lilyofthesword-writes

[lilyofthesword-writes]

Daily Writing Prompt - December 1st, 2023

Prompt: Describe the sensation of jumping into a pool of cold water.

Word Count: 89

A/N: This wound up being in reference to something I experienced as a child, only this has a more optimistic ending. When I slid down a rock into a coldwater spring (on purpose alongside a slog of people, mind you), I blacked out when hitting the water and my dad panicked. He jumped in after me, and I woke up to him grabbing me and swimming to the surface. If you don’t want a creative representation of that sensation, skip this one.

The primordial chill bites at my skin, sending lightning through my body. Everything turns black. Is it a lifetime or a mere moment when I open my eyes again? A wildfire spreads in my lungs, the motivation to swim toward the sun. It burns through my numb limbs.

Breaking the water’s surface is something I never thought would feel so relieving and exhilarating, a breath of fresh air in its purest form. My mind is as clear as the spring. I can take on the rest of the day.

#short story #ficlet #microfiction #original fiction #original ficlet #dailyprompt

[lilyofthesword-writes]

Daily Writing Prompt - November 30th, 2023

Prompt: Invent a new type of plant and describe its unique features.

Word Count: 76

A/N: I’ve decided to try my hand at some daily short writing prompts that I can do quickly to get the creative juices flowing again. Thought I would share them here. Any feedback is appreciated!

Round, mulberry-painted petals billow outwards, delicate doily edges catching the wind. The thin stalk supporting them miraculously stands proud. Below, indigo leaves sprout broadly and taper like a star into points curling up towards the moon and fickle clouds. Further still, the stalk’s moonlit color fades to rot as its necrotic roots clamor deep into a rich, freshly sown soil, searching for the remaining nutrients that promote its growth. The Tombstone Blossom has little time left.

#short story #microfiction #ficlet #short fiction #original ficlet #dailyprompt #original fiction #death flower #gravestone

[lilyofthesword-writes]

Honeymoons & Couches

Summary: You and Loki have finally married and are now partaking in the reception.

Pairing: Loki x Reader

Word Count: 906

Warnings/Disclaimers: Almost spicy

A/N: Again, thank you to everyone who kept reading my works while I was gone! You all are the best! Hope you enjoy this comfort fic.

Couches Mini-Series List

Masterlist

Despite the reception hall’s coalescence of extravagant gold laced expertly with emerald and silver that mesmerized each guest and helped keep them entertained, Loki was anxious.

The guest list was more than either of you had anticipated. Tony may have had something to do with that. Immediate family was set near the wedding party, and the Avengers who weren’t at the main table along with a few friends you both knew were nearby. That made up maybe a third of the room. The rest? Neither of you had a clue. Even after making your rounds together to check in on each table, you didn’t recognize a single face or name.

You had just sat down after making yet another round when your gaze landed on your families. Odin, your now official father-in-law, was smiling and making small talk with your parents. You raised a glass of champagne to your lips to keep your mouth from falling agape. It was surprising enough that Odin was in attendance in the first place. You hadn’t quite decided if his presence was in poor taste or not. After all, he had forbidden a royal wedding to a Midgardian from taking place on Asgard. Then again, if he had refused to show up at all, Frigga’s soul may have risen to haunt him for the rest of eternity.

You turned to Loki to see if he had observed the familial phenomena and froze. He was wringing his hands in his lap, well out of sight of the guests. He was smiling, but it was tired, and his eyes which were flitting about the hall held the same exhaustion. Well, at least it wasn’t Odin causing his anxiety. But… Maybe that wasn’t the right descriptor. Overwhelmed would be better.

It was time.

You scanned across the guests, finally landing on landing on Pepper near the back of the venue. It looked like she had pulled an almost drunk Tony aside for a chat, though her eyes watched everyone else. She caught your gaze and curved her brow. You raised your glass, swirled it exactly three times, and brought it to your lips before tapping it twice with your middle finger. Pepper nodded. She whispered something to Tony, and his eyes lit like beacons. He made a mad dash for the DJ equipment that Happy had utilized at for the obligatory first dance before dinner was served.

Reaching for Loki’s hand, you leaned over and kissed Loki’s cheek. It was the perfect cover for you to whisper, “You ready to run?”

Loki’s eyes drifted back to you but not for long. The feedback from the microphone Tony picked eye stole his and everyone else’s attention. Tony shouted something about starting a beat. You weren’t really sure. You were solely focused on Loki turning back to you with a lopsided smirk and glimmering eyes.

The lights fell and the music started.

Loki squeezed your hand before pulling you close. “More than ready.”

The flash of green blended in well the strobe lights and lasers that Tony was absolutely too ecstatic to use.

Loki kept you in his arms until your senses returned to normal. Although, he was reluctant to release you even then, but he was just as curious about the room Pepper had booked you for the week.

The honeymoon suite had the same color theme as the reception hall. Gold table runners adorned the dark mahogany furniture. One of which hosted a dark green bottle of champagne (as if you hadn’t had enough yet). Emerald petals that contrasted brightly against the white carpet trailed out of the sitting room and, more than likely, into the bedroom. If Pepper’s immaculate planning and eye for detail were just as evident here along with the wedding, the bedroom would be just as stunning.

You wrapped your arms around your husband’s neck and purred, “You know what would be great right now?”

“What, my darling?” Loki rested his forehead against yours.

“To change out of these clothes and into something more… comfortable.”

Loki grinned and raised hand as though he was about to snap his fingers. Your hand met his, and you laced your fingers together.

“Now where’s the fun in that?” you chuckled.

“But dove,” he pouted playfully.

You pulled away, pointing to the suitcases by the door. “Humor me? This won’t take long.”

And it wouldn’t. You were desperate to get out of your stiff wedding attire and surprise your husband with the new clothing Wanda and Nat and helped you pick out. You’d tear it off if you had to, with or without Loki’s help.

