#max was getting a bit too 'peace and love on planet earth' there for a while

[sea-shelly]

#max was getting a bit too 'peace and love on planet earth' there for a while #so at least there's that

[spaceschool]

🎄That’s right! It’s time to start getting ready for Space School’s annual 12 DAYS OF GUESTMAS! 🎄

It’s that time of year again! Time to start getting ready for this year’s Spacemas!

BASIC INFO:

I need to fill about 10 guest comic slots.

Comics should be at least 1 single page. (Max 4 pages)

Comics should be in full color.

Comics need to be X-mas/Winter themed!

I also accept illustrations, but they must have a clear narrative or dialogue!

Tone can be humorous, serious, anything like that. As long as it’s Space School and X-mas/Winter themed all at once.

DEADLINE IS DECEMBER 13TH FOR ALL FINISHED ART!

HOW TO APPLY:

DON’T send me any completed art, instead just send your idea/pitch for what you’d like to do for said comic.

Link or attach example of your art or portfolio!

Send all of this to my e-mail [email protected]

Label e-mail “Space School Guest Comic Pitch”

And that’s about it! It’s pretty flexible and this is all in good fun! I would be honored if some of you applied to make a guest comic this year! (If you applied last year, feel free to apply again this year if you’re feeling up to it. I loved all the artists I worked with last year and would love to work with ya’ll again.)

Below is more info about Guestmas and Christmas time in Space School:

Space School Christmas Illustrations by year:

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016 (PART 2)

2017

2018

2019

2020

Original 12 Days of Spacemas announcement image

12 DAYS OF GUESTMAS 2014

12 DAYS OF GUESTMAS 2015

12 DAYS OF GUESTMAS 2016

12 DAYS OF GUESTMAS 2017

12 DAYS OF GUESTMAS 2018

12 DAYS OF GUESTMAS 2019

12 DAYS OF GUESTMAS 2020

I would love to see some of these past outfits re-created in any comics but new ones or just general winter themed outfits are fine too. Zeggy should most always be Santa though, unless joke calls for otherwise. BUT! Jokes trump everything– if it’s funny, I want it.

SPACE SCHOOL AND THE HOLIDAYS:

Because Winter-time has always been a time of hoilday-stuffs for lots of places and planets (especially those who were colonized by Earth or Nubia) Space School most often gives the whole school lots of time off in December from school-life.

All holidays are accepted to celebrated within the walls as long as everyone is being respectful of each other– as with most things in Space School. The School decorates mostly with lights and tries to stay away from leaning one way or the other. Students are allowed to decorate inside their dorms as they please, obviously.

Most students leave home to their respective planets for the holidays but some students and teachers stay at the school thru the whole month– sometimes celebrating together!

It’s an exciting and peaceful time for everyone~

Alkaline, Zeggy, and Toggy usually go home for the holidays (sometimes together) and Joe stays at the school. Sometimes Joe joins Toggy, Terrago, and Omnivera at their homes.

Dude, Maleena, and Vava either see their separate families alone or all stay together in their home near the school.

Dennis and Booker spend the holiday cooped up alone at Booker’s apartment avoiding everyone but each other.

ZEGGY AND HIS PLANET’S CULTURE:

Zeggy is canonically the most all about Christmas out of the whole group.

X-mas was an adopted holiday by Ollce when Earth colonized the planet and as such, it resembles Christmas as we known it with some key differences.

As far as the tree goes, it starts out as a sculpted pile of dirt resembling a tree or other X-mas object that is watered thru the month with various glowing mushrooms and other fun alien-glowy-bits appearing as it’s watered– so by the time Christmas rolls around the tree will have grown it’s own ornaments to light up the room!

You buy bags of seed/spores each year for the tree, these bags make great gifts and are often put in stockings!!!

Otherwise, a lot of the traditions are the same with either having different looking aesthetics. They do stockings, presents under the tree, and Santa– who instead of having a sleigh– instead rides a single giant mole (which is a creature from purple planet, I can provide reference for) and is of course, purple himself. He rides this mole– who is named Rudolf, around all the underground cities of Ollce delivering presents to all the kids.

Zeggy gets into the holiday spirit way too early and way too fast. He decorates his whole dorm room as well as wearing as much X-mas accessories as he’s allowed over his school uniform.

He’s the type of person to put everything non-Christmas away and replace it with Christmas themed things.

He absolutely spoils Alkaline with tons and tons and way too many gifts– all of which are extremely personalized.

Otherwise, he only buys presents for his parents/grandparents, Joe, Toggy, and gives cards to his teachers. Most of his efforts go towards Alkaline.

He eats a billion food, sings a billion songs, and is fucking obnoxious. It’s beautiful.

ALKALINE AND HIS TRADITIONS:

Alkaline likes Christmas just as much as everyone else and is definitely not as hype as Zeggy because who could match Zeggy’s energy, honestly. But, he definitely gets into the spirits! Enjoys the food, drink, songs, presents– etc.

Christmas on Earth is very similar to what we think of it now which some differences– many of which haven’t totally been decided upon so feel free to have some fun interpretations.

Christmas has most definitely become a non-religious holiday in most all senses on Earth. It’s more just about the aesthetics and being with family members, buying fits, eating food, etc.

Alkaline is either with Zeggy in his home on Ollce or has Zeggy over on Earth. He stays with his Mom and Sister, visiting extended family on Christmas Day for dinner.

Alkaline buys everyone he knows presents– even if it’s just something small!

I usually draw Alkaline as a reindeer because Alkaline with antlers is super cute.

JOE’S ‘CHRISTMAS’:

Christmas isn’t celebrated where Joe is from– they have other traditions. However; Christmas Day is actually Joe’s birthday– which he usually chooses to spend alone or with Dennis or Lorna (his girlfriend)– depending on the age.

As such, Joe doesn’t care too much about Christmas and see’s it more of just as “his birthday” but starts to appreciate the holiday more when Zeggy’s festive spirit invades him. And, he likes the presents.

I’m sure Zeggy and Joe have some special X-mas moments together with Zeggy trying to show Joe all about “The Christmas Spirit”!

TOGGY’S TRADITIONS:

On Nubia, they don’t really have a Christmas but rather a big celebration of a New Year like holiday where they begin the new calendar year.  Like Christmas, it’s a time to celebrate with family and loved ones.  

Typically people travel long distances to spend the two days reunited with family, and everything shuts down.  The most important part of the festivities is to tell stories about the year–letting out stress or frustration while also reliving good moments and bonding with family members.  

This is always accompanied by large amounts of alcoholic beverages, which are enjoyed by all ages.  

Oftentimes everyone gets really smashed the first day and then sleeps it off the next.   Food varies from region to region but typically includes mostly unprocessed foods such as berries and vegetables, or dried lizard or fish jerky. As the festivities mark the beginning of the new year, many Nubians will dye their hair to a different color or get a new piercing around this time. Presents aren’t really a thing on Nubia, though it is common for parents and grandparents to give their children small sums of money to encourage them to have new adventures in the new year.  

Toggy’s family is a bit more accustomed to Earth traditions though, and so he tries to buy his close friends gifts for “Christ-mass” but they are always strange and often food.

DUDE, MALEENA, VAVA:

The 3’s traditions are similar to Alkaline’s since they’re all from Earth– so not much to say there.

Dude spends a lot of time in an apron baking cookies, cakes, etc as presents for everyone he knows and Vava and Maleena definitely gain some weight this time of year.

They all get drunk a lot and laugh a lot and just have a good time together BEING A LIL FAMILY.

Dude always makes sure to exchange presents with students he’s helped thru the year; since he often takes troubled students under his wing.

DENNIS AND BOOKER:

Booker nicely decorates his apartment and spends a lot of time with Dennis on the couch eating food and talking. They frick a lot too.

It’s chill.

OMNIVERA AND TERRAGO:

As the resident “gays into roleplays”, Omnivera and Terrago do a lot of dressing up for X-mas.

There’s a lot of time Terrago will be with Toggy’s family with them– and so I’m sure Omnivera is there sometimes as well. In a billion, expensive outfits.

The two of them absolutely spoil each other and nobody else in presents– except for Toggy who they buy something for– OF COURSE.

NOTE ABOUT REX: Due to some wild stuff happening with the creator of Rex, Rex will no longer be appearing in Space School and therefore should not be appearing in any Guest Comics! Sorry!

AND PLEASE, FEEL FREE TO ADD NEW HEAD-CANONS OR INTERPRETATIONS FOR FUTURE HOLIDAYS!! REALLY, THIS STUFF IS JUST HERE TO GET YOU STARTED SO GO HAVE LOTS AND LOTS OF FUN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

#guestmas #spacemas #2021 #open call

[pastelwitchling]

It started with a phone call.

Michael had come to the bunker in hopes of looking through some of the Project Shepherd archives to find more information on his mom. Or, at least, that was what he’d told Alex. In truth, he’d been sitting in his own bunker beneath his airstream, hitting dead end after dead end, and staring at the constellation and planet alignments had started to eat away at his brain.

In truth? He’d been restless after countless nights of a lack of sleep, and he wanted to see Alex. He didn’t know why, but it was like Alex was the only one who could see through the mess of his thoughts to the small, coherent part that was always seeking comfort. With one look, one smile, one word, one touch, Michael felt himself at a peace around Alex he’d never known anywhere else. He could finally breathe.

And for about the first five minutes after he’d arrived, he’d dared hope that he would have Alex all to himself. He’d found Alex at the bunker, pouring over decrypted files on a computer, and felt his heart jump at the sight of him. Even with his hair tousled, with the dark circles around his eyes, with his brows pinched like his mind was always busy, he was beautiful. And Michael had been the only one around for his attention.

Until he hadn’t been. Until Forrest – goddamn Forrest – called him and his eyes lit up and he smiled in a way he didn’t really smile around Michael. Until Long suggested he and Alex visit the caves where he was sure the Air Force had camped out back in 1947, and he’d leapt up at the chance to see his ex.

Yeah. That’s right. His ex. But God, you really wouldn’t be able to tell that they’d broken up at all. Michael doubted they had, but Isobel had assured him with a knowing smirk that Alex had told her things were over.

“It was a totally mutual, healthy breakup,” apparently.

It’s just that they were still so close, they still hung out whenever either of them got the chance, they still looked at each other with such a fondness that made Michael want to punch a wall. He’d learned his lesson the first time though, after leaving the Wild Pony in the middle of Alex’s song, secretly hoping not much would come of it, and then finding out Alex and Forrest were very cutely, very frustratingly, very much in like with each other. He’d learned not to leave Alex with any other guys he knew would want to date him again, mutual breakup be damned.

So when Alex had told him where he was going, Michael insisted on coming along.

“You sure?” Alex had asked. Not with any reluctance in his voice, but genuine curiosity. “We’d have to do a bit of hiking up those caves.”

“I love hiking,” Michael had lied. “Besides, you’re gonna want me there to fend off any coyotes and giant birds.”

He’d meant it as a joke, but Alex had merely smiled at him and said, “I’d want you there anyway.”

Leaving Michael to melt into a puddle, Alex walked out ahead of him.

It made the lie a little easier to bear. See, he not only hated hiking, he hated hiking alongside Forrest Long who, like the perfect little prick he was, had been all too gracious about bringing Michael along.

“Adventure with an alien,” he’d said with that wide, perfect smile of his, and a shake of his head. “Only in Roswell.”

Michael knew, somewhere deep, deep down, that Forrest was an awesome guy. He understood why Alex had been so taken with him. But here’s the thing; Alex had been taken with him. Knowing, as they climbed the rocky terrain under the sun, today mercifully halfway obscured by clouds, that Alex and Forrest had dated, had kissed, had slept together – it did things to his mind that frightened even him. It unnaturally bothered him, and no matter how kind or friendly Forrest was, Michael couldn’t let it go.

It was made worse when he and Forrest both reached the peak of a rocky hill, Alex following behind them, and they both offered him a hand to hold for the last few steps up. Without thinking, Alex took Forrest’s hand, and laughed as Forrest tugged him up with an exaggerated show of strength.

“Thanks,” he’d panted, still smiling. At Forrest.

As Michael swallowed and put his hand down, trying not to feel dejected, he saw Alex glance his way. He saw realization dawn, saw his eyes soften at Michael, as if in silent apology for not taking him up on his offer. Michael could only look away.

Let it go, he’d told himself as Forrest surveyed the area below. Let it go.

Of course he wasn’t going to let it go.

“Why do we need him again?” he grumbled under his breath so that only Alex could hear him.

Alex didn’t seem offended or frustrated by the question. Instead, he smiled, amused. Michael loved that smile.

“He’s a history buff,” Alex said. “He’s done extensive study on the grounds here. He knows it better than anybody.”

“Yeah, study to support his conspiracies,” Michael reminded him edgily. “He’s a conspiracy theorist, Alex.”

“I found out about you through conspiracies,” Alex noted.

Michael blushed. “That’s different.”

He laughed, and Michael thought he might melt all over again.

“Babe,” Forrest said, and amended, “Sorry, Alex, come look at this.”

Michael’s eye twitched. “I’m gonna kill him.”

Alex patted his shoulder. “Shh.”

He went to Forrest’s side as he pointed at something below; a crater, just beside one of the larger caves’ mouths. “When I was going through the layout in the library, I found faint records of those kinds of craters.”

Alex moved dangerously close to the edge, his eyes narrowed. “What’s the story there?”

“Well, most of the records said about what you would expect; explosion of rocks from a volcano.”

Michael just barely resisted rolling his eyes as he tipped his hat back. “And the unofficial record?”

Forrest smirked. “Meteors hit the ground here when something broke through the earth’s atmosphere and let them in.”

Michael looked to Alex, already doubtful, but Alex looked focused, like he was thinking through the logistics.

“It makes sense,” he concluded. “It would definitely explain the Air Force encampments out here. Anything to do with the skies is their territory.”

“You mean, your territory?” Forrest smiled, and Alex scoffed.

Michael pursed his lips. The wind up here was a little colder, quickly drying the beads of sweat that had formed on his forehead and the nape of his neck.

“If you even buy the whole encampment thing in the first place.”

Forrest, infuriatingly, shrugged a shoulder. “Fair.”

Oh my God, Michael thought, clenching his jaw.

Alex seemed to be able to read his thoughts, and he shook his head, smiling. “Look, I’m not saying it’s definitely what happened, but it fits with everything else we know so far. The Air Force had troops around this area, and there’s no way your pods broke through without opening up the atmosphere to residual space matters.”

Forrest groaned. “I love it when you go all military genius on me.”

Alex winked at him, and they both burst out into laughter. Michael looked around for help from the birds, hoping they’d at least recognize with him how ridiculous and unfair all of this was. He felt left out, like there was a bubble around Alex and Forrest that he couldn’t penetrate. He knew it was childish to be upset by it, but damn it, he was upset by it.

“So what do we do now?” he said a little loudly, hoping to cut in. “Take pictures? Call Max and Isobel? Write a blog?”

Alex stood, and Michael couldn’t fail to notice him wince, as if his leg pained him. “We should get a closer look,” he said. “The abrasions might give us a better idea of what we’re dealing wi—ah!”

Alex was cut off as a bit of earth beneath him crumbled away, and, his leg too stiff after climbing to move, he slid down the steep rock.

“Alex!” Michael and Forrest leapt for him, but he was already falling towards a cluster of sharp rocks at the base of the caves.

“No!” Michael yelled, reaching out for Alex and using his powers to avert his direction at the last second, rolling him onto a patch of grass instead.

“Oh my God,” he heard Forrest say before they were both up and running back down the way they’d come.

Alex was just pushing himself up onto all fours when Michael and Forrest fell at his side.

“Hey,” Michael breathed, gently pushing Alex’s bangs back from his eyes. Blood leaked from his forehead, trailing down his cheek, and dripping off his jaw onto his shirt. “Hey, baby, you okay?”

“Uh . . .” Alex shut his eyes tight, his expression twisted in pain. “Yeah, I’m – I’m fine.” He exhaled slowly, forcing himself up into a sitting position.

Forrest put his hands on his shoulders. “Maybe we should go to the hospital,” he suggested, his brows furrowed with concern as his eyes lingered on the patch of blood on Alex’s shirt. “That was a pretty nasty fall, Alex.”

“He said he’s fine,” Michael said, and stood, pulling Alex up with him. For a second, Alex swayed, looking like he might be sick. His grip on Michael’s arms was relentless, but, too soon, he let go and roughly wiped away the rest of the blood that was now staining his cheek.

Forrest looked doubtful. “Alex –”

“It’s okay, Forrest,” he said. “I’m okay, really.”

He didn’t look happy about it, but he offered Alex his arm, nonetheless. “At least hold onto me or something.”

Alex chuckled weakly, and leaned in, kissing Forrest’s cheek. “The second I start to feel sick, I’ll lean on you, okay?”

Forrest seemed a little more reassured and nodded, and Michael, his tongue in his cheek, walked off towards the crater. “We looking into this thing or what?”

Soon, they were each surrounding the crater, which was a lot larger up close than it had looked from the top of the cave. Alex knelt at one side, eyes narrowed.  He stepped into the crater and ran a finger across the surface.

“Smooth rock,” he muttered, and rubbed his eyes with his forearm. “Strong.”

“That’s not right,” Forrest frowned.

“No,” he agreed. “It’s not.”

Michael nodded. Now he understood what Alex had been looking for. “The ground here is supposed to be rough, shattered.”

“Exactly,” Alex said. “It’s too clean to be caused by anything natural.”

Forrest looked to Michael. “Are you getting any, you know, feelings around this place?”

“What, like some Star Wars Jedi tracker?”

Alex raised a brow. “Since when do you watch Star Wars?”

Michael blushed. Since you looked at Kyle like he’d committed treason for not knowing what it was, and I wanted to impress you.

Before Michael could even attempt to make up some lie though, Alex fell down to one knee again, heaving.

“Whoa, Alex!” he slid into the crater and crouched in front of him. He put a hand between his shoulder blades, and felt his breaths turn heavier and shakier.

Forrest hurried to their side and knelt beside him. “What’s going on?” he demanded. “Alex, what are you feeling?”

“D-Dizzy,” Alex managed, and Michael was shocked to see sweat dampening the tips of his hair. “I don’t . . . I c-can’t . . .”

Michael knelt down, too. “Alex,” he tried softly. “Look at me, baby, tell me what’s going on.”

“I’m g-gonna be s-s-sick,” Alex managed through short breaths.

Michael clenched his jaw, cupping Alex’s cheek. Despite the sweat, his skin was cool to the touch, his teeth were chattering and he was shivering, his eyes heavily-lidded. He was turning pale way too quickly.

Michael’s eyes widened as he realized what was happening, and he swallowed past the lump in his throat.

“Alex,” he said calmly, trying very hard not to let the horror of the situation touch his voice. “I need you to get on my back, okay?” He turned his back to Alex, and gestured at Forrest. “Long, help him.”

Forrest looked between Michael and Alex worriedly, but nodded. “Right,” he said, and gently but firmly guided Alex onto Michael’s back. “What’s happening to him?” he murmured to Michael so that Alex couldn’t hear. “His forehead stopped bleeding, why does he look like he’s going to pass out?”

Michael glanced over his shoulder at Alex who had shut his eyes tight, his fists curled in Michael’s shirt, his knuckles white with his grip. As he turned and led the longer way back to his truck, he quietly said, “I think his fall was a lot worse than it looked. He must’ve ruptured an organ or something.”

