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jovialyouthmusic · 4 years

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Can’t Take my Eyes Off You

A Royal Romance Au fanfic

Bastien Lykel, Captain of the King’s Guard plans a New Year surprise for the love of his life, Sophia...

A/N Although this chapter is from a long series, you can read it as a standalone. If you already know the plot of Choice’s Royal Romance, all you need to know is that it is set after TRR3 and Sophia is a young English woman - a member of staff at the Palace who has captured Bastien’s heart. Drake Walker and Riley are in a romantic relationship and King Liam has no Queen, but Olivia Nevrakis is intentionally pregnant with his child, who will be his heir.

Words of endearment - Bastien calls Sophia his goddess, or ‘thea mou’ in Greek, and she calls him ‘agape mou’, or ‘my love’. He mixes his languages for ‘Ti amo, thea mou’ - Italian and Greek, for ‘I love you, my goddess’

If you’re following Protect and Serve or Silver Service, there is a chapter that precedes this one - read here

Otherwise, this is a triple dose of fluff with a side of smut - so NO UNDER 18s PLEASE

Word count 4074

Standing in the departure lounge at the tiny airport in Cordonia, Sophia wiped at her eyes and blew her nose. Her parents had spent a whole week at the Palace with her and Bastien, and were returning home for the New Year celebrations. As usual she had mixed feelings. She loved seeing them after being apart for almost a year, but it had been tiring to have them around 24/7, so she also felt a certain sense of relief.

‘I hope they manage to get their connection at Nice’ she said, her voice a little shaky

Bastien drew her into his arms and hugged her tight, kissing the top of her head.

‘I’m sure it will all go smoothly, theá mou’ he murmured ‘Your Dad will cope just fine, he’s a practical man’ Sophia smiled up at him.

‘He really liked you, you know?’ she said ‘So did Mum’

‘I think Edith was slightly disappointed that you didn’t snag yourself a royal prince’ he chuckled. ‘She was so in awe I thought she’d get repetitive strain injury from curtseying so much.’

‘It was kind of Regina to invite her to afternoon tea’ she replied ‘She was on cloud nine after that. She promised to do some paintings of the Palace for Regina from the photos she took.’

‘I’d be interested to see them too’ Bastien replied, letting her go. She took his arm and hugged it to her as they walked back out to the SUV to go back to the Palace. ‘I’m sorry I couldn’t take more time off to help entertain your parents’ he said ‘But I have a little surprise planned for the New Year celebrations.’ He held the car door open for her before going around to the driver’s side. She slid smoothly into the passenger seat, closing the door and belting herself in.

‘A surprise?’ she asked eagerly ‘I hope it includes some time alone together’ She reached across and squeezed his knee. Their sex life had suffered slightly from having house guests, and they were both feeling a little deprived. He swatted her hand away playfully.

‘Don’t distract me when I’m about to drive’ he scolded ‘Wait until we get back’ She pouted, hitching her skirt up slightly. He groaned ‘Sophia, if you’re wearing stockings…’

‘Might be, might not be’ she retorted, pulling it demurely back down and turning away coquettishly

‘Wicked woman’ he grumbled ‘It’s a good job I’m not on duty until late afternoon, I’m going to make up for lost time when we get back’

‘Promises, promises’ she said breathily. He started the car off smoothly and Sophia waited until they he pulled out onto the main road before speaking again.

‘So this surprise’ she asked ‘Does it involve leaving our suite at all?’ Bastien pursed his lips

‘It might, it might not’ he teased, and she snorted in exasperation. He kept a stoic expression despite getting the upper hand, and turned on the radio to listen to the Cordonian news.

------

Bastien stood in front of the mirror in their bedroom, straightening his tie and checking his hair. Sophia lounged in bed, her hair ruffled, an expression of deep satisfaction on her face. Her lover had lived up to his promise and had brought her to orgasm three times and allowed himself two. She would get up shortly and tidy up the suite before her evening meal, and Bastien was getting ready for his shift. It was two days before New Year’s Day.

‘You look immaculate, Bas’ she said sleepily ‘You’ve certainly gotten over your injuries – your stamina is mind boggling’ He smiled smugly

‘I just know how to pace myself’ he replied, and turned back toward her. ‘I have a long shift tonight so my schedule will be a bit off. I’ll have breakfast with you if you get up early, then I’ll be grabbing some sleep ready for your surprise.’ She sat up, her eyes glinting

‘Oh yes?’ she said ‘Please tell’

‘Not yet’ he replied ‘You’ll find out soon enough’ She collapsed back onto the pillows in defeat. She looked thoughtful

‘You could give me a clue’ she cajoled as he came over to kiss her on the forehead. She grabbed hold of his tie and pulled him close to kiss him on the lips. He pulled away regretfully as she let go, thankful that she wasn’t wearing lipstick.

‘You’ll never crack me’ he smiled ‘I’ve been trained to withstand torture’

‘I’ll wear stockings for a whole week’ she smiled seductively, biting her lip and looking up at him through her eyelashes. He sucked his breath in and adjusted his pants.

‘Woman, you are insatiable. Temptation is entirely different to torture’ he croaked ‘But I’m still not telling.’

------

As promised, the two lovers ate breakfast together the next morning. Sophia yawned, the sun not quite up, and sleepily sipped at her orange juice.

‘Now then, my English rose’ Bastien began ‘I’m ready to tell you a little more about your surprise.’ Sophia perked up, sitting up straight and opening her eyes wide. He chuckled at her expression. ‘I’m going to sleep in the guest room so you can pack to go away when I get up after lunch’ he paused to take a gulp of his coffee. ‘The King and Regina are going to visit Olivia in Lythikos, and we are going with them. You’ll need to pack warm clothes, we’ll be there for a few days – it’s hard to say how long, as snow is forecast up there and the roads might get blocked’ he paused ‘Don’t worry, we won’t be going to Lucretia’s castle, we’ll be staying at Olivia’s lodge by the ski slopes, and we’ll have space to ourselves, quite private’

Sophia smiled reservedly. She couldn’t help but remember Constantine grilling her last time she had been there, questioning her relationship with Bastien and telling her she’d be dismissed if she distracted him. He wasn’t around any more but it still triggered an unpleasant memory – and Lythikos was not her favourite place, as Lucretia had plotted with Justin – or Anton as they now knew him – and Sophia’s enforced visit to her castle still gave her nightmares. Bastien noticed her expression change, and he reached across the table to take her hand and squeeze it.

‘I know Lythikos brings back unpleasant memories, but we’ll make new ones, theá mou’ he said. ‘It’s a beautiful place in Winter – fresh snow, and plenty of opportunity for skating and skiing – or staying inside and keeping warm’

‘I remember you teaching me to skate in the moonlight’ she smiled ‘I’ll have to go out on the ice again and keep up my skills. Are Drake and Riley going?’ she asked.

‘They are’ Bastien answered. ‘and you’ll have the choice of spending time with everyone, or just celebrating the New Year with me. I don’t know what you normally do at that time of year’ he looked at his watch. ‘But I need to rest now, so we’ll talk about it later’

------

Later that day when Bastien got up, he loaded their bags into an SUV along with Drake and Riley’s. Sophia sat in the passenger seat despite Drake’s grumbles about not riding shotgun. They were part of a small group of vehicles accompanying Regina out to Lythikos. Liam had gone ahead with another security detail.

‘Best place for you is in the back, son’ asserted Bastien ‘I saw Hana’s face after you drove her to Applewood the other month, and I know for a fact Riley was almost sick when you brought her back from the cabin not long after.’

‘Hey, have I ever scratched or dented any of the cars, or crashed them?’ Drake protested ‘It was you who sent me on all those advanced driver courses, I have to keep up my skills’

‘No, but it takes a power washer to get all the mud off the chassis’ Bastien said drily as he started the engine.