You quietly tip-toed down the hall back to the sitting room in the outfit you were sure would have Loki leaping off the sofa you left him at. Poking your head around the door, you found he was still there just as you had insisted.

He was asleep.

Slinking across the room, you reached the edge of the sofa where you could confirm his soft, deep breathing. He was out cold.

You breathed a laugh through your nose and returned to the bedroom. You came back with the bed comforter. After delicately draping it over Loki, you joined him underneath, tucking your head under his chin and sneaking your arms around him as comfortable as possible. He reciprocated almost instantly. You smiled and gently kissed his neck.

This certainly wasn’t the worst way to spend your wedding night.

Tag list: @nahthanks @lucywrites02 @whatafuckingdumbass @gaitwae

Edit: totally forgot to add the tag list when I posted xb

#loki x reader #loki x reader fluff #loki x you #loki fanfiction #loki fanfic #loki laufeyson #loki odinson #loki friggason #marvel fanfiction #marvel fanfic #mcu fanfiction #mcu fanfic #pepper potts #tony stark #happy #fanfiction #fanfic #fluff

[lilyofthesword-writes]

Hey, everybody!

So first of all, I want to thank everyone for continuing to read my stories here while I’ve been inactive. It means a lot and has been part of my inspiration to write a little more and become a bit more active.

I won’t be as active as I’d like. I’m trying to lean back into self care, which includes writing more. Slow process. I can’t promise when the next piece will be written or posted.

Here’s the good news: I have a new entry into the Loki Couches mini-series that will be dropping tonight. I hope everyone enjoys it! I had fun writing it. Definitely more of a comfort fic like most of this series.

#fanfic update #loki x reader update #loki fanfic update

[lilyofthesword-writes]

Ok so do you know those little star stickers that teachers in kindergarten gave you when you did something good? Well I just imagined Loki giving one of those to the reader every time he is proud of them??? And I just can't- could you please write something like this 'cause I really find this idea sweet ♥️♥️♥️ (you can totally ignore if you wish)

Stickers

Sorry not too long but it’s fluffy like you asked

Loki had found out what stickers were when he saw some on the back of your laptop, he was curious enough to ask what they are for and when you expressed how you just liked them because they look nice he took it to heart.

It started with him going out under cover and seeing some glittery stickers in some convenient store then giving them to you just because, but the way your eyes light up made his heart flutter.

Stickers became something he made sure to keep around, and whenever you looked exhausted from work or just in a bad mood after failing something he would go into his small secret drawer and stick one on your hand.

Sometimes he would say

"You did your best" or "this is your reward"

Personally you found it to be very cute and kept collecting them in a scrape book while he didn’t look.

As time passed Loki kept doing this tradition and your little scrap book wasn’t so little anymore, Loki liked to never buy the same sticker twice, resulting in him going out of his way to get new different ones.

You honestly don’t know where he finds the big ones with the water and glitter inside but you’re not complaining.

One morning you make some tea for the both of you and just slides a brand new with a little puppy on it.

"You don’t have to do this you know" you said.

"Yes" he took a sip of his warm drink "but I like the way your eyes shine whenever you get them"

A blush creep up your neck and you giggled "thank you"

"Anytime darling" his lips turned upwards, casting the gentlest smile.

#fucking adorable #loki x reader #loki x you #loki imagine #loki laufeyson #loki #mcu loki #loki/y/n #loki layfeyson x reader #fanfic #mcu #imagine

[lilyofthesword-writes]

Comas & Couches

Summary: Loki is severely injured while on a mission with Thor and falls comatose on the Quinjet. You and Thor wait at his bedside in the Tower, hoping he will wake soon.

Pairing: Loki x Reader

Word Count: 1,224

Warnings/Disclaimers: Mentions of a battle and injuries. And fluff.

A/N: Part of the Couches mini-series. Welp, this is what happens when I give myself a deadline for writing. My muse disappeared for a bit and just came back today. Hope everyone enjoys the long promised fluff piece, and happy new year!

Masterlist

Thor startled in his seat at the loud bang from down the hall, unaware he had fallen asleep. He blinked away drowsy sand, revealing why he was here in the first place. Laying unconscious in the hospital bed before him was Loki.

Their mission had soured worse than milk under a summer sun, their weaknesses exploited. It was all Thor could manage when he rescued his battered brother from the onslaught, opting to return to the Quinjet instead of the Bifrost. Aggravating Loki’s injuries further was not on his list of priorities. Thor’s eyes remained plastered open even after dressing the trickster’s wounds.

He had refused to sleep even after the Quinjet landed at the Tower and Loki was carted away into the ICU. The lobby just outside the double doors was where the nurses forced him, or more like strongly suggested until he relented, to wait. They abandoned him to his cursing at the mobile phone he had promised he would learn to use and uncomfortably tiny chairs. He lost track of how long he had paced around the room by the time the nurses called for him.

Thor slumped forward, elbows resting on the mattress as he stared at his brother like he would wake up through mere wishful thinking. He reached out and grasped Loki’s hand. It was chilled, more so than usual.

Please, wake. If not for my sake, then for theirs…

Distant shouting stole Thor’s attention, followed by a myriad of rushed footsteps that grew louder by the second until he could finally make out the owners’ words.

“You can’t be in here! This is a restricted area!”

“Please! Only family members are allowed right now.”

Thor recognized the two voices as belonging to the nurses who had barred him out earlier.

“You know who I am. We live together in this building. Why is that not good enough?” a third voice retorted.

Thank the Norns! I did successfully text someone!

“You’re not m—”

“Married? Just because we’re not legally bound means I can’t see him?”

The footsteps stopped just outside the door.

