’s guests. “Shall we?”

Walking up the extensive staircase with your hand in Noctis’ filled you with a slight sadness; this would be the first and last time you did something like this. But you refused to show your sorrow on your face, giving a delicate smile whenever he glanced over at you. You were welcomed at the door and stood in awe at the immense main hall. Many wandered about in elegant clothing, conversations and laughter filled your ears, along with soft music playing in the background.

You spent the majority of the evening chatting with the guys. At every chance he had, Noctis was holding your hand. You cherished the feeling of his hand in yours - warm and comforting - you never wanted it to leave you. Fate was cruel, and realizing that his hand would soon be with someone else’s made you squeeze it tightly in anguish. Noctis recognized this, and rubbed you palm consolingly in response.

He pulled you away from the masses to an small, open balcony. There, you took in a breath of cold air and leaned on the marble railing, the white disk of the moon hanging overhead. Without saying a word, Noctis gently held onto your arm. The two of you stood there in silence, taking in this moment as it came. Noctis knew what this meant for you, he knew how pained you were right now. “(F/N.)” His voice was quiet and despondent. “I’m sorry about everything. I don’t want this to happen at all, and wish I could change things - really, I do.” You turned to face him, eyes full of silent sorrow and a weak smile upon your lips.

“I know, Noct. I don’t doubt that. It was out of your control. It’s just…” You paused to inhale sharply. The tears were building up again, and it was harder to keep them back this time. “Seeing you go will be so hard.” Your words quivered as you tried to maintain your smile. Noctis pulled you close to him and ran a compassionate hand up and down your back. His embrace was so soothing, you wanted to stay with it till the end of time. The tears finally broke free and you started to quietly sob into his shoulder. Noctis couldn’t stand to see you cry, tonight of all nights; the sharp pain you felt in your heart soon radiated to him. He placed his other hand on the back of your head, running it lovingly through your hair.

“I know,” he whispered. Life without you was unimaginable, he would probably never share this same embrace with you ever again - the sadness was unbearable. His heartbroken sorrow overwhelmed his nervousness to seize this moment to show you that he really cared. He started to sway from right to left to the slow rhythm of the music being played inside, his hands still placed on your head and back. At first, he tried to recall everything he was taught, but it was quickly clouded by a natural flow that guided his steps. You seemed to follow him automatically, it was like clockwork. Soon, the two of you were moving together like trees in a gentle musical breeze on the balcony, the moon and stars acting as witnesses to your genuine love.

“Noct,” you began, your voice just above a whisper. “Can you promise me something?”

“Of course.” 

“Please promise me not to hold anything back from Luna,” you implored honestly. “She deserves to be happy too, so please make the best of your marriage to her.”

Noctis was about to protest, saying that all his love was reserved for you, but he realized that it would bring you a shred of happiness in the midst of this heartbreak. In this uncontrollable situation, it was the least he could do. He vowed to do so, followed by a soft kiss to your forehead. He slowed the dance to a halt and moved a hand to your cheek, where he wiped away a remaining tear. “No matter what happens, (F/N), you will always be the true love of my life. Forever and always. Never forget that.” You lost yourself in his icy blue eyes as both of his hands cupped around your face, from your ears to your nape. He moved in close, initiating a passionate kiss that filled you with appreciation for all of the moments you had spent with Noctis. In this kiss, you felt another promise sealed within it; you knew he had meant every word that he had said. 

Extra:

Prompto was the first to recognize that you and the prince had disappeared. He checked his immediate surroundings, panicked at first, until he caught a glimpse of you two together in a loving embrace on the balcony. With a smirk on his face, he nudged Ignis and Gladio to look in that same direction. They watched you dance slowly with Noctis from the entryway. “Check that out,” Prompto commented admiringly. “It worked out after all.”

“Did you teach him those moves, Iggy?” Gladio asked with grin, his arms crossed in front of him. 

“I did my best.”

“Well, he’s doing pretty good out there.”

Prompto raised his camera to his eye and started snapping away, capturing the intimate moments in a series of pictures. They continued to watch you for a couple of minutes before Prompto started to show some sign of impatience. “C’mon! Just kiss already!” he cried out quietly. Everyone else was thinking it, the scene was just right, it had to happen. 

“Things like this can’t be rushed.” Ignis reminded him. It was just after he uttered those words did you and Noctis lock in a passionate kiss. Prompto also leaped into the air with exhilaration when he saw it. He managed to get great pictures of the affectionate moment. Ignis clapped softly while Gladio shook a triumphant fist and muttered a word of approval. 