‘Never mind, Drake honey, you can hold my hand’ said Riley brightly ‘I’d rather snuggle with you on the back seat’

‘No mischief back there’ Bastien intoned ‘Leave that until you’re alone’ Sophia nudged her lover

‘Don’t be such a grump, Bas’ she said. He shrugged and sighed

‘Just laying down the ground rules for the journey’ he replied ‘I promise I’ll be more attentive at the other end. Remember, no games and no music, I need to concentrate. Driving is a serious and dangerous process.’ Sophia sighed. Road trips with Bastien were no fun, and if Drake and Riley hadn’t been there she’d have put headphones on to listen to music. Her lover’s tastes in music didn’t go much beyond jazz and classical music – the only mismatch in their relationship as she liked many different types of music, favouring upbeat and romantic tunes. He was softening a little and would listen to her choices – she had hopes that his tastes would change.

He signalled to the guard overlooking the motorcade, who got into the lead vehicle, and they set off, Bastien’s SUV taking the last position. Both Sophia and Drake knew better than to distract the driver but after a while he broke the silence.

‘So, Miss Brookes’ he started ‘How do you usually celebrate New Year? I imagine there’s a lot going on in New York at the turn of the year’

‘You’re not wrong, Mr Lykel she answered ‘Though the last couple of years I’ve been working in the bar, I used to go to Times Square with friends and see it in with a bang’ Bastien nodded, looking Riley’s way in the rear view mirror.

‘Call me Bastien, please. I know Drake celebrates alone with a bottle of whiskey’ he said drily ‘But I was going to ask you how you celebrate it, Sophia’

‘Oh I don’t usually pay it much attention’ she replied ‘I never really rated it. It’s such an artificial manmade date, I’d really rather do something at Winter Solstice – but I’m usually too busy getting ready for Christmas’

‘That’s interesting’ Bastien said, smoothly negotiating a sharp bend in the road. ‘Perhaps next year we can put the day aside, do something special’ Sophia smiled warmly

‘I’d love to, Bas. That’s so thoughtful of you. What do you usually do to ring in the New Year?’

‘Again, not much’ he answered ‘I’m often on duty, or I just take myself to my rooms and have a glass of whiskey’

‘Well none of you are any fun’ piped up Riley ‘I hope Olivia has a massive party to celebrate’

‘As she’s pregnant, I doubt if she’ll want too much fuss’ Drake said. ‘I’m thinking it will be a low key celebration’

‘That’s a good point’ said Riley ‘How long has she got?’

‘Only a couple of months now’ replied Sophia ‘She’s getting big and cranky’ Drake snorted with derision.

‘So what’s new? She was always cranky at the best of times’

‘Now don’t be unkind, Walker’ Bastien scolded ‘She offered to provide Liam with an heir. The two of them are becoming quite close, and I’m certain she’ll make sure you and Riley are comfortable’ Drake shrugged

‘Maybe. I’ll believe it when she allocates me a decent suite, and not the lodge furthest from the Manor’

‘A lodge all to ourselves sounds amazing’ said Riley

‘You didn’t see the one I got last time’ grumbled Drake ‘The heating was bust and the water froze in the pipes’

‘I’m sure that was an oversight, Walker. Now stop speculating and let me concentrate on driving’ Drake fell quiet, Riley pursed her lips, and Sophia sighed and relaxed back into the seat, allowing herself to drift off to sleep for the remainder of the journey.

------

At Lythikos Manor, Drake and Bastien unloaded the luggage. Olivia’s majordomo was organising room allocation and Drake was surprised to discover that, as Bastien had predicted, he and Riley had been given a large suite in the Manor. Sophia expectantly waited to find out where they would be, but Bastien took her elbow and drew her aside into an ante room.

‘Sophia my love, I have one more surprise for you’ he said, and her eyes widened. He took her hand and squeezed it ‘Tomorrow there will be a small party to see in the New Year, but you and I are going to spend tonight in a room in Olivia’s ice palace’ Sophia’s eyes grew even wider, and her mouth dropped open.

‘An Ice palace?’ she asked incredulously ‘Really?’ Her lover smiled and nodded.

‘Indeed, and if you really like it, we can spend New Year there together if you’d rather it was just the two of us.’ Sophia threw her arms around him and kissed his cheek.

‘That’s just amazing, Bas’ she cried ‘I can’t wait – when can we go?’

‘We ‘ll have dinner with the others first, then we can make our way there. We can go skating tomorrow - or I can teach you to ski’

‘Bastien, you are amazing’ she said, hugging his arm ‘You spoil me’

‘It helps that I work for royalty’ she said sheepishly ‘The job has many perks’

------

The dinner that night was held in the grand hall of the manor. Olivia was showing her size and looked a little tired but seemed pleased to have everyone there and was attentive to her guests. She sat at the head of the table with Regina and Liam flanking her. Both Bertrand and Maxwell Beaumont were there, Hana had made a rare appearance after spending Christmas with her parents and Drake and Riley completed the small group save for one more person – Duke Domvalier, father of Rashad, had been invited to keep Regina company. Sophia noticed that the Queen mother looked more relaxed and kept sneaking little looks at her companion, blushing when he noticed.

‘Now, Bastien, you know my security team has everything in hand, you don’t have to lift a finger’ Olivia said ‘You’re my guest and I want you to treat the place as your own. You’ve earned it after all your years of service to the Crown.’ He bowed his head gravely and thanked her

‘I understand you and Sophia are going to the Ice Palace’ Liam said. Sophia nodded

‘Yes, I’m so excited – I’ve read about places like that, I’d no idea you had one in Cordonia’

‘We build it every winter’ explained Olivia ‘Obviously we can’t keep it up all year round, but it’s been open a couple of weeks now.’ Sophia snuck her hand over onto Bastien’s knee under the table and started to slide it further up his thigh as Olivia turned to talk to Duke Domvalier, but he firmly put his hand on top of hers and stopped her, giving it a hard squeeze and flashing her a warning glare. She leaned closer and whispered in his ear

‘I love it when you’re stern’ she sighed

‘Be careful, our room at the ice palace will end up melting before morning’ he growled

‘Was there any doubt?’ she said innocently.

------

It was an hour later when they drew up outside the ice palace and were greeted by staff who took their bags inside. Sophia’s eyes sparkled as they entered and she took in their surroundings. The lobby doubled up as a bar, all the major structures made of ice and sparkling with blue white light, the barman dressed warmly in a thick coat and fur lined hat. Sophia had eaten heartily at lunch time but lightly at dinner, in anticipation of spending an active evening with her lover. She had looked so mournfully at the cheesecake as dessert was served that Bastien had shared a piece with her, even though he didn’t usually eat sweet things. They stopped for a drink while staff prepared for them.

At last they were shown to their room. It was not big, and a little cool compared to a conventional hotel room, the bed made of ice blocks and strewn with furs and thick blankets. Mood lights were set into alcoves around the room and the colours shifted slowly and lazily. Bastien rummaged in his bag as Sophia sat on the bed.

‘Just wait a few moments my love’ he said, taking his phone out and tapping away for a few moments. Music started to play from bluetooth speakers in the wall and he held his hand out to her. ‘Do you remember the Beaumont Bash?’ he asked

‘Of course I do’ she laughed ‘You bought me a beautiful dress for the Ball, and you took time off to dance with me in our suite before I went down to join the others’ He smiled as he drew her close and they began to sway together.

‘It was a shame I had to work then, I would have loved to have you on my arm that night. This isn’t the tune we danced to, but it expresses my feelings exactly’ he said, and hummed along for a line or two before starting to sing along quietly. Pressed to his chest, she felt the deep notes of his voice reverberate through her whole body. She felt safe and secure, just the two of them in their own little world.