“W-well,” the second nurse stuttered, “We were, we were told not to—”

Thor jumped to his feet and grabbed the door handle.

“Not to let me see him? By who? Fury? Because if it is, he’d better not let me find him.”

He swung the door open, a half-hearted grin on his face. “I would rather enjoy that hunt.”

A small amount of relief trickled onto your face when your eyes met.

“S-sir! We apologize for disturbing you.”

The first nurse stepped up, gesturing at you. “We’ll handle this.”

“No need. I specifically asked for them to come.” Thor waved the nurses off.

“But sir—”

Thor stepped aside to grant you passage into the room.

“Family is not bound by blood or ink.”

And with that, he shut the door on them.

You choked out a gasp and rushed to Loki’s side. One hand found his while the other brushed away tiny tendrils of hair wafting onto his forehead. Your eyes threatened a torrent of tears that you dammed with silence. Thor took back he seat, unwilling to break your concentration, to watch you lose control. If you started to cry, so would he.

Thor lost track of the minutes as he watch you stroke Loki’s tangled mop of hair. It was when your hand left the trickster’s head to instead clench the over-bleached sheets that he knew you were ready to talk. He wasn’t sure if it was fortunate or unfortunate that your gaze remained averted.

With wavering inhalation, you began, “What happened?”

Some hours and much coaxing later, you were bundled up on the stiff couch at the end of the room, soaking in the ghost of Thor’s warmth left over from when he had taken his turn to sleep. Thor knew you were still awake, merely feigning slumber for his sake. He would never forgive himself if he allowed you neglect your own health… And neither would Loki.

Thor’s gaze wandered back to his younger brother, and he leaned back in his chair, a dejected sigh escaping him.

Don’t make us wait much longer… Please…

It was almost as though his internal whispering was said aloud. Loki’s jaw twitched. Then his eye lids fluttered, followed by his fingers and a sharp, deep breath. Thor could only watch as the mischievous god’s body pieced itself together to reveal some semblance of a conscious person. When Loki finally opened his eyes, Thor barely managed to tamp down a joyous holler. Startling the only other people in the room would surely invoke yours and Loki’s wrath.

“Thor…” Loki called out, voice low and hoarse. “Where are—”

“The Tower, brother. We live to fight another day.”

Thor’s hand clamped down on Loki’s shoulder, earning him a painful grimace. With an apologetic squeeze, Thor released him.

“Where—”

The god of thunder chuckled and pointed across the way to you. “Over there. You wouldn’t believe how many promises I made in order to get them to rest.”

“Oh?” A wry smile tugged at Loki’s lips. “I hope you intend to keep every one of them. I would hate to see what happens if you are the cause of their disappointment.”

You are definitely healing well, brother.

Thor moved to stand. “Then, I suppose I must wake them now.”

“No!” Loki snatched at his arm. “W—wait…”

“Are you preventing me from fulfilling my first promise?” Thor teased.

“I— I must speak with you first.”

Loki’s mouth was set in a hard line. His eyes were on you. Was it longing or guilt that Thor recognized in his gaze? Perhaps both.

The older god settled and answered with expectant silence.

Loki softly cleared his throat. “I need your help,” he muttered.

As desperate as Thor was to take advantage of the moment, he bit back the quip dancing on his tongue. It was rarer than someone other than Thor being able to lift Mjolnir.

“With what, brother?”

Continuing to stare at you, Loki elaborated, “I… I hear it is a popular custom for Midgardians to… to present a ring to their beloved as part of a marriage proposal…”

If Thor’s grin could have grown larger, it would have split his face in half.

“Say no more. I would be honored to help.”

Loki’s mouth flopped open and close before he turned to Thor with grateful, teary eyes.

“But first you must rest and heal.”

“Now see here—”

Thor shook his head, that smile still plastered on his face. “No compromises. I understand you wish to do this as soon as possible, but this was part of our agreement.” He motioned to you and noticed the tiniest sly smirk playing with your features. “And I fully intend to keep every one of my promises.”

Before Loki could stop him, he was calling out your name. In response, you stretched like you truly had been asleep and sat up. Loki had a mixture of a scowl and a pout as you meandered over and settled on the opposite side of the bed. With a snicker, Thor patted Loki’s shoulder and rose to his feet to leave and afford you two some privacy.

“You heard everything…”

“Yeah,” you nodded, leaning forward and kissing Loki’s forehead. “And for the record, the answer is yes.”

Tag list: @nahthanks @lucywrites02 @whatafuckingdumbass @gaitwae

#loki x reader #loki x you #loki fanfic #loki laufeyson #loki odinson #loki friggason #loki marvel #loki mcu #loki fanfiction #marvel fanfiction #mcu fanfiction #loki fluff #fanfiction #fanfic

[lilyofthesword-writes]

Descriptions are my least favorite part of writing, particularly setting descriptions. They’re very important but I always feel like time drags when I put them down on paper and that they break up the flow of my work. But, like I said, they’re NEEDED and don’t break up the flow at all! I just dislike doing them so intensely that I feel that way

To combat this, I’ve been doing a writing exercise lately where I choose a mundane object (like “dish” or “leaf” or “street”) and write at least three separate descriptions about them, usually in three separate states.

I described a broken plate, an ornate plate, and an old plate with knife scratch marks on it.

For leaf, I described a leaf caught under a chair, a bright green leaf in a tree, and a half-eaten leaf in a garden.

For street, I described a busy intersection, a street at night after rain, and a street in an abandoned neighborhood.

By doing this, I’ve expanded my range of “ready made” descriptions. When I write an urban scene at night, I can recall this exercise and reference the description I already made for “street”. I’ve found this helps me get through descriptions quickly so I don’t feel like it’s breaking up the work.