Forrest glanced at Alex, terrified. “He’d bleeding internally?”

Michael nodded. “And he’s getting too tired too quickly. We have to hurry.”

Forrest was clearly terrified, but one glance at Alex and he must’ve known that he couldn’t show that fear on his face. Instead, he nodded once and kept a hand on Alex’s back as they moved as quickly as they could.

When they finally made it to Michael’s truck, Forrest insisted on staying in the backseat with Alex.

“He might need me,” he said, not caring at all about leaving his car behind. Michael could only set his truck in drive, silently grateful to have an extra set of caring hands with Alex. And he drove like hell, breaking every speed limit and getting more than a few angry honks along the way.

“Hold on, Alex,” Forrest said to Alex who had his head on his lap, trembling and gasping. When he started raking Alex’s hair back, Michael couldn’t find it in him to be jealous, only afraid. He hoped whatever Forrest was doing was making Alex just a little more comfortable, giving him a little more time.

“You’re gonna be fine, baby,” he promised, the words heavy on his tongue. It was when they were barely ten minutes away from the hospital that Forrest gasped.

“Guerin,” he sounded panicked, “he’s out.”

“What?” Michael looked over his shoulder. Alex’s eyes were closed, his body limp.

“Oh my God,” Forrest breathed. “Oh my God –”

“Don’t freak out on me now, Long,” Michael said. There wasn’t time to curl up into a ball and cry, there wasn’t time to be afraid. He had to save Alex.

The gas pedal was on the floor of the truck, Michael was glued to his seat as the wind howled past. When they finally arrived at the hospital, Michael didn’t bother going to the parking lot. Instead, the tires skidded as he curved to a stop in front of the automatic double doors. He barely parked the car before he was out. He opened the door and Forrest helped put Alex on his back.

Michael ran through the doors with Forrest behind him, keeping Alex securely in place.

“Help!” they both screamed. “He needs help!”

“Please,” Forrest said shakily to the nurses as they rushed forward to take Alex and put him on a gurney. “You have to save him!”

“What the hell?” Kyle appeared amidst the men and woman already starting to lead Alex away. His eyes were wide as they fell on his best friend, passed out and injured. “Alex?”

“He fell,” Michael tried, but Kyle was already in full doctor-mode, pulling out a small flashlight from his pocket. “We think he might be bleeding internally.”

“Damn it, Manes,” he muttered, and pressed two fingers to Alex’s neck. “Pulse is weak,” he said as they hurried down a hall. He opened one of Alex’s eyes with his fingers, shining a light across his pupil. “Unresponsive. Start an IV drip and prepare room 69 for a blood transfusion.”

“Yes, doctor,” a nurse said. They went through the set of double doors marked ER, and another nurse held up a hand.

“I’m sorry,” she said, and she looked it, “but you have to stay out here.”

“But –” Forrest tried.

“The doctor will do all he can,” she said. “Please excuse me,” and she disappeared behind the doors as well, leaving Forrest and Michael in silence.

Forrest slid down against the wall and stared at the ceiling while Michael ran a hand across his jaw. Neither of them said anything for a long time, the muffled sounds of heart monitors and ringing telephones echoing through the walls and somehow making the hallway feel even emptier than it already was.

Finally, Forrest hoarsely said, “I’m sorry. I – I shouldn’t have freaked out like that. You were so calm, I . . . how did you do it?”

“I wasn’t calm,” Michael confessed before he could help it, and even he could hear the tremor in his voice. He took his hat off and used his other hand to run his fingers through his curls. “I’m – I’m not calm.”

It was all he said, but it seemed to be enough as Forrest’s eyes softened and he nodded in silent understanding. Once again, Michael found himself grateful not to have to say the words he was thinking.

They sat in silence for another few seconds before Michael couldn’t take it anymore. “I didn’t want him to listen to you,” he said. “You wanted him to go to the hospital, and I didn’t want him to choose you again, so I pushed.”

He sniffed angrily, his eyes burning. He looked away. “If we’re really assigning blame, then –”

“We’re not,” Forrest cut him off. He looked as miserable as Michael felt, not as though he held Michael responsible at all. He whispered, “We’re not.”

Michael’s lower lip trembled, but he quickly rubbed his face, hiding it.

“Do you know why we broke up?” Forrest said. “Me and Alex?” Michael shook his head. “We both agreed that there was one person Alex loved more than anybody else in the world. And it wasn’t me.”

He held Michael’s startled gaze, and shrugged a shoulder, a helpless smile tugging at his lips. “What I’m saying is, Guerin, you didn’t have to do much pushing. Alex would go to the ends of the earth for you. He likes me, but . . . he loves you.”

Michael could think of nothing to say to that. He sat down opposite Forrest, his arm rested on one knee. Two men Alex had been with, two men who loved him beyond words could say.

Michael finally settled on, “You’re not so bad, Long.”

Forrest chuckled weakly. “’Course not. I just gave you the best news you’ll ever get in your life.”

And despite it all, Michael huffed a weak laugh of his own. “Yeah. Yeah, you did.”

Any semblance of a smile vanished in an instant as the silence and seriousness of the situation fell like a heavy blanket on Michael’s chest, as the wait turned from minutes to an hour, and the fear of news to come loomed over their heads.

When the doors opened and Kyle stepped out, the two were on their feet in an instant.

“Well?” Michael demanded.

“How is he?” Forrest asked.

Kyle glared from Forrest to Michael. He huffed, annoyed, and Michael felt such an intense relief that he almost sobbed right there and then. “He has rock debris imbedded in his skin and a gash in his forehead! Where’d he fall off, a mountain?”

“So he’s okay?” Forrest said, his hands still shaking.

Kyle sighed. “Yeah, he’ll be fine after a few days.” He pointed a threatening finger at Michael. “You are so lucky, Guerin, you got him here just in time. If he wasn’t so used to heavy military training already –”

“I want to see him,” Michael interrupted.

Kyle hesitated, but Forrest urged, “Let him. If anyone can help heal Alex faster, it’s him, you know it is.”

He shook his head at the ceiling, as if asking for patience. “Since when are you two BFFs? You know what? I don’t care, go see him, whatever, but if his vitals jump one nanosecond, I’m kicking you out. Got it?”

“I know you’ll try,” Michael said, patting Kyle’s shoulder as he rushed past him through the double doors.

There were two nurses on either side of Alex’s bed, one adjusting the IV drip attached to Alex’s arm, and the other securing the bandage on his forehead, just above his right eye. They finished up, and nodded once to Michael as they passed him on their way out.

Michael knew they’d transfer Alex to another room soon, and they wouldn’t have the privacy that they did now, so he wasted no time in taking his hand and kissing his fingers.

“You’re okay,” he breathed against Alex’s skin, pressing his fingers to the pulse at his wrist, if only to reassure himself. “You’re okay, you’re okay, you’re okay.”

The heart monitor’s steady beep beep beep was the only response Michael got, but he told himself it was a reminder that Alex was alive. He could make out the faint outline of bandages just beneath Alex’s ribs under the thin white blanket, and he swallowed thickly, willing himself to look away.

He gently pushed back Alex’s bangs without disrupting the bandage, and leaned in, pressing a faint kiss to his forehead. When he pulled back, he found Alex’s eyes fluttering open. He smiled, relieved.

“Hey, beautiful,” he whispered.

Alex took a while to answer, breathing deeply and softly. “Where am I?”

“The ER,” Michael explained. “You had internal bleeding, they had to sew you back up.”

“What?” Alex frowned and tried to sit up, but he winced and his mouth fell open in pain.

“Easy, easy,” Michael said softly, wrapping his arms around him to lay him back down. “You don’t wanna open your stitching.” He sighed, keeping his arms around Alex, even as he was settled against his pillows. “I thought, you know, with the military thing, it’d be okay to tell you without beating around the bush.”

“And you?” Alex murmured, his brows pinched with pain, his hand gripping Michael’s forearm tightly. “Are you okay? You’re not hurt, right?”

“Me?” he blinked, his face turning hot embarrassingly quickly. “No, I’m fine.”

Alex breathed a sigh of relief, his hand still holding Michael’s. “Good. That’s good.”

Michael huffed a chuckle, shaking his head. “You were cut open, and you’re thinking of me?”

“I’m always thinking of you,” Alex said without missing a beat, and Michael swallowed, all humor gone.

A few seconds passed in silence, then –

“You scared me, Alex,” he confessed. “I – I thought . . .” a lump formed in his throat and he cleared it. “I thought I’d . . .”

Alex opened his eyes to meet his gaze. Michael didn’t know what he was searching for, but he must’ve found it, because the next thing he knew, Alex was trying to move to one side of his bed.

“What’re you doing?” Michael said, covering Alex’s hand on his arm with his own. “I told you, you need to –”

“Get under the covers,” Alex said, throwing one side of the blanket back. Michael made out the edge of a bandage wrapped tightly around Alex’s waist. There was no sign of bleeding, so Michael took it as good news, but he was still hesitant to climb in.

“What if I hurt you?” he said. “If Valenti sees us –”

“Kyle, huh?” he smiled. “He knew what he was getting into, letting you in. Come on, Guerin, please.”

Michael bit his lower lip, and found he wanted nothing more than to obey. He kicked off his boots, set his hat on the ground, and slid into bed beside Alex. He was slow, careful, gentle. He ended up on his side while Alex stayed on his back, his forehead pressed to Alex’s temple. When they were as comfortable as they were going to get, he pushed his face into Alex’s hair and inhaled deeply.

His eyes burned, and a sob escaped his lips on the exhale. He reached an arm around Alex’s shoulders and hugged him as tightly as he could without moving him.

Alex didn’t seem surprised, and it occurred to Michael that inviting him into bed had been more for his sake.

“Shh,” Alex said softly, reaching a hand up to place in Michael’s curls, raking his hair. He whispered, “I’m okay. Breathe, Guerin. Breathe.”

Michael tried, his breath hitching as the tears kept falling, and he held Alex tighter. He placed wet, open-mouthed kisses on his temple, his ear, his cheek.

“You’re so warm,” Alex murmured as his eyes fluttered shut, but his vitals were still normal, so Michael knew he was just falling asleep again. “Don’t leave me here, Guerin. Promise me.”

“I’ll never leave you,” Michael promised. Alex drifted, but his fingers kept combing through Michael’s hair. “Never.”

***

It’s good to be back 🥰❤

#alex manes #michael guerin #malex #malex fic #malex fanfic #malex fanfiction #roswell new mexico #roswell nm #malex angst #malex fluff #tyler blackburn #michael vlamis

[ben-101-rewrite]

Verdona, like most Anodites, spent much of her time on her home planet, Anodyne, ever since she was born. Her peoples' way of life and culture was built around their home and the use of mana, in how they communicate, connect and see the world. So for a long time, Verdona saw no reason to venture far from her home, having no desire to settle someplace else. She was known to visit other nearby planets for fun and see what the locals had to offer, but not once did she feel the need to stick around for long.

That was, until the events of the episode "Moonstruck". Never had Verdona met someone like an Anodite with the spark, who wasn't an Anodite, and yet Max made her see differently. She had had lovers before, with other Anodites, but something about this human caught her attention above the rest. So after being saved by him and declining to come to space with her, she returned home with butterflies in her stomach. The kidnapping had been an unpleasant experience, but something good did come out of it.

So when she got home, getting swarmed by friends and family who had been worried about her, it didn't take her long to share what happened, bubbling every time she spoke about Max. However, the more she talked about Max, the more her friends and family looked off about the whole thing. It wasn't until Verdona decided she wanted to go find Max again, and perhaps stay with him on earth, did some of the other Anodites stepped in. It's not that they didn't want Verdona to be happy, but a lot of them wanted to warn her that loving another alien that wasn't an Anodite was not easy.

This wasn't them looking down on another race, but rather understanding how vastly different they are from most aliens in the galaxy, due to their deep connection to magic and mana. Their entire lives revolved around it, it's how they learn, how they explore, how they connect with one another. However, when trying to love something that lacks those elements, that love eventually fades away over time, or at the very least, becomes hard to live with. There have been many Anodites who have dated other races, and more often than not, they eventually split in the end.

Verdona, being stubborn, says this is different, Max is different, he's just like them, he has a spark even if he doesn't have magic. She was going to prove to them all that she could do this, she would be happy on earth, and she and Max would have an entire life together. She would never leave...

And so, she moved to earth, finding Max, who had just been recruited into the Plumbers, and the two showed a strong bond of love in those early days. Verdona took a more humanoid shape, and crafted herself a human form, so the two could lead a double life. Max supported her whenever she felt homesick, and Verdona would always support him in his rough early days of training. Things seemed to be going great for them, a young couple who were eager to face the world, and show it what they're made of.

Slowly, but surely, Max started climbing the ranks of the Plumbers, taking many missions out in space, and making many friends and work partners, like Phill or Devin. Verdona was known to assist the Plumbers here and there on magic related issues, but she spent a lot of time on earth, enjoying what it had to offer. But...she did have to admit she was a little bit lonely. Since earth didn't have a significant Plumber base, due to the fact there was very low alien activity on the planet, with minor problems like Vilgax showing up here and there, Max was out in space a lot of the time for work. She had tried a couple of pets here and there, but one day when Max came home for the week, she asked about starting a family.

She had had kids before, all Anodites, of course, so she believed she was already fit to be a mother, and Max had wanted to be a father someday. Plus, the two had faced a lot, combatting alien villains, saving some planets, testing the limits of magic, how hard could raising a family be? So after requesting some time off from the Plumbers, Verdona eventually gave birth to two humans twin sons, Frank and Carl.

Max was over the moon, and so was Verdona, though...she will admit, something didn't feel quite right. This was the first time she ever had children that weren't Anodite, and she didn't even know if either of them had the spark that would give them the magic and Anodite gene. There was no way to tell until they were a little older. It made her realises that she doesn't know how to connect with human kids, remembering all those times she connected with her Anodite kids with magic, the core of them all. But that being said, Verdona wasn't one to back down, and she wanted to prove she could do this. And even if they weren't Anodites, they were still her sons, and she would love them regardless.

So in comes Frank and Carl into the world of life, and early on in their childhood, things seemed to be going great still for the Tennyson family. Max and Verdona never hid the fact that their mother was an alien, and that Max worked for the Plumbers, but they made sure to remind their kids that it was a big secret. That being said, kids being kids, they did sometimes blab that their mums an alien, and their daddy has been to space, either to seem cooler to other toddlers and kids, or when they were sometimes frustrated about something. Thankfully, older folks just saw them as kids with big imaginations, and never really believed them.

But it wasn't until Carl and Frank were heading into their teenage years that things started to crack. They weren't ignorant guys, understanding very well that Max's job was important, and that their mother wasn't human, but that didn't mean it couldn't get tiring or...lonely. Max wasn't home very often, far into space battling aliens, and while that stuff was interesting, Carl and Frank didn't really have any interest in following their father's footsteps into the alien world, not right now at least. They liked earth, they liked humans, they liked things being simple and small.

It also didn't help that over the years, Verdona was going distant. She didn't mean to, and she still loved her boys, but...earth was just losing its spark to her, that excitement she fell in love with years ago. Max and her, while they loved each other, seemed to be growing apart, as both couldn't offer what the other wanted, and yet neither was angry at the other and understood this very well, through long talks and peaceful moments together. And as her boys grew, Verdona didn't know how to connect with them anymore, especially since they wanted everyday human lives.

When they were little kids, they use to love Verdona's magic and abilities. She uses to create sparkly balls of light to swirl around them like a mobile to help them sleep, or some nights she would fly them high into the skies to show them the stars. She would share stories about space, other planets and all the aliens she had met, and they would always notice that glint of longing in her eyes. She wouldn't lie, as she did miss those free days up high in space, using her magic to shine brightly across the galaxy.

But she still couldn't get a grasp on the way of a normal human life. She didn't know how to talk to the other mums at school, she didn't know how to be engaged with her children's graduations and celebrations when they were nothing like the fets that Anodites could create, she didn't know how to...be human for them. She had the mask, but she didn't have the soul for it.

And her children did try to connect with her on magic, but without that spark or very least magical aura, they couldn't. Frank even tried to learn magic at one point, after his mum took an interest in the fact he was often able to sense her when she was nearby. Frank use to delve into his mother's spellbooks she had lying around, doing everything he could to be like her, just to make her happy...But he couldn't. Even if this lead to his love of knowledge and reading, magic just wasn't something he could access.

And yet, Verdona stayed. She loves them, she really did, and she wanted to be there for as long as she could. But it wasn't easy, as each day, that urge to fly around back home grew stronger and stronger. That desire to finally connect with someone like her again was always in the back of her mind. Max, Frank and Carl all knew this too, it was easy to tell just by looking into Verdonas eyes, and while they all understood in their own way, especially Max, that didn't mean it hurt that not only did they feel like they were forcing Verdona to stay, but also that she wanted to leave.

Max never resented Verdona for this, though sadly Frank and Carl did feel hurt, upset, deep down feeling like they weren't good enough for their parents, despite how often the two did try and show their love.  The family felt divided, as while they wanted to support and love each other, each person wanted something different that the others could not provide.

So while trying to figure out their parent problem, Carl and Frank sunk into their regular human school lives as a way to get away from all the alien stuff. Frank did so by delving into the academic side of things, getting excellent grades, pitching ideas to help the school, and eventually applying to be student president. This is, in fact, how he met Natalie, as she too was running to be student president and was kind of his rival in being the top student. However, it was never a hateful rivalry, as the two were very civil, and it was no surprise when they started showing interest and began dating one day, deciding to be co-presidents.

Carl, on the other hand, jump around every kind of hobby and school-related topic. He was struggling trying to settle into one space, and often built up a lot of stress. Because of this, his mother and brother suggested he try some relaxing activities before hurting himself with stress, and he reluctantly agreed to join a yoga group run by a young girl from another school, who was actually Sandra. It didn't take long for Carl to become a flustering mess around her, finding her to be beautiful, kind and funny, a combo that would make any young teenage boy become a bumbling mess. Luckily for them, she found him charming, and the two started dating.

So, despite their issues at human, the two brothers were heading in a nice direction in their normal lives, even if their parents struggled to keep notice of all the changes and growth. But something was bound to happen, and it all came to a head when the boys graduated at the age of 18.

A dinner was held as a celebration, with other Tennyson families, and Natalie and Sandra were invited. At first, the night went smoothly, Verdona and Max clearly proud of their sons, and Frank and Carl were thankful to have support. But...one thing led to another that night, and some emotions and build up thoughts were finally revealed between, Carl, Frank, Verdona and Max. No one can quite remember how the argument started, perhaps when Max made a subtle reference to his secret job, or perhaps when Frank made a comment on Verdonas old spellbook.

Frank and Carl explained just how much they were frustrated and angry with their parents, stating how hard it was growing up trying to be normal, while knowing this big secret in their family life that no one in the world is supposed to know. They understood why Verdona and Max were the way they were, but that didn't excuse their behaviours and how Frank and Carl felt about the whole thing. Max and Verdona did argue back, understanding why the boys were hurt, but Verdona can't help what and who she is, and that Max's job, while not easy to live with, is important for a reason...Either way, both sides had something to say that night, with Carl and Frank having to now explain to their girlfriends about aliens and such.

So when their graduation day came, things were awkward in the air, with Carl and Frank avoiding their parents, one even making a comment to Verdona that if she really wants to...she can leave, and they wouldn't stop her. And it stun, and made Verdona step back to think about things, taking an entire night to process what to do next.