You’re just too good to be true Can’t take my eyes off of you You’d be like heaven to touch I wanna hold you so much At long last love has arrived And I thank God I’m alive You’re just too good to be true Can’t take my eyes off of you Pardon the way that I stare There’s nothing else to compare The sight of you leaves me weak There are no words left to speak But if you feel like I feel Please let me know that it’s real You’re just too good to be true Can’t take my eyes off of you I love you baby and if it’s quite all right I need you baby to warm the lonely nights I love you baby, trust in me when I say Oh pretty baby, don’t bring me down I pray Oh pretty baby, now that I’ve found you stay And let me love you baby, let me love you

‘There are no more lonely nights for me’ he said ‘I’m so happy I found you’ She gazed up at him adoringly.

‘Bas, you’re so romantic’ she breathed ‘I love you so much’

‘And I love you too, my sweet temptress. We have the night to ourselves, and only breakfast to think of in the morning’ She shivered in anticipation.

‘I wonder if we’ll ever get tired of each other’ she said quietly

‘Never’ he vowed ‘I’ll love you to the end of time’ She pressed closer into him, still swaying as the tune repeated. She laughed

‘I’d never have had you as such a sappy romantic when I first met you, you were so dour and professional, every inch the Captain of the King’s Guard’

‘I wasn’t – you brought it out in me. I never felt like this for anyone else. I’d do anything for you Sophia, I want you to be happy’ He inhaled her scent and became more aware of her soft body – her breasts against his chest, her hips swaying and belly pressed against him so that he began to grow and harden. He let his hands graze her spine, gliding down to the globes of her buttocks and pulling her hips closer to his, feeling a little chuckle vibrating through her.

‘Mmm, smooth move, agápe mou – from romance to seduction’ The music dropped into a soft ambient tune, swirling quietly in the background.

‘It’s worked one hundred percent of the time with you so far’

‘You’re irresistible’

‘I’m helpless in your presence’

‘Shut up and kiss me, Bas’

‘Your wish is my command’ Their lips met in a scorching kiss that threatened to melt the room around them, and Sophia half expected to feel water drip from the icy ceiling. She snuck her hands under his shirt to find the flat plane of his stomach warm under her palm. He shivered slightly and drew back to work on the buttons of her blouse. His fingers skated over goose flesh as he worked to undress her, and she reached out to do the same to him. As their body temperature dropped, they made a mutual decision to undress themselves more speedily, dropping their clothes on the rug on the floor and diving under the thick blankets together, naked. Sophia lay back and Bastien hovered over her, leaning down to pepper hot kisses down her neck to her collarbone, brushing aside her golden hair.

Each time he moved, it sucked a draught of cool air down beneath the blankets so that she craved the heat of his body. His hands were warm, his back and buttocks hot – his chest cool, his hips burning. As his hands moved over her body she felt the temperature gradient change – his hand hot on her shoulder, cooler on her breast, cold on her belly.

He let his hand trail lazily down her side to rest on her hip, listening to her soft moans of desire before going back to claim her lips with his. His hand moved over her belly to her mound, his strong hands gentle and sensitive, fingers probing between her folds. Their kisses grew deeper, and he pressed his length against her belly, hot and heavy. She let her hands roam up over his broad back, up to caress his neck and tangle her fingers into his black locks. She drew one knee up against his side as his thumb pressed softly against her clitoris, fingers delving inside her. She pushed up toward him luxuriously as the colours of the mood lights swirled over the icy walls and the music played softly.

‘Are you ready for me, my goddess?’ he murmured,

‘Always’ she breathed ‘Fill me, make me yours again’ He placed his body between her thighs and slowly eased into her, gazing into her eyes, holding his to begin with and rolling back in ecstasy as they became one. He rocked against her, enveloped in her soft warmth, his strokes short to begin with, increasing slightly each time until he was almost out and slowly burying himself again and again. Her fingers raked over his back, nails slightly scraping against him, hips rolling with him, keeping the rhythm.

The icy bed was firm underneath them, insulated from the cold by the thin mattress, giving their lovemaking solidity, the blankets draped over their naked forms. Sophia had discovered that Bastien’s size was more than adequate for her to climax simply with penetration, although it took some doing. He drove into her, increasing the tempo, making her gasp for air, still sensitive to what she needed, unerringly finding the perfect angle to hit her sweet spot. She implored him to keep going, her gasps changing to a chant

‘Yes, yes – yes…’ until her back arched and she pushed her hips up against him, pulsing and tightening, a rush of wetness accompanying her orgasm. He matched her movements until she came to a shuddering stop, letting himself go with a groan, waves of pleasure rushing through his senses, rocking against her and slowing, feeling her go limp beneath him, little sighs of satisfaction escaping her lips. He rolled to the side facing her, murmuring sweet nothings, hand resting on her belly, the heel of his palm on her hip bone. After a while she turned to face to him, her features glowing with satisfaction, reaching out to stroke his cheek.

‘I don’t need a date on a calendar to look into the future’ she said softly ‘My future is with you, and we can celebrate any time we like – every time we touch, every time we kiss’ He took her hand and kissed it, looking deep into her green eyes.

‘You’re right’ he said ‘We belong together, and it doesn’t matter where we are, when we’re together, everything’s right.’

‘Of course, being in an ice palace helps’ she joked ‘You don’t ever have to stop spoiling me – but we could just be at home and I’d still be happy’ He nodded and leaned to kiss her lips.

Ti amo, theá mou, ti amero per sempre’ he murmured as he drew back again I love you, my goddess, I love you forever…

#bastien lykel #trr bastien #sophia x bastien #OC x Bastien #trr au fanfic #the royal romance au

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ranger-of-estel · 5 years

Note

Could you do a Captain Canary meeting their future daughter and finding out she's following in their footsteps and became a vigilante/timetraveler?

So I apologize this has taken forever to answer, but hopefully it doesn’t disappoint. Personally I rather liked the way it came out, may add it to my list of possible AUs for the future.

Captain Canary - EstablishedAll the fluff

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Sara and Leonard board the Waverider, hands clasped between them. “We definitely waited to long between date nights.” Sara states, smiling over at him, “thank you.”

“You did most of the planning this time.” Len shrugged, tugging her closer to his side. “I’m just glad to see the ship in once piece.” Sara chuckles as they make their way to the bridge. The halls are quieter than usual, but neither is immediately concerned by it. At least until they reach the bridge, pausing at the sight before them.

There are a pair of strangers focused intently on something at the hollotable. One is a tall young man with brown hair. His broad shoulders accented by a snug shirt, and comfortable jeans. The second is a young woman; athletic build with a small gun holstered to her thigh and what Sara believes are throwing knives at her waist. Her dark hair falls in soft curls over her shoulders of her red shirt, skinny jeans accentuating her curves until they disappear into boots.

Sara’s just begun reaching for a knife when the other woman turns, crystal blue eyes narrowing at the pair. “What are you doing here?”

“This is my ship,” Sara responds, crossing her arms.

“Who the hell are you?” Leonard’s gaze narrows.

“Gideon?” The young woman tosses a confused glance toward the ceiling.

“My apologies, Captain Lance.” The A.I. replies. “It would appear that our guests aren’t from the same point in the timeline as we are.”

“Lance?” Sara asks, glancing from the ship to the other woman.

“This is, awkward,” the woman frowns.

Before anyone can comment a new voice joins the mix. “Hey Laurel, I’m getting some weird readings from – “ The new young woman cuts off as she enters the bridge. Brown eyes light up as she sees them. “Uncle Lenny!” She sprints forward, nearly tackling Leonard. Her arms locking around him, “I didn’t know you were visiting!”

Normally Sara would laugh at Len’s what the hell?? Look, but right now she’s to focused on the woman across from her. “Laurel…Lance?”

The other woman nods, gives a small smile. “You always say you named me after the strongest woman you knew.” She gives a soft laugh, “Ollie says I look like her when I start to argue.” She glances at Len, whos shaking his head at the young scientist, his niece, while she chatters away. “You always say I’m more like dad, but with aunt’s moral compass.”

Leonard’s attention is caught now, Laurel shooting him a bemused smile. “Hey, dad.”

“So,” Leonard drawls, looking between the three women. “Second generation Legends?”

Laurel nods, “couple years now.”

“What about you?” He looks over at the other young man.