I’ve also found that it’s helped me find more joy in describing specific elements of the scene. By taking the time to look at objects around me and very intentionally looking for descriptions, I’ve found that I like looking at leaves/streets/dishes! I think some of that joy translates into my writing now.

Doing daily exercises like this is what helps me stay consistent in my writing practice and develop my technical skills. This particular exercise is about setting, but I also have a few for syntax, narrative time management, dialogue, etc

Writing is a skill! Nobody wakes up and writes the perfect story with all the perfect tricks of the craft. It takes analysis and practice.

#Never thought about it like this before #very helpful #writing advice #writing descriptions

[lilyofthesword-writes]

And kinda sorta back! Working on a little something to get the writing juices flowing again. It should be ready by the end of the week.

#loki is my muse #spending to much time working #… and letting my brain think of horror short stories #… and raising a puppy #weird combo

[lilyofthesword-writes]

The Reminder (The Mandalorian Oneshot)

Summary: Cobb Vanth decides it would be a good idea to flirt with you. It doesn’t go well for him.

Pairing: Mando/Din Djarin x Reader (established)

Word Count: 780

Warnings/Disclaimers: Like… One curse word, reference to past spiciness.

A/N: Yay crack fic! Randomly had a thought, and built the entire story off that. Had to get it out while on break. Have fun!

Cobb Vanth confidently sauntered over to the cantina table you shared with Mando. The liquid courage coursing through his veins painted a light sheen on his skin. You huffed a laugh as his attempt to lean on the table resulted in his hip knocking it hard enough for him to stumble. The Sheriff of Mos Pelgo then nearly failed to right himself when his feet caught on each other. His hand smacked the table’s surface for support in what he probably believed was a smooth recovery. 

You had to bite the inside of your cheek to keep silent. In your peripheral, Mando’s arms folded across his chest as he leaned back. His vocoder allowed the tiniest chuckle to escape. You both had the same thought.

Here we go, again.

“Hey there, Darlin’,” he greeted you for the second time tonight. “You’re lookin’ mighty fine tonight.”

His lopsided grin that was supposed to be a charming smile almost broke the indifferent facade you were holding. You briefly wondered how nice it must be to wear a helmet like Mando’s in moments like this. Oh, well. You’d make do for now.

“Right. Thanks, Vanth,” you replied, mouth set straight with sarcasm leaking through.

Mando’s arm came to rest on the back of your chair. One of his fingers absentmindedly brushing against your arm like he had during Vanth’s previous sober attempt at flirting.

“I’m serious,” the Sheriff continued to push. “Do you have a permit for looking this good?”

You immediately grabbed your mug of Spotchka, pretending to drink so you could hide the smirk that would definitely give the wrong idea. If you had to choose, sober Vanth was better. His ladies’ man persona was a bit more toned down. He was a friend. This guy? It was too much. Although… you wished you were able to record this solely so you could play it back to him later when he had his wits about him.

Setting the mug back down, your smile left with it. You leaned forward and perched your chin on your hands. Vanth shuffled his feet, unraveling under your mock scrutinizing gaze.

His mouth twitched before asking, “Something wrong, Darlin’?”

“Yeah…” You looked him up and down. “I can’t see it.”

“See what?” Vanth’s head cocked to the side.

“Anything coming out of your mouth.”

He faltered, confusion winning out. “Wha—”

“I can’t see it coming out of your mouth, but it sounds like a load of bantha shit,” you reiterated. 

Mando’s arm shifted. His shoulders bounced with quiet laughter. Vanth, however, was flabbergasted. His mouth hung open, ready to catch flies.

“I, uh… I think, I think I need another drink,” he stammered.

Vanth spun on his heels, nearly tripping from the added dizziness, and stumbled back to the bar.

You relaxed into your seat, into the comfort Din’s arm provided your shoulders.

“When will he learn?” Din chuckled.

His helmet nudged your temple, and you leaned into it.

“Pretty sure he just wants to get a rise out of you.”

“I don’t get jealous,” he scoffed, his fingers tracing your bicep.

You turned your head and hoped your eyes were meeting his through the helmet visor.

“Yeah? Then what happened on that last hunt?”

He squeezed your arm. “I don’t know what you’re talking about, Cyar’ika.”

Only you could catch that playful bite to his challenging tone.

“Mhmm. So you breaking the bounty’s fingers when he grazed my hip while I was supposed to be undercover was not you being jealous?”

“Nope.”

“Don’t touch what isn’t yours,” you parroted with a smirk.

Din pulled back with a shrug. “I was stating a fact.”

“Sure, sure.” You teased and shifted closer, turning your head to speak softly where his ear would be. “And when we got back to the Crest? That wasn’t related?”

His posture stiffened with that one.

“Cyare,” he warned.

Like that would stop you.

“What was it you said… Oh yeah, you were showing me who I ‘belonged to’.”

“Do you need a reminder?” he challenged.

It was almost startling how he didn’t miss a beat.

“Nope.” You just grinned, patting his helmet where his cheek would be before rising to your feet. “But I might want one.”

Vanth watched from his bar stool as you scurried out the door with Mando hot on your heels. Not once had he ever thought he would need pointers on how to flirt successfully, especially from a Mandalorian who never showed his face or spoke more than needed. Yet, here he was, concocting ways to convince Mando to teach him. What a shame he would forget them all by the time he woke the following morning.

#din djarin x reader #din djarin x you #the mandalorian x reader #the mandalorian x you #din djarin #cobb vanth #star wars #star wars fanfiction #the mandalorian fanfic #the mandalorian fanfiction #fanfiction #fanfic #crack fanfic #sorry not sorry #say hello to a thought from my sleepy brain at two in the morning after taking our new puppy outside for the bathroom

[lilyofthesword-writes]

Silk & Resin (Original)

Summary: A disgraced Corporal attends a parade intended to celebrate a war won and witnesses his former companions being honored for their contributions.