She felt that there was no good with her staying, only hurting her sons more just by being there, reminding them of the things they don't like about their lives. And deep down...Verdona knew she didn't want to stay any longer. She missed her home, she missed the galaxy, she missed magic, she missed having not to pretend to be an alien she wasn't. She was tired of hiding and lying to herself. It didn't help that, every time she looked at Max, he was ageing, while she wasn't. She couldn't grow old like a human, she couldn't be the mother her sons needed, she couldn't be what the family wanted, even with all the power she had. She had failed them all.

So one day, she left. She gave Max, Frank and Carl each a letter explaining herself, telling them that she loves them, but for the better, she had to leave, for their sakes and her sake. For the next few months, even a year or two, the family was foggy, distant, unsure how to think or feel. In some ways, yes, they agree Verdona leaving may have been the better option, but that doesn't mean they don't love her and miss her. And while she wasn't gone for good, visiting from time to time, like on birthdays or sometimes holidays, things just weren't the same ever again.

While Max still loved Verdona, he was wise enough to know that things change, finding love with a few others, like Xylene, and eventually deciding to retire when the time was right. And while his bond with his sons may always be a little off, he does still try and connect with them now, and they do give him a chance, even if they don't know how to feel sometimes.

Max knows he lost his chance to be a proper family with his sons, but when his grandkids came around, he realised he could at least be the grandfather they needed. And while Frank and Carl still have issues with their father, they can appreciate that he makes their grandkids happy, especially when guiding and protecting Gwen and Ben through the alien world they want to explore.

#Here is what I promised #Ben 101 AU #Ben 101 Rewrite #Ben 10 #ben 10 rewrite #Ben 10 AU #B10 #ben 10 original series #ben 10 alien force #ben 10 ultimate alien #ben 10 omniverse #Ben 10 Verdona #Ben 10 Max Tennyson #Ben 10 Frank Tennyson #Ben 10 Carl Tennyson #Ben 10 Sandra Tennyson #Ben 10 Natalie Tennyson

[vicarfelix]

Dockgazing

Vicar Max x Fem! Captain

Warnings: None.

Word Count: 1,725

“You’ve been gone for quite some time. We were getting worried.”

She took a long drag of her cigarette, loving and hating the way it burned when the smoke entered her lungs. She was high above the floor of The Groundbreaker, sitting on the edge of one of the balconies that were stationed around the higher levels of the ship. Her feet dangled over the edge, but not so far that she was at risk of falling to the ground.

She wasn’t even sure how she ended up there. She had taken some time to wander around Chief Junlei’s impressive ship, exploring some of the areas that she hadn’t yet had time to see yet. She stopped by Martin’s stand, buying a pack of fresh cigarettes before swinging by The Lost Hope for a bottle of Iceberg Whiskey. 

Eventually, she found herself inside of the more isolated parts of the ship, climbing a ladder and sitting out on the ledge to enjoy her smoking habit in peace. She figured if she was going to pick smoking back up again, she might as well wash her guilt down with something as equally toxic. Alcohol in Halcyon was far different than anything that Earth had. Actually, everything in Halcyon was different from Earth. For a colony that was supposed to be modeled after her home planet, she just couldn’t seem to find comfort there.

The Captain had gotten used to Halcyon over the course of her time post-hibernation. She supposed that Mock Apples were close enough to the organic apples that she used to enjoy on warm summer days. She had learned to stomach Saltuna and that it was just as good as the canned, processed fished that she was used to. And the Spacer’s Choice cigarettes curbed her occasional craving just as well as any cigarette brand.

She held the Spacer’s Corona lazily between the index and middle finger of her right hand, watching the trail of smoke that suspended from the end of it as it slowly burned down. She took another drag, one that was less deep than her previous one. Her cheeks hollowed ever so as she let the smoke sit in her chest for a moment before exhaling it through her nostrils. Oddly enough, before she was hibernated for 7 odd decades, The Captain only smoked when she was overly stressed. Back then it was only a couple times a year, but now she could easily go through a pack a day.

She definitely tried not to, considering that she knew all the harm that it was probably doing to her. Although, Phineas had mentioned once in passing that she was pretty much immune to stuff like that now. The Captain somewhat doubted that, but she used it to her advantage whenever she started feeling bad about smoking. The Captain kept the bottle of whiskey close to her, the cool material of the glass being pressed against the side of her thigh. 

She had made it through maybe a third of the bottle, and she was feeling the beginnings of a buzz. She would take a few inhales of her cigarette, take a sip, take a few more inhales, take another sip. She had been in this rhythm for a little while as she watched Junlei’s mardets and the occasional travelers walk down the promenade below her. She could see the entire center of the ship from where she sat. She couldn’t help but grin at the sight of the blinking LED signs above the Rest-N-Go and the Medical Bay. 

She thought about how she wasn’t exactly the most normal human being. She was the captain of a “borrowed” ship and a crew of pirates and orphans. She was a strange person indeed who was leading an even stranger life. Not to mention that she was romantically involved with one of them. On the surface, the Captain was confident that she wouldn’t want to change a thing about how her life had gone. She liked being a captain and she was grateful for the experiences that it had granted her. But there was one thing that just always bothered her. Something that rested far below what others could see.

She missed being able to enjoy life.

Groundbreaker had become a favorite of the Captain’s over the course of her journey. She had made many friends and allies there, and aside from her own ship, it was the only other place that she felt safe. But even then, she always made sure that her handgun was ready to go at any moment. She hated feeling like she had to be on edge all the time. She didn’t like having to make sure that she was constantly aware of what and who was around her. She couldn’t even sit in a bar to unwind because she was constantly on the lookout for someone who might try to take her or her crew out.

She was an enemy of The Board, and in turn, her crew wasn’t on their good side either. She knew what kind of organization The Board was running. The Captain hated to admit it or even think about it, but she wouldn’t be surprised if she or one of her crew ended up dead at the hands of The Board. She always made sure to lock the ship completely down at the end of every night, no matter where they were. The Board was everywhere...or at least, it felt like they were. 

Maybe the Captain’s paranoia was getting the best of her.

Still, she had found ways to take the edge off, even for a short period of time. She had just taken another sip of whiskey when she heard footsteps approach from behind her. Normally, she would’ve scrambled from her resting position with her gun drawn, but these footsteps had a distinct sound that she had learned to trust. The steps were heavy, but graceful and sometimes had a bit of a shuffle depending on the situation. She didn’t even turn her head, continuing to survey the promenade below her.

“Hey, Max,” She greeted, knowing that he’d take that as an invitation to join her.

The Captain had left her crew back on The Unreliable several hours ago, telling them that she’d be back shortly. Time had just slipped away from her once she had found the hidey spot she was in. 

“Captain,” He returned, sitting next to his girlfriend, “I believe that you told me that you were quitting.” He remarked, referring to the half-smoked cigarette still in her hand.

She gave him a slight smirk, his dazzling eyes shining with admiration.

“I believe that you told me that you were afraid of heights.” She remarked, glancing downwards to indicate to him that they were indeed far from the ground.

He fought the shiver that threatened to vibrate up his spine. He couldn’t deny that he was timid when it came to being high in the air. It wasn’t a comfortable feeling, but at least where they were now, the only way he could fall would be if he fell forward...so he was okay.

“I’m not a fan of them.” He admitted, eyeing the bottle of whiskey on the other side of her.

She seemingly read his mind, wrapping her hands around the bottle and handing it to him. She scooted closer to him, resting her head on his shoulder as he took a gulp straight from the bottle as she had done. Max wasn’t usually keen on sharing drinks with someone else, but considering that drinking out of the same bottle as her wasn’t much different than kissing, he didn’t mind. He felt a warmth spread over his chest as the liquid burned going down his esophagus, the alcohol pooling in his stomach.

“How’d you find me up here?” The Captain asked.

“Oh, please. I could spot you in a crowd of thousands,” He claimed, pressing his lips to the top of her head, “You’ve been gone for quite some time. We were getting worried.”

The Captain had no idea how long she had been sitting up there. Time always seemed to slip away from her when she was trying to unwind and reflect.

“I’m sorry. I just found my way up here and got comfortable,” She admitted, “Didn’t mean to scare you.”

“That’s alright.” He said simply, not wanting to break her serenity too much, “How are you doing?”

Whenever Max asked her that, she knew that he was really asking about her wellbeing in regards to the mission they were on. Not that he didn’t care about her in a general sense, but he knew the toll that this had taken on her....on all of them.

“I’m doing okay,” She told him, “Just missing home.” 

He nodded. He knew all about her story and how she ended up in this position to begin with. She had been holding on to a string of hope that she might get to return to Earth. She said a silent prayer every night that she’d be able to leave Halcyon behind, and maybe even get the chance at a new life with Max...but she was beginning to realize that might not be in the cards for her.

“I understand. Is there anything I can do for you, darling?” He questioned, wanting to comfort her as best as he could.

She shook her head, finishing off the last of her cigarette with an extended exhale.

“No, it’s okay....just stay with me?” She meant to say as a command, but it came out as more of a request.

He shrugged his shoulder to get her to lift her head so he could look at her, pressing a kiss to her lips. He tasted the whiskey, the smoke, and all of her that he had grown to love. He adored his Captain. He couldn’t live without her. It killed him to know that she was in pain and there wasn’t anything he could do. He wanted to take all the bullets for her. He wanted to be the one to bear the burdens that had been thrown on top of her. 

He wanted her to be happy.

For now, being in her presence and loving her was going to have to do. But at least it was something he could do with ease and without hesitation. 

“Always, my Captain.”

#Vicar Max #vicar max x reader #the outer worlds vicar max #maximillian desoto #vicar max x female captain #vicar max x you #vicar max x female reader #vicar max oneshot #vicar max fanfiction #vicarfelix

[atsukashii]

❝soft hours❞ // k. bakugou

SYNOPSIS:  ➛ The world knows Katsuki Bakugou as the explosive number two pro hero. You know him as your husband who is soft for only three people on the planet; you and your children.  

» CHARACTER PAIRING: prohero!katsuki bakugou x reader

» WORD COUNT: 3.3k

» GENRE: pro-hero!katsuki, aged up characters, dad bakugou

» WARNINGS: swearing, fluff to the max & dad katsuki

« masterlist || ao3 »

Being a mother is hard work. 

You aren’t sure how your own made it look so damn easy, because it is anything but. When it was just you, your husband, and your son it was easy enough. But adding another baby to the mix? 

You have never been more tired in your entire life.

For the past month of her life, Koharu had been a good sleeper, with a chill and calm temperament that you, your mother, and mother-in-law; Mitsuki Bakugou all agreed did not come from your husband. But the past two days were a lot different. She had regressed... A lot. With Katsuki back at work, barely able to take time off due to being a high ranking pro hero, you were left to your own devices with the newborn. He had offered to help of course, but you had this. How hard could it be? You’d said confidently.

You’re not so confident now.

Just yesterday, you had struggled to put her to sleep when Katsuki came and managed to do it in less than ten minutes. And honestly, for a second were jealous of your husband. But then he had stumbled over nothing, swearing like a sailor and the wailing began again.

“Suki, don’t swear at the baby!” You had laughed

“I didn’t swear at the baby sweetheart, I swore at the fucking toy Kazuto left on the floor”

“Suki!”

“Kazuto, how many times do I have to tell you to pick up your toys once you're done playing with them?”

“Sorry, dad!” That moment had made you feel a lot better about your parenting abilities. 

Today, however, with Katsuki out on patrol, and your son at preschool, it left you and Koharu alone for some girl time. Time, that was spent with you completely frazzled and desperate to help your baby to stop crying and go back to sleep.

But. Nothing. Was. Working. 

After four hours, she finally fell asleep purely out of exhaustion, but not before you had called your own mother, crying on the phone. You weren’t a bad mother, you were just adjusting… Right? All parents had off days with their children, no one was perfect. Though when you had picked up your phone in a moment of peace and mistakenly opened up Instagram, you took one look at a young influencer and her designer baby, looking like she stepped out of a damn magazine… You couldn’t help but compare it to the sweats you wore to bed the night before that you still hadn’t changed out of, the spit up on your shirt, and the bags under your eyes. This is normal, you’d had to remind yourself over and over again as you had put your daughter back into her crib.

Stirring the curry you quickly threw together for dinner, you are ripped from your gloomy thoughts as the noise of the front door opening meets your ears. The door was quickly followed by the voice of a very energetic three-year-old carrying what you know to be the Red Riot merch backpack he takes everywhere. It was a gift from his Uncle Kirishima that Katsuki hates, but puts up with for the sake of his son's happiness. You also know that he has a Chargebolt T-shirt in his closet that he wears to preschool sometimes and cherishes it dearly. His favorite though, is his mini grenade toys based on Katsuki’s own hero costume. For Kazuto’s first birthday, you’d had a hero theme and you couldn’t help but dress him up like your husband, but when you did - with his white-blonde hair and red eyes - he looked like a tiny Katsuki. It was too cute. 

“And-and then he kicked the villain SO HARD that he flew across the sky! He’s so cool!” Explains Kazuto, jumping up and down in excitement. 

“Mmhmm,” Katsuki adds, making it sound like he was paying attention, and encouraging his son to keep rambling about his enormous love for heroes. You won’t be surprised if he follows in his father's footsteps and becomes a pro hero in the future, with his quirk already arrived and causing havoc through your home. 

Your own quirk - Bloom; allowing you to create whatever kind of flora you want, wherever you want, had gotten you into the general studies course at U.A. Which is where you had met your platonic soulmate, Mina Ashido. You had instantly clicked with her when you had met at the end of your first year, and then through her, you met Kirishima, Kaminari, Sero, and Katsuki. At first, you hadn’t known what to think of the explosive blonde, and he didn’t seem to want much to do with you. That was until one day when you and Mina had convinced them all to hang out at an arcade, a villain attacked the street outside. Being not in the Hero course and not having a provisional license, you had left your friends to do their thing. It wasn’t however until the end that you had noticed a young boy, crying and calling for his mother. The villain had a super strength quirk and ended up throwing cars out of his way in an attempt to escape. Seeing what was about to happen before it did, you had lunged into action, throwing yourself over the boy and activating your quirk around you to create a wall of wooden spears the size of Redwoods. You had saved the child, gotten the lecture of a lifetime from Katsuki that ended in him confessing more than he wanted about how he felt about your safety. You were dating a month later and had been together ever since. You had also discovered what you wanted to do after school that day. Deciding you wanted to help people, you became a social worker that helps children who have lost their families.

Your son Kazuto’s quirk was closer to yours than your husband’s quirk, with the three-year-old having the ability to manipulate earth. His favorite thing was watching Avatar: The Last Airbender and trying to recreate what the Earth Benders did - in your living room, much to your chagrin. And you had a feeling that Koharu’s quirk was going to be something like Katsuki’s due to the fact that the baby smelt similar to your husband. 

“Hi, mum!” Kazuto shouts loudly, poking his head in the kitchen. He flashes you a smile broken by a new missing tooth, before racing down the hallway like he is set on a permanent setting of a sprint. 

“Hi you two,” You say, smiling as your husband comes into the kitchen in his casual street clothes, opting to change at the agency. 

“Hang up your bag Kazuto!” Bakugou yells after him and you pray that you have remembered to shut the nursery door. You hear a muffled response form your three-year-old before the sound of his feet dashing up the staircase and the momentary silence that follows has you sighing in relief. She's still out.

Walking over to you, Katsuki wraps his arms around your waist and rests his head on your shoulder. His strong arms pull you back to his chest as he looks over your shoulder to see what you’re cooking. Really, the quick curry was a bit pathetic, but after your long day, you didn’t have the willpower to cook anything fancy. As is sensing the tension in your muscles, Katsuki didn’t say a word about the food, which was a first. You were actually a good cook, but your husband was better and loved to tease you about it any second he could. So the fact that he currently stands behind you not saying a word was odd. 

“Your mother called me today.” Katsuki murmurs, his voice soft and full of concern. You sigh glumly knowing where this conversation is going. You had hoped your mother wouldn’t say anything to Katsuki after you’d called her today, in tears from frustration and insecurities falling from your lips like a boiling pot. It had been a bad day, everyone was allowed to have some bad days.

“Sweetheart, if you need help with the baby-” 

“It’s really fine Suki, it was just an off day.” You say, leaning your head back on his chest and tilting it back just enough so that you could meet his ruby gaze. “Besides, you can’t take any more time off work.” Leaning back up again, you grab the wooden spoon and stir the red sauce. Katsuki lets out a breath before moving with you, pressing a soft kiss to your neck. 

“I can take a fucking day off Y/n.” He mutters against your skin. A shiver runs up your spine and spreads down your arms, making your hair rise. Even after all these years, he still has the ability to render you to a pile of mush. 

“Your team will have my head if you take another day off, Suki.” You point out.

“Then I’ll blast them to hell after I fire them.” His response makes you smile, as he turns you around in his arms. His signature scowl covers his face, but it's the concern in his eyes that has your heart squeezing tight. He’s really worried, you realize. “Let me help you, sweetheart.” 

“Suki-” The sound of Koharu’s ear-piercing wails breaks the silence and has you resting your forehead on your husband's chest. “I’ve got her.” He says, placing a kiss to the crown of your head and giving your hips a reassuring squeeze before slinking out of the kitchen. You are so lucky to have him. 

To this day, Katsuki is still blunt and rash with the media, but people don’t really get to see the side of him that comes out with his family. He tries not to let his friends even witness it because they all give him endless shit about how much of a softie he is for his family. He denies it to hell whenever one of them brings it up, but after both the kids were born, Katsuki cried. Not a lot, just a few stray tears that engraved itself into your mind so heavily. With a sappy smile, you move the curry off the stove and begin dishing it up. As you finish, Kazuto comes wandering in on his own accord which surprises you. Normally, either you or Katsuki would have to go and get him or yell that dinner was done for the three-year-old to make an appearance. 

His vermillion gaze meets yours, and smiles. “Dad sent me down, he’s trying to put Koko to sleep,” Kazuto explains. You nod in understanding, walking the food over to the dining table. You only serve portions for you and your son, knowing that there's a chance Katsuki might not make it back down in time to eat with you. Once you are seated, you look at Kazuto and smile which is enough of an open look to make him start rambling about his day. Pro Hero’s are the first thing to come up, re-explaining the battle that one of his teachers had shown him through lunchtime, followed by his friends and then what he ate for lunch - as if you hadn’t been the one to make his lunch.

“It’s ‘Bring your parents to class day’, soon. Will you come?” His words shock you, and for a moment you just sit there blinking at your son. Kazuto looks up at you with such hope in his eyes, it makes you want to cry.

“You don’t want your dad to go?” You ask. You love Kazuto endlessly and would do anything for the sake of your children's happiness and safety, but you know that Kazuto and Katsuki have a special connection. One built on trust, love, and how much Kazuto looks up to his father as a pro hero. He truly is his father's biggest fan and honestly, it's beautiful. 

“It’s during the day, so he will probably have work. And I want you to come, you're a hero too mummy! You help save kids and help them find families.” Tears spring to your eyes, both at his admiration and the fact it's been a long day, and you so needed to hear that. Because you were a hero in your own way, you were a savior to the children you worked with. Guilt then followed behind the thought. Would I be a bad person if I didn’t go back to work then? If I wasn’t there to help them? You shake the thought from your head and look back to your son. 