“Me?” he looks almost surprised to be called upon, dragging his eyes from the schematic on the table. “Michael Palmer, but everyone calls me Mick.” He smiles at Sara, “nice to see you, Captain.” After a moment his attention shifts to the youngest girl, “Claire, what were you saying about readings?”

“Oh,” she shrugs. “In light of…well, this.” She motions to Sara and Len. “I’d say it’s probably their Waverider landing in the area.”

Len glances to his daughter with a smirk, “mind giving us a lift?”

Laurel grings, reminding him immensely of Sara. “I think we can arrange that.”

“Well,” Michael looks between the pair, “at least now we know why you were so intent we come out here.”

“Instead of enjoying our shore leave, I might add.” A man in his late twenties enters the room, throwing Sara an achingly familiar smile.

“Stien?” Len raises a brow.

“Just Ronny, please.” He looks between them, then glances up. “Gideon, are you sure it Is safe to be in close proximity to the other Waverider?”

“As long as we don’t touch it we’ll be fine.” Claire answers with a shrug.

“Miss Ramon is correct,” Gideon replies. “I’ve located the other ship, whenever you are ready, Captain.”

“Fire up the engines –“ Sara and Laurel stop, laughing before Sara dips her head. “Your ship, Captain.”

Laurel just grins, and they buckle in for the short trip. They touch down in a clearing across from the second ship. “Guess this our stop,” Sara looks over the group of young heroes.

Laurel smiles, “don’t worry, you’ll be seeing plenty of us before you know it.” She and Sara share a short embrace, then she moves to Leonard. There’s a gentleness, and adoration in her eyes that makes his stomach do a little flip. “See you later, dad.” She leans up to press a kiss to his cheek.

“Captain,” Gideon interrupts. “It would appear Miss Queen has also boarded the incorrect ship.”

Laurel swears, and Sara grins. “Miss Queen? Ollie has a girl?”

Laurel nods, motioning that she’ll walk them out. “I should go get her before she picks a fight with your Constantine.”

Leonard smirks, “that sounds like a story.”

“Oh, you’ll be there for it.” She assures him, amusement dancing in her eyes.

Once they are outside the hatch of the other Waverider opens. Mick is leading a woman about Laurel’s age out. She has dark hair pulled into a low ponytail, a small bow and quiver slung onto her back. She has Felicity’s eyes and height, but her strong shoulders and defined features scream Ollie.

“Cass,” Sara hears Laurel give a longsuffering sigh, walking closer to the other woman. “You punched him, didn’t you?”

The other woman shrugs, “he deserved it.”

“You realize he doesn’t know that yet, right?” Laurel cocks her head slightly.

“Doesn’t know what?” Constantine glares from the cargo ramp, glass of ice held to his cheek.

“Not important,” Laurel shakes her head, giving Cassandra a behave look that Sara knows is similar to the one she gives Len. Which brings her attention to the way the second woman is leaning into her daughters space. Laurel offering an almost smile as she bumps the other woman’s shoulder affectionatly with her own.

“Beautiful, badass…our daughter has good tast.” Sara grins. Leonard makes an amused sound, offering a small nod as Sara’s hand slips into his.

“What’s so funny?” Cassandra glares.

“Just thinking how much I’ll enjoy seeing your father when he learns the daughter of a thief stole your heart.” Len drawls with a shrug.

Laurel flushes at the comment, suddenly looking like a teenager who’s been caught. But it quickly shifts into realization. “Wait! That means you’ve known this whole time!”

Cassandra laughs, offering a quick bow of her in greeting. “As much as we’d love to stay.” She glances to where John is still glowering from the Waverider door. She grins, then slips her hand into Laurel’s, tugging her toward the ship. Laurel rolls her eyes and Sara laughs, she and Len waving farewell before turning to board their own ship.

“What was that about?” Constantine frowns, still half glaring at the departing ship.

“A story for another time.” Sara replies, ushering the crew back inside.

Mick smirks, offering a knowing look before chuckling. “Congrats,” he walks down the hall before either can respond.

The pair make their way to the Captain’s quarters. Sara moves to sit on the bed while Len shrugs out of his jacket. “We have a daughter,” Sara states, looking up at Len.

“A daughter who captain’s the Waverider.”

“I didn’t think I could,” Sara’s hand goes to her stomach, “after the pit.”

Leonard hums in agreement, “I never planned to…after Lewis…”

“Hey,” Sara reaches out, hand finding his. “You won’t be him,” she gives a breathy laugh. “In fact, she seemed to still like us both.”

Leonard chuckles at that, sitting on the bed next to her. “If she comes out a hero, we must not do to badly.”

Sara bumps her shoulder into him, “looks like you make a pretty great uncle too.”

He smiles, “she reminded me of Lisa at that age.” He looks down at her, brow furrowing slightly, “does this mean we’re supposed to settle down?”

Sara scoffs, “absolutely not.” She kicks off her shoes, scooting further onto the bed. “We’ll just slow down a little.”

“Mm,” he toes off his shoes by the nightstand, following her up the bed. “That doesn’t sound so bad.” He leans down to kiss her softly.

She smiles into the kiss, which she reciprocates before snuggling into his side. “Officially the weirdest end to a date yet.”

He chuckles, arm wrapping around her shoulders. “Let’s hope it stays that way, I don’t need anymore surprises from the future.” She hums her agreement, conversation turning to other things until they doze off together. Each dreaming of a future they’d never believed possible.

#Captain Canary #Leonard Snart #Sara Lance #Next Gen Legends

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thebestintoronto · 4 years

Text

48 hours in. . . Toronto, an insider guide to Canada's spirited first city

Canada's multicultural fusion

Canada's biggest city, the 4th biggest in North America, is regularly rated among the most effective areas to live in the world. Investing also a few days here makes it very easy to see why. Cosmopolitan and also cultured, fun as well as fun-loving, with an icing of unpredictability simply to make points fascinating, Toronto takes pride in being the dynamic, innovative and also risk-free amount of all its components.

The city's roots show in myriad ways, with greater than 200 cultures stood for on the streets. (The truth that there are 3 Chinatowns as well as 2 Little Italys speaks volumes.) This is among the reasons the cooking scene is such a big deal-- there are much more ingredients in the pantry to pull from. With four first-rate sporting activities teams, a spirited arts scene and a vibrant beachfront with its very own flight terminal, Toronto makes both a gratifying end destination and an excellent pitstop.

Warm right now ...

Doug Wallace, our citizen specialist, supplies his top tips on the best things to do and also puts to eat and drink this period.

Consume

Canada's initial Eataly (55 Bloor St. W.; 00 1 437 374 0250) has opened up in the ManuLife Centre to much excitement and also more than a couple of crowds. Spanning 50,000 square feet over 3 levels, the Italian marketplace brings the preference of Italy home to Yorkville's Mink Mile. Locate takeaway counters, dining establishments, regional as well as Italian components, food preparation courses as well as more. - The best dining establishments in Toronto

Not just does Resort X Toronto (111 Princes' Blvd., 4th flooring; 00 1 647 943 9300) have a gigantic 90,000-square-foot gym with 4 interior tennis courts and also 9 squash courts, but it now likewise has Canada's first Guerlain Day spa. Get pampered via customised body therapies and facials in 10 areas, plus pre- and post-stay lounges with views of the lake. - The very best things to do in Toronto

Drink

Don't let the false front of Vatican Gift Store (1047 Gerrard St. E.; 00 1 416 462 2682) mislead you: the makeshift gift store opens speakeasy-style to expose a low-lit Gothic secluded administering European and regional brews, clever (as well as solid) mixed drinks as well as thin-crust, hand-tossed Neopolitan pizzas. Stock up on votive candles on your way out. - The most effective night life in Toronto

48 hours in ... Toronto

The first day

MORNING

Even if you're not staying at the Delta Resort Toronto, begin your day with a vibrant coffee and also a morning meal sandwich at SOCO to Go (75 Lower Simcoe St; 00 1 416 637 5465), the hotel's 24-hour grab-and-go counter and also café in the southeast corner of the structure.