Word Count: 1,000

Genre: Sci-Fi

Location: Military Parade

Object: Toothbrush

Warnings/Disclaimers: PTSD, Allusions to the past and current violence (nothing in explicit detail)

A/N: And here is my piece for the latest 1000 Word Flash Fiction challenge. I didn’t proceed to the third round for the 100 Word Microfiction Challenge, but there is still hope here! Hope everyone enjoys!

A siren’s song of cheers draws the Corporal through his door. The dilapidated streets are lined with shoulder-to-shoulder citizens. He shudders at the thought of being trapped in that crowd. Standing on his stoop will do just fine. The hooping and hollering intensifies as holograms of the President fill in the empty spaces. The Corporal can only assume this is a worldwide broadcast.

“Thank you, everyone, for coming together on this auspicious occasion where we will celebrate our victory over the Gramen, commend our soldiers and commemorate those lost,” the President begins.

The Corporal leans against the railing. This should be good.

“As you all know, ten years ago marked the climax in repurposing the technology used to initiate terraforming Mars, a process continuing to this day.”

Terraforming diagrams replace the President.

“These machines were retrofitted to replenish Earth, to give us a chance to save it. Our planet would have dwindled and decayed before we could send the first settlers to Mars were it not for this.”

The Corporal rolls his eyes and massages his twinging left thigh. Just another politician awkwardly patting himself on the back.

A 3D rendition of revived farmland comes into view.

“Plant life was restored. It grew healthier, stronger, more vibrant, and most of all intelligent. The latter unexpected result nearly caused our downfall. The new life forms were dubbed Gramen for their weed-like vitality, growth, and reproduction.”

The President returns.

“The land untouched by cities and farms was not enough to sustain them. Their hunger turned towards civilization. For ten years, we have battled the Gramen.”

The Corporal snorts. 

“For ten years, more battles were lost than won. For one decade, our blood was spilled. But no more! The Gramen finally have been eradicated!”

A growl escapes the Corporal. The lack of explanation doesn’t digest well. Nine years of service and humanity had only just begun to win in the past year. How?

“Today, we celebrate and praise our military for their valiant efforts as they march down our streets to return home!”

The holograms fizzle off as the marching band music signals the start of the parade. The pixelated balloons and confetti flutter from the projectors, glitching sporadically as they rise out of range, rushing towards a sky they will never reach. 

The Corporal observes the onlookers as they push uncomfortably close together. Most grin and wave at the platoons hovering by. Every now and then, he spots a person with an all too familiar frown or glazed expression - another living brother of battle who would never be recognized.

His lips purse and curl similarly when he spots his former Sergeant leading the company he was once part of. Bile bubbles in his throat, and his fists clench and unclench rhythmically, teeth grinding worse than in his sleep. Spinning on his heels, he reaches for the door knob before he is caught in the Sergeant’s smug gaze as he waves to the crowd while completely ignoring his soldiers’ somber demeanors. The door refuses to open.

The Corporal huffs and bumps his forehead against the door. A full year after his discharge and he still isn’t used to the retina scans installed for every home. By the time the door unlocks, he is fairly sure the Sergeant has spotted him. He can feel the back of his head burn.

Smug bastard must think himself a comedian.

He lamely storms inside.

Collapsing in his chair, he barely notices the brief vibrations under the flooring. He looks up at the faux snake plant in the corner. The amalgamation of silk and resin creates a perfect replica of what ended his career and nearly his life. He remembers the giant red bow that had adorned it the first time he stepped into the home the government assigned to him, the bow he had shredded along with the accompanying card from the Sergeant. Not a day goes by without the visions of failed flames engulfing him as impervious leaves crushed his bones, making him wish they had finished the job. How does humanity still find so much comfort in nature that decorations like this can still be produced?

Nausea sweeps over the Corporal once again, and he darts to the bathroom. He empties the remains of the breakfast he had eaten almost two hours ago into the toilet and numbly gazes at the sonic waves cleaning the bowl automatically. Using the toilet as leverage, he heaves himself back up and hobbles to the sink where he attempts to gargle the aftertaste out. It isn’t enough. He’s not even sure brushing his teeth would help but snatches the antique-inspired toothbrush anyway. Vigorously scrubbing his teeth and gums gives him something else to focus on. 

The cacophonous celebration reverberates into the room. He scours harder. He could ask his home’s standard AI Sandra to apply noise cancelling, but with his luck, it would only amplify the crowd. He rids himself of the stale toothpaste, silently missing the artificial mint flavoring long since removed from the recipe, and returns to the living room. The ornamental greenery catches his eye. Has it always been that tall? He shakes his head with a sigh. 

No, you paranoid fool. Fake plants don’t grow.

Before he sits, he feels the rumbles once again. The Corporal grimaces. It can’t be the parade. Soldiers haven’t marched with their feet stomping the ground since he was a boy. His thigh throbs more than ever. And then he hears the first scream.

Shrieks replace the cheers. The light tremor starts to feel more like an earthquake, and the Corporal latches onto his chair to remain upright. Outside his window, he sees panicking pedestrians sprinting away to no avail. Crackling concrete and pavement uproot, destroying any path to salvation. The sound of the plasma shield encasing the city shorting out invades his ears as smoke rises.

The Corporal feels his pants leg tighten. Looking down, he discovers green and yellow tendrils snaking up his thigh. 

#FlashFictionChallenge2022 #original story #scifi #sci fi short stories #original sci fi story #sci fi #scifi short story #scifi fiction #sci fi fiction #flashfiction challenge 2022 #flash fiction #sci fi story #scifi story

[lilyofthesword-writes]

Absolutely love this!

Time is everything we may not have

Bruce Wayne x F!Reader

“You better not stay too late.” You glance up from your computer, smiling at the man in your office doorway. Lucius Fox has his jacket thrown over his shoulder. He taps on the glass door, most likely making a note to text your husband to check on you. 