“Thanks, honey,” you subtly wipe under your eyes and shove another spoonful of curry back into your mouth. “I’d be more happy than happy to come, but you might also want to ask your dad too so he doesn’t feel left out.” Kazuto nods his head ecstatically at your words before shoveling more food into his mouth. You muffle a quiet laugh at his antics. Yeah, he’s your son when it comes to his love for food.

“I also decided about my party this year for my birthday,” Kazuto says again. 

“Your birthday?” You ask, pretending to think. “No, it can’t be coming up. I clearly remember your birthday being last year!” The teasing tone goes over his head as he scrunches his face up in a pout. 

“It is! I’m four!” He argues, and you don’t hold in the smile 

“Are you sure?” You feign ignorance like you didn’t remember your own son's birthday. Finally catching on, he groans at you. 

“Muuuuummmmm...”

“Your birthday…” you begin and Kazuto beams in response before continuing on.

“Can it just be us at my party? With Aunt Mina and my uncles and cousins? I know they all might be really busy being heroes…” He asks and you're once again surprised by your son. Not one for flashy things, and not wanting to spend his outside of school time with his friends, but his family. It's adorable. His temperament at times like these takes after you so much, even though he’s the carbon copy of his father. 

“I’ll see what I can do,” you say winking, knowing that your friends would do anything for your little family. Including taking an afternoon off to spend it with their godson. Noticing he's done, you move to get his plate and gesture towards the stairs. “Why don’t you go clean up and check on your dad.” Kazuto nods and quickly scampers out of the room.

You clean up the kitchen quickly, putting leftovers in a dish and placing them in the fridge for Katsuki to raid later on. Leaving on the kitchen light, you walk out of the kitchen and past the living room to go up the stairs when the TV catches your eye. In the lounge, your eyes fall to the couch which holds your now sleeping husband and your one-month-old daughter, completely comatose on his chest. Old reruns of Friends plays quietly in the background, a show you watched compulsively whilst you were pregnant with Koharu. Squatting down next to Katsuki, you can’t help but smile at the peaceful expression on their faces. 

As if sensing your presence, Katsuki cracks open an eye, instinctively finding you. “Finally got her down I see,” you whisper, thumbing the blonde hair on the baby's head.

“Our kids fucking love me. I’ve got the magic touch.” He says and you grin.

“Oh, I’m fully aware. Mr. Tough-Explosion-man to the world, but here at home - with a sleeping baby on his chest. You’re really soft, Suki.” He now smiles at you but doesn’t make a move to reject the statement.

“Where’s Kazuto?” Katsuki asks, looking over the back of the couch to the clock on the back wall of the lounge. 

“He’s gone to wash up.” You reply, leaning forwards and picking up Koharu with very practiced and perfected stealth to take her to her crib. “He should be done by now. I’m going to put this one in her crib.” You finish, walking up the stairs and into the nursery. With baby blue painted walls and clouds that you had painstakingly illustrated whilst you had left all the assembly of things to Katsuki because the man practically growled at you when you moved to lift something. Turning on the baby monitor in Koharu’s room before quietly slipping through the door, you trudge down the hall towards the master bedroom. On your way past it, you innocently pole your head into Kazuto’s room, seeing Katsuki leaning against the wall next to Kazuto’s bed as they speak quietly amongst themselves. Every time you come into your son's room it makes you smile. The walls are covered in pro hero posters of people like his uncles and his dad. There’s even one of Deku that Katsuki doesn’t like, but once again, puts up with for his son. Kazuto’s eyes lock onto you whilst still talking to his father and you blow him a kiss before leaving the boys to their chatter. 

Closing the door behind you, you make quick work of jumping in the shower and washing your hair for - when was the last time you had washed your hair? To be honest you weren’t sure. 

With that thought, you finish your bathroom routine and get into your comfiest pajamas which consists of one of your husband's t-shirts, a favorite of yours since high-school. Beelining to the bed, you crawl under the covers and let the exhaustion of today leak out of your bones. Tomorrow was a new day, you remind yourself. It was something you found yourself frequently saying when you were overwhelmed and today, you had reached your limit. You only just close your eyes when your door opens, and Katsuki’s walks in. He’s quick and quiet like usual, but as soon as he gets in the bed, he pulls you towards him. He holds you tightly, your back against his chest - which you know won’t last for long because it's summer and the man is like a walking furnace. Placing a kiss against the back of your head, you finally decide to voice the thought that had been plaguing you all day.

“I’m thinking of taking more time off work.” Katsuki’s arms solidify around you. “Like, longer than my maternity leave.” You finish. To be honest, you weren't sure how best to broach the topic with him, even though you’ve been married for over four years now and together twice that long. You’re a very independent person and always liked having your own source of income. And relying on someone for that - there’s nothing wrong with it, you just weren’t sure that was for you. But lately, something changed. Maybe it was adding another baby to the mix, but you’ve been wanting to spend more time focusing on your kids and your husband, rather than work. 

The agency would be fine without me. Katsuki’s arms tighten around you as he helps you roll over towards him. His eyes are filled with pride and love as you look up at him. Placing his hand on your cheek, Katsuki gives you a soft smile.

“You know I’ll support everything you do. The other people at your agency will struggle for a while without you because you basically carry everyone in that fucking place.” Katsuki says. “But they will be okay. You’re the love of my life y/n, a great wife and the best mother to our little gremlins.” The buildup of stress from today bubbles over and you can’t hold in the tears. As fast as they fall, Katsuki brushes them away before placing a soft kiss on your lips. 

“I love you so much sweetheart,” A broken sob breaks out of your mouth before you can stop it which has Katsuki kissing your forehead and grasping you tighter, tucking your head under his chin. 

“Shitty woman, let me fucking help you.” He whispers and you nod against his chest. 

“I love you, Suki.” Your voice is smothered against his skin, so you place a tender kiss to the bare skin of his chest in response. Running his hands down your spine and his warm body pressed to yours, you slowly drift to sleep. Your husband really is a softy at heart. 

©️ 2021 all rights reserved to atsukashii, do not change, edit, translate, or repost any works on any platform.

#bakugou katsuki #katsuki bakugou #katsuki bakugou x reader #bakugou katsuki x reader #katsuki #bakugou #bakugou icons #katsuki bakugou fluff #bakugou katsuki fluff #bakugou fic #katsuki bakugou fic #swearing #fluff to the max

[lovecolibri]

SaL anon here and since yesterday we did the painful past let's do hopeful future today (I say as if that isn't 80% of the songs we talk about) and talk about Six. This is another song that feels like it was made for Malex. The first two verses make me think of Michael's fear of abandonment followed by Alex's need for security, and how those fears effect their behavior. But the lyrics let those fears go, so they "choose to believe I was made to be a sanctuary". S3 let them be each other's home!

This song is so dreamy in an old-Hollywood sounding way. It's been awhile since I've listened to this song that I forgot how much I love it. And yes, the lyrics are so good for Malex!

i had the most vivid dream... my feet had left the ground,     i was floating to heaven but i could only look down. my mind was heavy, running ragged with worst case scenarios, emergency exits and the distance below. i woke up so worried that the angels let go. oh God i’m so tired of being afraid.

Okay, so this first verse gives me such big "Michael thinking about leaving Earth" vibes, and him still only being able to look down for Alex and thinking about all that could go wrong if he's not around, and then like you said, his fear of abandonment and what if he gets to this new planet and still doesn't find a home there? Because his "home" isn't a place, it's Alex. 😭 Plus, that line "oh God i’m so tired of being afraid" is so on point for both Michael and Alex 😭😭😭 It is time to move past the fear! Come on season 3, bring them some happiness!

what would it feel like to put this baggage down? if i’m being honest, i’m not sure i’d know how. i want to take shelter but i’m ready, ready to fight and somewhere in the middle i feel a little paralyzed- but maybe i’m stronger than i realize

Oof oof oof. This verse hits me hard in my Alex feels. How he has carried the weight of what his dad did to Michael (and to him, but ya know, what he wants doesn't matter) and the years of push and pull where he feels himself taking what he can get from Michael and knowing he can't stay. And "i want to take shelter but i’m ready, ready to fight" fits with him seeking Michael out, finding shelter with him but also the way they still couldn't communicate and ended up fighting, but it's also so true for how Alex has lived so much of his life. Wanting to have somewhere safe, a place to be allowed to have his feelings (something he found in making music), but because of his dad and the abuse he faced at home he was always on edge, always guarded, and prepared to fight. And I love the next line "and somewhere in the middle i feel a little paralyzed" which really hits me in my Pilot Kiss feels. The vibe there of being scared, and angry, and hurt, and also looking for safety, and confirmation that the other is still okay...uuuuugh. It hurts! And then, Ryan has the audacity to finish that sentence with "but maybe i'm stronger than i realize" and if that isn't Alex Manes, I don't know what is. This is already so long, but I have to say that this verse gives me a lot of Michael vibes too, because he's also carried the weight of what Isobel did, and hiding it from her AND from Alex, and hiding who (what) he is from Alex. I also think of baby Michael and Max and Isobel finding him at Foster Ranch and him being so ready to fight 😭😭😭 and how as teens Alex offered him shelter. Plus Alex leaning in to kiss him that first time and him feeling paralyzed but then realizing and going after what he wants. Uuuuugh, these two!!

i want to believe no, i choose to believe that i was made to become a sanctuary. fear won’t go away but i can keep it at bay and these invisible walls just might keep us safe. with a vigilant heart, i’ll push into the dark but i’ll learn to breathe deep and make peace with the stars. is it courage or faith to show up everyday? to trust that there will be light always waiting behind even the darkest of nights

The emotion in his voice in this bit kills me. And there are sooo many good lines here! I love the wanting, no choosing to believe, which is a good theme for Malex since they have both been victims of circumstances and other people's hatred and it is time for them to take back control of their lives and what they want. "i was made to become a sanctuary" is just another version of "home can be a person" and I love that for them, with the added imagery of safety conjured by the word "sanctuary". And the idea that the fear may never leave them (catch me side-eyeing Forrest and his "pissing off homophobes is fun!" rhetoric), but they can lean on each other and their sanctuary to keep it at bay. The imagery of "with a vigilant heart, i'll push into the dark but i'll learn to breathe deep and make peace with the stars" is so beautiful (especially because anything space-related is automatically giving me Michael feels) and then it just doesn't stop and Ryan hits you "is it courage or faith to show up everyday? to trust that there will be light always waiting behind even the darkest of nights" and it's just a punch right to the soul. What a beautiful sentiment! It makes me think of Alex and his belief that people can be good, even after all the horrors he's seen, and Michael and the soft, gentle way he is with the people he loves, even after all the things he's been through. This was supposed to be a hopeful song, and it is but it's also reduced me to tears.

and no matter what, somehow we’ll be okay. don’t be afraid.

Ryan bringing it all back around and ending with a message of hope which is such a good message for Malex. "somehow we'll be okay. don't be afraid". (also, if we don't get a moment where they are trapped and one of them is injured and there is a "we're gonna be okay, you're gonna be okay. Don't worry about me/don't be afraid" then what is even the point of anything?)

You said it best, "S3 let them be each other's home!"

#my sweet nonnie friends #sleeping at last anon #roswell nm #malex #alex manes #michael guerin #sleeping at last #six #cries in malex #this song has some of the best lines #come on season 3 don't let us down!

[thanksjro]

Last Stand of the Wreckers, Issue #5: I Sure Hope You Didn’t Go and Get Attached to Any of These Characters…

We ended on a cliffhanger last issue, so let’s see what the lads are up to now.

Hm. That’s not great.

Overlord’s just ripped Guzzle in half for the fun of it. If you’re wondering why everyone’s outside now, it’s because he exploded the torture chamber so hard when he came in, it no longer exists. Kup doesn’t appreciate having one half of the Big Gulp duo torn in two, so he goes in for the attack. This doesn’t work out very well for him, as he has his head crushed between Guzzle’s upper and lower halves. This whole situation is a non-issue for Overlord, and barely distracts him from his goal of having Megatron show up to kick his ass. Impactor tries to have a big hero moment by shooting Overlord in the eye with his harpoon hand-attachment. Again, very little effect on Overlord; it doesn’t even seem to register on the same level as getting a little soap in your eye.

Back over with Ironfist and the Big Conundrum, Verity’s arguing that killing Impactor will kill the Wreckers- as a team, not in the literal sense. However, time’s running out, and Perceptor really doesn’t seem to be bothered by the idea of not having Impactor around.

She gets smaller every issue, I swear.

Verity makes her case to Ironfist, trying to play off of his fanboy status; the Wreckers are a symbol of hope, one that Ironfist himself created with his datalogs as Fisitron. Killing Impactor to make things easier for themselves destroys the illusion of a cohesive unit who can always be counted on when the chips are down. Too bad ol’ Ironfist knows Things™, and it’s actually Perceptor who’s swayed by her argument, which is interesting, given that he was about to vote Impactor into an early grave a minute ago.

Perceptor wasn’t always the cool, efficient sniper we see him to be in Last Stand of the Wreckers. He used to be a regular old science nerd, and a relatively talkative one at that. He wasn’t really built for a four million year war.

Then all that talking got him shot and he was left for dead.

He made some changes after that, both in body and personality.

Could his own experience with being forsaken by his peers for his flaws perhaps be influencing him here? Or am I, a reader and giant dork, just trying to justify a very quick backtracking on the narrative’s part, most likely due to page number limitations?

So they decide to fight. Then Pyro suggests they run. The “they” in this case doesn’t include himself. You remember how Optimus Prime’s big character quirk in every continuity is self-sacrifice? Yeah, we’re hitting on THAT portion of Pyro’s hero worship. It’s not exactly what he was hoping for in death, but it’s what’s got to be done at this point.

The others run off, and Pyro shoots the control to the door, bracing for one hell of a fight.

Holy shit, I forgot they had Fort Max with them! That scared the crap outta me.

There’s one last look at our hero before we go, and it…

Well, it sure is something.

Yikes. That’s a series wrap on Pyro!

Now it’s time for us to learn about what really happened on Pova. Turns out the files Ironfist had access to weren’t exactly virginal.

First things first, it was raining, and Impactor is kind of a dick. I mean, we already kind of knew that from what we’ve seen of the guy in the present day story, but this little scene really takes the cake. Springer had to basically beg him to stay with him; none of that “I’m not leaving you behind” nonsense. And the whole “shoot Springer through the midsection” idea? That was all Impactor. Springer doesn’t have a way to dampen the pain the way Impactor suggests, and doesn’t even get a moment to brace himself as he’s blasted more or less in half.

When Springer regains consciousness, he’s treated to the sight of Impactor and Prowl having a little chat. It turns out there’s a problem, and that problem’s name is bureaucracy. Pova is a protected planet, declared off-limits by the Neutrality Agreement, so any Cybertronian war business is pretty much null and void there. The fact that the Wreckers are there at all could have disastrous repercussions if the Decepticons catch wind of this and tell the Povians. They’ll have to let Squadron X go.

But it looks like Prowl forgot that Impactor’s a bad boy who doesn’t play by your daddy’s rules.

He walks into where they’re holding Squadron X, chained together into a circle on their knees, with their arms pinned behind their backs, locks the door behind himself, and executes every last one of them as Springer bangs on the door trying to get him to stop. This, obviously, puts a bit of a damper on everyone’s mood.

Even Whirl’s bummed out, and you just know that guy loves a good ‘Con-killing spree.

I guess the moral of the story here is Impactor kinda sucks.

Speaking of Impactor, Overlord’s currently stomping him to death as he holds Springer by the face. It’s honestly almost tender, the delicate placement of his fingers. It also reminds you that Overlord is literally twice the size of Springer, who, as a triple-changer, should already be on the tall side. Overlord is a big dude.

Springer’s still doing okay, because he knows that even if he doesn’t make it, the rest of his team will, and they’ll save the day and get all those Autobot prisoners off Garrus-9.

Ha. Haha. Oh, Springer, you naïve fool. You forgot that this was hell, didn’t you? Overlord already took care of the Autobot prisoners.

Someone really took their gun to that hanging guy on the left and said “fuck this dude in particular.”

Then the calvary arrives! With guns! And art tangents!

Surely things are looking up now!

Ironfist throws Springer a gun that’s about as big as he is- where did he get that?- and Springer proceeds to light Overlord the fuck up.

You don’t get the B-word pass at IDW unless you’ve already had your series truncated and the entire universe is about to get ended for a reboot. That’s just how it goes.

Of course, even the big boy gun isn’t enough to do much to Overlord outside of annoy him, and Springer gets his face ripped off for his troubles.

Now it’s just Ironfist and Verity left, and Overlord is very much looking forward to doing very bad things to both of them. Ironfist has a gambit though! That gun Springer had was actually firing deterrence chips into Overlord’s body, and now he’s just chock-full of the things. And since Ironfist has all of Aequitas in his head now- including the detonation codes- he can do this:

He blew Overlord’s lips clean off! The evil truly is defeated.

However, using this newfound power has costs- Ironfist is knocked clean out by a sudden pain in his head, eyes flaring and fizzing as he hits the ground, leaving Verity alone with Overlord’s flaming, animated endoskeleton.

Yeah no, he’s still not dead, and he’s still not fucking over Megatron, lamenting on how he just isn’t sure how he’ll fight him, now that he’s little more than robot bones. Verity has to be the one to break it to the guy that Megatron’s dead, and Overlord takes it about as well as he can.

I’m sorry Overlord, but at what friggin’ point were you promised ANYTHING from Megatron “Peace Through Tyranny” of Tarn? You were threatened, but that’s a little different than a vow to get revenge. Hell, that’s not even on the same level as as pinky-promise. What a baby.

Impactor ends the pity party by shooting Overlord with his alt-mode’s weaponry and then does a little something for Springer… by not ending Overlord. Nope, looks like the death of Springer finally let him see the error of his ways, and they’re going to bring Overlord in to stand trial, because while the guy deserves to die, Impactor doesn’t deserve to kill him. Maybe if more Transformers took this little idea to heart, they wouldn’t still be at war four million years and counting.

Impactor goes to radio for a ride, and Ironfist wakes up. It looks like everything’s going to be okay now.

Or not.

Yep, those weird brain-seeking bullets Ironfist had loaded into all the guns he brought on the trip were perfected after a disastrous prototype testing accident. THE accident, if you will. Prowl knew about this, and used it to his advantage, throwing Ironfist on the mission, with the intent that he’d be used to unlock Aequitas. Topspin, of course, caused the plan to change a bit, but it all worked out in the end.

Also, Springer isn’t dead. He’s pretty messed up, but he’s not dead. They’ve got Ratchet on it, it’ll be fine.

And thus we arrive at the debriefing, between Prowl and Ultra Magnus. Magnus is questioning just why Prowl had this mission sanctioned in the first place, if he was so very against the Aequitas trials while they were happening. The answer is simple: propaganda. If the Decepticons were to find out that the trials involved nothing but Autobot war crimes, and lots of ‘em, it would be the ultimate blow to the Autobot forces.

Ultra Magnus thinks that they should go public with the information, but Prowl disagrees. The only copy of Aequitas is left with Prowl, and while Ultra Magnus would like to trust that he wouldn’t destroy this info, the end result is left a mystery.

But you’ll have to read the sequel series to see just how that all turns out.

If Ironfist is dead, just who is writing up this narrative framing device for the issue? Why, it’s none other than Verity Carlo, using the power of the internet. I guess she has access to the Cybertronian internet now. Wonder who hooked her up with that. Probably not Ultra Magnus. Maybe Percy did her a solid as a thanks for surgically removing Overlord’s will to live.