Your 2nd quit of the day is nearby: Ripley's Fish tank of Canada (288 Bremner Blvd; 00 1 647 351 3474) opens at 9am, which is when the displays will be the least crowded. After having a look at the jellyfish wall surface and seeing stingrays skyrocket over your head in the undersea gallery, function your means over to the Hockey Hall of Popularity (30 Yonge St; 00 1 416 360 7765) to look into the interactive video games as well as well-known souvenirs.

MID-DAY

There's absolutely nothing even more Canadian than a peameal bacon sandwich (a kind of unsmoked back bacon). Discover one for lunch at Carousel Bakery, right near the front door in the St. Lawrence Market (93 Front St. E.; 00 1 416 392 7219). If bacon is not your thing, head to the reduced level to consider greater than a dozen hot-food stalls. The marketplace has been a culinary hub of the city given that 1803, which in Canada-years resembles 2 centuries.

After that, a 10-minute stroll south to the water's side will land your toes in the sand at the synthetic Sugar Coastline (Lower Jarvis St. and Queen's Quay E). Sit under the cotton-candy pink umbrellas and also enjoy the tankers get here in the harbour prior to continuing to the historic Distillery Area (55 Mill St.). Take a great, slow-moving poke regarding this pedestrian-only cultural territory of shops, present stores, clothes stores and also galleries. SOMA is the most effective bean-to-bar chocolatier in the area.

LATE

Pre-cocktails, take a little stroll via Yorkville Area (Cumberland Ave. at Bellair St.), in search of stars shopping or ordering cappucinos in their baseball caps and sunglasses. Duck into either The Oxley (121 Yorkville Ave.; 00 1 647 348 1300) for pints on the (much quieter) 2nd flooring or opt for martinis at d|bar in the Four Seasons (60 Yorkville Ave.; 00 1 416 964 0411).

Supper reservations tonight are at Constantine (15 Charles. St. E.; 00 1 647 475 4436), a little piece of Italian-Mediterranean paradise in the back of Anndore Home. Just move up front to the cocktail bar for a nightcap or stroll a brief block east to the Gay Town for a drag show at Woody's (467 Church St.; 00 1 416 972 0887).

- The most effective dining establishments in Toronto

Day 2

MORNING

The most effective time to get your photo taken in the "O" of the Toronto indicator at City Hall (100 Queen St. W. at Bay St.) remains in the morning prior to any individual else is around. Get a quick chai latte initially at Bannock (401 Bay St.; 00 1 416 861 6996).

Post photoshoot, it's a 15-minute walk to a healthy breakfast at Karine's (109 McCaul St.; 00 1 416 591 0863), a little food court serving morning meal staples with a side of Center Eastern, along with vegan and gluten-free, treats. Satisfied, you can then do a deep-dive right into the long-term collection (or exploring exhibits) nearby at the age-old Art Gallery of Ontario (317 Dundas St. W.; 00 1 416 979 6648).

AFTERNOON

On via Chinatown currently to the bohemian neighbourhood of Kensington Market (Kensington Ave. as well as Dundas. St. W.) to take a look at its indie society, vintage garments shops as well as art rooms. While you're there, put into a piled-high hamburger at Ozzy's Hamburgers (66 1/2 Nassau St.; 00 1 416 862 7983)-- have the Mustang Sally.

Stroll it off by heading back down to Queen St. W. and also shopping your means westward-- both sides of the street, mind you-- completely to Trinity Bellwoods Park (790 Queen St. W. at Strachan Ave.). Must-stops in the process must consist of: Frank as well as Oak for men's and also ladies's clothing and also possibly a quick haircut (735 Queen St. W.; 00 1 647 930 8711), Zane for the developer jewelry and desirable bags (753 Queen St. W.; 00 1 647 352 9263) and the shoe heaven that is Heel Kid (773 Queen St. W.; 00 1 416 362 4335).

LATE

Supper is also westward this evening, but first, choose of fresh margaritas or tequila shots at Reposado (136 Ossington St.; 00 1 416 532 6474) or a couple of Rust and also Bone cocktails at The Drake Hotel (1150 Queen St. W.; 00 1 416 531 5042), whose bartenders virtually created the craft mixed drink scene in Toronto

Then for a little taste of Argentina at Tanto (74 Ossington Ave.; 00 1 416 546 3022). Fill out on the innovative little plates-- such as the spicy beef empanada with paprika aioli or smoked squid covered with pancetta as well as scorched almond salsa-- then just share one primary.

Later, take your pick of the area's live songs areas: a burlesque program at the saucy Painted Lady (218 Ossington Ave.), classic blues or people at The Dakota Pub (249 Ossington Ave.; 00 1 416 850 4579) or an indie band at The Fort (1197 Dundas St. W.; 00 1 416 519 9439).

- The very best night life in Toronto.

When to go ...

Might to October is the best time to visit Toronto, while the sun is out, the dining establishment patio areas are jumping, as well as everyone gets on the street after a lengthy winter season cooped inside. June, July and also August are usually hot and humid, 30 levels seems like 40 levels. On summertime weekend breaks, residents go out of community to their homes, leaving the city streets (and dining establishment chairs) to you. Summer season is additionally when most of the city's festivals are slated, focusing on food as well as beverage, arts and also theater, multiculturalism, songs as well as movie. The excellent climate just doesn't just transform itself off come August 31, either: In September, kids go back to college, grownups return to organisation as well as you have the sidewalks, stores and destinations to on your own.

Know prior to you go ...

Necessary information

Vacationer board info: 00 1 416 203 2500; seetorontonow.com Emergency situation fire and ambulance: 911 Emergency police: 911 British Consular Office: 777 Bay St., Collection 2800; 00 1 416 593 1290.

The essentials.

Flight time: Fly from London to Toronto in 7 hours. Currency: Canadian dollar. International dialling code: +1.

Local laws and etiquette.

- Canadians are notoriously courteous, conscientious as well as unstuffy, normally expecting the very same of others.

- Like elsewhere in North America, it is customary to tip 15-20 per cent for service in restaurants and bars. Ditto the cab driver, massage specialist, tourist guide and hairstylist. For hotel housekeeping team, budget plan CAD$ 3-$ 5 (₤ 1.80- ₤ 3) per day.

- The Toronto Transit System of trains, streetcars and buses-- while flawed-- is safe and also simple. The train trains stop at 1:30 am. Some streetcar and buses run overnight. Visit ttc.ca.

- Taxis abound and you can flag them down on the street or call one of the dozen business. Fares are approximately CAD$ 4 (₤ 2) per mile. Uber and Lyft vehicle drivers, while a lot more numerous as well as additionally less costly, are normally much less aware of the midtown streets, so cross your fingers.

- If you're driving yourself, know that you can make a right turn on a traffic signal and you can make a U-turn in the middle of the street, unless there are signs mentioning or else.

- Toronto is a two-kiss sort of location, however that is booked for people you know. A firm handshake is fine for brand-new associates.

- You can get cannabis legally. You have to smoke or vape it outside or in somebody's private residence. Check out ontario.ca/ cannabis for more details.

The post “ 48 hours in. . . Toronto, an insider guide to Canada's spirited first city “ was seen first on The Telegraph

Naturopathic Toronto Doctor - Dr. Amauri Caversan, ND

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dyketectivecomics · 5 years

Note

Oh! I remember another w/ dad Constantine au: did john own any Hawaiian shirts before he adopted Raven? Bc when she's a baby bi he's already got flannel but im not sure how well overcoat sleeves can be rolled up

its supposed to be a few weeks after those first few chaps of chance encounters just so y'all Know lmao

…

Constantine hadn’t been sure when Zatanna had implemented the curse. Maybe it had been that very same night that he let the little demon sleep on his couch. Maybe it had been those couple of days later, after he tried chasing down that dangerous lead on his own. Maybe it had only been this very same week after this fight they’d just had.