Your laugh bounces across the room. “I promise. It’s not even ten, Mr. Fox.” You make a few unnecessary keyboard clicks for emphasis. 

“Well, Mrs. Wayne,” he pauses as he puts his jacket on. “It’s a Saturday. We shouldn’t have been here to begin with.” 

You pinch the bridge of your nose as you laugh again. Bruce had forgotten to submit a few government reports earlier this week, forcing you and a few select others to work overtime.

Being married to Bruce Wayne definitely had its overall pros and cons. Pro: wonderful, dutiful, and caring husband. Con: tasteless vigilante at night; you know, normal things. All bats aside, you loved your life. You helped raise some pretty amazing children. You worked at Wayne Enterprises alongside Lucius, one of the few sane people in your life. You and Alfred even had special weekly tea nights. The Dark Knight barely reared its ugly head on your side of the story.

You exchange a few more pleasantries before goodbyes, promising Lucius to text him whenever you head out. The morning light still illuminated your area, cascading to the corners of your top floor office. You finish all that your husband failed to do within the next two hours or so, swearing to yourself that you’ll have to keep him more accountable next time. You pack your bag, putting your heels back on before heading out. As you walk, your mind wanders to what tea Alfred has potentially left out for you.

Keep reading

#batman x you #batman x reader #bruce wayne x reader #bruce wayne x you #batmom #damian wayne #dick grayson #Superman #wonder woman

[lilyofthesword-writes]

For any of you who are writing ‘across the pond’-here is a little guide I put together of some common differences between British and American English!

#I know this isn’t a writing reference blog #But this incredibly useful! #useful #writers on writing #writers on tumblr #writblr community #writing tips #writing advice #writing inspiration #writing

[lilyofthesword-writes]

Blackberry Earl Grey Tea (Loki Oneshot)

Summary: Unable to follow his normal Monday morning routine, Loki forces himself to visit his favorite bookstore on a different day.

Word Count: 1,380

Pairing: Loki x Writer!Reader

Warnings/Disclaimers: None.

A/N: Aaaand random flash fiction! This idea popped into my head and wouldn’t leave until I wrote it out. Enjoy!

Loki enters the little bookstore tucked away amidst the towering department stores and high-end specialty shops like he does nearly every Monday morning. He is beside himself as he surveys the interior.

The unassuming storefront can easily be lost to anyone who isn’t a regular. Once inside, it is like being transported to another realm. It’s quaint and quiet, the absolute opposite of the bustling New York City streets just outside the doors. 

The aisles are lined with bookcases no taller than him, each with a proud variety of well organized literature in every genre. He can always find something new to read, and in those moments when he feels more nostalgic for the classics, he can find them with his eyes closed. 

A lovely cafe is nestled in the back corner where Loki often finds himself with a cup of the weekly special tea and a book or two he had purchased a few minutes beforehand. It’s no royal library of Asgard, but for him, it is the next best thing. Certainly better than the Avengers Tower.

However, at this moment, he is not so sure.

It is a Friday. In the afternoon.

The shop is more crowded than usual. High school and college students meander about, to-go coffee cups in their grasps as they peruse the book collections. A few parents who could not bear to let their children wander the city unattended accompany the younger students.

Loki’s hands find their way into his slacks’ pockets. The few people who notice him turn away from his dejected demeanor and go about their own business. He goes the opposite way from them, from where he usually goes, nearly tripping over small table in the process.

He scowls at the idea of something else new imposing on him before realizing what the table is for. A daintily blue table cloth covers it to highlight a series of novels all with the same dark-tinted artwork. Author-less pens are lined up in a neat row in between the stacked books on either end of the table. One of the books is propped up to showcase the title. He picks it up and reads the synopsis on the back cover. 

A horror novel.

It’s not what he generally reads. For a god now more than a millennia old, there isn’t much that can scare him. Midgardian horror has not proven to be among the rare few. Yet, for some reason, he feels a pull towards it like it’s begging him to read it. He looks down at the author’s name. Why is it so familiar?

“Woah! Loki? Didn’t expect to see you here.”

The mischievous god turns to see one of the store clerks carrying a small box.

“Well, Jonathan, I could not miss this week’s tea selection,” Loki teases with a blank stare.

At least there was someone working today who he was used to.

Jonathan’s face contorts with mock offense. “And here I thought you came for the books!”

Allowing the corner of his lips to twitch upwards, Loki holds up the found novel. “I suppose I am this time.”

The clerk gasps and sets down his box. “Oooh! That’s a good one!”

“Is it, now?”

“Yeah! I could not put it down. And to think it was written by one of our own,” he continues with sparkling stars in his eyes.

Loki’s brow shoots up his forehead. “A coworker wrote this?”

“And designed and self-published it. The owner caught wind and fell hard for it. She wanted to promote it. Hence why all this is here.” Jonathan gestures to the signing table.

“Hmm…” the god muses. “What has the reception been thus far?”

“It’s been… Decent… This is their first novel, so better than anticipated. Although…” Jonathan leans in conspiratorially. “It would help if they would actually stay at the table.”

“And where might they be now?”

“Probably hiding away in the cafe.” The clerk thinks for a moment before a smirk rises on his mouth. “You know… I bet they would love to talk to you about their book. You should go get your coveted tea and sit with them.”

Loki scowls. “Just how to you expect me to find them? I do not know what they look like.”

Picking up his box, Jonathan starts to head down one of the aisles. “Oh, I don’t know. Use your magic. Or better yet, your eyes.”

The boy is out of sight before Loki can retort. 

By the Norns, what was that supposed to mean?

He flips the book in his hand over, opening it and flipping through the pages. With a sigh, he taps the spine to his open palm and heads towards the front register. His curiosity consumes his mind and will not be contained.