Whether you want it to or not, I suppose.

This miniseries is a little dark, ain’t it?

Verity went to all the trouble to leave Earth and hide in the escape pods so she wouldn’t be abandoned, only to end up right where she started, with a heaping spoonful of PTSD to pair off with all the disappointment and lack of friends in her life. She watched a lot of people die on Garrus-9, and she’s in no way battle-hardened like one could argue the other surviving Wreckers are. All she has at this point is a blog she inherited from a nerd who accidentally committed a slow-burn suicide. I hope Perceptor will keep in touch with her, at least, seeing as he’s the only one who was also there and isn’t dead.

That’s the end of the miniseries proper, but not the entirety of the story. Up next, we’ll be looking at all the fun little extras Last Stand of the Wreckers came with.

#transformers #jro #last stand of the wreckers #issue 5 #maccadam #Hannzreads #text post #long post #comic script writing #wreckers trilogy

[downwithpeople]

wolfenstein good

bj blazkowicz is one of the best of the archetypal gruff shootman video game protagonists. a great deal is made of the immense trauma he's suffered as a result of the war. he fights for a peaceful life that he knows he's never going to get. he is a kind of brooding warrior poet. at the same time he plays a very good straight man, someone whose main reaction to the macabre horrors of the turbonazi regime is a classic american 'git er done' attitude. he barely bats an eye at the eccentricities of his co-conspirators. he has been traumatised beyond horror and only sees the massive fascist empire destroying the world as a series of jobs he has to do.

once you lose the mad science trappings, the nazis of this game are extremely realistic. there is never any attempt to humanize the regime, never a token 'good' nazi who has some kind of sympathetic aspect to them that might excuse their allegiance. all the worst dreams of the third reich have come true in this universe and the empire they have created is a world of horror. at their absolute best and most down-to-earth, wolfenstein's nazis are callous enforcers of a genocidal regime. they are evil for the same reason all nazis are evil.

there is an attempt to balance the inherently pulpy concept with a morose exploration of the horrors of nazi germany which doesn't sit right. the early game portrays the resistance against the nazis as a desperate, impossible struggle against a vastly technologically-superior opponent. the tone shifts heavily by the end of the london nautica level, with the kreisau circle acquiring in short order aircraft, a nuclear submarine and an ancient jewish superweapon. neither approach is necessarily better than the other but i think the game did a much better job of making me feel like a tormented warrior than it did a two-fisted action hero.

most emblematic of this tonal conflict is the concentration camp level. it starts with you narrowly avoiding the gas chambers to be assigned to hard labour. it ends with you riding a giant mech around blowing up guards. it feels like you spend a tight day and a half in the camp before you're busting out in fine style.

anya is a solid love interest with a little more depth than you'd typically expect from such a character. fergus is good. most of the kreisau circle are good, in fact. klaus and max hass are great. tekla is annoying and i didn't care when she died; you can't make me feel sad about someone who spends every word of dialogue belittling and insulting me. also her big character-defining speech is just existentialism for dummies.

totenkopf is a bog-standard nazi supervillain. frau engel had much more character and presence and her darling bubbi is one of the most punchable characters i've seen in games.

the moment-to-moment gameplay is extremely satisfying. it is a classic corridor shooter but they really nailed the gamefeel; the guns feel good to use and it's great to see the range of death animations. there's even stealth game elements but they're kinda half-baked; if a commander sees you once the jig is up and the AI barely responds to the deaths of their allies. that said, the big supersoldiers and robots were too bullet-spongey to be enjoyable, and despite being something of a signature weapon the laserkraftwerk doesn't hold enough charge to be worth using most of the time.

the da'at yichud are a perplexing addition to the game at best. it is a questionable move to have an ancient jewish conspiracy in a game that's supposedly antifascist in theme. it is unclear why a sect devoted to building a closer understanding of god and the universe would create so many hideously destructive superweapons. we only ever meet one member of the da'at yichud and he doesn't tell us enough about their beliefs to explain what we see in the game. i don't need any kind of special justification for why the nazis in this game have dieselpunk superscience; i've already accepted the premise.

i think a better wolfenstein game would have embraced subtlety more. i know, i know, that sounds stupid but listen: some of the best and most memorable moments in the game are the smaller, more personal horrors. being forced to choose which one of your allies will be vivisected. being forced at gunpoint to take a cryptic test to determine your blood purity. being helpless to watch as the mentally ill are dragged off for human experimentation. the game was lauded for featuring these scenes but they seem to have been dangerously underrated by the developers as every subsequent game focused on the extreme and over-the-top; the sequel features a mid-game level where you invade a secret base on the planet venus.

the bit where you're forced to choose between two allies is a great microcosm for the game as a whole. you're at the mercy of a mad scientist who will kill you if you don't offer up one of your allies as a sacrificial lamb. once you've chosen, there is a masterful jump-cut just as he's about to drive a scalpel into the poor bastard's eye. you see his tortured eyeless body afterwards. it's terrible. blazkowicz' narration sells it completely.

and then at the end of the game they show you that his brain was sucked out with a nazi brain sucker device and then you have a bossfight against a nazi brain robot

[planetsam]

Malex! Alex & Rath

The war takes everything.

It’s a miracle they get to the point of peace discussions at all. For most of his adult life Alex has lived in the war. It started with people he thought he knew summoning a force he couldn’t understand. That night changed everyone’s lives. The medals on his chest often feel more like blood money than honors. They’re stained, tainted. Like his father loves to remind him he is. The loss of his leg sometimes feels like a penance. When the orders come that he will be involved in this desperate negotiation for peace, Alex thinks he knows why. But he doesn’t have it in him to refuse. Which is how he finds himself on the Antarian ship. The doors slide open soundlessly as he is escorted into the room, trying to remember every negotiating tactic he ever learned. He’s barely inside with time to strategize when another set of doors open and the Antarian general walks in.

Just like that, he’s seventeen, again, in an instant.

Michael doesn’t look the same and at the same time he does. He wears the Antar military uniform with much more obvious discomfort. Or maybe Alex is just able to read him still. The curls are the same. The scruff is new. He’s still lean where as Michael is stockier but in a way that makes Alex think they’d be matched if he still had both his legs. The pair of them regard each other, both realizing exactly what this is.

“General Rath,” Alex greets with all the formality he can muster for an alien who he made out with in a museum about aliens once upon a time.

“Hey Alex,” Michael drawls like they aren’t on opposite sides of a fucking war, “long time no see. You been busy?”

Fine. He can do this.

“Not as busy as you,” he says, “I’m not a General.”

“Genetics,” Michael says and doesn’t elaborate, “look at you making your daddy proud.”

Alex rolls his eyes at the jab.

“Your last air raid missed him by half a mile,” he says.

“Too bad,” Michael replies, smiling in a way that does not make Alex’s stomach flip flop, “lets get this parent trap shit over with and save your planet,” he says nodding to the table.

Alex sits as smoothly as he can but he’s not great with the prosthetic when he’s trying to hide it. Antarian’s are supposed to have unparalleled healing. But when he glances at Michael’s hand, he sees it’s still mangled and twisted. When he looks up he sees Michael watching him. Alex gives him a questioning look and Michael shrugs.

“Chicks dig scars,” he drawls and Alex agrees with him suddenly.

They need to get this over with.

As fast as possible.

“What the hell, Max?!”

Max waves off the court and clears the room. He still thinks of himself as Max but only two people on the planet call him that. That number is about to be cut in half if the look on Michael’s face is anything to go by. Michael is either going to kill him or never speak to him again. Max holds still and waits for the fury to hit him.

“Alex?!” He demands, “you sent me to negotiate with him?”

“It was my idea,” Isobel says breezing in.

“What the hell, Iz?!” Michael continues, turning towards her.

There’s always been something more polished about her and she’s slid more easily into royal life than any of them. Max has followed but then again, maybe looking emotionally constipated is half the job anyway. Michael’s seen those royals from England. And lastly there’s him. He’s hated earth his entire life, was planning a way to get off the planet when they got found. So there’s an almost vicious irony to him being the one whose has the hardest time adjusting. Or maybe it’s just the fact that Jesse Manes has made him loathe everything the military stands for and he’s come to a planet where he’s some kind of genetically bred super solider.

“What’s the point of peace if you’re miserable on both worlds?” She asks and Michael rolls his eyes. Of course she would equate two worlds with something as stupid as his happiness.

“I don’t know, Iz, millions of lives?”

“Motivation,” she says.

“How were we engaged again?” He demands.

“Dumb luck,” Isobel says, “can’t be so lucky every lifetime.”

“General Rath,” Alex greets. Michael scowls  before smoothing it over with a grin he wants to kiss off his face, “I hope you don’t find this inconveniencing.”

“Not at all, Colonel Manes” Michael says, “i hope you don’t mind holding my hand in public.”

Alex bits back the urge to reply. The photo-op is important and security is tight. As a show even the Antarians are going through the metal detector. Alex thinks it’s ridiculous but he gets the optics. The general public doesn’t know about the Evans’ family vacation to italy that one summer or Michael’s dizzying array of foster homes he’d flown between. Michael nods towards the sign.

“Don’t forget to take out your keys.”

“I’m not going to forge—“ Alex cuts off before he fully replies. Michael does not get to get under his skin like this so easily. The guard waves him through and the thing goes off. He hears Michael chuckle and wishes very badly he was right. “I have a prosthetic,” he says to the guard and feels the tension ramp up.

“I need to scan it,” he says and Alex nods, remembering the world is at stake. He takes the chair and releases the vacuum seal, sliding the leg off with a metallic click. The guard takes it and Alex fights for as long as he can until he meets Michael’s gaze, “sir—“

He’s apparently alone in his care about the world because Michael crosses the detector and comes in front of him.

“When?” He demands and Alex is surprised at the fury in his voice.

“A few years back,” he says, looking to see if they’ve established his prosthetic is not a weapon, “we’re in a war,” he reminds Michael who looks at his leg like they’re kids again and he wants to hurt whoever hurt him. Alex sees the metal detector tremble and thinks of the lives that hand in the balance, “Michael! I’m fine.”

Michael snaps towards him and Alex meets his gaze, trying to convey how fine he is. They need this more than Michael needs to lose it. Michael slowly seems to come back to himself and when they look, the guards are all staring. Michael draws himself up and fixes Alex with the coldest look he’s ever been on the receiving end of. He’s doing it for him, but it still takes Alex’s breath away in the worst way possible.

“I don’t know that name anymore. It’d Rath.”

“Sorry, General,” Alex says instead and accepts his prosthetic back.

They shake hands in front of the cameras, both their mangled and missing parts tucked away.

“You look good!” Liz says, “I mean, you look like you want to die but otherwise—“

“Thanks,” Michael says sarcastically.

“How is he?” Liz asks after a moment.

“I haven’t seen Max,” he says instead of answering. Liz makes a noise, “he’s fine. I’m sure they’re all fine.”

“Alex you know that’s bullshit.”

Sometimes Alex hates how smart Liz is. And how perceptive. Her denial of her feelings is a protection, one she’s fully aware of and seems to be able to flick on and off like its a fucking light switch. Alex feels like his got shut off and he lost it somewhere in the dark. There’s a disconnect. He can’t even blame it on the war. It’s been going on for much much longer than that. War has just made it matter less.

“He saw my leg,” he admits, “he got mad.”

“Of course he got upset,” Liz says.

“He should have thought about that before we were at war,” Alex argues even though he knows thats not fair. Liz does too. “Anyway thats not why I called. We’re supposed to do something and theres a chance Max will be there. Misery loves company, so, you wanna come? Can you behave?”

“Yes and yes,” she says.

“General Rath,” Alex greets, “you remember Liz?”

“Colonel Manes.”

Michael nods but his expression is hard. Alex feels smug at throwing him off his game, right until Max shows up. Every inch of him that’s a king falls apart and its like looking at the sixteen year old dumbass who thought that a backwards baseball cap was a fashion statement.

“Liz,” he says her name almost reverently.

She slaps him across the face.

“Oh shit,” Michael says.

Alex wonders if he’s just ended the world.

In the end he hasn’t but its a near thing. He knows in his gut he’s not the guy for this. When they’re done he wants to leave but Liz has backed King Zan into an antechamber and he isn’t leaving her behind. Michael drops into the chair next to him, still laughing.

“This is great,” he says, “good move bringing her here. You guys might come out of this on top after all.”

“I’m resigning,” he says, looking at Michael.

Michael stares at him.

“What? Why?” Michael demands.

“I can’t do this,” he says, “it’s all of earth. They need someone level.”

Liz appears and Alex thanks god for her timing. He looks at Michael who seems so dumbstruck he can’t figure out what to say. It’s not how Alex wants to leave him speechless but he’s been a coward with him before. So he gets to his feet and does the bravest thing he can.

“Goodbye,” he says.

It tastes like ash.

“I’m coming!” Alex snarls through the wood.

Michael wants to tell him to hurry the fuck up but he’s not going to open the door if he sees him. He’s done is best military style knock in the hopes Alex won’t look. The door opens.

“Wha-“ Alex stops. Emotions fly across his face. He settles on that emotionally constipated look he’s tried to maintain this whole time, “what are you doing here?” He steps aside though and Michael enters.

“Why are you resigning?” He challenges. Alex looks away, “it’s just us in here Alex,” he says, maybe a bit louder than he intends.

“Yeah that’s the problem,” Alex says, “out there, it’s not just us. I can’t negotiate with you.”

“Why not?” Michael presses. Alex looks away, “hmmmm?” Michael says, moving into his space. Alex doesn’t step back, he glares at him.

“Because I look at you and I’m seventeen again!” He says, “and then you look away. And I remember everything, like it’s the first time it’s happening. I can’t think around you. I can’t do my job,” he says, “and if you don’t remember that earth was your planet too, then someone has to step in who isn’t distracted by their feelings.”

Michael can’t puzzle through this. He knows Alex has feelings for him. Loving each other has never been the problem. His fingers ache in a reminder and Alex’s eyes drag towards the hand. Fuck this, Michael thinks viciously and shoves it between them.

“Your dad took my hand, someone from my side took your leg. You want to say we’re even?” Alex scoffs, “I never looked away,” he says, “not really.”

“Bullshit,” Alex says, “you took off for another planet.”

“You took off for war!”

“I didn’t want to go!” Alex suddenly matches his tone. Michael freezes, something cold in him, “you did.”

Michael can’t argue. He did. He wanted to get out of that town, off that planet. He can’t blame his failed whatever with Alex as the sole reason but he can’t pretend it wasn’t a factor. But Alex is Alex and if he tells him that he’ll blame himself for the whole damn war. Instead he takes the accusation and steps up to Alex. Alex regards him like a skittish animal but doesn’t run. Even if this is his room. Michael refuses to linger at that when Alex’s impossibly long lashes lower. It’s been a decade but Michael knows what he’s doing and before he can overthink it, he cups Alex’s face and kisses him.

Alex stiffens and then melts into the kiss. Michael’s glad he snuck away, glad he’s in normal clothes. No, not normal. Earth clothes. Because then instead of dealing with his Antarian clothes Alex can slips his hands under his shirt. Michael hates touching him with his twisted hand. But even that doesn’t seem to matter when Alex makes a noise in the back of his throat and Michael deepens the kiss like he can taste it. They fumble back to the bed Alex lays back as Michael pulls his shirt off. Their bodies are different, he can see the scars that litter Alex’s skin. Antar has healing and he’s whole on the outside, fine except for the scars that earth left on him. Alex cants his hips up and Michael throws caution to the wind.

He kisses every mark, hoping that his desperate desire for Alex to stay will pass through his skin.

He’s too much of a coward to say it again.

“This was your idea,” he tells Isobel when he gets back to their ship. Her first move is to grab the bag he’s holding and pour the acetone down the sink, “damn it!”

“Need you to be on your A-Game,” is her excuse.

“Yeah, well, I need to be drunk,” he snaps, “you shouldn’t have put me and Alex together.”

“You two did that all on your own,” she says, “I already denied his request to be transferred,” she swipes a hand through his curls, “or did you convince him to stay?”

Her guess is as good as his.

“General,” Alex says.

“Colonel.”

He can do this. Alex has never had to work with someone he’s slept with before. He’s not sure how anyone does this. And okay maybe he and Michael did it as teenagers but that was ten years ago. And it was before the world even knew that there was intelligent life out there. Isobel had suitors who she considered beneath her and Max was always sweet on Liz. Alex has a very sneaking he and Michael slept together first. He may have lost his virginity in the ultimate out of this world experience. He’s like the dirty equivalent of Neal Armstrong. He clears his throat as Michael sits down. He looks surprised that he’s still there. No, Alex realizes, he looks guilty.

“Princess Vilandra  seems to feel I’m best suited for the job. Or so my superiors told me,” he says. Michael at least has the grace to blush, “I guess she still can’t resist meddling.”

“Hey, she doesn’t meddle,” Michael says, “she outright gets involved. Give her some credit.”

Alex snorts in disbelief and Michael chuckles. There’s something familiar about it that makes Alex’s heart ache. He forces that feeling back. That, at least, he’s good at. Lingering for a second too long used to get him questioned and mocked until he proved himself. Though the truth is the guys he felt things for were nothing compared to what he’s always felt for Michael. They catch each others eyes and smooth out their expressions, focusing instead on the last few items for the treaty. It’s the first step in many but it’s a first step. Alex was shipped to war without wanting to go, but he likes protecting people. Likes helping them. He always has. Long before Michael kissed him in the museum that had his family artifacts on display.  The items on this treaty take longer than the others. Alex caves after a few hours.

“I need food,” he says, “you hungry?”

“Starving,” Michael admits.

“Great, what do you want?” Michael does a double take, “you miss something in particular? I’m not picky.”

You, Michael thinks, then puts the thought aside.

“Wings?”

They get wings and Michael wants to keel over with how good they are. He’s always loved spicy food. Or convinced himself of it after he learned if food was hot, other people didn’t want it as much. Alex gets beers too and Michael can almost pretend this is what college could have been like if things had gone differently. If he’d taken the scholarship. If the three of them doing something as terrible as burning those bodies hadn’t sent out that beacon.

If they hadn’t led the man who killed them the first time straight to earth.

It’s been ten years of pretending to be something they’re not to take power back. With Isobel at the center of it. He’s got no right to complain about things with what she’s sacrificed. And on the other side it’s Alex and what he’s sacrificed. One of his foster parents told him that all Michael knew how to do was take. Michael knows the guy was a drunk but the words still burned into him. Especially when he sees Alex with hot sauce on his lip laughing one moment and shifting his weight with a flash of discomfort the next. His own hand aches but Michael’s pretty sure that’s in his head.

“What do they eat over there?” Alex asks abruptly.

“Acetone,” Michael lies. Alex’s eyes narrow, “I’m kidding. It’s similar,” he says, trying to think of how to put it, “but different.”

“Descriptive,” Alex says dryly.

“Look, next time I’ll bring something,” he says, “you can try it for yourself.”

“In the meantime come here,” Alex says, “you’ve got hot sauce on your lip.”

He wipes it off with his thumb and Michael understands Max a whole lot better.

Next time turns out to be months later.

They do a good job and then there’s all the god damn red tape that makes Alex’s head hurt. It’s not like Max is going to put up a fight on anything really. Or King Zan. Alex cannot contact the General without risking everything so he doesn’t. The next time he sees him is at the formal signing. Which means everyone is in formal wear. He’s never felt awkward in his uniform. Despite what led him here, he is proud of the lives he’s saved and the service he’s given. He can stand up there with royalty from another planet he just happened to go to high school with.