It’d been their worst one yet since… well…

He shook his head, breaking the reverie. There was no accounting for the past. What mattered was the present task at hand. And right here and now, John was faced with a dilemma. Most of his clothing had been replaced by the gaudiest collection of Hawaiian shirts he’d ever seen outside of a tourist shop.

He’d never seen such a horrible clash of so many colors outside of a gay bar or a pride parade. And this certainly wasn’t bringing the comfort or joy that such a sight would normally.

“I know I might deserve this, but could you ‘least have left me one shirt?” he grumbled out, digging through the hangers to find something suitable. Before his own eyes, he could see another one of his shirts transforming, navy sleeves slowly shortening and color draining into the worst mixtures of loud greens and garish pinks.

“God, why does this one have so many damned pineapples?!” he yelled, tearing at the fabric in frustration.

“She wasn’t really mad,” the five-year-old stated from across the room. She was lurking in the doorway to the bedroom, standing just outside the threshold, almost as if she were toeing the imaginary line where the paneling formed the barrier.

It was a lot of simple sigils, meant to keep emotions from pouring out of or into the room. Magical soundproofing, of sorts.

It didn’t keep everything in, evidently.

“This looks pretty damned angry to me, pet,” he sighed, running a hand through his hair as he tried to think about his next step.

Buying more shirts wasn’t completely out of the question. And it wasn’t like his closet was completely overrun yet. There were still a few plain white ones off in the corner, plus the one he had on now. But how long would it take for them, too, to turn on him?

He remembered watching this collection, helpless to it’s growing size, and doing nothing to stop it before it got to this point. But too many things had been going on, with Raven and Blood’s cult and-

“She’s… not mad, though,” Raven repeated, mumbling something under her breath that had John sighing. He waved her over, inviting her into the space, and pat the space on the bed beside him.

“Take a seat, I can’t hear you all the way over there.”

The girl hesitated outside of that threshold, before all but scampering over and bouncing onto the bed.

He waited expectantly for her to repeat herself, and she stared blankly back, navy eyes wide as she seemed to gauge and place where his emotions were at, now that they weren’t being read through the haze.

“Me ears aren’t what they used to be, luv,” he explained, “Too much rock an’ roll when I was young. You’ll have to repeat yourself for me.” He spoke it clearly, plainly, with as much patience as he could muster at the moment.

The girls eyes glanced between his own, sensing his air of humor, the barest taste of the joke but not understanding what the punchline was. Or maybe it was that the humor was a tad too dry for a palette so young.

“She’s not mad… with you,” she said slowly, eyes not breaking away but fingers fidgeting nervously with her skirt, bunching and releasing the fabric. She would smooth and rub and bunch it a few more times as the demonologist waited for her to explain further. “She’s mad… at me.”

John wasn’t sure he could place the twist he felt in his chest at that moment, the sound of her voice so small, and so heartbroken.

Before he could stop himself, he had an arm wrapped around the girl, bringing her in close to his arms.

He felt something tighten in his chest as she wrapped her own arms around his waist, and as she buried her head into his chest. A swell of sadness mixing in with his own anger.

“What we feel, li'l bird,” he started, “It can be complicated, right? But it doesn’t mean we’re mad with you. You hear me, luv? It’s not your fault. It’s just…” He swallowed carefully, quelling a sob he could feel coming from nowhere-

No. Coming from the girl. Coming from something she’d been holding in during this whole mess of figuring out where she could belong. What they would need to do with her. Where the hell they could place her.

And John knew, in that moment, he could only stand to see her safe and happy in one place. Where he could guarantee it.

“We’re all a right mess, but we’ll figure it out together, eh?” he lifted up her face by her chin, wiping away those few tears that managed to slip by. “How about we fix us some breakfast before we plan the day?”

The damned shirts could wait another hour or two, after all.

#john constantine #rachel roth #dc bombshells #teen titans #au: magic foster family #a HINT of magicblazer but like. this is during their Initial Temporary Break incase that wasn'tObvious #asked and answered #squiddybeifong #randywritesfic #WELCOME BACK TO MY HIGHLY SPECIFIC AU GUYS #YALL AINT GONNA SEE THAT LAST OF THIS. EVER.#im TRYIN to fit this into chance encounters but!!!! it takes place a week or so after theInitial Stuff thats happening now so!!!!!#but i just COULDNT help myself when i see an opportunity to change a direction or add a significant moment yknow?#this is absolutely just meant to be the cu #culmination of everything else in that fic. like its all leading up the the Moment that john Realizes he wants to keep her (in this case #This Moment Here) and ofc zee falling in suit in a much slower progression that takes time to build #bc they both had SHIT for father/mother figures RESPECTIVELY but they'll be DAMNED if they don't at least TRY #john KNOWS he's shit but he's still gonna TRY #ok enough rambling in the tags. TIME FOR SLEEB #IF U READ. REBLOG U COWARDS

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templarhalo · 5 years

Text

The Master of Mankind’s Return Chapter 5 ( In the Grim darkness of the far future, there is only disappointment and hope)

Only three chapters left until this fanfic is officially complete Thank you again for everyone who’s read it. I plan to have this chapter and the previous ones posted on Archive of our Own this week.

Vldor was falling. He was tumbling into an an abyss, his limbs flailing, his mouth trying to scream, but producing no sound.

He slammed into the floor of a the Imperial Palace Valdor groaned and pulled himself to his feet. Then he looked around and almost screamed.

The palace was unrecognizable. Gold was slathered over the walls,. Statues that had once been painted were dull and lifeless, The magnificent tapestries and friezes that had been removed in the process of fortifying the palace had not been restored to their rightful place.

Thick layers of dust and soot had settled over everything. Valdor had to refrain from screaming again when released the soot was actually cremated human remains

Than he realized something.

The palace was silent. Something it never should have been. The palace had always been filled with the giggles of Ligo scampering through the halls, the clack-clack of Malcador’s Staff, The chortle his Custodes made as the exchanged jokes with Sisters of Silence in thought-mark as they went about their duties. The ka-boom! of one his King’s experiments going awry.

But there was no sound, not even the background of the hustle and bustle of Terra was heard.

Valdor started running in the direction of the Sanctum Imperialis. He had landed near the Tower of Hegemon. In about 15 minutes at his maximum speed he would reach the Eternity Gate

When he reached Eternity Gate, he couldn't hold back his scream back anymore.

An army of the dead stood between him and Eternity Gate. There were Astartes and Custodes in blackened armor, wreathed in fire, with no visible, flesh except for bones.

There were mortal soldiers, too. Voidsmen of the defunct Solar Auxilia, warrior maidens in a pattern of power armor he did did not recognize , Lucifer Blacks and the gung-ho Catachans. Valdor saw flame-wreathed soldiers in gas masks and trenchcoats clutching Lucius Pattern Lasguns and shotguns. He saw soldiers in green and olive fatigues led by a skeleton clutching a banner that had the name Cadia inscribed on it's tattered form.

There were Thunder Warriors too. The glorious, honored dead of the Terran Unification Wars stood alongside those who had been betrayed at Isstvan III and V and who died at the Siege of Terra and the decades after

Valdor felt a chill deep in his bones. There had to be at least 300,000 Space Marines alone standing before him, not to mention the Custodes and Thunder Warriors and the host of mortal soldiers.

For a second Valdor stood before an army of Martyrs.

Then they saluted, and parted before him

Valdor hesitated, then he gritted his teeth and took a step forward

Eternity Gate opened with a deep rumble.

Valdor was greeted by a withered figure sitting in a cell. It took Valdor a moment to recognize him as His King

The Emperor rose from the floor. Valdor could see His ribs through the chiton He wore. His hair was white and greasy, dark circles were under his eyes. His hands were gnarled arthritic things. No aura of raw power cloaked him, this was His King as he truly looked, the strain keeping his body and mind intact after the wounds Horus dealt and the agony of his confinement to Golden Throne plain to see .