After purchasing the novel, he takes his route to the back corner. The chalkboard sign in front of the cafe lists the specials with one entry that catches his eyes: Blackberry Vanilla Earl Grey. It’s a different combination than he is used to, but he does quite enjoy Earl Grey tea. He orders his beverage and proceeds to lean against the pickup counter. Here he can observe the cafe’s occupants.

More college students. Most of these young adults have their laptops open in front of them with notebooks and papers scattered about and a telltale coffee in arms reach. Last minute essay writing. He has seen the Spiderling do this enough on a few of his visits to the Tower to know this for sure. One person does stand out to him.

They are in a corner table meant for two, though the second chair is vacant. Their face is buried in a large book that manages to only show the top of their head. That hair color and style…

“One Blackberry Vanilla Earl Grey for Loki!”

Loki spins and shoots a devastating glare at the barista for being so obnoxious. Her eyes are filled with a similar glint as Jonathan’s earlier and dart towards the corner he was just staring at. He follows her gaze to find the person he had been studying was looking up in their direction.

It was you.

“Sorry about that. Didn’t see you there,” the barista lies through her grin.

You snap out of your deer-in-the-headlights moment when you meet Loki’s eyes and throw yourself back into your book.

Loki raises an eyebrow at the barista. “I suppose no harm, no foul.”

He accepts her offering of tea before making his way to your table. He stands at the opposite end waiting for your attention. Your shoulders tense. It takes a moment for you to venture a glance over your book. A natural curve forms on his lips, rewarding him with you allowing the near-tome to angle away from you.

“Good afternoon,” he starts, your name rolling off his tongue.

“Hi— Hi… What a surprise to see you here… See you here today, I mean,” you stammer adorably.

Loki chuckles, “So you do speak.”

Your fingers tighten around your book and threaten to use it to hide behind like you do every Monday morning after a shy smile. Only then, it’s Jonathan as your shield.

“I— Um…”

“I jest, sweetling.” He shakes his head fondly and waves to the empty seat. “May I?”

You nod slowly, only setting your book down when he is fully seated with his tea in front of him.

“So, what, umm… What brings you here?”

Your face is pointed down at the table, and you look up at him through your lashes like they will conceal you as well as your book had.

“This actually.” He holds up the novel you wrote. Before the panic in your eyes spill into your coming words, he continues, “I have only just purchased it, and it remains unread. I was told the author would be stowed away here.”

You blink blankly as though processing what is unfolding.

“I was hoping to speak with you to learn more about it.” He sees one of your fingers twitch next to your cup. Its contents match the ones in his own that he has yet to try. His smile widens. “And also its author. But first… How is the tea?”

Tag Lists:

Loki (General): @nahthanks @lucywrites02 @whatafuckingdumbass @gaitwae

#loki x reader #loki x you #loki fanfic #loki fanfiction #loki oneshot #loki fluff #loki laufeyson #loki odinson #loki friggason #loki marvel #loki mcu #fanfiction #fanfic

[lilyofthesword-writes]

Well, here’s a little treat for everyone! I had an idea the other day, and it wouldn’t leave me alone until I wrote it out. The full thing is schedule to post at 2:30pm on tomorrow (Saturday). Have a Loki x Reader snippet!

Loki scowls. “Just how to you expect me to find them? I do not know what they look like.”

Picking up his box, Jonathan starts to head down one of the aisles. “Oh, I don’t know. Use your magic. Or better yet, your eyes.”

The boy is out of sight before Loki can retort.

By the Norns, what was that supposed to mean?

#loki x reader #loki x you #preview #snippet #loki fanfic #loki oneshot #loki fanfiction #loki laufeyson #loki odinson #loki friggason #loki marvel #loki mcu #loki fluff

[lilyofthesword-writes]

Impossibly Redeemable - 26 - Fortune Car

Summary: Shortly after faking his death in Svartalfheim to fool Thor, Loki wakes up to find himself in a  realm that is not the one he “died” in. After meeting another person in  a similar predicament, he learns the only way home is through  redemption. But how can he possibly do that? Monsters like him don’t deserve redemption, do they?

Pairing: Loki x F!Reader

Word Count: 1,096

Disclaimers/Warnings: Dark, creepy atmosphere. Spookums... Kind of.

A/N: This is one a bit short. It’s more of an interlude to the coming chapters. Now that I have a handful of them planned out, I feel like I can get through these chapters a bit faster. Let's see how this goes! :D

Masterlist

Loki swept Eva up into his arms and pulled you close as the door slammed shut. It stole what little light had existed in this car. Even a god’s eyes could not penetrate this kind of suffocating darkness.

None of you could muster the courage to speak. It was as if your voices had been taken with the light. All you could do was listen, and there was nothing. Even the sounds of breathing seemed stifled, muffled even, like a cloth bag had been placed over your heads. Loki focused everything on his own hearing, hoping to catch something, anything that might lead them to the exit.

And then… Rustling.

A ragged groan followed by phlegm-riddled breaths.

Eva’s arms coiled around Loki’s neck, face burying in his neck. Your fingers clutched so tightly to his tunic he thought for a split second you might shred the fabric.

“Show yourself!”

Loki surprised himself when he growled out his demand. It shocked him more when its recipient complied.

Candles of various sizes burst to life, encircling your company in warm light. One lit after the other as if to lead your eyes. A distraction, perhaps?

The god focused straight ahead to where he heard the sounds before. With each new flame, he could see more of a hunched, shadowed figure. It stood, fabrics billowing down its form. Its silhouette stretched long and thin, taller than Loki. A pair of arms reached out and back to tame the wiry hair that seemed to reach out to the light. Another pair adjusted the remaining fabric still clinging to its form.