Michael on the other hand looks like he wants to die.

It’s clear for his genetic breeding or whatever, he’s nervous. The Antarian formalwear is a lot of draping and elegance that doesn’t seem to have much to do with the military, aside from the braided chords that loop around his shoulder. He’s wearing gloves too and Alex finds he wishes that he could see his hand again. Unable to let Michael pace there miserably, he steps forward. Michael whips around at the sound and stares at him like he’s drowning and Alex is the life saving breath of air. His throat is visibly working. Alex might slightly enjoy the sight of him being flustered, something that seems to occur to him because he straightens up. Alex still has a good inch on him in the height department though.

“General Rath,” he greets, reminding himself of their roles.

“General Manes,” he greets back.

Alex might be slightly proud of the title. If nothing else it isn’t one he has to share with his father or grandfather. He is the first General Manes. He looks at Michael who shifts his weight. The cloth he wears shimmers in the light, reminding Alex of those glass shards that were in the museum. The ones that all snapped together the night before the aliens came.

“Nervous?” Alex asks.

“Never,” Michael says, throwing him that macho cowboy swagger smile. Alex might hate him a little for it, “you ready for this?”

“I’m used to the photo ops by now,” Alex lies with a tight smile. He’s better, but the spotlight has never suited him.

“Great, let’s go.”

Before he can ask why Michael looks nervous they’re in front of people. A lot of people. Alex stands straight and schools his expression while Michael waves to the crowd. The sheer number of people this is being televised to is dizzying. Alex fully expects things to go wrong but they don’t. The only wrongness is his anonymity being ripped to shreds. It’s a worthy sacrifice for this, but that doesn’t make it less gut wrenching as he and Michael stand and observe the proceedings. Hardest to bear is Michael’s gaze which keeps flicking towards him. Like he knows this is hard for Alex. Alex stands straighter if possible. He doesn’t want Michael’s—Rath’s—pity. The treaties are signed and ratified and Alex knows now it’s just a matter of full disarming. Fully withdrawing.

“You’re returning to Antar,” he says.

“Yeah, Of course we are,” Rath tells him, “can’t have peace with the aliens running around.”

This hits him like a ton of bricks. Even though he knows what’s in the treaty, the idea of Rath being a universe away is like a gut punch. It’s what he’s always wanted. Maybe now he can have it and find some peace. Alex forces himself to clutch the idea like a hot iron. If he holds it maybe he can cauterize the wound. He grips the pain as he goes through the more formal interactions, desperate to be the one to put a galaxy between them for once. No such luck as General Rath catches up to him eventually. Alex realizes that his work here is done. Which means this isn’t about Generals or anything it’s about General Rath who has the same mop of curls and him who doesn’t even have two legs.

“Alex—“

“I gotta go,” he says.

General Rath freezes.

“Yeah I, uh, I gotta go,” he says again, “we saved the world and—“

“You gotta go,” Rath repeats repeats.

Alex nods.

Michael ignores the feelings that sledgehammer into him. Of course Alex has to bolt. Michael could be a General or he could be God but somehow it will always come back to being unworthy of Alex. By now he doesn’t know why it hurts. Yes, he does, it hurts because he’s an idiot whose still carrying a torch for a man who can’t be around him except under very specific circumstances. Circumstances that don’t benefit a General, let alone two of them. So he does the only thing he can and sticks his hand out. Alex grips it and God help him, Michael can’t resist kissing his knuckles just once. Alex stares just at him but Michael’s sure he’s clocked the room for whose watching.

“Pleasure negotiating with you, General Manes,” he says.

“Goodbye, Michael,” Alex replies and Michael watches as he leaves.

“Did you ask him?” Isobel demands coming up to him. Michael watches the corner Alex vanished around, “Michael—“

“This is his planet,” he says, looking at her. Isobel is not thrilled with his answer, “he’s not coming.”

“That’s not what I asked,” she says.

“Just drop it,” he says, “please.”

“Michael—“

“He’s not coming, Iz,” he says, looking at her, “can you please drop it?” Something in him feels broken, “and my name’s Rath.”

She stares at him and Michael glares back. He doesn’t want anyone’s sympathy or pity. Especially not from family or from Alex. Deep in his pocket the alien charm he fashioned seems to throb in time with the ache being pumped through his chest. Maybe this is what dying feels like. He straightens up and takes his fingers from it. It’s not going to transport Alex anywhere, least of all to him.

“Let’s go,” he says, “the sooner we get home the better.”

#michael guerin #alex manes #michael x alex #malex #roswell new mexico #alex x michael #malex fanfic #roswell nm fanfic #malex fic

[hollowempire]

Room of Cats || 6th Doctor x Reader

Request: none

Summary: Six and Reader decide a room in the TARDIS dedicated to cats is needed. They adopt a bunch together and chill.

Word Count: 889

AN: this is dedicated to @alloftimeandspacewithouthim (i can’t tag people so let’s pretend) bc i got this idea when talking to her and bc of how much we love six

Y/n watched as the Doctor tried fixing something. That’s all he ever seemed to do lately.

They recalled the brief moment in which they owned five cats, and suddenly had an idea. “Doctor!”

The Doctor jumped. They’d both been totally silent since he started working, and the sudden noise startled him. “Yes?”

“Can you add rooms to the TARDIS?” y/n asked, tilting their head. The Doctor took note of this, as it usually meant they were up to something.

He eyed them suspiciously. “Yes, easily... why?”

“Remember our five cats?”

“Yes, very unfortunate about having to give them away seeing as we had nowhere to put them... oh.” he finished, realizing what this was about.

“Come on, I know you love the idea!”

He sighed. It was definitely true. This regeneration was certainly very fond of cats... and it was y/n who suggested it. How could he turn it down?

“Fine.”

A wide grin spread across y/n’s face and they ran down the hallway, but immediately ran back. “We need cats...” they said.

The Doctor nodded and the TARDIS threw them to the ground as the Doctor attempted to get them to an adoption center on earth.

“Let’s hope you actually got us where we’re supposed to be, and not on some planet on the other side of the galaxy...” y/n said as they walked out of the TARDIS. The Doctor glared at them as he followed.

“There, you see? I do know how to fly the TARDIS!” he said, pointing the the large sign above the building they stood in front of.

Y/n scoffed. “I’m impressed,”

Upon walking inside, the two were relieved to find that their original five were still there. They added another two for their cat room. The worker was pleasantly shocked.

Y/n and the Doctor went back to the TARDIS as quick as they could. It wasn’t very quick considering then had seven cats with them.

“Seven cats...” the Doctor said with a sigh as he let them into the new room made specifically for them.

“More like heaven.” y/n corrected as they lay on the floor with two walking over them.

The Doctor made a face that resembled pure disgust and groaned. “So I’m not allowed to make puns and you are?”

“Exactly. The big difference is I’m actually good at them.”

The Doctor was about to say something in his defense but y/n had already managed to stand up and kiss him, a common method of getting him to be quiet.

Y/n examined the room. A cat tree stood in the corner, with a ramp that extended from the top level ran along the wall, over the door frame, and back down to the floor. It was covered in toys that were already scattered everywhere even though the cats had only been there less than an hour. A shelf for storage of toys and treats stood next to another doorway that led to a room containing their litter boxes and food/water bowls. At the moment all cats were resting in the tree.

“They need names,” y/n said as they approached the cat tree.

Together they decided on each name. The fat grey one was Winston; they called a cat spotted in black and white Della; the old tabby with brown, white, and orange stripes was Max; the two white ones that looked alike were Daphne and Dalila; a large maine coon much larger that the rest was named Smudge; and the small siamese cat was called May.

“Dalila is Egyptian for sweet,” The Doctor added when he suggested the name.

“It’s cute,” y/n said, smiling at him. He was very into it, and it was possibly the first time he didn’t have anything mean to say. He was smiling too.

Y/n left to eat something a bit later, leaving the Doctor sitting on the floor as he played with some of the cats that had come down from the tree.

They came back about thirty minutes later to find quite the surprise waiting for them. The Doctor was asleep on the floor, every cat in the room curled up with him. He held Daphne and Dalila in his arms, while Smudge lay on his legs, covering almost the entirety of them. The rest were snuggled up beside him. Y/n later described him as some sort of cat whisperer.

Y/n planted a kiss on his forehead, careful not to wake him, as it was the most peaceful they’d ever seen him. They smiled before leaving the room, and just as they were turning around the Doctor spoke.

“Why did you let me fall asleep on the floor?” he asked, trying to sit up. The cats stirred but wouldn’t get off.

“You were so peaceful and cute I couldn’t wake you. It would also seem that the cats are giving you no choice,” y/n explained, and left the room. The Doctor followed them into the console room after a great struggle trying to get the cats off.

“Very good idea of mine, making a room of cats.” he said.

Y/n placed their hands on their hips and stood on front of the Doctor. “Your idea?”

He pressed a quick kiss to their lips and patted their shoulder. “Yes.”

Y/n laughed as he went back to working on the TARDIS. “Thanks.” no use in arguing.

#sixth doctor x reader #6th doctor x reader #six x reader #the doctor x reader #sixth doctor #6th doctor #the doctor #six #doctor who

[spaceschool]

🎄That’s right! It’s time to start getting ready for Space School’s 7th annual 12 DAYS OF GUESTMAS! 🎄

It’s that time of year again! Time to start getting ready for this year’s Spacemas!

BASIC INFO:

I need to fill about 10 guest comic slots.

Comics should be at least 1 single page. (Max 4 pages)

Comics should be in full color.

Comics need to be X-mas/Winter themed!

I also accept illustrations, but they must have a clear narrative or dialogue!

Tone can be humorous, serious, anything like that. As long as it’s Space School and X-mas/Winter themed all at once.

DEADLINE IS DECEMBER 13TH FOR ALL FINISHED ART!

HOW TO APPLY:

DON’T send me any completed art, instead just send your idea/pitch for what you’d like to do for said comic.

Link or attach example of your art or portfolio!

Send all of this to my e-mail [email protected]

Label e-mail “Space School Guest Comic Pitch”

And  that’s about it! It’s pretty flexible and this is all in good fun! I  would be honored if some of you applied to make a guest comic this year!(If you applied last year, feel free to apply again this year if you’re feeling up to it. I loved all the artists I worked with last year and would love to work with ya’ll again.)

This full post on Tumblr has more info about Space School and Christmas/Guestmas in general in case you're curious!

Below is more info about Guestmas and Christmas time in Space School:

Space School Christmas Illustrations by year:

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016 (PART 2)

2017

2018

2019

Original 12 Days of Spacemas announcement image

12 DAYS OF GUESTMAS 2014

12 DAYS OF GUESTMAS 2015

12 DAYS OF GUESTMAS 2016

12 DAYS OF GUESTMAS 2017

12 DAYS OF GUESTMAS 2018

12 DAYS OF GUESTMAS 2019

I would love to see some of these past outfits re-created in any comics but new ones or just general winter themed outfits are fine too. Zeggy should most always be Santa though, unless joke calls for otherwise. BUT! Jokes trump everything– if it’s funny, I want it.

SPACE SCHOOL AND THE HOLIDAYS:

Because Winter-time has always been a time of hoilday-stuffs for lots of places and planets (especially those who were colonized by Earth or Nubia) Space School most often gives the whole school lots of time off in December from school-life.

All holidays are accepted to celebrated within the walls as long as everyone is being respectful of each other– as with most things in Space School. The School decorates mostly with lights and tries to stay away from leaning one way or the other. Students are allowed to decorate inside their dorms as they please, obviously.

Most students leave home to their respective planets for the holidays but some students and teachers stay at the school thru the whole month– sometimes celebrating together!

It’s an exciting and peaceful time for everyone~

Alkaline, Zeggy, and Toggy usually go home for the holidays (sometimes together) and Joe stays at the school. Sometimes Joe joins Toggy, Terrago, and Omnivera at their homes.

Dude, Maleena, and Vava either see their separate families alone or all stay together in their home near the school.

Dennis and Booker spend the holiday cooped up alone at Booker’s apartment avoiding everyone but each other.

ZEGGY AND HIS PLANET’S CULTURE:

Zeggy is canonically the most all about Christmas out of the whole group.

X-mas was an adopted holiday by Ollce when Earth colonized the planet and as such, it resembles Christmas as we known it with some key differences.

As far as the tree goes, it starts out as a sculpted pile of dirt resembling a tree or other X-mas object that is watered thru the month with various glowing mushrooms and other fun alien-glowy-bits appearing as it’s watered– so by the time Christmas rolls around the tree will have grown it’s own ornaments to light up the room!

You buy bags of seed/spores each year for the tree, these bags make great gifts and are often put in stockings!!!

Otherwise, a lot of the traditions are the same with either having different looking aesthetics. They do stockings, presents under the tree, and Santa– who instead of having a sleigh– instead rides a single giant mole (which is a creature from purple planet, I can provide reference for) and is of course, purple himself. He rides this mole– who is named Rudolf, around all the underground cities of Ollce delivering presents to all the kids.

Zeggy gets into the holiday spirit way too early and way too fast. He decorates his whole dorm room as well as wearing as much X-mas accessories as he’s allowed over his school uniform.

He’s the type of person to put everything non-Christmas away and replace it with Christmas themed things.

He absolutely spoils Alkaline with tons and tons and way too many gifts– all of which are extremely personalized.

Otherwise, he only buys presents for his parents/grandparents, Joe, Toggy, and gives cards to his teachers. Most of his efforts go towards Alkaline.

He eats a billion food, sings a billion songs, and is fucking obnoxious. It’s beautiful.

ALKALINE AND HIS TRADITIONS:

Alkaline likes Christmas just as much as everyone else and is definitely not as hype as Zeggy because who could match Zeggy’s energy, honestly. But, he definitely gets into the spirits! Enjoys the food, drink, songs, presents– etc.

Christmas on Earth is very similar to what we think of it now which some differences– many of which haven’t totally been decided upon so feel free to have some fun interpretations.

Christmas has most definitely become a non-religious holiday in most all senses on Earth. It’s more just about the aesthetics and being with family members, buying fits, eating food, etc.

Alkaline is either with Zeggy in his home on Ollce or has Zeggy over on Earth. He stays with his Mom and Sister, visiting extended family on Christmas Day for dinner.

Alkaline buys everyone he knows presents– even if it’s just something small!

I usually draw Alkaline as a reindeer because Alkaline with antlers is super cute.

JOE’S ‘CHRISTMAS’:

Christmas isn’t celebrated where Joe is from– they have other traditions. However; Christmas Day is actually Joe’s birthday– which he usually chooses to spend alone or with Dennis or Lorna (his girlfriend)– depending on the age.

As such, Joe doesn’t care too much about Christmas and see’s it more of just as “his birthday” but starts to appreciate the holiday more when Zeggy’s festive spirit invades him. And, he likes the presents.

I’m sure Zeggy and Joe have some special X-mas moments together with Zeggy trying to show Joe all about “The Christmas Spirit”!

TOGGY’S TRADITIONS:

On Nubia, they don’t really have a Christmas but rather a big celebration of a New Year like holiday where they begin the new calendar year.  Like Christmas, it’s a time to celebrate with family and loved ones.  

Typically people travel long distances to spend the two days reunited with family, and everything shuts down.  The most important part of the festivities is to tell stories about the year–letting out stress or frustration while also reliving good moments and bonding with family members.  

This is always accompanied by large amounts of alcoholic beverages, which are enjoyed by all ages.  

Oftentimes everyone gets really smashed the first day and then sleeps it off the next.   Food varies from region to region but typically includes mostly unprocessed foods such as berries and vegetables, or dried lizard or fish jerky. As the festivities mark the beginning of the new year, many Nubians will dye their hair to a different color or get a new piercing around this time. Presents aren’t really a thing on Nubia, though it is common for parents and grandparents to give their children small sums of money to encourage them to have new adventures in the new year.  

Toggy’s family is a bit more accustomed to Earth traditions though, and so he tries to buy his close friends gifts for “Christ-mass” but they are always strange and often food.

DUDE, MALEENA, VAVA:

The 3’s traditions are similar to Alkaline’s since they’re all from Earth– so not much to say there.

Dude spends a lot of time in an apron baking cookies, cakes, etc as presents for everyone he knows and Vava and Maleena definitely gain some weight this time of year.

They all get drunk a lot and laugh a lot and just have a good time together BEING A LIL FAMILY.

Dude always makes sure to exchange presents with students he’s helped thru the year; since he often takes troubled students under his wing.

DENNIS AND BOOKER:

Booker nicely decorates his apartment and spends a lot of time with Dennis on the couch eating food and talking. They frick a lot too.

It’s chill.

OMNIVERA AND TERRAGO:

As the resident “gays into roleplays”, Omnivera and Terrago do a lot of dressing up for X-mas.

There’s a lot of time Terrago will be with Toggy’s family with them– and so I’m sure Omnivera is there sometimes as well. In a billion, expensive outfits.

The two of them absolutely spoil each other and nobody else in presents– except for Toggy who they buy something for– OF COURSE.

NOTE ABOUT REX: Due to some wild stuff happening with the creator of Rex, Rex will no longer be appearing in Space School and therefore should not be appearing in any Guest Comics! Sorry!

AND PLEASE, FEEL FREE TO ADD NEW HEAD-CANONS OR INTERPRETATIONS FOR FUTURE HOLIDAYS!! REALLY, THIS STUFF IS JUST HERE TO GET YOU STARTED SO GO HAVE LOTS AND LOTS OF FUN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

#guestmas #comic #spacemas #xmas #open call #christmas #chrimbus #holiday #holidays #festive #space school #2020 #darkchibishadow

[el-gilliath]

Sacrifice

@cowboyswagger​ prompted this: A (familiar) demon offers Michael the return of his mother, whole and young again: a second chance for the two of them... without outlining the cost of this home is his other one. So as Mara gets stronger, Alex gets weaker and Michael is caught between the two things he's always wanted. (I missed the familiar demon part but I sorta had that too, sorry). This does NOT have a happy ending. And is about 5000words. And crossposted to Ao3 if people would prefer to read there.

The demon finds him on its own volition. Apparently his grief is screaming loud enough into the void that they had to check out whatever it was. The fact that the demon appears before him wearing his mother’s face, might be the biggest fuck you this world has ever given him. Because in those few seconds before he realizes that the psychic connection isn’t there. He’s happy. He’s so happy and the joy is bursting out of him thinking that she somehow managed to survive. But then it tilts its head. He can’t feel her in his core. And it breaks his heart.

His grief surges, bigger and worse than before. Because she’s here. Her face is right in front of him, and she is so beautiful, so wonderful and so very, very missed. He had her back for 5 minutes, got to hold her hand and feel her love for 10 seconds. It wasn’t enough, it will never be enough. He wants her back. He wants his mother, a parent that loves him. Loved him. But it’s not her, and he feels his power surging under his skin as the anger rises, ready to tear everything in his path apart.

“You are a very angry young man,” the thing with her face says, and his telekinesis rips out of him, trying to fling the thing away from him. But it only smirks at him, its eyes going completely black as it stays exactly where it is. Of course. Of course he would attract a fucking demon with his grief.

“I can give her back to you.” He freezes at the words. And despite himself, despite knowing he shouldn’t. He feels hope. He wants it, more than he has ever wanted anything in his life. More than he wanted Alex. Wants Alex. But it’s a dangerous hope, cause a demon will never give it to you straight.