The Emperor wiped blood from his nose, than he spat black bile and coughed up phlegm, His body made the rattle of death, for it was little more than a corpse, its only purpose to contain His essence and provide a form for His subjects and the woman he loved more than life itself to see.

“The wheels of fate are spinning old friend, I have done all I can to stack the deck in your favor.”

The Emperor reached through the bars and lay a spasm wracked hand on Stan's chestplate.

“I look forward to seeing you with my own eyes old friend.”

Constantin awoke with a gasp. He was not expecting to be able to actually see with his physical eyes. Isha must have healed him while he’d experienced this…. Experience. Valdor would not call it a dream. Dreams hurt and left a dry, bitter taste on one’s mouth, like a mix of taking a bolter round to the chest and trying to keep down bitter dregs of a poor vintage of wine.

“Your mind is loud for a mon-keigh.” Isha said.

“Really?” Valdor asked. The goddess nodded. “You have my thanks for healing me. Are we close to finding an exit to realspace?” The custodes asked. He rose with more effort than he’d care to admit. His wounds had been healed, but his strength was flagging. He wanted nothing more than to rest, but duty forced him to remain standing and press onwards.

“There is a webway portal ahead Twenty five of what you call miles ahead.” Isha answered.

The Aeldari goddess smelled of pine and roses, freshly baked bread and fertile soil. The goddess presence, coupled with the whispers of the imperfection of the daemons and those he slew with the Apollonian Spear hammered at him.

He looked at Aella for a second.

“You look like shit Captain-General.” The young custodes said with a grin.

Leman let out a bark of laughter.

“I feel like shit.” Valdor said.

“So Lord Commander Guilliman has petitioned for the aid of the knights of Sigismund?” High Marshal Helbrecht asked.

“My Primarch... has requested that the Black Templars muster as many warriors as you can spare to aid him for his crusade. He would be honored if the Eternal Crusader could take part.” Lieutenant Chiron Patroclus of the Ultramarines 10th Company replied.

Sitting in a throne of hand carved marble mined from a quarry on holy Terra during that heady period between the end of the Terran Unification Wars and the first true battles of the Great Crusade Helbrecht was every inch a Black Templar.

His Power Armor was a mix of Mark III and IV plate painted in a dull bronze that did little to hide the scars and dents it had accumulated during its service not just to Helbrecht but to those who had worn it before him. A line of knights had worn this suit, a line stretching back all the way to the Templar Brethren of the First Company of the original Imperial Fists Legion. The suit had bore the scars of the battle fought at Beta-Gamon and the Siege of Terra itself.

Over this power armor was a black tabard and cloak lined in arterial scarlet. Further adorning the armor were oaths of moment, purity seals, crusader tokens and scrolls detailing Helbrecht's glorious deeds.

In the Master of the Black Templar’s hands was the Sword of the High Marshal’s. Even sheathed and deactivated the Power Sword radiated an aura of majesty, for the blade had been forged using fragments of Rogal Dorn's own Chainsword Storm's Teeth. The holy sword had been quenched in traitor and xenos blood in the hands of the founder and First High Marshal of the Black Templar and the First Emperor’s Champion, Sigismund

In contrast, Lieutenant Chiron wore Mark X Power Armor, which bore few battle scars. Helbrecht saw no battle honors on his armor aside from the Vigilus Campaign.

Not only does the Primarch send a lackey, he doesn't even send me one who's at least earned to right to march onto the field of battle in holy Terminator Armor. Helbrecht thought.

Helbrecht’s pride was not stung, but the High Marshal was by the necessity of his sacred office and duties a political thinker.

Why had Lord Commander Gulliman sent a Lieutenant with barely two centuries of battle experience? If the matter was so damn important why not order the High Marshal with his divine and political authority or petition him in person? Why not send Marneus Calgar or Reclusiarch Cassius? Or a member of his Victrix Guard or a Company Captain? Or was this crusade so important that this young officer was all the thirteenth son of the God Emperor could spare in his preparations?

At least he has not sent one of his Librarians. Helbrecht thought.

“Tell me Lieutenant, given the importance of this endeavor why had Lord Commander Gulliman not come in person? I mean no offense but why send a young brother such as yourself? “

“No one else could be spared my Lord. My Primarch is personally overseeing the gathering of forces for his new crusade. Lord Calgar has been recalled from Vigilus to resume his role as Lord Defender of Macragge. Reclusiarch Cassius fights along the 3rd Company and half the 6th against the Tyranids of Hive Fleet Kronos. The remainder of the chapter save for 25 veterans of the first and half of my own company, muster at Calth.

Translation :Guilliman was micromanaging again, but wanted his officers close, and anyone else that could have been sent was unavailable due to other duties.

“What are Gulliman’s goals for this new crusade of his?” Helbrecht asked.

“Further securing the borders between the western and eastern half of the Imperium as well as the destruction of key traitor assets including the Despoiler himself. My lord. Many chapters, including your primogenitors and the Iron Hands have contributed their entire strength to this endeavor.”

Helbrecht took a second to reply.

“I will confer with my knights, tell your primarch I can guarantee at least two hundred warriors for his crusade. I cannot promise that the Eternal Crusader herself will join for I have received petitions from other commanders.”

The Lieutenant nodded and than left the hall.

“My liege, you should send only a handful of knights, there are other war zones, we would be more suited to.” Marshal Brienne of the Tarth Crusade said.

“I concur, High Marshal, the filthy Tyranids and Tau have been ravaging the southern half of the Imperium, send enough brothers and sisters to satisfy the Lord Commander and be done with it. He did not even petition you in person.” Marshal Tormund, a Primaris Marine clad in battered Gravis Armor said gruffly

“We have received reports of Huron Blackheart conducting raids in the galactic West. We should muster as many warriors and ships as we can. Surely she would be put to better use ending the Tyrant of Badab. while Lord Commander Guilliman has his own Gloriana.” Marshal Michel spoke.

Helbrecht suppressed a sigh. The Black Templars had been bloodied this past century. Many of their Chapter Keeps had been destroyed. Many brothers and sisters had given their lives for the God-Emperor. With the Imperium split in half that meant a great many Knights were missing, presumed fallen. Helbrecht doubted there were a little less than two thousand Black Templars still crusading, and with every petition for aid and every campaign that dragged on longer than projected spread them thinner and sapped their strength. The crusade to protect key Shrine worlds had been a costly campaign, even with the new Primaris Marines to bolster their ranks. The Indomitus Crusade had whittled them down even more. Aiding Lord Commissar Yarrick in slaying Ghazkull Urk Thraka had left more than a thousand of them dead While the chapter had continued the Eternal Crusade far below Codex Approved levels, and when tthe chapter had been at the brink of extinction, something had to give. The Black Templars could not be everywhere at once.

“This is a perfect opportunity to avenge Marshal Almarich and the honored fallen who died fighting the Despoiler!” Venerable Tankred boomed. The Dreadnought was one of 14 ancients and the sole Mark V lingering in the corner of Sigismund’s Hall. The others were mix of Contemptor, Mark IV and Leviathan patterns; all of them more than five thousand years old or more.

Helbrecht listened to the arguing of his Marshals and Castellans

“Enough! Tonight, I will pray to the primarch and the God Emperor for guidance before the bones of the first High Marshal! Tomorrow I will decide if I will take the Eternal Crusader to join Lord Guilliman.”

That night Helbrecht knelt before the amber encased bones of the first Black Templar and prayed for guidance.

He shut his eyes, for a second he was kneeling, the next he on the bridge of the Eternal Crusader, the Vengeful Spirit filling up the viewports. He saw the Phalanx beside the Vengeful Spirit. Her guns trained on the traitor flagship

“Fire now High Marshal!” A voice ordered over the vox.

Helbrecht opened his eyes, his chapped lips uttering a gasp. He was back in the Tomb of Sigismund.