Haha... it was a lot sadder than I intended it to be. Whoops! It was still a lot of fun to write though

#noctis #noctis lucis caelum #noctis x reader #reader insert #ffxv fanfiction #final fantasy xv fanfiction #angst #ffxv #final fantasy xv

[readbookywooks]

'It broke down the hubward door and escaped an hour ago, sir,' he yelled. 'Wrong,' said Trymon. 'It left, we escaped. Well, I'll be getting down, then. Did it get anyone?' The bursar swallowed. He was not a wizard, but a kind, good-natured man who should not have had to see the things he had witnessed in the past hour. Of course, it wasn't unknown for small demons, coloured lights and various half-materialised imaginings to wander around the campus, but there had been something about the implacable onslaught of the Luggage that had unnerved him. Trying to stop it would have been like trying to wrestle a glacier. It – it swallowed the Dean of Liberal Studies, sir,' he shouted. Trymon brightened. 'It's an ill wind,' he murmured. He started down the long spiral staircase. After a while he smiled, a thin, tight smile. The day was definitely improving. There was a lot of organising to do. And if there was something Trymon really liked, it was organising. The rock swooped across the high plains, whipping snow from the drifts a mere few feet below. Belafon scuttled about urgently, smearing a little mistletoe ointment here, chalking a rune there, while Rincewind cowered in terror and exhaustion and Twoflower worried about his Luggage. 'Up ahead!' screamed the druid above the noise of the slipstream. 'Behold, the great computer of the skies!' Rincewind peered between his fingers. On the distant skyline was an immense construction of grey and black slabs, arranged in concentric circles and mystic avenues, aunt and forbidding against the snow. Surely men couldn't have moved those nascent mountains – surely a troop of giants had been turned to stone by some . . . 'It looks like a lot of rocks,' said Twoflower. Belafon hesitated in mid-gesture. 'What?' he said. 'It's very nice,' added the tourist hurriedly. He sought for a word. 'Ethnic,' he decided. The druid stiffened. 'Nice?' he said. 'A triumph of the silicon chunk, a miracle of modern masonic technology – nice?' 'Oh, yes,' said Twoflower, to whom sarcasm was merely a seven letter word beginning with S. 'What does ethnic mean?' said the druid. 'It means terribly impressive,' said Rincewind hurriedly, 'and we seem to be in danger of landing, if you don't mind—' Belafon turned around, only slightly mollified. He raised his arms wide and shouted a series of untranslatable words, ending with 'nice!' in a hurt whisper. The rock slowed, drifted sideways in a billow of snow, and hovered over the circle. Down below a druid waved two bunches of mistletoe in complicated patterns, and Belafon skilfully brought the massive slab to rest across two giant uprights with the faintest of clicks. Rincewind let his breath out in a long sigh. It hurried off to hide somewhere. A ladder banged against the side of the slab and the head of an elderly druid appeared over the edge. He gave the two passengers a puzzled glance, and then looked up at Belafon. 'About bloody time,' he said. 'Seven weeks to Hogswatchnight and it's gone down on us again.' 'Hallo, Zakriah,' said Belafon. What happened this time?' 'It's all totally fouled up. Today it predicted sunrise three minutes early. Talk about a klutz, boy, this is it.' Belafon clambered onto the ladder and disappeared from view. The passengers looked at each other, and then tared down into the vast open space between the inner circle of stones. 'What shall we do now?' said Twoflower. 'We could go to sleep?' suggested Rincewind. Twoflower ignored him, and climbed down the ladder. Around the circle druids were tapping the megaliths with little hammers and listening intently. Several of the huge stones were lying on their sides, and each was surrounded by another crowd of druids who were examining it carefully and arguing amongst themselves. Arcane phrases floated up to where Rincewind sat: 'It can't be software incompatibility – the Chant of the Trodden Spiral was designed for concentric rings, idiot . . .' 'I say fire it up again and try a simple moon ceremony . . .' '. . . all right, all right, nothing's wrong with the stones, it's just that the universe has gone wrong, right? . . .' Through the mists of his exhausted mind Rincewind remembered the horrible star they'd seen in the sky. Something had gone wrong with the universe last night. How had he come to be back on the Disc? He had a feeling that the answers were somewhere inside his head. And an even more unpleasant feeling began to dawn on him that something else was watching the scene below – watching it from behind his eyes. The Spell had crept from its lair deep in the untrodden dirtroads of his mind, and was sitting bold as brass in his forebrain, watching the passing scene and doing the mental equivalent of eating popcorn. He tried to push it back – and the world vanished . . . He was in darkness; a warm, musty darkness, the darkness of the tomb, the velvet blackness of the mummy case. There was a strong smell of old leather and the sourness of ancient paper. The paper rustled. He felt that the darkness was full of unimaginable horrors – and the trouble with unimaginable horrors was that they were only to easy to imagine . . . 'Rincewind,' said a voice. Rincewind had never heard a lizard speak, but if one did it would have a voice like that. 'Um,' he said. 'Yes?' The voice chuckled – a strange sound, rather papery. 'You ought to say “Where am I?” ' it said. 'Would I like it if I knew?' said Rincewind. He stared hard at the darkness. Now that he was accustomed to it, he could see something. Something vague, hardly bright enough to be anything at all, just the merest tracery in the air. Something strangely familiar. 