“You’re a demon. All your deals come with false hope and a prize I’m not willing to pay,” he responds, grief once again overcoming the small feeling of hope. Because there is no hope. His mother, is dead and he won’t get her back.

“You don’t pay a prize.”

He narrows his eyes. There is no way. “There’s always a prize”

“Not for you. Now if you want your mother back, come over here and seal it with a kiss. I’ll even change shapes for you,” the demon says with a cruel smirk, and between one blink and the next, Alex is standing in front of him instead of his mother.

“Why. Why would you give me this?” he asks. The hope is surging within him again, battling against the cloying feeling of grief. But he doesn’t know if he can trust this. He doesn’t know if he wants too.

“Because your grief? Is filling up the void in between this place and Hell, and we are tired of it. Demon’s live off of human grief. You’re not human, so instead of it being the good kind of grief it’s just annoying. We need it gone. And as such you don’t have to pay a prize. Now come, kiss me. And you can have her back.”

He moves before he thinks about it, striding over to the demon wearing Alex’s face and kisses him. Deeply, like if it really was Alex. He knows he needs to talk to Alex too, and he will, but this comes first. His mother comes first.

The kiss breaks and the demon grins at him. The grin is dark, and full of sinister evil. Somewhere in Michael’s brain Klaxon alarms are blaring and he knows that grin means nothing good. But the demon promised that he wouldn’t have to pay a prize. And the hope of having his mother back is too great.

“Our deal is sealed.” The demon disappears and for a moment he panics. But then, there she is. She appears to his right with a giant intake of breath, young and beautiful like she was when they connected. Clothed in the same white dress, with the same necklace. Her eyes wild, looking around with obvious shock until the land on him. And a second later, the connection snaps back into place. He can feel her. He knows without a shadow of a doubt. It’s her.

“M-”. He can’t finish it, can’t get the word out of his mouth. It feels too big, too small, too import and too not important at the same time. So he does the only other thing he can do. The only other thing that feels safe and needed. He runs over to her and gathers her in his arms. He clings to her, as she puts her arms around him and clings back. The connection between them surges as they touch one another. He can feel her in his head, her love, her joy, her disbelief. She doesn’t understand how she can be here, how she can be young again and still have her baby boy in her arms. Her first born, the child born from her and the love of her life that died in the war. Her Rath. Her precious, beautiful, wonderful Rath with a set of curls just like his father. She sees all of Geran in him, in the lovely young man he is. She misses him so much even if he has been dead for years. But Rath… She feared for his life, not knowing where he was all those years she was captive. She knew someone had tried to move their pods to safety, but she never knew if they succeeded. But they did. Because her he is. Here he is again. Seeing him in the prison had been so painful and yet such a giant relief. She didn’t know if he got out safely along with the wonderful man who loves her son so much. But he’s standing with his arms around her and he is fine. As is she. And she is so thankful.

Michael withdraws his mind the tiniest bit from their connection. Her feelings about him and his dad, Geran, is so strong. Geran. Maybe that’s why Guerin didn’t always feel so wrong even if Michael sort of did. But his name, the name given to him by his parents is Rath. And she. His mother’s is Mara. Geran, Mara and Rath. They were a family. “Mom,” he whispers in her ear. He can feel her smile through the connection, her mind whispering “Rath” back at him. Then a questioning “Michael?”. As if she wants him to tell her what she prefers.

“Call me whatever you want,” he whispers back. And feels his heart elevate as she whispers back; “My son.”

——————-

They spend the day together, and he learns more about them and his home planet than he ever thought possible. Antar, though war torn now, was a beautiful place of peaceful blue waters, green grass and brown dirt, not so dissimilar to what Earth looks like. It’s why they chose it when they had to go on the run, because of how much like home Earth looked. She tells him about his father, the general in chief of the Antarian Army, best friend of king Faron and brother of Queen Naria; Max and Isobel’s parents. Or Zan and Vilandra as their Antarian names are.

She tells him about his father dying to protect the ships and they left Antar, escaping from Kivar, the usurper who tried to steal the throne. She tells him about their journey to earth that took 20 years, mostly done in pods but that she was awake for small bits of it, bringing him out of his pods as well to share the beauty of space. She tells him about the stowaway that caused their ships to crash instead of landing gently, and how the government found them right after. She doesn’t tell him what they did to her and the others at Caulfield. But he sees enough in her head to know. And it kills him that she had to experience all that. But she is here now, and he is so grateful, just as she is. And maybe the two of them can be a family again.

——————-

He’s been ignoring his phone in favor of her when a familiar Humvee drives into the junkyard. The last conversation he had with Alex (“I don’t love you!”) flashes through his mind and he closes his eyes in regret. The hurt on Alex’s face was devastating. Even knowing that Alex knew he lied makes Michael feel sad, he never wanted to be the person that put that kind of devastation there ever again. It reminded him of how broken Alex was in the tool shed when they were 17, and it is not a good feeling.

His mother reaches for his hand and squeezes, waves of unconditional support coursing through the connection in their head. She did show him how to close the connection if he needed too. But so far none of them have, the feeling of the other in their head is too new, too loving, too precious to let go of right now.

Alex gets out of the car and Michael can see how tired he is. It makes him frown, Alex has always been one to overwork himself and it doesn’t seem like he’s stopping anytime soon.

“Alex, you okay?” He asks as he gets closer. His walk is slightly bumpy in a way is hadn’t been since he quit using the crutch. He must be more tired than he looks.

Alex looks up and opens his mouth as if to reply but stops when he sees Michael’s mother. His faces turns blank, but not before Michael sees the brief flash of pain in his eyes.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t know you had company. I’ll see you later Guerin.” Alex says before he turns around. And Michael knows what he’s thinking. He remembers what Michael yelled at him, even if he knew that he was lying, sees a pretty girl by his side and thinks the worse.

“Alex, stop.” Alex doesn’t, of course. And the limp is more pronounced as he tries to get away as quickly as possible. Running on the prosthesis must have done a number on his leg.

“I thought you were done walking away! That you don’t look away.”

Alex turns, anger evident on his face even if he tries to hide it. “I am! And I don’t. I meant everything I said, but you already have company. This obviously isn’t the time for me to be here.”

“Alex. I swear, you aren’t interrupting anything,” Michael said with a smile, walking over to Alex and grabbing his hand, holding it tight when Alex tries to snatch his hand back. They need to talk so badly, and he wants that. He wants it so much. “This is Mara. My mother”

Alex’s head snaps so fast to look at his mother than Michael almost fears for his neck. But the widening of his eyes, the slight recognition when he looks over her features, the breathless joy hidden on his face when he looks back at Michael. Alex Manes is the bravest and most lovable man he has ever had the fortune of meeting. And he loves him so much.

“Guerin, how the hell is she back? And young? She died. We saw the prison blow up!” Michael opens his mouth to answer but Alex just barrels over him. “ Are you sure? Like completely sure she’s not just someone or some thing sent here to fuck with you even more?”

Michael grins as Alex continues to ramble on about probability, statistics and facts. He’s nervous and worried for Michael in a way he has never seen before. And knowing what he knows now about exactly how Alex feels it only makes him more endearing. His mother nudges him through their connection, laughter and joy lacing it. Part of her own powers are empathy, and the love she feels from Alex makes her own happiness shine in Michael’s head. Like the beacon he was missing.

“Alex!” Alex shuts up abruptly and just looks him in the eyes. His other hand tangling in the one of Michael’s still holding Alex’s hand. “I can feel her in my head. I have the same connection with her that I have with Max and Isobel. Only hers is stronger, more familial. It’s her Alex, I’m positive.”

The smile that comes over Alex’s face is radiant. The joy hidden on his face earlier is out in full force, and Michael. Michael can’t help himself. He extracts his hands from Alex’s and brings them up to his face, pulling him in to place a sweet kiss on Alex’s lips. And Alex responds the way he always does, pushing himself closer to Michael, his hands coming up to run through Michael’s curls. Clutching him closer to have as little space between them as possible. They get a bit lost in each other the way they always do, in their own cosmic little place in the universe.

He can hear his mother’s soft chuckle in his head, but Alex has apparently forgot she was here because he startles when she laughs out loud. He pulls away from Michael to look at her, flushing a brilliant red. Michael can’t help but chuckle at him which earns him a patented Alex Manes Stink-Eye. But he can’t begin to care. His mother is alive and here with him, and so is Alex.

“Come on, let me introduce you,” He whispers after giving Alex another quick kiss and Alex just looks at him. He’s slightly afraid of something, but Michael can’t pinpoint what it is. It makes no sense that Alex would be afraid of his mother. Unless…

“Alex. You are not your father, or your brother. She doesn’t blame you for anything you family has done.” Alex just nods, but Michael knows he doesn’t believe it. The most important thing is that his mother does, and he knows that she will show Alex that she does. He turns towards her, and she’s just standing there, waiting with a smile on her face. Michael takes Alex’s hand and walks over to her, tugging a slightly reluctant Alex along. He can almost feel Alex’s apprehension, the tension radiation from him. He knows his mother feels it too, but she doesn’t seem to care. She is still smiling, her eyes on Alex as they walk up to her.

“Mom, this is Alex. Alex, this is my mom,” he says in a soft voice as they stop in front of her. He can feel her empathy reach out towards Alex, and Alex startles as he feels her. Michael can feel their connection in his head as his mother shares it with him. It’s not as tangible as the one he has with her, nowhere near as complex. But it’s still there. It’s still the soft, gentle touch of a mother's embrace, the gentle caress of acceptance and unconditional admiration, the tender whispers of a mother’s love. She is showing Alex how much she doesn’t blame him; how much she knows he’s not his father. How much she loves and adore him because of how much Alex loves and adore Michael. She shows him how much she accepts who and what he is, all with the gently touch of her powers against his human mind.

“I’m still sorry, Mara,” Alex whispers. Michael is certain he accepts everything she is telling him. But he also knows that Alex still blames himself. Still blames his family for all the rest of them that died in that prison. Still blames himself for the fact that she died in there. But his mother only smiles and presses a soft kiss against Alex’s forehead.

“You make my son happy; you make him feel loved. That is all I see, and that is all I will ever see,” she whispers back at him. And Michael, like Alex, struggles not to cry.

——————-

He gets two more days with his mother before everything comes back to haunt him. Before life once again shows him that he is not meant to be completely happy. Life has too much of an issue with him for that. Because Alex showed up two days ago looking tired and explained it away with all the running and being on the prosthesis for too long the day before at the prison. And Michael believed him, he forgot for a second that Alex has been running on his bad leg, what with him going to Max’s house and arguing for not killing Noah. Noah had died anyway while they argued, but his mother coming back the next day had made anything he wanted to ask Noah not important anyway. But when Alex shows up on the third day, almost stumbling out of the car, his eyes sunken and his skin a decidedly not healthy tone of grey, Michael worries. He knows something isn’t right. And he has a creeping feeling of despair.

“Alex! What the fuck?!?” He yells as he runs over to the dark-haired man. A tendril of disapproval at his language comes from his mother but he ignores it. Alex looks like hell and he doesn’t care about that right now.

“’M sorry. I woke up feeling like shit. Had to come here,” Alex mumbles as he all but collapses against Michael when he’s close enough. His skin feels warm and slightly sweaty. But he’s shivering like he’s cold.

“You look like shit, Manes. Why are you even out of bed?” Michael asks, gathering Alex close. Alex was right that he runs hot. Even being close to him seems to make Alex feel better. Like the heat the gives off helps with the chill.

“Somethings wrong.” His mother’s voice is deep, gorgeous and a little bit unexpected. She’s only whispered and spoken in his head so far. Pictures, images, sounds and feelings is how she usually communicates. Words are less often, even if she does use them every now and then. For her to talk now, in such a clear and strong voice, something must really be wrong. She’s worried, a bit of fear coating the worry. Alex feels it too, the tentative connection between his mother and Alex opening enough for Michael to feel it. She’s just as worried about Alex as she would be about Michael. It makes him feel grateful. But it also scares him, because she knows something is wrong. She can feel it, something is happening with Alex and the worry is bleeding through to Michael.

“Tell me how you feel my child,” his mother says, walking towards them. Michael already knew her voice would be melodical because of the way she uses sound when showing him things. But he didn’t expect it to be like this, almost like her speaking is a soft song on its own. But he figures it comes with her powers, because Alex calms right down when she speaks, even more than he has ever calmed down with him.

“Feel weak. Warm. Cold. Tired. So tired,” Alex mumbles against his chest and Michael hugs him tighter. Alex’s hand come up underneath his t-shirt at the small of his back and sighs in relief.

“Do you feel better in contact with Rath? With Michael?” his mother asks, clarifying when Alex gives her a confused look at Rath.

“Rath is your name? You real name?” Michael just nods at Alex’s question. “It’s beautiful, it suits you.”

“How so, because I’m just so gosh darned pretty?”

Alex huffs. “No. Because you’re beautiful inside and out”

Michael smiles into Alex’s hair, dropping a light kiss on it. Trust Alex to just casually say something like that after so long of bad communication, after so long of misunderstandings and hurt feelings and broken hearts. “You are the beautiful one here Alex.”

“I look like a ghost Michael.” Alex says as he leans back and looks up and Michael

“No. You’re always beautiful to me,” he replies, leaning down to kiss him. And he isn’t lying. Punky goth Alex with his eyeliner, piercings and attitude was just as beautiful to him as grown up, serious and capable Alex is.

“You’re sick.” His mother speaking brings them both back to the reality. Her eyes are narrowed, as if she’s trying to figure out a mystery. Her hand glowing red as she lightly touches Alex’s cheek with it. Along with her empathy, she always had a gift of diagnosing things, figuring out how things work, be it machines or people. Michael figures that’s where he got his engineering skills, even if his human skill is lacking. “I’m becoming stronger. And you’re becoming weaker”

All the blood drains from Michael’s face. His breath leaves him, and he’s unable to take another one. And he knows. He knows exactly what is happening, he’s seen enough of Supernatural to know. Someone is draining Alex’s life force to sustain his mother’s. And he knows who.

The rage rises within him like a tornado, his mother startling as pieces of debris, rocks and other random things form a maelstrom behind him. The crash and creaks of the old cars lined along the junkyard as they start to move in the face of his anger. His beloved Airstream rattling at the force of the wind created by his telekinesis. He is angry, maybe the angriest he has ever been. But his grief was loud enough to scream into the void the last time it appeared. Maybe his anger will be enough too.

“If you wanted my attention. You could have just asked.” He doesn’t recognize the voice behind him. But his mother does, because even as she gasps, Michael feels a rush of loss-love-grief run through the connection and he knows without a shadow of a doubt that the demon has the face of his father. He closes his eyes, knowing that he’s not yet ready to turn around and see the face of his other parent. But he has too, for Alex. He has to save his life. So he turns his head, and looks at the demon behind him. The first thing he notices are the curls. And his mother was right, they are distractingly like his own. His eyes are a deep blue bordering on green, nose slightly crooked with a mouth not unlike his own. He has a scar running from his temple down to his chin but the only thing it does is make him look more accomplished. The look in his eyes and sneer on his lips is all demon. But he can still imagine that face looking at him with love once upon a time. Looking at his mother like she is the most precious woman in the world. He has no trouble believing it, even if the face is marred by evil right now. His mother is still looking at the demon with loss-love-grief flooding the connection, and he sends her all the love he can muster through his anger in return.

“It’s not him. It’s a demon, a creature from the deepest reaches of hell that’s taken his face to make you feel even more like shit that you already do,” Michael tells her. The sorrow he gets in return is more than he can fathom. The love his mother feels for that face is all consuming, the thought of seeing it on a thing that’s not him is even more horrible.

“Michael. You didn’t.” Alex voice is breaking and Michael closes his eyes again.

“I did.”

Alex coughs, a deep rattling cough deep inside his chest. He’s dying. And it’s Michael’s fault. Again the only thing he has ever done is cause his family pain. Caused the love of his life pain. His cosmic connection of epic proportions.

“He did. Kissed me wearing you face even. It was quite the spectacular kiss.” His mother takes Alex from him as he whirls around. It’s standing in the middle of the maelstrom Michael made with his power, smirking at him as if to show him that he can never hurt it. Even how much he tries.

“You told me there wasn’t a prize!”

“I did.”

“He’s dying. So there is a prize. You told me I didn’t have to pay a prize!”

“Exactly. I told you you didn’t have to pay a prize.” It dawns on Michael then that he walked into this all on his own. He wanted it so badly that he believed a creature of hell, a creature made to torment human beings in the worst possible way, a creature made to make your own life a living hell.

“Then let me pay it. Let me pay it now,” he says through clenched teeth. He doesn’t want either his mother or Alex to die. If it comes down to a choice between the three of them, he will gladly make it.

The demon grins at him. “I told you. You don’t pay a prize. Meaning, you can’t. The prize isn’t for you to pay”

The feeling of fear that runs down his spine isn’t just his own. It’s his, his mother’s, and Alex’s. All three of them are locked in it together, spiralling deeper in a pit of despair, fear and sadness. If Michael isn’t allowed to pay the prize. One of them is going to die.

The maelstrom of power the demon is standing in stops abruptly. Michael doesn’t have the concentration to keep it going any more as his minds whirls. “There has to be something!”

“No. You were given a gift from hell. But the gift of your mother turned bigger than we imagined, and so to give her back we needed to demand payment. We needed… leverage. And now they have to choose. Does your mother get her long life with her son at her side for the first time in 71 years, after years of torture and think her beloved child is as dead as the face I wear? Or does she give it all up for the cosmic connection, the star-crossed lovers. The military son and the alien general’s son who found each other despite hardship?” The demon asks, its face going surprisingly somber as it talks. “It is not your decision to make, Michael Guerin. It is theirs.”

Michael turns around slowly and looks at them. At his mother, who he has had back for three glorious days. Who has shown him how loved he was, how loved he is, how loved he has always been. Who has given him a parent, something he has been missing his entire life, for the first time in so many years. And at Alex. Who has loved him unconditionally for ten years, who has been so brave and so strong in the face of his father, who has run away time and time again but only to protect him. Who decided that if Michael was dying with his mother at Caulfield. Then he would die with him. Because they never/don’t look away.

“Please take me. Don’t make me watch one of them die,” He whispers. His eyes filling with tears. His mother, Mara, looks so beautiful. So strong and so loving, his head is filled with the stories she has spun for him in the last three days. He doesn’t want to lose her again. But Alex. His gorgeous and courageous man. How can he lose Alex when he has finally gotten him back. When finally they both know what the other feel. When they could be starting a life together.

“No.”

He turns, his telekinesis rising within him as he lifts his hand. Maybe if he can just… But the demon has already anticipated it. And has him against the wall of his airstream in a second. He’s pinned there, cut off from his powers. Cut off from his mother and their connection. Cut off from Alex and the connection he could feel through his mother’s much more powerful bond. He screams out loud in frustration and anger before that too is quickly shut down, the demon clamping his mouth together.

“Now hush. The grown up needs to have a chat.” is the last thing he hears before a fog rolls over his senses. He tries so hard to break away, to figure out what is going on but he can’t. No matter how much he struggles he can’t open his mouth, nor his eyes. He can’t move a finger to help as he is once again put in a horrible position of his own doing. Once again his own actions will make him lose a special someone. And as the fog lifts in what is probably only a minute or so later, he’s afraid to open his eyes. He’s afraid to lift a finger, he’s afraid to speak any words.