When he returned to his quarters he voxed Reclusiarch Grimaldus that he had made his decision. The Eternal Crusader would go to Gulliman’s crusade. The only question now would be which Marshals would accompany him and which ones would not.

“Finally an exit back into real space.” Leman said. “Do we know where it leads?” Rogal asked Isha inspected the portal.

“ It leads to a planet called Drecksloch.” Isha said She pointed to the inscription and smiled, as if she knew a joke that others would not get.

The portal opened with a deep bass rumble

The five of them entered the shimmering portal, Constantin a sense of vertigo for a a few minutes no more than three by his estimate. Than he emerged in the middle of a fucking war zone. In the distance he could make out Imperial Fists and Space Wolves engaging warriors of the Black Legion.

The sky was filled with smoke and dueling aircraft.

“Brother? Is that you?” a familiar, if somewhat unliked voice said.

Standing before them, clad in deep blue and gold Power Armor, a Laurel wreath on his head and The Emperor of Mankind’s sword in his hand was Roboute Guilliman.

#the master of mankind's return #warhammer 40k #templarhalo's fanfiction #Constantin Valdor

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180abroad · 5 years

Text

Day 100: Welcome to York

Today, on our 100th day abroad, we finally went into town to start exploring York proper. It turned out to be a fun day filled with cobbled streets, chocolate, noodles, and football.

It was a sunny day with an almost cloudless pale-blue sky. As we entered the old town, we slipped into a stream of tourists making their way in as well. It was nice--enough people for the city to feel lively but not overwhelming.

We got a nice view of York Minster along the way. We would visit it another day, but for now we enjoyed gazing up at the soaring white-stone architecture. Our actual first stop was much more touristy: the York Chocolate Story.

The Chocolate Story was surprisingly fun and educational given the lukewarm reviews by Rick Steves and other travel guides. We were lead in a small group through a series of themed rooms, learning about the history of chocolate and its special connection to the city of York.

Standing in a hall made up to look like a Victorian street, our guide explained how it was only relatively recently that chocolate became a food. From its ancient Aztec origins, through its migration to early-modern Europe, and into the early 1800s, “chocolate” was a brewed beverage like coffee or tea.

It was only in the mid-1800s that an English Quaker named Joseph Fry discovered the secret to making “edible chocolate”--a novelty that took the continent by storm. In York, several entrepreneurial Quaker families developed their own chocolate empires, including Terry’s--of Chocolate Orange fame--and Rowntree’s--inventor of the Kit-Kat.

We got to taste a recreation of the original Rowntree’s chocolate bar recipe. There were bits of crushed cocoa nibs mixed into the chocolate, giving it a lumpy texture, and I don’t think any of us expected it to taste particularly great. But it was actually really good--dark but not bitter, and the nibs added a complex, roasted flavor. Not the best chocolate I’ve ever had, but almost certainly in the top half. It seems like the most important parts of chocolatiering were nailed down almost immediately, and everything since then has just been a matter of tweaking.

Next, we sat through a planetarium-style presentation on the Aztec roots of chocolate, including a sample of drinking chocolate prepared in the Aztec fashion: cold, spicy, and bitter.

After going through a couple more rooms dedicated to the various chocolate families of York--and more chocolate samples--we went downstairs to the chocolate “factory.”

As we took a crash course on the stages of chocolate production, we got to taste some cocoa nibs as well as some unsweetened 100% dark chocolate. The nibs were bitter but not bad. The unsweetened chocolate--which is just nibs that have been heated and compressed--was abominable. It was somehow horribly bitter and disgustingly bland at the same time, and the taste stuck to the inside of my mouth for minutes afterward. Jessica kind of liked it.

According to our guide, it’s actually quite hard to find 100% dark chocolate in stores. Only a small percentage of people like it, and chocolate companies just don’t think it’s worth the cost to make and distribute it.

A few years ago my dad found an image of a “Scotch wheel” showing all the flavor profiles of Scotch whisky. Jessica isn’t a big fan of Scotch (yet), but we finally found a wheel that we can all appreciate. The guides are also chocolatiers, so Jessica got to ask some advanced questions and generally talk shop with him while we waited for the last section of the visit to be ready.

The guided part of our tour finally over, it was time for us to make our own “chocolate lollies.” The chocolate of the day was Belgian white. Neither of us are big fans of white chocolate, but our guide insisted that we give it a try. Even people who don’t like white chocolate usually like Belgian white chocolate, he said. And he was right: it was really, really good. We each picked out a colored stick, then after he poured a circle of chocolate over one end, we got to sprinkle our choice of four toppings over it.

While we waited for our lollies to harden, we got to watch one of the other chocolatiers make a batch of chocolate truffles with a mango-cream filling. It was quite interesting, and Jessica was vindicated to learn that he too didn’t like eating chocolate despite loving to make it. (Though to be fair, Jessica does enjoy the occasional chocolate, while this guy gets violently ill from it.) We were a fairly small group, so we had to eat several truffles each. I mean, it would have been rude not to...

Our tickets to the Chocolate Story included a complimentary scoop of ice cream from the bar downstairs, but we decided to save it for later. For now, we had a date with some glass cats.

When we arrived at our flat, our host had left us a note telling us to come by the York Glass Shop for a free gift when we had time. We weren’t sure what to expect, but having enjoyed our visit to a glass shop in Bath, we were tantalized by the prospect of a running theme.

Our free gift was one of their glass cats, which came in black as well as birthstone colors. It was Jessica's turn to get a glass cat, so she picked out an aquamarine one. We also got some stained-glass bookmarks as presents for our moms.

With our glass gifts in hand, we walked around the rest of the Shambles, York's preserved medieval merchant street lined with tweed fashion boutiques, cheesy Viking stores, and everything in between.

For our first lunch out in this medieval city known for Vikings, roasts, and fried dough, we went to Wagamama, an Anglo-Japanese fusion chain. We had heard about it before, but we didn't actually know what it was. We enjoyed some yaki-soba, yaki-udon, and a plate of pulled pork gyoza. We laughed at the thought that this was probably meant to be exotic, but to us Californians it was practically a taste of home.

Our last big stop of the day was Clifford's Tower, the partially ruined stone keep that is all that remains of the old York Castle. If the Tower doesn't look quite like a typical English castle to you, you'd be right. It's design was inspired by French castles of the time. The chief architect is believed to be the Frenchman Henry de Reyns, who was also responsible for designing much of Westminster Abbey.

There wasn't a lot to see, but the view from the top was great.

In the lot below, a pop-up Shakespearean theater was being assembled. We checked, and unfortunately the first show was the day after we'd be leaving York.

Perhaps the most interesting story the castle had to tell--and certainly the most chilling--was about a pogrom that took place in 1190, when the castle was still made of wood. Anti-Semitism was erupting throughout the country in the wake of Richard the Lionheart's coronation and the start of the Third Crusade. When one such riot began in York, the entire Jewish community--around 150 men, women, and children--took refuge in the keep.

A bloodthirsty mob--including knights and commoners alike--assaulted the castle to try and drag them out. Rather than renounce their faith or allow themselves be torn apart by the mob, the people inside chose a third option. Before the last men took their own lives, they set the keep ablaze, turning it into a funeral pyre that would burn their remains before they could be desecrated by the rioters outside. There were no survivors.

Feeling it was high time for some more spirit-lifting chocolate, we headed back to the Shambles to claim our free ice cream and some hot cocoa.

Finally, we circled back to the Minster, where we saw a conspicuously lackadaisical statue of Emperor Constantine. York is unusual in that it was originally founded as a Roman military base--there was no preexisting local settlement in the area. Constantine was actually declared emperor in York, and the Minster was later built on the foundations of his military headquarters. Near the statue stands an ancient Roman pillar unearthed from the Minster’s foundations during a 20th-century retrofit.

Satisfied with everything we'd done that day, we headed home to watch the Poland vs. Senegal game of the World Cup. Poland played valiantly and scored two goals to Senegal’s one. Unfortunately, one of those two was an own goal, so Senegal took the win.

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