'All right,' he said. 'Where am I?' 'You're dreaming.' 'Can I wake up now, please?' 'No,' said another voice, as old and dry as the first but still slightly different. 'We have something very important to tell you,' said a third voice, if anything more corpse-dry than the others. Rincewind nodded stupidly. In the back of his mind the Spell lurked and peered cautiously over his mental shoulder. 'You've caused us a lot of trouble, young Rincewind,' the voice went on. 'All this dropping over the edge of the world with no thought for other people. We had to seriously distort reality, you know.' 'Gosh.' 'And now you have a very important task ahead of you.' 'Oh. Good.' 'Many years ago we arranged for one of our number to hide in your head, because we could foresee a time coming when you would need to play a very important role.' 'Me? Why?' 'You run away a lot,' said one of the voices. That is good. You are a survivor.' 'Survivor? I've nearly been killed dozens of times!' 'Exactly.' 'Oh.' 'But try not to fall off the Disc again. We really can't have that.' 'Who are we, exactly?' said Rincewind. There was a rustling in the darkness. 'In the beginning was the word,' said a dry voice right ehind him. 'It was the Egg,' corrected another voice. 'I distinctly remember. The Great Egg of the Universe. Slightly rubbery.' 'You're both wrong, in fact. I'm sure it was the primordial slime.' A voice by Rincewind's knee said: 'No, that came afterwards. There was firmament first. Lots of firmament. Rather sticky, like candyfloss. Very syrupy, in fact—.' 'In case anyone's interested,' said a crackly voice on Rincewind's left, 'you're all wrong. In the beginning was the Clearing of the Throat—' '—then the word—' 'Pardon me, the slime—' 'Distinctly rubbery, I thought—' There was a pause. Then a voice said carefully, 'Anyway, whatever it was, we remember it distinctly.' 'Quite so.' 'Exactly.' 'And our task is to see that nothing dreadful happens to it, Rincewind.' Rincewind squinted into the blackness. 'Would you kindly explain what you're talking about?' There was a papery sigh. 'So much for metaphor,' said one of the voices. 'Look, it is very important you safeguard the Spell in your head and bring it back to us at the right time, you understand, so that when the moment is precisely right we can be said. Do you understand?' Rincewind thought: we can be said! And it dawned on him what the tracery was, ahead of him. It was writing on a page, seen from underneath. 'I'm in the Octavo?' he said. 'In certain metaphysical respects,' said one of the voices in offhand tones. It came closer. He could feel the dry rustling right in front of his nose . . . He ran away. The single red dot glowed in its patch of darkness. Trymon, still wearing the ceremonial robes from his inauguration as head of the Order, couldn't rid himself of the feeling that it had grown slightly while he watched. He turned away from the window with a shudder. 'Well?' he said. 'It's a star,' said the Professor of Astrology, 'I think.' 'You think?' The astrologer winced. They were standing in Unseen University's observatory, and the tiny ruby pinpoint on the horizon wasn't glaring at him any worse than his new master. 'Well, you see, the point is that we've always believed stars to be pretty much the same as our sun —' 'You mean balls of fire about a mile across?' 'Yes. But this new one is, well—big.' 'Bigger than the sun?' said Trymon. He'd always considered a mile-wide ball of fire quite impressive, although he disapproved of stars on principle. They made the sky look untidy. 'A lot bigger,' said the astrologer slowly. 'Bigger than Great A'Tuin's head, perhaps?' The astrologer looked wretched. 'Bigger than Great A'Tuin and the Disc together,' he said. 'We've checked,' he added hurriedly, 'and we're quite sure.' That is big,' agreed Trymon. The word “huge” comes to mind.' 'Massive,' agreed the astrologer hurriedly. 'Hmm.' Trymon paced the broad mosaic floor of the observatory, which was inlaid with the signs of the Disc zodiac. There were sixty-four of them, from Wezen the Double-headed Kangaroo to Gahoolie, the Vase of Tulips (a constellation of great religious significance whose meaning, alas, was now lost). He paused on the blue and gold tilework of Mubbo the Hyaena, and turned suddenly. 'We're going to hit it?' he asked. 'I am afraid so, sir,' said the astrologer. 'Hmm.' Trymon walked a few paces forward, stroking his beard thoughtfully. He paused on the cusp of Okjock the Salesman and The Celestial Parsnip. 'I'm not an expert in these matters,' he said, 'but I imagine this would not be a good thing?' 'No, sir.' 'Very hot, stars?' The astrologer swallowed. 'Yes, sir.' 'We'd be burned up?' 'Eventually. Of course, before that there would be discquakes, tidal waves, gravitational disruption and probably the atmosphere would be stripped away.' 'Ah. In a word, lack of decent organisation.' The astrologer hesitated, and gave in. You could say so, sir.' 'People would panic?' 'Fairly briefly, I'm afraid.' Hmm,' said Trymon, who was just passing over The Perhaps Gate and orbiting smoothly towards the Cow of Heaven. He squinted up again at the red gleam on the horizon. He appeared to reach a decision. 'We can't find Rincewind,' he said, 'and if we can't find Rincewind we can't find the eighth spell of the Octavo. But we believe that the Octavo must be read to avert catastrophe – otherwise why did the Creator leave it behind?' 'Perhaps He was just forgetful,' suggested the astrologer. Trymon glared at him. 'The other Orders are searching all the lands between here and the Hub,' he continued, counting the points on his fingers, 'because it seems unreasonable that a man can fly into a cloud and not come out . . .'

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