“It is done. The sacrifice has been sealed with a kiss.” And Michael doesn’t need to ask who made the sacrifice he wasn’t allowed to make. He doesn’t need to ask who sacrificed their lives so that one part of his family could live. The tears start streaming down his face, harsh, broken sobs forcing their way out of him. He wants to scream, to rage, to throw the world into chaos and entropy with his powers.

He wants to tear the world apart, hunt for the highest angel and the lowest demon. His family, someone he loved more than life itself has been taken from him yet again. Once again one of the most important people in his life is gone, and he will never see them again. Never hold them in his arms again. Never laugh, smile or joke with them again. Never kiss him again.

Because the voice coming out of the demon’s mouth... Is his own.

#malex fic #michael guerin #alex manes #mara #demon #goddamn eggsy #my fic #roswell new mexico #not a happy ending

[quilloftheclouds]

Hey, Quill, happy STS! What are your characters favorite seasons? What do they like to do in those seasons?

Storyteller Saturday!

I’ve actually already answered this for the OSS crew, so how about I start sharing a bit more about my TDTG cast? I haven’t developed much about them all at the moment, so this’ll give me the opportunity to~

First, clarification on characters because I still have yet to get a post up on this: Xali is the main protagonist, Ella is their ex-girlfriend and close friend now, and Zeke is Xali’s boss and close friend to their dad! They’re the three main narrators of The Dark’s Treasured Glow!

Seasons work differently on the planet they’re on now, but for comprehension’s sake, I’m gonna be basing their choices off of what Earth’s seasons are like~

Xali’s favourite would definitely be summer. Not only do they really only like the heat (and hate the cold), they love the energy of the season and the fact that they get vacation hours off of work to do what they want! All the plants are at their brightest greens, all the electricity is at its max (because basically everything is solar powered in this world), and therefore they have plenty to work with in their personal mechanical projects! The only downside is that their seeing aid mask tends to overheat a lot, but it’s much easier to get it cooler with plenty of electricity available than it is to get it warm when they’re far less sun.

Ella’s favourite would likely be spring, I think. It’s when all the new buds and flowers are blooming, and it’s this sort of hopeful and renewal season after the cold of winter. Plenty of baby animals, too, and there’s all sorts of new research coming in for her work. She, unlike Xali, really likes to keep busy, so the extra work that comes with having to keep up with all the plant assessment and other jobs is lovely for her.

And I think Zeke would really love winter! If we’re giving him the chance at a classic winter setting (since winter doesn’t really happen where they are on their planet), he’d love to curl up on a seat by a nice toasty fire with a mug of cocoa and his cat, looking out the window at the pretty snow and ice. He’d enjoy the peace and quiet, too, or the wind, either way. ^u^ He’d enjoy the excuse to take up knitting too, probably makes a lovely bunch of fancy sweaters~

Thank you for the ask!

#ask #ask reply #sts #storyteller saturday #tdtg #the dark's treasured glow #main crew #zeke #ella #xali #ccwritesstuff

[aqua-eros]

iKON astro notes: Kim Hanbin ✒️

Bonjour! and welcome to a new series of astro notes, this time covering the members of iKON. As always, all assumptions are based on their personal placements and personalities without knowing exact birth times. First, let's take a look at B.I, the leader, rapper and composer of the group🎼

Sun in Libra

Unless you are unfamiliar with iKON and/or B.I, you could definitely point out that, one way or another, Hanbin is very likeable and charming. Any type of person can and probably will naturally and unintentionally fall for him, even if they just met. Such is the Libra gift, brought to them by Venus itself. Venus brings irresistible charm and beauty to to the signs it rules (Taurus and Libra), therefore anyone can find themselves trapped in the moment as the magic of Libra takes their breath away, especially considering the fact that this is an air sign. Air is known for being alluring in a breezy and light-hearted sense, making it's way into your life through the help of intellect. The addition of Venus to Hanbin's air is an even bigger magnet that pulls people in without them even realizing it.

The element of air gives a wide understanding of the world, concepts and ideas, since the mind is the most active and receptive part. Air natives are creative and highly adaptable, because just like air, they can mold themselves into any shape or form, they change in order to fit in or, on the contrary, stand out. In addition, being so observant of the world and people around them, Libra natives are exceptionally good at putting up a facade, acting and playing make-believe in order to get what they truly desire. As you can see, such techniques can be used with various intentions, both good and bad, but ultimately, the goal is to bring harmony and peace to the environment a Libra is in. And if harmony means being right and having the upper hand, well, a Libra will not hesitate to take action to suit themselves. After all, we're talking about a cardinal sign and as much as Libra is known for it's indecisiveness, they know what they truly want.

The Libra energy within Hanbin (his sun and mercury) contributes to his remarkable leadership skills, for as much as he is demanding, detailed and strict, he is also diplomatic, communicative, responsible and a fighter for justice.

take a look at any episode of their survival shows "win: who is next" or "mix & match" to truly understand what I mean. Hanbin always strives for perfection and ultimate dedication from his team, to use their abilities to the max and develop them with every practice session. he accepted no slacking and because he strived for a stunning visual experience of their performances, he put immense effort into leading his team to the top (along with writing/composing their tracks). of course, that required him to play good cop/bad cop and push the members (and himself) to their limits. cardinal energy at it's peak

Libra being a social and partnership-oriented sign, it takes action through relationships and interaction with others, which also explains the heavy influence he had on his team

as much as Libras may be airheads, they are very clever. they constantly analyse and evaluate their relationships and environment, wishing to improve themselves and their surroundings for others

imbalance and unfairness is a no-no⚡

Moon in Pisces

Ah, the soul of a true poet, the spirit of an artist, such is the essence of Hanbin's inner self and it is obviously reflected in his field of work.

Hanbin's quiet, shy and somewhat awkward side is granted by his moon. It may be quite challenging for him to speak about his actual emotions and whatever ups and downs he is experiencing, since it's difficult to understand them all in the first place.

While he is very much concerned about others' emotional well-being and is trying his best to help, reassure and console those who are in need of it, when it comes to his own feelings... It can get really complicated and foggy.

The notable Neptunian influence is bound to hide and confuse whatever it touches and in Hanbin's case, his moon gets overshadowed and is left unable to fully reveal itself. He most likely goes through periods of self-reflection (his Libra energy craving that as well), isolating himself for even just a little bit in order to clear his mind, to detect the roots of his problems and, hopefully, find a solution or at least some inner peace. Whatever it is, understanding himself definitely does not come easy. It's a whole journey that takes him to pretty deep and unclear waters, as Pisces is notoriously complex and multi-facetted. Hanbin's feelings are not just this or that, they are everything at once and go through pretty intense changes on a daily, which is a lot to process. Thus, self-expression in a more emotional sense is not his forte. Yet, that explains why writing down what he feels (music) can be an easier way of opening up to the world.

Accepting failure is most certainly harder for him, since Pisces is a very sensitive sign. In his position, it is important to find the strength to move on, which he does, yet emotional pressure hits him hard and disappointing others is his worst nightmare. In a sense, it can make him feel fragile and helpless, push him into a dark place where he swims for some time, almost drowning, almost surrendering. Melancholy is close to Pisces, as well as getting lost in their own heads, endlessly dreaming, wishing and thinking.

Hanbin has mentioned that he's not especially experienced in the field of love. yet, he has written many songs specifically associated with that. obviously, he draws inspiration from fiction and certain life situations, yet I cannot skip on his imagination. pisces are famous for having visions that are beyond vivid. their minds are full of wonder and distant worlds🌠and romance is a constantly present theme inside those worlds

in other words, the need for love is really prominent. it is a yearning

intuition is strong with this placement

despite being an avid thinker, a pisces moon often acts based on emotion and the heart's desire, rather than logic

sentimental and soft, though he may try to hide it

did someone order pink glasses?🌸💕

Libra Mercury

lovely tone of voice, pleasant manners, charming way of approaching people✨

not a fan of conflicts, he either avoids them or, if the need arises, finds strength to resolve it in the most peaceful way possible

a good example of his mercury in action is "iKON TV" (ep. 7, part 4) where he felt uncomfortable confronting the rude/provocative behavior of a man and wanted to end things on mutual understanding and good terms

afraid of harming people with his words

naturally polite to everyone, wants people to like him

open-minded about new ideas and loves hearing what other people have to say

beauty finds it's way into B.I's speech. again, this serves him well during writing and sometimes public speaking

fairness is a big theme here as well, won't tolerate unjust or foul words towards anyone

his mind is very much set towards the good things and traits in people or the world. it's a rather idealistic perspective, but Libras seek peace and equality within their lives. imbalance or lack of harmony throws them from the right path and that may lead to unwanted moodswings, unusual behavior or an overall negative response from the Libra native🎭

needs a lot of time to make decisions and process things (and especially what side he's on)

Venus in Virgo

highly detail-oriented, especially when it comes to other people

hardly ever satisfied, perfection is everything to him. this goes for himself and others as well

while dealing with a Virgo placement, notice how good they are at helping you improve and develop yourself and your work ethics. they are great at helping people, yet they might not be too good on themselves and their standarts. considering that Virgo is in Hanbin's venus, his standarts in relationships of any kind can be high. he's a selective kind💎 that can be both useful and too much to handle

Virgos show love through service, mostly when in comes to something practical

although this is an earth sign, it is ruled by mercury, which makes B.I not only down-to-earth, hard-working and determined, but also craving communication, variety and fun

enjoys people with a broad mind and diverse personality, someone who never stops learning🚀

considering that venus is in fall in the sign of Virgo, the planet doesn't sit well here. it feels like there's no air for venus to breathe in when trapped in the analytical mind of Virgo, where much emphasis is put on the smaller things and not the bigger picture

tbh writing, information and organizing is basically a turn on

needs loads of time for himself, to organize his throughts, progress, values and work. alone time is a must

highly intellectual. knowledge is power

shy. especially when he likes someone

cares a lot about anything and everything. oftentimes that leads to worry and anxiety, but in severe levels

spends money wisely, is very careful about it. never impulsive spending, thinks it through a lot

responsible

Mars in Leo

oohh, here we go🔥

a very obvious indication of natural leadership skills

mars feels comfortable here, in the fire-y sign of Leo, therefore brings loads of confidence to the table

cocky boi, lets be real

noticeable presence, strong ethics, fixed morals, big desires

takes much pride in his achievements/success and the leo withing him likes to show it off to the world, wear his power like a lion's mane 🦁

winning in life is what he lives for

the stage truly belongs to him, it feels right to be there and shine like a thousand stars, to be loved by many and to, most importantly, spread that love even more like a Leo is prone to do

receives attention quite easily, even if he's not asking for it

since adoration is enjoyable, especially for Leo placements, it is likely he may go out of his way to feel it, to experience the admiration from others. after all, he's a born performer and has all of the creativity to get what he wants🎬

as you can imagine, for a placement like this, losing is not an option. but when that happens, when things don't go well or they unwillingly put shame on their name, it's a big stab in the ego. Leos are never in a good place when they fail, therefore they do anything they can to always end up victorious. otherwise, they won't even compete

embarrassment and humiliation is a big NO

can be quite the drama queen when all worked up about an issue, definitely the type to demonstrate what they're feeling

Hanbin is a frequent gym visitor, which is really good for his Leo mars. that way he can manage his emotions better and calm down his high levels of energy

say hello to !passion!, she loves to be here and boost Hanbin with even more drive for conquering not only his goals, but also his love interests

ultimate hunter award? yeah, you got it

he truly loves to love, spread love, show love, be loved, make love, everything!❤️

big-hearted and very generous, he would share the world with you if he could, or better yet, give it to you🌌

That's it for this goofball🌈 Thank you for reading! I'm really excited to start this series once again (previously done with Monsta X) but now with iKON. Only 6 more members to go!

Hope you're having a lovely day, wherever you are🎈

#nana's post #kpop #astrology #ikon #b.i #hanbin #kim hanbin #libra #pisces #virgo #leo #libra sun #pisces moon #libra mercury #virgo venus #leo mars #natal chart #birth chart #he is such a goof omg please #either spaced out #and lowkey shy #or loud and super energized #or all of the above #i swear #strict but soft #loud but quiet #amazing #hope you enjoyed

[erisgregory]

The Reason Is You Chapter 5

cross posted to AO3

or start with chapter 1

Authors:  Crysty09, erisgregory

Crysty09′s tumblr

Rating: Explicit Archive Warning: No Archive Warnings Apply Category: M/M/M, Multi Fandom: Roswell New Mexico (TV 2019) Relationship: Michael Guerin/Alex Manes/Kyle Valenti, Alex Manes/Kyle Valenti Characters: Michael Guerin, Alex Manes, Kyle Valenti Additional Tags: background Isobel Evans/Maria DeLuca, background Max Evans/Liz Ortecho, Polyamory, Polyamory Negotiations, Threesome - M/M/M, Angst and Fluff and Smut Summary: Michael has been gone five years and when he finally returns to Earth it’s to find that Alex is married to Kyle. Isobel is about to be married to Maria and Max and Liz have a son. The world isn’t as he left it, which he should have expected, but now how will he find a place for himself? Will he ever get used to the new normal?

Michael rode by himself to the reception at the Wild Pony. It gave him time to prepare. Everyone would be celebrating and that meant he had to too. He didn’t want to spend the night miserable anyway.

Though when he walked in and saw all the flowers and decorations he knew his heart was only halfway in it. When the brides arrived the dancing started and for that Michael tried to stay back though Izzie pulled him out for a slow song.

“It means the world to me, to have you here.” She said softly.

“I’m glad I made it home.” He told her and just in that moment he was telling the truth.

Alex rode with the bridal party to the Wild Pony after they were dragged around for a while doing pictures. When they got inside, Kyle immediately found him, walking over and kissing him gently just as the dancing started. Alex leaned into Kyle, his eyes scanning the crowd and landing on Michael as Izzy pulled him onto the dance floor. "Dance with me?" Kyle breathed in his ear and Alex grinned, nodding and pulling him out onto the dance floor. They easily wrapped around each other and fell into step, "this is the first time we have danced since our own wedding," Alex whispered and Kyle smiled, "yeah and I still suck," they both laughed quietly.

Michael was trying to enjoy himself for Isobel and Maria’s sake, but when he saw Kyle and Alex on the dance floor he stumbled a step. Isobel caught on and released him so she could dance with Maria. He headed to the bar to grab a shot of whiskey and a beer to take with him to the back where he planned to hide out long enough for it to be acceptable to leave.

Kyle held Alex close, enjoying a few moments in their own little world. As the song ended, Alex looked up and saw Michael taking a shot at the bar and sulking away into the corner and he sighed. Kyle's eyes followed Alex's gaze and the wheels in his head continued to turn on an idea he was formulating. Alex shook his head, "let's grab some drinks before I have to go do my wedding party duties."

Michael found himself a table in the back where he could be found if necessary but where he could mostly mope in peace. Alex looked so happy, Michael knew he would never again ask him to leave Kyle. He skipped the buffet they set up, promising himself he would have cake later, but he was three beers and three shots in when people started making toasts and he remembered he had to make one too. Was it three or four, he wasn’t even sure.

Everyone knew that Alex wasn't much for public speaking and after some begging, he had convinced the brides not to force him to do a toast so he sat with Kyle as Liz made hers and Mimi spoke, followed by Max. He glanced at Michael, seeing him drinking another beer and he felt irritation flare in his gut as he wondered what his wedding speech was going to be like.

Michael grabbed a glass of champagne on the way to the mic. He hadn’t remembered to write anything ahead of time, so he was just going to wing it. The plan was to keep it short and simple.

“Hello, everyone. It’s so nice to see everyone here tonight to celebrate the wedding of two of our favorite people, Isobel and Maria.” Here the audience clapped so Michael figured he was doing pretty good.

“As most of you know, I’ve been gone the last few years, so I missed out on these two getting together and dating,” he laughed, “getting engaged. I almost missed the wedding. But I’m glad I didn’t because the love between two people is special and should be celebrated. We should all be so lucky, you know what I mean? Most of us will never come close to finding love, or if we do we won’t be able to keep it. We’ll leave and come back and the person we love most will be married to someone—“ That’s when Max grabbed his arm, stopping him.

“To the brides!” Max said raising his glass before dragging Michael off the stage.

He felt slight relief when Michael's toast started out fairly normal but Alex could feel himself tensing up the more Michael talked, was he seriously doing this? He glanced at Kyle who just shrugged slightly and as Max pulled Michael from the stage, Alex jumped up, grabbing him by the arm and pulling him down the small hallway, "what the fuck Michael?!" He growled once they were alone.

Michael jerked himself out of Alex’s grip. “What?” He asked.

He was vaguely aware that there must have been something wrong with his toast, but he didn’t know what. All he knew was that all night he’d just wanted to stay away from Alex and now here they were alone.

Alex glared at him, "really?" He asked, his tone flat. "first of all, I thought we discussed being sober for this, for Isobel," he crossed his arms, "and second of all, do you seriously not see ANYTHING wrong with the toast you just gave? Nothing about what you just said seemed inappropriate?"

“I haven’t had that much to drink.” Michael tried, but the truth was he wasn’t sure. “I don’t think. Besides people were enjoying the toast!” Maybe he had a vague recollection that he’d been talking about Alex at one point. That was a bit not good.

"Really?" Alex raised an eyebrow, "I have seen you take quite a few shots and beers and that's just what I was paying attention to." Alex could feel his irritation bubbling, "and you thought people were enjoying your speech about most people not finding love and the ones that do find it will lose that love? You think that's a happy wedding toast?"

“What of it, Alex? Why are you the one here telling me all of this?” Michael was angry and hurt and so what if the whole world knew?

He wiped his hand over his eyes. He did care, but he didn’t want to hear it from Alex of all people. Alex with his perfect husband and his perfect life.

“It’s not like those things are happening to you, is it? Or to Max or Isobel or anyone else?” He knew he was raising his voice but he couldn’t seem to stop. He felt his anger bubbling up inside and it was going to spill out any second now. A bottle burst on a table right outside the hall so Michael turned and punched the wall to keep his powers in check.

Alex ran a hand through his hair, "why? Because I'm the one that is embarrassed by what you said, who's heart broke when you talked about losing your love!" He replied, his own voice raising, "and no right now it's not happening to me, but not that long ago, I was the one that had to watch the man I love, that I have loved since I was 17, leave the fucking planet!" He nearly screamed, angry tears burning behind his eyes.

“I don’t seem to recall us being together when I left! We were barely on speaking terms! And don’t act like things didn’t work out perfectly for you!” Michael threw back. He was going to keep going but Kyle came down the hall and interrupted them.

“You two are causing a scene.” He told them in a hushed voice. “Jesus Michael, your hand!” He said trying to reach for Michael’s bloody hand, but Michael jerked It away.

“It’s fine. We’re done here anyway.” He spat.

"I don't seem to recall us not being together being my fault," he growled, "I wanted to be with you but you decided to be with my best friend." Alex was about to continue when Kyle came down the hall and he sighed, "shit," he breathed, "tell Maria and Izzy I'm sorry." He swallowed hard and turned to Kyle, "I gotta go, I'll see you at home," he turned and gave Michael an exhausted look and moved out the back door.

“Fuck!” Michael was clenching his fists in an attempt to keep from hitting the wall again or something worse. He couldn’t believe he’d just fought with Alex at Izzy and Maria’s wedding. He was embarrassed and angry at himself and hurt by Alex’s words.

#mylex #mylex fic #mylex fics #eris writes fics #the reason is you fic