The trail of candles finally made its way to the being. Even the golden hues reflected off its skin were not enough to give the grayed, wrinkled leather the essence of life. Although, it did highlight the starry night blue robes laden with golden accents. The outline of what looked like a rounded snout turned in your direction, and fire danced in the creature’s nuumite eyes. Its second set of hands settled on its back.

Pop!

They groaned, exorcising a cough in the process.

“It’s about time you showed up,” they exclaimed, gravel still stuck in their throat. “Excuse the poor reception. I fell asleep waiting.”

“Waiting?” Loki’s grip on you and Eva tightened. “For us?”

“Are you daft, boyo? Of course, I have! Who else would I be waiting for?” they spat.

The god sputtered in response, shoving the words on his tongue back into a locked chest. He wouldn’t risk angering this creature when he still didn’t know what they could do.

“Yes, yes. ‘I beg your pardon!’ You are a god and should be treated as such,” they mockingly continued for him. “Now come along! I haven’t got all day.”

“For wha—”

“Have you not put together the clues yet, boyo? Silver tongue is sharp, but the mind is dull.” 

They shuffled around to a clearing in the candle. With a wave of their arms, a large table appeared, draped in indigo velvet. A deck of cards were lazily spread out next to a clear crystal ball.

“Now get over here before I change my mind. I took time out of my schedule for this. Don’t make it a waste of my time.”

Loki’s jaw fell slack. This creature (person?) knew who he was and had the gall—

“What did I just say? Enough lallygagging! Trickster god, little chemist, child of the train. I suggest you get your legs working again!”

Pride bubbled and boiled in his chest. It was threatening to boil over when your hand grazed his cheek, redirecting his attention. 

“Loki,” you coaxed, “I think we should do as she says.”

Eva still clung to him tightly, but her face wasn’t completely concealed in the crook of his neck anymore. It peered out fearfully but with an air of curiosity. Your free hand found his on your waist and entangled them with an encouraging squeeze.

“You might want to listen to your partner, boyo.”

A grimace settled on Loki’s face. With a sigh lingering in his lungs, his shoulders drooped and eyes softened.

“And what say you, little dove?” he consulted Eva.

Her head lifted as she surveyed the seer with scrutiny. Her decision didn’t take long. 

“Yeah.” She nodded. “I think… I think she has something important for us.”

The seer cleared their throat, more for attention than anything. There wasn’t anything in all the realms that would dislodge the voice-degrading phlegm for them to speak smoothly.

“Excellent. Now that everyone is in agreement… Come over here and sit down!”

Eva squirmed in her seat that was designed more for the quick fortune telling than comfort. You managed to sit still, but your narrowed eyes were evidence of just how sore you truly were. Loki was feeling telltale pinpricks in his feet. He was about to conjure cushions for the three of you when the seer finally finished shuffling their oracle deck and laid down the first card.

Cracked mirror.

“Mmm, yes. Already knew this one. Traumatic pasts. Next.”

Glowing rose quartz.

“Current state: True love, friendship, family.” They up glance up at your tense forms. “Also obvious.”

Broken bridge over a river.

“Hmm… Interesting. An event will come to pass that will cause a rift.”

Loki glared hard at the card.

Hummingbird hovering.

“Quite soon, actually.”

Your hand met his under the table.

Unbalanced scales weighing a heart.

“When things are laid bare.”

Dark forest with a thin crescent moon.

“The results of this event are… unclear.”

Loki’s brow knit together.

“Unclear?” you responded.

The seer nodded. Their secondary left hand hovered over the crystal ball. Dark, foggy clouds rose and swirled inside.

“Hidden even… Perhaps the Conductor’s doing…” they mumbled so softly that even Loki had trouble picking it up.

Silence swelled in the room with only the faint interruption of the candles flickering.

Your other hand came to rest upon both yours and Loki’s that were joined. The god nearly jumped out of his skin. Your eyes were alit with worry… And more pain? He looked down at your hands and loosened his grip that he had unknowingly tightened. Your fingers flexed in an attempt to soothe the irritated tingling. 

Eva reached over for his free hand. It will be okay.

Loki was forcing a deep breath through his nostrils when the door appeared adjacent to the seer.

“It seems our session has come to an end,” they spoke. “I wish you all the best of luck.” They turned to face the door, brow furrowed. “You’re going to need it.”

Tag Lists:

Loki (Impossibly Redeemable): @buckybarnesthehotshot@kaogasm@superheroesandstardust

Loki (General): @nahthanks@lucywrites02@whatafuckingdumbass@gaitwae

#loki x reader #loki x you #loki fanfic #loki laufeyson #loki marvel #loki mcu #loki odinson #marvel #loki imagine #fanfiction #fanfic #loki fanfiction #loki friggason #infinity train #crossover #crossover fanfiction #crossover fanfic #infinity train fanfic #infinity train fanfiction

[lilyofthesword-writes]

So I gotta say, I love this free story planning app. I started using it to expand my micro fiction Iron and wound up planning out Impossibly Redeemable more.

At this point, I have eight more Infinity Train cars planned out before the Epilogue. If I can’t think of more cars, that’ll be it. 35 chapters including the prologue and epilogue - The longest work I’ve ever written. Also just tapped out of ideas and want to focus more on Continue and my original works.

It’s been a good run though. The story found an audience and seems to have made people happy, including myself. It has been an absolute joy to write, almost cathartic in some ways. Hopefully, the remaining chapters will be the same!

[lilyofthesword-writes]

Welp, the people following “Impossibly Redeemable” might wind up hating me. I had the urge to work on the epilogue. There are still more chapters to come before the epilogue is posted. This just felt right. The ending though… It’s long, much longer that any of the other chapters. I’m sitting at 3k words and not quite done.

Once I get this out of my system, I’m backing to writing the main chapters.